Bella Luna

May 2011 in Photos

2011-05-27T21:02:00.000-05:00

Lon's Birthday celebration at Osaka, some wicked clouds (that everyone took photos of . .and posted on facebook!) :) continuing the WIWW (but not posting . .ack . . gettin' a little chubby!, breakfast with Ethan and Karly, Art-A-Whirl @ Edison HS and Who Made Who, and our ESL Picnic at school . . .where I hyper-extended my knee playing kickball (at least I got the kid "OUT" . . . you can totally tell I'm using my "teacher voice" in the last picture. :) Enjoy:

April 2011 in Photos

2011-04-30T20:52:00.000-05:00

April saw us gathering to say goodbye to Grandpa's brother, Royce. And later, Mom and Dad were in MN for an event in Alexandria, so at Alice's request we got a new family photo taken:

March 2011 in Photos

2011-03-31T20:41:00.003-05:00

Ok - so I'm just about a year behind in posting (it's Jan. 2012 right now) . . so to catch up . . I'm just going to put up some pics from the month. :) Enjoy.

The second 1/2 of March consisted of Spring Break (aka - Eagle's Nest and McDonald's Play Dates)and the Hunter Girls Reunion in Detroit Lakes:

WIWW #5 & #6

2011-03-16T15:11:00.006-05:00

I didn't get around to posting last week - so here's 2 weeks' worth of outfits. . . (missing some days - but nothing worth showing anyway). I think I've run out of new ways to wear things . . I think I need to dig a little deeper in the closet. .or start adding some spring-y items. . .or both of those things. :) Enjoy!

Wednesday - Bday dinner @ Benihana
(I like my hair in this one :)
Familiar outfit. . .
Sweater - Target
(I'm sure there's a tank under there)
Scarf - Kohls
Jeans #3 - The Buckle
Kitten Heels - Kohls
Earrings - Lia Sophia
Ring - Montana trip

Saturday - Errands
(another familiar outfit)
Concert T - Tegan & Sara Merch
Cardigan - Target
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Flats - Payless

Monday - School
(another familar outfit)
Striped top - Target
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans - The Buckle
Shoes?? I think I'm wearing those flats - LOVE THEM - Payless
Jewelry - Premier Design

Tuesday - School
This is a new one - and way cute in the pic
Old brown top - Kohls?? Old Navy?? (No idea)
Cardigan - Target
Jeans #3 - The Buckle
Shoes - Love these - from Kohls
No Jewelry??

Thursday - Last Day of the Trimester
New Cami - Kohls (I like that this covers the cleavage! YAY!
Button Top - Kohls
Jeans #1?? - The Buckle
Cute Clogs - Payless
Necklace - Premier Design
Earrings - Lia Sophia

Friday - Work Day - No Kids
(and went to happy hour - so no hoodie/jeans. . like a typical grading day)
Vikings T - Target Clearance (and it's ladies cut - and thin - perfect for pairing with a cardigan!
Cardigan - OLD OLD OLD handmedown from friend
Scarf - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ka-uute flats - Payless

Saturday - Goddaughter's Birthday Party
Long Sleeve T - Target
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle (Yes, I'm aware this is like 2 days in a row!)
Kitten Heels - Kohls
Earrings - Lia Sophia
Necklace & Ring - Premier Design

Monday - 1st day of Spring Break
Purple Top - Kohls
Sweater - Kohls
Scarf - Kohls
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Clogs?? - Payless
Ring - Montana trip
Earrings - Lia Sophia

Tuesday - Break & 1st "date" - sort of
Cami - Old Navy
Button Top - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Clogs - Payless
Earrings & Necklace - Premier Design

I'm linking up to Pleated Poppy - go check out what everyone's wearing. I get most of my ideas from these ladies!! :)

Little P's 2nd Birthday Party

2011-03-12T20:05:00.003-06:00

My Goddaughter, Little Miss P, turned 2 years old this week - and today was her birthday party! She was way more into her gifts this year - which was fun. . .and she truly enjoyed our gifts. She and her parents came over the other day for some playtime - and P really got into the Toy Story toys that Alice & L3 have. So Lon picked up a Jessie doll for P . .and then I got the 2 movies that she didn't have yet . . and they were a hit! (so much so - that maybe she should have opened that Jessie doll last. . .whoops!) LOVE YOU, P!!!

More Birthday Dinner

2011-03-02T23:59:00.000-06:00

Third night of eating out for my birthday!!! If you join Benihana's email . . you get a birthday coupon the month of your birthday!! HELLO! Free food!!! So Lon and Jaime came out with me - the kids stayed home with Cassie. We had yummy food - yummy drinks - and since I really wasn't paying for anything - I splurged and got the take-home Ninja beverage holder - and the crew at Benihana rocks!! They sang - they took our picture . . treated me like a birthday girl!! . . . I LOVE my BIRTHDAY!! :)

WIWW #4

2011-03-02T05:17:00.005-06:00

I'm kind of surprised that I'm still keeping up with photos - so YAY me! :) And even MORE impressed that I'm still paying attention to the accessories and finishing touches (for the most part!) :) Let's get on with the show!

