Life & Times in 2013

TAKE CALCULATED RISKS.
THAT IS QUITE
DIFFERENT FROM BEING RASH.

On New Years Eve, I spent the evening with the dear and wonderful, Jenni. When I finished work in St. Paul at the shoe store (more on this later), I picked her up and we headed to my place to make the dish I have so wonderful procrastinated on, the green bean casserole I received ingredients for as part of my Secret Santa. When it had cooked and without eating it, we moved on to apparel. Our plans included the Beer and Pretzel Party: Dress to Impress. With my personal stylist on hand, Jenni concocted what I was to wear so ensure we went out in style. We headed out to pick up our dinner, chinese take-out and then headed back to Jenni's to enjoy it- not to mention celebrate our fortune resolutions!!  Afterwards, we headed to Hannah and Amanda's for the shindig.

As we walked into the party, only knowing Hannah and Amanda, I could have sworn we walked into the wrong apartment. The music was going, conversations were innumerable, and there were so. many. people. Finally Amanda emerged from the crowd directing us on where to go to put our coats. Talk about a blast. There was dancing, great music, conversation, not to mention the meet and greets with soo manyyyyyyy peopppple. At one point, Jenni had a Michael Jackson encounter. This required photographic evidence:

PHOTO SHOOT WITH MICHAEL. .

HAPPY NEW YEARS!

Be jealous. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and could not thank Amanda and Hannah enough..

WITH OUR LOVELY HOSTESS', HANNAH AND AMANDA!

They provided a bit of a champagne fountain when it got closer to midnight. We counted down off of people's cell phone clocks, and rang in the new year with some of the world's best company! 

On New Years day, when I finally rolled out of bed, I went to Jenni's house to order more chinese take-out and to go see Perks of Being a Wallflower. I cannot wait to purchase the book, soundtrack, and movie- once it is released. This movie was wonderful and fascinating.

HANNAH BELTING IT FOR
LUNA AND THE SUNBROTHERS.

TAYLOR & ME LOVING
EVERY SECOND OF
SERENADING BY HANNAH.

I went to see Luna and the Sunbrothers peform at the coffee shop again, and the were of course marvelous. I'm really enjoying seeing Hannah so often, not to mention hearing her sing! The group is great, my offer still stands, if you want to join me- let me know! The coffee shop they perform at has recently gone under a name change. It was previously, Second Moon Coffee House. It is now called Precision Grind Coffee. It's located off of Franklin and 22nd, and they typically play every other Thursday (as in, this week, but not next, but then again on the following). Yes, they have this discussion every week and it is hilarious. :D They have great coffee, great art, and great sounds. If you're a fan of specialty drinks, straight up coffee, free WiFi, or jazz & blues, you should be there. As soon as possible. Let me know if you're interested in finding out more about them, or just visit their Facebook page!

Since it is the holidays and people are in the area that aren't always, a miniature London Reunion was in store. Adrian, Shannon and I live here now, and Taylor is home being on break from university. Taylor came up with a wonderful idea for an out-of-the-box activity and drinks: Sky Zone and Margaritas. Not at the same time, mind you.. that would be outrageous! We paid $8.00 for a half hour of jump time. Shannon and I were joking to Taylor that we should jump for an hour, we've got the time! Taylor kept insisting that she had done this before and we would understand when it got to that point. Sure enough. We had 12 minutes left to jump, and we were exhausted. It was such a great workout. Even a few days later now, my shoulders are aching horribly. When I stretch my arms out forward, the muscles between my shoulder blades feel like a telescope being opened, section by section. I cannot wait to go back!! After jumping, we headed to Taylor's for fantastic margaritas and catch-up time with Adrian, who unfortunately could not make it to the trampoline house.. Next time FOR SURE!

BIRKENSTOCK SOCKS. 

