Well we suffered another loss, a week ago my Grandma (Mom's Mom) died. She ended up dying from dementia but also had lung cancer and emphysema. My poor mother has lost so many people, but seems to be doing ok. For the first time since I was born she now doesn't have a child or adult to take care of (or at least be a strong advocate for). I did tell I hope the only diaper she changes and baths she gives for a long time is to Carter.
My Grandma Joyce was 76 years old and now joins her parents, brother, special friend and son-in-law (my Dad) in heaven. I know she had some welcoming arms up there.
C-Ya!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Spouse
I got this from Cowtown Stacy and knew I had to copy... even if she didn't tag me!!!
(he may shoot me if he knew I put a "naked Nick" picture online - btw.. he is not naked, just has his shirt off!)
What is his name? Nick
How long have you been married? Just celebrated 8 years
How long did you date? It was 2 months before we got engaged... we got married three years and 2 days after our first date.
How old is he? 32
Who eats more? Him... though I do eat faster!
Who said I love you first? He did.
Who is taller? He is. That was one of my requirements.. of course when you are 5'2" most guys are. He is 6'1" or 6'.. he can never decide.
Who sings better? ME! And he knows it.
Who's temper is worse? Probably him... because he is more passionate about things.
Who does the laundry? Me, if I had to wait for him to have time (especially in the summer) it would never get done.
Who pays the bills? He makes it, I spend it.
Who cooks dinner? I do about 75% of the time.. of course more in the summer.
Who mows the lawn? Neither one of us... he used to own a lawn care company.. and is such a perfectionist that I could never do it, but again, he doesn't have time. So his former business partner mows it!
Who wears the pants in the family? If I had to name someone I would say more him, but we are pretty equal.
OK, so I need to tag someone ... Diane (even if you don't get married for a couple weeks) and Roxanne (because you need a blog... even if Fredo needs to write it)
C-Ya!
(he may shoot me if he knew I put a "naked Nick" picture online - btw.. he is not naked, just has his shirt off!)
What is his name? Nick
How long have you been married? Just celebrated 8 years
How long did you date? It was 2 months before we got engaged... we got married three years and 2 days after our first date.
How old is he? 32
Who eats more? Him... though I do eat faster!
Who said I love you first? He did.
Who is taller? He is. That was one of my requirements.. of course when you are 5'2" most guys are. He is 6'1" or 6'.. he can never decide.
Who sings better? ME! And he knows it.
Who's temper is worse? Probably him... because he is more passionate about things.
Who does the laundry? Me, if I had to wait for him to have time (especially in the summer) it would never get done.
Who pays the bills? He makes it, I spend it.
Who cooks dinner? I do about 75% of the time.. of course more in the summer.
Who mows the lawn? Neither one of us... he used to own a lawn care company.. and is such a perfectionist that I could never do it, but again, he doesn't have time. So his former business partner mows it!
Who wears the pants in the family? If I had to name someone I would say more him, but we are pretty equal.
OK, so I need to tag someone ... Diane (even if you don't get married for a couple weeks) and Roxanne (because you need a blog... even if Fredo needs to write it)
C-Ya!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Happy 8th Anniversary!
On this day 8 years ago I told Nick that I would be his wife forever.. 8 years, through all the highs and lows we are celebrating our anniversary. Tonight we left the kids with our good friends and we went out, just the two of us, on a real date for the first time since Carter was born.
Rarely do we have pics just the two of us... but here is us in May at the Knights convention (which we had to take Carter to)..
Happy Anniversary Dear.
C-Ya!
Rarely do we have pics just the two of us... but here is us in May at the Knights convention (which we had to take Carter to)..
Happy Anniversary Dear.
C-Ya!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
I have come to realize...
With thanks (& apologies?) to Cowtown Stacy who writes way better on her Blog. I am copying her in this. Of course she did copy this from CloverGirl who also writes a great blog.
1. I've come to realize that my boobs are never going to recover from having kids unless I get some "help" - and I do want "help".
2. I've come to realize that my job is supposedly watching my kids every day as a SAHM. Though I don't believe it is a "job" it is a full lifestyle.
3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving I don't always need the radio on. Though if I am completely alone I need to either listen to music or talk on the phone.
4. I've come to realize that I need the friends I have in my life and the friends that are to come.
5. I've come to realize that I have lost my freedom and independence when I had kids.
6. I've come to realize that I hate it when people are self-centered (as I am writing a post all about myself!)
7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk I will get a headache the next morning.
8. I've come to realize that money wouldn't solve our problems but we would have a lot more fun with them.
9. I've come to realize that certain people enjoy their life, even if it isn't the life for me.
10. I've come to realize that I'll always be short.
12. I've come to realize that my mom needs to have some good things in life happen to her.
13. I've come to realize my cell phone should be fun - that is why I got a new one. And that it actually has helped my relationship with Nick because otherwise we would never talk.
14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning I was still tired because Carter woke me up to eat.
15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep I should have gone to bed earlier.
16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking about how tireing but good my walk was.
