Fourth of July

Phil and I took the kids and our nephews to a local lake nearby for lunch on the 4th.  We haven't been to this lake in years and thought it would great to go back on the 4th. 

In the evening we went to a friend's house for a BBQ and sparklers.  

This is the 4th try in getting Andrew's picture.  He hates me taking his photo, hence you may notice I don't post many pictures of him. 

Gone Fishin'

Clare has been wanting to go fishing for while now.  Our neighbor said he'd take her and FINALLY the day came.  July 3rd at 6:30AM, our neighbor, Phil and Clare made plans to go.  Clare was sooo excited and couldn't wait. 
Three hours later, they returned.  Clare had a blast and wants to go again.  She caught 17 shad fish. 

Phil with a striper.

Another Driver in the House

For the past few months, Olivia has been talking about taking her learner's permit test and being all excited to drive.   She couldn't wait to turn 14 and to go take the test.  Even though, we are all on summer break, the days have been quite busy with various activities, and we hadn't been able to take her to the DOT.  Today was the day Olivia was ready to take the test, along with a friend of hers.  Phil and Olivia meet them up in Ankeny at 9:30.   It was VERY busy...should have known since it is a Friday.   I was waiting anxiously and so were her siblings.   They got home and she PASSED!!!!  Olivia had the BIGGEST smile on her face.  She's ready for the next chapter of her life as a driver, even though Phil and I are nervous. 

Getting ready to drive for the first time. 

Andrew Pitching

This week Andrew's Little League is having their end of the year tournament.  Tonight was game one

for them.  Since they ended up winning, his team will play again tomorrow.  Andrew pitched tonight but can't pitch til Wed. due to the number of pitches he threw today.  Go Yankees!!!

Slip N' Slide

Clare's softball team has their State Tournament this weekend.  To have a little fun at the end of practice, the team had sliding practice using a Slip N' Slide.  The girls LOVED it, and it was a great way to cool off.

Siblings were able to participate too.  Ruthie was sooo excited!!!  This was her first time...a little airborne.

Dance Recital

Olivia had her dance recital last Friday night.  She performed absolutely awesome!!!!  Over the last couple of years, her confidence in dancing has improved.  About 3-4 years ago, she knew all the moves and routines but her stage presence (all smiles) wasn't there.  NOW, she smiles and hams it up for the audience really well. Very impressive and WAY better than what I could ever do.  Dancing is your thing Olivia and you made me very proud last Friday night. 

Sadly, Olivia says this is her last performance now that she'll be going into high school next year.  Maybe when fall rolls around, she'll want to pick up her dancing shoes again. 

Jazz 4-Queen of the Night

Hip Hop 4-Tea Party

Birthday Girls

What a week....2 birthdays, storms, baseball/softball games, finishing up school!! 

Olivia celebrated her 14th birthday on Memorial Day. 

Photo of my girls after church 6/3/13

Clare had games again this weekend, but we managed to squeeze Little Ruth's birthday in.  She is soo excited to be 4 now, just like her friends.  Just realized she is wearing the same dress she wore a week ago for Olivia's bday.  This girl LOVES her dresses.......just like her BIG sister did when she was little.