Future Rock Stars - Alex and Graham!

We have returned home after celebrating Christmas in Cedar Rapids at Ken's for the last 2 days. I was going to start taking the tree down, but the dogs and I decided it could wait until tomorrow or Monday as it is nice to sit with the lights on and relax. Norah has her legs up in the air sleeping on her blanket in the chair - she hasn't moved since we got home. I guess she had a great Christmas too! The kids are downstairs messing with their new Christmas items, and Wayne is hanging Elyse's new flatscreen TV in her bedroom. I think I can speak for all of us in the Kerian home that it was a wonderful Christmas- even with the crappy weather. While I have many pictures I could, and will, post to share from both the Nadermann and Kerian Christmas, I couldn't help post this great video of Alex and Graham singing. Graham got a new guitar for his 2nd birthday 2 weeks ago and then Alex gave him a drum for Christmas. Alex and Graham sat in the back bedroom for a long time "jamming out" as it appears Graham LOVES to sing! Graham walked around with his guitar singing for at least an hour - Ken told Sara she needed to get Graham some tools. :) Anyway, I used my new "Flip Camera" to video tape and load it on the computer - thanks Wayne - love it and highly suggest purchasing a Flip Camera for quick video usage or for teenagers! Fun little gadget that I will utilize a lot both at home and school. Anyway, enjoy Graham and Alex singing part of "Elmo's Song" and "The ABC's".

Happy Birthday Wayne!

What better way to spend a "snow day" than reading books, listening to Christmas music, shopping on line, and blogging? Yes, we have a snow day today - nasty winds and LOTS of snow in Cresco (all over Iowa it sounds like). I wouldn't be surprised if we don't have school tomorrow either. Elyse is thanking God right now for the snow as she was to get her braces put on early tomorrow morning in Waterloo, but we have had to reschedule due to the weather. Lucky her! With two basketball games left in 8th grade, she was glad to wait until the games were over to get her braces on any way. She doesn't think about all the AAU games/tourneys she has in January through March, but we'll make her feel good today.

Wayne celebrated a birthday last week so Happy Birthday again to Wayne! We celebrated his birthday by a Christmas dinner hosted by the firemen the night before (which was very nice), Elyse's choir concert the night of, and being his birthday was on Thursday (his "Man Day") he played cards with the guys to the wee hours of the night. Simple for me, being I didn't have to plan anything, but I think he had a great bday! We did go out with some friends, the Lentzs, Saturday night, which was also fun - and we were home by 12:30 compared to the other nights with Chris and Brenda and it's 3:00 a.m.

I put a picture of Wayne and I with a bartending in Jamaica at the resort we stayed at last February. His name was Courtney and he was awesome. Wayne tipped him well the first night, and from then on, we never had an empty glass nor had to ask for something when he was around. It was a great time! Brings back great memories! Thanks for creating so many memories with me Wayne, for being a great father, and Happy Birthday! Love you!

Thankful for So Many Things

I think I speak for my whole family when I say it was nice to have a big homecooked meal on Thanksgiving - as we haven't had a stove for over a week. Yes, a week! I am not one who enjoys cooking, but I do realize now how much I miss having a stove. So it was nice to see everyone on Thanskgiving as well as enjoy so much yummy food! Our new stove and microwave is suppose to be here Tuesday. . . the grout is done in the kitchen . . .they are coming to make a final measurement on the new island and prepare for the counter top on Wednesday night. . . .can't wait until it is done. We have decided to wait to do the living room floor (hardwood or new carpet?) after Christmas so that we can enjoy the holiday season without so much of a mess.

Amid all of this, the kids decided they wanted to move bedrooms. I don't know if I am ready for it, but Elyse is moving downstairs, Alex is moving into her room, and the extra guest room will move into Alex's old room. All of this involves repainting each room before the kids move in, new bedding, etc. We just repainted one of the downstairs rooms so Elyse will be moving down this week. Next weekend we will repaint Elyse's old room in preparation for Alex's move. Why not???? We have nothing else to do!??!!!??!! :)

The pictures I have posted are from last weekend of the kids with Derek and Sara before going to the Broadway show of "Grease". They had a wonderful time, and Elyse wants to download all the songs from the show to her iPod. Again, thanks Sara and Derek as they had a really great time! And as always, thinking of Buzz every where we go.

Elyse's basketball team continues to be undefeated. The season has just flown by as they only have two or three games left. Then comes all the weekend tourneys with her AAU team. Alex has his first AAU tournament next weekend, Dec 5th, which we are also excited about. He has been practicing hard with his team and a family friend, Kyle McCarville. It's fun to think about how much they have both improved since their first AAU games in 3rd or 4th grade. . . .they have come a long way . . . .It is so much fun to watch them. . . .and Elyse said that I have quieted down a little as well as far as "cheering goes". :)

The night before Thanksgiving we spent some time with Wayne's family visiting Wayne's grandmother, Lucy, for her 95th birthday. Yes, 95! It was nice to see her and spend some time with her as well. Sadly, it was a night we will cherish as she past away last night, Saturday night. She lived a great life and will be missed. I am so glad that we had a great night all together as a family before she past away. Kind of makes me think that in some magical way, that night was meant to be together. Makes her leaving us a little more peaceful in a way, I guess. We will miss you Grandma Lucy! We are thankful for having you in our lives. Some how you always made me giggle, and I will miss that!

Vikings vs. Seahawks - One Part of Great Weekend!

