Holiday Quiz

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I love, love, love unwrapping gifts rather then taking them out of bags. And I try to have a lot of wrapped gifts under the tree... especially for the kids to enjoy.
2. Real tree or artificial? Real... we have always had a real one (or a substitute Poinsetta or other holiday plant)
3. When do you put up the tree? About the first weekend of December... or the second if something comes up.
4. When do you take the tree down? Around New Years
5. Do you like eggnog? Not too much
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Rollerblades? Scooter?
7. Do you have a Nativity scene? Yes
8. Hardest person to buy for? ????
9. Easiest person to buy for? ???
10. Worst Christmas Gift you ever received? Clothes that I wouldn't wear.
11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail.
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Not really into Christmas movies
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Mid December
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably.. oh yea I did... bath & body stuff because I don't usually use anything outside of myusual products.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Nothing specific.... a couple Christmas cookies
16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear. This is the first year Nick has put them on our tree though we had them the last half of the time I spent in my parent's house. They really make the tree less cluttered.
17. Favorite Christmas song? Oh Come all Ye Faithful
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Yes
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Nick likes an angel and we have an old one of his Grandma's that we use.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning...make 'em wait!
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? That it is also cold outside.
23. What is the "corniest" family tradition you do, or miss doing? Don't really have any.
24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? ???
25. Which looks best, theme trees or homey trees? Homey trees full of old and new, bought and created ornaments.

C-Ya!!!

Quiet....

This is all I hear right now. Nick took Jeffrey and Samantha with our friends sledding. Carter is sleeping (at least for this second). Maggie the dog is curled up on my lap and Scooter is somewhere.
And here I sit on the computer. I suppose I should get off of my butt and do something. The house really needs a "spring cleaning" (in the middle of winter). I could probably toss out bags and bags of stuff.
I hope everyone is recovering from the holidays.
C-Ya!!

Carter's first Christmas

Ok... I couldn't resist at this picture taking opportunity. Yesterday was Carter's first Christmas and look what we found in his stocking...

Also, here is Jeffrey, Samantha and Carter in front of the tree.


I hope your holidays were merry and bright!!
C-Ya!!

Holiday Card 2007

Since I have so many online friends I thought I would post my holiday card and letter here with a wish for a happy and safe holiday season.



A Merry Christmas to all in this season of miracles,In last year’s letter I asked that we have less of a roller coaster year in the Pickert household, and while we have had our share of highs and lows it seems that the lows were not so bad this year.
Of course our highest high was the birth of our son/brother, Carter Kenneth. Carter was born at 9:45am on Halloween, October 31, 2007 at 7 pounds 15 ounces. And of course we feel that he is one of the three most beautiful babies of all time! Jeffrey has loved having the baby he asked for and Samantha is enjoying being Mommy’s Little Helper. November has really been a challenge getting used to three children and having a new infant in the household.
Carter already has had his first hospital/surgery experience. We took him to the doctor the day after Thanksgiving due to his excessive spitting up. They weighed him and found he had only gained a couple ounces and so we had an ultrasound and found he had Pyloric Stenosis (Enlargement of the muscle between the stomach and intestine resulting in no food getting through). So he had to have a routine surgery the next day and was fine afterwards.
This all came right before we were suppose to leave on a family trip to Cancun. Melissa’s Dad, Ken, has been really sick since last winter and all he wanted to do was take us all (including Melissa’s brother & friends and sister & family) on this trip to Mexico and he got his wish. After getting the whole family passports (including rushing Carter’s) we enjoyed the sun and fun of a November in Cancun.
Unfortunately we closed out 2006 with another low. Our Yellow Lab, Mollie, died unexpectedly at 5 ½ years old. She had a turned stomach. We did not even know she was sick and had gone away for a couple days to come home and find out she had died.
Every year is getting better for Nick and his company, PepperBerry Gardens. Nick had more business this year and worked the 80 hours a week to prove it. He is still enjoying the landscape business, though he is learning he cannot do it all on his own. Jeffrey got to go to work as his “little landscaper” a couple times over the summer and Samantha is planning to get her turn next year.
Melissa made it through her first full year of being a stay-at-home Mom. This summer she was elected President of the Orono/Westonka MOMS club and is enjoying the position.
Nick and Melissa are both still involved at church, though have taken on a little less with Carter’s arrival. We did join the OLL Centennial Committee and are looking forward to the festivities.
Jeffrey started Kindergarten (and full time schooling) at Our Lady of the Lake School. He has amazed us with his memorization of Grace and The Pledge of Allegiance. He is enjoying all of his special classes like Spanish and computers and impresses us with his math skills.
Samantha started preschool at Our Lady of the Lake. She is the little social butterfly and is making friends with all her classmates. Sami (as she is called at school) is trying to keep up with Jeffrey and is learning everything he comes home and teaches her.
Carter is just enjoying attention being lavished upon him and his favorite spot to sleep is in someone’s arms. He is a championship eater and is making up for the lost weight. Carter was baptized in November and is proud to have Ryan & Sarah as his Godparents.
We still have our dogs Max, the Lab; Maggie, the Shih Poo; and Scooter, the Chihuahua. Maggie still is our baby, even if we cannot give her as much attention now. Both Maggie and Scooter are doing great around the baby. And after losing Mollie, Max has adjusted to being the only big dog. Due to the baby, Max was bummed out at not getting to go pheasant hunting this year.
Again, we close asking for prayers for Melissa’s Dad. And we hope your holidays are merry and bright.