17. I've come to realize that my dad was a great man that will always be missed.
18. I've come to realize that when I get on the computer I can forget about the world around me.
19. I've come to realize that today is filled with more possibilites that I never let myself have.
20. I've come to realize that tonight can never come soon enough.
21. I've come to realize that tomorrow I will try to spend at least one minute less on the computer.
22. I've come to realize that I really want to live comfortably... whatever that is.
24. I've come to realize that life isn't easy or fair or always pretty.
25. I've come to realize that this weekend is the first weekend all summer where we have NOTHING booked (except for church - since we go every weekend).
26. I've come to realize that the best music to listen to when I am upset is music that lets me be upset.
27. I've come to realize that friends are very important for our well being.
28. I've come to realize that this year I will be starting the last year of my Twenties and really need to make some goals and plans to get to those goals.
C-Ya!
1. I've come to realize that my boobs are never going to recover from having kids unless I get some "help" - and I do want "help".
2. I've come to realize that my job is supposedly watching my kids every day as a SAHM. Though I don't believe it is a "job" it is a full lifestyle.
3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving I don't always need the radio on. Though if I am completely alone I need to either listen to music or talk on the phone.
4. I've come to realize that I need the friends I have in my life and the friends that are to come.
5. I've come to realize that I have lost my freedom and independence when I had kids.
6. I've come to realize that I hate it when people are self-centered (as I am writing a post all about myself!)
7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk I will get a headache the next morning.
8. I've come to realize that money wouldn't solve our problems but we would have a lot more fun with them.
9. I've come to realize that certain people enjoy their life, even if it isn't the life for me.
10. I've come to realize that I'll always be short.
12. I've come to realize that my mom needs to have some good things in life happen to her.
13. I've come to realize my cell phone should be fun - that is why I got a new one. And that it actually has helped my relationship with Nick because otherwise we would never talk.
14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning I was still tired because Carter woke me up to eat.
15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep I should have gone to bed earlier.
16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking about how tireing but good my walk was.
17. I've come to realize that my dad was a great man that will always be missed.
18. I've come to realize that when I get on the computer I can forget about the world around me.
19. I've come to realize that today is filled with more possibilites that I never let myself have.
20. I've come to realize that tonight can never come soon enough.
21. I've come to realize that tomorrow I will try to spend at least one minute less on the computer.
22. I've come to realize that I really want to live comfortably... whatever that is.
24. I've come to realize that life isn't easy or fair or always pretty.
25. I've come to realize that this weekend is the first weekend all summer where we have NOTHING booked (except for church - since we go every weekend).
26. I've come to realize that the best music to listen to when I am upset is music that lets me be upset.
27. I've come to realize that friends are very important for our well being.
28. I've come to realize that this year I will be starting the last year of my Twenties and really need to make some goals and plans to get to those goals.
C-Ya!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Facebook!
NEWS FLASH:
Yesterday, July 9, 2008... Melissa finally joined facebook. She doesn't know why it took her so long. She thought it was more for school kids. But now that she has joined she is enjoying it and all the fun applications and finding all of her friends (wait... does she have friends?). Anyways, if you to are on facebook and want to check her out, this link may work Facebook profile.
Thank you and now back to your regularly scheduled blogging!!!
C-Ya!
Yesterday, July 9, 2008... Melissa finally joined facebook. She doesn't know why it took her so long. She thought it was more for school kids. But now that she has joined she is enjoying it and all the fun applications and finding all of her friends (wait... does she have friends?). Anyways, if you to are on facebook and want to check her out, this link may work Facebook profile.
Thank you and now back to your regularly scheduled blogging!!!
C-Ya!
Monday, July 07, 2008
Jeffrey at 6
Jeffrey turned 6 in May. Every year I cannot believe I have a child that is as old as he is. It seems like just yesterday Nick and I were talking about trying for a child, and now it is over six years later.
(J in his "bday shirt")
Jeffrey is so smart in our eyes, nothing goes past him. He remembers so much, though honestly sometimes he embelishes the truth. He sure can tell you stories, though.
He still wants to be a landscaper when he grows up. He loves, loves, loves when he can go to work with Daddy. Nick just told me when they see Jeffrey on the job site they call him the boss. And when Jeffrey is home he has his own "employees" to deal with - and be careful, if they are bad or old they get thrown in the trash.
Jeffrey really enjoyed Kindergarten. He made his first friend all by himself, Jack.. and enjoyed some other friends. He really knew how to butter up his teachers... he had two teachers most of the time and one could never discipline him he was too cute with her. He says his favorite classes were art, music, library, computer, gym and math ... well really almost all the classes.. And he liked to ride the bus to and from school but also liked when Mommy and/or Daddy occasionally picked him up. I am just amazed at how well he can write and start to read things.
(J wrote the alphabet with bath crayons)
He is enjoying his summer so far. Besides going to work with Daddy, him and Samantha already were in one music/religion camp at my friend's church which culmenated with a performance. He also is enjoying a chance to go with to MOMS club stuff. And he is a great helper with Carter (he sometimes takes that role way too seriously)
And that is a little update of my "big, little" boy Jeffrey
C-Ya!
(J in his "bday shirt")Jeffrey is so smart in our eyes, nothing goes past him. He remembers so much, though honestly sometimes he embelishes the truth. He sure can tell you stories, though.
He still wants to be a landscaper when he grows up. He loves, loves, loves when he can go to work with Daddy. Nick just told me when they see Jeffrey on the job site they call him the boss. And when Jeffrey is home he has his own "employees" to deal with - and be careful, if they are bad or old they get thrown in the trash.
