Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Hailey Jo {7 months}

Hailey Jo {7 months}
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
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January 26, 2012

This is you at 7 months old:

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On January 12th you went to the Dr for your 6 month check-up and...

You weighed 18 lbs 6 oz. (86%).

You were 27 3/4 inches long (95%).

Your head was 17 3/4 inches round (96%).

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You have tried all the beginner fruits and veggies and are now onto more diverse food combos, such as  Banana Mango or Pear & Wild Blueberry for breakfast and Beef and Vegetable or Apples and Chicken for dinner.

You have pretty much liked everything you have tried so far.

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You eat a fruit combo in the morning (with Oatmeal) and a vegetable/protein combo at night (with Rice cereal).

You eat about 4 oz of milk for daytime feedings and about 6 oz of milk at bedtime.

You are usually in bed by about 9pm and sleep until about 8am...on average. You are still sleeping great and Mommy really appreciates that.

You love to pull on the dogs hair. They have started to get a little nervous around you because you like to scream at them. It makes us laugh.

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You still put everything in your mouth.

You are such a drool machine! You go through about 3-4 bibs a day.

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(Do you see that string of drool? Can't get away from it.)

You love your jumperoo and your walker.


You are really grabbing onto things on your jumperoo and activity gym and pulling on them.

You now sit up by yourself for long periods of time.

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You still have deep, gray eyes.

Your hair is still growing and Mommy actually had to cut your bangs. This is a before and after shot.

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You are growing right on rack, but are still our peanut.

You are wearing a few 3-6 month clothing, but are mostly in all 6 month clothing and pajamas.

Your giggle is the best thing in this entire world.

You are officially in size three diapers.

You open your mouth when we kiss you like you are trying to kiss back.

You have two teeth now. Mommy and Daddy were so surprised, because you were not even fussy at all.

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You have definitely found your teeth and make funny faces.

You are always talking and making noise.

You still don't care for your nuk at all. I can't even remember the last time you had it.

You still don't like tummy time, but pull your knees underneath you almost like you are ready to crawl. You don't last very long on your tummy at all, though and we find you rolling over to your back.

You love when we hold your hands and you stand up. You are so proud.

You LOVE your jumper you got for Christmas.

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One morning Mommy put you in there for just a little bit and you fell asleep still holding your teether.

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You LOVE bath time. We still do bath's in the infant tub, because you are just really starting to sit up on your own and Mommy is a nervous nelly.

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You have so much hair, so one night I tried this just to see what your reaction would be. You didn't try and fight me or anything. You just laid there and loved it.

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You rocked your first pony tail one night after bathtime.

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You are the most adorable little human being on this planet and your smile is infectious.

We love you so much and cherish each and every single day with you!

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Thursday, January 26, 2012

New Ride {2012}

New Ride {2012}
Thursday, January 26, 2012
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Let's just start out this post by saying Thank You to my wonderful Husband, who loves me unconditionally and supports me in all my neurotic tendencies. This wouldn't have been possible without him and his help of making phone calls and his understanding. Us getting this car was the result of us at the dealership 3 days in a row. Love you, honey!

Now, to reveal my beautiful new ride. I'm so proud of it and love it so much. I want to drive everyone, everywhere.. Who wants to drive? I WILL!!

Here are the specs:

Year/Make/Model: 2008 Chevrolet Equinox LS
Exterior Color: Sandstone Metallic
Engine: 6 Cyl.
Transmission: Automatic
Mileage: 61,916

City MPG: 17
Hwy MPG: 24

And now here she is...

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Isn't she a bute? Ha. What shall I name her?

If you know me in real life or have been reading my blog for awhile, you know I just got a "new" car at the end of September, actually September 26, 2011, to be exact. Well, just about 4 months to the day I got THIS "new" one. While it's not new (obviously it's a 2008) and it's really nothing fancy, like a BMW or Mercedes or anything, it is "new to me" and perfect for me AND my family.

