An hour at the lake

I took these pictures yesterday at NU's shoreline of Lake Michigan. Some of them turned out pretty good. (You can click on an image to get a closer look)

Matt

camp slaw pics

Julie's pictures:

http://community.webshots.com/album/560815352hcWDnD?vhost=community

What they call a dorm at Northwestern

Brought to you by popular demand, a video of my half of the dorm:

Matt

Moving Day

Hello from Northwestern!

Today was a pretty hectic day. In addition to Phil (our contractor) carving our garage wall, I had to move into my new home at Northwestern. It's a quaint little place in south campus, but it's home for now. After moving in and rearranging some furniture, we (a group of 15 or so students) met our peer advisor and we had dinner later in the dining hall in my dorm. After that, we had a meeting with all the people on our floor and played a few games. Next, we went to an auditorium in a place called norris university center and watched a quite comical orientation video.

Of course, I will not be posting everyday, but every so often I would like to keep you guys informed. I hope everyone is doing well and I might see you all soon.

Matt

THANK YOU!

I would like to thank each and every one of the Whites, C. Slaws, Langermans, and Ettlesons for being so thoughtful and generous to me for my birthday!!!

The watch is PERFECT! I couldn't have picked out a better one myself, and the extra gift card will definitely come to use! I really appreciated all of your messages and phonecalls...my birthday was wonderful and i felt so loved!

I LOVE YOU ALL SOOOOO MUCH!!!!!!

love,
your 21-year-old niece/cousin,
Kim

My dorm!

Hello everyone! Thanks for all of the birthday wishes! U of M is fantastic so far...I start classes tomorrow morning so I'll let you all know how they go! Anyway, here are a few requested pictures of my dorm! Enjoy!

My Desk:


My Bed:


Birthday Balloons:


My Dresser

Happy Birthday Kim, Devin & Jessie!!!

On this fine Labor Day weekend, I'd like to post a birthday shout-out to 3 very lovely ladies: Kim (21), Devin (19), and Jessie (25). Did I get the ages right?! I hope so! Happy Birthday, cousins 'o' mine. I love you!!!

Love,
Sara Rianna

Construction Mocumentary

Matt

It's amazing what you can do without having anything to actually do

Matt's Dig

Matt

Camp Slaw 2007 Photo Blog

Matt

Happy Birthday Grandma Bobbie!

Happy Birthday! We hope that you have a great birthday. We love you so much!

CAMP SLAW!!!

Camp Slaw was so much fun! I would like to thank Grandma and Grandpa for starting this wonderful tradition and making it possible for us to go every year. I love getting to come and spend quality time with the family while relaxing and enjoying the summer. I love you all and can't wait to see you at Lizzy's Bat-Mitzvah! yay! Love, paige

Camp Slaw 2007

Hi, All! I'm in the process of writing the first Camp Slaw newsletter for this year, so if you have anything you want me to know before it's officially "published" let me know. Watch for the newsletter with job assignments coming within the next couple of days. Oh what fun!
Laurie

"The Boys are Back in Town"

As many of you may know, Daniel and I spent last weekend in Des Moines, Iowa with BJ. The drive was about 5 and a half hours and went smoothly both ways (thank goodness for XM radio). About the only highlight of the drive was crossing the Mississippi- which took about 10 seconds. But the destination was well worth the drive. When we arrived, we met BJ at Drake and he gave us a quick tour the Drake Campus including the building where he works. BJ claimed his office was a little cluttered at the time, but I'm sure I speak for Daniel when I say we felt right at home. Back at BJ's place (which was very organized and neat), we met BJ's roommate Matt and made ourselves at home until we left for the Iowa Cubs game, which was a lot of fun. It's not the major leagues, but how can you argue with between-innings festivities that include a golf cart driving around the field with a cannon that launches hot dogs into the stands- of course they are wrapped in foil when they are launched. Unfortunately, there were no free hot dogs to be eaten for us (or maybe that was a good thing). After the game, there was a fireworks show which was very cool. When we got back to BJ's place, we watched a movie then went to bed for some much needed rest.

The next morning (Saturday), we watched the British Open on TV while we ate cereal on the couch- can't do that at home. After a while, we left to have lunch at Panera Bread. From there we went to Beaver Creek golf course for a taste of Iowa golf. The course was well kept, hilly, and fostered some good boy cousin bonding time- we all know how important that is. After golf, we went back to BJ's place for a little recovery time after golf. Reenergized, we left for the movie theater to buy our tickets for "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry". Just for a little background, the movie theater is part of this expansive Old Orchard-like mall that was built just a few years ago. I am also happy to report that there is a Champps on site, so there would be some where for us to eat if we all headed to Iowa for a Sunday night dinner ;). That night, though, we ate at Buffalo Wild Wings, which was walking distance from the movie theater. We had a sports-filled meal there, and then headed back to the movie theater to catch the movie. "Chuck and Larry" was pretty funny and a little stupid- but what do you expect from Adam Sandler and Kevin James. After the movie, we went back to BJ's apartment and played a quick game of Scrabble before bed- and I've sworn not to reveal the winner ;).

The next morning was much like the first: cereal and the British Open. After that, we left for Principal Park to watch another Iowa Cubs game- again it was not our day with the hot dog cannon. After the game, we went to the domain of which BJ is the master- his league bowling alley- which is a little old school by the way. We also saw the volleyball courts that are right next to the bowling alley where BJ plays volleyball. We bowled a couple of not-too-serious games before leaving for the Iowa Machine Shed. No, we didn't go there to look at tractors- we went there to eat. It is a family style restaurant with the flair of an Iowa farm. Needless to say, we had a very good meal.

