girl talk

Christmas Day Guests

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

On Christmas Day Lane and I invited our parents over for dinner. I made meatballs and potatoes (Grandma Ivy's recipe) and we had strawberry cheese cake for desert. Nothing too fancy or real healthy! It was nice to have our family over on Christmas, it made it feel more like the holidays. After dinner Lane got the cards out and played pinochle with Pat, Lonnie and Ardis. After a few hands mom and Pat switched spots. There were many fun stories told in between hands with lots of laughs. MaKena relaxed in the living room and watched her new Jake and the Neverland Pirates cartoon. I think she was a little worn out from the day. Jacob spent the day with his dad. It was a fun and relaxing Christmas day.

Lane, Ardis, Mom and Lonnie playing cards.
More card playing with Pat watching in the back.

There must have been a funny story told as Pat and Lonnie are laughing. There were plenty of stories told that night. What a fun night!

Sure looks like a serious game going on.

MaKena relaxing while watching her movie.

Santa Claus is coming to town!

2012-01-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

On Christmas Eve after the kids got their PJs on we got a plate of cookies ready for Santa's visit. Both Jacob and MaKena had to pick out two cookies to leave for Santa on a plate by the fire place. Once the kids went to bed Santa did his thing and left some fun gifts for the kids. On Christmas day the kids were up early and eager to open their gifts. Its always fun watching them get so excited over their presents.

The plate of cookies for Santa. Jacob had to leave a note. I'm not sure if he thought Lane and I were going to eat the cookies before Santa came!? (Yes, I think he still believes and I love it!)

MaKena and Jacob opening their gifts on Christmas Day.

MaKena opening her new movie - Jake and the Neverland Pirates. She loves this cartoon.

Jacob with his new Twins calendar. He is a big Twins fan. My dad would be so happy!

The kids opening their big presents from Santa. MaKena crawled in the bag! Silly girl.

New sleds from Santa. We didn't have any snow at Christmas so MaKena became really creative with her sled and started sledding down her bed and the couch. I finally had to take it away because I thought she was going hurt herself!

Christmas Eve

2012-01-23T09:00:00.004-06:00

Christmas was a little different this year for us. Every other year we spend Christmas with the Huseby's on Christmas and we usually spend Christmas with the Redfield's on Christmas Eve. But this year we celebrated Christmas with both sides of our family after Christmas. So Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were a little quiet. Christmas Eve I decided to bake some cookies with the kids. They were excited. I'm not a big baker so I usually try to find something easy to bake so its not stressful! A few years back I bought a spritz machine so we made spritz cookies. I let the kids decorate them with sprinkles before we put them in the oven. Several times I had to dump some of the sprinkles off the cookie sheet when MaKena finished as she liked to completely cover the little cookies! While the cookies were baking Jacob built a fort in the living room. The kids had a lot of fun playing in the fort all afternoon.

After we finished baking cookies we got ready to go to church. I love the Christmas Eve service at our church. I love all the Christmas songs we sing and just everything about it. After church we came home, ate supper quick and opened our gifts. I couldn't get the table cleaned off fast enough for the kids. They were eager to open presents. I enjoy watching their little faces light up after they opened a gift. Both kids got a big present this year and a few smaller presents. We saved the big presents for last. MaKena got a doll house and she was thrilled. Jacob got a new bike. He was very surprised and excited. He really needed a bigger bike! After the gift opening we let the kids play with their new toys and then it was time to call it a night so Santa could come and drop off their gifts. It was a great Christmas, a little quiet but still great.

The tree before all the presents were opened.
Jacob and MaKena playing by the fort.

MaKena decorating the cookies while Jacob watches like a hawk!

I decided to help to speed the process up a little!

MaKena reading the tag to see who her present is from. No, she can't read but she knows her name, Mommy, Daddy and Jacob so she could tell who her gift was from.

A Tinkerbell Puzzle. She loves puzzles and Tinkerbell!

Jacob ripping into one of his gifts.

MaKena with her My Little Pony.

Lane opening his new Bison sweatshirt from the kids.

My new Under Armour sweatshirt.

MaKena with her new pony shirt.

Jacob opening another gift. I think MaKena wanted to help him!

Jacob with his new outfit.

Lane with his new desk calendar.

MaKena and her jewelry making kit. She thought it was a game! Silly girl.

Jacob with his new book.

Me with my new desk calendar. Great minds think alike!

The kids by their big presents.

She was one happy girl when she saw her new doll house. She was jumping up and down. It was cute. Too bad I didn't record it.

Can you tell she was excited. Look at her grin!

