Day 210 of 365

Meet the newest member of the Gullickson family, Luna the Betta fish. Lillian received Luna from her big sister as a birthday gift. McKenna came up with the idea to get Lillian a fish and this little female is who we came home with. She was a bit lethargic and sat at the bottom of the tank for the first two days, and I had visions of running to Petco to replace her, but she seems to have adjusted and is swimming about quite actively now. Here's hoping for a long, happy fish life.

We're off to the cabin for the next week and weekend, so I'm signing off until August 8. See you back here then!

Day 209 of 365

I shudder to think I'll be back at work one month from now. I love that the big decision of the day was whether to hit up the pool or the beach. Beach won, and it was pure bliss.

Day 208 of 365

The Tigers played their last game of the season tonight. It was another hot and humid July day in Minnesota, and McKenna wasn't thrilled to play catcher, but she played hard and had two big hits. Officially, the score isn't tallied, but unofficially, the Tigers went out with a big win.

Day 207 of 365

The girls were pretty creative today. First, they built a "house" with three rooms, using cardboard building blocks. One of the rooms consisted of eight Barbie dolls riding in "cars" which were concocted using upside-down bridge shaped blocks. Genius (as least in my biased opinion)!

Day 206 of 365

I can't believe it's already time for Baby S's three month photos! Boy, has he grown since April. He was so cooperative, and even slept for me, allowing me to get some great shots of all his little parts. I could just eat up those baby ears, toes, thighs, noses...

Day 205 of 365

Lillian's ice-cream themed birthday party was a hit. We had three kinds of ice cream and about 15 different toppings. Sprinkles and marshmallows seemed to be the most popular choices. The four-year-old crowd was fairly well behaved, although I gave up trying to get them to play the organized games and eventually just let them loose in the backyard and playroom. I have to admit, I'm glad it's over!

Days 200-204 of 365

I'm back from the annual 'Olson's Up North' gathering, which is basically my mom's extended family (her maiden name being Olson). My cousin Sara and her husband are brave and generous souls who host the whole clan each July. I think I counted 42 people this year, although people come and go throughout the week. The pictures show a glimpse of our week, with some of the highlights being tubing, fishing, turtle races in Nisswa, Chocolate Ox candy store, scavenger hunt, campfires, delicious food, pontoon rides, games, swimming and, of course, family bonding. Can't wait for next year!