The greatest show on Earth

My dad is the world's best reminiscer. Is that a word? It seems like, especially more since we've had kids, every event or trip is followed by, "Don't you remember when we went to...." I always respond with an appropriately sarcastic, "How old was I dad?"

Back in August, my parents decided they wanted to take all the grandkids to the Ringling Brothers' circus. Apparently, when I was two, my parents took Kelly and me to the circus in Dallas. So, my dad was really excited to take the grandkids to the circus where their mommies went, 27 years ago!

These three are hilarious together (pretty soon it will the FOUR of them...Kelly's pregnant!). For the first 15 minutes after they see each other, there is non-stop squealing! I don't think there was one quiet moment on the ride to dinner.

On the way into the show!

There were teary eyes when the lights came up and the show started. It's pretty cool to watch the things that you loved as a child, through the eyes of your own for the first time.

Tate was the most funny during the show. He was silent through the whole show. This kid talks non-stop, so we were all laughing about how quiet he was. The car ride home was a different story:)

Mallory was really into the oohing and ahhhing. A little on the dramatic side:)


Morgan spent the night pepped up on cotton candy and popcorn! She was a trooper and stayed up until the last 20 minutes, then crashed.

Way too distracted to look at the camera!

Everyone was exhausted by the end of the night.

Thanks to Mimi and Grandpa for the fun night and lots of memories!! Mallory talked about the circus for about a week after. I know for a fact if you even bring up the circus around Tate, he would still respond with, "I see motorcycles go round and round. Like this!" So much fun. Now I'll be able to say, "Mallory, don't you remember when I brought you to the circus back in 2009. You loved it! You don't remember? I mean, you were three and all!" Love you, dad!

A summer wrap up

I just can't seem to keep up with this blog lately. So, here is a recap of June, July and August. Two more posts to go, and then I'll be caught up!!

The girls coloring a sign for Father's Day. Also the day that I found out Magic Erasers work to remove crayon from painted walls. Thank you, Morgan!

By far, the most requested activity in our house. From the moment Brad walks in the door, Mallory is begging, "Can you tickle me on the couch?" Tickle on the couch = Brad grabbing the girls by their ankles, swinging them like monkeys, plopping them back on the couch and indeed, tickling them on the couch. To say they love it is a gross understatement!

In August, we took a little "vacation" to Dallas before soccer started back up. The girls loved the fountains in the West End area.

Another favorite past time, the tent. It's really sweet how the girls read books together. and the tent has become a little hiding place.

A must have accessory for little girls: princess shoes.

Licking the beaters after making some cupcakes. What a sweet big sister!

The birthday boy with his girls.

Lots of pretend play with the big girl. I asked Mallory who she was. She said, "I'm Dr. Riser! This is how she wears her stethoscope."

In July, we headed west to the Bankhead Reunion. Mallory and Morgan got to spend some quality time with Nanny, Brad's grandmother. She is one of the sweetest ladies I know!

Morgan is slightly obsessed with babies. She will spot them before I do! Our friend Stephanie came over with her little girl, Elise. Morgan was in heaven! She was rolling all around Elise and giving her hugs. Hilarious!

Aunt LaShay (and not pictured, Uncle Steve) was in town for a day. We met up with them at Texas Roadhouse for a quick lunch.

Mallory had her first official sleep over. The Richardsons came to stay with us for a night. We braved it, and all three big girls sleep in the same room.

Morgan loves to rough house and wrestle, but she is also one of the girliest girls! She did not enjoy being sprayed by Nemo. Check out those prissy hands!!

Lots of popsicle eating this summer....and the last time for Morgan to wear those shorts, they were a mess!!

Random, I know. But I feel better now, after documenting our summer memories! I cannot believe it's already the middle of September!!!!

Help a sista (in-law) out!

Brad's brother and his wife are trying to sell their house in McKinney. Jason just got a new job in a different city. He's commuting back and forth each week until their home sells. They have two kids, so obviously this is not fun for Jenn (or Jason)!!!

Their home is absolutely beautiful and has a great layout. It's also in a convenient location, too! She just posted some pictures on her blog of the inside. You can check it out here.

We're praying it sells quickly, so they can start enjoying their new adventure!!!