Maddie's Newest Adventure

After several weeks of taking a few hesitant steps at a time, Maddie is walking! It is so fascinating to me how quickly one or two steps becomes all-out walking, but once it clicked, Maddie was off. She's excited to be able to keep up with her sister more easily and is having fun practicing her new skill.

We're all settling into our fall routine. Norah loves her new teachers and is making some good friends at school. Maddie has been a good sport about being my running buddy as I attempt to get back a workout rhythm. And Dan is, as ever, busy at work... but definitely still finding time to prepare for the upcoming ND football season (that is, he reads a bunch of football blogs) and to play the occasional round of disc golf.

I was lucky to be able to spend a wonderful weekend a couple of weeks ago over at the beach celebrating Maggie's bachelorette party. It was my first overnight away from Maddie, but both she and Dan survived with no problems. (Thanks to Grandpa and Jake for the assist!) Maggie wanted a (mostly) low-key affair, so we stayed away from the usual activities in favor of wine tasting, eating, an art party, and some good stories. We're looking forward to Maggie and Jake's big day in a little over a month! And thanks to Maggie's friend Adam for some great pictures!

Laura and I toasted Maggie with some Middle Sister Sangria

Bachelorette cookies - this was as racy as the party got!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Labor Day weekend, and go Irish!