Grant Mitchell Geisert

Too precious.....
Feel free to send Jaima and Cam good wishes here.

Aunt X3

What wonderful news I received this morning when my sister called to tell me she had given birth to her 3rd child, a son. Grant Mitchell Geisert arrived early -just like his sister- only 37.5 weeks. But, everyone is doing well it sounds from my sister's voice.

I am of course over joyed to hear the wonderful news. But of course, am a bit sad that I can not be there to celebrate in person with her, meet my first nephew, and help out. I've booked tickets to go to Nebraska at the end of the month - I can hardly wait.

I'll post pictures soon!

Weekend Get-a-Way

This weekend took us to Colorado Springs to see some friends for a quick overnight visit. We took the kiddos to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo - what an amazing place! There aren't very many animals, but the view and the landscapes for the animals were amazing! They also had play scapes throughout the zoo that the kids enjoyed.

When we returned from the zoo, the kids enjoyed some time in the sprinkler and finding acorns. This gave us an amazing amount of adult time chilling on the patio. Who knew collecting acorns could be so much fun?

We wrapped up the night with sushi prepared by our guests (yum!) and learning a new card game - "nerds". Then it was back to Denver on Sunday morning to make it back in time for Drake's golf lesson. A quick trip, but a really nice, relaxing time. Thanks Will and Sabrina!

Hakuna Matata!

Last night I was treated to a "show" by Drake at 7:00 in the basement. The feature song was "Hakuna Matata" - which of course means, "no worries". Ha! As I was watching the "show", it occurred to me that I really should take that phrase to heart a bit more. With job uncertainty, thoughts of moving and all the things in "regular life", it is sometimes hard to remember not to worry. Something to keep in mind.

I was also happy to see a bit of Drake's creative side - even if most of it included using the big screen TV as a mirror so he could watch himself dance and sing - and I use those terms loosely - more like jumping and screaming. However, he had a script and followed it and it was fun to hang in the basement and watch him (and enjoy a cocktail) - what's a concert without a beverage?

Sunshine, Water, and Family

A last minute trip was planned to Lake McConaughy to celebrate the 4th of July weekend. I had a "staycation" over Memorial Day weekend and was not going to have another over the 4th of July.

It actually worked out perfectly as the boys and I only had to drive to Ogallala from Pender (6 hours vs. 9 hours ) and Marshall was able to come join us after work on Thursday. And what a GREAT time we had. Time in the water was definitely the theme for the weekend. From the hotel pool and hot tub to the sandy beaches of Lake McConaughy. We packed sand toys, water toys, picnic lunch, and were able to hang out at the same beach spot both days.

We also got some fireworks and enjoyed a mini fireworks show of our own in the country.

What a great family vacation for us. The boys had a great time - and couldn't have loved the Best Western hotel more. When Marshall came, Drake was showing him that we had our own fridge and the shower had a cool soap dispenser. If only life could always be so simple.

Pender Alumni Weekend

Sisters!


Drake hanging out with his cousin Alyssa


Tanner and Anastin giving hugs

We were able to take some much needed time away from work. We spent some time in Pender and enjoyed the Alumni weekend - street dance, games in the park, and the parade were highlights. We also celebrated mom and dad's 40th wedding anniversary. How lucky we Karlen women have been to have such wonderful and loving parents. And obviously, it was extra special this year after the way the year started out.

The boys and I enjoyed some extra time in Pender swimming, going to coffee with "Pop", Drake camping in the motor home with "Nana", and experiencing fireworks first hand. What is the 4th of July without fireworks?