Today was such a beautiful day that we thought we'd spend our day outside doing something we have never done, geocaching. We started off with a few disappointments, but ended our day with some fun finds. Kids are super excited to make this a common family activity.
Today the kiddos participated in their school's annual "Mane Event". Each kid participated in one of the races. Maddie ran the Cub run (1/3) and did great; while Elyse, Caleb, Kallen, Ian and dad participated in the 1.5 miles. Their course involved lots of running, tire obstacles, lily pads over a freezing pool, rope course, ninja stagier steps, a giant wall, mud pit, and car wash. After they all successfully crossed the finish line, they quickly dried off and changed; and then played on the playground, ate Pizza Ranch pizza, and hung out with friends. The entire morning was beautiful and nonstop fun for our entire family.
Today, our little girl officially becoming a teenager. It really is crazy to think that she is now a teen. She is so full of life and loves being around friends and family. She continues to love drama, singing, volleyball, and makeup. She tends to be the life of the party and can be found talking, listening to music, or dancing on any occasion. She continues to love the Lord which is the greatest thing we can ask for. Her personality can still be described as extroverted, enthusiastic, kind, and a night owl!
Elyse celebrated 13 as she often does, at school and with a family party. I even was able to decorate her locker, unfortunately, she is too cool for me to take a picture of her now. At home, she opened gifts and ate all her favorites for dinner, chicken Cesar salad, potatoes, and cheesecake. We love you so much Elyse and are so glad you had such a great first day of being a teenager. HAPPY 13th BIRTHDAY, BEAUTIFUL!
This past week we kicked off school on Monday and headed up north on Friday for our annual friend/school camping trip. This year involved a few more families, a total of 14 which changed a little of the dynamic but once again we all had a wonderful time overall. We borrowed the same camper from other school friends and couldn't have asked for better weather and company. We spent our time outside watching the kids play, participated in some competitive bocce-ball and ultimate frisbee games, fished, attended our own church service, rode bikes, took hikes, and spent lots of time around the campfire laughing and/or sharing stories. Can't wait again till next Labor Day weekend!
Today marked another start to a school year for the kids at Legacy Christian Academy. Once again the school welcomes the kiddos with nothing but fun; lots of picture backdrops, props, the mascot, music, staff, and orange carpet. The kids were so excited to see all their friends and staff again.
This week was Elyse's turn at Camp Lebanon. She has been waiting since the Sunday we dropped Caleb off. She loves camp here and this week just confirmed her passion for it. Plus, she was grouped into the junior high level so it involved more late nights and big people games which she was all about. I know she's sad to be home, but we are happy to have her back.
This past Sunday until today it was Kallen's turn at Camp Lebanon. Kallen brought so many tears to me at our goodbye. We said goodbye and then I heard the cabin door reopen and him yell, "Mom!" He was running to me and then gave me the biggest hug saying, "I love you and I'm really going to miss you." A moment I will forever treasure. Anyway even though goodbyes were hard, he did great! He went with one of his best friends and had such a wonderful time. He did lots of swimming, ziplining, laser tag, shooting, worship, bible studies, and games. Also was super cool that he had the same cabin and leader as Caleb did. Love Camp Lebanon.
