GREAT TO BE EIGHT

Where does the time go. It seems like just yesterday that Adam and I were sitting in the hospital holding Nicholas and wondering how on earth are we going to take care of two kids. Nicholas turned eight on July 28, 2008.

Nick wanted a Army cake with a battle ground. Notice the blood
on the enemies.

Partying with his cousins

We busted out the water slide!

When he turns 28, it will be July 28, 2028. How cool is that for a birthday date!!

Nicholas brings so much joy and laughter into our home. He makes us long for the energy that he exhorts on a hourly, daily basis. He hits the ground running from sun up to sun down. One of the greatest qualities that Nick has is he is very thoughtful. While shopping at Target, he will pass certain things and comment on which of his friends or cousins would like this or that. He would buy everything in sight for them if I would let him. He is also your biggest fan! While Matthew was playing baseball he would constantly be cheering for his older brother and when Matthew wasn't pitching he would be telling me that Matthew should be in because he thinks that he is the best at everything. We can learn a lot about kindness from Nick. On the side of laughter this is something funny he said, "I can not wait to turn eight!!! I get to get baptized! I get to go to Cub Scouts and I get to learn where a baby comes from!! " We have conquered two of the three and we are not looking forward to the third. We have a feeling that this time might not go as smooth as the last!!:)

LIFE IS A BEACH !!!!

We made our trek to California via American Airlines this July. We met up with the Ogdens at Paradise by the Sea in Oceanside. This is an annual trip for our families and is a favorite of our boys. We spent 6 days in California. We went to the beach every day, Lego Land on the boys birthday and to the pool and hot tub every night. We had such a great time seeing the Ogdens again. We sure do miss living by them in Las Vegas.

Making our way to the beach
Nick and Zach

Nick catching a wave Matthew riding the wave all the way in

Shovel and sand is all these boys need

Best of Friends

Me and my man!

Nick
Good times!

I am so thankful that we have the ability to make such lasting memories with our family. When I asked the boys what their favorite part of Summer has been...they both said "The Beach". It reminded me that even somethings as simple as water, sand, sun and a couple of shovels can bring lasting happiness and fond memories. See ya next year, California!!!