I LOVE IT!!

Last September we purchased a 2007 Dodge Caliber. See this post HERE for a few pictures. While I liked the car initially, I wasn't in love with it and I knew that leaving the lot. I felt like it was my best option at the time, so we went for it. It was something we could afford and somewhat of a crossover type with what we thought was more room than my 2002 Toyota Camry. Overall it was a great vehicle, but with my Husband being a bigger guy, he hated it and called it the micro machine. He refused to drive it, let alone ride in it. So that was that. There were also a few other things it was lacking and therefore prompted us to start looking. Again.

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I used to drive a 1991 Chevy Blazer S10 in High School and post HS (from about 1999-2004), courtesy of my Dad and I loved it.Then it became old and needed fixing and after throwing some money into, we traded that off in 2004 for a 2002 Toyota Camry. While I loved my Toyota Camry (I had that for almost 8 years), I always really missed driving an SUV. I figured since the Caliber is somewhat of a crossover, it would totally fit our needs. Wrong. It did sit higher, which I liked, but it just wasn't cutting it with the space we needed. I feel like the Equinox is not only more roomy, but has such a warm and homey feeling to it, compared to the Caliber.

Front seat // Back seat

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Bigger back end.

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Look at all the room and potential it has.

Love the dashboard.

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Ain't it purty?

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I love that it has the AUX option, so I can still hook up my IPOD for trips. That was one thing I did like about the Caliber.

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One of MY main reasons for wanting to get rid of the Caliber (besides Wayne hating it) is because it didn't have power locks. Or power windows for that matter, but that was not as important or convenient as power locks. Yes, I knew that when we bought it, but I thought it was something that I could just get used to. Something I would have to adapt to. I thought it would be simple. Wrong. Do you know how hard that is. Extremely. Especially with a baby in a car seat, a purse, a diaper bag and whatever else I usually tote around. Let's just say there were many a times where there was cursing going on. It was VERY inconvenient. Actually, I hated it to be totally honest.

So between now having everything power, lots more space, my Husband actually liking the vehicle and not whispering underneath his breath about how dumb it is, I am truly a happy Wife and Momma.

What's that saying...you live and you learn? Well we did just that.

And what's that other saying? Happy Wife = Happy Life...haha. right again.

Leah
Monday, January 23, 2012

Giveaway!

Giveaway!
Monday, January 23, 2012
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So my friend, Kelly is doing another GIVEAWAY!

Go check it out! Love her blog and I REALLY want to win this giveaway! 

I've had my eye on something from this Etsy shop for awhile now. Pretty much since Hailey was born.

Go check out her blog and the giveaway!


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Friday, January 20, 2012

Insta Friday {01.20.2012}

Insta Friday {01.20.2012}
Friday, January 20, 2012
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life rearranged

Hailey says, "Let's eat Mom!" with her smile! She loves to eat and is always so excited. We have recently moved up to level 2 foods, so now there is a lot more variety.

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My MIL called me last Friday evening to tell me that our local grocery store was having a sale on Gerber baby foods. Some of them expire in February, but I still stocked up. Can't go wrong with a deal on baby food and the ones that expire in February will get first and for sure before February. I mean she eats it everyday. This is the result after my trip last Saturday. Thanks Ma!

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While I was at work, Wayne sent me this sweet picture on Wednesday morning after Hailey ate her breakfast of prunes. Prunes or not, I would still kiss that lovable mug.

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My dinner one night this week consisted of eggo waffles and toaster strudel. So random, but so good. Oh well.

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Now that the Minnesota temps have take a plummet, I am still loving my Body Dew. I think I put the caption as Body Dew = skin saver!

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We were at my parents one day this week and my Mom put Hailey in the clothes basket.

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My Dad then proceeded to push her all around the house. Let's just say she loved it.

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I've been wanting to get my nails done now for a couple weeks. I also NEED a pedicure, but I just haven't been able to find the time to go to the salon. So when I was at Target this week.I picked up these. They are just the glue on nails, and have never really worked for me in the past. But we'll see how long they last.

