Livin' the dream

Reflecting on 2011...

2012-01-01T15:50:00.000-06:00

Preston, Jack, Brody and Landon fishin' at the neighborhood pond one afternoon during Christmas break.

"Look, Ma — clean hands!"

2011-12-31T15:44:00.002-06:00

Now that he's mastered going potty all by himself, Landon proves he can wash his hands all by himself, too.

Out the window, through the blinds

2011-12-30T14:59:00.000-06:00

Lack of Pinterest

2011-12-29T15:41:00.005-06:00

But I do appreciate it for inspiring and showcasing domestic creativity...

Turning an ordinary placecard holder into an extra-ordinary photo holder.

This Scripture reading from our wedding, without the actual passage citation (Ruth 1:16-17), kind of makes it look like a poem. But now I'm afraid Landon thinks, "Well if Dad gets to write on the wall..."

In case you have some extra macaroni, penne and rotelle laying around...

I took down the boys' artwork, and hung up past Christmas cards of our own through the years.

When our friends Joan & Craig painted their entire house before moving in, I got one of their paint chips and turned it into a little housewarming gift.

Jack's magazine origami from Bob & Lloy's house.

This dried okra would also work well with the pointy side up, as Santa's red hat.

Rethinking the wall sconce.

These boughs, hedge apples and pinecones were all completely free.

Trying to camouflage the thermostat.

I realize I've posted this picture before, but here's the ornament I made for Rob & Tracee after cutting up their wedding invitation.

Putting the G-ma & G-pa in X-mas

2011-12-28T12:33:00.015-06:00

Before putting away the Christmas decorations, it's neat to notice the number of things we have from my grandma and grandpa.

Several years ago, G-pa crafted this creche for Leslie's nativity figurines — complete with a sandpaper floor, glittery blue water trough and lead rope hanging from a peg.

It wasn't till after taking this pic that I thought about the antique duck decoy (on the far left) being from them, too.

The tree skirt that matches our stockings.

On this mobile, hanging in our loft, you can better see the details of each individual sequin and bead.

After reading my own blog post here, I realize I don't just love these things because they're each from G-ma & G-pa, but because they're each made by G-ma & G-pa.

That's just how they've always done things.

Whaddya think this is, Christmas?!?

2011-12-26T13:43:00.034-06:00

I found myself saying that quite a bit the past two days. (As in Jack getting to stand on the leather ottoman — "Whaddya think this is, Christmas?!?")

Dana and Kathy met us at church Christmas Eve, where Leslie sang on the worship team and I read the Scripture readings.

One of our traditions is that the boys get to open new pajamas on Christmas Eve ... and then have their picture taken in them.

Landon's excited to have Papa & Nana here and stay up late — "Whaddya think this is, Christmas?!?"

On my way home from the 11 p.m. Christmas Eve service at church, I snapped a pic of the Christmas lights in our backyard.

After setting out all the gifts ("Not a creature was stirring..."), I took a quick pic before going to bed. And, yes, the clock says 3:34.

Jack was SO excited to have gotten Leslie this gift, was really proud of wrapping it all by himself and couldn't wait for her to open it on Christmas morning.

I realize he's blurry, but Landon was too excited to hold still — "Whaddya think this is, Christmas?!?"

A set of big, hardback Lego books from Grandma Nancy!

A Buzz Lightyear snuggie!

Practicing with packing-peanut "snow." It made a mess throughout the family room, but — "Whaddya think this is, Christmas?!?"

Playing the iPad with Papa Dana.

And relaxing in the afternoon, with a little Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Glory to God in the highest!

2011-12-25T01:48:00.004-06:00

Or in Latin:

("Gloria" in eggshells, see?)

Baking with the boys

2011-12-21T23:07:00.004-06:00

Today was Jackson's first day of Christmas break, and Leslie texted these pictures to me at work. I replied, "No matter how good they taste, making these memories will still be better than the cookies."

With this one, they wrote "Guess which one is yours?!?"

Enjoying the Christmas spirit(s)

2011-12-20T07:14:00.001-06:00

At my company Christmas party on the Country Club Plaza.

Why Landon was so quiet upstairs

2011-12-19T20:58:00.004-06:00

But the sink did smell minty fresh!

How we spent our summer vacation

2011-12-16T00:10:00.021-06:00

You might think it’s taken me this long to finally post some pics from our week in San Diego in August, but I prefer to think of it as a perfectly timed respite from these cold December temps.

Either way, here’s a glimpse of our annual family vacation...

The great Muppet caper

2011-12-11T21:54:00.004-06:00

Two firsts for us today after church: Landon's first-ever movie in the theater...

and the first time all four of us have gone to a movie together!

It's A Wonderful Life

2011-12-08T03:22:00.006-06:00

"For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." ~ Isaiah 9:6

God bless us, everyone

2011-11-29T11:41:00.036-06:00

I started this blog because we have the cutest kids ever and I wanted to share their pictures with our family (a couple of hours away) in a way that’s less obtrusive than constantly sending out mass email messages. Five hundred thirty-three posts later, it’s also become sort of an ongoing record of Jack and Landon growing up ... that maybe they’ll like looking back at someday.

That’s where this fits in.

# # #

Jackson and I went to the local branch of the public library last night for a free program called “The Night Before Christmas Carol.” Set in 1843, one actor played Charles Dickens — and 17 other Christmas Carol characters! — on the night he dreams up his redemptive Christmas story. The one-man show was a humorous and historical look into the author’s struggles and inspiration behind the world-famous book.

It was about 70 minutes long. The place was packed. And as restless and distracted as Jack gets, he did great. He even sat on my lap for a bit.

By the end, though, he was really anxious to get up and go look for books. We browsed for about 10 or 15 minutes, but it was gettin’ late and a school night, so we finally checked out (chapter books and “graphic novels” for him, and some Christmas CDs for me). I always cherish one-on-one time with Jack; it kind of reminded me of when I was unemployed and got to take the boys to the library.

As I went back to our seats and got our coats to leave, the Charles Dickens actor himself walked right up to me. He had stepped away from the little cookies-and-punch reception and opened his hand to reveal a wrinkled dollar bill. “I want to let you know that your son gave this to me."

I had no idea. I was shocked.

He continued, “I was so touched, that I’d like you to take it and give it back to him — anonymously — on Christmas morning.”

I didn’t know what to say, I was speechless. But I refused, saying that if Jack wanted him to have it, than it was meant for him. I explained how he gets a small allowance that’s divided into fourths (for saving, spending, taxes and giving) and this must be how he wanted to share some with others. To show his thanks and appreciation. In his own special way.

