Maci Turns 11 - Slumber Party Fun!

Weekdays:

• Monday - Maci came home with a sore throat so Clint ran her to the Dr and sure enough, strep throat.  As a result, she didn't go to training at night and got on antibiotics right away.  As long as she was on them for 12 hours and fever free she could go to school and that is a huge deal as a 5th grader for your birthday!  While she rested, I had 2 phone interviews for summer nanny options.  Both were great!

Bday Money from Nanny & Grandpa

• Tuesday - Happy 11th Birthday to our Maci!  She woke up feeling way better!  Clint even went in to have lunch with her and they dined on Subway.  At night, Clint had a Wild hockey game with buddies so I did Olive Garden carry out for Maci/Connor and me.  I then did 2 more summer nanny interviews to wrap the evening.

All ready in some new clothes from H&M

2 of my fav peoples enjoying lunch together

"What are you looking at?!"

• Wednesday - I worked from home Wed-Fri due to super busy week with compensation needs and deadlines.  Connor had Faith Formation in the evening, I did a video chat with my high school girlfriends and Maci had a 8p soccer practice.
• Thursday - Maci had her 11 year well check which meant 3 shots but she did great.  She is 54% for weight and 71% for height.  All went well other than her one eye struggled a little during the eye test so we will be scheduling a visit with the eye Dr soon.  Maci then went to her training and game face conditioning in the evening.  

Friday: 

• Busy day of compensation last minute needs.
• Maci and I met her pal Natalie and Natalie's mom, my friend, Jacey at Applebee's for dinner at 6p
• Jacey and I started to plan the Bahamas while Natalie and Maci caught up.
• I then took Natalie to our house for the sleepover while Jacey went home.
• Around 830p, Maci's school friends made it over as they all had a dance showcase - Harper, Kate and Livi.
• The girls did girlie things like skin care/makeup, watched movies and played Dance Dance Revolution.  I watched Law & Order in my room.
• Connor and Clint were gone for a portion of it due to Connor's b-ball practice from 7-8p.

Applebee's Fun - Maci & Natalie

Birthday Singing

Kate & Maci

Livi & Maci 

Natalie & Maci

Harper & Maci

Saturday:

• The girls got picked up at 930a
• Connor had a b-ball game at 10a - just Clint and Connor went
• Maci had a soccer game out in St Paul so she and I went to that
• Connor's game went really well with lots of steals, breakaways and jumpers.  Maci's game was meh - the girls looked tired and slow, they lost by 2.  Maci had to play the first half of the 2nd half in goal and she had a great save.  Then when she got back on the field, she woke up quite a bit and looked way better.
• We then all met up as a family at Dragons Love Taco the Musical at the Stages Theatre in Hopkins.  The kids loved it and we thought it was cute but both rested our eyes, darn busy weekends HA.  We had a late lunch at Pub 819 followed by a quick nap at home.  Then around 530p a summer nanny option Grace came over to watch the kids for a bit - she was great!  We headed out for 1 hour to the local bar so the kids could have some alone time. We then chilled the rest of the night.

Sunday:

• Maci had soccer practice at 10a today.
• I did errands around the house and then at 1130a she came home and another summer nanny option came over.
• This time we took a walk to give them time alone.
• The kids loved both but we went with Grace b/c she has experience as a summer nanny.  I gave her a call and we are all squared away!
• We got lots of our weekend to dos completed and then watched football while doing odds and ends here and there.  We are super disappointed in both Super Bowl Teams - we wanted the Ravens and Lions UGH! Oh well, always next year for our teams :)

Hope you are enjoying the mild winter temps!

Lots of Love,

C, K, M & C

Basketball Fun, Rosie 3rd Birthday & Early Maci Birthday Celebrations!

Weekdays:

• Monday - We all had the day off for MLK Jr.  Our whole crew slept in after a late evening thanks to the Timberwolves game.  We had such a great time!!  Connor and his buddies were so excited to get on the court.  Connor did a great job as a point guard and was one of only two kiddos that scored a basket!  We then cheered the Wolves to a big W over LA Clippers! Dang that team is good and such a fun game!  We were pretty cozy on Monday b/c it was so dang cold.  We watched some football and got things done around the house.  Maci did her soccer training and conditioning in the evening.

Timberwolves Fun - Sunday Night

Warm Ups

Ant Man

Harden from Clippers

Big KAT & Clippers Chatting

Boys Playing

Such a fun group!

