March

Another fun month is in the books.  We had spring break and enjoyed some temps that reached 70.  Then, a few weeks later, we got a ton of snow and had a snow day and an early release.  Whatever the reason, we enjoyed getting to spend more time together and have fun.  We managed to play tennis, baseball, 4-square, cards, golf, go sledding, build snowmen, and swim.  We also got to go to Conny's for ice cream opening and the second attempt at opening day for the St. Paul Saints.  It was a treat to spend time with both grandparents.

The girls and Ben went to Starcade where they got to try old-school arcade games.  They had a lot of fun playing classics like pacman, frogger, ninja turtles, off-road, dance dance revolution and more.  Pip really enjoyed "ice cold beer," a game where she had to guide a marble to the next section.  When she beat a group of boys, the manager gave her a soda.  Meanwhile, Kara enjoyed breaking some stuff at a "rage room." Vivian had a concert and enjoyed being able to show off her ukulele skills.  It was a quick but nice show and we had a nice time wandering White Bear with Grandma and Grandpa.

Jan & Feb

Here goes 2024.  We recently went to see the MN Orchestra play quite the show for Lunar New Year and had a wonderful time.  The girls really liked hearing it all.  We had a nice evening out with some of the neighbors, we had a fun trip to Como Zoo for old time's sake, visited a local Harry Potter themed cafe, Nina had a good band concert, among other typical goings on.  The other happy news is Nina's joy in her new hamster, Stracciatella. She named him after the gelato she loves in Italy, which is also referenced in a book she loves.  He's a very friendly guy and has quickly stolen her heart.

Still working hard     ----     Watching Ben curl on the livestream

Two swans now live at our lake  --  Homemade sesame chicken

We have been grieving the loss of beloved Aunt Marte.  She was an amazing and fiery woman who always had a joke, some inspiration, and a twinkle in her eye.  The trip down to Winona for her wake was tough, but it was nice to share stories with others.  No trip there would be complete without some Bloedows, and we also had a nice hike in Frotenac State Park, and up Garvin Heights where we unexpectedly ran into our neighbor, John.

Halvesies and year in review

2023 Video

As 2024 begins we look back at a fun 2023 and celebrate the girls' half birthdays.  Our year of school went well and we had fun throughout.  The summer was an amazing one full of beautiful landscapes, wonderful people, and new experiences.  The European trip was wonderful.  The following road trip was also full of new experiences as we went to new cities and got to learn about Hetty Zeilinger and then visit the Virginia Zeilingers.  The rest of the year has been busy taking care of hamsters, playing games, and spending time together.