Jacob opening his big present.

Jacob wasn't sure what his big present was right away. He didn't jump up and down like MaKena did but the grin on his face sure let me know he was more than thrilled with his new bike. That made my day!

Sunday School Christmas Program

2012-01-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

The kids had their Sunday School Christmas Program on Sunday, December 18th. This would be Jacob's 7th Sunday School Program (if I'm counting correctly) and MaKena's first. MaKena was a little excited about the whole thing. She had a new dress to wear and I told her I'd fix her hair all pretty so she looked like a princess. About 5 minutes into the hair fixing she was already asking me if I was done! I actually got the curling iron out and curled her hair. She looked so grown up. Jacob, well, we just put a little gel in his hair and he was ready. Boys are so easy!

The program was great. The kids sang several Christmas songs and in between the songs the older kids would tell a Christmas story. We had decent seats but it never fails, one of the kids ends up standing behind the music teacher or behind someone taller than them. Well, sure enough, MaKena stood right in line with the music teacher. But we were still able to see her and get some cute pictures. She sang her little heart out, it was cute. After the program we gathered all the little kids and attempted to get a picture of Great Grandma Ivy with 8 of her 10 Great Grandchildren. Its always a difficult task but we manged to get a few.

MaKena looking pretty before the big Christmas program.
Jacob and MaKena before their program.

So cute!! Look how MaKena has her hand on Jacob's leg! HA!

MaKena walking up with her Sunday School class.

Jacob and McKayla during the program. They told me after the program that the flash on my camera was making them see spots. I guess it was a little bright!

MaKena looking cute!

McKayla and Jacob singing away!

Little Miss MaKena singing one of the songs during her program.

One of many attempts........

I'm not sure if this one is any better but at least all the great grandkids that were at church that night are in it!!

Its always so difficult to get everyone to look happy at the same time!

Now that's a little better!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Mom! Thank you for all you've done for me. You are an amazing woman. You have helped make me who I am today and I am so thankful I've had you to look up to. We hope you have a wonderful birthday, you deserve it. We look forward to celebrating with you. We love you mom!

Mom and Gunnar at Christmas.

Christmas with Grandma Ivy

2012-01-19T09:00:00.002-06:00

We celebrated Christmas with Grandma Ivy and the rest of the Redfield clan on Saturday, December 17th. We all gathered at Carol and Keith's house for some fun family bonding. We had appetizers to start with and later Grandma ordered pizza from Pizza Ranch. After everyone finished eating we moved on to the gift opening. The kids were excited. It was mass kayos once the gift opening started, which is a given when you have 10 kids 11 and under! There even was a special guest that joined us part way through the gift opening. Uncle Steve dressed up as one of Santa's little helpers. It was pretty comical. The bigger kids knew it was Steve but the little kids weren't so sure. All in all it was a fun night.

Gunnar hanging out on Uncle Jason's lap.
Karisa holding Gunnar.
The kids waiting for gift opening time. (McKayla, William, MaKena, Karlee and Mallorie.)
Jacob with his gift from William. I love how MaKena is climbing on GiGi's lap in the background.

MaKena hanging with GiGi.

Emma, Jen, Gunnar and Karlee.

Santa's helper aka Steve.

Gunnar wasn't too sure of Santa's helper. He gave him a good stare down.

MaKena with her gift from Emma. She LOVES this movie!

The kids opening their gifts from Grandma Kathy.

Jacob with his PJ's from Grandma Kathy.

Auntie Jenny and MaKena.

Grandma with her picture book from us.

The kids opening their gifts from GiGi. They all got little pillow pets and a soft fuzzy blanket.

Can you tell they all loved their new pillows and blankets.

Emma and Gunnar playing around.

Santa's Village

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

We made our annual trip to Santa's Village again this year. The kids were excited to see Santa and tell him what they wanted in their stockings. Jacob, MaKena and I met Jen, Emma, my mom, Karisa and Mallorie at Santa's Village on Saturday afternoon. We got there right as it opened and were the first in line to see Santa. Jacob, Mallorie, Emma and Karisa had no problem sitting on Santa's lap. When it was MaKena's turn she was a little scared. Thankfully Jacob was able to sit with her so we could get a picture. Last year I had to sit on Santa's lap so I was glad I didn't have to do that again this year.

Once the kids had their time with Santa we moved to the kitchen to decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus. Mrs. Claus always has some fun jokes and stories for the kids. After the cookie decorating we moved on to the bunk house to make an ornament for the tree and get some tattoos. The kids made their ornaments, got a tattoo and colored some Christmas pages. The bunk house (I think that's the name of the building) was getting a little busy so we decided to move on to the building with the train.

