Dad's 60th Birthday

My Dad is one of those guys that does everything for everyone and is very humble, doesn't need any credit or recognition.  You know the type.  So for his 60th birthday I really wanted to do a huge party to celebrate the man he is.  In true Al fashion, he didn't want a big fuss made, so we settled for a more modest get together.

"Our Pop Rocks" was a blast with many of our family friends.  We had Pop Rocks (of course) and many of Dad's favorite snacks, along with my homemade baked donuts.

We were lucky enough to have Ashley and Kyle come home for the party.  Kyle hadn't been home in a very long time.  We were sure spoiled.

Dad with our good friend, Kevin. 

  

 Sydney knew what she wanted, and she does not give up once she sets her mind to something.

She got herself some frosting while the rest of us sang.

We had planned on water volleyball and basketball, but who knew an evening in July would be in the low 60s, high 50s with wind?!  Regardless, we had a great time celebrating the man of the hour. 

Happy birthday, Dad!  We love you, and are so blessed to have you in our family.

Insta/iPhone Catch Up

Since I am such a blog slacker, I am taking this time to "catch up" by posting quick tid bits of our lives, via Instagram, and my iPhone. Photos from January 2013 to May 2013.

Love my cool chicks- Sydney's 1 year photoshoot.

We took a couple little excursions to Fairy Land in Oakland- the girls loved it. 

I celebrated my 28th birthday in March with these crazy folks. 

We hiked in Westwood Hills lots during the spring.

Sydney really missed Merrill while he and Lisa were in Europe.

Ashley came home for Easter. 

My girls were not fans of the Easter Bunny. 

Ashley turned 30 in April, so Scarlett, my Mom and I drove down to SoCal and celebrated with her at Disneyland. 

 Scarlett was in heaven.

 Sydney and Granddad had a really good chat.

Scarlett and her friend Riley after a long, hot hike in the hills. 

We visited Grandma Turner. 

Had several dinners, and springtime campfires with the Hisermans. 

The chicks at Scarlett's preschool hatched-- she was amazed and in love. 

Class pictures with Mz Lori. 

Sydney fell even more deeply in love with her boyfriend James. 

Just before a sweet kiss. 

 Sydney opened up a hair salon- need a good scrub?  Come hop in our tub.

 Syd Magoo

Scarlett has turned in to a real fashionista. 

Cruise; December 29th

Our last day on the cruise was spent at sea.  We played in the sun, at the pool and just chased our kids around the ship (what else do parents of two small children do on vacation?)

My handsome brother, Kyle. 

Either Dad is throwing Kyle out the window, or he is trying to stop him from jumping... either way, we're glad he is still with us. 

Sydney hit the dance floor and stole every one's heart with her little moves. 

There went mamarazzi again- privacy please! 

Our final dinner was SO much fun.  Lots of dancing, music and fun celebrations. 

We drew names the first day on the ship and had a limit of $5 to spend finding a fun gift for our secret person.  There were some interesting gifts, to say the least. 

Two of our very own participated in the final show on the ship- Josh played the role of Elvis, and Chanel, Britney Spears.  My Dad was kind enough to hang back with the kids while they slept so Rob and I could catch the show. 

Such a great way to end the trip. 

We had such a great Christmas-- definitely different, but hey, I would do it again.