Approximately two minutes after we got back to Iowa, it was time for one of our favorite summer traditions- the Yankee Doodle Pops concert! We didn't invite many new friends this year, but we still had a happy patch of grass full of friends who share this tradition with us!
The weather was supposed to be hot and miserable, but it was actually beautiful with a glorious sunset, patriotic music, and a wonderful fireworks show. We would hate to miss this sweet night!
The success of a 4th of July celebration, to a 12-year-old, is measured by glowsticks collected. Noah won this year.
We even brought Leah with us- friends always love to see her in plushy form.
Pictures of the evening taken by professional cameras.
On the 4th of July, we got to visit with Leah! We took her to the dam to check out the fireworks in West Des Moines,
and then we all headed home for the suprise of the summer- crazy fireworks right outside our window! We'll never have to leave the house to see fireworks again.
July means pollinating- Emma started this year and did a fantastic job of making the best of a hot, sweaty, dirty and hard job!
Lovingly, it's giving Sammy-
Lil cutie, she earns these naps!
Life Prep dating lesson- water balloon toss to practice the back and forth that is required in successful conversations and dating and missionary work!
Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-a!
Leah joined us virtually and got to say hi to several other families from our stake that were there.
Noah went to Planet 7! After a week of skating, swimming, ropes course and Adventureland with friends, Noah is offically ready for middle school.
I finally got a few trips around Raccoon River in. Trust- it's hot this summer!!
Emma is a great missionary!
We went paddleboarding, finally! Adam was my buddy for a bit, then he went out and joined Emma and her friends in the water.
Super-duper hot temple date!
An unexpected milestone- dropping my babies off at the pool and not even staying with them. They had a great time!
It's been too long since we've posed in the corn.
Noah was thrilled.
Skatepark date!
Jason was so excited to finally take us to the Drum Corp show.
After four performances, crazy high winds and an unfortunate knock to the head by a boom mic, it was thoroughly rained out and cancelled. What rotten luck!
Some summer days just call for a good round of Mystery Date.
Jesus hot tub!
Tour de Stake: Final Round- Oskaloosa Branch! Emma was already off with friends.
