Reunited!

Our Kansas friends were visiting MN for the weekend. (They were supposed to stay with us, but Shecklet #4’s week-long sickness changed that plan.) Instead, I took the three older Shecklets to the hotel where they were staying so he kids could swim. And swim they did! For about 3 hours! They each chowed down two hamburgers on the ride home. 

Spring concert #1

Shecklet #3 had her spring music concert tonight. Before singing, she showed us her art projects at the art fair. 

Goodbye Cooper

With tears in our eyes, we had to say goodbye to Cooper today. He was such a good companion. He had some crazy habits (and loved to steal crayons) but was my loyal buddy for 13 of his 16 years. I’ll never forget his sweet face. 😥

Up the nose

Today we learned the lesson titled, “This is why you don’t put a jellybean up your nose.” First time in almost 11 years of parenting. I think I’ll call that a win.

Celebrating Shecklet #2

We had to cancel the family birthday party for Shecklet #2 last weekend due to #4 being ill. (Shecklet #2 was still able to celebrate with his friends at Bowlero though, and he had a great time.) Instead, we were able to get together with all of Jake’s side of the family (except for Bri, who didn’t come to MN with Jason this time.) #2 wanted to go to a hibachi restaurant, so that’s what we did. It was great being together!


The original seven 🙂

Old school video games

Shecklet #2 got a Raspberry Pie computer for his birthday and has been playing old school video games on it. It’s a blast from the past for me to watch the kids play some of them. Today, #2 helped Shecklet #4 play. Melt my heart!

Purge and re-org

A spring cleaning bug bit me today (late in the afternoon) and I completely emptied the girls’ closets. We pulled out things they had outgrown and passed them down accordingly. The things that no longer fit Shecklet #4 are bagged and ready to be given to a younger little girl. The reorganization of their closets gives me a sense of peace. I know that sounds strange, but it’s true. (Not sure how long that peace will last, but I have it for at least the night.)

The bins on the shelf are full of sentimental items. I go through them every so often and am trying to get past the “mental” part of the sentimentality. Truth is though, it’s hard. Everything has a memory. Jake helped me with a few items tonight and I’m really grateful for his input.

Next up – the boys’ closet 😬

Shecklet #3 turns 9!

Scrolling through pictures brings back so many memories of this guy.  He is full of life, laughs, tricks, creativity & determination.  This past year we have seen him grow in so many ways, both academically and physically.  (Every time I turn around, I notice that his pants are above his ankles!)  As a 3rd grader, he tried basketball for the first time and loved it – wants to play again next year.  He enjoys time with his friends (at school and in the neighborhood) and is always up for working on a project or craft.  (Pinterest is one of his favorite places to find new ideas to try.)

Happy birthday Shecklet #3!  We love you so very, very much!

Here’s a few pictures from our family celebration with the new 9 year old tonight.