Wednesday - New Hair & Pub Trivia Night
Top (one piece!) - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Payless
Necklace - Premier Design
Earrings - Lia Sophia
Ring - Indian Jewelry Shop in Montana

No Post on Thursday - got sick at school - came home at noon - stripped to PJs - and slept. :(

Friday - School Spirit
Soccer T - Booster Club
Long Sleeve T - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Dr. Martens - Journeys

Saturday - Pedicure with JB & HeidiGaga
Old Tank - Target
Plaid Top - Kohls
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Flip Flops - YUP!!! Target (froze my toesies off!!)
Jewelry - Gift from Amy!! LOVE THEM

Sunday - Dinner @ My House
Rocker T - Maurices (clearance!)
Cardigan - Target
Scarf - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Payless
(I guess I felt like dressing up to hang out with the fam!)

Monday - 38th BIRTHDAY!!!
This outfit has appeared almost every week - I kinda like it I guess :)
Too Low Tank - Kohls
Long Sleeve Top - Kohls
Jeans #3 - The Buckle
Clogs - Payless
Jewelry - Premier Design

Tuesday - School & More Birthday with Karly
Long Sleeve T - Target
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Payless
Necklace - Premier Design
Earrings - Lia Sophia

Ok, I guess I wore jeans for over 7 days in a row. Ok ok ok. Noted. Goal next week - more non-jeans. . . hmmm .. do i have OTHER bottoms?? Check back to find out!! :)

Linked-up!

(almost) Sweet Sixteen

2011-03-01T21:13:00.004-06:00

Karly and I hung out tonight. I brought her to Jess for new hair for her birthday present . .and then we went to Chili's for dinner and Birthday Brownie with Ice Cream (ahhhh . .YUM!!!) . . . I *heart* her new hair! :) Happy Birthday-in-27-days, Karly Wuhleeze!

Happy Birthday To Me!!

2011-02-28T21:02:00.000-06:00

Celebrated my 38th birthday tonight - with my bestest buddies at my favorite place . . Red Lobster. . . DUH! It was a great night - Alice got to hang with her BFF, Luca . . and we tried a little to get Marin and L3 to be best buddies . . we'll work on that!! :) Thanks to my favorite people for coming out to celebrate with me, for texting me, for calling me at freakin' 7am, for singing, and for just plain thinking of me today. I am loved. :)

The Others - Pub Trivia

2011-02-23T23:41:00.000-06:00

Well - we got the gang together for a good cause! NAMI hosted a Pub Trivia challenge at a Nordeast bar . . .so . .yeah . .we were IN! Joe, Lynn, Lon, Jaime, and I are part of a larger group who play in a trivia game daily . . so who better to join forces for a good cause?? (Jaime and Joe are usually fighting it out for 1st place every month - so imagine how awesome we were when we pooled together!) The Others (our team) tied for 3rd place . . .and we're totally HOOKED! I'm sure we'll be getting together again soon to take on other nerdy trivia types!! :)

WIWW #3

2011-02-23T20:09:00.005-06:00

Ok - I'm kind of getting the hang of this - and so far - have been pretty good about getting photos. Yes - I am behind on posting - so I'll link up to The Pleated Poppy twice next week! I had that long weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's - and then got sick . . so - it's officially Sunday (OSCAR Sunday - when I'm posting this . . and cheating by back-dating it!) :) . . blah blah blah . . here are the clothes!

Wednesday
long sleeve black T - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Sweater - Kohls
Jewelry - Duh - Premier Design
There are those ka-uute flats, again!

Thursday - My brother calls this "80's threw up on you" Day
Old Top - Old Navy??
Old Jean jacket - Old Navy
Old Skirt - Kohls
Scarf - Kohls
tights - Kohls
Boots - Payless
(I liked it . . :)

Friday
Spirit Day T shirt - School store
Long Sleeve T - Kohls
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Dr. Martens - Journeys
(yes, this is the school bathroom!) eek!

Saturday - Hanging out at Grandma's House!
Old Tank - Target??
Button Up Shirt - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Jewelry - Premier Design

Sunday - @ Grandma's & Church
Tank - Target
Sweater - Kohls
Scarf - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ka-uuute Flats - Payless

I didn't get my Monday - No School - but drive 7 hours on crappy roads to get home outfit.. . . Who cares - I was in a car all day!! :)

Tuesday - back to school!
Seriously - this looked really cute at first - now it just looks frumpy!
Top - Kohls
Scarf - Kohls
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Shoes - Kohls
(looks like Kohls dominated today!!)

:) I'm still at it - I feel like I'm repeating a lot - so I'm working on not doing that . . but if it's a fave - you may see it once a week!! :)

Linked-up!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-02-16T05:08:00.005-06:00

OK! Here I am again!! Two full weeks of WIWW!! I think I'm doing OKAY! (except for this first outfit!) . . . So far I'm remembering to take photos every day too! Ok - here we go:

Wednesday
Ugg . . what is it Ugly Brown Day??
Old Tank Top - Old Navy
Cardigan - Target
Brown Cords - Kohls
Cute shoes - Kohls
Necklace/Earrings - Premier Design

Thursday
Old Tank Top - Target
Cardigan - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Payless
Necklace - Premier Design

Friday - PayDay PLC
Jackson Wear - School Store
Jeans #3 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Payless
New Fave Scarf - Kohls
Everyday Hoop Earrings - Walmart

Saturday
Tegan & Sara T-shirt - Concert Merch Table
Cardigan - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Ka-uute Flats - Are we seeing a trend here??
Ring - ?? Lia Sophia??

