Dad's Birthday...

Dad's birthday was Monday, but we decided to celebrate it on Sunday so everyone could be there. We went to Mom and Dad's house, where mom made dad's all-time favorite meal: Chili-dogs and home-made German chocolate cake. I know...delicious and nutritious! After we ate, dad opened his gifts, and even did a little modeling for us with the new shirts he got. Preston and I got him an ipod, because he's been talking about one forever, and it made me happy when he called today and told me he was on his way home to download some more songs to listen to! I just love getting people the "right gift," you know, something they're really been wanting.
As you can see from the pictures, the highlight for Sawyer was (of course) singing happy birthday and blowing out the birthday cake candles...dad let her help. I honestly don't know of another child that loves birthday's more than her. She talks about them at least once a day.
We were glad to celebrate with you dad, and happy birthday again! We love you bunches!

She's Got Her Boots On...

Sawyer's been wanting a pair of rain boots for quite some time, and last week, her wish came true! Arent they snazzy? She certainly thinks so...every time she puts them on, she busts out some pretty awesome dance moves.

A Trip to the Forest...

Yesterday, Preston and I decided to take Sawyer on her very first trip to Bernheim Forest. Its sort of a special place for us, because we spent a lot of time there while we were dating and engaged. When the weather would be nice, we'd pack a blanket, a cooler of drinks, our lunch, and head out there to spend the whole day. If you've never been, its really beautiful. They have walking trails, several lakes, a nature preserve, open "prairies", and tons of little spots with picnic tables tucked away in the trees. We love it there...its very peaceful, and while its only about a 40 minute drive, you feel like your hours from home.
So on this particular day, we decided to veer from our usual Subway Sandwiches, and grabbed some fried chicken tenders and potato salad instead. So yummy. We found a great spot in the shade to toss our blanket out in, and we just hung out there for a couple of hours. Since our little trip, Sawyer hasn't stopped talking about "going to the forest." It was super relaxing, and we cant wait to go back this Fall when all the leaves are changing!

Sweet Kendall...

Last week, I was able to get out and take some pictures of Sawyer's best buddy, Kendall. Leah wanted to get some photos of her in this cute little sundress, because Kendall's grandma made it for her! The weather was nice, and Kendall seemed to have fun running around, up until we came across a pond full of ducks...lets just say she wasn't a fan!
Anyhow, here are a few of my favorites...

Congratulations are in Order...

Last night, Mom and Dad came over and surprised us by talking Sawyer home with them so we could go out on a date! I hurried as fast as I could getting ready, and we made it out of the house by 8:15. We decided to have a late dinner at Havana Rumba (they serve authentic Cuban food,) because Preston's been dying to take me there for months. As it turns out, its the place to be on a Friday night! It was 8:30 when we got there, and we still had a half hour wait. Preston assured me it was worth it, and he was right. The atmosphere was great, and he food was delicious! We had originally planned on seeing a late movie after dinner, but we scratched that. Instead, we took our time eating dinner, and we even ordered dessert...Tres Leches...which was TO DIE FOR. Preston has requested to have that for his birthday this year instead of cake.
So, here's the best part of he night...
Right as we were eating dessert, I get a call from my friend Sara. She didn't really call me for anything in particular, and I guess she heard a lot of noise in the background, so she asked where we were. I told her, and we only spoke for about 2 minutes before we said goodbye. Well...not even 5 minutes later, Sara and her boyfriend Ross, walk up to us at our table and she flashes me the most beautiful diamond ring on her left hand! They're engaged! I think it was the culmination of the shock of seeing them there, and the engagement ring, but I was freaking out...seriously, people at the restaurant probably thought I was a nut. They sat and talked with us for about a half hour, and Sara asked me to be a bridesmaid. I was laughing because he had just proposed like an hour before they came, and wedding dates/venues/colors have already been discussed. Sara would tell you that's because this proposal has been a long time coming! They are planning on the wedding being next October, which I think is awesome, but I'm partial to October weddings anyway. It was so good seeing the two of them, they are both so excited, and so are we! Congratulations Ross and Sara!

Apples, and Peaches, and Ducks...Oh My!

A few days ago, Sawyer, Mom and I ventured out to Huber's Orchard to pick some peaches and apples! The weather was perfect, and since it was a weekday we knew it wouldn't be crowded.
When we got there, Sawyer ran as fast as she could to see all the ducks. There were so many of them, and let me say, they are not shy! Personally, I'm not much of an animal lover, so I would prefer to keep my distance, but for the sake of Sawyer's curiosity, we took a look at them...up close and personal (as you can see from the pictures.)
After visiting with the ducks, we got on the big wagon (probably the highlight of Sawyer's day) and headed out to the apple/peach orchards to pick some fruit. Mom said she took me to pick apples there when I was little, but I don't remember, so it felt like a first for me. The apples and peaches were delicious...the worker driving the wagon said we could eat one if we wanted while we were out there, so we got to taste-test as we picked!
After we got a few things from the market, we headed back home. Sawyer was asleep before we got to the highway...she had a big day! We already cant wait to go back and see all the pumpkins and mums in a month or so...gosh, I love that place.