White Sands Balloon Fiesta

We love our hot air balloons down here!  A while back, Caleb and I braved the ridiculously early morning and headed out to White Sands National Monument.   We both thoroughly enjoyed all the colors floating over the endless white, especially when the sun decided to make an appearance.  What a beautiful place we call home...and what a wonderful God to create such wonders!

During the fiesta, it wasn't too long before Caleb was distracted with driving a little Matchbox car in the gypsum sand.  Unfortunately, the small toy got buried and lost forever.  The dunes are always shifting, so I don't think it will turn up anytime soon.  So much for "leave no trace."

Katie Pertiet Frames

Anyone want to come visit?

Well, the temperature is 103 degrees, and that is cool compared to what it has been. Yesterday it was 106. And it's only going to get hotter as the week goes on.

On Father's Day, while Caleb and I were taking naps, Brandon went out and bought a swimming pool. He had it filled and ready for us when we woke up. Such a great husband/dad! Last year (see picture), we learned that it isn't a good idea to have an inflatable pool in the desert (with cacti and prickly things everywhere), and we had to trash our pool. This year, we are trying again with another inflatable pool...with the idea that our more midwesternish landscape in the new home will not be so fatal to our summer fun. :-)

I think that this pool will help keep us sane in the summer heat. Now...if we can just keep the bugs from cooling off in there too. Yuck!