August was a busy month for us. We had two birthdays, a baptism, a family party, a friend party, and a visit from Grandma C
and Grandpa Jerry
as well as B and Papa.
All of this while we put the finishing touches on our new house
and got ready for school to begin once again.
Jane's 11th birthday was the first big party of the month. We started off the day with a birthday breakfast of German Pancakes, raspberries, applesauce, warm butter-caramel syrup and orange juice.
Next, Jane opened a gazillion gifts.
After cleaning up the tissue paper and assortment of gift bags we headed for the lake,
which was Jane's choice for her special day.
We hauled kids on the inner-tube and the adults plus Elsie and Kate on the boat out to what we have nicknamed "birthday island". We came here last year for Kate's birthday.
We jumped off cliffs and swam in the lake.
We had cheesecake!
After leaving birthday island, I gave William and Hank a wild tube ride and then he returned the favor to my mom and I. It was what I call a bonding experience.
I love days on the lake. After having Eleanor, I was quite paranoid to go out on the boat for fear that someone would definitely drown or be paralyzed falling off the inner-tube. It's amazing how paralyzing those fears can be. The minute we got the boat out on the water though, my fears blew away with the wind in my face and all felt right in my world. I loved watching my crazy kiddos bounce around on the tube, hollering and waving and having a grand time.
Jane is growing up to be such a helpful, sweet, funny, wonderful, and loving daughter. She often surprises me with a tidy house when I come home from errands or a date with Dad. Her cooking skills are improving daily and she loves to make us all dinner or a yummy Sunday treat.
We are delighted to have sweet Jane in our family.
Happy Birthday Jane!
We love you!
