This past weekend we were fortunate to be around our great little family. On Friday night we headed off to the Cities for Mikey's first birthday. What a smosher! (Pics will be on the web soon). We were pleasantly surprised on Thursday to find out that Joe was also coming for the weekend with Brit and Mags. So we were able to celebrate Brittany's birthday as well, a little early, but how nice to actually see her open her gifts, versus sending off a package in the mail.
Mikey's party was a huge success. Great weather, good company, and an adorable host. Thank you to all who sent gifts for me to take over. They were touched that you all remembered. The new roof Mike and Kendie put on last weekend looked great, and they are relieved to have it done before winter. They are going to start doing some small remodeling projects inside and it will be fun to visit and see what will be new/different each time. Keep up the good work guys.
I think our favorite part of the weekend was taking all the kids and grandkids to the park...3 times. And when we say kids, we mean that Mike, Joe and Kendie acted like some of the biggest kids ever. Not like Michael and I - mature and no nonsense to the end. :-) But we played and laughed and enjoyed what may have been the last warm, sunny weekend. This weekend is supposed to be cold and snowy. Brrr. We are anxious to get out on some snowy slopes, but not this anxious. Anyhow, I taught those poor sheltered people how to play Around-the-World on the b-ball court (too bad I couldn't win). But then I had to swing higher than any of them on the swingset. I was amazing - with my ninja-like reflexes I slid faster on the slide and climbed higher on the jungle gym. Ok - ok - so maybe the kids won, but I can dream can't I? It was just fun to be there, and Michael was in his glory having his family around him, and I must admit, so was I.
For me personally it was fun to be in a suburb. I've lived in the country most of my life, although never more so than now, and it was almost incomprehensible to have so much literally at your fingertips. A block to the park, a block to the store, a block to the gas station, etc; we walked everywhere. But yet when you step into the backyard you still have privacy. I know I couldn't live in it full time, however it really is a treat to visit. So many things to see and do in Minneapolis. If you're ever in the area, stop in by Mike and Kendie. They love to show people around their town and are great hosts.
After the party, the guys went to Kendie's folks house to help move some heavy furniture while Kendie and I cleaned up the mess. Throughout the weekend Joe got in some turkey hunting, Michael helped Mike finish up a job, and we all got in some visiting. The kids rollerbladed so much that I'm surprised they have skin left on their feet and ankles. But Sunday soon came and goodbyes were shared. Joe and the girls headed home and we headed off to visit Mike before we left. He had to work Sunday afternoon at an open house at one of his jobs. We got to view his handywork up close, and see him with clients in action. How proud we are of you Mike! You're an awesome Project Manager and an even better son.
This week we had a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser for the Music Boosters at the high school, that we volunteered for. I love how parents automatically become part of an organization when their children sign up for something. ;-) But it was fun and I've never seen such a hugh vat of spaghetti noodels and sauce in my life! I have an absolute admiration for school cooks and the amount of work they have each day.
This weekend Taylor goes on a sleepover, Nick is having a sleepover and Michael and I will gain a few more gray hairs. Ha ha! Actually, it will be fun. Nick is having 2 friends sleepover and they are nice boys. Michael coached them in football and I am very pleased with the group of friends both kids have chosen. Mike and Matt are coming in to town to help Michael with his last side job of the year (I hope), and I will be spending time with my buddy Liz quilting. Tay and Nick like hanging out with her boys so I think we may get our pumpkin carving done at the same time. Yeehah. Perfect plans for us, as the weather will be icky, but it stinks for the guys who will be out in the cold and wind; possibly rain/snow.
And that's all I know folks. Until next time, here's wishing you much joy with your family.
