Sam turns 5!

Sam is 5!  His birthday is always such an awesome way to celebrate the end of a (short) fun summer.  This year his birthday came before his party for a change (normally it is the other way around).  Either way, he gets to open up presents, have cake, and celebrate twice!  

We had the MineCraft theme going this year--the boys were absolutely crazy about all things pixelated. So, I turned my pinterest searching skills to good use and found a cake that didn't require crazy amounts of frosting or fondant.  I think it turned out quite well!

Sam wanted to go to Hibachi for his birthday dinner.  This place is always a fun experience for the boys...

The following weekend we had "Sam's 5th Minecraft Water Slide Birthday Party."  It was a success!

Check out my "pinterest-y" creative goody-bags and Minecraft decor...  

A Visit from the Vermonters

Koa, Auntie Joey and Mimi drove down for a visit in mid-August.  What fun we all have together!  The cousins love playing together, and we grown-ups enjoy visiting, laughing, drinking and playing games.  

We decided to take an adventure to Dutch Wonderland.  This is an amusement park in Lancaster geared mostly to Jack's age, but the other boys were good sports and everyone managed to have a great time.

Quick Utah Trip: Part 3

Thank goodness I got to sneak a horseback ride in!  This is one of my favorite things to do while I am visiting.   The mountains are so beautiful and peaceful--such a nice mental escape!

When we got back the boys each wanted a turn riding the horse.  They love it too!