Bittersweet Memorial Day weekend

Sunday we got up and headed to church and I was really looking forward to the service because my church always does the best at recognizing and remembering all those who have or are currently serving our wonderful country. And once again, Cottonwood did a great job! They always have the color guard march down the aisle. They also recognize all branches of the military individually, by having anyone, who has a friend or family member who has or is serving, stand to honor that person. My dad served in the marines for a short time in his young adult life and I have to say I was so proud to stand in his honor. I was especially proud to stand in his honor, not only because it was Memorial Day weekend and he served but also because last Sunday, May 24th, was the 19th anniversary of his death. It is hard to believe it has been almost 2 decades since he passed. It was a bittersweet and emotional day. Some years I feel more sad than others, but this year, I really wanted to focus on spending the day acknowledging him as a wonderful man who served our country.... and... as my father.

Now, on a lighter note, Monday we made a trip to Toys R Us to purchase some more outdoor toys for the babies. We have been back and forth about whether or not to buy a small slide/climb play unit or a big swing set that they won't grow out of in a year or two. We decided to get the smaller one because we do still want to move in the near future and want to get a big swing set once we have moved. So, we got a slide/climb set, a fun water toy to hook up to the water hose, a bubble blower (so I don't have to blow them myself and get all soapy) and we also got a picnic table for the kiddies.

Then, we headed over to our friend's house - Todd & Jennifer. They had a big cookout and family fun outside in the back yard. We had a great time despite my kids almost constant fussiness. :) :) I think my kids may have caused some people there to go deaf! Ha! One of these days they will get socialized!! So, because of this, we were very busy and didn't take very many pictures. So, enjoy the few we took.

Tyler playing with another little boy at the BBQ.

Craig and Whitney - they weren't happy if they weren't attached to us 90% of the time! What a fun little water toy Samantha has. I think mine are 3 for 3 - crying.
The girls - my two... crying and Sam is drinking water. HILARIOUS!
Hope you all had a good weekend!