Meat Smoking Party!

Last Sunday we had a meat-smoking party. It was really just an excuse to get a lot of my teacher friends together before we start work again next week. Nate used his new smoker to make a huge beef brisket for everyone.It was a beautiful summer night, not too hot and humid like it has been the past few days. Below are a few pictures from our fun summer party.

Parker pushing Alaina in her swing. So cute.

Parker and Paul

Lots of food and friends. Perfect.

Having a snack with Papou

Table for the husbands.

Getting late, but still having fun in the backyard...

Family photo after the party.

Do you think someone looks a little sleepy in this picture?

I'm sad that summer is quickly coming to an end. I have really enjoyed my time with Alaina. I'm learning that starting the school year is so much harder when you have children of your own. Sometimes I wish I was a stay at home mom. Other times I think working full-time makes me a better mom. HA! Guess I'll never be content... Hope you enjoy these last few days of summer.

Alaina is Walking!

That's right, Alaina is walking independently! She has been walking short distances for a few weeks now- from one piece of furniture to another. She was always looking for something to grab on to. Then last week she took off walking on her own! She's a little unsteady at times, but can get around pretty well on her own. She often sticks her arms out for balance which is so cute. Alaina is such a big girl! She is 15 months old today. At her doctor's appointment this morning, she weighed 20 pounds and is 31 inches. That puts her in the 20th percentile for weight and 95th percentile for height. Alaina continues to be a long and lean girl!

Below is a short video to show off Alaina's walking skills. She's still a little wobbly, but she can walk pretty fast. She loves to carry things around the house when she walks.