Finally, I shook the man’s hand and he wished us a good night. “Merry Christmas” I said, as Jack and I turned to head home, “and thank you.”

# # #

Jack had done that entirely on his own. He didn’t say anything about it to me, and I didn’t say anything about it to him.

We wonder so much about our kids: how they behave; how they’re gonna grow up; how they act when we’re not around ... how they act when we are around.

So it’s pretty overwhelming to see, firsthand, Jack actually living out an example of selflessness and gratitude. I thank God for him to be learning these important values, when it often seems we usually battle over mundane things like putting away his toys and getting ready for bed.

But maybe some of it's sinking in, after all.

# # #

Wow. I might have just had the highlight of my Christmas season.

And it’s not even December yet.

----------------------------------------------------------------

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.”
~Ebenezer Scrooge

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"And with true love and brotherhood...

2011-11-27T11:02:00.000-06:00

...each other now embrace."

Black (and white) Friday

2011-11-26T11:09:00.016-06:00

Leslie and I ventured to the Grand Loft in Osawatomie, Kan., Friday night for our neighbors' wedding.

It says "1917" at the top of the building out front, but the bartender told me the lower level (the original mercantile) was built in the 1800s.

It was classic, timeless and memorable...

...kinda like Rob & Tracee.

Then all we had to do for the reception, was walk upstairs.

This was a fun idea I hadn't "heard" of before.

Not only did the groom's cake look great, it tasted great — they used Sandy, our wedding cake baker from 11 years ago!

Did you notice? Tracee changed into a different dress during the reception.

(And, lastly, an ornament I made for them with their wedding invitation.)

More than the pilgrims ever imagined

2011-11-25T09:52:00.029-06:00

Thanksgiving morning. And what we're thankful for.

Cranberry sauce is actually Jackson's favorite Thanksgiving food! Leslie thinks it might have something to do with the two cups of sugar in it.

Have I mentioned I'm a wannabe food photographer?

Around 12:30, we drove to southern Kansas City to Dan & Linda's house, like we did two years ago. But as I told someone earlier in the week that we were going to "my wife's cousin's husband's parents' house," I realized we really don't go there because they're relatives and we're obligated to. Instead, we choose to spend Thanksgiving with them because they're so nice, we really like spending time with them, and they're just so easy and comfortable to be with.

With it being a gorgeous 70 degrees (on Nov. 24!), you felt bad not going outside. So it was perfect to let the boys run around and play.

Our godson Danny.

Jack was excited to get the wish bone. And more excited to beat his dad at pulling it.

Roughhousing with Andy.

Empty plates, empty glasses and pushed back from the table ... the tryptophan's kickin' in.

Leslie and Dulsey doin' dishes.

Playing everyone's favorite after-dinner activity, "Your Continent or Mine?" (Actually, Jack was looking for Serbia, where Dan & Linda lived for two years.)

After Thanksgiving dinner, the Kennedys play football on the front lawn. I guess the Neumeyers climb trees in the back yard.

Landon in a turkey coma.

The iPad held their attention a little bit longer than the atlas did.

On the way home, we wound our way through the Country Club Plaza to see all of its lights lit up for the first night.

A few thousand other people had the same idea, too. (In the glass on these doors, you can see the reflection of red tail lights from the bumper-to-bumper traffic.)

And cruising by the Pamona Fountain (featuring Donatello's sculpture of the goddess of vineyards and orchards), where I proposed to Leslie.

Over the river and through the ... sunroof. (My unedited shot of the Bond Bridge at 50 miles per hour, at night — completely un-Photoshopped.)

An Apple a day...

2011-11-20T07:09:00.000-06:00

Showdown in Joe town

2011-11-19T22:23:00.020-06:00

The boys and I drove up to St. Joseph today for Northwest's first round of the NCAA Division II national playoffs. It was a rematch of our game two weeks ago, when Missouri Western beat Northwest by three points.

After hearing the rest of the crowd cheering, Landon got into it, too. He liked the idea of being able to yell without getting in trouble.

It's fun seeing A.D. do so well as a first-year coach, since Leslie and I have known him since we were in college together.

Taking a potty break behind the stadium. (I've never been so proud as when Landon peed on the Mo West campus. I really encouraged him to go No. 2.)

With the help of a double-decker tuba player and a rockin' drum major, the Bearcat Marching Band brought down the house.

In the fourth quarter, with the crowd on its feet, Northwest had to go for it on fourth down and inches.

After getting the first down and an AMAZING two-point conversion, the crowd erupts. But Landon doesn't flinch ... as he stays cuddled up in his green blankie, dreaming of a Northwest victory.

Northwest's athletic director, Baker, celebrating with last year's All-American, Soy. It sounds like they should have their own cooking show.

Jack’s second-grade teacher, Mrs. Henson, told him yesterday at school that she was going to be there — so he took his little bird-watching binoculars in hopes of seeing her. As soon as the game was over, we finally did!

Whew, the game really wore Landon out!

Experiencing Northwest

2011-11-13T20:23:00.021-06:00

My niece Schuyler, who's a senior in high school, did an offical campus visit at Northwest Friday afternoon, so I went up to meet her and Mom.

It was a different perspective to tag along on the Student Ambassador's tour.

I still remember this computer lab in the library being the first place I ever heard of the "World Wide Web."

We all stayed overnight for the football game Saturday afternoon. (The requisite Bearcat Zone pic.)

Head over heels.

Head over heels, marching band style.

Me and Mike, on the hunt for Bobby.

Northwest was only up 28-14 at halftime. But once we started watching the game from here, Northwest scored 34 unanswered points!

Finally, a shot of the three of us...

...before driving back to KC.

Thankfully, Mom and Skye spent Saturday night at our house.

We love seeing Grandma!

Bedtime stories.

And the parting shots Sunday after church.

"Cheese!"

Like a guest in my own home

2011-11-11T15:17:00.023-06:00

I was busy this week with clients at the National Association of Farm Broadcasting's annual conference. Even though it's in Kansas City, it means working late nights and early mornings, so I stayed at the conference hotel. I kinda felt like a guest in my own home.

The KC skyline from my hotel room.

Union Station at dusk, which my Grandpa went through in the 1940s, on his way to Europe for World War II.

Moon. Roof.

Since the lights weren't working on the last two letters, does that make it "Western Gold?"