As you may have picked up on in the first sentence here, I have another job. This is another part time deal, looking to raise funds in my life. Here is the point in time where you say, "Of course you did."... I have a job at a shoe store called Shoesters. There are two locations in Minnesota, and two locations in Virginia. We specialize in foreign comfort shoes, some fashion shoes, and loads of Smart Wool clothing. I had to share this picture today. I organized all of the Smart Wool socks, and then moved on to fix the mess of several, maybe seven (?), boxes of unorganized Birkenstock socks. Here is the outcome: seven MORE boxes of ORGANIZED Birkenstock socks. Loveeeeee itttt! :)


A short note about a fun adventure.. On Sunday, Jenni and I headed to the Minneapolis Institute of Art to see the exhibit: China's Terracotta Warriors. It was fabulous. We arrived later than planned, around 10:45am only to find the MIA didn't open until 11:00am. Much to our surprise, there were somewhere around 100 people (or more, who knows!?) waiting in line ahead of us. Here is the moment Jenni reminds me, Sunday is the free, Target-sponsored day. Of course! We made our way into the atrium, happy to be warmer than the 1º F temperatures outside. This was the case, until MORE people came. It was tremendous, and everyone wanted to be out of the cold. Even the people standing outside.. who were holding the doors wide open. I'm leading off topic here... When they let us in, Jenni and I decided to start with the short documentary about the Terracotta Warriors. This video was immensely helpful, at least to me, as I have not studied or learned more about this since approximately Mr. Robert's 6th grade S.O.A.R. and history class. Yes, I know, shame on me. However, as soon as the first cycle of the video ended, the executive decision of getting in line for the exhibit was made. It maybe took a half hour for us to get in, but as we were heading through the exhibits, we heard employees saying the line had become so long that some people might not get through the exhibit today... WOW. I'm so glad we made it in.. not to mention snapped a couple photos to create the picture above. :)

Once again, I promise not to procrastinate on my blog posts again. It is entirely too difficult to remember details of events so far from the original fun!! Here is my resolution. At least two blogs a month. One for every trip I take, another for every crazy Minnesota-related adventure, and one to just let you know that life is swell and what crafts are in my head or cooking is being done in the kitchen. All of this needs work, and it's an adventure.. why not document it? It will be all the more fun to recount and revisit in days, weeks, months, and years to come.
Sarah Marsh

New Years!

Tonight held a little bit of reminiscing for me. I read through a few blogs from a year ago when I first started. I was recounting my enormous amount of anticipation for the fabulous trip I was taking to London in the summer and how excited I was to complete my final semester on campus at school. A year has come and gone, didn't it go by in a blink?

Each new year is like renewing your membership to something. You have a chance to evaluate how the last year went and what you want to change, work on, or challenge in the next year. You have every moment as opportunity to grow and develop further skills, make new friends and see new places. This year is the year of opportunity and ambition. Let's conquer these goals and make this year out-do the last. Game on.

To look back on this year's major events: I spent spring break in California with my best friend and family. I graduated from undergraduate university. For ten weeks, I lived in London. I visited Dublin (Ireland), Paris (France), Bangor (Wales), Kenilworth (UK), Brighton (UK), Cambridge (UK) and Brussels (Belgium). I spent about 36 hours in New York and half a week in Washington, DC. I bought a car. I got a job, in my field. I moved to Minneapolis. I spent a long weekend in Arizona. This year has been spectacular. Pictures and words do not even begin to describe how wonderful my experiences have been.

Here is an extra special thank you to all of my friends, family and other various forms of support networks. Thank you for encouraging me to be the best person I can be, to experience things that only happen once in a lifetime (if you're lucky), and supporting me through all my endeavors. It's because you are so awesome that I can attempt to live so fully. <3 I wish you the very best new years you've ever had.

Bring it on 2013. Let's get this party started.
Sarah Marsh

Holiday fun!!

Happy holidays!! I hope your festivities were as wonderful as mine! I was able to spend time with wonderful friends, fantastic family and loads of loved ones. I have had the opportunities to road trip, hang out with my kitty, catch up on the newest movies, and have many, many times to smile! :)

My oldest brother, Morgan, flew in on the Tuesday before Christmas and we all but painted the town red! I was lucky enough to get out of work early and pick him up from the airport myself!! He sent his winter jacket, jeans and fleece jacket up ahead of time.. typical southerner, not ready for the cold that awaits. Once I picked him up, we grabbed lunch for the two of us, and our brother, Andrew.

