We Bought a Truck

We've been on a few camping trips this summer and have come to the realization that we have too much stuff to fit into our current vehicles. So we bought a truck! And it's a beauty! Now we just need to go camping.

My Babies Grew Up

Not long ago when I was in the midst of chaos that is parenting small children, it felt like I would have all my babies at home with me forever. Well it wasn't forever. I just sent my littlest off to kindergarten. People aren't kidding when they say time flies. Next thing you know, she'll be going to high school.

On the plus side, she was ready and happy to go to school!

You got to make the best of each situation, so Shay and I made sure to make the most of our new found freedom!

Solee was still smiling when we picked her up 6 hours later!

Twinsies on Day 2

Here's to a happy year, Giant Baby!

Marriage Equals Adventure

One of my best friends from my college years got married in beautiful Sisters, Oregon. We were lucky to attend and celebrate his special day with him.

On Thursday we drove to Crater Lake National Park. It was dark when we got there, so we used the car's headlights to set up camp. Do you know what happens when you leave lights on a car that is not running? Yep! We killed the battery. Fortunately for us some fellow campers across the way offered to jump start our car in the morning.

Anyway, this campground is probably the prettiest campground I have ever stayed at. It was so wonderful to camp with my whole family, including ever busy Shay!

Cayben & Embrie worked on a packet of worksheets so they could earn their Junior Ranger Badge. Plus, this makes up for them skipping school. Right? Haha!

The following day, after getting our car started, we explored the park. Pictures don't do this place justice. It's gorgeous! And the kids got their Junior Ranger Badges.

On Friday evening we drove to Sisters, OR and spent the night at a local hotel. The following morning we spent exploring this charming town before it was time to head to Evered Ranch for the wedding.

Finally it was time to go to the big event we had traveled to. Jordan's wedding was beautiful. It was so fun to celebrate him, and it was so, so fun to catch up with some of my best friends. 

Cayben said this was the best wedding he's ever been to. I think it had something to do with this! P.S. He did end up falling in fully clothed and with phone in pocket. 

Beka and Shay racing!

I love these people!

After dancing the night away, we camped at the ranch.

The following morning we said our goodbyes, committed to more frequent reunions, and made the trek home. 

We finally got to meet the adorable McKee twins!

I wish Jordan all of the wonderful blessings marriage brings. It truly is life's greatest adventure!

Another First Day

Gosh, summer is short! School is already back in session around these parts. Cayben is in 5th grade. Embrie is in 2nd. Solee will start kindergarten next week.

These people are growing like weeds!

We made sure to do some after school bribery celebrating at Olive Garden and the race track! 

It was torturing Shay and Cayben to just watch Solee play a game. Ha! 

HI MOM!