Controlled Chaos

Four summers ago, we made a little leap and purchased our first family boat.  She was not anything fancy.  She certainly was not shiny new.  However, our little Viking ran good and allowed us the opportunity to give it a go boating with four little dudes.  True, we get our fair share of stares as we head out with our crew; however, our kids are at their finest out upon our little vessel. 

Our Viking made the trip up to Silver Lake with us the past two summers.  She proved to be of great value shuttling family members across the lake to the dunes.  She was a good 'ole boat, indeed!  Alas, during our recent trip we found ourselves needing something a little bigger and newer.  We began thinking open bow and dare I say faster?  With that, Eric's search began...

Last Sunday, as a family of six, we made a (wildly loud) eight hour round trip to pick up our new Yamaha Exciter.  We have lovingly named her Controlled Chaos.  Fitting, yes?  Sure enough, we headed out in her the same day! 

Backing her up to head out for the first time...

It did not take long for all of us to quickly fall in love...comfy seats, great storage, easy access in and out, and dare I mention again the speed?!

 

 

The boys have always enjoyed the opportunity to drop anchor and do a little swimming, toss around a ball, and now the ability to JUMP from the platform. 

 

Welcome to the family, Controlled Chaos!  We anticipate an overwhelming amount of family fun with you guiding the way!

Today {7.26.12}

Outside my window... it is cloudy and we are anticipating some storms later today.  We (like so many others) need the rain!  

I am thinking...and remembering a dear friend today on her 32nd birthday.  It feels surreal that this is her 2nd birthday in Heaven.  For the last few days I have been replaying the celebration of her 30th birthday shared between her and I in my head.  I would love the opportunity to sit down this evening with her, a couple of steaks, and a few margaritas.  I miss you and love you, sweet friend!

I am thankful...  for our week long camping trip last week.  I am equally thankful the boys and I survived three nights without Eric.     

In the kitchen... the scent of "Pixie" is filling the air thanks to my Scentsy warmer.   

I am wearing... black fleece capris and a tank top.

I am creating...  a list of "back to school" items still needed.  It will be here before we know it!

I am going... to do some of the "back to school" shopping mentioned above tomorrow night with my Mom.  We are both looking forward to it.

I am reading... Jennifer Weiner's Little Earthquakes.  I am addicted to her books lately. 

I am hoping... to take a nap this afternoon.   

I am looking forward to... Eric's two weeks off beginning tomorrow.  We have some day trips planned and a few house projects to tackle.  Here is to crossing things off our list!

I am learning... that sometimes I just need to say no. 

Around the house... is very clear that four little boys live here.  Enough said. 

I am pondering... where I want to put the two stools I carried out of Papa's upholstery shop yesterday.  He sat upon those stools for endless hours executing (perfect) custom work for his customers.  A little over five months ago he told me I could have them, but bringing them into my own home has been bittersweet.   

A favorite quote for today... "What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us." ~Helen Keller

One of my favorite things... is laying on the couch with Eric while we give "dual" foot rubs. 

A few plans for the rest of the week... grocery shopping, a birthday party for Garrett to attend, a trip to Lowe's, and getting started on our home projects. 

A peek into my day...

 

My dear friend's Mom has a gift for checking in with me just when I need her to.  The other day she shared this with me and it seems very fitting for today. 

Mama At Play

My newest baby arrived on Wednesday and I could not be happier...hello, Canon 60d!  I am more than excited to welcome you into my hands.  I have been shooting with a Canon 40d for almost 4 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the moments I have captured.  For the last year I have been toying with the notion of upgrading my DSLR and racking my brain as to which one.  Decisions.  Decisions.  After weighing my current needs along with my desire to purchase one or two new lenses in the coming year, I opted for the Canon 60d.  Thus far...I AM IMPRESSED!  With my new camera battery charged and ready to go I played with my new baby for the first time Wednesday afternoon.  I have been shooting in manual on my 40d for two years (give or take).  The Canon 60d was easy to navigate with a similar display (that being said the upgrades Canon has made...SMART!).  With my camera on manual and my 50mm f/1.8 on board I was delighted with these first images....

 

 

 

I am looking forward to embracing my new toy and capturing wonderful images of my family!

Wordless Wednesday...Red, White, & Blue