Soon To Be Six!

Dunking Like Daddy

2012-01-26T12:41:00.001-08:00

We were at the Y's Family Fun Night last Friday and a friend of ours took this shot of Kari slammin' it home. I know the lights are a bit bright, but I just love how Kari's little tongue is sticking out!

Kari's Non-Minnie Mouse Party

2012-01-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

For Kari's birthday, I'd planned on doing a "Minnie Mouse" theme (b/c she LOVES Minnie Mouse). I was looking online for ideas, and I ended up finding these DARLING Minnie Mouse invites, banner, and cupcake toppers from an Etsy shop. This was just over two weeks before her birthday. So, I contacted the gal with the shop and gave her the specifics of what I wanted and asked if this would be enough time to do it. A few days pass and she gets back to me that yes, it would be fine. So, everything is going fine.

Then, I get an email from her that her machine broke for a few days and so she's late in sending things out but will overnight everything. All she needs is my address. I email it back. Saturday before Kari's birthday comes and goes and NOTHING. Sooooo...Saturday night, I dig into our "birthday box" and make due with what we have. And, for last minute, I think it turns out pretty cute (especially since Kari's two and not exactly picky when it comes to a theme anyway).

So, anyhow, I get an email from this gal on Wednesday, saying that she just checked her spam folder and that my emails had somehow ended up there! She hadn't sent anything since she a) didn't get my address and b) then concluded that I'd changed my mind about it all. UGH. But, like I said, it did all turn out to be just fine for a sweet little two-yr-old's cupcake party with a couple of friends and our family over. Nothing fancy, but she was sure excited to be the center of attention!

And, even though she didn't get the "themed" Minnie Mouse party, she got plenty of Minnie Mouse stuff (wrapping paper and all)! I also need to add that when Kari says "Minnie Mouse" it comes out sounding like "Minnie Boat." Very funny and cute, I must say.

Kari even got a great big Minnie Mouse to snuggle with at night. (And to have as a new guest at her tea parties during the day!)

More loot :-). (I had Kari in other clothes, but she insisted upon wearing her "dancing dress."

Here are my attempts at cupcakes. (Kari does not like cake very much, but she does like cupcakes! Funny girl.)

Here are some of our little friends/neighbors that came over to celebrate. Kari was hopping around soooo excited when they all came over--just for her!!

These are Kari's little friends, Alexa and Campbell. All very busy with various "electronics." They sure are sweet little girls and Kari really loves playing with them.

After the present and cupcake madness, we sent the kids all downstairs. Christian, however, wanted to stay upstairs and do a couple of big puzzles with Uncle Kyle and Auntie Erin. It was very sweet to watch them all work together :-).

So, there you have it, folks. The non-Minnie Mouse party. I was disappointed at the miscommunications and I'll probably end up either planning a bit further in advance next time or just buy the stupid Cricut cartridge and do the work myself like I have in the past! So much for trying to simplify! Kari still had a great time regardless of the theme!

Kari's Two!

2012-01-16T19:33:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday, Kari! It was a fun birthday weekend for her. Emily set up a tea party for Kari and their dolls. (Below is Kari dressed up in Christian's p.js--she likes to be a super hero as well as a hostess.)
She also has enjoyed the new slide that Cubby brought home. (And, this is yet another ensemble she has put together.) On a side note, the little capris that Kari is wearing were formerly ones that I had to roll over at the waist b/c they were so big and long on her. Now, I couldn't even snap them at the top and, well, they look more like peddle-pushers. Hurray! She's growing and gaining weight!!!

One of Kari's baby got to be included in her playtime.

What a cute girl!

Sunday morning, we had her open up a couple of her other gifts, just because we didn't want her to get too overwhelmed that evening when everyone came over. She got right into unwrapping!

Here Kari is after she opened the purse that Emily (w/Grandma's help) had sewed for her. So nice and Kari LOVED it!

I just love her little profile--such sweet cheeks!

Kari also has enjoyed her new Minnie Mouse house. (Kari LOVES Minnie Mouse.)

More to come on our little Kari's birthday celebration...

We love you, Kari and are so grateful you're a part of our family!!!

Our Parade Float

2012-01-09T16:34:00.000-08:00

New Year's Day brought the Rose Bowl Parade. And, I must say, the kids enjoyed this one waaaayyyy better than the Macey's Thanksgiving Day Parade. All floats and bands--perfect for little ones. They even had a float with dogs boogie boarding--it was pretty cool and funny too.

Being the creative girl that she is, Emily put together a float of her own! The sign that is on top of the cardboard box displayed the theme: "Welcome to Sesame Street." Emily chose this b/c she wanted Kari to enjoy it and she did it on our bed b/c it was the only space big enough for it all (and our sheets were getting washed so she had a clean slate to work with!). Big Bird had his own nest, Cookie Monster was eating carrots, the Count was in his swing, and Elmo, Grover, and Ernie sat up front in a little train. (We even have a Sesame Street table cloth that she set down as a covering.)

Christian and Kari thought it was just fantastic--and so did we! Way to go, Emily!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-06T17:49:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve was a bit different for us this year! We actually partied a bit! Ha! (When I first mentioned the idea of having our neighbors over for a Wii party he said, "Kathleen, you've been in bed by 9:30 the last three New Years. Are you sure you want to have a party??") In my defense, we've usually had a new baby or I've been super pregnant--not just 6 months along!

Well, we went ahead with our plan and had a great night! Three neighbor families came over with all of the kids' friends and the kids took turns playing the Wii and playing downstairs. The girls and boys kind of worked out a system where they'd each take turns since the girls wanted to play "Just Dance" and the boys wanted nothing to do with that! Even the little girls, Kari and Campbell, got in on the dancing action!

The boys then played some sort of Looney Tunes game. Notice Christian's flushed cheeks?? Yeah, they got into it just a tad.

Everyone had a great time and were thoroughly exhausted when it was all over. (And yes, I was exhausted as well and was asleep by 10:00! Hey, I still beat my old record, right??)

Happy 2012!

Winter Break at the Lincoln Children's Museum

2012-01-05T17:41:00.000-08:00

On one of the last days of Winter Break, Cubby, Great-Grandma Carolyn, and I took the kiddos down to Lincoln to play at their Children's Museum. Of course, it did not disappoint! Here are some of the highlights of what each of the kids enjoyed most:

Emily: Felt right at home in the Veterinarian's Office!

She also enjoyed some craft time with Great-Grandma.Christian: Was all about being in-charge of the controls.

At the news desk....
On the moon... Or even at the theatre!
Christian also enjoyed being creative with the crafts. Here is Great-Grandma w/the kiddos

(some more willing to sit in the big, oversized chair than others.)
The kids also liked the water-play area.

Kari: Kari loved playing dress-up and dancing on stage!

She was also pretty tickled with the Thomas riding toy and engineer's hat. Kari also loved just sitting in a quiet spot and reading a book with Daddy.

We drove home shortly after lunch and this picture sums up how much fun we had! (Christian, Kari and I all crashed!) Thanks for the fun morning, Grandma!

Christmas Day

2011-12-30T18:44:00.000-08:00

So this is Christmas morning...despite all of Cubby and my best efforts, it was still utter and complete chaos. We recorded quite a bit, but didn't get too many still shots at our house. Still, you get the picture. Santa brought Kari a new little kitchen set, Christian a race track, and Emily the veteranarian's kit that she'd written him about :-). Mommy and Daddy also came through with some fun gifts; Mommy got a Kindle and Daddy even ended up with a new waffle maker (and we have waffles about once a week!). Kari was a funny girl Christmas morning. She took her sweet time making her way through all of her gifts. In fact, I think between her kitchen set, new baby doll, and the pistacios she got in her stocking, she was set.

Kari vs. the pistacio.

She wins! After church (which was at 11:00 and only 1 hr....best church day EVERRRR!!) we took naps (well, Cubby, Kari and I did). Then, we made our way over to Mom's for some more presents and a yummy pizza dinner--ever had Whole Foods' pizza? It's good. Emily was excited to receive a Vet's coat (complete w/Dr. Emily tag) to go with her vet kit.

Kari was very excited to get a darling baby pram and new baby doll. (Here she is, with her new hat that she loves, waving to the baby.)And Christian could hardly contain his excitement when he opened the kids' gift from Gpa Harvey--a Wii! He has been playing at friends' houses and really liked it. So, when Harvey asked about getting the kids one, we agreed that it would be a fun family thing to have--and, as long as we monitor Christian's time on it :-), it has been great!The kids also received the "Angry Birds" board game from Auntie Erin and they've been playing it quite a bit too. Good times. Finally, after a long and very good day, it was time for some stories before bedtime. To quote Christian (who shouted this at least a dozen times throughout the day), it was the "Best Christmas EVERRRR!!"

Christmas Eve

2011-12-29T18:42:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve started out lovely--Emily and Kari had a chocolate milk tea party with their dolls. (Christian declined their invitation.) I made up the most delicious dinner rolls EVER (recipe will follow at some point). Cubby went up to the church and got to play a little basketball! After naps, we went out to my Grandma's home for dinner--swedish meatballs, ham, rice pudding, cheesy potatoes, brocolli, (my rolls), and a raspberry jell-o-type salad. All was sooo good. I got smart this year and brought a couple of movies for the kiddos to choose from for after they were done (so the adults could chat and eat a bit more slowly!) They were so quiet and mesmerized--it was great.

It was then time for some presents! Traditionally, the kids get p.js and get to open one or two other gifts too. Let the excitement commence!

Christian was happy with his new "Lego Hero Factory" toy that he got. Kari determined a present's worth by how much she liked the wrapping it came in.

Here are my three Scandinavian sweethearts!

Emily with her new p.js--they came with a matching set for her doll. (I like the exchange I captured between my mom and grandma :-).)

Kari's Christmas Buddy: Uncle Kyle. She suddenly warmed up to him and was all about opening gifts on Kyle's lap!

Kari was also not too keen on the delicious dinner and chose, instead, to dine on bread and rice crispies (no milk). She is still a ridiculously picky eater and never ceases to amaze me with what she will (or rather will not) eat on any given day.

Merry Christmas, from our family to yours!

More of the Christmas Chaos to come!

Emily's School Christmas Party

2011-12-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Last week I was able to go up to Emily's school and help out with her class's Christmas party. It was really great and she had a lot of fun!

Earlier in the month, the kids had all written letters to Santa, and, during the party, the replies came in the mail! (And they were cold! Direct from the North Pole, apparently!) Emily was so excited to hear that Rudolph was real and that Santa would be doing his best to bring her the veterinarian's kit that she wanted.

After some tasty treats, it was time for a little karaoke! We parents thought the kids might be a bit shy about singing in front of everyone, but we were wrong! Everyone wanted a turn and then they all ended up singing "Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer" together. Soooo funny!
And here is Miss Em with her teacher, Mrs. Norblade. Emily has really enjoyed having her as a teacher. She is so incredibly patient with the children and is very into reading--a big plus for Emily since she loves to read!

It was so wonderful to be able to spend some time with Emily and her class! First graders sure are a fun little bunch!

Daddy-Daughter Date

2011-12-21T11:13:00.000-08:00

This is the face of a very happy big girl! She got to go out with her daddy on a super-fun ice skating date! They ventured out into the cold night to the outside ice rink at the Conagra Foods Plaza. Emily said it was a lot of fun, but the ice was very slippery so she had to hold on to Daddy the whole time!

The two skated around and then got some "very" hot chocolate. They then walked around a bit downtown and saw all of the lights displays that are up down there. Very beautiful!

