Chris took some very cool photos of Iron Man that he asked me to share:
Showing posts with label Chris. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chris. Show all posts
A New Friend
Who says I don't have children? Watching Chris open his new Iron Man doll action figure, I get a clear picture of him as an eight-year-old.
I later walked in on him posing his Iron Man to look like a cool photo he found online. Hee hee. I'm not making fun (ok, a little) - I find it really adorable that he's so into this stuff. The Iron Man you see above is actually his second one. This one has 36 points of articulation. I'm pretty sure that has to do with his body and not his verbal skills!
Stay tuned for future adventures of Team Iron Man.
Good Eats!
Dad has been in town since Friday for a conference. Chris and I were able to join him for dinner last night as well as Saturday night. Jack was also there on Saturday, but was working last night. Dad's associate Mike was also in attendance.
On Saturday we ate fantastic sushi at Nami. We thought it was comparable to Crave (that means it's good).
Last night we ate at Manny's steakhouse at the W (where dad and Mike were staying). I couldn't resist photographing Chris' gargantuan (24 ounce?) prime rib.
Prime rib can be hit-or-miss (I believe it needs to be cooked fresh and not just warmed up), but Manny's exceeded our expectations once again. We will have many meals from this cut! Dad also gave us his leftover porterhouse to take home, but Jack swiped it for his evening break before I even had a chance to taste it.
We enjoyed getting together with Dad and eating at a couple of fantastic downtown restaurants.
Movies and Cars
After a couple of harried weeks, this one has been a bit more relaxing. And hasn't the weather been perfect for it! On Wednesday, Jack, Chris, and I saw Monsters vs. Aliens in 3D. It's a fun film and some of the 3D effects (especially at the beginning) are fantastic.
Ginormica kicks butt and is now among my favorite movie characters of all time (unlike Carrie Bradshaw) and I don't think I'm giving anything away by saying that this movie ends quite differently than SATC. Ugh, that still bugs me when I think about it!
Here's Jack sporting the 3D glasses, which we definitely plan to keep on hand for upcoming 3D films (there are several).
In other exciting news this week... only 18 months after moving here, Chris got his driver's license and MN plates! He will give you many reasons why it took this long, but let's just say that it's good to have him as a legal resident.
Mobile Post!
This is my first mobile post! It will be light on text, which some of you will appreciate!
Here are a couple of photos to show you what kept Chris so busy this past month (and me busy last week)!
Chris produced 11 exceptional reports (which may not seem like a lot, but it really, really is) and sent two copies of each (we have an inkjet printer; printing alone took several hours). I helped by proofreading and proofreading again. Then slowing down because Chris thought I might miss a mistake. I think we caught most of them!
Here are a couple of photos to show you what kept Chris so busy this past month (and me busy last week)!
Chris produced 11 exceptional reports (which may not seem like a lot, but it really, really is) and sent two copies of each (we have an inkjet printer; printing alone took several hours). I helped by proofreading and proofreading again. Then slowing down because Chris thought I might miss a mistake. I think we caught most of them!
Finally, A New Post!
As most RSB readers know, March 31 was my last day at work. One would think that a laid off individual would have loads of free time and that perhaps I have spend the past week lazing on the couch possibly (as mom suggested) depressed. Frankly, I wouldn't mind a little lounging time, but I do fear that will come eventually.
So far, April has been much different than March. I'm working harder, including a freelance project that started bright and early on April 1 and will last for the next couple of weeks. I've also done work for Chris and will continue to do so as long as he needs it. I hope he is impressed with my work so far; clearly my awesomeness is not reflected in my (non-existent) pay!
I got a heads up about my job was ending much earlier than most people in my company do. I still probably shouldn't say how long, but that notice resulted in a serious winding-down of my work. Somehow I still managed to stay entertained and look busy, but didn't do much blogging because impending unemployment was at the forefront of my mind and I wanted to keep it offline. Until now!
Many of you may be thinking...wait, didn't she just get laid off? Isn't that how Roving Sugarbeet came to be? Yes, two jobs lost in less than two years! This was the risk of taking the job and I'm actually kind of surprised it lasted this long.
As I keep telling myself...at least we're in Minneapolis! Considering that I have plenty to keep me busy (and to keep a little cash in my pocket), I don't have any immediate plans to search for work elsewhere. Don't worry, worriers. And if you have any job leads...
