The end of summer

We head home tomorrow. It seems like we've been here so long, yet it's gone by so fast! The kids amazed me with all they were able to learn and do in such unfamiliar surroundings. Kenzie fearlessly learned to make her way around the city by herself, helping me make sure everyone made it to their auditions. Brandt took every opportunity he had to show compassion to the homeless, finding creative ways to meet their needs for food or just a cup of cold water. Halle just showed us how very strong she is, matching us step for step as we hiked all over the city day in and day out! I could not be more proud of the people they are becoming. Thanks to everyone for your support this summer. We have missed you all!
While some of the jobs the kids did were local to NY, there are a few places you can look for them in our area. Halle will be in Goody's in mid-August, Wal-Mart in mid- November, and J Crew(catalog and website) in October. Brandt will be in the current Bloomingdale's circular and Target in September( in stores in boy's outerwear). Keep an eye out!

Brandt's first movie

the 4th of July

We celebrated Brandt's 12 th birthday and the 4th of July last week here in the city. Where would you imagine Brandt would pick to spend his birthday? Out of the entire city and all it has to offer, Brandt wanted to spend the majority of his day at the dog park! Brandt knows all the dog walkers as well as the dogs and the days and times they come to the park. We also found out there is a dacshshund festival in October that the kids insist we have to come back for.
The 4th was pretty laid back. We had a good view of the fireworks from our apartment so we didn't have to fight the crowds in the city. Uncle Keith flew in to spend the weekend with us. He spent today fulfilling everyone's "wish" list- he took Halle to play putt-putt, Brandt to see Hancock, and Kenzie out for sushi. He should be thoroughly exhausted by the time he leaves tomorrow!