For Labor Day weekend, we packed up the car and headed over to visit Brian and Katie. This was about 2 weeks before Katie’s due date (happy to announce the arrival of baby Connor as of 9.17!). We laid low most of the weekend, but did head over to a school/park near the Vernon’s home. Rylee had a blast running around and playing on the slide.

It’s hard to believe the 4th of July was nearly 3 months ago already! This is about the time Rylee started her “helping out” phase…she’s in full force now. She drops whatever it is she’s doing, just to help mom and dad. Her favorite things to help with are laundry, throwing things away, shucking corn and giving Dante his treats. She’s a big helper! A couple of these shots are of Rylee helping mix up the pancake batter. She was having a blast!

Andy decided to wash all the vehicles one afternoon. Rylee and I went outside to play and, being the big helper she is, decided she needed to help her daddy wash the Suburban! She ended up soaked, but who cares! She was having fun.

During the baby shower, Andy, Brian and a couple of other husbands were hanging out in the yard. Andy filled up the pool for Rylee and Kian to play in…it was a very hot afternoon. I popped my head outside to let the guys know they should come in to eat, and this is how I was greeted! Think she was excited to see me? Being a mom is the best!

Rylee and her bucket! Ready for the rocks!!

Enough pictures already, mom!

I picked a flower!

Blurry, but I still like it!

This one is my favorite from the day.

Walking in the horse pasture.

Smelling Mama’s flowers.

Let’s Go Mom!

Back toward the end of July, I took a Friday off to prep for Brian and Katie Vernon’s baby shower I was throwing. I of course also took this as an opportunity to spend some time outside with Rylee! She loves being outside and as she has become more mobile, she really enjoys exploring. Her favorite things to do outside include “smelling” flowers and picking up rocks.