our first week in the Northland...

After Tyra's beautiful graduation party we got to stick around in Apple Valley for a few days before heading to Windom.... a little longer so we could get Gunnar's arm officially cast after they checked x-rays one more time!
we had a great day at the beach with the Carey's (Bart, Lorelei and their two sweet boys!)
and the boys got to see a TWINS game with their Uncle D, Dad and cousin Tanyi!! they won!

and yes...that's Anders who has decided to "strike a pose" any time he sees a camera which usually includes a bent knee..

Our most recent graduate... and her party

this little girl....is not so little anymore. Just a few short years ago (18ish to be exact) I lived with my big sissie and her family which then included Dennis and a baby girl Tyra. I was her "nanny" while Jann went back to work part time and I went to school..... this is the same year I was engaged to Chris and just after her first birthday I was married. Now....she graduates! Which tells me why when I look in the mirror...I no longer see a face of a young bride but see wrinkles that betray my age and my fatigue as a mother and see now in my graduated niece the beauty, the months ahead full of questions and hope.....a new chapter in her young life. Happy graduation baby Tyra from your auntie and your first babysitter!
Her proud parents threw a fun celebration!

8 is Great!

Gunnar "pre-broken arm"....turned 8 the day before we left for our MN trip! Long hair, blue eyes and full of life! Happy Birthday Gunnar!

It's a long drive!

You know it's summer when...

You see the Carlsons cross the Texas state line to return after their long journey to MN.
this year we left in one piece and came home with a cast!