My parents are adorable

Aren't they? I just love them so much.

I often wonder whose genes I'll get - will I become more and more "blonde" like my Dad or never have to die my hair like my Mom? Tick tock, tick tock. Only time will tell.

TGIF: Hockey style

I realized that I never shared my hockey game experience from last Friday. Here are my takeaways:

• Seattle Thunderbirds are terribly young. There was a 15-year-old on the ice!
• I must be getting old because every time they got into a fight, I would grimace instead of cheer. But don't tell the diehards that sat behind us.
• Kent and/or hockey attracts an odd crowd.
• I'm happy that America chooses football (or baseball?) as our spot of choice, unlike Canada.
• There are only 3 periods in the game, not 4 like I expected.
• On the JumboTron, they were welcoming groups and all of a sudden "Dip-A-Palooza" appeared. I quickly texted Holden and they were only a few sections away! (Speaking of, DAP7 post to come with video teaser.)
• I want to learn how to skate backwards. Or just go ice skating. And watch Kathryn do a triple-axel since she used to skate competively.

Hope everyone has a wonderful, relaxing weekend!

The Girl Store

Every day, Indian girls are being sold into marriage and sex slavery. But you can help. Simply purchase an Indian girl the items she desparately needs to attend school. Because the most effective way to break the cycle of exploitation is education. Learn more about The Girl Store.

Today, I bought an adorable little girl her school uniform. It's a small price to pay, but every little bit helps these girls get the education they deserve. An education that many of us take for granted.

Up next, maybe I'll buy a little girl her backpack (which happens to be Hannah Montana!) or little black shoes?

What would you buy?

Could-have-been love story

You may have already seen this on Cup of Jo, but I think it's pretty cute. It makes you think about why it can be so hard to just put yourself out there, doesn't it?

Baking Day

I think Stephanie explains it perfectly, but these Devil's Food Cupcakes were the devil, both in the baking process (a 3 hour process) and on my waistline since I've eaten one daily since we made them.

They are delicious though, especially if you're a chocolate fan!

Any easy recipe recommendations for our next baking day?

Success

Joe's birthday was a success this weekend! From the hockey game with his family on Friday to drinks with friends at the Duchess on Saturday to dinner at Cactus on Sunday (actual birthday), he had a great time! He's not a huge birthday celebrator, but I told him to get used to it with me around.

But for the unveil on his gift, though many of you know: I got him a Kinect! His reaction was something along the lines of, "I have the coolest girlfriend ever!" So yes, it was well-received. The other idea was a watch, but I think he's going to try to revive his for now. He did sound interested when I mentioned this blue-faced Skagen watch. Who knows if he gets it for himself after all?

One of the funniest gifts was from Tom and Gwynne - a bib that said "li'l Swede" and a button that said "1/2 Swedish". How they found such perfect gifts is beyond me. Umm, who actually creates and sells a button that says 1/2 Swedish? The evidence below.

TGIF

My top 10 reasons I'm excited for the weekend:

1. This "short" week (I had to work a half day on Monday) has felt like eternity and I can't wait for a little breather.
2. It's Joe's birthday on Sunday! When I tell him he's an old man, he responds with, "How's that seat at the kid's table?" Touche.
3. Due to #2, we're getting a drink with a few friends on Saturday at the Dutch.
4. And Joe and I are going to dinner on Sunday somewhere fun. Place still TBD. Suggestions?
5. I'm SO excited to give him his present! I'll announce what I got him on Monday. I know, leaving you at the edge of your seat.
6. Thunderbirds hockey game tonight!
7. Sleeping in.
8. A possible run with Autumn?
9. There is only a small chance of rain this weekend.
10. Joe's birthday is also our 14 month marker. Crazy how time flies, huh?

What are you excited for this weekend?

pic/WeHeartIt