Trip to Michigan

We headed up to Fennville/Saugatuck, Michigan for a family reunion for my mom's side of the family last weekend. We rented the cutest cottages that were brand new this summer and they were so creatively decorated. (check out their website: www.dollybrookresort.com)

We found the best beach (Pier Cove) right by the cottages that had a stream the kids could play in! Milo has become so much more independent at the beach and loves to explore!

Lila is always the most adventurous one!

Before the reunion we went blueberry picking at a small organic farm. The blueberries were perfect for picking and so mush easier than strawberries where you have to crouch down.

The reunion was great and it was so nice to catch up with family we have not seen in a long time. My aunt and uncle hosted at their cottage on a small lake and the setting was beautiful and the kids had a great time!

My mom with all of her siblings in birth order, it was so great that all of them made it out!

My mom had the idea to make these goldfish cupcakes and Kim and I helped the night before. Who knew that this "little" project would be so labor intensive, but fun!

A boat ride on the lake

The highlight of the trip for me was Milo swimming in the lake. He had on a life vest and used a noodle and kicked and floated for over an hour!

He was pretty proud of himself!

On Sunday we went to another beach with the Leeuw and Little families and Milo had fun playing with his friends. Here he is pulling Owen on a sled, which is apparently a great beach toy...who knew?!

This hole in the sand entertained Milo and Owen for a LONG time!

We had a great long weekend and mini-vacation!

Cleveland...well actually Chagrin Falls

Eric's parents recently moved to Chagrin Falls, OH just outside of Cleveland and we went out for a visit last weekend. They live in the cutest town which has a little main street within walking distance. Here is Milo at the farmer's market.

The falls, which were really pretty and Milo had a blast exploring with his Papa!

Eric and his dad let Milo use Eric's old Playmobil pirate ship and I am not sure who had more fun with it....Eric remembered every detail of it and he and his dad were intensely focused on setting it up just right!

We had a great weekend and it is so nice to have Eric's parents closer!

4th of July and Lucy's 4th Birthday!

As we do every year, we headed up to Wisconsin for the 4th of July and to celebrate Lucy's birthday. We had gorgeous weather and had a great weekend!

The strawberries we picked were delicious and we made desserts and jam and it seems the kids enjoyed a few too....

Milo "helping"


Touchdown Lila!

The pool my parents set up in the yard was a huge hit and the kids spent hours in there!

We hit the kiddie amusement park in Green Bay again, could these 2 be any sweeter?!

Go speed racer!

Milo sporting an 80's look while painting a bird house.

The view from the deck...note a naked Lila trying to play T-ball!

I can't believe Lucy is 4! But she does act like a little girl now and is so clever and makes us laugh all the time! Here she is with her Hello Kitty cake Kim made (I helped a little).

She kept saying she wanted to "smash" her cake, this is what she meant...

Milo too of course

Bonfire on the 4th.

Wouldn't be a fire without a s'more.

First sparkler...can he hold it any further away?

3 Years Old!

I know it sounds cliche but how can my baby be 3 years old already?!? I remember the day he was born and all the pain and nervousness I felt...I was overwhelmed with the responsibility before me and now I am overwhelmed with love and adoration for my son who has taught me so much. He has brought such joy into my world and it never ceases to amaze me that love like this can exist. Milo, you are so inquisitive, nurturing, creative, kind and funny...you make me laugh everyday! You love to care for kids smaller than you and you speak in the sweetest, loving voice which makes me SO excited to see you as a big brother. You are going to be such an amazing teacher and friend to your brother.

I feel so blessed that God chose me to be your mom and I also feel blessed that you are the person you are, my precious Milo Jude.

Excited for the Blueberry Ice Cream pie Mama made!

Milo's Birthday Party

Opening his new grill from Puppy and Grammy...he was thrilled!

Construction Zone party!

While opening presents he wanted to read the books he just opened, that kids has his priorities straight!

Decorating his cake was so fun this year!