So words just can't describe the fun had with these amazing families (Steele's, Hamlin's, Klatt's, Schueler's, Ramberg's, & Reese's) it seems like each year brings even more fabulous memories. The kids only have to hear "McandDonald" or "Buffy" and they trip over words in their haste to bring up past adventures with everyone. Their smiling faces as they recant such times in vivid detail just brings joy to us. Hopefully you can sense how special this weekend tradition has become for us so thank you honey and Buffy for that moment so long ago when you found each other, formed that bond of friendship that's carried us to today! What a journey and wow how we love knowing our kids will pass on this torch!
A full weekend of campfires, fellowship with the Lord, remembrance of those who gave their lives for this country, giggles, pig piles (not just the kids too!), "lots of poor food choices" (love your phrase Amanda), a petting zoo visit like no other, great conversations, some tears, and most of all spending time with those you love unconditionally - can't beat it!
Lots of photos from the petting zoo visit, clearly we were too busy with all the above to take photos of the whole weekend, will do better next year!
Aubrey, Brie, Ayden & Conner playing on a fountain at the malt shop we ate at after the petting zoo!
Conner thought that if he waited a the counter they'd think he was too cute to make him wait, he waited and waited, this boy was hungry!
Nana & Brie lovin' the time spent at that petting zoo!
Papa giving Conner a boost to see the baby chicks/ducks
Nothing like times like this with Papa.....
What beautiful Ladies!!! Tina, Buffy & Tandra!
Conner completely ignoring the "DO NO ENTER" sign that he's holding onto for dear life. Thought he'd like to climb in the pen with the peacocks and other birds... Not so much little man!
Tandra & Mike, what a cute couple!
Precious cuddle time, Nana & Abbott
Thank you Buffy & Don for the pony ride - notice the smile on Conner's face, you were responsible for it! Man how he loves you!
Ha ha, if you knew the story behind this one - okay have to spill it. So this was a failed attempt at getting Conner to sit still long enough for Mommy to hail his sister over for a cute photo op in this covered wagon. Cuz seriously how many times will a covered wagon pop up for me to take a great photo of my kids in it.... Knew you were on my side, well if you look at the expression on Conner's face he is trying valiantly to "hold it" because he at this point is very near to peeing in his pants he has to go that bad, had to scrap the whole shot and rush off to the bathroom. Sorry Conner, had to be done, it sure brings me laughter when I see this :)!
There was much concern that these silly goats weren't going to get their heads back through the fence holes, but lo and behold these are smart goats, they only trick us into thinking they are stuck so we feel sorry for them, works every time! They know how to get out and also are great at working the crowds!
Watch out Thomas they spit!!!
Daddy trying to use up the feed on a bunch of sheep
A fawn listening to his Mama and laying low
Here is her pesky brother who couldn't resist a peek just a few feet away
Farmer Conner, has a nice ring to it doesn't it?
A bear oh yes, but a very well fed bear at that!
Caught our two handsome boys ....
Out for a stroll
Stopping along the way for some mischief, again, no surprise....
Nana, Papa, & Mike feeding a deer
Lots of free roaming geese, they were hungry!!!
Everything is a jungle gym in Conner's world
The stand off, later the geese moved in for the kill while Conner continued to back away, they hiss you know!!!
Truly an odd duck
The Lynx was a favorite
These long haired bunnies were one of Conner's fav's
Awww, look at these adorable newlyweds!!!! The deer is cute too!
Go Brie, how cute it is to watch our "a butterfly is chasing me" daughter love every animal in this petting zoo!
OK, so there ARE a few non-petting zoo photos!
Hey, Ayden, my aren't you handsome!
I think that Conner & Boo (Brie too) spent most of the weekend on this trampoline, their legs have to be rock solid!
And yes, teaching of the young....
Evelyn & Kylie - playing toilet tag!
Sleeping beauties, the blog on the floor next to Jenna is Stacy, you practically have to throw that girl in the lake to wake her up!
The headlamps doing their duty as they search for all the change Steve strewn throughout the grass, a little exploration before bedtime! Jenna getting some help from Conner!
The whole group!
Jenna the Sparkler!!!!
Happy Birthday Brienna! A butterfly she's not afraid of, sorry Brie, we'll never let you live that down!
It's a free for all, no one's safe!
Jenna & Kylie teaming up for the.....
Water balloon toss
which lead to the water balloon fight!
The boys did such an amazing job dealing with all these girls!
Another game favorite, the human knot!
The slipper kick, anyone wanna guess who won? Evelyn our amazing goalie! She actually held back because she was afraid of hitting the camper across the road, yep, she's that good!
Kylie is the clear winner of the most creative head lamp - watch out world this gal is border line genius, no kidding she is incredible.....
Brie & her soccer buddy Isabell playing badminton
Conner had to suit up, strictly evasive measures with all these girls around
Perfect mode of transportation for this group!
Great choice on the menu Brie, pizza from the local pizzeria, no cooking & an easy clean up, that's my girl!!!!
Down time in the camper, Liv brought string so they were busy braiding bracelets! For about 15 min's anyway...
Olivia, Isabell, & Evelyn
Brie & Kylie with their floaties stuck on their bums!
Jenna soaking up some sun and warmth, the water was a bit cold still
Kylie, Brienna, Isabelle, & Olivia
This rock is normally NOT in the water but halfway up the beach, just gives you an idea of how high the water is at Baker Park! Incredible!
Evelyn, Jenna, & Stacy taking a beach break before heading back in!
Brienna getting a push from Jenna, their attempts at floatie surfing!
