Corn Update: Week 8 ... Plus, we finally meet the farmer

Kicking off this week's corn update with a trio of close-ups. A perfect Midwest summer day today, although it's impossible to ignore the hint of a season change in the air.

School started at Illinois State this morning, and there is a lot more life down the way from our house. It feels good to have the students back, although I know it's going to be hard to retire the swimsuits and sunscreen in a few weeks.

Once again, the corn is about the same height. I think just the boy getting taller ...

We were in Iowa City for the weekend for a trio of Ives' birthdays. Many presents must still be opened, and hopefully people can act surprised as Owen kept asking when we were going to open insert name of gift here.

It's no wonder we told everyone early when we found out Amy was pregnant last fall ...

We stopped downtown to play in the park and grab some lunch as we were leaving town. Amy and I celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary last Tuesday, so it seemed quite appropriate to run into our dear friends Tim and Marie (below center) at the restaurant. We were just one John Muriello shy of having all of our wedding musicians in one place.

The other joy was finally meeting Marie's husband Lyle -- her "farmer" -- who she married just about four years ago. I can't believe it took so long to get us all together, but what a joy! I had been Marie's "fiance" (or, should I say, the first of many) for such a long time, it was nice to finally meet the man who actually closed the deal. Hopefully we'll get to spend more time together soon.

Lord knows, Owen would love to see your tractors, Lyle.