Q. What is 5 years?

A. The amount of time it takes to build your own deck when raising a child (we started before Michael). Seriously, the deck isn finally F-I-N-I-S-H-E-D! Here is Michael helping to "paint" the deck.

Michael is really interested in helping lately (if only with the things he chooses). He and I made banana bread yesterday. Actually, I think he really did most of it. I measured everything and put it in the pan. It was very yummy, and Michael was very proud!

We went to Jacob's 5th birthday party a couple of weeks ago. Just as the party started (meant to be outside), it started pouring! Needless to say, the party went inside. Here is Jacob openning the wet/dry hand vac that Michael chose for him. He really loved it!

We also got to spend some quality time with our new niece, Sophia. She seems to be adjusting quite well to her new life half way around the world. There is a picture of Pete's sister Barb with her lovely little lady below.

Also that weekend, Michael's good friend Ian came over and spent the evening while his parents had a much deserved night out. The boys enjoyed dressing in Michael's super hero costumes and having and epic battle. We are still not sure why two good guys were battling......

Waiting

Wow, it has been a long time since my last entry. We have kept very busy this summer (as usual). It does help distract from the fact that the adoption agency is now reporting that it could take families up to 12 months from completing the dossier to receiving a referral. I am still hopeful that it won't take that long.

In August, we attended my 20 year class reunion. The reunion committee did an excellent job of planning. The weekend started Friday with a meet & greet at the school (North Community High School in North Minneapolis for those who don't know. No, it shouldn't be blown up.) Saturday morning/afternoon we kept busy attending a BBQ held at Lake Harriett. It was fun to see every one's families.

Saturday evening was the banquet. It included the wonderful singing of Thomasina Petrus, who coaxed Efrem to join in, coronation of new class royalty, a DJ (and dancing), and a remembrance of those we have lost.

On Sunday, many Polars attended church services at Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis, where classmate Efrem Smith is the pastor. This is Efrem with his wife, Donecia (I think she is a Henry grad, but we won't hold that against her). I believe it is safe to assume that a fun time was had by all. It was definitely fun to see everyone again!

Over the holiday weekend, we took a long overdue trip to the Minnesota Zoo. Michael has always loved the zoo, and this day was no different. We started the day early, and met up with Michael's friend Ian (and Jeff and Jeannine, Ian's parents). The new exhibit was great. I think the highlight for the boys may have been the added water play area (*note to self--bring swimwear, towel next time).

And now, it is getting late. I have to go get Michael ready to (hopefully) sleep like a bear......