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Follow me on Instagram - ladanielson

Leah
Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Wordless Wednesday {01.18.2012}

Wordless Wednesday {01.18.2012}
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
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Tuesday, January 17, 2012

2011 in Review

2011 in Review
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
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I've seen this on a few blogs and thought I would participate. I love these questionnaire type things. I also love getting to know other mommy/blogger friends. So do it, leave me a link to your blog and I will read yours!! I hope to be able to do this every year and reflect on the last year lived. I did tweak a couple of questions to more reflect my life.

1. What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?

Had a baby and with that includes trimester 2 and 3 of pregnancy, labor with no epidural with an eventual c-section and a rough recovery with a newborn in NICU. Thank god for my wonderful Hubs and family for all their help, love and support!

2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I'm not a huge resolution person, but I am going to set goals for myself. I like the word "goal" instead. It sounds more achievable and less cold. You can read mine HERE.

3. How will/did you spend New Year's Eve?


From 2010 into 2011 I was sleeping. I was just getting out of my 1st Trimester and still tired all the time.

From 2011 into 2012 I was with the Hubs at his gig at Babe's in Lakeville with some friends and family. I had a most fabulous time! My sisters stayed at our house over night and babysat Hailey.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

No, fortunately. But I did attend the funeral of a high school classmate of mine, Jimmy, that took his life. Very tragic, but I'm so glad I went.

5. What countries did you visit? What vacations did you take?


Hailey and I took a 5 day trip to Arkansas to visit my Great Grandma, so Hailey's Great Great Grandma. 5 Generations all together. See it HERE. 

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

A substantial savings account.

7. What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

June 26th. It was the day I became a Mommy and my world was forever changed.

8. What was your biggest achievement(s) of the year?

Going through labor, c-section, getting through the first month of mommy-hood. I'm not going to sugar coat it, it was rough. But I think it always is for every new Mom. It does get better with time and as they get older. Keep your head up!


9. What was your biggest failure?

I wouldn't say failure. I don't think I really failed at anything, but as stated in #6, I want a savings account a/k/a emergency fund a/k/a nest egg.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Other than the complications with the c-section and recovery, no.


11. What was the best thing you bought?

My new IPhone 4s. A month ago I would have said my new car, but I'm starting to dislike it. Not the car itself, but I foolishly bought a 2007 with no power windows or locks (how dumb is that) and it's a little on the small side, so Wayne HATES it! Granted he is a big guy and he is losing weight, but it's still on the smaller side. Oh well, we live and learn right? We'll see what 2012 has to bring as far as new car(s) go.

12. Where did most of your money go?

Her name is Hailey. LOL.

13. What song will always remind you of 2011?

Anything by LMFAO. Saw them in concert. Will go again the next time they are in town. Love them lots.

14. What do you wish you'd done more of?

Exercise and read.

15. What do you wish you'd done less of?

Be lazy. Not exercise.

16. What was your favorite TV program?

I have too many to count. My one new favorite this fall in 2011 is Revenge. Anyone else watch it?

17. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

I try really hard not to hate any one, but there is certainly some people that I don't really like and distance myself from them.

18. What was the best book you read?

The Hunger Games series. Too good for words and so excited for the movie in March 2012.

19. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Adele. I got her 21 CD and fell in love. Then my Hubs got me her concert on DVD for Christmas this year. Thank you honey!

20. What was your favorite film of this year?

Breaking Dawn, Part 1, obviously. We have waited so long for each one to come out. I not only love the movies and the books, but it's also something I can relate to friends and family about. Especially my sisters!

21. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I turned 28 and spent the evening at Babes at Wayne's gig with some family and friends. I was 7 months preggo and still on the dance floor!! 

22. What kept you sane?

Wayne and my Mom. Without these two, my world would be a mess.

