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!

A League of Their Own

Marie and Andy had a very busy spring with soccer and tball going on at the same time. 

 Marie worked really hard learning the game of t-ball and practicing her skills. 

She is definitely a little athlete. 

The final game even gave her the chance to hit the ball from a coach's pitch!

We are so proud of her effort and hustle with sports this spring. She showed a lot of hard work and dedication.

Welcome to age 4, Bennett Andrew!

Bennett turned 4!

 To celebrate, he invited some of his classmates from pre-school for hot dogs and ice cream cake. 

To get some of their energy out, Dad designed an obstacle course for the kiddos to run through first!

 Marie and another older brother of one of the guests, helped put super hero tattoos on everyone. 

Bennett is such an inquisitive boy. He says things and makes connections that make us adults say, "Huh, you are so right!" 

His one-liners are impeccable and his comedic timing is unreal...even when he is supposed to be in trouble, he usually makes me laugh (secretly, of course).

 He requested donuts and spagetti for his big day, and that's just what he got!

 Bennett at 4:

favorite color - red or orange

best friend - Marie

favorite thing to do - swim or golf with dad

favorite toy - lightsaber

Bennett, you are such a smart and funny boy. You challenge us every day by asking good questions and by pushing limits. You are kind-hearted and we are so happy we are able to watch you grow!

We love you!

Father's Day

We enjoyed a lovely day with Grammy and Papa on Father's Day. 

Dinner, park, naps, and the boat made a nearly perfect day, nearly perfect!

 

These 2 fathers are such a blessing to our whole family. 

I am so thankful to have my angel of a Dad looking down on us, an irreplaceable Papa, and husband who is the exact Father I need for our children.

I came across this quote and I feel it is perfect for this day: