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!

A Little Accident

While in the Midwest we were able to see some more of our family. One evening gathering turned out to be quite eventful, however. After dinner Troy was messing around on a skateboard with some cousins and took a bad fall. Long story short, he broke both bones in his right arm just above the wrist. It took a long ride through the country, two different hospitals, and a surgery to fix him up. It was a pretty major setback for our 8 year old, active boy, but he's been quite a trooper. He has adjusted well and has become quite ambidextrous in the process. He is keeping up on his third grade work with his left hand and has been seen running around on the soccer field at school. After an x-ray check at the doctor today, it looks like the bones are healing quite well. He was reprimanded for being too active and we had some tears. He is counting the days til he can be a full part of his soccer team again. I guess this is one of those many lessons in life, right?!