Up North

"Up North." To most Michiganders that phrase bring memories of summer vacations, fresh water beaches, very cold lakes, and giant biting flies. Thanks to some very generous family friends, we had the pleasure of vacationing in Charlevoix this past weekend and, despite the rainy weather, enjoyed every minute.  Our plans of running and biking in the woods were replaced with sitting on the beach with Fat Tires in our coozies watching our B play in the sand.  Hence, pictures:

Daddy and B

Loves the sand - will not look into camera 

Aunt Money and B

yay the sun is out!

Happy Fourth!

I spent my Independence Day working in the hospital, and had the pleasure of taking care of two families with languages, cultures, and traditions different from my own.  Although our country is imperfect, and it's people increasingly divided in their beliefs - our freedoms draw so many others in. As we celebrate our freedom, we should celebrate our diversity - our country is enriched by it! 

Happy 4th of July! 

Hello, again.

My heart, my mind, my body has finally recovered from this most brutal, bitter-cold winter.  The sun is a life- and soul-sustaining force and to say I missed it would be an understatement. The past 10 months have been filled with work, teaching dance classes, and watching my little B turn into a toddler. Although it has been a busy time, it has also been a blessed time:

First Birthday Party in April

Memorial Day Weekend at The Lake

B is the joy of my life - I love watching her explore with her constant and intense curiosity. She is the sweetest little lady asking for a kiss and the next moment smiling mischievously while getting into all sorts of trouble (the trash, toilet, cords, and every toddler hazard you can imagine). Climbing up on chairs and kicking a ball are her newest skills and I'm afraid she will start running soon!

It has been an adventure watching her grow while I try to juggle work and dance. The Recital is over and I will miss seeing all those kiddos every week, but I'm looking forward to what the summer will bring. I'm hoping for a lot of enjoying of sunshine and reading of books. The baby pool is ready and I haven't had a tan in two years - so bring on the heat!