Apples, Pumpkins, Weddings, and 24/7 Internet Access!

Well, our weekend in Indiana is almost over and we've had a great time. There were beautiful fall colors everywhere. It was nice enjoying real fall for a change. We went to the Apple Orchard (where they also had pumpkins), attended a wedding, and had 24/7 access to the internet. For those of you that don't know, we've been hanging out at my parents' house (also known as the middle of nowhere) for the last 5 months waiting on a house to buy. While we are VERY thankful for their hospitality we've been internet deprived and frankly the people at Panera and Starbucks back home are probably starting to think we're stalking them. It was nice enjoying internet access in the privacy of a home for a change! Inspired by Erin S. on her blog I've been trying to improve my photography skills. Although my husband walks away from me when I have to squat down on the ground to take a picture of a crate of apples.Congratulations Kevin and Sandi! Thanks for a great weekend Nana and Papa!

"We Did Stuff"

Well, it's official I now have a kid in kindergarten.  This morning at 7:20 I walked Peyton into Mrs. Shinholser's class and he acted like he was an old pro.  He was so excited and neither worry nor nervous were in his vocabulary this morning. This was shortly before I left and started sobbing in my car.Peyton with his wonderful teacher.  Peyton with his good buddy, Ashley.  Peyton with the full-time volunteer in his class, Mrs. Stratton.  The kids on the way to school.  The boys on their first day of school (Rylee declined to take part in the photo op by throwing herself on the floor). 

I talked to Peyton this afternoon on the phone and here's his summary of his first day of kindergarten:  "We played on the playground, did stuff, wrote stuff, and then I rode the bus."  I guess that pretty much covers it!

Camp Belzer Reunion

Even though Jon is no longer the director at Camp Belzer we couldn't spend a summer without visiting this place that has been such a big part of our lives (I mean, really, our second child was conceived there). So we've been twice in the last few weeks. The first time on Friday for fun and campfire and the second time yesterday for the annual "Christmas in July" festivities. The boys love being at camp and we love seeing all our Belzer Family. Jon and I with our buddies Shane and Sarah. Rylee discussing her gift with Santa. No trip to Camp is complete without a few golf cart rides. Austin joined us for fun on Friday. Brady and Austin, born three weeks apart and good buddies. Brady and Rylee with Barb and Lois, our "camp Moms." (I'm not sure what's with all the underlining)

Back Home in Indiana-Part I

Well, as we are about 1/2 way into our stay in Indiana I thought I would post our adventures so far. First, celebrating one 2-year-old's birthday. Sweet Little Angel playing in Nana and Papa's pond. Not-so-sweet two-year-old playing the part well.

Next, Jon and I headed to the Windy City to watch the Cubs play at Wrigley Field and enjoy a little alone time.

• Watch Cubbies play-Check
• Enjoy alone Time-Check
• Enjoy beautiful summer weather-Not so much, it was cold and rainy. . .except the day we left, of course. Jon at his own little piece of heaven on earth. Jon and I enjoying the game even though the Cubs lost.

Next, it was spending some time with the Spencer family-lots of cousins = lots of fun! Rylee with her Papa. Peyton, Isabel, Claire, and Brady. All eight of them (well, most of Andrew, I cut off his head! Sorry, Andrew!) There they all are-with their silly faces on!

And finally, a trip to McCormick's Creek State Park yesterday was a great way to spend a bright, sunny afternoon in Indiana. Coming Attractions -Holiday World, Visiting Camp, the Indy Zoo with the Tunings!

Born on the 6th of July!

Well, it's official there are no more babies in the Spencer household. As of 8:21 am this morning Rylee Jane is 2! She was an unexpected blessing in our lives and has been a wonderful blessing ever since. . . even when she's tackling both her brothers at the same time. She's one of those blessings in life that I didn't know I needed until she was here. Happy Birthday Rylee!

Happy 4th of July Day!!!!

Love,
Peyton, Rylee Jane, & Brady

He's Growing Up

No, your eyes are not deceiving you I am updating my blog. And it's for a very special reason. Peyton had his preschool graduation last night and that just means one more step closer to kindergarten. I'm quite sure I'm not ready for him to take this big step in his life but he certainly can't wait. In fact, he asked us last night if when he woke up this morning if he could go to kindergarten. Then we had to explain the whole summer concept. A concept, as two teachers, is very near and dear to our hearts.

The theme for the program was "Power Lab" as in God's Power. Ms. Dawn and Ms. Kathy and the rest of the staff did an amazing job with the music, dancing (in a Baptist church, imagine!), and decorations. Here's the proof: Peyton and Madeline rockin' The graduate with his diploma. Peyton with Reid and Beau. They've been in preschool together since they were in the infant class. Peyton with his buddies Jack and Morgan. Peyton with his wonderful, wonderful teacher Ms. Dawn. I could not have asked for a better teacher for my son. If I can't be with my son 24/7 I'm so glad he has the MOST loving, sweet, fun teacher any 5-year-old could ask for. We love you Ms. Dawn. Great-Grandad Bob and Grandma Frances came to see (and help with Rylee Jane). Ryan and the girls were there, too. Madison was a big help with Rylee. She is such a little mom and very helpful to have around. Maci has been giving Peyton the 411 on kindergarten as she is about to be a veteran of that whole deal. She informed me the other day they don't have a graduation for kindergarten-the nerve! Grandma and Grandad attending their 2nd preschool program in a week. Mommy and Daddy with our baby. Let the countdown begin for Life Milestone: Starting Kindergarten.