After a few days of self-employment, I'm finding that it suits me quite well. As I write this, I'm approaching a 12-hour work day that included minimal breaks. I did shower, but didn't have to get dressed up or wear makeup. I also got to have lunch with Chris and we stopped by each other's office for a few chats.
Speaking of Chris, I completely missed the opportunity to wish him a Happy Birthday on Saturday! On RSB, I mean. I did speak to him that day! I also made him a birthday french silk pie.
Sorry for the grainy cell phone photo, which wasn't helped by the bright sun streaming in the windows. You get the idea!
Chris actually cooked his birthday meal (ribs, of course!) and we were joined by Jack as well as Yvonne and Bobbi, who stayed over on Saturday night on their way to Mayo Clinic. We lazed on Saturday night (ok, I have done some lazing) and shopped on Sunday (also a fun non-work activity) before they left.
Has this lengthy post made up for my recent lack of them? Probably not! I will try to keep you updated on RSB's latest, but I am also planning to create a new blog on which I'll discuss professional topics, so may not devote as much time here for awhile.
So far, April has been much different than March. I'm working harder, including a freelance project that started bright and early on April 1 and will last for the next couple of weeks. I've also done work for Chris and will continue to do so as long as he needs it. I hope he is impressed with my work so far; clearly my awesomeness is not reflected in my (non-existent) pay!
I got a heads up about my job was ending much earlier than most people in my company do. I still probably shouldn't say how long, but that notice resulted in a serious winding-down of my work. Somehow I still managed to stay entertained and look busy, but didn't do much blogging because impending unemployment was at the forefront of my mind and I wanted to keep it offline. Until now!
Many of you may be thinking...wait, didn't she just get laid off? Isn't that how Roving Sugarbeet came to be? Yes, two jobs lost in less than two years! This was the risk of taking the job and I'm actually kind of surprised it lasted this long.
As I keep telling myself...at least we're in Minneapolis! Considering that I have plenty to keep me busy (and to keep a little cash in my pocket), I don't have any immediate plans to search for work elsewhere. Don't worry, worriers. And if you have any job leads...
After a few days of self-employment, I'm finding that it suits me quite well. As I write this, I'm approaching a 12-hour work day that included minimal breaks. I did shower, but didn't have to get dressed up or wear makeup. I also got to have lunch with Chris and we stopped by each other's office for a few chats.
Speaking of Chris, I completely missed the opportunity to wish him a Happy Birthday on Saturday! On RSB, I mean. I did speak to him that day! I also made him a birthday french silk pie.
Sorry for the grainy cell phone photo, which wasn't helped by the bright sun streaming in the windows. You get the idea!Chris actually cooked his birthday meal (ribs, of course!) and we were joined by Jack as well as Yvonne and Bobbi, who stayed over on Saturday night on their way to Mayo Clinic. We lazed on Saturday night (ok, I have done some lazing) and shopped on Sunday (also a fun non-work activity) before they left.
Has this lengthy post made up for my recent lack of them? Probably not! I will try to keep you updated on RSB's latest, but I am also planning to create a new blog on which I'll discuss professional topics, so may not devote as much time here for awhile.
Fun
It seems like it's been months since I actively blogged. Either I don't have anything to discuss or I'm lazy. Maybe both. I'm trying to get better, so will start with a couple of fun things:
- Melissa and I saw Matt Nathanson at the Pantages last night. We had 'nose bleed' seats, but were still able to see and, obviously, hear very well. To say Melissa was obsessed with going to this concert would be an understatement. I have never seen anyone so excited about a musician - before, during and after the concert. And I saw New Kids on the Block at the SD State Fair circa 1989 so I know obsessed fans!
- Chris and I stayed at the W at the Foshay on Saturday night. Jack works there and got us a tremendous family and friends rate. Keep it in mind - I think he gets the rate at any of the Starwood hotels. Unfortunately, his discount didn't carry over to our dinner at Manny's Steakhouse. Our meal was delicious and left me with enough steak for three lunches at work, but considering that dinner for two cost three times as much as our hotel room it is definitely a restaurant for special occasions.
- We had a company come in to clean and inspect our fireplace and chimney. I really want to use that fireplace and it seemed necessary to get it checked out. Chris just emailed me to inform me that "they found a whole squirrel family...dead..tiny skulls were raining down...." I'm so appalled and can't get that image out of my head! Sorry if the same happens to you... That certainly doesn't fit under the title of 'fun,' but no doubt it is interesting. EDIT: It's also not true. Just found that out. Ha. Ha.
