Sweet Mother of Abraham Lincoln!

WHAT A DAY! First off, let me apologize for my blogging hiatus. I find it nearly impossible to not only write my own, but keep up reading all those that I enjoy. I'm trying, but success is minimal. I miss it a lot though.

We went up to Coeur D'Alene to do some scenic biking. If I sound obnoxiously prideful, it's because I am. We biked SEVENTEEN MILES! This is no biggie for the big man, but for 2 children and a woman who hasn't excercised in 2 years... this was impressive. (insert herniated discs in back excuse here...) The trail was gorgeous, running along the lake and through the forest. A highlight included spotting a deer standing right next to us on the trail:

A lowlight included all the gnats that stuck to my sunscreen-plastered arms: (This was what was left after the 2nd half of the ride. I wiped about 20 more off halfway through)

We all got to experience each other's Jeep hair. For some, this was worse than others:

As per Jessica's recommendation, we tried out Gooeys. As you can clearly see from the before and after shots, it was gluttony at its finest. I know my limitations, and one of these things isn't even an option for me. So I just mooched off everyone else's.

The restaurant sits on the Lake, so when we were done we went to soothe our hot, tired biking feet in the water. We had so much fun, and it was so relaxing just to spend some time together outdoors. We love the time we have with Jordan and Samantha. We wish it could last longer, but we try to make the most of it when we can.

promo code

just a quick FYI:
i just finished off my 2nd blog book (using blurb.com). i searched online to find any promo codes that may be available, and lo and behold!!! i found one. if you're going to print off a book before i think november??? you can type in promo code flickr10 at the checkout, and get $10.00 off your total purchase. excellent deal.

She's From Boston

I have hundreds of pictures from my vacation. Hundreds. There were so many people, so many beautiful places. I love New England. I realize most everyone doesn't want to see all my hundreds of pictures, so here, in video form, are the highlights. (If you DO happen to want to see all my pictures, click on the family album link on the right).

Look What the Cat Dragged In!

We found these great looking kids at the airport and decided to keep them. We need someone to wash the dishes and pick up the slack on the housework. I think it'll be a good arrangement.

Happy 7th Birthday, KBoy!!

Ah, my middle child. This year, a total bummer, we miss celebrating his birthday together because he is at his father's. Mad thanks for the stellar bday shot, however.

Here are the top ten reasons I am so glad Keola is my son:

1. He is hilarious.
2. He is 100% angel, wrapped up in 100% roughneck.
3. He loves to help, and is usually the first to offer to do so.
4. He is already ripped like a body builder, and will probably make millions in pro-sports, which he will then share with me.
5. He is so sweet and gentle with little babies.
6. He knows when to give himself a timeout.
7. He enjoys when I read with him.
8. He is not easily intimidated, and knows how to stand up for himself.
9. He still sucks his thumb, which reminds me he is still vulnerable.
10. If I spend a little extra time on my hair and makeup, he's the first one to say "HUBBA HUBBA, MOM!"

Happy birthday, Scooby! I love you so much. I hate missing your birthday, but I'm glad you got to spend it with your dad. I know you had a great time. I can't wait for you to come home.

Say Fromage, Rusty!

Here's the fam.

My brother and his family left to return to CT today.  I'm leaving on Thursday and heading to New York.  I really enjoy spending time with my family.  But THIS SATURDAY... I get to see my husband again.  THAT is what I am most excited for.

ps: for anna, and other humorously-challenged friends, the title is from national lampoon's european vacation.  a family favorite.