Classrooms and Candles

Yesterday was Back to School night at Parker's school. He is way excited to be a 1st grader! After finding his classroom and meeting his teacher, he is now ready for classes to start.

Yesterday was also Andrew's birthday! We spent the evening celebrating by eating at his favorite, On the Border....

....and opening some cards and presents.

Happy birthday, Daddy!

More summer fun!

Last weekend, we went to Buena Vista to spend some time with Andrew's grandparents and enjoy some of the last days of summer. We were also there on the 4th of July, but due to wildfires nearby they had been unable to do the annual fireworks show at that time. Fortunately for us, we happened to be back when they had rescheduled, and the kids were super excited since they had missed out before. Truthfully, we were all excited. Who doesn't love fireworks?

We spent some time around the hatchery....

....and even went to see another hatchery nearby that has been in operation since 1889!

We also drove around Turquoise Lake....

....and spent some time walking around Leadville.

The kids always love to go fishing!

We also went on a boat trip through the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The kids have never been on a boat and were really excited!

A picnic before leaving.

You had to go down 232 steps and then walk for nearly 3/4 mile just to get to the boat.

It sure was a pretty walk, though!

Ready to go!

The scenery was gorgeous.

We even saw a bear! (although I don't think you can see it in this picture)

It was a lot of fun!

Now to go back up all those stairs!

It's hard to say good-bye....

While Andrew and I were on vacation, the kids were having a blast with my parents (and cousin, Cortnee)! They got to ride kiddie rides at the mall....

....go to the movies....

....and play lots of games.

In fact, every time we called to check in they hardly had time to talk to us. Mom, Dad, and Cortnee had to leave a couple of days after we got home, and as usual we were sad to see them go. THANKS AGAIN, Grandma and Poppy, for taking such good care of the kids while we were gone!

A few days after my parents left, we also had to say good-bye to my cousin, Stephanie, and her family. After living in Colorado for a few years, it was time for them to move back to Oklahoma to be closer to family. They stayed at our house for a couple of days before leaving town, and we were able to spend some time together before they left. We were super sad to see them go, but are excited to see them again soon!

Our kids all together!

Being silly.

Steph and I = BFF!

Good-bye hugs!

Trip to Paradise!

Andrew and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary in July, and to celebrate we spent several days at Secrets Maroma Resort near Cancun. It was the perfect vacation, and we can't wait to go back (whenever that may be)!

Ready to go!

In the air.

Finally there! Our room was awesome.

We basically spent all our time either by the pool....

 ....or at the beach!

We enjoyed going to dinner each night....

....and also participating in several of the resort activities and attending some entertainment events.

We loved getting the chance to kayak....

....and we especially loved snorkeling!

The resort was gorgeous and romantic at night....

....perfect for getting in the hammocks or walking on the beach.

But our favorite thing was the two days that we spent in a palafito (cabana bed). Talk about ultimate relaxation!

We were sad to leave, but excited to get back home and see the kiddos. Goodbye, Mexico....we will see you again!