The KLMN Blog

Magic

2011-12-23T12:40:00.002-06:00

Without knowing a thing about celebrity-mashed-up nicknames (a la "Brangelina" and "Bennifer"), Kate informed us most enthusiastically that if Nick and I combined our names to form a "couple name", we could be called "Magic". Love it.

(While I find this to be incredibly sweet and romantic - and is an accurate description of how I feel about my marriage - I must confess I believe she came up with it due to her obsession with the magical world of Harry Potter and her desire to wake up one morning and be able to cast spells)

Darling.

Thanks and Giving

2011-11-26T11:10:00.001-06:00

This Thanksgiving was peaceful and relaxing - a truly wonderful opportunity to reflect and give thanks, and also think about how thankful we are that we are able-bodied enough to give.

I don't want to sound all high and mighty, or preachy. However, I cannot help but take some time to be overwhelmingly grateful for what we have been given, and the fact that we value service and love so much that we work hard to "give back" - and that we instill those things in our kiddos.

I am thankful for my ability and opportunity to serve our community through Ever After Gowns and Kappa Alpha Theta. I am thankful for my professional privilege to help shape minds via my teaching career at the University. While those things have a lot of opportunity for service, the truth is I don't know if there is such a thing as pure, unselfish service....because in truth I receive so much personal joy from all of that. I get to work with incredible, amazing people. I get to be exposed to astounding brains, talents, and hearts in the college students and volunteers that I encounter. Yes, I aspire to make an impact on the world...but honestly the world has made such an impact on me. I am so blessed to have my heart open to that. We are so thankful to be aware that we always have more to learn.

I am thankful for the fact that Nick and I volunteer in our community (be it my organizational involvement, our membership in the Jaycees, or Nick raking leaves for the elderly or doing Habitat work or mentoring high schoolers....) and it has "rubbed off" on our kids. They make a point to consider donating clothes and toys on a monthly basis. They point out someone's car stuck in a snow bank in our neighborhood so we can join in the crowd and help dig them out. They gleefully help me sort inventory for Ever After Gowns. They bring food donations for the food shelf. They ask "how can we help"? My heart bursts. I am over the moon crazy in love for this family of ours.

Again, I don't share this stuff to brag - though of course I am proud of their loving hearts. Rather, I just don't know how we cannot take some time to share the many blessings that we have been given! We have so much to be thankful for. Certainly, our needs are met with a warm home and food on our table. But we have so much more. Love and happiness, not just a job but professional opportunities, educational success, a good amount of health, and the chance to travel now and then. Any challenges we have with my Rheumatoid Arthritis, work issues, or general life irritations are so insignificant! We do not take anything for granted - I think I am especially thankful for that awareness.

So - to sum up.....we are thankful! :-) Here are some things that the kids are thankful for, in their own words, and in the exact order that they shared.

Kate:

I am thankful for:
family, shelter, that my parents have jobs, Jesus and God, Mom and Dad, food, water, transportation, family time, holidays, Nintendo, my pillow pet, American Girl dolls, balloons.

Liam:
I am thankful for:
all the things that I can do, animals, the world, Mom and Dad, kids, Christmas, people, things that keep us warm, my pillow pet, Hot Wheels, houses, coloring.

Liam helping sort some inventory at our warehouse for Ever After Gowns.

Kate and Liam helping pick up some donations for Ever After Gowns from a local business.

Maggie and Nick volunteering at the Minnesota State Fair with the Jaycees. Income that would have been earned was instead donated. Super fun working at the Fried Pickle booth! Really a fun day.

We are thankful for technology - it keeps us connected as Nick has been traveling extensively this year. Even in big moments, he is able to "make an appearance".

Goodbye Fall......

2011-11-06T16:30:00.000-06:00

The Fall days are coming to an end. Having now turned back the clocks thanks to the end of daylight savings, we will be waking up in the deep darkness and, well, welcoming the evening much sooner. Daylight hours are shortened, the leaves are getting close to being completely off the trees, and soon enough the snow will fly! I don't mind. That just means cozy days and hot chocolate and more toasty snuggles. I won't think about the scraping of the ice and the shoveling and the brrrrrrrrrr. Instead, I will focus on the fun to be had - including BASKETBALL season (especially BUTLER basketball) and will just look forward to the summer sunsets in less than a year!

BIG BUTLER BASKETBALL FANS!

Soon enough the summer sunsets will be back! It's why we endure these winters.

Fun Fall Pics

2011-11-06T16:24:00.000-06:00

The kidlets continue to make us smile and laugh and almost burst with love and pride on a daily basis. Truly there are times when I can barely look at them without losing my breath they are so amazing! Here are some recent photos:

Kate on "Picture Day" at school. Seriously, this pic turned out better than her actual school pictures.

The kiddos on Halloween. Kate is "Hermione" from Harry Potter (she has a total obsession with all things Harry Potter). Liam is a Knight. He bears a striking resemblance to the knights from Monty Python's "Holy Grail", but did not really take well to Nick and I asking if he would trot while trick-or-treating as we followed behind banging coconuts together. :) (If you know not of what I speak...sorry!)

My clever, creative, fun little guy. Fall fun with sidewalk chalk has him carried away! :)

Kate is 8!!!

2011-11-06T16:18:00.000-06:00

I remember when Kate was a baby so many people would stop me in the grocery store etc. and comment on how adorable she was and then say "It goes so fast! They grow up so quickly!". SO. TRUE!!!!

The Little Miss turned 8 at the end of September. For her family party, she chose to go bowling so off to the lanes we went. It was a really fun night and Kate loved bowling in a Birthday Tiara and a special Birthday button.

Minnesota Moments

2011-11-06T16:03:00.000-06:00

People often assume that, because we live in Minnesota, our outdoor time is limited or miserable thanks to weather or mosquitos. While the winter can certainly put a damper on some outdoor activity, for the most part we get to enjoy the outdoors more than most places, I would think. A good chunk of the winter allows for snowy fun, and the summers are not too hot and the fall is absolutely breathtaking! This summer and fall have been wonderful. We have gone from climbing trees and soaking in the lush green of the summer to meandering through corn mazes and crunching through dappled leafy hiking trails in the fall. Here are some pics that show us doing exactly that!

Monkey man.

Katoo in a tree, and happy to be there.

A fall hike - so lovely. We only saw one other person the whole afternoon! Gorgeous.

Mastering the corn maze - - and also hiding in it with Dad and jumping out and successfully scaring Mom!

Ben's Buddies

2011-11-06T15:56:00.000-06:00

This September we had the honor of traveling to New York City as a family - as in, our ENTIRE McKenny side of the family - to support our nephew, Ben, who has Down Syndrome. Ben was selected by the National Down Syndrome Society as one of the individuals with Down Syndrome that they would feature as part of their Buddy Walk presentation in Times Square!!! Isn't that incredible?! Ben's photo was shown on the jumbotron in Times Square as part of the NDSS's effort to raise awareness about Down Syndrome. How could we miss this opportunity?

So - a giant group of Ben Fans convened in NYC for a long weekend to see his photo in times square (taken by our dear family friend, Julie) and to participate in the Buddy Walk. Of course we enjoyed the city as well (See next post for that).

It was a muggy, warm day, but we all enjoyed spending time in Times Square and then picnicking and strolling in Central Park to support our Ben. The cutest baby that you have EVER seen. Actually, he just turned ONE! I cannot believe how quickly time flies. We all feel so lucky to have Ben in our lives - he is the most sweet, joyful, cuddly guy in town.

Here are some pics with captions:

Almost the whole gang! Ben's Buddies in Central Park - ready to walk!

Kate with her medal of completion. She was really proud. I am so thankful for these opportunities for our children to learn, grow, and love!

K & L on our way home from the walk - their first subway ride and they are clearly trying hard to pose but reaaaallly wanting to look behind them at the train approaching. I love how they are looking in opposite directions, it makes me smile!

Cousins in a row in Times Square!

Cousins! After our picnic lunch on this rock, we started the walk!

Ben's Picture on the Jumbotron!!!!! SO neat!

I want to be a part of it....

2011-11-06T15:46:00.000-06:00

New York, Newww Yooorrrrrrk! As mentioned above, we traveled to NYC as a family to support our nephew Ben in the Buddy Walk to raise awareness for the National Down Syndrome Society. Of course, though, we took the opportunity to soak up as much of the city as we could with the kiddos! I cannot express enough how impressed Nick and I were by our children - they trekked all over the city with us, nonstop. They were eager, enthusiastic, joyful and....this is the part that I love the most....polite and well behaved! I have to brag for a minute and say that, truly, everywhere we went people stopped us to tell us how delightful and polite our kids were (until the last 30 minutes before we boarded the plane home when Liam had a meltdown over a pizza slice that I think was really about exhaustion and not wanting to end vacation).

Seriously, though, the kids happily trekked all over the city! From schlepping through torrential rain in midtown on our first day there to enjoying singing waiters at Ellen's Stardust Diner....from the Buddy Walk to strolls through Central Park....to subway rides uptown and down to wandering the many halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art....to seeing the live musical "The Lion King" on Broadway to overlooking the city from the top of Rockefeller Center....to a boat trip to see the Statue of Liberty to a spin on a Ferris Wheel in Times Square's Toys R Us...AND SO MUCH MORE....the kids were amazing. As luck would have it, Nick and I got some extra evening time in the city because our babysitter from the past FIVE years in Minnesota had just moved to NYC! And she lives only 4 blocks from our hotel!!! :) SO Holly got some great time with the kids that allowed Nick and I to stroll the high line in Chelsea and grab some great ethnic meals out with friends and family. I was so proud of how much our family cooperated to squeeze every last drop of goodness out of that trip. It was an amazing opportunity and we used up every bit of it! Goodness gracious we are blessed.

