Loving Life 365

Tracy the Preschool Dog

2012-02-08T20:24:00.000-06:00

We took care of the preschool pet Tracy the past couple days. At the end of our time with her the kids wanted to do a photoshoot with her. I love these pictures because they are so my life!

wordy snap shot of our life right now

2012-02-06T09:49:00.004-06:00

I've been horrible at blogging lately but I realized I've just got to take the time to sit down and document a few darling things before I forget! I've got to let go of my desire to have a perfect picture and a thoughtful post. This blog is just for historical documentation!

ENDER UPDATE - 16 months
Ender's language has just exploded in the past weeks. He'll mimic almost any word that is spoken to him and he says them very clearly. Words he uses on his own regularly include (but I'm sure are not limited to, cause it's hard to remember them all):
"help me"
dat ma (Batman)
Mama
Dada
Nana (he says all other grandparent names when asked)
bop (book)
Bye
Milk
More
shoe
nigh nigh (night night)
orange (I can't even try to spell it how he actually speaks it, it's so cute) and by "orange" I really
mean clementine, he could eat a whole package
apple
mine
water
thank you
touch down (after throwing a ball on the ground)
uh oh
ball

Ender loves anything that his brother and dad are into. He's happiest with sitting in his kid recliner holding a wii mote in one hand and a remote in the other. He knows the "toy" remotes don't work and doesn't care a thing about them. He also likes to go "bye bye". He'll ask to put on his coat or his shoes and then will wave and say "bye bye" while walking away (or what he's doing as I type this, saying bye while carrying away a big package of toilet paper). He also dances with his "happy feet" (I remember Emmett doing this too). Another favorite dance move is to spin around with his left hand leading the way. Ender adores his blanket and pacifiers. He pretends to be a doc by crawling around on the ground, panting and barking. He loves to help me wash the floor, vacuum...whatever I'm doing he's right behind me trying to do it on his own. Ender is a little "Snuggle Puppy". He loves to give hugs, kisses, be snuggled and will climb right into your lap with a story book. He's always the one not crying at childcare, even if all the other kids are crying. He does shed a tear or two when he's first dropped off, at least he did for a few weeks. Ender is an absolute joy. In all honesty, he's 90% joy and then the other 10% consists of massive trantrums when he doesn't get his way (has the DS taken away) and Terradactyl shrieks. At least we know he's human :).

EMMETT UPDATE - 5 years old
Emmett is enjoying preschool and we only get positive feedback from his teachers (so far!). He is also a Sparky in the AWANA program which is the absolute highlight of his week. He loves the scripture memorization but most of all he loves that daddy is his teacher! Sunday school teachers, AWANA teachers and preschool teachers are amazed by what he knows. Most recently they asked the class "what are disciples" and he was able to tell them "followers of Jesus." He is very helpful with the younger kids and is very thoughtful and working on being grateful for what he has. It's very sweet cause when he's human selfishness sneaks through, he's often quick to correct himself and say "I'll be grateful for what I have." Typical of the first born, he does tend to get frustrated when other kids don't "get it" or don't want to play the way he has in mind (he may have gotten this from me!). As I think about kindergarten next year I see how he will LOVE it and thrive in an environment where he's challenged and held to high standards. Selfishly however, I'll really miss having him around as he's the one organizing the kids in various activities and the only one who compliments my coloring and sandwich making abilities! Emmett adores his daddy and can't get enough time with him. They love playing video games, wrestling, watching movies, reading chapter books and exercising together. Emmett's other favorite person these days is his friend Aiden. They love playing together - Bakugans, shoots their bows and arrows, coming up with imaginative games. We recently went on a Mother-Son special outting (not a date, as Emmett likes to remind me he's not allowed to date till he's 16 or 18, I forgot) with Crystal and Aiden. We went to the Cinema Cafe and had a wonderful night together.

EISLEY UPDATE - 3 years old
Just a few months ago at her 3 year well child I expressed my concern to the doctor that her biting, scratching and tantrums were getting worse again after a few better months. It was a matter of days after that that her behavior improved and has been continuing in that direction. As I type this, she is sitting on the couch reading a book - wait no, actually scratching stickers off a book. I lovingly call her my little tornado cause she is very imaginative and creates quite a mess in her wake. All that being said, I've enjoyed seeing her come into her own more and more each day. She is a little mommy to her dolls and to Ender. She can play contently with her dolls for the longest time. I often find her talking to herself about her "sister" and what she and her sister are doing. She needs very little direction from me to play as her imagination carries her from one adventure to the next. Eisley loves to help Ender as well - carry him from place to place (she's got 5 lbs on him), help change his diaper, help undress him, help feed him... I am really looking forward to seeing her interactions with the newborn baby. While Emmett is at preschool I only have the 4 kids at home (Ender, Eisley and the 2 nanny kids). The 4 of them play so well together most of the time that I have often have the luxury of sitting at the computer and checking email, or doing the dishes, or even working on a quick sewing project.

BABY 4 UPDATE - 35 weeks pregnant
Baby still doesn't have a name, we've narrowed it to 2! C-section is scheduled for Friday Feb 17th! I am spinning with mixed emotions. I am a bit anxious to get him out safely, but also kinda dreading the lack of sleep and constant nursing. I'm excited to meet him and snuggle him but nervous for how the dynamics will change and how Ender will take the reduced attention. This pregnancy has been mostly great but I am starting to slow down - achey hips, sciatic pain - but at the same time this will likely be my last pregnancy and just the thought almost brings me to tears. I'm trying to enjoy every last minute of this pregnancy. Being pregnant is such a gift, such a special feeling and a blessing I never want to take for granted.

ME UPDATE - 35 weeks pregnant
So yes, I explained my mixed emotions as my pregnancy is coming to an end. I am LOVING life right now. Eric is an amazing husband and I feel so loved and blessed by my relationship with this Godly man. He is tender and lovingly firm with the children. He's helping out more around the house which I really appreciate (his own idea, which was brilliant, was that I fill the dishwasher throughout the day, I run it at night and the he empties it in the morning! Awesome!). He's so handsome and dresses really well too :). In the past few weeks I've been told "you really seem to have a good marriage, what's your secret?" I had to agree, we really do have a great marriage. It's been a strong 8 years. I know the next 8 may have more challenges but we're building a strong foundation and I can not believe how these 8 years have flown by! I have to be honest, the hardest part of my days is just balancing my attitude with my nanny kids. They are darling kids but very different from my own. I have to deal with issues (#2 in undies, wetting pants sporadically, children not speaking when spoken too...) I've never had to as a parent, only as a care giver and I don't have the same confidence or the basis of unconditional love to guide me in these decisions. I know it's my own deal and nothing wrong with the kids, but it's humbling to be so.... human?...that seems like the nicest way to say it! I see sides of myself and feel emotions that I don't like, that I know are human, but still I need to find a way to be a grown up! I know the Lord is the only hope I have in these relationships and I pray frequently throughout the day for both my parenting and my caregiving parenting. Random last thought, can I blame my irritability on pregnancy? Cause man am I irritable! I could do with out this!

