Camp Out

I realize my posts are way overdue, but none-the-less, I'll try to catch up in the next few days. (Blame it on waiting a LONG time to upload photos!)

During our last track-out, Mark decided to seize the opportunity and have his first camp-out with the girls...in the backyard. In the middle of the afternoon, he pitched the tent and began preparations for a night under the stars.

At dusk, Mark stoked the fire pit to begin the "adventure" with a favorite pasttime...roasting marshmallows.

Once the girls and Mark settled in the tent, I retired to our air-conditioned house for a restful night's sleep.

I was sure one of the girls would retreat indoors an hour into the camp-out. Much to my surprise, they both slept peacefully throughout the entire night until 6am. Must be they have their father's camping genes.

Mark treated them to McDonald's for breakfast, eaten in the tent. Looks like there may be more camping expeditions in the future!

Back to School

Lauren returned back to preschool this past Wednesday. With one year under her belt, she walked straight into the classroom, found her cubby, hung up her back pack, and sat down to work. She informed me she did not want her picture taken...we had already taken one on the steps. I guess there's no time for picture taking when there's playdoh to be sculpted!

Happy 6th Birthday, Kate!

Our sweet daughter, Kate, is growing up fast!

Happy 6th Birthday to a beautiful girl, both inside and out! You bring smiles to our faces, excitement and energy to our days, and endless amounts of love and happiness to our hearts!
You are a true blessing to our family and those around you. May you enjoy life to its fullest each day and may all of your wishes come true today and always!

We LOVE You!

Movie Time

With the high temperatures and heat this summer, we tend to find activities that involve the indoors. So, one weekend, Mark rented a movie for the girls...his selection, Benji. Since both girls love animals, his choice was a hit!

Of course, the viewing of the movie couldn't take place simply sitting on the couch. The use of sleeping bags and popcorn was required.

Welcome, Clare Elizabeth!

We welcomed our newest niece, Clare Elizabeth, to our family last Friday!

Weighing in at 7lbs 2oz, Kate and Lauren can't believe how tiny she is. (If they only knew they were that small at one time.) Due to policy changes at the hospital, the girls were unable to meet their new cousin on Sunday. So, we stopped by yesterday after school to visit.

The girls presented Clare with some cute booties Lauren picked out at Target.

Welcome to the family, Clare! We look forward to watching you grow in the years ahead!!!

Back to School

Today we started another year of school...1st grade!!!! Kate was very excited to return to school and see her friends. With backpack ready and school supplies in tow, we headed off to school at 8:30am this morning. Prior to leaving, I took a couple of photos. Here's the comparison from last year to this year...they grow up so fast!!!

Kindergarten

1st Grade

An Old Fashion 4th of July

Our "small town" of Apex hosts an annual 4th of July celebration each year complete with games, numerous bounce apparatus, karaoke, a children's bike/scooter parade, and a splashdown finale, compliments of the fire department.

For the very first time, the girls decided to decorate their bikes and participate in the parade. I helped the two of them and a neighborhood friend deck out their "wheels" with 4th of July flair on Friday in preparation for the big event Saturday. This is what we created!

The girls had a blast riding proudly down the main street of Apex. There only comment..."it was way too short of a ride!" Looks like we'll be doing it again next year!

We hope everyone had a very happy 4th of July!