After that, Cubby took Emily to Village Inn where she tried (and loved) mozzarella sticks, with more hot cocoa (but this time is wasn't too hot, Emily said).

I loved that they got to go out and spend a little one-on-one time together. It has strengthened their relationship and I know both are planning a bike-riding night (indoors) for next time!

The Crutnacker

2011-12-18T17:49:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I got to go see "The Nutcracker" Ballet! (My Dad used to like to mix up letters in words and "nutcracker" became "crutnacker;" "Sugar Plum Fairy" became "Pluger Shum Terry." Yeah, you get the gist.)

In any case, the ballet was just beautiful--everything from the costumes to the sets to the dancing itself. It really it the ballet to see at Christmastime. Loved it. Next year Emily wants to try out to be one of the little dancers--either that or we'll just take her along! Such a beautiful night! We love the "Crutnacker!"

His Feeding Trough

2011-12-17T18:08:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Muffin Mix...Yummm.......

Friend Birthday Party

2011-12-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

Em's birthday party day started out with a bang--or maybe just our first real snowfall! The kids and Cubby got all bundled up and ventured outside. Kari was only out there for maybe two minutes. The falling snow was not her favorite. Emily came in about 5 mins later. Christian and Cubby, though, stayed out for quite a while! They had so much fun and even shoveled the driveway together. Snow and cold do not phase boys. Later that afternoon was her par-tae! We had it at the Kids Body Shop and invited lots of her little friends from school and a few neighbors too. A good time was had by all!

The foam pit was an especially popular place--even for Uncle Kyle and his friend, Kat (bottom left portion of said pit).

After gym-time, went into the party room for some super-yummy Eileen's sugar cookies, juice and, of course, Emily's favorite, Pringles! Kari even liked all of these treats and after all that playing, the sugar did her some good! It was a great afternoon for some playtime inside a gym! A great way to burn off some energy and to celebrate Emily turning SEVEN!

Emily's Birthday--Favorite Reactions!

2011-12-13T17:41:00.000-08:00

Emily's birthday was back a couple of weeks ago, but I'm just now getting around to blogging about it. (It's the holidays, to say it's been crazy would be an understatement.)

Back that week I had come down with an icky cold and so my mom sweetly offered to not only make Em's cake, but to have us all over to her house so that my house could remain a wreck and I wouldn't have to worry about everyone seeing it that way!

It worked out perfectly--here are some of my favorite reactions from Em's gifts. The first was from Grandma and Harvey and is her American Girl doll, Molly's, best friend, Emily! Now Emily has the two dolls play together, like the best friends they are. It's very cute. Kari also likes to get in on the action and I love watching the girls play together!

The next big surprise was from Mommy and Daddy and was a new bike! We're very excited to get Emily onto just two wheels and she even wants Daddy to take her up to the church this weekend for their date to teach her how to ride in the gym. Go Emily!

Here is the cake my mom made--isn't it pretty? Emily really likes the Littlest Pet Shop and so we put a couple of her favorites onto her cake.

The picture below is funny because it captures Emily yelling at Christian for blowing out her candles. It also captures Christian giggling hysterically over teasing his sister. Even on her birthday, she doesn't get a break. He was extra tired that evening and was a HANDFULL.

Here is a cute picture of Daddy and Kari and, below, the ONLY time in the evening that Christian was still and quiet. "The Santa Clause" was on TV and both he and Kari would sit so nicely and zone out while it was on. Priceless.

More to come on Emily's party! It was a fun evening--so grateful to get to celebrate Em's birthday with family!

ABCs and 123s

2011-12-09T19:25:00.000-08:00

It's been a big week for us, especially Christian! First off, last Sunday, he was making a picture for his teacher (a watch) and I'd helped him write his teacher's name and then his name. I went to go change Kari's diaper and when I came back, he'd written his own name, all by himself, for the first time! Now, I know all children grow and develop at different times, but for Christian, this was a major milestone! I am almost sure that his speech delays are linked to his writing abilities. Now that his speech is coming along so well, his writing is too! It has been so exciting because I know how hard he works at it. With this new found skill, comes more confidence and he's been wanting to write everyone's names and even some phrases. It makes a mother's heart so happy! The next part of Christian's big week was his Christmas concert. The kids had been practicing for weeks and to get infront of a packed house (and it was PACKED), takes a lot of guts for these little preschoolers! It was very cute.

And here are a couple of his "fans" that came out for the show! (Emily had been sick that day so Auntie Erin came over and kept her company.) It was also Harvey's birthday that day and he was kind enough to share the spotlight with this crazy kiddo!Here is my handsome boy and me!

Finally, Christian felt another surge of pride as he built his own fort, complete with "radar detector" to keep any intruders out. (See the little black speck on the cushion in the front--yup, that's it!) Christian was the one who told me, "Take out the camera, Mommy!"It's been so exciting to watch Christian achieve so many milestones this past year. I'm so proud of him and all of his hard work! Love you, buddy!

Sweet Lil' Puddin' Face

2011-12-07T19:38:00.000-08:00

For a couple of weeks now, Kari has been eyeing the pudding that Christian has been eating every once and a while after lunch. I'd offer her a taste, but she'd shake her head and that would be that. Last week, however, she had a change of heart and these pictures are the result. Hi-larious!

(And, of course, big brother didn't want to pass up a photo opp!)

Boy or Girl???

2011-12-06T13:48:00.000-08:00

We'll be keeping our pink out b/c we're having another little girl! We are very excited! Well, I guess I should specify that everyone except Christian is excited. He was actually pretty put-out that he's not getting a brother just yet :-). He kept telling Cubby, "It's all your fault, Daddy! My want a BOY!"

This little one is healthy and is growing right on schedule. We are so thankful and I count my blessings each day.

We usually have a name all picked out from the get-go, but this time we're still debating and open to some suggestions. We like to do a family name of some sort for the middle name but first names are open-ended. Anyone got one they wanted to use but never did??

Thanksgiving!

2011-12-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving! We had a lovely day (and that's not just because it was the warmest Thanksgiving that I can remember! Seriously, it warmed up to where the kiddos could wear short sleeves.) The day started out with our family participating in our YMCA's Turkey Trot! We did 1.7 miles--and Emily and Christian actually ended up running most of the way with minimal complaints! Yeah, I was impressed. Cubby and Kari were a bit slower due to Kari wanting to get out and do some of her own running, then more riding, then being carried, then pushing the stroller. But, it was a lot of fun and the kids were so excited that they'd gotten to run in a race!For dinner we went over to Mom's (Grandma's). She had coloring and fun stuff set out for the kids (since they eat with lightening speed and the rest of us like to take our time!)After dinner, we decorated a family gingerbread house. Fun timers--although Emily wouldn't decorate with any cereal-based food.

Christian ended up eating more frosting than went on his side of the house! That kid loves his sweets.

After dessert we went into the living room where my mom lit up their Christmas tree to begin the holiday season! Kari treated us to some festive tunes (not really, but she sure looked cute sitting at the piano!)

I caught Christian in a (rare) down moment, coloring!Being with family and eating delicious food--what more could you ask for in Thanksgiving??!

SEVEN!

2011-12-01T10:52:00.001-08:00

Emily is seven years old today---SEVEN! Yikes. I can't believe that seven years have passed since Emily came into our lives. What a special girl she is too.

Emily tries her best to do what is right. She is a kind friend and an excellent big sister. She is always aware of others' feelings around her and includes everyone in her play. And, despite her not ever being the biggest "cuddlebug," she is very sensitive and sweet. Her little sister, Kari, thinks the sun rises and sets around Emily's arrival home from school. Below is a picture of Em and Kari during Thanksgiving Break. Emily helped Kari get all dressed up in dancing stuff and they had so.much.fun just dancing around like little princesses! Kari loved being included in the big-girl fun.

Emily is incredibly smart. I'm convinced that's why we had such a difficult time with her as a baby--she was a big girl stuck in a baby's body and was smart enough to realize that she did NOT like not being able to move around! We're now so grateful for how bright she is and we're even beginning to take for granted how easily her studies come to her as her eye-rolling seven-yr-old attitude kicks in when we ask her how her spelling test went. "Easy, Mommy, duh!"

I sure love having such a wonderful big girl around our home---I realized how big she's actually gotten when Cubby asked her to help cut up some grape tomatoes the other night for dinner. Pearing knife and all, she cut them in half, no problem! (Being ready to wield sharp objects is definitely an eye-opener on my end at how grown up she's really becomming!)

Emily is such an obedient and sweet young lady. Happy Birthday, Emily! We love you!

My, How I've Grown!

2011-11-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

I will be doing our "Thanksgiving post" shortly, but I wanted to pause and record just how much Christian has grown in just one year! Here are his preschool pictures from last year and then, this year. (Yes, I think he looks good in green, hence, the two green shirts!)

This year, Christian has "Mr. Joey" for school and, boy, he just really loves him! He's very patient and great with the kiddos. Christian is doing a great job learning how to write his letters. (I've tried to teach him in the past, as Emily was writing them before she even started her first year of preschool, but he just wasn't ready and I think it had to do a lot with his speech development; which, he is now doing FABULOUS in!)

Mr. Joey tells me that Christian is such a good boy in class; a good listener and friend to all. (I actually asked Christian the other day if he picked on his classmates at school and church like he picks on his sisters at home. His reply: "My not a bully at school and church. My a good boy there." (He says "my" instead of "I".) Hmmmm.... Well, at least he's good when it counts! Christian still would rather be home with Mommy than at school, but, once he gets to school (most days!) he does just fine.

We're so proud of our big boy and how much he's grown this past year! We love you, Christian!

Leaves Part II

2011-11-21T19:00:00.001-08:00

Sunday afternoon yielded some decent weather! We bundled up and headed out into the leaves. Emily got her jumping in at last! (And Cubby got to do the lifting this time :-).)

Where did Emily and Christian go???

Happy children...and did you check out Emily's smile?? Yup, her other front tooth is OUT!

Pile-O-Leaves

2011-11-19T17:50:00.000-08:00

Friday yielded a very nice afternoon...at least until about 3:30 or so when it got colder...But, before then, Christian, Kari and I got ourselves outside, raked up the TONS of leaves that had finally descended from our tree and had a ball jumping in them! (Well, the kids did--I just snapped a few pictures and helped them up into the tree!)

Christian got very brave and after a few tries with Mommy's help, jumped all by himself! (Kari "jumped" by getting lifted out of the tree and placed in shoulder-deep leaves--she loved it!) Oh, and the helmet was just as a result of her riding her tricycle beforehand and not wanting to take it off for the leaf-jumping festivities.

Emily has yet to jump into the leaves as she was still at school when we did this and by the time she got home the weather had turned and has stayed too chilly since (ah, Nebraska!). But, knowing Nebraska weather, it'll turn around and be beautiful once again next week and I know she'll be excited to get out there!

Happy Fall!

Shake, Baby, Shake!

2011-11-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

Since I've gotten some of my energy back during this second trimester, I've been able to get back into exercising on a regular basis. I normally just run (b/c it's the best way to get the most exercise in the least amount of time!). But, since I'm only going to be able to run for another month or so (before, due to past experience, my belly gets too heavy for comfort), I knew I needed to pick up something else!

Enter Zumba and Body Combat classes! Our YMCA offers classes at a lot of different times--evening classes have been great since I can go after the kiddos are in bed! Now, Zumba is an incredibly popular class and, I must admit, once you get the hang of the routines, a lot of fun! Most of the "regulars" have Zumba skirts and the better you're shakin' it, the more your skirt jingles! They're cheap to buy and I was actually able to tell a difference in how my hips were moving when I wore it to class last night.

