Elyse's Birthday Celebration

Today we celebrated Elyse's 7th birthday a few days early with the party that she has been beyond excited for.  The girl loves makeup and anything fancy; so when we suggested a "Makeup Birthday Party" she was nothing but bright eyes and smiles.  The party consisted of her three closes friends making their own lip gloss, coloring their hair, painting nails and putting on makeup, as well as opening presents and eating cupcakes.  It was a lot of fun to see the before and afters, and the joy on our little princess' face who sadly isn't so little anymore.  

Last Week of Summer

It's so bittersweet that we have officially reached the last week of summer.  Therefore, I am making it a priority that we have a fun last week doing some of our favorite things.  We began it today by going to one of our favorite places, Como Zoo.

Little Boy, Big Wheels

Today little Ian proved to me again that he's not so little anymore.  He climbed onto the four-wheeler, stepped on the pedal and took off.  I quickly moved the speed to slow and sat back to watch him ride and smile.

Happy Birthday, Nana

Today my mom, the kids' Nana turns another year wiser.  When she was up this past weekend we threw her a little birthday celebration.  It was a lot of fun and an honor to celebrate her.

Happy Birthday, Mom/Nana!  You know how much you mean to us and we are so thankful for you.  We love you lots and hope you have a wonderful and blessed birthday.  

Rainbow Bricks

The kids decided today that our landscape bricks are too plain and boring.  So they came up with the idea to chalk them all bright colors instead.  I just wish I would have taken a after picture of their clothes, I think they were just as colorful as the bricks.

If you're wondering why the jackets, long sleeves and pants?  We've had a few days in the 60's.  Even though it's been a nice little break, I'm ready for those 80's to return by the end of the week.

Swim Lessons

This past week we have been spending our time at the YMCA for swim lessons.  The kids have always been little fish, but had no awareness of solid swim strokes, experts at doggy paddle.  After four lessons, Elyse is now doing front and back strokes as well as treading water for up to a minute.  Unfortunately the boys have not progressed as well due to a lack of being challenged by their teacher.  Overall, we are so proud of them; and hopeful that next summer when we go into deep pools we will be able to leave life jackets at home.

Ham Lake Community Event

While Grandpa and Grandma were in town, we decided to stop by the annual "Ham Lake Community Event" put on by the Ham Lake Fire Department.  I didn't have any high expectations going into it, but overall was very pleased with the event.  Some highlights were the free inflatables, a fireman dunk tank, and shooting water out of the hose to knock down the pretend fires.