- Another not fun but worth mentioning item: Bonnie suffered first and second degree burns on her hand last Sunday. It apparently involved nearly-boiling water in a sterilizing sink and a heroic effort to grab a falling tray. Glad to hear you're doing well now, Bon, but oh my that sounds awful!
That's all the fun and not-so-fun news for today!
- Melissa and I saw Matt Nathanson at the Pantages last night. We had 'nose bleed' seats, but were still able to see and, obviously, hear very well. To say Melissa was obsessed with going to this concert would be an understatement. I have never seen anyone so excited about a musician - before, during and after the concert. And I saw New Kids on the Block at the SD State Fair circa 1989 so I know obsessed fans!
- Chris and I stayed at the W at the Foshay on Saturday night. Jack works there and got us a tremendous family and friends rate. Keep it in mind - I think he gets the rate at any of the Starwood hotels. Unfortunately, his discount didn't carry over to our dinner at Manny's Steakhouse. Our meal was delicious and left me with enough steak for three lunches at work, but considering that dinner for two cost three times as much as our hotel room it is definitely a restaurant for special occasions.
- We had a company come in to clean and inspect our fireplace and chimney. I really want to use that fireplace and it seemed necessary to get it checked out. Chris just emailed me to inform me that "they found a whole squirrel family...dead..tiny skulls were raining down...." I'm so appalled and can't get that image out of my head! Sorry if the same happens to you... That certainly doesn't fit under the title of 'fun,' but no doubt it is interesting. EDIT: It's also not true. Just found that out. Ha. Ha.
- Another not fun but worth mentioning item: Bonnie suffered first and second degree burns on her hand last Sunday. It apparently involved nearly-boiling water in a sterilizing sink and a heroic effort to grab a falling tray. Glad to hear you're doing well now, Bon, but oh my that sounds awful!
That's all the fun and not-so-fun news for today!
On Veterans Day
In honor of all who have served in our military.and happy second wedding anniversary, Chris! My, how time flies.
Happy Birthday Chris!
Today is Chris' birthday! Since I haven't scanned in any of his childhood photos, this fantastic photo of him as a teenager will have to do. It's a classic and can't be posted too often...
If you're wondering who old he is, I'll give you a hint: the second number in his age is double the first number.
Thanksgiving in Michigan
I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving! We had a great time in Michigan. As with most vacations, the time went by too fast. Once again, I didn't take as many pictures as I wish I had, so I'll try for a compelling narrative.
After digesting and chatting with the Darnells, we met up with Opal and Suzanne. Suzanne turns 60 on December 23 (sorry! I hope you weren't trying to keep that a secret!) and we won't see her then so decided to do a small celebration one month in advance. We visited the Yates Cider Mill for some cider (of course) and - because of course we needed more junk food - their homemade donuts.
On Wednesday we arrived around rush hour in Detroit. It's hard to believe all the negative news about that place when the roads - from freeways to city streets to suburban avenues - are packed with traffic. There are millions of people there with places to go and things to do, so it can't be all bad! If only they would start buying houses...
After quite a long drive and picking up dinner from La Shish - the best Middle Eastern cuisine outside, well, the Middle East - we arrived at the home of our friends, the Harpers. It was great to see Chris and Kristin, but spending time with four-year-old twins Kate and Kyle was the real treat!
We awoke to tiny voices chanting "it's snowing, it's snowing" on Thursday morning. Sure enough, our first real snow of 2007 found us in Michigan! (It was also colder and gloomier than Minnesota for all you who continue to think we've moved to the frozen tundra.)
Chris and Chris (they go by their last names when together, but it still gets confusing!) played in the snow with Kyle and Kate for awhile in the morning.
By early afternoon, the Harpers left for Thanksgiving with Kristin's family. Once Chris finished watching the Lions lose (and taking a nap), we headed for Mike and Donna's house. Two of their kids weren't there (Laurie and Cindy (and Ryan)), but Jenny, Michael, Matt and Gina were there and Heather came in from New York with her boyfriend Jahn (sorry if I didn't spell that correctly). Grammy Opal was there and Suzanne came in from California for a few days. A friend of the Forans' also joined us.
There we enjoyed a scrumptuous Thanksgiving feast of turkey, potatoes, stuffing, yams and various side dishes followed by Grammy's out-of-this-world pies. Pumpkin, cherry and pecan. Mmmm, mmmm. Can we have Thanksgiving again this week?