Trying to be the accommodating sister for my tourist brother, I planned out a few holiday-specific activities including seeing the Macy's elves, going ice skating, playing in the snow, and seeing the Holi-Dazzle Parade downtown. Guess how much of that we did? If you guessed none of it, you are correct. We spent more time catching up on odds and ends shopping and taking opportunities to catch up with family.

On Wednesday, I had been granted a day off because projects and tasks around the orchestra office were slow. I was so excited to spend the day with Morgan! We hit various places like Walmart, Target, IKEA, and a few local shops. It was such a blast getting to spend time one-on-one. I am not sure Morgan and I have had this opportunity to hang out since I was somewhere around the age of 13. Yikes. Talk about a need to catch up with your sibling! Just before dinner at Andrew & Mary Elizabeth's, Andrew and Morgan went on a run with The Running Room's runners club. I picked up the boys, we hit the liquor store and headed to the house. We spent the night with great beers and delicious chinese food. The boys took turns playing in a RBI Baseball tournament with one of Andrew & Mary Elizabeth's roommates. It was an absolute blast.

As for Thursday, I had a half day in the afternoon at work. In the morning, Morgan and I ran a few more errands, grabbed lunch, and while I went to work, he did some honey-do lists for my Aunt and Uncle. After work, I headed to happy hour with some work friends for the Secret Santa reveal! My Santa ended up being my supervisor, she had some of the best gifts! I received ingredients for green bean casserole  a musical scarf, Apples to Apples in a Can, Travel Pictionary, Travel Would You Rather, and a bag of Peanut M&Ms. Talk about spectacular!! After I headed home, I went to see my friend Hannah's band, Luna and the Sunbrothers, perform at their coffee shop. They played a number of Christmas/Holiday-themed music and it was (of course) wonderful. More people should come to see them perform! If you're interested in joining me, text me- email me- facebook me- tweet me- I'd be happy to have you along! :)

Friday began with work, all day at the orchestra. Unfortunately it was announced that morning that more concerts were to be cancelled due to the lock out- through February 10th. After work, I headed home to pick up Morgan and go out to dinner with some lovely people-- our cousins! Although not everyone could make it, due to my poor planning and bad, bad misunderstanding, it was a blast for the couple of us who did make it. It was Morgan, Tom & April, Caroline & Nic, and me. Four cousins and two spouses. We'll get our acts together one of these times and make it a full group! We ate dinner at Pizza Luce and had an evening full of laughter.

Saturday meant family!! My parents drove in from Wisconsin and Mary Elizabeth's mom flew in from South Carolina. We began setting up as though it was a proper Christmas! We had dinner at the Depot in St. Paul with our five, plus Mary Elizabeth and her mom, AND my Aunt and Uncle! I think the waitress thought we were nuts... On Sunday, we celebrated Christmas in many different ways. Four of us had a gift opening under the Christmas tree, and then joined with Andrew, Mary Elizabeth, and her mom, then with our cousin, Caroline with her husband and children, and our Aunt and Uncle for dinner at my Aunt and Uncle's house. A feast, presents, family, loads of love. It was Christmas.

The next morning, Christmas Eve, Morgan flew back to South Carolina while my parents and I drove to Wisconsin. I had a week and a half off from the orchestra, I figured I might as well spend some time at home with friends who only make it home for the holiday, my kittttttty, and hang time at my parent's house. Boy was it needed. I hope your holidays were full of love and cheer!
Sarah Marsh

Snow is Everywhere!!

THIS IS WHAT I WOKE UP TO
SUNDAY MORNING!

Last weekend, Minneapolis found itself in the first big snow of the season! I never heard the final count on how many inches, but from personal experience, it had to have been around 8 - 12 inches out there. Despite the crazy weather, I had a few appointments to keep!

MY CAR AT THE END OF THE NIGHT...

Recently I have been invited to stand up as a groomsmaid in my friends' wedding. I went to high school with both the bride and groom, and I am super excited to be included in the wedding party! My appointment to keep, no matter the weather, was at David's Bridal to try on dresses and see what would work the best! I brought my friend, Jenni, along for moral support and opinion. Afterwards, we had planned to do a number of shopping excursions for Christmas presents. I'll have you know we did all of the above and then some! By the end of the night, we dyed my hair too!!