With clients in our Trade Talk booth.

And a shot I took of them with Miss America, a fellow Nebraskan. (Go Huskers!)

Lastly, I sat in on an hour-long news conference with Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. It was immediately after he had just announced an all-time record for annual U.S. agricultural exports.

"Good morning, Daddy!!!"

2011-11-10T16:33:00.002-06:00

A text message Leslie sent me today. :)

31 Flavors

2011-11-09T23:43:00.001-06:00

PRSSA Day

2011-11-04T20:15:00.005-05:00

I participated in a panel this morning for the local Public Relations Student Society of America career day. Perhaps "silencing our ringers" before we began?

It was good getting to meet PR professors from universities throughout the Midwest.

But my favorite, of course, was the table of Northwest students. They were really sharp!

"Squid" for supper

2011-11-02T06:11:00.001-05:00

Boo time

2011-11-01T08:08:00.018-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

"No, Jack, you're supposed to roast them first."

Landon's transformation as a scarecrow.

Inspired by the number of teeth he's lost lately, Jack was an "Appalachian American."

These neighbors weren't home, but Landon posed with their decor ... while Jack went straight for the candy.

Thanks to Brody, from next door, I ain't afraid of no ghost.

One, it was a gorgeous sunset. And, two, you can actually see the crow on Landon's shoulder.

Mackey's weren't there, but Jack made himself right at home.

Either Sadie and Landon are extreme smilers, or extreme scare-ers.

Gee Whiz Factory

2011-10-28T08:34:00.007-05:00

The PR agency where I began my career — the Monday morning after graduating from college — has since become Trozzolo Communications Group, which threw an open house for it's new office last night. Actually, the open house for it's new building (as "new" as a hundred-year-old building can be).

It was fascinating to see this "live action" painting, come to life before our eyes.

Even the back stairwell was cool.

Their amazing renovations to this decrepit, vacant building; reuniting with my old co-workers, who've remained great friends through the years; the impressive 270-degree views; and all of the party's food, drink, music and atmosphere provided dozens of photo ops ... but even more gratitude for the people and place where I got my start.

I can't imagine doing anything else.

Couldn't make this up if I tried

2011-10-26T00:56:00.002-05:00

Even though Jackson wasn’t home Saturday, Brody and Preston from next door were intrigued by me raking leaves in our backyard that morning. Sooo...I seized the opportunity to have some help and quickly taught them the wildly popular, all-the-kids-are-doing-it “leaf-raking game.” Who knew they'd be so competitive?

I think they'd filled their ninth big bag full of leaves, when I began quizzing them with random spelling words and fun questions — to keep their minds off the, um, fun they were having.

I started asking if they knew what various groups of animals are called, such as birds (flock), wolves (pack) and cattle (herd). But when I got to what a group of dolphins is called, they corrected me. “No, it’s not a pod. You mean an iPod.”

Joan Guy Photography

2011-10-25T00:18:00.015-05:00

Our friend Joan is a great photographer. But an even better friend.

(And if you saw how little cooperation she got from the under-30 members of our family during this Friday afternoon photoshoot — and still remained patient and understanding, you'd get a glimpse of just how great a friend she truly is. But only a glimpse.)

Octoberfest

2011-10-24T08:34:00.013-05:00

While Jack stayed at his grandparents' — thanks Bob & Lloy! (hence the Landon-centric pics) — the three of us went to a fall/hayride party hosted by some friends at church Saturday night.

We had to venture to the next county over but, with four boys of their own, they have a great place out in the country: a big chicken pen, rope swing hanging from a tree, plenty o' pasture, hay bales to climb on, pumpkin decorating and smashing, lots of food, several friendly dogs and a jillion stars overhead.

Oh, and a huge bonfire.

Though it was already packed with kids, Jason was nice enough to take Landon on the hayride along with his own two sons, and told us to enjoy ourselves and eat in peace and quiet. I was really tempted to tip the driver so he'd stay out longer.

Jennifer, here, took the top picture of Landon and me, so I returned the favor.

They even had a separate area just for s'mores. We'll definitely go back next year!

Fall

2011-10-23T11:43:00.012-05:00

Or I guess it was really more like "Jump."

After Landon mastered the bucket, then we broke out the ladder.

Practice makes perfect.

And the inevitable leaf fight.

Lunchtime

2011-10-22T00:41:00.006-05:00

MapQuest says it's only six minutes and 2.26 miles away from our office, yet I had never been to Kansas City's historic Cliff Drive before. Until lunchtime.

Every single picture here was taken from inside my car, except this one.

Goooooooood morning, Kansas City!

2011-10-21T12:19:00.002-05:00

The Biggest Little City in the World

2011-10-19T10:33:00.025-05:00

I went to Reno for a couple of days for work earlier this week. Other than two layovers in the Las Vegas airport over the years, it was the first time I've ever been in Nevada.

We stayed at the Peppermill ... resort ... spa ... and casino.

You can't see all the jellyfish hanging from the ceiling, but Jack would've loved this restaurant.

(Taken from my hotel room.) Now that's a cloud bank.

Monday evening, I made sure to be in my room to see the sunset.

Then my aunt (or is it first cousin, once removed, by marriage?) Mickey, who lives in Reno, came to pick me up for dinner. It was the first time I'd been outside the hotel in 48 hours.

After the conference was done on Tuesday, I had 2½ hours before having to be at the airport, so I walked around downtown Reno a little.

This is a brand new children's museum that just opened last month. Its namesake benefactor is the cousin of Dawn Wells, Mary Ann on "Gilligan's Island," and has ties to Wells Fargo.

It took me a while to figure this out, but "A.L." stands for Anno Lucis, Latin for “in the year of light.”

A school, that's on the south side.

The National Automobile Museum. The National Automobile Museum.

I would've loved to experience their "fine food."

The Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts.

Maybe "A.L." is a Masonic thing.

I originally thought these people mingling on the county courthouse steps were just enjoying the weather over their lunchhour. Then I noticed they weren't smoking and that that entrance is closed, so I realized they were supposed to be "Occupy Reno" protesters.

Mr. Reno himself.

Perhaps they're missing a "P."

Don't know which I'd prefer more — to meet Peg, or try her glorified ham 'n' eggs.

A security guard definitely kept his eye on me as I investigated this sculpture...

then walked to the opposite side of the federal courthouse...

to find the missing circles.

Finally, I made my way to the art museum where Mickey's served as a docent for the past 10 years.

