Ashton's 1st Birthday Party with his friend Ella

We hired a clown to entertain the older kids...I think it worked.

Taking a break with Uncle Trog and Aunt Dawn

Uncle Adam

Ashton and Ella waiting to dig into the cake.

Yes, I'll take more cake please.

I think the clown inspired his hairstyle!

The birthday kids and their parents.

Riding his new 4 wheeler from Grandma and Grandpa Griepentrog

The day I ran 26.2 miles

This was one of the most amazing and difficult things I have ever done. After 4 1/2 months of training and 3 pairs of shoes I completed the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon in 4 hours and 48 minutes (my goal was under 5 hours). Believe it or not, I crossed the finish line and said immediately I would do it again...hopefully my husband will join me next time.

Our Afternoon at Lake Elmo Preserve

"No dad, I did not enjoy that slide"

I think he runs like his dad!

Playing outside

Say "CHEESE"


I purposely left out the picture immediately after where Parker tackled Ashton...I prefer to remember them as huggers.

"Parker, you are hilarious"

There always has to be a butt shot!

Boating and Swinging with Grandpa

Our trip to Eagle River in August

Why?? Just to prove they could do it.

Helping cousin Lilyana up...I guess chivalry is not dead.

Lily had a lot of fun pushing Ashton around...we found out later that we had the floaty upside down and backwards -- hence the awkward position. ;)

What? I saw dad do it earlier...

The always happy Ashton...enjoying a ride.




Parker proved that he was the best fisherman, catching the biggest fish. Too bad he was terrified of it when Mark took it off the line.

Wow...it's been a while!!

I'll be posting a lot of new pictures shortly...can't believe it's been so long.