Ninja Turtles

I really don't know how children pick up on characters and their behaviors so quickly, especially when they have never read or seen anything with them in it.  For instance, the kiddos received a Ninja Turtles coloring book and now play pretend turtles a lot.  They asked me to help accessorize, sadly I gave in.  I still will not be giving-in to the movies or toys anytime soon though.

 Elyse decided she did not want to put on her costume but be April O'Neal.

Little Green Thumbs

I wish, and know Nate does too, that I had more of a green thumb.  Thankfully our children do. They really enjoy helping Nate in our garden, I think it's mostly because they get to eat the food that they pick.  Well they spent much of their Saturday morning during Ian's nap helping dad, great memories for us all.

Many have asked what we are growing, and the quick answer would be...everything! :)
Veggies: green beans, spinach, lettuce, cucumbers, broccoli, sweet peas, tomatoes and peppers
Fruit: apples, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, plums, cherries, pumpkin, watermelon and cantaloupe

Ian Turns 7 Months Old

Today our happy, cuddly, adorable and littlest man turns 7 months!  Can't describe how perfect he is and how much we all love him.  

Happy 7 Month Birthday, Ian!

Rotating Toys

I used to rotate toys non-stop at our old house because of space.  Once we moved I was blessed with having a separate room that held all the toys perfectly.  However, the kids started fighting over them or got so bored because it was always the same.  Nate suggested we start rotating again, and low and behold, great days like today take place.  Every two or three months I bring out new toys that keep the kids entertained for at least one week.

And yes you would be correct, it's still July; my kids are wearing long sleeves and pants because it's cloudy, 64 degrees with lots of wind :(

Ian loves it too because today he got all the kitchen toys which happen to be some of his favorites since no one else touched them.

Andover's "Family Fun Fest" Parade

This weekend was our neighboring city, Andover's annual "Family Fun Fest".  The event involved inflatables, food, 5K, exhibits and a parade.  We got the privilege of walking in the parade again with our Chiropractor, Dr. Tony and others from Essentials of Life Chiropractic.  Thankfully the rain held off and the kids did great.  Just like last year, we all had so much fun and are hopeful to do it again next year.  

Some of My Favorites

Below are just a few of my favorite pictures that were taken from our Michigan trip.

Visiting Speckman Family

We spent this past 4th of July holiday weekend in Michigan with my brother and his family.  We took off on Thursday, but did not want to make the 11 hour car-ride through the night so we stopped just shy of halfway to have a sleepover in a hotel (first time for the three boys).  I don't know what they loved more, sleeping in one room or having the continental breakfast of whatever they wanted :)  

Well after arriving midday Friday we spent the rest of our time playing, swimming at Kim's parent's house, lighting off fireworks and relaxing.  It really was a wonderful trip and we were all wishing we could have stayed just a little longer.

Special thanks to Steven, Kim, Chloe and Silas for hosting us.  We love you lots and miss you already.