Willard Farms

Yesterday C man and I went to Willard Farms with a group of parents and children from our church for a summer children's ministry called "Wonder Wednesdays." (We have been wavering a bit on churches, but I think we will finally be committing to the one we originally attended last summer up until Steve's deployment.) Last summer we attended this same farm event, but this year it was so much more fun for both Christian and I since he can now walk and explore on his own. He especially enjoyed the "big pillow" jumper, the long slide (with mommy) in the dirt hill, and the cow train (all by himself!) We ended the outing with hot dogs and chicken salad sandwiches for the mommies and a nice time of fellowship. C was thoroughly exhausted by the time we got home and ready for a nice nap (and mommy was ready for a rest too.)

New Ride

Oh, did I mention that we purchased a new car while we were in Colorado? We were looking for something with more cargo space, tinted windows, more room, etc. Also, with all the road trips we take, we thought it was time for something more comfortable. We ended up getting a great deal on a Hyundai Santa Fe, and even with shipping the car from Colorado to South Carolina, it was cheaper than had we bought it locally. We finally received it Thursday night and took it for its first drive on Saturday morning. It is so nice and smooth, and we love it! Christian didn't want to get out...I think he will especially enjoy sitting up higher where he can see out the window. Next step will be selling our Dodge Stratus, but we are thinking and hoping it will sell quickly.

Oh So Hot

Last Friday morning I watched Christian's little friend, Evalee (she has a new baby sister!) The kiddos LOVED playing outside in the water. Evalee had the giggles and thought it was hilarious when Christian would (intentionally) slip in the squirter pool. Don't you just love their round little tummies?

We have had heat advisories this week and it is just the beginning of summer. The "dog days" have yet to arrive *ugh.* I guess I will dream about cooler fall days for now. :o)

Wordless Wednesday *Just Helping Myself*

It Begins Early

Coffee anyone? Don't worry- the cup was empty. But that didn't keep Christian from trying for a little taste over and over.

Colorado...How We Miss You

This past week we were home in Colorado. It was the first time Steve had been home in a year and a half so it was refreshing to be there together. The trip seemed so short (but sweet) compared to the much longer stays that Christian and I have had with Steve being gone often. As always it was hard trying to divide our time and ultimately we did not see everyone and do everything that we may have wanted. BUT the time we did have was special. We were able to go out and do lots of fun things with our families and we especially enjoyed the cooler Colorado weather with no humidity. :o) Just a few highlights:

We finally met our nephew, Shepherd who was born in February. He is such a sweet, easy-going baby.

My mom, Christian, and I visited the Littleton Museum for a little outing and to see the farm animals.

We visited the Downtown Aquarium in Denver with Steve's parents, sister Kristi, nephew Logan, and niece Kaitlyn. Steve fed the Stingrays. Christian LOVED the fish.

We visited Lake Evergreen for our mountain fix and fresh Colorado air. Lunch at Beau Jo's Pizza - mmm, what could be better?

We also headed up to Boulder one morning to meet my grandparents for breakfast at Turley's (I love that place!) and a walk down Pearl Street Mall. My mom and grandparents enjoyed reminiscing.

Steve was absolutely thrilled to visit the Colorado Renaissance Festival in Larkspur with his brother Will, his finance Brittany, and Kristi and her family. Steve was just disappointed that he did not have his Ren Fest tights...bummer.

The last day we enjoyed a walk and hike in Castle Rock with Steve's family. C, Will, Brittany and I headed back early. It was probably one of the hottest days while we were out there. (Sorry, no pics.)

Did I mention we miss Colorado? We miss our families so much and wish we had more time to spend with everyone. Thanks for making our trip extra special. We love you!