Monday morning, BJ woke us up early and reviewed the directions on how to get back to Chicago. After BJ left for work, Daniel and I had breakfast, packed up all of our stuff and hit the road. We had lunch at McDonald's right near the Iowa/Illinois border and didn't stop afterwards until we were parked in the driveway, thus ending one great weekend.

Matt

Here are some pictures of the trip:

BJ's "domain": Plaza Lanes

Iowa Cubs Game and Principal Park

The movie theater

Daniel, BJ and me at the bowling alley

Boys in Iowa

Yesterday the boys, Matt and Daniel, left for their roadtrip to Iowa to see BJ. It's their first roadtrip, by them selves at least, and they made the 6 hours fine. Honestly, it's nice around the house but it's different. I'm the "oldest" and I like it. Mom is worried more than ever but that's normal. Anyhow, I'm sure they will blog all about their trip when they return on Monday.

Lizzy

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

how did everyone celebrate yesterday?

~kim~

A day at the ball game

Thanks to Grandpa Maury, Daniel, Dad, our cousin Hale, Jake, me and a few of my friends got to enjoy a Cubs victory in a skybox at Wrigley field. We all had a great time (especially Jake riding the CTA there and back). Here are a few pictures:

Me and Daniel

Me, Ryan, and Mike

Grandpa Maury and Daniel

Jake and Hale

At the game

Dad and Jake

Cubs Win!

Matt

"Iron Mike" does it again

Mike White- our Uncle Mike White- in a gritty all-star performance, has completed yet another triathlon. When I asked him what his goal was for this event, he said, "I don't have a goal. I just try to do the best I can do." From where I am standing, he accomplished his goal, finishing first in his age division (of which there are at least 2 members :) ). Also worth noting, he is planning on being a running partner for a visually handicapped friend. An athlete and a volunteer- is there anything "Iron Mike" can't do?

Matt

(sorry uncle mike, I tried to keep it low key)

I finally remembered how to do this!

Hi everyone!

After weeks of trying to figure out how to post a blog on this thing, I've finally figured it out. Don't ask why it was so tough - no clue.

First of all, thanks to everyone for their kind birthday wishes and gifts. I must say that it is a bit odd moving into a whole different decade, but I had a great birthday here and it made becoming offically "old" not quite as bad. :)

Things here are pretty good. Work is very busy and I'm going to be going on a business trip to Louisville in a couple of weeks. Rob and I just booked a cruise that leaves out of NYC and stops in Saint John Island, Canada. It will really be more about the boat and less about Canada. :) Anyway, we both had taken some time off 4th of July week so we thought this may be fun. This comes on the heels of us just getting back from an awesome trip in Vegas so yes, we're definitely traveling a lot. We keep pretty busy here. Gone to some really great restaurants lately, seen a couple of great plays...actually went to the ballet last weekend (Rob survived). Hoping to head to the beach out on Long Island on Saturday but who knows if the weather will hold up.

I was thinking about all of you on Father's Day. I must say that it's really tough missing those occasions. I haven't been to a bbq in like 4 years. That's one thing you don't get in the city! Was there TAS? And as I read the blogs, it seems I missed one of Jeri's famous speeches! Oh well...

Anyway, I'm psyched to see everyone at CS. Love and miss you all, Jeni

Jakey riding his bike

Here is a video of Jakey riding his bike sans training wheels for the first time without any help.




Matt

Happy Birthday Dad!

Happy birthday dad and thanks for being such a great person! Today is Michael Berry Ettleson's 49th birthday!!! One more year 'til the big 50. Enjoy it!!
Lizzy

Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all the fathers out there!!

Matt

I encourage any comments in the form father's day messages to all the dads and grandpas (well I guess there's only one Grandpa)

so long to the spun gold part II

Matt

so long to the spun gold (for now)

Matt

P.S. I am in the process of changing my email to m-ettleson@northwestern.edu- if you want to send me an email, please use this address

Locks of Love

Hey fam! As some of you know, I am deciding to dramatically cut my hair very soon. I do not have a set date and time yet, but according to Mom it will be before school's dismissed on June 12. For as long as I can remember I have not hade a true haircut, despite trims, so this will be quite a milestone for me. Hopefully it will turn out great and I will like it! If anyone has any suggestions for places to go, let me know. No, I cannot go to La Bueate :( I am also planning to do Locks of Love so Mom would prefer a participating salon. Just thought I would let you know. Take care!
Love,Lizzy

camp

Hello! Jamie and I leave for camp tomorrow. We will be returning home on June 28. We love getting letters and writing to people. If you write us, then we will respond. Our address is:

4165 Highway 129 N.
Cleveland, GA
30528-2309

Then just put either "Paige Lincenberg" or "Jamie Lincenberg" above that. I hope I hear from you! Bye. <3, paigey

i'm home from the homeland!

Shalom!
For those of you who don't know, I just returned from a fabulous week of doing Birthright in Israel! I thought I would post about it so that anyone who is interested could read about what I did and the people I met.
First off, I had to fly to New York to meet up with my group of 40 participants (ages ranging from 19-26) and our two american staff Gabi and Nanaxhi (pronounced Nuhnahshee). We waited in the longest line of my life and finally checked our bags and headed off to our El Al gate. We played a couple of icebreaker games to start learning each others' names and finally it was time to fly! The flight was approximately 10 hours I think and it went pretty well. We flew into Tel Aviv, took our first group picture (in which I look ridiculous) and boarded our bus for the drive to Jerusalem.



