July 30, 2021: Swimming and movie date with the kids

Summer is the perfect time to be spontaneous and to do something fun with my children and grandchildren. Fortunately, my corner neighbors (Dot and Mike Contois) have a wonderful pool in their backyard and invited us to use it any time. We took advantage of her offer a half dozen times this year and let our kids enjoy the water.

Jess and Shauna with their kids

Hannah and Elise love to swim

Brandon (and cousin Sofie) are the first to call it quits

Beau and cousin Tyler enjoying the pool

Shauna and Jessica--watchdog mamas

Jess teaching Sofie not to fear the water

At Century Rio 24 Theaters to see Disney's "Jungle Cruise" 

I love these precious faces!

July 20-22, 2021: John and Sandy Cole's visit!

This summer, I was so happy when my dearest friend Sandy Cole told me that she and her husband John would be coming to Albuquerque to see us! We became close friends in Provo Utah back when we were both newly married and starting our young families. Our hubbies were BYU students, and we got together regularly. I will always cherish those sweet memories.

During their short visit, we took the Cole's to the Bio Park Botanic Garden; to Sandia Peak Tram; to Fenton Lake to go kayaking; and out to lunch. We also squeezed in some evenings to enjoy fresh salads for dinner at our house and to play some games together. Sure wish we all lived closer. 

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Best friends from New Hampshire, Sandy and John Cole

At Casa Taco for a yummy lunch

July 21st evening: On the Sandia Peak Tram car 

July 22nd: Kayaking at Fenton Lake

Adorable grey squirrel near our picnic
table where we were eating lunch

John helping with the dishes. What a man (like my Mike)!