Hook 'em horns

Ryan had a conference in Texas and we wanted to tag along and fight the 108 degree weather. We flew into Dallas/Fort Worth and had a wonderful time with Kari, Shaun and Olivia. Kari is going to have baby Owen any day now.

We spent our days in the pool, going on trips to Target and Petco (equivalent of a zoo for Sam), and taking naps.

It was a real treat to see Evan, Mary and Jack Rowley. We were great friends in Los Angeles and Mary was also 39 weeks pregnant. What an exciting time to be days away from an addition to their family. We had a wonderful time reminiscing and catching up.

Here is a picture of Jack and Sam; two blonde buddies.

We also got a quick trip to Austin, where we ate at the Salt Lick

and saw the bats take off at dusk from under the bridge.

Sam showed his Texas pride.

On the last day, we got to spend time with the Buchanans. They were one of our favorite families while we lived in Raleigh and have just moved to Texas. We had both Alisa and Aiden in our primary classes. They are growing too fast!

Busy Weekdends

We have had a couple of great weekends waiting for us on our return from Europe. We made a trip to ATL for a quick visit with Wendy, Justin and kids. We packed in watching the girls cheerlead (Who's gonna rock the house.. Rock it all the way down) and a carnival where Julie, Trevor and Ruby won a flat screen T.V. It was so great to see family and friends that feel like family. It really makes me want to move there.

Then we were off to Wicked. The musical I have been dying to see for years. We finally got tickets in the nose bleed section so it was almost like watching ants perform. It was still amazing and brought tears to my eyes many times because I was so happy to be watching it. Then we had a great time with my folks, the Russians, soul food, and an intercity church.


Fast forward 4 days and we were on a plane to Dallas/Fort Worth for two reasons.
1. BYU TCU game. Most know how this game ended. 7-32! Wrong game for us to attend. Ryan may or may not want to expound on this.
2. Kari and Shaun- (the main reason for the trip) Best friend for many years. We have shared many adventures, too many to name. We got to go to the temple, Texas State Fair, and shopping for fetus Olivia. We are so grateful to them for their hospitality and letting us crash their first year anniversary!