Cuz

My baby cousin, Presley, moved out today for college. This saddens me. She is like a sister to me. I am so happy for her to begin this season in her life, yet, so sad to see her go. We love you, Winnie!!!

Happy Birthday Phil!

 

Happy Birthday, Love!

The Master

After a LONG four semesters, I am proud to have my master's degree. Although it was tough at times, it was such a happy time in my life. I had three of my best girlfriends with me along this journey and enjoyed getting to spend two, sometimes three, nights a week eating at Guthrie's followed by great classes. I really will miss the time I had with these girls! I love you Jodi, Randi, and Laurie! 

Our Last Hoorah!

As a tribute to our last day of summer, we traveled to Tennessee. I really thought this would be an extremely exciting and educational trip. We were up early and actually left on schedule. Our plan was to get there just as they opened so we could take our time and just enjoy the day. The drive was great. The girls were calm and had very few arguments. When we arrived at the aquarium, we couldn't believe the awesome park we were able to snatch. Little did we know, after two attempts and twenty dollars lost, the parking lot machines that print tickets were not working. We had to call the number on the machines and wait on an attendant to arrive all while trying to explain to the girls what patience means. Thirty minutes later, we were refunded our money, given a parking slip, and on our way to see the fish! Let me just say, we covered the ENTIRE Tennessee aquarium (both exhibits) in less than an hour. WHAT!?! 

This is how it played out: 

Mommy and Daddy: "Ohhh, girls! Look at these incredible jelly fish. If you get near one they will...

Mallory: (cutting us off mid-sentence)"That's neat, let's go to the next one."

This was pretty much how the entire trip went. I will say, the highlight was actually outside of the aquarium when they were able to walk through a stream and climb stairs. Hmmm, these little exhibits were ALL FREE. Wish I would have known that before traveling two hours, paying for tickets, and buying toys at the gift shop they will never play with. Next time, we will go to a park. :)

Six Flags

"Twinkle, twinkle, little star..."

(Please notice how the husbands are completely tuning the singing out...)

After eighty-two renditions of the song, "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star", we finally made it to Six Flags! I was very apprehensive because I had not been in YEARS! I certainly had never been with toddlers which in itself was enough reason to think of medicating before the trip. To my pleasant surprise, the park was not crowded! This really excited me because every time I think of Six Flags, I get this stench of body odor in my nose. There is something about walking by hot, smelly, and wet adults that can really trigger your gag reflex. 

There were soo many rides for the girls! This too, was a huge surprise! I guess because I never have stepped foot into Bugs Bunny Land. I mean, why would I before now? Anyhow, the girls had a thrilling time! They even rode a roller coaster! Apparently, this new ride, Canyon Blaster, is a mini version of the Mine Train (which they were not tall enough to ride). We were able to get them on Splash Waterfall and Thunder River also! I would also like to add, that we were SOAKED! I highly recommend taking a change of clothes. It was really ridiculous. It felt great at the time, but thirty minutes later of my wet thighs rubbing together was not FUN! At one point, I looked down and saw sparks igniting. Ugh. All in all, it was a wonderful day full of fun, thrills, and laughter! 

 

A day on the lake...

We had a spectacular day on the lake...

There is no calmer time than riding on a boat while you look over at your children. It's just something about being on a huge body of water and seeing God's perfect creation all around.

On a funny note...Ms. Randi decided to ride the inner tube. I am so glad that I was able to capture that pivotal moment when she glided across the lake!!! hahaha

Wordless Wednesday

Off to take comprehensive exams for my master's degree. Puke.