I am happy to say that I am FINALLY learning how to use our camera. A few years ago, we bought a digital SLR and have pretty much been using fully automatic mode. This week I decided that I was tired of just so-so pictures. With a few tips from the amazing Rashmi (www.rashmipappu.com), I am on my way! I have loads to learn but felt good about shooting in aperture mode. I have very shaky hands so a tripod is very helpful to me. It limits what I can take but at least the pictures are in focus!

We had a very busy week. I like staying busy when it is fun busy!

Tuesday we went to Brookside Gardens with a friend. I have wanted to take the girls and actually had a trip planned a few weeks ago but wasn’t able to go. This time we made it there and had a wonderful time. Lauren got to ride the carousel twice and we had a nice picnic. The weather was perfect and it was so nice to be outside.

Wednesday my friend Kerri came over from Virginia with her three kids and we had a fun visit. We have been friends with Kerri and her husband for 8 years. Hard to believe! The first Sunday they visited our former church, we invited them over for a Super Bowl party that night. We’ve been good friends ever since.

Thursday we went to a Cookie Lee jewelry party. My friend Lori just started selling Cookie Lee and this was her first party. I told the hostess that I hoped it was OK if we stayed for awhile. Once I get somewhere with Carmen and all her equipment, it is easier to stay! She assured me that it was fine so Lauren played with the other kids and I looked at jewelry and sat with Carmen. I ended up buying a really pretty silver rose necklace and a pair of silver hoop earrings. The earrings are big and out of my comfort zone but I am trying to be bolder! You only live once, right?!

We are planning Carmen’s 2nd birthday party! More details to come!

Hope you are all having a really great summer!

Apparently, there was a water main break somewhere around and we are not supposed to be washing dishes or clothes. And, we are supposed to use bottled water or boil before we drink. Last week no electricity; this week no water. What’s it going to be next week????