Ben and His Animals

I love this picture of Ben. I came home from working out and he had all of his animals lined up  by him while he was eating his breakfast and watching TV.   It was a great reminder that although Ben tries to appear grown up, he is still my little Ben. 

I am so grateful for the happiness that he brings into my life. I love this red headed boy of mine.

Seattle Trip

At the end of June, Brandon and I took a little getaway to Seattle. Brandon had a work conference and decided he wanted me there with him.  He surprised me with tickets to go with him for our Anniversary.  Brandon even made arrangements with my mom to come and watch the kids while we were gone.

Some of the highlights from our trip included

The Public Market.  We had the most amazing croissant sandwiches for breakfast and delicious chocolate milk. 

Brandon found some delicious peaches and was in heaven. He said he has never had a peach quite like it.

One place that I really enjoyed on our trip was the Klondike Museum.  The information we learned there was pretty fascinating. 

We went to the Seattle Mariner's baseball game. I love going to games. However, we had to leave early since I ended up with the stomach flu. It was a rough week and I was sick for our whole trip and so was Brandon.

I met my best friend from high school, Natalie, for a trip on the ferry to Bainbridge Island. She even brought her adorable kids on our journey which included stopping for a yummy lunch and wonderful ice cream.  Brandon and I also went to Natalie's house for a delicious dinner. 

Brandon and I went to the Space Needle.  The view was quite impressive.  We even added our name and hometown to the map.

We also went to the Chulily Glass exhibit. I think the exhibit was Brandon's favorite part of the trip.

 The glass creations were absolutely amazing!

 Brandon wanted  me to stand in front of the purple glass creations since my favorite color is purple.

Brandon and I also went on the ferry again to Bainbridge Island to enjoy the view and get some ice cream.

To end our trip we went to the Museum of Flight and were completely floored with what we saw.
 At the museums, there was air craft from every era.

We even got to tour an old Air Force One plan which was awesome.

Although we were sick, it was still wonderful to get away for awhile and enjoy our time alone.  It was the prefect way to celebrate twelve years of wedded bliss!  

Father's Day 2015

In June, we also celebrated Father's Day.

I am so blessed to have Brandon as the father of my children.  My children are so fortunate to have Brandon for their dad. Brandon takes an active part in their lives to help teach and guide them.  Brandon is right there helping me raise our crazy brood.

We celebrated in style to honor our amazing dad.  Of course we had a delicious dinner, complete with with homemade ice cream. 

Brandon's main present for Father's Day was a fly rod and some waders from Cabellas.  Brandon also received some fun presents from the kids.  The kids were so pleased to give Brandon their sweet pictures they made for him and their presents they picked out at the store.

Right before Father's Day, Brandon noticed a recipe online that he decided he wanted to try. The dessert was called Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna.   It was so rich and so delicious.  

I have been blessed in my life to have such wonderful father figures.  

Grandpa B. who has always treated me with much love and kindness.

My father-in-law, Richard,  who raised an amazing son and who has served my family. He has also always welcomed me with open arms into his family.

My own father, Van  who has taught me the value of hard work and always being kind to those around me.

I could not forget my other Grandpa Nelson who always remembered to smile and be happy.

Last, but not least, Brandon, who is a wonderful father to our children!