tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89855318127295922962024-03-13T05:12:17.209-07:00Project Life. 2017.Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.comBlogger460125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-21451250410279031312017-08-03T19:19:00.000-07:002017-08-03T19:19:43.794-07:00The Tolleruds Take On South Dakota: Part 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Storybook Island. </div>
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One of my favorite stomping grounds as a kid.</div>
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I was probably a little bit younger than my 3 though.</div>
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They weren't too impressed to walk through this fun story book theme park at the ages of 8, 11, and 12. </div>
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I was having a lot of fun reminiscing and climbing and sliding right along with them!<br />
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Dinosaur Park.<br />
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Build in the 1930's atop Skyline Drive in Rapid City.<br />
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One of my favorite places as a kid...<br />
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and other than some chipping paint..<br />
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hasn't really changed all that much.<br />
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Madi and I went horseback riding through the Black Hills around the Crazy Horse, Custer State Park area.<br />
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Although it wasn't great on my back, it was one of my favorite stops on our way.<br />
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Madi was paired up with Lucky.<br />
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I, on the other hand, was paired up with a bumbling, clumsy horse named Lily that had such big feet she tripped multiple times on our trail ride.<br />
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Yeah...<br />
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that was fun!<br />
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Our last stop for supper was at the Great Wall Chinese Restaurant in Rapid City.<br />
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This place was by far one of my favorite places to eat (Cashew Chicken) when I was growing tup.<br />
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The next mornign on the way home, we stopped in Wall, South Dakota...home of the biggest drug store in the world.<br />
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It was a bit of a tourist trap but the kids and I had fun taking photos around the various areas.<br />
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About 1/2 way through our journey we ventured to DeSmet, SD...<br />
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home of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family.<br />
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I have always wanted to travel here and see the places that she saw and lived in and am so thankful that I got the chance to do so now!<br />
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We also made a quick stop at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD.<br />
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Tanner was in heaven being in a historic basketball arena and also getting the chance to eat some popcorn and taste test the ice cream.<br />
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This trip was simply amazing and I am so glad that we got the opportunity to see all these places together!Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-66690563322894867882017-08-03T18:34:00.001-07:002017-08-03T18:34:57.945-07:00The Tolleruds Take On South Dakota: Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We saw Mount Rushmore on Day 3...</div>
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and just like their mama before them...</div>
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this wasn't my childrens favorite attraction.</div>
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It was more along the lines of..</div>
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we came.</div>
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we saw.</div>
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we left.</div>
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I remember not enjoying the trip to this ever famous landmark as a child.</div>
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At the time, it seemed to me that we had to bring ALL of our guests to this amazing, but kind of boring destination over the years.</div>
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I can't exactly fault our children for not enjoying it very much.</div>
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We walked the presidential trail and got a few very amazing views but when we finished we were more than ready to move on.</div>
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After witnessing the beauty/ chaos that is Mount Rushmore the week before the Bike Rally, we made our way back to my hometown of Black Hawk, SD.<br />
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I have always wanted to show the kids the house that I grew up in...<br />
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I was beyond excited to show it to them now ..<br />
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it seemed so much smaller today, than it did back in 1992...<br />
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back when my bedroom was the one on the far right side..<br />
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when the house was newly sided and painted a grey color with blue shutters.<br />
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After witnessing the house, I was kind of giddy to show them the school that I called home for 5 years.<br />
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Black Hawk Elementary School.<br />
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Home of the Cougars.<br />
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I guess it's true what they say...<br />
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you can go home,<br />
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but you can never, truly..<br />
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go back.<br />
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This may have been somewhere near and dear to my heart 20+ years ago but times have changed...<br />
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I'm so glad that I got to share it with my people.<br />
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Madi and I took quite a few small little hikes while we were on vacation..<br />
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We took the road less travelled and created some wild flower crowns along one of our excursions.<br />
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After seeing Mount Rushmore, we travelled to Keystone and decided to take the Alpine Slide down the mountain.<br />
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It was by far one of the highlights of my week!<br />
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Madi and her new 'boyfriend'...</div>
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The boys waiting for us girls to finish shopping!<br />
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At the end of the day I got the chance to meet up with one of my dearest friends, Crystal.<br />
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We had supper together with our families in Rapid City.<br />
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I hadn't seen her in 9 years!<br />
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Way too long when you think that we used to be together all the time growing up!<br />
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"Take my picture mom! I am a soldier!"<br />
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Tyson was pretty excited to have purchased a rubber band gun in Keystone with his money.<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-78243049048519718102017-08-03T17:31:00.000-07:002017-08-03T17:37:28.785-07:00The Tolleruds Take on South Dakota: Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of the places I was adamant on sharing with my family while in the Black Hills, was Harney Peak.</div>
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As a kid, my family, as well as our Church family, spent many times hiking up this mountain,</div>
