Open House

The boys had their open house at school last night.  They met their new teachers and principal.  It was a bit chaotic by the end, but thankfully we went really early and were done by the time it was getting crowded!  I think the open house made the kids more excited for school.  Ryan even told me today he was excited, and prior to that, he said he didn't want to go back to school.  I have very mixed emotions about the start of school this year.  I am excited for them and all that the new year, new classrooms, new teachers has in store for them, but I will sure miss them here.  I am not one of the Moms that can't wait for school to start.  I truly enjoy every minute during the summer when they are home with me.  I will sure miss Carter when he starts all-day every-day kindergarten this year.  I'm not sure what I am going to do without my little buddy (and shadow)!  

Carter, Ryan, and Carter's teacher, Mrs. Busch

Ryan also had her in kindergarten.  

Carter was too shy to pose alone with her!

Ryan and his new teacher, Mrs. Gustafson

Hunting

Carter is obsessed with hunting.  He plays hunting all.day.long.  He loves to wear Evan's hunting clothes, run around, and pretend to shoot something or another.  I am sure it is just a phase, but I get such a kick out of him - especially the sound effects he makes!

Kathy

Kathy (along with her Mom, "Grandma Deb") has taken care of our boys since June 2010.  This is our last week at Kathy's daycare and it is really hard for us to say goodbye to her.  She has been such a good daycare Mom for us, going above and beyond on so many occasions.  Thankfully Ryan and Kathy's son, Josh, are in the same grade at school and in many of the same sports, so I am guessing we will see her and her family often.  It is really hard to find the words to thank someone that has taken care of your kids for almost 2 1/2 years!  She truly has been a blessing to our family!

Visiting Pat

Evan and I took off on a road trip this weekend to visit my previous boss, Pat, and his wife, Gail in Milwaukee.  We went last year as well, and were so anxious to go back again.  Once again, Mother Nature cooperated for us and we had the best weather.  We arrived Friday evening and had dinner and drinks on the patio, overlooking the lake.  On Saturday, we had a big breakfast, walked the lakefront and downtown, toured the Harley Davidson Museum, and went to dinner in the Third Ward and did a little more sightseeing.  Today, we had a big breakfast and took off on the long (6 hour) trek home.  What a great weekend!  Thanks to Pat and Gail for their hospitality and inviting us back!  Also, thanks to my parents for taking care of the kids for the weekend so we could relax and enjoy! :)

Their house from the yard looking up

The view of the next level in the yard, heading down to Lake Michigan

Their patio and table

They have a large playset and trampoline

My favorite spot in the yard - I can just imagine sitting in one of these chairs, reading and watching the Lake.

A lighthouse we walked past on our lakefront 
walk, heading towards downtown Milwaukee

Evan and Pat reading the monument description

Gorgeous waterfall heading down the hillside

Lawn Bowling Club

In Pat's office building, heading downtown

I would definitely enjoy eating my lunch by that fountain every day!

The Milwaukee Museum of Art, just outside of Pat's office

The museum's wings lower and raise every day at noon.  We were just in time to see it!

Pat's office building is just behind the orange sculpture

What a beautiful downtown!

Evan and Pat seeking shade while watching the museum wings lower

The view inside the museum, looking up at the ceiling

Looking out towards Lake Michigan

Very cool reflectors that turned in the wind

Walking over the bridge, out of downtown, heading down the lakefront walk

So true, something to think about!

Heading into the Harley Davidson Museum Tour

Evan listening to his iPod audio tour

Evil Kneivel's bike

Trying out a Harley at the end of the tour

Bikers?