Next time I post it may be with newborn pictures! CRAZY! Please be praying for this delivery. It is scheduled at the end of 36 weeks in hopes of picking the perfect date that 1) isn't too early so that the baby has complications but 2) not too late so that we risk uterine rupture again. I feel like I'm in good earthly hands but mostly I KNOW I'm in God's Hands and in that I find my peace.

Maternity Shoot

2012-01-31T20:34:00.000-06:00

My friend did a little maternity shoot for me. I LOVE them and I love the way she captured the real personalities of my kids!

Best job ever

2012-01-25T21:30:00.001-06:00

While Emmett is at preschool I have the privilege of gazing at these two delectable faces and playing outside in the snow in 40 degree weather. Best job ever!

Water Painting

2012-01-17T20:41:00.000-06:00

Water Painting. The kids wanted to paint but I didn't want a mess. The solution? Water painting? However, there was still a mess. At least it was just a watery mess!

Stitches!

2012-01-17T20:14:00.004-06:00

Last week when I did the kids' make up for fake injury night at AWANA little did I know, that in just a few days it would be a reality.

After a fabulous morning with some of our favorite people, we were thinking it was time to go when I heard a terrible thud from the living room. I glanced up to see Ender face down on the metal bar of the infant swing. He had been standing up on the traveling swing (very close to the ground) when he swing swung out from under him and he fell face down. It was bleeding profusely and when I pulled the paper towel away to assess the damage all I could muster was "it's bad." Jammie jumped to action with a cool wash cloth, m&ms, steri strips, ice pack and acetaminophen. The older kids obediently got their coats and shoes on and we headed straight for urgent care. It took forever at the doctor because they had to put numbing salve on his eye and then wait 20 minutes, then reapply and wait another 20 minutes (but it was always more). Even applying the salve was an ordeal because it was so close to his eye, they weren't sure if they should even use it. Then the doctor came in and explained to me that they were going to "papoose" him and "fix him up". Basically wrap him in a blanket and strap him down to a board to he couldn't move. The doctor explained that I should take the other kids out of the room so that if they should ever need to return to urgent care they wouldn't have this horrible memory of their brother's experience. I completely agreed with her, but let me tell you, it was complete torture handing over my baby to the nurse and doctor knowing the pain he would be going through without me. The doctor was very loving and assured me she'd sing to him and be very loving. We went to the waiting room where we could still hear his blood curdling scream. It wasn't too long before we were allowed back in the room. Sweet little Ender was drenched in sweat and trying to catch his breathe but stayed content in the doctor's arms even as she filled me in on what they had done. It was a crocked injury and she had to sew very close to the eye but everything about his actual eye looks fine. He may have a scar. It's been a long day. An experience like this is definitely draining. The first stitches ever in our family. I've never even had stitches! Poor little guy. Here are a few photos and I'll put some more from the clinic experience when I have more energy. Please be praying for a thorough and quick healing with out any infection! This little guy is quite a trooper.

Eisley's Eye

2012-01-12T20:52:00.000-06:00

It started on New Year's Eve. Eisley was being goofy and pulled her cheeks down exposing the "blood" in her eyes (the veins you see on the inside of your lower eye lid). No big deal, until I looked closer ands saw this attached to the skin in her lower eyelid.

I kinda freaked out and just for peace of mind going into a long weekend proceeded to take her to Urgent Care. The doctor did a double take and didn't seem to know what it was but guessed perhaps Chalazion. She recommended seeing a Pediatric Ophthalmologist.

January 12th we were able to get an appointment with the eye doctor. I was very calm and just kept praying for a "quick fix and an easy solution".

The ophthalmologist was obviously startled by what he saw. He got out his big head brace gadget thing and after studying her eye for quite some time asked me, "does she have a special lovey she sleeps with?" I thought he was asking because I would need to go get that lovey to help with the next step. I told him not really and that she rotates what she wants to sleep with. He responded that he thought the brown mass was actually a cluster of hairs that the eye had grown attached to. CRAZY! So he proceeded to put numbing drops in her eyes and then had to lean back into the large apparatus. I helped hold her head in place and he began scraping at the brown mass. Slowly but surely, just like removing a scab, he pulled the brown mass loose. He pulled it out and looked at it again - perhaps a small piece of foam? Not sure exactly what it was, but the eye had attached to it. The inside of her eye lid was a bit swollen and red but she felt no pain. I was almost giddy with joy over what an amazing answer to prayer this whole solution was. Although completely bizarre it really couldn't have been a "quicker" or "easier" fix. Exactly what I'd asked the Lord for. We've been putting eye drops that contain steroid (to reduce swelling) and antibiotic (avoid infection) in her eye daily and will return to the ophthalmologist in a week. What a strange experience! But at the same time such a blessing! I couldn't be more grateful to God for answering my prayers in an unbelievably direct and bizarre way :).

Bow and Arrows

2012-01-07T20:27:00.003-06:00

Until recently it was actually "Bone and arrow" and according to Eisley it still is. But tonight, thanks to Nana and Grandpa, Emmett learned how to shoot a cross bow and I must say he is an excellent shot.

Not only is he an excellent shot, but he looks adorable doing it.

Ok, I admit it, the above picture is posed, I needed a close up of that focused face.

Now Emmett just wants to make some "real" arrows with sharp stones on the tips.

Eisley's art and her "sister"

2012-01-04T21:37:00.002-06:00

My little artist. Eisley has these moments of peace and focus which usually revolve around art or imaginary play. It's just the most darling thing watching her go into her own world. Granted, this darling site ended with her ripping the paper into shreds and stuffing the papers into the jar of water. She was making something for her "sister". Eisley has an imaginary sister she plays with and talks about all the time. So sweet.

Animal Haven Zoo

2011-12-27T21:43:00.000-06:00

Our favorite thing to do at the cabin - go to the Animal Haven Zoo. It may have been a tad chilly but that didn't stop us from making great memories!

Merry Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:51:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Eve!

We were asked to be the Advent Family at the church service this afternoon. The children each said a phrase of the family prayer. They also memorized part of the Christmas Story from Luke, "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom is Glory rests." It brought us so much joy to see the kids eagerly memorizing God's word - hiding it in their heart.

3 and 5

2011-12-10T22:30:00.002-06:00

We had our 3 and 5 year well-child exams earlier this week. Here's where the kids are at:

Emmett - 5 y/0

Weight: 38 lbs, 29%

Height: 40.25", 7%

Eisley - 3 y/o

Weight: 29 lbs, 30%

Height: 36.25", 24%

I honestly expected Emmett to weigh more and Eisley to weigh less. Of course the only thing that's important is that they are growing at a healthy rate. Now just to keep everyone "well" :).

