We have been having such a good summer. Bennett and Calla still have plenty of needs, but they are figuring out that they do not mind doing a few things on their own too.
We made a visit to the Oubache State park one Sunday evening. The buffalo were grazing and were fun to watch. I believe the words that Bennett used to describe them were huge and ginormous. I'd say those would be fitting.
Bennett talked Daddy into climbing the park tower two times.
Surprise! They ran into cousin Colten, who was at the top of the tower too.
We enjoyed a date night, in Ft. Wayne, celebrating our 7th anniversary. How has it been seven years. I am beyond blessed to do life alongside my amazing husband. Alone time is such a treat (plus the Cold Stone ice cream we got). We both look forward to quality time with one another after the kids are down for the night. I hope I always crave time with my hubby like I do now, even when we are empty nesters.
Our Bennett boy turned 4 at the beginning of May.
He has a broad range of interests. From gardening, to farming, to kittens, to transformers, to playing dolls with his little sister. He asks 100 questions per day and loves to learn about all the things. Life will never be dull with this little guy around. He can be challenging and sweet all in the same hour.
His new planter from grandma was his favorite present.
Memorial Day weekend we headed up to Shipshewana, IN and stayed a night at the Bluegate Garden Inn.
We took an evening walk down the Pumpkinvine Trail.
The kids had a blast exploring the hotel and climbing on the animal statues.
Let's get some energy out before bed!
The pool was a hit too, especially for Bennett. He is becoming much more of a water bug than he ever used to be.
Our golf cart gets daily use. When the kids are going at each other (and are about to drive me crazy), I say "let's go on a golf cart ride and get some fresh air." Calla is quite fond of going on rides, she cannot seem to get enough of it. We drive to grandma's house or the nearby pond and often play in the sand for a while.
Calla turned 2 at the beginning of June. It is hard to believe that she has been in our lives for two years. She has brought so much delight and joy to our family.
She had to taste-test her birthday cupcakes.
The way that this little girl nurtures her baby dolls is a foretaste of her sweet, caring personality.
Here are a few more snapshots from our summer days.
Snacks in the living room with cousins!
Swimming at Aunt Staci's pool.
Swinging with cousin Lacie at the Manz Family get together.
Grandma and Grandpa came to stay for two days. The kids were royally spoiled.
My handsome boys ready for church. I am one blessed wife and momma.
Last, but not least, Bennett watching his daddy and the mixer truck. Daddy and trucks are at the top of his list of favorite things.
Nate has a big project that he has been pouring his energy into lately. We are excited to see the outcome!
I hate to think about the warm days fading away. The coldness will put a screeching halt to our weekly trips to the park and that makes me sad. It will be alright though. The Lord provides, whether it be during the cold, blistery Winter days or in the early mornings where I just do not know if I can muster up the energy to face the day or not. He knows and He cares. The days can get long. My kids are early risers and we spend many many hours together, but I know that I will wish these days back. It might be hard to fathom that I really would, but I know I will.
Blessings!
