Me!

 There are a few things that I have not been willing to give up as a parent: Dave Matthews Band concerts, Monday night yoga class, and triathlons (I’m sure there are more things, but these seem to have dominated my time lately).  The weekend following the fourth, Brian and I made a quick trip to Alpine Valley, in East Troy, WI, to see the Dave Matthews Band. We went out there without tickets, but ended up with our best ones yet by exercising some serious patience with the ticket brokers – first row behind the pit incase you can’t tell from the picture!  It was an amazing set list and we had a great time as always! This was our eleventh trip out there since 1999, and I am already excited for next year! 

One week later I participated in the Lifetime Triathlon at Lake Nokomis.  I look forward to this event more and more every year.  Typically I am very nervous at the start of my first tri for the summer, but for some reason this year I was just excited.  And it seemed to pay off too!  I had a personal best time on this course and also finished 4^th in my age group, which is my highest finish at the Lifetime Tri!  I also have no doubt that my fan club also helped me to such a great finish!

Happy 4th of July!

We had a wonderful 4^th of July spending time with both of our families.  Despite the heat, we headed out as planned to meet my parents for a picnic lunch and the Richfield parade.  The kids had a great time – Addie loved waving to all the princesses and Max couldn’t take his eyes off of the festivities (as you can see since he is not looking at the camera in any of the pictures!). 

 After the parade the kids napped in the car while we headed up to the cabin for some relaxation and according to Addie the best part of the 4^th of July… fireworks!  The kids enjoyed their time at the lake swimming, playing, and going out on Papa’s boat.

Happy 4th of July!

Girls Weekend in Chi-Town!

This past weekend I met four of my girlfriends in Chicago for a girls weekend, and we had so much fun!  I arrived Friday afternoon in time for eating some famous Chicago deep dish pizza at Giordano’s, and then it was off to Navy Pier for an architectural boat tour.  This was one of the highlights of the trip for me.  We spent an hour puttering down the Chicago River and learning the history of many famous Chicago landmarks, and hearing some great stories to go along with it!  We then spent Friday night strolling through Millennium Park and making stops at a great little Asian restaurant and a few bars for some cocktails.

On Saturday, we got up early and went to the Sears (Willis) Tower where we had some fun with the Sky Deck.  I have to admit, it was terrifying at first, but slowly I got somewhat used to it.  After a quick lunch it was time to hop on the el, and head down to Wrigley Field for the Cub’s game!  It was really cool to see a game at a stadium that is nearly 100 years old; and even better… the Cub’s won!

 Once Sunday morning arrived, it was time for me to begin my travels back to Minneapolis.  But before I did, I made time for a run along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan… what a great way to start the day!  I was excited to get back home to see Brian and the kids, but boy, do I appreciate being able to spend a weekend away with my girlfriends!  Thank you to both my family and my beautiful friends… I definitely needed this trip!