Blaire's First Football Game

Tonight was the start of the high school football season and Blaire as a varsity high school cheerleader. Lauren and I went to watch her cheer at her first game. It was so fun to watch her on the sidelines. She did a great job. The only negative of the night was that it was so hot. It was 117 today and when the game started it was still over 110. Lauren and I can't wait to come back when it is cooler.

Seven Years Ago...

August 7, 2004 China
August 10, 2011 Scottsdale, Arizona

Seven years ago today Lauren was placed in my arms. What a day that was. I can still remember this scared little girl (and mom). I can't believe that it has been seven years since that wonderful day.

We celebrated the day by going to school and work. Lauren then had cheer practice but we did have a fun evening by making our own pizzas and then a special cupcake treat. It was a great way to remember our very special day.

First Day of Third Grade

Summer learning is done, backpack is ready! School starts today!!

Note from mom on the first day of 3rd grade.

Ready to go with her new backpack and new outfit.

Looking so cute and grown-up.



Lauren at school. Lauren is going to before Kids Club this year so when we get to school there was only teachers and just few other people there. I was able to get a picture before it got too crazy.

Today was Lauren's first day of 3rd grade. I can't believe she is going into 3rd grade. Third grade is special to me because it is the grade I taught for a few years.

Lauren was so excited to go to school she could go to sleep. Once up this morning she was even more excited to go to school. I am dropping her off again this year. She is going to the before care program at school. At first she didn't want to go but a few of her friends were there also so everything was fine.

I hope this is going to be a great year!!!

Meet the Teacher

Today was the annual meet the teacher day at Lauren's school. Lauren has been looking forward to this all summer. This is the day they learn who they will have for a teacher this year. Lauren was happy to find out that she will have Mrs. McGee for third grade. This is the same teacher that Grant had for third grade also.

This is also the day to buy new Cherokee shirts and sign up for clubs and etc. It is always fun drop off the new supplies and to see the classrooms. Lauren is so excited for school to start this coming Monday!!

Family Birthday Party

Lauren turned 8 years old on June 27. However, with vacations and other plans this was the first open weekend we had to have a family celebration.

We all went over to Janine and Don's home for dinner, cake and ice cream and of course swimming. Lauren got some great gifts. We skipped having a friends party this year, but I promised her one again next year. Even though she didn't have a friends party, hanging out with her cousins is one of her favorite things to do, so she was happy tonight. It has been awhile since we all got together so it was a nice to have a family night.

Happy Birthday (again) Lauren.

Church Camp 2011 (Camp 34)

Lauren went to church for the first time this summer. It was for kids going into 3rd and 4th grade. It started on Friday afternoon and they come home on Sunday afternoon. The camp was at Prescott Pines. (That is where the church I grew up in had camp a few different times.)

Lauren had a great time. She told me that they went on the zip line, went swimming, did crafts, went on hikes, played games and so much more. She told me she can't wait until next year. I am so happy that she had a great time.

These pictures were emailed to me from the camp director.

Chicago Vacation - Day 11

The last day in Chicago started with a powerful storm that past through Chicago. It only lasted a short time but there was a lot of damage done around town. Ella had swim lessons and Lauren had a special appointment at the hair salon. After dropping Ella and Kim off Lauren and I went to Lauren's appointment to get hair feathers. Lauren has been begging me all summer to get some hair feather. So, on our last day Lauren got her feathers. They are not really noticeable but she loves them It was a great way to end our vacation.

After swim lessons and the feather appointment we went to lunch then the airport. It was a wonderful vacation.