5 Years Old

Last December our little boy turned 5! He has grown up so much this past year, and it's been so exciting to watch him blossom; especially at school. This was also the year that sparked his interest in Legos, so for his party Jacob requested a "Lego Party." It's been really fun and unique to host these parties in Europe, and we will miss having so many nationalities represented next year. 

Lego spoon race.

 

 

Jacob, you are officially not our "little boy" anymore, and we are so very proud of the big boy you have become. Your smile and laughter light up the room, your compassion and empathy is endearing, and your love of life is something we could all learn from. As I always tell you, "you have a beautiful heart Jacob, we love you!" 

A Copenhagen Halloween

For Jacob's Fall Break we went to Scandinavia to check out Denmark. We were struck by how international the city of Copenhagen is, and how few people we heard speaking the native language. It was cold and rainy, but that didn't ditract from the beauty of the city.

Ready to explore!

(The back of) The Little Mermaid

The first night we went to a Rick Steve's recommended pizza place, but it was packed, so we had to wait for a bit. Fortunately, Jacob and Bria kept us entertained with their dancing.

Day 2: The next day we started at the Rosenborg Castle and Treasury, the Dutch Renaissance-style castle of King Christian IV. It was built in the early 1600's and now houses the Danish Crown Jewels.

After dragging the kids through castles and museums, it was time for them to have some fun. Next on the itinerary: Tivoli Gardens. It came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. I'm not sure who had more fun, the parents or the kids. We did discover we have a few kiddos that really like roller coasters! As an added bonus, the place was completely decorated for Halloween; Jacob was in awe.

Dinner on a pirate ship. 

It was a quick, yet fun visit to Copenhagen and the kids are still talking about Tivoli and the pumpkins! 

A Terschelling Summer

Our family vacation summer tradition has been going to our favorite Dutch island in the North Sea. Terschelling is the perfect locale to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life. This summer we needed that more than ever since Bill was gone most of it. We were thrilled to have an uninterrupted week together as a family. I'm not sure who enjoys Terschelling the most- us, the kids or Casey!  

Lunch in Harlingen before we catch the Ferry. 

Snack on the boat.

Our mode of transportation for the week.

Testing out the new wheels.

We always have dinner at the same place our first night in town.

Ready for the beach! 

Such soft, beautiful and never-ending sand! 

Terschelling is a dog's paradise. 

Jacob and the Terschelling flag.

Twins.

"Can someone bring me a fresh Lemonade?"

Kids are doing this while Dad is watching from the table with a beer; everyone is happy.

That is one happy hund. 

This is how I will always remember Terschelling.

LOVE

Back in Harlingen after a perfect week. 

We aren't quite ready to say goodbye to our favorite places yet, so we are hoping to fit in one last visit to Terschelling before we go. We are so thankful to our German neighbors and friends for introducing us to this hidden gem! Even though they are young, I think Terschelling is a place that the kids will remember for years to come.