Summer in Review

 Seems summer was a while ago, but never too late for pictures right?  We enjoyed backyard BBQs right from the start.

 Traeton enjoyed his 9th birthday with family and friends.  I love seeing my kids having fun with their cousins and Grandparents and they thrive off knowing that it is their day. 

 Another favorite spot for us is Jensen's Grove.  We were lucky enough to get to go with Aunt Tara and her kids.  Even better when the kids have others to play with. 

 Here we are sitting waiting for the 4th of July Parade to start.  There's Trae, always the comedian.

 Both boys participated in Baseball this summer.  It was a crazy couple months trying to get them to practices and games.  Thankful my boss is supportive and allowed me to work an adjusted schedule.  I love watching my kids play baseball.  Something different than basketball and neither one has played football yet. 

 Grandma Alene had a big sleepover just before the Pioneer day parade so she brought the kids to the parade and we met her. 

 More Camping pictures.  One beauty of living where we do is that we are close to some great camping spots.  It is pretty easy to pack a few things, and head out for the weekend.  Everyone loves going and everything seems better when we are in the mountains. 

 Our family loved Lava.  This was our first year and I am sure we will be going back next year.  Trae isn't in any pictures because I couldn't get him to leave the water slides.   It was perfect that he and Miguel could go and do their thing and Maleena and I could hang out by the little slides.  I did reach beyond my usual limitations and go down the waterslides too.  It was way fun, but there is that moment when you stand up and realize your swimsuit is not at all where it is supposed to be. 

 Another first for out family was miniature golf and the driving range.  When we went it was extremely hot so we were all sweating, but it was fun.  Miguel especially loved it and asks frequently when we can go back. 

 More camping pictures that loaded after the previous ones. 

 These are just some of the kids.  They sure are growing up.  I am amazed when we look back and see how much they have changed.  They are all unique and there is never a dull moment in our home.  I am thankful for the blessings in my life and I count the kids and Jeff as my greatest ones. 

 Grandma Contreras went camping with us one time and that was especially great.  Great Company and even better food. 

 Maleena started dance class.  This was the first class and they were getting to know each other. 

 Maleena and Jeff sitting at a baseball game.  I love this one of Maleena because she has so much personality and this picture captures that. 

Final Day

Our last day at Disney and California Adventure.  The week went way too fast and I can't believe here I am quickly posting so that I can get to bed and ready for another week of work.  Jeff loves the pictures on the blog.  He likes that he can pull it up and show people when he is at work or other places.  I like having a visual journal for the kids to scroll through.  We have some major moments captured through this blog and I don't ever want to lose that.  This vacation was highly anticipated.  Obviously going to Disneyland is always amazing for the kids, but I really needed a break.  I don't know if Jeff and I are doing the best job for our kids, but we are trying.  I needed this time with them and I know they needed it with us.  We are busy, just like so many others and at the end of the day I don't always have the energy to give each one of my kids what they need.  I want to be better.  I want to learn more about each one of them.  They are so different and yet, sometimes I want them to act all the same, maybe exactly as I do.  Then I remember my flaws and want them to be nothing like me.  I am learning that what I did yesterday won't always work tomorrow.  Parenting is hard and a continuous journey.  I am still here though, mistakes and all, because I love my family.  I love my kids.  I love their energy.  I often wish they would refrain a bit around others, but it is who they are.  They are full of life and always ready to play.  I need that.  I could easily sit back and watch the world pass by.  My kids would never have that.  They have to be in the spotlight and that forces me to journey places I may not have gone.  I appreciate all that they are showing me and teaching me.