September 2021

I've really been trying to play catch-up with my journaling.  Lots and lots to talk about and SO MANY pictures!  Playing large block Jenga with the kids makes the top of the list in September.  We've been teaching all sorts of new games to the girls- Cover Your Assets, Qwirkle, Uno, Blokus, and Old Maid.

I bought some pumpkins to start decorating for the season, and Howie freaked out! After some time, he warmed up to the new decorations.

We've been trying to expose Howie to different environments...

swimming in the lake and paddle boarding...

driving around in the car (he now hears the keys and runs for the garage door!)...

and running around at the park and playgrounds.

Me and the girls went on a weekend trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Dallas with one of my best friends, Stacey.  It was nice to lounge around in the sun and splash in the water with the kids.

What was not so fun was figuring out the stupid wand that cost oh too much money! The kids didn't want to share and everyone ended up crying.

But after a good nights rest, everyone was friends again.  

We had a great time!

Bryan had an Army competition during my birthday, but sure made up for it with gifts and surprises.  I got flowers, an edible arrangement, a cake with confetti surprise, and chocolates.  I really felt loved, especially since I had to work and he delivered to the hospital. He really planned ahead!

The girls took me out to eat at Bubba 33, a new restaurant in town.

And then we had some cake, which the girls picked out at Nothin' Bundt Cake.

My beautiful bouquet.

Bryan won first place at the medical Best Medic Competition.  He is amazing! He might be the first optometrist to win 2 consecutive competitions.  Now he has to prepare for the FORSCOM Best Medic Competition in January. 

When Bryan got back, we drove down to Kerrville to complete the Aqua Bike race.  Originally we were both signed up for the 1/2 Iron Man, but I haven't been able to run or bike since my injury and Bryan has not been training with all of his other obligations.  And so only he competed and he changed it to the swim and bike event.  Bryan did really well, as always.