Chicago Trip

I got to take my first real business trip as a teacher to a conference in Chicago at the end of September.  I felt like a real professional!  We worked, but we also played.

Cloud Gate & Millennium Park

"The Bean"

Navy Pier

Eating Downtown

Free Starbucks for teachers!

Our 13th Anniversay

On October 4th, Josh and I have been married 13 years (dated for 20), so we went on a weekend getaway.

First stop: The Royal Gorge

Second stop: Hillside, CO (one of the only "Dark Sky" places left in CO. 
We could see the Milky Way from our porch.

Third stop: Bishop's Castle
This man literally built a castle ALL by himself. So Cool!

Saying Goodbye to Ernie

Over Labor Day weekend, we had to put Ernie to sleep.  He was fourteen years old and was battling pancreatitis.  Doctors believed it would continue to come back due to his age and he was in a lot of pain.  We made the hard decision to let him go.  We know he is in heaven, with his brother and best friend, Hobbs.  We look forward to seeing him again someday.  We love you, Ernie.  You were a gentle dog and such a special part of our family.

First Day of School 2017

Jack started 3rd grade this year and Joe started 5th.  I can't believe this is Joe's last year in elementary school.  Time has gone way too fast!

Hello 3rd grade!

Hello 5th grade!

Joe and Mr. Kampling

Jack and Mrs. Gartelos

Swim Invitational 2017

Both Boys qualified for the swim invitational this month.  Over 300 boys and girls compete at this meet.  Jack got 2nd in 25 fly & 25 free.  He got 4th in 25 breast.  Joe got 3rd in 25 free and 25 breast.  He got 1st in 25 back!