Camp Slaw Montage (fast version)

Matt

p.s. Don't blink or you might miss one!

Jamie's exciting news!

Hey Everyone! There hasn't been a new post in quite some time, so i decided to fill you all in on my exciting past 2 days. Well, as most of you know, I had a nose job done on wednesday morning. I am healing really well, with little pain, so that is good!

I have even more exciting news though! I GOT INTO UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN TODAY! 

WOOOO! So, now we might have 2 lincenberg girls up north! 

And maybe I will get to be at school with daniel next year?!?

Well, just thought I would share that exciting news with all of you!

We will all miss you over the holiday break, don't have too much fun without us!

Love, Jamie

Happy Thanksgiving!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

or TURKEY DAY- if you prefer

FROM MATT and JAKE

P.S. can't wait for Chanukah!!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

Matt

Happy Birthday Leah!

Hopefully I'll be the first to tell you: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I hope all your wishes come true and you have great day! See you soon! Happy Birthday! I love you!

drum roll please....

I GOT INTO MEDICAL SCHOOL!

I received a phone call yesterday from Saint Louis University telling me that they were very impressed by me last year (I interviewed in March), they were sorry they couldn't take me from the alternate list, they were excited that I reapplied, and they wanted to offer me a position in the class to begin in August 2009!!!!

Just to clarify, I will not be in St. Louis definitely, but at least now I will definitely be going to med school next year!

love,

kim

Wedding Update

Just wanted to let everyone know that Rob and I have a wedding Web site. Feel free to check out http://jeniferandrob.weddings.com Save the dates will be out in the next couple of weeks so keep an eye out. Hope everyone is doing well.

Miss you!

Love,
Jeni

Paige's most recent achievement

Hey! So I know someone already posted about me receiving my black belt but I thought everyone might be interested in how I achieved it. I began taking tae kwon do classes six years ago in second grade so there was a long process building up for this. My tae kwon do dojo (school) hosts promotions every three months but every student is not invited every time. The instructors watch us during class to decide if they believe we are ready to promote. At the promotion, you perform everything you have learned in front of everyone. To train for one's black belt, one trains for at least nine months in between getting the advanced red belt (the level below black) and the black belt. Usually, most students do not pass their black belt test the first time they take it because one must perform difficult tasks. First of all, one must display all 24 different kicks numerous times. Also, one must break 8 boards with a different movement every time, 3 of those boards are double boards. To break the boards one must use at least one type of kick, knee strike, elbow strike, and palm strike. In addition, we learn forms/routines that we must perform with perfect technique and power.
Unfortunately, I was out of town when the formal black belt test took place so I attended a private one with only my instructor, my parents, and me. Surprisingly, I passed my black belt test the first time I took it. I broke every board on my first try and I really tried my best. I wanted to attach some pictures but they will not upload to this post but maybe I'll try again later! Love, Paige

CONGRATS Paige!

Yesterday, 

Paige earned her BLACK BELT in Tae Kwon Do!!!!!

YAY, PAIGE! We are soooooo proud of you!

Now, go kick some butt!

love,

your fam

Devin's Here!

Devin made it! After a long trip from Michigan yesterday, she finally made it to Lincolnshire! I was so lucky to already see her, but for those who haven't she will definitely be at Sunday night dinner! I'm so excited!

Love, Lizzy

Happy Birthday Lizzy!

Well, Happy Birthday to my Lizzy girl! I cannot believe that she is 14 years old. Wow! Seems like I just birthed her not that long ago! Each year goes by faster and faster! She makes me smile. Thank goodness for Lizzy! I wish her a very happy and healthy (dislocated finger notwithstanding) birthday!

happy new year!

L'SHANAH TOVA!!!

it seemed that this past year was pretty sweet for all of us and we know a few people who will have an extra special upcoming year, but I just wanted to wish the ENTIRE family (all 26 of us!) a sweet, happy, and healthy new year!

with so much love,

Kim

Happy Birthday Jake (and Liz)

Happy Birthday, Jake!

Hopefully you had a great day yesterday, and I can't wait for the birthday celebration for you and Liz at our house next weekend.

For those interested, the slideshow on the right side of your screen has been updated to feature photos of Jake and Liz.

Matt

Matt and Mike at the Ryder Cup

Louisville, KY: Dad and I visited Valhalla golf club last weekend in what turned out to be exciting, while, at times, tense, U.S. victory over those crumpet-eating, brightly-clothed Europeans. Boo Weekley, Hunter Mahan, Anthony Kim, and of course, captain Paul Azinger, led an inspired U.S. team to at 16 and 1/2 to 11 and 1/2 victory over Faldo's European team (and if you don't know any of those names, well, you probably don't really care about this that much anyways :) ).

Besides closely advising Paul Azinger on how to best pair his players (oh wait, the was Ray Floyd and Dave Stockton, never mind), Dad and I played a couple rounds of golf at some great local courses and attended an outdoor pep rally in downtown Louisville to liven up the American crowds during the cup.

And the crowds were loud: there were many cheers and chants of: "U.S.A, U.S.A, U.S.A," while joyful chanting of: "Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole" were sung whenever a European made a birdie putt. Overall, the venue was great, the competition was great, and we, as the trend suggests, had a great time (Dad even got to meet Michael Jordan, who was in the NBC tent with us.)

Matt

You can go home again

As I am making this announcement from work, I am not going to wax poetic. However, I wanted all of you to know that it is official--BJ is moving back to the Chicago area. I'm not joking Grandpa, but I can sign a contract with the family if you'd like.

Around 3:30 yesterday afternoon, I got an e-mail from Northwestern University confirming my conditional admission into their Master's Program in Higher Education Administration & Policy. After a night of volleyball and sleep to think things over (and dodging the persistence of Detective Leah Marie), I decided to accept Northwestern's offer. I met with my boss this morning and submitted a letter of resignation.

