Summer 2021

Just before summer, we got in another airsoft gathering with the usual crew.

We also discovered a pick your own strawberry place called Deer Run Farm. Thank you Kristie!

We actually ate ALL of these and even went back a second time the week after.

Aaron and Benny ended their soccer seasons. They were on great teams this spring.

The kids ALL got straight As and so many awards at the end of the school year. Jackson got the most prestigous one in his grade. Only 1 male and 1 female are selected every year. So proud!!

No summer is complete without a trip to the beach. We spent a few fun days on Hilton Head Island with our bikes and rode around their amazing trails.

The kids enjoyed the pool at our condo. We had no agenda but to relax and enjoy.

We spent another long weekend in Cincinnati meeting Aunt Ashley's new twins boys!! Benny and cousin Mason LOVED holding them.

Benny thought the babies were just the cutest and so tiny, he kept saying. The other kids weren't as interested.

Even though they only weighed 7+lbs and 5+lbs, I don't think I could hold them both for very long. What a job!

What a blessing! I got my baby fix.

The next day we picked up Uncle Chris and went disc golfing. I tried to straighten this picture but the bench is crooked!

Another picture of my brother. He's looking pretty well. He didn't talk much but I think he had fun. Afterwards, we had cheese coneys from Gold Star Chili for lunch.

He hung out with us for a bit at the hotel and played basketball with Josh before going back to his place.

This was the 1st time we've stayed at a hotel while visiting but it worked out great. There was a pool for the kids and it made things easier for my mom as well.

Addy got to stay home this time. She wanted to kitten sit for her boyfriend Caleb. Mimi graciously stayed with her.

Last, last weekend we were invited by Steph and Khan back to Lake Jocassee!

Oh Benny again with the babes.

Here's the gang minus Khan, Josh and I.

1st stop by an island to swim and jump off the nearby jumping rock.

Staying dry and warm with my man in the boat.

Next stop, the swinging bridge.

The kids got to explore around in the water again.

Look how happy this child is that his favorite little Sophie is sitting by him.

And the next morning, Benny again with the baby.

We headed to the beach and let the kids play around in the sand cliffs.

Then we stopped by Devil's Fork State Park so the kids and Josh could balance and jump off this fun wave breaker. Then we got ice cream from the general store.

This girl is so great at fishing. This was her 2nd and biggest one of the day.

Of all the waterfalls flowing into this gorgeous lake, this one was the most fun because you could swim behind and under it. But the water was oh so cold!

Benny jumping off the roof of the pontoon boat. No fear.

Even Addy jumped off with Chloe. Go Sis!! Their picture was blurry so here's Josh instead.

Jackson, also brave enough to try anything. Thanks for having us Masud's!!!

We've had Zachary over a couple of times. Summer would not be complete without seeing him. I kicked them all off electronics to play a board game! Rare moment. Amanda and I have been having lunch together on a weekly basis. Gotta get a pic with her next time!

For the 4th of July we stayed downtown for a night at the fancy Kimpton Hotel. Addy's people watching, which was the majority of what we spent our time doing.

We also walked around town and ate dinner at the Mellow Mushroom across that street. Addy slept on this huge couch.

The evening view, waiting for the firewoks that are let off near the stadium.

Unfortanately a bulding blocked our view. The boys went down to see from the street. Here's the scene afterwards. People everywhere. I was happy to watch from above and not be in the crowd.

The next morning. There was only one queen bed. Benny slept on the little couch in the corner and I brought an air mattress for the other 2 boys. We made it work!

Espresso maker in the room! This was a 1st for us.

The boys played frisbee in the park across the street and we rented these REALLY FUN and fast electric scooters!! They were all over the city and you just activate by using an app on the phone.