family reunion and other celebrations

On our 11th anniversary (May 23rd '09) Monty surprised me with a new wedding band and one for himself as well (he lost his ring 6 months into marriage and has been without one ever since). Monty always called my ring a "cracker jack" ring since it cost less than $20 but I loved it. We enjoyed a great night out in Brick Town and a long dinner at "The Melting Pot."

Here we are with Monty's parents, his sister, Chandra and her husband Matt.
Manon and Henna loved getting to know their Aunt Avadelle!

Our big hike!!!

Here I am showing off my birthday present Monty surprised me with on our hike - earrings.
Here are the cousins going out for a spin in the golf cart.
Our kiddo's enjoying the play ground.
Judah and his vacation pet turtle, "Tuck."
Manon and Papa enjoyed a sunrise fishing adventure and Manon even caught something!

As you have noticed I am still making a great effort to get our blog caught up. Since Monty got his cool iphone for Christmas the computer is available more often for fun things like blogs. It also helps that Ezra is such a big guy and does well keeping up with his brother and sisters. I wanted to get these posted before we have more birthdays and anniversaries to post:). Monty's side of the family held a reunion at Lake Murray in Oklahoma. My 34th birthday fell during the week which was perfect. Since I got to do whatever I wanted I told Monty I wanted a long family hike. Our cabin was right next to a trail so it was perfect. I had a great time. At one point Monty and the little ones stopped to rest and Manon and I went further around the lake. It was a great day! Monty's parents arrived that evening with cake. We enjoyed the week with lots of grandparent time and just getting to know all the cousins.

Monty's dad did not feel well that week. We thought he was just tired and needed to rest. The day after they returned home from the reunion Jerry had a stroke. This is not his first but was the most serious. It left his left side completely paralyzed. Now, 7 months later he is beginning to get some movement back but is still unable to walk and live as before. Please remember Jerry and Judith in your prayers.