The timeline at this point is as follows--My first night of class is September 23. I will work through September 19, come home that weekend, attend my first week of classes, drive back to Des Moines to work at Drake September 25 and 26 (my last day) and then complete my transition back to Chicago. Everybody got that? Following Rand has never been more riveting, I know.

More details to come. Stay tuned SLEW. For now, save a spot for me at Sunday dinner on Sept 21.

Feeling and spreading the love,
BJ

Happy Birthday, Jessie!

Happy birthday, Jessie! Hope you had a great day. See you soon, and we all hope Darren is feeling well and has a quick and speedy recovery.

Matt

Jessie and Darren, Camp Slaw 2007

Happy Occasions

It is certainly a time for many happy occasions, engagements, birthdays lots going on. I just want to congratulate Sara and Eric on their engagement, we are very happy for you. And I want to wish my daughters, Kim and Devin a very Happy 22nd and 2oth Birthdays, and Happy Birthday to Jessie tomorrow! Julie

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEVIN!!

I hope you have had and continue to have a great day! 

Love, Paige

The announcement.

And now, the long anticipated, “Eric’s First Blog”….

Some people say that when you get married you not only marry that person but their entire family.  It's amazing to think that it was a year and one week ago, that Sara and I went on our first date, and it was only one week later that I was so warmly welcomed by nearly the entire family and met everyone else shortly thereafter.  Most people would probably say that meeting the family, not to mention grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, after the first week is crazy.  Well, they would probably be right, and for the younger audience, I'm not endorsing this move by any means.  However, after meeting Sara, the idea didn't seem that crazy.  It's funny, and usually sounds cliché whenever you hear a couple say, "we just knew it right away," but I guess that's what true love is.  It's this funny, cliché thing, that given serious rational thought would seem impractical and not make sense, but somehow it does.  And we knew it right away.

I also knew right away that I was loved and accepted by Sara.  It's like that feeling that can only be matched by being home, surrounded by family and those you love.  As quickly as Sara and I fell for each other, I cannot describe the warmth and love that I felt from every member of the White, Slaw, Ettleson, and Lincenberg families right away.   From that first game of Scrabble last Labor Day, to experiencing my first humanistic high holiday service with the Whites, to pumpkin carving on Halloween with the two of the coolest grandwitches I've ever met, to Thanksgiving (dessert) at the Slaws, the many birthdays, Sunday dinners, and every other family gathering both big and small, I left every event with the same feeling of warmth, love and acceptance. 

Sara and I were so happy to announce our engagement to everyone this weekend.   From the very bottom of my heart, I am beyond grateful for the love and support you have all shown Sara and me this past year.  Thank you, and I love you all.

-Eric

Happy Birthday Kim!

Well, it's September and that means Happy Birthday to Kim!!! We hope that you have a great birthday! Hopefully you are doing something fun and exciting on your special day. We love and miss you so much! Love, Aunt Jeri

"Iowa So Far" lyrics and video

"Iowa so Far" lyrics:

They say great cousins come once in a lifetime
and even though we’re from opposite ends of the family,
my heart tells me you’re the one for me.
B-J

I remember when it started, saw you in your room.
you were playin’ games, I was eating food
but I was feeling you, and even though I didn’t understand almost everything you said
you ain't wrong to me, so strong to me, so tall to me
The oldest boy cousin of the family
BJ makes my eyes pop right out of my head
Shot’s impossible- but it’s in instead
Can do anything, the only problem I see
is the chance of you not coming home to me.
Big, big loader- lot’s of fun- that’s not lie
Can’t express how I feel
Yo Daniel let’s ride

And Iowa, Iowa so far away
is your home, but in my heart you’ll stay

Ping- pong- he has no replacement
We could play for hours in our basement
my man, BJ is known for bowlin’
Rollin’, if he can still do it then I can
they call you Bowls, they say your skills are unmatched
When you dunk the ball, the rim never stays attached
Playin’ volleyball in the sand
And another nickname, some call you Rand
So I try to stop admirin’ but you can still see
with your sleepy brown eyes, butter pecan thighs
And your hairy legs…Yeah.

And Iowa, Iowa so far away
come home, and in my house you’ll stay
Used to look at the stars and dream
round the world same stars were seen
And a twinkle in your eyes B—J—.

Talk smooth to me, without a tie
jump to spike the ball, damn so high.
We can take a trip to the baseball game
Triple A cubs—it’s all the same
Hot dogs out of a cannon, and other food
hope you look in my eyes and say I’m havin’ fun too
They say Iowa don’t have the bomb but they already do
They should know by now, it’s you.

And Iowa, Iowa so far away
is your home, but in my heart you’ll stay

You crazy for this one BJ
you can deny Chicago all you want
but you can’t deny that there’s something between us
I know you say you might stay in Iowa
but you’re in Wisconsin now baby

it’s time to stop hiding,
and start living


Video:

Click the following link to view the original SNL version of this song:

http://www.hulu.com/watch/16771/saturday-night-live-snl-digital-short-iran-so-far

Hope everyone had a great Camp Slaw and had a few laughs along the way,

Matt

happy birthday BJ and Uncle Mike

Live from Camp Slaw 2008:

Happy birthday BJ and Uncle Mike! Hope you have a great day and a great Camp Slaw!

Matt

Happy Birthday Daniel!

...because somebody had to do it.

Just kidding. Have a good one, Daniel.

Matt

P.S. new slide show feat. Daniel

What to do on Saturday night of camp slew. August 9. Please say suggtions. love Jakey

MY AMAZING TRIP!

Hey, fam! I hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far because I sure am, especially this past week I spent in Atlanta with the wonderful Lincenbergs! I had so much fun spending time with just the girls (and Uncle Shel). Everyday was funfilled and packed to the limit with excitement. All the Lincenbergs so kindly took time out of their days to spend time with me, but it was easy to see they all have hectic lives. I loved the constont friends and action happening at the Lincenberg house, and there was no doubt it was very different from the Ettleson lifestyle.


