Michigan Trip

So it is no secret that I love BYU.  And I love BYU football.  So when we found out they would be playing against Michigan in Ann Arbor, we knew that we would love to go.  While Tod was in Germany, we decided to really make it a reality and make some serious plans.  First obstacle...those 5 kiddos who need to be watched...and both our faithful babysitters were going to be out of town the same weekend.  When I asked Tod's mom if she and Steve would come up, she said they would be glad to make the trip.  And of course the kids were thrilled.  It was so nice to leave them in such capable hands.  There was so much going on that I had to leave a typed up schedule of details and events (soccer games, soccer treats, soccer tournaments, women's conference at church, etc.)  Such an ordeal to leave a family, and I am so grateful to all who helped out.
Next obstacle...my temporary teaching job...but I got approval to just teach half day Friday and get a sub for the other half.  Done!  And we were on our way.  Tod picked me up at the school (after a tearful good bye to my little Cole- man), and we grabbed some quick lunch at our favorite Capriotti's.  The drive was long, but so enjoyable...it is amazing how easy and pleasant driving can be when it is only the 2 of us.  Of course, we missed the kids (a little bit!?), but life was pretty grand.  And it wasn't long until we entered the great state of Michigan.

We spent our first night in downtown Detroit.  Despite all the stories and Cindy's worryings, we found it fairly safe and very enjoyable.  The baseball stadium was beautiful and the fall weather was perfect to take in a Detroit Tigers game.

Our hotel was stunning and had an amazing view of the city.

The next morning we headed to Ann Arbor...again, the weather was absolutely perfect and for us who are lovers of college football, the environment was unbeatable.

We got to see several old friends, and that was definitely fun!

We had great seats and I loved watching BYU take the field.  I still get so excited!

And I can't really say much about the rest of the actual game part because BYU did awful and got creamed.  But good thing I was with my best friend, and we still had a great time being together.

When Tod was gone for those many weeks during the summer, I missed him so much.  I kept thinking to myself, "I can do this because I get to go to Michigan with him!"  And it was worth every bit of the wait.  Away from the kids, the pressures of real life, jobs, church, etc., we have a great relationship.  We enjoy the same things, and we have fun together.  After almost 15 years, we still have lots to talk about and lots to experience.   I love being with him, and he likes me too.  We make a great team.
(We spent our second night in the Chicago area where we enjoyed a trip to IKEA and a yummy dinner at Cheddar's).  Such a great weekend.