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to the highest point in the Black Hills. </div>
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The last time that I hiked this mountain I was 12 years old, the age of my oldest child.</div>
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I have vivid, amazing memories of this time and have always wanted to bring my family here to see and experience the same things that I did.</div>
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Well, this was day 2 of our vacation...</div>
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and we did it.</div>
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We hiked the 3.5 miles up and then 3.5 miles down.</div>
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It is supposed to take the average hiker 4-5 hours round trip.</div>
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I should have known better with these active, athletic kids of ours that they wouldn't settle for "average".<br />
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We made it to the top and back in just under 3 hours...<br />
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Tanner likes to remind me that if they hadn't been waiting for me, they would have made it in 2.5 hours...<br />
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gotta love a 12 year olds snarkiness! </div>
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This first photo is taken at the bottom of the peak, at Sylvan Lake...when I was still smiling, </div>
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still breathing,</div>
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not puking, </div>
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not breathing like a smoker (I am not) on Mount Everest.</div>
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In other words, a happy mama.</div>
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I starting sporting the pony tail about 1/4 of the way up the mountain.<br />
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Although a sweaty mess,<br />
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still a smiling, happy,<br />
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front of the pack mama..<br />
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This guy loved the entire trek...aside from the first 15 minutes when he thought we should be done!<br />
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At the summit..</div>
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the firemans watch tower.</div>
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I thought that I was going to pass out.</div>
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Tanner, Madi, and Travis made it about 20-30 minutes before me (and Tyson, who was coerced to stay back with his sick, out of shape mama about 1/8 of the way to the top).</div>
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Here I am sitting on my arse with my daughter about 20 feet from the top...dying a slow death and wondering just what in the hell I got myself into!</div>
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This was so much easier 24 years ago!!</div>
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We did it!<br />
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Made it to the top!<br />
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And watched two very large, very scary storm systems come closer and closer.<br />
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What would you do when faced with the same predicament?<br />
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Stay at the top and hope it blows by, or continue down and hope for the best?!<br />
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Well, we continued down and made the trip in about an hour.<br />
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Tyson and Madi and I climbed the rocks in Sylvan Lake and found some spectacular views! <br />
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After showers and a quick supper, we ventured into Deadwood and tried our hand at some mini golf.<br />
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I don't want to brag but I did get our families only hole in one!<br />
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Take that Travis!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-5252003389472916932017-08-03T16:16:00.002-07:002017-08-03T16:24:15.246-07:00The Tolleruds Take On South Dakota: Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favorite songs is entitled, 'I Lived' by One Republic. </div>
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The following lyrics especially, have always stood out to me...</div>
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<i>'I hope <b>when the moment comes, </b></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>you'll say...</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i><b>I did it all. </b></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>I <b>owned every second</b> that this world could give</i></div>
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<i><b>I saw so many places,</b></i></div>
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<i>and <b>things that I did.</b></i></div>
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<i>Yeah, with every broken bone</i></div>
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<i>I swear <b>I lived.'</b></i></div>
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This past week, my family and I made these lyrics and this song a reality.</div>
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We may have only traveled across one state, </div>
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but we <i><b>lived</b></i>.</div>
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I am so very thankful that we spent these moments together, exploring new (and some very familiar to me) places and experiencing new things.</div>
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It truly was one of my favorite times with my four favorite people.</div>
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The Badlands was our first stop...</div>
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You may not be able to tell but I was freaking out a bit in this shot..</div>
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behind us, by about 8 inches, was a major cliff</div>
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and the nice tourist (from MN!) taking our photo,</div>
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well, </div>
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I thought for sure he was going over the other side (about a 20 foot drop) as he backed up to take this shot..</div>
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and is it bad that while I was worried about him, I may also have been thinking about my camera in his hands?! </div>
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I had to keep reminding myself to just ...BREATHE.</div>
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Heights just aren't my thing.</div>
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These kids of mine were daredevils and climbed up and down steep embankments all the while yelling,<br />
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'Mom, dad, look at me!'<br />
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(Tanner was a little more cautious like his mama...heights aren't really his thing either!)<br />
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Our beautiful cabin on Terry Peak.<br />
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I'm so glad that we chose to stay here vs. a hotel somewhere!<br />
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We only ate out a couple of times and chose to cook most of our meals in the kitchen.<br />
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The first morning we were there, we hiked to Roughlock Falls in Spearfish Canyon.<br />
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It was a fairly easy 1 mile hike to the falls.<br />
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Another wonderful family from MN (I think they caught on that we were from their state..can't imagine why?!!) offered to take our family photo at the falls.<br />
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I am in love with this shot,<br />
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so damn thankful that we decided to spend some money on experiences instead of things!<br />
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We took the road less travelled and slid down a pretty steep embankment and climbed across a creek to see Bridal Veil Falls up close and personal..<br />