First things first. Packed and ready to go, I said good-bye to Mom, and Dad and I were on our way to O'hare airport. We were able to cut right past the long check-in line, to a short line were they allowed Dad to accompany me to the gate. We found our gate, devoured a huge Cinna-bun, and it was time for me to board. Good-bye Chicago, hello Atlanta! The plane fortunately took-off on time, and with a smooth flight, I landed safely at the Atlanta airport. I walked right of the ramp be warmly welcomed by Aunt Julie and Paige. Yay! I made it! We went to get the luggage and we were on way...to Subway! After Paige very maturely ordered 8 subs to go over the phone, we stopped at Kroger (the grocery store) and picked up the sandwiches. Little did I know, tonight we were going to Stone Mountain! We continued to the Lincenberg home where I was hugged by 4 more, Uncle Shel, Kim, Devin, and Jamie. But wait there's one more! Jonathon, Devin's boyfriend, was already at the house, and I learned that I was the second Slaw cousin to ever meet Jonathon (BJ was the first). We caravaned over to Stone Mountain were we saw a huge "mountain" of limestone" and an unforgetable lasershow. By the time we arrived back at home, everyone went straight to bed.


On Sunday morning, Aunt Julie made us butterscotch and chocolate chip waffles. They were delicious! In the afternoon, we toured the World of Coke. I have never tasted such a variety of drinks in my life! I also liked the commercial room where they showed many old Coca-Cola commercials. Of course the heavy rain and storms slowed down the travel time, but we managed to stop at Roaster's were we had the most incredible hostess. I will never forget her, or maybe it's because she was Devin! We also fit some Singstar, ping-pong (Paige-pong), and fooseball in as well.

On Monday, Paige and I made ourselves breakfeast and soon we were off to the neighborhood pool. Aunt Julie joined us when she returned from work. After our relaxing afternoon, it was off to Kroger to get tonight's meal. We were joined by two of Kim's friends for a dinner of spaghetti. Yum! I can't exactly remember if it was this night or last night that we watched My Best Friend's Wedding, but we watched it. We also rented P.S. I Love You and watched that which ever night we didn't watch the other movie. Although I fell asleep during this one. Ooops.

On Tuesday, Paige and I played a few games, watched a little TV, and we were headed to the ortho. After waiting a few minutes we continued to the Perimeter mall, conviently located right across from the W hotel that most of us stayed at just a few short months ago. Paige and I each bought something, and then, I saw this one coming, Aunt Julie couldn't resist from buying us matching shirts. You'll see them at Camp Slaw, don't worry. Aunt Julie also bought us Frappuccinos from Starbucks-very good! We stopped and visited Kim at the Atlanta Scrapbook Connection (where she works), and Paige picked up a few things. We stopped at Kroger to prepare for a delicous BBQ dinner.

On Wednesday, we woke up bright and early, around 9 am. We put our bathing suits on and grabbed some towels because were all ecstastic about our day at White Water! We went on a bunch of really fun rides. The Tornado was my favorite! Featuring a short yet steep drop and a side to side thrill ride, the Tornado was nearly an hour wait. Finally it was time to go home. We popped Paige's Bat Mitzvah Video in the DVD player and Kim made us all pizza.

On Thursday, I went with Aunt Julie to unfortunately her last tennis match. She played doubles, and I was very impressed. I has so much fun, especially since right after I got to play tennis at the neighborhood courts with Aunt Julie, Kim, and Paige. Then Paige and I went to the pool until it was time for our Girl's Night Out. Aunt Julie and Uncle Shel went out, Jamie was home on her day off, and the five of us went to Sweet Tomatoes for dinner. After, we just hung out at the house, and I played with Joey the gerbil.

On Friday, we spent a lot of time at the pool just fooling around and having tons of fun. Then with a little minor miscommunication we finally made to Nancy's Nails for a relaxing and enjoyable pedicure. Then we made on last trip to Kroger. Devin and Kim were out and about, and a wonderful Shabat dinner was prepared. We lit the candles and enjoyed a beautiful dinner. After, Paige, Aunt Julie, and I went for a "power" walk. We deserved ice cream so we drove out to Carvel. Mmmmm. To finish the day off the four of us watched Juno in their theatre.

Unfortunately Saturday came and it was the final hours, but we made the best of them. Aunt Julie made Rocky Mountain Toast. Then, Devin, Paige, Aunt Julie, and I went the Northpoint mall. We shopped around for about an hour, and came home to quickly change and head for the pool. After spending about hour there, we came home, and I finish packing up. We began our trip to the airport, but it was soon halted by heavy traffic. Jack, the GPS, helped us get out of our tricky situation. We got to the airport in the knick of time and ran to check-in. We raced to the gate only to find my flight had been delayed a half an hour. Ha! Finally, I said good-bye and boarded. My flight was further delayed while I was on the plane, but eventually I made it home. Dad was waiting at the gate and we both gave a big hug. I had so much to share with everyone, and I hope this got the job done for most of you.

Love, Lizzy

P.S. Thanks Jamie for taking your days off from camp counseling during the week I came to visit. I was really glad I got to see you. For those who don't know, Jamie is a counselor for Barney overnight camp so I didn't get to see her as much as the others, but I was happy to see her for short while than not at all.

P.P.S. As Paige has mentioned, she is running a very successful business by caring for people's homes in their absence. I enjoyed tagging along to all of the different houses and playing with their adorable pets.

25 days

Camp Slaw is only 25 days away.I hope everyone is excited.I alsaw think everyone is pumed about Rob coming! Camp Slaw 14 will be a blast August 6 to 10 at the abby!!!!!!!! Love Jay-K

Thirty days to thirty

Hello fam. As I begin to contemplate the meaning of hitting the big three-o, my first thought was that it would be fun to post a rhyming blog on the Dummyline. Then I started to think of words that rhymed with thirty--dirty, flirty, nerdy, squirty. Suddenly, that train of thought started to lose some steam.