Here are some pics with captions/thoughts.

Kate and Liam LOVED Ellen's Stardust Diner. The servers sing constantly and many have gone on to Broadway shows! Such a great deal to get such great entertainment with your meal. Cheesy? Yes. Fun?! Absolutely!

Kate and Liam at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This may have inspired Liam's Halloween costume!

K & L in front of a costume display from the Broadway show of "The Lion King". They LOVED LOVED LOVED IT! (So did Nick and I!)

K & L "Walking Like Egyptians"....they did this periodically throughout the museum to the true delight of the security guards who got a happy giggle. Looking back, I think ours were the only kids there! And we went on a weekend!

Another one from our night at Ellen's Stardust Diner.

Brother and Sister in Times Square!!!! (It had been pouring rain alllll day)

Kate at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. People looked at her and grinned when we walked into this room because she exclaimed "Oh my goodness! Look at these Monets!!!!" I don't think they expected a child to know. Sad, right?

Kate at the top of Rockefeller Center, overlooking Central Park.

Liam and Nick at the "Top of the Rock"

Kiddos with Dad on the boat heading closer to the Statue of Liberty

Smiles

2011-09-17T18:57:00.000-05:00

This summer my sister came to visit for almost a whole month! It was so wonderful to see and spend time with Erin, her hubby Nick, and their FOUR beautiful children. Our dear family friend, and incredible photographer, Julie came to snap some lovely shots of all of us together. We had such a fun day at the lake with her and she produced some treasured images. We cannot recommend her enough - be sure to visit her at http://juliekraaiphotography.com/

All photos courtesy of Julie Kraai Photography:

I love Paris

2011-09-17T12:47:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned below, Nick and I got to have a dream come true this May 2011 when we traveled to Paris together to celebrate our 10th Wedding anniversary. I will let the pictures do the talking, but to summarize...it was truly the most perfect, wonderful, incredible trip I have ever been on. I now have a complete and total obsession with Paris and cannot wait to return. BUT. At the same time I am scared to ever go back because I do not know how any visit could ever possibly be as perfect as this one was. In a way, I want to always remember it just as it was on this trip for us. I want to always have *this* Paris. Enjoy. We sure did.

The Space Between...

2011-09-17T12:43:00.000-05:00

Despite my best efforts and intentions, the space between postings grows longer and longer. It is certainly not for lack of material for the blog. I will admit that the use of facebook and twitter has put a damper on my blogging. Why write lengthy descriptive posts when about 100 characters can sum up a moment? I have grown more adept at summarizing my life, thoughts, and feelings in a few sentences via those social networking sites. However, I do miss the fun of blogging away. I won't make promises here about frequency or length of blog updates, but I will try to do what I can.

Somehow, Nick and I find ourselves at our 10 year wedding anniversary mark this year! We have two beautiful children in grade school full time (Kate in second grade and Liam in Kindergarten!). We are abundantly blessed. We celebrated our 10 year anniversary in Paris, France and it was truly heaven on earth. I will try to post some of the pics on here. The kiddos are healthy, happy, and active. Kate is a reading machine and spent the summer - when not in the pool - reading the entire Harry Potter series. At seven years old, that is quite an accomplishment! She is so bright that it floors me sometimes. I love her brain, her sweet nature, and her giggles. She is excited to be in choir, dance, piano, Brownies, and swimming this year. Liam is a whirlwind of activity. He has the mind of an engineer and is also reading up a storm. He requests story time every night, only now it is him reading to us. His smile is the best thing in our world, rivaled only by his hugs. He is excited to be in Karate and swimming this year and I am sure more activities will pop up as the Kindergarten year rolls along. He is sad that Cub Scouts does not start until first grade...the boy really wants to be a cub scout!

Nick has been traveling like a madman. He is gone probably 70-80% of the time for business, but we make it work. Technology is a big help - he has been known to read the kids bedtime stories via Skype, and the ease of facebook photo posts and online chatting has kept us in closer touch. I am so proud of his hard work and, frankly, I am darn proud of us for managing the schedule and the stress of it so well. We are both very supportive of each other and encouraging of every opportunity there is. I miss him when he is gone, and I know he misses us. Really, though, it all works out very well.

As for me, I am still President of Ever After Gowns and I volunteer for Theta. Those are two passions that I am so blessed to be able to be involved in. I love the incredible women that I get to work with and the difference in the world that I am able to make. It is very rewarding to see growth and success in those parts of my life. I am also now working for the University of Minnesota! I teach there! It is an absolute dream come true for me. I teach Leadership development in the Leadership Minor program and it is pure professional joy for me. Never have I felt so professionally supported, encouraged, and energized. Lucky lucky lucky lucky me. I get to see brains sparking and action inspired in the students and it is the coolest thing ever.

So - now you know the general situation for our clan for this Fall 2011. It is controlled chaos to be sure - - - Nick flying here, there, and everywhere, me zipping between meetings and work while the kids are in school and then me being a personal assistant and driver to the kids while I drive between activities, doctor appointments, dentists, playdates, birthday parties and the like. Dinners and bathtimes and homework and reading and PJs all before 8pm and then lights out for the kidlets....and sometimes then a glass of wine for Mom (and Dad when he is here!). It is blissful exhaustion that somehow is energizing at the same time.

Blessed.

Jazzy

2011-01-10T08:53:00.002-06:00

Nick found a great old jazz trombone from the 40's in an antique shop a few years ago and got it for next to nothing! Though, as predicted
by me, it sat in the basement for a few years, it recently enjoyed it's inaugural blasts in our home. Nick used to play and gave the kiddos some tips. Both got the hang of it on the first try, but Liam was particularly thrilled with it. This video clip cracks us up!

Back to Life, Back to Reality...

2011-01-10T08:46:00.002-06:00

;

Christmas was an absolute delight! From cookie contests to Christmas Mass, we loved every minute of some much needed family time. We are back into the full swing of a very full life - from school to daisy scouts to piano to dance class to work, darts, and volunteer work we are often on the go. We cherish any time when we are all together.

I count my blessings instead of sheep.....

2010-12-19T20:05:00.003-06:00

There are over 20 inches of snow on the ground and the weather service says more is heading this way tomorrow.

The temperatures have regularly been below zero with wicked, nasty, dangerous wind chills whipping around the state.

And I have never felt more warm......

Our blessings are too great to count. In a time when we know many are having to go without, we are mindful of the love, the care, the support, and the many, many blessings in our life.

- A roof over our heads (even if it leaked in the last storm);

- Food on our table (even through the battles of getting Liam to "just try one bite");

- Clothes on our backs (even if you cannot see them because of the giant puffy coats, boots, and hats we have to wear);

- Giant puffy coats, boots, and hats to keep us warm (even as I curse them silently while trying to wrestle them between car seat straps);

- More than a job, but a career (even on the days when work emails are being sent at 11pm);

- The ability to give back to our community (even when I am sometimes torn between that and being with the kids);

- Education, laughter, friends, family, music, books, sunsets, dog cuddles, great parent/teacher conferences, weddings, Theta, dance recitals, boat rides, ear tubes, pansies, pajama days, sorority sisters, Chicago, dancing, darts, love, support........

The list goes on.....

And on.....

And on.

Even on days when we are frustrated, sick, tired, or annoyed we are aware that we have so little that could be considered true burdens, and so much strength and love to overcome any burdens that do come our way.

We end this year grateful. Humbled. Full of love. Working hard. Taking time to reflect. And wishing all our loved ones all good things.

No dreaming necessary.....

2010-12-19T19:44:00.000-06:00

Snow, snow, snow, snoooowwwwww. It will indeed be a White Christmas whether you dreamed of one or not! MinneSNOWta has been socked with a storm or two and the result is much more than a blanket of white.

The recent blizzard brought about 20 inches of snow, snarled traffic for days, had the Twin Cities call for an unheard of "Two Days" of Snow Days and really created a general mess (metrodome collapse, anyone?). However, it sure was/is beautiful. We all got a little stir crazy when it was going on. The temps were far too low and dangerous at first to get out and "play" in the snow. But it was a fun, and unique experience. Minnesota is definitely used to a lot of snow - just not that much at once. We even had to get out the roof rake (an actual real Minnesota homeowners tool) to clear some snow off the roof in the midst of the blizzard to make sure our roof was not overburdened. Hmmm...maybe they should have thought of that for the Metrodome! :)

Here are some fun pics. They should make you want to jump on a plane right away for a visit, I would think...........

Nick Raking the Roof

Liam standing between some snow piles. Showing that nothing will stop Mom and Liam from getting to their weekly hot cocoa date.

Princess gearing up.

Look who lost a tooth!!!!

Our front light and trees. Just *slightly* buried (As in about 2/3)

My minivan. She's chilly.

Kids in the snow in front of our swingset. Which is pretty much completely buried.

Aw shucks....

2010-12-19T19:35:00.000-06:00

So someone I know is pretty proud of this accomplishment and would like me to share it (As he has shared it with many). :) I am very humbled and honored to have been named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans of 2010. It is huge honor, shared with some pretty incredible folks. I had the pleasure of accepting my award at a lovely banquet, with Nick, my parents, and Patrick and Jillian there to give their love and support. And I am so glad that they were there because my accomplishments are in NO WAY mine alone - which is why I feel weird accepting an award for just me. Every step I take is with the support and love of others guiding me, inspiring me, or helping me. I am so pleased, though, that all the work of so many people that I have the privilege to know is recognized as helpful and successful. So proud to be a part of Ever After Gowns (http://www.everaftergowns.org).

