Nice Little Sunday Balloon Chasing

Today:
Tyler: What do you want to do today?
Me: I don't know. Any ideas?
Tyler: How about Buffalo Gap? We didn't really explore there last time.
Me: Sounds good, let's go.

Another 2 hours later, after we finished hanging out and gathering things for the excursion... we weren't sure if we were excited about it or not... 

Heading off base, we spot a hot air balloon. We tried to guess it's colors and what not. And luck would have it, we headed towards it! Then in front of us is a truck with gear in it, and on the side says some sort balloon chaser on it, and they turn into a parking lot... so we do to. We watch the balloon in amazement (it was really close), and we ask the "chasers" if they are going to land soon. They said sure thing, and they ask, "Do you guys want to help bring it in?"

We look at each other, not really knowing how to react, or if it is something we really want to do... They we say "Sure!"

So we follow.

It was a test of patience.

They thought they would land in one spot, and then they couldn't for one reason or another.

So we followed.

Then finally, it happened! So we stayed back, then they invited us up close, and Colton and Ayla both got a turn to get inside of the basket and PULL the lever that makes the fire! They were scared, but pretty amazed at the same time! It was so fun.

Then Tyler helped get the air out and roll it all up, and it fit in a bag the size of a small coffee table. It was pretty cool.

This was Soren's job the whole time!

Yeah, it was an hour out of our other excursion, but it was SO cool. I am so happy we said "Sure" to balloon chasing. If you ever get the chance, you won't regret!

A day in the rain

The kids having some fun during a rain storm last week. Or maybe the week before that? They all seem to run together after a while... They were having so much fun! I am not sure why they laid down in the water, but it sure looked like they had a bunch of fun. Oh, to be a kid again.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Mesa Verde was a wonderful place. It was amazing to see what the native people made and how they lived. The cliff dwellings are truly amazing! The kids were fascinated with the houses in the rock. We camped one night in the campground, and then headed to Moab.

Playing outside (so Daddy can sleep)

I love the sequence of this pictures! They were having so much fun pushing the dump truck up the slide, then back down! Soren and I watched from the sidelines.... all before 730am. Not 3 months ago, our kids were sleeping until 8am, now they get up at about 645! what happened?!!! 

We are busy planning some upcoming trips::

Memorial Day camping at Possum Kingdom State Park, here in Texas

Rock climbing camping at City of Rock, in Idaho, with friends from Montana, at the end of June!

Cousin camping near Bend maybe at the VERY end of June

Our trip in Oregon, from beginning of July until mid August!

And our  Tough Mudder trip to Austin on October 6th

We're pretty excited for each and every trip!

 

Colton's second ball game

First of all, I just have to say I LOVE MY OUR NEW CAMERA LENS!

It is taking such great pictures of my our adorable children... just saying.

Yesterday, I bribed (yes, bribed with a sucker :)) Kellen to ride the Scuut bike (which has been a fabulous balance teacher to all the kids). He did, and now he LOVES it! He begged to bring it to Colton's tee-ball game.

Here we are on the blanket, watching our Colton play. It was a little chilly, and threatening rain, so we brought rain jackets and hats... Ayla was feigning extreme coldness.

Hmmm...

It is so funny. Colton loves to run, like actually says he loves to run. But during practice and games he gives such a lame effort! Tyler has been talking to him about it, and he decided to step up his game today. So glad he doesn't run like a t-rex anymore (you know with his elbows tucked in and wrists sorta limp...)

Oh, my. This hat reminds me so much of Kellen, it isn't even funny.

What do you think?

Bleacher fun... this is what they do. Every practice. No one has been hurt yet... we will see what will come of it.

I told you, this camera is good! Love this little love.

Isn't he learning so quickly? He looks like he is trying to get something....

Bribery, yes.

Love that Ayla peeks over his shoulder to get in the picture.

That girl LOVES the camera.

It was also Soren's first taste of sucker, courtesy of Ayla, and caught on camera.

we are in trouble.

Look at him fielding that ball... like a natural.

And a good batter to boot.