Life has been crazy in the Stroede household. But a good kind of crazy.
In May, Michael took Nick and his best friend Eddie turkey hunting for the first time. It was the way he chose to celebrate his 10th birthday, instead of a party. I thought Michael was either a saint, or just plain nuts. But it turned out really well. They joined Mike and Joe Huenink (the trip was his Christmas gift from us) at Willow River State Park and had a blast camping. Mike got his turkey the first day! But unfortunately, it was the only one shot. But they had fun doing it, and they threw in fishing as well as some hiking up to the waterfalls. Eddie thinks that Nick has THE COOLEST big brother, and he really likes his new nickname of "Special Ed". Only Mike could pull that off.
Another busy school year has come to a close. It was filled with school work, violin, guitar, 4-H, archery, air rifle, rabbits, chickens, leatherworks, gardening, painting, and much more. At the end of the year Awards Day ceremony, Taylor received 4 awards and Nick received 2. One of Taylor's awards was an Achievement Letter from Mrs. Laura Bush for finishing so high in her grade. Only 30 kids received the letter out of the 130 in her grade. And Nicholas received the Presidential Fitness Award, which is pretty tough to get and only a few received! They both worked so hard for everything they got.
The kids are eagerly anticipating the summer, with 4-H summer camp, Christian camp, week visits to Grandma's house, as well as Aunt Beth and Uncle Joe's house. In July we will be going to the 4-day Christian rock concert "Lifest" in Oshkosh for the first time. Michael wants to see Rachel Lampa, I want to see Big Daddy Weave, Taylor wants to see Rebecca St. James, and Nick is totally into Relient K. But we ALL can't wait to see Joe in the mosh pits!!!!
Taylor and Nick have volunteered to help in the Community Garden this summer, raising food for the local food pantry. They are taking a few fun summer school classes,and just kicking back relaxing.
And that's about it. From here on in, it will be easier to update. So by all means, read on... |
