Coming February 2013

Many of you may have guessed, wondered or just thought I was gaining weight so here it is. We had our first ultrasound today and have great confirmation that we are just about 12 weeks pregnant and due February 18! Strong heartbeat and VERY active baby. The morning sickness and exhaustion has been nothing like I've ever had. But things are better and the kids could not be more thrilled!!!!! We told them by giving them each a gift that was a baby item. The look on their faces was priceless. Especially Isabelle. Pure joy. Interesting to see who reads this first...:)

Bieber

Oliver is officially obsessed with Justin Bieber. He found his jewelry that we bought him on a cruise 3 years ago and insists on wearing it. He's quite certain that Justin wears the same stuff. He's also perfecting the "dougie" that his sister taught him after going to camp. Hilarious. He walks around singing "Boyfriend" and even has all the moves. I'm pretty sure if we sent him to L.A., he would land a part on Disney channel!

Note

A note that I found when Amelia came home from camp. Every time she emailed me from camp, she thanked us for letting her go. Love her gratefulness...

Golf

First, let me say I love my new Blogger iPhone app. I can publish blog posts in just a few seconds without having to download my photos to my computer first and then posting. It's so easy! Maybe I will keep up now?? So golf is a love of our kids. Isabelle could do without the heat (not sure who she got that from) but they all enjoy it. Preston is a total natural. Ollie is darn good when he can keep his feet from dancing. And Eli just listens and pretends he is part of the class.

Five Beach Babies

Here is our updated photo of the five monkeys at the pool.

Camp

Today was bittersweet as we dropped the two middles off at camp. I don't do well leaving my kids. Not because I don't trust who's in charge, but because I have a hard time enjoying myself when I miss them. Amelia went to Springhill last year for 4 days but did not want to come home. We agreed to let her go for a week this year. She is there with Sierra and Sophie, amongst other girls from school that happened to be there too. Preston went with Laiken and he will stay for 4 days. Man alive it was hot! We left them with fans, water bottles, bibles, journals, stuffed animals and enough clothing for many days and changes!!! I wish I could go. The property is georgous with lakes, water park, zip lines, a farm, horse riding, wall climbing, art, and the list goes on. They do bible study every day with journal writing to follow. Cannot wait to hear all about it!!!!

Spring Hill

The oldest 3 kiddos are at camp this week and LOVING it. Spring Hill Christian Camp travels and come to Traverse City every summer. I wish I could go. The moment we arrive, a dozen camp counselors are singing on the sidewalk and cheering for the children. They know them all by name on the second day, even if they are not in their group. The positive atmosphere whirls and forces a good mood, even if it was a morning of tears. The kids beg not to leave and they speak of the bible lessons they learned that day. The problem solving skills leave an impression as well. The relationships formed are unforgettable, leaving the kids eager for next year.

On Wednesday, it was CRAZY hair day. Despite my hairy week with Scott in Orlando working and donating time at a center for children who have cancer, etc., Monja leaving to go back to Germany, kids at camp and girls getting ready for skate competition in GR next weekend, we still managed to get to Sally's to buy some colorful hair dye. The kids each had a style in mind, which meant getting up EARLIER than we already had to. And, of course, Eli and Ollie had to take part as well. I guess since Ollie is in an ART, THEATER and MUSIC camp this week, the hair do suited well. Enjoy the pics!!