Dallas Summer Bonus Chapter - Fun with the IdaHowes

Tim and Cindy's family were still in Dallas when we returned from Utah so we were able to spend a few days playing together before we had to head home for the start of school. Cousin time is always the best! 

A day at Little Elm beach was not equal to a week on the Outer Banks, but plenty of fun in the water and sand was still had. As far as Texas beaches go, it's a nice one!

Grandma Howes bubble sharks were a huge hit with the kids

Outing to the Cidercade, a highlight for Davey

Sophie and Amelia working on a puzzle

Piñatas and cake to celebrate Maya's 3rd birthday

The cousins held a funeral for a baby bunny that ran into a gate

We sure loved being able to see cousins, even though the reunion got cancelled

1000 Mile Road Trip - St. George, UT

While in Baker City, we learned Tim & Cindy's family had covid, which meant our Howe beach trip to Emerald Island got called off just days before it was supposed to happen. It was a disappointment for sure, but we quickly shifted our plans and rerouted to St. George instead, swapping ocean sand for desert sand. While we mourned the loss of the beach, playing and swimming surrounded by the gorgeous red rocks of Utah was a nice consolation prize. The little boys and I had just visited in May, but this was Sophie and Davey's first time and we had taking them to some of our favorite places. 

Boys in their matching "beach" shirts

Griffin was on a bit of an early schedule and we took lots of sunrise walks together

Swimming at Entrada's outdoor pool

Puzzle time at the St. George house

The Town Square splash pad, river and carousel made for a fun morning

Picking out some candy at Judd's to take on the airplane

This was our first visit to the Children's Museum and the kids had a blast. We spent a long time on the main floor before realizing there was an entire basement full of even more fun!

Our flight home to Texas was out of the Vegas airport. Unfortunately our shuttle was having technical difficulties and couldn't go over 55 mph. The 2 hour drive was spent with fingers crossed we wouldn't miss our flight, but luckily made it there just in time

Video: Oregon & Utah Road Trip 2021

Sammamish Summer Part 4 - Water Fun & Uncle Brent Comes!

Towards the end of our stay, Uncle Brent came to visit for a few days! The kids loved spending time with him. He played games, read books, went tubing, and even helped the kids try waterskiing for the first time. Davey also tried kayaking solo and did great. The kids love being out on the water and the blue mat and wave runner got lots of use. The lake is truly one of our most favorite places!!

Jobe acting as lifeguard from the dock

My chocolate-faced first mate

Uncle Brent has arrived!

Poor Charlie can't go on the boat for even a few minutes without falling asleep

Griffin also got lulled to sleep by the water

First attempt at water skis! Sophie got up briefly but wasn't able to hold on long. It was a good start though and she'll probably be a pro in no time with a bit more practice

I also got a few ski runs in this trip

Fun at the Orca park splash pad

Griffin being a busy 1 year old, getting into everything and following Jobe around everywhere

The kids helped me with this Pixar puzzle

Packing up at the end of the trip is always the worst. So much to gather, clean and fold for 6 people after being here for half a month. It's not a quick process, but so satisfying to have it done. Can't wait until we return next year!

Video: Seattle Summer Fun 2021