July 2021

After we returned from our summer reunions vacation we took a little time to relax.  We got back to the usual - church/youth activities, dance, gymnastics, and getting together with friends, etc. The kids also had the chance to work at the farmer's market at a shaved Ice shack that the Tilbys own. 

We also had our annual physicals and dental appointments.  On July 16th Christian got braces.  Eve was supposed to get hers off but they needed a bit more time for the final adjustments.  Christian was glad he waited until after vacation to get his braces on. He was definitely sore for little while and flossing took some time to master.  He needs braces now to make room for teeth that are coming in the future.

Here is a mold of how his teeth started.

On July17th the youth had a beach trip.  It was lovely.

I love my presidency!

July 19th was my birthday.  Sheri and Matt made me a beautiful cake.

Michelle and I also went to dinner.  It's wonderful that we celebrate and support each other.  She is what I would call a "sister friend".  Someone who loves and supports you even when they see your weaknesses, listens and gives great advice, and is happy to spend time with you.  I admire her and I am so grateful for her friendship!

Band camp was the week of the 26th.  Youth Conference overlapped with it starting on Thursday the 29th.  The theme was centered on the Restoration. 

Thursday was orientation, games, speed friendshipping and a dance.

Friday the youth went to the Stampers ranch. They played volleyball, swam, zip lined, had activity stations, and went down a very long water slide.  They also had dinner and got to hear from some missionaries (current and recently returned)

Saturday we went up to Camp Liahona and had activities that helped us to ponder experiences of the early saints. They did service, ropes activities, team building, rappelling, and other fun activities.

In this video Sterling had "lost" the use of his legs as he made "sacrifices" for the team to help them cross the divide. It was pretty hilarious in the moment for me as his group's adult leader.

In this video he was trying to rappel forward facing as an added challenge.

The kids had a great time!  The theme was "What does the Lord require?"  I hope that the kids came away with an understanding of their place in God's overarching plan and that they need to look to God for individual guidance in their lives.

Finally, the month ended with dance parent observation week.  This is a fun chance to see what the girls are learning.

 We love time to relax and play together. Here are Sterling and Sheri playing a dunking game.  We love our backyard setting!

 Summer is the best!