HI ALL -- It's been quite awhile since I've had the time (& energy) to sit down and update our blog -- summer has flown by!! Jared was busy with swim practice 3 days aweek and Shae Rose had the opportunity to attend her first official swim lessons. She will be going again in October. She swims very well in our pool with her floaty jacket and loves to get out as much as possible. We have also had out-of-town relatives come to stay to visit and meet Shae Rose. So far that would include Namma and Bumpa over the 4th of July and Auntie Min and Auntie San at the end of July. We are still expecting Auntie Dawn this weekend, Mady next week, Uncle Mike and Madi over Labor Day weekend, and Grandma Bonnie in October. Thus far, Shae Rose has warmed up to her new extended family almost immediately (and she loves to talk on the phone with them as well).

The first two pictures that are attached are from the Dothan, AL swimmeet; we are at Long Horn Restaurant. That was Shae's first swimmeet that she attended -- she did great and always cheered Jared on. Jared earned 3 ribbons that weekend. The third picture is Shae Rose at one of her swim lessons at the YMCA. Finally, the fourth picture is Jared and Shae Rose at Monkey Joe's; an end of the summer outing.

Jared just celebrated his 10th birthday this last week and Shae Rose is looking forward to her 4th birthday three weeks from now. Jared also has just finished his first week of school; he is now in the 5th grade. While Jared is at school, Shae Rose and I will be working on writing her alphabet and numbers and will learn to write her name. We will also be doing crafts, as that is one of her favorite things to do. Jared will be starting his 3rd swim season and Shae Rose will be starting "SHOUT" (children's choir) at our church next week. As for me, my children keep me pretty busy, and it's the hardest and best job in the world.

Until next time..........take care all!!