Well, for some reason the pictures I post here do not show up elsewhere.  They show up when I log on so I don’t know what the problem is.  I don’t know of anyway else of posting them from here.

Anyway, Brian had Wednesday and Thursday off and while he relaxed on Wed.  Serra and I went and hung out with some other ladies in the ward around a pool.  Little Serra did not enjoy the pool.  When I put her feet it she wailed.  Not quite as warm as the bath water.  I hope she outgrows her aversion to cool water as a dip now and then could be enjoyed by all. 

For the 4th we got up late since there are no flag raising ceremonies around here.  (Unpatriotic town)  and then met up with the Andersons.  We all hopped in the car, weinie dogs and all and headed up to Mt. Charleston where it is at least 15 degrees cooler.  We had a picnic with nearly everyone else in Vegas.  It was very crowded up there, as you might imagine.  It is the nearest place that you can spend time outside and not cook.  The valley has been well over 100 for weeks.  We will make it through this summer.  We will make it through this summer.

Serra is still the perfect angel and fusses rarely.  She is a chatterbox and likes to have conversations with anyone nearby.  She has been giggling in her sleep since birth but has started now when she is awake too.  It is the most wonderful sound in the world. 

Daddy Brian is back at work today much to his chagrin.  By the time he gets rested enough to maybe accomplish something on my long to do list, he is back at work and we don’t know when the next day off will be.  He is definitely paying his dues.

Serra V and I returned to Vegas yesterday evening with no mishaps on the highway.  I really don’t like traveling alone and was a bit nervous, but we made it and are back happily with Brian.  He sure missed his little one.  He spent a lot of time last night and this morning talking to and invoking smiles from his chubby baby. 

This past weekend marks one year in our home and 2 consecutive years in Vegas.  Where does all the time go.  We definitely have something to show for it though.  We are very happy but know that we will only be here for a short time longer. 

Anyway we really appreciate the hospitality of my family for letting us come and visit.  It is always really nice to come home and be a kid again.  Serra V. really loves all the attention too.  The weather was delightful and Dad has done such a wonderful job with the outside that sitting out there is a real treat.  It even smells good and with the bird feeders we really saw some interesting creatures.  (Luckily we only heard the rats)

The cousins are so cute especially with baby Serra.  Joseph likes to poke here in the cheeks and give her an occasional kiss, while Katrina just absolutely dotes on her.  She even wrote a book for Serra.  She asked me once if she could help Serra stand up.  She is anxious for another little girl to play with I think.  All in good time.  Jacob has too much energy and mischief to get into, to be bothered with a baby, but he gave her a squeeze now and then.  I really have an appreciation for what Liesl puts up with all day every day after we watch the kidlets while she and Gary went to the temple.  Lots of fun but major energy and patience as well.