Sunday - Church (& 2nd Date)
Last Week's Fave made a comeback!
Tank - mega old from Old Navy
Top - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Clogs - Payless
Necklace & Earrings - Premier Design
(The outfit was WAAAY better than the date!) :)

Monday - Valentine's Day!
Tank - Kohls
Totally matching cardigan! - Target
Jeans #3 - The Buckle
Kitten Heels - Kohls
Ring - Indian Gift Shop
Necklace/Earrings - Premier Design

Tuesday
LS Top - Target
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Ummm. . there's those flats again!
Necklace/Ring - Premier Design
Handmade Earrings - Art Teacher Colleague

How'd I do?? Totally linking up with Pleated Poppy - check out what everyone else wore this week! :)

Amy's Confirmation

2011-02-13T19:52:00.002-06:00

Alice and I went to Amy-in-Anoka's church in . . well . . Anoka. To see her get confirmed. Judy was her sponsor . . and lots of friends were there to help celebrate. After church we all went to Perkins where Alice got to have yummy bear pancakes with chocolate chips! Fun Day.

What I Wore Wednesday - 1st post!

2011-02-09T22:01:00.009-06:00

So - Lindsey over at The Pleated Poppy hosts this blog party every Wednesday. I discovered it just over a week ago - and have LOVED checking out all of these women and their adorable outfits!!! Mostly I've been inspired to try just a little big harder . . so we'll see how that all works out! :) Here's my first "WIWW" blog and link-up! :) YAY me!!

Wednesday - 1st Day
Top - Old Navy
Cardigan - Target
Skirt - GW find (Loft)
Tights - Kohls
Boots - Payless!!
Necklace/earrings - Premier Design

Thurday - Parent/Teacher Conferences
Turtle neck top - Target
Cardigan - Target
Skirt - Target
Tights - Kohls
Boots - Payless ($7 on clearance!!)
Necklace - Premier Design
Earrings - Lia Sophia

Friday - School Spirit Friday . . and Wrestling Meet! :)
Hoodie - Wrestling Team
Jeans - The Buckle (pair 1 of 3)
Dr. Martens - Journeys
(this is the kind of stuff that I would usually wear EVERY DAY. Hopefully WIWW will help me to break out of my Hoodie Habit!)

Saturday - Running Errands
(my favorite outfit of the week!)
Tank - mega old from Old Navy
Top - Target
Jeans #1 - The Buckle
Clogs - Payless
Necklace & Earrings - Premier Design

Sunday - Manicures with The Girls
(ummm. . you will never see this ensemble again - or at least - I won't allow my brother to take a pic of me from below me. Ughh)
Sweatshirt - Target
Leggings - Kohls
Fake Uggs - Payless :)
Necklace - duh - Premier Design

Monday - back to the Classroom
(kinda liked this one a lot too)
Striped shirt - old from Target
Sweater - Kohls
Jeans - The Buckle (pair 2 of 3)
KA-UTE black flats - Payless :) :)
Necklace/Ring - Premier Design
Earrings - Handmade - Art Teacher @ my school

Tuesday - School & Blind Date Night :D
Top (one piece) :) - Kohls
Jeans #2 - The Buckle
Kitten Heels - Kohls
(and - the date went fine . . 2nd date this weekend)

Whew - there's my 1st attempt at lookin' like a girl. I'll keep working at it! :)

Alice's 1st Manicure

2011-02-06T21:38:00.000-06:00

Jaime and I planned a trip to the mall for manicures before the Super Bowl. We thought we'd take Alice with us - so that Lonny could have some peace whilst L3 slept. Well, she's quite the planner, and she was ready to get her nails done too! (she also wanted her toes done - but we convinced her to wait until we could wear flip flops! . .but she already has that planned out . . and wants her nails done then too!) :) Alice is a curious kid. .and even tho she looked a little worried while the manicurist prepped - she soon was quite content - and just watched . . and sat . .VERY. STILL. She was the hit of the salon . .everybody was watching her and smiling, and helping her keep her fan going . . she was a rock star. . and now we're all ADORABLE!

New Sunday Tradition?

2011-01-23T21:27:00.000-06:00

Maybe we started a new tradition? It kind of came together weirdly - but we all ended up having dim sum in Richfield! What a fun way to spend a Sunday lunch! . . and before we met up with everyone . . Heidi and I had a little photo shoot in St. Paul. The pics won't be used for anything special. . .but we got some good shots!!

Sesame Street Live . . .2011

2011-01-19T21:24:00.000-06:00

Well . . this used to be fun. . .but L3 isn't a big fan of sitting in a seat . . or for that matter . .doing anything we need him to do. . . At least Alice had fun!

