The Birthdays

Last weekend I packed the kids in the minivan and we headed up to Twin to see Great-Grandpa Pearson. Every year we celebrate his birthday (although he always says it's not a birthday party). It was sad that Todd couldn't be with us this year since he had a work training in California over the weekend. But the kids and I went up on our own anyway. The drive was longer than usual since there was traffic and the freeway was down to 1 lane for half the drive but the kids were really good both up and back. We stayed at the same hotel as Jan, Amy and her kids as well as Todd's Uncles & Aunts. You always knew where we were because of the 8 kids under 8 who were VERY excited to see each other. I love the chance to spend time with family (even if I am an in-law).

A few of my favorite pictures from the weekend:

The kids in the hotel pool - it was a small, indoor pool which didn't provide much benefit to my tan but it was much easier for the kids and I didn't have to worry about sunscreen on Sophie.

At the party. Every year we have fried chicken, potato salad, deviled eggs, watermelon, baked beans and birthday cake. I hurried and made all my kids plates and set them out for a picnic so I could relax, eat and enjoy talking with the adults.

Tayson loves drumsticks

Then the kids played with Emma's backpack and dressed Polly Pockets for a while

After lunch was done Uncle Mel got the kids to clean up and set up Croquet. Tayson lined up the chairs at the back and made all the kids sit in order of when it was their turn. He was very organized and bossy.

Sophie loved playing on grandpa's animals in the backyard. She was sitting on the deer until I snapped a picture (of course).

Nice shot Luke

The boys

Claire hit her ball all of 5 inches each time

The boys playing on the iPad.

These 2 girls are so dang cute together. They were inseparable and had so much fun together. Claire loves "her cousin" Emma

I tried adding Sophie to the mix...and it didn't go so well.

Amy organized a water balloon toss and fight. Here they are getting the balloons ready.

Water balloon toss

Amy is explaining the rules of the water balloon fight to the kids

I love that the boys are going strong and Claire and Emma are still on the porch.

Amy got hit more than anyone else - she was soaked.

It was a fast weekend of food, fun and family. I am so lucky to have married into such a great family. I love heading up to Idaho for the "birthdays" every year (we've only missed a few since we got married). This year I was a bit stressed about driving and being alone with the kids but they were so great. Tayson is such a great helper and he was fantastic this weekend.