The Hidalgo Thamily

Summer so far...

2011-07-10T16:46:00.004-04:00

So far, we're having a great summer...

First Event of the Summer: Teacher Appreciation Picnic

Molly's New Roller Blades were tougher than she thought

Jay was able to help baptize Molly

Jack extended his baseball season by playing on the 8 and under team

The three older kids all were group leaders at VBS...they did awesome!

Jay took Jack to his first Mets game...the Mets beat the Tigers 14-3

We rode our bikes downtown this year for July 4th fireworks

Even Shealie is enjoying the summer

Spring Break 2011

2011-04-24T14:48:00.012-04:00

Enjoy the Pictures - Click Here

Game Night 2011

2011-03-30T16:06:00.006-04:00

On the last Saturday night in February, we hosted our 4th annual "Game Night". 4 teams, each competing by rotating to 7 different game tables. Drinks, food, laughs and even a dealer for Texas Hold 'em.

We posted some pix below, as well as a few videos (people look really funny when they play the Wii).

Mark your calendars for next year...Game Night 2012 on February 25th.

Click Here for the Pictures
Click Here for Video 1
Click Here for Video 2

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Playground Sledding

2011-02-12T16:50:00.001-05:00

PF Changs Half-Marathon

2011-01-22T14:33:00.006-05:00

On Sunday, January 16th, Janice ran her 4th long distance race: The PF Changs Rock-n-Roll Marathon in Phoenix, Arizona. She ran with her friend, Michelle Hansma.

Now, when you live in Michigan, and you have the chance to go to Arizona in January, you don't go for just a weekend. So, we stretched it to 5 days, and left the kids home with Uncle Kevin. It was unseasonably warm in Phoenix...about 75 degrees each day...and plenty of sunshine. It was one of the nicest vacations we've ever had.

Enjoy the photos

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Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T15:16:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful morning! Click here to see...and have a Merry Christmas.

A Note From Janice

2010-12-21T19:23:00.001-05:00

Over the past few months, I've been mentoring a young single mom. She's working very hard to follow God, and put her life on the right path. I'm so proud of her and the progress she's making. Part of her journey is moving into a stable living environment, which she has found. However, because of her limited income, some of the nice things that would make a house a "home", she doesn't have or can't afford. So, I've been putting my feelers out, letting people know about the need, and seeing what God does with it.

Here's what she could use...

-A new bed with Linens Pillows
-A Reading chair with side table
-Shelf small for books, paper etc.
-Small rug for the reading area
-Reading lamp reading extends over chair
-Nightstand
-Window treatments
-Baskets for closet
-TV and Wall mount
-Picture frames (dark wood), Candles, decorations
-Bath toys
-Towels
-Wastebasket
-Bed for 2 year old, with linens
-Kids dresser
-Toy bin
-Plastic bins with drawers

If you want to know more, or want to help, comment on this post.

Thanks, Janice.

Giants vs Vikings...in Detroit!

2010-12-14T19:40:00.004-05:00

On Sunday, the snows in Minneapolis collapsed the roof of the Metrodome. As a result, the Giants (our favorite team) game against the Vikings was moved one day later and two states over. Instead of playing Sunday at 1:00 in Minnesota, they played Monday night at 7:00 in Detroit. To sweeten the deal, the NFL offered free tickets to the first 30,000 people who showed up. When you’re a Giants fan living in the Midwest, you pretty much assume you’ll always watch your team on TV. But, when the NFL offers up free tickets only 2 hours away, you jump on it like a fat kid on a Twinkie.

So, Jay, Joey, Jack and Jack’s friend Ethan drove to Detroit Sunday night, braved the cold Monday to stand in line waiting for the game, and eventually got to watch the Giants beat the Vikings 21-3. For Joey, Jack and Ethan, it was their first NFL game. For Jay, it was one of those “I love being a dad” memories that will be cherished for a long time. Take a look…

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T09:22:00.008-04:00

I think the kids out did themselves this year. First of all, there were multiple costumes for multiple occasions: Halloween party at our church, parties at friends, and of course, Trick-or-Treating. Joey had three costumes, Maggie had three and Molly had two. Jack did one, but it was OUTSTANDING, as were the other kids on Halloween night.

And this year, the parents in the neighborhood were able to benefit from trick-or-treating too. It's amazing how many people are willing to refill your wine glass when you walk with it in your hand from door to door. I think that will be a tradition we continue.

Enjoy the slideshow here.

Another Half Marathon

2010-10-18T17:27:00.007-04:00

Janice did it again...another half-marathon. This was her second time running the Grand Rapids Half Marathon, and she cut 5 minutes off her time from last year. It was a great day for running, and cheering mom on! Way to Go Runner Girl!!!!!!!!!!!

Waiting for Mom at the 3 mile mark.

Janice's running partner and friend, Gretchen

At the seven mile mark...with a little moral support from
Jack and Molly

That a Girl!!!!!!!

Colorado with the Cousins

2010-09-18T11:54:00.006-04:00

We decided to spend as little time as possible at home this past August. Four days after we got home from Glen Arbor, we were on our way to Colorado to visit with Jay's brothers, one in Denver and one in Colorado Springs. Even though their cousins had started school, they all had a great time together. We got a hike in and a trip to Garden of the Gods as well.

Enjoy the pix here.

Glen Arbor

2010-09-18T11:10:00.005-04:00

Before summer 2010 becomes too distant a memory, we wanted to get these Glen Arbor pictures up. This year, our friends the Pottengers came for a few days. We also took a day trip to South Manitou Island, and Jay completed a 100 mile bike ride. It was unseasonably hot this year, so lots of beach time. As always, we can't wait until next summer.

Take a look at our slide show here.

It's Official...He's a High Schooler!

2010-06-11T07:40:00.007-04:00

Had a great time celebrating Joey's graduation from Walker Charter Academy. We all got our tears out earlier in the day, so Graduation night was all celebration. Have a look...

8th Grade Philadelphia Trip

2010-06-05T13:01:00.011-04:00

The culmination of the Walker Charter Academy experience is the 8th grade trip to Philadelphia. Joey had a blast, Jay got to chaperone...enjoy the photos.

Getting ready for school...

2010-05-12T07:24:00.000-04:00

Jack came downstairs this morning, and here is the conversation he had with Janice...

Janice:Why do you have that Mets shirt on again?

Jack: I have a rule about my clothes.

Janice: And what's that rule?

Jack: I can wear my clothes 2 days in a row. But, if they're dirty, then I can only wear them one day."

