Superhero Birthday

Today we celebrated this little guy's fifth birthday with a superhero themed party. It had all of his favorite things and it was a fantastic afternoon. 

Five already?!

The first activity was throwing "flies" (crumpled up magazine pages) at a web (painter's tape). 

Next was shooting bad guys (cups) with Nerf guns. As you can see, Andrew took this very seriously. 

And finally, a silly string web fight. This was reported as his favorite thing of the day. 

Next up was gifts.

All gifts were a hit, but this one had the best reaction: a bow & arrow from Aunt Alisha & Uncle Marshall. Other favorites were a new rocket, a sleeping bag, Lego sets, and form swords. 

And then it was time to sing Happy Birthday. He loved every minute of it. 

This boy has brought so much joy into our life. Here's to another year of fun, shenanigans, laughter and love. Thanks to everyone for making the day so special! 

Lately

School is off to a great start. The kids love their teachers and come home excited each day. While we are busy with reading, math homework, packing lunches, and unpacking backpacks, we have managed to fit in a lot of fun too!

A new addition to the house: a water rower. We have always wanted one and with new school start and end times for the kids, working out at home seems to be the best option this year. Andrew is training for Stanford crew... 

...as well as taking bags very seriously. Notice the tongue.  

 Kate & I went to the downtown library last week and found this fun public piano. 

 Another new addition to the house: two new Beta fish, Sam (Andrew's) and Roco (Kate's). Jason & I have extremely poor track records with fish, so we were nervous. But, so far so good! (Keep us in your thoughts.)

 Kate had a sleepover at her best friend Mia's over Labor Day weekend. 

 She was SO excited. 

 This is what happened when Jason sent Andrew downstairs to watch a show with the hopes of getting a few more minutes of sleep: he decided to make breakfast for everyone. So sweet!

 One final evening of slip & slide fun. 

 Oh, and just me & my boy Fred Hoiberg. We were lucky enough to spend the Iowa vs. Iowa State game tailgating two spots away from The Mayor, and I got up enough nerve to ask for a photo. Best thing ever. 

 And check out these seats! Though the Cyclones couldn't pull off the win, it was still a fantastic day. 

 And a great 3 mile run/ride today at Raccoon River. 

 With several stops along the way, including one for this giant turtle.