Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Our first week out in Boston

Just two hours after our arrival in Newton, MA we went to the Logan International airport to pick up Wil, Ginnie, and Kensie.  We were so excited to have family here to help with the transition.
Our second night in town we went down town to Little Italy in the North End and enjoyed some yummy italian, Mike's Pastrys, and the view from Sargents Wharf.
The Main FloorThe Second FloorThe Third FloorThe Basement
 Boston Gardens
 Kensie and Carter in the Frog Pond
Boston Garden Swan ride

The Move

The mini-van took off early Friday morning with our first goal destination being Toledo, Ohio.  The trip went great with the exception of the Chicago traffic around 12:30pm and an emergency potty situation with Carter.
Our van was full of fun activities for the kids and they did exceptionally well with the trip.
The Penske truck with Mike's car in tow was driven by Jack Brouwer and Steve Bosch.
This sign was monumental because it was the first that said "BOSTON"
Jack gave the kids a ride in the Penske
The new home
Our most wonderful moving crew!!!

See you later dear friends........

The past couple of weeks has been a whirl wind.  I really can hardly believe what we have all accomplished in a short time.  It was very bitter sweet saying "see ya later" to so many precious family and friends.
There were times when I thought that everyone should move away just to find out how truly blessed you are by the people around you.  I have taken so many things for granted and when it was time to say "good bye" it was very hard.  The best part about our move however, is that we know that we get to come back!!
We had several "see ya later" parties.  The first three pictures are of the "Newton Ave" party.  We went to Lake Independence for some boating followed by the hot tub rental in the back yard.

 
Every couple of months some of my lady friends and I get together for some "de-briefing" on mother-hood.  We got together one last time before taking off and they surprised me with some car ride activities for the kids.
Olivia gave Hailey the best friend seperating pillows.
On the Tuesday before leaving Hailey's softball coach surprised her with a "Good luck in Boston" cake for her and her teammates.  Unfortunately she ended the season with a fat lip from a ball right to the face.
The kids got to spend the final day in Minnesota with the Beckering friends.  They were so busy together that they didnt even care we were gone packing the truck all day.
Above is Mike with a bunch of his golf buddies at Brills
Hailey had a sleepover with her GEMS group from church
Here am I with the "golf widows"

Friday, June 22, 2012

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

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

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

Thursday, June 7, 2012

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