It was evening by then, so we got to eat, hang out, and go to sleep. The next day we did a walking tour of Jerusalem with our tour guide Racheli (pronounced with the hebrew 'ch') who is the woman on the far right. We saw the old city, the new city, King David's tomb, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and lots of shops! Then we drove to a town called Zichon Yaakov in which we stayed in a hotel built into a mountain... it had an elevator that moved diagonally! We all hung out by the pool and got to know each other, and then there happened to be a dance party inside! We teased that it was someone's Bar-Mitzvah.
The next day we traveled to Tsvat, which is an art village where Kabbalah was first started. We did some shopping (although I ended up losing everything I bought...), saw inside of a synagogue, the famous candle shop, and found some really cute little hasidic boys!


From there we went to an army outpost up north by Lebanon. It made us stop and really see the world around us from a different perspective. The soldiers in the Israeli army are not really soldiers at all. They are people who have all sorts of professions, but once a year they are called back on reserve to serve a month with their brothers for their country. It's amazing.
We spent that night in a Kibbutz. We had a bonfire, told stories and secrets, and toasted marshmallows.
The next day, it's Friday now, we went rafting/kayaking on the Jordan River, visited an archaeologically dug up ancient city, and then went to Tel Aviv where we would spend the Sabbath. We had a short Shabbat service on the beach, had dinner, and then spent a couple of hours hanging out in a bar. On Shabbat we got to go to the beach! It was so nice to relax and lay in the sun after being nonstop for the past few days. We also got to party that night in a club! (after our Havdallah service of course)
Sunday we picked up our soldiers!!! We had 8 Israelis join us, 4 boys 4 girls, who are all my age and all in the navy. FYI, all Israelis have to join the army when they are 18. The boys serve 3 years, the girls serve 2. Understand that serving in the army does not mean fighting, there are also office jobs, medics, and even a band! However, my new friends are all fighters in the navy.

We went to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust museum, and then to Mt. Herzl where the veteran cemetaries are. After a long, sad day, we went to the Bedouin tents! We rode camels, smoked hukkah (don't worry, just tobacco), drank tea, beat drums, danced, and had a really good time!
We woke up at 3:15 the next morning to go climb Mt. Masada and see the sunrise! It was BEAUTIFUL! After touring the fortress and hearing the history, we went to the Dead Sea and covered ourselves in mud and floated in the salt water! It starts to burn after awhile, so we moved the pool and go to relax some more!

That afternoon we went to Eilat, which is the southernmost tip of Israel and a fun town! The Israelis showed us how a typical Israeli birthday party is with the games and prizes. That night we went to another club and danced, danced, danced! I love it!
We spent the next morning in Eilat. We went on a hike in the desert mountains, and we could see the border with Egypt. Then we spent a couple of hours on the beach! As you can tell, the beaches were some of my favorite parts! That afternoon we drove back to Jerusalem for Shavuot. We woke up at 3:15 the next morning to walk to the Western Wall and see tens of thousands of people, all wearing white, all visiting the wall for Shavuot. It was incredible.


The next morning we woke up at 4:15 to head to the airport in Tel Aviv. So sad! The trip went so fast, I can't believe it. It was such an amazing experience! I think that every one of you needs to do birthright or travel to Israel in some way. It is so important to our people, and I promise you, even if you don't feel a connection to Israel right now, you will when you get there and realize that you're at home.

Love,
Kim

Jeni's Thirty OMG

One day after the big event, I wanted to share my thoughts for Jen's birthday. Thank you to all for remembering the day. It seems like just yesterday that she was born, Jeri almost passed out at the sight. I guess she never saw anything so beautiful! Mom had to run to the store for a new going home outfit because it was so unseasonbably warm, and Susie's car broke down on the way to the hospital to visit. I did, however, get my chocolate pastry as promised! Jen ( sorry for the embarassment) has always been a precious gift and has given us so much joy and happiness. So, our wish for her, on this special day, is she receive as much as she has given, and even more than we could imagine for her.

Happy, Happy, birthday dear Jenifer.

We love you sooooooooooooooo much.
Mom and Dad

Happy Birthday Jeni!!!

Well, it is the big 3-0 for Jeni. I remember being in high school when we got the news of Jeni's arrival. She was such a great addition to the family. It was so much fun having a baby around. She really was quite a novelty! She was extremely doted upon by everyone! We enjoyed watching her grow through the years. And like magic, 30 years have passed. Jeni, you may live in NY, but we are always thinking about you right here in Illinois. We wish you every happiness on this special day. Look into the mirror. What you see reflected is something beautiful, something caring, and something loved! That something is you! Enjoy your special day! We all love you, Aunt Jeri

Happy Birthday Matt! From your Mother

I cannot believe that I have an 18 year old son! Wow! Where does the time go? I can still remember how my life changed forever on the day Matt was born. I was in awe of the miracle of life. I was so glad that he was finally here! At the same time, I was not sure how to be a Mom! It was all so new to me. I remember crying in the hospital uncontrollably when the Doctor told me that he would have to stay for a few extra days. I remember how helpless I felt watching him from behind the nursery glass while he stayed in a special crib with the lights on him and his eyes covered. I could only hold him for feedings. He must have felt so alone and scared. What a rough start! How would we bond? How would he know that he was loved? Well, we got through it. And when he was finally free from his jaundice treatment and I could take him home, we began our journey. And I do believe that he feels loved! He has brought untold joy into my life. It was so wonderful, that I had to do it again, and again, and again!

Happy Birthday Matt! With lots of love from your Mom!

Hello from Devin!

Hello everyone!

So, my high school days are quickly coming to an end. There are only 17 more real days, 3 more mondays, and studying for AP tests is the only thing that doesn't involve a good time!
This past weekend was my prom weekend, so I thought I would share a few pictures:




I had a FANTASTIC time! I took about 130 pics though, so I can share more by request =)

I love and miss you all.

i love spring!

