Edward Jones' Summer Regional

These past few days we headed up north to Madden's on Gull Lake in Brainerd, MN to participate in Edward Jones' Annual Summer Regional.  Thursday started off perfectly with beautiful weather and a fun filled BBQ.  Friday and the rest of the weekend sadly wasn't so good.  The temps were in the low 60's, lots of wind, clouds and on and off showers; plus Ian ended up getting a fever and stomach bug all day Saturday.  Thankfully we were able to play at the beach quickly on Friday but remained indoors until leaving this morning.  Kids had fun swimming in the indoor pool and did great while at childcare for our meetings and award ceremony.  Unfortunately the ceremony ran late and we rushed to pick them up just under 10 PM and forgot to capture a picture of Dad and I all dressed up and showing off his two awards he received.  I was so proud of him and it was evident from others and the ceremony that he is one great financial adviser.  

Happy Father's Day

The kiddos made Dad feel extra special throughout today since it was Father's Day.  We started our day off at church with lots of great friends, did a little fun shopping, and then spent the rest of our day at home opening Father's day presents and spending family time.  It was nothing but simple, but that's just what Dad asked for.

We love you Nate, and I'm thankful to have you as a husband and father to our children.  I am so appreciative on how much you show love to us and provide for us.  Thank you for being you and hope you had a Happy Father's Day!

Fun in Apple Valley

Today the kiddos, Grace and I headed south to Apple Valley to spend the day with Nana.  The day was filled with nonstop fun.  We went out to eat for lunch, played at a GREAT new park (had huge umbrellas over entire playground), had an ice cream cone picnic and played lots at Nana's.  Then the boys and I headed back before bed while Elyse got to end the night at Nana's for a sleepover that she set up and scheduled all on her own. 

Thanks Nana for such a fun Friday!

"Joyful Noise"

"Joyful Noise" is a two day concert that our local Christian radio puts on annually with an attendance of about 20,000.  The event started Friday night with three great bands.  Our entire family adventured out that night to enjoy the show.  Saturday ran from 10 to 10, with over 30 inflatables and sponsors giving out things until 6 PM.  Thanks to some friends that direct the radio station, Nate was able to become a sponsor this year.  Nate, his office team and myself spent all afternoon in sunny 90 degrees to run games for kids to win prizes, and opportunities for Nate to meet future clients.  The day was a major success.  After shutting down, Nate and I took Elyse and her best friend, Ava to see the last two bands, Tenth Ave North and Switchfoot, they were amazing! 

A couple thank yous, one to Nana for watching the kiddos all day, especially while at the event. (Could not have done it without you!)  Also, my brother who made the awesome big screen display that ran throughout the day. 

Family at Joyful Noise Friday night

Joyful Noise all day Saturday

 Free golf cart rides to and from your vehicle, one of the boys' favorite thing from the event.

MN's NEW Children's Museum

The Minnesota's Children's Museum has been closed since January and under renovation since last year, but finally opened up last weekend.  We decided to check it out with the thoughts that the craziness might be minimal with schools still in session and during nap time.  Thankfully we were right, and it wasn't too busy which was wonderful.  The museum had a few great new features and somethings that I wasn't too crazy about.  Overall though the kids loved it and asked if they could go back tomorrow.