the fair.

This year was the latest we ever went to the fair with our friends the Graff's, and I was about ready to burst. I kept drooling over everyone else's instagrams and posts - I don't think Jared knew quite what to do with me anymore. It's just in my blood. 

We ate some new foods... {that deep fried, flaky goodness I'm slightly hysterical about was pumpkin pie with cinnamon ice cream. Definitely a repeat}, also making the newbie list were the walleye cakes and a rhubarb shake. 

We visited new buildings, we spent more time playing...

...and here is a short montage of our wonderful day.... 
{*the two pictures above thanks to Kait*}

Already looking forward to next year! {I might have a slight problem} :) 

However - the fair marks the beginning of my absolute favorite season. I haven't given in yet on the pumpkin spice latte as it's still been in the 80s, but I do feel that buzz starting to creep in after a very cool labor day weekend. Oh September. With your remnants of summer & your teases of fall. You're a great month. 

kelly + brad's reception

We all gathered, had a party, and celebrated our friends Kelly & Brad - and their marriage of course! After tying the knot on the beach last month, we were all thrilled that we could still join with them and celebrate.

The gang was all there - this being the 4th wedding of the group, we have gotten quite comfortable on the dance floor, and as a result, my feet were paying for it all week of work. I think I finagled an adjustment out of one of the doctors at work at some point, blaming my friends for having too fun of a dance. :)

 Michael Jackson gets Jared every time. We have all been known to get a bit rambunctious at wedding dances however.. may I remind you.... the year 2010. The Kniers.

The year 2011. The Benedicts.

Back to 2010. The Johnsons.

We can't help it... but I digress.

We are so happy for Kelly and Brad, and the fun (yet challenging) life that is ahead of them. Whevenver friends can come together to celebrate something special, it brings encouragement, fulfillment, and just plain joy.

Kells and I have shared MANY things thoughout the years. Notes, volleyballs, freshink cards, gel pens, wins and losses, girl emotions, but most importantly, these friends. She's a wonderful person to have in my life, and I am so so happy for her.

{Many seasons and memories of volleyball played with these wonderful women}

We celebrate you Kelly and Brad! Many blessings as you begin the first months of your marriage... and many more ahead!

new little ryland

Our best friends had a baby.

But not just any baby. The sweetest, calmest, snuggliest little bundle you ever will meet.

His name is Ryland Michael, he was born on Thanksgiving day, and he is our newest favorite thing on earth. Ok, maybe a little extreme, but close. After a (moderately) stressful Saturday, we trucked through the snow over to Kait & Mike's house, and Jared scooped him up, and literally did not give him over until he felt better. Which he did within half an hour I'd say. :) We could have stayed there all night long. And they're the couple we could do that with.

All these pictures are from when we got the joy of being at the hospital with Kait & Mike. There is nothing like the freshness of a little baby you know came from two wonderful people you love, respect, value, and look up to. Ryland - you are blessed to have the mommy and daddy you do.

I don't think I can accurately write a tribute well enough to these two, and what our friendship is like. We encourage each other. Spiritually, as husband and wife, as 2 married couples, as individuals. We share. We're real. We're spontaneous. We laugh. Oh, do we laugh. We're similiar. Weirdly enough, we go through similiar trials. They are the most encouraging, fabulous, loving, God-fearing, people, and we love them dearly! That's why their son is so special to us.

We are so so happy to be here with this wonderful family. We love you Ry!