Gumdrop cookies

While Shecklet #2 and Shecklet #3 went to ski/snowboard, Shecklet #1 and Shecklet #4 helped me in the kitchen. We made a batch of one of my favorite cookies from childhood – my Grandma Fran’s gumdrop cookies.

Another day at the lake

We’ve been fortunate enough to make several trips to Nissedalen this summer. Today is the second Saturday in a row that the kids have spent the majority of the day in their swimsuits being pulled behind a boat. They are at such a great age for having fun in the water and playing independently. (I spent most of the day watching them from the shore – in the shade.)

No photos of the day, just memories I’m keeping in my head. I hope the kids are able to do the same <3

Nissedalen – Day 6 – 2020

We stayed an extra day so we could see one of Jake’s cousins who we haven’t seen since last fall. It was great to see her and meet the friends she is spending time with this week at Nissedalen.

After lunch, we took Jake’s grandma to visit Jake’s uncle, another cousin and her kids. We went on a pontoon ride, the kids swam and tubed, and we sat on the dock and chatted. It was another amazing day. I don’t think we could have asked for better weather than we have had this week.

Grandma Lois treated all of us to pizza before we loaded up our truck to head home. We are returning with sun-kissed cheeks and a week of fun memories 💕

Nissedalen – Day 1 – 2020

This was my view today.

I know I’ve taken similar pictures in the past, but I love this view so much. It is such a relaxing place to be, especially after the last six months. I’m grateful Jake’s grandma is willing to give us the opportunity to vacation here. This summer we were able to bring friends with us. The kids are having so much fun. And it’s only day 1!

Here’s my evening view.

Shecklet #3 at the lake

Five of us came home from the lake Monday night. Shecklet #3 stayed two more days and hung out with her cousin. From the sounds of it, they spent A LOT of time in the water, visited the candy store in town, and had a great time playing and laughing.

Jake drove up this afternoon to pick her up (and bring our kayaks to the lake.) Her cousins left earlier in the afternoon, so she got to spend a few hours one-on-one with Grandma Lois. They went to A&W for dinner, had a visit from Jake’s aunt and uncle who live in the area, and had some much needed down time.

A day at Nissedalen

Jake took a day off of work (but did get on two video calls) so we could spend the day at the lake. The kids had a blast hanging out with some of their cousins and visiting Great Grandma Lois.

HBD #7 to #4! 🥳

Hard to believe this ambulance baby has been making us smile and laugh for 7 years! She brings such joy to our house.  I love her creativity, her confidence, and her love for others.

We enjoyed celebrating twice with her – once the weekend before her birthday (with family and friends) and on her actual birthday.

Ninja bread cookies

That’s not a typo in the title.

The Shecklets made ninja bread cookies (with a gingerbread mix) and decorated them for Grandma Lois’ Christmas today. They also cut out dog bones and dinosaurs because they totally make you think of Christmas, right? 😂🎄🦕

Cheering section

Shecklet #3 played 4 games of basketball this weekend. Saturday, her great grandma, one of her great aunts and future wife of Jake’s cousins came to watch her play. Then on Sunday, Grandma and Grandpa cheered her on. 🏀

A Busy St. Patrick’s Day

Shecklet #3 learned about leprechauns last year in kindergarten. Her teacher’s room was apparently colored green while everyone was out of the room and little footprints led to the bathroom where the toilet water was colored green. This St. Patrick’s Day, #3 decided to set a trap to catch a leprechaun. 🍀 I should have taken a picture of her elaborate trap, but I did capture the letter she wrote.

Shecklet #2 decided he wanted a fedora (after a friend of his wore one to school on Thursday.). We found that one was available at Old Navy, so we stopped to check it out today while running errands. Not only did he find the fedora, but also a skateboarding bulldog shirt to complete the outfit. This kid is so much fun! I hope he always keeps his confident sense of style.

The Shecklets all wanted to look dressed up with ties for Grandma Patti’s birthday celebration this evening.

We gathered at Grandma Lois and Papa Dale’s house to have grasshopper pie for Grandma Patti’s birthday.