Braces Squared

Andrew and Daniel are almost two years apart and Andrew is not happy that he is getting braces at the same time as his brother.  It's just a coincidence that they are ready at the same time.  Honestly, it's easier for me because they can have their appointments together.  They had them put on this afternoon.  I took them to get some chicken and fries at Burger King before the pain kicked in and then they went home to relax.  Update: They were in pain for a few days but they are doing better now, as of Sunday.

We all agree that they look super cute (even though they don't like to hear that)!

Daniel's Birthday

Daniel turned 13 today! 

On Friday, he had some friends over.  They went swimming, played video games, and ate (and ate!).

One of his friends got him a retirement card but changed the words inside.  I thought it was pretty clever.

On Saturday, his request was breakfast at McDonald's.  They weren't open for dining, so we picked up the food and took it home.

Today, we had another cookie cake for him, this time it was his request of double-decker, and he opened more presents.

Happy Birthday, son!  I can't believe I have another teenager!

Brand New Yard

During the time the kids were home from school and when we were quarantined with Nathaniel, we had our house painted and the front and back yards completely re-landscaped.  We love the results!!!  I am especially happy that we finally got a hot tub, which Michael has wanted for a very long time.

Here are the before and after pictures of the paint job.  The new top color is actually the old bottom color, but it was so faded you can't really tell.

Here is the yard before any landscaping was done

We watched out the window while they removed this huge tree stump.  Hey, we needed some entertainment!

All done!  We love it!

I am super happy with the outdoor lighting as well

Enjoying our new hot tub!

Last Day of School

The kids are so relieved to be done with school, especially Emily!  She had three AP tests and her last one was today.

On Monday, Jonathan gave his Wax Museum report.  He gave a report on Walt Disney, so here he is all dressed up as Walt Disney.

The boys all did great with their online learning but it just wasn't the same as being in class.  They actually missed school!

We went out for ice cream to celebrate like we always do.

For dinner, we went to Osaka.

Papa wanted to get a treat for the kids as well, so we went to Crumbl Cookies.  Yum!

We're still home every day, but the kids are so glad to relax and enjoy their summer. 

Mother's Day

We had a nice Mother's Day here at home.  Michael bought me my favorites--two big containers of chocolate-covered strawberries and roses.  The kids all wrote me beautiful cards.  Carol and Erin came over for family church and lunch.  Michael and the kids made a taco bar and it was great!

Nathaniel and Jonny team-taught our Sunday School lesson

We ordered some nice cookies for Carol and Erin and they were beautiful!

It was a wonderful day!