Three Birthdays

Collin turned eight on Aug. 1st. We celebrated with a party at the local bowling alley. He invited several friends from his class. Cami turned three on Aug. 23rd. We had a small party at home with family and a cake with special non-dairy frosting made by a local cake decorator. Finally, on Aug. 31st, I turned, um, well let's just say it's between 30 and 40 and leave it at that.

Craig and Collin made me a carrot cake with carrots they grew in our garden. Delicious!
What's in the bag?
Cami with her cake.
It's a rare treat for a lactose intolerant child to eat frosting. Jen D. did a fabulous job making this cake.
Collin made Cami a crown for her birthday. He thought this was a critical accessory.
Collin's bowling party.
The bowling alley has banned cake. We had a birthday pizza instead.
"So, do you think I can get this spare?"

Revisiting Nebraska

My grandparents lived their entire lives in northeast Nebraska. Consequently, I spend many childhood summers in the communities of Norfolk, Hadar and Pierce. The city park in Pierce was the site of many walks and playtime adventures. When my grandpa passed away this past July, I took my oldest son to revisit the areas where I had spent so much time as a child. I'm amazed at how much things change in 25 years.


Contemplation by Cox Lake, Pierce, NE.
Spire of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hadar, NE. My parents were married here in 1970.
Gazebo in Gilman Park, Pierce, NE.
Path through the birches.
Arboretum entrance.
Pathway through the cottonwoods.
Collin in a tree that has seen many seasons.
Boat launch on Cox Lake.
Pierce Museum.