Unfortunately it's closed on Tuesdays, hence the exterior pics ... but this rooftop patio looked pretty cool.

At least you can't say this guy's dumber than a box of rocks.

That first step's a doozie.

And a glimpse of Lake Tahoe (in the background) on my way home.

s'mOreos

2011-10-14T22:20:00.001-05:00

Why hasn’t anyone thought of this before?!? Back at Labor Day, my chocolate milk/Oreo partner, Cali, and I dreamt these up — and Friday night, we finally got around to trying them out.

Boys lying by the fire on bone-dry leaves and Landon shining a flashlight in his eye. There goes “Father of the Year.”

I hereby predict the end of the graham cracker industry as we know it.

Birthday suit

2011-10-13T22:10:00.004-05:00

After Leslie and Landon went to Toys R Us and Air Zone during the day on Landon’s third birthday...

we all went to a fun appreciation event for our friend and “Realtor for life,” Kristi, at Belvoir Winery that evening. Which included...Lulu the face painter. Landon requested a dragon design, in anticipation of Halloween, then put on his costume as soon as we got home.

Blue suede shoes

2011-10-11T22:29:00.000-05:00

Harvest Fest

2011-10-08T21:13:00.000-05:00

wHOA

2011-10-02T09:03:00.007-05:00

Our homeowners' association had a little fall party late Saturday afternoon, with some equine entertainment.

Riding tall in the saddle ... in the height of suburbia.

Then Landon downgraded to the miniature pony.

He loved it. (And the horse trainers loved him. They actually remembered him — even his name — from last year! Since he kept wanting to ride up until it was time for them to go, they let him stay on all the way back to the horse trailer.)

Meanhwile, Jack and Synjin successfully fought off the neighborhood girls at Laser Tag.

Fall Classic X

2011-10-01T21:44:00.013-05:00

This was the tenth year of Northwest's regular-season conference football game with Pitt State at Arrowhead Stadium. Which means the tenth anniversary of setting the record for the most people ever at an NCAA Division II football game — 26,695 (more than the Division II national championship even attracts). And the tenth year of being impressed with our own tailgating expertise.

Bobby's my bud.

It was a gorgeous day with not a cloud in the sky.

Alex, Susan & Shane.

Ever seen double-decker Rice Krispy treats before? That's a layer of peanut butter and pretzel pieces between two chocolate-covered Rice Krispy treats, topped with chunks of Reese's peanut butter cups. Thanks, Susan, for the insulin rush!

The National Anthem.

Kick off!

Does your marching band do this? (A better question might be, does your marching band get applause during its half-time performance ... and a standing ovation at the end?)

Metamorphosis

2011-09-30T22:57:00.000-05:00

Great food, great art, great company

2011-09-29T23:50:00.000-05:00

I met a good friend (and former co-worker) for lunch today, at her new place of employment — The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art!

After eating in Rozelle Court, Angela took me on a quick tour to see some of her favorite pieces. As soon as it opened two years ago, I've loved this new modern addition, because of its juxtaposition to the original building's classic style.

This new exhibit of 40 original Rodin sculptures doesn't officially open until Saturday, but you can see how this individual piece is featured at the top of the larger "Gates of Hell" behind it.

Just walking through the halls on our way to something else, this jumped out at me — it's titled "Cornhusker"! (Also on display at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.)

Another piece with personal significance: peonies in stained glass.

Angela took me up to the administrative offices to see her marketing department, right past this huge Buddha. Without any perspective, you can't tell from this photo whether it's 10 inches or 10 feet ... but it's definitely the latter.

I had to get back to work, but click on this picture to enlarge it and you can see this conservationist cleaning The Thinker's rear. Made me think of all the diapers I've changed!

While she took a break, I was dying for her to lean forward and rest her chin on her fist.

"Ferment," the newest addition to the Kansas City Sculpture Garden, is five-and-a-half stories tall and was created specifically for The Nelson (and was the subject of this blog post from July).

Everything I've previously seen and read about it is all about the organic free-form of nature, so I was really surprised to discover two of these distinct arrows hidden among the branches.

Until next time... Thanks Ang!

If I were a T-shirt designer

2011-09-28T01:21:00.002-05:00

Through the car window

2011-09-26T14:16:00.003-05:00

Family Weekend

2011-09-25T22:12:00.033-05:00

After the Northwest Alumni Association's fall board meeting all day Friday, Leslie and the boys drove up to Maryville that afternoon for the annual Alumni Awards Banquet. Her old college roommate babysat for us, so it was kinda like a date!

With the university's mission statement hanging on the wall, does this become strategic chocolate consumption?

Saturday morning, we stopped by the downtown shops to stock up on even more Bearcat gear, and made it to campus by 10 a.m. (Here's Landon exploring the Missouri State Arboretum.)

I love leisurely wandering through campus with the boys; we spent time at the Alumni House, Colden Pond and the International Plaza before making our way to the Bearcat Zone at College Park. (Landon at Lamkin.)

It was Northwest's first-ever "black out" — and we were good to go.

Because of Family Weekend, there were even more kid-friendly activities than usual.

At least he made it half-way up.

Jack had a front-row seat for the juggler.

Ready for the pep rally.

The cheerleaders, Steppers, marching band, Bobby, baton twirler and a few thousand fans make for an incredible game-day atmosphere.

Part of the day's special celebration was honoring the late Coach Bostwick.

Making our way to the stadium. I think his balloon sword lasted another 39 seconds.

Taken by my friend Darren Whitley ... of the No. 1-ranked team in the country.

Northwest scored on six consecutive possessions in the first half.

Halftime.

Cheerleaders on the diagonal.

Besides Northwest's special black jerseys, their helmets sported red paw logos to honor Coach Bostwick. (By the way, Northwest beat Fort Hays State University 70-17 — lead by our back-up quarterback who threw for 346 yards in a 17-for-23, four-touchdown-pass performance.)

Walking back to my car after the game ... now this is my kind of license plate!

Time to nod away in Nodaway

2011-09-22T23:15:00.003-05:00

Oblivious

2011-09-21T22:28:00.000-05:00

Learnin' his letters

2011-09-20T11:13:00.004-05:00

From Leslie: "I set out these letters a few minutes ago and was playing a few feet away with my friend's little one ... and when I stood up and looked at what Landon was doing, this is what I found! So thankful to have the chance to stay home with this little guy!"

"I feel like the luckiest guy in the world."

2011-09-16T00:00:00.015-05:00

(And that’s how I began my grandma’s eulogy, a year ago today.)

