State Fair

One of our family traditions is the State Fair. We didn't make it last year, so we really wanted to go this year. But, as the days went by and the rain seemed endless, it didn't look good. Finally, on the last weekend, the rain stopped, so we loaded up the kids and headed out.

After an hour and a half in traffic and a questionable parking spot (thanks Texas/OU) we made it. And because everyone was watching the game, we had the park to ourselves. So off we went for our Fair adventure.

For the past few weeks, all Max has talked about has been riding a roller coaster. So when we saw this, we grabbed him up and put him on. It was the first ride of the day and had I stepped back to really look at it, I probably would have made a different choice. The poor kids was terrified. When he got off, all he wanted was to go home.


Thankfully we found something a little more his speed.


I love that Luke is still entertained by bubbles.


Luckily for Luke, his mom loves the scary rides. M won't ride them with me so I'm glad to know I'll have a roller coaster partner in a few years.


Finally, we found the ride Max had been dreaming about. It went about five miles an hour and was perfect for him. He loved it and would have stayed on it all day. Luke is there too, but don't ask me why he is so far back.


To make the day even better, we went to one of the best petting zoo's I've ever seen. The giraffe is Max's favorite animal and it just doesn't get better than this.


Until the giraffe decides to start eating your shoe and licking your leg. I thought he would begin to cry but he was reveling in the giraffe's attention.


Luke got in on the action by bonding with the baby goats. He's never shown much attention to animals, but all he wanted to do was pet those babies. I love seeing his sensitive side.


To complete the day, we stopped by the cotton candy booth and indulged in some of the best I've ever had.


Max liked it so much, he licked the stick. If that stick was made of candy instead of paper, I'm sure he would have eaten that too.


And then it was time to go home. Despite the traffic and craziness, we had a great day.


And then we all went home for a nap.

Max's Turn

Now it's Max's turn to start school. He seems so lonele on the bench by himself. We definitely miss having Luke around.




Max likes his class so far. It's small, five girls and one other boy, but he's having fun. It's hard not to feel nostalgic when I know next year they will both be in school. I have to tell myself to enjoy the year and not go around thinking this is the last Donuts with Dads, the last preschool open house, the last...

First Day of First Grade

Wow. I can't believe I have a First Grader. He got so big over the summer.

Virginia Water Sports

Merk went home early, so Dad and I were left to our own devices to keep the boys entertained.

Our first attempt was fishing. Dad's girlfriend Karen lives on an awesome lake and let us use her boat.

Max was more interested in the tackle box than actually fishing.

I know it's hard to believe, but there's a fish on that line. It must have been two inches long. We threw it back.


This one's a keeper!

The next day we took the boys sailing on the Potomac.

It was a picture perfect day and the river was gorgeous. I grew up sailing with my dad so it was great to be on the boat again. The boys were a little scared and were more interested in the bugs than being on a sailboat. All in all, it was a great trip and I can't wait to do it all again next year.

Virginia Camping

Towards the end of the summer, we took the boys to visit my Dad in Virginia. We always do a lot of outdoor things there and the boys love it. Of course, they always love hanging out with Grandpa Joe. Here are some highlights from the camping part of the trip.

Max helped Grandpa Joe do everything. He was a little shadow the entire trip.


I still can't believe he fell asleep that way.



We went hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I love it there. It is definitely on of my favorite places.





I don't know if he was just tired or if he wanted to make sure we didn't forget him.


All tuckered out.

Summer Fun

I know, I know. It's been too long. But what's the point of summer if you can't take some time off?

Here is a not-so-brief recap of our summer so far. Enjoy!

Water fun in the backyard.




Naps!


The loss of a first tooth.


Hiding in a closet during a storm and a dramatic change in our landscaping.


A trip to the beach!!!







Me and my honey!


A visit to the Blue Angels. It was 100 degrees that day but nothing could keep us from the air show.




Luke at his Little League All Star Game.



Fourth of July Parade.



Building Legos. We do this almost every day. At this rate, I think I may qualify for Master Builder status soon.



And that brings us up to date. Only one month left until school starts. By far, this is the best summer we've had and I'm loving every moment, despite the relentless heat. Thank goodness for good friends, swimming pools and slip-n-slides.