Scottsdale, Arizona

driving through western New Mexico... 

Every time we saw a train, Owen loudly announced it to everyone, 

"TRAIN!!!"

We like to drive through Holbrook and take the diagonal down to Phoenix by way of Payson.  

So incredibly beautiful to drive through the mountains. 

Palm trees awaiting us at Mary & Doug's house.

We had two mornings of fun with Stephenie and Brayden. 

Stephenie and Owen (and Tyson) on the Kern's back patio.

Mr. Brayden

(1-year-old)

We took the three boys to "The Fun Place" the day after we arrived in Scottsdale.  

Things to climb, slides... two full hours of running around.

Love this photo.  

I was so proud of Kaden wanting to put on the harness and attempt the climbing wall.   

He is a very good climber at school, but is sometimes reluctant to try new things. 

Helping Kaden get his footing.  Kaden realizing it is more difficult to climb a vertical wall rather than the climbing wall outside at school. 

Kaden getting the hang of it.

cousins

Excited to be aboard the train at the park.

The best way to ride in a kiddy swing: back-to-back.  

Owen happy to be on his own horse.  Not afraid of falling this time.

Kaden all smiles.

Stephenie holding Brayden on his horse. 

This Ikea tent was a big hit at Mary & Doug's house.  They the boys the same tent at Christmas, but this one was complete with an attachable tunnel. 

Kaden getting his own private art lesson from Mary.
(Mary is a retired art teacher.)

days of drawing at Mary's kitchen table

Kaden & Doug

A fun high-light was getting to pluck citrus from the big grapefruit tree in Mary & Doug's backyard.

Laura & Abby thrilled with their steal.

Finding a good one with the boys' help.