Wow!  I can't believe it's almost August!  So much has happened!  Our boy Joel graduated kindergarten in May and will be starting 1st grade soon!  He had such an awesome experience!  They went on so many fun field trips such as Sea World, Lost Maples, and other fun places.  He is also already in 1st grade math & reading!

This summer we had so much fun visiting family.  We first celebrated Ryan's parents 40th anniversary with his brothers and their families.  We met up in Salado, TX at a retreat and had great fellowship and ate way to much.  Ryan's parents are such a blessing.  They are a true example of God's love!

We then went to Galveston, TX to visit my dad and step-mom.  We had such a relaxing time.  We went to the beach about 7 PM each night when it wasn't too hot and right before the sunset.  It was beautiful!  We also watched the fireworks on the 4th of July from the beach.  We arrived just before sunset and got a seat right next to the water.  The kids had so much fun!  They chased and kicked the waves as I sat and read Dani Johnson's book, "First Steps to Wealth."  Then we watched the fireworks.  We were right underneath them!  It was the most incredible show I have ever seen!   

Our last adventure was to Austin, TX to see a cousin of mine get married and to visit with Ryan's brother Chad and wife Kelli.  We stayed for 4 days.  Chad and Kelli have a boy and a girl that are the same ages as Joel and Harmony so they played and played!  They had so much fun and didn't want to leave!  My family from Missouri came to the wedding too!  I got to visit with my grandparents, my mom and step-dad Randy.  After the wedding they came to our home here in the hill country and stayed for 3 days.  We had some good family time.  I'm so thankful for them and so blessed to have them in my life!

Click on the images to enlarge.