Back in May we had the McDowell Family Retreat. We all drove up to Payson, and went to Camp LoMia to plan for the Haymore Family Reunion that we will have up there in November. On the way home we stopped at the Tonto Natural Bridge. It was absolutely beautiful, and ALMOST reminded me of home! We had fun taking pictures, and enjoyed being outside (even though it felt like it was 200 degrees!)
In June the Bates Family had a momentous occasion.. the first Bates Family Campout EVER!!! We camped at Bear Canyon Lake. The kids had fun playing by the lake, catching bugs, and pretending to fish off the truck bed. Even Dash enjoyed being outside and unleashed. It was really fun to be together, and spend time in the great-outdoors. Unfortunately Jared, Julie, Jeffery and Joshua were unable to make it, but hopefully we'll have another trip soon!
Also, in June, Cory and I became the proud parents of a Wii! Cory entered a drawing for it, and he actually won! He couldn't believe it at first, but has quickly become a professional Wii golfer.. watch out Tiger Woods. ;) As for me, I enjoy spending my Wii time cow racing, and shooting, with a little bowling thrown in here and there, but I am far from a professional! Needless to say.. Cory loves every second he and the Wii get to spend together.
July 3rd marked Cory's last day at University of Phoenix. (YAY!) On July 15th he started working for Verizon Wireless. We've enjoyed the change, and are excited to see what's in store for us! Hopefully in the future I will be better about keeping our blog up to date so you won't have to be stuck reading another one of our "mass posts" again!