Jeffrey really enjoyed Kindergarten. He made his first friend all by himself, Jack.. and enjoyed some other friends. He really knew how to butter up his teachers... he had two teachers most of the time and one could never discipline him he was too cute with her. He says his favorite classes were art, music, library, computer, gym and math ... well really almost all the classes.. And he liked to ride the bus to and from school but also liked when Mommy and/or Daddy occasionally picked him up. I am just amazed at how well he can write and start to read things.
(J wrote the alphabet with bath crayons)He is enjoying his summer so far. Besides going to work with Daddy, him and Samantha already were in one music/religion camp at my friend's church which culmenated with a performance. He also is enjoying a chance to go with to MOMS club stuff. And he is a great helper with Carter (he sometimes takes that role way too seriously)
And that is a little update of my "big, little" boy Jeffrey
C-Ya!
Monday, June 30, 2008
June post
Ok... so I actually didn't take the time to post in June but I want to make it look like I did so I am back dating this post to June. I actually plan to update on how all the kids are doing maybe this long weekend (of July 4th)!!! :)
C-Ya!
C-Ya!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to me and all the other Mothers out there - whether you are a mother-to-be (as I was 6 years ago) or a "special Mom", whether your children were born in your tummy or in your heart. I love having this day where we honor Mothers!!!
In celebration of this being my first Mother's Day with 3 children, here are my three little (?) bundles of joy (with Lucy)! Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter do make this day extra special for me.
Nick is going to make dinner for us tonight. Of course I wish my Dad was still around and we could continue our tradition where us and my parents went out for dinner, but with him being gone I just don't feel like going out to eat.
Fathers must get jealous that Mother's Day falls during the school year because every year the kids seem to make me creative Mother's Day gifts but school is already out for his day (mental note to try to think of something creative for them to make this year). And this year was great... here are what the kids made at school. The card with the person giving a hug was made by Jeffrey and Samantha made the hand in the clay.. on the other said it talks about stuff we like to eat together like noodles, wraps and parmesan cheese!!
Don't know yet if Nick will get me a card from him and/or the kids. He doesn't seem to be great at remembering that.
I hope your day is happy!!
C-Ya!
In celebration of this being my first Mother's Day with 3 children, here are my three little (?) bundles of joy (with Lucy)! Jeffrey, Samantha & Carter do make this day extra special for me.
Nick is going to make dinner for us tonight. Of course I wish my Dad was still around and we could continue our tradition where us and my parents went out for dinner, but with him being gone I just don't feel like going out to eat.
Fathers must get jealous that Mother's Day falls during the school year because every year the kids seem to make me creative Mother's Day gifts but school is already out for his day (mental note to try to think of something creative for them to make this year). And this year was great... here are what the kids made at school. The card with the person giving a hug was made by Jeffrey and Samantha made the hand in the clay.. on the other said it talks about stuff we like to eat together like noodles, wraps and parmesan cheese!!
Don't know yet if Nick will get me a card from him and/or the kids. He doesn't seem to be great at remembering that.
I hope your day is happy!!
C-Ya!
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
I suck it up..
I have a minor medical issue... something I get often enough... yet it is one of those things if it doesn't go away in a day or so I need a prescription which usually means running to the Doctor. I have had this since Friday.
And I suck it up...
I suck it up... because I always think I can beat this myself.
I suck it up... because Nick thinks that my family runs to the Dr. too much.
I suck it up... because gas costs around $3.50 and it can be almost a 1/4 a tank to drive to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I have to take one to three kids with to the Dr.
I suck it up... because health insurance is for the healthy and it will still cost me to go to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I feel so icky I just want to stay home and hide.
So I sucked it up long enough today and called the Dr. and after having to wait all day I got one piece of good news about 10 minutes ago... they can just call my prescription in.
Guess no more sucking it up!!!
C-Ya!
And I suck it up...
I suck it up... because I always think I can beat this myself.
I suck it up... because Nick thinks that my family runs to the Dr. too much.
I suck it up... because gas costs around $3.50 and it can be almost a 1/4 a tank to drive to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I have to take one to three kids with to the Dr.
I suck it up... because health insurance is for the healthy and it will still cost me to go to the Dr.
I suck it up... because I feel so icky I just want to stay home and hide.
So I sucked it up long enough today and called the Dr. and after having to wait all day I got one piece of good news about 10 minutes ago... they can just call my prescription in.
Guess no more sucking it up!!!
C-Ya!
Monday, May 05, 2008
6 Months Old!
Yes, my Carter is half a year old. I cannot believe it. For awhile the time was dragging but now all of a suddenly it is going pretty fast. A lot people think that this is the fun age for babies, before they are walking and tearing through the house, but after they start getting a personality. And Carter sure does have a personality! Thankfully it is usually happy unless he is hungry.
He is turning into the turning fool. He can go from his tummy to his back and his back to his tummy. And he can sure hold his head up well. If I put him in a sitting position he can sit for a very short period of time.
And Samantha and Jeffrey still just adore him. Samantha loves to make him "pile" (smile) and Jeffrey just cannot wait to pick him up and carry him. Of course I am thinking he really loves his mother. My voice is on my Mom's answering machine (yea, she still doesn't have voice mail) and once when she was watching him it came on and he turned to look for me!!
