Reading with Grandma

One of the things the girls enjoyed on the trip was reading with Grandma.

More (kind of) water play

We also got to go over the coast to visit the beach.  The girls enjoyed playing with their cousins in the sand.

Water Play

One of the joys of visiting with Neil's family is the opportunity to spend time outdoors that we don't get much of in Houston.  One afternoon we all went up the valley to Elochoman Creek for some fun.

The boys enjoyed themselves throwing rocks.  John was showing off - (check out the definition in those calf muscles).

 Emily was really good with Julia, helping keep her from falling in and getting all wet.

 

Of course that didn't prevent her from getting wet without falling . . .

 

 The adults stood around and talked about adult things while the kids played.

 

Well, at least some of the adults . . .

 Julia really enjoyed herself.  Even the ride (in the back of the pickup truck) was really cool.

Family Party Pics

We took the opportunity to shoot some group pictures while everyone was together for the party.

This is one of the shots of Great Grandma and all of her Great Grandchildren.  We're several shots in and about to do a "funny" picture.  Awesome jump by Grace huh?

 

 Here's funny poses of the great grandkids.

 Now with Grandma and Grandpa . . .

 . . . and funny faces with Grandma and Grandpa.

 . . . and now all of the Mommies join in . . .

. . . and now all  of the boys . . .

 . . . and now everyone all together.

More Party Pics

Of course there was lots of eating and playing around at the party.

Even great-grandma was able to attend.

Underwater Party

While John, Amy, Grace, and James could be there, we threw a combined birthday party for James, Neil, John, and Julia.  The theme was underwater, with the girls as mermaids and the guys as divers.

The costumes were a big hit.

 Julia even did a mermaid dance in hers.

Washington Summer Vacation

OK, now that its the end of the year, we'll try to catch the blog up . . .

We took a 2 week vacation to Washington to visit Neil's family this summer, in July and August.   It was great.

The girls got to spend lots of time playing outside with their cousins.

 . . . and Grandpa . . .

 We even ate outside several times.  Here's part of the group getting ready for an outdoor meal.