Samuel's ELEVEN!!

It is Samuel's Birthday today. I can't believe that he is eleven years old. We have had an awesome eleven years with him. He is so fun to be around. He is always telling jokes or riddles, he loves to play with friends, and he is good at soccer, piano, and building things. We are so glad that Samuel is a part of our family. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAMUEL!!

Crazy Hair Day!

I just thought you would enjoy these pictures of Samuel on "crazy hair day" at his school. He had fun for the day and then after school we cut his hair so it was all the same length again!

It seems like we rake and rake and rake and rake but sometimes we do take time to play in all of those fun leaves that fall on the grass. Fall is wonderful isn't it. I just love the colors of fall and the smells and the fun that comes with it.

Fishing at Porcupine Reservoir

We had a great day on Friday when we took all the kids up to Porcupine Reservoir and had our fall picnic and did some fishing. We didn't have much luck fishing in the reservoir but we walked up Cinnamon Creek and some of the salmon were still there. (We found out there is a salmon run during the end of August and through September) Daniel and Samuel braved the cold water and got in the creek and had fun catching the salmon by hand. They each caught three then let them go. Samuel said it was the best fishing day ever! Family days are awesome!

New Pictures of Jacob

Jake sent some new pictures home this week. Thought you might all enjoy looking at them. He is doing great and loving the mission. I can't believe he comes home in less than five months!

Labor Day at the Lake

We had a great Labor Day weekend at the lake. Jim and I and the four boys went Sunday evening and all day Monday. We played two games of Monopoly (Sam won the first game and Taylor the second), two games of Zilch, 2 hours swimming in the pool and hot tub, one movie, a wonder Sunday dinner, and Monday morning breakfast, and four snakes later! It was great. I much needed day of relaxation.

Mr. Sky View

Taylor decided last week to try out for Mr. Sky View during homecoming week. He spent hours and hours working on his talent. Kristi, the best sister ever, accompanied him as he played the school song on chimes. He did a mighty fine job. Our cute little Talor took second place!! We are all very proud of him for even trying. Way to go Taylor!