What's new?

I've been a horrible blogger. Part of the reason....blogger is so stinkin' slow at loading pictures! Facebook is a breeze and so much easier, so usually it wins when I'm trying to share pictures. Sorry blog. I still love you. Despite my lack of posting, we've actually had quite a bit going on in our lives. Here's an update...

Kyle: Just started a new job today! He's still working at the University of North Texas, but he moved from his position as a Financial Aid Advisor to an Academic Advisor in the Science and Fine Arts Department. This new position is a little more in the area of counseling, so we're both excited about it. Let's just say the 90 minute lunches are a major perk too. ;) He's finishing up his DSM class (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) this summer and can officially diagnose people when he's done with it. He just got an A on his midterm, I'm so proud. :) Feel free to stop on by if you think you're crazy, Kyle might be able to tell you what's wrong with you. Haha! After this summer he only has 1 1/2 years left, WAHOO!!!

He also recently taught a grilling class at a Relief Society class a few weeks ago, because he's just so good at it. ;) Unfortunately it was a night I couldn't go, but I keep hearing rave reviews about it! He grilled some kabobs, a prime rib, some chicken, some veggies and pineapple. Yum.

Laura: Ummm...so my life isn't all that glamorous...I'm a semi-single mom to 3 kids who are ALL home for the summer. Yep, that's about it. They definitely keep my house messy and me on my toes! We're having fun though. June was crazy busy for me chauffeuring kids to swim team, swim lessons, doctor/dental appointments, play dates, oh yeah, and I guess I didn't mention I'm my sister's "official" wedding planner/photographer. I spent most of June doing photo shoots, helping her plan stuff, and throwing her a bridal shower. It was way fun!

The highlight of June for me was finally getting to see "Wicked" with Kyle and two of my sisters (my early birthday present). It was the best night and probably my new favorite musical! The kids and I have been dancing and singing to all the songs since then. :)

Janelle: As mentioned previously, spent the month of June swimming almost as much as a fish. She tried swim team out for the first time and LOVED it! She even did fairly well for it being her first year. She definitely has a mean backstroke!

She's also been reading a TON. I cannot keep enough books around the house for her. She's really into the American Girl, Ramona, Magic Tree House and Boxcar Children books. I think the American Girl books have perked her interest in dolls, because up until recently she never really played much with them. She's had a baby doll since she was a baby, but only recently has she actually started playing with dolls. Playdates these days pretty much consist of dress ups, loud music and dancing. It's funny watching your own children's evolution of play.

Spencer: Took a session of swim lessons this last month and will officially not drown if thrown in a pool. He still has a lot he can work on, but he can stay afloat!

Spencer turned 4 on June 29th. I can't believe it! How can my baby boy be four already?

He is very, verY, veRY, vERY, VERY into "Toy Story." For his birthday I wanted to get him a new bike because he's totally outgrown his tricycle. But he REALLY wanted a Buzz instead. So Buzz he got. I have to say though, I've never seen him play with one toy so much without losing interest after a day or two. He loves to say, "Watch it Bo Peep, or I'll RUN your sheep over!" I know, I know...violent, but pretty hilarious. ;) He'll be riding his little tricycle to drop Janelle off at school until Christmas, but totally worth it!

Annelyse: Loves her brother and sister. She spends her waking hours just chillin' with them. She loves to watch them play, or climb all over them while they're watching tv, or mess up their board games. She fits the little sister role to a t. She also loves to play the dropping game when she's in her high chair with them because she knows they'll pick up whatever she's dropped. She thinks it's hilarious and giggles like crazy every time she drops a spoon or a cup or a toy. It's pretty darn cute! She knows the sign for "eat" and will say, "Mmmmmmmm...." when she's hungry or wants to try something you're eating. Smart girl!

Our family: Recently returned from a week in Park City celebrating Kyle's grandpa's 80th birthday and spending time with his family. It was a fabulous week full of delectable food, hiking, running in gorgeous weather, swimming, "Eclipse" movie watching, dessert gorging, cousin chasing and hanging out with everyone. We had SO much fun and are all still going through withdrawal. :( We'll be heading back up there for Christmas, so at least we still have something to look forward to!

In August we'll be helping/going to my sister's wedding here in Dallas. We're all so excited for Erin and John. We all love John and can't wait until he's officially part of the family!

That's about it for now. Sorry for the novel. One of these days my patience will return and I'll post pictures. ;)