20 Years Wait - for This?

About 20 years ago we took the kids down to Branson and on Steve's list of things to do (and anyone who has been on a trip with Steve knows there's a list) was to see the Shoji Tabuchi show.

However, this was his 'last day' event on the list and by that time the kids (who were about 13, 9, and almost 8) had come to the end of their limit with his 'shows to see'.

We ended up going home instead.

Years later there were at least a couple of times when he tried to get us in to see the show but either it didn't fit the plans or Shoji was on his own vacation.

THIS WAS THE YEAR!

I almost couldn't believe it when at intermission he turned to me and said, "This is awful - let's leave." The irony was too much so I made him let me take his picture by the Shoji sign. But at least we got to see the 'famous' bathrooms - they were quite impressive.

Other than that show we had a good time and did several things we had never done in Branson before. We took the Branson Scenic Train Tour, went to the Dixie Stampede, saw SIX, The 60's Show, and Red Skelton show - all which was pretty good. We of course went to Mel's Hard Luck Cafe and stopped in to see Liz (Mel was working at home) and we went down to the Landing where we ran into Jonathas who told us to go eat at Shorty Small's (I think that was the name) - anyway it was yummy!

Now we're back home and trying to get the house back together after having the wood floors finished -which is why we left town in the first place.

Lucky for us none of the local thieves knew that the floor people had left our front door unlocked :).

Ayden is 'almost' 2!

We celebrated Ayden's 2nd birthday today

(it's just a few days early)

and had lots of fun and good food.

Here is the birthday girl sporting her pretty "2" dress and

enjoying her peanut butter & jelly sandwich.

Mommy & Daddy helping get all those presents open.

And somehow cupcakes taste better when daddy feeds it to you.

Brother Jackson found something that made him grin.

Cousin Spencer checking out the toys.

Cousin Gracie showing her mommy how to party.

And cousin Coen trying his best to keep the party lively.

Ayden is kinda like her Nana - she prefers "low-key" parties.

She got a little overwhelmed by all the people and

activity a few times but I know she'll enjoy all her new toys

and I hope she had fun. I think the whole family is probably

taking a nap right about now - good idea!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET AYDEN!!!

Things are Improving

I have walls now - YEAH! Now if I could just get rid of all the pesky flys that have snuck in - I guess I should be grateful there are no birds of creepy critters.

uh-oh

We are doing a little work on the house - just pushing the garage wall a little further into the garage to make the dining room slightly larger. I came home to find the outdoors inside. These pictures were taken from my kitchen - there is no wall at all right now - I'm trying to not be too concerned about heat, bugs, and animals entering my home - but I kinda am.

Jen's Birthday Party

The Reijgers, Kelleys, and 3 Haupt families were there - I just didn't remember to take very many pictures. At least I got some of the birthday girl - hope it was a good birthday for you Jenny - love you!!

Birthday Girl Jenny

Tomorrow is Jenny's birthday. I was remembering the Saturday she was born - I had a doctor appointment and I got side-swiped on my way. The guy took off and there was no real damage so I just went on but when I got to the doctor's office and was telling the nurse I was overcome with emotion and burst into tears. Even though the doctor was sure I was just upset and my mild contractions were premature by a week or so - our little girl arrived that evening. A wonderful surprise!

This was her 3rd birthday - she likes to party!

She was around 7 or 8 in this picture getting help from

her siblings -and Aunt Denise and Grandma McCoy.

My poor children have gone through life being told they are obviously my children.

And I have to admit I've seen some pictures where I have to agree. This is me with the kids when I was Jenny's age now- I think the kids are my children with some major improvements. Every time I look at Stevie though, I think I see Coen. Which is really weird because older pictures of Stevie remind me of my brother Jimmy.

ANYWAY -

Jenny - you've grown into a beautiful young woman.

(I'll post the birthday pictures a few days after the party)

You are a wonderful wife, mother, and loving daughter.

I wish for you every happiness and always love!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!