A wordsmith I may be, but no assortment of words can express just how fortunate I feel that I will get to celebrate my thirtieth birthday in the presence of all the loved ones I care about most. Iowa has been good to me, but there just aren't any Slaws, Ettlesons or Lincenbergs around. There are a few Whites, but they're just pretenders.

You are all always so good to me when I'm up at Camp Slaw. I hope to elicit some smiles and laughs in return. Perhaps there will be another song, game show (a Monty revival!) and/or comedy act in the works.

Until then, I ask that you all soak up every last drop in this next month of summer. Some of you are already doing just that, which pleases me greatly. My parents are taking the cruise of a lifetime in the Mediterranean, Lizzy is packing her bags for Atlanta, Rob and Jeni are in the honeymoon period of their engagement, and so much more. I am giddy with delight knowing that each of you will be arriving at Camp Slaw with stories to share.

Camp Slaw aside, many of you are wondering if BJ is taking his nomadic act back to the Chicago area. All I can say at this point is that it's a serious possibility. I have applied for a Professional Academic Advisor position at the College of Lake County, which looks intriguing to me. I should find out in the next week or two if I'll be asked to come out for an interview. A lot of chips would have to fall in place. There is a lot to my Des Moines life that I enjoy. The whole notion of starting graduate school all over again is another wild card that is infiltrating the mix. I could spend the next year researching and applying to top-notch Higher Education Master's degree programs, then go somewhere in 2009 and complete the Master's full-time in two years. I have to lay out all the cards on the table and try to ask myself which one is the best hand.

I can tell by the rumbling in my stomach that I have rambled here long enough. I hope all of you had an explosively fun 4th of July and I will see you down that long lonesome highway.

xoxoxoxo,
BJ

Blog version 2.0

To begin, see above on the top of the blog for an introduction to Slaw Dummyline v2.0. I hope these changes result in a more multimedia based blogging experience that everyone can enjoy. If you look to the right side of the blog, you will see the addition of the logo (The Dummy, Dummy Line f. Grandpa Bob), the poll and the slideshow features.

My hope is that (with the exception of the logo) you guys (and not just me) will be able to contribute to these new applications. The poll is not just there for people to vote (and to be hilarious... but seriously), it would be great if others posed their own questions and answers as well. Even though the vote says there are about 30 days left, it can be changed at any time. To do this, simply log on (username matt@ettleson.com, etc.) and then view the blog. In the upper righthand corner of the screen is the underlined word "customize." Click that. From there, you can edit the layout of the blog and the slideshow and poll apps.

The slideshow app is particularly interesting because it is a part of a larger project I have of creating an online collection of web photos (using a google program called Picasa) that all of the family members can contribute to and have access to. Part of the result would be a much more interesting and varied slideshow, but there would be other possibilities as well. I know we share photos online already, but having them all in one place in the future may be helpful.

Finally, let me know what you think about the blog. I think someone (BJ) suggested a blogging tutorial this camp slaw. While that may not be necessary, I would certainly answer any questions and concerns you folks have so that everyone is capable and comfortable with blogging (if they want to in the first place, of course :) ).

Matt

Atlanta Here I Come!

It's official. I (actually my mom - thank you so much!!) have booked my flight to Atlanta for Saturday July 12th. I am so excited not only to flying by myself for the first time but to see the Lincenbergs for an entire week! I am coming back on July 19th, but I'm trying not to think about that. I'll be sure to blog and tell in person all about it. Can't wait!
Love, Lizzy

We're Engaged!

So you've all heard, but here's the actual story...in Rob's words....

I surprised Jen with a trip to the Daytime Emmy Awards (she’s a big “General Hospital” fan). We got in early Thursday morning (5am PT – 5 hour flight delay, though Jen was happy because “All My Children’s” Cameron Mathison was on our flight – he co-hosted the Emmys). After some rest, we headed up the coast to Malibu to El Matador Beach. It’s a really beautiful, natural beach – lots of rock formations. I guess this was a good choice of a beach – because there was an all-day model photo shoot happening (I swear I didn’t plan it that way!).

After a couple of hours in the California sun (yes, I was wearing my 55 SPF and still am pasty white), Jen and I went for a walk to a secluded part of the beach. We sat down and I told her that before we left I had another surprise for her. I pulled out a 25th Anniversary of Luke and Laura’s Wedding “General Hospital” lunch box (You can see what it looks like here: http://abctvstore.seenon.com/detail.php?p=14019&alt_view=TRUE).

At this point I took out my video camera (we had been shooting some scenery at the beach) and started taping Jen, while I said “Open the box, there’s another surprise in there.” She loved the lunch box – and was shocked to find another box (with the “rock”) inside! Of course, while all this is going on, I’m still taping her reaction (remember, this is “me” we’re talking about). Then I shut the camera off for a private moment. (I think she would have said “no” if I kept rolling!).


Attached you will find a few pictures of us, the ring and the surroundings. By chance, a professional photographer was at the same beach at the same time shooting another couple – and she graciously took a few great pictures of us.

Jen and I are both thrilled and happy to share this special moment with you!

Love, Rob and Jen

Congratulations Rob & Jen!!!!

Dear Jen and Rob, We wanted to be the first to congratulate both of you on your engagement. You had a fairytale weekend and I hope you savored evey minute. Rob, we are proud to welcome you to our nutty "dummyline" family. I am so excited about the planning to come and of course your wedding. May you have a lifetime of love, joy, friendship, companionship and contentment. All our love and best wishes. Dad and I will be on our cloud for a long time to come. Stay on yours. We love you! Love, Mom and Dad

HAPPY FATHERS DAY to all the fathers!


love,
devin =)

CAMP!!

