September

We started September off with an extended camping trip over Labor Day weekend with my family. We set up camp next to this gorgeous little stream. We hadn't been there for very long before the kids speared this fish!

We thought that taking the tent (instead of borrowing the tent trailer that needed a lot of work) would be the easiest option. It was super easy to set up but didn't make for the best sleeping conditions. We ended up leaving a night early because we just couldn't make ourselves sleep that way for one more night.

We made lots of fires and spent lots of time exploring in the woods.

Heath and Amberlee came up for the day and of course we swarmed Avree and never left her alone.

We took a lot of turns on Grandpa's four-wheeler.

Over all we had the best time! We played games, who new Laura is amazing at strategy and won't hesitate to throw her team mates under the bus to save herself. 11 year olds these days are ruthless! We cooked huge meals on the camp chef, read, played sports, relaxed and just enjoyed each other's company.

Later in the month we went to Lake Powell with Dustin's family. When your dad is a contractor most of your vacations start out looking a lot like this.

Three hours later, after lunch on a pile of 2x4's, a few walks trying to avoid muddy puddles, and lot of asking, "What's taking Dad so long?" we were finally on our way. 

We had a great time on the lake but only have one picture to show for it. Luckily Aunt Meagan was on top of things and took this for us.

September is my favorite month: nice weather, a return to structured schedules and BIRTHDAYS! A miracle occurred on my birthday this year - Mckay let Jessie hold him!

She was practically his mom before her mission but he changed a lot while she was gone and it took a long time for him to warm up to her. (Being distracted by the phone may have played a part in the miracle.)

And of course Dustin's birthday finished off the month! Man, is he getting old. Shelynne and the kids happened to be in town from Cincinnati which made his birthday extra fun. Dustin's parents had a big dinner to celebrate.