The girls get braces!

I think the family pictures this year are going to be great! Anyone know where to get a binki with braces on it? What cute "brace-faces" we have.

What happens when you tell each kid yes to a friend coming over...you get a party!

It was a normal boring Thursday evening when my kids asked to invite friend over. Its summer so why not? We ended up with 12 kids, homemade pizza, Open Season 2, and lots and lots of popcorn! What a fun summer night! Food, friends, and fun!

Friends from Houston come for a visit

My friends from Houston came to take their daughter to college and came and stayed a night with us. Natalie and Kenzie used to play together years ago and they picked up right where they left off. Kenzie wishes Natalie lived closer. Here's to great friends everywhere!

Baby Owen comes to visit

Nicole and Owen came to visit us on their way to Texas. We were so glad they came over. The kids just loved him and wanted to hold him relentlessly. Even Eric held the little cutie. He was so fun to have over. We can't wait to see him again!

Grandpa Nicol- We will miss you!

Eric's Dad, Martin, was diagnosed with terminal Leukemia at the first of May. He was given 2-8 weeks to live. We were all packed to head to Houston, since it had 7 months since we had seen him, and we weren't going to miss the chance. We got a call that they wanted to come to us and we couldn't be more excited. Caroline and Martin came about 3 weeks after he was diagnosed and spent 4 days with us. We were so grateful to spend the time with them both. Grandpa told a few stories, one about having a toddler push car when he was a kid, just like the one at Red Robin. He also made a model of an engine from Hobby Lobby with Calvin and they talked about all their favorite channels on TV: the History Channel, the Science Channel, Mythbusters, How its made, etc. I think they really connected on a new level this trip. Corbyn of course got in a lot of hugs and didn't leave grandpa very much except for going to school. Chloe loved Grandpa right from the first, especially his socks with the yellow stripes! Well about a week and a half after they left our house Martin's health failed quickly. He pasted on June 5, lasting about 5 weeks from diagnoses,and we were blessed enough to be there at his bedside a few days before he passed. I am so glad we had the opportunity to spend time with him both when he was good and when he was not. He was a great man who loved the Lord and his kids and although it was hard for him to say it at times. I am blessed for having him in my life and will look forward to seeing him again. Martin we love and miss you!

Labor Day Fun with the Cousins

What a fun day! Dan & Angela invited us all over for a BBQ and swimming. We all had a blast and the clubhouse was great! The kids loved playing keep away in the pool and Chloe loved being entertained by Benji, and not to forget the wonderful dessert Angela made. Thanks cousins for staying close. We love you guys!

Kenzie's Achievement Day Talent Show

Kenzie was a complete Dive at the talent show. Their group had been working on their dance to the Hannah Montana's Country Hoe-Down for months. The girls at 9 years old act really shy in front of people, so I was totally shocked when my daughter was up front and jammin out! She was so into it, that all the Mom's were asking if she was in dance. She was definately the star of the stage. Who knew my little quiet one would be a preformer! Next year she will be in a local theatre company called "Broadway Bound," so who knows! Love you Kenzie!