Merry Christmas Happy Hanukkah & Happy New Year


Love, Nick, Melissa, Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter Pickert
Max, Maggie & Scooter


For updates throughout the year check out Melissa’s Blog at http://empress4.blogspot.com/& for a fun holiday greeting from us, go to http://www.jibjab.com/sendables/view/x6SAPdnjILKJMwfHoIkCGQKR

C-Ya!!

Pay it Forward

A couple years back a movie came out called "Pay It Forward" and the world was introduced to the concept of doing for others without getting anything in return. All that one asks is that you help out someone else.
During this holiday season I would like to thank all that have done great things for us and only hope I can pay it forward with interest.
We especially have seen this when it comes to our kids. Whether it be gifts, hand-me-downs or meals we have truly appreciated everything given to us.
So, if you can, pay it forward.

C-Ya!!

Holiday Greetings!!!

Ok... so I have a ton to update everyone on but have been busy with Carter and the other kids as well as living on less sleep... so while you are waiting on an update - which I hope to do by Christmas - I thought you would enjoy this (turn up your speakers):

Don't send a lame Holiday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

C-Ya!

Newest Family Member

Jeffrey and Samantha P., along with Nick and Melissa, would like to introduce you to their new baby BROTHER!!
CARTER KENNETH P.
Carter was born on Halloween, October 31, 2007 at 9:45am at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park. He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20 inches long.
Carter and Mommy (& Daddy) went home that Friday, but as you can expect, life has been so crazy, I finally am able to post. Carter is doing great. Mommy is tired. Nick is happy to have another hunting buddy. And Jeffrey and Samantha love their little brother (even if they sometimes call him a "she"!)
Here is a pic of our new little guy:


More later!!!

C-Ya!!

End of October...

... and probably the last nice day of the year... guess it may get up to close to 70 today.

And of course, I am still waiting for baby. Samantha had her 4th birthday on Sunday and all she wanted was a new baby for it, but she didn't get her wish (she has since become ok with it). So we just sit and wait. I made it to week 38 on Saturday and both Jeff and Sami were born in the 38th week... so of course I am on edge. There is just so much going on in the kids' school this week that I don't want them to miss. And of course Halloween is tomorrow and I have mixed feelings on missing out on seeing the kids Trick or Treating and handing out candy. *sigh*

I tell you, I cannot wait to be able to lay on my back!!! This tossing and turning all night is for the birds (yes, I know the baby will wake me up).

Otherwise, just feel like sitting around and doing nothing. I have so many things I could do and I haven't felt up to it.

I guess I will just keep you posted.

C-Ya!!!

Still Waiting

I am still waiting... I mean, yes, I know I am not due for over 20 days.. I am just really, really impatient and antsy. Had a Dr (NP) appt Monday.. she said I am 1cm and 75% effaced. Had an u/s on Tuesday for dates and baby was measuring at 37w1d and probably 7 pounds. It feels like I am having an occasional BH or even real contraction... but nothing consistant. And I am feeling so huge and uncomfortable. When I sleep or stand too long I feel siatic nerve pain on my left side and it is driving me nuts.And I am so hoping to go into labor this week, both kids are off of school all week and so I could send the kids to my parents and not be upset about them missing school. But that plan was thwarted somewhat because my Dad went into the hospital w/ pneumonia Saturday night and HOPEFULLY will be out today. Though my Mom said she would figure things out if I would go into labor.
*sigh*
Otherwise we are pretty much ready - besides packing our clothes. Baby clothes are washed, things are bought, baby's bag is ready, diapers are bought and last night dh took down the car seat and bassinet.
*tick, tock, tick, tock*

And I know... I still need to update on other things... I just feel like doing nothing right about now!!!

30 weeks!

I figure I have not done a baby update lately. Well tomorrow I will be 30 weeks along... 3/4 of the way!! Firmly into the third trimester. And pretty soon into "getting ready for baby" mode.
I was thinking we were going to name this baby "Stubborn" or a derivative of it.. but I have since heard good news. First, I was measuring small so we needed another ultrasound. Well baby measured right on, so that was good. Then I found out that I failed the one hour glucose and had to go in for the three hour, but I passed that.
Of course I am uncomfortable already. And most people think I am due sooner then I am. And baby is quite the mover and shaker. At least we are getting closer.
Here is a pic taken this week of me

And a close up because I got a new hair cut (& colored it)


C-Ya!

