Good-bye July

For FHE last week, Aaron and I decided it was time for refresher course "Tire Changing 101".  It was an exciting evening as the jack kept slipping from its position under the car and we ended up having to take a 'rain check' on the event.  The kids were good sports and learned a few things along the way - like where spare tires are kept in each of the cars, etc.

Quinn was dwarfed in size by a few of the opposing players at his final game on Thursday but he could certainly out run and out play them.  The city rec season is only four weeks - 2 games per week (T/TH).  Jantzen was hired as a referee and assigned the U-8 teams.  How fortunate that we could watch Quinn play and Jantzen ref at the same time!  Jantzen is an excellent ref and made good money in July (16 games total).  His dedication required him to miss out on a few fun activities (boating, river floats, etc.).  He also continues to mow 15 acres (7-8 hours of mowing) every third week for the HOA and cleans HCP once a week.  Morning basketball practices are in full swing again M-W-F.

 Quinn loved scoring goals!

Coach Bates, Tessa, Brennan, Cooper, Quinn, Coach Nielsen
Gavin, Brock, Aiden, Collin, Hannah

Tessa, Brennan, Quinn, Cooper

With the completion of the library summer reading program, the kids scored a handful of coupons.  We've been busy redeeming as many as possible this past week.

An exciting game of laser tag, miniature golf, a visit to the water park, free ice cream cones and free cookie dough/pizza were all part of our Friday afternoon.  It wasn't all fun and games this week, however.  All six children spent time at the dental office for cleanings and everyone took turns picking in berry patches (thanks Brin for making more freezer jam).  We have had a few service opportunities present themselves this week for cleaning/packing members of our ward.  Brinley and Anna came home appreciating the cleanliness and organization of our home life a bit more.  Tanner, Aaron and I enjoyed a morning at the temple performing sealings (family names) while Brinley and Jantzen spent time in the baptistry.

We skipped out on attending Education Week this year because we were too slow to register and the youth classes filled quickly.  Each year the program gets better and better.  Our only involvement constituted date night for me and Aaron as we enjoyed an evening listening to Hilary Weeks/Nik Day in concert.  Amazingly gifted musicians!

Anna & Brinley 

It's not every day you can watch a helicopter land in your grandparents backyard...

Greta & Elsie

...nor is it common to take a few rides in a private chopper.

Elsie & Janene

Brinley, Janene, Anna

 But that's just what we were all privileged to do on Saturday morning.  Janene prepared a yummy breakfast for family in the area that were available to take rides generously provided by Bro. Larsen.

Tanner, Quinn, Jantzen

Tanner & Quinn getting ready for their first time up.

It was pretty darn exciting to check out the local community at bird's eye view.

Tanner snapped this shot of the temple

I'm sure the various wedding parties took notice of the repeat fly-overs!

Besides the pilot, the chopper could handle three other passengers. 

Aaron & Anna

Anna & Heather

Our house

I love seeing all the fields of grain this time of year.  

It's been another wonderful week.  Good-bye July.