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It was truly breathtaking...<br />
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After Spearfish Canyon, we made the trek to the town of Spearfish and went to their amazing outdoor aquatic Rec center to cool off.<br />
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The big guy was struggling a bit on this part of the pool!<br />
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At just shy of 6 feet tall, he may be a bit too big to enjoy this!<br />
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When we came home that night, we made supper at the cabin and put the kids to work doing dishes.<br />
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They weren't thrilled..<br />
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but, a little work never hurts!<br />
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They all loved the loft!</div>
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Madi and Tyson were the only two to sleep up there though...<br />
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Tanner enjoyed the basement coolness instead.<br />
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Madi and Tyson put on their pants and long sleeves to venture into the Black Hills wilderness around our cabin...<br />
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A view from the outside of our cabin.<br />
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I enjoyed my morning coffee out here on the deck each morning.<br />
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The kids enjoyed the extra space to play and run around.<br />
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More to come,<br />
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this was just the beginning of an awesome week!Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-9872237952620812842017-07-13T19:26:00.001-07:002017-07-13T19:44:30.099-07:00Dear DadDear Dad,<br />
<br />
I <i>wish</i> that somehow this blog post could find its way to you.<br />
<br />
I wish, more than anything, that<i> you could be here</i>...right now.<br />
<br />
I can't believe that it's been nearly 10 years.<br />
<br />
There are so many times that I've <i>wished</i> and <i>prayed</i> and <i>begged</i> God to make these circumstances that are my life, <i>different</i>, than what they are.<br />
<br />
When I was growing up, I didn't realize that we lived in this sheltered, happy, little bubble where tragedy and bad things were completely unheard of.<br />
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I mean, yeah, we (our family) had our share of issues, and things to deal with...seriously, if we're being honest with ourselves, who doesn't?!<br />
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But, when the day was done, and it was time to be tucked into bed, <i>I knew</i> deep down inside, that you and mom loved me more than I could possibly imagine ...<br />
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and that I was here, <i>for a reason, a purpose,</i> bigger than myself.<br />
<br />
<b><i>You two helped me believe that.</i></b><br />
<br />
These days, you will often find me sitting behind the wheel of a Chevy Suburban that is in desperate need of a change of oil, a good vacuuming, and a soapy carwash...<br />
<br />
where french fries, stinky basketball shoes, and half drank bottles of water rest upon the floor.<br />
<br />
You might call me a 'soccer mom', although these crazy kids of mine have never participated in the sport.<br />
<br />
I know my way around any ball field and gymnasium with-in a 75 mile radius...<br />
<br />
and a lot of days I want to rip the tiny hairs out of my head,<br />
<br />
stressed out to the max,<br />
<br />
trying to make a plan about who is supposed to be where, and when, and wondering just how in the hell am I supposed to get 3 kids to 3 different destinations all happening at the same, exact time?!<br />
<br />
<i>Dad, </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I wish you were here.</i><br />
<br />
I can't even imagine how loudly you'd be cheering when Tanner sank that game winning, 3-point shot in basketball...<br />
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or when Madi struck the 3rd batter out in a clutch game of softball,<br />
<br />
or when Tyson finally got over his fear of striking out and hit a grand slam to win the baseball game.<br />
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You were my biggest fan,<br />
<br />
and <i>I know,</i> with all that I am, that <i>you would be theirs.</i><br />
<br />
I like to think that you are up there,<br />
<br />
watching us from above...<br />
<br />
reminding me to just BREATHE...<br />
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that these moments of stress, are just that, <i>moments...</i><br />
<br />
and they are fleeting and passing me by in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
And that these kids of mine who were 1 and 2 (and a year from being born) at the time you left us..<br />
<br />
somehow <i>know</i> that you are there.<br />
<br />
That they have this silent, SUPER, fan cheering them on...<br />
<br />
LOVING them from a distance.<br />
<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-76107663195560142112017-07-10T20:04:00.002-07:002017-07-10T20:04:52.678-07:00Thank You GrandmaLast night I wrote a post entitled, Last Time For Everything...<br />
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I didn't realize at the time how fitting this would be just a few short hours later.<br />
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This morning my mom called and gave me news that no one ever wants to get.<br />
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My grandma Maxine had passed away.<br />
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A couple of weeks ago, I stopped in to visit her at the nursing home and didn't realize that it would be the last time that I saw her...<br />
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I've blogged about this amazing woman before...<br />
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But honestly, though, how do you write a blog post fitting enough to describe a woman who you've looked up to your entire life?</div>
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A woman who loved you (and all of her family members) beyond measure...</div>
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who made you your favorite meal of ravioli (Stromboli, gobadiels, donuts, ect.) even after cooking two different meals for others (stubborn Norwegians like yourself) just to make you feel like you were someone special and important to her...</div>
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who was always quick to flash you that beautiful smile of hers..</div>
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who told the most amazing stories about her life (I never tired of her childhood stories, hearing about what she was doing during WWII, or laughing at some antics from her life on the farm with grandpa).</div>
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She taught me what it means to be a strong, farm wife (even though I swore up and down that I would never, ever marry a farmer).</div>
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I love you grandma.</div>
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This has to be one of my favorite memories of grandma growing up...<br />
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making homemade ravioli.<br />
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So thankful Madi (and the boys) were able to share this memory with me.<br />
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I like to think that these two are getting to meet again...<br />
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God, this is some tough stuff.<br />
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This granddaughter of yours is going to miss you so very much (and I can't speak for my sister but I know she feels the same)!<br />
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Thank you for always making me feel so very loved grandma...<br />
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Love, Mandy<br />
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Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-25993996761978456142017-07-09T17:10:00.001-07:002017-07-09T17:10:39.295-07:00Last Time for Everything<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was well over 60 years ago, when these two people met and fell in love.<br />
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Meet my grandma Betty, and my grandpa Dallas.<br />
