We've had a great and busy summer. The four of us have spent a lot of time at the pool and finding fun things to do at home and around town. We headed to the zoo a couple of weeks ago - Leah loved the animals, and really loved the choo-choo train.
The weekend of the 4th, we went camping with some friends. We are camping light-weights and it was great to go with a group who camps several times a year. The weather wasn't the best, but we still had a great time. All 5 of us headed up to the mountains on Saturday, and Greg and Leah stayed until we were done with s'mores - then the boys and I camped that night. Ryan and Luke were the oldest kids there - the other parents commented on how they can now look forward to their kids being old enough to be helpful. I was determined that we would be able to take everything down ourselves-the boys were great at helping to take down the tent, packing up, and loading up the car.
The best part of camping is the camp fire.
Leah had a great time walking all over the campsite. She also had a blast getting thoroughly muddy and wet.
Leah loves her brother.
And she really loved the s'mores. She was crying because I didn't make her 2nd s'more fast enough.
We watched fireworks this year from a park near the park where the fireworks were set off. It was fun to not be in such a big crowd. Next year, I need to take patriotic music with us so we can have our own personal concert.
As always, we also went to the pool on the 4th. Leah loved the food.
She's an expert at finding food for herself.
We had Greg's family over that evening - I managed to get all the cousins together for a picture.
Sweet little girl
The marathon family fireworks extravaganza began at dusk.
The boys' neighborhood friend joined the viewing - I think he was amazed by the large collection and assortment Greg and Ryan had purchased (in Wyoming).
Ryan, Luke and I were able to spend a day at Water World when my parents were here. We had the best time. Water World is always one of our most favorite summertime activities.
Nana and Grandad brought their dog, Lucy, to stay with us while they went on an Alaskan cruise adventure. Leah found the perfect book readers for a few days. She loves to read books and will monopolize all of your time reading to her if she can.
And now we have Lucy with us for a few weeks. Ryan wants a dog so bad, so this is a great fix for him. I'm not sure Lucy is having as much fun as the kids are with her - but she's been a great addition.
We went on a walk one night that was longer than we had anticipated, so I put Lucy in the bottom of Leah's stroller so we wouldn't wear out her little legs.
Leah's new bear.
She has also discovered our spice cabinet and she loves to pull it out and carry and stack the spices all over the house. She has managed to open and spill only 1 jar so far, which fortunately was cinnamon - she smelled quite yummy.
Ryan is playing baseball this summer. We are not a baseball family, so it came to a surprise to us when he told us he wanted to play. He's on a rec league, which is good for a 10 year old first timer. He's had a good time and has had fun experiencing new things.
Ryan was so excited when he scored a run for the first time.
Batter up - he usually manages to hit the ball each time at bat.
He has also had the chance to be a pitcher.
And a catcher.
Meanwhile, Luke continues to find unique places to read. I get carsick if I read in the car, but Luke can read not only in the car, but also while swinging.
Summer swim team season is coming to a close. The boys have had a good year and have continued to improve. I love their skinny little swimmer bodies.
The boys with their friend since Kindergarten.
Swim meets are also about hanging out with friends and goofing around.
Ryan is a great little breaststroker.
And Luke has the endurance to outlast almost anyone.
Leah has a great time at the swim meets, too.
She loves finding snacks.
And walking around thinking she's pretty hot stuff. She'll be swimming before we know it.
Love these kids!