A Few of My Favorite Things.....

2010-12-19T19:30:00.000-06:00

These are a few of my favorite things.... (sing with me!)

The Cat and the Cowboy

2010-12-19T19:28:00.000-06:00

Halloween. The kids were excited about it for weeks and weeks. I seriously think they started talking about it in August. They chose their own costumes this year - Kate wanted to be a cat (Again) and Liam chose a "Sherrif/Cowboy". Sorry about picture quality - - mobile phone photos.

Four is Fantastic

2010-12-19T19:26:00.000-06:00

Liam's last year of preschool. Holy moly. This little man is a ball of energy. Bright, funny, warm, and kind. He looooves to help out. Laundry? Sure thing! Dishes? No problem, he is on it. Vacuuming? It is his favorite thing ever. Picking up his OWN toys? He seems to have a developed an allergy to that :)

Speaking of allergies. After a gazillion ear infections, it turns out that our boy has a SLEW of allergies. Basically, pick a tree or a kind of grass, and Liam is allergic to it. Tough for a guy who would live outdoors if he could. But he has some great meds now AND he got tubes in his ears so he is MUCH happier. So is Mom. I think I did not sleep a night through from June - October this year he was sick so much!

All is well now! Mr. Tough Stuff is the cutest guy in town.

"Fall" for Minnesota

2010-12-19T19:22:00.001-06:00

We have truly found home here in Minnesota. It is such a stunningly beautiful place and a big part of that is the changing of the seasons. Whether it is the vast North Shore in the soft spring, the lake in the stunning summer, the fields and orchards of the fall, or the muffled silence of a snowfall at night....Minnesota has won us over.

This fall we returned to one of our favorite spots in all of Minnesota - our favorite apple orchard. How could you not love the combination of apple orchards, corn fields (And mazes!), gentle hills, lake views, and bright blue skies?! Follow it up with a fresh, hot apple donut and some cider and you have a perfect day!

We spent hours (LITERALLY) in the corn maze so we could get all the clues to solve the puzzle and win one fresh crisp apple each. We went for a tractor ride. We picked our way through a pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkins. We got apples. A pretty great day.

Lucky Number Seven

2010-12-19T19:15:00.001-06:00

How is it that Kate is seven? How these years FLY BY.

I could write a whole book just about our sweet Kate. There is so much wonderful in her that the words have not yet been invented to describe "her wonderful". She is the absolute treasure of our life. Beyond any joy I could have ever fathomed. We are indescribably proud to be her parents.

Her birthday was so fun. She got an American Girl doll and, as you can see, her reaction was appropriately fantastic. Of course, Kate is so enthusiastic and sweet that you could give her a box of crayons and she would be equally - and genuinely - thrilled. Her party with her friends this year was a "Flower Fairy Birthday Party" complete with wings and magic fairy wands. But her "family day" was low key and sweet - just like Kate.

Sisters. Sisters....

2010-12-19T19:11:00.001-06:00

As you may know if you know me or follow this blog regularly, each year I am so very lucky to travel with my six dear friends from college. We all pledged Kappa Alpha Theta together in the year ____ (intentionally left blank to protect the future-botoxed :) and have been friends ever since. There are not words to express my adoration for these women, their strengths, their smarts, their humor, their love, and their support. They are my sisters! We always have the best time when we are together and I come home with my soul recharged and my sides sore from laughing so much. They are the reason I give back to Theta now - - - if I can help a young woman form these kinds of bonds in their life, then I feel I have helped them receive a priceless gift.

Lucky, lucky me.

Moments

2010-12-19T19:05:00.000-06:00

Sometimes wonderful moments are captured. Sometimes you don't always know you are in a special moment when you are right in the middle of one. With this one, I knew. I knew and my heart was singing. And someone caught it on camera. And for that I am so grateful. Liam was telling me something very special. And Kate and Nick were dancing. And I so adore my sweet family. Grateful.

Such a boy

2010-09-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

Scene: Wedding Reception
Characters: Liam (ring bearer) and Stephen (Friend of Liam's parents)

As Liam's parents are busy at the head table, Stephen agrees to take Liam for a restroom break. As they enter the bathroom, they notice that there are TVs in bathroom! (This is a very "Arty" and "Conceptual" venue). Playing on the TV in the men's room? Scenes from "Casablanca".

Liam exclaims: "Hey there are TVs in here!!!!!"

Stephen explains: "Yes! That is Humphrey Bogart. He was a pretty cool dude, Liam."

Liam, unimpressed, shrugs and states: "It'd be better if they had the game on."

Wedding Wonderful-ness

2010-09-28T12:59:00.001-05:00

Patrick and Jillian are MARRIED!

This past weekend we celebrated a most wonderful occassion. The marriage of my brother and my dear friend - and now sister - Jillian. How awesome to have your relatives both be not only your relatives, but your dear friends! Nick looks at Patrick as a brother, truly. And the feeling is mutual. Nick was Patrick's Best Man. I was honored to be a bridesmaid. K & L were flower girl and ringbearer. The only things missing that day were Erin and her clan, but as Erin is less than three weeks from her due date, she could not fly lest the baby decide to make a not-too-early appearance. However, we did set up an online video conference and Erin and her family were visible on the computer screen to us as they all watched the wedding live, and in entirety, through the miracle of modern technology. Thank you, Steve Jobs! :)

It was a beautiful BEAUTIFUL fall day where the weather cooperated completely. Guests were ferried to the wedding site (my parent's lakeshore) via boat and Patrick and Jillian exchanged vows in a gorgeous, peaceful setting. After the ceremony, we were all boated back to the cars where we then headed downtown to a very chic and urban location for a wonderful reception. Nick gave an amazing speech that brought tears and laughter to all and the kids boogied as if their lives depended on it. It was an AMAZING AMAZING day. The best part of weddings, other than the visible commitment that two people are making to one another, is all the love in the room from the friends and family that are there to support them at the start of their journey. It is so touching. How lucky we are to be surrounded by so much love.

Here are some pics of the big day!

The Bride and Groom with K & L

Lovely Bride

Pics with the Minneapolis Skyline

Bridesmaid sister and Groom brother

First Dance

Dancing machine. Stole all the hearts.

Joyful Flower Girl

Doing a Super Job!

So happy.

Cheeeeese. I was seriously kidding around in this pic like a senior high photo. The flowers worked I guess :)

The men.

Man, wife, and crew - off to the reception!

Chicago, Chicago - My Kind of Town!

2010-09-28T12:41:00.001-05:00

Just before the start of school the Harris crew piled in the car and took a road trip down to Chicago. It was a fantastic "last hurrah" before the start of school. We celebrated the end of the summer by visiting my godparents, spending time with my 90 year-old grandma who had just had a hip-replacement, and seeing all kinds of friends and family who either lived in town or were in town for my cousin's wedding. The kids had an absolute BLAST. We stayed downtown for a couple nights where we showed the kids Millennium Park, went dancing in Grant Park, spent hours in the Art Museum and more. It was, in a word, WONDERFUL. Here are some pics:

Nick in Millennium Park at Night

Maggie reflected in "The Bean" in Millennium Park

The kids happily playing inside "The Bean" in Millennium Park

The Harris Crew and Nia and Gramps smiling in "reflection" :)

Kiddos exploring Millennium Park

Liam LOVING the fountain in Millennium Park - he got positively drenched.

Evening stroll down Michigan Avenue

Daddy and Daughter dancing in Grant Park

We did the family audio tour at the Art Institute. It was AWESOME and the kids really got into it. You can see the headphones on them. They were attached to this iPod-like device where you punched in a code for each painting and it told you all about it. The family audio version had all kinds of music and neat sound effects and spoke to the kids' level. SO GREAT.

The Chicago Art Institute has free painting and family activities so of course we took advantage! So fun!

The whole family getting artistic...

Back to School!

2010-09-28T12:24:00.001-05:00

The kiddos are back to school! Both Kate and Liam are THRILLED to be back and are loving every minute of class time. Kate is in First Grade (!) and is such a terrific little learner. We have entered the world of spelling tests, math homework, and piano lessons. She jumps into every day with a smile and embraces every opportunity. Life just thrills my little peanut. From what is on the lunch menu, to whether it is a "gym day" or an "art day", she loves to know what is ahead and looks forward to each moment. Kate has tested at the Fourth grade reading level, so while she will still receive instruction with her peers, she will also be excused from class a few times a week to work with a more advanced reading group. I am thrilled for her.

Liam is loving preschool, though is very excited about Kindergarten next year as he mentions it regularly. He is making good buddies, working hard on his letters, and playing enthusiastically. He loves animals and will stop any person on the street to politey ask "may I pet your dog, please"? He is a total joy an delight to be around (though his sister would say he sometimes is a bit of an annoying shadow!)

Here is a pic of Liam's first day:

Here is a pic of Kate's first day of school (it was so chilly that day!). I am sorry I don't have a better one - my camera was not working and this is from my phone.

Morning Fog

2010-08-12T12:06:00.000-05:00

Nick is out of town on business. In San Diego. Staying at a lovely hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Last night when he called on his way to grab a drink with his team I could hear the strains of a steel drum band in the background and the sound of laughter and general warmth and "vacation-ness" streaming through the phone. I know Nick is working his tush off to be honest, and that moment was probably the only moment of non-business on this whole trip for him. I also know that I have had plenty of work trips in lovely locales and it is always nicer to be doing business with a bay in the background, as opposed to an industrial park in Somewhere, America. I am glad he gets to travel some fun places for work (soon to be balanced out by a trip to Mossville, Illinois by the way). And I know it is always bittersweet because he misses us. But it was a funny contrast.

