Branson

For Labor Day weekend, we took a family trip to Branson, Missouri. It was so much fun! We had never been but always heard great things, so we finally decided to go. We were only there for two days, but we managed to cram in: the Noah's Ark musical, a whole day at Silver Dollar City (everybody's new favorite place!), tons of great food, shopping at Branson's Landing, an old western photo shoot, and a little tiny bit of relaxing. We can't wait to do it again!

1st Day of School

Carter started Kindergarten this year! He loves his teacher, and we are so thankful that he is such a good student. He works hard and is learning so much. Carter brings us smiles and joy every day. :-) He makes us proud.

Bryson started Pre-K this year!!! Even writing it now, it's still hard to believe. I still think of him as little, but I know he's growing up fast. He was so excited to have the teacher that Carter had last year, and so was I! She's wonderful, and I know he will work hard for her. He is already learning a lot. Bryson brings us smiles and joy every day. :-) He makes us proud.

Last Mommy & Me Group

For almost 6 years now, I have attended a weekly Mommy & Me group outting with my kids and other mommies from our church. For the last 4 years, I have planned the events and the group has become a major part of my life. I loved the time devoted to my kids, doing super fun events planned just for them. I also loved the time I spent talking, laughing, sharing stories, and sometimes venting with the other moms. Since Bryson is starting pre-k this year, we won't be able to participate in the group anymore. Although it makes me sad, my heart is also happy in this stage of life. Carter & Bryson are doing so well in school and growing up to be such wonderful boys. I will miss the time I had with them as toddlers, but I can look back at all the great things we shared together during their time at home, and I feel very proud & happy.

We planned a special last activity for all the kids who would be leaving the group and going to school. Carter & Bryson chose to visit the firestation, and our sweet friend Charli wanted to have a cupcake party. We combined the two ideas, and had a super fun last event! :-)

Summer at the Lake

This summer we have had a total blast on the lake. We have logged 137 hours on the boat in 2 years (which only counts the engine hours, not the hours we have spent swimming). Needless to say, we are at the lake every weekend in the summer. Here are a few of the many, many boating pictures we took this summer.

Kevin's New Toy

In August, Kevin bought a 1965 Shelby Cobra replica. It's loud, fast, and very cool. The kids (especially Carter) love it. I'm excited for Kevin because he's wanted a muscle car since I met him 17 years ago, and he's worked so hard to finally be in a position where he can have one. I'll just have to make sure he takes me on all his drives since a lady tried to pay him for a ride in it the last time he went out alone!!! >:-/

A Visit From Australia

In July, my neice Sarah came to visit from Australia. Her school was on winter break (still can't get used to that!), so she came to the US for a couple of weeks. It was so fun to have her here - we went to Incredible Pizza, got pedicures, went swimming, boating, and ate a TON of good food. We can hardly wait for her next visit! :-)