Because Grandma was ... my grandma.

It doesn’t seem right for me to say “Mary Poulsen,” because she’s always been the most warm, loveable, caring grandma ever. Some of you remember my dad’s parents, but they died when I was very young, so Grandma & Grandpa are the only grandparents I’ve ever known. And I can’t imagine it any other way.

See, I can’t even talk about Grandma without talking about Grandpa. They just always go together.

***

They’re the quintessential grandparents. And not just to us, as their relatives. To our friends. Our classmates. Our teammates. Our teams. Other kids in the campground. Families at church. To neighbors. To the whole block.

Several years ago, down at school, there was a boy in the third grade class who didn’t have anyone able to come for Grandparents’ Day in his classroom. So Mrs. Anderson knew she could call Grandma and Grandpa ... and, sure enough, there they were as his adoptive grandparents; and thrilled to do it. (Keep in mind, they would have been more like his great-grandparents.) Now, Josh is in college, his mom is today’s organist and he wrote on Facebook this week that even though they were only supposed to be his grandparents for one day, it’s like they have been ever since.

Grandma & Grandpa have known each other since she was 7 and he was 8. As I was visiting with them just last month before their 65th wedding anniversary, Grandma shook her head in disbelief, saying, “I never imagined living for 65 years, let alone being married for 65 years!” And Grandpa’s quick to say that they were best friends.

As I heard him tell someone yesterday, they’ve known each other for 80 years. That means practically everything in their lives has been a shared experience ... together. We have countless pictures of the two of them — through the years; in all kinds of places; it didn’t matter. Whatever they were doing, they most always did it together.

Already, to hear Grandpa tell one of those old familiar stories, without Grandma right there to chime in and finish his sentences, you feel like you’re only getting half of the story.

***

One of our favorites is of how they got married. Grandpa was home on R&R from France during World War II. (Grandma wrote him letters every week, and up until her final day could still rattle off his individual eight-digit military ID number like she was saying the ABCs.) Unfortunately, in Nebraska there was a waiting period to get a marriage license ... but not in Kansas!

I asked them just last month whether or not they knew they were going to get married during Grandpa’s leave. Grandma said that she hoped so, but wasn’t sure. Grandpa got a gleam in his eye and said that while serving overseas, he couldn’t stop thinking about her every day and that “She bothered me so.” I’ll never forget that: “She bothered me so.”

So they had limited time and were headed south, desperate to get married. But soon learned that all Lutheran ministers in the state were away at a conference in Kansas City. Fortunately, they finally found the only Lutheran minister in the county who had stayed home in case of emergencies. With the pastor’s wife as their witness, Grandma & Grandpa got married at St. Paul Lutheran Church in tiny Fairview, Kan., on Aug. 20, 1945.

Then Grandpa surprised her with a dozen red roses that he had stashed in the trunk ... on that hot, dusty, windy day with no air conditioning in the car. Grandma said they were the sorriest looking excuse for flowers she’d ever seen.

Did you know that Grandma and Grandpa have celebrated their anniversary on the 20th of every month for the past 65 years? They might go out to eat, have a glass of wine, or just share a rootbeer freeze, but every month they always recognized their special day.

In 2001, my wife Leslie and I were blessed to go with Grandma and Grandpa back to Fairview, Kan., and go to church at St. Paul Lutheran Church for their 56th wedding anniversary. It was magical. Grandma & Grandpa signed the guest book, we took lots of pictures, the congregation loved hearing their story and treated them like royalty. The four of us spent the whole day together, celebrating their anniversary and soaking it up.

We made sure that Grandpa had fresh red roses for Grandma that time.

***

I’m sorry to make this so much about me — I really am — but I blame it on Grandma. It was her inherent nature to genuinely care about every person she knew, to go out of her way to make you feel important and to let you know that you truly matter.

As the youngest of four kids, I always got hand-me-downs. But not at Grandma’s house! Each one of us had our own separate box of crayons ... our own cups that were just ours — every time ... and when we helped her bake, she even gave each one of us our own finger of hers to lick the batter off of. And for frosting, too!

As we were growing up, I looked forward to my birthday present from her each year because I knew exactly what it would be: an elaborately written, official-sounding homemade certificate for a day of “goofin’” with Grandma. Whatever I wanted to do.

One year, I vividly remember going to “downtown Omaha,” riding the slides at Gene Leahy Mall, eating dinner on the top floor of the Woodman Building, and getting to learn the difference between a Roy Rogers and a Shirley Temple ... always with extra cherries.

That all sounds so simple now, but I felt like a king. And what I would give, to do it just one more time with her.

***

One of the things I asked Grandma when I went to their place last month, I clearly knew the answer to, but just wanted to hear her say it. “Grandma, do you still read your Bible every day?” “You better believe it.” was her reply.

Grandma kept her Bible in the bathroom, because it’s the one place she could shut the door and have some peace and quiet, all to herself. When Grandma was in the bathroom, you knew not to interrupt.

We talked about some favorite parts of the Bible, how she’s collectively read it multiple times over the years, and she showed me the daily devotional guide she’s currently using.

Sure enough, when I took Grandpa home last night, there in the bathroom is her devotional booklet — left open to Sunday, Sept. 12, 2010.

Even on her final day, she continued drawing closer to Christ.

***

It’s a little surprising to me that as much of a godly woman Grandma’s always been — extremely active in the church, constantly involved in Bible studies and women’s groups — when we tried to think of Grandma’s favorite Bible verses, we kept going back to John 3:16 and the 23rd Psalm.

They seem so basic and simple. And probably, when you think about them, as profound and life-changing as you can get.

It’s like the term “Faith like a child.” It sometimes sounds like a cute little phrase. But, oh, so difficult to achieve.

Grandma loved swimming. For 10 or 15 years when we were younger, she swam a couple of miles every week. Now I picture my own son jumping into my arms off the side of the pool. Everything around him says not to do it: it’s a ways down, the water’s moving and unsure, it feels different, seems scary. But I say, “It’s OK. Daddy’ll catch ya.” Then he leaves everything behind, trusts me with all of his heart and I wrap him up, safe and secure.

That’s exactly how I imagine Grandma entering heaven, and her relationship with the Lord. Going freely. Toward the light. Letting God envelop her in his loving arms.

She’s been gettin’ ready for this her whole life.

***

Lastly, when Grandpa and I were at their place last night, he brought up something I sent to them within the past two weeks. It’s the story of a 92-year-old pastor that I printed off and snail-mailed to them the old-fashioned way (hand-written note and everything).