You see, the kids kicked my butt yesterday. I keep thinking back to those Bill Cosby "Himself" bits where he talks about parenthood and it's daily challenges. It was a stand-up comedy material generating kind of day. I found myself repeating things 20 times in escalating tones "Stop it STOp it STOP it STOP It STOP IT!!!!!!!!!!!!" No tactic seems to work on days like these. It was one of those "Please let it be bedtime soon" kind of days. I feel bad for having low patience. And they don't feel bad for pushing it. Shrug. So be it. It happens. In true Scarlett fashion, I think to myself "Tomorrow is another day"!

Another day, yes. :-)

Kate joined me in my bed around 11pm last night. Well, I was still up working, but she crawled in, so I let her sleep there. When it was time for me to go to sleep, I had to rearrange her shockingly long limbs this way and that to find a spot in the bed that I could rest on. As soon as I was snuggled in, an elbow to the temple immediately welcomed me and after more adjusting and sweeping her "Cousin It" hairdo back so she did not choke on own hair, I think I fell asleep around 1 or 2 AM. Snooooze.

Shake. Shake shake. Shake shake shake shake accompanied by a furitive and somewhat strangled sounding whisper "Mooommyyyy" followed by the sharp double-intake of breath that is our boy's sobbing cry. "Moooommmmy". Oh. It is Liam. I peer through one barely open eye and see his tear-stained face contorted in front of me. On top of me. Inches from me. I swivel my eye to the clock and see that it is somewhere around 4am. Why is Liam wearing a Spiderman shirt and Bermuda shorts at 4am? Where are his jammies? What is going on?

"Buddy! What is it?" I croak.

"My teeth!!!!!!" he cries.

"What?" I mumble, alarmed. Scenarios immediately begin to form in my half-awake brain.

"My teeeeeeeeth! (Sob gasp sob) Someday I will lose my teeeeeth."

At this point I have no idea what he is talking about. Is he talking about dentures? Did he have a dream that he knocked his teeth out? Of course he is referring to the "Tooth Fairy" as Kate has been desperate to lose her first tooth and has been insisting that all of her teeth are loose at once. It all starts coming into semi-focus. At 4am.

"Bud. It's ok. Kids lose teeth. All kids. But then even better ones grow back!"

"But Moooooommmmm. (Sob gasp sob) without teeth in my mouth, I will 'tawk wike THITH' aaaaand I will have HOLES in my smiiillllleeee".

Hugs, squeezes, kisses. Foggy attempts to be rational and soothing and attentive. Begging for him to go to sleep. Which he does. For a while. Until the turf war starts on the bed. Remember Kate is in there, too.

"Move your arm." "Mom, his elbow is in my face." "Get off of my HAIR" "Don't BREATHE on me".

Sigh.

Early morning. Lots of coffee. Mystery of the spiderman shirt and bermuda shorts solved as I go to make Liam's bed and discover "an accident". Laundry. More laundry.

Then. Perspective. A friend posted a video on Facebook of a montage of children welcoming their moms or dads as the parents return home from the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq. I cried my eyes out. And realized that those parents would probably give anything for 4am wake up calls from their kids and would probably squeeze into a shoebox with their kids for a night if they could. They probably would welcome a mountain of laundry and morning coffee and bed-headed overtired kiddos. So I literally put down the computer, ran upstairs to the playroom (where the kids are playing beautifully - woops, jinxed it now) and squeezed them as hard as I could. I know it is all relative and all that - but remembering the ways in which we are fortunate is important.

So - in melding all of this. I think of how the kids greet Nick and I every time we travel. We always get the big run and hug (someday I gather that will dissipate as they get older and we have to beg them to look up from whatever handheld device of the moment that they hold to grunt a "hello" our way). I am glad that they exhibit such joy, even if he is "just" coming home from San Diego or Mossville or wherever. And I am also glad that, should the kids want to crawl into bed with us when he gets home, he can snuggle them after his 2 nights in a hotel bed alone and I can maybe sneak up to the kids room and get a full night's sleep. :) tee hee

Moments Captured

2010-08-06T12:24:00.000-05:00

We are so lucky to have so many wonderful and talented friends! A dear and longtime friend, Julie, is a phenomenal photographer. In demand around the Twin Cities, she kindly agreed to come out to the lake and photograph the kids and the cousins all together. It was a beautiful day and Julie has such a way with children that they all behaved beautifully. Below are some of the pics from that very fun day. I highly recommend Julie to anyone looking for a professional photographer. She specializes in photos of kids and families and also does professional portraits and more....check her out at http://www.juliekraaiphotography.com

Thankful

2010-07-23T13:11:00.000-05:00

As Nick and I celebrated our Nine Year wedding anniversary this week, we have both been joyfully reflecting on all we are blessed with. We are so honored with so many wonderful friends and family in our lives - so many people who were there on that day nine years ago are still people that we communicate with very regularly and are an important part of our lives. We are lucky lucky lucky in the ways that REALLY matter.

Here is a snapshot that Kate took of us when we were on our way to a lovely anniversary dinner at our favorite restaurant, Meritage. The owners brought us complimentary champagne to toast with and we had a great meal with lots of laughs, conversation, and a nice evening stroll afterwards. Perfect.

Ninth!

2010-07-21T14:57:00.003-05:00

Happy 9th Anniversary to the love of my life, Nick! "Blessed" does not even begin to describe my life. Love. Love. Love. (Note - scroll down to the bottom of this post to mute the automatic music if you want to hear the music with this slideshow).

Another free slideshow design by Smilebox

Water Bugs

2010-07-20T13:38:00.002-05:00

I love being ON the water (though I do venture in). Nick and the kids love being IN the water. As much as possible. All the time. They have had so much fun this summer. Good thing, too, because a recent terrible ear infection in Liam (resulting in a ruptured ear drum) may have put the hold on water activities for a while. But here are some snaps of the great fun that has been had (by Nick and Kate in particular!)

Kate on the waterski trainer.

Daddy and Daughter.

Kate and Nick tubing together. They love it.

Kate INSISTS on jumping from the tube and swimming to the boat. None of this towing her in stuff. She wants to do it herself. Big girl.

Kate and Nick in the lake. Foot waves. Sillies.

Summer Fun!

2010-07-20T13:34:00.004-05:00

Some pics of our summer fun.....

Liam slamming base in a game of baseball by the lake.

Nick knocking it out of the park :)

Speaking of baseball, here are Nick and Kate catching a Twins game. They went with Nick Morris (Nick's friend from college who just happened to marry my sister, Erin! :) and cousin Jack!

The Harris and Morris kiddos - ready to hit the pool. Too bad they don't get along at all (wink wink)

The Morris and Harris kiddos at the Harris house for dinner after a playdate.

The Fourth!!!

2010-07-20T13:20:00.002-05:00

We had a classic, americana, red white and blue day at the lake on the Fourth of July! The lane hosts it's very own parade in the morning, comprised of mostly neighbors in their decorated cars, the local vet pulling kids in a wooden wagon on the back of his tractor, people walking their pets, and finally the local firetruck "woop wooping" down the lane. It is so much fun. The kids love it and all the neighbors are out smiling and chatting. We followed up with a game of baseball lakeside, bbq, and finally a terrific fireworks show on the lake, observed from the boat. Happiness. Defined.

On Gramps' boat waiting for the fireworks to start.

Contentment.

Gramps, Nia, and Buddy the Dog.

Kate and her cousin Mia.

The Four Harris people and the Harris dog, Darby. Waiting for the parade.

Miscellaneous Pics

2010-07-20T13:15:00.003-05:00

Captain Gramps

Erin is visiting from New York and it is wonderful to see her (and her expectant tummy!)

A pic from Date Night in Vegas

At Jillian's Bridal Shower

LOOK AT THIS FACE! I am so in love.

Thousand Lakes

2010-07-20T13:09:00.002-05:00

Not going to lie. We have been loving the lakes this summer. Minnesota summers are glorious and we are taking full advantage of our access to the water!

Some grown up time in the tubes - with some cold beverages.

Nick Tubing - he loves it.

I love this man.

Typical Minnesota lake sunset view.

The kids and Darby on Gramps' boat.

Kites in the Desert

2010-07-20T13:03:00.003-05:00

This June I flew to Tucson to participate as a delegate at Theta's Grand Convention. Every two years this convention is held and I am blessed to have been a part of it multiple times. It is always an inspiring, heartwarming, invigorating and wonderful experience. Spending time with 700 women who all work hard to promote the best in each other is one of the greatest joys I have. From college aged-women to women who have been Thetas for over 50 years, each person that I encountered was delightful, warm, and wonderful. I participated in legislation, met with the women that I advise and work with, led some meetings and presentations, and kicked up my heels on "Fun Night". As always, I walked away sad to leave so many great friends, but excited for the year to come and all the plans the organization has.

With the women from the chapter at the University of Missouri. They won the highest award that Theta has to offer - the Founders Award. I have the privilege of advising this chapter and was honored to witness their accomplishment.

With women who attended Butler and are members of Gamma chapter, too! Great ladies!