We had his 6 month checkup on Friday. The Dr. says he looks great. His measurements are 16 lbs 2 oz (30%), length is 26 1/4" (50%) and his head is 17 1/2" (75%).
A couple weeks ago we started spoon feeding him rice cereal. I don't always remember to give him some every night but I need to get better at that. I am also planning on giving him some fruits and veggies sometime this week. Last year I bought a Magic Bullet and plan to try to make some of his baby food.
Just over a week ago Nick put up Carter's crib. He has been taking his nap in there as well as starting the night in there. Last week he probably slept the whole night about half the time. So there is hope that he will let me get sleep consistantly soon.
Wow! I thought this was going to be a short post... but I guess Carter has sure done a lot lately. He already is getting to be such a big boy.
C-Ya!
He is turning into the turning fool. He can go from his tummy to his back and his back to his tummy. And he can sure hold his head up well. If I put him in a sitting position he can sit for a very short period of time.
And Samantha and Jeffrey still just adore him. Samantha loves to make him "pile" (smile) and Jeffrey just cannot wait to pick him up and carry him. Of course I am thinking he really loves his mother. My voice is on my Mom's answering machine (yea, she still doesn't have voice mail) and once when she was watching him it came on and he turned to look for me!!
We had his 6 month checkup on Friday. The Dr. says he looks great. His measurements are 16 lbs 2 oz (30%), length is 26 1/4" (50%) and his head is 17 1/2" (75%).
A couple weeks ago we started spoon feeding him rice cereal. I don't always remember to give him some every night but I need to get better at that. I am also planning on giving him some fruits and veggies sometime this week. Last year I bought a Magic Bullet and plan to try to make some of his baby food.
Just over a week ago Nick put up Carter's crib. He has been taking his nap in there as well as starting the night in there. Last week he probably slept the whole night about half the time. So there is hope that he will let me get sleep consistantly soon.
Wow! I thought this was going to be a short post... but I guess Carter has sure done a lot lately. He already is getting to be such a big boy.
C-Ya!
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Introducing Lucy!
Introducing our new puppy, Lucy:
When Maggie died we knew we couldn't be without a little dog for long. So we went back to the place that we got Maggie and saw that they had some shih poos available right away and soon. We found one that was born on February 4, had the same father and was going to be available the beginning of April. So on Thursday, April 10 Nick went and got her.
Now the kids knew we were talking about getting another one, but they did not know when. Partially because I didn't want Jeffrey to miss school since we were getting her while he was gone. Nick brought her home in the morning so Jeff was gone but this was Samantha and Carter's reaction when they saw her
Samantha was pretty excited but nothing could contain the excitement Jeffrey felt when he got home from school and Samantha brought her out
After discussing it all day (and initially thinking we were going to call her Abby) we settled on Lucy. Kind of a break from the "M" names we have named our dogs in the past.
Of course I get to hold her a lot
Potty training has gone ok... she is starting to get the hang of using the bell to go outside, though at times she can be lazy. Samantha and Jeffrey are great with her... they are always taking her out and playing with her. This has been a Godsend because it can get kind of crazy having a new puppy and a baby. Carter, well, he doesn't same much about her. We do have to watch her around him or she mistakes him for a play toy. And Nick is just grateful to have a new "drinking buddy".
Max hasn't had much play time with her, but Scooter has and is quite dissapointed... he thought he would be the only furry friend in the house for awhile.
C-Ya!
When Maggie died we knew we couldn't be without a little dog for long. So we went back to the place that we got Maggie and saw that they had some shih poos available right away and soon. We found one that was born on February 4, had the same father and was going to be available the beginning of April. So on Thursday, April 10 Nick went and got her.
Now the kids knew we were talking about getting another one, but they did not know when. Partially because I didn't want Jeffrey to miss school since we were getting her while he was gone. Nick brought her home in the morning so Jeff was gone but this was Samantha and Carter's reaction when they saw her
Samantha was pretty excited but nothing could contain the excitement Jeffrey felt when he got home from school and Samantha brought her out
After discussing it all day (and initially thinking we were going to call her Abby) we settled on Lucy. Kind of a break from the "M" names we have named our dogs in the past.
Of course I get to hold her a lot
Potty training has gone ok... she is starting to get the hang of using the bell to go outside, though at times she can be lazy. Samantha and Jeffrey are great with her... they are always taking her out and playing with her. This has been a Godsend because it can get kind of crazy having a new puppy and a baby. Carter, well, he doesn't same much about her. We do have to watch her around him or she mistakes him for a play toy. And Nick is just grateful to have a new "drinking buddy".
Max hasn't had much play time with her, but Scooter has and is quite dissapointed... he thought he would be the only furry friend in the house for awhile.
C-Ya!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Us in April!
So April is amounting to a BUSY month. I think we have or had something every weekend. Multiple things. So this means that we are not getting anything done around the house - especially all those little projects that Nick has started but hasn't had time to finish and if he doesn't finish them soon they probably wont be touched all summer. Of course I have my fair share of stuff to get done, but the past couple days I have been so tired. Kind of goes in waves for me. One or two days I have energy and get stuff done followed by week(s) of being tired.
