Kerian Get Together and the "Kerian Crash"

Before you start wondering what the "Kerian Crash" is, let me explain. We had Justin and Cody tonight because their father (the Kerian involved in the "crash") had a little accident with his new pet - a horse - and required some surgery today (hence, the "crash") to put in a few pins and plates in his ankle area. We are glad everything turned out alright for Randy and surgery went well. Hopefully he will have a speedy recovery! The boys stayed with us tonight so Randy, their dad, could get some TLC from Lori and relax after surgery. We had a great time with them! Of course, Cody loves Wayne's stories so they ended the night reading one of Wayne's favorites called The Ghost Eye Tree. (The picture of the three of them) Wayne used to read this story to Kirstin almost every night so it was cute. As you can see from the picture of Norah, she relaxed on the chair listening also. Spent the afternoon/evening at the park, playing with legos, riding bikes and scooters, and having fun. Everyone is tucked in bed fast asleep - of course Cody has his fingers wrapped around Elyse's hair while he is sleeping with her. So cute!

The Kerian reunion last Saturday was also fun and relaxing! There were some "tender" moments as people shared stories about Wayne's dad, Jo, and his uncle, Bernie, who just recently passed away. The kids met a few of their second cousins and I, Kim, met a few of Wayne's cousins that I had never met before. Two of Wayne's uncles, one from California and one from Vegas were also there - one trying to convince Wayne and I to head to Sacramento soon. Doesn't take much to convince us when it comes to traveling. :) The picture of Elyse is her with her second cousin with the coolest first name - KERIAN! Yes, that is her first name! Her mom used to be a "Kerian" before marriage so she named her daughter Kerian. Elyse thought that was just "sweet". I could tell it was a special day for Wayne as he commented many times how nice it was to see everyone. Special memories!

Time to go to bed. Sweet dreams. . . and hopefully a relaxing night for you, Randy. Speedy recovery!

4th of July Fun!

We had a great 4th of July weekend! I, Kim, started off the holiday going to the spa with friends on Thursday (which was very much needed) and then meeting Wayne and the kids at a friend's house for backyard party and fireworks that evening. We spent the day, Friday, in Cedar Rapids at Ken's for a lunch with extended family - which is always great. For some reason, Graham appears to like Wayne more than me and I am not handling that well. :) Wayne golfed, of course. (I think he won.) Headed back from CR for a wedding Friday evening of a classmate of Wayne's - which was different because the bride is from China which is where they were first married. Unique food and great experience. Relaxed on Saturday, the 4th, and then headed to the Cray annual 4th of July cookout on the river. They purchased a permit to set off fireworks over the water - which were fabulous! Very relaxing weekend! Sorry we missed the Deutmeyer Reunion/Family Potluck Picnic on the 4th in Cedar Rapids. I am sure everyone had a great time and can't wait to see pictures. The pictures were taken in CR at Ken's.