Back to School!

Yea... can you tell I am counting down the days!!! Honestly, I don't know what it is, but lately it has not been fun to be a sahm. The kids are not listening to me and they are fighting with each other constantly. I am sure it does not help that we have had 2 types of weather, really hot or rainy (as of the past couple weeks for the rain) and have not been outside much. Today is actually nice but they have trashed this house so bad that I do not feel like letting them outside.
So next Thursday Jeffrey will start Kindergarten!! He will be going to school full time, riding the bus and wearing a uniform! We had his open house last night, he got to see his classroom (including where he is sitting - right across from someone he knows - Yay!) and his locker and check other things out. It was quite funny, we went to the new family event before the all school event and we were joking with those that we know because, while we are a new family to the school, we have been going to the church for awhile and know our way around and other parents and such.
Samantha will start preschool in a week!! This is her first foray into school and even though she denies it, I know she is excited. She was so jealous of Jeffrey going to preschool last year. We decided to have her go to the same school as Jeffrey (because Jeff went to the public school the last 2 years) and she will be in class with her "boyfriend". Of course this also means I can call her potty trained!! It has been over 2 weeks since she has had an accident and has attained all her goals - so she is going to get a day with Daddy soon and got her Dora underwear. We also got to see her room yesterday, but will have an official open house next week. And I even went into the bathroom with her to make sure she could do everything and she can.
So I am looking forward to next week. I will actually have 2 1/2 hrs of me time 3 days a week... well at least till the baby is born!!
C-Ya!!

Boating on Lk Minnetonka

Ok... I admit...there is another fun part of the summer. We are lucky to live very close to Lake Minnetonka (but not ON the lake). And while we have not bought a boat yet (maybe next summer), we have a couple friends that have boats. We have been on our one friends' pontoon a couple times this summer - including to watch fireworks on the lake. And last Sunday my friend Roxanne and her fiance, Josh, invited us on their boat. We tooled around looking at the gorgeous houses and went swimming. It was an awesome day and being in the boat/in the water was a nice reprieve from the summer heat.
And here is a photo mosaic of the highlights

Enjoy the beauty.

C-Ya!

ISO: Washing Machine!!

We are looking for a new washing machine... looks like ours is unfixable. Guess it turns out the water pooling in our laundry room was not due to our annual have-to-snake-due-to-a-messed-up-sewer-drain, it is actually from something broken in our washer that looks like we cannot fix. So I am trying to convince Nick we should get one off of craigslist.com or used from somewhere else... because we just don't have the money now to buy a new one, especially the kind that Nick would like, and especially because I "supposedly" beat up on them. And of course we need it yesterday because I have clothes stacking up.
So if you do live in the Twin Cities, MN... and know someone that has one, let me know.
And if you don't, please have pity on me... it seems like everything put in that laundry room is doomed - we have already had the stand up freezer go out (thank goodness we have 2 in the garage) and something is wrong with the water softener.
*banghead*

C-Ya!

SS Blog Challenge: Custom Quiz!

This was this week's SS blog challenge:

Go to http://www.yourblogquiz.com/, and create a quiz for your blog readers. The sky's the limit... choose any topic you want and write your own questions and answers.

So here goes.... enjoy...

And make sure to let me know if you make your own quiz!!

C-Ya!!

Summer

Ya know... I used to love Summer.... I mean I have always said it is my favorite season. Winter, ick! Living here in MN all my life I could do without the snow and cold. And while Spring and Fall are nice, I have loved knowing I can wear shorts and a tank top, drive around with the windows open and possibly go swimming.
Well I am an adult and reality has set in. And this Summer has been a doozy.
Why?
1. Nick owns a landscaping company. Landscapers have to work All.Summer.Long. Even in Spring and Fall he is not working so hard. Landscapers like to work till dark.. it gets dark here as late as 9pm at times. This means I may not see him till 7 or 8 at night. Which in turn means late dinners because I like if we all can eat together.
2. Kids are out of school. Ok.. last year I just had a break for 2 1/2 hours 3 days a week when Jeffrey was in preschool... but just knowing that come the school year I will get a break from the fighting - which in turn will mean less yelling and time outs - just seems like heaven. And heck, I will even have some time when both kids are in school this year (well till #3 comes)
3. I am pregnant. This means not being able to fit into the cute summer clothes I have a closet full of... it means have half a dozen or so maternity tops to rotate till I want to puke looking at them. It means me being more prone to headaches... especially on humid days. And since I am having #3 I popped a whole heck of a lot earlier and therefore already am comfortable - and I am just starting the third trimester. Also, since this is my first pgcy as a SAHM, it feels like an eternity till this baby will be born... because that is what I spend all my days thinking about.
4. This summer it is just plain miserable out! We have had probably 2 days of rain in 6 weeks. I think we just hit our 21 or 22 day of 90s this Summer. And we are known here for our humidity. It is too hot to go outside - especially since I am pregnant - and it is causing the kids to go stir crazy.