Now, whether or not I'll get to wear it to class again, will depend on if I can tear it away from my fancy little Miss Kari! It's pretty and shiny so naturally, she loves it! Kari got very upset when she had to take it off for her nap. What can I say, this girl loves to dance!

All I Want For Christmas....

2011-11-12T17:25:00.000-08:00

.....is at least ONE of Emily's front teeth! Yup, she lost one of them this week! This is definitely a soon-to-be-seven-years-old's smile! Congrats' to you, Em! We love you!

Bad Guys Beware!

2011-11-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

Meet Nick Fury, the leader of S.H.I.E.L.D (the group that put together the Avengers--like Iron Man, Thor, etc...) Yeah, Cubby had to fill me in on all of this!

This guy is ready for anything. Gotta' get somewhere fast? He's got skates. Need some food (or to poke a bad guy)? He's got a fishing pole. Up for a game of baseball or hockey (or, again, to fend off bad guys)? He's got a bat and hockey stick! And lastly, he's got his Star Wars blaster just in case a rogue alien is threatening the planet.

Christian is a real crack up. We just love his big imagination and even bigger heart!

(By the way, Christian informed me on the way into the house that, as Nick Fury, he'd forgotten his eye patch--boys and their comic book knowledge! Incredible!)

Pre-K Party

2011-11-06T12:57:00.001-08:00

Here we are at Christian's preschool Halloween party! I volunteered to coordinate the festivities this year and it went great! Christian stuck with the whole "spider" costume theme and went as Venom (or maybe it's just the black Spiderman?? I don't know). It was a little easier to manuever in than his other eight-armed costume.

Our "crafts" included making doorknob-hanging spiders, and just letting the kiddos stamp it up a bit!

Afterward, we went into the gym for the games! We played pin-the-nose-on-the-pumkin, used the parachute to launch black and orange paper balls into the air, goblin-goblin-ghost (duck, duck, goose), and we threw plastic spiders onto a "web" and counted how many stuck. Good times!

Aren't they a cute bunch??

Christian and Maren throwing their spiders.

After gym time we went back to the classroom and ate our treats. It was a fun little party and all of the other parents sure did a great job of pitching in so I was able to enjoy the festivities as well. Gotta' love those preschoolers!

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-03T18:38:00.001-07:00

Halloween turned out to be one gorgeous night! We loaded all of the kiddos up on sloppy joes and Cubby, Mandi and Trenden (our neighbors) took the kiddos out for a fun evening of trick-or-treating! (I was lucky enough to get to stay home and man the door--I'll be real, my feet were killing me from being up on them all day!)

They were out for over an hour--and Christian, my Candyman, was the one who was ready to be done! both Emily and Kari couldn't get enough of the fun! (Needless to say it does not help to be pregnant and around a TON of Halloween candy!)

Happy Halloween!

Trunk-or-Treat

2011-10-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

Last night was our ward's (congregation) Trunk-or-Treat! We invited our neighbors along and a fun time was had by all! Before the candy-fest could begin, we had a chili cook-off; Cubby's chili got "Spiciest"! (And, by what I heard, it got rave reviews for it's "slow burn".) I didn't try it--I like white chili versus a more traditional fare.

After dinner, the band started up! Yup, there was a live band! (Some of the "old men" from our ward who are quite talented!) The Young Women's presidency was in-charge and you could definitely tell--from the cute table center pieces to the flavorings for the hot chocolate, it all flowed together so well and all of the little details were covered--band included!
This was Kari's reaction when the band started playing. To say that she loved it would be an understatement! This girl LOVES to dance and she and Grandma really kicked up a storm.
Here she is, moving and grooving!

Boogie, Baby, Boogie!After dinner and dancing, came the Costume Parade! Here are some of the girls, moving along to "The Monster Mash." (Christian was in the bathroom :-) ).

Here's our boy, though! My friend, Julie, gave us this costume last year when they moved. Isn't it fun?? Christian has been very excited about being a spider!

This is the back of his costume--he was creeping and crawling, apparently. (Actually, the kids were all pretty tired; they'd been up and outside running, literally, all day. We carried them out after it was all done!) This is the whole Motley Crew. They were all anxious to get outside and bring in some loot!

And so it begins....Happy Haunting!

It's Like I'm Seeing Myself on TV!

2011-10-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

So, a funny thing has been happening lately. Cubby and I have realized that our lives are more closely resembling that of the Heck family (ABC's "The Middle") than we're wanting to admit.

Take the following cases in point:

1) Their couch looks almost exactly like ours.

2) Brick's bedding is from Ikea and is the exact same as Em's and C's.

3) In the most recent episode, it begins to rain and the whole family rushes inside to break out as many pots and pans as they can as their roof is leaking. Yes, our roof is leaking! Not everywhere like theirs is, thankfully, but over our entryway--it drips everytime there is a heavy rain. (Cubby will be heading up into the crawl space this weekend to remedy this!)

4) The Heck's sliding glass door. Or, rather, their extremely-difficult-to-slide-ing glass door. Anyone who has tried to open our back door will understand why Cubby and I were rolling as Frankie tried to open it up. And, to top it off, they even have the same cheap blinds on said door as we do!

Cubby made the point that obviously, since they're making a point that this happens to the Hecks, it must happen to a LOT of people out there. But, I do get the feeling sometimes that ABC must have some secret insight into our home--all of these "coincidences" are just too funny to ignore!

Girl's Night

2011-10-22T06:16:00.001-07:00

Last Friday we hosted a small gaggle of girls for a little fall fun! Emily invited some friends over for some games, s'mores, and a movie! Aside from being pretty low-stress, it was a lot of fun! We were thankful the weather held out (this activity was originally planned for the beginning of October but Emily came home sick from school that day!). So, we were glad it stayed warm for an extra two weeks and that almost all of the girls could come! The games outside included an obstacle course, tag, and a big game of hide-and-go-seek. (It had gotten pretty dark by that time and so the hiding got pretty good w/all of the shadows in our big backyard!) After that, we rosted marshmallows in a firepit we'd borrowed from my mom and made some yummy s'mores!

After coming inside, we had the girls go downstairs where we served up some popcorn, drinks, and let them do some playing while watching "Swiss Family Robinson" (remember that one??!). The boys stayed upstairs and watched a "boy" movie.

It was a great evening and Emily really enjoyed playing with her friends and "staying up late." (I'm not sold on the whole sleep-over idea and so this was a GREAT alternative.) We'll definitely do it again!

Vala's 2011

2011-10-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

Hey friends, listen closely and I'm going to tell you how to take a family of five to Vala's for $8. Yes, folks, that's right, just eight buck-a-roos (and have a fantastic day in the process!)

First off, make sure you have a preschooler at the YMCA. Then, make sure either Mom or Dad goes along as a chaperone (that's where you'll spend the $8--to get M or D in with the preschool). While you're there, you'll get to spend time with your #1 boy and a class full of some very cute 4 yr olds! You'll get to take group pictures...

Ride the train ("Be sure to open your eyes, Christian and Maren!"), and pick out your very own pumpkin (not pictured, but it's cute with a long stem).

Then, once the preschool gets back on the bus, you and said parent (this time it was Daddy) stay behind and wait for the rest of your clan to arrive!

On Mom's end, she and Kari have packed lunches and are picking up Emily from school and driving out to meet Christian and Daddy. Mom remembers to bring the free passes that her grandma had given her last year (b/c she'd ordered her local newspaper and they'd given her two free passes) along with a coupon for a free train ride for up to 4 people that she'd found in a little adventure book that the library passes out each summer. Armed with her coupons, Mom and the girls meet the boys inside of Vala's for an afternoon of fun! Kari enjoyed petting the animals...

And then everyone enjoyed pretending to be one of the animals themselves!

The slides were also a big favorite for all three of the kiddos.

After seeing a "dragon feeding," the pig races (yes, pig races, folks, this is Nebraska!), and some lunch, we headed over to the huge jumping pillows!

Emily loves to strike a cute pose :-). This was Kari's first time (independently) jumping. First, Daddy did help.

Then, she ventured out on her own! Big girl, eh?

Next up, our free train ride! (On a side note, normally, I wouldn't "brag" about getting such a good deal on things. However, if you know how much it normally costs to take a family there for the day, you'd be shouting from the rafters if you got a deal too!)

Kari could hardly wait to get on the train! She has been very into Thomas lately and couldn't stop "Whoo-whooing" until we were saftely on board! (The picture above is when Kari saw the train pulling up to the platform.)

Whoo-whoo!!

Finally, we took our traditional family picture with Mickey. Everyone actually looks pretty good, eh?! (The baby doll in the picture is a bit creepy, but, with out it, Kari would be making a very unhappy face since by this time it was time for her nap!)

So, that was our super-fantastic how-to-do-Vala's-on-a-budget day! (I do have to confess though, I did treat myself to a funnel-cake...haven't had one since I was about 15! And we did buy a couple of smaller pumpkins...sooooo, we spent just a little more than $8, but not too much!)

Happy Pumpkining!!!!

Weekend "Get-away"

2011-10-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Cubby and I had the opportunity to celebrate our 10th anniversary a few months early! (We'll have a new baby by the time our real anniversary rolls around in May so we'll be lucky to get out to dinner at that point!)

Originally, we'd hoped to attend one of Cubby's friend's wedding down in Florida. But, we got hit with the trifecta (home, health and car) issues this summer and "real life" drained the big-trip budget. But, we still wanted to make the best of it and still "get away" for a couple of days so we hit up downtown Omaha! My sister works for Hilton and got us a beautiful room with lots' of extra perks--executive lounge privleges, chocolate-covered strawberries, free movies--it was all lovely! Plus, we hadn't been downtown for years so it was like going to a new place anyway!

My mom came and stayed with the kids and Harvey came over to help her out too. They were very busy and even though Christian "missed Mommy" the second night, they all had such a good time, I think we could've stayed away longer!

Here is a few pictures from our fun weekend!
This is the view from our room--the new TD Ameritrade ball park for the College World Series.

The first night, we had dinner at a fabulous little restaurant called Q Consumables. It's in the Little Italy area of town, but doesn't really serve Italian. The menu changes every day as they make everything, down to the condiments, from scratch everday. It was really yummy and we had a VERY interesting waiter--picture skinny cowboy mixed with a high hippie with a Justin Bieber haircut. Hi-larious and definitely memorable. We had also underestimated the distance that the restaurant was from our hotel when we decided to walk...a mile and a half, uphill, in flip flops (for me). Needless to say, we were grateful for good weather! My calves, which are used to running in running shoes, not walking in flip-flops, were soooo sore the rest of the weekend!

After dinner we walked (of course!) back downtown to a coffee shop where my friend, Mandi, and two of her friends were playing and singing. It was great! Her family came down as well so it was fun to hang out and just relax a bit (after our trek back!)

On Saturday we hit up all of the fun little stores in the Old Market. Great antiques, toy shops, candy stores, etc...

For lunch we went to Hiro, a realllllly good Japanese restaurant and I was able to indulge in some very yummy sushi! (The cooked stuff, of course.) Cubby was a good sport and got some ribs but wouldn't try my dishes! Above Hiro were these new lofts, with an open house and information. And, without any real agenda, we went right up and looked around! SOOOOO cool and beautiful. I need to convince Erin to save and buy a place there so I can live vicariously through her!

After our tour, we shopped around some more before heading back to the hotel for a little nap! Yessss....naps.... For dinner we went to a fantastic Italian place called Nicola's. I had lobster-stuffed ravioli--soooo delicious. The picture above was my favorite place of the weekend! All snuggled up in bed! (And, just as a disclaimer, I am fully clothed under the covers!) It was just so warm and cozy, it was great just to be able to relax and not have to go anywhere!

