Fourth Of July

We had a great 4th, thanks to good friends, great food, and little boys playing with fireworks. It seems that all the men I know turn into giddy little boys when given the chance to play with fireworks. Max is definitely his father's son and seemed to really enjoy the fireworks. He sat very happily on a variety of adults laps watching fireworks and saying "pop, pop, pop". Here are some pictures!



The loot!








The Boys!














Dad and Son (Notice that their expressions are exactly the same)












Mom and Max

More Oklahoma Pictures

The Oklahoma Factor

We just returned from a wonderful trip in Oklahoma.  I promise there will be lots more pictures to come.  But for now, you get one of my favorites:

Max loved the Oklahoma Zoo.   His Grandpa Ebe made sure that he got the best views of all the animals.  It was a wonderful day and I loved this moment that Lane captured with the camera.  

Max thought all of his grandparents were the greatest.  He loved swimming and playing at both of their houses.  Lane and I loved seeing the love shared between our son and our parents. Monday morning came way to quick and while on our way back to Kansas City we discussed the Oklahoma Factor.  We love our life in Kansas City.  Lane has a good job, we have a beautiful home, we have great friends but every time we return from Oklahoma, I am depressed because our family isn't returning with us.

But, I am determined to focus on the good part of the Oklahoma Factor instead of the sad part.  The good part is this:  We have parents that love us enough and are healthy enough to make a lot of effort to see us.  We don't hardly go a month without a visitor from Oklahoma or a visit to Oklahoma.  Because of our family's efforts Max does know his grandparents even if we live 5 1/2 hours away and not around the block.  

Priceless

Plastic Swimming Pool from Walmart = $5

Slide from Garage Sale = $3

Hot Summer Afternoon Playing with Daddy = Priceless

As you can see from the pictures below, Max had the time of his life playing in the water!

Summer of Max, Random Pictures!

A New Perspective...

We never know the plans that God has in store for us. Last summer I decided that I wanted to go back to work and luckily there was still a position to fill at my school. This year had many many ups and some downs. One of those downs was the entire daycare issue. Daycare has just not been the right fit for our family. Also, I am sure there are many women out there who with ease and grace fill the roles of career woman, wife, and mother. I am not that woman. The role of working mom was never the right fit for me.

So, Lane and I changed our perspective on life. We have tried life with two working parents. Now with some fancy financial finagling (try saying that 3 times fast) we will try life with me at home. Max has officially had his last day of daycare and summer has started.

And really, who wouldn't want to spend their days with this little cutie?!