The kids all ran over to see the train. Grandma always gives them money to drop on the train. I seriously think this is MaKena's favorite part. She could sit and watch the train all day. The kids also wrote letters to Santa and we dropped them in his mailbox on our way out to catch a ride on the horse pulled wagon. MaKena loves horses so was excited. Thankfully the weather was nice so waiting for our turn wasn't as cold as past years. After the horse ride we took a few more fun pictures of the kids and headed home for the day.

MaKena playing with the toys under the tree in Santa's house.
Jacob sitting with Santa.

Mallorie and Santa.

Jacob, MaKena and Santa. Hopefully next year she'll sit on his lap by herself.

Emma and Santa.

Karisa and Santa.

Mrs. Claus chatting with the kids.

Making our Christmas Tree ornaments.

Mallorie, Emma and MaKena coloring.

Karisa and MaKena showing off their tattoos. They got the same one!

MaKena loved all the Disney and Nickelodeon ornaments on the trees.

MaKena and Jacob. She loves her big brother.

Emma, Jacob, Karisa, MaKena and Mallorie watching the trains.

The kids watching the trains go around and around on the tracks.

Writing a letter to Santa.

MaKena the little elf!

Jacob the little elf!

The kids on their way to mail their letter to Santa.

In the mailbox they go.

We had to stop by and say hi to Santa's Reindeer.

Some fun group pictures before we headed home.

Grandma Vivian's Birthday Party

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, December 10th we celebrated Grandma Vivian's 86th birthday at the nursing home. Mom sent out invites to close family and a few friends. We had a nice turn out. Aunt Patty came from California (Grandma's oldest daughter) and Uncle Tom (Grandma's only son) came from Bowman, ND. We all kept Patty and Tom's arrival a secret from Grandma. To say she was surprised would be an understatement. It was a fun party and one Grandma will remember for a long time. I look forward to next years party!!

Grandma Vivian with her 3 children. (Back row: Aunt Patty (in the white) and Mom. Front row: Grandma Vivian and Uncle Tom)
Part of the party crew! Barb, MaKena, Lane, Patty, Carol Kuehl holding Gunnar, Uncle Tom, Mom and Grandma Vivian.

Another shot of the group.

Gunnar and Emma being cute.

Emma, Gunnar and MaKena.

Grandma Ivy and Grandma Vivian visiting.

Jacob holding Grandma's cake while we sang Happy Birthday.

Grandma blowing her candles out.

Uncle Tom and Gunnar.

Opening Grandma's gifts.

MaKena, Emma and Karisa playing at Grandma's birthday party.

Professional Pics

2011-12-28T09:00:00.002-06:00

The end of September we had our annual family pictures taken in downtown Fargo. (I just realized I never posted a few of my favorites.) We had 145 pictures to choose from which made it hard to pick just a couple favorites! Hope you enjoy them as much as we do.

Decorating at Grandma Vivian's

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Monday after the kids' birthday party we headed over to the nursing home to visit Grandma Vivian and help decorate her room for Christmas. Mom had bought some window clings for the kids to stick on her window. The kids love sticking them on the windows so it was a fun little treat for them. And grandma enjoyed watching the kids have fun.

Jacob and MaKena sticking the window clings on Grandma's window.

Saying cheese to the camera!

Grandma watching MaKena and Jacob decorate.

MaKena with her new My Little Pony. She had to bring a backpack full of all her new toys she got for her birthday to show Grandma!

Birthday Party

2011-12-24T09:00:00.003-06:00

This year we decided to do the kids birthday parties a little different. Instead of having 2 seperate parties around the busiest times of the year we decided to have a joint birthday party the beginning of December. I have to say it's the best idea I've had in a long time!! Everyone that lived in town was able to make it so we had a full house. The kids got spoiled rotten with a bunch of fun toys, clothes and movies. After the kids finished openning all their gifts we lit the candles on the cake and sang happy birthday. Poor MaKena was so confused. She kept thinking the day of her party was her birthday and she kept asking if she was 4. Once again both kids had a great birthday party!

Jacob and MaKena opening one of their many gifts!
Karlee Grace found the perfect spot on Papa Lonnie's lap to watch the gift openning. It was cute!

MaKena with her gift from Brad and Anita.

MaKena showing off her Lion King movie from Grandma Kathy. She's already watched it about 20 times!!

Grandma Kathy gave Jacob the movie Rio. Great movie!

