Mikayla and Archery

Last summer at camp, Mikayla tried archery and really liked it. For Christmas we got her a beginner bow and arrows.  She hasn't had a chance to practice it till our Spring Break.The first few pictures were taken at Nate's parents home in Tomah and the other two are from our yard.

Spring Break and April Fools

Right before Spring break, the girls had their spirit week at school. One day they got to wear hats to school. Here is a photo I snapped of them goofing off in the backseat on the way to school.

Elyana recently learned to cross her eyes. It's her new trick!

Mikayla's class got to go ice skating at the nearby Recreation Center. I must say that for a southern girl, I am getting better at ice skating from all of these fieldtrips!

Here are pictures of the girls pranking their dad. They put Saran wrap across the hallway and kitchen. I um, might have had something to do with the idea...maybe.  Their silliness and love has really kept me going these days.

Below are photos of the girls in Appleton on Spring Break.

Mikayla Doing Art at the Appleton Children's Museum with Sophia

Playing in the Museum's Water Room

Morning Sister Cuddles

Elyana Hanging Out With My Mom's Puppy, Chloe

My Best Friend, My Sister

 I still am trying to process it. I am still shocked, angry, and heavy with sadness. My sister suddenly passed away a few weeks ago. She had broken her leg by falling down the stairs 10 weeks ago. She had to have major surgery on it. One day from getting her cast off, numerous blood clots traveled to her lungs. I am including the obituary that was in the paper below.


"Christine Maria Hammes, 40, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 13, 2013. Christine was born on October 2, 1972 to Wayne and Mary Hunt. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Physical Therapy. On May 4, 1996 she was united in marriage to Brian Hammes. She worked at the Bridgewood Nursing and Rehab Center.

Christine was a loving wife and dedicated mother and she will be sorely missed each and every day. She had many hobbies and enjoyed reading, making jewelry, photography, playing the piano, singing, and scuba diving. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and that time will be greatly treasured. Christine was a member of Faith Lutheran Church." 

 An hour before work, I received the news. The next several days were spent arranging the funeral and the burial. Currently I am back in Appleton hanging out with my niece during our spring break and going through countless drawers, closets, and cabinets as we sort through her things.  I keep wondering when my heart will  heal. All I have is the beautiful hope of spring coming soon and knowing that I will see her again some day.  I am blown away at how many lives that she touched. My heart melted to hear little Sophia praying with me last night. She said, "God, tell mom to tell Jesus that I love him."