Goodbye, Lake Mattoon

We recently packed up everything at the lake and closed up for the season (and forever, really, since we'll be moving). Sad to think about, but we had a great time hanging out with the Cooks and with Jenn and Pat, who came down for a little end of summer fun.

Our group, which has grown from just the four of us four
years ago to seven now!

Woo hoo! I got out for my first ski of the season. Had two fantastic runs
with smooth water. And boy was I feeling it the next day!

Ed cleaned out his closet and shared some of his A-B stuff with Pat and Tucker.
They proceeded to put everything on, a good look!

Abbey checks out Josiah. I think she's happy not to be TJ's smallest
wrestling buddy anymore.

We walked over to check out the property, using all types of baby
carrying devices. And carrying an ax. Because you always need an ax.

See? You always need an ax because you never know
when you'll have the chance to throw one at a tree!
We were going to stay until someone got the ax to stick
in the tree, but we might still be there.

The Cook family...on Kelly and Dustin's 6th anniversary

Ed showing TJ how to pee on a tree. 

Love the sunset view! Lake Mattoon, we'll miss you!

Jenn, aunt extraordinaire, entertains all three kids at once.

TJ and Jo-Jo wearing their "big brother" and "little brother" shirts,
which Jenn and Pat got them. Jenn and I had similar outfits when
we were small (except ours were pink!).

When Thomas didn't want to wear his big boy underwear, Jenn suggested
a different use for them.

Josiah wanted in on the fun.

It's nice to know we're not too old to use noodles for a little non-swimming fun...

Snuggle time!

Thomas takes Abbey's temperature. Nice to know he's concerned about her wellbeing!

The whole group...our last dinner at the lake.