Happy Water-in-your-Basement!

2011-01-02T21:18:00.001-06:00

Craziness ensued after a stupid plastic filter cracked and Lon and Jaime ended up with a wet basement! Lots of vacuuming and throwing out of boxes . . . I'm sure we'll look back at this and laugh someday .. . :)

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T21:13:00.002-06:00

Another night of Chinese food, mimosas, and Rock Band! I love NYE!! :)

ANOTHER Playdate!!

2010-12-31T21:10:00.000-06:00

What do you do on vacation?? Play as much as possible!! We met up with Melanie and Luca at our favorite. . the Eagle's Nest! We finished with lunch at Subway . . .which was a special adventure in itself!!

Chuck E Cheese Playdate

2010-12-29T21:04:00.001-06:00

We met our friends at Chuck-E-Cheese for a playdate! Joe and his kids (our sleepover friends), Becky and Baby Marin, Fabio and Melanie and BFF Luca. . . . We LOVE playdates!!

California Pizza Kitchen

2010-12-27T20:59:00.003-06:00

Yummy dinner with my nephew Ethan and his mom tonight at CPK!

L3's first movie - Tangled

2010-12-26T20:55:00.000-06:00

I was put in charge of L3 - cuz it was my bright idea to bring the whole family. I lucked out! L3 was in awe of the movie . . enjoyed the yummy snacks I brought for him and ended up taking a nap!

Christmas Day

2010-12-25T20:38:00.003-06:00

We kept with tradition - and hung out at home for Christmas. We had a yummy breakfast and even yummier dinner! We did head up to Blaine for a few hours to visit with Grandma and Grandpa, too!

Christmas Eve @ Bob and Sue's

2010-12-24T20:35:00.002-06:00

I spent another great Christmas Eve with my cousins! And their kids are getting SOOOOO big!!

Pierogi & Cabbage Rolls

2010-12-19T20:30:00.000-06:00

Well - it came together last minute . . but we (the cousins) did get together to prepare our Christmas foods! Thank goodness for our big beefy cousin-in-law, Jim!!

Toys For Tots

2010-12-19T20:25:00.000-06:00

The nice thing about the Tots party being postponed due to a snow storm . . we got to go!! We kinda took over the basement with our rockin' karaoke skillz!. . and me and L2 closed the party down at like freakin' 2am!!

Visit with Santa

2010-12-16T20:20:00.000-06:00

We went to visit Santa! Alice got to talk to the Big Guy . . and L3 handsomely posed! :)

Winter in New Brighton

2010-12-15T20:18:00.000-06:00

Seriously . . the snow. It doesn't stop!

Mini Christmas 2010

2010-12-05T20:10:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Mini Christmas with Mom and Dad again this year. Of course we had pierogi and potato sausage! Alice is quite the little Polish cook!! :) I love our long season of celebrating Christmas!!

No-Coast

2010-12-04T23:22:00.001-06:00

This couple bought Alice's print for their baby's room :)

This is what we look like after a long day of craft fairin' . . .it might help that I just about got killed on 35W this morning . . . damn icy ramp!

Happy Thanksgiving 2010 - and another Nordin Photo Shoot

2010-11-25T23:13:00.003-06:00

LOVE

2010-11-21T23:06:00.001-06:00

My Grandma and Grandpa are pretty special people - and aren't they ADORABLE?!?!

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T23:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween from Jessie & Yoda!

Alice's 1st Print

2010-10-24T22:57:00.001-05:00

Add artist to her list of talents . . .

Summer-y October Day

2010-10-11T22:17:00.000-05:00

So Mom and Dad had to go back today. . . but we took advantage of this beautiful day for a good-bye photo shoot! Enjoy the family photos - and bear with my playing-with-my-camera photos :)

Pumpkin Patch with Grandma & Grandpa

2010-10-10T22:10:00.001-05:00

Mom and Dad were in town for Jamie's funeral - so we were able to share this unseasonably warm October day with them at the pumpkin patch!

Jamie Marie Pavek

2010-10-09T21:58:00.000-05:00

My cousin, Jamie, lost her battle with cancer this week. She planned out her own funeral - including having it on a Saturday so her loved ones could make it into town. It was a beautiful, sad, joyful celebration. Lots of love and laughter filled the weekend. We had a spontaneous gathering back at my house to continue our celebration of our family. I am truly blessed to have these people in my life.

Jamie - I think of you often . . you taught me some of the most important things in life . . how to apply eye liner and mascara. . and how to curl my bangs (let's hope I never have to use that one again!!) :) Thank you for being a Big Sister Cousin when I needed it! Love.

Backyard

2010-10-03T21:50:00.002-05:00

Our backyard is one of my favorite places to be.

Misty October Morning

2010-10-01T21:42:00.003-05:00

So when I let the dogs out this morning - they went straight for behind the garage - and just barked and barked and barked! I figured that damn black cat that taunts them was sitting just out of reach for them . . or else there was a mass murderer hiding back there . . so I got on some shoes to go check it out . . .

