august highlights

The highlight of August was obviously starting kindergarten, but we managed to fit in some other fun, too. Back to school makes me want to think it's fall, but we're still trying to squeeze in some summer fun around here:

 We cashed in Rhett's summer reading coupon for a free day at Lakeside. It's dumpy, but the kids had so much fun. Tessa even went on a few rides and loved it!

 Summer afternoons in the backyard pool

 My little work helper!

 Tessa loves it when Rhett pushes her--big brothers are more fun than moms!

 Tessa has discovered her love of baby dolls. Finally something smaller than her!

 Fun at Andre's work picnic. Rhett said his favorite part was getting creamed by dad

 Tessa loves dogs and yells "Dog!" whenever she sees one. This was her reaction when she say the movie at Rhett's dentist was "Secret Life of Pets"--total excitement 

 One more visit to Elitch's before school started. 

 Hiking at Eldorado Canyon. We even saw a bear on the trail, so it was definitely eventful

 He's mastered the monkey bars! 

Leftover mustaches from the ward party were obviously a hit with the kids. Tessa was terrified of her reflection. 

kindergarten!

We have a kindergartener in our house! It's crazy and exciting all at the same time. After three days, Rhett is a very experienced kindergartener. He loves everything about school and can't wait to go every day. He loves his teacher, recess, art projects, reading, and going to music class. We can't wait to see all the great things Rhett does this year!

Mountain Weekend

Last weekend we got out of the city for fresh mountain air and beautiful views. The weekend in Fraser/Winter Park was just what we needed. It was far enough away to be separate from home but close enough that it was so easy to get to. We loved spending time just the four of us and making some great memories.

 We hiked the Discovery Trail across from Winter Park Resort--definitely recommend! It was the perfect length for Rhett and absolutely beautiful. Tessa loved the birds and flowers. We took a small arm off the main trail and ended up at a stunning secluded pond. We had to take a picture to remember being in such a beautiful spot together!

 We ate lunch and explored Cooper Creek Square. There was a bounce house and giant connect four, so Rhett was happy. Also, Tessa's face in this picture kills me! She's just the right size for the bottom hole.

 Reading books on the porch of our Airbnb. It was a hike to the top, but we had amazing views of the entire valley.

 High Country Stampede Rodeo! It was lots of fun--Tessa loved the horses, and we all loved the trick riders and the barrel racers.

 We found a park with an awesome playground that told the history of the area.

Andre and Rhett rode the alpine slide. Rhett was scared but he ended up loving it. Next time he gets to go by himself--he can't wait!

july highlights

School starts next week! We are soaking up every last bit of summer and getting outside as much as possible. July was a super fun month--here are some of the best moments

 For Rhett's birthday we decided to put together birthday party kits for a local shelter for homeless shelters. We had a goal to make 5 bags and were blown away by people's generosity. People I had never met left stuff for me to pick up, and countless friends, family members, and neighbors contributed. We ended up with 25 bags that each had way more in them than I had originally thought. It was so great for Rhett to see people support his project and to get him involved. The ladies at the shelter were so appreciative when we dropped off the bags. Such a good reminder to me about the goodness of people, and hopefully we helped cheer up 25 kids' birthdays. 

 This is a common scene at our house--Rhett is passing on his love of books to Tessa!

 Pre-anniversary weekend getaway. Taking a stroll through the park without kids!

 Tessa the Mariners fan

 Baby on the move! I have a picture of Rhett in the same play place when he was 1. 

 We only make it to the first bookshelf at the library before Rhett sits himself down and reads. This kid loves books (if only that would translate into enthusiasm to actually learn to read on his own), but it is fun to see! 

 Track season is done! Rhett got a 2nd place ribbon in the baseball throw at the state meet. 

 Just being Tessa

 The summer of exploring new parks! Rhett had been asking to go to this park for a while, and the tire swing was a big hit. 

 Tessa learns about toilet paper rolls. 

 Rhett has taken it upon himself to teach Tessa to walk. It's so cute when he helps her around the house (and clearly she loves it too)

 Two perfect sized rocking chairs!

Adventuring at Barr Lake. This kid is turning into quite the hiker.