August Catch-Up: Twirling Lessons

Addison taught Brynlee the art of twirling. Though I had to flinch as the collisions began, it was so fun to watch I had to pause, grab my camera, clap, and laugh!  Sisters are the best!

August Catch-Up: Hannah's First Day

On August 8th, Hannah started 4th grade at a new school.  Although she was a bit anxious about it at first, after her first say she said it looked like it might be "ok".  Now, almost one month later, she is happy about the change, though the homework load threw us all for a loop at first!  She has new friends she loves to hang out with and is really starting to show us new horizons in her academic abilities. Go Hannah!

Fun Times in July

For the last half of July we have been in scenic Utah.  We went to SLC so BJ could attend a conference for a couple of days.  While he was busy I took my kids to my old stomping grounds in Logan one day.  We went to my old apartment, which I am shocked is still standing!  We also visited Old Main hill, where we rolled until we couldn't stand and climbed all 195 stairs! And of course we stopped at the creamery for some delicious ice cream to cool us down.

My "True" Aggies!

                           

The kids were shocked when I told them
I went sledding down this hill on my mattress!

The Logan Temple from Old Main Hill

While in SLC, BJ took the kids one evening so I could go to dinner with my Grandma. It was so fun to have her all to myself and not have the four kids to distract us.  She is a kindred spirit! I am so blessed she is my Grandma!

Our little hitchhiker!

Dinner at the Mayan

My childhood home. That big tree was just 2 feet tall when I lived there!

The last day, we went to Temple square.  At first I thought my kids, at least the younger two, would not appreciate the history and spirit of Temple Square, but none of them were ready to leave when it was time.  It was such a blessing to our family to see the amazing things the Church is doing for the good of all our brothers and sisters around the world.

"Sometimes, right in the middle of an ordinary life,
 Love gives us a Fairy Tale."

After SLC, we headed south to see the McIlnay clan. We camped and fished, roasted S'mores, played games and just loafed around in general...It was SO nice!  We even got to see a parade celebrating the 24th of July!

I don't think Travis is too keen on sharing...

Adorable nephew Tanner

Waiting for the candy to fly

We had such a great time "up North" and truly enjoyed the cooler weather and green landscapes! It was hard to come home to the 112 degree weather, but we adjusted quickly by living in the pool and reestablishing a routine. There really is, "No place like home."

NO MORE YUCKY GOO!

On July 20th, BJ and I took Brynlee to Phoenix Children's for her regular swallowing tests.  She has been doing these since she was 7 months old. Usually they result in a slight modification in her liquid being thickened with a packet of goo and we are sent on our way.  But not this day!  We were told she may "return to normal activities and diet"...which translates to us as "NO MORE YUCKY GOO!" I had to restrain myself from falling on the Dr!  Hooray Brynlee!

She also got a fun new haircut this week and looks so grown up. One of our little 3 year old friends at  church said,"She's not a baby anymore!"  She most definitely is not! We love you Brynlee!

Happy Birthday Janessa!

Janessa turned 7 on the 16th! I can't believe how fast the time is going. It was an emotional day for us as we were reminded once again how fleeting this time with our kids really is.

We started the day out swimming with friends

Lunch!

Hugs and Presents

6 1/2 years ago...

Today...What beautiful Little Women!

We ended the day with swimming at the swim meet.  It was a full, happy, celebration day!

Although the time flies steadily by, we appreciate the reminders you give us to stop and be present in the wonderful moments that make this life worth living. Happy Birthday Janessa Princessa! We love you!

First Swim Meet

The girls had their first swim meet this Thursday. They ended up having fun, even though Janessa was a bit nervous at first.  Hannah was her usual excited self, ready for anything. They did great and we enjoyed cheering them on in between dips on the pool to cool off!

On your Mark...

...Get Set...

...GO!

Well Done!

Hannah was in three events...Breath Stroke

Back Stroke

And finally, 

Butterfly

This is her favorite stroke because "You have to move your legs like a Dolphin!"

Way to go Hannah! We were tired just watching you!

The girls did such a great job. It was a warm two hours but what a great way to spend the evening! Good job girls, we are so proud of you!