We just returned from a great weekend that was very much needed after a week of "grout removal hell". Wayne, myself, Elyse and Alex went to Minneapolis for the weekend to enjoy many activities, one of which was the Vikings game today! The Vikings looked incredible, we had great seats, and it was a fun time for us together. Luckily, our seats were on the side of the end zone where the Vikings scored every touchdown (except maybe the last one by Jackson as we left by then). I have included a slide show of our pictures from the game - Elyse and I randomnly snapped pictures when the Viking's "Main Men" came near our end (Farvre, Peterson, Rice and Harvin of course). We also made sure to take a picture holding up a "Beat it Buzz" sign, (post below if unsure what this is about) and I have already sent it to my friend in charge of his "http://beatitbuzz.blogspot.com" blog page to show we are always thinking of him! Fun day cheering on the Vikes! My weekend was complete because I got 'carded' today at the Vikes game and no one else around me did as the vendor guy was selling beer in our section. I was so excited, and Wayne just shook his head as he knew it would make my day. The guy looked at my ID and said, "Wow. I would have never guessed you were that old." I'm not sure how I should take "that old" but I am going to take it as a compliment. :) My weekend was complete. hehehe. Wayne was way excited last night because as we were having drinks at Cosmos at our hotel, some past fooball player with the last name of Allen, I should know but can't remember, sat down by us and had some drinks. I didn't believe Wayne at first that it was this ex-Viking, but I was wrong. Ihen as we were leaving the stadium today, ex-Viking Randall (again, I can't remember his first name either) walked along between Elyse and Alex. I told Elyse to "bump" into him, but she looked at me like I was so uncool - which is the look I get often from her. hehe Anyway, that was pretty cool too.

The kids had a SUPER time staying with Sara, Derek, and Graham over the weekend also while Wayne and I did a little shopping and stayed at our favorite hotel in Minneapolis - Graves 601. The four of them went out for a nice diner then to see the Broadway show of "Grease" and according to the kids, it was "incredible and better than Mama Mia"", which they both loved! I can hear Elyse downloading songs from "Grease" right now to her phone as ringtones as I type. They loved it so much and had a great time with Sara and Derek! Thanks so much you guys!!! Elyse is so hooked! Once Sara sends me the pictures from that (hint hint Sara - just kidding) I will post those as well! Even Vinnie and Norah enjoyed spending the night at the Johnsons - and all slept hard on the way home today! That's a good sign! So. . .look for my next post to be pictures of their fun night and updates on Elyse's basketball games. Thanks Sara and Derek for creating more special memories with Elyse and Alex (and the dogs too, of course).

Heroes, Birthdays, and Special People

This week's post is all about the things we want to say but don't say enough, happy birthday wishes, and pulling together in times of need.

I think all of you share in my pride about my brother, Ken. Well last week with Veteran's day I wanted to get a post up of his Army "family" and let them know how much we all appreciate what they have done, some still doing, for our country. Just a little thank you (something I need to say more often). I dug through my pictures and found a picture of Ken and some of his Army buddies at a recent Army vs. Navy party. Now if you know Ken, he doesn't like Sara and I taking pictures of him, so I am sure he will be emailing me with a comment about putting his picture on my blog. Too bad Ken. I, along with many others, are so proud of you, and I want to thank you for being you, teaching my children about the priorities in life in your subtle ways yet helping them realize to dream big and go for those dreams, being the role model for all of us, excusing my "loans" from "Ken's bank" while I was in college, and opening the world to Sara and I by showing us what it was like to leave our safe home outside Colesburg and explore the world! And in connection to Veteran's day - thank you for serving our country! We love you lots! Thanks to the "Frogs" for also "adopting" Wayne into your troop. . . .maybe that should concern me a little. . .just kidding. He loves it!

Wayne's brother, Kevin, was also in the service so thank you also Kevin! I'd write more about you during that time Kevin, . . but that was before my time with Wayne. But we want to thank you too Kevin for serving our country! We love you too!

Next, happy birthday to Sara and Derek! I tried to find the oldest picture I had of both of you together , but I had too much fun looking and lost track of time so I took some that I could find. The kids are so excited to see the Broadway show "Grease" with you this weekend and spend some fun times with the Johnson family in Minneapolis! Sara - I hope we never get too old to act "too young" at concerts. :) Life is great! We hope both of you had great birthdays and special memories! We love you both!

Last, I want to share a heart felt story about a great friend and fellow classmate of Elyse's. His name is Andrew "Buzz" Miller, and his picture is above. The picture shows him getting his "leukemia kickin' umbilical cord blood" on November 7th. He is battling his 2nd round of leukemia after a bone marrow transplant in 2007 and now a stem cell transplant this past November. He is a fighter with a wonderful attitude, passion for life, and great guy all around. Anyway, his family is doing a "prayer map" in his hospital room as he is spending at least 100 days in a hospital in Minneapolis trying to build his immune system and kick those cancer cells. They have a "guestbook" where you can say who you are, where you live, how you found out about him (you can say through Elyse Kerian's family) and that you are praying for him. We, the Kerians, are asking you to send an extra prayer out for Andrew, aka Buzz, and send him a little special message. If you don't want to send a message, just let me know via email that you are praying for him and I will let him know. He has a "caring bridge" page that you can log onto and read his story, see pictures, and write him a message. Just go to "http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/buzzmiller". You need to sign in by giving your email and then making a password and that is it. You will read also about the "Beat it Buzz" activity and photo quest. If you would like to participate in the photo quest, we'd appreciate it. You can create your "Beat it Buzz" sign, send me the photo, and I will get it to the people in charge of that quest. This is a time when Buzz needs a lot of prayers and pull. He is a wonderful young man (was one of the boys here when Elyse had her sleep over a few weeks ago) and good friend to Elyse! So. . . take some time. . . .read his story.. . . and add to his prayer map. Thank you so much!

