A tree topples in Des Moines... July 24, 2014

 Even though they didn't get any rain, a storm was close and the wind came up suddenly about noon today and this tree uprooted in my mom's yard and fell against the fence and her neighbor's house.

This view is from the fence between houses, where the tree fell and covers the back of the neighbor's house.

Webster City, Iowa, Welcomes R.A.G.B.R.A.I. Riders! July 21, 2015

 People come from all over the world to ride their bikes across Iowa together for one week in July for the past 43 years.  (Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa)

About 15,000 bikers make their way on the designated route, and this year one of the towns they rode through was just a little north of our house.

 Food stands and entertainment were available as well as some shade and encouragement from the locals.

 If I ever go on this ride, this would be my choice.  (The back seat rider wasn't pedaling much of the time and it looked easier on the rear end!)

Not sure why this skeleton is taking the back seat on this tandem, but it was interesting.

Party at Mema's on the 4th of July!!

 My daughter (Samantha) with her cousin Michelle's kids (Reed and Harper).

 My cousin Margaret's hubby (Tim) and my brother, Bob.

Our granddauhter (Olivia-17 months old) enjoying the coupe car!

 The crowd before lunch of steak and numerous side dishes!

 My niece, Amanda, with her daughter, Audrey, and our daughter-in-law, Allison, with Olivia.  Audrey was born 10 days after Olivia.  They're both adorable!

 Audrey and her big brother, Izaac (who is now 8 years old!).

 John and my cousin, David, solving the world's problems....

Olivia playing in the grass.

Olivia visits Iowa!! July 5, 2015

 Olivia (17 months old) playing with water on our deck on 7/3/2015.  Her grandpa John and Great-Grandma Jean are behind her.

 Olivia's dog, Oliver, visited our house also this weekend.  That's Great-Grandma Jean (right) and Great-Aunt Mary at the table watching Olivia having some snack crackers.

Allison, Olivia, and Alex in our back yard enjoying the weather and the 4th of July!