This short and sweet little blog post is to share the few photographs I have from the big snow and the change in my hair color.. I couldn't help it. I am just so excited about it!!

BEFORE... 

...AFTER!

...AND A FEW DAYS LATER. I'M LOVING IT!!

Musical Musings in Minneapolis

As many of you may or may not know, I have a strong interest in music. In fact, the word 'strong' is probably a bit of an understatement there. I love music. My mom used to say that I have music where ever I go, with bells on my fingers and toes... what ever that saying is! I would have music blarring from my room, something going in the living room/kitchen and music on the TV or stereo in the basement. I just cannot get enough!! Naturally, moving to Minneapolis where stages, shows, concerts and artists are seldom hard to find.. I have begun an adventure of listening!

KNOTS ON A STRING

A few weeks ago, I went to a show at the Fine Line Music Cafe to see a friend of a friend's group, Knots on a String. The show was fantastic. No complaints. The group consists of five girls of various instruments and vocal talents. I loved it so much, I purchased a CD and have been playing it non-stop in my car. Seriously, you can ask my friend Jenni!! :) Check them out on Facebook here!

Towards the end of their sets, they had two girls join them having performed earlier in the evening. It was a great combination. I would highly recommend you check them out at their next event! Like them on Facebook so you can learn of their events in the Twin Cities area!

LUNA AND THE SUNBROTHERS

In the last couple of weeks, I went to see Luna and the Sunbrothers at the 2nd Moon Coffee Cafe. The way I came to learn about this specific event is kind of a funny, small-world story.. I was eating at Pizza Luce with a friend, we were finishing up our drinks and waiting to get the bill when two girls walked in. I turned to my friend and said, "I know her-- that second girl with the curly hair!" She joked something about how I know people everywhere I go... yadda yadda yadda ... but I said, "No! Really! I know her through a friend I worked with at UW- Stevens Point, she went to UW- River Falls!" So I sent a quick text to our mutual friend asking if he knew of her whereabouts and if she was in Minneapolis, to be sure that I didn't look crazy by talking to strangers (even though I do that often). Long story short.. I did speak to her, and she is the lead singer for Luna and the Sunbrothers, and ultimately invited us to the show the next evening. Minneapolis just got a heck of a lot smaller. Like them on Facebook here, too! They have another show coming up at the Fine Line Music Cafe next week, you should all be there to check the out!

CHARLIE AND JAKE

On this particular Friday night, I was not doing anything special. Until I received a few text messages from my friend Charlie. He said a friend of his was in the vocal ensemble that was performing out in Apple Valley at a church. I'll have you know, working in the Ticket Services Department for the Minnesota Orchestra, we don't just ticket for the Orchestra, we also do other smaller performing ensembles. With this knowledge, I asked Charlie if it was in fact a Vocal Essence concert at the Sheppard of the Valley Church.. and indeed it was!! We went to see their Welcome Christmas concert, I met his friend who sang with them and we had a great time. The group is quite prestigious and very well known in the Twin Cities. If you're looking for a prime concert, you should look into their next concerts in February, March and April. I would highly suggest ANY of them-- and not because when you call for a ticket, you might get me on the line... because they are actually a phenomenal vocal (and small orchestral) group! Philip Brunelle has done an exquisit job keeping this group to the high exemplary level they are at. *Sorry for not catching an accurate photo of the group, I'll just put Jake as their sole representative, and Charlie, congratulating him on a fantastic concert. Well deserved!

Bravo! As more musical opportunities come about, I'll share them in quick time. For now, all I can do is recommend what I know to be great! I'm so glad I am in a city so appreciative of the arts and what is around!
Sarah Marsh

A Weekend Dream

When someone tells you they are going from Minneapolis to Phoenix at this time of year, you can automatically assume they are snow-birds. This is a person who flies south to get out of the winter. Can you really blame them for doing such a smart thing? It makes you want to be like them and do the same. With that said, I am no snow-bird. I was merely spending a long weekend with family, friends and some stars from the USA Women’s National Soccer team. Yes, you read that correctly. Let me tell you more... 