Here's a quote taken from someone who signed his quest book that I really loved and think it is fitting at this time: "You gain Strength, Courage and Confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do" - from Eleanor Roosevelt. Ken, our role model, and Buzz, our fighter, both are models of this. .

P.S. If you want a "Beat it Buzz" tshirt or rubber wrist band, and don't live in Cresco, let me know and I will get you one. It's neat to have pictures of people all around the US wearing them and showing their support for Buzz. Thanks!

Halloween, Hunting, and UNI Volleyball

I just got home from Rochester, Wayne is golfing being it is such a wonderful day, and the kids are with Kirstin who took them bowling for the afternoon. It is nice and quiet, so I thought I would do some blogging and computer "stuff" instead of cleaning up the house. That can always wait. . . besides. . . .everyone else is away playing so I am not going to clean! :) Elyse and Wayne are finally getting over their "cold/bronchitis". Elyse still has a pretty nasty cough, but she was hit harder with it than Wayne. I am just hoping Alex and I don't get it as it was nasty! They both were in bed for at least 3-4 days, not moving. Elyse ended up in the emergency room unable to fully breathe. Wayne even skipped a sunshiny Thursday for golf so that shows you how sick he was. Nasty stuff!

I know I said I would make a post about Alex, but it was a crazy week. Didn't get it done. I can tell you that Alex had his first experience pheasant hunting last weekend, much to his mother's dismay. I wasn't even aware that Wayne had bought him a gun (which I know why Wayne didn't tell me) let alone that he was old enough to go hunting with Wayne. I was worried the whole morning!!!! He said he had fun, although they only saw one bird. He did get a chance to shoot at it, so he thought that was pretty cool. I may not be quite ready for all of that, and I was actually hoping that he wouldn't enjoy himself. (Don't tell him though) Oh well. . .good time spent with his dad!

You can see that I included a picture of Wayne and I for Halloween. Quite funny I know. We had a great time being hippies, and everyone who ran into us and knew Wayne long ago said that he must have pulled his outfit out of his closet because it looked familiar. hehehe We had a great time with friends at Tiffany's annual Halloween party. I also posted a picture of my friend, Tiffany, as Velma from Scooby Doo, Michelle as a patient at the gynocologist, me, and Kelly as Cindy Lou Hoo from The Grinch. Good time!

Last night Elyse and I went to UNI to the girls volleyball game. She took along her friends Megan and Hannah, and my friend Julie (Hannah's mom) went along as well. We had a great dinner at Beck's on the Hill and then went to the volleyball match. UNI won big time, quick and easy. The girls had a great time, and it was nice for me to catch up with Julie as we haven't chatted in a while. Go Panthers! Wayne enjoyed a quiet night of rest, as he decided he shouldn't go with his cold, and Alex spent some time with friends working on their bowling game. My children are never home. . . :)

Enjoy the sunshine and have a great week!

Elyse's Little Friends and Basketball

It's been a while since I have made a post. Busy! Busy! as usual. I thought I would write about Elyse this morning and share how she is doing and then make a post about Alex this afternoon.

I have included some pictures of the two adorable little ones Elyse babysits. They both came trick or treating, and Elyse had Halloween baskets with little gifts in them for each of the kids. Their names are MacKenzie and Isaiah, and their parents are very good friends (Michelle/Brian and Kelly/Jason for those who know them) of ours. Elyse loves babysitting both of them and the pictures were too cute so I had to post them. She spent Halloween night babysitting Isaiah and then ventured down to a friend of her's for a sleepover in the middle of the night - or what was left of it. She was glad to spend time with Isaiah and also her friends. It's still so hard for me to see her growing up so quickly right in front of my eyes. So proud of her! She is so independent yet still needs big hugs from her mom and dad.

She started basketball last week. They played in New Hampton against a school that has 12 girls total on their 8th grade team. We, Crestwood, are used to playing 3-4 games (A,B,C, and D teams), but New Hampton could only play one and a half games due to their limited numbers. Elyse started the A team and did very well! Scored points, played awesome defense, and ran faster than I have ever seen her (yes. . . .I am talking about Elyse :)) Very fun to watch her and her teammates. Let's hope everyone stays healthy as schools are having a hard time making enough teams due to players being ill with flu etc. Elyse has developed quite the cold this weekend. . . .game tomorrow on Monday so hopefully she can shake some of it off before then. Anyway, she did fabulous and is really getting into her basketball, which we are excited about!!!

