Kesler Visit

We got lucky, my sister Nat and her husband Greg came to Texas for a visit. They have lots of family here. And we can't get enough of baby Ryan. No matter how old he is, we will probably call him Baby Ryan cause he's our youngest cousin -- for now! We had a last-minute BBQ with Greg and Nat. It worked out nicely. The kids played and ate outside for hours and we got to catch up. Nat said she wanted to go out to eat, but Eric was dying to smoke some food. No shocker there. He was thrilled that Nat loved his brisket so much since she really wanted to just eat Chinese food! Nat, you made Eric's year! Anytime someone converts to his meat, that's a success to him. The kid cousins were so cute together. I loved hearing Ryan shout, "Wait for me!" He kept up with the bigger cousins. We wore them out and found them under the blankets resting while we were still chatting. We so wish we could live closer to Nat and Greg, especially baby Ryan!

Six Flags

Since Eric made his sales goals, he got tickets to Six Flags! We took my two sisters to thank them for all the times they've watched the kids. Dylan went on the biggest roller coaster there. He's tall enough now to try any of the rides. But I think his favorite ride was the log water ride. And driving the cars.
Ella loved the Toon Town with a balloon and bus ride. Great memories!

Little Gymnast

Although Ella would prefer to just have playdates and go nowhere, I did manage to get her to dance and gymnastics this year. These pictures are from her final performance. She improved so much at gymnastics, I saw her strength and courage increase. Plus, there were plenty of playdates at gymnastics Ella, so why all the fuss? And every time it was over, you did tell me you had fun!

Special Olympics

Now that Dylan is 8, he can compete at Special Olympics. This was our first year, and he did great, earning a gold medal in throwing and bronze in the 50m. There were two competitions.
So many emotions as you watch these kids all with various disabilities put forth their best efforts.

I'm always so emotional at this event: grateful to be surrounded by these kids, inspired to do better, moved by the sensitivity they all seem to bring out in the rest of us and surrounded by a huge feeling of love.

Two highlights for Dylan: he walked so proudly around the track in the opening ceremony holding hands with his girl, Bailey. And he always smiled so big when he got a medal or had people cheer him on. That boy loves praise! And this is the place to get it...

Next up: Special Olympics swimming...