Summer Fun With Water, Agua, And A Little H2O!

My children have spent a good portion of this summer playing in water. We have done A LOT of playing in the yard, running through the sprinklers, going to the splash park, and swimming in pools.






My Mother took the boys for a couple of weeks to do swim lessons. They LOVED this time with my parents, and didn't want to come home. They were so excited to share what they learned.


The kids also had the opportunity to go swim at a hotel with Grandma and Grandpa DeGraw,and to swim at a condo in Park City for the Rhees Reunion.



They also went to the Rec-Center a handful of times.





Water ALWAYS makes summer more fun! It has been a GrEaT Summer, and we still have another month to play!

My Manly Men!

Our local public library has a wonderful summer reading program that my children like to participate in. Each week, if they have met their reading goals, they can go to the library to receive a prize. Part of this week's prize was a mini-poster. Kyle knew what he wanted instantly. He chose (from a pile of various Harry Potter posters) a poster of Hermione Granger. When we got home, Kyle excitedly taped his poster to the front of his bedroom door.

Upon seeing the poster on the door, Cameron said, "What is this!?! Now people will think our room belongs to a girl!" I didn't bring up the fact that nobody in their right mind would confuse his room for a girls room, considering it is filled with Legos, game systems, and -- on occasion-- a smell that can only be described as "sweaty-boy-stench".

Kyle didn't care if it appeared to be the door to a "girly room". In fact, knowing that his brother wasn't too excited about the new addition to their decor seemed to make him swell with pride at HIS choice of poster.

So, I'm sure you're wondering what macho poster Cameron picked as his prize...




a giant cartoon sticker sheet. ;0)


I sure love my manly men, and I'm proud of all the reading they did this summer!

Creed's Baby Blessing

On Sunday, Creed was blessed. It was such a special day, and such a special blessing. We had a lot of family there-- including both Ryan's and my parents. Creed was so well behaved. I always get stressed for my baby's blessings-- wanting them to go well, the baby to sleep so I can hear and Ryan won't feel rushed, etc.. All the stress was for nothing (as is usually the case). It was a little difficult getting everyone ready for church in time, but we made it.


Each time one of my babies is blessed, I am reminded of their divinity, and what amazing people I have the privilege of raising here on earth. Creed's blessing included many wonderful promises. One part I really love is the promise that Creed will know he is a son of Heavenly Father, and will act in a way that shows Heavenly Father he knows it. What an amazing blessing. Can you imagine how different the world would be if everyone knew they were a child of God, really believed it, and acted accordingly?




After the meeting, we went to my Grandma's house, and had a delicious brunch. My mother made all the food, and did all the work-- and I am so grateful for her. She is simply amazing. I really appreciated everyone coming. It was fun to see everyone, and spend time together. I don't think the day could have been any more perfect!

I Love Your Little Baby Face

Isn't my boy just absolutely precious? I am so in love with this little guy. This past month and a half has flown by. Last night, as I was up with Creed, I was struck with just how quickly time slips away. I realized that Creed won't be a "newborn" for much longer. It made me sad. I want to tell myself that I will remember every moment... but I know better. I know that before too long, I will forget that new baby smell, his sweet little cry, and the way his face lights up when he hears me near. I won't always have the opportunity to sit and hold him close for hours, as he looks into my eyes so intently. This time is precious. I wish I could make it stand still. I can't-- all I can do is try my best to make the most of it while it is here.

Family Fun and Rhees Reunion 2010

We had such a fun time visiting my parents for a week. Our time there is always filled with LOADS of fun (much more exciting than around here). I am never happier than when I am surrounded by family. These are some pictures highlighting the non-stop wild party:
Creed and Grandpa--

Kyle and Grandpa Bud (who happened to have a broken femur in this picture... tough guy)--
My Sister, Julie, with Creed and Cameron--
Karen and Grandpa--

I was worried how Creed would do spending so much time "out on the town", but he did REALLY good.


The kids had a blast with their cousins--






While we were there, we had a reunion, which included fishing...





and a treasure pit (Cameron made over $10.00, Karen earned an orange bead neclase. Both kids were thrilled with their finds)!




We had such a good time... and left completely exhausted!