There - 3 backyards away . .were the most stunning animals - staring right back at us! They totally knew that Baxter and Bella couldn't come to get them . .so they lazily watched us . .and me, especially I suppose, cuz they didn't know if I could get out of that invisible fence or not! :) I did manage to get back to the house to get my camera . . so here is one of the best shots I could get in the bad light - and so far away. :)

NAMI Walk 2010

2010-09-25T21:38:00.000-05:00

Not only did I get to join Heidi and JB at the NAMI Walk to cheer - we had a few Jr. Helpers participating in Service Learning! What a gorgeous day we had for it too!! :O) I LOVE MN in the fall!!

Swimming Lessons

2010-09-18T21:23:00.004-05:00

Alice started swimming lessons again. She's in the Puddle Jumpers or whatever they're called. . . no parents in the water . . .no diaper. :) If you can tell by these pics - none of her classmates were huge fans of the water . . so Alice got a lot of 1-1 attention this first session! She is a ROCK STAR in the water . .what can I say?? :)

Happy 1st Birthday, Cousin Leah!

2010-09-12T21:20:00.000-05:00

We all joined John & Heather in their backyard for a bbq and to celebrate Leah's 1st Birthday!! :)

Preschool

2010-09-11T21:08:00.000-05:00

Alice Mae is starting PRESCHOOL! So we all had to head up to her new school to check out the important stuff. . the playground! We deemed it acceptable! :)

We LOVE the Eagle's Nest!

2010-09-05T21:05:00.000-05:00

We love playing at the Eagle's Nest! :)

Baptism Sunday

2010-08-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

Alice, L3, and Cousin Zach were Baptized today! Jaime and Joanna had their childhood paster do it . . .it was a fun service that the kids really liked - lots of cool music and a fun play area right in the back of the "church" - aka - elementary school gym. L3 even fell asleep right in the middle of all of the pictures!! Like any good Lutheran church - there were cookies and juice after the service - which of course we hung out for .. . and then we went to Chuck-E-Cheese to REALLY celebrate!!

Annual State Fair Trip

2010-08-27T20:48:00.000-05:00

We had a fun day at the Great Minnesota Get Together! We joined up with Josh and Joanna again for food, rides, walking, food, sweating, and more food. L3 was actually pretty good - and actually slept for a little bit!! Too bad that kid can't get out of the stroller without wanting to run for the hills!! URGHHH.

Yummy walleye cakes (above) .. and (below) the moment our family discovered blueberry juice! . .YUM-OH!

Bye Bye Florida!

2010-08-22T20:44:00.002-05:00

Well - my vacation had to come to an end sometime . . and today was the day! . . . Joolie and I had a relaxing last day . . so much so that I was almost late for my flight!! Oh well . . it all worked out . . (damn toll booths!!) and I made it home safe and sound . . .can't wait to go back and spend more time with my BFFs!!

Cool Birds, More Beach & a Great Sunset

2010-08-21T23:01:00.005-05:00

There are just SOO many cool birds, animals, and insects in Florida! These birds just stood there so I could take a picture! :)

Joolie and I hit the beach ONE. MORE. TIME . . and this time I had my suit on . .so got to jump in the waves! Joolie wasn't ready for the water . . but I'm pretty sure I inspired her to go back later with Mike . .to enjoy the OCEAN that they live 10 minutes from!!! :)

Check out this GREAT Florida sunset!

Flea Market, Beach, Joolie's House

2010-08-20T22:53:00.005-05:00

This was our last day together - so we had to get a lot in a short time! :) We started with a trip to a HUGE flea market - which was lots of stuff, crowded, and hot . . so I was totally happy when we were done there . . but Jaymie scored this GREAT cover-up!! We went by the beach again - to get some daytime shots . . and stood in the ocean again! :)

Then we dropped Jaymie off with her family - who had flown down to go to Disney. Joolie and I then headed up to her house (we hadn't seen it yet - cuz we were staying with her in-laws) . . I got a great shot of this storm rolling in (just like Mississippi . .pretty much rains in FL every afternoon!).

Breakfast, Fountain of Youth, New Smyrna Beach

2010-08-19T22:44:00.004-05:00

So. . there are a few of these "artsy" photos from Florida. . I was having a fun time with settings! :) We started the morning at this park not too far from Joolie's in-laws' house . .where we got to grill our own pancakes and french toast! The food was great - even tho we were STICKY hot! :) We also put our feet in what they call the Fountain of Youth . .so hopefully that worked out for me! :)

Finally - we got to put our feet in the ocean - at New Smyrna Beach. (We fell in love - and couldn't wait to get back!)

Alex Girls in Florida

2010-08-18T22:40:00.002-05:00

Well - I got back from Idaho just in time to get on a plane and fly out to Florida to visit Joolie. . . and I started out another trip with a stop at Cracker Barrel! :) . . and . . . we drove by the Daytona track a few times . . Jaymie took this photo for Joel! :)

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #8

2010-08-16T21:38:00.003-05:00

The best part of this trip was JB. We laughed a lot, we didn't kill each other - quite the opposite - we were very compatible travel-wise, and truly enjoyed the JOURNEY! (LOVE YOU, JB!) This trip across North Dakota and Minnesota took all day. . but was still quite enjoyable. (we even got to take a break from the car to have lunch with Nancy in Fargo!) .. . great trip!