Hey! I leave for Camp Barney Medintz today and return on July 3. This will be my 5th year going! Jamie's there too, as a counselor, so she'll be there til the very end of July. We both love receiving letters and will definitely respond back, so here's the address:
(Jamie or Paige Lincenberg)
4165 Highway 129 North
Cleveland, GA 30528

We can't wait to hear from you! Love, Paige

Happy Birthday Julie!!!

Happy Birthday Julie! I hope that you have a great day. I hope that you do something special on your special day. We are sending good wishes your way! Love, Jeri

The End of the Year: AEPi formal and rafting

First of all, congratulations bloggers on having 150 posts. I'm not sure when I started this blog if this whole "website idea" was going to stick, but it did and that's great.

Now to more pressing matters... the last days of school are finally upon us here at Northwestern, and it's about time- but I have had a very memorable year. AEPi has many of its biggest events at the end of the school year, including AEPi formal and our rafting trip.

AEPi formal was a lot of fun, and it was at the Drake, so, good memories. I went with a friend from my dorm, so that was good. Some of us arrived a little late because there was an engineering quiz right before the formal, so we went to Steak and Shake afterwards.

The rafting trip was a lot of fun, too. We drove for about 6 hours north to Crivitz, Wisconsin and the Peshtigo River. It rained a little, we got lost a few times, but it's always fun spending time with the brothers. The actual rafting was a little nerve wracking, and I actually fell out of the kayak at the bottom of a drop (for the record, it was not my fault). Despite getting a little wet and having sore arms for a few days, I'm definitely planning on going again next year.

After it all, I can't wait to come home and see everyone again. I hope everyone is doing well, and I will see you all soon.

Matt

Me and Vanessa

AEPi Formal- my pledge class

Everyone sleeping in the van (except Dima and me)

Jamie's 2nd prom!

Hey Everyone!
So, this past weekend i was in Milwaukee for Rosey's prom! I had an amazing time and i was so happy that i got to finally meet all of his friends and his family, because he had already met mine...twice! Here are just a couple of pictures...

Also, i have not filled you all in on my March of the Living trip in Poland and Israel. It is a lot to type and it is hard to describe from the computer, so please, if you are at all interested, ask me about it at camp slaw and i will be happy to talk about it! In the next couple of days i am going to put up all of the pictures from that trip on an online photo album, so i will send out an email to everyone with that link!

Love you all! See you in a couple of months!

Here are a couple pictures from this weekend:

Relay For Life

AEPi and Friends- the team I set up on behalf of our fraternity (and friends)- recently participated in Northwestern's Relay For Life. It took place in our gym on the lake front, which was neat when the sun rose at a little after 5 in the morning. For those unfamiliar with the event, teams representing student groups, athletic teams, fraternities, and sororities raised money for the American Cancer Society and took part in the 12 hour (6 pm to 6 am) event. As part of the event, two members of each team are supposed to be walking at all times during the twelve hour period. There was also a memorial service for those who the Northwestern community has lost to cancer over the past year. As a fraternity, we raised over $2000 with the help of hot dog sales around campus the week leading up to Relay For Life. Everyone had a great time (despite the sore knees), and we all want to do it again next year.

Here are some pictures:

AEPi & Friends

Matt

Kim & Devin are off on a crazy adventure...!!!

Tomorrow, more precisely, 11 hours from now, Devin and I will be on our way to New York...the first destination of our three week long worldwide adventure!

We can't wait to see Jeni and Rob tomorrow...and then on Saturday we are off to Rome!

Just wanted to let you all know that it's happening- when we return there will be a very long description of our experience...you know you're excited!

WE LOVE YOU ALL!
~kim and devin~


p.s. kim graduated! woo-hoo!

Happy Birthday Jeni!!!!!!!

Jen- I really hope you have a fantastic birthday month. I say month because I know the festivities are spread out. Anyhow- I hope you take the time to today count your blessings, because I feel very blessed to have for a sister.

Love, Jess

Happy Birthday Matt!

I cannot believe that you are 19 years old today! How is that possible? This is the first year I believe that I won't be seeing you on your birthday. But, I look forward to seeing you this week-end. Matt, I hope that you have a wonderful birthday. Do something special. Enjoy the day. Know that you are loved. That is the best gift of all. Have a good one.....love, Mom

I Love Matzah (But not as much as Bread)

How was everyone's week sans bread? I think I have had enougth Matzah and peanut butter for a while... anyways I was blogging because no one has really posted in a while. Any stories? Anything going on? I want to hear it.

Matt

Paige's Bat Mitzvah Weekend

I hope everyone had a great time this weekend. I know I had a great time "getting low" on the dance floor (those dancing with me will know what that means). I'd like to hear any other stories or other people's favorite things about the trip.

Matt

Bat Mitzvah Edition of E! True Hollywood Story: Paige Lincenberg

Matt

FORMAL!

I am sooooo excited for next weekend, I can't even put it in words! I know how much you all are dying to see our polka dot dresses, so I thought I'd give you a preview of mine with a picture of Zack and me from my sorority formal last night!

Thank you

Hello Family,

I just wanted to say a quick thank you to everyone for helping out with my dad. Even if I didn't speak with all of you individually, I could still feel your love and support. I know that what he had was considered "routine," but there was nothing routine about my dad having a health problem. I mean it certainly hasn't happened in my lifetime.

Jeri, thank you for helping me think clearly on Monday. I don't think I would have been able to do it with out you.

Anyway...I kinda think this may be too serious for blog talk. I'm sure I'll see everyone soon and I'll be able to express myself then.

Sidebar: Are the chicagoans enjoying the beautiful spring weather we're having?

Ok...talk to you soon. Love, Jess. ok.ps...Jamie you looked beautiful in your prom dress!

Happy Birthday Sara!!

Sara, I hope I did this right and I am able to wish you a happy birthday on the blog! We loved celebrating with you the other night, but today is the real deal. I hope that you had a great day! Here's wishing you an entire year of good stuff! With lots of love, Aunt Jeri

Jamie's Prom!

