Gone too soon.

Once in a great while, you may come across a person who is larger than life ~ the generosity, love, and life just beam from their every being. I came across such a man years ago when I met Clay's Uncle Louis. I have always felt an admiration for this man, his love for his family, his lust for life and his confidence, wit and swagger. He wore the Perry name with pride, respect and grit. Our family aches that he is gone.

Senior Pictures!

Believe it or not, it's Miss Blake's senior year. Yes, I am holding back the tears. I just can not believe it! Tomorrow we are driving to Denver to have her senior pictures taken. She and I have enjoyed putting outfits together and playing dress up. This should be a fun outing. I am excited to get some pics on-line. Warning ... Proud Mama at the computer!

Fillin' up the Trampoline Pit

We had a load of dirt dropped off in the street in front of the house on Monday. The large load took up half of the width of the street and stood over six feet tall. The boys have been pacing themselves with wheelbarrow trips from the front to the back fighting mosquitoes and the heat. Clay conveniently had to fly to Wyoming Tuesday through Wednesday, so Evan and I took over where they left off. Evan has been the true hero here. He wakes up early, does a few trips with the wheelbarrow before the heat hits, goes out mid afternoon for ten more trips, and finishes off his evening with even more trips. He sweeps up the mess, puts the shovels and tools away, and does it with a smile and a sense of pride. Clay, Blake and I are super proud of him! Way to go Evan! S'mores on us when the deck is complete! xo

Visit from the Shakes!

Congratulations to my Dad on his retirement!!! Samantha, Kenny, and boys were to fly out for the big celebration last Saturday, but the bad weather in Milwaukee changed those plans. Fortunately for me, an hour drive to Fort Collins was in the cards for my sister and family. I got a surprise visit and enjoyed every minute of it. I realize the "city livin'" is not for Kenny but he tolerated it and I think ended up having a nice time ~ and Clay and Evan ended up with a few bucks in their pockets after a late night game of poker! ;o) I forgot to get the camera out, but Blake sent me this picture of Conan and Max looking out the back window. Thanks Sam and Ken for making the extra effort to come north! xo

Camp Timberline!

Evan had another great year at Camp Timberline!!!! This is his fourth year at this fantastic Christian-based sports camp. Right at the base of Longs Peak, this camp is truly a slice of heaven. I have a video of his week, but I am struggling to get it on the blog. I will keep trying.
One week away from home, Evan returned with kudos from his counselors honoring his qualities of Flexibility and Willingness to Give. That's my boy! He makes us very proud!

Wings of Freedom Tour

The Wings of Freedom Tour visited Northern Colorado over the weekend. Evan volunteered with his Civil Air Patrol Squadron. He and others were in charge of crowd control. He stood watch from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in 90 degree heat and didn't complain once. He is really loving the opportunities he is getting as a participant in this organization.

Blake's Summer Job!

She is officially employed. Yes, she is. I am very proud. Now here comes the iffy part. She is working at Hooters! Not as a hooters girl but as a hostess. We visit once a week and it really isn't as bad as perceived. Even Granddad likes the wings! The schedule is great, she works Friday, Saturday and Sunday so her week is open to enjoy the summer. Again, I am very proud of my girl!

UPDATE: They liked her so much they asked her to be a waitress. After serious contemplation, we agreed to let her do this. She obviously was hired for her sweet and fun personality and not for her HOOT! ;o) She loves it. She makes a ton of money and is having a blast. I am very very proud. xo

University of Oregon?!?

Blake spent this last week in Oregon in a gymnastic and stunting camp. She flew out on her own, well with her friend, Sam, and they made it there and back safely. The University of Oregon has a phenomenal program that is not considered a "cheer" program but stunting and gymnastics, both of which are Blake's strong skills. They treat their athletes with all sorts of perks, like 8 hours a week of free, mandatory tutoring, laundering of athletic gear, free Nike attire, up to 250 calories of free snack a day, access the the athletic department facility, etc. Blake is not quite sure if this is the direction she wants to go, but "show me the money" and we'll go from there. :o)