On Saturday, I flew out of Minneapolis at the break of dawn. Need a more specific time? 4:00AM, my alarm went off and I was at the airport no later than 5:30AM. I am assuming the flight was great, considering I slept the entire way. I woke up as we were descending into Denver for what might have been the shortest layover of my life. My ticket said a half hour, I had about ten minutes to sprint to the next gate and arrived in time to board with zone three! Again, my flight to Phoenix must have been great, because I slept through it! I think this means I am getting too used to traveling. What are your thoughts? 

Upon arrival to Phoenix, I was greeted by my friend Bryce’s parents. Since I didn’t have checked luggage, we were able to leave right away! When we got back to their house, we waited a bit for Bryce to get back from work before we headed out for lunch. I knew I couldn’t go anywhere but Chick-fil-A! It has been my favorite fast food restaurant for quite some time! :) If you have not experienced one, please do so!! 

After lunch, Bryce’s Dad, Bryce and I made a stop to their storage unit to get a mattress for me to sleep on. We made the transition fast and easy with Bryce’s monumentally large truck (his truck fills the lane, and puts you up almost as high as the semi drivers)! As soon as I was settled, we headed out to a new outlet mall area and planned on walking around until dinner before THE GAME: US Womens National team vs. the Republic of Ireland. While shopping, I picked up a cheap pair of UnderArmour running tights- you can’t have enough right?

For dinner, Bryce and I headed to the Yard House to meet our friend, Josh, who was joining us for dinner and the soccer match. Little did we realize, Josh did not know it was a women’s game, or that the match was on during the Big10 Championship game (featuring Wisconsin and Nebraska {which is a big deal because all three of us are from WI}). By having dinner at this steakhouse/bar, we were able to catch the beginning of the football game, too. We were able to eat a delicious dinner, enjoy fantastic Beglium beers, not to mention the Half Yard (also know as a Yard Stick or Tall Boy). Our waiters name was Jason. If anyone reading this goes to the Yard House near the Cardinal's stadium, request Jason! After watching most of the first quarter of the football game, we walked to the stadium, unfortunately about 10 minutes late. We had missed first goal. Luckily for us, the ladies scored again in the first half. This game didn't see as much action as the previous game against the Republic of Ireland earlier this week when we won in a 5-0 shut out.  

JOSH

BRYCE

ME

ABBY WAMBACH (no. 14)

MEGAN RAPINOE (no. 15)

JOSH, ME, & BRYCE

When the game was over, we headed back to the Yard House to see the end of the Wisconsin vs. Nebraska (70 - 31 final) football game... and a few drinks. We requested to be in Jason's section, and boy was that a great idea. I went to the restroom while waiting on our appetizers. On my way back from the bathroom, a short-haired blond was sitting in the booth nearest the hallway. She waved. Naturally, I returned the favor with the same response. It wasn't until I was half way back to my table that I realized that was Megan Rapinoe. When I looked back, I realized Shannon Boxx was sitting with her, too. When I got back to the table to tell the boys about who I saw, Jason approached the table holding a permanent marker. Jason said, "So you guys went to the game, yeah?" We nodded. He continued, "And your favorite player is...?" I responded, "Abby Wambach, didn't you see my jersey?" He laughed and said, "That's why I think you'll be needing this. Your girls in the next section, sitting outside. I'll let you know when she has had her plate cleared. You wouldn't want to interrupt her." And he walked away, leaving the permanent marker on the table. I cannot tell you how uncool I was for the rest of the night. My excitement was just too much. 

I eventually made Bryce get up and go with me to see Megan Rapinoe. Lucky for us, she was getting drinks at the bar by the time we were headed in her direction. Not wanting to disturb or interrupt her conversation with Christie Rampone, I waited a bit longer. As soon as I had a moment, I tapped her on the shoulder, thanked her for a great game and asked for a signature on my left sleeve. I was so stinking excited!! Shortly after Bryce and I headed back to the table, Jason informed us that Abby was done eating. I made Josh come with me this time. He played it off so much cooler than I did.. we walked out to her table, he knelt down and shook her hand, thanking her for the great game today. And he asked her if she would sign my jersey (obviously, because I could not form comprehensible words). I knelt down, too, giving her my right shoulder to sign. She said, "Why don't you turn around, I'll put it on the number!" My jersey just went up exponentially in net-worth. You can bet I won't be wearing it often- let alone washing it ever! 