Hello again.

Today was my last day of Tuesday/Thursday classes! I am done on Monday... and then finals ensue [dun, dun dunnnnn...]

Immediately after I come home from school my family is going to california for a cousin's bat-mitzvah, and then (the next day) I am going to Israel!!!
I am so excited! This will be my first time and I just cannot believe it!

Of course, then Devin is graduating (and Matt...though I won't be there) and I'm hoping to get a job volunteering at a hospital and do some doctor shadowing over the summer. What are your plans for the summer?

The weather here has been amazing...it's hot already! Now that the MCATs are over I am ready for summer to come! Speaking of which, I will let you all know my scores as soon as I get them.

So, this is me, checking in.
I love you all and talk to you soon!

~Kim

My Blog Debut

Well, I felt left out....so here goes. First of all let me say a late happy birthday Paige on behalf of the C-slaws and Langermans! I really really liked ages 12 and 13!

So my life has finally started to stabilize. Darren and I are both doing very well. We are looking for apartments right now, a second car and hopefully we'll be out of 473 Banyan Tree within the next two months. I'm actually enjoying my stint at Smurfit Stone Container Corporation. The days go by fast and i feel like I have pretty good work/life balance. Darren is also enjoying his new optical career at Lens Crafters. So all in all I can't complain-just glad to be back in Chicago.

I also didn't want to forget to say congrats to Devin for picking an outstanding school. I personally am very excited because I've know a lot of people who went to Michigan and haven't had one bad thing to say about it! Congrats to both Devin and Matt for graduating High School. And Matt, wherever you decide-you'll do great and be great! Ya know, I totally was not the college poster child, but I have to say that I do miss those years. I guess I'll have to live vicariously through you guys.

Anyway, gotta get on with my Saturday. Hope everyone has an outstanding weekend-the weather sure is gorgeous here.

Love, Jess

Happy Birthday Paige!!!

Happy 12th Birthday Paige!

I hope you have a fabulous birthday and a wonderful year! What are you doing to celebrate? I'm sorry I can't be there to celebrate with you, but I'm thinking about you and sending good wishes your way :)

I love you!

xoxo,

sara

My Girl?- by the Low-Tempt-ations

I got sunshine...
on a cloudy day...
when it's cold outside...
I got the month of...April?
I guess you say...
What can make me feel this way?
Glo-bal...Glo-bal...Glo-bal
Warming?
Talkin' about Global...
Warming...

Not quite as harmonious as I remember it...

Comic relief in a cynical world on a snowy Wednesday in April
brought to you by Matt

recent news

hello everyone!

i have an interesting update:

stu got a job at Bloomberg Financial, so he will be moving to NYC this summer!
he is very excited and i am very proud!

as for me, i will be taking the mcat in exactly one week! well, actually, i will be done with it in a week... i can't wait!

that's about all i have time for tonight, so goodnight!

~kim~

Arizona Vacation

Hi! Just recently, over spring break, we traveled to Arizona, as many of you know. We were there for five nights and had a ton of fun! The first day was partially lost because of traveling but we did manage to visit Grandma and eat at delicious restaurant called El Paso (very similar to Famous Daves). If you didn't know, Grandma recently turned nighty-nine and is great, except for a few small complaints. On Wednesday, our second day, we pretty much packed everything in. Eating, swimming, mini golfing, tennis, shopping, hiking and visiting Grandma. Also the Stolbergs arrived that evening but after a plane delay and much traveling they were tired and we didn't see them until Thursday. As for Thursday, the boys went to the Cubs game while Mom and I hung out around the hotel. In fact, we got a manicure too which was very relaxing. For the record, this was my first and Mom's third. For dinner we went to Rock Bottom, a chain, and it was like Champp's. Grandma and Grandma arrived today and later that night, the Washington D.C. Ettlesons. Friday was a lot of pool and sun with the family. Although in the morning we took a huge family hike for about two and half hours. It was a little much, but it was challenging so I liked it. After that, no one wanted to hike ever again. The hotel has a small waterpark including two main pools, waterfall, slide, and lazy river. Also there was a tad pool, where I spent a lot of time, unfortunatly, but it was fun. In the lazy river, we started a "train" by holding to each other's tube and apparently we started trend. After the pool and couple rounds of mini golf, we had our big birthday bash! It was held at the restraunt Hole-in-the-Wall conviently located on the hotel's property. We celebrated five birthdays: Grandma Dorothy, Grandpa, Joe, Uncle Dan, and Hale (amazing I remembered them all). The party was fun and the food, as usual, great. There were live singers who even sang happy birthday. Oh...My favorite part, besides dancing with Maya, were the MandM's. On them had the name of one of the five birthday boys or girl. Onto Saturday, again a lot of pool, tennis, and mini golf. For lunch we went to Dillon's Restraunt by Grandma, and we all were there. Tonight we celebrated Grandma and Grandpa's 50th anniversary. We had our own room and the food was awesome here too. At the party was the opportunity to make scrapbook page(s) for a scrapbook for either Grandma and Grandpa or Grandma Dorothy. Also, entertainment was provided. We learned how to square dance, played some games(limbo and musical chairs), and danced. My favorite part of the evening was the slide show. It was amazing or at least I thought so. I could tell a lot of time and effort was put into it. We have a copy so maybe you can see it sometime. Anyways, tonight there was not MandMs but fortune cookies. Instead of your average fortune, they had messages about our family. Finally, Sunday, our last day. We really only had time for brunch and goodbyes and we were off. I believe Aunt Julie and Unlce Shel were at the exact same airport but I think we just missed them. All in all, we arrived home about two hours later than expected, for various reasons but we made it. I had a fabulous, fun time and really hope we can go next year.
Love,
Lizzy

58 YEARS!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

GRANDMA BOBBIE AND PAPA!!!

love, Kim

(sorry i'm a little late!)

