Andrew turns 4!

Fall homeschool Co-op

We had our first day back to 'outside school' on Friday. Zach and Andrew were excited to see their friends and enjoyed our morning outdoors. This semester we are studying the following: composer, Bach;  artist, Grandma Moses; nature study, being a naturalist; poetry,enjoying a number of poets; folk song, Oh Shenandoah; hymn, Crown Him with Many Crowns.
Andrew loves the music and brings his guitar to help play along. Zach is into studying nature and finding 'treasures' of that sort. He is enthusiastic about using his nature journal though once he begins his sketch, the excitement dwindles.  Zach loves playing with friends [mostly with sticks and pretend swords] one we've finished. 

Soccer

We enrolled Zach in the YMCA recreational soccer with excitement and a touch of apprehension.  He has practice 1 weekday bought and games every Saturday.  His first game was this weekend. 
I've never been a soccer fan- ever in my life- but watching my boy work so hard and spend his effort is such a pleasure. All his determination and energy go into it and he's so focused.  [Most of the time]
Anyway, I'm a soccer mom now.  Maybe I should learn the rules of the game?

Visit with Ebony♡

We had a wonderful time with Ebony visiting, as you can see from pics.  We swam at the GAC, hiked at Hanging Rock, visited hometown favorite restaurants, Yum Yums and Stameys, enjoyed the science center and picnic at a park.  Ebony even taught me how to make a delicious Jamaican meal, Chicken Curry.

Marinette visit with cousins

My parents are babysitting cousin Amelia and Julia when we arrived. They are Meaghan and Jason's daughters. The kids got along well and especially enjoyed playing tag together.

Monday we visited with my high school BFF and her family. The kids didn't want to leave- her home is an active kids dream.  Pool, trampoline, baseball field, playground,  four wheelers, basketball. . We had a blast.

My grandparents also were visiting and the kids enjoyed hearing stories and playing with Pops and Tiny.

I had breakfast with my high school basketball coach, Satch Englund, a man I respect and love. 

Kids and I biked all around Marinette one afternoon and I showed them the sights, namely old homes, schools and Grumpy's office. 

We also enjoyed one morning of swimming in the bay, kayaking and playing on a long board. 

On our last day, we went to Bay Beach, a small amusement park in Green Bay. The ferris wheel, bumper cars and merry go round were all memorable.

Road trip to Wisconsin

The kids and I left home on a Friday and drove to Charleston to visit family. We then drove another 4 hours and crashed at a hotel.
Saturday we cruised up to Madison to see an old college friend and her family.  Super fun.
Sunday we drove up to Marinette, after church and lunch with Liesl and fam.
..
..

Father's Day 2016

Visit with Aunt Meaghan and family

We had a wonderful time with Meg, Jason and their two girls. Kayaking, exploring a local [retired] military fort and playing in the backyard were all highlights. Meg and I even were able to sneak away for a few hours to shop at ikea!