A Sunday in July

I'm kind of in love with Molly's annoyed face here.  

We didn't *quite* catch everyone before they changed out of church clothes.

 My kids definitely live their best lives at Grandma and Grandpa's. Mornings spent weeding in the garden and feeding the horses and watering the flowers (all chores that they ADORE even after repetition, surprisingly). Afternoons spent on the tramp with a sprinkler, or helping grandma in the kitchen, or today I walked in to grandma and grandpa playing Cover Your Assets with them while the babies napped, and even an excursion to Gossner Cheese Factory! Evenings are delicious dinners and more trampoline jumping and playing on the playground and, in Ruthie's case, climbing up the poles of the swings. They get songs and stories from mom and dad and grandma and grandpa. They seem happy and carefree and it seems just like one of those most blissful summers that you never get back again. I just wish I wasn't working so much for it. But I am ever so so so very thankful that I am able to work so much, that the jobs are so good to me and so enjoyable to work at, and that I feel absolutely confident that my kids are getting possibly more hugs and kisses and love(and especially ice cream) while I am away than I could even give them myself! It's such a good feeling. And I am so glad my kids get to experience such a good summer. I hope they are old enough to hold on to these memories forever. It's been a good one. And they have such a special relationship with their grandparents. We all love them so!

Molly's grin here. She smiles with her eyebrows and I love it. Also my kids are so cute. And they have the best grandparents!

Grandma and the girls!

Cousin Journey really, really, really loves baby Grace. It's the sweetest.

Uncle Ethan gave rides on Smokey after dinner. 

Journey has the most gorgeous blue eyes. Baby girls are the sweetest. Especially in duos.

The sweetest newborn Sierra!