Sara's Birthday

Just in case you wanted to know, Sara Rianna will be 27 on March 19th! We'll be celebrating her birthday at the 6 Court on Sunday, March 18th at noon. All of you are welcome, of course! I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday - well, maybe last week. How can she be 27 already?

happy birthday jamie!

sweet 16!

i love you!

~kim~

An Ettleson Weekend (part II)

Quite an elaborate post, Leah- but I can't help but feel the need to fill in some of the holes when we weren't with Leah and Sara. After we left Leah's, we went to McCormick Place- where the auto show is hosted. For those who have never been to an auto show, it is an event for car junkies and moms alike. Of course, we get to enjoy some perks because Dad is on the board that runs the Chicago auto show. One of those perks includes snacking in a special director's lounge overlooking the show. Also, we get these neat badges that allow us to leave and get into the show whenever we want. (Actually, a week earlier, Jake, Dad, and I got into the auto show before it opened to the public--with the badges--and rode this Jeep ride that goes around this track in the show that simulates rugged terrain)-But I digress.

Before going into the auto show on Sunday, we had breakfast at the Hyatt, a hotel that is connected to McCormick Place. We had a table with pseudo-highchairs- my feet were like 2 feet of the ground while I was sitting on the chair. After we enjoyed the breakfast buffet and spent about 3 hours at the show (Dad had a board meeting), we went back to our sham of a hotel: the four seasons. I mean, when we got back to our room, all that was sitting there was a bowl of popcorn, 3 glass bottles Coke and cookie and chocolate milk for Jake. New towels are nice, but complimentary Coke is quite memorable. Then, Dad and the sibs went to the pool while I stayed and worked on a paper in the room. (doing homework- shocker, I know). But when you are overlooking Lake Michigan from 30 stories up, homework is slightly less miserable. That night, we had dinner at Mity Nice- an American style restaurant near the hotel. For dessert, we went to the Ghiradelli's (which is right next Hershey's). I had hot chocolate again, but this time I was prepared. I used a spoon for the first five minutes. That's key- I would know. That night, I slept without fear of being spied on... and the next morning we ate breakfast at this quaint restaurant called Oak Tree Cafe. We wrapped up our vacation downtown with a visit to the Chicago Art Institute. Here's an update from the ever-fascinating world of art: nothing's changed. But, then again, you can't beat the classics.

This is Matt Matt "The Slippery Cat" reporting- giving you plain talk about the art issues you need to know... just in time...;)



A few pics:

An Ettleson Weekend

Hi All!
Although my life in general can be described as relatively sucky, I would like to share some details about my amazing weekend with the Ettleson tots. Sara and I had so much fun "babysitting"!! For those of you who do not know, Mike and Jeri had some auto show obligations on Saturday, so we gladly took the Slippery Cat, the Birthday Man, the Beathen, and the ManChild under our wing. I should start by saying that all 6 Ettlesons came by mine and Sara's building to take a look at our apartments. I'm assuming their favorite part was either the tour of the laundry room or the glimpse into the creepy storage locker area; I forgot to take an official vote. So after M & J left the kids in our custody, we went to Lucky Strike, a bowling establishment of sorts. We started the evening off with dinner, sponsored by our dim-witted waitress. Let's just say that when I ask for another bottle of ketchup, I expect that bottle to be at least 3/4's full. Do not bring me a bottle that is already turned over on its top just so I can painstakingly squeeze out the remaining 5 droplets; I had to save my strength for the bowling, after all. Oh, and Matt also taught us the valuable lesson of waiting to order your beverage until AFTER the original order is in: that way, it's likely that it will be left off the bill. So after Matt "Moneybags" Ettleson treated us to dinner, we had to wait a bit for our lane to be ready, but when our buzzer thing finally went off, we were ready to rock. However, my rocking was slightly postponed due to a devastating shoe mix up: I had been given 2 right shoes. Upon my return to the shoe counter, I was then given in exchange for the extra right shoe another right shoe, followed by another, followed by another. This young man finally had to ask the dude next to him, "Man, where the @#$! are all the left shoes?" By the time I came back, Matt had already entered our names and it was, of course, my turn. I'm pretty sure I dominated that first frame with a commanding 6 pins. A tough act to follow, no doubt. The bowling fun continued and all the kids were awesome. Sara and I were pleasently surprised to find a plethora of 9/10 lb balls with big finger holes... what a concept! You hear that Hawthorne Lanes? I was less than pleased with the size of the water glasses. It was like at our Christmas dinner at the Chinese restaurant all over again: we were forced to ration the water. Daniel was on full alert, notifying me whenever an ice cube had appeared to melt a smidge in my glass, enabling me to enjoy 2 more precious sips. Good times. Upon the completion of bowling (where Daniel took home the gold), there was an unfortunate "hand-wipe" scene amidst the pool tables that embarassed Matt to his very core. We then walked down Michigan Avenue to the Hershey's store, a.k.a: total twilight zone. While paroosing the merchandise, I was unable to convince Matthew to buy a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup purse. I don't think he cared too much for the style. We got Jakey settled at the table with a chocolate chip cookie, with Matt arriving soon after with a cup of hot chocolate. Meanwhile, Sara, Lizzy, and I were sharing an experience that I'm pretty sure had Sara peeing in her pants with laughter. At the "Make Your Own Cupcake" center, Sara insisted that she did not want frosting on her chocolate cupcake, just Reese's Pieces. Although she clearly told the lady just to place the candy on the side, she still took the liberty to smash as many of those pieces of candy as she could into the cupcake itself with all of her body weight, resulting in a not-so-appealing finished product. Lizzy then asked for chocolate frosting on her cupcake, and I kid you not when I say the lady came back with 6 inches of frosting on top of it. I believe it was Daniel that said, "Whoa, did you want some cupcake with that frosting?" Although I could not see Lizzy's face directly, I later heard from Sara that she had never seen her look so terrified. So after telling the lady to lose about 4 and 1/2 inches of the frosting, we were all ready to sit and enjoy our goodies. Daniel partook in some of Sara Reese's Pieces and I unwillingly forced down part of her cupcake. All the meanwhile, Matt was caring for the third degree burn on his tongue, an unfortunate result of the the hot chocolate. On our way out, Matt offered me the rest of said hot chocolate, of which I took 2 good sips before promptly receiving a surplus of cocoa chunks in my teeth. Daniel then scolded Matt, telling him that he had not followed good "beverage sharing" etiquette. I had no choice but to concur. Upon returning to the hotel to drop off Lizzy and J.K., Jeri and Mike force-fed me popcorn which Mike had received as a gift. We stayed and kibbitzed for a bit while enjoying an intense episode of Deal or No Deal. Sara, Matt, Daniel, and I then cabbed it back to my crib where the boys would be staying on my luxurious pull-out bed. While Daniel watched ESPN, I was apparently engaging Matthew in what Sara referred to as "child labor" by having him take a look at my iPod and printer. After the abuse had terminated and Matt had worked his magic (seriously, there was no skill involved whatsoever) the boys went to bed while I stared at them thru my glass doors all night. I'm just kidding about that, by the way, so don't be scared boys. (I'm pretty confident that both Matt and Daniel are now making a mental note to self: DO NOT STAY AT LEAH'S EVER AGAIN.) Then the next day they were up and gone by 10:00 am :(So long story short, Sara and I had the most amazing weekend and I hope the kids agree.)