Can't argue with that logic

Beauty and the Beast

2010-05-09T10:53:00.006-04:00

AAAAAAAAA

Last night, Joey's school had their final performance of "Beauty and the Beast", in which Joey starred as The Beast. Not only was this their final performance, but it was Joey's last performance at Walker Charter Academy. He's been in the musical every year since 4th grade. For those of you who know Joey well, you'll know that this is his niche. He LOVES to perform, and he does it so effortlessly. To watch him in his element, in his final year, was an emotional highlight for Janice and I.

We've posted more pictures here.

AAAAAA

She Did It Again!!!!

2010-05-08T13:16:00.000-04:00

AAAAAAAAAA

Well, Runner girl is at it again. This time, it was the 53rd Bank Riverbank Run. Janice ran and completed the 25K in just about 3 hours on a cold, rainy Saturday morning. Is she gearing up for an eventual marathon? Stay tuned...

AAAAAAA

In the meantime, enjoy some more photos here

Jackie Boy Takes the Field

2010-04-30T11:02:00.002-04:00

AAAAAAAAA

This is Jack's first season of organized baseball. Needless to say, he was MORE than excited to take the field. He asks almost every day, "When's my next game".

Go here to see a few more photos

AAAAAAA

Disney 2010

2010-04-14T05:29:00.006-04:00

Had a great time during Spring Break at Disney this year. We drove down, spent a week with Mickey and friends, and on the way back, attended a wedding for our good friends, the Woodcocks. Click here to see the photos: Disney Pictures.
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Jack's Essay on our Trip to Disney

2010-04-13T17:56:00.002-04:00

100th Day of School

2010-02-23T15:57:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, was the 100th day of school. In commemoration, Jack's class was given the chance to draw a picture of what they thought they would look like in 100 years. Apparently, Jack is going to look like Mr. Miyagi with a beard.

Pictures from Haiti

2010-02-17T21:42:00.005-05:00

Here are some of the pictures I took. I have been sick with a bad cold since I came back. Being up for 48 hours with very little sleep will do that. My thoughts are still bumping into each other in my head. It was an amazing trip that is hard to put into words. I am so thankful for everyones prayer and kind words sent. Look for a longer note coming soon. In the meantime if you have the time, means, or desire... Do SOMETHING to help Haiti. As one of my friends put it on his blog, "Put Haiti in a permanent place on your prayer list." They are going to need much help and they won't be in the headlines for much longer. Thank you again and enjoy the pictures. Love Janice

Click here to see the pictures: http://s896.photobucket.com/albums/ac166/julesahidalgo/Haiti%20Trip%202010/?albumview=slideshow&track=share_email_album_view_click

Video from Haiti

2010-02-17T11:47:00.003-05:00

One of the team members Janice was with in Haiti kept a video journal. He's shared it with the rest of the team, and now we share it with you. This will give you a deeper look into what Janice experienced in Haiti...

One More Update

2010-02-08T21:53:00.005-05:00

Hey all:

Thought I'd post one more update so you can have an idea of what Sunday and Monday were like for Janice.

First, here's another message from my friend Nate:

Sunday we attended to about 120 patients before we had to leave. A truck resembling a paddy wagon complete with a cage bounced us back over rough roads to Port Au Prince. We were happy to be back at our base to shower and eat a good meal. The Special Ops guys set up a 10 x 10 foot screen so we could all watch the Superbowl on the small soccer field. I ended up sitting next to the commander of the company and talking with him. It was not only an honor, but also a very fun way to watch the Superbowl! Afterwards we piled back into our paddy wagon for our ride to the airport. We put our names on a waiting list to see if we could hitch a ride back to the USA on an empty Air Force cargo plane. Then we laid out on the Tarmac to sleep until we were called. It's hard to call it sleep when C5-As, C-130s and other large aircrafts are taxiing past you with engines screaming. But finally at 6am we caught a ride on a large cargo plane that was flying to Charleston SC. We made it and are now waiting for our plane back to DFW. The team did an awesome job. We treated and prayed for just over 1000 people. At our debrief many on the team talked about this being one of their best trips ever. Praise God! We are glad to be home.

Janice flew from SC to Newark, then arrived in Grand Rapids at 6:00 PM. The kids were more than thrilled to see her. She got home, showered, ate and as I write this, snuggling with Maggie.
I leave you with a thought, a request and some more photos...

A thought: Thank you all for praying. Please continue to do so for the people of Haiti, for Janice and our family. Our prayer is that this is the beginning of something bigger than ourselves for the Kingdom

A request: As unbelieveable as this trip has been, she's drained. She'll need a few days to process, pray, sleep and sleep some more. She can't wait to thank and hug so many of you...and wants to do so on her time. So, like I told the kids before we picked her up, please give her the time she needs.

Photos...

PATIENT CARE

Our friend, and team leader, Nate Bobbett

Inside the Airforce Cargo Plane

HOME!!!!

Haiti Update Feb 7

2010-02-07T23:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry I didn't get an update yesterday. However, below is one from my friend Nate that I received this morning a little before 8:00 this morning:

Saturday started out calmly. By 3 pm we had seen about 275 people. Several cases had to be evacuated to a hospital 3 hours away. We all showered and sat down for dinner around 5. Then it started. Multiple motorcycle accidents came rushing in, anxious and angry family members followed. Dust was everywhere as our team worked outside 30 feet from a dirt driveway. 2 pregnant ladies showed up, one in need of an ICU. 2 seperate burn victims came in ferried in on motorcycles or cars. We were at capacity. Doctors and nurses treated patients under the glow of their camping head lamps. Family members and curious onlookers pressed in. One guy exploded in anger and lunged at a patient. I body slammed him and then made sure he wouldn't be a problem. The Marines next door caught wind of our dilema and showed up to provide a semblance of order. That's a good feeling! The night ended with the Spanish military showing up in a chopper to evac one of the patients. 6 of the wounded stayed all night as the team took shifts watching them. We are trying to find hospitals that are functioning and will accept them. After a 17 hour day we fell onto our mats and slept soundly, except for another big aftershock at 1:30 that woke us up. Thanks for praying!

To add to that, Janice called and told me that the people are all afraid to sleep inside after the earthquake, and the aftershocks are keeping that fear alive. She said that last night (Saturday night), she was up till 2:00 then slept til 4:00 helping the patients that needed to be watched over.

Janice and I emailed back and forth during the Superbowl (she was able to watch it with the Army). Earlier this afternoon, emailed to ask for prayer for the 5 critical patients she and some team members escorted today from Petit Goave back to Port-au-Prince. The emailed me a few hours later, telling me that they had arrived safely. And just now, another message: They are at the airport, looking to get a flight back to the states. So, please pray that the travel back is safe.

Her email tells us much about who she is:

Subject: Leaving Haiti :(
We r @ the airport right now (had to wait until the game was over). We r waiting for a military flight of sorts. That is all I know. I don't even know where we r going in the states. I am thankful to be coming home but very sad to leave Haiti. There is so much need here.