Game Watching

MLK Jr Day Fun

Livi came over and watched the Barbie Movie

• Tuesday - Work got busy for me with the year end compensation planning.  Thankfully Clint was able to run the kids to their 6 month dental cleaning check ups and no cavities!!  We had no plans that evening which was nice due to a busy day and cold temps.
• Wednesday - I worked from home b/c I had a dentist apt at 12p.  In addition, we were having our laundry/mudroom/coat closet re-done by CA Closets and I wanted to see the progress.  We are super happy with it and Maci/I put everything back together after dinner while Clint/Connor headed to religion class.  Maci then had a 8p soccer practice that I worked from.
• Thursday - Happy 3rd birthday to our pooch, Rosie!  Such a pretty girl.  Shortly after getting to work I got the text that my grandfather passed away.  The last of my grandparents :(  While we expected it and I am happy he is out of pain, never a great text to get.  I muddled my way through work and then Connor had b-ball practice with Clint at 6p while Maci and I did soccer training at 630p.  After soccer, Maci and I headed to Hy-Vee to get her cookie cake and candles for the party the next night.

Happy 3rd Birthday Rosie

Friday:

• Instead of bagels, I slept in a bit and Clint did a work out.
• Clint did his massage at 11a 
• Another busy day of work for both of us but before we knew it 4p had arrived and it was time to head to Maci's birthday party at the soccer complex.
• I got to clean email and get stuff done from 430-600p b/c the girls were doing soccer training, dodge ball, races etc.  Then Clint brought the pizzas right around 6p and the girls ate, sang happy birthday, ate cookie cake and opened presents.  It was a great party and super easy for me!  Maci had smiles the rest of the night.

Connor & Anna working in Class

Present Opening from Mom/Dad/Connor & God Mommy Christie

Party Time

Love this group of gals!

Saturday:

• I did a massage at 8a
• Connor and Clint did Connor's 1st reconciliation retreat for 90 mins and then he got his 1st reconciliation - we weren't super clear that it was happening right then and there :)
• I ran Maci to Gymnastics at 10a, showered and then picked her up at 1130a
• I rested for a bit and then we were off to Connor's 1p basketball game.  They played another Greenwood team so he played his buddies.  Connor was on fire and easily had 10+ layups.  A great W by our boys.
• We grabbed some chick fil a for a late lunch and then headed home for Maci and I to start shopping for her birthday.
• We went to Target first where she spent 2 gift cards and treated me to Starbucks with her Starbucks GC.
• From there we were off to Ridgedale Mall.  She loved Lululemon (thanks Christie for gift card), Sephora, Athleta, Claires (thanks Mom for gift card), H&M and American Eagle.  While we were wrapping at our last store, American Eagle, Clint and Connor arrived in time for dinner at Kona Grill - Maci's choice.  While we had shopped, Connor skated for hours with buddies.
• Once home, we video called Grandma and Maci did a fashion show for her.  After we wrapped, I was super tired and crashed while the kids watched some TV/Football

Coaches Crafting Game Plans

Connor's Gym Rat Fans

Dinner & Drinks

Sunday:

• The whole crew slept in!  Maci had soccer practice at 10a.
• Clint ran her there and then got us some McDonald's breakfast on the way home.
• Clint then went with some neighbors up to a Bourbon raffle at Hy-Vee.
• I picked up Maci, helped Connor with homework, cleaned the house, caught up on work etc.
• Maci made Christie's mom's cookie recipe and did a lego toy.
• Connor skated all afternoon with buddies again.
• Clint enjoyed bourbon and football.
• I got a lot done and am preparing for another busy week ahead

Cookie Baking

We hope you are all making your way through the cold days of winter!

Lots of Love,

C, K, M & C

Cold Temps Finally Arrived, Hoop Dreams and 'Phins Playoff Hopes Crushed!

Weekdays:

• Monday - 1st full week back to school and work of '24!  Monday was a normal day and Maci had her training and game face in the evening.  I went and worked from the complex for a part of it and caught up with Violet's mom Kim.  On the way home, Maci told me she didnt like this game face trainer as much b/c he was intense.  HA they are growing up from the sweet coaches!
• Tuesday - Work has been pretty busy to start '24 for me but that is typical for January and Q1.  I worked at my home desk after getting back from the office and took a break for a monthly video chat with my gal pal Christie!
• Wednesday - I had my first session with my new mentor/coach at work and she is great!  In the evening, Connor had basketball practice at 7p with Clint.  Maci had soccer practice but not until 8p.  Things are still pretty busy so instead of walking the turf, I worked from the lobby.
• Thursday - Maci had another training session at 630p so I took her and worked from there again while chatting with Kim :)

Maci made this for me and she continues to blow us away!

