Baptism Blessings times Two

We recently were blessed to be a part of the baptisms for Ryan Joseph and Allison Marie.

Andy & I are so thankful to be Godparents to these cuties. 

The sacrament of baptism has always been one of my favorite moments with my own children, and this special celebration was nothing but special as well. 

Seeing these two babies healthy and happy with chubby cheeks, bright eyes, and big smiles is an answer to so many prayers. 

Even though they are only 4 months, they've had quite the journey in life so far.

First, they surprised everyone by cuddling up in their mommy's tummy together. - prayers

Next, they made their arrival just a little earlier than expected. - more prayers

It was a little bit of a tricky start, but these two were blessed with parents who knew just how to take care of them.  - even more prayers

God chose these two babies just for Andrew & Liz. 

God has a plan for them and we are so thankful He trusted this Ryan and Allie to this family. 

We will continue to pray for them as they grow and cuddle them every chance we get. 

 

 

University of Okoboji Triathlon

Andy, Andrew, and Nathan surprised us all and entered in the U of O triathlon.

 The rest of the family enjoyed cheering them on from the sidelines.

They all did great and we were so proud of them. 

Camp Foster: Chld vs. Wild

These 2 kiddos had the greatest time at their week of Camp Foster. 

Their week was entitled: Child vs. Wild.

They had so much fun learning about nature, playing games, hiking, shooting a bow and arrow and even a bb gun. 

They got to be at camp together this year. Each morning they rode the bus together and then Mom and Brooks picked them up by lunch time.

They are both excited for next year!

Family Week

We enjoyed a whole week playing around and having a "stay-cation" with the Mueting side. 

The kids absolutely adore their aunts and uncles and loved having extra time with them.

We spent time on the boat, swimming, at Arnold's Park, and even looking for a wedding dress for Aunt Katie!

It was a jam-packed week full of fun for sure!

Cuddlin' Babies

 The kids and I got to spend some special time with these two cutie pies.

Ryan and Allie are getting so big!

It's so much fun to see their smiles begin to shine.

 We played at the park, had picnics, and just enjoyed some cuddle time.

 Brooks loved finding their belly buttons and tickling them, too.

 Marie and Bennett are both really good helpers. 

Marie is helpful by picking them up, rocking them, giving them their paci, and singing to them. 

Bennett is helpful by playing with their toys and entertaining them.
Brooks is always checking to make sure their belly buttons are still there and loves to hold them too!

Twins Win!

 As if we weren't tired enough (ha!) from our busy weekend, we decided to take off for a day to Minneapolis for a twins game and overnight stay with Uncle Nathan.

The kids camped out on his floor and we finally got to see his apartment.

 While walking to the game, we took our time and played at a few parks. 

It was fun exploring the city.

 We even stopped at a candy store for a quick treat. 

Aunt Jean joined us at the game, too!

 Of course we enjoyed hot dogs, cheese curds, and our ice cream sundaes.

 After the game, we had supper with Uncle Don & Aunt jean. The kids enjoyed exploring their backyard and finding baby frogs and toads to hold.

The kids were just a little tired on the way home!

It's Independence Day

 When you live at the lakes, you can either embrace the craziness of 4th of July or run away from it...we choose to embrace it to the fullest!  That being said, word to the wise: get your groceries by the 2nd of July if you want to maintain your sanity :)

The Friday before the 4th, we started our celebration by spending the afternoon at the beach.

We have 3 beach babies and they are loving their time in water, sand, and sun this summer.

That evening we brought a few pizzas over to Grammy and Papa's house for a little party. 

Yard games, dancing on the deck, and even a surprise water balloon fight took place!

 On Saturday we spent the day on the lake.

The kids enjoyed some tubing and swimming with Uncle Nathan.

 2 boys even enjoyed a little snooze.

 After a full day in the sun, we went back to our house for dinner.

 Andy grilled ribs and we finished with ice cream of course!

Everyone stayed busy with games while we waited for the fireworks show courtesy of Andy.

 Some friends from Sioux City were visiting the lakes and they joined us as well. 

It was a late night filled with playing, games, fireworks, and s'mores. 

The kids made it all the way to midnight!  They were thrilled with that idea and slept in nice and late the next day. 

What a fun night!

 On Sunday, Grandma Nel came to visit. She joined us at Arnolds Park for the afternoon. 

Marie was so excited that Grandma even rode on the rides with her!

 Roller coaster, ferris wheel, log ride, and of course a nutty bar to end the afternoon!

 Following Arnolds Park, we went to cutty's to grill with the rest of the Van Beek family.

The kids played at the park, through rocks in the water, and even played some ball. 

 We ended the night with fireworks by Big Spirit Lake right on the beach...absolutely one of my most favorite things to do.

 After another late night, everyone slept in again. 

We decided to enjoy a low key day and went for a hike and picnic.

The kids enjoyed leading the way and showing Grandma Nel one of our favorite spots. 

 Our weekend was full, fun, and very memorable. 

Happy 4th of July!