Kid Quest has come to mean two specific things in our family. For me [a photographer, artist and creative entrepreneur], it’s an excuse to bring our 6-year-old son to the Plains Art Museum to create and consider art. For Young M. [a football fan, Star Wars aficionado and typical 6-year-old kid], it’s a chance to play with an assortment of toys in the second floor lounge. Our practice has always been to complete the art project first and then retreat to the lounge.

That was before we learned about vermin and were encouraged – as part of our Kid Quest experience – to look for them. These 4-inch tall ceramic figures are scattered around the museum in all sorts of places. They are awkward and charming at the same time. Artist Jamie Burmeister has hundreds of vermin installed at museums and public spaces around the world.

As soon as we learned about vermin, Young M. was on the hunt. Finding and counting vermin soon became a shared mission. We hit galleries on all three levels. We checked hallways and stairways. We rode the elevator. We learned to look here, there and everywhere. We counted and re-counted. We offered encouragement to others who were also looking for vermin. We thought we had them all and then found a few more.

Our final tally came in at 336 or maybe it was 339. Regardless of our numbers or how many vermin are actually installed at the museum, we both considered our adventure a resounding success. And, that’s what made last Saturday our most favorite Kid Quest to date.

Have a great weekend. – Ann

When illness [small or big] strikes it can serve as a reminder about how amazing life is when you are healthy. I know that’s how I’ve felt whenever a nasty sinus infection or other ailment has come and then [thankfully] gone.

The sister of a good friend of our family’s has been ill for awhile. I’m not familiar with the particulars, but know there is a benefit in the works for early November.

Sometimes we’re helpless to assist others. Sometimes we can make a small gesture to show kindness. In the interest of supporting our friend and his family, I’m donating a framed photograph of “Tiny Leaf”. This image was created in early September during an outing to Middle Cormorant Lake with our extended family. The print of this photograph is very striking and one I hope will fetch a nice price.

Good health to you and yours, Ann

We don’t get many visitors here in Fargo, N.D. I’m not sure why. So, when someone or a couple of somebodies decide to visit Wade and I are always excited to play host.

Miss Carrie Elkin, a very fine folk musician and a friend of mine from Ohio University, was in town for a gig Friday night. Her performance was part of a music series called The Listening Room at The Spirit Room in downtown Fargo. Great location. Great show. Respectable turnout.

Thanks for stopping by, Carrie. You and your music are beautiful. – Ann

Little M., who really isn’t so little anymore, started kindergarten this week. He assured me that I don’t need to worry about him. Well, I’m his mom so I’m bound to worry – at least a bit. We were a touch rushed that morning, but I wanted to be sure to create at least one photograph of M. in a location that we can easily repeat in future years.

Anyway, here’s to the new school year and a holiday weekend. Enjoy! – Ann

It’s been a super busy couple of months. Who am I kidding? The past year has been wonderfully full, challenging and rewarding.

Whose ready for a much needed vacation? Me!

Have a great week. – Ann