We spend most of our free time on one adventure or another. Whether it is checking out a new vacation destination and marking another state off our list, or trying out something new, there is never a dull moment-and we wouldn't have it any other way.
We loaded up and headed Southeast for some fun in a little town you might have heard of...Elsie, NE. I'm sure those of you reading this know where Elsie is, because this isn't really a blog that makes it to the masses, but for those of you who don't know, google it. It is worth knowing where it is, after all, some of the greatest people I know have been a part of the community. My family has been around for a long time-6 generations to be exact. My brother and his family live in the house where my grandfather was born. Enough of a history lesson. Here are some highlights from the day:
5k run/walk/1mi walk
My sister-in-law Rachel is making sure everyone knows what to do
We did the 1 mile walk
The starting line...those white dots are some of the really fast kids. :)
Kiddie Parade
Rachel's super cute idea for the kids
The Hanson Cousins
Our little railroad guy
The Big Parade
Appropriately, the shirts say "It Runs in the Family"
Grandma Lorraine, Grandpa Max and Nick
Our Float
The Big Guys!
Happy Birthday Elsie!!!
Kid games and races
The sprinkler was a BIG hit with the little ones
Trying to get Uncle Nick
Max got him!
Historical Presentations
Grandpa John and Grandma Joan Osler performing after he talked about some of the history of Perkins County.
Street Dance
Great end to the night
The blazing heat and HOT temperatures didn't deter anyone from having fun. It was a great time.
However, this August, my parents will celebrate their 40th Anniversary. To celebrate, we all went to their home in Cave Creek, AZ for some fun in the sun. Despite the cool temperatures to start the week (it was 20 degrees warmer in Elsie the first day we were there!) we had an awesome time swimming and spending time together. Here are some highlights:
This is how you wear out kids before a 9:00 pm flight. OK, it actually didn't work all that well, but it kept everyone waiting for the plane quite entertained.
See, don't they look tired????
Mason slept a little bit, but Sam thought it was more entertaining to talk to everyone on the plane. Oh well!! We spent most of our time enjoying the pool:
Sam LOVED to float and play in the water
Mason couldn't get enough of jumping into the pool and making the "biggest" splash
While the guys golfed, the girls took the kids to the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium. We had gone there on our honeymoon 8 years ago, and it was just beginning. It has turned into quite a cool place. If you plan to ever go there, I recommend that you use as many coupons as possible, as it is a bit pricey for my cares.
Bryan and I often emphasize that we are not what you would call "role model" parents. This is one of those examples. Yes, the boys are eating hot dogs for breakfast. Yes, they loved them. And, no, I don't have any regrets about giving them hot dogs for breakfast!
It was a wonderful trip and we are trying to find other reasons to get back down to Phoenix as soon as possible.