Lots of Love,
Leah Marie

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Happy valentine's day everyone!

I thought this would be as good of a day as any to make a post.... i also wanted to show you some more pictures! You know how I love to share them!

For those of you who don't know, Devin and I just went to New Orleans this weekend (and our mom met us on Sunday), so i thought you might like to see a few pictures. I don't have many of my mom since she started doing the picture-taking once she arrived (aren't you all shocked?).

We had a lot of fun and it's a little sad to be back and stressing again already. I had a test this morning! Ah! So... enjoy, I miss you all, and HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

love,
kim

http://uga.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2175747&l=e85a9&id=4901793

All is well in NYC

Now that I found the link to this website, I figured I'd post and say hello! Just wanted to say all is well here in NYC. This is the busiest time of year at work, but I'm hanging in there. I'm expected to get my promotion on Thursday, so that's good. I'm in a new apartment with Rob, which is fun. It's a beautiful apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and I hope you all can get the chance to come visit! Anyway, I think about all of you often. Miss you very much. Love, Jeni

Outdoor Education

This doesn't involve the family to much but I thought you may be interested to know I am going on outdoor ed. next week on Wednesday the 14, Valentine's Day! I am very excited but it will be extremely cold! Has anybody had an interesting outdoor ed. experience? Anyway, have wonderful day!~Lizzy

the aoto show

the aoto show is the 9th and it ends on the 18th I am going this and next week this sunday I am going with my dad and next week I am going with my famle


jakey

Relay for Life!

As some of you may remember from last year, I participate in Relay for Life every spring. Relay for Life is an event that is held across the country to raise money for the American Cancer Society. I am part of a team that will raise funds and participate in the all-night event in order to promote and help the ACS as much as we can.

If you would like to make a donation of any amount, please visit my webpage:

https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=189710&lis=1&kntae189710=ED11EAF2F4FE4174BA7B500B63748247&supId=152806472

(you may need to copy and paste each line separately)

Cancer is an extremely serious problem for everybody and every dollar goes towards research to save lives. I would appreciate your donations immensely!

Thank you so much!
i love you!

Some Changes

I am writing this post to imform the Slaw Family bloggers that I have made some changes- hopefully for the better- to the blog by updating it to the new version of blogger. Even though the blog may look the same, many features have been changed. Specifically, I was thinking about the new privacy features. I don't know if anyone has noticed, but I recently took away the username and password from the main screen in response to a comment from someone outside our family. I think it would be for the best if only our family could view/post on the blog- but maybe others want friends to view the blog- I don't know. If the consensus is that only people from our family should be able to view the blog, then I need every blogger's email so that I can allow those people to make posts on/view the blog. In the meantime, here is how you make a post:

Under links on this site, select www.blogger.com; click on New Blogger in the upper righthand corner of the screen; Username:matt@ettleson.com, password: dummyline; click "sign in"; click on "New Post" in the Slaw Dummyline box- you should be transfered to a new screen with a text box- that is where you type in what you want to post.

I hope this transition from old to new runs smoothly, and if anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact me at matt@ettleson.com- at least that has not changed...:)

My life

This comic pretty much sums up my life during the week in three frames. (Click on the picture for a better look)

Matt

Go Bears!

Finally, the NFC Champion Bears (man, that sounds good) will be playing on the one Sunday that really counts- Super Bowl Sunday! Hopefully my dad (aka Uncle Mike), who's going to the game in Miami, will give us an update on what it feels like to be in the stadium during the Super Bowl. And I hope in two weeks the Bears will upgrade from NFC Champs to Super Bowl 41 Champions!