Vegas Fun

2010-07-20T12:57:00.002-05:00

To celebrate my graduation, Nick and I joined our dear friends Erin and Joe for a little jaunt to Vegas! We had the most wonderful and relaxing of times laying by the pool by day and dining and dancing at night. Best of all was the terrific company. We really love Las Vegas. Gambling really isn't a part of it - we like the energy, the options, the dining, the people watching, the climate! It is for sure a repeat vacation destination for us and is a great quick getaway. We had the best time and someday we'll be back!

Dinner with Erin and Joe at Tao.

Cheering Joe on at Blackjack at Planet Hollywood Casino.

View from the Bellagio fountain. The show was actually cancelled due to the windy conditions - hence my hairdo :)

Out for a night of dancing

A lovely french bistro dinner.

Kiddos

2010-07-20T12:21:00.002-05:00

The end of the school year saw shows from both Kate and Liam. Kate participated in her annual dance recital. This year they were dancin' dinos! She did a super job and loved every minute of it. Stage Fright is not a word in this girl's vocabulary. She was a darling dancing dino and we loved cheering her on! Liam ended his preschool year with a fun show of songs with his classmates. Funny story - Nick got stuck in traffic and showed up in the middle of the show. Ever observant, Liam (front and center on stage) noticed Nick sneaking in late and announced, mid-song and at the top of his voice "DAD! Just so you know, you did not see all the songs". He was smiling and thrilled to see Nick, but just wanted to let him (and everyone) know that one little bit of information. The giggles among the parents (and us) were aplenty. Nick and I could barely keep it together we were laughing so hard. The tardiness did not bother Liam a tad - he grinned widely and enthusiastically finished his show.

The Dancing Dino! You cannot see the tail in this pic - it was too cute.

Flowers from Daddy.

Liam after his show.

Commencement

2010-07-20T12:14:00.003-05:00

So. I graduated! It was really special to participate in the graduation ceremony to receive my Masters in Organizational Leadership. I really love my field of study. Hopefully I honor the degree with great work! THANK YOU to my wonderful family (and babysitters!) who helped me get through this and respected the journey and understood when I was stressed, frazzled, tired, or cranking out a paper while wiping runny noses and making grilled cheese sandwiches all at once. :) I love my family. They are the best support in the world. The kids were incredible throughout. Kate's smile when I received my diploma was the best reward. Ever.

Wonderful North Shore

2010-07-20T12:07:00.002-05:00

Nick and the kids "on the edge of the world"

Siblings. Hiking

After a family picnic on the rocks.

More North Shore

2010-07-20T11:37:00.003-05:00

On the hike to devil's kettle.

After our picnic by the waterfall on the hike to devil's kettle

Daddy and Daughter.

Father and Son. After a long day hiking.

The Game Room at the Lodge. A Fierce Battle. :)

Ah, the North Shore!

2010-07-20T11:13:00.003-05:00

Once again, we packed up the car and hit the road and drove North. The North Shore of Lake Superior is really special to our family. It is peace defined. We try to go during a bit of an off time and the mid-week trip in May really pays off - - - very few people are there and you have the expanse of the North Shore nature mostly to yourself! We always comment that we feel like we are vacationing at the edge of the world. It is beautiful and quiet and insanely beautiful. The hiking is great, the rustic lodge was fun, and the kids LOVE IT. We love going there, even if only for 2 days!

One of our traditions - Nick makes a map for the kids to follow along on the road trip and hiking treks. They love it.

Nick's Map Masterpiece.

Maggie and Kate at an overlook on a hike

Love hiking!

Kids snug as bugs reading after a long day of hiking.

Ever After Gowns 2010

2010-07-20T11:09:00.002-05:00

The Board Members of Ever After Gowns

Just one of the many rows of a rainbow of gowns

For the sixth (!) year in a row, I served as President of Ever After Gowns and, thanks to the help of a terrific board of women and the kindness of the community, we put on a great boutique event where about 400 young women in need received a Prom gown selection experience that made them feel like princesses! As always, it was a wonderful experience and meeting so many lovely young women and their relatives and being able to help them - at no charge to them - was extremely rewarding. This effort is a huge part of my life and I feel honored to be a part of it. Check us out at http://www.everaftergowns.org !

And We're Back!

2010-07-20T10:48:00.002-05:00

Clearly I have been busy.

This is by far the longest I have ever gone without posting since the inception of this blog. Life just got too busy. Those of you who are loyal readers know all the activities that kept me from posting regularly. Juggling family, Ever After Gowns, other volunteer work, and grad school had my head spinning. But I got through it! We have celebrated graduation, seen Kate finish Kindergarten, cheered Nick as he got a new position in 3M, and laughed as Liam entertained us. We are prepping for my brother's wedding to a wonderful woman (Jillian), awaiting the birth of my sister's fourth baby, and enjoying my parent's retirement here in Minnesota. Life is full. Life is good.

I will leave it at that for now, and post a bunch of long overdue pics in the posts above.

Happy Summer, one and all!

Cookie Time

2010-02-01T10:34:00.003-06:00

Hello Friends and Family!

You may not know that Kate is a Daisy Girl Scout! She absolutely loves it. What a great organization. Of course it is cookie time. In addition to the usual neighborhood interactions with cookie sales, Kate wanted to showcase her pitch to our family near and far. Here is her pitch! She helped write the script and set the scene. And of course has been writing down all the orders and will help deliver and collect the money when it comes time. Too darling! The last day for cookie orders is today, so please don't post this on youtube or anything for the sake of a. the safety of Kate and b. the influx of orders. We have an appropriate amount for a kindergartner already! But wanted to share her efforts. Of course, let me know if you want some via email as there may be time for Kate to process a couple more. She is not trying to break any records this year! :)

Snow Day

2010-01-05T10:24:00.005-06:00

As you may know, we got quite a huge snowstorm here in Minnesota over Christmas. It was a very white Christmas, indeed! It was lovely and oh-so-homey to be bundled up inside at the lakehouse with a fire going and the xmas lights twinkling! The temps were actually quite warm - hovering just in the low 30s - and so we all bundled up for some fun in the snow! The grown ups acted like kids and we had an absolute blast playing around. Check out our snow day video from Christmas! And if for some reason, the actual embedded video does not play, here is a link to the direct youtube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVzQQQdzgdI

Accentuate the Positive....

2009-12-21T22:51:00.004-06:00

With the end of 2009 approaching, I cannot help but reflect on our many blessings and all the wonderful things to come. This year Liam started preschool, Kate entered Kindergarten, Nick and I celebrated eight years of marriage, and we got a dog! We got to travel quite a bit as Nick gave away his beautiful bride of a sister at her Las Vegas wedding, we took a family trip to the North Shore of Minnesota, vacationed without the kiddos in New Mexico, and concluded the year celebrating the marriage of my best friend in Longboat Key, FL. (It just occurred to me that this is the 'Cliffs Notes' version of our blog if you don't feel like scrolling through the last year). Kate is tearing through chapter books and stunning us with her constant joy and thoughtfulness and Liam is a ball of energy and delight who would be pleased to play with trucks and diggers 24/7. Nick's job keeps him traveling and busy, but he gets in good personal time. He still runs and shoots hoops and now also can boast a top position in the Twin Cities darts league. All this and he still remains the most active and engaged father I know. From Saturday morning pancake making with the kids to bedtime stories, he is always there for them. And for me! I have managed to come to the 3/4 mark of grad school, with the help of my entire family. I have a loving and supportive husband, helpful parents, understanding children, and fantastic babysitters. I continue to be involved in Ever After Gowns and Kappa Alpha Theta - both of which bring me so much personal joy and satisfaction. All in all, our blessings are abundant and far outweigh any daily stressors. It is darn hard to balance everything for sure, but gosh what a good problem to have! My Rheumatoid Arthritis remains in good check for the most part and we just continue to wake up every day so thankful for the love and blessings that we have. Most of all, we are always aware of all the wonderful people that touch our lives and bring us so much support and friendship. We look forward to 2010! I will have an intense first 5 months with the completion of my thesis and my graduation in May - - and by default Nick and the kids will have a bit of a ride as well. We strive to stop and reflect on the blessings as often as possible and be grateful always.

Best to you and yours as the new year approaches! Cheers to 2010!

Kate at one of the highlights of her year - her first Broadway Show experience! "Mary Poppins"!

If I had to describe Liam, this pic would do it. You cannot see his fingers, but if you could, you would see us securely wrapped around them! :)

Nick and Maggie at a wedding in Florida. Great way to cap off the year.

Where have I been?!

2009-11-29T14:46:00.003-06:00

I know. The time between posts keeps getting loooonger and looonger. That is because life keeps getting more and more hectic! Whew! It is bonkers around here.

Let's see, what has happened in the past couple months? Aside from several work trips for both Nick and I, me working on my thesis, the kids being in school and all the room-mother, field trip, school programs, girl scouts, swim lessons, dance class, art class and such that go with that....not much. Oh! Except add a new puppy to that mix. I think that covers it in a nutshell!

In October, we rescued a puppy. We named her "Darby" which is gaelic for "freedom" which we thought appropriate as she was rescued from some a pretty scary situation (puppies being used as target practice on a reservation up north). She is darling and HUGE. She is a lab/german shepherd mix and is a gorgeous reddish color with enormous feet and tons of love. She is such a great addition to the family and we are loving it. She is absolutely perfect with the kids - which is a good thing because they love on her like crazy - and is totally in love with Nick. She is snuggled up next to me as I type.

The holidays are bound to be just as busy, if not more so, than the past months. In fact, I have a about 150 pages of reading to finish for homework, so I had better get back to that. The good news is, I still hold my 4.0 in school and the thesis is cranking along nicely. Life is terrifyingly busy, but wonderfully good. We certainly try to make the most of it, but take time regularly to slow down and enjoy all our blessings.

