Alexander Family BBQ

Since we're back in Wichita, my parents wanted to have a barbecue so we could see as many relatives as possible.  Yesterday was hot and sunny and perfect for grilling, splashing, and chatting.

Dan and Ben had an awesome time with my cousins' kids.  They loved playing with Taryn and Baylee and Jake.  My parents set up a splash pool and slip & slide and the kids went nuts.  Hannah mostly stayed out of the way on the back porch, soaking up all the attention and love from my aunts and uncles.

I think Ben's favorite part of the barbecue was the lax supervision.  Even with all the adults around, he managed to sneak about eight different desserts, so I know he was a happy guy.  And Hannah discovered watermelon, eating two giant chunks and dripping juice all over herself.  We had a great afternoon/evening and everyone was very ready for bed last night!

Days on the farm

We traveled from San Diego to Oklahoma City uneventfully and made it to the farm last Tuesday afternoon.  Whew!  All of us were very glad to see that red dirt and the dome house and Aunt and Unc and Great-Grandma.  We had a great time for the three days that we were there--playing outside, riding various farm vehicles, seeing a very fat cat, swimming, catching up on sleep.  The boys are going to go back with my mom next week while Hannah and I hold down the fort in Wichita.  Dan and Ben are very excited to have some time away from me.  Ha!

Graduation Day!

Dan officially graduated from preschool yesterday!  And it only took 2 1/2 years in three different states.  Ha!  Ben also took part in the graduation ceremony but he'll go to San Pasqual Union Preschool again next year.  He went Tu/Th this year but next year he'll go M/W/F.  Dan, of course, is moving on up to the big time: kindergarten.

The ceremony was really nice.  Each kid received a little diploma and got a hug from Mrs. Lisa.  Then we ate a wonderful brunch buffet and then the kids had water play outside the preschool building.  Dan and Ben loved the slip & slide and squirting water at everyone.  It was a great last day of preschool!  (How many days until August 20th?)

Beach Day!

We took advantage of Aunt Layne being here to head to the beach with Lauren and Jesse.  Four adults is just the right amount to look after three children, in my opinion.  Dan and Ben are a little more self-sufficient than they used to be, but the waves and the water still make me nervous to let them get too far away.  Hannah was content to sit on the towel and eat snacks.  She's a girl after my own heart!