Willis Tower

On the kids day off today, we decided to head to Willis Tower to check out the new ledge (new to us). We got to look all around, see all of the city, learn a lot of interesting facts and then go out on the ledge.

These two girls just walked on out there with no fear.  I am continually amazed by Hailey's daring personality.  At Disney, she went on every thrill ride and screamed for more.  Same thing here...no hesitation about being 103 stories in the air and looking straight down.

Carter was SUPER tentative.  He would only stand on the very edge and never went out again (I'm not judging...I was freaked myself).

View of the city

On the ledge.  I seriously felt like I was going to throw up.  Logically, I knew it was safe, but my body really reacted to being up that high and walking out on a see through ledge.

No fear.

These two were doing push ups while all of the adults looked on in awe.

First day of school

It has begun...the new school year.  Carter started 7th grade, and oddly enough, he wouldn't let me come to the bus stop to take pictures of him leaving.  :)

Grant started 1st grade and he was so much happier this year.  It was a relief for him to know the kids and the school.  Smiles all around.

Hailey was so excited to find out that she was in her best friend, Jenna's, class for the 4th year in a row.  

These cute 5th grade boys were a little embarrassed about getting their picture taken, but they still played along.  What a great group of kids.

Sand Dunes

To celebrate my Dad's 29th birthday, we decided to go to the sand dunes in Michigan.  What is better than sun, sand, and water?  The men helping little Alyssa.  I will say that for as much as she whined, she walked up the entire dune on her own.  

At the top!  We all made it although it took a little encouragement to get Grant up there.

My Dad at the top with the kids.

Taking a little break.

Chris and Andrew

Hailey and Carter

Earlier in the day my dad complained that I only took pictures of him while he was sitting down and that I should get him doing "something more exciting."  He promptly fell asleep and I couldn't resist getting the "action shot".  :)

My mom and Alyssa snuggling

Hailey turns 8

My sweet Hailey turned 8 this summer.

She was so excited to get her ears pierced.

Opening gifts on the big day.

And eating brownie sundaes.

Her big gift was getting to stay overnight with her mom at a hotel, swimming, and then going to the American Girl store in Chicago.

My parents were able to come out for Hailey's baptism and gave her a new set of scriptures.

Our 5 sweet children.