BRYCE & ME

JENNY & ME

After such an eventful night, we had no choice but to sleep in, enjoy a great home cooked breakfast, and a day full of (more) football games. This must be how the rockstars live.. Wow. I was still basking in glory from meeting two of my most esteemed idols. Once the football games were done and we had collectively outlasted our lazy day, Bryce and I headed to Cave Creek to meet my Uncle Chick, my cousin (driving from California) Jenny and her daughter Phoebe! We had a few drinks at my Uncle's house before heading to Sesame Inn for an oriental treat. It has been years since I last saw Chick, Jenny or Phoebe-- it was just wonderful to catch up (Shelby!! We really missed you!!). This time I even managed to have photographic evidence (my mom always hates it when I forget to photo-document a family get together, which, I have accidentally missed A LOT of opportunities this year)!!

JENNY, CHICK, BRYCE, ME, & PHOEBE

On Monday, Bryce had been called into work in the middle of the night to cover for a co-worker who fell ill. When he finished up with work mid-morning, we headed to the Musical Instrument Museum. I had heard loads about this place from family and friends, I knew I had to stop in. Bryce isn't the most instrumentally interested, so I wanted to be sure we had a good time. We started from the weirder, older instruments and worked our way through the United States & Canada exhibit; eventually ending with country, rock and roll, and famous artists/music from Arizona. Afterwards, we tried our hands in the Experiment Gallery, took a walk through the Mechanical Music Gallery and Artists Galleries. The museum is fantastic. I recommend everyone go! There was so much to see, and the few hours we spent there was hardly enough time to see it all!

After the museum, Bryce and I headed to Cafe Mimi to meet up with my Uncle Chick once more. It is so much fun catching up with family. I could do it all the time! After some coffee, lemonade and appetizers, Bryce and I headed to Oregano's to meet his parents. We had some delicious pizza-- some of the best-- before heading to the Phoenix Zoo to see the Zoolights!

LION

There was so much to see at the zoo! And hardly any animals! A number of the trees were wrapped in lights, which gave it a beautiful effect. These pictures hardly do it justice.

SNAKES!

In most areas, the real zoo animals were asleep, but there were plenty of lit animals near where they were to know what animals belonged where! 

DAVE & KIM

ME & BRYCE

On Tuesday I had every intention to get a run in with the nice weather (despite my knees), but I was so exhausted I took the morning to sleep in. Unfortunately, Bryce was called into work again, but it gave me a chance to start getting my things together for the trip home and snack on the greatest of great chocolate cupcakes his Mom made me for my birthday (THANKS KIM)!!!!

My flights weren't too bad, but not quite the breeze I had coming in. In the first few minutes at my gate, I had a number of ferocious sneezes, leaving my face leaking like one of those kleenex ads! My eyes were crying, my nose was running- and looking around, I knew no one was happy that I would be on their plane. After getting in on the courtesy checked-baggage, I went for Wendy's and some NyQuil (mind you, it was noon). I slept through the first flight with out a problem. Ran with my first seatmate and the two guys behind me to the next flight out of Denver.. And just as I was expecting to get some sleep on the second flight, I had an infant and her parents next to me. Instead, I tried my hardest to stay awake. I worked on editing some photos and the first half of this blog! Ta-Da!!

MONKEY-ING AROUND AT THE ZOO... 

At this point in time, I don't have any more surprise trips (or planned) trips. I'll alert you the moment that fact changes! Until next time..
Sarah Marsh

Road trips, Turkey and Cheesecakes

In the last eleven days, I have put at least 1,530 miles on my car. I have stayed at nine different places. Traveled between two states. Taken dozens of highways, interstates, county roads, etc. Met one deer with my car. Played with one dog and five cats. Ran two miles. Played eighteen holes of discgolf. Celebrated 24 golden years. And thoroughly enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday.

UWSP SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

It all began when I went to Stevens Point, WI to see the lovely ladies I lived with in London, see the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point Symphony Orchestra and a dual student recital (clarinet and bass). I had the chance to catch up with so many people from school, who knew all I needed to do was go to the University Center or Starbucks to see more than half of the people in Stevens Point?!

