Our Summer Trip to Washington

Aunt Leah took us on a wonderful Hike up Denny Creek. It was a little chilly, but once we got walking and then arrived at the top, it was gorgeous!

The whole Shaps clan made it, but we were a little sore the next day.

The kids loved being up at the top... the water was cool and clear and the trees were HUGE!

Kate had it great... she got to ride up in a backpack!

Larry and Matthew discussing the temperature of the water and whether or not Matthew could keep his feet in for more than a minute.

Another day, we took a trip to the Seattle Aquarium.

Lauren didn't want to touch the Star Fish, but I think Kate would have taken one home.

One beautiful Sunday, the entire family met up at Salty's and had a fabulous brunch. Stephanie, Anthony and I haven't had our picture taken together for quite some time.

Matthew, Lauren and Kate tried their best to pose for the camera.

Lauren thinks it's too sunny...

Leah, Kate and Anthony with the beautiful Seattle skyline in the background.

Lauren and Matthew get a little Papa Joe time.

The lake is so much fun. We can go in the woods, play in the yard, swim and just be outside in the great weather.

My sister was able to stay a few days with us too. We love our TIA!

Lounging Lauren...

I think Tia thought she was taking Matthew for a ride, when in fact... I think he took her for one!

One very chilly day, we had my good friends from school come to the lake. Amy, Heidi, and Jeremy brought their families and everyone had a great time. We have to make this a annual event, but next time... we'll have to ensure the sun makes an appearance...brrrr!

Even though it was chilly, the kids didn't care. They swam and threw rocks and had a ball.

Cy, Brock and Matthew eased into the water via the ladder.

Amy and Lauren cuddled as we toured the lake.

Matthew, Natalie, and Zach enjoyed the boat tour as well.

Matthew is an expert on the lake...

Matthew braves the gray skies and 70 degree water to tube by himself.

Getto smore making... we were too lazy to make a fire so we just lit the BBQ.

Which do I love more??? Marshmallows or my sister???

Kate and Lauren being girly with purple tutus and pink nail polish.

Nana and Papa Joe give hugs before we set off for the airport.

The 4th of July

Grandma with the birthday girl.

Grandma with her 2 "other" favorite grandkids.

Grandma with all of her favorite grandkids!

Geeze... another birthday party for Lauren! We had a very fun BBQ with our aunt, uncle, cousins and grandma... she got some great gifts from everyone!

Yes, that is Phantom of the Opera and it's her favorite!

Cheese!

Mommy and me...

Quinn, Matthew, Kyle and Lauren. We love our cousins.

Day Trip to Mt. Charleston

We escaped the 105+ heat in the valley and headed up to Mt. Charleston with friends. The kids had a great time splashing in the "little" creek and playing among the trees.

Matthew and his friend Hope, hiked and created quite the adventures in the woods.

Lauren hid behind the tree in a rousing game of Hide and Seek.

Who knew... just 40 minutes from Vegas was beautiful 80 degrees, shade, trees, water and nature. We had a great time!

Matthew saw (and tried to catch) lizards, birds, squirrels, and butterflies.

Lauren's 4th Birthday Party

Little Miss Lauren had a princess themed birthday party and invited a few friends. Here she is showing off some of her royal gifts.

No girl can have too many foo-foo items. Some lip gloss, eye shadow, a cell phone and of course, a princess crown.

Here the kids are lined up to walk the balance beam, swing on the rings, and jump along the trampoline. We had a great time!

Lauren invited a few of her closest friends to a gymnastics party to help celebrate her 4th birthday. Here Matthew, Hope and Colin wait their turn to swing into a giant pit of foam.

Maddie and Lauren posing for the camera.

The parachute game was one of Lauren's favorite activities. The kids made stuffed animals fly high into the sky and then made a bubble tent they all got to sit in.

Pizza and cake... Mmmm, good!!!

A princess cake to make the meal complete.