Summer has Arrived (part 2)

J&K and their boys came to visit later in the afternoon. After several hours in the swimming pool earlier in the day, this little guy was thrilled to walk into his uncle's house and find that the visitors had sons and lots of cars and trucks!

He occupied himself for a long time, just playing and imagining all kinds of wonderful scenarios.

But soon, that novelty wore off and he ventured outside where the rest of the boys were playing. So what happens when you have one car, and four little boys who want to be the driver? You take turns, right?

Well, maybe...

And you try to be patient until it is your turn behind the wheel again...

Or, you just chill and patiently enjoy the view around you--like little brother! (Now who knew he was merely lurking in the grass, waiting for his big moment in the car!)

When extra manpower arrives, you take advantage of it! Oh yes, you try to be kind to the woman and bring her along on the ride, too!

Then you just sit back and enjoy the ride.

But if you take your hands off the wheel and get distracted by other things, the youngest fellow will certainly move in on your territory!

He'll check things out and see if he likes the vehicle...

Then, he will take control!!! And he'll love every moment of it!

Finally, it was time for an ice cream cone snack. With seven little kids, and 108 degree heat, the kitchen floor seemed to be the best place for the kids to have their "ice cream cone party." These two cousins enjoyed each and every bite!
Thanks kids, for such an enjoyable time together, and special thanks to M&B for hosting this get-together.

On July 4th, we enjoyed a nice quiet day together with Chuck and Penny. Since it was Penny's birthday only two days prior, we celebrated again on Monday. Have a wonderful birthday year, dear Penny!

This was our very patriotic birthday dessert.

Chuck and Penny

Jim & Marilyn

We ended the night by watching the music show and fireworks in DC (and listening to all the firecrackers "popping" all around our neighborhood). 

Happy Birthday to our nation. We thank God for this great land that we live in!