Sunday, August 07, 2011

Our Family of Four

 On Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at 2:44 a.m. we welcomed our daughter:
Tessa Grace Taylor Schoutens 
into the world.
Tessa is a strong and healthy 7lbs. 14 ounces
18 3/4 inches long
Noah is a wonderful big brother and we are all thrilled with our new addition.

 Tessa sleeping peacefully in the hospital.
 Noah and Tessa
 Tessa at home napping

Monday, July 25, 2011

Summer Days

Noah and his best buddies, Daniel and Thomas.

 Noah is having quite the summer.  
Between the array of wonderful parks, great swimming pools, zoo visits, and library time, our little man is thoroughly enjoying the slower days of summer.  
I am most appreciative of these days as well, spending as much time with him before our newest family member arrives.  
We are feeling most grateful for living in such a child - friendly, safe city, cooler summer temperatures, great friends and wonderful opportunities.   
Here is to a great summer and all the promise that lies ahead!
 Noah ready to travel with his new pants! He will love this picture in a few years!
 Noah at Kannenfeld Park
 Noah at the zoo with Lilly, Thomas and Daniel
 Noah watching his buddy get a band aid.
 Fun in the fountain ...there are fountains all over the city and they provide endless joy!
 Fun in the creek with Dad!
 Ready for library time.
 Library time with his new friends.
 Taking it all in.
 Craft time.
 On the tram heading to the pool.
 Pool fun in Aesch.
 Frogs get hot too!
Swimming...lazy summer days.
Wishing you all a wonderful summer!

Monday, July 11, 2011

Bliss in the Alps

 The beautiful thing about the Alps is that they are ever-changing.  
Each day, each passing moment is different from the next and each season brings with it its' own sense of wonder.  
We have been visiting the Grindelwald area for years now (how quickly time passes) and despite the fact that it is one of the only places we continue to return, we never grow tired of the scenery, the hiking and the Berghaus.  
Now that we have Noah we are certain our love for the Alps has rubbed off on him.  
He enjoys the train ride and loves the "dolas."
And to make an even more perfect location all the more ideal, Berghaus Bort added an incredible playground with a backdrop that is beyond special.  
So, as our little man swings, jumps and frolics in the stream, he is breathing fresh Alpine air and basking in some incredible views.  
For everyone, it is the ideal retreat.
 Noah taking in the views from the "dola."
 Noah checking out the cows.
 Views like this never grow old.
 Views from our hike.
 Noah passed out on the hike.
 Melinda happy to be in the Alps and still hiking.
 Robert enjoying the hike too!
 Noah on the "dola."
 One happy child!
 Noah and Dad in the Alps.
 My happy boys!
 Watching the "dolas" pass.
 Noah at the playground.  He has the life!
 Just another swing the in the Alps!
 Trampoline fun!
 Swing, swing, swing.
 Alpine child.
 Wow...
 Family shot.
Noah on the train going home.

Monday, July 04, 2011

Lausanne - A Day Away

 As a mother, I don't often leave Noah and Robert to venture out without the family.  
But twice this year I was able to sneak away and enjoy a night with a good friend in a new city.
I must admit, as much as I miss my family, I do greatly appreciate my solo time. 
We managed to do some hiking through vineyards, explore the harbor region and have a delicious meal.
Overall, the trip was a success and much needed!

A beautiful church
A boat in the harbor
A market in the city...