Return of the Mulch Man

 

Dad had a huge mulch delivery and, true to his reputation as the "Mulch Man," got right to work transforming both the front and back yards. Emerson and Vinnie were happy to join in on the fun. Thanks for making everything look fresh and beautiful for the season.

Celebrating Joey's Graduation

 

We had a great time celebrating Joey’s graduation at the open house Johnny hosted at his place. It was wonderful to meet Johnny’s family and catch up with friends.

Before the party, the girls sang at the graduation ceremony with their choir.

Vinnie came along with us—he’s a big Joey fan too—so that made it even more fun. And spending time by the pool on a perfect day certainly didn’t hurt!

Wishing Joey all the best as he begins his next chapter at Ohio State Marion.

Wrapping Up the School Year with Gratitude

 

The kids celebrated their last day of school on Thursday! Emerson put together the most thoughtful notes and treats for his teacher and intervention specialist—such a kind way to wrap up the year.

Winnie is pictured with Riya, all smiles as they officially finish their freshman year. And Kit is shown with her besties at DACC, which wrapped up a little earlier than Berlin High School.

So proud of all they’ve accomplished this year—here’s to a fun and well-earned summer!

Tego, Memorial Day-Style

Meanwhile, Tego was living his best life at Lead the Way K9 Training & Boarding.

Grace's Graduation

 

We all headed to Bowling Green, Ohio to celebrate a very special milestone—Grace’s graduation from Bowling Green High School, along with her birthday.

It’s hard to believe she is already 18. We are all so proud of her and wish her the very best as she begins her next chapter at Bowling Green State University.

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.