Summer with the Troyer's, Part 1

Summer with the Troyer's, Part 2

Visit to G'ma Sue

We went to see Eric's mom, "Gma Sue" in Mitchell, Indiana the first weekend of August. We hadn't been down there for almost 5 years so this was Q's first trip there. While getting to Mitchell is not much fun (5 hour drive with a cranky, impatient 2 year old and a slightly less impatient 9 year old), we enjoyed our time visiting different places and spending time with family.

We stayed with E's mom and her sister, Aunt Joyce who selflessly gave up her bed for us and spent the weekend with their other sister, Aunt Pat. We spent time with the 3 of them, E's Grandma Haymaker and with his Uncle Bob, Aunt Marla and Brian Ray (cousin).

There is a State park about 10 minutes away that hosts a swimming pool, the Gus Grissom museum and a Pioneer Village. On Friday we took the boys swimming (it was really hot) at the State Park (I think it was called Spring Mill), took naps and then headed back for more fun. G'ma Sue was excited to show Isaiah the Gus Grissom Museum. Gus was born and raised in Mitchell and went on to become a famous astronaut. He ended up dying in the faulty explosion of a spaceship before being able to participate in the mission that resulted in walking on the moon :( Isaiah really enjoyed it and thought the best part was seeing the real cockpit from a shuttle that Gus flew in.
After the museum we headed to the Pioneer Village (much like Sauters for you Ohioans although set in hilly nature where the original village once stood). It was fun and the boys enjoyed it until the ridiculous heat (did I mention that it was really hot?) got the best of all of us. I think their favorite part was the homemade, pioneer toys and G'ma bought them several of their favorites like Jacob's ladder and the twirly "Hooey" stick to bring home.
On Saturday we spent the day hanging out. That afternoon we went to see E's Grandma Haymaker and ate dinner with her and the rest of the family. While in her apartment, Q found a life-like doll that he held and rocked. Although I find life like dolls slightly disturbing because they are so real (obviously why they are called "life like" :) ), he was absolutely adorable while taking "care of her." We then made the 5 hour trek home on Sunday. Of course, my camera made several appearances :) much to the dismay of many, but to the enjoyment of others! :)

Mr.Chandler

This is E's FIRST, 1st day of 1st grade! :) (BTW, in true E fashion...he is wearing Nike's that say Mr. on one foot and Chandler on the other!)

As most know, he took over a 1st grade classroom January of this year and was excited to find out that he got to stay in the same classroom for this school year. What was new was that he had to get everything ready to "open" his classroom...back to school night, new curriculum, new students, new plans. Everything was "his" for this year and MAN, was it stressful the few weeks before school started. I will say that I NEVER NEVER NEVER realized how much work had to be put into school things BEFORE school started and DURING the next few weeks. It is crazy!

Anyway, besides being slightly stressed, I think E is enjoying it while trying to acclimate to all the changes. Here is Mr. Chandler :)

My beloved boys...

Back to School...AGAIN

A few pics from Isaiah's 1st day of 4th grade! He's getting so old.....

For the record: our little tradition is that I take Izzy to school on the first day. We stopped for breakfast (annual tradition) and got muffins and donuts (zzy's choice) and then I walked back with him to his classroom. Once in the classroom, I realized I was only one of 2 parents there and recognized that this would probably be the last year I would be "allowed" to come in with him. No fear, I did soak in every moment of him being okay with me there! Here's my handsome boy....

Summer visits to Ohio

Alas, summer is coming to an end...school for us will be starting tomorrow. :( I have blogged a little about different things we've done over the summer but soooo much has been left out! We weren't able to go on any long family trips but have done little things throughout the summer. We spent quite a bit of time in Ohio this summer due to events going on...birthdays for Leegan (4th), Kristin (21st!!), Scott & Seth, Paula and Brent! (this doesn't even include E's dad who also has a bday in July!). We spent time with my girlfriends from high school and at the annual bball tourney (more to follow about that one :) ). The vidoes are just reflextive of time spent in Ohio as many of our other activities are in different blogs. Anyway, HAPPY SUMMER to all and WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL! :)