23. Who did you miss?

I don't see my Grandma Kleene as often as I would like to. I miss her and now with me having a baby of my own, I want her to see Hailey more often.

I also miss Green Grandma. Wayne's Grandma Sharon moved down to Arizona at the end of October and I really hate it. I want her to move back so bad. It makes me sad.

24. Who was the best new person you met?

I would have to say my co-worker friendships really flourished. There were 2 new people that started at the last quarter of 2010 and another that started in June 2011. I have enjoyed getting to know all three of them more personally and working with them everyday.

25. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

It was something my pastor (Paul) said at Jimmy's funeral..."Love them while you can and love them well." I just think this quote speaks volumes and I try and remember it everyday.


Leah
Monday, January 16, 2012

Life Lately {November 2011}

Life Lately {November 2011}
Monday, January 16, 2012
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Saturday, November 5, 2011

Today we had our annual Stager Christmas, but Wayne was the Best Man in his friend Shane's wedding. His friend John was also a groomsman, so while they were getting ready and taking professional pictures, I split my day with the first half at my parent's house for Christmas and the second half at the Miller Wedding. We had already arranged for Hailey to spend the night at my parents house, so Wayne and I could have a night out with friends. I did not take many pictures of Christmas, because I was not really there too long. But here are a couple pictures from our family Christmas in November:

Mingling throughout the kitchen...

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Sitting around the table...

This is my Grandma Stager's new puppy, Lacy. She is super small and quite adorable!

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Here is my immediate family (minus Wayne). He was already at the wedding.

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Grandpa with Hailey // Ross with my Mom holding Hailey

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Uncle Ross with Hailey // Grandma Karla with Hailey

The Miller wedding was at 4pm, so I left my parent's house at about 3pm with my friend Jess (John's girlfriend). Since both boys were in the wedding, we decided to go together. I didn't get very great pictures of the actual wedding, but it was your run of the mill wedding as you can imagine.

Here is the wedding party:

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Me, Wayne, Jess and John

After the wedding was the buffet dinner and cake, with speeches. As the best man, Wayne gave his speech.

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After all the sappy and sentimental stuff, it was party time!

Me & Lily // Jack & Nick // Nick & Me

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Nick was sitting on my lap, while the speeches were going.

Then as the dance was getting going, all of a sudden I was summoned to the dance floor...and given a "lap dance" by my Husband. It was quite the funny moment as we all know and are friends with the DJ, so it was all planned beforehand. I was mortified at the beginning. I was like "this isn't my wedding." But it ended up being harmless and funny as you can see.

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Jess and I doing the Cupid Shuffle! We were definitely getting our groove on.

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Wayne and I enjoying our night (without the babe).

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Yes, that his him grabbing my butt. Tee-hee.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Today was our puppies 5 year birthday! Yay! This is me with them lounging in our chair downstairs.

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Don't mind how gross I look, like I said it was a lounge day.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Today was our 5 year wedding anniversary. I can't believe we've been married for 5 years already. Wow! Wayne has a gig every Friday night, so while he was at work for the night, I went to a Pure Romance Party with my cousin, Beth. My Mom came to our house to babysit Hailey for the evening.

If you've never been, it's really not as "kinky" or embarassing as it sounds. I mean, I guess it could be if that was the intention, but this party was lovely all the way around. I, personally, had never been to a Pure Romance Party, but I had so much fun. We played Bingo and won prizes. My cousin, Beth, won Entice in the Mangosteen scent, but gifted it to me as it was my first time at a party and lets face it, I stink at Bingo:

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I ate some great food, had some interesting conversations, met some fun ladies and bought a few products.

My favorite is the Body Dew, in the Original scent.

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I also got Coochy, in the Pear Berry scent. Love it!!

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You can read all about Pure Romance and what they have to offer through their website. They have such a wide variety of products. If you have any questions or are in need of a consultant, my friend is wonderful and discreet. She seriously knows her stuff and has been doing this for awhile. So if you need a hook-up, just email me and I can put you in contact with her.