The next morning, Sunday, we packed up and checked out. Before we went home, we went over to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Really neat place--would be a beautiful place to run!

We were so thankful that we could have this time together, to re-charge and enjoy one anothers' company. A big thank you to my mom, Harvey and Erin for making it all happen!

Not Even Two Yet....

2011-10-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Kari isn't even two yet and, already, the tantrums are in full swing! This particular one came about because Daddy wouldn't give her chips before dinner--ack! She's our first who will throw the "typical" tantrum (head back, loud screams, laying down on the ground, etc...). It's pretty funny, actually. We can't wait for two...or better yet, three! Uh-oh!

Cider Time!

2011-10-10T07:21:00.000-07:00

Since we did not have enough daylight left-over after we picked out apples, we were invited to come back to the Flynn's orchard to make some yummy cider!!! We haven't made cider in two years and I've been craving it ever since!

There is a bit of a process to making the cider and it was great for the kids to see, step-by-step, just exactly how it was made! Emily was a big help and, after washing the apples, she enjoyed doing the press. Christian liked throwing the apples into the grinder (and climbing on the gator!).

And Kari? Well, Kari enjoyed the structural aspects of the gator. She was quite the ham about taking pictures too. Such a happy little girl!

The kiddos also loved checking out the chicken coup! It was a great evening all together!

Boys Night Out

2011-10-01T17:38:00.001-07:00

Last night, Christian got to go out with "The Boys." (Daddy and Harvey.) They took him out for dinner at Summer Kitchen (Christian's favorite--grilled cheese, french fries and a chocolate milkshake!). After dinner, they took the party to Papio Fun Park where they made the best of this gorgeous weather we're having with fun timers playing mini-golf and riding on the go-carts!!

Christian said he and Harvey drove super fast and beat Daddy in the race!

This little boy was all smiles after his big night. He's already planning their next night out--some time at the driving range!

Apple Pickin' 2011

2011-09-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

This week's theme was "apples." In Kari's and I's arts and crafts class, we painted with apples. For dinner last night, we had "Autumn Porkchops"--where you use red apples. And, on Tuesday night, we went and picked apples!

Earlier this year, one of the dearest couples we had the privledge of knowing, the Flynns, passed away fairly closely to one another. (They were never apart in life, so death was really no different.) This was the couple who opened up their orchard each year to our church congregation and invited us in to pick apples and make cider. (I've done posts on this in the past--it is a magical place!) Well, with their passing, we weren't sure if apple picking would be available anymore. Graciously, one of their daughters, who has bought their place, has once again opened up the orchard and cider press for us to come and enjoy. And enjoy we did!
We invited our good neighbors, the Hofers, along with us and had a BLAST following the kiddos around the orchard as they picked apples and ran free!
(Aren't they a beautiful family?!)

The little girls, Kari and Campbell, enjoyed playing on the gator. They were very reluctant to share the seats with anyone.

Emily, and old pro, did very well picking some primo apples.

Although we went picking last year, Kari was really too young to get into it. Not so this year! She went crazy picking apples! (And there were plenty of lower branches just dripping with juicy apples just for her!)

Christian also did his fair share of pickin'--and was very helpful in carrying Kari's heavy apple bag for her.

Kari, showing us one of her picks.

Almost trying one too....she's very suspicious of food in general, even apples, which are in our house and eaten at dinner all.the.time. Silly girl.

Finally, our attempt at a family picture. Christian was actually in a great mood...he just thought he was being funny and decided to test out his scowl. Ugh. The picture up at the top of this post was the best one we could get. Ugh.

It was such a beautiful night and we're certainly enjoying all of the apples we picked!

The Cutest Kidney Bean...

2011-09-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

That we've ever seen!

Baby Bean Lindseth

Due April 25, 2012

Children's Museum Trip

2011-09-21T17:56:00.000-07:00

Last week my friend Heather and I took the kiddos to the Children's Museum. It had been over a year since Christian had been there (to the Omaha one) and it was Kari's first time! And, it actually turned out to be a lot of fun! Kari had a great time, driving like a big girl...

And sliding down the slides. Actually, Kari could've spent the entire time in the first room. She loved the climbing, sliding and the shopping in the little grocery area. LOVED that place.

Meanwhile, the boys lived it up as firemen,

And climbing all over creation.

And speaking of creation, we ventured up to the Dawn of the Dinosaurs exhibit. Last time this exhibit was here, Emily was little and absolutely terrified (imagine that!). Christian was all over it though. Here he is in front of his favorite, the T-Rex. (By the way, he's wet b/c he and Spencer were playing in the water area, not anything else :-).)

Kari was NOT so thrilled with the dinos. In general, this is how she took to them--with deep suspicion (imagine that!).

Both kids LOVED the carosel ride!

We had so much fun, we may just make it back there within the year!

Daddy and Em's Trip

2011-09-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Emily and Cubby flew up to Michigan for Auntie Tessa's wedding! It was a much-anticipated event, especially for Emily who could hardly contain her excitement over getting to see her cousins, Reagan and Kaylee, again! From the looks of the pictures I've seen, these girls were pretty inseparable and had a lot of fun playing and getting ready for the wedding together.

Cousins Berkley and William were there too--Berk loved his bin and William loved Berk :-).

The kids all got to do some major camping out in Grandma and Grandpa's basement together and Emily told me she read stories to the girls and to Berk too.

Cubby was the official video-cameraman for the day of the wedding so there aren't too many pictures (from my camera, at least) from the wedding. However, this shot below is of the girls--after Auntie Amy did their hair and they got dressed in the cute dresses Grandma Beckie made for them. (I think much of Amy's weekend was spent doing hair--it seems to be what she's doing in almost every picture I see of her!) Thanks, Amy, for not leaving Cubby to try and do Em's hair!

Here is my beautiful sister-in-law, the bride, Tessa. Isn't she lovely? I love this picture because her smile totally says how happy she is on her wedding day!And, here are the handsome Lindseth men! Looking good, guys!

Here are the girls in their dresses--each of the ruffled skirts are the girls' favorite colors. Grandma even made one for Kari and sent it home with Cubby--it's so cute! They'll be wearing them on Sunday (as long as it doesn't heat up again!)

On Monday, everyone else had left and so Emily got some one-on-one attention (the kind she loves best!) from Grandma and Grandpa. They took she and Cubby to the Detroit zoo and had one last hurrah before Cubby and Emily had to hop on a plane back to us in good-ol' Nebraska! Emily and Cubby both have said what a fun time they had--Emily was so thrilled to be able to be the "big girl" and go on a special trip with Daddy. We're so glad that at least two members of our family could go up and give our love and support to Tessa and Tom as they start their new lives together. Thank you for the great weekend, Grandma and Grandpa! Congratulations, Tessa and Tom!

Marketing Strategies

2011-09-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

The other evening, Christian came into our room telling us that he had an itchy bum. Sure enough, not everything was "wiped clean." So, we got out the wipes, cleaned him off and got out the A+D cream so it wouldn't be itchy or red anymore.

Before we could put the cream on, Christian asks, "Is this the stingy cream???" (Target brand A+D tends to sting.) This was brand-name and so we said, "No, this won't sting." And, we proceeded to put alittle on him.

Almost immediately, he jumps up and yells, "This IS the stingy kind! See! (pointing to the cream) It says right here: Stingy Butt Cream!" (The wipes used previously must've made it hurt a bit.)

Cubby and I totally crack up (no pun intended) and decide that the marketers of A+D must be geniuses because apparently, to one little boy, their product boasts as a "Stingy Butt Cream."

Christian Starts Preschool 2011!

2011-09-07T18:12:00.000-07:00

Christian started preschool today! He was very excited and went all out--mis-matched socks and he even told me he didn't want me to do his hair; he liked it just the way it was when he woke up!

This year, Mr. Joey is his teacher and he has three friends in his class (Jacob, Sadie and Maren). Since this is his second year of preschool at the Y, Christian knew just what to do and settled right in. It was such a relief that he was comfortable and happy.

When Kari and I picked him up he was all smiles as well and even sang me a song that they had learned that day. We are looking forward to a fun year too--Christian is already anticipating the field trips!

Mommy and Me

2011-09-06T19:09:00.000-07:00

This month, Emily and I's date took us to the Mormon Trail Center at Winter Quarters. (We went out on a Sunday evening and so our choices of venues were rather slim, but we had a lot of fun touring around and learning more about the pioneers that came before us.) Emily enjoyed learning how the pioneers counted the miles with a handmade odometer on their wagon wheel (see picture on the left).

We also filled up our mini toy wagons with the "essential provisions," checked out a cool model of a ship that some of the pioneers came over from England on, went downstairs and checked out the quilt displays, and went out on a beautiful evening for a walk around the temple grounds.

I love my little date nights with Emily; it gives us some wonderful one-on-one time (and now that she's in school most of the day, it allows me to give her some undivided attention and she can tell me about what goes on during the day). She's becoming such a big girl so fast; I'm grateful for these moments to strengthen our bond and let her know how much I love her!

Labor Day 2011

2011-09-05T18:22:00.001-07:00

God bless America and God bless Labor Day! It was incredibly gorgeous here and we took full advantage of the much-needed day off. Now, you can tell by the pictures below that we went to the zoo...nothing new there! But, since we had Daddy with us, we made sure it was a super-extra-fun day at the zoo by going on the Skyfari and the train! (We usually don't do either because they cost extra money and I need extra hands to help with the kids.) We all had such a nice morning and since it was so nice outside, we didn't even notice how BUSY the zoo was because we stuck to the outdoor attractions and left the inside stuff for a colder day! Kari really liked the Skyfari (a ski lift that takes you over one side of the zoo) because she got to see the giraffes from above (and very close!), the cheetas out and about, and the rhinos nice and close too! (They are soooo much bigger than what you'd think from a bird's eye view!)

Christian was very excited about getting over to the rhinos--he'd wanted to see them last time but we didn't venture that far. This is the train ride--Kari is making her "choo-choo" face. We rode in the caboose!

Look at these cute little blondies--enjoying the view.

Kari got a little nervous when the train started going faster--and, by that time she was pretty tired.

We stayed until just after lunchtime and by then we were all ready to head home...kids got to play with friends, Kari took a 3 hr nap, my mom and I went out to a sale, and Cubby held down the fort! We finished up the day with dinner at my mom's and Cubby just finished mowing the lawn...in the dark :-).

We hope you all enjoyed this rest from your labors!

How Our Days End These Days

2011-09-03T17:42:00.001-07:00

As soon as Emily relaxes and allows herself to fall asleep, I'll add a snapshot of her as well. (She's very excited for her upcoming trip to Michigan with Daddy and is having trouble falling asleep :-).)

Kari's First Friend

2011-08-20T19:30:00.001-07:00

This is Kari and her first little friend, Campbell. It's so cute to watch them interact and play together. Campbell is one of our wonderful neighbors and this month I've been watching the girls a couple of times a week. It's been great and really given Kari and Campbell a chance to get to know one another and explore the wonders of learning to share! And when I say that these girls keep me busy, let me reassure you that I'm not exagerating! They sure love getting into things and toddling around after the big kids. It's all been worth it though because I love watching both of their little faces light up when they see one another--even at so young an age, they are fully aware that they are waving at a friend! Love it!

First Day of School 2011

2011-08-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's here. Again. The first day of school. It's a good thing, right? Emily and Christian were starting to butt heads a bit too much and Emily was missing her friends (and the structure of her day as well). But, it was a fabulous summer and the house is just a bit quieter now that she's gone for the day.

