July

We didn't have a super eventful month (sigh). I had hoped for more progress on the new house but it's been slow due to one sub's delays. But, we have done a few fun summer things here and there. We hope to make up for some lost time in August. I got up early one morning to get a spot to see the parade on the 4th. It was pretty good actually, not much advertising or too many politicians - mostly high school bands and floats like the good ole days.

The smelly smoke bombs are one of my favorites in terms of daytime firework stuff - I'd love to set a huge row of them off all at once.

Grandma provided this little pool for the kiddos - it's been nice they can cool off in hot weather. We're considering a larger free standing pool at the next place. Some people in our area put them up on cement or just sacrifice their lawn for the season.

Paxton and Bennett have had swim lessons once this summer and just started a new session today. They get to go down the big slides at the end and I was so pleased Bennett was willing to go it alone. His confidence in the water is increasing and I know he's having fun too.

Jared took a week off of work to attend scout camp for our 12 year old boys in the ward. He is always a great sport about that kind of thing, giving time up to help other people. We were able to meet him one afternoon and go on this little hike in the canyon.

We took a short trip to Wellington to visit Gma and Gpa and see if we can figure out the cabinets for our new home. Gpa is a skilled wood worker and we are thrilled he is willing to build our cabinets. We are going to have quarter sawn oak, probably a natural finish, but maybe a lighter stain - we'll see.

This is the south side of the house, kind of looks like an alternative front of the house. There are a few improvements to report, as of today the electrician finished almost all of the upstairs, plumbing is in until the finish stage, the roofer has started and all windows and doors are on site, although some still need to be installed. Jared and our friend / excavator dug and ran the water line, including taking it all the way to the back of our property so I can get water to the chickens and garden all year long.

Just a little shot of a local balloon launch. We see them from time to time, not usually this many at once though. One of them landed nearby on this day. I'm ready for the events August has to offer; school starting, the benchmark of a 4 way inspection on the home, our anniversary (it's a big one), and Jared's birthday.