A Newly Minted Teenager

Clara turned 13 on June 30, 2010.

Grandma Sorenson came to celebrate with her by taking us all ten pin bowling (Clara's choice). Before Grandma arrived on Wednesday, we took Clara to see "Percy Jackson and the Lighting Thief". At the bowling alley, they were playing a "Red Pin" game. One way to win was to leave only the red pin standing for the spare - I picked it up - and we won $5 food coupon. We enjoyed a light lunch at the bowling alley. Then picked up some ice cream treats.


Neo fell asleep in his car seat on the way home from bowling - we tried to get a picture with him included, but you can only see the tuft of his hair over Grandma's shoulder.

We were delighted to learn that Grandma Stallman would be visiting over the weekend. She arrived late afternoon on Friday, July 2 and departed early Sunday morning, July 4. We spent time talking, cooking, a walk on Picnic Point, and enjoying each other's company. It was a very enjoyable visit.



Clara and Rachael clowning together


Neo was thrilled to catch a frog on Picnic Point

On July 4, our friends the Rosebooms, came over for the afternoon. We enjoyed a bbq. Their children: Rachael 13, Ryan 10, and Erin 7 match ours quiet well. In fact, Erin and Zoe are only 10 days apart.

Sunday night, July 4, the children and I went to see the fireworks at Shorewood Hills golf course - our chosen spot for several years now. (Much lower key then "Rhythm and Booms" which was on July 3) The sky threatened rain most of the afternoon. Just as the Grand Finale began, the sprinkles started. We were one of the first back to our van - just in time for the downpour.

Dave had Monday, July 5 off from work for the holiday weekend. So we enjoyed some quiet family time.