Fireworks, Cold Weather and Birthdays, Oh My!!

It has been a very busy July and although I'd like to think that this blog trumps all, it turns out that it comes last! The kids have been so full of fun this summer. We had a wonderful time celebrating the 4th of July, we even made a special visit up to see Great Granny and have a cookout at the nursing home.

A few days later we started a small addition project. I have always appreciated Kraig's talents, but after this project he is a genius in my book. We needed a place for the kids to drop their stuff and go. The current layout had the drop off in the same room as my laundry/dog/extra bathroom/extra fridge room. Seriously, the chaois was enough to send me to a hotel, I threatened anyway! In the end this project was everything I thought and WAY more. We have happily invaded this new space.

A little over a week later was my birthday (30th no less), and in every way I was in denial!! I felt as though I could have possibly contributed to my 20's better (with what I have no idea!) But, such is life, and the big day came and what a lovely time I had. I was surprised with a planned day full of events with my mom and sisters. We went canoeing, for lunch, and then a small (perfect) party at my parents, complete with a bonfire and s'mores!

Karlee also celebrated a birthday this month and we were excited to once again gather with family and well, eat cake!! She had a great time turning two, Elmo was the man of the hour, and I am convinced that he might have captured her little heart! She still is working on keeping only two of her fingers up instead of all five! What a hoot!

Despite the WAY below normal temps, we have managed to spend a lot of time outside. Kraig has done quite a bit of fishing and the older kids have learned to ride their bikes a short distance down the road by themselves! This is big stuff! In addition we are approaching the start of soccer, so the practicing has begun. Kraig's job has faithfully called him away almost every night this month! Funny how it is always at dinner or bedtime.

This past week the children had the opportunity to spend the week with Kraig's parents. They had an agenda and wouldn't you know it~ they got it all done. I have posted pictures of their week, they had a wonderful time, and as I was tucking the kids in tonight, Nolan said "Mom, next time can we stay 10 days?" Not real sure what Grammy and Grampy would say, but I said YES!!!

Lastly, we went to a Tom Pease concert. What a wonderful entertainer. If you should every get the opportunity to see this gentleman then by all means! This was our second concert, and as always lots of laughs. He has such a way of connecting with kids and adults alike, and bringing a smile to your face.

Enjoy this last weekend and take care!!