Anyway, as this retired pastor was invited to give a guest sermon one Sunday morning, he rose from his high-back chair and walked slowly, with great effort and a sliding gait to the pulpit. Without a note or written paper of any kind, he used both hands to steady himself and then quietly and slowly began to speak.

“When I was asked to come here today and talk to you, your pastor asked me to tell you what was the greatest lesson ever learned in my 50-plus years of preaching. I thought about it for a few days and boiled it down to this. Through all my trials, the one thing that I could always rely on when tears and heartbreak and pain and fear and sorrow paralyzed me ... the only thing that would comfort was this verse...”

And I know without a fraction of a doubt, that Grandma, too, lived these words and knew them in her heart.It goes:
Jesus loves me this I know.
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me...
Yes, Jesus loves me...
Yes, Jesus loves me...
The Bible tells me so.

***

I feel like the luckiest guy in the world.

Philippians 1:3

2011-09-13T01:16:00.009-05:00

Even though I always said I wanted it, I wish it never would’ve happened.

Out of a husband, two children, six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren — I got Grandma’s Bible when she died.

One year ago today.

And, no, I did not successfully write that with dry eyes.

***

I confess that I don’t actually use it that much. I think because I can’t even open it … and still have dry eyes. OK, without completely losing it. Probably because inside the front cover I was surprised to find this Post-It note:

Seeing G-ma’s handwriting makes her seem so alive. (And, no, I can’t find a single spot like she’s talking about.)

***

If you didn’t know her, you don’t realize what G-ma’s Bible meant to her. She read it every day.

Every. Day.

She got it in 1963 and used it for 47 years. Roughly half her life. You can tell it was both well used, and well cared for. It seems like every page was read (at least once). And if you knew my grandma, you would know that to be true. Of course, one of my favorite things is all of her handwritten notes and underlining throughout.

It also contained some special handouts and helps. A page from a devotional. A printout of the “senior’s version” of Jesus Loves Me. An old mimeographed poem titled “The Child Speaks to its Parents.”

And something that caught me completely off guard: A Hallmark birthday card ... from me ... from 1993. So it would have been about 10 days before I graduated from high school.

Titled “A Grandmother Is a Blessing,” its corners are now rounded from wear and the binding on its two-page cover has come apart.

I only wrote a simple sentiment before signing my name. But, under that salutation added, “This is exactly how I feel.” with a hand-drawn arrow pointing to this printed paragraph:

When I thank God
for the blessings in my life…
I always think of you,
and ask Him to bless you
with the happiness
that you have always given me.

***

It’s pretty amazing that you can love someone so much.

And to know they love you so much.

And to miss them so much.

A great day to be a Bearcat

2011-09-11T03:21:00.003-05:00

Landon, meet Zoo. Zoo, meet Landon.

2011-09-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

Farm Progress Show

2011-09-06T22:52:00.016-05:00

I spent last week in central Illinois, at the largest outdoor farm show in the country.

My client, AGROTAIN, definitely made its presence known (this scaffolding, alone, outside our exhibit space was weighed down with 30,000 pounds of water).

Part of our integrated marketing strategy included research from the University of Illinois, which we promote as the "Seven Wonders of the Corn Yield World."

We left the hotel every morning at 6, but the Dunkin Donuts nearby made it a little better. And, being gone all week, it was a fun reminder each day of where Leslie and I first met ... over a chocolate-frosted chocolate donut.

Crop physiologist Adam Henninger leading field tours of the real-world, on-site test plots. We first met in Atlanta in January, were together in Bloomington/Normal in July, and will see each other again in Nashville in November.

As usual, my primary role is media relations and garnering media coverage. For this live radio interview, my Nikon shot their Nikon.

A couple hundred-thousand attendees come from 50 different countries.

Not quite sure, but maybe the porta-potty is stationed outside the permanent restrooms for those who dislike air conditioning?

An all-play Labor Day

2011-09-05T00:48:00.001-05:00

Helios from my hotels

2011-08-30T15:20:00.000-05:00

Pine Bluff, Ark., sunset — Aug. 24, 2011

Jackson, Miss., sunrise — Aug. 26, 2011 (the dome on the left is the state capitol)

Urbana, Ill., sunrise — Aug. 30, 2011

Appy Birthday!

2011-08-29T22:22:00.020-05:00

Leslie surprised Jackson with this Angry Birds display on our mantel, the morning of his 8th birthday. He's a huge fan.

For his birthday "cake," he requested frozen mocha Mud Pie. I like to think I raised him right.

Again this year, we had a "grand" party (with his grandparents). Landon was all smiles.

With Jack's opposition to affection, Bob & Lloy figured out the kind of kisses he actually likes!

Grandma Nancy.

Already playing with his new set of Legos.

Mom brought my grandpa — Jack and Landon's great-grandpa — down with her from Nebraska.

Born in 1922 and 2008, respectively.

Wowing G-pa with my iPad and teaching him about apps.

Pooling around

2011-08-28T00:39:00.001-05:00

Bowling birthday

2011-08-27T22:14:00.000-05:00

For Jack's 8th birthday, he chose to hit the lanes.

I'd never been to the local bowling alley, but when we walked in, a man asked me if we were there for the open house. Come to find out, it was "Youth Open House" day, with free bowling, free hot dogs and free soda. Score!

"Girl Power" personified. When Leslie took treats to Jack's class the previous afternoon, Riley confidently notified her that, when it comes to bowling, she's pretty good.

Putting all that Wii Bowling to use...

Strike!

Synjin jumps for joy.

Not bad...

Fun, friends, pizza and presents.

For the uninitiated, this is "Waspix" from the Hero Factory line.

When it comes to Legos, Jack and Brody are ol' pros.

Travel Snaps

2011-08-25T14:16:00.004-05:00

Will you please help get our picture in the paper? Go to http://travelsnaps.omaha.com ... click on the red "VOTE NOW!" oval ... click on "Aug. 19-25, 2011" ... and vote for our family vacation photo taken in Oceanside, Calif.! The pic with the most votes will be printed in the Sunday edition of the Omaha World-Herald on Sept. 18th.

Thanks for your help. And spread the word!

The best G-ma & G-pa ever

2011-08-20T14:47:00.005-05:00

...were married 66 years ago today.

Extreme nature close-up

2011-08-20T13:51:00.006-05:00

It looks to me like this zinnia's wearing a yellow lei and going to a luau.

