Tom is Tiling

Another day, and more progress on the house.... thanks to my hard-working husband! He is determined to have us in our new house by next weekend. His main experience tiling, besides this current project, was our last house (kitchen and bathroom). He is becoming quite an expert!! The kids and I visit often, imagining what the place will look like at completion. Ian is helpful in reminding us about “Ian’s green room, Nina’s blue room, and mommy and daddy’s white room.” He also checks periodically to make sure we have remembered that the brown couch goes downstairs and the white couch goes upstairs. It is convenient that his memory is so sharp!

The Renovations Continue

Once assessing the state of affairs in our new place, we realized that it was time to replace and/or upgrade the flooring throughout. The previous owner had a pet that relieved itself a few places here and there, so we were sure the carpet had to go! And since we loved the wood floor that we installed in our townhome, we decided to do that again. And now that the wood floor is installed (Tom decided against installing it himself this time - it took 3 months vs. 2 days this time!), we will soon begin with the tile in the kitchen and bathroom. We also are painting every single room! Well, okay...Tom and friends are painting while I entertain the kiddos! We are anxious to move in but realize that we will be grateful we did these changes before we move in. Those of you who have lived in the midst of home renovations would agree, I’m sure! We will post more photos as the place evolves...

Closing on the New House

Here we are, jubilant at the prospect of having our own place, and what a place!! And also at an attractive interest rate :) We are so blessed to have been able to live with Tom’s parents for almost 2 years, save some money, and find such a lovely home to live in. This is a day of celebration, to be sure!

Visiting Erin's Classroom

Ian, Nina and I jaunted up to see Erin and her 5th grade classroom today. It is a bit of a drive, which is my rather sorry excuse for not visiting sooner! Although we didn’t stay even an hour, it was a wonderful event. Ian was thoroughly entertained by the concept of “school,” which he is only recently beginning to understand. Erin’s students were polite and full of enthusiasm. I was especially impressed by their interest in the kids and also their ability to play with Ian respectfully. It is clear to me that these children are learning not only academic excellence, but also the precious value of relationships. I can’t help but think my sister has much to do with that!!

Christmas Traditions

Well, dear reader, if you know me at all, you know that I love traditions! That’s why I was thrilled when Katie suggested adding the downtown Minneapolis Macy’s 8th floor Christmas display to the rotation each year. We went on a week night, which I’d highly suggest if you prefer to avoid those long lines! The display this year was charming as always, and we had fun going out for hot drinks at Starbuck’s afterwards. I especially like this photo of Nina enjoying one of the mirror-like ornaments on a Christmas tree!

Nina and Great Grandma Prarl

This is the kind of photo I can’t resist sharing! We were so delighted to have Grandma Pearl join us for Rachel’s wedding last weekend. Her presence was so appreciated! She has never been a strong, demonstrative personality but has a peaceful countenance that blesses all she knows. Love you Grandma!

Beaming Rachel

Today another chapter was written in our family’s books. And a charming chapter at that! My favorite part of the wedding was probably when Rachel was reciting her vows and she ended her prayer, “In the name of the Father, the Son, and the HOLY SPIRIT!!” That girl does appreciate the third component of the Trinity quite a bit.

I think anybody who attended would be struck by the simplicity, authenticity, and overall happiness of the event. It was a jubilant celebration, and yet not over the top. It was a modest proclamation by these two remarkable individuals of their relationship with each other and especially, with God. Well done!!