Sick

2011-12-08T19:53:00.003-06:00

Caution - you probably don't care about this. I'm trying to document our bouts of sickness over the past 2+ weeks. I'm a bit concerned why Ender keeps getting sick, so I wanted to write it all down somewhere.

We've been sick at our house - for a long time. I wanted to write it down somewhere to keep track. I know this isn't totally accurate - but I can't quite remember the dates. I know that for the first 2 weeks we didn't go more than 1 night without being awoken by vomit or diarrhea soaked sheets. Then this last week we were totally clear for about a week till early this morning when Ender got sick again.

11/19 - Emmett wakes vomiting, ok during the day, vomited again that night

11/21 - Ender wakes vomiting

11/24 - Eisley has diarrhea all day

11/25 - Eisley wakes vomiting

11/30 - Eric vomiting

Ender has a fever for about 2 days in here somewhere.

11/30 and 12/1 - Eisley has hives

12/1 - Ender wakes vomiting, diarrhea

12/2 - Eisley does a weird vomiting/gagging thing, but that's all

12/3 - Ender has diarrhea

12/8 - Ender wakes vomiting, diarrhea all day

Little Lady is 3

2011-11-10T22:37:00.004-06:00

My little lady is 3. In many ways I feel like she's been three forever. Eisley is precocious, intelligent, bright, smart, energetic, mischievous, thoughtful, loving, creative and experimental. She keeps me on my toes and it's so fun!

She's normally a pink and purple girl, but today when we went out for mani/pedis I asked her what color she'd like. As she stood infront of the rainbow wall I could not have been more surprised when she said she'd like, "fween!" I encouraged her that there are pinks, purples, even blue! She thought a little longer and reiterated, "fween!" She held so still as the lady painted her nails. It was very fun. She was thrilled beyond words to be having this adventure with me!

We celebrated at Famous Daves with Grandma and Papa. We ate cake and opened presents. Sorry these are just cell phone pictures, I'll get real ones up here some day!

Eisley's gifts this year included a new bike (we gave her a few weeks ago) to which we added a basket and a bell. We hung a swing in the garage for the kids to play on. She also got a bathtime doll from Grandma and a scooter from Nana. The list doesn't end there! She got some puma shoes, doctor coat and tools, stuff for her doll house and a purple umbrella. Blessed little lady!

I love my little girl more than words can say. She grows me. She delights me. She surprises me. She plays peak-a-boo with Ender. Makes him giggle while riding in the car. She goes from tantrum to singing a sweet song with in seconds. She is unpredictable and so much fun! I could just babble on and on. I just love her to pieces! Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Great Grandpa Haaland

2011-11-08T22:20:00.000-06:00

We got to spend a few of Great Grandpa's last hours with him. As we listened to his labored breathing we chatted, laughed, told stories - he wasn't responsive but as his clenched hands relaxed there is no doubt he sensed the joy and warmth around him. What a gift for my children to have known their Great Grandfather. What a gift for me to have known Grandpa Haaland. A quiet confidence with a calm demeanor and thoughtful words.

2011-10-28T08:08:00.002-05:00

Emmett told me that tonight at Trunk 'n Treat he has chosen not to hand out candy but instead, to hand out candy in hopes of seeing his new found friend, Natalie!

13 month Ender

2011-10-18T07:15:00.002-05:00

No pictures or anything fun, I just have to write this stuff down before I forget.

At 13 months, Ender...

...is walking in a little zombie walk with his hands out in front of him. He walks very quickly, but falls often always standing right back up and continuing walking.

...sticks his tongue out and pants like a dog to be funny.

...sleeps a solid 12 hours at night, sometimes more. He loves his naps, takes 2 when we're home. Goes to sleep with out a peep.

...signs "night night" by putting his tapping his hand to his mouth/cheek/side of his head. Then he waves good night. So sweet!

...signs "all done" by waving his hands in the air.

....babbles nonsense but looks at you as if he knows exactly what he's saying.

Great Grandparents Bakke!

2011-10-11T21:29:00.002-05:00

These are my grandparents. I love them! My grandma calls me often and gives me words of such encouragement. She is a woman I desire to be more like. Today they stopped by our home on their drive through town. What a blessing for my chidlren to spend time with their Great Grandparents. The warmed to them immediately. Emmett read Grandma a few books. Eisley tried on a variety of princess outfits. When Grandpa asked, "Would you like to give me a hug?" Eisley literally ran over to him and embraced him. It was so sweet!

This picture is so beautiful, I have no words.

Ender's Walking!

2011-10-10T21:58:00.001-05:00

It's interesting how every child's progression to walking is different. Ender mixed walking and crawling for months! Today was the first day that I don't think I saw him crawl once. He'd topple but then get right back up and keep walking. This kid is so stinkin' cute!

Minnetonka Orchard

2011-10-07T22:11:00.001-05:00

And we continue on our Fall Fun Friday Field Trips! With Emmett in preschool Mondays and Wednesday it limits our availability to do fun things on those days. So we've been making up for it on Fridays. Today we went to Minnetonka Orchard. The brightly colored wooden train was definitely the hit for my kids!

Poor Ender. It was crazy windy. The other kids look cute at least!

Awana

2011-10-05T22:02:00.000-05:00

A cubbie in a cubbie.

Emmett is in AWANA and couldn't be loving it any more. Oh wait, I'm wrong, Eric just started volunteering in Emmett's classroom and I'm confident Emmett is loving his new teacher more than ever.

Here are videos of the kids practicing their bible verse. Precious.

Batman Baby

2011-09-24T23:35:00.000-05:00

There is no denying this girl has a big brother and I think it's the sweetest thing ever.

She loves changing her clothes numerous times a day. She loves wearing her Batman or Robin costume over her latest wardrobe change.

She loves playing with her dolls and has endearingly named them either "Batman baby" or "Robin baby" depending on the costume that she has chosen for the day.

She is often "Batman Mama" and I am...I'm embarrassed to say...."Batman Grandma". Yep, I'm already a grandma, or at least in training. A good 20+ year training program apparently :).

Loving Lightroom

2011-09-24T22:09:00.002-05:00

My friend gave me some presets on Lightroom. I'm in love! Yes, in love with Lightroom (photo editting software), my friend's presets and of course the subject of these photos! Which edit do you like best?

Sever's Corn Maze

2011-09-24T20:13:00.000-05:00

Sever's Corn Maze. The kids had a blast!

