Something I would have never done in 8th Grade!

For those of you who were not able to make it to the Pella Christian's 8th Grade Graduation, here is a video of Jonathan's speech. He was voted for class speaker by his classmates. According to the letter that was sent home, "The class speakers were chosen by students based on Christian character, humble use of talents given to her/him by God, classroom performance, demonstrated respect for authority, rapport with classmates, and ability to speak in front of an audience." Jonathan didn't really feel that he could say no because the teacher mentioned that no one has ever said no when asked.

We didn't know how it was going to go because Jonathan was very solemn when Emily (classmate) was giving her speech and didn't crack a smile or anything while he was up there on the stage. He said he felt like he was turning as red as his graduation robe. Needless to say, he made it through his speech and we couldn't have been prouder! I know that I would have never been able to give that speech when I was in 8th grade.

Hannah and Jonathan have been a blessing to us and been real good example for Joshua. I can't wait to see how God will use them the next four years. Thank you so much for all your support and interest in our kids and their activities.

Maybe we should move to Wisconsin?

Here is a picture of Joshua back when he was two years old.....

7 years later........safely buckled in eating a twizzler!

I was thinking that Doyle and I should move to Wisconsin soon where kids can't start driving until they are older because.....Scary thought......Jonathan and Hannah could get their permit in August.

I wish they would always be happy to "pretend" to drive.

Truth be told...Mama is a little anxious about them driving.

Did any of you with older kids have the pit in your stomach when your kids started talking about driving? Do any of you have pictures of your kids when they started to drive or an encouraging story? I'll keep you posted on how things are going and if and when they actually get their permit. I hear that we have to start saving when they take drivers ed. I guess I will find out soon enough. Hope everyone is enjoying the summer. I'm going to appreciate my summer when no one is asking me if they can drive. --Susie

EASTER

As promised. Here are some more pictures from the Veenstra Easter Egg Hunt.

Ready...Set...GO

Thank you Jonathan for helping Drew fill his basket

Yes Drew, all the Eggs are here

Cutie Patootie

You just gotta love her spunk

Kyle and Joshua looked happy I was taking their picture

Games in the yard

I'm sorry Travis....

but this gave me a good laugh....and I needed a good laugh. Thank you. 

I was going through my pictures and came across this one and I laughed out loud.  So I HAD to share.  Beware of what you do while you think no one is watching....or has a camera around.  I had no idea this was going on when I snapped the photo.  I love little surprises like this.  =0)

I have some other good Easter shots, so I'll post those another night....if anyone reads/checks this anymore.

Seussical

Well the first weekend is done for the musical this year with three performances left.  This musical is basically a combination of a number of Dr. Seuss books.....a fun high energy show. I'm glad they get to perform it that often after all the work they put into it.  We really enjoyed having Wes and Arlys and Mem come to see us this weekend...it was fun to spend time together and have them see the show.  I will post a few pictures that I have but forgot my camera for the matinee that Wes,Arlys and Beppe were at so you'll have to check Arlys' facebook for those pics.  Hope you all have an awesome week, enjoying the beautiful weather....at least it is in the midwest...... a great day for a family of skunks to cross the road at night....but thats another story that Anson can tell you :)

Horton hears a "who"

Horton sitting on the egg

the bird girls---Katelyn was a swan named Sierra

Seussical the Musical weekend fun!

Wes, Arlys and Beppe left on Sat afternoon for Baldwin, WI to visit with the Veenstra's and most of all to see Katelyn in the play. We thoroughly enjoyed a great time. If you have opportunity to get up there, I would encourage you to do so. Katelyn was a beautiful swan...- hence her lovely makeup and costume. Can't imagine how much time and practice went into this production by all involved.
thanks for a great time!

Horton the elephant with the bird girls

Horton keeping the egg warm...

and of course the CAT IN the HAT!

great mingling of a few of the Dr. Suess books.

Seussical

Hey, just wanted to let you know the dates for the musical here that Katelyn is in...sorry I forgot to put the dates on the last post.  The play will be November 6-8 and November 13-15.  Check the earlier post for a few more details or if anyone wants to come and see call us we'd love to see you:)