Also, a picture Nate sent last night, with the message: "It might be dark but she's still going"

Janice Just Called

2010-02-06T21:37:00.001-05:00

Janice just called, and said to tell everyone they need prayer. The local hospital has been diverting patients to the field hospital that she’s working at. She said they are being overwhelmed with all sorts of patients: burn victims, mothers in labor, etc. She called just to tell me that so I could let you all know, then she had to go.

Thanks all…please pray.

Haiti Update Feb 5th

2010-02-06T09:03:00.003-05:00

Here are a few updates from Janice's team in Haiti. The first one if from their team leader, my friend Nate. He gives a good overview of what Friday was like. Then, Janice's email...giving her perspective. A few more pictures too.

From Nate:

Today started at 6:30 with the birth of a baby girl and ended at 8:30pm with a baby boy born right during another aftershock. We saw almost 400 patients today. A couple times things started getting rowdy with crowd control but the Marines would walk through and everyone straightened up real fast. They finished building us a wooden shed for an OR (operating room). Go Marines! The hardest part of the day was a little 8 year old girl. Her leg was broken in the earthquake. Her dad died years ago and her mom abandoned her and left the country. I spent 1/2 the day with her as she waited for an evac. I wanted to adopt her right there. She was in pain but was sweet all day. I think half the team fell in love with her. The team continues to do great! Time to hit the sack, or ground as is the case out here!

From Janice

It was a typical day here for the mere fact the craziness is typical. Everyone is great to work with. This compound (in Petite Gouave) was set up and run thru the Weslyan Church. People are here from St. Louis, Canada, South Carolina and our group from Texas. We had to amputate a guys finger today. It was really gross. It smelled so bad. I was OK until the Dr was pulling out the worms. Yuck. Speaking of smells. I have never smelled this bad in my whole life. No shower for me tonight because I was helping w/ a mom. When we were done the showers stopped working. Trust me they weren't that great when they DID work. It is really not that bad. I feel like I can just keep working long hours. That is what I am here to do. I don't have to worry about meals. I don't have to worry about the kids. I get to go home and not have this as my permanent situation. So why not just work? Just a fair warning. If I don't get a good shower before I get home, "El Stinko Mama" will be getting off the plane. We were talking about food today and I said my first drink will be a Grande Iced Latte and then an ice cold beer. Well, I am tired. I have to go.

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4 month old baby. Janice said the picture

doesn't show how really sick this baby was.

One of hundreds of buildings she said she has seen

Section of a village. See the flattened buildings in the back.

Our translators...all filled with the love of Jesus.

And if you're worried if she's safe? That building in the back
is the OR the Marines built.

Haiti - February 4th, 2010

2010-02-04T22:49:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, I started out the blog post by writing "If you could, please pray that God gets her cell phone working. She has a Blackberry but they can't figure out how to get it working. You'll see in the email messages below, she's a little frustrated that she has to keep borrowing phones from everyone else." Tonight, the phone rang around 10:00 pm. It was Janice. She said, "Guess whose phone I'm calling from? MINE!!!!!". They figured out how to get it to work, so we have phone communication now. AND...Sprint has announced that they are waiving all charges on calls from Haiti until the end of March...so it's FREE!!!! Thank you Jesus!

As you can imagine, she had lots to tell me, and of course, wanted to know how the kids were doing, so I spent a lot of time letting her know how things were going here. She said that many of the patients they have been seeing have chronic issues and it's been good to help them provide medical care. For those of you who have asked about her safety, it seems that they are hanging out with the Marines while in this village, so security is not an issue. They are staying in military tents, and sleeping on military cots. The heat is tough to work in by day, and she told me to tell Michelle Hansma "good call on the scrubs". I guess some of her co-workers are in jeans, and struggling with the heat. Pray for the team. The 24 hour bug is being passed around...not good.

Below is a message I got tonight from Nate:

Today we drove thru a lot of destruction to a town 3 hours away. In some places the road was cracked in 2. About 20 of us crammed ourselves and 2500 pounds of gear into a beat up rejected US school bus. I think each wheel had about 3 lug nuts. We arrived at the town and immediately began seeing patients. These docs and nurses are amazing. Fixing ugly wounds, sowing hands back together often in 85 degree heat and no electricity. I've been using my French all day helping to translate. The US marines are building us an OR so they are here. The Navy corpsmen have pitched in too. We are sleeping outside in tents while here, but we are comfortable. Thanks for praying.

And finally, a picture he texted of me at Janice at work. This was yesterday.

Thanks for all your messages, and encouragement. I told her she was having quite an impact here based on the comments I've received from people. Her response was "Really?!?!" Typical Janice, showing kindness and not thinking anything of it. Blessings to all of you!

Haiti - Wednesday, Feb 3

2010-02-03T22:21:00.002-05:00

Got these two email from Janice today. If you could, please pray that God gets her cell phone working. She has a Blackberry but they can't figure out how to get it working. You'll see in the email messages below, she's a little frustrated that she has to keep borrowing phones from everyone else.

This first message was sent last night (Feb 3) but didn't get here until today:

It really was a good day. I am so thankful that I am feeling better. I am thankful that I am here. Tomorrow we go back to the same place. In a few days we will be going to a village and things there I think will be much worse. I love u all. Tell Jack and Joey the army is setting up a big inflatable screen to watch the Superbowl.

This one came earlier this evening:

OK I have time to write and not be rushed...I hope.

I have been sleeping well except that I am really hot at night. That is a yucky feeling. In the morning it is actually cool. At night I just get hot in my bag. I get up, wash up and eat a granola bar or 2. We pack the bins, the truck and cram into a tiny pickup truck and drive an hour to our spot, set up then we see the patients. Most have chronic issues, a few related to the earthquake. One case was so so sad today. A mom brought in twins. Nowhere the same size. One was about max 12lbs and the other one was max 5 lbs. They were 4 months old. The tiny one looked like one of Molly's dolls. We paid her way to take a cab to a local hospital. I don't think she was understanding the urgency. She was very sad. The baby most likely has a heart defect from birth. That was the worst today.

The other half of our team just arrived today. It will take a bit to adjust to the new folks, but I am sure it will be fine.

I am a bit jealous the I can't text all the time. Tomorrow we will be going 3 hours away and staying there a few days. We will be leaving our "Ritz Carlton" place and tenting it. I love and miss u all. Tons of stuff in my head and swirling around but hard to put it down. Love you.

And this note was texted to me from my friend Nate who is leading the trip. It was his reply to a text I sent him:

She is doing awesome bro. She knows her stuff, works hard without complaining, and is joyful!