Overall, here is my review of Severs. Tons of fun stuff to do, you could literally be there all day. The main disappointing thing is that you pay a heft amount to get in and then once inside many of the activities are still extra (face painting, pony rides, pumpkin launcher, camel rides, hayride, gigantic slide...). There are a good number of activities included in the price, but I just wish it were all included in the entry fee!

Gigantic Bouncy Pillow was new this year and was definitely a hit.

Emma Krumbees

2011-09-23T20:48:00.000-05:00

Emma Krumbee's with Melissa and Marie. This is becoming a tradition!

Take a look at us last year.

This boy is on the move. He's taking his sweet time mixing walking and crawling. It will be fun to see when he officially stops crawling!

Little Snugglers

2011-09-19T00:15:00.000-05:00

When my husband snapped this picture before he left for work, I had no idea how adorable the site was until I glanced down to find out why in the world he was taking a picture of me before 5:00 in the morning. It wasn't at all about me, but rather the little snugglers on the floor. How precious! So glad he got a picture of this!

Yes, we have a toddler mattress on the floor in our room for two reasons, 1) my nanny girls naps there 2) then if a kid needs company at night, they have and place where they are welcome that is close to us, but not in bed with us!

Sponsels Minnesota Harvest

2011-09-16T21:48:00.000-05:00

Sponsel's Minnesota Harvest Orchard.
We had an amazing day. I love fall. I love scarves. I love boots. I love apple picking. I love vests. I love tights. I love being outside and not sweating. Fall literally makes me giddy.
We had an amazing day.

That being said, if you're looking for an amazing orchard, Sponsel's would not be my recommendation. That being said, they were closed last year, were reopend by new owners this year and is my understanding they're still trying to figure this whole thing out. We went on a weekday and the only thing we could do was ride the tractor to pick apples. No animals (pony rides by charge on weekends), no corn pit, no corn maze ($5 per person age 2+ on weekends), no hay bales. That didn't stop us! We had a blast!

We ate apples.
Our favorites this year are Chestnut crab apples. They are really tiny so if a kid takes a few bits and is done, you don't feel like it's a huge waste).

We raced amongst the apple trees.

We ate more apples.

We enjoyed time with precious friends.

And we photographed our brood.

1st day of preschool!

2011-09-14T21:40:00.000-05:00

Emmett's First day of preschool!

We're all loaded and ready to go!

The kids really miss him for the 1.5 hours that we're actually home without him, but it's also a nice dynamic change for the little ones.

Carwash

2011-09-10T21:35:00.001-05:00

The Carwash.

Raceway Park

2011-09-04T21:20:00.000-05:00

Tonight we went to the races!

#4

2011-08-28T22:20:00.000-05:00

We're due with #4 on March 11th!

Peppermint Twist

2011-08-04T21:48:00.000-05:00

The Peppermint Twist.
Such a fun, picturesque drive in burger and shake joint. They have a huge fenced in play area too. It's a great place to spend a playful afternoon with friends.

Not sure why he's complaining!

Paradise

2011-07-28T21:43:00.000-05:00

Just another day in paradise.

And Emmett going under the water. This boy is not a "fish" by any means, but he does a great job overcoming his fears.

Veteran's Park

2011-07-27T21:32:00.000-05:00

Tonight I photographed a friends' family. As I was driving home, from the highway I saw Eric's bike, the burley and the bright green iBert sitting near the park. So I exited and headed right to the park and came upon this adorable site.

Then we walked over to the baseball diamond. It was really hot.

Can you see the scrapes on Ender's nose and eye? Poor little guy fell off the curb while watching fireworks. I think he scratched his eye himself though.

Text Scavenger Hunt!

2011-07-24T21:42:00.000-05:00

Ender and I ran to the grocery store and on the way home we received the following texts...

Try to find us.

Coming!

Here I come!

I can't drive there!

We'll stay at the next one and wait for you.

You're too fast!

We'll meet you at the parking lot.

Ok!

Yea! I found them!!

Old Spaghetti Factory and Fireworks!

2011-07-23T20:26:00.002-05:00

We had such a fun night. Right now I only have pictures from the first half.
We missed fireworks on the 4th of July cause we were driving home from the cabin so we decided to see them at the Aquatennial celebration instead. That of course means keeping the kids up till after 10:00. Our kids are normally in bed by 7:00 or so.

We drove downtown and had a late dinner at Old Spaghetti Factory.
While we waited, I photographed.

Yummy!

After dinner we walked down to the river and found a place to sit. Not only were the "fireworks turned on" (Eisley) but there was also lightning. And not only was there lightning, but we eventually had rain too. We were drenched but it was a blast!

Sandbox Swimming Pool

2011-07-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

No better way to spend a hot summer morning than playing outside with friends (and photographing the most adorable little 10 month old).

The kids were busy playing in the sandbox swimming pool. I sandbox is fun, a pool is fun...a sandbox swimming pool is a blast!! :)

Looking cute

2011-07-20T20:45:00.000-05:00

This boy is just so much fun.
For example, when his hands are full of chips, that doesn't stop him from eating his rice.

As I tried to photograph him in the light streaming in from the door, but poor kid just wanted to be held.

He's a good stander, won't take a step, just wants to stand and look cute.

Bowling!!

2011-07-18T20:51:00.002-05:00

Guess what we did today?

We went bowling! It was wicked hot today so instead of facing the heat we fled to the bowling alley and had a blast!

First place and second place. Emmett got 96 and Eric got 93.

And then a little black light, just for the fun of it!

Photographer Emmett

2011-07-06T23:08:00.000-05:00

I photographed my friend's kids the other day. While I was busy getting things situated, Emmett was busy doing his own little photoshoot :).

Family Children's Museum Day!

2011-07-05T23:18:00.002-05:00

Today we had a family day and it was lovely!
My nanny family gave us tickets to the Children's Museum for Christmas, so we took advantage of that perfect gift.

We at gyros and corn dogs at a Chicago style restaurant. I can't think of the name right now.

I love these people! :)

Countdown to 30

2011-07-01T14:39:00.000-05:00

The 4th of July is my birthday. And this year, it is my 30th birthday! One of my favorite places to be is up at the cabin. The kids are in absolute heaven - and if the kids are happy, Mama's happy!

First thing's first, a ginormous cinnamon roll!

Dinner at Mo's Dogs. A cute little local hot dog joint. It was at least 90 so we were all dripping in sweat, but it was certainly fun!

And of course swimming as much as absolutely possible!

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day!
My friend made these AMAZING shirts for us. They have each child's unique profile on them. Eric's shirt says, "one proud dad."

Eric had to work, so we spent the day with my mom. In perfect Nana-style, picnicked with the kids in the mall parking lot while I did a few returns.

9 month stats

2011-06-16T21:28:00.001-05:00

I never put down Ender's Stats. So here they are!
Weight: 18 lbs 8 oz - 25%
Length - 28 inches - 50%
Head - 18 inches - 60%
Apparently this is the month of the 8s! I can't get enough of this little guy.