It is sad, that only of the only perks to summer right now is that most days I don't have to get up at a certain time. *sigh*

Hope your summer is better!!

C-Ya!

SS BlogRoll

Well if you are looking for something to do... go to my sidebar and check out the Scrapshare Blogroll.... as you are probably seeing a lot of people have updated their blogs and/or have started ones and/or have asked to be added to the roll.
Of course I do have the task this weekend of going through and maybe taking some blogs off if they haven't blogged in 2007.
I do hope you enjoy... if these gals write on their blogs as well as they write on SS then I am sure you will.
C-Ya!

I35W Bridge Collapse

It was a week ago today that Minnesotans and others were shocked and saddened when the I35W Bridge Collapsed. Without warning, on August 1, 2007 at 6:05pm the bridge came down onto land and onto the Mississippi River crushing cars and, unfortunately, people. I was not near the bridge when it collapsed. I was safely at home in Mound. Oblivious for the first hour that it even happened. At around 7pm I got on the internet to check the weather and instead found pictures of the devastation, it looked like an earthquake had toppled the bridge.

copied from wcco.com
Of course my first thought was "could I have known anyone involved?" I rushed through my memory bank.... I had called my Dad as soon as I saw it online, my parents were fine. Nick was in Eden Prairie. My brother works south of the cities and was on his way over to my parents.... but who knows who else could have been driving that way. Turns out a lot of people I knew I had either avoided that area due to construction or had been on the bridge earlier in the day. A week later, after reading the list of the dead and missing, no one I know is on that list. But people that were related to people both my Mom and Nick know, did die.
I did wonder about one person... a guy I went to school with. I knew he lived near there in the past. Turns out his friend had just driven him (and his wife) under the bridge probably less then a minute before it happened. His friend, Andy, wrote a very detailed blog entry andyblair.com . Matt is the guy I went to school with... he was the class president (and is suppose to be planning a reunion for this summer!!!!!)
Now they are spending the time trying to piece together what happened. There are still people missing somewhere in the Mississippi. My heart goes out to anyone affected. I hurt, we all hurt, for you.

C-Ya!

Blog, I have neglected you!

Yes, blog, I am sorry... I have neglected you.
And it is not like I have not had the time to write... especially since I got the new (awesome) laptop.
Just wanted to let you know, the pregnancy is going well... we are at 25+ weeks. The baby sure likes to move and kick and punch more then Jeffrey and Samantha did. Most of the time it is amazing, except when I am trying to get some sleep.
Nick is still crazy busy... he is a landscaper and it is the summer. He has taken Jeffrey to work a couple times and everyone calls him Nick Jr.
Jeffrey is doing well... we just got done with some summer speech therapy which I am sure it has helped. He has had a bad streak of accidentally breaking things lately - and unfortunately they are usually made of glass.
Samantha is on the course to being a self-proclaimed Big Girl. She got rid of her Buba about a month ago ("blankie"), we took the side rails off her bed yesterday, and if she is dry today it will be day 7 (in a row) without an accident. She is looking forward to hitting 10 days when Daddy will take her to work with him.. and 14 days when she gets some Dora underwear.
As for me... sticking inside as much as possibly on these 80+ days with high humidity.. I feel so much better and don't get headaches that way. Also, I have been busy because I couple months ago I was elected the MOMS club President in my area. I am having a blast being Prez, especially since I have a marvelous board and great members.
Otherwise blog, I hope things have been well. I do know I should post a pregnancy picture soon and maybe some of the kids this summer.
Till next time.
C-Ya

Happy 7th Anniversary!!!

Today Nick and I celebrate 7 years as husband and wife!!! In some ways the time has flew by, in others I am amazed all the highs and lows that have happened in the past seven years! And the past Friday it had been ten years since our first date. I always say those almost three years from the time we got engaged till we got married seemed to DRAG... and now it has been over twice that since we have been married!!
Here is a picture of us that day 7 years ago

And a picture of our family now taken earlier this month

Happy Anniversary to Nick... the man I love!!!
C-Ya!

I won with Blingo!

Ok... I may have mentioned this on this blog before... but way back I signed up on Blingo.com, it is a search engine that uses the power of Google with an added perk: you can win things.
Well I have been using it for awhile as my primary search engine and hadn't won anything, so I was surprised when a screen popped up saying I had won either $50 or $50 to amazon.com!!!
Yeah!
Funny thing, I had just bought a Magic Bullet mixer the other week and Nick didn't want me to keep it... I had been trying to figure out a way to convince him to let me.. well guess how much it was? $50!!! So I am keeping it!

