We rented a big house at the beach over Mother's Day weekend and our families (Mom and Dad, Wanda and Gramma, John and Kristine) all joined us there for a lovely time. We had perfect weather.
We enjoyed lots of water play this summer...
several different fountains and splash pads and of course...
... there's always the hose and kiddie pool in the backyard.
For the Fourth of July we went up to my parent's house.
The kids enjoyed making an American Flag cookie and setting off some little fireworks.
For the past few months I've been watching this little guy while his mom is at work. His name is Arthur and he is a very chill, easy-going baby. The kids resented the attention he took away from them a little at first, but after awhile they claimed him as their own. The last few weeks I had him Leesi would say, "Let's pretend that Artie is our baby brother and..." I am hoping he was good practice for them in getting used to having a baby around.
We braved camping with kids for the first time this summer. It was a huge success, but probably will not be duplicated for another couple of years since I am against camping with a baby.
Here Jonathan works on an outdoor collage.
Yum, s'mores!
Greg was gone for a good amount of time this summer. First, helping at a two-week-long transition seminar for missionary kids entering college. And then of course, going on Walkabout, a week-long backpacking trip with his student leaders. I tried to think of extra fun things for the kids to do during these weeks. One of their favorite (easy) things was bathtub paint.
Another trip to the beach... this time a day trip, and again excellent weather.
Yes, it is indeed a miracle. Our whole family is looking at the camera and smiling.
Reading books with Grandma.
Elisa checked out a book about cake decorating from the library and spent hours pouring over the pictures. So for Papa's birthday I had them "replicate" one of the ideas in the book with these simple brownies. They ate sooooooooo much candy while decorating these.
Happy Birthday Papa!
Grammy and Leesi.
The homemade slip'n'slide made a couple appearances on some of the hottest days of the summer.
Jonathan took his job of spraying the hose very seriously.
I had a little weekend getaway with my friend, Jenn. She was a tad nervous that she might have to drive me to the hospital, since I was so close to my due date.
But we had a fun restful weekend with no pregnancy excitement.
Fun at the Children's Museum with Grandma.
