This summer’s travel started in Denver, where Johann and I traveled for his Strake Jesuit Basketball team’s Colorado Live event.

Today marks what would have been my dad’s 84th birthday, a day that coincides with what would have been my parents’ 59th wedding anniversary. It’s astonishing how time flies; it feels like yesterday that I turned 21, unknowingly celebrating my last birthday with him.  Reflecting on their journey together brings a profound sense of gratitude and nostalgia. Even though time has moved on relentlessly since he left us, his presence feels so near, as if he’s just stepped out for a moment and will return any minute to join in our laughter once more. Their love story is very dear to me. I remember as a little girl hearing them recount it to my brother and me, and then hearing other stories from those who witnessed their tale. One day, Katerina and I asked my mother to write down how she met my father. She did so in her own words, crafting it into a poem, which later became a song. I’ll share this story in another post… Now that we had my mom’s version, there was a part of me that couldn’t leave my dad without a voice for his story. I had heard it many times and thankfully, part of it was captured in his own words (thanks Hardy) about his journey to America (more on his story to come). With his words, Katerina’s musical talent, and my contribution to the story, my dad’s version, “Two Souls,” was born. Today is not only a celebration of his life but also a tribute to their story. As we honor them today, it serves as a reminder to cherish every moment we have with those we hold dear because even as time swiftly moves forward, love keeps our memories alive forever. Their journey together has left an indelible mark on my heart, guiding me through life’s ebbs and flows with grace and strength. Happy Birthday Day Dad and Happy Anniversary Mom! XOXO, Heidi

Katerina’s volleyball journey at SJPII didn’t begin with a grand plan or a family legacy in the sport. It all started in elementary school, at St. John Paul II.   In those early days, every practice was an opportunity to learn something new—not just about volleyball techniques but also about teamwork and perseverance. The memories of those initial games, filled with both triumphs and challenges, became the foundation upon which Katerina built her dedication to the sport.   She found herself surrounded by teammates who shared her enthusiasm and drive. These were more than just classmates; they became a second family on and off the court. From these first teams, she discovered a passion that would guide her through the years, transforming a casual interest into a heartfelt love for the game. Below is a highlight video of these formative years! xoxo, Heidi  

Embarking on our European adventure with an unforgettable stop in Hamburg for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour 2024! To our delightful surprise, Marriott Bonvoy welcomed us with a Taylor Swift-themed banner and a friendship bracelet room just for Bonvoy members. Their exceptional service truly made us feel the “Ready for It” vibe! A heartfelt thank you to Marriott Bonvoy for the unforgettable experience. While capturing the magic of those three hours is hard, I’ve put together a special highlight reel for Katerina, our ultimate Swiftie. These are moments she’ll treasure forever. We hope you enjoy reliving this magical night with us! The next day, we explored Hamburg with an incredible tour guide and felt deeply connected to this history-rich city in just under 2 hours. Hamburg is definitely a city you want to visit! XOXO, Heidi