Here is a pic of our Darby girl and a fun video of Liam to check out from this weekend (we spent some time as a family at a warehouse full of bouncy houses....kiddo heaven).

Much love from the Harris crew. More to come - but I cannot promise that it will be soon! :)

Ever After Gowns

2009-11-22T12:22:00.002-06:00

EVER+AFTER+GOWNS

Please check out this link above to learn more about my charity and how you can help! We are growing by leaps and bounds and are only able to do so - and to help so many deserving young women - through the help of generous souls.

Kate is a little bit excited!

2009-10-02T13:58:00.003-05:00

Kate was beyond excited to receive this gift from her Auntie Erin and family. "It's a teacup pup, don't you know?"

Kate is SIX!!!!

2009-10-02T13:51:00.004-05:00

How is it possible that we have a six year old?! She is so bright and beautiful and warm and funny and sweet. We could not be more proud. Happy Birthday, Kate!

Kate and her lovely bday cake! :)

The Birthday Girl with her Dad!

Yum! Red Velvet Cake!

Kate EXTREMELY excited about her bday gift from Uncle Pak and Miss Jillian - a barbie horse.

Kate and her Gramps.

Loretto Chapel - Santa Fe

2009-10-02T13:42:00.003-05:00

This little chapel was beautiful! If you want to read the legend around the staircase, google the miraculous staircase of the Loretto Chapel. Neat!

Some fun around Santa Fe

2009-10-02T13:34:00.002-05:00

Some more pics of our fun in Santa Fe

Enjoying yummy food at Coyote Cantina

Are we in PARIS or New Mexico?! We found a great little french place called "Clafoutis" and enjoyed crepes, baguettes, cafe, and more at a delicious decadent breakfast. Delish.

Nick enjoying cocktails at the WONDERFUL "Library Bar" at La Posada.

Standard fare for us on this trip. Guac, Chips, Salsa, and Margs. Happiness.

Reaching the Rio Grande

2009-09-25T00:12:00.001-05:00

We did it! We hiked down to the edge of the Rio Grande in the middle of backcountry New Mexico. Love it!

More New Mexico Hiking

2009-09-25T00:07:00.001-05:00

We came upon this on our hike. Something BIG had something BIG to eat! Ack!

Nick hiking through a wooded glen

Coming out of the wooded glen into the desert canyon

More Hiking

2009-09-24T10:40:00.001-05:00

More amazing hiking!!!! New Mexico Rocks!

Bandelier Hiking

2009-09-24T10:33:00.003-05:00

Our 5+ mile hike into Bandelier Backcountry was astounding! We went from evergreen mountain cliffs to woodland glens to canyon floors and desert brush - all the way down to the Rio Grande, passing waterfalls and crossing streams along the way. It was hiking heaven!!!!!

The start of our hike

Loving the hike!

"Ford every streeeaaaam"

Pak, Jillian, and Nick checking out the peaceful beauty.

"Climb every mountaaaiiiiin"

Bandelier Dwellings

2009-09-24T10:26:00.002-05:00

We headed out to Bandelier National Park to explore the cave dwellings there and to do some excellent hiking. Here are some pics from the dwelling loop, which we did first before our 5+mile hike into backcountry.

Petroglyph = amazing!

Here we are in a cave dwelling - had to climb a ladder to get inside

Nick peeking out of a cave

We Made It!

2009-09-21T22:26:00.002-05:00

After over 4 miles of hiking, most uphill, we made it! Well worth it - stunning views.

Canyons

2009-09-21T22:16:00.001-05:00

Traveling through the slot canyons was AMAZING!

Hiking Delight

2009-09-21T22:08:00.002-05:00

I have never gone through such varied terrain in one hike. From pure desert sand and cacti to canyons low and high with evergreens sprouting in the most unlikely places...hiking heaven.

More Kasha-Katuwe

2009-09-21T22:03:00.003-05:00

The rock formations are so amazing! You can see why they are called "Tent Rocks". This was such a privilege to see.

Kasha-Katuwe

2009-09-21T21:54:00.002-05:00

Today we did one of the coolest hikes I have EVER done. We explored Tent Rocks in New Mexico, or Kasha-Katuwe. Nick, Patrick, Jillian and I hiked through desert canyons past some of the most stunning scenery I have ever seen to about 6700 feet for a gorgeous view. It was strenuous in parts, but well worth it. Every way one turned, there was another amazing sight to see.

The Rio Grande

2009-09-21T21:49:00.002-05:00

After we explored the town of Taos we took a drive over to the VERY impressive Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. HOLY HEIGHTS!!!!!! It was a bit scary (for Maggie) to stand in the middle of the incredibly high bridge that vibrated as cars drove over it as we peered dooowwwwwnnnnn below to the River. But it was breathtaking!

San Jose de Gracia in Las Trampas

2009-09-21T21:44:00.002-05:00

We took a trip along the high road to Taos and stopped in some villages and towns along the way. Here is a visit to a very old church (by American standards)in Las Trampas. It was very special.

More Santa Fe

2009-09-21T20:54:00.003-05:00

We spent Saturday strolling all around Santa Fe, and finishing up with a DELICIOUS dinner at Rio Chama....complete with the most amazing wine, "Coeur Blanc". Yum.

The gang at dinner.

Candles I lit for my loved ones at the Cathedral.

I thought this was touching.....if only we all could.....

The Cathedral in Santa Fe. Stunning.

Do you know the way to Santa Fe?

2009-09-21T20:12:00.003-05:00

I know the song is "San Jose" - but I thought it was cute! :)

Nick and I are......ON VACATION!!!!!!

A while back, Nick and I had the joy of attending a charity dinner for pediatric medical research. On a whim, we put in a very lowball offer on a silent auction item - a week-long vacation in Santa Fe in a lovely condo donated by someone. Well. We got it! So fast-forward months and months and here we are on vacation - along with my brother Patrick and his girlfriend, Jillian. The condo is lovely, the city is great and we are having a lovely time! Plus, instead of paying a hotel chain or a landlord, the money all went to pediatric medical research so we can literally say that we are "doing it for the kids"! :)

Speaking of kids, we miss Kate and Liam TERRIBLY. But Nia and Gramps are staying with them and they are having a great time. We have been "skyping" with them over the computer so we get to see their cute little faces and have conversations that way. While they would have loved a lot of the activities that we have done so far, there is a lot that is not age-appropriate for them, too. Some of the hikes have been too dangerous so far and I must say it is nice to enjoy a late dinner with adult beverages! :) Plus, now that we have a peanut in school, it is not like we can take her out of school for a week!

Lots of pic to follow!

Nick and the top of the Hill of the Cross of the Martyrs

Cross of the Martyrs

Nick and Maggie at the top of the hill of the Cross of the Martyrs

The Plaza in Santa Fe

Nick - with the only "cougar" I will allow to get near him! :)

Have you heard?

2009-09-17T21:20:00.002-05:00

Kate has heard - and she wants to share it with you!

Kindergarten Kate

2009-09-09T14:35:00.003-05:00

Well. It is finally here. Kindergarten!!!!!

I cannot believe that we have a kindergarten girl! Kate is so very excited about being at the "big school" this year. She woke up full of energy this morning and ready to go. Waiting for her downstairs at the breakfast table was her American Girl doll, dressed up in a surprise outfit to wish Kate a good day. The outfit was a replica of Kate's very own school uniform! Kate was so excited.

Gramps came by to spend some big boy time with Liam (they took a stroll to the diner around the corner for breakfast) while Nick and I took Kate in for her first day - as well as a little parent orientation class for the grown ups. It was a successful first day. She does not go full day until next week....they like to ease them into it (ease Mom into it?! :) Kate is ready to learn. She is regularly devouring chapter books and is especially looking forward to "library class, computer class, and recess".

It begins! We are so proud.

Liam's First Day of Preschool

2009-09-09T14:03:00.004-05:00

Liam is ready to rock preschool! He was so excited to head to school and did not show a single sign of 3 year old separation anxiety. In fact, he could not wait for Nick, Kate, and I to leave him alone with his buddies and his favorite teachers! He is such a good schoolboy.

Nick surprised Liam by meeting us at school to drop him off on his first day. Liam was SO excited when he saw his Dad waiting for him and ran full speed to Nick for a giant big boy hug. He had a great day.

He found his name right away - was so excited that his nametag was his favorite color , GREEN!

Heading in to drop off Liam!

Liam was so excited to see his Dad waiting out in front of school.

Liam and the insanely huge (and GREEN) backpack that he insisted on! :)

Ready for 3-Year-Old Preschool!

Up a Lazy River With You!

2009-09-09T13:58:00.003-05:00

To celebrate the last days of summer, Nick and I - along with Gramps - took the kids for a spin on the boat. It was a nice afternoon on the St. Croix and we had a nice time. The kids love to help Gramps drive!

Fun at the Fair!

2009-09-07T00:31:00.004-05:00

It is that time of year again! Time for the Great Minnesota Get-Together! The State Fair!
We had a GREAT time there as a family this year. Here are some pics! Be sure to check out the next post that follows our quest for "food on a stick". Please note we did not sample all the food on a stick (only one, actually!) - just photographed the signs.

Kate ate her customary Corn-on-the-Cob 'neath a "Texas Star"

Kate petting a bovine beauty

Liam LOVED the tractors

Here we are waiting for Nick to bring us some yummy Fair Fare! :) Love the face Liam is making.

Nick with the kids on the way into the Horse Barn. Kate was SO excited. See the horse behind them? She had no idea - then it walked by her and she lost her mind with glee!

