An Epic Weekend

I had a great weekend facilitating a Leadership Seminar Series event at the Hotel Finlen in Butte, America, for The Policy Institute, Montana's Progressive Think Tank.

There were funny moments, and sweet moments, and even a few epic moments. Examples of epic: my niece and I singing "I Don't Know Much, But I Know I Love You" at a karaoke bar. Watching a gay marriage proposal at the same bar. Hanging out with the most amazing emerging progressive leaders around.

More epic-ness: The woman I'm posing with in the bottom row was our keynote speaker Denise Juneau, Montana's Superintendent of Public Instruction. She's the first Native American, man or woman, to be elected to state-wide office in our state. A true historical figure. An inspiration to many. I'm proud to know her. Can you tell by my cheesy grin?

***

Today I stayed home with two sick kiddos. Planning and executing these events takes a lot out of me. I'm tired. Things will slow down for me now. I'm glad.

It's all white outside and all quiet inside. Just what I needed.

A Magical Afternoon

We had a magical afternoon that almost didn't happen.

It was Brynja who pushed our lazy butts out the door.

To the skating rink.

It was magical!

The late afternoon light was gorgeous.

The girls are skating better and better.

I even skated today!

We finished with dinner out. Fish tacos downtown.

Magical.

rachel+diego+bump

A few of my faves from a recent session with my friends Rachel and Diego. They're expecting their baby this spring.

A beautiful couple with a beautiful bump. It was my honor to help them capture this special time in their lives.

See more photos over at my photography blog.

Sledding Day

New Year's Day 2013.

Sledding just down the road from our  house.

Sun on snow. 

Quickly fading light in the late afternoon.

Up and down. 

Down, then up again.

Then back down.

A great way to start a year.

Skating Day

New skates from Santa.
A quiet little park in our sweet little town.
Shaky legs for about five minutes, then back to whipping around like pros.
Like riding a bike.
Hot chocolate in thermoses.
Sister plans and secrets and choreographed routines.
Free fun.
Nothing better.

Christmas Memories

Flannel jammies opened up on Christmas Eve.

A retro, old-school preparation on the ham, which made it mighty tasty!

The rest of the food...

The family at the table.

We had a great time feasting, opening, giving, resting, celebrating. Now, on to the new year!

Hi Again

Wow. I haven't blogged for more than a year, but it's good to be back. We'll see if I stay awhile again. It's winter again. Christmas again. The darkest part of the year again. But already, we've turned back toward the sun. That is definitely a good thing.

We had a lovely holiday. Eric's parents are here. My girls were happy with their presents. Life is good. Really couldn't be better. I'll try to keep blogging. Thanks for checking back! Happy Holidays all.