Birthday Weekend

Hudson and Claire turned four on August 15. Again this year, Dan and Angie planned a day at the outdoor water park in Denver. I guess we were way too busy having fun to take many pictures on that day. Everyone went on a ride. For some the faster the better, others of us liked the slow and easy. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! but that was only part of the five days in CO.

We enjoyed a stroll through the botanical gardens in Steamboat, a wonderful lunch with Em in Oak Creek, Hudson and Claire time at MacDonald's, the library and park not to mention watching a construction site while eating donuts and chocolate milk. Oh, yes and one cartoon in the hotel room. We also had time with Cooper and Tucker at the Farmer's Market, at home and a short jeep ride before driving to Denver. While in Denver we met up with Aunt Nancy, Hiland, Em and Gary. Then it was birthday cake, gift opening, water slides, fountains, ice cream and the Butterfly Pavilion.

So here are a few photos that captured part of the fun:






All wishes come true as they blow out their candles.


"Oh, my own laptop." These children are so savvy!

So which one of these 1200 butterflies is the prettiest?


"I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream," and we did.

Now, time to clean-up. Four jewels in the fountain which one will the fountain bless? All of them are blessed and a blessing!!
Another memorable celebration!


All the partyers!

Dream Summer

This has been a dream summer. It has been 35 years since I have had a summer off from work. It has been the summer I dreamed of. Most days I enjoy a cup of coffee on the front porch, spend time with Jesus and work in the yard. Since it has been a pretty hot summer I even come in for an occasional nap. It's my time to enjoy the small pleasures in life.
Like:

Visiting relatives in Alpena, this is Conley meeting her cousin Jillian who flew in with her mother from the state of Washington.

Having Jack and his little sister, Natalie come for a visit with their mom and dad.

Enjoying corn on the cob, fresh blueberries and blowing bubbles.



I have noticed that the flower garden is a lot more work than in that dream and these hot summer days have been brutal. Yet, I do enjoy the blooms of those drought tolerant holly hocks.

Oh, my lazy, hazy days of summer have been an enjoyable dream come true.