#45's Last Football Game. . . Basketball Ahead

Well, Alex just had his last tackle football game of the season. They pulled out a great win over a team from Decorah winning 14 to 8. It was an exciting game that went down to the last minute with our defense having to hold the Decorah offense near the endzone. Stressful but a great way to end the season. Alex played great even with a pulled thigh muscle that was killing him. He had 1 HUGE quarterback sack and assisted on another one the last minute of the game!!!! Everyone played strong and gave it their all! His team ended the season with a record of 4 and 2! We won't know what to do now with our Sundays free for a little while. . . I say that but I know something will come up. :)

Elyse had a full week of basketball practice. She appears to be really enjoying it and working hard. Hard to believe they have a game in 2 weeks. She, and Alex, practice weekly with Kyle McCarville, a local popular athlete, and he works them really hard but does a super job with them! (As a matter of fact, I think they have practice tonight...just when I thought I was going to sit and relax tonight). She had a jr high dance Friday night and had a few girls overnight afterwards. From the sounds of it throughout the night, they had a great time! Some never went to sleep so is that good or bad? :) It's fun to watch them grow up right in front of your eyes; yet, it was sad watching them do their hair and makeup getting ready to go realizing she will soon be doing this a lot more and then off on her own. (tear, tear.) Time goes by too fast. . . she's a busy girl!

We are starting the process of redoing our kitchen. Isn't it funny how one thing leads to another? We started with just planning on getting new countertops and applicances. which led to rebuliding the island, which lead to needing tile for backsplash etc, and now we are questioning if we should redo the floor. I spent Saturday afternoon looking at sinks and tile in Rochester. We have the countertop narrowed down to two colors of stone, the sink was decided yesterday, and tile backsplash narrowed down to a few choices. The "builders" promised it would be done by Christmas, but we have some decisions to make quickly! I'm very excited about the end look. . . when will we get there is a good question. Wayne still has "golf fever" so that may make a difference on how soon we get stuff done. . . .

Enjoy the rest of the gorgeous day!

New York State of Mind

I returned today from a fabulous birthday trip to NYC! (Thanks Wayne - love you!) My sister, Sara, and I flew out Wednesday and I returned home today after a great time spent in the city! We stayed at my uncle and aunts', Dennis and Connies', house outside the city. The weather could not have been better the whole time we were there so we figure we were meant to be in NYC that week.

The first day Connie, Sara and I went out for lunch at this quaint, cool, little place in Rye- suburb - and met one of Connie's friends who also had her niece with her. It was super fun. It was even better because Connie's friend thought I was much younger than I am so that just made my day. She couldn't believe I had children as old as mine were so I thought she was the most wonderful person! :)Connie's friend is very "in" on what is "in" and what is "out" so she filled us in (in case you are wondering, the hot color this fall is purple/eggplant and then gray). Connie then dropped Sara and I off at the train station and we went into the city. We eat some munchies at Grand Central Station before walking to Bryant Park - Project Runway Fashion Week- checking out New York City Public Library, walking around Central Park, munching again at Tavern on the Green in Central Park before heading to concert. I do have to say that the inside of Tavern on the Green was not what we expected - very foofoo with flowers everywhere and too much velvet!

We taxied to Madison Square Gardens and were pumped for the concert! Dennis and Connie had seats in the front row in front of the VIP section right to the side of the stage so they gave us their tickets and they took ours (the tickets we had weren't bad either, close, but up higher, so they switched with us). They met us at the Gardens. No one was in front of Sara and I at the concert and it was sweet! Sugarland was great and Keith Urban was awesome!!!!! We were hoping that Nicole Kidman, his wife, would be there and she was!!!! But the greatest part of the night was when Keith Urban walked in front of Sara and my section (he walks to the back of the arena and plays too) and he slapped our hands!!!! We thought we were going to pass out - yes, it was a teenage moment we know but we couldn't control ourselves! Our night was complete!!!!!

We slept in the next day as it was a late night in the city. Sara and I had a nice lunch with Dennis and Connie and then headed back to the city. We went to Dylan's Candy Bar - which is like candy heaven!!!! We spent a lot of time there and Sara enjoyed some chocolate covered strawberries while Connie and I shopped. Then we taxied to NYU to take in the sites and atmosphere of the "liberal" college. Very relaxing although Sara couldn't handle all the people feeding the pigeons. :) We met a family friend of Dennis and Connies' who ended up having dinner and going to the show with us.

We met Dennis and the boys for a great dinner down by Times Square before heading to the show. It was an exciting night for all of us and Will, and all of us, were meeting his biological mother. While I think everyone was nervous, it all went fine. Someday, Dennis, Connie, Sara and I will look back and laugh about a few moments- they know what I am talking about - but Will's biological mother and grandmother were very nice, classy, and sweet! Sara and I really had some great conversations with James during dinner so that was nice as we hadn't seen him yet (he was always at school already when we woke up and in bed when we returned each evening).

The show - "Rock of Ages" - was awesome!!!!Dennis got us tickets in the 5th row, center stage - you are the best, Dennis! It was set to 80s music and the scary part was that Sara and I knew all the songs! Yes, we did! (should we be proud of that or not?) It was definitely not for kids, but we thought it was super! As we were walking to talk to Connie at intermission and use the restroom, Connie pointed out that Vince Vaughn, movie star, was walking right in front of Sara!!! She could have put her arms around him. We all agreed he was much cuter in person than in the movies! Wow! Needless to say, he was sitting 2 rows behind us at the show!!!! The crowd loved the show - really got into the music - and the actors/actresses were fabulous! Would recommend the show to people who were in high school or college in the 80s!

Saturday was a relaxing day to end the trip before flying out later in the afternoon. I played a little basketball against James (I won and then he won) and then we helped Connie get the house ready for Will's biological mom and grandma who were coming to stay that evening. Ran into Rye and grabbed some awesome pizza and headed to the airport to catch our plane.

