Blog Equals Book

I started our families blog a little over three year's ago. At moments I have wanted to quit but the idea of one day publishing it into a scrapbook has kept my motivation continually going. With our many moves and experiences. With the wonderful countless people we have been blessed to meet. For all of life's amazing moments and memories. How could I not document those gifts?

So, here's to three wonderful years and 200 pages later. After receiving the finished product and watching the excitement of our children as they read and remembered the past, I was so grateful to have not given up. I was also a little overwhelmed. Now I won't be able to stop until the last kiddo is out of the nest! I think I'm going to be doing this for quite a while.

Kansas City Cousins

We had a great time in Kansas City this past weekend. Our brother in law turned the big 50 last week and his daughters planned and executed an amazing surprise party in his honor. The gym was decked out in a 70's theme and guests were surrounded with food, dancing, treats, karaoke, and more. The kids had a wonderful time as well and had I brought my camera I would have solid evidence that Ryley can "get down" with any 70's song thrown at her. The entire evening was awesome. We spent the remaining weekend hanging out and enjoying their company. Saturday included The Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, Gelato, and riding horses. On Sunday, after a great afternoon of church, lunch, and visiting, we began gathering the children to head back toward Manhattan. There was much sorrow and lamenting with the idea of leaving their cousins behind, however, we'll return in two weeks as we pass through heading for St. Louis in hopes of finding a home to rent. Though tears still came, this new information made leaving at least bearable.

Thatcher's face at the start of his ride.

Thatcher's face at the end of his ride.

Haley J's face when you mention the words "horsey ride".

Spring Break Surprise

A week ago a friend and I were talking about the kids upcoming break. Her husband was going to be out of town and my husband is MIA while studying for his upcoming board exams. We began discussing all of the fun things that Kansas City has to offer, and by the end of our conversation we had planned a two day overnight trip complete with fun restaurants, wonderful shopping malls, and an indoor water park. We kept it a secret from the kiddos until Wednesday evening when I began to pack the suitcase. I explained to the girls what a huge undertaking this would be for Mom since we had never before ventured on an overnighter without Dad and that I would need their help more than ever. Bottom line, they were fantastic! I couldn't have asked for kiddos who were more well-mannered and willing to help at Mom's first sign of need. My friend and her daughters were also amazingly helpful and kind in assisting me. With the exception of our missing hubbies it was by far one of the best "quick trips" we have ever taken. The best part of all, Steven's board exams are over tomorrow!

Before

During

Pool Parties

We have always appreciated the extra bonuses that the military offers to children. They always plan great activities that our kids seem to love. The indoor pool here on post has been a blast recently. During spring break they pick daily "themes" and turn the pool area into a veritable wonderland for the kiddos with free food, games, toys, and daily raffle items. Just today Thatcher found himself the proud winner of a brand new basketball. It was great! After hours of swimming and constant entertainment we return home with happy, tired kids who are ready for bed and a Mom grateful to the many individuals who have helped entertain them. I'm ready for bed too, but with nine weeks left of pregnancy, I'm always ready for bed. :)