On Friday morning we were, of course, ready for another big meal! Matt and Sherrie invited us to their house for brunch. They live just a few miles from the Harpers. Also joining us were their sons Jack (7) and Nick (5) and Chris and Matt's friend Jerry, his wife Gina and their kids Gueneviere (3) and Gabriel (1). We had a great time and ate way too much of the delicious quiche, sausage, fruit, veggies, bread that they had prepared.
After digesting and chatting with the Darnells, we met up with Opal and Suzanne. Suzanne turns 60 on December 23 (sorry! I hope you weren't trying to keep that a secret!) and we won't see her then so decided to do a small celebration one month in advance. We visited the Yates Cider Mill for some cider (of course) and - because of course we needed more junk food - their homemade donuts.After the cider mill, believe it or not, we went out to eat! At La Shish again (because it's also Suzanne's favorite). We've decided that we have to visit Michigan more often so we don't feel the need to gorge ourselves on all our favorite local food. I didn't even mention the many slices of before and after Thanksgiving pie from Achatz.
Following an early (and light) dinner and birthday toast to Suzanne, Chris and I headed back to the Harpers. We brought a make-your-own-bouncy-ball kit and wanted the chance to make them with Kyle and Kate. It was a very easy process of mixing water with colored crystals in a mold. I had fun and the kids seemed to enjoy them. Chris warned me that it might not be a very parent-friendly gift, but as of Saturday morning the Harpers weren't cursing us, so I think it was ok!
By noon on Saturday we were on our way back to Minneapolis. Although we wish we'd stayed longer, we were glad to have some time to relax. Thanks, all, for the fun and food!
My man has skills!
Amber's been posting all these great makeover photos of their house and it seemed like a great time to post photos of the renovation Chris did on a cute little house in Michigan. Isn't he talented? Seems like we should all get together and work on a house!
Here are the before and after photos:
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
This house is currently available for sale or rent. Great deal for anyone interested!
Here are the before and after photos:
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
This house is currently available for sale or rent. Great deal for anyone interested!
Chris is Bane
For anyone who hasn't figured out the identity of the commenter named "bane," it's Chris. I convinced him to start commenting because hardly anyone else does (hint, hint)!
Speaking of Chris, I'm happy to report that he's finally feeling good and his leg has healed very well. He's also getting ready to move to Minnesota within the next month.
Speaking of Chris, I'm happy to report that he's finally feeling good and his leg has healed very well. He's also getting ready to move to Minnesota within the next month.
Birthday Week
Not much has happened lately, but I realized that I haven't posted in over a week so I should get something up! 
Thanks to Mom, Dad, Jack, Jon, Amber and Trevor for the fun birthday celebration on Sunday (as well as a great Polish Days!) and to Bonnie, Duane, Angie and Cameron for the wonderful birthday dinner on Monday! What a great way to spend my first birthday in Minnesota in many years. 
I don't have much news to report and don't have a camera here, but will do my best to post more often.
Chris is feeling well and getting better, although the pain in his foot has been so severe that he went to see the doctor earlier this week. They did an ultrasound to check for clots, but didn't find anything. He will have to endure the pain and hope it subsides soon. He spends most of his time "walking in circles" around the house trying to get the blood moving.
Is Chris lying about his age?
Is Chris 15 years older than he claims? AARP - the well-known organization that works to benefit those retired or nearing retirement - seems to think he's 50! They recently sent him a letter inviting him to join and "make the most of life over 50."
Could it be that they're aware of his almost-retired lifestyle and assume he's older? That's his theory.
I'd like to know what's in it for me, other than the obvious (?) benefit of being married to an old man. If he joins, could we get into movies for half price or order from the seniors' menu at Denny's? Any AARP-ers out there care to share?
Could it be that they're aware of his almost-retired lifestyle and assume he's older? That's his theory.
I'd like to know what's in it for me, other than the obvious (?) benefit of being married to an old man. If he joins, could we get into movies for half price or order from the seniors' menu at Denny's? Any AARP-ers out there care to share?
Chris can stand (but not quite walk)!
After seven long weeks, Chris' right foot has finally touched ground. The doctor gave him the ok to start walking with the boot on and in a week he can start wearing a shoe. His initial steps have been very tentative and painful and he isn't ready to give up the crutches. But he's been making laps around the kitchen to get the muscles working and the blood flowing. I'll be gone for three weeks beginning Sunday, so it's good timing that he's close to fully functional again!
Chris got his cast removed!
At his first follow up visit after surgery, the doctor removed Chris' cast today! Some people have to stay in the cast for six to eight weeks, but Chris' Achilles tendon is healing so well that he is done with the cast after just under two weeks.