C-Ya!!

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to the man I made a Father. And to my Father. And all the other Fathers out there. I hope today you can enjoy whatever you may want to do.

We started out Father's Day last night, going to dinner with my parents at Red Lobster. Jeffrey tried crab for the first time and loved it.

(Samantha got her usual - chicken fingers). And we all waited and waited for Nick to finish the Ultimate Feast w/ an extra helping of crab legs.
Here is the proud Papas w/ Jeffrey & Samantha

And here is me w/ my parents and my kids (had to get a pic of me in somewhere)


Today we slept in because we went to church last night.. got up as we wanted and Nick opened his cards plus his certificate of appreciation (which listed his gifts because I wanted him to pick them out and I am waiting on one gift to come in the mail). We have been outside doing stuff and we will see what the rest of the day entails.

Again, Happy Father's Day

C-Ya!

SS Blog Challenge: Empress-ology

ARCHAEOLOGY: the study of material remains
What's the oldest article of clothing you still wear? Possibly 10 years?
What's the oldest article of clothing you won't get rid of? Like Stacy, I have a letter jacket... plus something my Mom wore when she was pg with me (though I wont wear it).
When was the house/building you live in built? 1953 or 1954
What in your fridge needs to be thrown out? Leftovers... though I did throw some stuff out the end of last week.

BIBLIOLOGY: the study of publication
What are you reading? Just got done with one... probably will start "Water for Elephants" soon.
Do you have a favorite quote? "You can live in hope, but you cannot live on hope." - By Me!
What's the most recent music you purchased? Darren Hayes "The Tension and the Spark"
What book could you read again without being bored? I am reading "Your Pregnancy Week by Week" again

CARDIOLOGY: the study of the heart
How old were you the first time you fell in love? 16
What charities do you have a heart for? None in particular... though I should have a heart for any breast cancer charity. I am actually hoping to figure out a favorite charity soon.
What's the best way someone can show their love for you? Letting me relax while taking care of my kids and house.
Name five things you "love":
1. My family - Nick, the kids, my parents
2. My country - home of the free
3. Technology - TV, computers, music players
4. My friends - can't imagine not having them
5. Water - swimming, drinking, boating, etc.

PHYSIOLOGY: the study of physical function
Are you right-handed or left-handed? Right
Do you like your smile? Mostly
What's your best feature? My youthful glow?
Have you ever had anything removed from your body? Do two kids count
Which of your five senses do you think is keenest? Maybe eyes - because I paid for them to be that way.

OMNOLOGY: the study of everything
What color do you think looks best on you? Really anything but brown
Have you ever swallowed a non-food item by mistake? Not that I know of
What's your favorite flavor of gum? Cinnamon
Where's the first place you went today? shower
Do you stand or sit in the shower? Stand

AXIOLOGY: the study of the nature of values and value judgments
Would you walk naked for a half mile down a public street for $100,000? Quite possibly
Would you kiss a member of the same sex for $100? Maybe
Would you pose naked in a magazine for $250,000? Don't think they would want me
What value is of utmost importance to you in a friend? Trust
Would you accept an indecent proposal for $1,000,000? Nope

TECHNOLOGY: usage and knowledge of tools
What's the last movie you saw? I saw part of "First Daughter" the other night on TV
What's the first website you visit when you log on? I don't have a usual, it could be a news site, email, or message board
What's your ring tone? Normal one.. though it is "Love Train" by Big & Rich for Nick
Would you quit blogging for $25,000? Don't think so
What piece of equipment do you wish you owned? Does a boat count?

GENEALOGY: the study of relationships within families
Is there a specific family member you're really missing right now? I always wish my Grandma was around longer
Who is your oldest living relative? My Papa - he is almost 95
Are you named after anyone? I guess my middle name - Laura - is somewhat after my Aunt Lori
Is there anyone really famous in your family tree? No. Though I had a Great Uncle who owned a men's store in Lawton, OK that was a big deal down there for awhile.

C-Ya

I'm wireless!

Ok... so I am sitting here on a Monday... watching the NASCAR race that I am taping for Nick because it was rained out yesterday... and I get to also be on the computer... because I am wireless.
I know some of my online friends will enjoy this and so I thought I would post!!
On Wednesday, May 23 my new Dell 1505 laptop was delivered... this is the story...
I knew that morning that there was a big chance I would get my new toy.. even though they originally said delivery was going to be on Thursday. But I had no time estimate.. except probably in the afternoon.
So in the morning I decided that the kids and I would play in the front (because you never know)... Jeffrey happened to take my picture

Well we ended up going inside - possibly to have lunch, and about an hour or so later, I saw this in my driveway

This is what he delivered to me

So of course I had to open it up right away.. and this is what I found


And I have been enjoying it... I love being able to be on the computer on the couch or on the bed... and we took it with up north (though we have taken Nick's laptop in the past).. and pretty soon we are going to take a bunch of stuff out of the kitchen that we don't need upstairs.
I just had a couple hang ups with holding a wireless signal and getting it to print... but I am not complaining.

