July 1-15

July was wonderful! We have said so many times that this was an incredible summer. So many wonderful things filled our lives. I'm breaking July into two posts to see if my computer will do a better job uploading pictures that way. 

There was a 4th of July party at Rainier Vista community park on July 3rd, so we popped over early to check it out. The kids loved going on the bounce houses for free.

We also got to sit in the SWAT trucks. I love that our servicemen and women come to gatherings and let us see what cool things they do.

We knew the 4th of July would be incredible, and it was! We went to a Mariner's game, and scored free American cowboy hats for being among the first 20,000 to get to the game. We actually got to go to the game for free because Doug's boss gave him some money for leading the market with residents throughout the month. I loved the patriotic atmosphere, the country music, and the company.

Us at the gate after getting our hats. We lost Cason about three minutes after that. It was scary, but I felt like he would be okay. He made friends with a policeman and got a bag, signed baseball, and lots of conversation about getting the bad guys. We held onto him closer after that.

Happy waiting for the game

He passed out immediately once we got back to the car. I love watching him sleep.

We went to Woodard Bay soon after for a fun family walk and exploring session.

I love these railroad tracks in the water and the fake canoes.

We finally braved the tram at Northwest Trek and were so glad we did! We saw four moose that day, ad Lucy's a few feet from a velvety elk here.

Our amazing Brooklyn finished her summer workbook in a matter of days. When she gets focused on something, she accomplishes it quickly. I was blown away by her awesome work.

When we were leaving the house one day, I pressed the button to lift our garage door and a garner snake fell from the door. I used my "brooming" skills to help him leave our garage.

Lucy finished her workbook a few days after Brooklyn. She also worked incredibly hard.

And then we were off on our 5 week vacation!!!!! The first stop was Island Park, Idaho.

This was  cute; a boy named Misha was staying at Mehrl's and I told him he should marry Faith after joining the church. He pointed at her picture and smiled for her and I sent her the pictures. They only missed each other by a day.