Cows-n-corn

On Saturday we went with our dear friends Abby and Cyle, Clayton and Levi to Cows-N-Corn in Midland, VA.

There's a playground area, water racing, pedal carts, tractor rides, cow-tractor rides, butter making, cheese tasting, and a tour of a real dairy farm and the best part....ALL YOU CAN EAT ICE CREAM.

Needless to say, we definitely got our money's worth out of all the free ice cream and we had a blast with our family and dear friends. We're so glad Abby and Cyle (buds from Kenya-just moved to DC from their last post in Ottawa)--so glad you guys are here now!

Ash's Dance Camp

Ash took a dance camp at Ben Lomond Rec Center. She LOVED the tap dance, but didn't like ballet. While tap dancing you can move around fast, make noise, shake. What more could a busy little girl want?

Whereas ballet is about holding positions, being quiet....it's not a sport for Ash.

But it was a really cute watching the little Coot dance! (And pout during ballet). I had a dance bag my mom gave me when I was about Ash's age and I've kept it all these years hoping I would have a little girl that danced that I could give it to. I loved giving Ash her dance box! She loves it too. Thanks Mom!

Build-A-ABear

Uncle Ray gave Ashley and Austin Build-a-Bear animals for them to stuff/name and have fun with back home. Isn't that thoughtful? Austin had a dinosaur he named Guacamole and Ash had a patriotic pup she named Peaches. It was so fun to do!!!!!

Downtown DC

What does July 4th mean to you? Fireworks, hamburgers, red white and blue? It's that to us and much more. While living in Washington DC on this special day, we have taken advantage of the Nation's Capitol and the pride it carries. We're so thankful for our forefathers and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We're also so thankful for the military/armed forces that fight for our freedoms and for the people in our country that continue to support these freedoms.

July 4

Grant and his wifey Jonny came up from Miami to visit the Toler Clan in DC over the 4th. We had a WONDERFUL time with them! It first started out of course with a little 5 Guys Burgers, then we celebrated with a little farewell party for Jonathan that night. Jonathan was totally surprised--it was great.

On the 4th we went down to DC to experience the fireworks. We staked our place at our annual Iwo Jima statue in Arlington. We had a few hours to kill so we walked around Arlington cemetery and saw the tomb of the unknown soldier and the passing of the guard. What an amazing country we live in.

We let off fireworks what seemed the whole weekend long. We had our break the fast dinner on Sunday at our home and Travis brought even more fireworks! The kids (Young and old) all had a great time.

Grant and Jonny left on Monday and yes... another meal at 5 Guys was had. We had such a wonderful time with them. They are amazing. Grant is so lucky to have found such a sweet, appreciative, caring, funny, absolutely beautiful wife. We love you guys!

Charleston

While we were on our cruise, Jonathan's parents watched the kiddos. It was so nice of them. 6 whole days. The kids had a BLAST! They went to the SC aquarium, fire museum, did crafts, cooking, fireworks and even rode grandpa's gator around their land.

J enjoyed helping his dad put a fence in his backyard. Now seeing what he can do, my honey-do list is getting even larger....

Austin and Ash bonded while we were gone. They play really well together now. They're "wrestling" together, there's not the constant screaming there used to be, and they actually enjoy doing things together and they're always helping each other out. Maybe mom and dad need to take a trip without them more often...

While in Charleston, we visited River Street Sweets (my favorite candy shop) and got homemade pralines. They are truly a taste of heaven on earth.

Charleston has some great shopping. However Ash was officially shopped-out as I captured in this picture.

We always visit the down-town market while in Charleston too. I love this place. Charleston has such a distinct, historical essence that will never go away. At the same time it captures its timeless southern charm.

We even got to play Uncle Ray's wii, PlayStation and sing-along Hannah Montana! Uncle Ray spoiled the kids to the nth degree. Toys, surprises, games everyday.

J even rated really high while singing a song from High School Musical! Who would of thought?

Cruise vacation

Ron Jon-the original store in Cocoa Beach, FL. We visit this store every single summer. One of J's favorites. His dad and him came here every summer while growing up--competing in Body boarding competitions at Cocoa Beach. We're just continuing the legacy.

Jonathan surprised me with a Cruise this summer. He sent me an email while travelling, telling me that we are going on a cruise WITHOUT the kids, his parents will watch them and I don't have to worry about a thing. He's organized the whole thing!

While growing up, my family were cruisers. We went on a cruise about every other summer. My little brother Grant had this exact shirt when he was like 8 years old. He's now 29. He may still wear it. I love it that I found it.

The cruise was also an anniversary celebration...9 years now. We had rose petals and sparkling cider waiting for us....thanks honey!

We had a WONDERFUL time on our vacation. Reuniting w/out kids is lovely!