That's the good news, but he still has to stay off his foot for at least four more weeks. To facilitate that, Chris is now wearing a removable air cast that fits over a giant sock. This cast will enable him to begin stretching the tendon, but he will still use crutches and avoid putting weight on his foot.
Chris sends his thanks for the continued wishes, cards and gifts!
That's the good news, but he still has to stay off his foot for at least four more weeks. To facilitate that, Chris is now wearing a removable air cast that fits over a giant sock. This cast will enable him to begin stretching the tendon, but he will still use crutches and avoid putting weight on his foot.
Chris sends his thanks for the continued wishes, cards and gifts!
Chris (circa 1988)
Amber's Favorite Photo Friday inspired me to post this picture of Chris with his high school pride and joy, a Datsun 260z.
Look at that hair...it appears to be a mullet!!
That's my husband and I love him!
Update on Chris' recovery.
Thirteen days after rupturing his Achilles tendon and six days after surgery, Chris is feeling "fine."
He says "the pains that were firing up my nerves happened a couple of times today - but other than that..."
Chris says thank you for all of the "get well soon" wishes! Here he is with the plant and balloon from Mom and Dad.
You can see that the cast covers the majority of his right lower leg. His next appointment is on July 2, but we're not sure what will happen at that time. Chances are that he will wear the cast for a few more weeks and a walking cast after that.
Why is the Achilles tendon so important?
The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the body. It is a tendinous structure (attaches muscle to bone) that forms from a combination of the gastrocnemius-soleus muscles located in the calf. The tendon attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus) and causes the foot to push off (plantar flex) when the calf muscles tighten. The tendon is necessary for normal walking, running, and jumping. Athletic and traumatic injuries to the Achilles tendon are common and can be disabling
.What is an Achilles tendon rupture?
Achilles tendon rupture is a severe and disabling injury. A rupture usually takes place a couple of inches above the joining of the tendon and the heel bone. This typically occurs when someone contracts, or tightens, the calf muscle and suddenly pushes off the foot, such as in basketball or racquet sports. The injured person experiences pain, swelling, and an inability to stand on their tiptoes.
Resumption of full athletic activity usually takes four to six months, or longer, after injury in the surgically treated patient. Surgically repaired tendons heal stronger with less chance of rerupture.
Source: http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_15_1_5.htm
The great kumla experiment and lessons learned.
Welcome to my blog! I didn't think I had anything interesting to write about, but I thought y'all (as they say here in the South) might like to see this one.
Kumla. Komla. Klub. However one spells/says it, these potato dumplings are a favorite of my family and many others of Norwegian descent. Although I've ingested hundreds of them over the years and have even assisted Grandma Dottie a time or two, I've questioned my ability to achieve the requisite balance of potatoes and flour.
After assisting Grandma last weekend and watching Bonnie grind the potatoes in her blender rather than the typical hand grinder, I decided it was time to give it a try!
Lesson One: The importance of this balance cannot be underestimated. Mine was heavy on the flour, which results in heavy, dense kumla.
I just learned today that Chris managed to date and marry me without ever having kumla! How did this happen?
Lesson Two: It is possible to marry into our family without eating kumla first. Chris liked it - whew - he can stay! I told him that this batch is nothing compared to Grandma Dottie's!
As Jack said, "good, for a first try." Mr. Finicky ate at least five.
Lesson Three: Anything edible on the first try (unlike my lefse attempt) is worth a second chance!
And yes, Grandma, I'll go easy on the flour this time!
Kumla. Komla. Klub. However one spells/says it, these potato dumplings are a favorite of my family and many others of Norwegian descent. Although I've ingested hundreds of them over the years and have even assisted Grandma Dottie a time or two, I've questioned my ability to achieve the requisite balance of potatoes and flour.
After assisting Grandma last weekend and watching Bonnie grind the potatoes in her blender rather than the typical hand grinder, I decided it was time to give it a try!
I just learned today that Chris managed to date and marry me without ever having kumla! How did this happen?
Lesson Two: It is possible to marry into our family without eating kumla first. Chris liked it - whew - he can stay! I told him that this batch is nothing compared to Grandma Dottie's!
As Jack said, "good, for a first try." Mr. Finicky ate at least five.
Lesson Three: Anything edible on the first try (unlike my lefse attempt) is worth a second chance!
And yes, Grandma, I'll go easy on the flour this time!
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