A relaxing weekend...

We had a beautiful weather weekend in Minnesota, even if the temperatures were a little cooler than normal. The sun was shining and we made every minute count!

We started out by picking up donuts on Saturday morning and visiting family. Henry absolutely loves little ones and couldn't wait to hold Izzy.  I must admit to her Momma that yes, we DID wake her up just to hold her.  I sure hope that didn't spoil the rest of the day for grandma, who was watching her!  The boys also enjoyed getting down on the floor and playing with big brother "Robbie" (as Oliver likes to call him).  He also warmed up to the boys after a while.

Isn't she just adorable?  Six weeks old and wide awake for Henry!  Such a precious little girl.  I'm thankful that I was able to catch up with Cheri too, it's been far too long!

After we got our fix of little ones, we headed north to Osseo for the Lion's Roar parade - a tradition with me and the boys.  Nary a cloud in the sky, it was a perfect day for a parade.  I decided afterward, however, that with the newly formed band festival in June, it just isn't the same without the marching bands in September.  One can only take so many politicians shaking hands and slapping stickers at you!  The best part, of course, is the candy...  and more candy!  I'm really not sure the boys would have made it to Halloween with empty candy buckets at home. 

There was lots of patriotism shown during the parade too - nothing unusual, just more visible due to the fact that Saturday was the 9th Anniversary of September 11. 

Sunday brought us back to the routine of church again.  Yes, I must admit we took a summer hiatus - our first - and didn't attend many of the outdoor services.  That all changes this week!   JP returned to singing two services on Sunday and the boys and I went off to meet their new Grace Place teachers.  Also this week, the boys' choir rehearsals commence for the 2010-2011 season.  I am happy that they are both in the same choir this year...  it will make Sunday morning craziness a little easier when the concert/singing schedule is in full swing.  Yes, we are back in the saddle again!

The church also started something new with the "blessing of the backpacks" for the kids...  and wow, were there kids at the 10:00 am service!  Each child was given a small key chain cross to put on their backpack to remind them that God is always with them.  It was very cute to see even the littlest ones up in front of the church with squeals of glee at their new treasure!

After service, we ventured outside to enjoy the Welcome Days carnival in the park...  one of the boys' favorite parts of returning to routine.  Games, bouncers, and food - oh my!

Sunday afternoon took Oliver & JP to the golf course for a round of golf, and Mom & Henry went to French Lake Park for some playtime on the ropes.

I finished my weekend with a yin restorative yoga session at the Yoga Center with Ginny.   Despite the woman who seemed to "snore" into each position, it was a great class!  I'm ready for the week ahead now - bring it on!