I do have some pictures to share. We were at my friends' wedding reception last weekend at the Minnesota Zoo. It was pretty cool to have it with the dolphins, sharks and other sea creatures swimming around. The kids had a ton of fun. Here are some (though don't worry Roxanne... I have more I need to get to you!)
Our family:
Daddy & Carter, Samantha, Jeffrey:
And me with the bride, my good friend Roxanne:
BTW... as I am writing this it is snowing, can spring just finally be here?
C-Ya!
I do have some pictures to share. We were at my friends' wedding reception last weekend at the Minnesota Zoo. It was pretty cool to have it with the dolphins, sharks and other sea creatures swimming around. The kids had a ton of fun. Here are some (though don't worry Roxanne... I have more I need to get to you!)
Our family:
Daddy & Carter, Samantha, Jeffrey:
And me with the bride, my good friend Roxanne:
BTW... as I am writing this it is snowing, can spring just finally be here?
C-Ya!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
In Memory of Maggie
I am just going to repost what I emailed everyone when this happened.
It is with sadness that I have to say we have lost our Maggie dog. On the night of Tuesday, March 24 she got off her leash and was hit and killed by a car. I wasn't home but Nick said that whoever hit her didn't stop. Another person saw her lying in the street and went and got the neighbors who in turn got Nick. The lady that found her said she had a faint pulse but by the time Nick got there it was too late. She was almost 2 1/2 years old and was the perfect dog.
We told the kids the next morning.. Jeffrey is taking it especially hard and we let him stay home from school. Samantha decided she wanted to go. She is just asking a lot of questions and is saying that she is sad.
Nick and I are devastated. We have suffered so much loss. I truly don't know if I slept that night, I felt like I was up all night.
The house seems quiet right now, even with the noise the kids make... she definetly had a presence around here larger then life.I think we have all decided that we want to get another little dog soon. We don't know much about what kind yet, but we know we want a girl and to give her a name like Maggie.
Maggie was buried in our back yard next to Mollie, that is what the kids wanted.
:(
C-Ya!
It is with sadness that I have to say we have lost our Maggie dog. On the night of Tuesday, March 24 she got off her leash and was hit and killed by a car. I wasn't home but Nick said that whoever hit her didn't stop. Another person saw her lying in the street and went and got the neighbors who in turn got Nick. The lady that found her said she had a faint pulse but by the time Nick got there it was too late. She was almost 2 1/2 years old and was the perfect dog.
We told the kids the next morning.. Jeffrey is taking it especially hard and we let him stay home from school. Samantha decided she wanted to go. She is just asking a lot of questions and is saying that she is sad.
Nick and I are devastated. We have suffered so much loss. I truly don't know if I slept that night, I felt like I was up all night.
The house seems quiet right now, even with the noise the kids make... she definetly had a presence around here larger then life.I think we have all decided that we want to get another little dog soon. We don't know much about what kind yet, but we know we want a girl and to give her a name like Maggie.
Maggie was buried in our back yard next to Mollie, that is what the kids wanted.
:(
C-Ya!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Partial revamp
As you may be able to see... I did a partial revamp of the blog. I am actually on the hunt for a new template, but till then I changed something in the templates section.
I also deleted a couple more things on my sidebar.
So if you notice something is not working right, please let me know. But also tell me if your are finding it is loading faster. Thanks!!!
And, today it was back to school for the kids! It definetly was quieter around here!!!
C-Ya!
I also deleted a couple more things on my sidebar.
So if you notice something is not working right, please let me know. But also tell me if your are finding it is loading faster. Thanks!!!
And, today it was back to school for the kids! It definetly was quieter around here!!!
C-Ya!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Happy Easter 2008
Merry Christmas... oh wait... Happy Easter!!!
Looks a little more like Christmas around here this Easter... of course it is really early this year so that is understandable. The snow was actually melting but starting Friday it has been snowing on and off till today. Though it is funny because it is warm enough that some of it melts off the ground as soon as it hits it.
Our Easter started off on Thursday if you count that we were at mass Thursday, Friday and Saturday night as well as Sunday morning. But we really got into the spirit on Saturday.
We started off at church for the annual Knights Easter Egg Hunt. Due to the snow it was held indoors and that was just fine with me. The kids' age group was in the gym and the eggs were just spread all over the floor. Both Jeffrey and Samantha had an easy time this year getting eggs and ended up with 8 and 6 eggs. Jeffrey had a prize egg and got to pick out something, he choose silly straws. Samantha had a grand prize egg and picked out a giant elephant!!
After that we went into the main part of the church to check out Nick's progress on the baptismal fountain he was building for the Easter season. This is the second year he has made one and he definetly had an easier time this year. I think it turned out great.
Later that night we were back up at church for the Easter Vigil Mass. Our friends so graciously watched the kids during mass so I could sing in the choir and Nick could usher. I will say we sounded awesome as a choir - especially the ending Hallelujiah Chorus.
Today started out back at church for mass.. then back home to get ready for having Mom, Aaron and Katie over. Again it is bittersweet to be celebrating without Dad. The past couple years we have combined Easter and Passover and this year I just didn't feel like doing anything for Passover (of course it isn't for awhile so there wasn't much out anyways).
Aaron and Katie brought over their dog Aspen, and he got to spend some time with Max. Maggie also got a chance to say Hi.
