Catch up

There isn't much new to report ... we're finally feeling settled in here. The house is all unpacked, the kids are adjusted, we're making friends ... and still trying to settle on a church. Kees just turned 7 months old (what?!) and has really started becoming a lot of fun just in the last few weeks - he's much more interactive, happy, giggly, adventurous, communicative, etc. It's been really fun to experience his little personality more and to have a baby that's more happy than fussy ;). Calvin remains busy, busy, busy ... we got him all enrolled in a 2 morning/week preschool starting in the fall. He seems very ready!  Matt is continuing to adjust and settle into his new job. It's been quite a learning curve and a fairly massive adjustment and lifestyle change after being a student for so many years. We remain grateful for the job opportunity, the chance to live in Seattle and near family, and the security of an income. I've been meeting with some churches to try and discern where is a good place for us to serve and help and be involved. That remains in progress ... prayers for good discernment appreciated! 

My sweet little Kees - 7 months 

Loving being able to stand in the exersaucer! Because of his reflux and his bulky cloth diapers, he has always hated to bend at the waist. This means he's behind the curve in sitting up on his own, but he loves to stand! 

I love this picture ... it's not a great photo, but captures really really well a typical day in our house and the personality of all three of these little ones. 

So thankful they love each other! Praying hard it continues ;). 

Happy baby! 

One huge blessing of living in Seattle is giving the kids (and us!) a chance to spend time with our brothers. Uncle Andy lives just down the street and we have the joy of seeing him often. And last week Uncle Tim came for the evening. Both Uncles have discovered that the best way to Calvin's heart is through his books ... 

This kid hates sun in his eyes ... the shades seemed to make him happy. 

How many pictures does it take to get a good one? 

About 20 ... as soon as Kees looks at the camera and smiles, Calvin has started hiding. Helpful. 

Sweet babies ... and poor Kees in his massively bulky cloth diaper.

The "inside playground" at Alderwood Mall ... a great source for fun and germs 

We've had to make several trips to Pasadena. Last weekend we went down for Dr. Mouw's retirement weekend and gala party. Big fun. Calvin stayed home with Grandma and Grandpa. They did all kinds of fun things, including more airplanes! This kid loves airplanes. 

Petting a turtle! 

When I asked him if he liked the snake he said, "No, I can't like snakes. But I like turtles. They're big and strong and slow." Funny boy.