"Life is good today..."

Well a few things have happened since I last blogged, I went to California, Sean went to Key West, and my sister had a baby girl. 

My trip home was a blast, and loaded with family family family. My Moms side of the family had a reunion that included swimming at Lake Wildwood, playing games, singing Karaoke and dinners at Aunt Diane's house. It was nice being able to see most of my extended family while thoroughly enjoying all of my immediate family. I got to meet my 17th niece, and the week after I left my sister ended up having her baby, so I became an aunt for the 18th time August 12th. 

Anyways, the trip was full of love and catching up with everyone. Living 2,500+ miles away from home has its up and downs, and as much as I would love to see everyone more than twice a year, when I finally make it there there is always such a loving welcome waiting for me. You can't beat two teenagers smiling from ear to ear as you ride to the bottom of the escalator. Don't get me wrong adults are happy to see me too, but seeing how much my kiddos miss me, breaks my heart every time. Thank you everyone in Cali for making my trip  home more than worth the crappy travel. I love you all and can't wait for Christmas. 

Every time I go home during the warmer months my Dad takes some of us out in his '49 Mercury to get either, Thrifty's ice cream, Hot fudge sundaes, or Baskin Robins milk shakes. Well this time it is was Thrifty's Ice cream and oh how I miss chocolate malted crunch.

Not a good picture of me, but it's a good one of the car! Sis Tami, me and Bro Jeremy. Dang we look good on the back of this ride! Austin (16) and Kennidi (almost 2) have become best buds, here they are playing in my bed outside on the deck. Yes, this is where Brooke, Chey and I slept while I was home. 16 of my 17(at the time) nieces and nephews at Lake Tahoe, baby Karlyn was already packed in the car seat ready to go. 

Sis Kristi with happy little Kennidi, she is quite the ham in front of the camera if you couldn't tell by now. Look Ashley we found a tree! Isn't Lake Tahoe so beautiful, its a blast until you get in the water...brrrrrrrrrr!!! This is Nait(18 months), I found it extremely difficult to get this serious child to smile. He hardly ever will in front of a camera.  My Mom and Karlyn, and no we did not put her hand there, she did it all by herself.