Beating the heat

Our little fish

Poor Nolan Bear cut his toes on any oyster shell, hence the sock and shoe on one foot.

Sharing his smore with Grandma G

 

"Uncle" Greg showing Nolan how to water ski using a tree

 

Professional, he's got it down!

 

This will be my child that begs daily for us to get a dog. Maybe once everyone can wipe their own bum, mama will think about it.

Fresh crab just out of the water, getting ready to make crab rolls. Yummy!

Spending a couple weekends at the canal this summer has been a dream. Thanks to the Morgan's and their beautiful property our family has been able to beat the heat. Friends, family and fresh seafood, it couldn't be any better.

Our big news. . .

 

 

 

 

A couple weeks after Carter was born my pediatrician gave me a phone number to a mother who had a 10 year old boy with Down syndrome. One afternoon I picked up the phone to call this women, not knowing what to expect. I remember being able to introduce myself but then immediately breaking down and not being able to say more then two words. I didn't know then what I know now. I didn't know the power of love this sweet little baby boy of mine would create in our lives. Sometimes I feel guilty for the feelings I had right after he was born but I know in my heart I wouldn't be where I am today without having experienced it. Every raw emotion has fueled and inspired me to be the best mother I can be. I always knew one day I wanted to be strong enough to be the mother on the other end of the phone.

Which brings me to our big news. Shortly after Children's Therapy did the video for Carter, I had an idea. I wanted to share our video with new parents. Helping one family would be amazing. I spoke with Valley Medical Center where I delivered and they were interested in having the video. I also told them I would like to get New Parent packets from the DSC (Down Syndrome Community), so they had current updated materials for parents.
So after my hospital visit I contacted the DSC and sent them our video. Their response was heart warming to say the least. We have decided to work together in sharing our story and showing the community Carter bug's sweet smile. They have asked for Carter to be featured in the new parent packets. And these packets are distributed around the state to hospitals. I am one proud mama and can't wait to be a part of this project. So stay tuned for updates! And mark your calendar for October 7th if you would like to join us for the Buddy Walk in Seattle. My goal is to create the biggest team possible, t-shirts and all!

Thanks to Erin for these pictures that will be featured in the new parent packets!

Warm weather. . .what?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seattle had a solid week of warm weather. WHAT?!? So we soaked it up, hit up spray parks, wave pools, playgrounds and anywhere else the sun was shining. My children have scales on their little bodies, they are part fish for sure!  

Rinabarger Wedding!

One tired cowboy. . .  

 

This cowboy did not like his hat. Uncle Josh tried hard to keep his hat on while I snuck a picture!

 

 

Family pictures are defiantly a challenge these days.

 

Owning the dance floor!

Distracted momentarily on the dance floor by a passing airplane.

 

Nolan found a captive audience with Heather and her mama.

 

 

Little Raleigh John with his mama and grandma

My one pic of the beautiful bride!

Proud parents of the groom- Mike and Mo

 

 

Packed up my cowboys and we headed South down to Castle Rock for the Rinabarger wedding! Scott and Chelsey tied the knot under the hot sun on her parents gorgeous property. Family and friends from all over came to witness the event, everyone dressed in their cowboy or cowgirl attire. It was a beautiful wedding and so glad we were there to be a part of it. The Rinabargers and our family may not be related by blood but as far as I am concerned they have always been and will be family. Cheers and congrats to Scott and Chelsey!

And I feel terrible I didn't even get pics of the bride and groom, but chasing after a 3 & 1 year old put a damper on my photo opportunities.