Back on the Wagon

Well, it was about this same time last year when I became somewhat complacent in my blogging and didn't have a new post FOR FIVE MONTHS!! Now, I've never been one to let history repeat itself, so of course I...Oh stop laughing! Failed chore charts, last minute Christmas shopping, and unopened exercise equipment don't count!! But I have learned this. Pain hurts! And it was painful to play catch-up last December so I am jumping back into my blogging with both hands--and only ONE MONTH later! Ta-da!!! Okay, a little motivation never hurts either. I keep hearing these complaints coming from Nicole's general direction, "Mom! Why did you blog about Claire's birthday, but not mine?" What can I say to that but "Squeaky wheel--here is your grease."

Before we get to her big day though, here is a picture of her triumphant return from Girls Camp. She looks appropriately tired and happy. Just how they should come home, no? And by the way, Kudos to whomever scheduled this years camp for the whole week before her b-day. Easiest. Sneaky-birthday-prep. EVER!!
Thirteen gifts for my new teenager! Side note: She is annoyingly good at guessing her gifts so I put all of those little presents in one big box and wrapped it. Am I a bad mom for enjoying the disappointment in her eyes when she thought that she only got ONE present? Hahahahaaa!!
Happy Birthday, Colie!!
Why yes, that is a homemade cheesecake. Thank you for noticing. (It was delish!!)
Okay...break time. I give you enough to read on this blog so let's just play a little game. Can you find the difference in these two pictures?
Need a hint? How about 24 months and 4000 dollars worth of difference. Happy day for Nicole!!

The first week of July was extra fun for us because our cousin, Ethan came all the way from California to experience summer in Wellsville with us. I think we were quite accurate in what daily life is like here.
One of the days when Ethan was here the kids began the daily whine "Mom, what's for lunch?" I (half) jokingly answered, "I don't know, what are you going to make?" So they got to work. Here is proof of their industry. I'll tell you what--they make a mean quesadilla!
These cousins love each other! (We miss you, Ethan. Come back!)