ch ch ch changes

This afternoon, my husband and I have a date to attend A's final Greenwood concert.  It's been a while since we've seen him on stage, so I'm hoping he will perform with his usual gust and energy. 

Tonight, A and I will be going to the Middle School auditorium to attend an orientation to middle school.  Kind of like Kindergarten registration, but a little more like welcome to high school.  It's an exciting time of life, we will see how the while transition goes.  In my heart of hearts, I am hoping he chooses to pursue an instrument/play in band, but we shall see. 

There may be some bumps, but that is what life is all about.  Falling down, picking up, learning and moving forward.  My dear friend, Michelle reminded me of one of our favorite authors Karen Kingsbury and her sweet story Let Me Hold You Longer, very appropriate on a day like this. 

am I a man

Brad was busy baking muffins this morning when A came up to say good morning and check the status of breakfast.  Brad and A had a little dialog about the muffin man and living in drury lane--it was a nice little interchange. 

Shortly after A went back downstairs to get ready for the day, O started singing from his highchair "am I am maaaaan, or am I Muppet?" with much feeling and facial expression.  I LOVE the boys in my life.  They make me grin.   The muffins were quite tasty by the way.

quote of the day

In research for inspired Kindergarten center ideas, I have become a pinterest fan.  Yesterday, I stumbled upon a quote I think I will use often:

Loved you yesterday
Love you still,
Always have,
Always will.

So if you get this on a card or greeting from me, know that I mean it, but I wasn't the original creator. 

little Joe

Ivy, one of my dearest college friends, texted our mutual friend Julie this weekend with very sad news.  Her little brother who was newly married, full of life, intelligent, handsome, athletic, and who I helped Ivy pick out a chemistry set for a Christmas gift 20 years ago lost his life.

I have no details, but I do know that there is a big group of people who are struggling with wrapping their minds around their loss.  I pray they are able to find comfort in this trying time. 

c finals

On Saturday morning, A swam at Hudson Middle School for the C finals.  He trimmed 2 seconds from his time for the 50 breast stroke.  He had the fifth fastest qualifying time in his heat and ended up finishing third.

His time was 48.11 seconds. 

His cheering section consisted of O, K, Grandpa Bud, Grandma Betty and myself.  We then met up with Brad--who was at a church meeting and enjoyed a celebration lunch at Mariachi Loco.

Great job with your season, A!

cheeky monkee

Friday evening was lovely.  I met with dear college RA friends at Cheeky Monkey which is located on Selby Avenue in St. Paul.  Steph and I immediately spied the Monkee's records display on the wall and enjoyed visiting about one of our mutual favorite music groups.  Trish brought a delicious cake from the bakery where she works.  Anie had everyone rolling with stories of her kids Jens and Anya and their antics.  Julie was her usual charming and lovely self. 

When we finished dinner, Julie and I went to the Dugout in Mahtomedi to watch KJ band and do a little dancing.  Catching up is great fun.

errand surprise

Every day I stroll around campus making deliveries or picking up items for use in our building.  Yesterday, I stopped by the University Center to pick up some batteries for the Animal Science department chair and when I walked out of the bookstore, this is who I found--O's class out for a campus walk.

O spied me and his grin lit up the room!  He stayed in his spot, but when I got over to him, he stood up and started grabbing my hand and telling me that it was time to go home.  I sat right next to him and we sang a song about five monkeys teasing an alligator.  The whole class was a stitch.  I then found an opportunity to sneak away and he was none the wiser.

What a sweet, golden opportunity for a little O time.

visitors from the north one year ago

green flash sunset at Sandcastles on the Beach

sunrise at Udall

Joan lounging poolside

O the big wheela

cane bay horse

One year ago this week, Cory and Joan came to visit us in the middle of the Caribbean sea.
 

Reflecting on this adventure was so refreshing with the current 1 degree Fahrenheit temps.  Thanks to Cory and Joan for coming to visit and help us get out and explore the island!