new motorcycle

And as though a dog isn't bad enough... TJ bought a new motorcycle. Now... before you jump to any conclusions... I really must describe it as a motor-bicycle. It's a 197? Honda CT90 that has a duct taped headlight and only goes 55mph max. Plus, I rode it down the street which means it's not much more than a bicycle with a little motor. One of his YM counselors at church has one and has been working on TJ to purchase one for the past month and he is at least 50% responsible for the purchase.

new puppy

After much kicking and screaming and crying out that "I don't want a puppy!" We had a family vote and the puppy stays, I was outnumbered 4 to 1. I must say I like Bailee now but we weren't on the best of terms the first week of her life at our home.
Bailee is part cocker spaniel and part poodle and the kids love her! After sneeking her upstairs in their room for about a half hour this morning, this is what she looked like when she saught refuge at my feet downstairs.

cousins

In July, the kids and I ventured on a 10 day trip to my parents in Utah. I love going home for lots of reasons that even make the 4 hour roundtrip plane ride not seem all that horrible with 4 kids. A few of the reasons I endure the travels are 1)the kids get to make fun memories with their grandparents and cousins, 2) I get to see people who think like me and I understand why I'm so stubborn and sarcastic sometimes and 3)there is something about going back to where you started that helps you step out of your current fast-paced life and remember why you live and love life.

Each of my kids found a favorite cousin that they literally followed around during our stay in Utah. Emmett and Emma, Andrew and Mckay, Savannah and Elizabeth


Emma, Elizabeth, and Savannah



Emmett and his cousin Emma are 3 months apart and they were inseperable the entire vacation.

Papa Hendrix and Jo