Brett's underwater adventure--Happy Birthday!

I have a difficult time surprising Brett with anything. Between my lack of creativity or Claire's inability to keep a secret; Brett always knows what he is receiving for a present. This year I decided to surprise him, for real! For his birthday, I brought him to Underwater world at the Mall of America where he swam with the sharks. He loved it so much, that he is hoping to someday go back and Scuba with the sharks (it turns out my hubby is a certified diver, who knew? I learn something new everyday). The kids enjoyed getting the behind the scenes tour and watching their daddy swim in the tanks. Brett was a bigger tourist attraction than the fish themselves. He remarked after his big adventure that it was the "best birthday gift ever". I guess I have succeeded in surprising him!!!










It wouldn't be a day at the Mall of America if we didn't stop at the amusement park. The kids love rides, the crazier the better. Claire's favorite ride was a roller coaster, while both Greta and Charlie loved the Log chute and getting wet. Mom and Dad were good sports and went on the rides with the kids, even though mom didn't get a chance to go shopping. Mom didn't go down the log chute, didn't want to wreck the hair and makeup :). We ended our day at the Rain forest cafe where Greta watched the dolphins sing, Charlie hated the indoor "thunderstorms" and Claire enjoyed singing along with the other guests' birthday songs. Daddy was pretty tired from his big day, so he enjoyed his Volcanic Meltdown (aka bloodymary). Mom enjoyed driving home while everyone slept :) Happy Birthday Brett, we love you!

Our romantic weekend get away!

Brett and I were blessed to spend a weekend away at a wonderful bed and breakfast in duluth. The AG Thomson House was more than we could have ever expected. We spent our weekend relaxing and being pampered by wonderful food, conversation and atmosphere. It was the perfect way to spend our 10 year anniversary. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa Kelm and Grandma Jeanne for watching Claire, Charlie and Greta, it meant the world to us!
What a nice surprise to come home and have the grandparents describe our children as well behaved, sweet and polite; it makes a mom proud. I guess all of our hard work pays off. We are truly blessed with a wonderful family.

What would our world be without children

I often wonder how I would spend my time if I did not have children. There would be less laughter and happiness in our home, no doubt. Greta gets bored easily and has a very independent spirit. The other day, she decided she wanted to wash her hair, without mom's help. She was so proud of the bubbles she created. Oh Greta, that independent spirit will serve you well later in life!

Just a little snack

Greta is our independent little girl. Greta took it upon herself to fix a snack tonight. Here is her creation: a bowl of Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese and 3 pieces of broccoli. She even made a snack for her "friends". Yummy. Mom grabbed her camera, daddy grabbed the vacuum. Gotta love Greta!!

My cool dude

Charlie had fun picking out his costume for actor/singer day at preschool. Charlie decided he wanted to be a rockstar and wear his "totally awesome and cool" black leather jacket. He is our cool little dude!!
My cool little dude continues to brighten my world! The other day, Charlie decided his mommy looked "sad". Mom was having a case of the winter blahs. Charlie asked his daddy to by the bright red bouquet of carnations he spotted at the grocery store. He walked proudly around the store telling everyone that he was buying these flowers to make his mom happy. He was so excited to give them to me. He told me that I need flowers because I looked sad. Everyday he asks me if I get "happy" when I look at his flowers. Of course I do! As I said before, everyone needs a Charlie!!!!

A dancer in the making

Claire graced us with her dancing talent at another dance show. I don't know what was more fun to watch, claire, or her cousin Ava. Ava danced along with every song during the show. I think we have a dancer in the making. Thanks for coming to the show Ava, Aunt Jes, Grandma and Grandpa Kelm!!!