In Preparation to End the Summer

It was such a hot day that we decided to spend some time in the car and go on a day trip to Spokane to go to the River Park square area in Spokane, WA. It was a good way to wrap up the summer. We have not gone on vacation this summer with a new baby and a new home to keep us busy, so this was all for the kids (except a quick trip to Target)! We went to Red Robin, the candy shop, the merry-go-round, and for a walk in the park!

Madeline and the elegant horse. Those red cheeks show how hot we are! It was the one portion of the day when we were not in air conditioning.

Ivan chose a giraffe, obviously, but he later realized there was a tiger. That would have been pretty cool, he thought.

The clock tower.

Ivan chased hundreds of ducks and geese back into the water.

Fiona took interest in something her own size. I really enjoy watching a 2 month old discover newness.

Madeline's Amazing Spin Moves

Ivan's Fantastic Diving Moves

Happy Birthday to Madeline

Madeline turned 5 yesterday. Madeline informed me this morning that she is a grown up now and that she will no longer be needing any spankings. I told her that I hoped this was true based on obedience. I am thankful that God gives us more than 5 years to train children!!

This year was a little different for Madeline's birthday fun. She didn't have all her little girlfriends over this year, but I think she still had a blast. I decided that the state of our house and my general disorganization as a new mom of 3 was not a good mix with a dozen little girls. She did manage to have two family parties and a date with her friend Olivia. We took them to McDonalds and to see Wall-E. How weird to think that I have a 5 year old.

At 5 Madeline is unpredictable, energetic, devoted, determined, passionate, and creative.
She is a swimmer, a reader, an artist, a helper, and of course a joy. We are very thankful for 5 wonderful years with her and approximately 1,825 blessed days with her.

Pictures by Madeline

Madeline had her 5th birthday today. The big present she got was a camera from Deacon and Me and Nana and Grandpa. So today we announce her new blog: Pictures by Madeline. Check it out!