Kit's Senior Homecoming

 

Kit had a full Homecoming Day! It started with brunch at Piper’s, followed by getting ready at home and enjoying some special time together talking and getting everything ready for the big night.

She headed to Highlands Park in Westerville for pictures before dinner at Giammarco’s Italian Restaurant. Thankfully, Simon was able to make it after a trip to the ER because of hives—not an allergic reaction, thankfully. 

After dinner, they swung by Orange Leaf for froyo. Then, they were off to the dance, followed by an after-party at Gavin’s. Then, many of the girls from the friend group came back to our house for a basement sleepover.

Kit says it was the best way to celebrate her final Homecoming—surrounded by friends, family, and so many special moments.

Winnie's Sophomore Homecoming

 

Winnie’s Homecoming was a fun day, even if the dance itself left a little to be desired! On Thursday, she hosted her friends at our house for a fun bouquet-making night, getting everyone ready for the big weekend.

On Saturday, the girls got ready together at Hadley’s house, and I happily took on my role as chauffeur for the evening! They went to Polaris Founders Park for pictures before heading to Carfagna’s Market & Ristorante for dinner. Then they had time for treats at Orange Leaf (just missing Kit's group!).

They arrived at the dance right on schedule. Unfortunately, the dance itself wasn’t the highlight of the night (the DJ wasn’t great). But the girls made the most of it and still had fun being together.

Kit’s Homecoming Court Night

 

The Homecoming game and court were such a fun experience for Kit! After she and the other court members paraded around the field (Kit rode around with Simon, who was also on the court), we all had the chance to walk her onto the field while her bio was read. 

Papa and GG came to stay with us, and Grandma Jo and Kit’s former coach, Nicole, were there to cheer her on too—so much love and support for our Kitster! Her friend Maddie was crowned Homecoming Queen at halftime.

And the Bears brought home a big win, crushing Thomas Worthington 31–7! The halftime show was awesome, too, with the band performing with headlight LEDs that lit up and changed with the music. What a night to remember!

September College Visits

 

Kit and I have been having fun exploring college options! Earlier in September, we checked out Otterbein University in Westerville. Then we spent a full day in Cleveland, visiting Cleveland State University, Case Western Reserve University, and John Carroll University. It’s been exciting to see each campus and get a feel for what might be the right fit. Kit loved John Carroll!

Medina Stop on the Way to Cleveland

 

Kit and I headed to Medina to catch up with Matt, Moll, Maggie, and Philly and break up the drive to Cleveland for our college visits. Philly has grown so much, and I especially loved getting some one-on-one time with him early Thursday morning before anyone else was up. Maggie was excited to tell us all about her new home and preschool!

Ladies' Brunch

 

Ladies' brunch at Fox in the Snow in Westerville! The three girls, Becky, and I enjoyed catching up over coffee and treats. And, I had another reason to smile—my braces are finally off as of Thursday!

Emerson's Hero & Third Grade Fun

 

Emerson has been having so much fun in third grade—and he’s still finding plenty of ways to have fun in his free time! As pictured here, he’s been hanging out with Dad in the basement, shopping at Dollar Tree with Vinnie, and spending time with friends at Shale Meadows’ tailgate before the Berlin game.

One moment especially touched me and made me so proud: Emerson came home from school with a page about his hero—God. He has a lot of goodness and faith in his heart.

Fishing at Delaware State Park

 

Dad, Emerson, and I spent some time fishing at the Delaware State Park kid’s pond. He kept trying and hoping for a bite, but unfortunately, the fish kept taking his worms without being caught! 

Cousins' Camping 2026

 

Cousins’ Camping 2026 was another good time at Huggy Bear Campground—our second time camping there! The Colletts, Swaisgoods, and our family all came together Labor Day weekend.

The kids loved tackling the Wibbit obstacle course in the pond, playing on the jumping pillow, and joining the foam party. Our evenings included sparklers, s’mores around the fire, and listening to live music. Mom and Kit teamed up for Singo Bingo. 

We're thankful for family and this summer tradition.

First BHS Football Friday Night

Berlin’s first home game against Orange was blackout night, and Kit and Winnie dressed the part. We were all there to cheer them on and watch them play hard. We were so happy that Berlin came away with a win! 

Kit's Senior Sunrise

 

Year two of a newer Berlin tradition—Senior Sunrise! Kit was happy to take part in this special morning with her fellow seniors. Best wishes for all the seniors as they kick off their final year at Berlin!