We also got an email Thank You from her teacher sent to Maci, Clint and Me

Look at this excerpt 💓 We couldn't describe her better ourselves!!

Maci, I've really enjoyed having you in class this year. Our class wouldn't be the same without you. Your eagerness to learn and bubbly personality matched with kindness are the two things that stand out most to me. Two amazing skills to have and ones that will set you up for success throughout life. I hope you never lose that love of learning and I appreciate the work ethic you put into that love of learning. You want to make sure you understand it and won't rest until it makes sense to you. You're not afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself and that will pay off big time as you continue to get older. Can't wait to see where your future leads you. Go out and make the world a better place just by being yourself.  (Mr. Moody)

Friday :

• Started the day with a bagel run with Clint.
• I listened to our Q4 earnings release call on the drive home then dove right into meetings
• It was a super productive but crazy busy Friday 
• I had a great connection with a friend's wife, Karen about a potential board seat for me with a non-profit focused on those with disabilities getting into the workforce - very cool!
• I wrapped some necessary work, ate pizza with the fam and then we were off to the high school for the Wayzata boys basketball game.
• It was youth night so Connor got in free with his jersey and after the game the players gave autographs.  The Wayzata team is the defending state champs and crushed Buffalo by about 30.  Connor loved the dunk by the center and some of the guarding by #2.  Connor told multiple players they were his fav player during the signing :)

Saw our buddy Anders

This kid was in awe!

Saturday :

• Boys got their hair cut at 920a
• I ran Maci to gymnastics at 10a
• We all picked up Maci at 1130a and dropped her back at home alone while we went on to Connor's 12p b-ball game.
• Connor had an awesome game, per usual - he is so fun to watch!  Lots of break away layups, his signature move :)
• Maci got picked up by the Kuhn's for her 1p soccer practice as we would have been late to get her there.
• She got dropped back off at 2p, so nice of them.  While she was gone, Clint and I emptied out the mud room/laundry room in prep for our CA closet install on Wed - YAY!
• We got lots done around the house while having the Browns game on - wahoo a loss!
• Connor got picked up a little before 5p for a coding party through the school with some buddies.
• Maci's pal from soccer, Charley got dropped off to spend the night.
• Clint sadly watched his 'Phins hopes and dreams fall apart.
• I decided to be more productive and cleaned out all of our master bathroom drawers which was so satisfying and now it is not driving me crazy!
• I ran back out in the cold at 8p to pick up Connor from the coding party and bring our neighbor Oliver home - they were our carpool pals.
• After the sad end to the game, Clint and I crashed - busy day!

Sunday :

• We ordered donuts to start the day.
• Maci and Charley ate and before we knew it, they were off with Clint to soccer practice at 10a.
• Meanwhile, I pulled myself together and quickly got Connor and his gift in the car for a birthday party for his buddy Colton.  I hauled his buddy in the neighborhood Anders along with Connor.  They got all settled at Sky Zone and I was off.
• Clint picked Maci up at the end of practice while I got all the laundry finalized, groceries ordered etc. They got home and my crazy cleaning decided to take on the kitchen pantry.  This also made me feel so happy and it is in a much better state!
• Lots of errands around the house, kids sledding and Clint watching sports - love a good quiet winter Sunday.
• We are now getting ready for the Timberwolves game with Connor's team.  They get to go on the court and play a game about an hour before tip off.  We are bringing his Towns jersey in case they run into the players and have an opportunity for autographs.  We will be sure to update this post with all the awesome pics.  So exciting!

Barely any snow but they are making it work

We hope you are enjoying the launch of 2024!

Lots of Love,

C, K, M & C

Welcome 2024, Clint heads up North & Kids have Sports!

Weekdays:

• Monday - Happy New Year!!!  We had a fairly lazy day around the house which was nice.  We tried to get to bed early since we were back to work Tuesday but that didnt quite go as planned - it is hard getting back in the routine.  We did get a few walks in though which felt great!
• Tuesday - Clint and I were back to work but the kids had one last day off of school.  Clint thankfully dealt with them as he works from home but I got back out and around people :) It was actually a pretty quiet first work day of the year for both of us (many still out) which was nice!  Maci had a soccer training along with a strength and conditioning class - a new thing her club and she is starting this new year.  Clint got her up there at 5p and I went there and watched a bit at the end before her 7p pick up.
• Wednesday - Good work days for both of us and a nice first day back at school for the kids!  We thankfully had no evening plans so we took a walk and then laid around with early bed times - everyone is so tired!

