Welcome, Ryan Daniel Spencer

The newest member of the Stephensen-Spencer Family has finally arrived. This afternoon, Ryan Daniel Spencer was born.

The past 9 months haven't slowed Nikki down much - - SuperMom Nikki even taught her step aerobics class last night! That amazes me, because I'm sure I couldn't have kept up with her during that class - - and I have no excuses! (Well, no valid ones anyway.)

I've been so blessed to have a sweet son and daughter-in-law who have let me stay in the room while each of my grandchildren have been born. That is an experience that I will be forever grateful for. This time, Megan and Emily joined as well. Dr. Huff was amazing (as usual) and turned it into a biology/anatomy class for the girls. :-)

Sweet Ryan joins his brothers Ethan, Josh, and Blake. Combined with Dad Josh, they can have their own basketball team! Congratulations to Josh and Nikki for this beautiful addition to your family!

Congratulations, Megan!

It never rains in Arizona, right? Wrong! Instead of dealing with the blistering heat for graduation, we were blessed with rain!

Last year, graduation night was a downpour and something very unusual for that time of year in Arizona. We thought it was a fluke, and that we'd have a sunny night. During the week, the reports of expected rain gave the school a bit of a heads-up. Thanks to adminstration, the were able to bring in a "Big Top" tent (enter "graduation was a circus" joke ).

This was awesome because the musicians were still able to perform. All year long, we've looked forward to hearing Megan play those sweet, few measures of a piccolo solo on "Battle Hymn of the Republic." We couldn't actually see her under the tent, but could hear her just fine! Also, since she's the Senior Drum Major this year, she was able to direct the band, orchestra, and choirs in the "Alma Mater." What an honor! CONGRATULATIONS to Megan (and Richard!) on your graduation from Mountain View.

Summer Vacation Memories

One of our very favorite vacations was our trip to Hawaii. Here are Megan, Chris, and Emily in Waikiki! They had fun with this pose because the girls were trying to make it look like they were having their photo taken with a "local." Even though we've only been there once, the beautiful island had an impact on us. We loved being part of the land - - in the water, on the sand, and hiking to find the beautiful waterfalls. Hopefully, we'll go back soon!