Fun with my daughter

Ellie and I have been trying to carve out some one on one time more. I really enjoy this time as she is growing up. She is starting to like some of the girly aspects of life. So we treated ourselves to a pedicure. Then we got ice cream and went to Old Navy. I love having this special time with my daughter.

First day of school

I know every parent feels the same way, but really where does the time go? It is hard to believe Ellie and Jack just went off to 2nd and 4th grade. They are growing into wonderful kids and know that before I know it they will be heading into high school and then leaving home. Better stop this or I might tear up. Anyway it was a smooth but busy day. They came home happy so I couldn't ask for anything more.

Ducks Football

For Doug's birthday we got tickets to the season opener Duck game. Jack, who is a die hard Beaver fan, decided he could root for the Ducks since they weren't playing OSU. He even got decked out in Ellie's old gear. Although he kept a few touches of orange and black. This was the first big college football game for the kids. We knew they would be amazed. It was a long day. We left the house at 9:00am and returned at 7:00pm. (hmmm I think watching comfortably from your couch is a little nicer) But as we left they were asking when we could go again. And despite the Ducks winning 72-0 we stayed until the game was over. Maybe going to the season opener will have to be our new family tradition. Of course Jack is now eager to get to a Beaver game. I'm not sure about that.

I love his eye black and his feisty spirit.

Best buddies

Having a fun tailgater to go to made the experience even better.

The first try at our picture with Pancho perfectly framed between us.

I even got to meet Natalie's boyfriend and embarrass her just a little.

The kids had a blast playing football in a grassy area.

The stands were clearing out but we were there for the whole thing.

They thought this guy was great.

Florence

We went to Florence with our good friends the Hakalas and Fultons for our grand finale of summer before work officially started for me. The kids had a blast. They played on the beach and swam in the pool. The kids all love playing together and have grown up together. In fact we think of them more like cousins than just friends. Of course we parents have a lot of laughs too. This was a great way to end summer.

This picture cracks me up. Natalie texting on the beach. I clearly remember when she was born and look at her now.

Love the camo coat Panch!

It wasn't as hard as you might think getting seating for 14. Better yet we were able to make a kids table and parents table.

Lucy

Don got the kids started builing a giant mound and tunnel system. They love it.

The oldest three, Ben, Natalie, Max

Crazy! My kids always end up in their swimsuits in the freezing water and there was Sam to join them.

We stopped by Heceta Head lighthouse on our way back home.

State Fair

We made it to the State Fair on kids day again. And we had the extra treat of bringing Sam with us. He stayed the night before and the kids had a blast. We always go on this day because rides are half price. Unfortunately for me, it is also my first day back at work. It makes for a long day but the experience and memories are worth it. The kids loved that they got to share all of their favorite experiences with their friend. And it was perfect because none of the kids wanted the big rides. Ellie loves rides but she doesn't like to spin(can't blame her because I hate to spin myself) and we noticed that almost every big ride involves spinning. We love the animals and ended with a chair lift ride across the whole fair at night. We left with sore feet but the kids want Sam to come with us next year.

We have stopped to see the horse named Ellie every year and take a picture.

Yes, that is a stuffed beaver, oh the laughs.

Doug loves his new camera so this is how I see him alot!