Because we are so busy in the morning the Easter Bunny usually doesn't stop by till mid day or so. This year EB left the kids' gifts outside the door and played ding dong ditch... unfortunately the kids missed EB. But they did like their gifts - including Carter.
And then we had our Easter dinner - yum. Afterwards Uncle Aaron got to hang out with his youngest buddy Carter.
From my family to yours HAPPY EASTER
(and yes... Jeff and Sami both just got haircuts!)
C-Ya!
Looks a little more like Christmas around here this Easter... of course it is really early this year so that is understandable. The snow was actually melting but starting Friday it has been snowing on and off till today. Though it is funny because it is warm enough that some of it melts off the ground as soon as it hits it.
Our Easter started off on Thursday if you count that we were at mass Thursday, Friday and Saturday night as well as Sunday morning. But we really got into the spirit on Saturday.
We started off at church for the annual Knights Easter Egg Hunt. Due to the snow it was held indoors and that was just fine with me. The kids' age group was in the gym and the eggs were just spread all over the floor. Both Jeffrey and Samantha had an easy time this year getting eggs and ended up with 8 and 6 eggs. Jeffrey had a prize egg and got to pick out something, he choose silly straws. Samantha had a grand prize egg and picked out a giant elephant!!
After that we went into the main part of the church to check out Nick's progress on the baptismal fountain he was building for the Easter season. This is the second year he has made one and he definetly had an easier time this year. I think it turned out great.
Later that night we were back up at church for the Easter Vigil Mass. Our friends so graciously watched the kids during mass so I could sing in the choir and Nick could usher. I will say we sounded awesome as a choir - especially the ending Hallelujiah Chorus.
Today started out back at church for mass.. then back home to get ready for having Mom, Aaron and Katie over. Again it is bittersweet to be celebrating without Dad. The past couple years we have combined Easter and Passover and this year I just didn't feel like doing anything for Passover (of course it isn't for awhile so there wasn't much out anyways).
Aaron and Katie brought over their dog Aspen, and he got to spend some time with Max. Maggie also got a chance to say Hi.
Because we are so busy in the morning the Easter Bunny usually doesn't stop by till mid day or so. This year EB left the kids' gifts outside the door and played ding dong ditch... unfortunately the kids missed EB. But they did like their gifts - including Carter.
And then we had our Easter dinner - yum. Afterwards Uncle Aaron got to hang out with his youngest buddy Carter.
From my family to yours HAPPY EASTER
(and yes... Jeff and Sami both just got haircuts!)
C-Ya!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!
Today my parents would have celebrated their 29th Anniversary. I think it is bittersweet that while we were on our trip to Cancun someone decided to celebrate it then (it could have been the room service that came with the celebration). Little did we know that Dad wouldn't make it to that day.
I haven't talked to Mom today, she knew it was going to be a hard day. Because she had plans tonight we took her out Monday to dinner and I brought her roses. I know she really appreciated us not forgetting.
And adding to all this, we found out last week my Grandma (Mom's Mom) is pretty sick.. though we wont know how bad till tomorrow.
So Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad I know you are watching down on us.
Dad & Mom in Cancun
Dad & Mom with Aaron, Gage, Johnny, Carter, Carrie, Nick, Jeffrey, Me & Samantha (Kids, Grandkids and sons-in-law) in Cancun.
C-Ya!
Monday, March 17, 2008
One year ago
Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!
My SS friend Nancy has a post called "One Year Ago" where she talks about how one year ago on Friday, March 14 she found out about her daughter's diagnosis of Type 1 Diabeties. It got me thinking... see one year ago today we got some happy news.
Let me back up to the day before (Friday, March 16, 2007), I was starting to have some indications that things may not be what they seem. I wasn't feeling right and just had a sneaky suspicion.
So on Saturday, March 17, 2007 after spending time at the St. Pat's party at the American Legion I just knew I had to find out.
Yep... it was one year ago that we found out we were going to have a third child!!!
Gosh it has seemed like a lot has gone on this past year. We have had the birth of Carter, the death of my father, a trip to Mexico, Jeffrey starting kindergarten, Samantha starting preschool... I guess a lot has gone on.
So I raise a glass to my Halloween baby Carter
C-Ya!
My SS friend Nancy has a post called "One Year Ago" where she talks about how one year ago on Friday, March 14 she found out about her daughter's diagnosis of Type 1 Diabeties. It got me thinking... see one year ago today we got some happy news.
Let me back up to the day before (Friday, March 16, 2007), I was starting to have some indications that things may not be what they seem. I wasn't feeling right and just had a sneaky suspicion.
So on Saturday, March 17, 2007 after spending time at the St. Pat's party at the American Legion I just knew I had to find out.
Yep... it was one year ago that we found out we were going to have a third child!!!
Gosh it has seemed like a lot has gone on this past year. We have had the birth of Carter, the death of my father, a trip to Mexico, Jeffrey starting kindergarten, Samantha starting preschool... I guess a lot has gone on.
So I raise a glass to my Halloween baby Carter
C-Ya!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Hey there!
Hey blog... how are you?
I am doing ok...
It is almost Spring and we are starting to have 40 degree highs!!!
Spring Break is next week.
Carter turned 4 months and is 13 pounds 14 ounces and 24+ inches long (40% for both)... kind of wonder how he stacks up with Jeffrey and Samantha.. I will have to check that out. He is quite the smiler and can roll over from his tummy. Poor thing is congested again.