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Two extremely influential people in my life.<br />
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These two taught me so much over the years but the single thing I will cherish the most is their LOVE of FAMILY.<br />
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Sadly, we've lost a few extremely important members over the years, and a few just couldn't make the trip today (we miss you guys!) ...</div>
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but we were still able to come together and celebrate the end of an era.</div>
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At the end of the month, grandma is moving to an apartment where there will no longer be enough space for all of us to gather.</div>
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Driving away this afternoon it hit me.</div>
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This house has been a big constant in my life (and I'm sure many of the people in this photo can say the same). </div>
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It wasn't easy to come to this realization.</div>
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I'm going to cherish all of the countless memories we've made here over the years.</div>
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Today was our last BBQ get together...</div>
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Sadly, there really is a 'last time for everything.' </div>
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We're a BIG group (and quite a few weren't able to be here!)</div>
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Great grand-kids.</div>
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Comparing bellies...what do you think?<br />
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Who wins this battle?!<br />
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Grandma with all of her kids standing in front of the house.<br />
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Lydell and Dianna and family.<br />
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Randy and Marj and family.<br />
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David and Debbie and family.<br />
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Pam and family.<br />
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Candace and family.<br />
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Grandma with all 9 of her great grandkids.<br />
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Grandma with 10 of 13 of her grandkids. </div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-28547573053714375982017-06-26T17:54:00.000-07:002017-06-26T17:59:48.401-07:00Changing Perspective <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Witnessing my children growing up on a farm has been one of my greatest joys these past twelve years.</div>
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Long ago, before I met their father, I proclaimed that, </div>
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<i>"I was NEVER, EVER going to marry a farmer!"</i></div>
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After all, to my immature mind, farmers were too 'backwoods' for me.</div>
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Fast forward nearly 15 years and I couldn't disagree with my previous sentiments more!</div>
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Living on a farm certainly has its share of hardship but I wouldn't trade it for anything.</div>
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Seeing the love and adoration my daughter has for all of her animals has taught me to have more compassion and respect for the furry creatures I was indifferent to in the past. </div>
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Seeing my somewhat mouthy preteen gently pet his calf and talk quietly to it makes my heart smile.</div>
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Hearing the love and laughter of the kids working alongside their farmer dad is a sound that (in my opinion) can't be matched.</div>
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I hope that someday these kids of ours feel the same.</div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-57023747536846810572017-06-19T19:24:00.000-07:002017-06-19T19:24:39.925-07:00Summer-time is our busy {best}-time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Baseball. </div>
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Softball. </div>
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Early morning practice.</div>
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Gym time.</div>
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Camps.</div>
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Strength training.</div>
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Basketball tournaments.</div>
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And the list goes on and on...</div>
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Summer 2017 has been our busiest to date...</div>
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with no end in sight.</div>
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With kids participating in activities in two different towns, I seem to spend the majority of my week days in the car running from one activity to the next.</div>
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Even though I am extremely grateful to have a job that allows me this opportunity, I'm kind of looking forward to getting back into the swing of things at school...</div>
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I can't believe I just said that!</div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-23180048721773990412017-06-17T18:36:00.000-07:002017-06-17T18:37:00.562-07:00Pacesetter MIT. 6th Grade STATE Champs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><b>Good teams become great ones, </b></i></div>
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<i><b>when the players trust each other enough</b></i></div>
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<i><b>to surrender the 'me' for the 'we'.</b></i></div>
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Last year at this time we were celebrating a tournament well played,</div>
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an awesome ending to a year of success.</div>
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<a href="http://mandyproject365.blogspot.com/2016/06/pacesetter-mit-5th-grade-runner-up.html">Pacesetter 2016 was one to remember. </a></div>
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Well, today, Pacesetter 2017 blew that one right out of the water.</div>
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These six boys played with a ton of heart and showed us all what being a team truly means. </div>
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I am so thankful to have been along for the ride to watch these guys over the past few years. </div>
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Without further ado, let me introduce you to the new 2017 Minnesota Pacesetter MIT STATE champs!! </div>
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We are so very proud of you!</div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-23250803729585841482017-06-10T20:55:00.000-07:002017-06-10T20:55:00.256-07:00A Basketball Family<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Five years ago I was a mama to a 7, 6 , and 3 year old and I remember feeling stressed, but happy. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My three littles were becoming more and more self sufficient everyday. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tyson had recently learned to use the potty all by himself,</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Madi was leading and feeding her calf all alone,</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And Tanner was playing baseball in the backyard with minimal interference from me, dreaming of the days when he could play on a traveling team. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the time, I thought life was busy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wow, I really couldn’t have been more wrong. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>2012.</b></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A year full of photos of everyday moments in the backyard, or around the house. </span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-af0d3c81-9522-4c91-904c-ca41155ee502"></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fast forward 1,825 days and it is now </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>2017</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and this family of mine is in full blown crazy town.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most days I wouldn't trade it for anything.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love that I am getting the opportunity to watch and cheer my children on.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We reached a new milestone yesterday of consecutive hours spent in the gym..</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">14, yes, I said FOURTEEN!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><i>Yikes.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were 15 games in total</span></div>
