Yesterday marked Bailey's first day of 4th grade and my 6th year at Iowa Wesleyan College. The beginning of the school year is one of my favorite times of the year as it builds anticipation about what is in store for us. But it's also a bittersweet time as we leave the lazy days of summer behind and fall back into "the grind" of the daily rountine. This summer was filled with so many fun gatherings with my family and friends as well as a 2 month vacation from work.
While in the Des Moines area for my dear friend Laurie's wedding reception, we spent a leisurely Friday afternoon with Mom and Hope. After pizza for lunch and a walk around Meredith's sculpture garden, we were able to catch IPTV star Dan Wardell at the Des Moines Public Library. Once again, Dan did not disappoint with his educational, creative and humerous program. 2 Thumbs Up (or rather 6 ).
Laurie's Wotjal (Williams) and me taking a break from dancing to capture a picture.
Beginning in May, we spent a couple evenings every week at the softball diamonds. Bailey's team came in 2nd in their division and 3rd in their end of the season tournament.
After much anticipation all summer, Bailey finally received Kanani, the American Girl of the year. She had quite a savings built up to spend in the store.
We had a great time on our vacation to Minnesota in July, taking in the excitement of the Mall of America, Nickelodean Universe, Sea Life Aquarium, the Minnesota Zoo and the Waterpark of America.
Following our vacation, we spent the weekend at my cousin Sarah Orchard's (Matthias) home where we had a cousin reunion. The kids (old and young) had a great time fishing, jet skiiing, putting on makeup and running through the sprinkler. We can't wait to get together again next year.
My nieces, Lauren and Alli, spent a couple days with Bailey and me in Mount Pleasant. We had a blast at the waterpark and arcade in Fun City, playing the Wii and just hanging out together. We're looking forward to having them come and stay again next summer.
Another family reunion took place in August when we celebrated Grandma Wiebke's 80th birthday. It was a special evening of reminiscing and sharing those memories with a special grandma.
Finally the summer was capped off celebrating Grandpa Seegers' 80th birthday and Grandpa and Mary's 25th wedding anniversary. Another special gathering of loved ones and a time of building memories.
The Summer of 2011 was indeed a busy one. I'm so thankful for all the people in my life I was able to spend it with.
