July 21, 2008
I've planned my vacation week with something to do everyday with the girls. The first 2 days are Ali's though ... things that Auti isn't old enough to do with us. I feel a little bad about that, but Ali enjoys our "step-bonding".

Ali and I smashed cans last night so we could have some extra spending money for a tour on the Queen Mary today. (We always split our "recycle money" and treat ourselves ... I'm surprised Ali didn't choose to spend it on a Sim's game.) Both of us were looking forward to our trip to the QM since our favorite Ghost Hunters crew has investigated there. With the digital camera in hand, Ali snapped away in hopes of spotting an orb (spot of energy) or a shadow poking around a corner. I will admit some places on the old ship were a little bit creepy, but I had to be the brave one. Ali did well ... wandered not too far from me and snapping away. Our tour guides were great and we loved hearing the stories of the ghost sightings.

The famous first class swimming pool known to be haunted by a little girl and a lady in white. Many counts of laughter and footsteps.

Also located in the swimming pool area. The little girl is known to play in this closet.

This is the walkway in the ladies changing rooms of the swimming pool. Many say this is the most active paranormal portal on the ship. Each of us stood in a changing room cubby (in the dark ... yes, Ali and I stood together in our cubby) with our hand stretched out in the walkway ... I felt a cold draft and a couple of tingles on my fingers and arm.

I can't remember the room number now, but this is supposedly the most haunted cabin aboard the QM. Many guests have seen images and had the covers pulled from the bed. Needless to say, it is no longer available to guests staying overnight.

This is Winston Churchill's suite. The smell of a freshly lit cigar has been reported to come from this room.

It was a tiresome, but fun day!

July 10, 2008

The 4th of July is a double celebration which always includes the customary fireworks as well as Bryan's dads birthday. This year we celebrated at Kristin's house. I am a paranoid mom when it comes to fireworks. I don't understand the thrill that Bryan and Ally share when he comes home with a big box of "explosives". I'd much rather hide behind the protective sliding glass door or enjoy a professional fireworks show. As much as I wanted to write my name in the air with a sparkler, I don't think I'll ever get over my fear.

I can't remember the last time Bryan and I took a picture together. Why don't guys smile? I don't get it.

And of course ... the Double A's! Auti imitates everything "sissy" does. It's so much fun watching these two play together. Ally is such a good big sister!

She's growing up way too fast. We've always spelled her nickname "Ally". The other day she wrote "Ali" and told us that's how she wanted her name spelled from now on. Made me a little sad when I realized this is the first of many decisions she will be making for herself. But at the same time, I'm proud of her!

The Double A's with Grandpa Dennis.

July 5, 2008
It's not very often that I am able to spend time with my friend, Natalie, since she lives in Austin now. I always worry that my life long friend (well for 20 or so years) won't know my kids and vice versa. I was so happy to have captured this cute picture of Autumn and Natalie. It's funny how Autumn was so comfortable ... she's usually squirmy with people she doesn't know too well.

Natalie and her sister Sabrina made the cutest little tu-tu's for Autumn and Ally. I think they've worn them everyday since we visited the "Oldhams".

Thank you to Natalie and Sabrina for inviting the girls and I to their parents house for a visit. It was great seeing everyone again. Maybe it's the many years I spent going to the Oldham house when I was growing up ... but, I always feel so at home.