Ashley's Day

Saturday belonged to our granddaughter, Ashley.  We gathered at Seven Mile Park to celebrate her graduation from college (with a degree in teaching, no less) and her 30th birthday.  It was a cool day that was filled with warmth from friends and family who came to wish her well.

"Okay, I'm ready says Lyric (on the right), Let's get this over with!"

"How's this pose?" says Brian.

 

"Is this better?

 

"How about this look?"

Ashley and Jonah with Brian and Lyric; a beautiful family!

The last few years have not always been easy for these two, but they are a good team.

"Wait a minute, Lyric, Grandpa wants a picture with all of us."

"Don't worry about me, Opa, I own these rocks!"

"Finally, food!"

An old friend from childhood stopped by.  It was fun to listen to the friends talk about "feeling comfortable with myself".

Cousin Kaci was there with Amariah.

Aiden and his mom, Sara, came to wish her well.  Aiden seems to be saying, "Look Opa, no feet!"

Megan and Lyric enjoyed the day with all the rest of us.

 

Congratulations, Ashley!

Six Weeks of This and That

Today marks six weeks since my total knee replacement surgery.  My doctor has released me; said I was ahead of the game and didn't need to bother coming back unless I had problems.  AND today I rode my bike for two miles - not a long ways, but it sure felt good to be back "on the road".  It seems like much of the last six weeks has been filled with trips to Mankato for physical therapy.  Now that is behind me so what did I do today, take a trip to Mankato for shopping - six stores later, I was ready for home.... retail therapy....

We have enjoyed lots of other events - here's a few.

Once again, Mike drove one of the boats that took kids and Viking Rookies on Lake Jefferson for a day of fishing.  Corky and I helped out behind the grill.

All who participated, enjoyed the day AND they caught fish!

Gary loaned Mike his boat for a few weeks and this little bird built a nest on the trailer; she was a dedicated mom but unfortunately none of her babies lived very long - some animal got them.

Suz came down for the July 4th festivities and The Lyons and Corky joined us.

Mike marched in the parade; still a handsome man in uniform!

We went to the Fischer Family Reunion out at Cheryl and Dick's place.  It was a small group, but a beautiful setting and a fun day with great food.

It is always good to spend time with Uncle Cal - my dad's brother.

Cousin Kathy was lookin' good!

Uncle Harold is 92 and has a girlfriend that cooks for him a couple of nights a week - what a guy!

Elaine's daughter is growing up quickly... guess we are all getting older.

With a small group, there was time to enjoy individual conversations.

Julie, my niece, and I were the only representatives from the Ed Fischer Family - what a joy to spend a day with this great lady!

Uncle Cal wanted a picture with his nieces and nephews - lots missing, but those of us there were happy to pose.

A couple of weeks later, it was time for the Friesen Family Reunion.  Just the first cousins gather every year and this year it was our family's time to host.  Rich and I decided that it would be fun to celebrate our German Heritage with a meal of authentic German cuisine.  The four of us spent an enjoyable Saturday afternoon tasting all kinds of food at the Glockenspiel in St. Paul.  After sampling and nibbling for three hours, we placed a "to go" order.  Jim picked it up last Sunday and everyone seemed to enjoy our selections.  Many of those present had never tasted some of the foods we served.

I made homemade rye bread from Aunt Loretta's recipe and some homemade pretzel bites but it was Anita who was the star of the day - She made Black Forest Cake, Apple Strudel, and several kinds of cookies that were from authentic old German recipes.  We all enjoyed the feast and the fellowship.

We have also been enjoying our Thursday night outings with friends ... Come to think of it, recuperating really hasn't kept us from much. 

LIFE IS GOOD!