We had to scrunch down really low to the ground, in order to look up at this mushroom.

Friday night lights

2011-08-19T22:31:00.004-05:00

The boys and I went for a walk around the pond tonight.

Brothers.

With Jack climbing up these rocks and the evergreens in the background, I told him it looks like he's in Colorado. So he let me take his picture.

TGIF.

Bacon-wrapped eggs

2011-08-19T08:44:00.003-05:00

I tried a new recipe this morning. Before...

And after...

Yum!

First day of second grade

2011-08-17T09:29:00.008-05:00

Hopefully by the time I'm taking Jack's first-day-of-school picture in college, he'll be a little more willing.

Back-to-School Night

2011-08-15T21:25:00.002-05:00

Unfortunately, William and Meriwether's old wooden canoe finally rotted this year.

@PioneerHiBred speaking to #FFANCF11

2011-07-30T13:59:00.015-05:00

See how it's mostly all guys? They were a "lively" group ... especially for 8 a.m.

Look. Out.

2011-07-24T10:37:00.005-05:00

When picking Jackson up from "Grandma Camp" (spending a week at my mom's in Nebraska) we went to Mahoney State Park on Saturday with two of my nieces. We spent the entire afternoon at its waterpark, then went to the top of the observation tower.

Seeing how the wind is blowing Jack's hair in that first photo, imagine how much the 70-foot-tall tower was swaying!

He wanted me to take his picture as we descended each level, so I'm thrilled to oblige!

I break for cemeteries at sunset

2011-07-23T01:08:00.015-05:00

Driving all the way across Iowa on I-80 on Friday, I spotted a little secluded cemetery up on a hill, just as the sun was going down.

I had to stop.

Even though the sun was shining, it started to sprinkle ... and turned into a beautiful, summertime, million-dollar rain (click on the picture below to see the precip).

Then I thought to myself, "There's gonna be a rainbow, there's gonna be a rainbow — c'mon God — there's gonna be a rainbow..."

So there I was: alone on this hilltop, out in the country, in an old peaceful cemetery, with a gorgeous sunset before me, a full rainbow above me, the silence that follows a rainfall, and I'm dripping wet.

It was a religious experience.

The official breakfast of Grandma Camp

2011-07-22T13:50:00.000-05:00

Land of Lincoln

2011-07-21T22:39:00.002-05:00

At "Corn College" near Bloomington/Normal, Ill.

The Illinois State Capitol.

Perpetual Care

2011-07-20T01:25:00.002-05:00

That phrase is inscribed on numerous headstones at this historic cemetery near Emerson, Iowa.

I mean — with an old Midwestern cemetery, a summer sunset and my camera in the passenger seat — you don't expect me to just drive on by, do you?

I literally watched the sun go down, what seemed like millimeter by millimeter ... until, finally, it was gone.

As a rural cemetery, many of the residents had lots of room to themselves.

These four, small markers in the middle of the long rows intrigued me. (Upon closer inspection, they said "Mother" and "Father.")

A lot of the old markers have interesting, unique features, including this one that's surely a Bible on a podium. Then you notice that with the spine on the right, the Bible has been read and the book is now closed.

This reads "In Memory of our Country's Defenders."

"First Burial in this Cemetery."

"Adelaide Applegate." With a name like that, she had to have been in musical theater.

Rest in peace...

Taste of Camp

2011-07-19T07:48:00.009-05:00

Jack and I got to spend 24 hours at Camp Carol Joy Holling together, as part of its parent/child program — the same church camp I went to for years as a kid, and where Leslie and I were both counselors in college!

No matter that it was 100 degrees out, we roasted hotdogs for lunch...

...and s'mores for a snack!

Before we left, the campers signed the back of each other's T-shirts. (It was pretty cute.)

Our awesome counselors, Anna and Dan.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." I guess that applies to both of us.

Summertime smiles

2011-07-18T23:18:00.001-05:00

Count 'em

2011-07-17T08:27:00.010-05:00

2011

2009

2008 (in Jackson Hole, Wyo.)

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

Our steel anniversary

2011-07-16T09:13:00.007-05:00

Eleventh in the series.

Thanks Sandy!

PandaManiacs

2011-07-15T22:09:00.001-05:00

At the very end of Vacation Bible School today, "Where God is Wild about You!"

Alternative arches

2011-07-14T23:10:00.000-05:00

I ran to St. Louis for a night this week (staying for just over 24 hours), to attend my client's annual sales meeting.

Between the fountain outside the Ritz-Carlton and this sculpture nearby in Clayton, other not-so-famous arches seemed apparent.

Land of the free

2011-07-07T18:55:00.023-05:00

For the evening of July 4th, we went over to a family's from church — just like last year. They have five acres out in the country, and plenty of room to roam.

Landon, riding tall in the saddle.

A six-week-old miniature pot-bellied pig.

Drying off, after playing in one of the kiddie pools.

You know it's a good party when someone loses their underwear.

The consummate hosts, Skip & Karen making a few announcements before dinner.

After eating, it was finally time for fireworks! Earlier that afternoon at the fireworks stand, Jack wanted to buy "tanks, snakes and more tanks."

Boys trying to light stuff on fire.

Jack was covered in sweat and soot ... and was in heaven.

Landon ready to watch fireworks (or taking cover).

Bombs bursting in air.

Happy Fourth of July!

Redneck deviled eggs

2011-07-06T17:33:00.002-05:00

While making deviled eggs for the Fourth of July potluck picnic/party that we went to, Jack and I went the redneck route — removing the shells with duct tape (thanks YouTube).

(I like how only one of Jack's eyes is visable in this shot.)

These pictures aren't the best quality, but any time he smiles for the camera and is OK with having his picture taken — I relish it.

Put two strips of duct tape on the hard-boiled egg, crack the shell, massage it with your fingers and...

It really worked!

These next three pictures make me smile because as I was busy adding ingredients, Jack picked up the camera and took these on his own. I forgot all about them until they were downloaded.

First mustard, now vinegar...

Mash it all together...

And voila!

Wild West Block Party

2011-07-05T20:16:00.015-05:00

For our third-annual block party, we went with a country/western theme this year. I knew that old barbed wire and cattle skull would come in handy sometime. (The denim bedspread is one my mom made for me when I was five years old.)

Synjin definitely won first place in the costume contest. They're tough to see, but his metal spurs are from his dad when Mike was a kid!

Right at 4 o'clock, the fire truck showed up again. They don't disappoint.

