We kept busy this summer (not just because there are four kids). The big kids took swim lessons for the whole month of June and enjoyed it (they keep asking me about when they can go to lessons again). They also did gymnastics as previously posted. We had playdates. We went to the library for their planned activities as much as possible. We went to Chick-fil-A a lot...they also offered activities/freebies. We used POGO passes to go to sporting events. Whew! Here are the snapshots.
June
We had cousins come and stay the weekend with us. Naturally, we all went to the zoo on Saturday since it was just Desi and all the kids. The kids did really well the whole weekend, but it was more exhausting than normal just because of sheer volume. I'm glad the kids got to spend time together.
We saw a magic show (I must admit I really wanted to go see it, and I was not disappointed). Emilee was selected to help with the show and loved every minute of it. She got to be the world's strongest girl and lift a heavy box that a boy couldn't lift. She also got water poured on her for no real reason. Logan was bummed he wasn't picked, but he did get to play with a prop at the end. Rachel was promised a dollar by the magician if she put her souvenir rope under her pillow...two days later she remembered to do it.
Baby update. Around 7 months old.
We went to the Mesa Temple and Visitor's center for a story time by the missionaries. We also met up with friends there. I'm so glad we have a temple (with visitor center) close by so that I can take my children there.
We met up with friends using our POGO passes to see a Rattlers game. So loud. The kids enjoyed it for a bit before getting bored. I think the dads enjoyed it the most. We're glad Britt was able to join us before we were ready to leave. After leaving the arena, we decided to stay up later and get frozen yogurt with our friends.
July
Pre-Fourth of July family picture. Friends from New Hampshire came to visit. We had other friends meet up as well, and we went to Chick-fil-A then came back to our house for a DDR party and more food. It was good to see friends we don't get to see very often.
Our ward does a Fourth of July breakfast each year. We invite our neighbors when we remember to give them enough warning...this time they came. There is a parade for the kids who decorate anything with wheels. Then the breakfast. Usually it ends with a water fight.
Back to the library for an illusionist show. That was pretty awesome as well! Emilee lucked out and was again picked for the show. She had a card trick played on her. I think she must be the right age/size to be picked.
Chick-fil-A for Cow Appreciation Day (with friends - I'm so glad Michelle is willing to try all these crazy things together). By dressing up, we got free meals.
We went to the Science Center to play and get wet in the heat.
POGO Pass again for a Diamondbacks Baseball game this time. I think the kids followed it a little better after having Logan play this spring. Stayed up late that night, but as the game was dragging on, we chose to leave before it ended which meant we missed the fireworks.
We had one day with a lot of rain, so these kids played out there for over an hour. They loved it. Now, they put on sweaters/jackets, but it really was not cold that day, just wet.
On Pioneer Day, we created a tent in the bedroom, and I let them all sleep together like the pioneers.
Back to Chick-fil-A. They had a reading program where the kids could earn a free meal for doing a one-page report on a book they read. Emilee's report cover/drawing was on display. Good for her!