Matt & Jakey

P.S. Perhaps one of the lucky few that went to the game today (Daniel) would like to share his experience with us...

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES!

Hello everyone! Well today is the official day! Today, girl scouts all over the world will be running to their neighbors doors, tempting them with the best cookies in the world! However, I am a little passed the age of knocking on doors with my girl scout vest and skirt on... so I am going to sell in a more technological way! As I am the only Lincenberg girl scout left, if you want cookies, just let me know! I will send out an email later explaining all the different types of cookies...because there is a new one! Get excited!

- devin =)

spring semester... so far

Hey!
Well, now that it's been about 1.5 weeks of me being back to school I thought someone might be interested in an update!
My classes are going okay. I am taking a couple of interesting ones, but for some reason none of my professors are capturing my interest or attention as much as I would prefer.
In case you were wondering, my classes are:
Genetics
Linguistics
Anthropology: Multicultural Healthcare
Cell Biology: People, Plaque, and Parasites

This is a relatively easy schedule (only 13 hours!)because I am also spending a lot of time studying for the MCAT (medical college admissions test). My class meets once a week for three hours, so it's a little boring, but well worth it. Hopefully, come April 16, I will be blowing this exam out of the water! Haha... we'll see!

As for everything else... stu is good, friends are good, SDT is good... and that sums me up!
I would love to hear updates on life from everyone else, so good night and i'll be reading about you soon!



These are my friends! This was our first night back together. The one next to me is my roommate Hadas, the one in the blue is my best friend Erica, and above me is my lifelong friend Jackie... and of course there's me!

LOVE YOU!

~kim~

MLKJ Day!

Martain Luther King Jr. Day-his birthday this January 15, 2007! He did a lot for our society. We should celebrate! NO SCHOOL! sorry for those who must work:( Have a happy MKLJ day!-Lizzy

BJ is here--2007 style

So, how does 2007 feel to everybody? Seven is my lucky number so I have a feeling that this will be an awesome year for our family. 14, 17 and 21 are also lucky numbers of mine so I'll be making this same bold prediction in 2014, 2017 and 2021. Don't say I didn't warn you!

I would like to take a moment and congratulate Paige for making the first post of 2007. Bravo Paige, way to get the Slaw ball rolling! Sara responded to Paigey's post by asking if any of us had made any New Year's resolutions. I didn't officially write any down, but I did make a couple of mental resolutions (other than winning the lottery, which I resolve to do every year, and yet don't buy lottery tickets) that I would like to share

1. Stay busy. This is along the same vein with my Mom's "Just Do It!" slogan for 2007. Busy BJ = Cool BJ. It's that simple. So far so good. I returned to Des Moines last Tuesday and had something going on Wednesday-Saturday night. I didn't have plans with anyone today, but I did go out for a late lunch. I'm allowed one day a week to recover!

2. Put myself out there. That's right ladies, BJ is back on the open market. Be sure to tell all your friends:) I actually put up a profile on Yahoo! Personals right before the new year, and I have my first date lined up for this Tuesday. I'm working quickly so that I don't talk myself out of it! This girl grew up bowling and playing golf since the age of 7--talk about a needle in a haystack!

3. Keep my family informed. You are all the most important people in my life and I don't want a little thing like my living out in corn country to get in the way of sharing my life and love with the fam. I have a trip booked to see G-rents out in Palm Desert, California and I know they are already planning their interrogation. I want the rest of you to do the same. Call or write me anytime with questions or thoughts. I will be better about responding. That reminds me--Leah, I owe you a phone call girl!

Well, I hope everyone is off to a healthy start to the new year. Love and hugs to all, BJ:)

NEW YEARS

HAPPY NEW YEARS!!! I hope everybody has a fun and safe year. Happy 2007! YAY! ~paige

HAPPY CHANUKKAH!

Happy Chanukkah! I can't wait to see you in 8 days! -paige

Winter Storm

Especially for you out-of-towners- here are some pictures of the damage two of our trees (an evergreen and Daniel's tree) recieved last night due to the winter storm. Snow days are a nice unexpected vacation, but at the expense of a tree?- I think I could have handled going to school one more day...

Matt
P.S. check out the video at the end of this post




Winter Snow Storm

Good luck!

I just wanted to wish the best of luck to everyone who is approaching finals!!!

I know that I, for one, am looking forward to two of the busiest and most stressful weeks of the year, so I wanted to empathize with and encourage everyone else feeling the same way!

So sleep and eat well...good luck... and i will most likely be seeing all of you in a very short couple of weeks!

I love you!!!

-Kim

Turkey Day!

Hi Everybody! This is my first venture onto the Blog and I hope I'm doing it right...Anyway, I wanted to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving. Personally, I love Thanksgiving. And the thing I am most thankful for is my family - all of you! Being at the Ettleson's yesterday with all my loved ones around made my heart smile. I hope all the Lincenbergs had a great day. You were missed, but you're all always in our thoughts. Love to all...Laurie

P.S. Special thanks to all the cooks in the kitchens - Jeri, Gram, Joan, Leah, Daniel, Matt and Michael W. Yummy!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Staying up late can have its advantages- such as creating the first post for someone's birthday (if I remember the date). Well, I have made sure I will never forget this one.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Love, Matt

P.S. Jakey's input: Matt, I'm really tired...when are you going to bed?

Happy Birthday Leah!

