A Little More Freedom

Savannah and Avery are becoming great friends.  Although they went to elementary school together, they weren't really close, but being that they ride to and from middle school together every single day their friendship is growing.  So they have been talking about how much they wanted to have a Friday treat and be able to walk to the Promenade after school.  I really wasn't sure that was a good idea, or honestly if I wanted to let go and give her that freedom just yet.  BUT, they kept asking so I figured that I'd mention it to Avery's mom and get her thoughts.  As it turns out, she was on board (although a bit hesitant too).  I must have asked Dave 20 times if he was sure it was okay for them to walk "with all the other middle schoolers" on their own after school today.  He said it was "fine!"  So off they went. 

It was a very odd feeling knowing that they had their own money and would walk to a shopping center together to purchase a treat all on their own.  But we all survived!  As it turns out they are a great pair together.  Avery is super outgoing and talks to many of the middle school kids there, which is good for Savannah to experience that boost of confidence being with her.  Savannah is very cautious and careful with her money, which is good for Avery too.  When I picked them up that's one of the first things Avery said "Savannah is teaching me how to make sure I paid the right amount and got the right change."

They had a great time and stayed together just like we told them . . and were waiting right where they promised they would be at 4:00pm.  The joys of middle school are just beginning . . . it's a learning process for us all!

Urban Air Family Style

We originally planned to go to Urban Air on Thursday night since the kids didn't have school Thursday or Friday . . but after looking into the pricing we decided that even though it wasn't the best deal to go on Sunday, the time worked better for our family.  So after church we came home for lunch and then headed to Mint Hill so Daddy could experience the joy of ziplines, trampolines, ropes courses, Ninja Warrior courses, and even dodge ball trampoline.

Dave jumped so much that he broke his fitbit band . . again. :(

Zipline was the favorite for most of us

We all jumped for 2.5 hours and then after being completely exhausted headed to Red Robin to enjoy Dave's late birthday dinner. What a fun way to end a long weekend!!

King and Country Concert

When Dave mentioned that his favorite band was coming to Carowinds in September I decided that would be one of his birthday gifts.  The decision to get only two tickets was easy . . .  not only do Savannah and I not really care about that band, but we really don't enjoy concerts either.  The boys didn't mind going alone.  They had a grand time, complete with concession stand dinner!  It was a late night, but the time was enjoyed by everyone. :)

A Visit from Uncle Mark

This morning Uncle Mark called and said he wanted to come to Preston's soccer game.  We were super excited to have him visit and be able to see Preston's team pull out another win . .  . 3-0!  He was even able to see Preston score a goal.  What a fun way to start an exciting day!!

Preston's Curriculum Night

Today was Preston's curriculum night at school.  When I arrived this self portrait greeted me. :)  His teacher is absolutely precious . . . here's to another fabulous year at school!!

Mother Daughter Conference

Today Savannah and I were able to attend a special conference for middle school girls and their moms.  It was such a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon and become a bit more prepared for what to expect this year.  So thankful for a daughter that is confident, smart, and beautiful . . . and excited to see what the next 3 years will hold for her.

Saturday Soccer Starts With a WIN!!

For weeks now Preston has been talking about the upcoming soccer season.  They had a couple of practices and thankfully, the team was looking good . . but you never really know until game time how things will go. :)  Actually this one was awesome.  Preston and Ben both scored two goals, and their team ended up winning 8-0!  The other team evoked the mercy rule and was playing 7 people against our 6 once we were up by 5, but they still managed to score 3 more goals.  I think this season will be much better than last!

Happy 44th Dave!!!

Today we celebrated one amazing man.  The kids were super excited to start the morning with their personal creations for daddy, pottery for his office.  We agreed to wait until after work to do the rest of the gifts and goodies.  I think he was pretty surprised to get this framed Clemson championship picture!  We also had tickets to King and Country for him along with a yummy Ben & Jerry's ice-cream cake.

Happy Happy Birthday to the rock of our household . . . the one who is always calm, patient, understanding, encouraging, willing to play, and up for an adventure.  Thanks for leading our family well and always giving us your best.  We love you daddy-o!

Labor Day Adventures

Matthews Alive festival on Saturday

We enjoyed having Daddy home this weekend and even on Monday too! I gave the kids lots of options and from them they chose:  Carowinds, Matthews Alive, going to the movie theater, and watching the Clemson game!

Needless to say we went non stop and enjoyed little rest, but it was super fun!

I think their favorite was going to Chuck E Cheese.  It was a surprise for them as it wasn't originally one of the weekend options.  However, because I picked up a mystery shop we could all play and eat for free, so Dave and I figured, why not?!? We changed clothes after church and headed straight there for a couple hours of "fun".

Monday was Carowinds day.

And after a late lunch, I knew Dave needed some time to do some real work, so I took the kids to see Despicable Me 3 at the movies.

It was a fun-filled, fast-paced weekend!  Now it's back to the regular grind of our weekly school schedule.  Hallelujah!