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and I think I finally understand what the term 'bleacher butt' means.</div>
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But it was all worth it to watch these three play.</div>
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There are so many valuable lessons that they are learning on the court every time they tie those shoes and pull those jersey's up and over their heads. <span style="line-height: 1.38;"> </span></div>
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Here is a small glimpse into our day...</div>
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<b>Shada 2017</b></div>
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Tyson played in his first competitive tourney and loved it.</div>
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I think I can finally say that he wants to be a basketball player (I couldn't say this before because he was very adamant that he would never play!) </div>
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Playing with his Pelican friends against his future team...<br />
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this was probably my favorite game to watch!<br />
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This girl of mine impressed me so much!<br />
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She played with a fierceness and intensity that I haven't seen in her before and gave new meaning to the term 'posting' up.<br />
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She may have left a few of her defenders more than a little upset (I secretly loved seeing this side of her emerge!)<br />
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Keep it up kid!<br />
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I especially loved that her new teammates and her old teammates are now friends and are making memories together.<br />
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They were so excited to get trucks and cars to beep at them as they passed by.<br />
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This was hour 12 I think, so honestly anything out of the ordinary was going to entertain!<br />
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And finally, the Trash Cans...<br />
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really, what more can be said?!<br />
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<br />
They played pretty awesome and ended up making it to the championship game.<br />
<br />
I had to take the following series of photos.<br />
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Not too long ago, I was concerned that our oldest wasn't outgoing enough, I apparently didn't need to worry...<br />
<br />
He was surrounded by other ballers congratulating him, giving him grief, and just being kids..<br />
<br />
scenes like this after a big 'W' make my heart happy.<br />
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Yup, probably my favorite moment of the whole tournament and I almost didn't capture it.<br />
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This is his team and coach for his summer basketball team ..they had made it to the championship game too and were going to play each other.<br />
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Pretty fun coincidence!<br />
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Tanner and Owen are tough competitors and have matched up many times over their elementary school years.<br />
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It's been fun watching them play against one another and also together this summer on their AAU team.<br />
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These connections he is making on the court are priceless.<br />
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A year ago, I wouldn't have thought that this shy kid of mine would come out of his shell..<br />
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boy, was I wrong!<br />
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I'm excited to watch these two through the years!<br />
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These 4 have continuously amazed me over the past few years.<br />
<br />
Their teamwork and dedication to the game and each other is truly inspiring ...<br />
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I'm so thankful to have gotten to watch them grow as players these past 4 years.<br />
<br />
Great job on your 2nd place finish guys!<br />
<br />
I am so very proud of you!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-53755807984633320982017-05-31T13:06:00.002-07:002017-05-31T13:06:57.534-07:00Our House <i>Our house, </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>is a very, very, very fine house.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>With six cats in the yard...</i><br />
<br />
In our family,<br />
<br />
it wouldn't be summer without some new baby kitties.<br />
<br />
Madi found these little sweeties up at her grandma and grandpa's today.<br />
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It didn't take a lot of persuading to get everyone to come and see them!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-1885271562865560002017-05-29T12:37:00.000-07:002017-05-29T12:37:07.461-07:00A Goat StoryMy daughter absolutely adores animals.<br />
<br />
She always has.<br />
<br />
Luckily for her, she has a good friend who shares her love for four legged mammals.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, she convinced her dad and I it was a really good idea to get two more goats to add to the 3 she got 2 years ago.<br />
<br />
Although I love her determination and tenacity to go after what she wants,<br />
<br />
I don't particularly love that we are fast becoming goat 'hoarders' here at the Tollerud farm.<br />
<br />
When I came outside today to check on the girls and see what they were up to,<br />
<br />
this is the scene that lay before me...<br />
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<br />
Little Tilly was sporting Madi's old shirt and was looking adorable and slightly annoyed.<br />
<br />
When I questioned them as seriously as I could muster (with a smile playing at the corners of my mouth), this was her response..<br />
<br />
<i>"But mom, it's cold out today.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>She was shaking!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Now she's not."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
My look must not have said I was agreeing with this because she ended on...<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>"but, Mom, it's ok."</b></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Honestly, how can you resist a baby goat in cute clothes?!<br />
<br />
And if you can resist said goat and maybe don't think this is very nice, please stop reading now.<br />
<br />
You may not like what you're about to see.<br />
<br />
This mama decided that the goat wasn't in distress, appeared to be happy and loved, and said, 'ok, girls.'<br />
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<br />
<br />
Their smiles say it all.<br />
<br />
We are making some goat memories this summer!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-80109236874599044612017-05-24T20:33:00.000-07:002017-05-24T20:33:20.632-07:00Closing DoorsThey say that when one door closes, another door opens.<br />
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I don't know if I fully believe this but I do believe that saying good-bye to people and places near and dear to your heart is extremely painful.<br />
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In my 36 short years on this planet, I have come to realize that building and maintaining relationships with people who love and care about you is priceless.<br />
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No words can describe the amount of gratitude and love I feel for the people who have been like my second family these past 12 years.<br />