Keep praying!

Haiti Update - Feb 2

2010-02-02T21:14:00.001-05:00

I spoke to Janice tonight...well, sort of. I could hear her perfectly, but she could hardly hear me. So, she told me about her day today and said she'd follow up with an email later. She's using borrowed phones. AT&T is providing free service, so even though the communications are short and infrequent, they're free.

Today, the traveled an hour to a local pastor's house. There was a makeshift clinic in his front yard. She said they saw 180 patients today. Most of them had more chronic issues, and not necessarily issues related to the earthquake. She said lots of babies and children came through. She had a real tough time describing the conditions these people live in. She said it was like spending the day in a burning garbage dump. They burn all their trash right near where they live. And not just a few people here and there, but thousands. 2 or 3 times she said, "I can't even begin to describe it". Nevertheless, she said that the people are sweet, they smile and they are patient as they wait for medical care. The have a couple of young men not much older than 20. One of them was with two friends when the earthquake hit. They ran, he went one way and survived. His went the other way and died. Then this young man ran into a pregant woman who went into labor. He helped her deliver the baby. And he's not even 20 years old.

They are staying at a Christian school. She said the walls are concrete, they have electricity (though it went out for an hour today), and they are well protected. The school is back in session, using rooms that weren't damaged. She said in one of the rooms, the following was written on the board: Verse of the day, January 12, 2010: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Phil 4:13. The earthquake hit the next day.

Below is a picture of her getting ready, testing out equipment before they left.

Keep praying...

A couple of messages...

2010-02-01T23:08:00.002-05:00

Got this email from Janice today...

Hi...I hope u get this email. Melissa was my bunkmate last night, letting me use her phone. We r in a very safe school the US army special forces r camped here also. There r relief teams here from Germany Hungary Korea and England. It took an hour to drive the most ten miles from the airport. Sleeping arrangments r wonderful truly indoors with mats. Plenty of food and clean water. It is truly amazing to see the body of Christ and Jesus presence here. We r still figuring out the blackberries. The only signal is digicel and for emergancies only. Maybe u can look into that at the store. I love u tons give the kids a big hug. I know u all did well today. U can respond to this address Melisa said ok

Also, this text message and photo from my friend Nate:

"This place is in huge need. We can make a difference. Snapped this picture from the back of a truck as we drove through town. Just one of 1000's of collapsed buildings.

Haiti Update - Feb 1

2010-02-01T15:02:00.002-05:00

Hey all. Thought I’d give you the latest update on Janice’s travels. Yesterday, Sunday she flew with half the team in a private Jet from Waco, TX to Miami, then stayed in a hotel. She wasn’t feeling to well, and spent much of the night sick. I spoke to her this morning and she seemed to be doing a little better. The plan was to fly another private jet to Haiti today. Both jets were donated by local businessmen who wanted to help out. Just got a text from my friend Nate’s phone (he’s the group leader) that they arrived safely in Haiti, and they are currently waiting for the rest of the team.

One thing to pray about is phone service. There are networks working there, but not all the Blackberry’s are working. So pray that she can get on a network; it will be easier for her to communicate that way. That’s all I know for now.

Thanks for your prayers…keep ‘em coming.

PS: Below are some pictures that she's texted along the way...

Our friend Nate, and his wife Jamie. Nate is leading the trip.

One of the private jets. They flew this one to Haiti.

Loading up in Haiti

Update on Janice's Trip to Haiti

2010-01-31T07:37:00.001-05:00

From an email I sent to Janice's email list regarding her trip to Haiti.

I’m going to do my best to keep you all updated on Janice’s trip to Haiti. She has an international Blackberry, and hopefully will be able to use it while down there. We agreed that she would email me updates. I’ll then pass them to you via email. Also, I’ll be updating our family blog at www.hidalgothamily.blogspot.com, and my Facebook account, so you can keep tabs there too.

We found out yesterday, that she’ll be flying this afternoon (Sunday) on a private jet to Miami. The plan is to hotel there, then head to Port-au-prince a day early (Monday).

She’s a little concerned that she brought too much, and needs to figure out a way to pare it down, so please pray for her to have practical wisdom in that regard.

Below is an email from our friend Nate who is leading the trip, just to give you some more insight.

Blessing to all of you…

Jay

--------

Hello again friends. Tomorrow I leave for 8 days in Haiti. I am leading a team of 14 RN’s, doctors, and paramedics. This will be our church’s 3rd team.

The reports coming from our returning teams are really heartbreaking. Whatever you see on CNN doesn’t do it justice. I encourage you to do whatever you can to help the Haitians! Pray, Give or Go! But do something. Don’t look on passively.

Our teams say that there are children orphaned by the earthquake just roaming the streets without a place to live. In many cases, 5 year olds are taking care of 3 year olds as they fend for themselves on the street. Others are being preyed on by traffickers or people looking to gain something from them.

Pray for us as we go. We are in this for the long haul! Part of my purpose in going is to scout out a section of the city that we will commit to rebuild from the ground up, much like we did in Sri Lanka after the tsunami. I need to connect with the right people and have the wisdom of God as I go! Pray for Jamie too as she’ll be staying behind.

Another desire of ours is to see if we can help the process of getting Haitian kids adopted. Jamie and I have offered to adopt, and we have rallied 11 other couples in our movement who have stepped up to do the same. I love the body of Christ! We don’t know where this will head, so pray for that too!

Just getting into Haiti has been an incredible effort. Two different Texas businessmen have offered the use of their private jets so we can get there. And the interesting thing is that neither of them are believers. They just wanted to help. I call that the FAVOR OF GOD! At this point we have no clear plan on how to get out, but that isn’t our concern at the moment. We just want to get there.

Thanks for praying!

Nate & Jamie

CORRECTION

2010-01-27T20:39:00.003-05:00

Sorry to all, but I gave you the wrong Antioch Church. Janice is going with Antioch COMMUNITY Church, not Antioch Bible. Here' s the correct donation site: https://antiochcc.ccbchurch.com/app/trx_submit_bp.php?type=public_gift. Select "Emergency Relief" from the drop down menu.

Giving to Haiti

2010-01-27T12:50:00.001-05:00

With Janice's trip to Haiti (see previous post), some have asked if they can give. Best thing is to give to the group she's going with: Medical Relief International. Go to https://members.abchurch.org/giving/index.html, scroll down to the third option.

