Hold on for a Crazy Ride!

  So it's official, Mark is 12 and even though we already celebrated Saturday he still got his traditional balloons and gift on Monday, his actual birthday.

He got to pick these out himself.

Another classic gift wrap by Dad.

Does he look a tiny bit disappointed?!

Yep, he was a little disappointed.  Thankfully he apologized later but he was really hoping for some Wii game that we decided he couldn't have.  He's going to love this "new" remote though.

  So on this same day of celebration for Mark it was also a sad day of goodbyes.  Jackie and her cute little family left for Australia and Greg and I had the privilege of chauffeuring them to the airport.  They even treated us to dinner before hand.  Here are a few photos from that little adventure.

"What?"



Shae: "Do you want this paper?"

"No really, here, take it."

Jovi, happy to color while waiting for her yummy french fries.

Jackie's last meal in the U.S.

Jovi and Ben

On their way to the airport.

The girls, they have no idea what's about to happen.

Ben taking one of two trips to check in their luggage.

Jackie working her way through the maze with a couple of their heavy bags.

Almost ready to check in.

Just a short wait to check in their bags.

It took a few extra minutes to check in their bags but it all went ok and then they were free of all that baggage.

  We said our goodbyes outside and I managed to do it without shedding a tear.  I'm sure going to miss having this cute family so close though, but I do hope they have a great time in Australia no matter what time frame they end up being there.
   And last of all, here are a few shots of the boys this week during one of the four baseball games we attended for both Mark and Isaac.  (Just FYI, they both won their games this week.)

McClane and Carter playing in the sand.

Brock posing for Mom.

McClane just likes getting on and off this cool bouncy toy.

And yes, that's McClane unlocking the door.  Thankfully he's not tall enough to reach the highest lock but I don't doubt he'll figure out a way before long.  Just last night he figured out how to get out of his bed so now we get to add that to our list of inconveniences.