Summer Camping

KOA-Astoria

We stole away for two nights of camping -- the type of camping I'm willing to do - with showers, pool, free pancake breakfast, water and power hookup, convenience store!

The campground had a big "pillow" for jumping.  The kids loved it!

My favorite part: that time of night when we're all in the tent and there's nothing to do but talk.  Love that.  Goodnight.

A Day at the Beach

A nice day at the beach in Ocean Shores WA with the 2nd cousins!

Gabe, Carly, Carlos, Dandan, Sam

Gabe and DanDan playing frisbee...

Father & Son Campout

It's that time of year when the men of the family leave the nest, if only for one night.  Carly and I love this time by ourselves and enjoy a girl's night!  This year we ate Chinese food in a cozy bed while we watched TV together.

Garrett, Sam

Gabe, Jonathan 

The boys, however, had a great time at Zions Camp -- eating hot dogs, chips, licorice, s'mores and drinking as much soda as they want.  And they got to play with fire.  Sam was finally able to try out the bow he got for Christmas!  After eating an awesome potluck breakfast of egg burritos and pancakes on Saturday morning, they packed up and headed home.  They had a good time.  We had a good time.  Sometimes separating the girls and boys is a good thing.

LDS Mod (Modest) Prom

Gabe's first date!  Gabe's 16 years old, but doesn't date.  Gabe has his Learner's Permit, but doesn't like to drive. Gabe has many friends, but prefers to interact with them online.  I don't get it.

Gabe, Meagan, Raechel, James

He was convinced to go to the LDS Prom, however, and I was so happy for him -- actual interaction with people!  Dancing!  Eating!  Talking!  In person!

Arrival at dinner "Pike's Place Market"

Market wares and Fish Throwers

Gabe, Meagan, James and Raechel had a great time on their date.  It was a Seattle theme, and the decor, food and amazing time and efforts put into this 5-stake event still amazes me!

Dining Room at the "Space Needle"

Arrival at the dance (the "cruise")

Dancin'

I hear that my son was a total gentleman.  Sigh.

2012 Mother-Daughter Weekend

This years Mother-Daughter weekend was planned by Rebecca, and we went to Sedona, AZ!

The trip included all the usual things -- food, pedicure (for me), games, talking, food, birthday celebrations (Carrie and Rebecca), food.  You get the picture.  I have such a great time with my sisters -- I laugh so hard I cry.  Rebecca is so clever and fun.  Carrie is a great conversationalist and eager to be active.  Mom is a peacemaker and it's clear she loves us and loves being around us.  She likes to make memories.  I think I got that from her.

Yummy food at The Barking Frog- deep fried cactus!

A wonderful sunset

Sedona Summit pool

A day at the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon!

 I can't wait to see what next year has in store for us!  I miss them already.