We can't thank Dennis and Connie enough for letting us stay there and sharing some special memories with us!!!! It was just what Sara and I needed - not so many tourist things as we have done all that many times - but New York fun! You guys are the best!! Thanks, James, for letting me have your bedroom for a few days and playing basketball with me! Oh yeah, and thanks for carrying my bag in the city! Thanks Deutmeyers for another great trip of memories!

Walk for ALS - Because We Can

Another great week and weekend has gone by. We were on the road a lot this past weekend, but it was all well worth it! Before I chat about the weekend, I realized I haven't updated about Elyse and Alexs' sports so here it is. Alex's football team lost last weekend in the second half. His team kind of gave up and didn't put it all forward so the opposing team came back from behind and won. Alex played very well though and had three great receptions with many tackles. Thanks to Sara and Derek for coming down from Minneapolis to cheer for Alex and take lots of pictures! There was also a cheering squad of Kerians - Randy, Lori, kids, and Grandma Judy - so he had his own cheering section. Yesterday, Alex's team pulled a big win with a score of 26 to 14! Alex had a great reception and almost ran for a touchdown but got tackled 15 yards from the endzone! He also was moved to inside the line on defense once and a while to stop the inside drive of the opponents and did very well, according to his father! Great job Alex!

Elyse's volleyball tame won one match and lost one match last week. They played a very good team from Osage last Thursday and were as nervous as could be. Some of the girls on her team appeared like they were frozen stiff, and they ended up with a loss. Elyse had some great hits and at least four blocks so she was bummed when they lost. Oh well..we'll get them back in basketball! Thanks to both Grandma and Papa for coming to watch! Elyse was very excited to see them cheering for her. I'm not sure Grandma will handle high school volleyball very well. . . she tends to get a little excited. :) Just joking. It's great! Elyse has her last volleyball game tomorrow, Tuesday, and then gets ready for basketball!

We spent Saturday in Cedar Falls enjoying my old college stomping ground. Wayne, Alex, Spencer, and myself enjoyed a little shopping before hitting a sports bar on the hill for some munchies and big screen football. It was packed as it was Family Weekend at UNI. We updated our UNI apparel at the University Book Store before heading over to the football game. UNI crushed some team from Indiana. We left at half time as UNI was up 42 to 0! Fun to be back at UNI and enjoy some family time at a football game! Go Panthers!

Yesterday was a wonderful day for Elyse, Kirstin, and myself. We joined a team of over 20 to create team Nadermann to walk in the Walk for ALS in Cedar Rapids. It was a great experience, although a little emotional. Ken joined us tailgating a little before hand and coaxing us on from above as we walked around the Cedar Rapids Kernals baseball field. Great music was played as we walked the trail around the baseball field. It was a total of 3 miles, not bad at all, and the sun came out just as we were starting. This was the first time Cedar Rapids hosted a walk for ALS, hoping to raise $15,000.00 and they did it!!! Ken designed some really cool tshirts that we all wore, as you will see in the pictures below. We had many compliments on them and thought they were the best team tshirts there. Yes, we were bias!!!! Thanks to Clare for organizing our team and everyone who participated! As the music says "Don't stop believing!" Enjoy the pics!

Some you Win, Some you Don't

Another busy week has gone by. They seem to go faster and faster and I need them to slow down a little bit. Alex had a football game today and played well but they didn't come out winners. It was tied 0 to 0 with 1 minute left in the game. Alex's team fumbled on the handoff to the QB and the other team got them ball on around the 10 yard line. They held them up to 3rd down and then one of the opponents slipped by and scored. Rough end to the game but they did well. Alex was very bummed out big time. Besides playing offense and defense, he did get to do the only punt of the game and did fine. It had a huge amount of hang time (almost too much as it went up more than down the field) but then it took some huge bounces to our benefit. I have posted a picture of him with his punt.

Elyse had two volleyball games at the beginning of the week. Her team won both sets, one against a very good traveling AAU team from Osage. It was definitely fun to watch! I have posted a picture of her and her cousin Miranda, the setter, getting ready for switch in positions. They play together very well as Elyse is a hitter/blocker. Next game, this coming Thursday.

Wayne has been on his golf trip now since Thursday. Sounds like he is having a great time and golfing A LOT! I had a grad class all day Saturday, which was not fun, so I am now trying to catch up on school work. Stalling. . .big time. Next weekend. . . .Iowa State vs Army football in Ames! Who will I cheer for???? Can't wait!

Big Win and Beautiful Wedding

I think summer finally came to Iowa as it was warm today at Alex's football game! Perfect weekend though so I am not complaining! Hey, maybe we will even have an early out this week due to hot weather?? Just joking. School is going well for all of us. Alex is loving 5th grade and his teachers. His homeroom/literacy teacher is my very good friend Kelly, aka Mrs. Sorenson. She is crazy and a super teacher - Alex loves her! Elyse is liking school also - busy with 2 high school classes she is taking as an 8th grader. She just told me she has 100% thus far in both of those - so proud of her. Volleyball is almost half way done and soon basketball will be starting. Wayne leaves for a golf trip this week Thursday for about 5-6 days. I asked Alex if he wanted me to step in and help coach on the football field next weekend when Wayne is gone and he just rolled his eyes. It's so fun to tease him.

