Trick or Treat

Dressed and ready

The first stop was to Miss Sarah's house (a friend from church).

The pirate choosing his treasure.

Hailey got double candy at some homes since she was a USC cheerleader!

'Happy Halloween' from our home to yours

Halloween Costume Dress up

This isn't one of the dress up pics but I thought it was cute.

Hailey is going to be a USC cheerleader for Halloween this year. I love the dreamy look in her eyes!

Getting ready to do a cheer

Showing off her makeup and lip gloss

Pirate Ian

I'm pretty sure that the sword is his favorite part of the costume.

Arrghh, Matey!

Random Happenings in August and September

A walk and picnic at the downtown park

It's not everyday that you get to see a police riding through the park on horseback.

Hailey wanted no part in petting the horse--very unusual for her!

Ian saying 'hi' to Harvey the horse and the policeman.

Ian loves playing in the rain and getting to use his umbrella.

A quick wave from Hailey as she waits her turn to collect water in her cup from the drain pipe.

The favorite spot when it rains

Pouring water and floating boats and ducks

Ian has developed a love for climbing trees lately.

Ian was enthralled by the fire hydrant in the neighborhood that was pouring out water for over a week.

He never gets tired of waving to the trash guys every week.

Story time with daddy is one of Hailey's favorite past times.

I had to include this shot because I forgot to in our vacation pictures on facebook. This was definitely the most disturbing photo on our way to the beach. We passed this small VW and noticed movement in the back of the vehicle, only to discover it was a slobbery St. Bernard. YUCK!!!

Yes, not just 1 dog but TWO!!! (Look closely) That had to be one stinky, wet, and hairy car.

Bugs, Beach, and Horses

In the midst of a very busy summer season, we have had a wonderful 4th of July week together as a family. On Friday, we spontaneously decided to take a last minute day trip to Charleston since it is so close to us. The kids LOVED the beach and playing in the fountains downtown and Steve and I enjoyed walking down at the Battery and eating at our favorite NY style pizza place. The week culminated for Ian by getting to ride horses today that a family in our church owns. He's been looking forward to this for weeks and did surprisingly well for his first time. We are very thankful for the special things the Lord allowed us to do as a family this week since Steve will be away preaching for three out of the next four weeks.

Ian is checking out his 'catch of the day'---a HUGE and scary looking black and red grasshopper. No, Mommy didn't help him catch it. I'm glad Daddy was home!!!

Folly Beach

Playing in the waves. The kids LOVED it!!!

Playing in the fountains in downtown Charleston.

Hailey is our little dare-devil. She plunged right in the water and wanted to go as deep as she could.

Ian checking out Little Red.

Riding in the carriage with Bethany

Hailey and I got a ride, too.

Learning how to groom Trixie

Getting ready to ride for the first time

The Greens were so sweet to allow the kids to come and ride.

Ian also wanted to ride Spotlight, the BIG horse.

Ian's Debut

Ian and Hailey both participated in the closing program for our Vacation Bible School. They sang a couple of their favorite songs and have been singing them for us in the van every since. You can't miss Ian's voice or motions . . . so enjoy! Make sure you check out what Ian does at the end of the second video---priceless!!!!

Beautiful Summer Evening