So, this past weekend was my junior prom! It was sooo much fun! My friend, Rosey, came in for it which made it even more special, because, as many of you know, he is from Milwaukee, so i obviously don't get to see him very often! So, here are just a couple of pictures! If you want to see more, just let me know! I have lots! See you all very very soon! YAY!

Love, Jamie

Life in A^2

Hello all! So I decided that it is time for me to update you all on the life in Ann Arbor. It's March and there is still plenty of snow! In fact, it snowed quite a bit today. Besides my desire for spring, school is pretty great! All my classes are good...time consuming and really difficult...but good. The work never ceases. I still make time for fun though... tonight I went out to dinner to celebrate a friend's birthday and then my friend James was in a play called "Girl in a Goldfish Bowl", so I went to see that. My spring break was last week, and I went to Boston to visit Jonathan! I'm going to post a picture or two! We had a great time touring the city. We spent an afternoon in Harvard Square, went to Emerson to visit some friends, got a private tour of Fenway Park, walked on some bridges and in some parks, rode the T (a train) and more.

All in all, life is pretty good right now. I cannot wait for the bat-mitzvah! I'm counting down the days...
Alright, here are a few pictures from my first visit to Boston!

Walking around Boston



At the BU vs. Northeastern hockey game! BU WON!

Making a post

There seems to be some confusion on how to post, so I am making this post to clarify the process:

1. Log on to the blog (www.dummyline.blogspot.com)

2. In the upper right hand corner of the screen, there is a link called "sign in." Click on that or the following link: sign in

3. Once you get to the blogger start page, there should be a place in the upper right hand corner to enter a username = matt@ettleson.com and password = dummyline

4. Click "Sign in"

5. You are then taken to the dashboard page. In the middle of the page, there is a box entitled slaw dummyline. Click on the "new post" link (it is right next to the green plus sign)

Hope this helps,

Matt

Live From New York...

So it's been a long time since I've posted so I thought I'd give it a whirl. It's been quite busy here in the big apple. I've been very busy at work and lately I've been doing a lot of work with Hulk Hogan. He's the spokesperson for a campaign I'm working on and while he's a blast to work with, his personal drama (if you've been following at all) is bringing a lot of challenges. All in all though I think that this job move was the correct decision and I think for the most part it is going well.
Otherwise, still just enjoying the city. Seen a few good plays recently, new exhibits that just opened here and we even went ice skating in the park a few weeks ago. A lot of traveling ahead. Next weekend Rob and I go to Raleigh, NC for a bat mitzvah and then I go to Minneapolis the following week for work. Can't wait though for Atlanta! Very curious as to how everyone will be decked out in polka dots... :)
Anyway, hope everyone is doing well. See you in ATL! Much love, Jeni

leap day

I know this day only comes around every 4 years but we are pretty lucky that Jamies birthday is Feb.28 1991 and not the day aftter that.Hopfully the blog can stay alive till the next leap day. love Jakey

Happy Birthday, Jamie

Don't send a lame Birthday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

Matt

What's new at NU?- Part 2

Hello, people. Since no one has posted in a while, I thought I would give an update about what is happening at Northwestern.

Right now, the second quarter is winding down. They say winter quarter is the longest quarter, and it has felt long, but I'm getting through it. All but one of my midterms are done, which is good. The pledge process at AEPi is finishing up too, which is nice as well. Soon, I will be just another brother. The sports medicine job is getting more intense as the year has gone by, which is good because I have more responsibility and can do more, but I also have to committ more hours to it. Currently, I have to cover football practice twice a week, and practice starts around 6:30 a.m.

I'm coming home next weekend- I'm looking forward to seeing the house and hopefully some of the fam for sunday night dinner. I also cannot wait to leave for Arizona. It has been so cold and it has snowed so much, I need that dry heat to recover. Speaking of trips, I'm also excited for Paige's Bat-Mitzvah, too. That will be a lot of fun.

I'm also currently in the process of getting a job in a lab this summer. I am applying for a research fellowship at the hospital here, and I have contacted and heard back from some professors about working in their labs. It's all pretty exciting, and I think I'm taking the right steps (hopefully) to the future I want.

Anyways, everything over here is going well and I hope this posts inspires others to post as well (no pressure, though).

Matt

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

i love you!!!

~kim~

im coming to chicago!

Hey Everyone! This is my second post in a row! Impressed Matt?
Anyways.. i wanted to tell you all that I am going to be in Chicago from Thursday until Monday for BBYO International Convention! There are a couple hours every day ( and about 5 hours on saturday) that i have free time! My mom told me that a few of you have asked if you would be able to come see me! Well.. you are absolutely welcome to! It just has to be in between those hours that i am free, and i am not allowed to actually leave the hotel! The convention is at the Marriott Oak Brook Hills Resort. i'm not sure where that is in relation to where you all live.. but i'm guessing you do! So, just let me know if any of you are interested in coming to visit me and i will let you know what the hours are! And my cell phone number is 404 326 6251.. in case you want to reach me while i'm there cause i won't have computer access!
Love you all!!!

Jamie's Exciting News!

Hey Everyone!

I just got back from Atlanta Council Winter Convention, a huge BBYO convention where elections for the 2008-2009 Council Executive Board took place! I am happy to tell you all that i am the 2008-2009 Atlanta Council Mazkirah! Mazkirah is the secretary which means that I am in charge of communication between chapters,taking minutes at meetings, and other stuff like that. I actually get to plan the biggest convention of the year, called Southern Region Convention (SRC), which takes place in the Fall! Many of my best friends are also on the boys and girls council boards and I am extremely excited!!!
I'm sure that this year will be full of stress and hard-work, but i am so determined to make the most out of my position and really shine as Mazkirah!

I would load a picture of the new boys and girls council boards together.. but the blogger won't let me insert a picture(matt.. why?)

Hopefully soon I will put up a couple of pictures of the new Atlanta Council Exec Board!

Love you all and see you in a short couple of months!