Emily is starting first grade--already! She has a very nice teacher and knows a few friends from last year in her class. She has even made the effort to befriend two "new kids" in class. Such a thoughtful girl. And, although I didn't get the "It's a dream come true!" statement when she came home, she was happy and has enjoyed the first couple of days.

Here are our neighbor friends, Ella, who is in first grade with Emily (although not in her class--boo!), and Brooklyn, who is Christian's age. We now have friends to walk up to school with! Hurray!

We Love Miss Caitlin!

2011-08-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

This is Miss Caitlin--our family's angel! We met her a couple of years ago as one of Christian's first swim instructors. She and Christian totally buddied up and after the session was over, she gave me her number and told me that if I ever needed a break, to give her a call! Well, the summer went by and I thought she was just being "nice" and didn't call. Then, last summer, we met up with her again and this time she insisted that she really did want to take the kids out sometime! So one afternoon I took her up on her offer and she took Emily and Christian to the pool (where she works...on her day off no less!). I figured they'd be gone for an hour or two and appreciated the break. Well, FOUR HOURS later, she comes home with some super happy and tired kiddos! And so, the kids had their first taste of how incredible Miss Caitlin is!

This summer, the kids did not get her as an instructor, but that didn't stop them from giving her big hugs the first chance they got! Then, she came over to me and told me how she was just bummed that she only got to take them out that one time. So this summer, she told me to pick a day of the week and she'd request that day off. Then, she'd come by and take them out each week! (For real???? Yes, folks, she's for real.) Emily and Christian were over-the-top happy.

They had big fun--the zoo, Fontenelle Forest, Dairy Queen, our house, her house, etc... They were always so excited for Friday afternoons when they'd see her red car, "Lucille" pull into the driveway. Their excitement rubbed off on Kari and I ended up either having to time her naps so that she wouldn't see Miss Caitlin, or, I'd time it so that we could go with them on that day's adventure. (And Kari is one that normally takes a bit to warm up to anyone.)

Well, this past week, Miss Caitlin had to return to college--boo! So, the kids and I prepared some going aways gifts for her. Fun little stuff that maybe she'll be able to put up at school and remember how much she is loved and appreciated! She has truly blessed our lives and certainly made my kids' summer that much more fun.

August is Awesome!

2011-08-12T07:22:00.001-07:00

Why is August awesome? Well, compared to July, or any month, really, the weather has been BEAUTIFUL! I don't think it dropped below 95 all of July. The high this week? 84. And, no humidity! Yes, folks, it's been a glorious start to what is usually the hottest time of the year.

What do we Omahaians do when the weather is good? Go to the zoo, of course! This week we went with a couple of our great neighbors--nine kiddos in all! 'Lots of craziness but a beautiful day to be out with the animals. The big kids on the lion statues...
The little ones congregating at the strollers.

Checking out the penguins and giraffes

My three amigos--Kari's looking smug about something...maybe it's that she gets aways with some super crazy hair!

Grand Camp 2011

2011-08-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

This past week Christian and Grandma Karen got to go to Fontenelle Forest's Grand Camp! The weather was pretty decent--humid, but not as steamy like the previous weeks. So, it made "camp" a bit more comfortable.

Christian and Grandma learned about trees--both about what makes up a tree and also what types of animals live in and around trees. They took nature walks and looked at all of the trees in the forest.They did tree crafts, had visitors who live in trees, and even looked at what animals use trees to make their homes. Christian made some new friends and they all enjoyed playing naturalist and learning more about their environment.

On the last day they got to release butterflies (a very cool experience for Christian!)
Grandma tried to get some pictures of Christian with the butterflies, but the camera kept fogging up! (It was humid!)

Christian was so thrilled that he got to go on this little adventure with Grandma and get some good one-on-one time with her. Thank you so much, Grandma Karen, for the fun days!

For SI

2011-08-04T18:30:00.001-07:00

I asked the kids to chill out and find something to read the other day. This is what I found Christian reading....And this is him talking to his "agent" (aka Grandma Karen)... I'm thinking about sending these pictures in to Sports Illustrated--maybe he'll make the "faces int he crowd" section :-)!

Getting So Big

2011-08-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

It is amazing at what a big girl Kari is becoming! (And not just because she gained 2 lbs in one month!--Yeah, she's feeling better!) Kari is learning to put on her own shoes! And, like so many little ones, they seem to go on wrong-footed--why is that?? It's okay though, we're proud of her anyway! (And she's pretty proud of herself!)

Here are also a few sweet pictures of her all dressed up before church. Doesn't she look like such a big girl?? My mom made this little dress for her from some vintage material she'd found and it is just soooo sweet on her!

Kari will be 19 months old this month! Crazy how time flies. As petite as she is, she has a HUGE personality and major opinions on everything! Getting her dressed each morning is always a battle (unless, of course, she decides she wants to get dressed...which, is usually in her swimsuit!) She gives such sweet kisses and hugs. She loves chicken nuggets, apple juice, waffles, pretzels and animal crackers. She is extremely girlie and loves to be "a pretty girl," particularily with her shoes! She loves baby dolls, her bunny, blankie and, yes, her binkie!

We are so lucky to have such a sweet, active and fun-loving girl in our family.

We love you, Kari-belle!

Snakes and Snails...Well, just mainly snakes!

2011-07-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

Each week this summer our library has brought in a special guest. (We've only been able to go to the last two, but they've been great!) Last week was a science show--cool chemistry and physics that kids can get into--that kind of stuff. This week there the play bill listed "Reptile Show." Cool. Christian loves reptiles! It didn't disappoint either!

The guest was a herpatologist by the name of Jeff Nieves. This man knew his reptiles and was a real-life Jeff Corwin or Crocodile Hunter. He told us about his trip to study and photograph komodo dragons (and he got up close and personal with them...along with scorpions and 18 inch centipedes too! Yikes!). And, to top it all off, he was a fabulous presenter! (See photos below of some of the faces he was making while holding a white rat snake--can you imagine how he was talking??)

Mr. (Dr.?) Nieves also brought along an alligator snapping turtle, a fairly large monitor lizard (see below of him grinning at it...and is it smiling back??), a baby python, a vine snake, and....

Last, but not least, meet Sampson. Sampson is a 70 pound albino anaconda. CRAZY huge reptile. Christian was in heaven. He came over to me afterwards (b/c I was sitting in the back with the other adults) and made sure I got lots' of cool pictures. Emily was a different story. She liked the non-snake reptiles and the pictures he showed. Once the snakes came out though, she was back with the grown-ups and on my lap. Kari thought it was all pretty cool...as long as my supply of pretzels and animal crackers didn't run out!

This guy has loved reptiles since he was 8 yrs old and is a very accomplished scientist. He really emphasized that he began to nurture his interest in herpatology through books and asking questions--very simple ideas for kids to understand. It was a great show and we're so glad that we were able to go!

Our Other Visitor

2011-07-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

Well, our other visitor this week was more beautiful than just cute and she definitely wasn't fuzzy--it was my mom! Grandma Karen came for a "visit" and stayed for just about three days and even two nights!

The origin of this idea was that sure, Grandma lives in town and so we see her fairly often. However, it's usually only for a few hours at a time and it's often times over a meal or an afternoon and it's usually just a tad crazy! So, my mom thought, "Why don't I pretend that I'm coming from out of town for a visit and then we can spend some large chunks of time together, and we can all both play and relax." Sounds great to me, Mom! And it was great--even if the weather was so hot and humid that we didn't want to venture out to anywhere but the pool!

But, even the icky weather worked out okay since that gave us an excuse to have a kick-back day at home and go through some closets, re-organize some toys, all that good stuff that Mom is so fantastic at! And, as you can see from the picture below, a day of relaxation was needed for one busy little boy!
This little scenario actually repeated itself a couple of times this week! (He plays hard, he crashes harder!)Thanks for coming to "visit", Grandma Karen! My vote is that this become an annual summertime tradition! We love you!

Fuzzy Friends

2011-07-29T14:38:00.001-07:00

We've had some fuzzy visitors lately! These caterpillars love our front flower bed. We can usually walk out our front door and find 3-4 of these little guys crawling around; at one point there were 8!

Not quite sure what type of butterfly or moth they'll will become, but they're awfully cute and the kids love how fuzzy they are!

Group Shots

2011-07-27T19:13:00.001-07:00

Here are "The Group Shots." Now, we had meant to get pictures of each individual family, but it was 100 degrees outside (literally) and the humidity was oppressive. Not exactly condusive to a huge photo session with multiple little ones. Plus, we only had about 20 minutes to take them before Amy and Luke had to get to the airport. (And the reason we only had 20 minutes was because Cubby and Shawn got lost trying to find the movie theater to get tickets for Harry Potter!--Our one "show" that we saw in Branson! Ha!) So, we did the best we could!

Here are the "original" Lindseths...minus Peter who just got a new job and couldn't get away. We're going to try and photoshop him in :-). Here is the whole clan! Not too shabby either considering our circumstances! (And, this outdoor shot was taken on a hill that was atleast at a 45 degree angle and we were all just inches away from sliding right down it!)
And, finally, I just love this shot! Regan, Auntie Amy, and Emily look soooo similar it's spooky!

The Pool

2011-07-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

So this is where we spent most of our time while down in Branson! And, can you blame us? This pool was fabulous and perfect for the kiddos (and the grown-up kiddos :-) ).

Emily is such a waterbug!

(Her cousins Carson and Kaden--doing the dead-man's float---were also loving it!)

Cubby took Kari down one of the slides (she wanted to!)...it was a VERY fast ride and Cubby did his best but in the end, she got dunked! Amazingly, she didn't cry...but she also didn't want to go down the slide anymore :-). Instead, Kari enjoyed being thrown back and forth!

Kari has also joined the Waterbug League

And here is Christian! He had a great time being Scubba-Steve... And blasting everyone with his new water-gun from Granmda and Grandpa.

Here's a fun little group shot--happy campers..er, swimmers!

Ride the Duck--a Trip Through Dantes' Inferno

2011-07-24T16:31:00.001-07:00

Here's the group before the trip...all smiles! (Well, mostly...we're a big group!)
This is the Duck-mobile (with us in it)

QUACK!!!!
While in Branson, we did the "Ride the Duck" tour. Now, the online reviews were all very positive; and, if it hadn't been over 100 degrees outside, it would've been a tad more enjoyable for us as well!

Now, granted, we knew it was going to be hot. How hot, however, we had no idea! Never-the-less, we made the best of it and honestly, most of the kiddos were impervious to the heat and humidity. (The adults and babies knew better and we were oh-so grateful for the air conditioning upon our return!)

Here we are on the outset--trying to keep it cool in the shade!

Emily and Reagan (and Auntie Amy looking chic in the background)

Daddy and Christian--

By the end of the trip, the late-night fun and the heat combined to put Christian into a coma-like nap.

The highlight of the trip for the kiddos was getting to "drive" the Duck! We went out on Table Rock Lake and each kiddo got to take a turn at the wheel. (It was honestly all I could do not to jump ship into the cool water!)

Here's Cubby's brother, Shawn, and baby Sovie--poor thing, she's just so chunky and it made it that much tougher to cool down.

They were pouring water down her legs to try and help keep her more comfortable!

And, finally, here's Miss Kari, drinking her juice with her oh-so-rosy cheeks. All of the kids (and adults!) were real troupers but everyone definitely needed a rest once we got back to the cabin.

