July

So, I was just going to dump these pictures here on the blog with the hope that a picture speaks a thousand words, and then call it good.   After all, we like the pictures more than the words, right?   But, here I am sitting at the computer in sweat pants while a cool October breeze rattles the blinds and reminds me that July was a while ago.   And the summer, being the whirlwind that it was, seems like a blur.   It was busy and it was hard and sometimes I felt like I wished it away.   I kept thinking about the end of August, when Doug would be home from Vernal and everything would back to normal.   Now that things are back to normal, I’m sort of hoping I don’t forget the summer.   All the feelings and growth that took place, all the things I learned about myself and how I discovered what really mattered most when I had to work a little harder to create the intended outcome.

First, we took Daxton fishing.  Pretty sure he didn't get it, but we had fun anyway. 

I love father & son fishing pictures!

I’ve always loved the July holidays and the traditions that go along with them. I was excited this year because I felt like Daxton was just old enough to start to enjoy the traditions I always make a huge fuss over. This summer I wanted to do it all – the fireworks and parades, the BBQ’s, the family parties, everything. I knew it would be a challenge with Doug out of town, but I get so silly and sentimental about all those things and I was determined to make memories.

On the 4th we had a neighborhood BBQ and let the kids play together until it got dark. We live so close to the USU stadium that we had an awesome view of the fireworks from our house. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite 4th of July traditions.

We took a trip up to the cabin and spent the night with cousins then hiked up to Birch Creek.

The Hendersons got together for a family reunion at Bear Lake.  We slept in a tent and spent lots of time at the beach.  Daxton loved boating and playing in the sand.

My grandma is awesome!

Doug didn't get the day off for Pioneer Day, but I really wanted to take the kids to a parade.  I was a little nervous going alone, but we ended up having so much fun.  Daxton got excited before he even saw floats, caught any candy, or heard any sirens.  He just likes to watch cars and trucks drive by.  I love how excited he gets over the littlest things.