Wellman Vacation 2016

The annual week of summer when we get cozy with Sarah's family!

Uncle Michael and Baby Catherine share a moment

This year, that meant lots of boating and playing in the water. And there was that afternoon a jet ski actually blew up with Aunt Maria and her boyfriend, Mikey, on it. (No super serious injuries.) And then another boat died out on the lake. So Grandpa brought out his fishing boat to tow us back to the launch...

But BESIDES that day! everything was normal! Games, walks, bikes rides, sunshine, relaxation...

Food...

And Rise N Roll donuts (if you don't know what these are, we feel sorry for you).

We did take a morning away from the water to check out Shipshewana for the flea market, fabric, and Amish siting. The girls managed to find an indoor carousel. It's amazing what they can spot from two miles away.

Fr. Jason, who married us and baptized the first two girls, is currently at a parish in the same town we were staying. Which meant we were able to catch up with him. We do love hanging out with an old friend/holy priest. By the end, we were, at the same time, refreshed and completely worn out. The sign of a great week.

Favorite Things: July Edition

July was filled with a few of our favorite things. Like Zoo Camp! The two oldest girls were big enough to attend the all-day camp and loved every minute! They came home with stories about the animals they got to see up-close, the rides they did, sneek peeks behind the scenes, fun songs, and new friends they made. Vivian admits that she's sometimes anxious that she won't make any friends in a new situation (Zoo Camp, first day of school, hanging out at the park). But in each situation, she comes home listing her new friends and telling about the plans they're making to have fun together in the future.

At age 3, Felicity had her first year of Zoo Camp. It was two mornings and a parent tags along. Daddy had the pleasure the first morning and Mommy went later in the week.

Her "best friend Livy" was also at Zoo Camp with us!

In a group, Felicity becomes shy and reserved. At times, Mommy wasn't sure she actually enjoyed the experience. But weeks later, she's still talking about her time at Zoo Camp positively. She's just going to be one of those children we'll need to gently prod out of the nest.

We played at the lake with old friends...

 Caught fireflies...

and spent quality time at the library.

Miriam worked on her Mini 4H activities each week, learning about what plants need to live, how to set a table (properly), and all that goodness. She planted a few bean seeds early in the summer and was able to harvest a few tender green beans. Which she immediately ate raw. It's so exciting watching her learn new skills and become more independent. Her eager helpfulness makes Mommy feel like welcoming Baby #4 might be a little easier than the adjustment the first three required!