Farewell Choir Concert 2026

The girls had their Olentangy Berlin High School Farewell Choir Concert on Wednesday evening. Each choir performed, and their songs were beautiful.

Simon & all of us were there to support Kit and Winnie.

I found myself getting choked up watching the graduating seniors and listening to Mr. S share his reflections. Kit’s senior year isn’t even here yet—and I’m already feeling it.

Emerson's Second Gade Class

 

Here’s Emerson’s second grade class with Mr. Rogers—what a great year it’s been. We’re so grateful for the care and time Mr. Rogers poured into his students.

It’s been especially meaningful how much he’s been able to share with Emerson, offering thoughtful guidance and helpful strategies not just for the classroom, but beyond it as well.

Celebrating Kit’s CNA Achievement

 

Congratulations to Kit for completing her Nurse Aide Training Program through DACC! She put in all the hard work—classroom hours, clinicals, and both the written and skills testing—then waited for the big results. While at Paint Wars with Young Life alongside Regan, they both received the exciting news: they passed! They are now officially Certified Nursing Assistants. Congratulations!

Winnie's Sweet Surprise

 

Winnie shared a pack of Bubble Tape gum with Emerson, and it made his day! Such a small, sweet gesture that brought a big smile.

A Strong Finish for the Silver Whales

 

Emerson and the Silver Whales wrapped up their soccer season with a game that started in the rain but cleared up by the second half. Coached by Joe Hay—Simon’s next-door neighbor—the team had a great season together!

Lady Nukes Season Finale Celebration

 

Winnie attended her end-of-the-season MWX banquet at the Dempsey Event Center—a final hoorah for the Lady Nukes! 

A Beautiful Mother's Day

 

On Mother’s Day, I woke up to a lovely seashell arrangement, a sweet card, and candy from Emerson. Once the girls were back home, we headed out to shop for plants—it was such a beautiful day to be outside. There was also plenty of playing both indoors and out throughout the day. Seth made homemade Northstar-style Buddha bowls for dinner, and the girls surprised me with the perfect decorative bowl. Winnie also made me a lovely picture and wrote the sweetest handwritten note.

Early Mother's Day Celebration with Grandma

 

On Saturday, we visited Grandpa and Grandma Lovie. We brought lunch for an early Mother's Day celebration. Winnie gave Grandma a haircut, and Emerson and Dad helped mow the yard. 

Double Hit at The One Prime Finals

The Lady Nukes crushed it during the second day of finals, hitting zero for the second day in a row! They left everything on the mat and put on a performance that was incredible to watch.

After the awards ceremony, the celebration moved to the resort pool. I love seeing how much these girls truly enjoy their sport—they were even practicing pyramids in the water! Here’s to all their hard work and heart.

Emerson & Dean’s Long-Awaited Playdate

On Sunday, Emerson finally got to host his friend Dean for a playdate they’ve both been looking forward to for a long time! They stayed busy with Nerf gun battles, playing Nintendo Switch, and jumping on the trampoline. After burning off all that energy, they fueled up with quesadillas. It was exactly the kind of fun-filled Sunday they had been waiting for!

Strong Start at The One Prime Finals

 

The Lady Nukes took the stage at the Orlando Convention Center for the first day of The One Prime Finals, and they were fantastic! MWX made the logistics easy with a handy bus service for transportation. 

Since the Florida rain moved in during the evening, Winnie and I spent the night relaxing in our room with a movie and cookies—the perfect way to recharge for another big day tomorrow!

OMEA Competition

 

Congrats to the Advanced Treble Ensemble for their rating of 1 at the OMEA State Choir Contest! Doc and Emerson were there to support Kit and her choir. 

Orlando, Day Two

 

On Friday, the Lady Nukes met up to take pictures, honor the two seniors, and share a lunch. They did a scavenger hunt before heading out to practice. Once back, they had pizza and ice cream. Now, they’re ready to compete!

We also enjoyed a beautiful view of the full moon—the flower moon.

Orlando, Day One

 

Winnie and I touched down in Orlando after a smooth Frontier flight and checked into the beautiful Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort. We kicked things off with a relaxing late lunch by the pool, complete with a visit from a local duck family.

After refueling, we took the shuttle to Disney Springs and walked around before heading over to the Disney Boardwalk. We enjoyed street performers and a wonderful dinner at Trattoria al Forno. After dinner, we caught a great view of the Epcot fireworks before heading back. 

First Goal of the Season

 

A rainy start didn’t keep Emerson from his first goal of the season at Liberty Park. Great job!

Kit Prepares for Her Hospital Job

 

It was a joy to spend Monday afternoon with Kit as she checked off her initial human resources milestones for OhioHealth. She met me at my office, and I was able to head out early so we could navigate all the prep work together before her mid-May orientation. 

She was determined to land a position in her chosen field, and I am so proud of her for reaching this goal. I can’t wait for her to officially start her journey with environmental services at Grady Memorial Hospital!

Spring Showcase

 

This past Sunday marked a major milestone with Winnie’s final MWX Showcase. It was an incredible day of performances, starting with her primary team, Lady Nukes, who did an amazing job on the mat. Winnie also performed with Aftershock, the bonus training team she opted into around the start of the year. 

The best part was the support from the audience. It was so special to have Grandma Jo, her dad, Johnny, and Sarah there with us to cheer her on. 

It was also great to have Johnny and Sarah over in the evening. 

Next up is the final competition of the season in Florida!

Kit's Junior Prom

Prom day kicked off with a PJ brunch at Madeline’s house, where the girls gathered to craft their own bouquets and boutonnieres—a perfect, creative start to the festivities.

Kit and Simon were such good sports, swinging by The Inn so Nana could catch a first glimpse of them all dressed up. The excitement grew as Grandma Jo, Bon Bon, Grandpa, and Grandma Lovie all gathered at our house to cheer on the stunning couple before they headed out.

The group photos took place at the NorthStar Golf Club, followed by a catered Olive Garden dinner at Emerson’s to fuel up for the night ahead. Then, it was off to Kemba  Live for the big dance! Kit reported that the night was a total blast—she even managed to get Simon out on the dance floor!

The celebration didn't end at the dance. The group headed to Gavin’s pool for an after-party, and eventually, the girls broke off for a post-prom sleepover. 

I loved that Kit came home and reported that she had the time of her life.