Our Trip to Kansas

The kids and I got to go on a road trip to go visit the Ciccone family! Tim was out of town for the week (as was Ed), so the timing was great for Maria and I to spend the week together with the kids. She kicked my bootie into shape by bringing me to her gym everyday. I also got a tour of the city and we took the kids downtown to a great kids' crafting place. Of course, the best part was just spending time together and catching up! I miss them!

Pumpkin Picking

Our family enjoyed a day at Lewis' Farm Market in New Era with the Nannenga family - picking out pumpkins, jumping on a giant pillow, riding the Booberry Express, and maneuvering through a corn maze. Oh, not to mention the petting zoo where Ed made a new friend! What a great fall day (except for the temp, that is - I think it was near 75 degrees! Way too warm for me in October, as all who know me are aware)! The kids got to pick any pumpkin they could carry!

Cousin Kelly!

Jake and Claudia finally got to meet their first cousin, Kelly Soo Bin Hwang! Ed's sister, Jane, and her husband, Jong Ho live with their 11 month old daughter, Kelly, near DC, so we don't get to see them much. The kids took to Kelly right away and she enjoyed them as well! We had a great weekend visiting with them at Ed's parents' house in Kalamazoo.

Hope's Homecoming 2008

Ed and I had a chance to return to Holland for Hope's Homecoming this year. Ed's 10 year reunion! Wow! Here are some pics of us with our old and dear friends.

Dorian sisters - Rachel Haveman Eriks, Kerri Langerak Allen, Jodie Manning Talluto, me, Beth Rathbun Bruns, Jen Grieme Haaga, Kara McGillicuddy. And say a prayer for our sister, Nicole McClain and her family - the McClains and Liechtys. Nicole was supposed to be there this weekend but was killed in a car accident on her way. Hard to imagine the loss her family and close friends are feeling...she was one of the most fun, energetic, and inspiring people I have known.

Chris Caldwell, Natalie, Chris Riker, and Ann Caldwell

Jeff and Amy Holloway

Ed and I

Tara Porter and her family

Casey (preggers!) and Steve Coy

Claudia's First Day of Preschool

Claudia started preschool this week! We have had a countdown going for the last two weeks in anticipation of the big day - outfit ready, backpack hanging by the door - and she loved it! As her Mommy, I have been dreading the day, but I held back my tears and was just happy that she was so excited. She came back and told us she played outside in the sand, had a snack, and painted. Already I feel I'm not getting enough information from my child!

I can't believe God has already give us four years at home with our girl. Guess it's time for us to share her!

Summertime!

Is it true? Is summer over? Here are some pics and highlights!

and yes...here is an elephant on Pere Marquette Beach...

Michigan's Adventure, Take 2

I came across these pictures and just had to share Jake's first experience on a "rollercoaster" -- the Frog Hopper...too funny!

And, he was ready for another ride!