Click on this picture to enlarge it, and you can really see how much fun Jack was having. Probably because he was spraying me.

Yes, that's Jack on the left in the street.

Andy called this the "micro-derm abrasion" mode.

This looks like a scene from "Backdraft."

The firemen are always so nice about letting the kids explore the firetruck.

Typical Saturday afternoon ... just laying in the street, makin' a dam.

Then it was time for the Slip 'n' Slide!

The boys tried to touch Andy's hands, before they went through his legs.

Synjin's splashdown.

I love the drip on Jack's chin.

Everything else is a blur.

Slip 'n' Slide. It's not just for kids, anymore.

"Daddy's my hero."

In the garage, Landon's just one of the guys.

Plenty of fluids for the kiddos.

Pensive.

Next up: bike parade.

And they're off—

"Wait for me!"

The girl next door.

Cowgirls.

Mom/dot.

Yankee Doodle sweethearts.

Jackson's oblivious.

What a doll.

I don't know what they're saying, but it looks like Andy just had to tell Braden the harsh realities of life.

The sun sets on suburbia.

"1776" would suffice

2011-07-04T15:30:00.001-05:00

Earlier today, I randomly asked Jackson when America began. Without batting an eye, he matter-of-factly launched into a detailed explanation of continental drift, plate tectonics and changes in the earth’s landmass — specifically mentioning how South America used to fit together with Africa.

After this geography lesson went on for a full minute or two, he looked me square in the eye and concluded, “So that’s when America began.”

Old. Glory.

2011-07-04T00:36:00.001-05:00

Somewhere along Highway 275 in southwest Iowa, on the way home from my uncle's funeral last Wednesday evening.

Think they call their own fouls?

2011-07-03T02:35:00.000-05:00

I'm a sucker for old front porches

2011-07-02T22:38:00.004-05:00

As I was leaving Bennington, Neb., last Wednesday after my uncle's funeral, I pulled over and took a picture of this old house at the intersection in the center of town. The owners have fixed it up recently and it's across the street from the house my dad was born in.

So I thought I'd try to snap a pic of some of the other big, old houses that I noticed on my way up there, earlier that day. Here are a few that I caught, before it got too dark...

Inspiration

2011-07-01T22:43:00.000-05:00

I thought these looked strikingly similar:
1. The Nelson-Atkins art museum's new artwork in Kansas City.

2. God's old artwork in rural Iowa.

Goodbyes and good byways

2011-06-30T01:22:00.014-05:00

After spending the afternoon with family at my uncle's funeral, I had a pretty scenic drive home.

This roadside "overlook" even had an observation deck, offering panoramic views and historical information.

Taking this wooded trail...

opened up to this hidden lake, nestled in Iowa's Loess Hills.

My favorite thing about this house is the simple wooden tree swing, hanging on the left.

The Fremont County Courthouse in Sidney, Iowa.

Though it was built in 1889, what I like about this shot is the rain sensor on the left for the underground sprinkler system.

The well must be dry.

Like they say, "You can take the boy out of the country..."

I doubt anyone but my siblings would know why this reminds me of learning to drive. (As young teenagers — practicing to drive on our rural, country roads with Dad — he paid more attention to whether or not there were weeds in the fields, if the rows were straight, and comparing crops than to our speedometer!)

Last picture out the car window, just a mile from home.

Divine order

2011-06-29T23:29:00.009-05:00

In Tabor, Iowa — population 993. (Click on this picture to enlarge it, and it's even more impressive.)

Taken in the landscaping at the base of this church.

Post piano recital

2011-06-28T23:59:00.001-05:00

Where will Landon fall asleep today?

2011-06-25T22:53:00.008-05:00

But don't worry. I put pillows at the bottom of the stairs, in case he rolled over.

On Jack's last day of first grade, Landon (asleep on his back, in the brown leather club chair) thought he could hang with the big kids playing Wii after school. I guess not.

You can tell he's taking an early nap, 'cause he's still in his jammies!

This afternoon, Leslie turned on a nursery rhyme CD in the loft while she finished cleaning downstairs. When she went up to check on him, the CD was still going ... but he sure wasn't!

Road to Omaha

2011-06-23T19:34:00.000-05:00

BWI to MCI

2011-06-21T08:13:00.009-05:00

Our friend Brian is fond of the phrase, "God is good." That's certainly what I kept thinking, as I flew home from Baltimore on Friday and saw some amazing cloud formations.

First big and bumpy, then smooth and wispy. But, as always, they were much more impressive in person.

Boys in trees

2011-06-18T07:27:00.000-05:00

Charm City II

2011-06-17T23:11:00.009-05:00

View from my Marriott hotel room, on the 31st floor.

View of Baltimore's popular Inner Harbor, on the other side of the hotel.

An impressive-looking building...

...and then you see what it was used for.

Sand sculpture...

...and the sand sculptor.

The Baltimore World Trade Center, designed by I.M. Pei, is the tallest regular pentagonal building in the world.

Charm City

2011-06-15T00:04:00.012-05:00

I flew to Baltimore for work yesterday and, before even going to my hotel, I met an old friend who I worked with at church camp for dinner! I've known Brenda for more than 20 years and went to her wedding almost exactly a year ago. She works at the headquarters of Lutheran World Relief and (after walking to a Thai restaurant a couple of blocks away), she gave me a tour of her office building which has a rooftop patio on three sides!

The Baltimore Ravens' football stadium in the distance.

In the middle on the far left is historic Federal Hill Park, a public park since 1879. Brenda said that at the top of the tall building in the distance, Will & Jada Pinkett Smith (she's a native Baltimorean) live in the penthouse.

Breakfast of Champions

2011-06-14T22:46:00.001-05:00

Playin' with Ava

2011-06-13T23:55:00.001-05:00

The house of Bliss

2011-06-11T23:58:00.002-05:00

We realized that Linda, little Trevan and I were all wearing navy polos and plaid shorts. Then we realized we look like a Kohl's ad.

iPhotos

2011-06-10T22:05:00.003-05:00

Miscellaneous pics taken in the past month with Leslie's new iPhone.

Even when taking self-portraits, this app lets you see yourself on the screen by creating a mirror image (which you can tell, because Landon's dimple is on the wrong side).

Be Social.

2011-06-10T12:25:00.002-05:00

Check out the stud at 2:17.

Celebration of a Big Life

2011-06-09T19:47:00.002-05:00

The Northwest family remembers Coach Scott Bostwick.