Howdy Pard'ner

It's been a busy week/weekend. Ella's school is closed until the 29th. Nick has next week off & has planned some quality daddy/daughter time for Monday & Tuesday. Wednesday we head to Colorado for a wedding. My mom is flying in to babysit for the wedding with her dear friend Charlotte. Mom & Charlotte were among the many angels who helped us during the first month with the twins. I just hope Greta & Charlie show their gratitude by cooperating & behaving!

Yesterday, we spent the day around the house after going out for breakfast. We tried to buy Ella a new outfit for the first day of school, but her dress already has a rip in it, so I need to return the dress. We had fun shopping with Jessica though. We got some scary news regarding one of our friends in the dinner group & the family has been close to our hearts over the last 24 hours. Last night, we had attended a baby shower & 40th birthday party. I meant to take a photo of the "naptime" basket that we created with Shawn & Shauna. It was so cute! Both parties were fun, but we felt like we hardly got to visit with anyone at either party. We rarely get invited to parties & then everything happens on the same day. Melissa gets high accolades for planning the perfect 40th birthday party for her husband John. I could not imagine a more perfect evening for him.

Today, I am trying to wrap up a few work projects (and will head in early today & Tuesday), so that we can take a few days off this week & work shorter days the last week of August so that Nick can get caught up on his work obligations. Why is going on a vacation so much work?

We are going to try to head to the pool this afternoon & then let Nick go for a bikeride before dinner. I can't believe Labor Day is around the corner & the outdoor pool will soon be closed.

Finally, a big CONGRATULATIONS to my cousin Caroline & her fiance Brandon! They had their engagement party yesterday & we can't wait to hear the details from the celebration. We wish we could be there to celebrate with you!