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #7

2010-08-15T23:27:00.000-05:00

We started our leg home with a great breakfast at our B&B .. made by US! Here's mom and dad busy in the kitchen! . . and here are a few pictures of our room and the hot tub we used twice!. . all in all - and fine place to stay . .

. . .but these photos of the backyard - were NOT on their B&B website. . .

Piggie tails - ready to head back through the mountains with the windows down!

Ummm. . this day of driving totally SUCKED! We drove straight through Montana that day - and except for ALMOST RUNNING OUT OF GAS in the middle of LITERALLY no-WHERE! . .we pulled into this Days Inn when we just couldn't go ANY FURTHER . . and grabbed some food at the local diner . . and had YUMMY YUMMY deep fried pickles dipped in ranch! (highlight of the MONTANA leg)

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #6

2010-08-14T23:45:00.003-05:00

Our day in Blanchard actually started out at Staymart (in WA) - with the Muscle.

Official photo to prove we were in WA!

Jerome Cousins at Katey's/Marie's 40th/80th B-day Party!

Crazy Yager Boys!!

Paul & his wife

Kerri Jerome & Carrie Jerome

Saying goodbye to the party . . and back to our B&B for a dip in the hot tub . .

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #5

2010-08-13T20:54:00.000-05:00

We awoke in Coeur d'Alene, ID to a beautiful day! Here are a few shots of our great room while we were getting ready to head out . . and yes, pack up the car!

Our neighbors in the motel were great people from Rochester, MN!! How cool is that?? We made friends . . and of course - we had to grab a photo of JB and BeeJay before we headed out to explore Coeur d'Alene!

More statutes about town (these are actually from a kids' book . . we didn't swim - but our feet were in the lake! And we caught some time to chill out on the grass and read!!

Can't forget about the huckleberries!! I guess they're big out here . . so we took a break for some huckleberry ice cream!! We watched the people who were on their lunch breaks from WORK as we relaxed on our VAY KAY!

. . Then we headed up to Newport, Washington to check into our great B&B. . .

This bed was in Mom and Dad's room - which was next door to our "suite" - which included a kitchenette and living room area . . also - had to grab a photo of JB keeping all the peeps updated via Twitter and Facebook! Then we headed out to Katey's for a yummy bbq and lots and lots of relatives!!

Auntie Marie and all of her grandkids!

Auntie Marie and her kids - Dale, Katey, Paul

Katey's Family

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #4

2010-08-12T20:33:00.008-05:00

We woke up to a great morning in Helena, MT! We enjoyed YUMMY cooked-to-order breakfast, packed the car up - AGAIN, and then headed into downtown Helena for some sites!

The museum was AWESOME! Did you know there were Metis in MT? Lots of Cree from MN!??! It was cool . . I had to take a pick of this display . . what an interesting way to efficiently kill the buffalo!!

We took this train tour that picked us up right in front of the museum. Our tour guide was hilarious and created a great tour! We saw the capitol, some mansions, some homes of miners, beautiful churches . . . Of course - because of the mining for gold - people came from all over the country - and world - to try their luck.. . which makes Helena VERY diverse and rich in cultures!

The next pictures are all for Bongo. This is the area that he lived and worked in when he was in Helena. We ate at his restaurant and meandered thru this little village area :)

This is a mural honoring women. It was just cool.

Have you noticed that every city kind of has its statues? Like we had the Snoopy statues all over town? Billings had something too - and Helena has these dogs. . . we thought they were cool . . .

Back on the road - and seriously THE. MOST. BEAUTIFUL drive up into the mountains! (although it did seem to go on for a very long time . . so much so that when we first got cell service again, I called Lonny to check the internet to make sure we were going the right direction! :)

This is what we looked like after driving through mountains with the windows down! :)

AHHHHHHH. . . IDAHO!

We checked into our TOTALLY COOL motel - complete with House Cat (BeeJay)!!! . .and then went to find food . . the Beacon was the biggest mistake . . crappy service . . meh food. . . but we were ready to sleep anyway!

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #3

2010-08-11T21:47:00.006-05:00

This first pic is a typical morning on our journey. JB organizing all of our crap back into the little Scion. We decided to go into downtown Billings - and explore.

Turns out Billings isn't all that - except that we majorly scored at this cute little Indian jewelry shop! Apparently the downtown area is a big 'hood for the meth heads - I suppose they don't have much to do during the work day. For real - I clutched my purse close to me a few times . . little freakier than even Minneapolis. You never know what junkies will do .. especially when they need a cheeseburger. EEK.

With the advice from the Indian ladies at the jewelry shop - we took one of those journey stops at Chico Springs. We got there early afternoon - You'll have to bear with me - as the scenery was OUT.STANDING. . and I had a little fun with my camera. . .

The springs were AWE.SOME. We spent a few hours in the warm pool - and then had a yummy lunch before we headed back out onto the road. We were headed to Helena . . .

