A Royal Getaway

Our 11th anniversary was at the end of June.  Last year we were fortunate to spend a weekend away.  We enjoyed ourselves so much we decided to start a new tradition of spending our anniversary in town but away from home.  We took advantage of some incredible summer rates and stayed at the Royal Palms Hotel.  My pictures do not do the hotel justice but you get the idea.  A beautiful view of Camelback, a refreshing pool, yummy food,  lovely company (Blake) and no kiddos.  What more could I have asked for?!

Quest for Cooler Temps

Last week, in our continued quest for cooler temperatures, we headed out to the local science museum.  After paying what I think to be too much money for general admission and an extra $5 per person to visit the Grossology  Exhibit, we put our minds to learning and soaking up science.  Everyone but me that is, I was there to visit with two old and dear friends of mine.  I met both of these moms right around the time I had Isabel.  They both had their first babies within weeks of Isabel's birth.  After many hours of Gymboree classes together and a moms group, we decided to start up a playgroup.  We added a few more kids and some terrific moms and met regularly for about 4 years.  Unfortunately, life seemed to get busier and everyone had more kiddos.  Sadly, our playgroup dates became further and further between.  So while the girls and their friends took in science, I soaked in the air conditioned museum and some mommy time.  My only regret is I did not have anyone click a picture of the three of us!  Thanks J and P for a wonderful day!

Beach Photos

Just wanted to let all of you know that those fabulous beach photos were not taken by me.  A sweet, dear friend who happens  to be a photographer went on vacation with us last 4th of July.   I am sure most of you know her but if you don't, check out her photography blog at sepphotography.blogspot.com.  

Wishing We Were Here

What more could we wish for?  14 kids, 6 adults, a sunny day at the beach, and loads of fun.  This is what we were doing last 4th of July.  Unfortunately, it was not in the cards for us to be back there this 4th.  Instead we are going to make the most of the 110 degree heat by swimming at a friends and hopefully watching some fireworks from the pool.  We miss you guys!  Happy 4th of July and hope CA and ID are cool!

Thinking of Grandma H

Yesterday Isabel, Caroline and I went to see the new American Doll movie "Kit Kittredge".  The film is set around 1934.  The main character spends most of her free time typing away on an old typewriter writing letters or stories for a local newspaper.  The movie brought back so many memories of my grandparents who always had time to type or write letters.  I loved playing in their office.  I would spend hours typing away on their typewriter or adding machine.  

Coincidentally today would have been my grandmother's 93rd birthday.  She passed away on April 14th.  Here is a sweet picture of Charlotte with "Great Grandma H".  Grandma gave her a ride on her walker and at one point Charlotte tried to push Grandma around.  

By the way, the movie was a sweet story.  We all gave it a big thumbs up!