End of Summer!

We finished off the summer with the third annual "Summer Extravaganza." We decided to tone it down a little bit this year. I always have to laugh when Judd's birthday rolls around because he claims that he really doesn't care much for celebrating birthdays. However, we all know how much thought, time, and effort go into planning his own birthday. If only I could get him to put the same effort into my birthday. j/k

Maverick trying to get more cake.

Justin, Brittney, & Kate

Bronco washing off the sand before jumping in the pool once again.

Isaac

Mason enjoying a cookie. We're so excited for the surprise of a new little one joining us next spring. Who doesn't love babies?

The girls -- I usually just get pictures of the guys playing basketball but this year I decided to get a picture of the ladies.

Gordon and his "Hugh Hefner" robe. He always keeps us laughing--especially me.


I wanted to post this picture of Hadlie because this shows her personality. For anyone who knows this little girl well, she acts so old for her age. I need to write down all of the hilarious things she thinks and says to me before I forget. I don't know what we would do without her. We love her to death. Judd was making fun of her hair and she was upset.

This is the face I prefer.

Maverick has spent significant time in the stroller this week as we have walked the kids to and from school. I am so glad he is so easy going. I have had to wake him up at least five times this week to take or pick the kids up. Judd thinks it is important for the kids to walk to and from school. But, I am beginning to think I would rather drive. The school is only a couple blocks away but it still takes time. Besides, it is during the peak sun hours and I just noticed a sun spot on my face. I keep telling myself it couldn't be from walking to and from school but I have never noticed it before. I don't really want to lather on sunscreen so you might see me walking with an umbrella. I must be getting old when I want to avoid the sun at all costs. School has gone well so far. Hadlie is doing just fine and doesn't want me to walk with them. She knows the way. Bronco is doing fine as well. He is very worried about strangers; I hope the anxiety wears off soon.

We just returned from our third and final trip to Bear Lake this summer. We have made some good memories this summer spending time at the Lake with both families and lots of friends. One of the highlights of this trip was when I thought someone was breaking into the condo. When I stood up to go check it out, my sister-in-law grabbed my arms and I screamed like I never have before waking almost everyone up. Needless to say, my brother was out of bed and across the room in seconds while Judd just stayed in bed. In defense of myself it was pitch black and I couldn't see Lisa but she could see me because I had a white shirt on. The kids once again had a blast playing on the beach and riding in the boat. The tube rides didn't go over so well with the kids this time. Maybe next year.

Bronco & Isaac
Hadlie & Olivia - I guess posing is natural for girls.

The kids started school today and I am so excited to hear how it went. I am starting to wonder if something is wrong with me. I didn't feel emotional at all. Hadlie is so ready and couldn't wait to get to school. I think Bronco was a little nervous because he said he had a stomach ache and wouldn't eat much this morning. When we got to school and he saw Ethan, he seemed fine. So we will see how it goes.

Bronco & Hadlie

Bronco wasn't into taking pictures so it is just the girls.

Hadlie & Abby

We're so excited Abby is in the same class. They were in the same dance class together last year and now they will be in school and ballet together.

Bronco & Ethan

Last but definitley not least is little Mav. He is growing up so fast. When I took him for his one year appointment they asked me about his eating habits because he just keeps getting taller but isn't gaining weight as fast. This is something new for us considering both Hadlie and Bronco were cute little chunky babies. He loves to brush his teeth. I hope this lasts for a long time. The other morning when he had just finished his bath Hadlie started yelling mom come quick and look at Maverick. He had climbed up and got the toothbrush and toothpaste all by himself. He has started to walk--finally. The kids wanted to put shoes on him last night and he loved them. After I took them off I found him trying to put everyone's shoes on-so cute.

Lena's Wedding & Dance Recital

Lena & Mark

Lena w/ Hadlie & Olivia
Us and Lena
Hadlie's dance recital - Getting ready before the show

Hadlie & Abby

We were so proud of Hadlie. She won an award for the most improved dancer. When they started to read her name I thought there was another girl named Hadlie at the studio. Then when she read Hanks, I couldn't believe it. On her first day of dance she told me in the car on the way home that "dance was the best part of her life."

Birthday Boys!

Here are a few pictures from Bronco & Maverick's birthday.

We woke the boys up with balloons. Mav looks scared but he was just upset that Bronco touched his leg. Bronco has teased him so much that when Bronco even comes near him he squeals. I guess brotherly love has begun.
Hadlie trying out the waterslide.

Birthday Boy

Action shot

Bronco, Treyden, and Kade playing with the new toys.

Mav and his first birthday cake.

End result. Wow I need photography lessons. For our next baby we will make sure that the cake doesn't have dye in the frosting. What a mess, but ooh so fun.

Maverick enjoying the fireworks.

Judd told the kids to say the "Pledge of Allegiance" while the fireworks were going off. We need to teach Bronco his right hand from his left. These are most of the cousins on both sides of the family.

Bronco had all the neighborhood boys over in the afternoon for a party and then we had both families over to celebrate at night. All in all, it was a busy but great day.