C-Ya!

Kick, kick, kick

Yep, that is what I am feeling inside of me... the baby!!! Not very often, just a couple movements a day...but at this point, that is all you expect. I will be 17 weeks this weekend and even though this is #3, feeling kicking is awesome!!!
Otherwise, I am starting to feel a little better in some ways...but for over a week I have had a headache off and on.. and of course I cannot use the Advil I usually take. Thankfully I was Rxed something that helps a little more then just plain tylenol.

I hope everyone had a safe Memorial Day Weekend. We went up north to see my cousin graduate high school... this is my third (out of 8) cousin to graduate h.s. and I just cannot believe how much they are growing up. Of course this year is my 10 year class reunion... which I couldn't help thinking about. And I tell you, going to a grad in a small town with a class of 30+ is a whole lot different then mine with 200+ kids. I am so proud of this cousin.... he graduated with high honors and was listed at getting like 10 out of 50 or so scholarships!!!

Otherwise, June is tomorrow.. and it is unofficially officially Summer, YAY!! Definitely can feel it in the air. Summer is my favorite time of the year, so I hope to be enjoying it!!!

C-Ya!

15 weeks!

Here is my first pregnancy pic (well of just me). Me at 15 weeks... can you see I already am showing a little bit??

And one with Samantha that Jeffrey took... so she isn't left out!!!


C-Ya!

Happy #5 to Jeffrey!!

5 years ago today Nick and I became parents when Jeffrey came into this world at 8:24am. His arrival was easy... he was breech so we knew we were having a c-section. He just came about a week earlier then we had planned.
And today he is half a decade old!!! I cannot believe it. Like many parents, I really feel he is getting so smart. He already says he wants to be a landscaper like Daddy and can prove it when he is outside. And the stuff he says just blows me away.
Last years birthday didn't turn out so great, so this year we wanted it to be quite the happy day.
First stop was preschool, where Daddy made a special trip home so us and Samantha could bring him. Now Jeffrey has been asking for at least half the school year to bring cupcakes on his birthday and of course I couldn't say no. And he got to wear a birthday crown - I just know he loved the attention.

Then he went home and had a typical afternoon... enjoying the outdoors and digging in the dirt with Samantha. When Nick came home, we gave Jeff the choice of where to go and we went off to Dairy Queen for hot dogs and ice cream (ok.. maybe not what I would have picked, but.. it was his day).
And then a quick stop at a friends to drop off some leftover cupcakes and then home.
We have a tradition I heard about when Jeffrey was a baby. Take one of yours or Daddy's shirts and every year on their birthday, take a picture with them in it. Then you can watch them grow into it more and more.
So here is Jeffrey at 5 and Jeffrey with Daddy


Happy Birthday Son!!!

C-Ya!!

Baby's first picture

Yesterday I went to my second dr. appt for this baby. This was the first one with my ob/gyn (I trade off between him and my nurse practicioner). Nick couldn't come with, but the kids did. We got to hear the baby's heartbeat again. And then the dr. said he wanted an ultrasound to pin down my due date. Well I don't know a woman that would turn down an ultrasound! And as a bonus, the kids were going to see their new baby brother or sister. Unfortunately Nick wasn't, but I showed him the pictures last night.
So with out further ado, here is #3:


And what was cool was the dr was so nice, he gave each of the kids their own picture of their baby sibling. Oh.. and the edd is November 10th now.. just a day off from what the NP said at the last appointment.
Of course not to be outdone... here is me and the other kids today at Jeffrey's preschool for special person day:


Happy May!

C-Ya!

Guess what? Guess what!

Yep... it is true! Jeffrey and Samantha are going to have a little sibling. Honestly this one was quite the surprise (The "leprachuan" told us on St. Pat's Day).. but it is still as exciting. Jeffrey (& Samantha somewhat) have been asking for a sibling (well twins if you ask Jeff) for a while now... needless to say they were very happy when we told them (after we heard the heartbeat).
So I am due November 11. Samantha was due the same time and came October 28.. so I know there is a good chance they could be birthday buddies.
And as I type I am in week 12.. and almost into the 2nd tri! YEA! This one has been harder on me.. I think I have been more nauseas because now that I am home I don't really think to eat as much as I should.
I will keep y'all posted on how it is going!!
C-Ya!

I am now a lady..

.. and here.. you would have thought after two kids I would already be a lady!!!

