Riviera Maya

Kevin and I just returned from a fabulous trip to Playa del Carmen, down in the Mexican Riviera. We had wanted to celebrate our 10th anniversary last year with a trip, but things didn't work out, which meant we had to go this year :) We had a truly great time together, and with our dear friends, exploring a new part of the world & admiring our wonderful Creator's creativity. We appreciate Kevin's mom and her willingness to watch the kids, and the help Breanna & Nikki offered her. It had been 6 years since we had spent an entire week without the kids, and I'm hoping it won't be another 6- but it's definitely too early to ask :)

This was one of my favorite restaurants, and Kevin's 1st Lobster dinner.

Me & a sea turtle

Lobster dinner #4 on a beach in Cozumel.

One day we explored some Mayan ruins.

Megan & I at the bottom of Coba...

... and the view from the top.

We also visited a "theme park" that was built through a huge cave system.

We enjoyed some crazy ziplines...

an amphibious vehicle...

and rafting through the coolest cave I've ever seen.

We had to jump on the opportunity to hold squirrel monkeys, knowing the kids would love it!

We had thought our Dodge Attitude was a pretty sweet rental in Playa, until we rented this awesome car in Cozumel. The guy called it the "Mexican Ferrari" :) At one point in the day, the guys had to reattach the bumper with some sticks!

This is the view of the beach from our resort. Not too shabby, huh :)

Rylin Turns 5

It's hard to believe our little girl is 5! We discovered that one benefit to a b-day so close to Thanksgiving is that she will most likely never have school on her special day. We had a large, loud, crazy and super fun Hello Kitty party at our house. She invited all her friends and siblings for the afternoon. She had an absolute blast.

That evening Grandma & Grandpa along with the Goldens came over for Birthday dinner. And since it was Rylin's day- we had strawberry french toast for dinner! :) She wore her new pj's and a special hair do that Kacia created from one of her gifts.

Rylin has embraced being 5! She asked me on her birthday when we get to go see the teacher so she can start Kindergarten :) Rylin at age 5 has a joy about her that is indescribable! She lights up a room with her bright blue eyes, is full of enthusiasm & excitement, loves people, loves to share, loves to stand her own ground, is the world's best cuddler, is exploring independence in avenues that she wants to, always has something to say ( & say, & say...), still dislikes food and sleep. We feel privileged and blessed beyond words to be her parents, and continue to seek the Lord for guidance & wisdom as we attempt to raise her up in the love of our Savior.