. . this storm chased us all the way to Helena. :) (But we won, totally beat it there!) :)

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #2

2010-08-10T21:19:00.002-05:00

Day 2 was the BIG day of driving - so we got up early - and got out on the road. . . and our trip was still new - so we stopped as much as we wanted to - and enjoyed the journey!

One of our first stops was this cute tourist trap - called "1880 Town" . . . we didn't take the tour - but I bought postcard stamps, a bunch of postcards, and a cute cute pink plastic lone ranger-type gun/mask set. We decided not to wait in line for gas tho. . .

. . AND . .of course we had to do WALL DRUG. . .which was actually quite fun. It was neat to see all of the bikes in town. We got some yummy fudge, made some sandwiches, hydrated - and took some fun pictures.

Our next stop was somewhere in western SD - and was supposedly the geographic center of the nation. It was cool enough for a stretch of the legs, a few photos, and a nice bathroom break! (And there were real cowgirl photos in the bathroom)

We finally passed into Wyoming . . . and of course I had to get a pic of JB texting or tweeting or whatever she kept doing to keep all of our followers updated during our trip! (I also snapped a pic of the bugg-y car (which actually got much much worse!)

Thirty minutes later - we finally entered Montana. By this time we were really ready to be off the road . . except that the scenery was starting to get really awesome . . so that kept us stimulated!

Could you imagine our luck to find the best deal on a great hotel right down the block from the YUMMIEST home-style meals at Cracker Barrel in Billings! A quick after-dinner swim - and an awesome night's sleep was just what we needed! (oh yeah - except that that stupid hotel hot tub stripped my toe ring - and ruined it! - what the heck?!?!)

EPIC Journey - JB & Cha Cha Head West - Day #1

2010-08-09T20:59:00.002-05:00

I probably won't tell this story as it deserves . . but I'm actually posting this WAyyyyy after the trip . .so I really just want to get these pics up!! :) Our trip started kind of late in the evening . . . But with the evening start - we were still able to get as far as possible into South Dakota that first night. We stopped in Mitchell - which we thought was far enough away from the bikers trying to get to Sturgis. (wrong) We luckily got a place to stay - even tho it stunk like crazy - we were able to (mostly) sleep through the crazy storm that night . . get up - refreshed - and enjoyed the free breakfast before heading out for Day #2 . . .

St. Anthony Fair

2010-08-07T20:55:00.000-05:00

We were able to hit the St. Anthony Days fair again this year! This time we took the whole family! L3 loved the jumper - Alice tried out the BIG KID jumpers (maybe they won't be so scary next year) - and we all had a blast!

Alice's Dance Class

2010-07-28T23:21:00.004-05:00

Alice took a dance class through our community ed. program. On the last night - we got to go in and watch them. There were probably 20 or so parents/grandparents there - all with videos and cameras. (yeah - including us!) :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALICE MAE!

2010-07-26T23:14:00.001-05:00

Birthday dinner @ Red Lobster!

Birthday Sunday @ OPH

2010-07-25T23:11:00.000-05:00

We continued the fun-filled weekend celebration at the Original Pancake House. YUM!

Nordin Photo Shoot

2010-07-25T21:36:00.002-05:00

Here's some fun at Don & Julie's with some family and a camera! :)

EPIC Birthday Party

2010-07-24T22:45:00.015-05:00

How did YOU celebrate your 4th Birthday? Alice Mae hosted a NINE-HOUR Party!! It started out with a BBQ with cousins and friends. . . included lots of yummy food, swimming, water sliding, birthday cake, ice cream sundae bar, pin the tail on Bullsye . . . and ended with a spontaneous dinner at her favorite restaurant. . PERKINS! (and yes, kids still eat free on Saturday!)

Big Kid Cousins are cool

We love Sleepover Friends

Little P - the Party Girl!

Cousin Leah

Giving Cousin Zach a few pointers

Holding Court

YAY - ICE CREAM!

This is L3 on the party table . . and then when he's told to get off of it . . .

Lonny lost the silly string fight!

Balloon animals and facepaintin for all!

New Hair Photo Shoot

2010-07-20T19:55:00.001-05:00

This is what happens when I get cute hair and find myself with a camera in my hand!

Ann & Siddharth's Reception

2010-07-16T23:46:00.003-05:00

Ann & Siddharth took off to Vegas to get married - but threw an awesome party here in Minneapolis to celebrate! The food - oh - THE FOOD was awesome. I am ashamed to admit that I didn't even THINK about taking a pic of the food. Lots of fancy schmancy apps . . and dips! :) . .that were DE-LISH! Great Party - Great Friends!

Sweet 16

2010-07-14T21:31:00.000-05:00

I was very honored to be included in the celebration of Cassie's Sweet 16! I can't believe she's growing up so fast!!!

L3 Playdate

2010-07-13T21:26:00.002-05:00

Aimee organized a big playdate on a sticky hot day . . L3 and I joined in for lunch, trucks, and lots of giggles!

Library Grand Opening!