I am a Lady because Nick became a Sir Knight on Saturday. He completed his training to become a 4th degree Knights of Columbus. Last year he joined and went through the first three degrees.. but becoming 4th degree is something special. Many people never become 4th degree... even those that are Grand Knights. And Nick became one as soon as he could. This meant buying a Tux (yes!!), even if it set us back a chunck of change. On Saturday he went up to St. Cloud in the morning and I joined him later (can't miss my guy in a tux). And of course... I have pictures.

Here is us:


And here is my man all decked out:


C-Ya!!

BUSY!

Yea, that is the reason I haven't blogged.

Three weekends ago I left on Thursday and came back Sunday - I was at a scrapbook retreat with 20 of my other Scrapshare friends in Wisconsin. Once I came back I spent a couple days recovering from not getting enough sleep and laughing constantly (and the 6 or 7 pixie sticks I ate in one night!)

The weekend after that, Nick had a HUGE display at the 2nd annual Westonka Horticultural Day at our church. He started setting up Thursday, had it ready for Saturday, then took it down Sunday. And the kids and I tried to help as much as possible.

And last weekend was Easter. I sang with the choir on Good Friday, Easter Vigil (Saturday night) and on Easter. Also, Nick & his friend Ryan put up a baptismal fountain all day Saturday for the vigil. And I thought it was pretty neat. It also was a bonus that Ryan's daughter was baptized in it on Easter Sunday.

I am looking forward to this weekend when, at least as of right now, we do not have much planned. Nick will start working outside any day now, so our weekends will be precious.
C-Ya!

Use your video camera!

If you have one!
I know that as a scrapbooker I know the importance of getting out our still cameras whenever possible... but sometimes that means neglecting our video cameras.
Well two days ago I got out the video camera to take some video of the kids. We also found the tapes of when they were born/baptism and other assorted videos from when #1 was a baby. So we decided to watch them. And we found a precious gift in them - since dd (#2) was born, we have lost my fil, Grandfather and Great Grandmother.. and we turned on the videos and we saw and heard them again. I know it truly touched my dh's heart to hear and see his Dad again after losing him so suddenly. And I told my Mom that we have her Dad and Grandma on tape!
I also found that we neglected taking any video of dd besides the birth and baptism. Just going to have to make it up and get more video of the kids now. I already started by taking video of the kids making their own peanut butter & jelly sandwiches yesterday.
C-Ya!

SS Blog Challenge: One Word

Here is this week's challenge:

Have you ever tried to describe yourself in one word? One word that sort of sums up who you are, what makes you tick, what sets you apart. It's not as easy as you think.
As women, we need to spend more time recognizing and celebrating the talents and positive traits we've been adorned with. Whether we're suburban upper-middle class moms or urban, poor, living-the-moment teens - we all have one thing in common: we're beautiful women with amazing talents, unbridled potential... and we're fabulous, baby. Fabulous. Go ahead.
Describe yourself with one word. Then ask three other people to describe you, too. Celebrate yourself. I dare you!

Funny... a long time ago we had to go around the room and say one word that would describe ourselves, starting with the first letter in your first name. So after thinking I introduced myself as Multi-talented Melissa. To this day I many times use the word Multi-talented to describe myself and that is why the byline of this blog is: Journey to being multi-talented. Why did I use it and why do I still use it today? Well originally I thought of it because I was in high school and was involved in A LOT of things, whether it be sports-related, academically-related, or other organizations. I choose to wear many hats and therefore called myself multi-talented. As I have gotten older I have cut back on my hats in some respects but have gained others; mainly wife, mother, home owner and the like. I still like to use this word to describe myself, though like the blog says.. I still feel like I am on this journey to get that way. My father likes to talk about how he is a generalist. Basically he knows a little about a lot of things, and I am the same way. In a way, this is a sign of being multi-talented to me.
What one word would you use to describe me? Feel free to comment. Thanks!

And in that vain, I have posted more layouts on my scrapbooking blog - empress4cmc.blogspot.com Enjoy!

C-Ya!

Enterprising young girl!

Through Scrapshare.com I get to hear about a lot of things... whether good or bad, I feel lucky to be a part of this community (same goes for Hsscrappers.com).
Last week I heard a story about a young girl. She used to live near another Scrapshare member and had since moved away. She has always wanted a horse, and her Mom has always said she could have one if she earned the money. So that is what she went about doing. She started making scrunchies, headbands, flip flops and scarves. She has since saved up for a horse but is now saving for its upkeep. After getting permission through an SS member, I am posting the link here for you to check out: agirlsheaven.org maybe you will find something you want!

C-Ya!

