Our first VBS

Life has been full this summer, but I haven't been great at updating what we've been doing. Lara & Jack attended a local VBS "Crocodile Dock" in mid-June and had a fabulous week. They went from 9-12:15 every day and so it was a nice "vacation" for me, too!
I was really impressed with the church's ability to pull off such a great week, but then realized it was because of all of the volunteers. Everyone who was a part of it genuinely wanted to be there serving and I was so encouraged by their example. The kids had an awesome time and really enjoyed themselves--so much so that they keep asking about when it will happen again. The last night was the big "Bayou Bash" for families to come and see how the kids had spent the week and what they had learned. Lara & Jack really got into the songs and had a great time singing their hearts out with their friends Allie & Jack Robertson. It was a fun week!

Our fantastic Easter

We just had a great Easter! We spent the morning at Vineyard Community where we had an awesome time celebrating Christ's resurrection and the hope we know because of Him. Lara made the decision during her chapel time to give her heart to Jesus, which made this Easter even more special. I'm excited to see how God moves in her little life with this new-found relationship.

We had a traditional Easter meal, which was delicious, if I do say so myself--ham, scalloped potatoes, deviled eggs, green beans, rolls, and a special jello for dessert. The meal turned out great, everyone ate plenty, and we had good conversation.

We headed to the Cincinnati Zoo for the afternoon to enjoy the gorgeous weather. The zoo was hosting its annual "April Blooms" where there are thousands of tulips and daffodils covering the grounds. We had a great time walking around, seeing our favorite animals and taking every photo opportunity possible.

It has been fun having Cooper be more a part of things this spring. Last year he was still so little (and not walking) and "sat out" during a lot of our adventures. He has become such a fun, little trooper--always so interested in what his big brother and sister are doing
(which often times mean TROUBLE!).

All in all, we had a fabulous day. The kids were so great and we all really enjoyed being together and having fun. Just seemed like one of those days you never want to have end. I'm crossing my fingers it will be the same tomorrow?! :)

Cooper's 2nd birthday!!!

We had a great time celebrating Cooper's birthday this weekend---although I cannot believe he's two! It seems like the time goes faster with each one...
After attending Lara's dance recital, we headed home to sing and eat some cake. Cooper got his first baseball & glove (from Nana & Papaw), as well as a 4 foot Boz (thanks to Aunt Carol). He already loves sitting in its lap and looking through all of his books. Everyday he picks up new words. His most recent way of adding to his vocabulary is to repeat the last word of everyone's sentences. It is so fun to hear "his version" of what everyone is saying!

Lara's Dance Debut

Lara had her ballet recital this weekend. She has been working on her dance since the fall at our YMCA and was able to perform for both sets of grandparents. It was so nice to have them come visit in Cincinnati for the weekend (although we missed you Aunt B!). She did a great job and loved getting all dressed up and being able to wear makeup--YIKES! It was fun to see her in her element...performing for a crowd.

Cooper showin' off