Catching Up

Celebrating long daylight, shimmering sunsets, and freedom in nature.

Re-building a sand castle together

Creating a River

I'm not getting any more sleep now with my full-on summer break, than I was when I was working.  In fact, I'm so elated to have time to flip through magazines, sit around drinking coffee and reading my books, that I haven't really wanted to sleep.  Strange how that works now that I have the time.

So here's what I've been up to since June 12th, the last day of school.

I took a class that focused on Reading for Critical Thinking.  It was one of the better professional development classes I've taken because the tools are functional, but moreso, I walked away excited to have learned some new ideas and skills.

Emma's home from Conserve School and she turned 17 years old June 11th.  We had our third annual family birthday party for her at Brittingham Park, an event that is surely becoming my favorite one of the year.  We had so much fun that I didn't even stop to take pictures!  Aside from the obvious which is that Emma is a year away from being 18, I am proud to be a part of her life.  She adds the touch - the harmony and perspective that makes me feel hopeful about our world in the next 50 years.  

Saturday was our kick-back day.   But after hanging around all morning into the afternoon, we got on our bikes with Peter and Ruth and made our way to the Arboretum - our hidden gem of prairie, trails, and lovely trees.  I rode my old-newly refurbished bike, "Stella," for the first time and she is indeed a fun cruiser bike.  After the Arb, we headed to Zuzu's Cafe to meet Annie and Stanley for dinner.  I love outdoor areas where kids are free to roam, play and create.

Today - Fathers Day - was a happy one.  I am so blessed that Brad is a wonderful dad to Emma, Misa, and John-Pio.  I have truly loved how we've grown into our parenting roles - still open to our challenges and learning how to be the best we can be.  I look at our three kids and know that they have it good with a dad who is fun, funny, inspiring and smart!

Together with Peter and Ruth, Tom and Lisa and Lily and Jack, Annie, and the Naputi-Werntz family, we spent the day on the South Shore of Devils Lake.  We barbecued, went swimming, read, and celebrated good friendship.  It was a memorable day topped off with a late night trip to Culvers for concrete mixers.

Here are some pictures from yesterday and today . . .

Daughter-Daddy

"What are you teaching John-Pio?" 

Naputi-Werntz at the Arb

Lily and Misa

Uncle Nino and Misa playing

Awwwww! 

Celebrating long daylight, shimmering sunsets, and freedom in nature.