My kids have been “up-north”* with Grandpa and Grandma all week, and are returning tomorrow. It’s been a quiet week at home, but a little too quiet – I’ve missed them! They’ve all had a blast though, and I’m really grateful for the relationship my kids have with my parents.

Jeanne and I have taken the time to do a little work around the house, we’re putting in a new kitchen floor, and next week we’re having new carpeting put into the living room and hallway! (We don’t have much carpeting in our house, it’s mostly hardwood, but what’s there has been there…well, I think since the 1970’s?! Well past time for a change!) So, spending a little money we can barely afford, but I think it’s worth it to feel good about where we live!

In an effort to get healthier, we’ve been doing a lot of grilling of good-for-you foods, like fish and vegetables, and only eating lean meats, and BOY has it been fun! I’ve done more grilling already this season then the last 3 or 4 years put together! So many great recipes, yum!

* For you non-Michiganians, this is a term used in Michigan all the time. It basically means when you head to the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, or any part of the Upper Peninsula, to relax and vacation. “Up north” often includes being in the woods, and/or near a river or lake!