Tyler

One of Bayley's friends was murdered on Friday. His name was released today, and tomorrow there will be counsellors at school to help the kids with questions. It's hard when there are no good answers to your child's questions.

Bayley was worried about how the 1st graders will react when they find out because 1st and 2nd have recess together and Tyler was always nice to the 1st graders. He wondered who would help collect the soccer balls when recess was over because Tyler was always out in the field. he said he'd miss him on the bus the most since they laughed a lot there.

He was worried about how Tyler's best friend Joey would feel.

What do you say when there aren't any words?

Water Park

The weather has been fabulous! We enjoyed the sunshine with an impromptu picnic and plydate at the waterpark with friends.

This was Grace's first time in a swimsuit. She wasn't so impressed with water that spurted at random times from the fountain, but she did like walking through the puddles it left.

We went to a waterpark so the kiddos could stay cool, but what did they wind up doing? Playing on the playground...as long as they had fun, right?

4 Leaf Clover

Hayden found a 4-leaf clover last night! In the picture it looks like 3, but it's the real deal...I bet it's bringing luck our way as I type!

Avocados and Fish Sticks

She wears them well, don't you think?

Hagg Lake

We were unprepared. We figured, it's a lake. Bring a lunch and have a good time. But Hagg Lake has a half dozen picnic areas, plus random pull-off spots where people take up squatters rights. We learned that C Ramp Pavillion is great for picnicking if you have a boat, but it has a fabulous looking dock just to fish off of. Sain Creek Picnic Area is better for actual picknicking...but bring a blanket. This place fills up fast!

Some people were quite prepared, bringing in BBQs, volleyball nets...and their own tables! Next time...

Out and About

We're thinking positive thoughts about the house selling, and keeping busy with day trips. Today we trekked west to the Tillamook Forest Center. It's fabulous!


After a picnic lunch, the boys enjoyed climbing the look-out tower like the ones the fire spotters use. Not for those afraid of heights, but very interesting.


The Forest Center is very well laid out, with lots of interactive exhibits. The way the boys race through things, I'm hoping to go back to get a second look.






After exploring inside, we grabbed the dog and went hiking. The trails close by the center are very well maintained. I'm betting we could have used the stroller, but Grace was enjoying being toted around by Dad. The boys had a great time, even if they were a little disappointed that we wouldn't let them wade in the Wilson River.



Since we were nearly there, we pushed on to Tillamook for the cheese factory tour and ice cream. It was quite crowded, but the boys loved their treats. We need to take them back on a weekday when the factory is in opporation and the crowds aren't so intense.

A busy day...with more to come tomorrow!

Grace's 1 year check-up

She's 23 pounds, one ounce and 32 inches long...off the chart for height, but right in the middle for weight. She's trying milk in her sippy, but still prefers juice. Her teeth are driving her to the grumps and she's strutting all over the house.

Birthday Girl

Gracious Mae's 1st birthday party was lots of fun! She had her first cupcake and one of her baby girlfriends shared her First Birthday bib! They make the cutest things for babies, I tell ya!

It was wonderful to get freinds, family, and neighbors together; our little village celebrating Grace's first year. She was walking all over, showing us all that she's left her babyhood behind and embracing the life of a toddler. I keep telling her to slow down, but she's too independent for anything to hold her back.

She did better than I expected with all the attention, and even managed to be interested in a few of the presents. I wish they didn't have to put so much tamper-proof packaging on things. A Swiss Army knife will be on my party must-have list along with matches and tape!

As we were enjoying watching the kids play, I noticed how they've all grown together. Hayden's friends have become Grace's friends too. It was beautiful to see.

I can't wait to see what happens in year 2!

Happy Birthday, Gracious Mae!!

Buy My Mom's Book

I finally got copies of Par For The Course today. Bayley likes to see my books, Hayden and Grace aren't as impressed. I think they aren't as worried about paying for college yet.

Playing Around

Uncle Gabe came to town, so we needed a place for the big boys and the little boys could play. Luckily Aunt Christina & Uncle Dan had been to the perfect spot. Food, pool tables, arcade games and bowling! What more could they want?

The kids were hungry, so we started the night with food and trying to get Hayden to calm down. Good times.

Once their bellies were full, Bayley wanted to try his hand at pool. He decided it is NOT like the Wii game.

Hayden wasn't as into pool, so he conned Uncle Gabe into taking him to the arcade. Then it was time for bowling.

Grace showed off her new skill to everyone -- WALKING!!

Hayden even found time to do a photo shoot!

Playdate

Baby Ava came for a playdate with Grace, and Hayden was so excited to get to cuddle her.