That is about it.
C-Ya!
I am doing ok...
It is almost Spring and we are starting to have 40 degree highs!!!
Spring Break is next week.
Carter turned 4 months and is 13 pounds 14 ounces and 24+ inches long (40% for both)... kind of wonder how he stacks up with Jeffrey and Samantha.. I will have to check that out. He is quite the smiler and can roll over from his tummy. Poor thing is congested again.
That is about it.
C-Ya!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Out of sorrow, joy!
Life has been tough without Dad.. days just don't seem as happy. Yes, my three kids do help me to remember why we live, especially Carter (who is jibber jabbering in the next room right now!).
And out of our sorrow, we have found some good. My brother has had an undefined relationship with Katie for the past few years. Well he just defined it last night and they got engaged! Now I don't think he got down on one knee... he just doesn't seem like the type.. but he did get her a ring! And he has already called looking for the guest list from my wedding! As far as I know they are looking at April 2009!
Now we know that our Dad's death has caused him to really look at his life. We just wish he was here to share in this. Dad loved being a part of mine and my sister's wedding... he really enjoyed the role of father-of-the-bride. We will just have to honor him, and Katie's departed Dad, at the wedding.
Now I don't know if I have a pic of the two of them together but here is individual pics taken when they came and visited the hospital after Carter was born:
Congrats to them!!
C-Ya!
And out of our sorrow, we have found some good. My brother has had an undefined relationship with Katie for the past few years. Well he just defined it last night and they got engaged! Now I don't think he got down on one knee... he just doesn't seem like the type.. but he did get her a ring! And he has already called looking for the guest list from my wedding! As far as I know they are looking at April 2009!
Now we know that our Dad's death has caused him to really look at his life. We just wish he was here to share in this. Dad loved being a part of mine and my sister's wedding... he really enjoyed the role of father-of-the-bride. We will just have to honor him, and Katie's departed Dad, at the wedding.
Now I don't know if I have a pic of the two of them together but here is individual pics taken when they came and visited the hospital after Carter was born:
Congrats to them!!
C-Ya!
Friday, January 25, 2008
In Memory Of... My Dad
On January 13, 2008 the world lost a great man, and I lost my father.
I still do not think it is fair he had to leave this world, after all he was one of the good guys. And I really do not think it was fair that my kids had to lose a grandfather just a year and a half after the lost their other one.
God I miss him, every day I wish I could call him up and talk. I do not think I have ever felt so devastated... like my internal light has gone out. This has been so hard for my mother, brother, sister as well as many other people. And Nick has loved my father as long as he as loved me.
I am sure I will have a ton more to say about him, but today I wanted to post a pic of him and his littlest angel, Carter, during our trip to Cancun as well as post a couple things said at his funeral.
This was a poem I found online and modified from a single grandchild to many grandchildren. I read this for the funeral:
My Grandpa's SmileYour first smile said to us,All there was to know.
We were in our Grandpa's heart,And he was never letting go.
Your smile was full of pride,As you held our little hand.
You were there to welcome us,Your newest, biggest fan.
Your smile is our magic wand,Making laughs and fun appear.
There is no ordinary day,When our Grandpa's near.
Your smile is our secret pal,Spreading mischief ear to ear.
Full of silly pranks and jokes,For all of us to hear.
Your smile is our hero,Reflecting tales of days gone by.
Like walking miles to school,And shoveling snow a story high.
All our life we’ll keep with us,Memories of us all.
And know how lucky we have been,To have a Grandpa smile like you.
And this was the eulogy I wrote with help of my family. My sister, Carrie, read it but for blogging purposes I am going to change it so it sounds like any of the kids could have read it:
Dad was born in Lawton, Oklahoma on February xx, 1942 to Abe and Sophia S. Soon after that they moved to St. Paul, first on Pleasant Ave and then to a house on Eleanor Avenue where he lived till he was an adult. When Dad was four, his days of being an only child ended and his brother Marshall was born. According to Uncle Marshall, Dad or Kenny, as he called him, was his mentor who taught him astronomy, photography, stamps, coin collecting, electronics, computers and how to drive both his parents and teachers crazy, especially his Hebrew School teachers.
Dad married Ann in August of 1968 and Carrie was born three years later. After a short but sweet marriage, Dad and Ann divorced. It was at that time that Dad bought the house on Woodlawn Avenue that he lived in until his death.
Dad then married Terry in March of 1979 and Melissa was born later that year. Less then two years later, Aaron was born and the family was complete. What Terry remembers most about that time is how lovable, compassionate and understanding Dad was. Dad always said his biggest regret at the time was how much he worked when he would rather be with all of us. Melissa says one of his fondest memories of the time was when he did come home from work and she would run into his arms and tell him how much she missed him.I
n 1988 Dad was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma but he wouldn’t let the five years to live guideline hold him back. This is when he and Terry started to take as many trips as possible. He also went back to the University of Minnesota to complete his degree in Microbiology. He loved watching baseball and we will never forget his brief stint as Aaron’s little league coach. One of Dad’s proudest moments was getting to walk his two daughters down the aisle, Melissa to Nick in 2000 and Carrie to Johnny in 2002.