Clap!

2011-06-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

Love!

CLAP!

Sunday afternoons

2011-06-12T22:19:00.000-05:00

I look forward to Sunday afternoons with my parents.

Biking, Scooting, Triking!

2011-06-11T21:52:00.000-05:00

Just pictures of biking and scooting and triking!

Miracle of Selah's birth

2011-06-11T10:06:00.000-05:00

I witnessed a miracle. The orchestration of the birth of Selah, is nothing short of a miracle. The way God’s hand was in every single little detail is practically incomprehensible. This delivery did not go according to our earthly plans but it did go according to His master plan.

Months ago I felt this inexplainable desire to be at the delivery of my friend, Britni’s baby. I never said anything to her, because although we were good friends, we weren’t the very best intimate type of friend that you would invite to your birth. One day she told me, “I feel like you have a connection to this baby.” “Oh my word! I feel the same way!” I could hardly contain my excitement. I asked her to be at the delivery and she said, “you have to be!” Her hubby approved it and on we went with our lives.

As the due date slowly approached, I looked at my calendar and wondered how in the world I was ever going to be able to follow through with our birth-attending plan with my daycare children, husband’s busy work schedule, family in town, and my own nursing baby at home. I prayed for the timing of the birth of this baby - of course I prayed selfishly, but also for the timing for Britni as she also has a lot on her plate (she’s moving!).

Fast forward to 6.11.11. I woke up at a little after 1:00am and saw a few missed texts from Britni.
June 10, 2011 11:14 PM
“Still 5 min apart and getting bad...called midwife and she said oh crap...hospital is closed, they are full.”
June 10h, 2011 11:41 PM
“It’s go time!!!” And I had more beans at dinner tonight...this is gonna be bad.”

I panic, I laugh, I ask Eric if I can go to the hospital. I throw on my jeans from the day before and head out the door wondering if I may have missed it all! I pray the entire way to the hospital. The very hospital where I’ve delivered 3 precious babies.

I arrive at the hospital, get my picture taken for my security sticker and head up to the 3rd floor. Hubert buzzes me in and tells me “You DON’T want to be in there.” I ask him to please call the room because they wanted me there for the delivery. My mind is racing, “Why can’t I be in there? Did she lose the baby? Is she pushing the baby out at this very instant? Has something gone terribly wrong?...” Hubert gets permission for me to go into the room.

I enter the room. There is laughter. There is joy. Britni tells me that nurse Kelly is her dear friend and stayed late just so Brit could come to St Francis even though they were technically “full.” Wow, what a good friend. Kenny is updating the blog on his phone. Britni’s other friend, Laura, is getting ice water for Brit and making sure she’s comfy.

We laugh, we pray Britni through painful medicine-less contractions, we laugh some more, we spray industrial strength air freshener (remember the bean comment), I photograph and try to keep my view G rated.

Things start picking up a little bit. The midwife comes in and check Britni. The nurse checks Britni. The midwife checks Britni again. “What do you feel?” “What do you feel?”

Baby is not quite in the right position so the midwife and nurse get Britni out of bed, and have her do lunges with her leg up on the edge of the bed. By this time, there is no more laughing, there is much more praying and I’ve given up on my G rated view. The midwife thinks this could be it, baby might just come while Britni is standing. Britni begs for pain meds, but Theresa, the midwife, attempting to honor Brit’s original request to go with out meds encourages her to try to lunges a bit more.

Lunges don’t work. Brit gets back in bed and they check her again, nurse, midwife, nurse, midwife. “The nose is this way?” “The cheek is that way?” “I feel the cheek.” “Yes, I do too.”

Ok, let’s push. I’m not really sure if the goal was to push the baby out at this time or just to push the baby into a better position. They finally order Britni an epidural. “It’s ok Britni, an epidural is on the way. Let’s just try pushing one more time.”

“Where is the epidural?” ... “How long has it been since I ordered the epidural?”
“Where’s the midwife?”... “Can you please see where the midwife is?”
“Can you check her again?” ... “What are you feeling?”
“We need to page the doctor.” ... “We need to page the doctor again.” “We need to page Dr. Jenkins.”...

Things are unclear. I’m snapping pictures. I’m praying out loud. I’m singing “How Great is our God” to myself while I stand out of the way in the corner. Another nurse comes in. The anesthesiologist comes in. “We need to prep the OR.”

Finally the midwife gets ahold of the doctor, “Baby is face presentation, we’re prepping the OR.” My breath stops. My mind is reeling. “Face presentation.” “Prep the OR.” Britni is going to have a c-section. Brit didn’t see this coming. Britni is so calm. Wow. I’m totally surprised.

“Face presentation.” “Prep the OR.” I’ve heard those words before. It’s almost as if I’m witnessing the birth of my first born son all over again. What are the chances? Funny you ask because Wikipedia says that face presentation frequency ranges from 1/500-1/1250.

The nurses kick Laura and I out of the room. We wait at the end of the hall. We pray. We make small talk. We pray. We watch. We photograph. We wait. We pray. We wait. We pray over the recovery room. We wait. The seconds literally tick by.

A little after 3:00 am I hear the most beautiful sound. The scream of a newborn baby. We watch the doorway with anticipation and are filled with joy as the proud father walks into the room, pushing his precious baby girl in the bassinet with the hugest smile on his face. Kenny’s eyes are filled with love for his 3rd daughter but I can still see the pain and concern for his beautiful wife whom he left in the OR by herself. When Britni was rolled through those same doors she was alert, smiling the best she could and just trying to process the events of the past few moments. It was a whirlwind. It was a calculated frenzy to ensure a healthy baby. Britni was in the best of hands... and the best of Hands.

This is only the beginning of “God’s Selah Story.” This story is just one of God’s miracles. This story isn’t just one miracle, it’s a string of them. Nurse Kelly is Britni’s Godly friend. Britni and I share this unique birth experience. The birth of a healthy baby. The love of a faithful husband. The skilled hands of nurses, midwifes and surgeons. The encouragement of Christian caregivers. The outpouring of love by concerned friends.

I can see these amazing miracles (and I’m sure there are many more I can’t see) and how God orchestrated this precious event. What I’m still waiting to see, and it may not come here on earth is, “why?” I bet God has a really cool answer for that question. My own “why” questions after my “face presentation emergency c-section” experience are starting to be answered; so that I could walk alongside my dear friend 4 years later as she experienced this very same traumatic event.