A note from Janice

2010-01-27T08:37:00.001-05:00

OK it is official I am going to Haiti next week. For some of you this is the first you have heard of it. So let me back the story up a bit. It has all happened very fast for us also. Last Friday night I was invited to go to Haiti from our good friend Nate Bobbett. His church in Waco, TX has much experience in going to places for immediate relief work in many parts of the world. They have had 2 teams dispatched to Haiti already. He knows I am a nurse and asked of I would like to go. Surprisingly it did not take long for a yes answer to come from me or my family. He had to work out the logicistics and then called us later last night and confirmed that I could go. I will be leaving on Saturday morning to Dallas to stay with family and then leave on Tuesday morning for Haiti. Nate's latest email says he "thinks we will be back the 8th of Feb." so we will see when I actually get home. I am not on facebook, but Jay is and I will send him info and he can take it from there. I don't have many other details. I will let you know what I know as things happen. Please just keep all of us in your prayers. Janice

Cruise

2010-01-23T16:49:00.002-05:00

Janice turned 40 in October, so instead of trying to surprise her, I asked her what she wanted. Her answer was "I want to go on a cruise in January. And it was so...

The links below will take you to the pictures:

Cruise Pictures - Part 1
Cruise Pictures - Part 2

Race for the Cure!!!

2009-09-26T17:07:00.000-04:00

It's been a fun 10 Days

2009-09-13T10:02:00.007-04:00

The past few days have been a lot of fun. Labor Day weekend was gorgeous, so we squeezed out last drop of summer by spending a day at the beach. Two days later, school started. A good first week overall. The week was capped with Molly's birthday: 10 4th grade girls, a barbecue and outdoor movie night! Next up, Jack's birthday.

THE LAST DAY OF SUMMER

THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

MOLLY'S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Getting Shealie

2009-07-04T10:50:00.001-04:00

Molly's Essay

2009-05-30T10:34:00.004-04:00

You all know how much we love Glen Arbor. Below is an essay Molly wrote for an assignment in school. I couldn't have said or written it any better.

Click on the link to read the essay: Molly's Essay

dddddd

The Girls New Room

2009-04-30T12:23:00.002-04:00

For Christmas of 2007, the girls present was a "new room". Our friend, Amy Pottenger, who is the owner of an interior design firm, helped us out. Recently, she showcased the girl's on her blog....take a look:

http://refreshdesign.wordpress.com/2009/04/29/before-after/

Spring Break 2009 - Gatlinburg, TN

2009-04-18T10:52:00.009-04:00

Spring Break this year was spent at the foothills of The Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee, just outside of Gatlinburg. We avoided the "tourist" areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge (except for one night at the Dixie Stampede). Mostly, we spent time in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. Breathtakingly beautful. Very relaxing.
Would have loved to stay another week...

Our log cabin...

The view from right outside our cabin...

Nothing better than hanging in the jacuzzi, watching TV...

Wating to saddle up for a ride in the mountains...

Thrilled, isn't he?

Our most experienced rider...

Molly got to ride a horse named "Cadillac"

Jackie-boy on "Pumpkin". Half way through the ride, Jack's saddle slid off.
No harm done...whew!

Out on the trail

Dinner at Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede (Dolly wasn't there)...

...so we settled for a picture with one of the "Cowgirls".

Grey shirt, blue hat. North or South? Hmmmm!

One day of shopping never hurt anyone...especially when the boys didn't have to go :-)

Behind "Grotto Falls" in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park

A shot from behnid the falls (yes, that's snow in the mountains)

The Fam at Grotto Falls

Trail side break on the way back from Grotto Falls...beautiful

Lunch in Cade's Cove...ahhhhh

Jack loves being a boy...we don't need no stinkin' bathrooms!

Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls

The Fam on the way back from Abrams Falls...5 mile round trip hike.

Stopped in Indianapolis on the way back to have dinner with Aunt Jean and Uncle Gorden

Winter is Over...I think

2009-04-18T09:52:00.005-04:00

It looks like the worst of winter is gone. For most of January through March, there's not much excitement except what the kids are doing in school. Take a look at some of their winter activities from the past few months...

Elegant Day 2009
The kids dress up at school to celebrate Valentines Day.

100 Day
"ZERO THE HERO" makes an appearance to help the kindergarteners celebrate learning to count to 100!

Poetry Coffee House.
Jack's class dressed up as beatniks, and hosted a coffee house
while they recited their poems.

Jackie Boy's Kindergarten Program Highlights

2009-01-31T21:40:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2008 in Dallas

2009-01-24T18:51:00.003-05:00

Joey's Birthday Puzzle

2008-12-21T08:42:00.001-05:00

Grand Rapids Men & Boys Choir

2008-12-18T18:16:00.007-05:00

In September, Joey was invited to join the Grand Rapids Men and Boys Choir. Since then, he's been practicing twice each week in preparation for their Christmas Concerts. This is not just a singing group. Joey is learning liturgical music, music theory, and much much more.

Below are some pictures as well as a You Tube video from the concert on Monday. The YouTube video is 1 hour. You can get a good feel by watching the begining, when they sing Silent Night. Also, there are close ups of Joey at mintues 12, 19, 44:36 and 50:48.

Yes, we're gushing, proud parents!!! Enjoy

Joey getting ready for his Sunday concert

Getting ready for warm ups...

Mr. Bosscher lining up the Choir

Joey and his pal Sam "loosening up" before warm ups

Joey in his vestments

Warms ups at St. Andrews.

The choir performing

Joey's girlfriend Carley came to the concert on Monday night

Decorating The Tree

2008-12-13T11:41:00.006-05:00

Thought you might like to see a few shots from the night we decorated the tree...

Lost Video of Jack Dancing at Stacey and Joe's Wedding 2007

2008-11-21T23:48:00.002-05:00

Jack's First Visit to South Bend...

2008-11-08T17:09:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday, through the generosity of a friend, I (Jay) was able to take Jack, Joey and Joey's friend Chris to the Notre Dame - Pitt Game. It was Jack's first trip to South Bend for a game. He was pretty excited (although the two hour car ride didn't thrill him much). Things got better when we got to campus, and I bought him a green #7 jersey. He's worn it 2 or 3 times since the game. After a dog and a coke outside the stadium, we got to our seats, and he just soaked it in...for all of 10 minutes. Then he asked, "When's the game gonna start?" "30 minutes" I said. "But watch the band, and watch the guys on the field kicking the ball". That pacified him for a few. After the national anthem, the two jets that did a fly-over got his attention. Then the game started. I had told him that we would be sitting for most of the time, watching the game. 5 minutes into the first quarter, he asked, "Are we going to stay for the whole game". As it turns out, we did...it was the longest game in Irish history. But Jack was a trooper, and a 2-hour nap on the way home was his reward.

Put on a football Jersey, and look what happens

Tailgating on a budget...

Dog and a Coke before the game.