- Jamie

Volleyball

Hey everyone!
This past week I've been trying out for the Daniel Wright Junior High seventh grade girls volleyball team. After three days of try-outs the roster was finally made. About 50 girls tried-out and 24 make it. Luckily, I was one of those girls! I'm so excited to play. I haven't gotten my schedule yet, but let me know if you want to come see a game. Well, thats all. Oh, and by the way for those who don't know, Matt joined a frat, AE Pi I think it's called. He was too shy to share with the blog so I thought I would let you know.
Love you,
Lizzy

Another fun video

Don't send a lame Holiday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

Matt

Back by popular demand

Hello to all coveted members of the SLEW community (I'm banking that the SLEW acronym will catch on at some point),

It was just over a year ago when BJ unleashed a blog post with some New Year's Resolutions. If you would allow myself a moment to reflect on those...

1. Stay busy. For those who have braved the 350-mile trip from Chicago to see me, they know that Des Moines is a decently sized area with plenty of things to do. Given that I don't have a reliable social network out here, I did a pretty good job of keeping myself active in 2007. I still have my nights as Captain Couch Potato after long work days that leave me brain dead, but I think I'm doing okay.

2. Get myself out there with the ladies. From Yahoo! Personals to getting fixed up by a friend's girlfriend to her best friend (follow that?) to Speed Dating to exploring a relationship with an old friend, one can safely say that BJ pulled out all the stops in 2007. I'm thinking of pitching a reality show idea to ABC called "The Bachelor: BJ Style." The premise--I get to hang out with 23 lovely ladies individually handpicked by my 23 immediate family members. That way, each of you have a pony to ride. Mixing family drama with the quest for true love makes for a juicy concoction, don't you think? Suffice it to say, more dating adventures should loom large for this bachelor in 2008.

3. Staying in better touch with my family. This resolution was a mixed bag. On one hand, I did keep my promise of getting back to Chicago at least once every 4-6 weeks to hang with the fam. On the other, there were long stretches of time where I left the fam wondering if I was placed into the witness protection program. Leaving all of you in the dark from time to time is not something I set out to do, it just happens. Over the years, I feel like I have established a unique relationship with each one of you, but I need to do a better job of fortifying those special bonds.

Now what you have all been waiting for! BJ's resolutions for 2008...

1. Communicate more frequently with my family so that I may garner more than two honorable mentions on Matt's Blog Year-in-Review montage.

2. Get my butt in gear and run in at least two half-marathons. By doing so, I will also be better conditioned for the sand volleyball circuit this summer. The ladies will take notice. Oh yes, the ladies will take notice.

3. As I reach the crossroads of Summer 2008, try to really focus on what it is that I want, what makes me happy, and JUST DO IT.

Lovin' you all like it's going out of style,

BJ

I thought this was funny... haha... ha

Don't send a lame Holiday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

Matt + Devin = best post ever

i need transportation!

hello again...

So I am figuring out my U of I interview situation...the date that they gave me is March 18th (which sounds far away, but really isn't) and it is in Peoria. I know. They didn't have anything in Chicago at all. Soooo... I will probably be coming in for at least a couple of days, but as I cannot rent a car, I don't really know how to get to Peoria from Chicago.
Do any of you know a reliable and more or less convenient means of transportation I could use? Also, if it works out with anyone, I would love to see the family while I'm there and I will need a place to stay for the nights that I'm in town.
Please give me any suggestions (or offers... :) ) that you may have!
Thank you and love you!
~Kim

Shalom to all!!

Well hello dear family. I have returned from the homeland. For those of you who didn't get the memo, I was in Isreal from Dec. 31st to Jan. 10th on a Birthright trip. Now I know Kimberly already regaled everyone with the details of her trip, but I would also like to tell you about mine because I am insanely eager to talk about it. And after all, no two people can have the same experience.

Let me start by saying that the trip I took was called Amazing Israel EXREME and boy was it! Think of it as a tour and an adventure trip combined; it was like your regular everyday Israeli tour on steroids. After many hours of rigorous travel, first to JFK where we met our whole group, and then to Tel Aviv, we arrived in pretty good condition. By we I mean myself and Jonathon (we made this journey together and I was thrilled to share each and every experience with him). Our group consisted of 40 participants: 11 girls and 29 guys! I guess when you sign up for an adventure trip, those are the kind of numbers you can expect. We drove right to dinner at a restaurant called Beit-Haful for what would be the first of many hummus offerings. FYI: if you don't like hummus, don't go to Israel. It's just not meant to be. I felt a little weird throughout dinner and with good reason: i had a seizure shortly after outside the hotel. Not the best way to start off the trip, but we had a medic with us at all times so it was all good. I'd rather not dwell on the repercussions of that incident and just move on in my summary.

The next morning we took a 3 hour hike on Ein Akev and visited the grave of David Ben Gurion (you might want to brush up on your Jewish history if that name doesn't ring a bell.) Then we drove to Arad, further into the desert, and enjoyed some Bedouin hospitality and a homemade "hafla" dinner. The evening concluded with name games around the bonfire. Then all 40 of us slept under 1 tent which was AWESOME. Some of the other girls did not share in my enthusiasm. Too bad, so sad. The next morning we arose before dawn to ride camels into the sunrise. A very cool but very smelly experience. And by the by, camels are not nice animals.

Then we hiked Massada where we had a tour and values clarification exercise. If being atop a piece of history like Massada doesn't make you think about your connection to the Jewish people, then you must be without a pulse (and then you would have some bigger issues). We then took the snake path down (which would later result in the worse calf pain I have ever felt in my life...little did I know). We then hiked the desert oasis of Ein Gedi followed by a refreshing dip in the Dead Sea, which ironically made me feel more alive than ever.

After washing up a bit, we drove to Jerusalem where we would be spending the next few days. That night we had what they call the Mega Event where Jews from countries all over the world get together in one place and dance and eat and all that good stuff. I got to say, it was pretty cool meeting Jews from Uruguay.

