Wednesday, July 30, 2008

The Adventure Takes Flight

Yes, you guessed it... We are off on a new adventure. One that will take us far away from our home in Minnesota! Bright and early this morning, we loaded up our excited kids... (that is Jonah's version of saying "cheese", he was happier than he looks)
We loaded up 3 bags full of necessities...
And hopped on a plane.... a trip sponsored by Grandma and Grandpa who are, no doubt getting things ready for a house full of kids.
After lots of snacks and books and video games and a few hours of "are we there yet".....
And one very timely nap...
We finally arrived at our destination in San Fransisco, California. We stopped at the look out after crossing the bridge. As you can see it was a little windy and the kids were anxious to get back in the car.
As always, though, it is a beautiful view. We excitedly made the drive over the bridge and though the hills... to Grandmother's house we go. We are happy to be here and looking forward to spending lots of time with my family. More pictures of the family excitement to come...

Monday, July 28, 2008

Long Days of Summer

Like all true Minnesotans, we have come to appreciate the long days of summer... especially ones like today! There is nothing like a hot day spent at the lake with good friends... And a great dock for Jumping off of!!
Even Daddy couldn't resist the temptation to fling his body off the dock with his boy.

Jonah, of course, had a splashing good time....He even joined the family for a little water sport adventure in the tubes.
Josiah and Siri just couldn't get enough either.

My kids are just like little fish. They love the water and stayed in all day.
Mom, on the other hand, tries to stay out of it as much as possible. But I love watching my kids having a wonderful time.


At the end of the day, only food could lure them out of their watery playground. Pizza for dinner and Ice cream cones to top off a perfect day.

Saturday, July 12, 2008

The Cottage Grill

Tonight we went out for dinner at our favorite local spot. We love it so much, we thought we would share it with all of you..... It is a little place in Roger's called the Cottage Grill.
David happened upon an article in the newspaper about this restaurant started by a couple who came to America many years ago from Southern Greece. We were intrigued by their story and craving good Greek food so we thought we should give it a try. We found, much to the delight of our children, that their menu is not limited to Greek cuisine but offers a little something for everyone. Everything we have ordered comes to the table tasting like your grandma is back in the kitchen making you dinner. Some of our favorites... any thing with Gyros, the Salmon Salad, the Steak was excellent, good Vegetable soup, waffle fries and the homemade egg rolls. Last, but not least, their award winning Apple Pie may be the best I have ever had.
The Tiramisu was also delicious.... to be honest, we have yet to order anything that didn't taste great. We have found the prices to be fair and the portions to be Quite generous. It is a good thing we only go every couple of weeks or our waistlines would show it.


The food is what started us going there but it is only part of what keeps us coming back.
This place is truly a family affair. We met Libby and her daughter Joanne the first time we went. Joanne helps to manage the restaurant with all the beauty and joy you could imagine. It feels like she should be a long lost cousin or a good friend. Her brother runs the kitchen and Mom is always around whipping up some new dessert. Of course we, not being the shy type, have made quick friends of everyone and are looking forward to many more meals shared together. So stop on by... and tell them we sent you. And be sure to save room for the apple pie!!

Rogers, Minnesota
763-428-4176