Friday, September 18, 2026

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.

Sunday, September 13, 2026

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! 

Monday, September 07, 2026

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.

Friday, August 28, 2026

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!

Thursday, August 20, 2026

First Day of School: Senior, Sophomore & Third Grader

 






Today was the first day of school for all three kids! It is hard to believe how quickly the years are flying by.

Kit is starting her senior year and will spend half of her day at Berlin High School. A senior! I truly can’t believe it. Winnie is beginning her sophomore year at Berlin, where there are now an incredible 2,100 students in the building!

Meanwhile, Emerson is starting third grade at Shale Meadows. He has Miss Eberlein, a new teacher, and we are excited to see what this school year has in store for him.

Praying for a wonderful year ahead for all of our kids, their teachers, and students everywhere!

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Finishing Summer Break Strong

 



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.

Monday, August 17, 2026

Senior Year at DACC

 


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? 

Sunday, August 16, 2026

A Visit to Indian Lake

 



We were all able to make it to Indian Lake for a visit with Aunt Berchie, Uncle Jim, and Pip. We enjoyed some delicious Mexican food for lunch and then took a golf cart ride over to the pool. It was a nice, relaxing time spent catching up and enjoying time together. 

Saturday, August 15, 2026

Goodbye to the Swingset

 

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. 

Friday, August 14, 2026

Counting Down to Senior Year









Kit has been soaking up the last days of summer break and spending lots of time with her friends. They’ve been making the most of their time together with senior scrapbook day, Topgolf for Jeremy’s birthday, serving on the CLAW team for freshman orientation, and a bonfire.

Sunday, August 09, 2026

Medina Visit

 






We had a great time visiting Matt and Molly in their new home in Medina. It was good to spend time with Maggie and little Philly, too. He just turned seven months old and is all smiles and happiness. We enjoyed some time at the park together and ate pizza to celebrate Matt’s upcoming birthday.