Summer Video

Video of our summer so far: Bonita Beach, Aspen Grove, Idaho Falls, Yellowstone, and the Ichetucknee River.

Trip out West, part 5... 4th of July

On the 3rd of July, Jessica made several art projects and set them on a table outside to sell.  She didn't have anyone interested.  Since my parent's home is near the parade route, we suggested that she and Chandler set up a lemonade stand the next day.  So after the parade (wearing some awesome trucker hats) they set up shop.  They were both so happy with their $7 profit for only a half hour of work.

That evening we lit some fireworks and then went to the big fireworks display at the river.

Trip out West, part 4

The last leg of our trip was up to Idaho Falls to visit my parents. During the start of our visit we went to the falls, fed the geese (poor Chandler got bitten), saw the animals and had ice cream at Reed's Dairy, and on Sunday we went to the visitor center at the temple.

Trip out West, part 3... cousins

These three cousins are the sweetest, but when you try to get a group picture when it's already past bedtime, the results can be a little scary. :)

Benjamin warmed up enough for a shot with Papa and once everyone had their binkies, life was much better all around.

Trip out West, part 2

When we first arrived in Utah, we headed for Aspen Grove for the Hales Family reunion.  We were only able to be there for the last couple of days, but it was so much fun! Chandler loved the "cowboy village", Jessica loved the climbing wall, Benjamin loved hanging out with Papa, and Michael and I had a good time on our hike.

I sure miss those gorgeous mountains!

Trip out West, part 1

6/2012

Our vacation this summer was a trip out west to visit family and go to a family reunion. The kids loved the tram ride through the airport and donuts near the gate.

Bonita Beach

6/2012

We are definitely aware that we live in a really fun place.  Recently we got to experience the fun on the gulf coast as well.  Michael's great aunt and uncle invited us to come and stay at their beach-front house for the weekend. What a fun vacation! The kids were in heaven riding their elevator up and down or  walking right out to the beach to collect shells and play in the sand. Thanks so much Jack and Cherie!

Hair cuts

I think about once a year we decide to chop of Jessica's lovely locks.  I am always torn.  But with the crazy-hot summers here, she needed a shorter style.

Benjamin was also needing his first trim.  Michael tried to go at him with clippers to do a buzz-cut, but I vetoed that idea.  I love his sweet blond hair and didn't want to part with any more than was necessary.

Lizards

6/8/2012

One of the things I was not aware of before moving out to Florida were the crazy number of lizards everywhere. I knew there would be a lot of really big bugs (so nasty), but I didn't think about all of the other creatures about.  Lizards, frogs, storks, armadillos, turtles, and on and on.  I hate the big bugs, but the other things are pretty fun to have around (even when it means having to chase one out of your house).

This day Jessica and Chandler discovered a little lizard that was willing to be friendly. He actually seemed to like hanging out with the kids.