Just before game time under the watchful eye of "Touchdown Jesus"

Halloween

2008-11-08T12:19:00.005-05:00

Not much to report here...other than we dressed up and went around the neighborhood begging for candy. But other people came to our house and begged for candy too, so it all came out in the wash. The weather was perfect, and having Halloween on a Friday night was a bonus because the kids could stay up later.

Annual Pumpkin Carving at "Big" Grandma and Grandpa

Maggie digs in...

The artists and their work

Jack was an "Army Dude"...

...Molly, The Bride of Frankenstein...

...Maggie, the bridesmaid of Frankenstein

...and Joey was Two-Face from Batman.

Then, there's the Phantom of the Opera with ????

Hey Addams Family, Eat Your Hear Out!!!!!

Maggie's Birthday - HSM 3

2008-11-08T12:10:00.004-05:00

For those who are not into the Disney scene, you may have missed the fact that the premiere of High School Musical 3 and Maggie's birthday landed on the same night. That fact, however, was not lost on Maggie, and it resulted in a High School Musical 3 birthday party and sleepover. Maggie brought 6 of her friends home from school on Friday, October 24th. The ride home featured giggling, Cold Play, giggling, Miley Cyrus, giggling, The Jonas Brothers and giggling. After snacks, dinner, presents and more giggling, we were off to see High School Musical 3. We arrived an hour before showtime to get in line for good seats. The girls loved it (although they thought the high-schoolers in the theater screaming at Zach Ephron was a little much.)After the movie, all 7 of them crashed in the basement, and giggled some more. The next morning, they all were fed Mr. Hidalgo's World Famous Pancakes (not as much giggling when they were eating.) Afterwards, clean up and go home. If you want to experience the moment, you watch the video.

7 Giggly Girls before High School Musical

Gift Time...She got the HSM 3 Soundtrack...Joy!

More Gifts...

...and more. Notice the T-shirt

Glen Arbor 2008

2008-08-08T11:45:00.008-04:00

Camping 2008

2008-08-08T09:25:00.003-04:00

Holildays 2007

2008-01-05T15:53:00.000-05:00

Joey ala King Henry at Thanksgiving

Blokus is becoming a Thankgiving Tradition

Lighting the Hannukah Candles

Jack was a Wise Man in his pre-school Christmas Program

A Very wise man...

Maggie making a Christmas decoration at her school party

Santa and one of his elves????

Janice with her neice Brittany at the Gudbrandson Christmas

Christmas Eve at Mom and Dad Hidalgos

The calm before the Christmas morning Storm...

Jackie boy wanted a new bathrobe...and he got it.

Christmas Night... more games.

Brad Paisley - Amplifiers and Bonfires

2007-11-18T09:41:00.001-05:00

Heading to dinner before the big show...

Waiting for the chicken fingers and fries to arrive

Because of Aunt Michelle's generosity, we enjoyed the "Suite" life

Snack bar when ever we wanted...

Jack wanted to dress like Brad...T-shirt and Cowboy hat

Waiting for Taylor Swift to come out...

Watching Taylor Swift sing "Stay Beautifu"
(I know. It's blurry. Trust me, she's there)

Watching Rodney Atkins sing "These are My People"

The Man himself...Brad Paisley

The whole gang in next to one of Brad's semis

Just before leaving, we were able to get a photo op with Brad's drummer...Joey was in awe!!

Maggie's Trip to Chicago

2007-11-14T07:07:00.000-05:00

Joey's Trip to Star Wars

2007-11-14T06:48:00.001-05:00

Halloween

2007-10-31T19:14:00.001-04:00

Jack (aka Green Lantern) at pre-school

Jack (aka, David Wright)

Hannah Montana

A Dementor from Harry Potter

Hmmmm....Not sure

Still not sure....

The Whole Fam...minus Maggie (Don't ask)

With friends from church...

Well....there's Maggie, with our friend Liz. Maggie dressed up as Liz...Liz dressed up as Maggie's friend Cynthia. It's a long story.

Maggie's Birthday

2007-10-31T18:57:00.001-04:00

Maggie's Trip to the State Capital

2007-10-31T18:49:00.001-04:00

Backpacking on North Manitou Island

2007-09-26T19:15:00.000-04:00

The only sign of civilization on the island...27 acres which include the Ranger Station

Lake Manitou...located right in the geographic center of the island

One of the many trails we hiked...

The view from our campsite Saturday morning...gorgeous

A view from the west shore...no one for miles

Just a few hundered feet from our campsite...a coyote print on the beach

Another visitor to our campsite...a harmless garter snake.
One of the many abandoned buildings from the turn of the century...Swensons Barn
My friend Jim
A photo op at Fredrickson's place (yes, that's a Mets hat)

The cemetery at the southeast part of the island.
Most graves are from the late 1800's to the 1930

Perfectly clear night on Saturday night.

Sunrise Sunday morning, east shore of the island.

Our campsite Sunday morning. The sun made everything orange.
That's Lake Michigan beyond the trees.

North Manitou Island from the Ferry back to the mainland.

Jack's 5th Birthday

2007-09-26T18:50:00.001-04:00

Looking like a Stud; He wanted to wear his tie to school for his birthday

Presents, Pals, Posing for Pictures
He wanted to paly baseball for his birthday...
Hanging out with Grandmas and Grandpas...

Molly's 8th Birthday

2007-09-26T18:04:00.001-04:00

Decortating Cupcakes

More Decorating...
And more decorating...
And don't forget the presents!!!!

Labor Day 2007

2007-09-13T18:09:00.000-04:00

First Day of School 2007

2007-09-13T17:34:00.000-04:00

Baseball Trip 2007

2007-08-12T08:52:00.000-04:00

Joey and "Big Grandpa" at the WhiteSox game

US Cellular Field

With lots of time in the van, Joey serenaded the rest of the gang...unintentionally

Trying to impress the ladies as they drove by in while enroute to Kansas City

The boys hanging with Hall of Famer George Brett's Statue in KC

Stacey's Wedding

2007-07-22T09:57:00.001-04:00

Summer 2007

2007-07-14T11:36:00.001-04:00

Spring 2007

2007-07-14T11:20:00.000-04:00

Dallas Cousins In Town

2007-07-14T09:21:00.001-04:00

Video

2007-03-24T10:02:00.000-04:00

We have a new video page. Just a few files on it now, but it will be growing over time. Click here to view.

Making the Best of Winter

2007-03-24T09:04:00.000-04:00

Winter in Michigan...well, it's like ham (ask my mother what that means). January and February are the longest 8 months of the year. Cold, slush, salt, gray skies, no baseball. The question everyone asks themselves during those months is: "Why do we live here?"

But when you get lemons, make lemonade. Which is what we did, trying to make the best of another cold, Michigan winter...

