It's A Clark's Life

Camping

Every summer Papa and Grandma take Rede and Dylan camping together at PJ Hoffmaster State Park for one night.  It's a big deal for the boys and they love every minute of it.  What's not to love?  nature hikes, playground within arms reach, campfire, bicycle riding, playing catch, exploring the camper, laughing, roasting marshmallows,  learning about bees...so much fun with Grandparents and Cousins.  
 
 
 

Summer 2010 in America

The 13 hour flight to Grand Rapids, Michigan was a success!  Even though Greg was separated from us during the flight, we managed to make it without any mishaps.  Dylan was amazing, as always, no complaints or whines just perfect behavior.  Bryce was nearly perfect.  He was suffering from a bad ear infection even though he had just been treated for one and had gone off antibiotics days earlier.  On take off and landing he was in major pain.  We felt so badly for him, he screamed and cried and he had no idea what was happening to him.  The Monday after we got to Grand Rapids, the doctor confirmed an ear infection and he got on another round of antibiotics and scheduled him for surgery to have tubes in his ears for Tuesday, July 6th.  Max was happy to see his family again.  He gave us a warm greeting and we have taken him to the lake for several swims already.  Unforunately, he just isn't getting better.  We took him to the Veterinarian and she did a biopsy to test for mites and he is actually being treated for mites.  We hope this is the answer because it would be an easy fix.  He is so uncomfortable and is constantly itching and scratching.  Later in July we take him to Michigan State University for allergy testing.  Since our arrival we have been boating, swimming at the beach, go carting, mini-golf, shopping, eating, fishing, camping, roasting marshmellows, flying kites, playgrounds, visiting with friends... Here are some pictures of the first week in America.  
 Dylan and Bryce playing their cousin Rede.  
 Papa is the Doughnut man!  4th of July sprinkles!
 Brycen loves playing with balls. 
  Greg's new boat!
Captain Dylan!  
  Dylan's first hole in one at mini golf!
 Brycen threw his ball in the water time after time and enjoyed hitting it and making it splash!
 Taking a mini golf break.
Bumper Boats!  Dylan and Mom are in the yellow bumper boat.  
 Brycen didn't get to ride the go-carts (much to his disappointment) but afterwards the race officials allowed him to see the car up close.

Last Day of ABC International School

The last day of ABC International School was a big day for Dylan.  He was very excited but very sad at the same time.  Funny thing, he kept referring to it as his "First day of school" and that he was going to "ASIJ - American School in Japan".  ABC has been a fantastic school for Dylan.  He has thrived and all the teachers truly have cared about him.  He had a special "Good-bye Circle" including a special song because we picked him up early so we could make our flight to America.  Angela, Akiko, Shana, Rachel, Mia, Yumi and Elizabeth - Thank you for nurturing our son so beautifully.    
Dylan with teacher Angela.
Dylan and Ladybug Teacher Rachel
The week before school was over, Dylan wrote letters to his teacher, Angela.
   Outside the Butterfly class with his teacher, Angela.
 

Show and Tell Day

Every little person loves show and tell day at school.  Dylan a many of things to show and tell but for the final show and tell of the year, he asked to bring his baby brother, Brycen.  Dylan picked out the outfits for the day in the morning and dressed both of them in Steeler's jerseys and tan shorts.  He was a very proud and excited big brother.  Dylan introduced his brother Brycen Daniel, told everyone his age and said that Brycen doesn't have many words.    
 
 

Butterfly Graduation

The day couldn't have started any better than a surprise of a big bouquet of balloons placed outside our front door by Aunt Hiromi.  Dylan was thrilled to say the least!  One even sang "Celebration" to him every time it was batted.  Hours of fun!  Dylan has some sweet moves!

 The Butterflies graduating!
 Teachers Angela and Akiko with Dylan

We are so proud of you Dylan!