WE LOVE OUR COUSINS!

The best part about our trip to Phoenix was the opportunity to hang out with our Franklin Cousins, who we have not seen in 4 years because they were out in New York. We are so happy they are just a quick flight away and we plan to impose upon them often. The kids had a great time hanging out with their cousins. Brighton and Jaysha are just days apart, and their interests (as well as their personalities!) are quite aligned at the moment. Bella and Ariana also got along splendidly while big cousin Cierra made sure everyone stayed out of trouble (and that all the girls were properly attired and made-up). Cierra also showed her younger cousins and sisters some dance moves that were out of sight! We really had a great time.

The cousins enjoying their ice cream after Uncle Micah and Auntie Lisa whipped up some delicious carne asada tacos! Bella is on the end, then Ariana, Cierra looking over her shoulder, Max and Brighton (not looking) and adorable Ariana.

Bella and Ariana hit it off! They had a ball hanging out in the pool and in the house!

We took naps almost everyday. Here, Bella, Daddy and Brighton snuggle up for some quick shut-eye.

Her Awesomeness Cierra and Bella enjoying a swim in the Franklin's pool.

And now Miss Brighton and her beautiful cousin Ari.

My sweet little ladybug.

Ari giving Bella a ride.

I love this picture of Jaysha - what a dolly!

The kids loved the water, all but one day (when it rained, believe it or not).

The water slides were AWESOME - just ask Max, who spent nearly every minute he was at the pool on them. In fact, that's Max coming down the slide again (he was spinning in circles as he reached the bottom). Papa Jerry is a member at the Seville Country Club, which had great amenities for the kids. Four pools, a snackbar, gym, movie theater, and a pro shop that Gavin said was incredible (I really wouldn't know about that one).
Thanks to Papa Jerry for sharing his totally awesome house with us. The kids have their own room there - complete with a bunk beds decked out with a butterfly comforter for the girls (queen size bottom bunk) and sports comforter on the top bunk for Max. We had a great time enjoying the most excellent company of Papa Jerry and Pam and Lisa, Micah and our three beautiful nieces.