new skill

Along with turning 5 last week, Ty learned how to ride without training wheels! He's so big--it's crazy! He got a new 16" bike for his birthday, but he learned on his old one. I think it helped because he could put his feet down easily when he started to fall. He was an instant pro! It didn't take long until he was standing up riding! He also tried to mimic his 12-year-old cousin by attempting to pop a wheelie--Lord help us all!

9 months

Ty turned FIVE!!!!

We celebrated the big day with some family and friends at a splash park near our house...

meeting Curious George

Military Park in downtown Indy hosted PBS Kids Day with lots of characters, bounce houses, and performances. One of the highlights (although you can't tell from the picture) was meeting Curious George! Drew chickened-out after waiting in a looooooooooooong line to meet him, but we managed (with the help of the family behind us) to snap a quick picture. As you can see, Luke was loving it--ha, ha! Corey was with Ty who was busy trying out the different bounce houses.

Summer Vacay!!!

Gulf Shores, AL

Drew and Ty playing in the sand

this one LOVED boogie boarding

getting used to the pool

sweet baby

family pic after dinner at Calypso Joe's

love this one of my sweet Drew and babe

a serious highlight: baths in the jacuzzi tub :)

brothers

my boys by the ocean

"Reverend" Smith

I couldn't be more proud of my husband--he was ordained in the PCA tonight! The PCA requires several things of its pastors before ordination, including passing 5 written and oral exams (i.e. Church History, Bible, Theology, Book of Church Order, and Sacraments). He has worked extremely hard this year as he's studied for each of these exams while planting a new church and shepherding people. He's an amazing pastor! Love you, babe, and CONGRATULATIONS! (Side note: It was so sweet to see him raise his hands tonight to give the benediction!)

chopsticks

I think this is hilarious: So, he asked me tonight if he could eat with chopsticks. Why not, right? We like to be cultured. :) And yes, that is a hamburger. I'm actually very impressed with his skill! I think he did a better job than I did, and I lived in China for a year! Ha!