Rainbow

Daddy was heading out to make some visits this evening so Payton and Alyssa ran out to wave their good-byes only to return excitedly to tell me all about the big rainbow outside. Since I just read a friend's blog who posted a picture of the last rainbow she saw, I thought to grab my camera. It was big. And beautiful. But was quickly fading away. This was the best I could get of it, but still, pretty enough to post. (Those are my happy kids standing in front of the door.)

Swimming Lessons

I don't remember how old I was when I started taking swimming lessons. But I remember my older brother and I carpooled with the neighbor kids upstairs and I wore a red swimsuit with tiny white dots. Mostly, I remember LOVING it. So far, these two seem to love it too.

Blowing Mom a kiss.

Pool Party

Our good friend Sally invited us over for a pool party.

We don't get a very long summer here, so when it's sunny I like spending as much time as I can outdoors.

Left to right: Ivy, Evelyn, Grant (peeking through the castle), Bella, Payton, Abbi and Alyssa

Bella making a splash!

Alyssa making a splash!

Payton making a splash!

Eating grapes. Grapes are one of Payton's favorite foods.

Even Stacey got out with band new baby Aaden to join us.

Jeanne getting some sun with baby Joel. The kids just love Jeanne and mine are no exception.

Thanks Sally for having us over! We sure love these extra play dates.

I also LOVE having this extra motivator to get the toys picked up before we head over! ; )

Maggots in My Onions

Out in my garden my onions have started dying --- just like last year. Maggots again. YUCK! It was a sad sad sad discovery to find them today. I had to pull almost every one.

On a positive note, I did get to pull a handful of radishes --- last year I couldn't get these to grow either.

Nathaniel's Baby Blessing

We got to spend the weekend in Utah with Eli's family. His mom planned a temple trip. His little sister Jessica brought her newest, Nathaniel (Nate), out to be blessed on Sunday.

Jessica & Nate

It was so nice to be with family. My kids especially love playing with all the kids when we get together like this.

Here's Alyssa chatting with Grandpa. She so loves him.

A happy smile from Nate. What a cutie.

Eli getting some baby time.

And a family photo just before heading back home. Too bad it had to end so soon. I am especially glad that Eli got work off last minute so he could come out with us.