Well, it is almost over, but, I made it in just under the wire. Happy Birthday Leah! We are looking forward to celebrating with you this week-end. I hope that you had a great birthday! Love, Aunt Jeri

pictures

here's some more pictures from what i've been up to lately....

you all should post pictures too! i would love to look at them!

love,
Kim

http://community.webshots.com/user/kimyear3

(Semi-) Quick Update...

Hi Fam!
Now, I know I haven't posted anything before (I guess I just haven't had anything to say that's up to par with the fruit salad investigation of '06). But better late than never, right? So, I just wanted to let you all know that I passed my Personal Trainer exams and am now an official Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor... yeah! Also, I am moving on Friday, Nov 10 to the wonderful city of Chicago where I hear the weather is great this time of year: I can't wait to experience it for myself. Sara and I will be neighbors...just 7 floors apart! I made a promise to myself (that is absolutely stupid in hindsight) to always climb those 7 floors by foot: just some quality time between me and the stairwell. I'm REALLY looking forward to it. I've also heard through the rumor mill that my birthday is coming up which, according to my calculations, means just one thing: TIME FOR CAKE! Sure I've been thinking about my life-altering move, my possible career path, my forboding financial situation, perhaps a decent mate to spend the rest of my life with, but more importantly than all that... what kind of cake to get! Which reminds me: I seem to have lost my priority list. If someone finds it, could you please return it to me ASAP? I might be needing that...

Love you all,
Leah Marie

fun!

Today is my sorority's Daddy-Daughter day and my daddy is coming!
We're going to be bowling, so I just wanted to let you all know that I'm getting some practice in before christmas! Yeah! You never know... I might just break 100! :)

-Kim

One of my favorite pictures! (posted by Sara)

Congratulations Daniel!!!!!

Congrats to Daniel for his exciting victory at the very cold and blustery Slaw Invitational. He pulled off a 1 stroke win over his brother, Matt. IMHO all the participants deserve a medal for competing in such lousy weather. We can all be proud that a few brave souls in this family kept this very important family tradition alive! A big thank you to Dad/Grandpa for sponsoring this event. Let's hope for an earlier date next year! Once again, a big CONGRATS to Daniel!!!! Jeri

Slaw Invitational

Hey, i just wanted to say that everybody has just over a week to prepare and sharpen your game for the Slaw Invatational. Best of luck of to all competitors and if u don't play well in the cold, u might want to stay at home........matt........

So, good luck and bring your A game (which might include a winter coat)

Love, Daniel

Happy Birthday Lizzy!

I can't believe that Lizzy is turning 12! Wow! Where does the time go???? Happy Birthday to my sweet Miss Liz!

kim's pictures

Hi! I put new pictures up online, so if you're interested, here's the link!
Love you all!


http://good-times.webshots.com/album/554460969EkZwbw

YAY JAKE!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

I LOVE YOU!

~Kim

Happy Birthday Jakey!

Jacob, Jakey, J.K., M.C. (Man Child), etc... Happy 7th birthday to you! I can't wait to celebrate at your birthday party on Sunday! I hope you get all the birthday presents you're hoping for! And I'll be buying wrapping paper on Sunday too. See you soon! Love, Sara
(Matt or Jeri - Will someone show this to Jakey? Thanks)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year everyone!

Home for the holiday!

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm coming in town for Rosh Hashanah. I'm inviting myself to the White House on Saturday night so make room for me at the table! :) See you all soon. Love, Jeni

Marathon Boys- update

Back in Des Moines, BJ White continues to run, although this time without his trusted running-mate, Mike White. Of course, that didn't stop him from "running over" most of the competition. By keeping an impressive 7 minute, 36 second mile, BJ completed the 10 mile track in about an hour and 16 minutes--no small feat. More updates to follow...

Field Reporter- Matt Ettleson

Remembering 9/11

Where were you 5 years ago?

I was sitting in Spanish class back in 7th grade watching the coverage on television, shocked.

We reflect so that we can remember- we remember so that we can protect our future...

Where were you 5 years ago?

(Feel free to respond in "comments" area)

Matt

The Marathon Boys

Mike White continues to pile the miles running this summer. Over the Labor Day holiday, he and BJ competed in the Des Plains River Trail Half-Marathon, a scenic path curving through prairie and forest. In their respective age groups, BJ finished 5th out of 14 runners and Mike finished 4th out of 17 runners. For the statistics that really matter, BJ edged Uncle Mike by exactly one second, disrupting any marathon-ending celebration they planned when they crossed the finishline simulataneously. Not to be overlooked, both of the "Marathon Boys" had an impressive 8:14 minute per mile running average.

Field Reporter- Matt Ettleson

G'day Mates!

Hey everyone! This website makes me really happy! I'm sorry that it took me so long to check it out! Anyway, thanks for the birthday wishes! I had a really great birthday weekend! Friday night, I had a campout in the backyard with about 10 of my good friends. We played guitar and sang, roasted marshmallows, played karaoke, played twister, watched disney movies, told ghost stories, and slept in tents! It was the perfect way to turn 18, reenacting all of the things I used to (and still do!) love to do. Saturday, I hung out with Jonathan and then he took me out to dinner at a Japanese restaurant where they sang to me and made me wear a funny wig! Other than this weekend, my life has been pretty hectic. School is tough, college applications are never-ending, and I got a job! I work at Java U- a coffee shop. I make coffee, salads, and work at the register. It makes my life more stressful but I like it. I think that that is about all for now. I will check back again soon! I miss and love you all!
love,
devin =)

Happy Birthday Jessie!

I don't know if you check this, Jess, but I just wanted to wish you a very happy birthday! Love, Sara

Happy Birthday Devin!

Wow, you're officially an adult! Old enough to vote! Woohoo! I hope you have a fabulous 18th birthday, Devs! Love, Sara