Troy Boy

Troy seems to make friends wherever he goes.  We have been blessed to have some nice boys in our neighborhood again for him to play with.  Troy is happiest when he's outside kicking a ball and it's helpful when there's a willing friend to do it with him.  (Then I don't have to! :)  We also have great next door neighbors who are understanding and don't mind boys running over their lawns. Sidenote: Some of these pictures may contain non-approved activities for a boy with a broken arm...We can't keep him down all the time. :)  

I'm noticing other blogs with cute pictures of children going apple picking and doing other fall-type activities dressed in sweatshirts.  It's difficult to get in the spirt this year as we are still getting temperatures over 100 degrees!  I'm not complaining because I love the heat, but we are all ready for a little relief.  (Tomorrow's supposed to be 106!)

Kam Plays V-Ball

Kamryn has been trying a new sport this fall-volleyball.  She's picked it up quickly and has enjoyed playing on her school team with a nice group of girls.  In some of these shots Kamryn is not wearing glasses.  That is because we finally were able to get her contacts.  She has adjusted pretty well to them.  It only takes us a few extra minutes in the morning to get the contacts in.  At this point I still have to put them in her eyes for her, but she is able to take them out by herself.  Not having to deal with glasses makes life a lot easier when she's playing sports.  

Go, Kamryn!

As Troy semi-patiently waits for his arm to heal and the cast to come off, we have only had one soccer player to watch on Saturdays. Kamryn's off to a strong start on her AYSO soccer team this year. She scored the two goals for her team last week and had another one today. (They are undefeated so far!) I love Kamryn's attitude on the field and it's fun to see how the coaches appreciate her as a player too. Her team is a nice group of girls which makes the season much more fun! Kamryn is also playing volleyball for her jr. high team and got to start the first game this week. She hasn't played before, but has picked it up quickly. It's so much fun to see the gifts God has given each of the kids and to watch how they use those gifts.

In other news, this lovely green minivan no longer graces the curb in front of our house! We know Katie was sad to see it go (or the freedom it provided!). We, however, were glad to make a little profit from it which will be used to support her in her educational endeavors. :)

Just Because

Love these kiddos!

First Day of School-2012

Two good-looking kids ready for the first day of school at RCS! We started a week behind everyone else seeing as we had to get back from Michigan, but the kids are off to a great start. Kamryn in 7th grade and Troy in 3rd.

And She's Off!

The last week of our trip before heading home was spent setting Katie up at college. To say she was excited would be an understatement. Katie is in her element! We enjoyed taking part in the orientation days and eating meals in the dining hall. It was surreal to be back where Scott and I met many years ago. It's funny, though, how small the dorm rooms have become and how the dining hall meals get old fast! Katie had some great news about getting into the nursing program and also making the choir she was hoping to be a part of. We miss her at home, but are excited for the next stage in life for her!

Unlocking the door for the first time!

Proud parents

All her stuff from the van.

A special quilt made by G'ma E.

Two of the "fab four" at Calvin.

There seemed to be plenty of boys ready to lend a hand during move in!

Katie and her roommate doing "rock, paper, scissors" for the best bunk.

Roomies!

The final picnic.

I am so appreciated!

A Calvin landmark-The Cheese!

An orientation group.

We took at break by Reed's Lake.

Another blanket from G'pa E and Judi. I think Katie will stay warm!

Happy 40th, Scott!

During our time away, Scott turned the big 4-0! We kept the celebration low-key and had a small family gathering. It was fun to share a meal and catch up with Katie who had been staying on campus during the week. We are so thankful for Scott and what he means to our family! Blessings on a wonderful year! (And 40 really isn't that bad!)

Friends

After a quick stop in Chicago to have a delicious dinner with some friends, we finally made our way to the great sate of Michigan! We were blessed to be able to catch up with many dear friends during our time there. On Saturday afternoon we spent some time out on the Big Lake with our old small group. We had a blast catching up and soaking up the beautiful weather. Kamryn was also able to spend some time at the beach with her old friends and have a sleep-over. Thanks so much for coordinating, Deb!