Indy & GV

Sorry for the lack of posts as of late... I've been busy at work and busy with life and frankly have had a bit of writer's block.
We went to Indianapolis the weekend of October 6 to play with Kathy, Joe and the crew. Saturday afternoon, getting in on time (weird) Joe and Kat picked us up at the airport and whisked us off to a weekend filled with 90 degree days, parties, football and sharks.
First up we headed to a 30th birthday party for Kat hosted by Emily and Andy at their beautiful home. We were thrilled to finally meet Grace in person after practically watching her grow up in photos. It was probably overwhelming for MJ to meet the Hodsons and Kathy and Joe's friends all at once, but he held his own. Joe BBQ'd up some skewered beef, veggies and chicken while the rest of us sat around chatting, sipping wine and beer and listening to music. Courtesy of the Indian Summer we continued on late into the night as the cicadas started to sing. The conversation never once stalled. My favorite part of the evening was Andy's annual question put to the birthday girl about the best day of the past year. Kathy couldn't pick just one day, which I think highlights just what an amazing year it was for her. For all of us, really.
The next day we spent most of our time downtown taking in all of the sights and sounds of a city that loves its football team. Mike and Maureen very generously donated their tickets to us for the Tampa Bay/ Colts game and MJ and I were both treated to our very first honest-to-goodness NFL game. It was loud and raucous and absolutely fabulous. MJ got the one souvenir he has always wanted - a foam finger - and all of us got a hash mark in the 'w' column as the Colts did not disappoint on the field.
That night we went back to Joe and Kathy's very comfortable couch and watched the BSU Broncos first half against New Mexico State. Joe commented that it was like watching a high school team play a college team and I'd have to agree. We ended the night with a game of cut-throat Monopoly, one ear still on the BSU game, which eventually had to be conceded at 2am (the Monopoly game, that is).
The next day Joe shuttled us around to do all sorts of things - the Children's Museum, the art museum, and the Butterfly Pavilion - but everything was closed. We ended up at the zoo instead with a dolphin show, lots of various animals (to be expected at the zoo, I suppose) and a shark exhibit where they actually encourage you to "pet" the sharks. Quite an experience and a good ending to a great weekend.
Last weekend Cori, Dawn, Wendy and I headed up north through the blazing trees decked out in fall colors to the cabin in Crouch. Mom and Dad got a kick out of the girls. We all laughed so hard that night... my face truly hurt. Pete and MJ met us up there and we all enjoyed a pulled pork dinner thanks to Wendy (and her mom's recipe). The next morning Dawn made breakfast and we lazed around until it was time to go home for some more "football action" (MJ's words).
Now I am at work, no plans except for the bulbs I have been trying to plant for almost a month now. Oh.. and Josh Ritter is here this weekend... and its Barber to Boise... and Bunco...
Well, one of these days things will slow down. I'm not complaining, though. I hope everyone out there is enjoying a beautiful fall filled with weekends with friends, family, and football (or whatever you enjoy watching or doing in your free time). Much love to all, -M