silver anniversary birthday

25 years ago today, my world changed for the better.  Jenna Louise Blomgren made her dramatic appearance into the world. Thank you for being lovely, kind and spirited.  I love you and so does my family.  Happy Birthday!

carpe diem

One of our faculty members lost his wife to cancer last night.  She was a brave and strong soul.  Many people in our college are struggling with the news.  I am taking notice that Kris lived with passion and embraced each day as a new opportunity.  To you, Kris...teaching others to carpe diem. 

the talk

We are realizing that it may be the time to have the talk with A...it breaks my heart to have this conversation as I never believed in Santa, but Brad and I decided the time has come to be straight with him.  If there is anyone out there reading this, who can comment,  is there a special way to initiate the conversation? 

Letting him know that the spirit of Santa and of giving is alive and well is the goal of this interchange...I'm just kind of chicken to initiate the conversation.  I am not shy about many things, but this one has me thinking.

elf on the shelf

A new little elf named Finnley has inhabited the Olson residence this holiday season.  A, K, O and I read the story and named our house elf, Finnley.  K and I searched the upstairs to see if we could find him and she spied him atop our china cabinet this morning.  She is hoping Finnley will report good things to Santa regarding her behavior ;)

Blomgren celebration!

On Saturday afternoon and evening and Sunday morning/early afternoon, we were able to spend some quality time with the Blomgren family.  It always feels too short when spending time with 29 people, but it was pretty wonderful.  We gathered at the Holiday Inn in Mankato in a meeting room and spent time visiting, eating and swimming in the pool area.  We also drew names for our family holiday gift exchange.  All too soon, it was time to put kiddos to bed and turn out the lights in our super comfy hotel room.

On Sunday we had a great breakfast, swam and then went to the River Hills Mall for a few hours before we met at Apple Wood for their delicious buffet. 

Thanks Mom and Dad for a wonderful winter getaway!

arctic blast!

While napping with O yesterday afternoon, Betty came down to wake me.  Our neighbor, Bob had called to report the chickens had escaped their warm little hutch.  Bleary eyed, I attempted to get a hold of a friend who was caring for our little hens to no avail. 

My intentions were to drive home anyway last night as I am working this morning, so I quickly packed up and left the family with Grandma Betty.  Thankfully, I left when I did--about half way home it started to rain.  When I made the River Falls city limits, it started to sleet.  I am so thankful I wasn't out in the thick of it!  It went from mid 50s in the morning to freezing in about 8 hours.

While I was home alone last night, I got quite a bit of Christmas decorating done.  Check out our theolsons5.blogspot.com for photos. 

happy happy happy 3rd birthday Dehlia Grace

Ms. DGQ is 3 years old today...she is feisty and fun.  May your light shine little one!

giving thanks

We received this wonderful message from Mom and Dad Blomgren:

Greetings to each of you and your families! We so much appreciate each of you and thank God so very much for all of you.

WE ARE THANKFUL! Father, mother, daughter, son, neighbor, friend and friendless:
All together everyone, let grateful days be endless.
Mary Chapin Carpenter, Thanksgiving Song

Again - we are so VERY grateful for each of you. God loves you all and so do we! Dad and Mom a.k.a. Grandpa and Grandma B.

Couldn't have said it any better. 

helper

This morning I have a lovely helper with me at work.  She is busy doing her work and I am busy doing mine. 

Delightful while it lasts ;)

positive conferences

Brad and I met with A and K's teachers last night.  They both received positive reviews.  There is always room for improvement but it was really nice to see that they both have carved a nice little place for themselves at school.  Both are rock stars in reading and math!  Way to go. 

Today I will be attending a handful feast in K's classroom and her teacher also invited me to help in the classroom a couple of days per week with guided reading.  I am hoping this will assist with an in road to eventually leading a class of learners at the school. 

golden uncle stu

Happy birthday to the strong, handsome and oh so smart Stuart Martin Blomgren--today is your GOLDEN BIRTHDAY!  Much love to you golden boy.