Our Memorial Day Weekend

.... was PERFECT!

Not only did we hit Newport Beach on Saturday with Grandma & Grandpa Salmon & cousins, but we had a fabulous Memorial Day barbecue on Monday at my Mom's too. Really, it was one of the best weekends EVER!

Our first beach trip this year made me so excited for the summer! Not only was the weather perfect, but the kids played so well, letting Darin and I relax and enjoy a nice afternoon. Lauren was in heaven. As long as she had a shovel in hand she was happy! She went from hole to hole, sitting... digging... and toddling around. Trey used his new boogie board for the first time and Darin was out catching waves for nearly an hour. It really was a perfect day.

Monday was just as fun. Darin, my Mom, sister and I were sitting in the spa while the kids were off jumping in the jumper, swinging and playing in the play house; I remember thinking to myself... "THIS IS THE LIFE!".

All weekend my thoughts kept turning to the men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our country. Both of my grandfathers as well as Darin's served in the armed forces for many years. I am grateful for their service, the example
they have set in honoring and defending the rights we hold dear and

I feel so blessed to live in this country.

Here's a little "TASTE" of our weekend:

Lauren licking her festive FIRECRACKER Popsicle!

Grandma got this huge jumper/water slide for the kids. Who wouldn't LOVE that?
Trent sure enjoyed it!

You should have seen my brothers flying down this thing. They are both really tall, like 6' 3", 6'4". It was hilarious!

Looked like this...
I really don't know who that is... judging by the stark white feet I'd guess it's Joseph.

Beautiful Julia with her auntie Jessica.

Darin and I in the water.

Jules with her red, white & blue cupcake.

Trey with his best bud Bruin hanging out in the playhouse with their Popsicles.

And no post would be complete without mentioning how absolutely adorable our little Lauren is...especially in her swim suit. Isn't she the cutest chubby baby you've ever seen?
Look at that tummy! We just love her to pieces.