This is God’s plan and we can find peace knowing that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

9 month old gift

2011-06-09T20:26:00.003-05:00

This is my 9 month old. He just ate a bite size oreo. He weighs 18lbs 8 oz (25th%) and is 28 inches tall (50th%). He says "mama", laughs, hits, grabs hair, rarely cries, crawls up the stairs at record speed, doesn't yet know how to crawl down, pulls himself up, stands for a few seconds at a time, smiles more than should be legal, happily plays in his crib before and after rest times, is adored by his siblings, fell today at the doctor's office and has a bruise on his eye, and is seriously too cute for words - even strangers stop me and comment on his beauty. This boy is an absolute gift from God. Each night when he wakes to feed (because I love spending the time with him I haven't done anything to stop our night time rendezvous) I thank God for his life, for his health, for his sweet little self. He is a gift, an absolute gift!

Watermelon

2011-06-03T21:01:00.008-05:00

To say that we like watermelon would be an understatement. Perhaps the amount of watermelon I consume when I'm pregnant has something to do with my children's natural affinity for this delicious fruit.

90!

2011-05-22T21:43:00.000-05:00

Great Grandma is 90!

What a blessing to celebrate a 90th Birthday. We love you Grandma Lu!

Sunday morning photoshoot

2011-05-22T21:37:00.000-05:00

Just another Sunday of my kids looking adorable and me failing miserably at getting a cute picture of them.

And kicking myself that I had the ISO wrong for the perfect one! Oh well, we'll call it artsy!

Mascara

2011-05-22T21:33:00.001-05:00

I was in the shower and my daughter was silent so after enjoying the silence for a moment, I peaked out to see what she was getting into...

...and then I smiled because at least she knows where mascara goes.

A perfect day

2011-05-20T20:39:00.003-05:00

A perfect day...

...for laughing...

...and biking...

...playing with chalk...

...and splashing.

We love the rain!

Mama!!

2011-05-19T21:08:00.001-05:00

"Mama!" The sweetest words to my ear. Today, as I laid on the couch, Ender pulled himself up next to me and said, "Mama!" It was clear as can be! I can not claim that he was definitely saying my name, but it was still a sweet sweet sound. Since then, when we ask him to say "Mama" he says it on demand. He also says "Mama" and appears to look for me. I love this boy!

Pictures taken at our friend Aiden's birthday party on the 17th.

Tire swing

2011-05-15T21:49:00.004-05:00

We spent the morning at my parent's house with some family friends. They have 5 kids. Needless to say, my kids had a blast!

Timeline of movement

2011-05-15T21:35:00.006-05:00

I thought, for a couple months, that this sweet, soft-hearted, easy going little boy would be our later walker. Emmett walked day before his 1st birthday. Eisley was taking steps at 9 months and walking exclusively by 10 months.
When Ender was 6 months old (almost 7 months) he was doing a slow army crawl. During his 7th month he started officially crawling. He just turned 8 months and he crawls primarily to find a place to pull up on. He's not really cruising yet, but while holding on, he will take a step or two.
He still kneels while he plays with toys.

Bends way down to pick up toys.

And then just today he stood by himself! I can't believe it!
Who wants to guess when he'll start walking!?

5 kids looking at the camera

2011-05-13T22:04:00.000-05:00

The kids love eating outside, even when we need to wear our fleece coats.
This picture cracks me up.

MY FAVORITE PICTURE EVER!
These kids are my life! They're all looking at the camera! Wow, seriously, make my day! I love these kiddos!

Family picture

2011-05-10T21:54:00.003-05:00

Tonight Grandma babysat. The kids love it when she babysits! Here is the story I heard 3rd hand (Grandma told to Eric who told me).

The kids were coloring and Eisley was working on a coloring sheet and the instructions said, "You are Hello Kitt's friend too. Draw a picture of yourself." Eisley scribbled an orange blob. Grandma asked Eisley to tell her about the picture. Eisley asked Grandma to write down who was in the picture, "Eisley, Mommy, Daddy, Ender." Emmett came over, took a look and said, "Emmett too?" Eisley, with out hesitation, responded, "no!" Emmett begged, "please?" Eisley was confident, "no."

Later when Grandma was picking up after the kids went to bed and found this... Emmett had drawn himself into the picture and had added his name to the list. Ha! These kids are awesome.
(Eric and Grandma, feel free to correct/add details where I've missed them!)

Dinner at the park

2011-05-09T22:09:00.003-05:00

The nights when Eric works, one of my favorite things to do is to pick up dinner at McDonald's and go play at the park. Sometimes I can even find a friend to meet us!

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:51:00.005-05:00

Today is Mother's Day.
Today I am especially grateful for these 2...

...and this one...

...and this one.

With out whom I wouldn't be celebrating!
Aren't they just the cutest? :)

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-07T20:05:00.003-05:00

We celebrated Mother's Day today since tomorrow Eric works the majority of the day. So here it is:

After snuggling for a bit with the two oldest kids, Eric got out of bed with them and let me sleep in. At 7:30am I was awoken by my 4 favorite people carrying one of my favorite foods; chocolate chip cookies and milk (the cookies which I had made the night before). They also handed me a daisy shaped gift bag. Emmett had informed me last night, "we don't have a surprise for you!" So I was speechless when I opened the bag and discovered exactly what I wanted, a creamsicle chewbead necklace!! I LOVE it! It's even cuter in real life!

After devouring my oatmeal chocolate chip cookies with a touch of cinnamon (my favorite cookie recipe ever) I got ready to head to my friends' house to photograph her family. I love meeting friends' families. I am finally able the picture the people they speak about and understand more who they are. I photographed my friend Aubrey, her parents, her 3 siblings and their families. I really had a great time.

I've been so in the mood for the Greek pizza at CPK so we went there for lunch, followed by some shopping. We even saw Thor at Toys R Us! Whatever makes the kids happy makes me happy!

The evening finished up with McDonalds (I asked that we not cook tonight :)) and now I'm editing photos, blogging and watching a movie.

I felt very loved today! I love being a mom!

The Mustard Seed

2011-05-06T21:02:00.001-05:00

Happy 8 Month Birthday Ender!!!
I just love taking the kids to The Mustard Seed.
Taking one look at this picture and you can see they just love going!

We spent the morning feeding animals,

and playing at the playground.

I bought some purple basil and chocolate mint plants. Don't those sound fun?

Softball!

2011-05-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

It's softball season! Normally I wouldn't have an exclamation point after the word "softball", as I don't particularly care for softball, playing it myself that is. But this year, Eric is playing on a guys only team with most of my friends' husbands. It's great!
The babies take over the playground.

Daddy hits the ball.

The kids cheer!

Great Grandparents

2011-05-03T21:18:00.000-05:00

This is my Grandpa. This is my son. How blessed am I to have my grandfather hold my son. Great Grandparent relationship. Priceless.

Kids, Grandparents, Great Grandparents.

Little tidbits

2011-05-02T21:51:00.004-05:00

Eisley has started talking with a lisp. "S" at the end of words, and only the end, are now "th". It's strange how this came out of nowhere! We'll see how long it lasts!