His team came out big winners today! They won 36 to 6. He did well as did a bunch of 6th graders on his team. The teams consist of 5th and 6th graders. This team he was added to this year never won a game last year so they were all pumped. I have enclosed some pictures. He did attempt 2 field goals and made both of them. He obviously didn't stretch well enough before hand because he was a little sore in the inner thigh afterwards but appeared fine after a little stretching. He was very glad to see both his grandmas, his Papa, and his uncle Ken at the game! It meant a lot ot have them watching his first real game so I thank you too! Thanks for bearing through the hot weather Ken!

My very good friend, Tiffany, was married this weekend! She was beautiful - just like a princess! She married a great guy named Jason. We have spent a lot of time together, as couples and as friends, and I wish them all the happiness. Tiffany stays with the kids when we take our trips in February, sometimes stays with the dogs, and has basically spent many nights in our guest room after fun evenings out with the adults! She is one of my very best friends. She is also the guidance counselor at our school. We love them both so I had to throw in one picture of their big day.

This week consist of volleyball Monday and Tuesday for Elyse. Alex has practice this week and game next week in New Hampton. Wayne takes off for a golf trip, which he is very excited about and has been golfing a lot to get ready for. Me, well, same old same old. Thus, the picture of the dogs with me. They were feeling left out of the blog! :)

Win Against Waukon and Field Goals

Elyse had volleyball game tonight. Her team won all three games! Kind of uneventful games as the other team was not very good at all. She was once again front row hitter and blocker and didn't play back row. Had a few good hits down but not many opportunities as there weren't a lot of sets to her. No blocks because the other team rarely spiked over the net. So. . .good game to win but not too exciting. Next up. . .Alex's football game this weekend! He just found out he is going to be the team's field goal kicker and punter besides his other positions. Could be interesting! :)

First 8th Grade Volleyball Game

Elyse had her first 8th grade volleyball game tonight. She did very well - played front row blocker and hitter. I was amazed how high she can jump if she wants to- yes Ken - she has a verticle jump!! When she is in the front row, she is the only blocker for now so she has to push herself. Check out the pictures! If she would do that with her jump shot in basketball. . .it would be awesome. Anyway, she started for the "A" team. They lost the match though. The first game we won, 25 to around 20, second game lost 18-25, and lost third game 14 to 16. Should have won the second game and had been done with it, but we couldn't stop a girl from serving on the other team. She served at least 10-12 points in a row. In other words, we couldn't receive the ball. Elyse did an excellent job blocking, actually blocked some, and had great attempts. Had some good hits also! She has to hustle to go from being the block and get back to hit so she did well. Next game is Thursday and hopefully we will come out winners. (Yes, Ken, I know in some pictures it looks like she was jumping with her legs spread out (Sara) but she was shuffling from one side of net down to other and jumping. Not similiar to our wonderful sister's jump. Just kidding Sara.

Kasie's Beautiful Wedding and Fun at the Sioux Falls Zoo

We just returned from a great weekend at Sioux Falls, SD. Kasie looked like a princess and it was just a great day all around! Congratulations to Kasie and Dusty, as well as Kevin and Kelly (parents)! Kids enjoyed spending time with their cousins, dancing, eating, and swimming at the hotel. Where the reception was also had a water park. The slide show contains pictures of the wedding so you will see how gorgeous everyone looked. Today, Sunday, before returning home, we spent some time at the Sioux Falls, SD, with Randy, Lori, Justin and Cody. It was a perfect day to spend at the zoo! Weather was great and the kids had fun. It was not a huge zoo, but it was nice enough for us to enjoy the sunshine and time together. Thanks for spending the day with us Randy and Lori.

I'm glad we have a 3 day weekend as I am exhausted. We were just invited to a bonfire at the neighbors. Great way to end the Labor Day weekend.

Need a Good Laugh?

A friend of mine sent me this and it is too funny not to share! Watch the kid in the red shirt. Hilarious! This will give you a good laugh for the end of the week. I hope you all enjoy your long weekend. We are headed to Sioux Falls, SD, for Wayne's first niece getting married. Should be fun! Then the action starts: Elyse's first volleyball game Tuesday! Can't wait!

The video is kind of blurry - I couldn't get it to be any smaller for some reason. If you want to see it better, check out this address: Kid Dancing in Red Shirt on YouTube

Alex's First Tackle Football Jamboree

Alex had his first big experiences of a real tackle football game. His team played two games (14 minutes offense, 14 minutes defense each game) today in Waukon. They looked great! The first game, his team scored three touchdowns while the other team scored one. The second game, his team scored one touchdown and the opponents scored three. He had some great receptions on offense and played tremendous defense. It was fun to watch him as he is so into the game. We are looking forward to the "season opener" September 13! Fun day! Enjoy the pics. He is number 45! I guess he is not my little boy anymore. . . :(

