Summer So Far

Summer so far has been filled with fun activities left and right. If the kiddos don't have a camp one week we fill our days with activities that can only be scheduled on those free and open days of wonderful summer. Trampoline sprinklers and numerous games of kickball with families from church have been some of our favorites. Catching frogs and swimming would definitely be at the top of Haley and Azure's list. Kadyn was excited she got the opportunity to go indoor skydiving and Ryley was excited she didn't have too. Ryley and Thatcher love playing night games outside with close friends and Haley's had a big summer of growth as she can now ride a bike, swim, and roller skate. It's been such an enjoyable few weeks of free time with these wonderful munchkins.

 

 

 

 

Sunset '15

Sunset beach was awesome. A great day of friends, food, digging, and boggie boarding. What more could you ask for?!

Month of Music

The Ballard kiddos have been rocking their recitals for the past month. Ryley and Thatcher participated in their first piano guild at Methodist University and walked away with Superior and Superior Minus. It was awesome. They then nailed their piano pieces once again for a recital held a few weeks later. Kadyn and Haley had an amazing experience with their violin recital as well. Kadyn completed her second book and gets to move forward in learning 3rd hand position. That's a huge deal in the world of violin. This was Haley's first experience performing for a crowd and she played every piece perfectly, including a duet with Kadyn. It was a great experience for the Ballard clan.

Amazing Azure

This little cutie pie just turned 4. Our baby is 4! What is going on here?! We partied with friends at Monkey Joe's, then returned home for cake, ice cream, and presents. It was a fantastic way to  celebrate the birth of this little lady. Azure is funny and sweet, with just a hint of teasing in her. We love her so very much and are grateful she is part of our forever family. Happy 4th Azure blue!

Memorial Day '15

Memorial Day was wonderful. Thatcher had the awesome opportunity to pass out programs, then escort a wreath down the isle for a ceremony in honor of our nations fallen heroes. The presentation only lasted an hour, but made a huge impact on our boy. He asked me tons of questions on the way home and now has a new understanding of what this special holiday means. To finish out the day we were able to swim with one of our favorite families around. The kiddos had a fantastic evening swimming with their friends and catching frogs. I'd say this was one of our most successful Memorial Day's yet!

Grandma's Visit

Grandma Darden came to visit a few weeks ago and we had a great time. She entertained the kiddos nonstop and was very helpful to me as we maneuver these weeks with Daddy away. Countless Old Maid games, a few lemonade stands, a night out to Red Robin and the two weeks had already flown by. The kiddos were sad to see her leave, but happy when reminded she would see them again in Sept.!

Thatchers Red Sox

Thatcher has been enjoying his first season of baseball this year. A good friend from school invited him to give it a try and Thatcher has loved the experience. His first game included two runs and awarded game ball. This honor was given to Thatcher after he was pelted in the head, which spun him in a complete circle and dropped the helmet down over his face. Everyone froze as the coach walked towards him to survey the damage. The umpire asked, "but where's the ball?", which Thatcher  promptly produced from his hand, offering it up to the umpire without moving a muscle, nor the helmet which still fully covered his face. The fans erupted in cheers and laughter at his calm demeanor and Thatcher was of course immediately offered a spot at first base for taking the hit. It was a fantastic first game in which I'm certain he gained some confidence and a few adoring fans from the bleachers.