Emmett has started composing music. He'll tell me he wrote a song about XYZ. He then sings a unique melody and words. It's the cutest thing. I'll have to get it on video!

I've never had a child who just plays happily in their crib all alone. Well, now I have one! It is the cutest thing ever. Ender will just play and play and play in his crib. Then when I walk in, he gives me a shy smile. He's started pulling himself up on things. Sometimes he's on his feet in his crib. Most often he's kneeling and pulled up. Today he pulled himself up on a small rubbermaid bin and started pushing it around the floor. I could hardly believe it! When trying to replicate it for Eric, it didn't work.

Mixing Play-doh

2011-05-02T21:21:00.000-05:00

In general I'd say I'm mostly a "let's have fun", "let's make a mess" kind of a mom - and my house shows it. My one exception is play-doh. I don't know what my deal is, but I'm a play-doh purist! I like my play-doh pure and unmixed!
So when I got a bunch of little play-dohs from a friend, I told the kids they could take as many colors as they wished and mix them if they wanted. They didn't believe me, "mix them?", "I don't believe it!", "as many as we want?" It was hilarious.
And they had a blast!

Emmett is doing a great job sounding out words. We played with these magnets. I'd put down "AT" for example and have him sound that out. Then I'd add a "B" or a "C" to make "BAT" or "CAT". He was sounding out words so well! I'm so proud of him!

Ender's Dedication

2011-05-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

Today Ender was dedicated. This indicates our desire to raise him to know the Lord. To surround him and ourselves with family and friends who will encourage him and build him in his spiritual walk with Christ. We pray that Ender will come to know his Heavenly Father in a personal way. That he will grow to become a man of God.

It's been such a joy having a baby and a 4 year old. Emmett takes his role as a big brother very seriously. During the entire time on stage Emmett gently touched his brother's foot. When Ender moved his foot, Emmett reached his other hand up and held tightly to his little brother's foot. I pray that this relationship grows stronger and stronger over the years. I pray that just as during the dedication, Emmett will hold tight to his brother through all situations.

It was extra special because he was dedicated on the same day as our good friends' daughter. Morgan and Ender were born 1 day apart.

We celebrated this special day with brunch at Lola's Lakehouse. It was a lovely time of good food and even better company.

Bike Seat

2011-04-29T21:49:00.000-05:00

We love playing outside and the weather is slowly but surely starting to warm up.

We had to test out our latest toy - the iBert bike seat. It's surprisingly more easy to steer, feels more secure and is so much fun! Both Ender and Eisley love riding in it!

Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T07:30:00.003-05:00

We're watching the royal wedding.
Emmett's Comments:
The princess looks very beautiful, doesn't she?

They kissed again, they must love themselves very much!

She [the princess] kind of looks like you when you were married. (thanks honey, too bad he wasn't there!)

After watching the kiss on TV, Emmett and Flora turn to each other and kiss.

Garage sales

2011-04-28T21:56:00.000-05:00

Garage sale season is so much fun.
We already had the boy Melissa and Doug boy magnetic doll set. I found the girl one and now the two kids can play together.

I don't have a picture, but some other favorite finds so far include a giant transformer, a small video game remote shaped transformer, some groovy girl dolls, a dinosaur, a super hero matching game and last but not least Eisley's new socks. This girl loves socks!

Silly Putty!

2011-04-26T06:58:00.000-05:00

I now know that you can get silly putty out of hair with hand sanitizer (hanitizer as Eisley's calls it) or baby oil.`

Do you see what I see?

2011-04-25T21:20:00.002-05:00

What is he smiling about?

Look at those puppy dog eyes.

Do you see what I see?

Yep, that's a tiny little tooth (no not the food chunks, the tiny little almost invisible line in his gum). Did you have to pull out your magnifying glass?

Sea Life MN with my cousins

2011-04-23T21:00:00.000-05:00

Where are we?

Sea Life Minnesota!

The kids loved it! We saw sharks, jelly fish, octopus, saw fish and an alligator gar (yeah, I hadn't heard of it either, until today). We even saw 3 people cleaning the aquarium walls while wearing scuba gear. Two of the people carried wands to protect the cleaner from the sharks.

These are my sweet cousins and my sweet kids. They get along quite well.

And the whole gang wandering around MOA (my mom is taking the picture).

And to top off a wonderful day, I got my birthday present early. A new bike!

Day with Nana

2011-04-22T20:37:00.003-05:00

It was one of those days when we fit in all kinds of fun things.
Easter egg dying.

Skateboard track building.

Music making.

The best part was that we did it with Nana!

Eisley's hair!

2011-04-21T22:03:00.002-05:00

Eisley's shaggy little puppy dog hair is gone. Replaced is a stylish little diva! I love it! I loved my little shaggy puppy too though :)

I'll post a few pictures from the actual cut later. I took just a few on my phone. Ender got a little trim too!

2011-04-20T21:51:00.000-05:00

Emmett is a big help around here. This game he designed for all the kids to play. Look closely at Eisley's face. Yes, they were all thrilled. Sylvan looks like he's plugging his ears but he's actually trying to listen. I was pointing to my ears telling the kids to "listen with their ears" while Emmett explains the game and then to follow the directions. Emmett tried, but he had a tough audience!

Then we played outside in the rain/snow.
It started out as snow and then turned to rain. Eisley likes to wear shorts all the time since returning from Texas.
Eisley was saying, "I need my mittens!"

Skipping naps!

2011-04-19T21:48:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when we skip nap.

What the kids are saying these days

2011-04-19T20:05:00.002-05:00

Emmett has a crush. He has it bad. Here is what he says about this girl, Mikayla.
"Doesn't Mikayla look so pretty?...I love Mikayla. I love her till my heart reaches the heaven. I only love my family and Mikayla until my heart reaches the heaven....I changed my mind, I want to marry Mikayla." He has always said he wants to marry Flora, my nanny girl, but now he's "changed his mind."

We always pray when an ambulance drives by. Today while I was driving, an ambulance drove by. I glanced in the backseat and saw Eisley's eyes scrunched closed and her hands gripped together praying, "Dear Jesus....amliance..." I couldn't understand the words, but it wasn't the words that mattered, it was her precious little heart connecting with her heavenly father.

We also pray when I load up all 5 kids in the car. I take it very seriously that my nanny family lets me drive their kids around. The other day as the kids and I were driving away from our play date I hadn't thought to pray. With in moments of driving Eisley calls out from the backseat, "Mommy, say 'Dear Jesus'!"

This morning Emmett's eye was bothering him - he was seeing double. As he was eating breakfast, he paused for a moment as he bowed his head and prayed, "Dear Jesus, please help me not see 2 of everything. Please help my eye feel better. Amen"

Later today we were looking for Emmett's bike helmet. Once again he bowed his head, "Dear Jesus, please help me find my helmet."

