Emma's Field Day

Mandy organized a multi-activity field day for Emma's classmates and friends. With help from some of the parents we had a water balloon popping contest, eating donuts on a rope, volleyball, and other contests. However, since it was 95 degrees and muggy, by far the most used activity was the home made slip and slide. Get a couple tarps, water, and baby shampoo and you would be amazed how fast kids can slide. Plus, they were actually clean afterwards!

Grandpa Don's Visit

My grandpa's annual trip from Florida came to an end as usual way too fast. I was lucky enough to get him all to myself one evening and we talked for an hour and a half. He has lived quite a life. From being raised on a farm, going off to the South Pacific in World War II, working in foundries, the stories he has are captivating. It was one of the fastest 90 minutes of my life. I am so glad the kids get a chance to know him. We love you Gramps.

Misc July Photos

Here are just some random pictures from July. They didn't fit in a category but were cute enough to just make a post for. Is July hot enough?

4th of July Weekend

Happy 4th of July! Saturday my dad, Emma, and I went to Traverse City to see the Blue Angels. Loud and Proud. To be fair these two photos I took in 2004, but you get the jist. I took the camcorder this time! Mandy went to her parents and hung out for the day. Sunday we went to the parade and did all that fun stuff, and with Monday being so hot (see temp gauge photo!) we stayed inside for most of it. Plus my grandpa made it up from Florida, we are looking forward to spending alot of time with him!

Going Away Party

This weekend we had a going away party for our good friends Tim and Mandy and their kids. We got to have most of the party out of the way before the torrential rains came, but the kids enjoyed that more as they loved getting soaked and playing in mud. Thank you to everyone for helping set up and providing food, and good luck Tim and Mandy, God bless you in your new home. You will be missed.

Isabelle's 1st Birthday

Happy Birthday Izzy! This year flew by. Isabelle has been such a joy, and she is our most ambitious child yet. She walked by 10 months, can climb stairs, climb the bench we used to block the stairs, walks on sand, grass, woodchips, and rocks. Doesn't care. She knows where she wants to go and does it. She is always smiling and laughing. We love her so much. Thanks for a great year Izzy.