So, if you're down in Branson and want to take a tour, the Duck tour is great...if the temperature is less than 80 degrees outside. The guide was funny and had a lot of information about the town,the strip, the dam, and local fish hatchery too. It was fun to be out and be able to do something all together as a family. Unfortunately, it kind-of made us realize that any family outing from here on out would need to be kept to the local pool!

More to come....

Family-time Highlights--Part 1

2011-07-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of the "at the cabin" highlights that we experienced: Meeting our newest cousin, Sovie!

(This little beauty is only 4 1/2 months old and has the chunkiest legs I've ever seen on a baby--and Christian was nothing to scoff at!) Those chubby legs were quite fun to kiss!

Bathtime with cousins Reagan and Kaylee!

(Can you tell these girls are related??)

And, finally, some craft time! Here are the girls are doing some painting. And here, Auntie Amy is showing everyone how to make fairly slimy silly putty! Lots' of fun!

More to come....

Lindseth Family Reunion 2011

2011-07-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

We just got home from our first Lindseth Family Reunion! All of Cubby's family (minus one brother who couldn't get off of work) gathered in Branson, Missouri for a week of family-filled chaos! (And, with 11 grandchildren 8 years old and younger, there was definitely a fair amount of chaos!) It was an extremely hot week (the day we arrived it was 110 degrees!) So, we didn't venture too much further than our cabin's near-by pool! But, I'll post more pictures later...well, as soon as I get the disk from Cubby's sister, who took the majority of the pictures! Ha! Here are Grandma and Grandpa with all of their grandchildren! As you can tell, some were more willing to be photographed than others :-). But, we did the best we could!

I got the idea for this picture from good-ol' Martha Stewart! Thanks to a friend of mine with a fabulous Plotter, I was able to cut out an iron-on decal and gave each grandchild a shirt with a number corresponding to the order they were born in.

I will definitely post more about our adventure later--it was such a great time; we miss everyone already!

Our Fantastic Fourth!

2011-07-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

This little sign from Emily says it all! We had a wonderful holiday--a very full day of fun! The day started with a big game of Hide and Seek! (For anyone who hasn't played that game in awhile, you really should--it's a lot of fun!)

After Kari's morning nap (yes, she still needs two naps!), we headed over the the pool. Now, Kari has not wanted ANYTHING to do with the water ALL summer. We're talking no toes in the water, crying, the whole nine yards. However, she had not yet gone swimming with Grandma! My mom stayed on the sidelines with her, playing in the shade, until finally she made her way with Kari over to the water, "following the baby with the pink hat." (Kari loves babies.) Gradually, she got deeper and deeper until Kari realized that she actually LOVES the water! Yup, we stayed an extra hour so that Kari could enjoy splashing, putting her face in the water, and even jumping off of the side! It was fabulous!!!

Christian and Emily did not disappoint either--both "competed" in the splash contest by doing their biggest cannonballs off of the diving board (to their favorite lifeguard, Caitlin)! It was great!

After the pool, we had a great time in our own backyard, BBQ-ing it up with our neighbors! This past summer, a new family moved in behind us--and they have three little girls the EXACT ages of our kids. They are so sweet (and normal!) and the kids have all become fast friends. Another family that lives nearby also came over with their boys (Christian has been thrilled to get to know these fun little boys who have lived near-by all this time...and we never knew it b/c our schedules have been so different!). It was a wonderful night and I'll let the pictures tell the rest of the story!

Christian, throwin' up some sort of gang sign??

Kari's back-in-action and full of energy! She loved eating, jumping, and hanging out with Grandma Karen.

This was our evening's entertainment--whatta' band!

We also had a water balloon toss/fight. Good times!

Christian and Henry...does Mr. C have to use the bathroom??My mom was blowing bubbles--I love Kari's hair in this shot! (And yes, it was extremely humid--Harvey was sweatin' it up just like the rest of us!)

This is our version of fireworks (sparklers!).

Christian had "too much fun" and needed a little Mommy time at the end of a very big day!

Yin and Yang

2011-07-06T19:43:00.003-07:00

These are my two new favorite pictures. I call them Yin and Yang.

Can you see why? Kari had a FANTASTIC Fourth! All smiles!

(And Cubby's looking pretty cute too!)

Classic Christian. Love it!

Ballgame Extravaganza

2011-07-05T16:31:00.000-07:00

Friday night we went out to the ballgame! Recently, our city became the new venue for Omaha's minor league baseball team. It is a beautiful new stadium and incredibly convenient for us. (My mom and I took Kari home to go to bed and I drove back once she was asleep to catch the fireworks--that's how close it is!)

In anycase, it was a pretty hot and humid night (that's part of the reason Grandma volunteered to stay home with Kari!), but the kids didn't seem too phased. The hometeam won and we even got a ball! (see above)

The highlight of the evening (for the kids, anyway) was the "Kid's Zone". There was a carousel, a bounce house, a playground set, and an obstacle course. The first time Harvey and Cubby took the kids to a game (a couple of weeks ago), their seats were along the first base line and they didn't get over to said Zone. This time we were along the third base line and it was right behind us. So naturally they were just itching to try everything out.

After the game came the fireworks! This is the first year that we've been able to take the kids to a fireworks show without one of them freaking out because of the noise. By the time I made it back, the heat and humidity had gone down and it turned out to be a really lovely night. We all love having a ballpark so close by--it really helps for us to capture "summertime" with the kids. Thanks for treating us to the game, Harvey!

What Are You Doing at 8 a.m.?

2011-07-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

The heat has finally come to Nebraska. (It was a pretty rainy June...not that I'm complaining---I HATE being hot.) But, the warmer weather has made for some pleasant mornings.

Kari enjoyed breakfast on our porch. Now, it was at least 80 degrees out there, but she didn't seem to mind. She just had a good time eating her pretzels (yes, pretzels for breakfast), toast and juice.

Emily and Christian had other ideas about what to do at eight o-clock in the morning. They got their suits on and took a dip in the pool.

Ah, summer!

A REAL Fun Day

2011-07-02T18:51:00.001-07:00

The kids' last day of swim lessons was this past Thursday. It was a HOT day and was the perfect morning for a swim! (A big change from the previous end-of-lessons Fun Day where it was rainy and FREEZING!) The kids both had a lot of fun...

Dunking and sliding...

(On a side note, Emily has "graduated" from having to use a full mask to just plain-old swim goggles! Woohoo!)

Swimming and splashing...

Jumping off of the diving board! Yup, that's my big-boy leaping off of the board to his favorite instructor, Caitlin. He was so brave! And, he had so much fun he jumped off another 5 times after that! It was so exciting to watch.

I could even tell he had to use the, uh, restroom (see below), but he was having too much fun to take a break and held it in until Fun Day was over!

There he goes!!!

Emily also took her turn in giving us a big jump...but only at the end. (She's just not as sold on the whole diving board concept yet!)
And, finally, here are the kiddos with a couple of their many wonderful swim instructors. Miss Caitlin is an "old favorite" (this is her third year w/our kids!), Breanne is "new" and taught Emily last session and Emily is Caitlin's sister and helped w/our Emily's class this session. To the right is Christian's favorite instructor, Amanda, who was Emily's teacher last year!. These ladies all remember the kids from year to year and it just makes going to lessons extra fun for everyone.

Great job, kids, on another wonderful year of swim lessons! You've both come so far and learned so much!

Happy Birthday, Grandma!

2011-06-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated my Grandma's 80th birthday! My mom organized a great party in her honor. My aunt flew in from France and my uncle and his family drove down from Minnesota. Other family and friends also drove and it was a wonderful evening. We all enjoyed celebrating the life of such a fabulous woman.

Here is a picture of my grandma when she was about one. So darling and I think there is a strong resemblance between she and Emily when she was this age.

Here are "the grandkids." Well, I have three other cousins (who are from France) that weren't able to be there. But, my sister put together a darling scrapbook that each of the grandkids contributed their favorite memories and pictures of Grandma Carolyn so the absent cousins were able to share their thoughts and memories w/my grandma on her special day.

Here is Grandma w/her great-grandchildren (plus the two Annas b/c they were part of "the little kid" group). Christian decided to be a little twerp and make scowly-faces. He was all smirky smiles just after the picture was taken!

More on the festivities to come...didn't want one post to become too photo heavy.

Happy 80th Birthday, Grandma! You're the best--we love you!!!

Summer Storm

2011-06-24T19:16:00.001-07:00

This is what rolled into our neighborhood this past week! No tornadoes, but the wind was absolutely INCREDIBLE! Our trees stood strong, but others' in our neighborhood were not so lucky. Some big branches came down on the transformer for our street/area and knocked out the power from about 8:30 until midnight. Across the street a huge part of a tree came down (thankfully into the street and not the house nearby). The next street over, one woman's tree got completely uprooted, knocking down their power lines in their front yard while in their back yard, their 100 ft tall maple snapped in half and fell onto their neighbor's new fence. Yikes.

We hung out in the dark for a bit, looking at pictures on the computer. (Christian was the only one awake--he'd taken a nap that day and wasn't quite asleep when all the commotion started.) Around 9:30, we got tired (and bored!) and just went to bed.

Thank goodness everything held strong--it was a crazy storm!

I Love a Parade!

2011-06-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was our town's annual carnival and parade. It tends to fall on the stickiest day of the year (it has EVERY year since we've been here)! However, this year, my mom went early and set up our "spot" under a tree. We were set!

The kids were very excited to see everything get underway...it was great to see the parade march right through downtown and under this gigantic American flag. It was also great to see everyone stand as our flag came by to get the parade underway!

Christian was happy to see the mascot from the Storm Chasers and ran over to give him a big hug.

Our biggest highlight of the parade was watching and waiting for Harvey to come through! Harvey is in the musical this summer, "The Music Man!" He is a salesman and a townsperson and got to hand out stickers and candy in the parade. Emily and Christian were so excited when he
came by! Man, I love a parade!

Ready, Set, Swim!

2011-06-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

This last week marked the official beginning of summer: swim lessons!

This year, Emily entered level 3...and it was a biiiiigggg step up from level 2! They hold class in the deep end (and only the deep end!). As big of a jump as it was for her, she was up for the challenge! It was incredible to watch her learn her crawl and back strokes, gliding, treading water, and diving.

Yes, diving, folks. Emily has never wanted to even jump off of the board before and by the end, she had learned to dive! (Granted, her off-of-the-board technique still needs some work, but, she'll be starting again on Monday so she'll get plently of practice!)

Christian graduated from Angelfish to Guppy this year. He worked on floating on his back, making big arm movements, and even putting his face in the water! He can also play a mean game of "Mr. Shark, What time is it?" and "Motorboat, motorboat."

On the last day, "fun day" it was rainy and a bit chilly so Christian enjoyed his time playing in the pool up above where the water slides are and then going down the slides with his instructors.

And where was Kari during all this swim fun? Exactly where she wants to be--on the sidelines, with me, as far from the water as she can get. This year, Kari wants NOTHING to do with the water. So, she sits on my lap and waves at her siblings while they swim and she stays nice and dry.

We just love swim lessons and can't wait for more!

The Road to Recovery

2011-06-15T17:20:00.001-07:00

So, Kari is reaching for the camera. Big deal, right? But, did you happen to look at her mouth? It's FULL.OF.FOOD! A big moment, indeed. Lately, she seems to gobble up anything her Daddy makes for her. Not sure why, but if Mommy makes it--eh, she really isn't interested. However, if DADDY makes it, look out! She practically inhales it. But hey, I'm not complaining! As long as she's eating (even if it is the most random foods at the most random times), at least she's eating!

Look at this happy little smile! Sure love seeing more of this lately!