2010-07-10T21:31:00.002-05:00

Our library is open again!! YAY!! We had to go and check it out for ourselves!! (we approve!)

Beach Playdate

2010-07-09T21:25:00.004-05:00

Alice and I joined Becky and Marin & Kim and Stephen & Olivia at the beach for a wet and sandy day!

ECLIPSE @ The Drive-In

2010-07-08T23:59:00.006-05:00

The summer of Vampires and Werewolves continued with a trip to the drive-in to see the movie YET AGAIN! And it was even MORE fun cuz we had some first-timers with us . .who totally LOVED grilling out and watching the big screen from the back of my little Scion! :) (oh, and we celebrated a birthday . . so that was a teenie bit special too!) :)

The only part that WASN'T perfect . .the crappy movie we had to endure first. . . . Eclipse didn't even start until after 11 . .which meant I got into bed around 2am!!! Thank God I didn't have to work the next day! :)

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T21:08:00.003-05:00

Mom and Dad had to fly out today - so we had an early BBQ and invited some Jerome Cousins to join us for another hot and sticky day outside! After Mom and Dad left, I headed to St. Paul to hang out with Donnie and Julie's party! :) Fun night.

OMG - Someone needs to clean up that crap behind the garage!

2010 Sanner Reunion

2010-07-03T20:59:00.000-05:00

We had a great (albeit - swealtering HOT) day for our reunion. If you sat kinda still in the shade - it was totally fine. :) But we didn't! We grilled, ate, played sack, took tons of photos, and had a great time with tons-o-cousins! Here are some of my favorite shots . . . check out Sanner Family Stories for more family pics.

Sanner Reunion kick-off

2010-07-02T20:56:00.001-05:00

We kicked-off the 2010 Sanner reunion with a dinner and a program. A great way to start off the fun!

Full Day to start off July!

2010-07-01T20:50:00.003-05:00

How do you spend a beautiful summer day in MN when Mom and Dad come?? Of course - Lunch on the patio at Psycho Suzi's, dinner with the Polish Cousins at Kramarczuk's, and a backyard fire complete with sparklers!

HAPPY 1st Birthday, L3!!

2010-06-30T21:09:00.000-05:00

Look who's ONE!

I think he likes it! :)

Alice made the party hats :)

Had to finish off the night with a backyard fire with Grandma and Grandpa.

ECLIPSE Week

2010-06-30T09:01:00.003-05:00

So Eclipse came out today! (so - officially 12:01!) We started off the week of celebration by going to the Saints game (Vampires vs. Wolves) . . we got free t-shirts and had a blast! Amy's boys even got to be bat kids!! . .

.. And the BIG moment - when we finally got to plop down last night at Wynnsong in Mounds View to watch ALL THREE movies!! :) Good Times, PEOPLE!!

Early B-day Surprise!!

2010-06-27T20:50:00.005-05:00

Baxter heads up the project! :) Actually - Uncle Bob and our cousins rallied to help Lonny build this swingset for his kids! :)

Alice came home to find Grandma & Grandpa AND a new swing set!!

And the kids finally got to test it out . . IT WORKS!! :)

Summer Day

2010-06-20T20:46:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful summer day! Today we hung out at the Stone Arch Festival and then finished with dinner in the backyard.

Family Fire

2010-06-19T20:44:00.002-05:00

A great summer night hanging out in the backyard :)

Playing with my Camera

2010-06-17T20:41:00.002-05:00

I'm still trying to get the hang of my camera. For sure the best shots are these outside shots. I suppose it helps that I have these adorable subjects!

TCF Stadium

2010-06-17T20:36:00.003-05:00

Got to see the Twins at the new stadium!! Great day for a sunburn!! :)

. . and then some DQ to quench our thirst!

Fun-Filled Day

2010-06-15T20:31:00.000-05:00

We started out our day with a playdate with Alice's BFF Luca at Chuck E Cheese . . .

...and we finished up the afternoon at "The Mall"

Rock Stars

2010-06-09T20:29:00.001-05:00

This is a typical summer afternoon in our garage!

CPHS Graduation

2010-06-06T20:26:00.002-05:00

I love watching my former students graduate!

End Of Year BBQs

2010-06-03T20:21:00.003-05:00

We had our annual ESL Picnic at JMS today - and then finished off the yummy day with our annual Dept. BBQ at my house! Can you tell I love to party with my friends! :)

Minnehaha Falls with our Idaho Cousins

2010-05-31T19:55:00.000-05:00

We finished up Cousin Katey's trip with a day at the falls . . . tons of wandering and giggling . . and a picnic lunch.

So cute . . Emily rolled her pants up . . so Alice did the same :)

Photos by Alice Mae

Picnic of Sea Salt . . . the review was .. "meh. . ."

Pedis and MOA

2010-05-29T15:50:00.002-05:00

Alice has a new best buddy!

We spent the first full day of Cousin Katey's trip getting pedicures and hittin' the Mall of America! Alice and the boys didn't get pedis.. but waited patiently for us girls to get beautiful! Then we hit Nickelodeon Universe at MOA for rides, rides, and more rides! It's enough to tucker an auntie out!