Hailey on the Campaign Trail

 Over the past 4 years we have had the privilege of learning  a bit more about politics from our next door neighbor.  Josh is the Chief of Staff for Tim Walz, a democratic representative of Minnesota for the U.S Congress.  Last weekend he invited Hailey to walk with Isaac and Olivia in a local parade to hand out stickers and Hailey jumped at the chance despite not really understanding what she was actually doing.

She came home so excited about the campaign and was doing "chants" for Congressman Walz.

We will see how things turn out in November!  Vote Walz....we want our neighbors to be happy.

Pam's Surprise 40th Birthday Party

 Happy Early Birthday Pam!  

We made one last trip to NW Iowa to celebrate Pam's birthday at Calico Skies Winery in the hills of NW Iowa.  She was so very surprised and shocked that Brad put together the party without her finding out.....so much fun!

 Pam with all her lady in-laws

Mom and Dad at sunset

Backyard Fun

 Hailey and Taylor took it upon themselves to plan a backyard party before the move.  They wrote up a schedule of games, snacks, and crafts for the afternoon.
How could I say no?

The silly string war.

Vis Vacation 2012

 This year's Vis family vacation was short but sweet.  The kids love going camping with their cousins and Carter always looks especially forward to the boat rides.  This year we were annoyed by lots of bugs and by   wind, but the kids don't really seem to notice either one.  

The above picture is of Carter, Kensington, and Taylor

 Makenna and Taylor

 Taylor with Grandpa and Grandma on the beach

 Carter and Daddy

 Grandpa and his grandsons

 All the cousins on the tube

mmmmmmm.....Hailey is sharing her M&Ms with Kens

Mike Completes Cardiology Fellowship

 

 Tonight marked the completion of Mike's 3 year Cardiovascular Fellowship at the University of Minnesota. It was a special night in which he was recognized by his mentors, colleagues, and fellows for his achievements  and completion of the fellowship.  I am so very proud of him and his all the dedication he has in pursuing his gifts.  

 Mike and his Mom 

 Above are the 5 fellows that graduated from the Cardiovascular fellowship

Taylor's Kindergarten Graduation

 Congratulations to our little Taylor on completing her year of kindergarten!  I'm not sure why they have a graduation ceremony for 5/6 year olds at the end of their first year of school, but it is the cutest thing ever!  They love to sing, they are happy, and so very very proud.

 Taylor had the letter "U" and said "U is for unusual, it fits some things we've done."

 Taylor receiving her diploma from Mr. Groen

 A rare family picture

 Taylor and Jaclyn

 Ava, Taylor, Hannah, and Jaclyn

Summer Softball...

 Taylor Ann

Hailey Joy

Summer softball is in full swing in Bloomington and this year we have two girls playing but on opposite nights.....which means we go to a softball game Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening.  This is Taylor's first year playing and she is a good hitter, but is occasionally is caught playing in the dirt.

Hailey is in the next level up and the game is now better understood by all the girls.  There are some catches made in the field and the ball gets hit to the outfield fairly often.   It is fun to watch.