Finally, all of this recovery and eating is taking its toll! Today, after swim lessons, I sat Kari down on the couch while I hung up towels and suits. I come back a minute later, and she's completely zonked out on the couch. (And she wasn't even in the water!)

We are all so happy that Kari continues to get stronger (and happier!). Thank you to all who have fasted, prayed, and expressed concern on her behalf.

On the Mend

2011-06-10T17:24:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning, after falling back asleep while snuggling w/Daddy.

Our little Kari is finally on the mend. For the last week and a half, Kari has been very sick. It started with a stomach bug that left her throwing up multiple times and night and then having huge blow-outs in her diaper (and out!) during the day. That lasted about 4 days. Then, she seemed to be doing better, only to take another dive two days later. It turned out (after multiple trips to the doctor) that her allergies (from pollen, not food) left her with a very red throat AND her eye-teeth were starting to come in--OUCH! (Thankfully, the strep test came back negative and ibprofen and tylenol made her much more comfortable.)

Now, Kari just did not have any baby fat to spare and she not only became even tinier than she already was, but she became very lethargic. (Obviously, she wasn't wanting to eat anything so of course she didn't have any energy!) So, between her sickness, food allergies, and the extreme pickiness of a toddler, we have definitely been fighting an up-hill battle to put some fat on this baby!

Thankfully, this week has slowly brought improvements. She's needed a lot of rest and her appetite still comes and goes at completely random times (and, we're still having occasional blow-out issues every other day or so). But, Kari is once again wanting to play and giggle--a welcomed sound even at 5:30 in the morning! We're so thankful that our little munchkin is feeling a bit peppier and we're praying she'll continue to bounce back in the coming weeks (and that we can fatten her up a bit!).

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

2011-06-06T18:35:00.001-07:00

Baseball season has begun! Once again, both kids wanted to play. (I'm happy that they both love the game, but it just gets so HOT here that I was secretly hoping that one of them wouldn't have wanted to!) But, we're sucking it up and having a great time!

Both kids had great first games--Christian was chanting "Hey, batter, batter, batter!" and running after everything. Emily got two hits (coach pitch) and made a stop while playing second base.

Great job, kiddos! We're looking forward to a great season!

Happy Birthday, Grandma Karen!

2011-06-05T18:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful mother!

We celebrated out at my grandma's house; having a yummy dinner and a surprisingly good cake from Hy-Vee (I'm serious--best store-bought cake I've ever tasted). Emily, Christian and Kari had fun "helping" Grandma open her presents--Kari especially liked the Borsheim's box from Harvey (she is such a fancy girl at heart!).

Grandma also had lots of help blowing out her candles...

While Daddy got help eating his cake!

Happy Birthday, Mom (Grandma)!! We love you!

Christian's Birthday-Part 2

2011-06-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

So, I need to finish Christian's birthday posts. (This is my form of family history keeping afterall.) Last Sunday was his actual birthday and we kept it simple, but made sure he had a special day all the same. He got sung to in primary, had his choice of dinner (hot dogs), and Grandma, Aunti Erin and her boyfriend, Jeff, came over afterwards for cake and presents.

Erin and Jeff brought bubbles and, despite the stiffling humidity, the kids all enjoyed chasing after the bubbles on the patio.

Here is Christian opening a few of his gifts--he was pretty thrilled with his new-found Wolverine claws (thanks, Jeff!) and Grandma gave him a razor scooter that Christian (and Emily, and Daddy) have all enjoyed riding.

Here's the birthday boy with Erin and Jeff--all smiles here!

Happy Birthday, Christian! I can't believe it's been four years since you came into our family. You're such a sweet boy and we love you so much!

Characters

2011-06-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today, Kari and Christian decided to become various characters. Can you guess which ones? Well, while I was dusting my dresser, Kari found some of my necklaces and bracelets and became "Fancy Nancy." I'm telling you, this girl loves to dress up and be "fancy." So, I got out my camera and told her to "smile!" and she gave me the cutest little smile ever! Then, when she was done with dress up, she brought me back my jewelry to put away. She's so good at cleaning up, it's scary.

Speaking of scary, can you guess who (or what) Christian was today?? A bat. Not Batman, just a bat. It was hilarious. I come out of the kitchen and see Christian, standing on the couch, all wrapped up in the blanket. I asked him what he was doing and he says, "Me a bat, Mommy!" and opened up his "wings."

And, although we've all been battling an ever-lingering stomach bug, and our car was in the shop today (so between the two we haven't been out anywhere all week), the kids did really well and we're enjoying kicking back a bit and not having to rush out the door every morning.

A Wild (and Crazy!) Kratt Birthday!

2011-05-29T18:43:00.001-07:00

There is a secret power out there, just waiting to be activated by one who truly wishes to help animals. This is the message of the Kratt brothers, hosts of the PBS show, Wild Kratts. They teach children about each animals' "creature powers" which can be anything from cheetah-speed, to the diving abilities of a colossal squid. By harnessing these super-powers, you hold the ultimate secret weapon to rescuing and aiding hurt or endangered animals.

How does one harness these super creature powers? The power lies within the bear paw emblem--simply touch the injured animal and then, holding onto the bear paw, shout "Creature Powers, Activate!" You are now ready to aid and abed said animal.

In this Kratt-style, we rung in Christian's 4th birthday! He "discovered" this show last fall and LOVES it. (The fact that it's on at 5:00 works out wonderfully for Mom who can get dinner made while he and Emily tune in!)

So, to get this party rolling, we got the kiddos warmed up, kangaroo-style, on the trampoline! (They really loved this and I think for future parties, we'll just let the kids bounce the whole time and maybe give them some cake and water at the end! Ha!)

Next up, we doned our Creature-Power necklaces and got ready to harness the cheetah's speed for some tag! The object of this game was to pull-off each others' tails. (See Molly modeling the tail while everyone else gives me their best cheetah-face.)

Their cheetah-speed powers sure came in handy!

Up next, we had an animal rescue and made sure some worms made it back safely to their home in the dirt. Even Emily got into this and picked one up! (Christian and most of his friends LOVE digging for worms so I just had to have this as a game!)
Then it was time to learn about some creatures and their "powers"! My Grandma knows a man who raises snakes and other reptiles. She asked him if he could bring some for the kids to look at and teach them about them. Four of the six children had NO fear, whatsoever.

This is Christian, proudly holding up a ball python! It was really neat for them all to get so up-close and personal!

For our final game, we tapped into the sea-turtles amazing sense of direction as we played "pin-the-arms-on-the-octopus".

(As a side note, I used velcro to "switch out" their creature-powers for each new game.)

Dinner, present opening, and cake all followed...

Christian transitioned from creature-powers, to super-hero powers like it was second nature. Truly, turning four comes with its advantages!

First and Last

2011-05-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Emily finished Kindergarten this week! (*Sigh*) She has learned so much and grown a lot. I can't believe it's over! She had a wonerful year and says that she will miss school, her teacher, and her friends.

Here are pictures from the first day...

And, the last day (sniff, sniff!)

Great job, Emily! We love you!

Ready for Church

2011-05-28T19:56:00.001-07:00

I just love "ready for church" pictures!

Here are my lovely ladies, all dressed up.

Dancing Queen

2011-05-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Emily had her big dance recital today! This is her third year and the theme was "Toy Story." Her number was a tap dance and she was Raggity Anne. It was darling. Her dancing studio, Mary Lorraine's Dance Center, always has such cute, fun, (and appropriate) costumes and dances for all of the kids.

Emily did not disappoint this year! She worked very hard in class and at home on her maxi-fords and shuffles. She knew the whole dance (without having to check out her neighbors!) and had a big smile on her face the entire dance. And, despite having told me she was a bit nervous about being up on a big stage, her little fan club all agreed that she had excellent stage prescence!

As you can see from our little snap-shots, one member of the clan is missing; Emily had the "late" (7:00) show of the day and so we got a babysitter for Miss Kari. The show was less than an hour long and so it ended before Christian faded too much...although he completely passed out once we got home!

Grandma Karen and Auntie Erin were able to come out with us too. Emily was very happy they came!

Here is Emily with her class and one of her teachers, Maddy--a beautiful dancer herself! The whole class did so well--they had some fancy footwork and really did well. Great job, girls, and great job, Emily!!

Celebratin' Like A Pro

2011-05-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

Kari turned 16 months old on Sunday. And this is how she marked the occasion.

Yeah, that's how we roll.

Preschool Picnic

2011-05-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday was Christian's last day of preschool--that went fast, didn't it?? I asked him if he'll miss school and he said, "No, Mommy. Now me get to stay home all the time!" (Oh boy!)

But, I think he will miss some parts of school. He said he won't miss his teacher, Ms. Sandi, since he'll still see her when we're at the Y for baseball this summer. But, he won't be seeing his little friend, Jacob, as much this summer and I think he'll miss him.

These two boys are so stinkin' cute together. They just seem to "mesh" as friends and really play well together. Jacob has older brothers who are very into baseball so they'll be pretty busy with that all summer. But, since their birthdays are close together, they should be in the same class next year.

And, what was little Miss Kari doing while the boys were playing "Pooh sticks?" She was eating her snacks and watching Mama and Papa Goose and their four cute little babies!

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful mother. You have taught me how to love all of the little, everyday joys of motherhood, and how to laugh through those tough days. Thank you for all that you have given to me, taught me, and continue to do for me and my family. I love you!

Planting Flowers

2011-05-07T17:39:00.001-07:00

This past Wednesday, our anniversary, we went up to the Temple and Mormon Trail Center for our annual flower planting activity with the Youth. (As I've been working in Young Women's for three years now, this is now our third year of planting.) It was a beautiful night and, considering we were up waaayyyy past our bedtime, the kids did really well.

Last year, Christian was my helper while Cubby took Emily and Kari into the trail center to look at the pioneer stuff. This year, though, Emily was much more into it and she and Christian honestly did more planting then some of the youth! They've been planting flowers with me at home and so they knew just what to do!

After the whole planting novelty wore off, we got in just a quick photo session before any melt-downs occurred!

We really like giving service at the temple...especially in such a fun way!

Happy Anniversary!

2011-05-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

Christian's got some big shoes to fill...and I don't just mean that literally!

Happy 9th Anniversary, Cubby!

I love you so.

She Feeds Herself!

2011-05-02T19:27:00.001-07:00

Messy, but man, my life just got so much easier!!
(And, the Sierra Mist in the Taco Bell cup is mine, not hers :-) .)

Finishing up Gma and Gpa's Visit

2011-04-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

For the last day of their visit, Grandma and Grandpa did not disappoint! Since it was the kids' first day back from Spring Break, Christian went to preschool (it was swimming day!) and Emily did a half-day. Grandpa and Daddy went to visit Christian at school and Grandma went up and had fun with Emily in her class. (I stayed home while Kari took a nap.)

After some lunch, we all piled into our van and went to (where else?) the zoo! It was a bit overcast, but really, not too bad! We all had fun and got some great close ups of one of the gorillas. (They really are just the most amazing animals--the intelligence behind their eyes is just incredible.)

In this shot, the gorilla kept glancing out of the corners of his eyes to check out Kari (who's waving) and Christian. He had been looking at Emily until she ran around to get another view.

Grandma and Grandpa had to get back home Wednesday morning--a tearful good-bye was had by all, but we're all looking forward to this summer when everyone will be together again at our family reunion!

Thank you for visiting and for all of the wonderful times, treats, and love that you bring each time you come! We love you, Grandma and Grandpa!

