Keating's Forest: Back to Maverick

Today we decided to head to the crazy town of Canistota and visit the Keatings and their new forest! They planted 30-some-odd number of trees around their yard. We were greeted by their dog Jasper. Maverick loved him although Jasper didn't have much interest in him. He almost got knocked over by Jasper's tail. It made him giggle! Meeting Jasper.
Maverick enjoyed sitting in his own chair by the kitchen island. He felt like a big boy.

Maverick and Jasper playing in the field. We hoped Jasper wouldn't find a snake. He's found 4 in the past couple of days.

For about 5 minutes, Maverick just giggled and giggled. We have no idea what was SO funny, but he just laughed!

I hope everyone is getting their Maverick fix! I know there haven't been pictures of him in a couple of weeks.

Still giggling!

Taking Jeromie's new Honda for a test run!
I thought this was a great picture of man and dog. It reminds me of the farmer boy picture "You been farmin' long?" Jeromie just loves his new hunting dog!

Vegas Rocked!!

So, we just returned from an awesome weekend in Vegas with Jesse's brother Seth, his wife Kari, Jesse's sister Ahna, and her boyfriend Nick. We were celebrating Ahna's 21st birthday! We had such a great time; I can't even begin to describe it. I never thought I would want to go back to Vegas after my first time, but I was proven wrong; there is just no other city in the world like Vegas. Everything is just done over the top. The buildings are huge, the shows are amazing, 4 hours of sleep or less per night, the Bellagio fountains...need I say more?
Here's the crew by the fountain outside of Paris. We were enjoying the 100 degree weather. 100 degrees in Vegas is nothing like at home. I didn't miss the humidity.

I couldn't resist putting in this picture of Ahna and Nick. What a cute couple! It's hard to believe Ahna is finally an adult in every sense! What happened to the little girl who spilled blue paint all over her white carpet? It's ok, I like her more now!

After the buffet at the Mirage, we had to take a step outside before "The Beatles, LOVE" performance. We were so full. If you ever hit Vegas, go to this buffet. It was amazing and affordable. The Dutch would approve!

We think that we are just as good or even better performers than that in the actual show; however, med school and parenting will have to come first. We truly apologize. Maybe another time. Our moves are like no other.

After walking, walking, and yes, more walking, we decided to take a rest in the Venetian. Our feet deserved it. Plus, we were thirsty. We really enjoyed the time to just relax and visit.

In the mornings, we enjoyed being poolside! We stayed at a beautiful resort called the Grandview of Las Vegas (thanks to Greg's timeshare)! It was 80 degrees by 8 AM. It was awesome. Plus, we had 3 pools and 2 hot tubs at our disposal. We would then go back to our room, have a colossal sandwich made by Ahna, then take the shuttle to the strip. We still are confused about the case of the missing sandwich. Wasn't me...

Good 'ol public transportation. Vegas actually has a great bus system. We maneuvered it quite easily. It was clean and pretty quick for the most part. Plus, it saved us many a mile on the strip. Our feet thank you, Deuce (the bus that drives the strip.) Although I was super excited to see Maverick when we returned, I was very sad the trip was over. We looked so forward to it. In the background my themesong echoed, "I hate when things are over..." Thanks for an awesome trip you guys. Happy Birthday Ahna. Love you lots.

Great Mother's Day - Scavenger Hunt Anyone?

All I have to say is that I have the most wonderful husband in the world! He made my Mother's Day very special. He combined my love for scavenger hunts with the love of Maverick. The clues and pictures are so creative, that I just have to share. The hunt led us all around town on our bikes to our favorite places. In the end, I was rewarded greatly with a beautiful mother's day gift...

First clue: Swinging and sliding and playing for hours

You must use your muscles to get all the power

To fly in the trees and over the flowers

I'm so glad this place is next to ours!

This clue led me to our neighbors house where I found clue 2 taped under the slide.

Clue 2: You wish you could climb me so big and tall

It would be a tragedy if you fall

Baths and sinks, I fill them all

If you need a drink, give me a call

This clue tricked me. I knew it was the water tower, but there are two in Vermillion. Luckily Jesse had me look closer at the picture, and I saw it was the old tower. So off we went.

Clue 3: Flying frisbees in the air do battle in flight

By the old green building that is on site

God won't be found with his shining light

But if you look hard, your may find a caramel delight!!

This took me to the Girl Scout building at the park. Clue 4: Listen to the fountain of old

Smell the flowers of fragrance so bold

Romeo and Juliet may love to meet

At this place we love to eat

Of course, Shakespeare's Garden on campus!

Final letter: Your treasure has been with your all this day

It's not a little box or gift of amaze

It's the fact that Maverick and I love you in every way

So look in Maverick's coat to have a Happy Mother's Day!!

In his pocket I found a beautiful white pearl ring. I had been looking at them for awhile and was very surprised! Thanks for an awesome day!

Yesterday we ventured to Orange City to check out the tulips since we won't be there next week. We'll be in Vegas! We had a fun day and Maverick was tuckered out.

Playing on the merry-go-round!

Snoozing on the way home.