Good Clean Fun.

Sarah spent this week at Family Farms Christian day camp. We have gone every year since Jamie was in first grade. Even when it is 100 degrees plus, the kids have a wonderful time. They do all the things you do on a farm. They fish, ride horses, play with the animals and more. Sarah was old enough this year to shoot the BB guns during riflery. The campers memorize Bible verses and sing praise songs. It is a unique experience and very special. The kids come home dirty and happy. It is easy to see why. They play hard. Many of her friends were there this week. That makes it even more fun. The girls built sand castles together. They paddled across the pond together. Truly good clean fun for all.

It has been very quiet here this week. Mike was in Texas and Jamie is at Band camp. It has been lovely.

Fathers Day

We are very lucky to have a family full of wonderful Dad's. Two of them enjoyed a steak dinner after church at our house today. Mike grilled some incredible ribeye steaks. I was licking my fingers and the chihuahuas were drooling. It was a beautiful warm day in Arkansas. After we were completely stuffed, we watched a little golf. We wish all of our Dad's a great day. We love each one of them. I hope Mike Sr. is either reading or fishing and I hope Ted is relaxing. Whatever or wherever, enjoy the day. Mike did not appreciate the camera during the cooking process. I did try. Dad wanted to show off his latest accessories. His shades protect his eyes after surgery. His magnifying glass came in handy reading his cards.

Beach Games

We played Frisbee and badminton one evening. The sun was setting and a cool breeze was blowing. Everyone was playing and having fun. I was taking lots of pictures. The sand is so much fun to play in. I caught a wonderful smile on Mike. That is pretty rare. He runs and hides from the camera. I really like these. The soft light was perfect for the camera.

Sarah took her first art class today. They studied shading and composition. Fine art principles that carry over to photography. She enjoyed it and I learned a lot too. I am working during her class and listening at the same time. It feels like I am subbing in a class. Dianne taught art in school for years. She has lots of patience with the kids. Many of her students have been with her for years. Our friend Jenna has been taking for years and is very talented.

Ahoy Mates

The pirate cruise was fun, fun, fun. We spent a delightful 2 hours cruising the coast on a cool pirate ship. It was totally designed to entertain the kids. Sarah and Deanna fully participated. We lucked out and saw dolphins playing right beside the boat. The older kids hung out and enjoyed the scenery. The pirates were very funny and kept everyone laughing. Activities included: swabbing the deck, sword fights, treasure hunting, and the limbo. The bottom shot is a golden sunset on the beach. Lots of pretty things to take pictures of.

Drowning in Pictures

I am literally drowning in a sea of great beach pictures. We had a wonderful vacation in Florida. The weather was perfect. I loooooove the beach. It just fills the senses. You can feel the stress melt away with the waves. I read 3 books and loved every minute of it. This year we stayed in Panama City Beach. We shared a fabulous condo with the Ayres family. The view from the 21st floor was really something. We lucked out and had a unit at the end of the building. So our view down the strip was clear for miles. I got to play on the elliptical machine in the fitness room. Here are just a few photos to start. Both families dressed up for pictures on the beach. The view from the end of the balcony. A shot inside the condo. I can't wait to show you more.

Just a quick note. Last night we spent many hours at dress rehearsal. The girls were just great. The show is non stop great dances. Sarah did a fabulous job. Check her out front and center just doing her thing. She does not hesitate for one minute. We did several quick changes and came back out to watch as much of the other girls as we could. Studio One does a fabulous job once again. The show is full of variety and very entertaining. The show starts all over again tonight at 7:00 in the Benton High School auditorium. All are invited.

Summer is Here.

Finally, school is out for the summer. Praise God! Time for fun and housework. My kids are not completely thrilled with that second part. I am ecstatic. This years schedule has been tough to keep up with. We are ready for a break and my house is ready for some attention.

The kids jumped right into the cold water of their grandparent's pool. I will not put a toe in until it warms significantly. The photo of Sarah was taken during the brief 5 minutes of full sun in Benton in months. I have had it with our weather. I've tried to lay out and get some sun for two months. It has either rained or been overcast every day. The sun peeks out only during the few hours a week I work. I will be going to the beach as white as the moon.

The Rowenta is just a shot of everyday life. We cleaned bedrooms and closets today. Happiness is an organized closet.

Currently reading- The Piano Teacher. I began this thinking it was a nice romance. It is actually about Hong Kong being invaded by the Japanese during WWII. I don't know how I keep getting these war stories. At the moment it is all about surviving. When things get that bad making it through alive is the only goal. I need something a bit lighter for the beach.