Passover Seder

2011-04-17T20:42:00.003-05:00

My mother in law does a Messianic Passover Seder each year. It's one of my favorite traditions. It adds such depth to our Easter celebration. I look forward to this tradition becoming even more meaningful and special as the kids get older. For now including the kids entails speed reading, nibbling on matzah, cups and cups of grape juice, and of course finding the afikomen!
I love this picture of the 3 dipping their parsley in the salt water.

Rearranging

2011-04-15T21:28:00.007-05:00

Today I shoved the kitchen furniture to the side to prepare for a little photo shoot I did for my friend. Turns out the rearranged furniture spurred the imagination of the kiddos. They played under the stools, chairs and tables forever. It was darling.

Then I snapped a few photos of my kids. Of course!

Daddy's home!

2011-04-14T21:22:00.002-05:00

Life is so much more fun when Daddy is home!

And tonight, Daddy took the kids out for a fun night so I could do taxes!

Chilly!

2011-04-13T21:19:00.000-05:00

It may be a bit chillier today.

But we're Minnesotans.

A little chilly weather doesn't stop us from playing outside!

Park Weather

2011-04-12T21:17:00.001-05:00

Loving this warm, park going weather.
But I'm loving this boy even more!

Lauren's birthday party

2011-04-11T21:48:00.000-05:00

Today we celebrated our dear friend, Lauren's, 4th birthday. It was a fabulous day.

We walked to the park.

Planted flowers.

Ate these gorgeous cupcakes Marie made. Aren't they fabulous?!

And played with Lauren's new toys!

The kids had a blast.

Ender's Army Crawl

2011-04-10T22:01:00.001-05:00

Ender's on the move. Here is his army crawl.

Ender and Morgan

2011-04-10T21:59:00.001-05:00

This is Ender. And this is Morgan.
Ender and Morgan were due on the same day.
Ender and Morgan were born 1 day apart.
Morgan's mommy visited Ender at the hospital on September 6th.
Ender and I visited Morgan on September 7th (or 8th?).
They are bound to be life long buddies.

We had new friends over tonight.
All families who attend the 8:30 service at our church. We always see these people at the nursery, or in the same area of the sanctuary. We figured it was time to get to know each other. We had so much fun and will definitely do it again. Let's me honest, it was a little crazy.

11 kids means that a few get to help take care of the baby.

Pop Beads!

2011-04-08T22:07:00.000-05:00

Pop Beads!
Encourages fine motor skills.
Enhances creativity.
All the kids love it!
The little kit I bought has animal pieces so Emmett can make dogs or star fish.
Eisley likes to make jewelry.

Rockin' and Rollin'

2011-04-08T21:38:00.000-05:00

Ender has been rolling for quite a few months, but now he's also rocking. And perfecting his darling little army crawl.

How we feel

2011-04-06T20:24:00.001-05:00

Isn't this just how we feel somedays? :)

In full disclosure, this was a posed picture Eric took for part of a skit at church.

Still here!

2011-04-06T20:15:00.001-05:00

I'm still here! I've had a few people ask if I'm ok since I haven't been blogging lately. Yes, things are great around here. My internet has just been finicky. I have to reset my airport every time I upload pictures! Weird! Anyway, I'm hoping to get things figured out so I can continue my online baby book!

Do a Dot

2011-04-04T21:31:00.000-05:00

We pulled out the Dot paints today and here's what we came up with...

We printed out some pictures online for the kids to stamp in the designated spots.

Then we also drew secret pictures with white crayons and uncovered them with the dot paints.

Circus

2011-04-02T22:12:00.000-05:00

Grandma and Papa have started a fabulous tradition - the Circus! We always have a blast. The strange thing is that this is the second year that Emmett has gotten the flu the night before (and then I got it). We still go though! Poor little boy got sick at the circus, but it didn't stop him from having a great time!

April Fools

2011-04-01T21:26:00.000-05:00

It's April Fools day. Daddy gets home from work and here is what transpires...

Emmett: Daddy, do you want a glass of water?

Daddy: Um, no thank you.

Emmett: Daddy, could you please get me a glass of water?

Daddy: Ok (looking at my suspiciously)

Eric walks to the cupboard, still giving me suspicious glances. Pulls out a cup and heads towards the water spout on the refrigerator.

Emmett: No, Daddy, from the sink please.

Eric: ok? Now giving me VERY suspicious glances. He goes to turn on the water and...

...and...

April Fools!!

Cousin Photo shoot

2011-03-26T22:21:00.000-05:00

The kids love their cousins. I love photographing the cousins. I also love doing the wardrobe for the photoshoots (I made the tie shirts and ruffle pants. Girls shirts are Matilda Jane - love!)
So here goes!

TX Day 2: Sharpie Tattoos

2011-03-26T22:19:00.000-05:00

What's going on here? Yes, I asked myself the same thing when I peered into the living room.

Sharpie Tattoos!

Day 1 in TX

2011-03-25T21:28:00.000-05:00

This picture just makes my heart so happy.

How loved are these grandchildren!

How loved are these grandparents!

Lunch at Rudy's BBQ

Baths

and bedtime stories.

Leavin' on a jet plane!

2011-03-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

Leavin' on a jet plane! That's right! Today we flew to San Antonio to visit Eric's sister and her family. We haven't flown since Emmett was 6 months old, so to us, this was a big endeavor!

Do you think we brought enough luggage?

When we landed in TX it was almost midnight. We could not have asked for better behavior from the kiddos. All 3 were sound asleep when we landed.

We collected our gazillion bags of luggage while the children remained sleeping.

We loaded onto the rental car shuttle, unloaded off the rental car shuttle and picked up our rental car all while the kids were sound asleep.

The kids did not wake until we put them in their car seats. Praise the Lord for safe and peaceful travels.

On a separate note, we flew Southwest. What a great airline! Leather seats, 2 free bags a car seat and a stroller per person (child). We got beverages and snacks. Best of all the flight attendants were happy and seemed to be enjoying their job. On our second flight, the attendant was absolutely hilarious - making all sorts of witty comments and playing goofy music from his iPod. Next time we fly, we'd definitely chose Southwest again!

Babies

2011-03-19T21:11:00.000-05:00

It's taken Eisley longer than some girls to enjoy playing with dolls, but from time to time she enjoys playing mommy to multiples.

And she prefers her brown babies the best which I think is just the cutest thing.

Today she had babies napping all around the house, including one in my closet. It was so cute!

Good bye snow!

2011-03-18T21:08:00.000-05:00

We're enjoying the last few days of snow. Spring is just around the corner...or maybe one more blizzard. You never really know in MN! That's what makes life so fun!