...On a Stick!

2009-09-07T00:01:00.003-05:00

The Harris Fam went to the fair
Saw horses and pigs while there
Along with Nick
We sought foods on a stick
And lots of fun we did share!!!!!!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

So...Nick and I took the kiddos to the Great Minnesota Get Together - the 2009 State Fair. As I have mentioned in other posts in earlier years, the Minnesotans looooveee to serve their food on sticks at the Fair! I don't really understand it, but they like to top each other with what they can manage to serve on a stick. People talk about it constantly during fair season. So, we decided to go on a quest for the "On a Stick" Fair Fare! Enjoy!

Good times. Good friends.

2009-08-22T11:30:00.002-05:00

As I mentioned further down on the blog, my dear friend Erin came to visit with her wonderful husband-to-be, Joe. We had an absolute blast. The four of us went to Stillwater, MN for the afternoon where we browsed antique shops, had a lovely lunch, and then proceeded to talk a walk on the chilly side when we suited up and tried out a new ICE BAR. Yes - that's right. A bar entirely made of ice. The seats are ice, the glasses are ice, the bar itself is ice. I think all the wasn't was the floor. It was a hoot. We had a great time bundled in our parkas in August while we boogied in the ice bar. Too fun.

We followed the ice bar with a game of croquet and a swing or two on the hammock with the kiddos. It was such a fun weekend full of laughter - as it always is with Erin. I cannot wait for their wedding!

The gang at the Ice Bar

E & M enjoying a frosty (literally) beverage

Kate getting her prep on

Liam and Gramps in the hammock

Erin and Joe turning the hammock into a thrill ride. Hilarious - the kids loved it. Surprisingly, no one fell off!!! :-)

Kate's New "Do"

2009-08-21T14:03:00.002-05:00

You know, it REALLY is too bad that she has no personality. :-)

Summer Kiddos

2009-08-21T14:01:00.000-05:00

A nap, a nap, my kingdom for a nap!!!

2009-08-21T13:32:00.002-05:00

As you may have guessed by my lack of posting, things have been quite busy around here! The summer - or what was supposed to be summer, but mostly consisted of temps in the 70s - has flown by and here we are at the (almost) end of August. I have tons of pics, many memories, and a LOT on my plate. I am happy as can be, but, admittedly, exhausted! :)

I am trying to recap all the tales since my sister and her kiddos left. That was SUCH a fun-filled three weeks! There was a great trip to Indianapolis complete with a wonderful visit with old friends and me also getting the chance to work at Theta HQ for a day or two. We had a visit from one of my dearest friends in the whole wide world, Erin Fech, along with her wonderful fiance, Joe. That weekend was so much fun that my sides hurt from laughing for days. There have been loads of outings with the kids, a visit from my parents' friends from the Dominican Republic, a visit this weekend from my college buddy, Drew, and so much more. Nick has been very busy with work but managed to get in some great personal time practicing his golf swing and hitting the golf course now and then. He also is in a fun Darts league here in the Twin Cities, and gets some good time in with some fantstic down to earth people throwin' darts and chatting. He is pretty darn great, if I may say so! I am glad he is doing something other than work because he is so good at his job and there is so much to do (not to mention the fact that he has one of the strongest work ethics of anyone I know) that he could easily sleep at work if he wanted to! :)

Oh. And somewhere in the midst of all this, I started back up with classes after a short 6 week break. So....phew!

The kids are getting ready to start school in September. Kate is SO excited. She will be in Kindergarten (!!!!!). Last week we went and got all of her school uniforms. She looks so adorable. I cannot wait to take pics of her on her first day! She is very excited. She got her haircut - at her request - and says she feels like a big girl ready for school! She certainly IS ready. She is reading up a STORM. She is plowing through chapter books and loves to read aloud to Liam, too. She is helpful and bright and sassy. A dream.

Liam is a ball of energy. Whoever coined "terrible twos" had no flippin' clue what they were talking about. "Insane Threes" is more like it. He is very much asserting his independence right now. Which is great. It is just not that great when we need to get out of the house and he insists on dressing himself, putting everything on backwards and inside out with shoes on the wrong feet and has a meltdown when I try to encourage him to maybe NOT wear his underwear backwards. *sigh* Sharing is hard, not having the same skill level as his sister is frustrating, and the only food groups as far as he is concerned really should be popsicles and yogurt. It is a joy. :-) I have had a lot more days lately when I REALLY wish he napped! :)

That said, he is a delight. When he is not being Mr. Stubborn, he is the lovey-est, sweetest, funniest boy. He is SO smart, too. One of his favorite things to do is workbooks and at 3 years, he can write all his letters, knows their sounds and spell a few words. He really does not have a care in the world for television, which is a-ok with me. He plays and plays and plays. Cars are the preferred toy. He loves to help me, too! Unloading the dishwasher, folding laundry....he is a helper. Except when it is time for him to clean up his toys on his own - then he is suddenly striken with a bout of paralysis and becomes spontaneously deaf as well.

I am wondering how he will take it when he is apart from Kate so much once school starts. He has class twice a week, but Kate is full day, every day. He will miss his best buddy. Luckily we have all sorts of fun activities planned. Liam will be taking swim lessons, chinese lessons, and go to an open gym with all sorts of sports and activities. Kate will be doing swimming, ballet, and chinese on top of kindergarten. Possibly piano - but not sure yet on that one.

I will continue to do Masters program, thesis work, Theta work, and Ever After Gowns, all while I gulp sanity saving cups of coffee and zip around in the minivan. Nick will be working and working, no doubt, with his Darts league going strong and his basketball group picking back up in the fall. We all stay busy and happy, and dinner time together is all the sweeter for it. Lots of travel coming up in the fall both professional and personal, but I will try to keep things updated more regularly!

Pics to come!

Summer Miscellany

2009-07-22T08:54:00.002-05:00

We have had the Morris family here for three weeks. It has been WONDERFUL. Basically the children played nonstop for 3 weeks. Here are some random snaps.

Dress up is very big with the girls. The boys were feeling left out. Here is Liam playing dress up in his Dad's old Captain desert uniform from when Nick was at PSAB in Saudi Arabia. Nick gets SUCH a huge kick out of this and just loves it.

Kate is getting so big I can hardly believe it. She is so smart and sweet and funny. She and the cousins made forts out of the bunk beds at Nia's and I regularly found all the kids sitting around Kate as she read aloud to them of her own volition. 'Atta girl!

Here is the cousin Sweet Baby Emme. She is such a doll. What good GOOD baby. We love her oodles. And Kate is especially dear with her.

Liam and Mia - born one day apart. They got along beautifully. All the kids did!

Kate, Jack, and friend Annabelle in the pool. TONS of pool time.

She's An All American Girl

2009-07-22T08:46:00.002-05:00

My sister, mother, and I took Kate and Mia on a wonderful girly outing - to the American Girl store. Both girls brought their look-alike dollies and we all dressed up to go have "tea". It was SO much fun and the girls absolutely LOVED it. The staff there puts on a great experience for the young ladies and treats each of them - and their dolls - as if they were the absolute most important things in the whole world. I love the message of independence, strength, and girl power that they convey there....all while showing that one can be a lady while conquering the world.

We had a great time. Here are some pics!

Kate's Doll (Lily) enjoying her pink lemonade. They have special high chairs so the dolls sit at the table with you.

Kate enjoying her delicious lunch. She ate every bite.

Too excited.

Kate, Nia, and Mia! Three American Girls.

Kate and Mia at the entrance to the American Girl Store. Look how EXCITED they are!!!

Eight Years!

2009-07-22T08:39:00.002-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Nick and I celebrated our eighth year of marriage on July 21! We realized that we have actually been together for 10 years this summer. How time flies. We feel so blessed and love our life!

Reflecting on all this wonderful-ness, I realized that we don't really have an "album" for our wedding. As it turns out, our photographer was absolute garbage (neto studios in Boston - don't EVER patron his business....he stunk). Thankfully we were not out a lot of bucks (should have been the first clue - how cheap he was!) but because most of the pics were so crummy, we never ordered an album. This was also before everything was digital (only eight years! progress!) so we only have negatives and proofs. I did my best to salvage a few shots of his, along with snaps from various people, digitize them, edit them, and compile them in a modern day "virtual" album! So now we have SOMETHING to commemorate the event other than my wedding dress downstairs in the basement.

Granted, not all the pics are the best, and there were some pixellation/flash issues when digitized, but it gets the job done. A nice little celebration of the best thing that ever happened to me! Enjoy!

3-year-old civil disobedience

2009-06-18T19:26:00.002-05:00

Maggie to Liam after a particularly ornery act on his part: "Buddy, you are on THIN ice. You better watch it or I am going to call your Dad and let him know about your behavior."

Liam, looking me full in the face with an honest yet impish look on his face: "Not if I hide the phones first."

Are you kidding me?!!!!!!!

Break it down

2009-06-18T18:23:00.003-05:00

Here is some video of the kids breaking it down after a long day to some tunes that were on TV. Too funny.

Pie, anyone?

2009-06-18T18:18:00.003-05:00

On our recent trip to the North Shore, we stopped at the famous "Betty's Pies".

Oh.
My.
Word.

Delicousness defined, folks.

Check out the pics - you can see our dilemma in selecting, so each of the four of us got a different kind of slice and shared! Yummy. Which one would you pick?

Kate got apple crunch.

Liam got 5 Layer Chocolate. Maggie got Bumbleberry and Nick got Great Lakes Crunch.

Let's Go Red Sox!

