July 2012 part 1

July was packed with fun! We have so much to tell about! We started the month with the Fourth of July. The Fourth of July in Omaha is great because fireworks are legal. Consequently, you can see large displays of fireworks for a number of days leading up to the fourth. One night I sat in my room and looked out my window with Eve at all the fireworks being set off in our neighborhood. It was almost magical and went on for 30-40 minutes at least. On the fourth Matt set off some fireworks for us (nothing too big) and I made our traditional flag cheesecake.

On July 6th, we headed to Colorado. First we spent a few days in Estes Park with Matt's parents and Jeff and family. We were glad that Colordo was getting some much needed rain and were impressed by the lightning show we got as we drove there.

The Smith reunion began on the evening of July 8th at the YMCA of the Rockies. The reunion was so much fun for everyone! It was so wonderful to catch up and spend time with Matt's family! Here is a sampling of some of the activities:

Archery

Roller Skating

Making walking sticks

Horseback riding

Hiking

The kids had a great time playing in the waterfall at the top of the trail!

We also had kickball, square dancing, swimming, a scavenger hunt, family meetings, and lots of eating! There was such a feeling of unity and love. The kids of course can't get enough of their cousins! We always love Smith reunion! Well done Mar and Kelly!

The day after reunion we were able to attend Camille's baptism with the family. I guess you could say it was an extension of the Smith reunion. :)

Then we moved on to the Sabey Reunion which included all the Smiths. :)
This was held July 13-15th in Winter Park. There was lots of family to get reaquainted with. We loved seeing everyone who came! The cousins, aunts, etc. are so loving and helpful. The kids felt immediate love and support no matter where we were or what activities we were doing! I am particularly awed at how helpful the older cousins are to the younger cousins! My kids LOVE to be with the family! Here are a few pics. I wish I had taken more!

It was wonderful to be with so many wonderful role models and have so many fun activities. It was also nice for Matt to have a week off work to spend with us!