America's Birthday with the Kaufmans

We were lucky enough to have Kate's parents up for the fourth of July weekend. They arrived on Thursday, and immediately they wanted to be put to task. We started with some landscaping in the front yard.

The mailbox area definitely needed some work. I had pulled out all the over-grown landscaping in May. Now we have a whole new look for the mailman to ignore while he delivers our mail.

After planting, we headed over to Lola's on Lake Waconia for some dinner and drinks. What a sweet spot on the lake!... and a great meal!

Friday, John and I hit the road on bikes and did a little loop. We all, then, headed to the fabric store to pick out some fabric for napkins, a baby quilt, and some blankets for Mikko (spoiled brat!). Mikko just loves her new deck blanket.

We also took Friday to celebrate Jan's Birthday.

Even Mikko got in the act with a little Frosty Paws treat.

On Saturday, we celebrated the fourth by starting our day at the Arboretum.

Then, we had a nice dinner of brisket prepared by yours truly on the grill. My rents also joined us for dinner.

We started Sunday off with another bike ride to Lake Minnetonka/Excelsior. Followed by a walk with Mikko. She enjoyed her time on the play set and swimming.

After the walk/swim/slide session, John, Kate, and I played some mini-golf.

Finally, we went back to the house and grilled up some ribs. Sadly, after dinner we had to send John and Jan home :( Mikko, Kate, and I all wish they lived here so we could enjoy more times like these.