Maggie loves to build forts inside when the weather is cold outside

We watch lots of movies in the winter. Jay, Jack and Jack's cousins Aiden and

Michael watching Star Wars

One of the cool things in Grand Rapids is that the Zoo is Free in the Winter. We conducted a "scavenger hunt" with clues that took us from one exhibit to the next...

Gretzky and Kerrigan wowing the locals with their skating prowess.

Even though it's a long couple of months, God let's us enjoy it's beauty

How We Spent the Holidays

2007-01-15T11:26:00.000-05:00

Whew!!!!! The holidays have passed. Not much snow in Michigan this year, which is exactly how one of us likes it (he's the one who cleans it all off the driveway). This was Jack's "4 year old" Christmas. 4 year old Christmases are the best. It's the first year they understand the concept of Santa bringing presents, and they embrace the magic.

Right after Christmas, we flew to Dallas to visit Jay's brother and his family. Together, we have 8 kids, and they love hanging out together. We sure wish they were closer. Take a look at a few photos from the holidays...

The kids all camped out in one room the night before Christmas

Maggie reads the back of the photo left by Santa.

Jack waits patiently to open his presents

We stayed up until 1:30 Christmas night playing dominos with family and friends.

Annual New Year's Picture (click it to see actual size)

TEXAS TRIP

Just hanging out, playing Gameboy.

In Dallas, it's warm enough to play baseball during the holidays. Jack gets ready for the pitch.

We took the kids on a scavenger hunt one day. Here are all eight of them, trying to figure out where the next clue may be.

After the scavenger hunt. The prize??? Candy. Lauren, Molly, Jack and Maggie enjoying the spoils of victory.

Spending the afternoon at the local YMCA pool.

Our last night in Texas.

Thanksgiving

2006-11-25T19:14:00.000-05:00

This year, after a football game with our faith community, we spent the day at Mom and Dad Hidalgo's house. Football, food, wine, laughs, noise. A good day.

Jay runs it back after making the interception

Warm enough to play outside this year.

Joey helps carve the turkey

The big "wash your hands" line up

After dinner, adults upstairs...

....kids downstairs

Joey "Dizzy Gilespi" Hidalgo

2006-11-25T18:36:00.000-05:00

Joey is 3 months into playing the trumpet, and he had his first concert earlier this week. We were quite surprised at how in just 3 months, these 5th graders played so well. Yes, we'll be encouraging more and hoping for that "marching band scholarship" some day.

ND Football

2006-11-25T18:07:00.000-05:00

My friend from across the street came over a week ago Wednesday night and handed me 4 tickets to the Army at Notre Dame football game. 50 yard line, 38th row. Joey, my brother Michael, and my nephew Adam went (it was Joey's first trip to see "Touchdown Jesus"). The Army paratroopers "dropped in with the game ball", and we even got to meet Jim Leyland, manager of the Detroit Tigers. Take a look...

Our Favorite Places

2006-11-22T11:04:00.000-05:00

Our Neighborhood

We moved to the Cheshire area of Grand Rapids in the spring of 1999. We had only been here a few days when one of our neighbors stopped by to invite us to a neighborhood pool party. In one fell swoop, we met all our neighbors, and they made us feel right at home. We've been part of the neighborhood "family" ever since. Although some neighbors have moved, and others have come in since we've been here, one thing is a constant: We truly have a neighborhood community here. Everyone looks out for each other, we spend hours just talking outside during the summer months, and we have 2-3 neighborhood "parties" every year. Our kids all play together, and before they get home from each other's houses, the parents have already reported on anyone who may have "misbehaved". We prayed that God would find a place for us to live back in 1999 when we were looking for a home. We're confident that God chose this place for us.PS: Photograph courtesy of Coastline Studios. (the owner of Coastline is a friend and neighbor). The red arrow (if you can see it) is pointing to our house.

Glen Arbor, Michigan

Every year, for the last 8 years, our family has vacationed in the little town of Glen Arbor, MI. When Janice was in high school, she nannied for a few families that vacationed there. So, 8 years ago, when we were trying to decide where to "get away", she suggested we give it a try. We've never looked anywhere else. Nestled in the Sleeping Bear National Lake-shore, Glen Arbor is a little resort town right on Sleeping Bear Bay (Lake Michigan). Our cottage (the same one we've rented every year), is 200 yards from the Lake Michigan Beach one way, and a 1 minute walk into town the other. With National Park surrounding the area, there's very little development. Our days in Glen Arbor are spent swimming, hiking, walking into town for ice-cream, having bonfires on the beach, and visiting the shops and galleries in town. Each week we spend there seems like 3 or 4. And every year, we thank God for blessing of being able to enjoy such a wonderful place.

Nichols Lake

About 3 years ago, we tried camping. We borrowed some tents, packed some food, and headed to one of the state campgrounds. We got eaten alive by mosquitoes, and ended up soaking wet because of the storm that blew in. And after all that, the kids wanted to camp again.
Since that maiden journey, we've settled on a campground on Nichols Lake. We love it there. Peaceful, clean and only an hour away right in the middle of the Manistee National Forest. We camp, fish, hike, swim, and relax. We'd give you directions, but we don't want too many people to find it, so you're on your own.

Professional Photos

2006-11-09T14:02:00.000-05:00

Just got an IM from a friend of mine who did some photography for our family last year. HE's got a new website. Check it out to see some great pix of the kids.

Go to www.coastline-studios.com
Click on "Portaits"
When the second page loads, mouseover on "portfolio", then click on "families"
We're the first 10 photos, then the last 2.

Make sure you disable any pop up blockers, and be patient if you have a slow connection. Enjoy!!!

Mother Daughter Horsemanship Camp

2006-09-23T17:27:00.000-04:00

Remember this past summer when Maggie went to horsemanship camp? Well, she's got the bug and last weekend, she took Janice back to camp for a mother daughter weekend. And we're not sure who had more fun.

See that fire???? Janice got it going (she's quite the bonfire maven). They spent the weekend horseback riding, rope climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, doing crafts (it's an all girl weekend, you have to have crafts, right?), horseback riding, and pretty much having fun hanging out together without the other kids around. And now, Maggie has signed up for horseback riding lessons. She'll be going once a week throughout the fall.

Here are a few more pictures from the weekend...

Birthday Time

2006-09-23T17:09:00.000-04:00

Molly and Jack each celebrated their birthdays last week. Molly's (who's now 7) on the 13th and Jack's (the big 4 year old) on the 17th. To celebrate, Molly took a friend to Build a Bear (where she actually got a dog), after which we all went to Boston's for dinner. For Jack, his two buddies Ethan and Tony joined him for a round of miniature golf and some ice cream.