2009-06-18T18:14:00.004-05:00

Go Red Sox! I am very very lucky to have a Theta friend here who has season tickets to the Minnesota Twins. Fortunately, she understands my love for the Red Sox and is kind enough to let me use the tickets when the Red Sox play the Twins! So I get a little Boston love. This year Nick and I went to a game, and I took my Dad to another game. Peanuts and cracker jacks were enjoyed by all. Such a great time. The Sox won both games that we attended!

Me and my awesome, wonderful, superfantastic Dad at the Red Sox game.

Yes, Papelbon was that close! Tix right by the Red Sox bullpen. Nice.

Tiny Dancer

2009-06-18T18:07:00.003-05:00

Kate the great had her second annual dance recital! This year her routine was a "jazz" style routine with the theme of the animated "Hello Kitty". It was too cute, with Japanese music and adorable moves. She sparkled like a star and did a fantastic job. She absolutely loves her dance classes and just revels in the performance aspect. Too darn cute! Nick loved gifting his little princess with some pink and purple roses at the big event.

Here is Kate in the car seat in the "Theatre Outfit" that she surprised me by picking out herself. Pretty much right on target for the dance crowd - black leggings, black t, and a funky hat. Very Audrey Hepburn of her in "Funny Girl" :)

Kate and her Daddy with the flowers he surprised her with.

Kate in her Hello Kitty Costume, complete with stage makeup.

Kate and her Kitty Krew. :)

Too darling!

A Superior Trip

2009-06-18T18:01:00.002-05:00

Oh how we love the North Shore! A couple of years ago, Nick and I had gone on a trip to the northern shores of Lake Superior and just loved it. This year, we decided to take the kids along for a mini family vacay. We rented a log cabin that perched directly over the rocky shore of Superior. Our views stretched to the horizon and we spent WONDERFUL days with the kids just hiking around the trails and exploring. We saw waterfalls and little critters, climbed over rocks and tossed pebbles into the lake. We made huge family breakfasts in the log cabin, grilled out for dinner, and gazed at the velvet blanket of sky at night with no light to be found anywhere except for the MILLIONS of starts - complete with shooting ones. It was an absolutely fantastic trip with memories I will treasure forever. We had so much fun that we stayed an unplanned extra night - we did not want to leave! And Liam still regularly asks for "the wood house".

Liam pitching a huge rock into the lake.

The kids scaling the staircase at Split Rock Lighthouse.

Gooseberry Falls

A great hike.

Nick and the kids at Gooseberry Falls.

Superior trip

2009-06-18T17:57:00.002-05:00

Kate at the Lutsen lodge playing air hockey. Fierce concentration! :)

Sweet Kate enjoying a Shirley Temple on our one night to dine out on our trip.

Liam enjoying a chocolate milk treat on our one night dining out.

The kids playing on the shore after throwing lots of rocks back into the lake.

Kids trekking into the cabin.

Mooore Superior

2009-06-18T17:53:00.002-05:00

Reading and snuggling in the cozy quilted bed after baths and a long happy fresh air day.

Starting the day off with some puzzles.

This was our view from the cabin. Coffee in the morning to this....not too shabby.

Just a lovely pic from one of our hikes.

Liam checking out the cascade.

Continued Superior-ness

2009-06-18T17:49:00.003-05:00

Nick and Liam on the flow at Cascade.

Kate and Mags on the flow at Cascade.

Look closely! You can see Nick and the kids on the outcropping over the falls there!

Kate taking a picture of me taking a picture of her.

Liam on the Moose outside of one our favorite shops in Grand Marais - the Gunflint Mercantile. Terrific place! They are online!

Even More Superior

2009-06-18T17:45:00.003-05:00

We had lots of fun family game time at the cabin. Here is Kate playing "Guess What I Am" - kind of like 20 questions, with props! :)

Liam playing "Guess What I Am"

Nick demonstrating proper dunking technique to Liam. O-R-E-O

We were playing "Old Maid" (remember that game?) and Liam LOVED it. He thought it was absolutely hilarious whenever he got the Old Maid. He actually wanted to get the old maid card. Too funny.

Liam and Nick on the chair lift up to the Alpine Slide.

And More Superior Times

2009-06-18T17:41:00.003-05:00

Kate on the chair lift going up to the alpine slide.

Nick and the kids with the alpine slides. Ready to go! Lake Superior in the background.

Kate and Mags on the gondola ride up to Moose Mountain.

Maggie showing off her "road rash" from the alpine slide incident. Kind of hilarious, actually.

Liam and his camera that we gave him for the trip (disposable). He took it very seriously! :)

More Superior Times

2009-06-18T17:26:00.003-05:00

A hike on Moose Mountain

Nick and the kids on spur trail Moose Mountain. Fun hike!

View from Moose Mountain - lots of damage, still, from the ice storm in March which was quite devastating.

Kate curling up with a book in the cabin.

The view from our cabin. Insanely beautiful.

Bring on the mortar boards!

2009-06-18T17:21:00.002-05:00

Kate and Liam graduated from Preschool! Well, Kate graduated FOR REAL. She is moving on to Kindergarten in the fall! I cannot believe it. I just cannot believe it. She is smart and sweet and darling and fun and tall! She went to kindercamp at the start of summer and loved it. Liam still has two years of preschool left, but they both put on a great performance at their final show/graduation ceremony. Too cute. Liam is hilarious and a smarty pants. He is rough and tumble and a snuggle bug all at once. He melts my heart daily.

Here is Kate on her final class trip to the zoo.

Me with my kindergartner to be!!!! WHOA!

Liam and Nick at Liam's graduation show.

Liam the big boy with his diploma.

A Toast to Kids

2009-06-18T17:16:00.003-05:00

Wine Celebrations! Nick and I were fortunate enough to attend the famous Twin Cities Winefest for the second year in a row. This is an amazing event that raises money for pediatric health research and care and is so lovely and so much fun. This year we went to the Grand Tasting with Mom, Dad, Patrick and Jillian where there were over 80 vineyards (with about 3-5 wines from each) offering samplings. That was a fun night!!! :) The next night Nick and I joined our good friends Jeff and Megan for the fine wine dinner and auction, which was a blast. It was so nice to get dressed up, enjoy a nice dinner, and dance to a live band in the name of fundraising! :)

Here we are at the fancy dancy fine wine dinner. Delish.

Here we are at the Grand tasting - lots of fun was had as evidenced by my goofy grin.

Water bugs

2009-06-18T17:07:00.003-05:00

The Lake and Pool are Open! Mom and Dad are officially moved into their retirement palace. :) The lakehouse is stunning and they are having a great time setting it up "just so". We are thrilled to take regular advantage of the pool and the lake with lots of kayak time. In addition, the boat is in on the St. Croix river this year (rather than the lake which is a little low thanks to some drought conditions here in Minnesota). We have had a couple of lovely jaunts down the St. Croix which is a federally protected natural river and is absolutely gorgeous.

Gramps and Kate captaining the Kanpai on the St. Croix.

I took Liam for a spin. He loved it, and insisted on helping me paddle (not so easy with the 3 year old helping! :)

Kate was big enough to ride in the double kayak with Uncle Pak!

Maggie going solo.

A view from the fire pit out onto the point. This is Nia and Gramps' property.

Come fly with me

2009-06-18T17:01:00.003-05:00

I got to visit several college Theta chapters as College District President of Theta. I am getting to know my territory and am continually impressed by the poised and bright young women, as well as the dedicated, intelligent, and warm advisors that I continue to meet across the country. Lucky me! I visited University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, University of Kansas, Westminster College, and University of Missouri this spring. These ladies are doing amazing things with their lives and, while I certainly have the opportunity to inspire them, they really serve as inspiration to me.

Here I am with some ladies from the chapter at Mizzou as they celebrated their 100th chapter year.

I am very proud of this young woman, Taylor. She was my advisee last year and was just awarded the highest honor that Theta has to bestow - the Bettie Locke Hamilton Founders Scholarship! I could burst with pride! Watch for this one - she will change the world!

Ever After Gowns 2009

2009-06-18T16:57:00.002-05:00

Ever After Gowns celebrated it's 5th year serving young ladies in the Twin Cities by providing them with a free, elegant boutique experience in which the teens get to select free formalwear for their Prom! It was the best year ever and we helped over 300 young women. I am so honored to be able to serve these ladies and work with so many great volunteers as President of the organization. What a blessing in my life.

Here is a pic of one of our guests, her personal shopper (holding the dress she chose), and a media representative who covered our event for a cable show, Girl Talk! Look at those SMILES!!!!!!

Insert Sheepish Look Here....

2009-06-05T17:40:00.002-05:00

I know. I have been a terrible blogger. After years of fairly faithful posts, I have been woefully tardy in my updates. It seems I HAVE reached maximum capacity, finally. My schoolwork, in addition to raising two kids, running a nonprofit, and working for Theta has me "maxxed out".

The good news is - I have a small (6 week) summer break starting NEXT week. So as soon as I finish this FORTY FIVE MINUTE presentation of an organizational analysis of Major League Baseball (not kidding) I will post all kinds of fun pics and news. A family vacay, preschool graduation, and tales of the 3-year-old's civil disobedience will all be discussed soon!

In the meantime, if you have stuck around through my lapse, thanks! :) Talk to you soon!

-Maggie

Hoppy Easter

2009-04-12T14:01:00.000-05:00

A few pics from a visit with the Easter bunny and the kids at the North Oaks Egg hunt. Kate announced that the bunny was not real because she could see that the bunny had on sneakers and said "REAL Easter Bunnies do NOT wear shoes".