Last Day of School!!!

 Well, thank the good Lord above, today is the last day of school for Claire and Jesse.  It has been a year full of ups and downs, and challenges, but it is over!  They have both grown in leaps and bounds.  This school year Jesse has really physically grown, and looks like a young man to me now, not a kid.....

 Jesse is now my height, though much thinner!  Claire has grown in height, but not much in weight.  That's no surprise to me, because she never stops!!!! Ever!!

The kids are looking forward to a relaxing summer with our trip to the beach coming up, and lots of fun outside time...also golf for Jesse!

Well, lots coming up, so I'll post again soon!

End of school......

 Jesse was awarded several certificates at his 6th grade ceremony....but was most proud of his 300 ish AR points that got him a gold medal.  Nana and PawPaw came to watch as well as Grandma.  Proud of Jesse and still can't believe he's going to be a 7th grader!!

 Gift Card Bouquet I made with many gift cards  received from Claire's classmates for her 1st grade teacher's end of the year gift....actually was quite fun to make!!

Jesse The Yellow Belt

 Jesse tested Friday for his Yellow belt and did great.  He is now a yellow belt with Camo being the one to test for next.  We will see how Jesse does this summer!

Good job Jesse!

Mother's Day Fun!

We had the pleasure of Mother's Day Brunch at my mom and dad's house, along with my grandmother. Still as spry and active as can be!!  We enjoyed the sunny day, and delicious brunch!  We then spent some time with Lance's mom and his family!  We are so blessed to have both sets of parents here nearby!  Hope everyone had a fantastic Mother's Day!!

Spring Critters and more

 Well , anyone who knows me knows I love critters and all the wildlife that inhabits my yard!  Lance....not so much.  I was delighted this week when these golden finches decided to visit one of my feeders. Hope they stay all summer!!!

 Claire with her new skates from Nana and PawPaw!  She is getting the hang of it! Below is our newest skink.  We have at least 3 adults and several babies scattered around our yard!  Claire is the only one they will come to. She must be the skink whisperer or something!

 Claire goofing off at the UofM baseball game!

 This critter I wasn't so sure I wanted in the middle of the day in my yard....then in our garage recycling bins the net day!

Our Baby is 7!

 We really are having trouble believing Claire turns 7 this week!  She celebrated her Birthday this weekend surrounded by family and friends ay CROSSFIRE Commandos.  The kids had an absolute blast, and were all exhausted when it was over....that makes for happy parents!

 Claire picked out the fabric and cupcake for her birthday outfit and was perfect for all the running and jumping she did!

 Mommy and Claire before heading out for the big party!

 Claire listening to the rules before beginning the party!

 She was the first one harnessed but all the kids were so excited and not quite sure what to expect!

 Everyone being so patient at their turn on the mega trampoline!

 Claire with buddy Conor in tow.

 The kids loved running and flying into that pit!

 At this point Jesse realizing he might be getting a bit old for this.....

 the  12 year old cousins still having a great time!

 The kids doing some sort of mission in the pit......

 All ready for the zip line!

 Claire specifically requested cookie cakes this year....I think everyone enjoyed the change....I have to say, I did still make 2 dozen cupcakes just in case.....they were eaten too!!

 Claire's sweet sweet friends!

This is our very tired little girl at the end of her party....She said she didn't think she had any smiles left!  We are so greatful for so many friends and family who came to wish Claire a very Happy #7!!  We love you all!!

Gretchen

Bring On Spring!!!

 One of my most favorite times of year is Spring!  No humidity, lots of fun things to do outside, and school is almost out!!

 We noticed Thursday that our front door wreath is now home to some adorable little finches ( I believe that's what they are)  I hope they stay around for a while.  We check the nest every morning hoping to find some little eggs!

 Claire picked out the fabric for a little outfit she wants to wear on her Birthday!  So fun!

 Claire had the opportunity to take a horseback riding lesson out in Eads, TN and it was the most beautiful place!  Claire was given this adorable little pony, Lego, to ride!  I think they made a perfect match!  Gretchen got to ride and take care of Callie!

 Claire leading her horse to the riding area.

 Gretchen riding around while Claire took her lesson.

 By mid lesson, Claire had the hang of it and was turning and stopping Lego with no problems.

Claire leading Lego back into the stable to clean him off and brush him down.  Claire loved every minute of her lesson!

We have a ton going on over the next few weeks, so I promise to post again real soon!

Love, Gretchen

Spring Picture Day

 Let me start by saying that the mornings around our house are not pleasant.  More like "The Witching Hour" actually.  The fact that I was able to get these pictures snapped before they were picked up by carpool is a miracle in itself.  Nonetheless, the kids looked dapper in their Sunday clothes!  Let's just say they did not look the same at 3pm today! Claire was missing a headband and a sweater, and Jesses's shirt was untucked and had grass markings on his pants...Hope those pics were taken first thing in the am!!