Babysitting Fun

 Marie and I got to spend some quality one-on-one time with Ryan and Allie a few weeks ago. 

We loved every minute of it. These two babies are so special and we were way overdue for cuddles.

 Marie is very helpful and I really couldn't have done it without her help. She can get those babies to smile, laugh, calm down, and even fall asleep. 

 They are inching closer to one year old and I can hardly believe it!  

God knew what he was doing bringing these two into our family. 

Father/Daughter Dance

Marie had her first experience being asked on a date...and went a little something like this:

Andy: "Marie, would you be my date to the Father/Daughter dance next weekend?"

Marie: "Ummm, ok, sure, hmmm, this is kinda weird."

Andy: "That's exactly what your mom said when I asked her out on a date."

Marie enjoyed her time getting ready. She picked out her dress, shoes, hair accessories and jewelry. We even put a little makeup on. 

While she was getting dressed, she asked me what kind of things girls talk about on a date. So, I went through the usual things that happen, small talk, hobbies, jobs, sports, movies, etc.

About 5 minutes into their date, Andy texted me saying, "Marie just asked me how my job is going..."

Just like everything she does, she took this date pretty seriously!

They ate at a fancy restaurant, danced, took pictures, ate more, and danced more. 

Both came home exhausted but very happy!

I love this tradition in our community and we already have next year's date on our calendar.

Mom and Dad took a trip!

 To celebrate 10 and 1/2 years of marriage, Andy & I finally took time and a trip away alone!

After months of planning, prep, and delivering of our dependents (dogs and kids) were finally hopped a plane in Minneapolis and were headed to Miami.

 We were very specific in our plans: drink, nap, eat, swim, lay on the beach.

If one of us tried to veer away from that plan, he/she was in deep trouble. 

 It.Was.Fabulous!

Never in my life have I felt so relaxed. 

It was warm, fun, relaxing, and honestly so great to get a way as a couple. 

Reconnecting and talking with no interruptions was priceless.

 We spent lots of time swimming in the crisp ocean water and that was so refreshing. 

We even saw a jellyfish in the water...and then quickly swam away.

 We took an adventure to south beach for dinner one night. Our menu was crab and dessert...delicious.

Ignore our dramatic Marie's picture above, our kids were well taken care of and had a wonderful time with all their caretakers: Mara, Grammy & Papa, and Aunt Keri & Uncle Paul, and Grandma Nel. 

Bennett's Winter Program

Bennett has had an amazing year so far in preschool. His teacher is wonderful, he has made many friends, and this past week he was able to share many of the songs he's learned.

 He picked out his tie and shirt for the special occasion.

 With the concert so close to valentine's day, there was definitely lots of love in the room as the kids performed.

 Bennett is growing into such a sweet young man and we are so so proud of him!

Fun Day in Coyote Country

 We were so excited to spend the day at the new arena in Vermillion to watch the Coyotes beat the Jack Rabbits!

We spent time yelling, cheering, eating nachos, and devouring dome dogs.

 The boys were obviously excited when the final buzzer rang after a close game. 

We took a few minutes to explore the new arena and the new touch screen hall of fame. The kids enjoyed finding their dad's team and their Papa!

Winter Games 2017

Living at the Lakes in the summer is full of excitement and we have really discovered some fun ways to stay cool in the heat. Living at the Lakes in the winter is a little different, however, and you have to do some searching to stay busy in the cold months. This past weekend was the annual Winter Games and it did not disappoint! We all found some fun ways to stay busy and get outside to enjoy our recent 10 inch snowfall. 

 

 Festivities for us included sledding, petting sled dogs, playing bean bags, flying kites, drinking hot cocoa with whipped cream, building a snowman, a little cross country skiing, attending a concert, and even participating and winning medals in a 5k. 

 Needless to say we are tired, our boots are wet, and we are still warming up. 

But we will still be ready for next year!

Meet Rex

 We surprised the kids on Sunday night by picking up our new puppy, Rex, a day early. 

The kids were beyond excited and Marie finally knows what it means to cry tears of joy...she was thrilled!

 This little guy is playful, sweet, and loves being around other dogs and people. He is a lot of work right now with potty training, but the kids are being big helpers, especially Marie. 

The boys are great at running around and making Rex chase them. This in turn tires him out! 

Maya is slowly accepting him, letting him into the family and even allowing him to play with her. She is definitely more playful since his arrival but also a touch jealous. 

He is enjoying his first winter in the snow but doesn't love the cold right now. We took him for an adventure on the iced over lake this week but wanted to be held a lot!

Welcome Rex! We already love you so much buddy.