It was a picture-perfect summer solstice evening when I met the Kipling family, Betsy, Eric, their three striking teenagers dressed in coordinating shades of blue, and their lovable standard poodle at Tanglefoot Park. We made our way down the path to Mill Point Creek to meet our talented photographer, Lexi Fogle, and that’s when the fun began (as it often does during these shoots) 

In today’s busy world, it’s rare to find a moment when everyone can come together, which makes these sessions extra special.  It’s a chance to pause, laugh, and create lasting memories. Lexi spotted a beautiful weeping willow right by the water that made for the perfect backdrop for our August cover. We hope you enjoy getting to know the Kiplings as much as we did.   Special thanks to Leslie Smies for nominating another wonderful family!

If you’ve ever set foot near a Spring Lake baseball field, wandered the halls of the Middle School, or had a child involved in a school STEM club, odds are good you’ve crossed paths with someone from the Kipling crew. Known for their energy, generosity, and team spirit (on and off the field), the Kiplings have called Spring Lake home for over two decades.  This is one family where compassion, coaching, and curiosity are truly a way of life.

Let’s begin with the starting lineup:

But the Kiplings aren’t just a human team. They’re also proud parents to Odin, a 7-year-old beautiful standard poodle and breeding dog for Paws With a Cause. Through Odin and his offspring, they’ve helped bring over 150 assistance dogs into the world, supporting individuals with a wide range of challenges, from PTSD to autism.

“Being part of the Paws with a Cause family has opened our hearts in a way we didn’t expect,” shares Betsy. “It’s helped us, and especially our kids, grow in compassion and awareness. These dogs give people more than just help… they give them independence.”

The story of Betsy and Eric (better known as “Kip” to most) began where so many local tales do: inside the walls of Spring Lake Intermediate School. Kip was a young 6th-grade Social Studies and Math teacher; Betsy was a student teacher across the hall. A friendship bloomed, and two years later, they were dating. Three months after that? Engaged.

“We’re best friends,” says Betsy. “What I admire most about Kip is his passion and his patience. He loves teaching in the classroom and on the field, and it’s that love that makes him such a great coach and dad.”

Kip, equally smitten, adds: “Betsy has this spark. She’s one of those people who changes your life just by knowing her. She’s curious, she’s kind, and she has this deep, genuine love for everyone she meets. Once you’re in her circle, you’re there for life.”

Eric grew up in Indiana but has deep Michigan roots.  His parents also previously lived in Ishpeming in the Upper Peninsula. A proud CMU grad and four-year letter-winning pitcher, he now teaches U.S. History, Architecture, and Robotics at Spring Lake Middle School. Betsy, a Grand Valley State alum, teaches K–4 STEM at Jeffers Elementary and 6th-grade STEM at the Intermediate School.

Between teaching, parenting, coaching, and cheering from the sidelines, this couple wears a lot of hats, and they wear them with pride. Kip has coached baseball for 25 years and currently serves as the varsity pitching coach at SLHS and the 8th-grade basketball coach. Betsy has led programs like Robotics Club, LEGO Club, and Girls on the Run, though these days she’s primarily focused on supporting her kids in all their pursuits.

When they do get a breather, you’ll likely find the Kiplings at their family cottage on Stony Lake, gathered around a bonfire or watching a Tigers game. They’re big fans, as well as loyal supporters of Indiana basketball, the Lions, and, well, any lacrosse or baseball team their kids are on!

“Our home is constantly full of energy, sports gear, and laughter,” laughs Betsy. “And we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The Kiplings love to travel. From the College Baseball World Series in Omaha to the coast of France and the forests of Sweden. Travel, they say, is a key part of their parenting philosophy.

“We want our kids to see how other people live,” Eric says. “It teaches empathy, and it builds respect. It’s one thing to talk about inclusion and kindness, but it’s another to live it, experience new cultures, and connect with people different from you.”

Ask Eric and Betsy what they’re most proud of, and their answers are quick:

It’s no surprise that these traits reflect the values their parents live by every day!

The Kiplings have woven themselves into the very fabric of Spring Lake.  If it’s not coaching on the field, leading a classroom, raising future leaders, or working with great causes.  They embody a well-rounded lifestyle and embrace all the joys that come with living in such a vibrant place.

“We’ve been here for over 20 years,” says Betsy. “And we truly believe there’s no better place to raise a family. The schools, the lake, the people, we feel so grateful to be part of this community.”

So next time you hear someone shout, “Next pitch!” or “Breathe!” from the dugout, or see a black, curly-haired pup walking through the neighborhood, chances are, a Kipling isn’t far behind!