Donnie Conquered 18 Holes of Golf

Yesterday was Freshwater's Men's Golf Outing and Papa Maher had invited Donnie to play with him. Donnie has been so excited about it for the entire week leading up to it. I think he told everyone he knows that is playing in an 18 hold golf tournament with his Papa. It was a scramble format and from what I hear Donnie did great! Their foursome came in third place. Donnie had the longest drive in his group on one hole and his team used his putt on about 5 holes. Way to go big guy! Donnie had a blast, thanks Papa!!

Zoar, Ohio

The boys and I and their Mimi went on our first official field trip of the 2011-2012 school year. We visited Zoar, Ohio to learn what life was like during the Civil War Era. Zoar was once a communal society comprised of separatists that did not believe in fighting. It was founded in 1817 by German immigrants. We were able to see what life was like in this little village during the 1800's.We learned how they dyed yarn they used in making clothing.

We visited the "laundromat" and they boys got to wash and rinse the clothes.


After they had rinsed the cloth they also go to squeeze the water out before hanging it up to dry.

We visited the dairy and learned all about collecting and storing milk and making cheese and butter.

Then the boys got to churn butter themselves.

They also learned things like what it was like to be a doctor on the battlefield during the civil war, what a soldier had to wear and what weapons he would have used. The guns were definitely a highlight for both boys. Then, just before we left, they got to see a real cannon work...what a boom! What a fun day we all had together!

Strawberries

When we planted our garden this spring Donnie wanted to plant some strawberry plants. So we bought a container and planted about 10 plants in it. The plants have grown fairly well, but they have produced very little fruit. However, in just the last week or so the boys have been able to pick a little handful of TINY strawberries. They have really enjoyed watching the progress all summer. A good reminder that it's not always about the end product, but the process that is more important.

County Fair

The kids all entered projects in the Medina County Fair this summer. They did a little baking and also entered some arts and crafts as well. Kailin made her chocolate chip pretzel pie, decorated sugar cookies & made chocolate chip quick bread. She also submitted a clay mug that she made at school. Her pie won third place as did her mug. Her cookies took second place. Donnie entered some delicious homemade chocolate cup cakes with white frosting. He also entered a collection of silly bands and a collection of hot wheels. Nathan didn't care to do any baking and just entered a collection on silly bands. His piece of art earned him honorable mention. Great job, kiddos. Daddy and I are proud of all the hard work you put into your projects. You all did a great job!!!

Top Dog!

Kailin headed off to Central Intermediate School as a 6th grader on Thursday excited to be the oldest class this year. She has a team of 4 teachers. Her homeroom teacher is Mrs. Schmitt. She also has Mrs. Heideman, Mrs. Storm, and Mr. Bodjanac. Her first two days were just ok as it was basically time to get to know her new teachers & classmates and learn all the rules. She's looking forward to next week when she'll actually hit the books & start learning! I'm praying for a fantastic fun filled year for you, Kailin! Go get em' kiddo!

Happy Birthday, Leah!

Our niece, Leah, turned 11 a few days ago. We were out of town on her actual birthday so we celebrated with her yesterday. We headed to the pool for a few hours and then came home for tacos and chocolate chip bar cookies. The kids had fun playing kickball in the backyard and then settled in the basement for a sleepover. I can't believe they weren't all up at 6 AM when the thunderstorm hit! Leah, you are such a neat young lady. We love your sweet spirit and tender heart! So glad Kailin has such a wonderful girl cousin to grow up with! What a blessing to have you so close! Keep searching hard after God! Happy Birthday, we love you!

Happy Birthday CD!

Our nephew, Carson, turned six years old in July so we headed South to Cincinnati to help him celebrate his big day. He had an army themed party at Lifetime Fitness. The kids had a great time climbing a rock wall and maneuvering through an obstacle course. Glad we could be there to help you celebrate, CD!

The cadets gather for a group photo after conquering the rock wall.

Carson races his way through the obstacle course.Carson blows out his candles. Apparently one of his buddies thought he needed a little help.

Hanging out at Uncle Brian's and Aunt Mandy's after the party. Not a bad pick of the 5 of them. I was sure as they got older that getting them all looking at the camera and smiling would get easier, apparently not. Would someone please teach my boys how to smile naturally for a picture!
A couple of 6 year old hunks sporting their cool dude matching T-shirts! Good gravy, how is it possible that they are 6 already?!?! Nate wishes desperately that his Cuz lived closer, but we'll take a few hours away and the chance to see one another several times a year rather than across country and maybe once a year. The miles don't affect our love for you! We love you big dude and had so much fun hanging with ya for your birthday! Have a blast in first grade!