Side note: We didn't really do anything "special" for our anniversary. We still go out to dinner on a regular basis (with baby), so we don't necessarily feel like we have to do that. I also got the new IPhone 4s in October when it came out, so that was my big anniversary gift. I like having an excuse like "anniversary gift" to purchase new and expensive things for myself. Haha.

Friday, November 18 - 20, 2011

This weekend we went to Clara City from Friday night - Sunday afternoon. My 2 sisters rode with me and Hailey out there and back. Here are some of the pictures I snapped of the weekend

Our family sitting around playing Family Fued on the IPad. So fun!

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It actually snowed that weekend...at least in Clara City it did. Hailey wore this yellow snow suit that weekend. Wayne actually wore this when he was little. It is a 3 month snow suit, but at that point Hailey was almost 5 months. It was pretty tight fitting, but worked for that weekend.

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We started eating rice cereal that weekend. This was the first time she had it (not in her bottle). I don't think she knew what to do with it once it was in her mouth. It just kinda sat there for awhile until she realized that she needed to swallow it.

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I love these next pictures. This is my Grandma Kleene (maternal Grandmother). She raised me for the first part of my life. Long story short, my Mom had me when she was just 16 years old and a junior in high school. Needless to say, she needed help and my Grandma and Grandpa were there. Love them for stepping up and helping and love my Mom for being a single Mom for awhile and doing it on her own. Anyways, I love my Grandma dearly and for her to now see my child, her Great Grandchild, is beyond words.

Hailey and her Great Grandma Edna

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My sisters Kate and Amie with me, Hailey and Grandma.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

I usually spend Thanksgiving with my family as it is one of the times of year that I get to see my Grandma Kleene. Well, since my Aunt Laurie + family was going down to Iowa for Thanksgiving to see my cousin Jarred, they didn't have enough room to drop Grandma off for the day at my parents house. I was not happy and so sad I didn't get to see her for Thanksgiving, but it was still a great day.

Since it was Hailey's first Thanksgiving, we invited Wayne's Mom, her boyfriend, Paul and his Brother, Andy, to my parents for a joint Thanksgiving, but they decided to stay home. To each there own. We still ate lots of yummy food, watched football and played dominoes.

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Hailey eating her Thanksgiving meal of rice cereal and then her helping Daddy play dominoes.

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After we all ate (before dominoes), it was nap time and this is Uncle Ross thinking he can sneak Hailey in his coat. Haha.

Friday, November 25, 2011

My sisters decided to spend the night, and since I had today off, we decided to get the tree up with some other Christmas decorations. Here is our tree with no presents underneath it. : (

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Saturday, November 26, 2011

At noon we had a baby shower for Elliott Norman Horton. He was born September 26th, so him and Hailey are exactly 3 months apart. Elliott's Mom, Rachel was on strict bed rest for the last 12 weeks of pregnancy, so there was no baby shower, pre-baby. Therefore on Elliott's 2 month birthday (and Hailey's 5 month birthday) we celebrated his birth at his Grandma Dianne's house with Aunt Veronika and Aunt Aly hosting

Me and Elliott

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The 4 of us:

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Hailey couldn't take her eyes off of him!

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Hailey also turned 5 months old today. See her growth update post HERE.

Later that evening we stopped by the Lemons House, so one of my besties' Jenny a/k/a Lemonhead's family, could meet Hailey.

 Sunday, November 27, 2011

After a super emotional, spiritual and fulfilling morning at Church, we headed to Park Tavern in St. Louis Park for a benefit for a teenager that is battling cancer and sadly is losing. Luke and his family  are friends of a friend of ours. Wayne was asked to emcee the benefit, which included a silent auction, drawings for prizes, Team Luke t-shirts, pizza and bowling. My Mom and sisters met us for some bowling, while Wayne worked the crowd!! We were so happy to support this family and Luke!

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November was busy! Onto December!

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