Dad decided his most important accomplishment was becoming a Grandfather. Gage, Jeffrey, Samantha and Carter were his guardian angels in this last year. Dad relished watching his Grandkids and would freely admit that he would change their diapers, if no one else was available.
Many of you know that Dad was open to everyone and every subject. Whether you were Jewish or Catholic, Democrat or Republican, he would have a friendly theoretical, political or environmental debate with you. And he was always willing to help whether it was a run to the airport, rewiring a house or anything else a family member or friend needed. He was a jack of all trades. He knew a little bit of everything and was always willing to share his knowledge and wisdom.
Dad got to fulfill his dying wish last November when took the family to a beautiful resort in Cancun, Mexico. We enjoyed a week of sun, sand and mediocre food. No one in the family can forget the wonderful memories that trip made. We even got to celebrate Dad and Terry’s 29th anniversary a couple months early.
We know Dad wished to live forever and he fought his disease the hardest he could. He didn’t complain about the three to four hour dialysis sessions three days a week, or that he just couldn’t do everything he used to. And he always made sure his family knew that he loved them.And Dad we love you too. And we will miss you. And we hope that you and Grandma have a beautiful reunion in heaven.
C-Ya!
I still do not think it is fair he had to leave this world, after all he was one of the good guys. And I really do not think it was fair that my kids had to lose a grandfather just a year and a half after the lost their other one.
God I miss him, every day I wish I could call him up and talk. I do not think I have ever felt so devastated... like my internal light has gone out. This has been so hard for my mother, brother, sister as well as many other people. And Nick has loved my father as long as he as loved me.
I am sure I will have a ton more to say about him, but today I wanted to post a pic of him and his littlest angel, Carter, during our trip to Cancun as well as post a couple things said at his funeral.
This was a poem I found online and modified from a single grandchild to many grandchildren. I read this for the funeral:
My Grandpa's SmileYour first smile said to us,All there was to know.
We were in our Grandpa's heart,And he was never letting go.
Your smile was full of pride,As you held our little hand.
You were there to welcome us,Your newest, biggest fan.
Your smile is our magic wand,Making laughs and fun appear.
There is no ordinary day,When our Grandpa's near.
Your smile is our secret pal,Spreading mischief ear to ear.
Full of silly pranks and jokes,For all of us to hear.
Your smile is our hero,Reflecting tales of days gone by.
Like walking miles to school,And shoveling snow a story high.
All our life we’ll keep with us,Memories of us all.
And know how lucky we have been,To have a Grandpa smile like you.
And this was the eulogy I wrote with help of my family. My sister, Carrie, read it but for blogging purposes I am going to change it so it sounds like any of the kids could have read it:
Dad was born in Lawton, Oklahoma on February xx, 1942 to Abe and Sophia S. Soon after that they moved to St. Paul, first on Pleasant Ave and then to a house on Eleanor Avenue where he lived till he was an adult. When Dad was four, his days of being an only child ended and his brother Marshall was born. According to Uncle Marshall, Dad or Kenny, as he called him, was his mentor who taught him astronomy, photography, stamps, coin collecting, electronics, computers and how to drive both his parents and teachers crazy, especially his Hebrew School teachers.
Dad married Ann in August of 1968 and Carrie was born three years later. After a short but sweet marriage, Dad and Ann divorced. It was at that time that Dad bought the house on Woodlawn Avenue that he lived in until his death.
Dad then married Terry in March of 1979 and Melissa was born later that year. Less then two years later, Aaron was born and the family was complete. What Terry remembers most about that time is how lovable, compassionate and understanding Dad was. Dad always said his biggest regret at the time was how much he worked when he would rather be with all of us. Melissa says one of his fondest memories of the time was when he did come home from work and she would run into his arms and tell him how much she missed him.I
n 1988 Dad was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma but he wouldn’t let the five years to live guideline hold him back. This is when he and Terry started to take as many trips as possible. He also went back to the University of Minnesota to complete his degree in Microbiology. He loved watching baseball and we will never forget his brief stint as Aaron’s little league coach. One of Dad’s proudest moments was getting to walk his two daughters down the aisle, Melissa to Nick in 2000 and Carrie to Johnny in 2002.
Dad decided his most important accomplishment was becoming a Grandfather. Gage, Jeffrey, Samantha and Carter were his guardian angels in this last year. Dad relished watching his Grandkids and would freely admit that he would change their diapers, if no one else was available.
Many of you know that Dad was open to everyone and every subject. Whether you were Jewish or Catholic, Democrat or Republican, he would have a friendly theoretical, political or environmental debate with you. And he was always willing to help whether it was a run to the airport, rewiring a house or anything else a family member or friend needed. He was a jack of all trades. He knew a little bit of everything and was always willing to share his knowledge and wisdom.
Dad got to fulfill his dying wish last November when took the family to a beautiful resort in Cancun, Mexico. We enjoyed a week of sun, sand and mediocre food. No one in the family can forget the wonderful memories that trip made. We even got to celebrate Dad and Terry’s 29th anniversary a couple months early.
We know Dad wished to live forever and he fought his disease the hardest he could. He didn’t complain about the three to four hour dialysis sessions three days a week, or that he just couldn’t do everything he used to. And he always made sure his family knew that he loved them.And Dad we love you too. And we will miss you. And we hope that you and Grandma have a beautiful reunion in heaven.
C-Ya!
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