Camping August 2010

The boys missed the father/sons campout this year, so this past weekend we took a family trip to Rollins Lake. What is not to like about camping? Go to sleep late, wake up when the sun comes up, dirt, hammers, water, bikes, undivided attention from both parents, more dirt, new friends, smores, lots of junk food, baseball, running races, card games, and even more dirt. And we didn't even get to monster trucks or darts!

The boys couldn't have been happier for the three days we were there. They always tell us they aren't ready to leave. I know when they are older and can help more, Steve is going to love taking them more often. For now, it is quite a bit of work, but I love seeing the kids in their element. I had a great time and am glad we were able to do it as a family.

Abby aka Mardi

We have been planning on getting a standard poodle ever since we had to put sweet Casey May down in January. I wasn't quite ready, but after some convincing we decided that we would go for it. On the 24th of July we went to pick up sweet Abby Grace. She was just 8 weeks old and was so sweet. Unfortunately, the more time Abby spent with the rowdy boys, the less sweet she became. After 7 short days, we called the breeder and told her she wasn't the right fit for our family. She started showing some fear based aggression and to protect herself from all the tough love, she started biting the boys. 3 days later she was on a plane to southern California to live with a new family. It was such a hard decision, but we know that she is going to be so happy there. She was renamed and will be called Mardi May from now on, but to us, she will always be sweet Abby Grace. I am grateful her new owner promised to keep us in her life through email and pictures. That made it easier for the boys to say goodbye.

I love you Mom!

The other night Landon decided that he wanted to do a special night for me. Steve had just taken the older boys to get new slacks for church and he was so excited to dress up. In the past, for some special occasions, Steve has had the boys dress up and serve me dinner. We danced and ate together and it was a big event. Landon concocted a night like this and begged Steve to help him. He decorated the house, he got his clothes on, he set the table, he did the dishes, he was so sweet. When the night was over, I kicked myself because I didn't take a single picture. This design in water balloons and the pompoms hanging from the light fixture were all that remained. I'm glad I took this picture, because on tough days with this kid, I am grateful that he has it in him to take care of me the way he did this night. I love you buddy!

SoCal 4th of July

We have spent the 4th in AZ the last several years, but this year, we decided not to make plans to go anywhere. At the last minute, we were regretting our decision and made a last minute plan to head down to Newport Beach. Our week consisted of:

-the boys spending time snail hunting instead of swimming

-cold, overcast, rainy weather

-lots of trips to Donut World

-a trip to Balboa for some beach time and Balboa bars

-Balboa boardwalk, ferris wheel and more Balboa bars

-digging for sand crabs

-hunting seashells

-Grey falling in love with the ocean

-Steve working

-lots of time in the hot tub

I am just so grateful that even though Steve had to work so much, we were able to enjoy being together as a family for an entire week. I love having Steve around and am grateful for the extra time he puts in so he can get away from time to time. I am looking forward to our next trip there and praying for warmer weather.