Football, Volleyball and Fleetwood Mac

Bet you are wondering what the title "Football, Volleyball and Fleetwood Mac" mean??? Got 'cha wondering? Well, the title is one part about family and the other about the song "Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac/Stevie Nicks.
Football - Alex is currently at practice for his first set of scrimmages Saturday. He can not contain his excitement! We will see how it goes as according to one of his coaching, he might not get must rest time and may be in the game the majority of the time both offense and defense (He has a very proud father, that's for sure, who may be somewhat bias). So we are pumped for Saturday! I will take pictures, of course, and post them. Elyse has had her first week of volleyball practice and is loving it also! She was telling me that her finger tips hurt as they do finger tip push ups (for setting) every day. She asked me to do some with her and I just laughed. Told her I'd embarrass her. hehe The second day of practice though someone kicked her toe at school, she had flipflops on, and it ripped her toenail back. She is in a little pain, but she is toughing it out. We are very proud of her also.
Now to "Fleetwood Mac"- I was at our school inservice last week and the speaker is incredible! She is motivational and you could listen to her forever. Anyway, she showed us the video below from YouTube. It is about some elementarykids from PS22 school - located in very low economical area, many kids don't graduate, lots of gangs etc. Anyway, their teacher had them sing "Landslide" by Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac as a dedication to a teacher and put it on YouTube. I guess Stevie Nicks herself saw the video or heard about it, invited all the kids to her concert at Madison Square Gardens in New York, and had them not only sit in front, but go up on stage when she sang "Landslide". Wow! Yes, Ken, I did get teary eyed! Just thought I would share it. . .

First Day of School

We all survived the first day of school. Elyse and Alex both said they had a great day so that is good to hear. Hard to believe Elyse will be entering high school net year - oh no - and Alex will enter middle school. We will enjoy this year before the "big time" starts. :) I survived also with having a tremendous day and super bunch of students, a little chatty, but very enjoyable! Alex has had football camp every night this week also from 6-8 so he is whipped tonight! He is loving football and thinks it is the ultimate. Wayne is also getting pumped as he is one of the coaches. Nothing like a bunch of dads reliving their childhood in a helpful way! :) Elyse starts volleyball next week and has games in 2-3 weeks. We are looking forward to some successful sports seasons once again. (Notice the shirt Alex wore first day - thanks Ken once again!)

Adventureland 09 with the Fam

Everyone had a GREAT time at Adventureland this past Monday! There was not a ride that Connie, James or Wayne turned down- they were the brave ones of the bunch that's for sure! The weather was perfect, although hot at times, but at least it didn't rain. It was an awesome day spent with family from New York and various places in Iowa. I made it through the day as my toe was feeling better but was pretty sore on the ride home. Elyse and Alex went home with G'ma Janet so that I could get some school work done and write a paper for a class I took. Still don't have it done and it is due tomorrow. . . . :)

Wayne is Club Champion!

Wayne accomplished a goal he has wanted to win for a long time - he became the Cresco Country Club Champion '09! He is extremely proud of himself, as we are, so I have attached a few pictures of him with his trophy. He came back from being 4 strokes behind in 2nd place after 18 holes and won after 27 holes. Birdies were his buddies the last round. Way to go Wayne!

Busy Week, Fun/Painful Weekend, Last Week before School

Well, I have attached a picture of my toe. If you are wondering what is wrong with it - I am trying to cross them for good luck. NOT! I broke my toe late Friday night as I was busy getting ready for a bridal shower at my house the next morning and was gathering chairs from the garage. Needless to say, the outside door decided to get in my way and I nailed my foot on the corner of the door as it was open. Ouch is right! Went to ER and they popped it back in place. Not fun but oh well. No cast or anything, just wrapped up. Most of the pain today is coming from the fact that I have to walk on my heel so my calf muscle was so sore this morning. Just what I needed before a busy weekend with friends, a bachlorette party, and Adventureland tomorrow. I toughed it out though and am going to Adventureland tomorrow. . .with a broken toe. Bridal shower for my good friend, Tiffany, was a hit and bachlorette party was fun - even though I didn't celebrate much because I was taking some pain medication. Trying to relax today, get laundry done, and prepare for a busy week as I return to work Tuesday. Thankful that my mom offered to take Elyse and Alex to finish school supply shopping on Tuesday after I hurt my toe! Very much appreciated - my toe thanks you Mom!

Oh yeah, thanks to my mom for coming up and painting my hallway and down the stairs/around the corner. It looks wonderful and I have received many compliments already. You are the best Mom!

SlideShow of Pictures -All Good Things Must come to an End- Great Week at the Cabin

Well, the week is almost up and then it is reality check. Today was our first day that was too chilly to be on the water, so we went and did some POWER SHOPPING in Mankota, which was fun. Elyse and Alex are all ready for school, as far as clothing goes. Tomorrow it is suppose to be in the 80s so the plan is to enjoy the whole day and head home in the evening. Summer vacation is over for me as I have class this week and then will be working on my classroom and getting ready for the new school year. So, here are some photos taken at the cabin. Highlights have been Elyse water skiing, Wayne and Alexs' success fishing (Wayne caught a huge Northern!), jet skiing, bonfires in the evening, cards with the neighbor ladies in the evening, and hanging on the lake.

More Cabin Advenutures and Videos

Well, even though we are sorry Nancy couldn't make it up for the weekend, it enabled us to stay longer at the cabin and enjoy a few more days. The five days we were to be here went by so quickly, now we get to stay through Sunday! Everyone is having a great time, spending the majority of it on the water. We did have time to run into Mankato and do a little shopping two evenings, but otherwise, it was tubing, swimming, fishing, kneeboarding, jet skiing, and water skiing on the schedule with bonfires in the evening. I am attaching more video of the kids and their experiences. One is Elyse water skiing (sorry that the video "wonders" off in the middle. . .stay with it) and the other is of the kids tubing. We have had the lake to ourselves all week, but it is getting a little busier now that the weekend has arrived. Two more days and then back to reality-bummer! As you can see, we are having a super time.

