2015

2015

Big year – we became Grandparents!  Theodore Leon Kappler was born – March 4.

That meant quite a few trips back and forth to Portland – can’t get enough of seeing that little guy!

Emily turned 30 in May and we spent a week with just her – touring Boston and New York.  Visiting her friend Celeste in Boston to see one of her opera performances, what a great city.  New York, with Mary Kay and Carol is a special time and a real treat to see Roosevelt’s Library, a visit to the culinary institute plus a trip to NYC – Lady Liberty and Ellis Island. 

Several short sail trips in the Sound – Theo had his first sail, AIFD symposium in Denver, plus a 10-day tour of Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Cody, WY with Steve and Wendy. Her request and if you can imagine her asking in her sweet British accent – “I would really like to see some “geezers” and cowboys with those huge belt buckles!”  WELL – WE DID!  

Almost immediately upon getting home – Dale took another adventure with one of his wrestlers – who became a teaching and coaching partner at West- Pat McCluskey.  One of Pat’s life missions is to support his Peace Corp village in South Africa – visiting every other year and sharing his Glen Ellyn community with his African community.  It was an incredibly special time for Dale – so proud of Pat and what kind of man, husband, father and teacher he has become. Going to the “His Peace Corp Village”, 4 days in Kruger NP (to view the BIG 5) ending up in Cape Town. What an Incredible Adventure. 

If this wasn’t enough – Dale took me to visit my “ homeland”– Czech Republic.  Taking a Danube River Cruise with Glori, Mary Kay and Carol we were able to see Budapest and all the sights up the river to Prague.  Staying a few days extra we were able to walk in the streets, gardens and churches which our ancestors had done – great grandparents childhood homes.

We now know why our family chose Nebraska to land in – we felt as if we were “coming home” when we got up to Pilsner.  And why we like beer!!!!  It was a glorious time. 

Picture of Mary Kay, Kim, and Glori is the church where their great grandparents were married.

Beginning of September brought Bud and Sue plus his brother and wife – Mark and Sharon to La Conner for a week’s sailing in Puget Sound.  Loved loved having them.  

December brought great joy as we celebrated Jessica and Tom’s wedding on December 31 – sharing the wedding anniversary of Mom and Dad – super family time!  And we can’t forget about all of the flowers!