Vacation Highlights

We just returned from another vacation, this one to Deep Creek Lake in Maryland with Brad's family.  The weather was perfect and the water was perfect.  We had a great time swimming, boating, tubing, hiking, hot tubbing and enjoying family.  Here are a few highlights:

Creative Outlet

I lack the time and desire to invest in very many hobbies, but I really enjoy making homemade cards. Here are my latest creations. So if anyone gets a card from me in the next few weeks, chances are it will look like this!
It's hard to tell in the picture, but the flower stands out from the card with a sparkle center.
The extra bonus from this hobby is that Noelle is getting to a good age that she can make cards also. Here is one she made for Brad's birthday. I helped with the cutting, but she can do the stamping and gluing. Once again, it's hard to tell but the colored balloons stand out from the card.

Adrenaline Pumping Reading

I just finished reading the 4th book in "Restoration Series" by Terri Blackstock. These books were amazing. They were just the right mixture of suspense and excitement with a bit of romance. The story line is absolutely fascinating, so I had to suggest it to others. This picture is the first book in the series.
My only complaint is they get your adrenaline pumping so much it's hard to sleep after you read.

Happy Birthday Brad

Brad and the United States share a birthday...the U.S. is a good bit older though. We started our 4th with presents for Brad. Here the girls model with him and his new tiki torches.
We haven't been able to try out the torches yet, due to the rain. And since it rained the majority of the day yesterday the girls got a little stir crazy. Noelle decided she could find something suitable to wear in the rain and helped Sadie find something too...it's a little overkill in my opinion.

Adventures in Reading

I've read and heard many times how important it is to read to your children, starting at a young age. I'm a firm believer in this and I really enjoy reading to both of the girls. However, when you are told how children can experience so many adventures through books, be ready for the adventures to come to life...as seen by the picture below.

Since this is a washable marker and bath time was only 1/2 hr away, it was a very enjoyable moment.