Sam's 4th Birthday

Sam had his fourth birthday this year.  Grandpa and Papa were both busy working but Grandma and Nana were able to come over.  Several of his aunts, uncles and cousins came over for the afternoon as well.  Click here to see more photos.

10 Years Later

In 2000 I successfully pulled off the ultimate surprise 30th birthday party for my wife Kristi.  She and I arrived at The Local in downtown Minneapolis to meet a friend for a drink.  As we sat in the back of the bar/lounge with our friend having a pint, all of our family and friends gathered in the front of the bar in a section I had reserved.  When Kristi thought it was time to leave to go to dinner at another location, we walked to the front of the bar and out through the section I had reserved.  As Kristi walked into the middle of the section, she realized the room was filled with everyone she knew.  It was a perfect moment.

I attempted to recreate this event again at The Local for her 10th annual 30th birthday and although it was a long shot, it went very well in spite of the surprise factor not working quit as well this time.  Photos here.

Young Frankenstein

Our family came down to Minneapolis to go out to dinner at Buca de Beppo and then to see the play Young Frankenstein at the Orpheum.  Photos here.

Cousin Joe's BDay

Sam was invited to celebrate his cousin Joe Hemberger's birthday.  Photo's here.

Minnesota Sledding

We took the kids sledding over the weekend.  Everyone had a great time except for me - I broke my hand and knuckle.  Photo's here.

NC to MN

We let the kids open their gifts from us before we loaded up the van to drive back to Minnesota.  The drive was as good as you can hope for but trekking 1,478.6 miles in a van with 3 kids, 1 dog, 1 cat and 2 adults = scent of a zoo!  Photos here.

Oceanaire

Tom was in town and took us out for dinner at the Oceanaire to celebrate Josie's birthday.  Photos here.