Fun at the Cabin

We are having a great time at the Kerian cabin! A lot of it has been spent on the water the last 2 1/2 days so I decided I would include some video of Elyse and Alex doing their favorite activity: kneeboarding!!! They are getting so good at it that Elyse said she needs to learn a new trick to do with it. We are heading to Scheels later to check out some "trick videos" for her to learn to do on the kneeboard. The kids have also been tubing and swimming, as well as riding around the lake on the jet ski. Jet skiing is my favorite! We only put one of the jet skis in being there are only the 4 of us here-usually the kids each bring a friend. We have had the lake mostly to ourselves so far this week, which is nice! Fishing has been super for Wayne and the kids - Kim watching. :0) Wayne usually goes out early while the rest of us sleep in. Norah has already jumped/fell into the water multiple times, loving every minute of it. She will just walk down into the water and stand there to cool off. I went for a 3 mile walk this morning on the trail and it was wonderful! Bonfires in the evening have been a relaxing way to end the day. I guess one night we are eating fish as the croppies are biting, I am told. It is breezy today so Wayne and Alex went golfing, Elyse relaxed as she is sore from so many water sports, and I read a book (yes, school work) down on the dock catching some sun! Anyway, enjoy the videos!

Oh Yeah. . . .Guess how tall Elyse is???

Forgot to mention the news: Elyse had physical yesterday. Measured at 6 ft. 1/2 inch!!!! The nurse told her she is the tallest 13 year old she has ever seen. Elyse is excited about it! I said, "Well now your dad can not argue that he is still taller than you. You can for sure call him Shorty". Elyse turned to me and said, "And I can call YOU Shorty too." I just nodded my head. :)

Alex Golfing and More time with Graham

Alex golfed in a tournament by himself and scored in the low 50s (can't remember exactly) and that includes 2 out of bounds. He didn't place as he was put in the older bracket but did well! It was for a good cause as it was a tournament put on by a father who lost his son in a car accident - kind of a memorial golf tourney.

Graham left his morning - sad to see him go as it is much quieter here. :) Spent a lot of time outside on the swing, wagon rides, at the pool/fitness center, and just having fun. Of course, after all those days with us, he still loves Wayne and cries when Wayne walks out the door. Yes, I may be jealous but it is very cute!

Elyse and Upper Iowa University Basketball Camp

Elyse returned home today from a great 4 days of workout at Upper Iowa basketball camp. After getting used to the bed and little sleep the first night because of it, she adjusted, learned a lot, met some more friends to add to her Facebook, and did very well! Her team got first in league play but were beat in the tournament. You can pick her out in the picture of her team- yep - she is the tall one and proud of it! They have an awards ceremony at the end of the camp, and Elyse took first place in two individual competition! One was called the "mican" and the other competition was "speed layups". I guess she made 14 baskets in 30 seconds for the "mican" and I am not sure how to describe the "speed layups". Anyway, I have enclosed her getting the recognition for those two first place competitions. We are glad to have her home and very proud of her. Now comes doing all the laundry. . . . :0)

Fun with Graham

Graham has arrived at the Kerian household! I decided to just post a few pictures as he will be here a few more days and I will post more later. Today he went with us to pick up Elyse at basketball camp at Upper Iowa. He was so excited to see "Lyse" as he calls her, as were we. We also spent a lot of time outside on Graham's new swing, which he never wanted to get off. Someone has also taught him how to smell flowers because he can't walk by some of my flowers without smelling them. So cute. It was a great day. It is good that he goes to bed early because I need my sleep to prepare for tomorrow's adventures - taking Graham swimming at the fitness center. Stay tuned. . . .:)

ISU, Basketball, and Baseball

We just dropped Elyse off for 4 days of basketball camp at Upper Iowa University. We walked in and their women's head coach goes, "Ah, now there is a familiar face. Good to have you back!". So that made Elyse happy and excited. Funny how this time (her 4th year of basketball camps) she didn't need her parents to hang around. As soon as we had their stuff in their room, they were ready for us to go. Anyway, she is excited and has been practicing a lot to get ready. She is rooming with her cousin, Miranda, so we told them to make sure the "Kerian Cousins" leave their mark at basketball camp! I'm sure they will in one way or another. :)

Alex's baseball team had their end of the season cookout the same night as the All-Star game. Alex was all decked out, thanks to Uncle Ken, in Cardinals gear, as was Wayne. Thanks for the shirt and hat Ken! To say that Alex loves that shirt would be an understatement. Anyway, their season is done so he is spending a lot of time shooting baskets and playing baseball with his friends at the park. We have been playing a lot of "Around the World" in the driveway. You will have to ask the kids who beat them yesterday big time! - yes, their mother can still shoot the ball. hehehehe

Elyse and Alex both attended a small camp put on by ISU basketball players. They travel to various high schools and put on day camps for kids of all ages. Alex won a competition for his age level and Elyse came in 2nd in two competitions for her age level. Both had fun, learned a lot, got some autographs, and were amazed that one of the players wore a 18 size shoe!!!!! Wow! Came home with lots of ISU gear! (Pictures are of Alex getting medal and Elyse and her friend Megan standing in line for autographs)

This week we are excited because my nephew Graham will be staying with us for most of the week! I'm sure he will wear all of us out, but that will get us in gear for school routine. :) It is going to be super having him around and I am sure I will post about our week with Graham next time, as well as Elyse's time at bball camp. Until then...