Summer Fun!

So far summer has been full for all of us. We've managed to make July a better month than June. Several trips and weekend adventures are keeping us busy and we wouldn't have it any other way.

We got to enjoy some classic Oregon culture as we took the family to Kruger's farm. The Lindbergs invited us along and it was a great way to spend the evening. Live folk music, gorgeous sunsets and the sounds of kids running through the sprinklers set the stage for a relaxing evening that I hope to repeat soon.

In addition to that local trip Kari was able to get away for a much needed girls weekend. She and the rest of her college friends headed to a lake house in Michigan and got some well deserved "girl" time. Izzy, Amelia and I missed her, but we are able to hang in there until mommy returned.

A couple of weeks ago my company (Regence) hosted their annual company picnic at Oaks Park. For those non-Portland peeps, it's the largest amusement park in Oregon and needless to say a kid's paradise. We enjoyed a BBQ, ice cream and of course several rides. Izzy was in heaven as the variety of kiddie rides was great. In addition to rides she got her face painted and wow was she excited . . so excited we were'nt allowed to was her face for almost two days. The picnic was great fun and we look forward to next year as well.

Just recently we got back from a 4 night stay at Wallowa Lake. Just outside of Joseph, OR is one of the most gorgeous settings I've experienced in the state. Chief Joseph Days was in full effect as we strolled through the town and enjoyed frosty beverages as well as other activities. We attended the Rodeo one evening and that was quite an experience. A few days later we went to the POW WOW and witnessed some great dancing and of course the awesome singing and drumming that I really enjoy.

The house we rented at the lake was amazing and the Stocktons, Alvarez' and us hosted a BBQ one evening that included about 20-25 people; it was great to see everyone. In addition to hanging out there was ample beach time that included swimming and playing the sand and rocks with the kids. The Maitlands, Schauermanns and Cornetts were kind enough to bring their boats and take anyone who was interested wakeboarding and skiing - thanks guys! One evening we had a huge group of people gather around the campfire and have smores . . mmmmmm. So all and all we had a great trip that we hope to repeat next year.

As for locally, this weekend is our 5 year anniversary. Yep 5 years and still going strong. Kari and I plan to get away to the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove for some live music and chill out time as the weather is supposed to be perfect.

The house construction is moving along. Our poor neighbors are little worried about all of the happenings, but they will be ok and we will do our best to make it so. The house has foundation, and foundation walls, and the next steps are utilities and plumbing. Very exciting indeed.

So that's about it for now.