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This is some hard stuff.<br />
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I am not one to shed tears in front of others.<br />
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I'm not sure where or when this particular quirk of mine started, it may have been when my father passed away suddenly and I completely lost it in front of many, many others, or it may just be something that I have always been uncomfortable with..<br />
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I don't know.<br />
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Regardless, this is something that makes me squirm and also something that I try to avoid at all costs.<br />
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The past few days, however, the most mundane of everyday tasks has reduced me to a weeping puddle.<br />
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My eyes will betray me whenever my heart feels the slightest tug of sadness.<br />
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My entire family is in transition at the moment because of a choice that I made, a choice that I feel was ultimately the right decision for me and my family.<br />
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I am trusting in Him.<br />
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This (shocking for some) decision was not made without many sleepless nights and hours spent in silent prayer.<br />
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As much as I want to stay and do what is easy, I realize that I cannot.<br />
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God is definitely at work in me at the moment.<br />
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I have been experiencing the good, but my dreams lie elsewhere.<br />
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I have wanted this opportunity for so long and when it presented itself there really was no way that I could say no.<br />
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When my dad died nearly 10 years ago, I learned a heartbreaking lesson, a lesson that I wish wouldn't have taken this horrible event for me to realize.<br />
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Life is short<br />
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Nothing is guaranteed<br />
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You have to follow your dreams, your heart, and always trust in Him.<br />
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I am listening and am trusting in this decision.<br />
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As sad as I am, I cannot wait to see what the future holds.<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-38183196085484547622017-05-14T14:58:00.002-07:002017-05-14T14:58:28.757-07:00Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I did it.</div>
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I went for it.</div>
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Someday I know I will look back at this time in my life and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I did the right thing.</div>
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I will know that those instincts, that little voice in the back of my mind begging me to try, was absolutely right.</div>
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That day, however, isn't today.</div>
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I can't say that I am completely there, yet.</div>
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I made a major life decision this past week and am feeling all sorts of emotions.</div>
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Excitement.</div>
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Sadness.</div>
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Bewilderment.</div>
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Humility.</div>
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Trepidation.</div>
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Have I mentioned <i>excitement</i>? </div>
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This past week, I chose to follow a dream that I've had for a very long time.</div>
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This dream of mine wasn't chased without complications.</div>
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I have constantly worried that I wasn't doing what was right for me, for my family. </div>
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Honestly, sleep has been non- existent. </div>
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But, during those quiet moments when I am alone,<i> I know.</i></div>
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<i>I know</i> that this is right.</div>
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Someday I am going to smile and say, yes, I did it.</div>
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I took the hard road,</div>
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and did the right thing.</div>
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It wasn't the easy way out, there were a lot of tears, and tough moments, but in the end, it was completely right.</div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-88536029381446333962017-01-21T19:05:00.000-08:002017-01-21T19:05:38.067-08:00First tourney of 2017 in the books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We traveled to New York Mills today to watch our 5th grade Lady Vikes play in their first tournament of the new year.<br />
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They have all improved their skills since 4th grade and were fun to watch!<br />
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Way to shine today ladies...<br />
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1st place looks good on you!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-35807882370518797422016-12-08T20:00:00.004-08:002016-12-08T20:00:52.062-08:00A first concert night together<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These two are growing up before my very eyes. </div>
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The big guy is in his last year of elementary school and his sister is right there behind him! </div>
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It was pretty cool getting to watch them both perform in their winter band concert this evening.</div>
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I was one proud mama to a budding flute player and a rockin' trombone player. </div>
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Way to go you two! </div>
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And not to be left out...our resident comedian and notorious photo bomber, Ty.<br />
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I have a feeling they thought it was pretty cool to play in the new Fine Arts Auditorium...they looked like a snazzy group!<br />
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Checking to see if she had any fans in the audience...<br />
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Awesome job 5th grade!!<br />
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Great concert 6th grade!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-89451860014385882442016-12-07T12:01:00.001-08:002016-12-07T12:03:51.999-08:00Snow Day! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was Tyson's response to the news that school had been cancelled today! </div>
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<br />
It's been one of those days.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Lazy.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Playful.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Fun.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Together.</i><br />
<br />
Moments filled watching the softly falling snow swirl around in the wind outside our windows.<br />
<br />
Minutes spent playing and reading and creating.<br />
<br />
The kind of day that you don't want to ever come to an end!<br />
<br />
So, when my two (not so little anymore) kids, invited me outside to play with them, I just couldn't resist.<br />
<br />
I went, even though the adult in me didn't really want to go out into the freezing cold tundra that is Minnesota during a blizzard.<br />
<br />
I'm glad they coaxed me out of my hiding place.<br />
<br />
Although we didn't last long, and the only respite from the biting wind was on the front porch, we did have a great time.<br />
<br />
Madi rescued one of her kitties who refused to walk more than three steps in the snow...<br />
<br />
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And as for Tyson...<br />
<br />
