celebrations

hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend! we are so fortunate to live in a country where we can celebrate our freedom. the price was and still is high, and truly no words can express our gratitude for those in uniform who sacrifice everything to protect the many freedoms we enjoy. our nation has its current troubles, no doubt, but it is still one undeniably great place to live.

celebrations over the last few days ... congratulations to Katherine and Doug who welcomed Alexander William Bentley at 10am on Friday, July 3rd! Alexander or "Alex" weighed 6lbs 1oz and was 19.5 inches long. We were able to visit them at the hospital and he is one beautiful baby! We are very excited for them. And, Katherine is one TOUGH woman!

henry celebrating a ride on Cole's 4 wheeler he let us borrow.
celebrating with my sister and family at the lake. henry rode on the inter tube with his momma while his daddy slowly pulled us. he didn't like it at first but soon after seemed to enjoy it a little. he looked so funny with a little life jacket on!

swimming in the lake with daddy
gary did some clearing out at the land and henry, the dogs and I met him out there so the dogs could swim and frolic. it was actually a breezy morning and very pleasant temperature wise the day we went (it has been really hot here the last couple of weeks).

no, we don't have a new dog. that is susie (above), the peterson's dog in case you are curious.

sterling and savannah

shelby, the best retriever of them all, sporting her "summer cut"

sweet brother bricks

everyone wants the tennis ball ...

hugs for momma

henry attempting to throw the ball for shelby and reese (the other peterson pup)

Sometimes I catch grief about the amount of pictures I take of our dogs, but they are such an important part of our lives I want to capture memories of them on film as well. It makes me sad when people's pets get pushed to the back burner when the two legged children arrive. Sure, people's schedules take on a totally new meaning and there are some adjustments; but those dogs, cats, etc., that loved them before little Susie or Johnny came along are still there and love them just as much. And, these creatures are only here for seemingly just a little while.

On that note, go give your pet/four legged baby or babies some extra love today! :)

Here is some raw footage of all the dogs in action ... enjoy!