Most of Friday I spent wandering through the Dreyfus University Center, NRHH/RHA Office and the Noel Fine Arts Building. I was able to see a number of students, previous supervisors, professors and friends I've known or worked with in the last five-ish years. It was a great visit. I could not have planned it more perfectly. I was able to go out to dinner with my friend Annika and get more up to date with others before the Symphony Orchestra concert, where I was able to successfully surprise a number of friends in the music department.

On Saturday, I spent a number of hours in Starbucks seeing a number of friends and professors. In the afternoon, I went to a joint recital for a friend of mine who plays bass and his roommate who plays clarinet. After their recital finished, I headed back to Minneapolis for a board game party!

GOPHER WRESTLING

For only spending one night in Minneapolis, I spent the night at a friend's place. She and I woke early Sunday for the University of Minnesota's wrestling match that she had to work and I was able to do the live blogging for the dual again. We've practically got this down!! :) After the event finished, I stopped by my brother's and spent time with him and his roommates. When it was time, I drove to the airport to pick up my friend Gretchen and drive her home to Poplar, WI.

GRETCHEN & ME

Gretchen and I made the three hour drive without danger, singing Disney classics the entire way (of course). When we arrived in Poplar, Gretchen's family welcomed us with open arms and fed us generously!!!! In the morning, Gretchen taught me a bit of violin: E Tune and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. We have videos, but I'm not sure how well it will load. I'll keep you posted. After a hefty lunch combining all of Gretchen's favorite things, I drove back to Minneapolis making it just in time for Monday night volleyball.

After working all day Tuesday and Wednesday, I packed up the car and picked up my brother to drive to Fond du Lac, WI. Our plan was to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with our parents and our Chicago family. All though the drive is not typically eventful, we unfortunately had a bit of an event. A deer. North of Stevens Point, near Lake Knowlton. Thankfully, the deer was meerly standing in the middle of my lane and I graciously drove around it. Not-so-thankfully, as I passed the deer on the right shoulder (and he {and I know it was a he because of his abundant antlers} was facing left) he decided to turn 180º. Right into my car. The right rear 'flank' of my Ford Focus, now has two small dents. I cannot complain, because we could have totalled it. I am very grateful that it was only such a minor encounter.

ANDREW & ME BEFORE THE RACE

Andrew and I made it the rest of the way home with no incidents. We got home and to sleep sometime after 1am. And promptly woke by 6:30am to run two miles for the Turkey Trot (click on the link, Andrew and I are photo #52 on the finish line!). I know I told you I wasn't going to run, but one of my supervisors at work said, "If you think you can do it, why not try?" Andrew ran with me the entire way, as if he was my own personal coach. I picked up one of those compression knee bands made specifically for patellar tendinitis. It felt so great, I didn't have a single issue. About 3/4 through the two miles, I started having problems with my other knee instead- and the problems have yet to go away. I might have to go see someone about this soon.  Moral of the story, if you think you can do it, why not try? Andrew and I ran the two mile in 27 minutes (roughly). I had to start somewhere!! Next time it will be a 5k and officially timed. I cannot wait for my knee to recover so I can get back to running!

It turned out our Chicago family couldn't make it up to celebrate with us, so our Thanksgiving became a very quiet and low-key day. In the afternoon we went out and played 18 holes of frisbee disc golf. We enjoyed our 4pm dinner time and began a cribbage tournament with double elimination. On Friday, rather than going out and buying all sorts of unneeded, marked-down items, we stayed in, slept in, and baked. Two cheesecakes, peanut butter fudge, coconut raspberry cookies and something my brother picked out. We went to out to eat since we finished most all of our leftovers and then went to see Skyfall. GO SEE IT, that's all I'm going to say. :)

TOKEN TRIO!

After the movie and for all of Saturday, I spent (in various ways) celebrating my golden birthday. I was able to spend it with friends and family, both in Wisconsin and in Minnesota. Andrew and I drove back to Minneapolis just in time to begin celebrations with dinner, and friends, and drinks. I must say, I'm beginning to feel old, I hardly made it past midnight! And the music was too loud. What's wrong with me??

Anyway, now that I'm back in Minneapolis I am able to take a bit of a breather from all the running around I have done.

Until next time (in Phoenix)....
Sarah Marsh