he was more into being his happy, silly boyish self..<br />
<br />
running,<br />
<br />
jumping,<br />
<br />
and diving<br />
<br />
into the slippery snow on the porch.<br />
<br />
His pure JOY for life is pretty contagious.<br />
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I am savoring today.<br />
<br />
We needed this.Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-75259874406281205992016-11-15T19:51:00.001-08:002016-11-15T19:51:38.405-08:00Teaching me.<i>"Mrs. Tollerud, can you read this?" </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Mrs. T., I'm not sure how to end this paragraph, what do you think?"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"I just need a good hook. Mrs. Tollerud, what is going to make people want to read my story?" </i><br />
<br />
This is a new experience for me...<br />
<br />
this business of teaching young writers to write.<br />
<br />
As of right now, it's a pretty daunting task if I'm being honest.<br />
<br />
<i>If I could just get these kids to always capitalize their "I's" and to stop using texting slang, everything would be great...</i><br />
<br />
or at least this is something that I leave many of our class periods thinking.<br />
<br />
But then a day like today happens,<br />
<br />
and suddenly, I am reminded of why it is that I am called to teach this tough, yet extremely rewarding, subject of writing..<br />
<br />
and why, for me, teaching these young authors to <i>tell their story is so important. </i><br />
<br />
One of my students came to me, to check in, to see if her paragraph was complete.<br />
<br />
We are currently working on writing autobiographies.<br />
<br />
And as I have done countless times before, I took her paper in my hands and began to read.<br />
<br />
What followed brought unexpected tears to my eyes.<br />
<br />
Although the grammar was broken and the words weren't quite as eloquently written down on the paper as I would have hoped,<i> her words, her story, pulled me in.</i><br />
<br />
Those words, her voice, wrapped themselves around my heart, and gave me pause.<br />
<br />
I attempted to smile through my tears when I looked up at her.<br />
<br />
"Is it ok?, " she softly asked.<br />
<br />
All I could do was nod and try to smile through my tears.<br />
<br />
This young girl, my ten year old student, had experienced more pain in her short life than I hope to in a lifetime.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I did regain my composure and nodded back to her.<br />
<br />
Before she walked away, I managed to eek out, "thank you so much for sharing your story."<br />
<br />
In that moment, I knew that any words of encouragement or reassurance I could try to offer would be pointless...<br />
<br />
there really were no other words that I could utter other than a simple, "thank you."<br />
<br />
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<br />
These kids are teaching me so much.<br />
<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-36050146022864031942016-09-21T20:53:00.001-07:002016-09-21T20:53:38.597-07:00Finding My Place...This blog has been my outlet so many times in the past five years,<br />
<br />
and I'm so grateful that I started it all those years ago.<br />
<br />
Writing helps me sort out the pieces of my life that don't quite fit.<br />
<br />
Those moments when I feel sad and hopeless, excited and nervous, along with all sorts of other emotions in between.<br />
<br />
And as much as I have enjoyed {been grateful for} the circumstances in this life of mine, I can't sit here and write {honestly} about undying happiness or personal fulfillment.<br />
<br />
Something just hasn't quite been right.<br />
<br />
I have known for many years that I was meant to serve others.<br />
<br />
Growing up, one of my favorite games to play was 'school', and I played it countless times with so many friends.<br />
<br />
From a young age, I truly believe that I was called to teach.<br />
<br />
Back in college, I remember my best friends mom reassuring me that I was <i>'meant to be a teacher'. </i><br />
<br />
As an amazing teacher herself, she was the first one who helped me truly <b>believe </b>that<i> I could do this. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Along the way, there have been many obstacles but, ultimately, I've persevered.<br />
<br />
Thirteen years ago, I had an amazing student teaching experience in 5th grade.<br />
<br />
I think, {no, let me rephrase that,<i> I know</i>}, that I have been trying to recreate that experience every single year since.<br />
<br />
And although I have enjoyed and been grateful for the opportunities that I've had to love and teach these children entrusted to my care the past few years, I have still been searching for something just a little bit more.<br />
<br />
If you are a reader of my blog (I can't help but say thank you!), you know that this spring I was given this tremendous opportunity to follow the dream I've been chasing for years.<br />
<br />
I was hired as the new 5th grade teacher in our school.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Sigh.</b></i><br />
<br />
After trying for so many years, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt, that this was where I was supposed to be.<br />
<br />
Well, I am just about three weeks into this new 'gig' of mine and although I haven't had time to stop and reflect about it on here, I have to say that it is going unbelievably well so far.<br />
<br />
I'm not going to lie and say it's been without hiccups and snags along the way, but these are things that will always be there, that's just part of life when you choose to teach.<br />
<br />
The difference is that I am ready.<br />
<br />
I am armed with a perpetual smile and backed with a passion that is undying.<br />
<br />
Thank you fifth graders for being that class, those kids for me.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to see where this year takes us!<br />
<br />
I'm so grateful for you!<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-73798039617489130842016-08-19T18:36:00.001-07:002016-08-19T18:36:50.407-07:00Sweet Summertime.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Glittering rays,</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>sparkling waters,</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>a wet, dripping embrace from your bestie</i></div>
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<i>as you contemplate the best trajectory to jump in.</i></div>
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When you are kid, is there anything better than spending the day having fun with your friends in the warm summer sunshine laughing, playing, and being silly?</div>
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I think not.</div>
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Tyson picked an excellent day to celebrate turning 8 years old with his buddies.</div>
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There was splashing, giggling, jumping, throwing, and catching along with so many other fun filled moments. </div>
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I am so glad that all three kids have such good friends to grow up with.</div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-21879990039533696332016-08-14T19:41:00.002-07:002016-08-14T19:41:50.877-07:00The Last Time.As I sit here, on the eve of my babies' 8th birthday, I cannot help but reflect.<br />
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To put it mildly, eight years ago I was a mess.<br />
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I had just come home from visiting a couple of new babies at the hospital.<br />
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My cousin, along with Travis' cousin, had both delivered their healthy baby boys way earlier than their due dates had predicted.<br />
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And there I was, still miserably pregnant, and just a teeny bit resentful (ok, more than a teeny bit if I'm being honest).<br />
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Thankfully I had a doctors appointment the following morning...<br />
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that night I hoped and prayed that the doctor decided to keep me, so that I didn't have to go home without our little guy.<br />
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Fast forward eight years and life has totally and completely changed.<br />
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I am no longer considered a 'young' mama with small children.<br />
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My baby is about to start 2nd grade and my oldest will be a 6th grader....<br />
