Weekend fun with the Bates' Bunch

Yes it's true! Grandpa and Grandma Bates' did it once again... they made yet another trip to Rexburg this year! (Two visits in two months...were talking all time record here!) And this time they were joined by Jim and Emily and their girls, and Rachel and her two children. We had SO much fun!!! What might you ask brought them to the "frozen tundra" yet again...? Well... friends, family, a Dam Marathon, a birthday boy, and a baby blessing! We are grateful to them for traveling all the way from South Dakota, Utah and California to visit us. Can't wait to see you again soon.

Here is a picture of just a portion of the Bates' Family who came to visit us! What's up with Hannah?

First event: The Dam Marathon. Mark decided he wanted to run in the Teton Dam Marathon this year, so he recruited a few of his fellow teachers and co-workers to participate in the marathon relay. They were then challenged by some 6th grade girls for some friendly competition, but were relieved when the girls dropped out. Overall, they did pretty well and finished 3rd in their division. We are so proud of you Marky. Here are a few pictures of the Big Race Day.

Here is Marky's cheering Squad! Aren't they so cute!

Looking Good Marky! (We even got a thumbs up!)

The race took Mark right by the Rexburg Temple!

Here they are...The brave marathon runners...minus one!!! Great job you guys!

Second Event: Mikey's Birthday Party. Uncle Mikey celebrated his 22nd Birthday Party the week our family got together. So we postponed the big celebration so that all could participate. He wanted a BBQ, so we grilled up some chicken, and enjoyed a wonderful BBQ dinner...INSIDE!!! Stupid Rain!!! Aunt Rebecca also made a fun swimming pool cake (sincle we were supposed to have a pool party...but got rained out!) that tasted so good.. Happy Birthday big guy, thanks for having a birthday so we could have a party!!!

Third Event: Family Time. Between the DAM Marathon and Mikey Birthday Party...we got to spend alot of quality family time together, in my tiny house. But is was alot of fun and no one seemed to mind the tight living quarters.

There was wrestling!

There was shape sorting...sort of!!!Relaxing!!!

Reading!!!

Ring-around-the-Rosies!!! And when it was nice... for those few short hours...we played outside!!!

Fourth Event: Hannah's Baby Blessing! We blessed Hannah on Sunday June 14th 2009, at my parents house. It was a wonderful experience surrounded by close friends and family. Mark gave a wonderful blessing in which Hannah slept right through! (Phew!) In fact she slept throught the whole dang party. Hannah was blessed in the same dress as Abby, and wore the same ring and bracelet too! I guess that makes the whole outfit that much more special. Anyways.. we are so grateful to have such a wonderful girl added to our family. We love you sweet little Hannah!