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.
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.
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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!
The kids finished their summer break strong!
I was able to take Wednesday—the last day of summer break—mostly off. First, I took KWE, along with Sarah, out for a late breakfast at First Watch. Then, later in the morning, I took Emerson, Bryson, and Vinnie to the skate park for some last-day-of-summer fun. Two teenagers on e-bikes were so kind to the boys. They showed them tricks and helped them in the pit. It was good to see that there are still plenty of good teens out there.
Kit has officially started her senior year and her journey in the DACC Healthcare program! She is pictured with Regan, who is beginning her second year in the program alongside her, and Piper, who is completing the one-year program.
We are so proud of these girls and all they are accomplishing as they get a wonderful head start on their future healthcare careers. It is exciting to see them working hard, gaining valuable experience, and taking meaningful steps toward bright futures!
And isn't the senior backpack tradition this year just the cutest?
Well, it’s the end of an era! Emerson and Dad decided it was time to take down the swingset, with Vinnie helping out, too. It was definitely bittersweet to see it go after all the years of use and memories it gave our family.
It was a good thing they decided to take it down when they did, though, because some of the wood that hadn’t yet been replaced was starting to rot.