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oh my goodness, <i>where in the world has the time gone?! </i><br />
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A few years ago, I posted a photo of the boys along with the quote,<br />
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<i>"with children the days are long but the years are short." </i><br />
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Goodness gracious, have any truer words been said or printed?<br />
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Well, time is passing entirely too quickly and this quote still rings true for me<br />
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but then I also found this and I can't stop...<br />
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As I sit here with hot tears rolling down my cheeks, I realize that we've already passed a lot of these 'last times'...<br />
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They seem to happen without any fanfare.<br />
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At the time, I have no idea whatsoever that these moments are major milestones, or 'last times' that I should be paying particular attention to.<br />
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I am more concerned with simply making it through the day.<br />
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These quiet, <i>important,</i> but forgotten about days, all blend together until I am faced with a birthday, or milestone that isn't quite as quiet.<br />
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A moment that makes me reflect and realize what a gift these impossibly hard, but amazing days truly are.<br />
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Tyson John Tollerud, my sweet baby boy, thank you for teaching your mama so many, many important life lessons, I am forever grateful.<br />
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Happy, happy birthday buddy.<br />
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I hope your day is as special as you are.<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-45520712049263378412016-08-03T17:40:00.001-07:002016-08-03T17:40:38.446-07:00A Necessary Journey.<i><b>I wonder where I am headed, she thought. </b></i><br />
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<i><b>I cannot wait to find out.</b></i><br />
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<i><b>I am on a necessary journey. </b></i><br />
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I finished a profound book today by my absolute favorite children's book author, Kate DiCamillo.<br />
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Thankfully, this title found its way into my hands just when I needed it the most.<br />
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<i>'Where Are You Going, Baby Lincoln?'</i><br />
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It's a book that I absolutely cannot wait to share with my new class this year.<br />
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I hope that they can <i>feel it</i> as much as I have.<br />
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I'm sure that when I crack the pages for the first time they may think that I am reading them a 'babyish' book.<br />
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I'm almost positive that they'll roll their eyes at my character voices and my emotion as I read the words with excitement and reverence.<br />
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I can't say that I blame them.<br />
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I mean, I remember getting embarrassed over little, trivial things when I was their age.<br />
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But you know what, I am not going to mind one little bit!<br />
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Because you see, these kids that I have yet to know on a deeper level (I have to admit I know many of them already!) are already making me smile!<br />
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A little over a week ago I found out that my request, dream, journey, ect., was coming true.<br />
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Although I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching 7 and 8 year olds the past few years, my heart has always been pulled by my very first teaching experience.<br />
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Back in 2003, I didn't realize that those 10 and 11 year olds would shape my future quite as much as they did.<br />
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I had an excellent, inspiring student teaching experience all those years ago and although I know that I will never have that same class again, I thank them for helping me know where I truly wanted to be.<br />
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So, for me this school year, random hugs and silly giggles will now be replaced by eye rolls and sarcasm and I cannot wait because....<br />
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-66175276768182167982016-07-30T16:59:00.001-07:002016-07-30T16:59:36.011-07:00A Week at the Lake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What a summer we've had! </div>
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Last weekend we came home from the fair and turned right around and had the chance to relax and cool off in the lake at a beautiful cabin on Lake Crystal this past week.</div>
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We had a great time spent with grandma, auntie and uncle, and cousins in the warm Minnesota summer sunshine. </div>
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Here are a few of our many, many highlights! </div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985531812729592296.post-73028046708552650282016-07-30T16:33:00.000-07:002016-07-30T16:33:19.426-07:00WOTC Fair 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, another fair is done and in the books.</div>
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When we look back on 2016, I think that we'll remember the sultry, stifling summer days when all we could do was find some shade for sweet relief.</div>
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We'll remember </div>
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calves name Tilly,</div>
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Annabelle,</div>
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and Lil' Tex</div>
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who helped the kids earn some more ribbons for all of their hard work to adorn their walls.</div>
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We'll remember</div>
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time spent with friends both old and new.</div>
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A little sister who got a Grand Champion in her video project and a big brother who got a Reserve Champion in the same category (they are their biggest competitors after all!),</div>
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We couldn't forget an adorable little goat named Millie who is more like a dog than a goat</div>
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who helped her proud owner earn a Grand Champion in showmanship.</div>
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We'll think back to Tanner's first blue ribbon auction where he proudly showed his fall calf, Lil'</div>
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Tex..</div>
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and stood in wide eyed bewilderment as there was a bidding war between some serious buyers over his calf...</div>
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all because he worked hard to get his animal show ready and to bring some positive vibes to the dairy industry.</div>
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There are many times that these kids of ours make me proud, but I have to say that some of the proudest mom moments I have of them is when they take charge and care for their animals at the county fair.</div>
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This year I really noticed how much pride they took in caring for and loving these animals entrusted to them. </div>
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Shyness was forgotten as they proudly answered questions and talked to anyone who showed interest in their animals. </div>
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I am so thankful they have farming and 4H in their lives! </div>
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<br />Mandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09608138269505111930noreply@blogger.com0