Day 1 in Puerto Rico

 

We made it safely to Puerto Rico on Monday afternoon. The early morning flights were certainly worth it, and everyone did great.

We grabbed a delicious lunch at Ekelekua before checking into the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve in Río Grande. The resort had outstanding amenities, and the kids wasted no time diving into the pool. A favorite moment was hearing them sing together in the shower afterward, still in their swimsuits, full of joy.

A beautiful sunset snuck up on us around 7 p.m.

Pre-Trip Pause at Highbanks

 

Even with a full day of packing and prepping for our trip, we managed to slip away for a few hours to hike at Highbanks with Zac and Briella. The kids had a great time together—hiking the trails, skipping stones, sharing walking sticks, and exploring nature side by side. 

Post-Party Fun

We were all tuckered out by the end of Emerson’s party! Ilene loved soaking it all in—she got such a kick out of the kids and their nonstop energy. Emerson even got a new turtle and, in a sweet moment, gave Nana his Uncle Ron turtle (previously gifted to him from her) to keep each other company while we’re away in Puerto Rico.

Backyard Bash: Emerson Turns 8!

 

We celebrated Emerson’s 8th birthday with a backyard party full of laughter, friends, and neighborhood fun. His theme was a blend of Emerson himself, Steve from Minecraft, and Max—his beloved stuffed black lab.

Winnie added her special touch by decorating the birthday cake, and we had a classic summer cookout with watermelon, and potato salad. The kids loved the Minecraft Pez dispensers we handed out as party favors, but the biggest hit by far was the inflatable water slide. Dubbed the “cold tub” in contrast to the hot tub, the kids had a blast hopping back and forth between the two.

When it came time for presents, Emerson asked me to read each birthday card aloud. I felt so proud watching him listen carefully to all the kind and thoughtful messages from his friends. For most of the day, Emerson thought the waterslide was just a rental—our original plan—but at the end of the party, we let him in on the surprise: the slide was his to keep. His face lit up with delight, and he later told Seth it was “the best birthday ever.”

Kit’s Timber Wolf Camp Highlights

 

It’s so good to have Kit home after her week at Young Life’s Timber Wolf Camp in Lake City, MI (June 1–6). She came back full of stories and happiness—her favorite parts were spending quality time with friends, making new ones, and "watching friends' lives change."

Night Owl Nails

Winnie stayed up late—summer style—and gave herself a fresh almond-shaped manicure. Now she’s officially vacation-ready for Puerto Rico!

Sword Fights and Goslings

 

Seth, Emerson, and I went on a “sword hike” at Alum Creek. We ate a packed a lunch and spotted a family of baby geese before setting off through the woods with swords in hand. 

Lilo & Stitch

 

Seth, Winnie, Emerson, and I joined Johnny, Joey, and Sarah at Polaris to watch the new Lilo & Stitch. It was a fun outing with mixed reviews—some of us loved the live-action take, while others still preferred the charm of the animated original.

Zoo Adventures with Luke

 

Emerson had an exciting day at the Columbus Zoo with his buddy Luke and Luke’s mom, Valerie. According to Emerson, the highlights were the reptiles and turtles—his absolute favorites!

He was especially excited to see a Minecraft-themed setup featuring two real tortoises.

Emerson’s First Day of Summer Break

Emerson and I snuck away for a couple of hours at the YMCA to celebrate his first day of summer break with a swim. He starts Kids 'R' Kids of Olentangy next week, but today was all about soaking up some fun.

To top it all off, later in the day he lost his fifth tooth!

Clapping Out and Moving Up

 

Seth, Kit, and I were able to attend Winnie’s 8th grade ceremony and clap-out at Berlin Middle School. She was recognized on the Distinguished Roll, awarded to students with the highest GPA level.

High school, here she comes!

Camp Skeeter Fun!

 

It was such a treat to see the photos Mrs. Slavik shared from Camp Skeeter week! Emerson had a blast, especially being paired up with his fifth-grade buddy, Quinn.

Emerson's letter back to Kit is saved here at her request! 

The fifth graders joined in this year since they missed their Camp Skeeter experience during the pandemic, which made it extra special for everyone. Emerson came home happy every night and loved ending the school year this way.

Emerson's First Grade Class

 

Here’s a peek at Emerson’s first grade class—so many smiles and growing friendships. It’s been a big year full of learning and special memories.

Patio Partners

 

Dad has a new helper for his patio maintenance!

Soccer Team Finishes Undefeated

 

The Lime Green Lizards wrapped up their season with a 7–0 record! We also got Emerson’s team photos back, and he proudly calls it his “preschool smile.”