Christmas in February

Many of you know that my Dad went into the hospital the middle December and finally got out just over a week ago. Because of this much of our lives were put on hold - including Christmas. Well Sunday we finally got to celebrate Christmas at my parent's house. And while we didn't have the turkey that we planned - we did have spaghetti, mostly made by my Dad! Besides us and my parents; my brother and his two friends - Katie and Corey - were over to celebrate.
And of course, I have pictures!!!
Here is the guest of honor - my Dad - and his girl - Samantha

Me, Dad, & the kids - Aaron's friend Katie

The Kids playing with the Elmo Uncle Aaron (pictured) gave them - Dad, the kids, and Mom taking down the Christmas tree

Samantha playing with Katie - Mom & Samantha reading

Nick and I (w/ the scarf my younger cousin made me)

Merry Christmas in this season of Lent!

C-Ya!

Countdown - Part 2

Scrapshare's blog challenge this weekend is a new kind of countdown...here goes:

10 Favorites
Color: Purple
Food: French Fries
Month: July
Song: "If you are going through hell"
Movie: Coyote Ugly
Sport: NASCAR
Season: Summer
Day of the Week: Saturday
Ice Cream Flavor: Peanut Butter & Chocolate
Time of Day: Evening
9 Currents
Mood: Little tired and a tinge bit sick
Clothes: Green 3/4 sleeved shirt, black workout pants and white socks
Taste: Ice Tea?
Desktop: Sorta messy
Toenail Color: Way leftover goldish color on some
Time: 2:30pm
Surroundings: Kitchen
Thoughts: I hope Samantha keeps telling me if she needs to go potty.
Wonderings: What the kids are doing, why I have a headache, what is going to happen on GH.
8 Firsts
Best Friend: Lindsey (eek, did I just type her name "outloud"?)
Kiss: S.W.
Screen Name: Empress
Pet: Klinger the cat
Piercing: Ears
Crush: ??
Computer: TRS80 from Radio Shack
Home Location: St. Paul
7 Lasts
Cigarette: NEVER
Drink: Last weekend - I think it was wine
Kiss: Today from my kids. Yesterday from Nick.
Movie seen at the theater: American Wedding (can you tell it has been awhile)
Phone Call: My Dad yesterday
CD played: Brooks & Dunn - though most are things on my ipod
Gift received: Cookbook
6 Have You Evers
Dated One Of Your Best Friends: Nope
Broken the Law: Speeding is the closest I get
Been Arrested: Nope
Skinny Dipped: Nope (though I wouldn't be against it)
Been on TV: Yep.. commercials, news
Kissed Someone You Didn't Know: Nope
5 Things
You've Eaten Today: Waffles, chicken, stuffing, corn
You've Done Today: Cleaned dishes, done laundry
You Can Hear Right Now: TV, kids
You Can't Live Without: Phone, music, camera
You Do When You're Bored: Sleep, hang out on the computer, watch TV
4 places you've been today
1. Jeffrey's preschool
2. Curves
3. Downstairs
4. Bank
3 people you can tell anything to
1. Nick
2. Dad
3. Mom
2 Choices
1. Black or White: Both
2. Hot or Cold: Hot
1 thing you wanna do before you die
I want to see my kids grow up and have their own families.

C-Ya!

Potty Training and Scrapbooking!

Well we have done it.. we have officially started potty training Samantha. Even though it feels like Jeffrey was just trained (he started last July and was dry during the day by the end of August and has been dry throughout the night since November). She has to be potty trained for preschool - and that starts in just over 6 months - so we have started. Our first step was convincing her that she wanted to be potty trained. She has a mind of her own and that can be quite difficult. Well, I don't know what did it - but she said she wanted to be. We did tell her that if she got trained we would repaint their room in Dora and Diego. And we did tell her she could try to beat Aidan - her friend that is also starting preschool. And we just kept asking her. So we started her in underwear today (with the promise of more when she gets trained). So far she has peed twice and pood once. And then she had a #2 accident. Ah well, I cleaned her up and put on a new pair of underwear. She can do it!!
I have actually scrapbooked the past couple days. I think with everything that has gone on the past 3-4 months I have not really been inspired. Though I have gone to a friend's church a couple times and scrapped. Well I have 2 layouts that I am particularlly proud of and have posted them on my scrapbooking blog: http://empress4cmc.blogspot.com/2007/02/layouts-sunflowers-kids.html
Well a winter storm is heading for the Twin Cities this weekend. We don't have many plans - I am ok with hunkering down and hanging out. I hope everyone in the area stays safe.
Have a Good Weekend!
C-Ya!

February Heat Wave!

We have been lucky here in the Twin Cities, after a cold stretch, the past couple days we have had a heat wave. It has been in the forties the past couple days and today is the first day I don't think we reached that mark. This has meant time to hang out outside. Nick was cleaning out the garage, the kids got to play (and get muddy) and we (except Nick) got to take the dogs out for a walk.
So what does a February Heat Wave look like... here are some pictures:
In our backyard/driveway on Monday:


On the lake on Wednesday:



Well it all is going to come to an end this weekend with an early "March Madness" snowstorm. Ah well.. the Groundhog predicted and early Spring.. so maybe it will come true.

C-Ya!