Zoo Trip

We were able to take a fun outing to the Oakland Zoo while we were staying with Jake's parents.  I hadn't been there since I was pretty young and it was neat to go back with children of my own.  We had a great time with Jake's mom and are so glad we could all go together.

This guy was just hangin' out.  He was fun to watch!

I really like this shot.  Something about Caden's stance as he wields the brush; the goat, as he considers the umpteenth youngster who wants to brush his fur:

I think this one is really sweet:

We thought the little baby in the middle was so cute!

I'd forgotten they have rides there!

Oh yeah!  Notice how Lucas' smile is as sparkly as his car!

 
I think I'll call this one Plane Without a Pilot...

Daniel & Ida's Baptism Celebration; aka Fenton's!

Once again we headed over to Fenton's afterward to celebrate the baptisms.  I'm so glad we got to do this with everyone and just enjoy being at a fun place together. Such fond memories!

Our newest nephew/cousin, Calvin!  He sure had my boys and me all charmed:

The baptizee ordered bubble gum ice cream :)

So sorry I only got blurry shots of you Mom and Dad!  But at least you can see my Mom's pretty scarf.  We need a new camera for sure :P

My niece Ruth didn't want me to take her picture.  I guess I'm being a mean aunt but am posting it anyway since I think she looks so cute; I love her outfit and long hair!

You're in for a treat with this next series of shots.  It depicts a 4-year-old's single minded focus on the very important task at hand:

He was absolutely certain that he wanted only plain vanilla.  As certain as he's been about anything in his young life:

He obviously made the right choice (as did I; that's my chocolate peanut butter fudge sundae to the left of him!)

I wish we could do it all again!

Daniel's Baptism

The pinnacle of our trip was Daniel's baptism, which he got to share with his cousin Ida. It was a lovely deja vu since we had gathered in much the same way, in the same place, for Joshua and his cousin Esther's baptism two years prior.

Daniel with his daddy and grandpas:

All the boy cousins (those that were present -- we were missing 3 boy cousins :)

All cousins in attendance, except baby Calvin (missing 6 cousins; yes, my parents have 20 grandchildren!):

Full group shot.  We're so grateful for everyone who could make it and missed those who could not:

Our own little branch of the family tree.  Such a special Time for us Sorensens!

Jake arrived on the scene to prevent a tantruming Caden from entering the water.  You may wonder why I posted this one.  Well, I just like seeing Jake in his suit ;)

Fourth of July/Birthday Boy!

It was really nice to get to spend the 4th/Daniel's birthday with my family this year. We were able to attend the parade and then head back to my sister's for the bbq afterward. Daniel kept talking about what an awesome birthday it was which was great.  A happy birthday boy makes his momma's heart happy!

My sister had us all doing hand cranked ice cream. I'm sure it would have been really yummy if it had worked out but it never solidified! Honestly I don't think anyone really minded. It was fun to just hang out and be together, with the novelty of hand cranking the ice cream thrown in.

Check out those cheeks!

Daniel got a couple of things he'd really been wanting such as a digital watch and a calculator.  Also some role-playing books from a kid's series that he loves.  And all the dice he could possibly need to go along with them!

Afterwards the cousins enjoyed some quality wii time.  Daniel looks so happy there!

Ah yes, the rope swing!  One of my favorite memories of the day was when my sister-in-law Molly and I sang the Star Spangled Banner for each kid's turn, to keep things fair (there was quite a line).  We were ashamed that we couldn't remember quite all the lyrics in their correct order.  Joshua was able to help us out, so I feel partially exonerated since at least my son knew our nation's anthem. 

 

Daniel got to open presents at Grandma and Grandpa Sorensen's too, lucky guy! 

Happy birthday, Daniel!  You are a special boy and our family would not be the same (or nearly as interesting!) without you.  Thank you for sharing your talents with us, they bring us lots of joy!  We'll always be here for you, cheering you on and for whatever else you may need.  Thank you for being ours!

p.s. thank you so much for sharing your pictures Mom!  I am still kicking myself for forgetting my camera!