2-years-in-Sweden anniversary today!

Two years ago today on a cold winters day we set foot in our new home here in Sweden. 

It’s been an adventure, it’s been fun, it’s been crazy, it’s been exceptional, it’s been frustrating at times, it’s definitely been rewarding, it’s been nice to move into an insulated non-drafty house again, it’s been great having real internet again, it’s been fantastic to be able to take advantage of all the Swedish government family perks, it’s been a learning experience, and most of all: it’s been the missing piece to our puzzle.

So, to celebrate our two-year-and-counting stint here in Sweden in true Harrison-Helin style; Shaena and I are in full research mode, scoping out our next holiday adventure: Tour de Canada 2013! 

If our grand plan comes together, this crazy crew will be, among other things, road tripping around the rocky mountains in one of these!

At least the camera didn't get the flu

Brothers

Guess what he is watching on the computer

Mario Cart Racer and hangaround crew

A feverish Huddy/Woody at the doctors office

"Ethan swim under water!"

Flufest 2013 is here!

Holy Kleenex has this week ever been a long and yucky one! First, Shaena and Hudson came down with the flu early this week and today we've all been home from our respective daytime occupations. A couple of visits to the doctor, 7 liters of Tylenol and copious amounts of snot rags later, we are all going to bed early to try and sleep it off.

Oh, and let me tell you; It is really, really hard to be at home sick feeling sorry for yourself when you have the kids at home as well. Yes, they are sick too and they need to be attended to, but it's like they smell blood in the water and because you are sick and weak;, they feel the urge to jump on your belly a few extra times.

Hopefully this clears up soon.

Gallivanting around Chicago

Last week I had the pleasure of going on a whistle-stop visit to Chicago with work for our annual kickoff. About 2000 CareerBuilder folks from all around the world came and stayed at the Sheraton we had the pleasure of listening to a number of truly awesome guest speakers. Unfortunately, due to their contracts for these engagements, I am not able to namedrop, post photos or quote them on all the awesome things they said… but trust me, it was awesome.

Even though the schedule for the few days I was there was jam packed, I had a chance to go and check out the city for a few hours and I must say; I am a big fan! Really cool city and I am sure there’s lots of gems left to visit so we’ll have to make sure to make it back to the windy city.

Good trip all in all and Shaena did great working fulltime as well as taking care of the boys while I was out gallivanting around halfway across the globe.

A classic inflight wing photo

Phew!
A sign to prevent weapons violations and gang recruitment!
I instantly felt a lot safer!

Navy Pier Christmas lights

Chicago by night

Chicago by day

Here comes the fuzz!

Hancock Tower
Needless to say; the view from the 96th floor
was amazing!

The famous Garrett's Popcorn Shop
The only thing Shaena asked me to bring back from Chicago
was a bucket of Garrett's Popcorn 'Chicago Mix'.
So I did. And they did not disappoint! Finger licking good!

Hello 2013!

New Year’s Eve was a relaxed, no-big-deal event for us this year and it was nice to just stay at home, hang out and enjoy a good dinner and a glass of wine.

We felt that we’d been doing enough running around for one year and also knew that 2013 would kick start with Shaena going back to work (first day tomorrow, woo!) and I am flying off to Chicago with work for a few days next week. In between Shaena going back to work and me flying off, we are also doing a shindig here in Stockholm with my laddies from near and far and their respective better halves which I am sure will be a hootenanny and a half!

Look out 2013, we are coming for you!