The next day in Jerusalem, I got up close and personal with the Western Wall along with some other very cool historical sites. We then met the 8 soldiers (our Mifgash) that would be sharing the next 5 days with us. After playing a game that can only be considered a rare form of speed-dating, we toured the Old City soaking up sooooo much culture along the way. Boy do Orthodox Jews do things differently than the rest of us. We then returned to the hotel where we got ready for our Shabbat service, which was beautiful, followed by a festive (albeit not tasty)Shabbat dinner.

Shabbat (Saturday) was pretty chill all in all, and trust me: we needed a day to rest! We toured the kibbutz, participated in a Jewish Identity Program, and had a beautiful Havdallah service. That night we were free to roam Ben Yehuda street (consisting of an indoor market as well). I bought (and promptly ate) a container of olives. Seeing as I was not feeling 100% during the trip and did not care for most of the food, I consumed quite a few olives.

The next day was the most depressing yet most significant day of the trip. We started off with a tour of Yad Veshem (the Holocaust museum) followed by a visit to the Theodore Herzl Military Cemetary. Seeing all the graves of soldiers MY AGE covered with pictures, flowers, poems, etc. was a huge reality check. It was the only time during the trip that I was brought to tears. Then we drove up north to have a homemade dinner with members of the Druze culture (all vegetarian by the way). For the next 3 nights we would be staying in the Ein Gev Kibbutz Guest Houses.

The next morning, we visited the Kinneret Cemetary followed by a 2 hour hike up Mount Arbel which provided us with an awesome view of the Sea of Galilee. After hiking down the mountain (which required A LOT more skill that climbing up it: rocks to grab onto and places where you just had to jump and hope for the best), we toured the mystical city of Tzfat. This is a city where many practice the Kabbalah faith, which we got to learn a little more about. We then drove to the Jordan River to do some rafting, but we were informed (after changing into our bathing suits of course) that the water level was too high to raft...major bummer. So we bumped up our trip to the Golan Heights Winery where we got a tour and enjoyed a wine-tasting experience. It was one of my favorite parts of the trip. That night we went to Tiberias to lounge in the hot springs and unwind a bit.

The next day we hiked Mount Bental and got an overview of Syria. We even got to creep through an active Syrian bunker. After that, we went ATVing which was another highlight of the trip. I never really knew what it was like to have mud in your ears, eyes, and mouth. I highly suggest it. It was pouring rain and super muddy: the perfect combination.

The next day (our final day), we drove back to Tel Aviv, toured Jaffa, toured Neve Tzedek and Tumpeldor Cemetary, and had lunch on our own in the markets. Interestingly, we saw Air Force ONE flying into the airport; Bush was visiting Israel as you probably knew. For lunch, I was somehow able to find a cafe that served "pizza" (I put that cherished word in quotes for obvious reasons). Then we visited Independence Hall where history was made over 60 years ago. We heard the actual recording of Theodore Herzl declaring the statehood of Israel. Very cool. Finally, we had a farewell dinner at a restaurant called Petrozilia followed by what I heard was a killer party (I fell asleep LONG before the party even started, unfortunately).

Then back to Ben Gurion airport to fly on home. I have soooo many more wonderful details and experiences to tell you about, but I can only fit so much in a blog posting. I will tell you this much: I laughed a lot, I learned a lot, and I explored my Jewish heritage in more ways than I ever thought possible. I have all my pictures on Facebook; for those of you not Facebook-savvy, please let me know if you would like to see more photos.

Shalom to all,

Leah Marie

more news!

I GOT AN INTERVIEW AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS SCHOOL OF MEDICINE!!!!!!

i don't know when yet, but obviously i will be letting you know!!

AAHHHH!!!

-kim

HAPPY NEW YEARS!!

Happy 2008, everybody! I hope we all have a blessed new year. What are some of your resolutions?

2008: the year of the blog

With over 120 posts, the blog is coming into its own a little in its third year of existence. As we all get older, wiser, and more tech savvy (well, 1 out of 3 ain't bad), the blog is now more relevant than ever. However, before we move on to next year, thats take a look back at some of the highlights of the blog over the past year:

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

"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." ~BJ

"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...So long story short, Sara and I had the most amazing weekend and I hope the kids agree. ~Leah

"happy birthday jamie! sweet 16! i love you!" ~Kim

"Just in case you wanted to know, Sara Rianna will be 27 on March 19th!" ~Laurie

"HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! GRANDMA BOBBIE AND PAPA!!!" ~Kim

"Hi! Just recently, over spring break, we traveled to Arizona, as many of you know." ~Liz

"Happy 12th Birthday Paige! I hope you have a fabulous birthday and a wonderful year! " ~Sara

"Well, I felt left out....so here goes." ~Jess

"Shalom! For those of you who don't know, I just returned from a fabulous week of doing Birthright in Israel!" ~Kim

"Hey fam! As some of you know, I am deciding to dramatically cut my hair very soon." ~Liz

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

"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." ~Jeni

"Mike White- our Uncle Mike White- in a gritty all-star performance, has completed yet another triathlon." ~Matt

"HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!" ~Kim

"...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..." ~Matt

Photo Blog ver. 1.5 (update)

"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" ~Paige

"Yes...Grandpa and I are truly blessed with such a loving and caring family. Our children and grandchilden are the best !!!!"~Grandma

"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)." ~Sara

"My desk" ~Devin

"Happy Birthday Lizzy!You are now officially a teenager! yay!" ~Paige

"i have my Medical College of Georgia interview on Wednesday and then my Emory interview on Friday... I am very nervous, but SO EXCITED!" ~Kim

"YAY! Kim finally taught me how to post! This is exciting!See you all in 17 days! Happy Hannukah!" ~Jamie

"Wow, BJ found his way back to the blog! It's a Hanukkah miracle!" ~BJ

Matt