Owen has been attached to this frog since he was one. He loving named it Bubbie. They go everywhere together. I love to see my boy holding onto that frog. It warms my heart. So cute!

I have always loved the art festival. I used to go every year back when I was a teenager. Now I have the pleasure of introducing my kids to them. I don't know if it is the art or the other people I like to look at more. Stella and Owen loved getting painted and dancing to the brass band! So fun!

We love "camping" in our backyard! The kids beg for us to do it. We built a fire pit last year. It has been one of our favorite things in the yard. The kids love to roast hot dogs and eat s'mores. We usually don't make it through the night in the tent. Dad was the one to chicken out this time.













Love those sticky faces!

This year we were able to plant our first big garden. Dan built beautiful planter boxes and did all of the sowing. He has a green thumb! It has been so much fun to watch it grow and to eat the food from it. We planted tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon, beans, peas, pumpkins, arugula, spinach, zucchini, carrots, onions, corn, cauliflower, broccoli, and peppers. I thought the zucchini would take everything over, but it has been sad. The pumpkins however are going nuts. The cauliflower, peppers, arugula, and spinach haven't grown well. Everything else has done pretty well. Next year I want to get rid of some things but add basil, more strawberries, and beans.

Our 10th anniversary was August 25, 2011. I can't believe how time has gone so fast. It seems like just yesterday Dan and I were dating! Nana came to watch the kids while we got away for the weekend. Thank heaven for Nana! We went to Chicago...it was amazing. We had never been there so there was a lot to see, do, and eat! We did some shopping, sight seeing, eating, and lots of walking. What a happy life!

Dan and I were lucky enough to catch a Twins game this season. We were being schmoozed by a medical group looking for new employees. Thanks for the box and food! Our good friends from residency the Bohns and Hofferts were there too. It was a beautiful day to be at the ballpark!





Sarah Bohn, Brianne Hoffert, Me

Summer at our house means being outside...a lot. On a regular day we eat breakfast and then head out to ride bikes. Stella learned how to ride a bike without training wheels. It was one of those moments in my journey as a mom when I felt completely fulfilled. Watching Stella reach this milestone was amazing. I was so proud of her for sticking with it and reaping the rewards. Owen also started riding a two wheel bike. He has been so excited to be able to ride with Stella. They just go up and down the sidewalk. So cute. Next the pool comes out. I couldn't be happier. I love the summer.



Flamenco dress in the pool...why not?!? Its summer.







The point of view from my lawn chair. Bliss!