Camping at the Indiana Dunes

We planned a camping trip at the Indiana dunes state park with two Alphonsus families.  We had a blast.  We got there late afternoon on Saturday so we were just going to check out the beach.  The kids didn't adhere to that message and all of them were soaked but happy within an hour.  

Swimming with their buddy Grayson

Then it was back to the camp fire for hot dogs, salad and, of course, smores.

Girls tent!

Twin love!

After a quick breakfast on Sunday, it was back to the beach to explore the dunes.  The kids had an absolute blast.  Lourdes and Sabine are in their gymnastics uniforms because mom forgot a bathing suit.  But, hey, it worked.

Ben and all the girls.  Lucky man!

Dad and his crazies

Sliding down the dunes is fun

June happenings

Finn was invited to an indoor skydiving birthday party.  This looked so sweet, mom and dad had to try it out a few weeks later.  

Our boy successfully completed second grade

And we celebrated by going to Montrose beach with his class.  Kids had a blast!

The girls loved science camp.  Here they are getting their STEM on!

And the whole family took in The Sound of Music.  Loved!

Memorial Day in Ohio

Fun Memorial Day weekend in Chicago started off by hitting the Bexley pool with grandma and the cousins. 

Followed by ice cream cake for the recent birthdays!

Then a wonderful fishing trip to Grandma Laser's house with Papa and Gigi.  The fish were biting and the kids had a blast.  

Love this picture of the kids with Laser!

Delicious cookout at Michelle and Greg's house.

My first attempt at a panoramic shot.

  
Finished off the trip by taking turns on Molly's tree swing.  This thing can go so high!

Sabine and Lourdes are Graduates!

First my boy turns 8 and then my girls graduate pre-school.  Some tears were shed on my part, but Lourdes and Sabine were ecstatic.  Here is them owning the graduation parade around the school.

The Oh What a Miracle song brings tears every time.  These kids are such miracles.  Tiny little babies a minute ago and now strong, smart, determined soon-to-be kindergarteners!  

Congratulations graduates!

Sabine and Lourdes adore Ms. Fran and Mrs. Kopfer.  They will miss them terribly next year!

Random Happenings

The first warm day in May is the perfect time to get your toes ready for summer. 

Sometimes our bed situation gets a bit out of control.  At least the kids are comfy.

Cubs Scouts Beach Party

Another great year of Scouts was capped off with a beach party at the Muellers.  The kids had a blast making smores and also building an enclosure for a bunny they randomly found near the beach.  

Val and Paul are saints for taking on this challenge every year and the boys absolutely love them for it!

My Baby Boy is 8!

My sweet baby is 8! He's been called "the most interesting boy I know" and I don't disagree. His varied interests never fail to impress me. He's also the sweetest, cuddliest boy I know. And the child who gave me the greatest gift by making me a mom.