The Dog Days of Summer

We have had a really fun summer so far. Texas weather is always hot and humid but that hasn't stopped us from having a good time.
In May my parents took a two day road trip to come out and visit us. Texas is along way from Montana, but they made it and brought Sam (the dog) with them. We enjoyed swimming, playing trains, reading stories, and of course eating out!!! My mom (who must always stay busy, even on vacation) set up her sewing machine and made Eliza beautiful skirts and dresses. We ended their visit with a fashion show complete with ABBA music.
The best part of summer in Texas is the swimming. We enjoyed countless hours in the water. Ben and Eliza took swimming lessons early in the summer. They both love playing in the pool especially when Mom and Dad join them. Josh was our littlest fish. He was constantly crawling into the water (regardless of the depth)!
In July we took our own road trip to Utah to see family. Dave's parents were leaving on a mission to Itabuna, Brazil, so we spent the first week in Salt Lake with most of the Stowell family. (We missed Uncle Rich and Uncle Clint who were both fulfilling obligations to the United States military.) We had so much fun playing with cousin Ruby, sleeping outside on the deck (the beauties of a Utah summer night), swimming, and spending lots of time with family. Unfortunately, Eliza broke her arm jumping off the trampoline the last night we were in Salt Lake, but hey! wants a little visit to the ER?
The next week we spent in South Ogden with the Shupe's and Stock's. Once again our favorite part was playing with cousins. Benjamin was absolutely in love with the trains at Union Station. Eliza got her fill of Barbies, Hannah Montana, and Tinker Bell thanks to Gabby and Livvy. I enjoyed some much needed girl time with high school and college friends. And we all were thrilled to go out boating at Pine View Reservoir with Uncle Braden. We were sad to say goodbye, but as always we eventually had to come home.
The rest of the summer has been full of birthdays (Benjamin turned 3 and Eliza is turning 6). We have visited the zoo and got in as much swimming as possible. Eliza starts school on Monday. We are so excited for her to take this big step!!!
Thank you to all those who spent time with us this summer. We love our friends and family!