Champs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-09-19T05:46:00.000-04:00

2006 National League East Champions

The New York Mets

Vacation

2006-09-05T18:58:00.000-04:00

Ok, so you probably have been wondering where the heck we've been. Well, we've been on vacation. This year, we were blessed to have 3 weeks in Glen Arbor, Michigan (our home away from home). We beached, hiked, napped, ate out, slept in, over and over and over again. I won't get into all the details, we'll just let the pictures speak for themselves...

Jackie-boy relaxing during a beautiful sunset

The sun setting over Sleeping Bear Dunes

Taking a rest during one of our many hikes

Chilling on the beach

Hiking up Pyramid Point

From the top of Sleeping Bear Dunes

Maggie after a swim at dusk

Contemplation around the beach campfire

Our last day in Glen Arbor. Can't wait 'til next year

Camping

2006-07-18T19:31:00.000-04:00

The first camping trip of the season is in the books. We had a fantastic time. Last year, we did a trial run for one night with borrowed equipment. Everyone had such a good time, we decided to get our own gear and do this a few times a year.

One of the nice things about living in Michigan is the proximity of two National Forests. We live within 45 minutes of one of them, and camping in them is an absolute blast. We have a few more trips planned for this year, and we can't wait.

Needless to say, a good time was had by all.

Happy 1st of July

2006-07-01T18:41:00.000-04:00

Sometimes practicality overrides tradition. That's what happened in a little town south of here that decided to have it's Independence Day Parade today (Saturday, July ) 1, instead of on July 4th. Nevertheless, we went because Molly was in the parade, riding on the float of one of the local banks. Her friend (whose Mom works for the bank) invited her, and she was quite excited.

We all hung out on the curb, waving to the veterans, the firemen, the bands, the candiates for local office, the Cub Scouts, the Girl Scouts (they didn't have cookies), the Harley riders, and the policemen. Lots of tractors too, and a few clowns. Who knew that simplicity could be so much fun.

Happy 1st!!!!

Maggie at Camp

2006-07-01T18:22:00.000-04:00

Last week, Maggie spent 6 days at YMCA Horsemanship Camp. She certainly surprised us a few weeks ago when she told us she wanted to do overnight camp instead of day camp. I think Mom and Dad were more worried than she was.

She spent 4 hours a day learning everything there is to know about horses, from feeding, to grooming, to equipment and of course, riding. The pictures below are from the last day, when we picked her up. We had a picnic, she told us all about her week, and she was able to demonstrate for us all that she had learned.

Here's Maggie describing camp in her own words...

Camp was AWESOME!!!!! My horses' name was Lightening and he was very stubborn. His name is Lightening because he was born during a lightening storm not because he is fast. My counselors names were Hannah and Amanda(she is from England). My instructors names were Maragret and Mary. My friend name is Samatha and in horse life we are sisters because our horses are brothers. My swim test went well but I had to try again to get to blue.

Did she have a good time? She's already told us that she's going again next year.

Baseball Trip 2006

2006-06-27T23:54:00.000-04:00

Every year since 1999, Jay and his buddies have taken a baseball trip weekend. This trip includes 3-4 games over 3-4 days at Major League Stadiums, lots of laughing, the "quarters" game, lots more laughing, and more laughing after that. This year, Jay got to see his beloved Mets (who have the best record in the National League) in Toronto, as well as the Tigers hosting the Cardinals. If only every day was as enjoyable as watching grown men play a kids game. We can only dream....

A Bird in the Hand...I mean, The Box

2006-06-27T23:35:00.000-04:00

One Saturday, Aunt Heather called, and said she had a baby bird she wanted to show the kids. Nothing like bringing the zoo right to your front door...

Pow Wow

2006-06-27T23:25:00.000-04:00

Every summer, at Riverside Park, which is right down the street from our house, the "Three Fires" Pow Wow takes place. The term "Three Fires" refers to the three nations in the Great Lakes region -- the Ottawa, the Ojibwe (or Chippewa) and the Potawatomi. These nations have a centuries-old alliance for purposes of trade, political relations and defense. And they come together every year to celebrate their history and their heritage. We thought we'd take the kids to learn about another culture. As you can see, we had a great time.

School's Out!!!!!

2006-06-10T13:28:00.000-04:00

Well, summer has officially started in the Hidalgo household. The past few weeks have seen a slew of "end of the year" activity. Here's a sampling of how the kids finished out the year...

Joey finished up fourth grade with an all day field trip to one of the local county parks. Hiking, games, and a water gun fight made for the perfect end of the year party.

Maggie, who finished 2nd grade by receiving the annual Moral Character Award for her class, enjoyed a field trip as well. For the 2nd graders, it was a picnic, followed by a trip to the bowling alley.

Molly finished kindergarten well by participating in a wonderful "commencement" ceremony that brought smiles to all who were there. She's definitely ready for first grade.

Now that school is over, we're all looking forward to a fun filled summer.

Jackie Boy

2006-06-03T08:49:00.000-04:00

Jackie Boy (just about everyone's affectionate name for our 3 1/2 year old Jack) plays hard and eats hard. When when he's out of steam, he crashes hard as he did here one night while finishing dinner (notice the mouth still full of food).

Hiking

2006-05-28T08:44:00.000-04:00

We went hiking yesterday. One of the things the kids love to do is have "family day". And one of the things we like to do as a family is to go hiking. So, off to the state park with packpacks, water bottles and snickety snacks.

It all started pretty well, until 15 minutes in. Jack needed a break. Not a quick break mind you, a "wong west" until his feet were "wested". About 35 mintues in, we were at the beach, and 56 degree water didn't keep the kids from dipping their feet and cooling off. But soon after that, the adventure began. The trail we were on wasn't as well marked as we would have hoped, and we got a little of course. Have you ever hiked 300 foot sand dunes with 4 kids? They were troopers though, and the "family hike" was now being referred to as the family adventure. We had lost the trail, and a little worry had started to set in with Joey and Maggie. Jack however, was OK as long as Daddy was carrying him.

However, we had nothing to fear. Joey was our man, our trail tracker and eventually led us to the trail we had started on, and then back to the car.
From there, pizza, ice cream and baths capped off our Memorial Day Weekend Family Hike.

Welcome

2006-05-28T08:26:00.000-04:00

We've talked for some time about having a family website to keep our friends and family more up to date on the happenings in our life. It won't replace the periodic emails, New Year's cards, etc. that we already send. But it will be a place for those we love to come on a regular basis to see what's going on in our little world.

We call it the Hidalgo "Thamily" because that's how the word "family" has been pronounced by our Molly for some time. And it just fits us perfect.

What has prompted us to finally do this, you may ask? Well, we'll tell you: we just got a digital camera, and now uploading photos is a heck of a lot easier. We'll do what we can to keep things up to date.

Blessings...