My Southern Roots

My kids and I flew down to South Carolina for the weekend, a really short time to travel so far away. Yet in those three days we made many memories that will carry us until we can visit again.

My cousin busted out a slip-in-slide for the kids! They all had fun, especially Carson.

Carson really enjoyed playing with my cousin's son.

 Sometimes they turned into double trouble. But here they are just double fun! 

Bryce did really well around people he didn't know and

at places he had never been, as long as he had grapes.

But he was always a character!

Julianne loved being around all of her princess cousins!

At home she only has a few girl friends, but for the weekend,

 she had all the princess company she could handle.

I am grateful for the memories, especially the ones not captured on film.

This trip was a great reminder that although I have lived out west for 12 years,

the south still runs through my veins.

Carson Valley Days: Carnival

We surprised our kids by taking them to the carnival that rolls into town every year for the Carson Valley Days celebration. It was really neat watching this group of friends run from ride to ride together. 

Julianne and her friend, Sophie, almost look bored as they ride a mini roller coaster.

 

This is one of my favorite pictures of the night. David, Julianne, and Sophie holding hands on their way to the bounce house. I am so lucky that my little girl has such great friends.

The triple threat waiting to go on a ride.

Julianne flying a plane.

Okay, so this ride was a little tame for Carson. He dragged his Dad all over the carnival, riding the big kid rides. He rode so many that he was sick later that night!

This shot is a little funky.

The kids were given bright neon shirts at the end of the night.

This picture makes me think of yellow neon ghosts haunting a deserted carnival.

The One Who Didn't Get Away

At the beginning of June, the community hosts a free fishing derby for the kids. The fishing derby provides the fish, pole, bait, and help. Preschool kids get to have a parent help while older children fish with help from volunteers. We had a great time!

Julianne had the surprise of her life when she pulled out this beauty. Everyone cheered for her and she became the star of the show. When we got it weighted: 2.8 lbs. It was the biggest fish caught in our session so Julianne won a trophy.  

 Julianne's name is on the BIG FISH BOARD. So far she has caught the largest fish.

Carson was a good sport and held Julianne's fish. I am a proud Mama.

There were other great moments at the derby.

This is the first fish that Julianne caught.

Julianne got a picture with the Fire Dog. 

I was so proud of Carson. He caught his two fish all by himself! I just supplied the camera.

And of course everyone got treated to cotton candy!



Even Bryce!



My Preschool Graduate

Julianne graduated from preschool this past week. Her teacher, me, was very proud. I know she is looking forward to going to Kindergarden.

An American Past Time

On Memorial Day, we took the family to see the Reno Aces play the Sacramento River Cats. Although our great family trip didn't go like we thought, I spend much of my time at the children's play area, it was nice to see the sun!

My Water Baby!

Bryce has always loved the water and especially taking baths!

If we are not careful sometimes he sneaks in with his sister and takes a plunge.

 Instead of yanking him out, this time I ran for the camera while Brandon played lifegaurd.

Swimming Lessons

We are very lucky to live next to an indoor swimming pool. For the past two weeks we have been going to swimming lessons to help orient Julianne and Carson before the summer break.

I was really proud of Julianne. She has never felt comfortable in the water, so we really made some progress.

Carson has always been my water boy but I was grateful that he could work on his stroke and kicking.

Summer break here we come!