Lincoln Children's Museum

2011-04-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last week was Spring Break. As I have mentioned previously, the weather was pretty sub-par. However, it did give us a great excuse to head down to Lincoln for a visit to the Children's Museum down there. My mom came over and watched Kari and we went with our good friends, the Calhouns. (And, in case you're wondering, they're moving this fall. Yup, the military strikes again!) However, we're still making sure we have some fun together!

For anyone who has yet to make the trip down to Lincoln for a visit, I STRONGLY recommend it!! It is great. (Not at all the teeth-pulling experience that Omaha's museum can be!) The kids went from one thing to the next--we could've stayed all day! We'll definitely go back. Here are just a couple of the fun things that await us when we do return! Big Red Husker Zone (we're in Lincoln, after all!)
"Gopher" holes/tunnels--so cool!

A handsome knight! Emily and Molly--kickin' it!

Two astronauts--ready for take off, Houston!

These are just a few of the pictures I took. Like I said, there was just so much and I couldn't post it all. Go check it out for yourself!

Birthday Par-tae!

2011-04-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Cubby!

We got to celebrate Cubby's birthday with his parents, my family, and some good friends. We had originally planned to do a family carnival, but, it rained...as it had for the past week (Spring Break week, no less!). But, we made lemonade out of lemons and moved the party indoors. It was so much fun! The kids all got to play and go crazy (much needed energy release w/all of the rain!) and we had a great time celebrating Cubby's big day.

I put together a little photo display of Cubby "through the years" and put out photo albums of him as well (childhood, mission, wedding, family shots, etc..).

Crazy times!

Party time, kids!

Make a wish! (Possibly that those candles read 23 rather than 32???)

Happy Birthday, Honey! I love you!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T19:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

Cubby's parents came in for the weekend and we have loved having Grandma and Grandpa here!

We had a wonderful day--the Easter Bunny came and we had a fun time watching the children find all of the eggs that he'd "hidden." The kids cleaned up (especially Christian--check out his full basket!)

Kari wasn't really into the whole finding the egg thing, but she did enjoy opening the eggs up and seeing the fun surprises inside! (We did get her dark chocolate that she could eat...although she hasn't wanted to try anything yet!) We also let her try a jellybean, and, just as we thought, she didn't like them. Oh well, better for her food allergies anyway.

After the egg triumph, we got all fancied up for church. Emily let me put hot rollers in her hair and she and Kari were both so tickled that they got to dress up in coordinating "princess" gowns. They looked just sooo beautiful! (And Christian was looking quite dapper as well!)

Here is out attempt at a family photo. Typical. Even on Easter.
Here are Grandma and Grandpa with the kiddos. Christian still insisted on making faces, Kari was tired (before church--poor girl!), Emily was lovely :-).

After naps, we headed over to my mom's for dinner. The sun actually came out for a bit (gasp!) and Auntie Erin had "hidden" a fun treat for the kiddos outside.

We hope everyone had a very "Hoppy" Easter! (Sorry, I couldn't resist!)

It Happened Again!

2011-04-22T19:33:00.001-07:00

Going...
Going...

GONE.

Rule of Three

2011-04-21T19:09:00.001-07:00

My brother's birthday was this past Monday. Here's a funny story:

Every year, Kyle gets "fart" cards. From everyone. So, this year, I thought, "Kyle gets fart cards every year. I think I'll look for something different." I brought the kiddos to Target and we all got a giggle out of two wiener dogs, playing the Wii. (The captions: Wii-ener dogs; and, I hope your birthday is a Wii-nner!) Emily and Christian both completely got the joke.

Fast forward to Kyle opening his cards and gifts. First card he opens is the Wii-ener card. I figured he had opened ours first. Nope. From my mom. Second card, also the Wii-ener card. From us? Nope. From Harvey. Finally, the third Wii-ener card--from us.

Apparently, I was not the only one trying not to do the "fart" card this year.

Happy Birthday, Kyle!

Love, Wii-ener.

The Silver Lining

2011-04-19T10:58:00.001-07:00

Moving. It's a part of life. Especially if you are, or live close to, a military base like we do. Sometimes, even our friends who aren't military move away. But, as hard as it is to say good-bye, there are times when you get to see the old friends again! And, for us, that's what we got to do this weekend. Emily's life-long (all 6 yrs!) friend, Logan, and his family, came into town for the evening on Saturday. We had so much fun!!! The kids all played and completely wore each other out. We were grateful that they were able to come into town---even if it was only for an evening.

Then, on Monday, we starting taking part in some "last hurrah's" for our good friends, the DeYoungs. Emily met Nicholas during their first year of preschool and we've been friends with their family ever since. (It's especially funny when we're all out together b/c there are 8 little blonde kiddos and it's hard to tell who belongs to whom!)

Being military, they are moving away next month and so we all met up at the zoo to get some quality playtime in before we have to say good-bye (sniff, sniff!) (This week is Spring Break for our school district so all of the "big kids" are out.) The weather was chilly, but that just meant it wasn't crowded and we were able to let the kids run a bit more. We will miss them terribly, (Julie has been such a fabulous friend to me...my heart is breaking!) but, we hope that, like little Logan and his clan, we'll be able to see them again soon...even if it means we'll "have" to take a vacation to go visit!

Eggs

2011-04-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend was full of eggs! (All good eggs, thank goodness!) On Saturday afternoon, Cubby and Harvey took Emily and Christian to the city's Easter Egg Hunt. There were 15,000 eggs and the kids came home with basket fulls of plastic fun (mostly tootsie rolls and junk toys :-) .)

Sunday after dinner brought us over to Grandma Karen's house where we, of course, dyed some eggs.

Aren't they lovely??

{Another} Beautiful Day!

2011-04-11T19:35:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned how much I love Spring?? It was GORGEOUS today--a top ten day for sure. And, true to form, we spent it outside!! We ate lunch out on our porch and then I got out some fun "new" water toys (not really new, but new in the sense that this was the first time we've gotten the water out this year!). We were seriously out there until it was time for naps! Fab.u.lous.

Christian loved playing with his sharks, lizards, and other animals that all enjoyed going for a swim.

Kari had fun giving her baby doll a bath--the little changing table opens up to a sink/bath for the dollies. Soooo cute!

Backyard Adventures

2011-04-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

We've had some fabulously warm weather as of late (as in, we had to turn the air on...in April). This makes for some great times, though, in our own backyard! I busted out our camera (along with the sunscreen!) Saturday morning and caught some of our fun little moments. (Not the most "meaty" post, I realize, but the pictures turned out cute and I wanted to include them in a future blog book!) Emily told me,"Mommy, I smell summer!" (She definitely knows the smell of sunscreen!) Christian was so excited to wear his "short pants" as he likes to call them.

Cubby was mowing the lawn and Kari wanted to help.

Grassy, green feet! Ah, Spring! "Look at my muscles!!!" Fun Timers!

Homemade Playdoh

2011-04-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today, it rained. Welcome Spring! Actually, it was great. Not only because everything is getting green, or that the air smells wonderful. But, it gave us a good chance to just take it easy! When the weather is beautiful (as it has been all week...and the weekend before that!), I can't stand to be inside. So, naturally we're all totally exhausted and needed a "day off" from nature!

I decided to make some homemade playdoh. It was a great success! The kids loved how soft it was (and how good it smelled--Kool-aid!). They also liked how much there was--a lot more to play with than what you get in the store-bought kind. Plus, it was super easy and fast to make.

Here you go:

1 c. flour

1/2 c. salt

3 T. vegetable oil

1 pkg Kool-aid

1 c. boiling water

Mix first four ingredients. Add water and knead (with a wooden spoon b/c it will be warm) into a soft dough. It takes about 2 mins to cool before the kids can play with it.

Kari also got in on some of the fun. She loved playing with all of the regular play-doh and cookie cutters.

Melt My Heart!

2011-04-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

(Do you think she'd share some with me??)

Kindergarten Music Program

2011-04-02T17:15:00.001-07:00

This past Thursday night Emily had her kindergarten music program. (Remember those??) The kindergarteners had practiced very hard and it paid off! They were darling.

Some of the songs that they sung were "Yankee Doodle" and "Star Light, Star Bright." They also did a little interpretive number to "I Like to Move It" (from the Madagascar soundtrack; it was a big hit with everyone!). The kids all made up moves based on a book they read in music class about little polar bear cubs who take their first swim in the ocean. Their teacher, Ms. Johnson, is a favorite with Emily and she does a wonderful job getting all of these little ones to sing their best!

Here is Emily and her Fan Club. Great job, Em!

Speech With Ms. Lori

2011-04-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to do a post about Christian's speech class and his teacher, Ms. Lori. Christian LOVES going to speech and he LOVES Ms. Lori. (And so does Kari for that matter! She thinks we go there for her and always wants Ms. Lori to hold her and play with her--it's very cute.) To say Ms. Lori is a "good" teacher would be an understatement. She is excellent. Christian's speech has come such a long way since he began going to the S.T.A.R Center back in September. Lori's patience and consistency, along with Christian's hard work, have really paid off. Christian loves speech because he gets to play games, do puzzles, and play with cool toys--like dinosaurs and trains. He's very focused and Lori is always amazed at how quickly he can put puzzles together. His favorite games include Hopping Frogs, dinosaur bowling, and, the classic card game of "War". Lori tailors each game so that he repeats certain words/phrases that he's working on that week before he takes his turn. Christian hardly knows he's working b/c he's so interested in the fun games! I am so grateful that our school district has such a wonderful speech program and employs such wonderful teachers. Christian's confidence in his speech has grown in leaps and bounds and as a mother, my worries that he would not be understood by his peers has decreased dramatically. We've still got a ways to go, but I just can't believe how much this program, and teacher, have helped my big boy.

Last Day of Skating Class

2011-03-28T19:04:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday was Emily's last day of ice skating lessons. (Well, not for forever, but just until summer.) Now, it's only been 9 weeks, but her progress has been AMAZING. She has moved up a level and her confidence out on the ice has dramatically increased. And, she LOVES it. They have the kids out on the ice for an entire hour, practicing their skills, and you can tell that she takes it very seriously, but that she's having a great time. Way to go, Em!

Emily is working on her "swizzles" in this picture to the right. Here is Emily's cheering section! Christian says he wants to learn to skate this fall ("Me want to play hockey, Mommy!"--Oh boy, a SUPER CHEAP SPORT!). He enjoyed watching her...but may have enjoyed eating the popcorn even more!

Field Trip Fun

2011-03-25T18:03:00.001-07:00

This week I had the wonderful opportunity to go on a field trip with Christian and his preschool. It was seriously such a special treat! (Great-Grandma came to the house and babysat Kari so she could take a nap and didn't have to come out in the cold!) And, by the look on his face, Christian was sure excited to be there too!

The big yellow school bus took us to the zoo! Yes, we've been there a million times, but not on a bus! (It seemed to be all of the kids' highlight. Christian thought we were in a race car--ha!) Once there, we made good use of our time and hit up the Aquarium, the Cat Complex, the Bear Canyon, the Gorilla Valley and the Desert Dome. And it wasn't like we sprinted through there either--I was just amazed at how much quicker you can make it through places without a stroller!

Here, a Lionfish is coming over to check out what Christian is all about--and maybe even give him alittle sugar!

This is Christian's little class. Ms. Sandi was a huge champ and I was able to see how much the kids love her.

This goofy pair always makes me smile. Christian and his friend, Jacob, sure enjoy seeing one another at both preschool and at speech class.

Here I am with my boy! Again, it was such a treat to be able to spend this time with Christian. I love his sweetness, his "all-boy, wrestle you with my spatulas-for-sharp-claws" attitude, and, of course, when he tells me "my wove you, Mommy."