Enjoy!

I dont purchase all these sports pics so I take screenshots with copyright logos HA

• Thursday - Another good day of the new year, I had a catch up lunch with my former co-worker KK which was nice.  We divided and conquered in the evening with Clint and Connor heading to basketball at 6p and Maci and I were off to another soccer training at 630p.  This time I decided to work from her practice for the 1 hour.

Friday : 

• Clint and I started the day with a bagel run after the kids were on the bus.
• We were both having productive days and I decided I don't want to sit in the basement guest bedroom any longer when I work from home, too dark and isolated.  So while Clint was on calls, I moved all my stuff up into the loft area on the 2nd floor.  Maci and I both really like it - Clint and Connor are getting use to it.  I am able to get way more done both work and personal by having my computer and items within reach of where we all hang out the majority of the time.
• Mid day we also found out that Maci's soccer team is going to St Louis for their out of state tournament at the end of April.  This will be a special trip for Maci and I as Clint/Connor will remain home and given it is about a 8+ hour drive, we are going to fly!
• Kids got home off the bus and shortly thereafter Clint was on the road to Joel's cabin up north.
• Maci then road her bike over to her friend's house and Connor played with Oliver outside.  
• Come dinner, everyone came home and we ordered Noodles and Co for dinner.  Thankfully Clint also made it to Joel's safely.

Saturday :

• Clint had a fun day doing ice festival stuff up at Joel's cabin - seeing some hockey, watching football at the bars etc.
• Back at home, I ran Connor and Maci to Connor's 8a basketball game.  We video called my mom and she got to see Connor in action.  He wrapped the game with 3 steals and 3 lay ups.  Many parents said "well it seems this one has found his sport" We sure do love our Connor man!
• I then ran to HyVee with the kids for a requested "Starbucks run."  They crack me up b/c they are like mini adults at times.  We grabbed our Starbucks (non coffee for them) and then picked up some donuts from the bakery.
• We hustled home b/c Maci needed to change into Gymnastics gear and then get off to her 10a lesson.
• Connor and I came home, got some things done around here and before we knew it, it was time to go get her again at 1130a.
• We picked up some McDonalds for lunch on the way home.
• Once again, did stuff around the house but again before we knew it, time to run Maci to her 1p soccer practice.  Connor said on the way there - "I feel like all we have done is drive here and there - ummm welcome to my weekend bro!"
• We picked Maci up at 2p and we were finally DONE!
• Maci saw her buddies Livi and Harper on the way home and they made plans to meet up post Maci's shower at 245p.
• Connor played his NBA video game and I got a lot done around the house.
• Maci came home around 5p and we had dinner.  I was exhausted and went to lay in bed around 8p and the kids were all cozy in there rooms too!

These Two HAHA

These dogs have a new fav place to hang

By my desk in the loft

Doesnt hurt that Clint was out of town

Cutest Little Journal Entry from Connor for Clint

The early 8a Basketball game started to catch up to this one by Soccer Practice pick up

Sunday :

• We all slept in until around 830a.
• Clint was on his journey home around 930a and got here at noon.
• I got all my laundry done and other weekend to dos including putting away groceries.
• Connor got an offer to go to Chuck's house to play today after lunch.  This also got him out of going to Maci's soccer game.
• At 215p we had her game vs CC United.  Our girls looked GOOD!  We won a hard fought battle with only 2 subs in a 2-0 victory!  Maci had some beautiful touches/passes.  She had to play 1/2 of the 2nd half in goal and had several saves plus some nice punts!  We held our breathe and were happy when her turn was over :)
• We did a quick errand run, came home to keep hitting the to do list and then Clint ran to pick up Connor.
• We just finished some Olive Garden for our dinner.  Connor is taking his bath, Maci is chilling in jammies "exhausted" and Clint is yelling at the Dolphins on TV.  I was glad to see the Bengals end out with a good W and a winning record - so close to making the dance - there is always next year.

We hope you are finding fun things to do in this post holiday winter as football starts to wrap up too!

Lots of Love,

C, K, M & C