Well, we all survived the first week of a child in the public school system. We all celebrated her first day of school with Austrian and our own traditions. I have lots of super cute pictures of it all trapped on my camera. They are trapped because I can't find my cord that connects my camera to my computer. So, to the grandparents, I apologize profusiosly. I'm searching for the cord, but so far no luck. As soon as I find it I'll be posting the pictures and more details about the big day.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow, this little girl starts first grade. This means I'll be dropping her off each day at a big school, with big kids, in a big city. She is super excited, and for the most part, I am too. I know she's going to do great!!! But man, my heart has been aching a bit the last week. I know every parent says this, but where has the time gone? This isn't the best picture, but I've been busy kissing this face instead of taking pictures.

Summer Time

Man, it has ended up being a crazy summer for us. We all left for the good ol' USA July 2nd. We had a great time together visiting family and enjoying the beautiful Colorado scenery. Jake was able to stay about 10 days before heading back home to Vienna. The girls and I stayed around until the 26th. Katy had an awesome time with the chicken pox. My mom was able to come visit for a week which was really great. Abby thought she was in hog heaven having both Nana and Grandma and her disposal 24 hours a day. Here are a few pics in no particular order.

Weekend fun

On Sunday afernoon we went to some friends' house for a BBQ and swimming. It was a great day!!

On Monday, we went to Ribs with the Hensals and Sheppards to celebrate a great year of English Kids Club. Katy really liked the ribs, too.

Dirty Rotten Crooks

So, yesterday I had the great experience of filing a police report in German. Yep, in German. Here's the quick version: The girls and I were in H&M yesterday checking out the big sale. There were tons of people checking it out with us, mostly moms with kids and strollers. I had picked out a few things and went to the register to pay, but when I opened my diaper bag to grab my wallet it was gone. After frantically searching the store and retracing my steps to the store I admitted defeat and called Jake. He sent me to the closest police station, which just happens to be next to the mall. I no sooner had explained to the police officer why I was there when another woman walked in and told the same story. So, apparently H&M was the hot spot yesterday. Thankfully, no major damage was done, I only lost about 60 euros. The only thing of real value were Abby's little curls from her first haircut. I've been carrying them around for 4 years, it just always made me smile to see them in there. Also, the girls and my residency permit cards were in there. Those will be the biggest pain to replace.
In my heart, I hope whoever felt a need to steal really needed what they found. Maybe it bought some kids a meal or helped pay the rent. At any rate, lessons learned. I'm blessed to have a Father who provides so richly for my needs.

Summer Cuts

Abby and I got a trim for the summer.

We went here yesterday with some friends and good times where had by all.




We were at the same place almost a year ago. Man what a difference a year makes.