Two Quick Trips

With summer quickly coming to a close, and Finley starting back at preschool this week, we managed to squeeze in two quick trips in August before getting back into our school routine. 

First up: TEXAS! 

My mom's parents passed away when she was in her early twenties, and ever since then she has always been close to her mom's sister, Aunt Betty. Aunt Betty and her children and grandchildren all live in Texas.

She and my Great Uncle Charles have had several health issues over the past few years. Aunt Betty is doing very well again so we thought it would be a good idea to get out there while we can and catch up with everyone. We got to spend a lot of time with her son Pat who lives in Denton near her.

One night we all headed over to Ft. Worth to visit Randy and Debbie and swim in their beautiful pool.

Finley again was way too brave for my comfort.

My mom's cousin Kay was also able to come over and visit with us. 

It was so nice to visit with everyone and catch up!

And in case you didn't know, everything really is bigger and better in Texas.

We also got to spend time with Kay's daughter Kelly and her son Kashton. He was too cute and Finley enjoyed having another kid around to play with. When we were leaving Finley said "Isn't he so adorable!"

Cousin Debbie and my mama.

Pat and his wife Bridget.



Aunt Betty lives across the street from this fabulous park!

Check out this playground! Even I was excited to play on it. But the heat out there is also very oppressive, so we didn't last long.

My mom really enjoyed being able to spend time with her kin and catch up.

I hope it isn't too long before we can have another family reunion.

Texas Forever!

Next Up: The Beach!

Our besties the Sherwoods who recently moved to Washington (State) made their way back to NC for a visit and beach week.

 

They invited us to come and spend a few days at the beach with them. How could we say no?

By the way, Nicolle is my twin. We have several outfits that are almost identical. I guess we both just have great taste. Right Twinie?

I was so glad that David was able to take off a few days of work and come too.

The weather was just perfect.

It was so great to see baby Sylvie and see how much she has grown! Of course the older kids got their hands on her and decided to decorate her with stickers.

The beach house the Sherwoods rented had this great 'play room' below the house. A perfect place to get away from the heat.

Clara and Finley covered themselves in sand.

Finley really had a blast with the girls. He keeps asking me when we are moving out to Washington so we can be close to them and play with them all the time.

We enjoyed a nice walk on the beach.

We had fun teaching Clara how to play boccee.

Finley and Sarah-Jane developed this awesome game where they sat in inter tubes and then let the waves come in and spin them around and carry them back out to sea.

We had so much fun hanging out with our friends! And of course being at the beach didn't hurt either. Thanks for inviting us guys! We can't wait to see you again next summer!