Summer Activities

Dear Family and Friends,

Although our trip to the states is over, the kids are still enjoying summer vacation. This afternoon, we took advantage of a break in the clouds to go paddle-boating on Le Lac de Saint Croix, our favorite turquoise lake. While the water was a little colder than it was this time last year, no one complained too much since we got the big slide this time. Once we paddled out a ways, Nicolas, Elyse, and Nathaniel took turns going down the slide or diving off the front of the boat.

The kids have kept busy in summer programs. Nicolas has been spending two hours each day rowing. The first couple of days he came back with blisters and cuts on his hands. Since then, however, he seems to have toughened up and is getting pretty strong. This will come in very useful if he ever goes to an Ivy-League school later in life.

For her class, Elyse has continued learning how to sail. The last couple of days, the instructors have taught the kids how to rescue each other and how to right an upturned sail boat. Unfortunately, Nathaniel has had to watch from the shore or ride his bike beside mom while she jogs around the lake.

We hope you are all well. We very much appreciated everyone's hospitality while we were home.

A toute a l'heure,

Joe, Julie, Nicolas, Nathaniel, and Elyse