So Long, Dear Friend

We had our little dog, Koda, for almost seven years.  He's been with us on many adventures.  Many moves, at least one across state lines, vacations, long rides, and many many more.  We were coming home late one evening after one of Scottie's baseball games and Koda greeted us from the porch as always.  It was dark.  Scott came to a stop in the tahoe to be cautious, then proceeded to pull forward the rest of the way.  When we got out we were all a bit taken aback.  Koda was laying on the ground unresponsive.  We didn't hear or see or feel anything.  We're still not sure what happened.  Not much longer he passed in Scottie's arms.  It was a hard moment for the children to see their sweet little companion leave this earthly life.  It was hard for us adults to have to witness them experience this bitter part of life.  We assured them they would get to see him again one day.  Not a lot of words could comfort them, but the one thought that helped them pull through is when we reminded them that Colten was up in Heaven and we were sure he was playing with Koda.  We held a little funeral for him and gave him a nice place to rest.  They've had many lessons with the one thing none of us can escape in this life, death.  While it's a difficult task to bear, it is inevitable.  We're going to miss the little guy.....

My Little All Star

After playing with the Yankees for the regular season, Luke tried out and made the All Stars Team.  He has such a great knowledge of the game for such a young guy.  I guess it pays to have an older brother whom he's watched for many years and a dad that is always on the side cheering him on and giving him pointers!

On a Roll

June is our month to take our annual trip to Moab for a bowling tournament.  We make it a family thing and find extra things to do while we're there.  This year we stayed in a condo.  Why didn't we think of this sooner?!  We got a great deal and were in great comfort and company!

We make sure to fit in a round of golf.... "we" meaning Scott and the other guys.  Back when Scott & I first started going to Moab together, I would always go along for the ride.  After this many years and this many kids, it's not always possible.  I was able to go this year thanks to the help of my Mom and Scott's Mom!

June Ball

Summer never leaves a shortage of baseball for us, or any sport for that matter.  Scottie and Luke both played regular league games and tournaments.  They had loads of fun.  It's funny, whatever sport Scottie is playing in the moment is his favorite one.  It's hard for him to think about transitioning when he's in the midst of one.  Now Luke, on the other hand, is up for anything.  He gives one hundred percent dedication and works hard at whatever he is doing!

Great 8 Tournament Champions

Triple T Omaha Slumpbuster Champions

Scottie and his team were able to go to a College World Series baseball game while they were in Omaha.  Grandma and Grandpa took the long trek with Scottie.  Scott and I stayed home to nurse Lincoln back to one hundred percent after his big fiasco from a few weeks before.