My Littlest Fish

Just look at little E go! 

Arkansas

Last week the kids and I headed to Arkansas for a few days to visit my family. It was record low temps for July (72 degrees during the day) and we made the most of it by spending as much time outdoors as possible. There were a lot of "firsts" on this trip. Case and Emery's first fishing trip and first time to go to Blanchard Springs and swim in the creek. It was a grand time had by all! So glad that my kids are able to experience a taste of the fun I had growing up in Mountain View. There is no Blanchard Springs substitute in Memphis!

Sleepover at Nana and Poppy Whit's! 

When the fish started flopping...

Found this girl a big girl bike at Wal-Mart on clearance for just $30! Score!

Walked up to the spring to feel how cold the water is coming out of the caverns.

It was nearly cool outside and the water was COLD, but these kids somehow didn't seem to mind.

 

Our last night we spent the evening at my brother's grilling out on the deck and roasting marshmallows on the fire. It was cold enough in the middle of July for a fire. Unbelievable. It was a good time had by all…

July 4

We enjoyed every second of our July 4 holiday this year for many reasons. First off, it was barely 80 degrees! I'm sure reading back on this years from now, I'll think that must be a typo. But the weather was AMAZING and we spent the entire day outside enjoying it! 

We started the day off with the Brierwood Parade! It was the first time that our neighborhood has had a parade in five years, so it was our family's first and we had a blast. The kids and I had decorated their bikes on Thursday afternoon and they were excited. Of course the best part was running through the firetruck spray at the end. 

Then on to the neighbors for some playing and swimming with our Brierwood friends. We came home for a quick lunch and a bit of rest before heading out for pool party number two! We then spent the entire afternoon swimming and relaxing at another friend's house followed by a cookout. We weren't sure if we could all stay awake for the fireworks show, but after a super fast shower we all got our second wind and headed out for a fantastic show! Swimming and sun all day with no naps and fireworks until 10:00 p.m. meant we had some very tired kiddos, but it was worth it! It was a great day. One of my very favorite days ever.

Neighbors Preston and Margo!

Best family photo we could get…sigh...