Man, I am WAAAAY Behind!

Ok, so I guess I've been slacking the last year, because I've hardly posted anything on the blog. I have so many photos over the past year, that I'm not even sure where to start. So, I'm just going to add them as I get to them, starting with Hannah's 12th birthday photos.
One of Hannah's friends shares the same birthday with her, even the same year, so the girls decided to have a double birthday party. They decided on a trendy rock and roll theme, with lots of bright colors, and polka dots. We just had a small party, with each of them inviting a couple of friends, and just family in attendance. Because of this, we decided to go with a cupcake tower, rather than a traditional cake, and it turned out GREAT!
The kids had a blast playing games, including limbo, and they even rocked the house with the karaoke machine.
Dawson had a great time playing the guitar, and dressing the part, and he even rocked the microphone, with a duet with his friend.
This party was much more successful than the last one, with regard to RSVP'd guests actually showing up, and Hannah had a great time.

4th of July Fun

For the past several years, we have celebrated the 4th of July by spending the day at the local lake. This year, we were blessed to have close friend and family share the day with us, and we had a blast! The weather was nice, only in the upper 80's, and the clouds provided some welcome shade from the sun.
The boys, Dawson, my nephews Justin and Logan, and my friend's son Clayton, spent most of the day fishing. This is one of my favorite photos from the day, showing them all relaxing, with their fishing poles in the water.


It was a great day for Logan, who at 4 years old, caught his very first fish. He is now tied with Uncle Dave, who at 31 years old, just caught his very first fish in Kansas back in June. After the big catch, it was a mad ash back to the lake for a little fishing competition. I mean what adult wants to be outfished by a 4 year old? Unfortunately, the fish were not very cooperative, at least not for the men. Our neighbor Brenda caught several fish, and Hannah had one on the line, but it escaped as she was reeling it in.
Aside from fishing, we spent the day playing badminton (I beat Dave at both games we played, as I do every year) and we also played football and soccer throughout the day. Dave grilled up some hamburgers, hot dogs, and bratwurst, and we enjoyed dinner together.
A little after 9, the fireworks show began, and although not as long a last year, it was a beautiful show. After the show, we packed everything up, and headed back to our neighbor's house to set off our own fireworks. We set off fireworks until after midnight.
With good food, great company, and lots of laughs, I do believe a great day was had by all!

Dawson's 1st Mutton Busting Experience

We went to the Abbyville Rodeo, and Dawson had his 1st mutton busting experience. He LOVED it! It scare me to death, but it was worth it, to see the smile on his face after it was over. There were about 10 children in the competition, and Dawson rode the second longest. Most of the kids fell off right after they opened the gate, but Dawson held on for dear life!
Conversation of the day:
Daddy: "Ok Dawson, make sure you hold on really tight when they open the gate."
Dawson: "Hold on to what daddy?"