The exciting world of ballet

Ida received Kirsten, her almost twin, for her birthday.

Both Henrik and Ida are taking dance.  Henrik has really taken to it and it seems to be the highlight of his week so far.  Probably doesn't hurt that he gets to be the "prince" with his many "princesses."

Ida has become quite the dancer (for being 6).  It's had to believe this is her 3rd year already!

Both kids earned parts in the Nutcracker.  Henrik was a little Stahlbaum (one of Clara's little brothers) and Ida was a mouse.  They worked hard to learn their parts and really enjoyed being up on stage.  This is a picture of the two of them with Ida's friend Brianna.

Henrik and his friend Ellyanna (who is only 3 months older than Henrik).

All the mice with Clara and Ida's toysoldier in the background.

The mice with their rat queen after the final performance.

Halloween (I know, I know, I'm really behind but I'm working on it)

Beautiful Rapunzel,

 (mom was pretty proud of the flowers worked into the braid)

And the brave Iron Man

Ida is 6!!

Ida had almost two weeks of celebrations for her birthday, starting with a small party at camp with Grandpa and Grandma L.

 

And then a birthday party with her friends at the Children's Museum.

 

 And finally dinner and ice cream at the Up North Lodge on her actual birthday!

 

Adventures at camp

It was another beautiful fall at camp!  The kids were very helpful setting up deer blinds, making sure everything was ready, and scouting for good spots to hunt.

We couldn't resist snapping a picture of the deer standing on top of (and eating) the pile of sugar beets a local business was selling for "bait".  I'd say it worked pretty well.

And a picture of the kids with the first deer shot while they were at camp.  Best line:  Henrik walks up to it, takes one look at it, looks at Ida and says very matter of fact, "It's dead, Ida."  Apparently that is not what he expected.

Hike to Caynon Falls

Despite living in Michigan, the cable providers decided it made sense to only allow us access to about half of the Lions games this year.  This resulted in the decision that we would not waste our beautiful fall days.  The first adventure was a trip to Canyon Falls for some hiking, sightseeing and lots of fun!