Okoboji

We had our annual Lake Okoboji trip over Labor Day.  We had a big group this year - the five of us, my parents, Matt and Janelle, and Janelle's parents and her sister's family.  We all had a great time and the kids had fun with Janelle's niece and nephew at Arnold's Park, swimming off the dock, and boating.  I love the lake, I just wish it wasn't such a long drive!

Horseback Riding Lessons

Kayley is our animal lover.  She loves them all, but especially dogs, cats and horses.  We bought her one horseback riding lesson for her birthday to see how she liked it.  She LOVED it.  So did Ryan.  The teacher was so sweet and let Ryan get on for a little bit too.  Kayley has been begging for more lessons so I took her another time and she is hooked.

August Omaha Trip

We made a quick road trip to Omaha in August for Matt and Janelle's Omaha wedding celebration.  We got to spend some time with Andy's side of the family and see my extended family that came to town for Matt and Janelle's party.  It was a quick trip, but a great time!

Sox and Mitch reunited

The local high school marching band was
practicing Saturday morning and we got
a special performance right in front of
Mitch and Kate's house.  

Ryan, JD and Drew in the pool

This might be the smallest hotel pool
we have ever seen!

Ryan and Grandpa

The kids were dying to go down the
water slide into the pool!

Grandma and Kayley

Kalkwarf Family

Kalkwarf and Swanson Families

Mom and 3 of her siblings - Jan, Sharon and Larry

Kalkwarf and Swanson Families again

First Day of School 2017

We have a 5th grader, a 4th grader and a Kindergartener!  I still remember very clearly holding an infant Ryan in my arms while sending Drew off to Kindergarten.  Unlike with Drew, I didn't cry sending Ryan off to Kindergarten.  It helped tremendously that he didn't cry.  And the thought of not paying for daycare helped too!

Back to School Night - Ryan got to meet
his teacher (same teacher Kayley had)
and see his classroom the night before
school started.  

4th grade, Kindergarten, 5th grade

Neighborhood friends

Excited to get on the bus

So tired after his second day of school!