Annual Family Vacay 2013

 Well, as usual, we had an absolute blast on our annual vacation this year!  Per the last 6 years, we made our annual jaunt down to Montgomery, AL to see Claire's friend MG, who was adopted from China at the same time in our travel group!  The girls had a blast reconnecting, comparing sizes, and it was if they didn't miss a beat!  We are so grateful for the hospitality they offered us!

 

 The girls showing off their original pictures from China

 Claire playing nonstop on the beach!

 This year, we had the pleasure of Lance's sister Jenny and her daughter Gracie to join our huge family for most of the week!  I think they both had a ball!

 Little Lance in training.....

 Big Lance......

 Mom with our sweet little cousin Annabelle

 The kids after helping Lance with their creations!

 Uncle Tommy and Jesse are almost the same height!!!

 Lance and Uncle Tommy are NOT almost the same height!

We are truly blessed to be able to take our vacation with family every year and look forward to it all year long!  I admit, I was not great at taking pictures this year, as I was too busy enjoying myself!  We had the pleasure of Mr. & Mrs. Hollingsworth and cousin Keri for most of the week as well.  I think they had a great time also!  The weather was perfect, and cooler there than in Memphis!!!!

Lots going on this summer, so I promise to post again very soon!!  Love, Gretchen

Tourney Time!!

 We decided to take the kids this time to the Fed Ex Golf Tourney.  Usually just Lance goes or I go with him, but this year we all went!   We went on the first day, so the crowds were thin and we able to see lots!  We all had just a fantastic time!!

 Waiting for the next group to approach the green

Claire and I enjoying the shade and goofing off while Lance stalked David Duvall....one of his favorites!

So Glad It's June!

 Well, we have officially entered my favorite month!!  For several reasons....no school, vacation, no school, my Birthday, weddings, and did I say no school???

 We had our families over for Memorial Day and the weather was fantastic!  The kids all had a blast and the food was great as well!  Claire in action with her hula hoop!

Uncle Tommy entertaining Jesse and our neighbor by launching Mr. Hollingsworth's neat rubber band rocket over the house and into the street.Over and over again!

Lots coming up soon, so I promise to post again soon!

Last Day of School!!!

 Well, thank the good Lord above, today is the last day of school for Claire and Jesse.  It has been a year full of ups and downs, and challenges, but it is over!  They have both grown in leaps and bounds.  This school year Jesse has really physically grown, and looks like a young man to me now, not a kid.....

 Jesse is now my height, though much thinner!  Claire has grown in height, but not much in weight.  That's no surprise to me, because she never stops!!!! Ever!!

The kids are looking forward to a relaxing summer with our trip to the beach coming up, and lots of fun outside time...also golf for Jesse!

Well, lots coming up, so I'll post again soon!

End of school......

 Jesse was awarded several certificates at his 6th grade ceremony....but was most proud of his 300 ish AR points that got him a gold medal.  Nana and PawPaw came to watch as well as Grandma.  Proud of Jesse and still can't believe he's going to be a 7th grader!!

 Gift Card Bouquet I made with many gift cards  received from Claire's classmates for her 1st grade teacher's end of the year gift....actually was quite fun to make!!

Jesse The Yellow Belt

 Jesse tested Friday for his Yellow belt and did great.  He is now a yellow belt with Camo being the one to test for next.  We will see how Jesse does this summer!

Good job Jesse!

Mother's Day Fun!

We had the pleasure of Mother's Day Brunch at my mom and dad's house, along with my grandmother. Still as spry and active as can be!!  We enjoyed the sunny day, and delicious brunch!  We then spent some time with Lance's mom and his family!  We are so blessed to have both sets of parents here nearby!  Hope everyone had a fantastic Mother's Day!!

Spring Critters and more

 Well , anyone who knows me knows I love critters and all the wildlife that inhabits my yard!  Lance....not so much.  I was delighted this week when these golden finches decided to visit one of my feeders. Hope they stay all summer!!!

 Claire with her new skates from Nana and PawPaw!  She is getting the hang of it! Below is our newest skink.  We have at least 3 adults and several babies scattered around our yard!  Claire is the only one they will come to. She must be the skink whisperer or something!

 Claire goofing off at the UofM baseball game!

 This critter I wasn't so sure I wanted in the middle of the day in my yard....then in our garage recycling bins the net day!

Our Baby is 7!

 We really are having trouble believing Claire turns 7 this week!  She celebrated her Birthday this weekend surrounded by family and friends ay CROSSFIRE Commandos.  The kids had an absolute blast, and were all exhausted when it was over....that makes for happy parents!

 Claire picked out the fabric and cupcake for her birthday outfit and was perfect for all the running and jumping she did!

 Mommy and Claire before heading out for the big party!

 Claire listening to the rules before beginning the party!

 She was the first one harnessed but all the kids were so excited and not quite sure what to expect!

 Everyone being so patient at their turn on the mega trampoline!

 Claire with buddy Conor in tow.

 The kids loved running and flying into that pit!

 At this point Jesse realizing he might be getting a bit old for this.....

 the  12 year old cousins still having a great time!

 The kids doing some sort of mission in the pit......

 All ready for the zip line!

 Claire specifically requested cookie cakes this year....I think everyone enjoyed the change....I have to say, I did still make 2 dozen cupcakes just in case.....they were eaten too!!

 Claire's sweet sweet friends!

This is our very tired little girl at the end of her party....She said she didn't think she had any smiles left!  We are so greatful for so many friends and family who came to wish Claire a very Happy #7!!  We love you all!!

Gretchen