If You Want to Laugh...

Joella called me this morning and said she had read one of the funniest things ever, so I obviously had to read it, too. A mom of six kids was selling a pack of Pokemon cards on Ebay that one of her kids had snuck into the grocery cart. I know that doesn't sound too funny, but wait 'til you read her explanation of why she is selling the cards! I was laughing so hard, I had to wipe away tears so I could see well enough to continue reading. I am also adding a link to this lady's blog. It's hilarious. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130144061675&ssPageName=ADME:B:EF:US:12

http://mom2my6pack.blogspot.com/

Here's a cute picture from today, just because... I though it was cute!

Just a Swingin'

It has been so hot here lately that we haven't been able to spend too much time outside, but when we do go out, the boys love to swing. Zac has learned how to pump his legs to go higher and faster, so he feels like a big boy now, especially since he also learned to ride a bike last week. He's growing up. Will just loves to play ball, imagine that! He spends a great deal of time playing catch with Kyle and Pa. He loves to field the ball and play catch much more than Zac did at that age, but he isn't nearly as interested in batting as Zac was back then. It's so funny how their own little personalities show through. I love watching them grow!

Trip to Charleston

Well, we finally did it. Kyle and I have been talking about taking a vacation without the boys for a while, but we never quite seem to go through with it, but we finally did. It was wonderful. That's not to say that I didn't miss the boys, but I loved spending time with Kyle. Our lives have been so busy lately with moving, studying for the BAR exam, taking the BAR exam, helping out with family needs, and so many other things, that we desperately wanted a little time to ourselves.

The first day we drove down to Myrtle Beach, SC and checked into our hotel, which was very nice. I had reserved it online, so I was a little anxious to see if it was as nice as it appeared, and it was great. That night we went to see Le Grande Cirque and it was very enjoyable. I would suggest going to see something like it (Cirque Du Soleil, etc.) if you get a chance.

The next day we drove down to Charleston, SC. It was a very pretty drive through several small towns. We passed dozens of beautiful golf courses, which made Kyle drool a little. As we approached Charleston, there were so many little shacks on the side of the road where the local artisans were selling their sweet grass baskets, which are apparently a novelty, so they are very expensive. A basket about the diameter of your fist was $25. Needless to say, we just admired the craft, but passed on purchasing one for ourselves!

While in Charleston, we stayed with Rachel and Jason Frivance. Rachel is my brother-in-law, Kevin's, sister. They were so gracious and were great tour guides.

We ate at some wonderful restaurants. At the recommendation of Joella and Neil, Kyle's boss, we first went to Magnolia's in downtown Charleston. It was one of the best meals I have ever eaten. Kyle had salmon and I had flounder and we had the fried green tomatos for our appetizer. The atmosphere was great and the food was as good as everyone said it would be.

The next day we started by going on a carriage ride through the Battery and the Rainbow Row. It was so fun. Our guide was so informative and the sights were so beautiful. Most of these pictures were taken while on this ride. The architecture was the most interesting and enjoyable part to see. The homeowners in the Historic District also keep the most gorgeous window boxes you've ever seen. Mama would give them a run for their money, though!

We had such a great trip. Kyle even took me to see Hairspray one night. I guess he really does love me! I loved that, too. Now it's back to the real world, but we certainly enjoyed our little respite together. Every couple needs that every now and then!

Enjoying the Summer

The boys are enjoying a summer full of swimming, playing at the shore, playing with cousins, riding bikes, and the list goes on and on. Last night we celebrated Pioneer Day at the church and everyone had such a fun time. So many people in the ward worked so hard to make it an enjoyable and memorable day, and we are appreciative of their sacrifice. Here are a few pictures from the evening and few more from the past week.

A Beautiful Place to Live

The older I get, the more I realize how beautiful my home is. As a child, I remember my aunt, Sister, always becoming very emotional whenever she spoke about coming "home." As an adult, I now know how she felt, because I feel that way now. When I look at these pictures I have taken over the past few weeks, I can even smell the places and feel the humidity and breeze. I wish everyone could experience feel it when they looked at these pictures.

Kyle feels the same way about his home, as he should. I hope that the word "home" evokes pleasant and joyful emotions in everyone. It certainly does for me.

Living at the Hotel Hancock

Well, we are getting settled and having a good time. Living at my parents' house is an adventure. We LOVE being here, but there is always something going on! Eleven grandchildren in 7 years makes for a fun time when we get together. Leah and her family have been here for the past week to visit and to show off her new little one. He is adorable. I took some really fun pictures of him on Monday, so as soon as I get them edited, I will post them. Anyway- eleven little Hancock kids running around feels a little like a zoo. The kids love it, so it is all worth it.

We have a perfect apartment upstairs complete with a kitchen, washer and dryer, bathroom, living room, and two huge bedrooms. I am attempting to make it look a little more like home. So far I have hung 3 pictures, a clock, and a wreath! Impressive, I know. My mom and dad have been so gracious to let us disrupt their lives for the next few months, but we are so grateful for their hospitality and long-suffering.

I just got around to editing some pictures from our visit in Utah last month. Here are a few.

Getting Settled

Well, we've been here for two weeks today, and we are getting settled in and finally getting some things put away. The boys are enjoying their cousins and grandma's huge yard. Kyle is already busy studying and preparing for the BAR and I am trying hard to unpack boxes, edit pictures, watch kids, etc.

My sister, Leah, had a baby yesterday, so we went up to Raleigh for the day to meet Carter Michael Steelman. He is blonde and fair like Leah. I think he looks just like her. His brothers were very excited for him to arrive. Leah and Rodney and the baby are doing well.

I've haven't taken too many pictures since I got here, because I've been too busy, but here are a few from the other day.