Just wanted to share this picture of Hannah holding a little Anne Estelle doll. The doll looks so much like her, I don't think the picture even does it justice. My sister-in-law pointed it out to us and let Hannah play with her doll. Hannah fell instantly in love. Maybe I'll have to find her one for Christmas or something.

Things I Love

Okay, so I see a lot of blogs with an "I Love" section and Amy also suggested adding one to a blog. So, I added my "I Love" section. I have to tell you that it was very therapeutic for me. As I was thinking of all the things that mean the most to me, my heart was so full of gratitude for all of the things that I am blessed with. I am truly lucky for all the things in my life that make me happy, for all the wonderful people I'm surrounded by, and that all my needs (and a few wants) are met. Really, what more could a person ask for. So, I suggest to you all, if you want some cheap therapy, sit and think about the things that you love and that make you happy.

Fourth of July!

The Fourth of July is one of my all time favorite holidays. I love everything about it...the warm weather, parades, fireworkds, barbecues, family...it's all great. This year, we started off the day at Jake and Bonny's house for a barbecue. The kids had a great time playing in the yard and the trees and with each other. Shane, Andrew, and Hannah spent most of their time wrestling with each other. They are so hilarious to watch. Then, we headed over to watch the parade in Menan and afterwards spend some time playing the games, checking out the booths, and doing all the little kiddie activities. For a small town, Menan really goes all out. We hung out with family a little more, then watched the fireworks in Menan, and again for a small town, they do a fantastic job. I love celebrating our independence. I'm so grateful for the country in which we live. We are so blessed.
Here are some random pics from our day...

They boys just hanging out...

We watched the parade on Man Street in Menan. Here Hannah is dancing to the

band's music and Becca and Andrew are hanging out.

We finished off the night setting off our own firewords and doing sparklers with Jake,

Bonny, Shane, Isaac, and Josh. We had such a wonderful day!

Girls' Weekend

We had such a great time in Vegas. It was so much fun to see everyone. We talked and talked about anything and everything. It was great to catch up with everybody. We laughed and joked a lot and we cried too (what do you expect when 7 women get together?) Melissa was the perfect hostess...we felt at home and had a great time in her gorgeous home and playing in her pool. (Thanks so much again Melissa!) I am so grateful for such a wonderful family. I'm happy that we've always been close to our cousins and aunts. Even though I don't see them as often as I would like to, I consider them some of my best friends. It makes me happy that my kids are also becoming close to their cousins. What a blessing. And we can't forget our fabulous husbands who had the kids and made it possible for us to have our weekend. Thanks guys!