Happy, Happy Birthday, Connor Dear!

It's official! My baby boy with the long, white-blonde curls has officially become a teen! And he is taller than I am now! He also happens to be the sweetest, kindest, most obedient boy I know. And, man, can he tell a story...or ten...we are so lucky to have Connor in our family. I tell everyone he is my easiest child. He never talks back, he rarely complains, he's always up for some fun and he tells me constantly that he loves me. I am so blessed to have this kiddo...er..um...TEEN in our lives. We love you, Mac!

His favorite shirt!

For his birthday, Connor tends to like to do the same thing every year to celebrate--a little dinner out at his favorite restaurant, Chuck-A-Rama (he LOVES that dessert bar!), and opening gifts with family. This year he declared he knew EXACTLY what design he wanted on his cake. He drew it on a post-it note and I took it to the talented folks at Kohlers bakery who did a great job perfectly producing his vision. And just what did the images represent? (Yeah, I wasn't so sure.) Connor explained: a trident for Poseidon, a lightning bolt for Zeus, and a skull and fire for Hades. The boy does indeed love mythology!

Loved getting cash from the cuzzies.

He insisted on lighting the candles himself!

Row, Row, Row Your Boat...

How blessed to finish up our cousins' stay this summer by getting to take Tubba-Butta out again for another go-round of fun! We have a blast hanging out with our family and soaking up plenty of water and sun!

Money, Money, Money..In A Rich Man's World

In an effort to raise money to off-set some of our ridiculous dance costs (yep, it's expensive to fund that sport!), the girls participated in a fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse. Natasha actually loved being a waitress for the lunch shift and did a great job. Fynnley was a door greeter ('though she really wanted to be a waitress) and gave everyone a darling welcome. They both had a blast and, hey, maybe they can put it on their resume and get a real job there someday if we continue this dance lesson madness!

Kamryn Contino, Bailey Rasmussen, Tash and Kaylin Larson

Emery Fralick, Fynn and Bailey Rasmussen

I'm Holding My Breath For You...

Dane was meant to be a swimmer...I mean, the golden tan, the long, floppy hair, the laid-back 'tude...he's the epitome of summer! We are so proud of the progress he's making on the HAST swim team this year. He is getting faster and faster and better and better with his technique all the time. Way to go, Dane! You're a swim rock star!

One of my fave photos of Dane ever!! It's just SO him!

These two are always goofing around.

This girl LOVES a snowcone!