Beautiful Colorado!

One of the things I love about going up to Denver twice a year is the drive. Not the length of it, but the beautiful scenery we get to see. At this time of year the aspens are a gorgeous golden color which is contrasted by the evergreens. The mountains here are breath taking and I have to pinch myself each day. We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place!

On our trip up Kirk and I were discussing Colorado's diverse landscapes. There are huge mountains, deserts, plains, and even lakes. It's amazing to me how many different things you can experience in just one state. We are a bit biased, but we feel like we live in one of the most beautiful states in our country!

Another sign of fall! Apple picking, one of my favorite childhood memories! Pam and Del (my in-laws) have an apple tree and I was really shocked at all the apples we got from one tree. We had tons of fun tossing apples around, juggling and being silly! Even Dee-Dee enjoyed picking apples.

The last picture is of something I am just not ready for. SNOW!! Yes it snowed on Wolf Creek Pass! Winter is on it's way.

Enjoy the pictures.

SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fire! Fire!

Last week we had a bit of a surprise. I was making dinner when a source gas truck drove by, followed by an ambulance. Then another Source Gas truck came and two other cars. Then a firetruck and some other firefighters.

Now they didn't come with sirens blasting or even driving fast. The fact that the gas company was there made me think they hit a pipe with the digger, so I was wondering if we needed to go down the street. They were right next to my house! Then they started putting on their gear and getting the hoses out. Needless to say I got more concerned and went out to investigate. As I approached they all told me not to worry and laughed a little. IT was just a demonstration.

So we sat back an watched the fireworks. They turned on the gas and lit it with a flare. It was impressive and made quiet a noise. IT sounded like a hot air balloon only louder! Olivia ran down the hall the first time crying, but thought it was cool by the time they were done.(watch her dance in the video.) The neighbors all wondered what the heck was happening and came to check it out. I am still a little surprised they didn't notify the neighborhood, especially the house they were right next too!!!

If I didn't know it was a demo. I probably would have loaded everybody up and left. It was a sight! Here's a video, just imagine a big whooshing sound while the fire is going.

Our Mike

We have had yet another busy weekend up in Denver visiting the MDA clinic at The Children's Hospital. First of all I must say that the new hospital is wonderful and we just love everyone at clinic. They really try to make sure Mike and his family is doing okay with the new challenges we face each day.

While we were there we learned about a new study they are doing that Mike may qualify for. They took some blood, he did not enjoy that part, to identify what is causing his Duchene's Muscular Dystrophy. If they identify the cause as a premature stop codon (PTC) he will qualify for a study on PTC 124. This has some promising results so far and could help Mike and other boys like him in many ways. It does mean more trips to Denver, but we are hopeful this turns into something really positive for him. At this point we are just waiting for the results and then will make a decision based on the information they give us about the study and possible side effects. If you want to learn more you can go to MDA's website and click on research. Then just select the disorder Duchene's Muscualr Dystropy and it will bring up all the studies they are working on.

Aside, from clinic we spent time shopping, playing and just relaxing! Our sweet friends the Giles let us camp out in thier basement while they were away. We missed visiting but hope to have some time this summer when we take Mikey up to camp.

Mike also celebrated his 9th birthday all most a month ago. It's hard to believe how big he has gotten and how much he has changed. He is still my sweet boy in many ways, but establishes his independence on many occasions! He just earned his wolf badge and is very excited to be a Bear scout. He loves science and has a great teacher this year that really brings out the best in him. It's hard to believe we will hit double digits next year!!

The Wildlife Experience

Happy Birthday Buddy!

The Wolf Badge Mother's pin.

Happy Birthday Girls!

We tried to get Emily to stand.

On Sunday Olivia and Emily celebrated their 7th birthday. It's hard to believe my little babies are growing up so fast. On Saturday Olivia and I went shopping and I realized how big she really is getting. We had a difference of opinion on a few outfits; I thought she looked cute, she thought she looked "stupid." At last we agreed on something, I just wasn't prepared for that eye opening experience. Who said she could grow up so fast?!!

Look how cute they are. These are from Maryland.

Then we spent the rest of the day at the Recreation Center swimming as a family. Emily loved the BIG slide Daddy took her on. She had so much fun swimming with Daddy and Mommy. She practiced standing and even let go a few times and stood all alone! It was a great day! On Sunday we had a special dinner and cake and presents. (I sure wish my birthday could last 2 days!

I looked through some old baby pictures this weekend, they have changed so much and in so many ways. It makes me a little sad, but it is so fun to watch them grow and change!

This last pictures are of the newest member of the family. She has beautiful brown eyes that melted my heart when Kirk brought her home. I wasn't too thrilled about another little rug rat running around, but she looks so cute curled up at my feet right now. :) You guessed it, we have a puppy! She is a German Short Hair Pointer and looks a lot like Derf in her coloring. I would have to say this is the last dog for us, at least for a few more years!