GiGi (aka Grandma Ivy) gave MaKena a new hat, scarf and gloves for her birthday. She loves then and she looks so cute in them!

Jacob showing off his new hat and gloves from GiGi.

MaKena and Jacob listening to everyone sing happy birthday.

Blowing the candles out.

MaKena and uncle Brad.

Decorating for Christmas

2011-12-23T09:00:00.003-06:00

The Sunday after Thanksgiving I drug out all the Christmas decorations and the kids helped decorate the house for Christmas. They love to help decorate and I enjoy it too. We turned on the Christmas music and went to town. MaKena is finally old enough to be helpful and Jacob, well he could probably do it all himself if I let him! Its so much fun to watch the kids get excited about decorating. We couldn't get the tree up fast enough for MaKena! Once the tree was up she was all about putting the decorations on. The bottom half of the tree was loaded with ornaments so when she wasn't looking Jacob and I moved some of them up a little higher to make the tree look even! After we finished the tree we scattered the rest of the decorations around the house and cleaned up the mess. Now I just hope they are as helpful when it comes time putting them away!!

MaKena and Jacob putting the Christmas window clings up.
MaKena sticking the tree on the window.
She was very proud of herself.

MaKena and Jacob helping me put the tree together.

Mommy helping MaKena put one of the branches on the tree.

Jacob hanging some ornaments on the tree.

MaKena hanging some ornaments on the tree. She looks so serious!

Reaching to get the perfect spot!

Thanksgiving

2011-12-22T09:00:00.004-06:00

This year we spent Thanksgiving with the Huseby's at Ardis and Lonnie's house. Brec and Isabel came from the cities and the rest of us meet up around noon on Thursday. We ate turkey and all the fixings until we were stuffed full! Oh, but it was so good! The kids played all afternoon and night from upstairs to downstairs. They had fun. The Christmas wish lists were started and the shopping lists were made. The guys play a few hands of pinochle while the women turned on some kid shows for the kiddos. It was a fun family filled day!!

MaKena, Isabel and Alexis hanging out before lunch.
Isabel and MaKena playing with the cars in the basement.

Alexis wrapped Isabel and MaKena up like a baby in a big blanket. The girls thought it was so fun to be wrapped together!

They guys playing cards.

MaKena watching Brandon play on the iPad.

MaKena helping Auntie Anita on the iPad or tablet.

Nana with her 3 granddaughters!

Hanging with Jen, Emma and Gunnar!

2011-12-21T09:00:00.002-06:00

Over Veteran's Day Jen, Emma and Gunnar came to town and spent the night at our house. It had been awhile since we've had a slumber party with them and it was fun to have them stay. They came up Thursday night so the kids had all day Friday to play together. The girls played dress-up and wore princess outfits for part of the day, watched Jacob play the Wii and then we ventured outside to enjoy the beautiful fall weather. We didn't even need coats! It was a fun day spent with the cousins.

Emma, Gunnar and MaKena taking a bath.
Emma dresses as Cinderella and MaKena dressed as Snow White.

MaKena and Emma watching Jacob play guitar hero on the Wii.

Playing outside on the swing set. MaKena taking Gunnar down the slide.

Emma taking Gunnar down the slide. He loved the slide!

Singing in Church

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

Back in the beginning of November the Sunday School kids all sang a song during the church service. This was the first time MaKena sang in church. Before the Sunday school year started all she talked about was singing in church but I was a little worried about the first time. She did great. She walked up to the front with Jacob when all the Sunday school kids were called to the front and sang her little heart out. It was cute!

Can you see her in the front row? She has on a pink and white dress with a little white sweater over the top.
Singing away!!

Jacob standing up front with the kids.

Happy Birthday baby girl!

2011-12-19T09:00:00.000-06:00

Happy 4th Birthday MaKena Rose! WOW! I can't believe you are 4. Where has the time gone? Mommy, daddy and Jacob love you so much. We hope you have a wonderful birthday baby girl. We love you to the moon and back baby!!

Halloween

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

For Halloween this year Jacob dressed up as the Scream guy and MaKena went as a cowgirl. I can't take credit for Jacob's costume as I didn't buy it..............we'll just leave it at that! Thankfully the weather cooperated and it was a nice night to be outside. After we ate a quick supper Lane and I took the kids out trick-or-treating. Actually, we took MaKena out and Jacob met up with his friends and we didn't see him until he was done trick-or-treating. MaKena was excited to go trick-or-treating. Many times she'd ring the door bell and say trick-or-treat before they got the door open. And then she'd say Thank You as she was walking away. She was so excited to get to the next house. By the time the night was done both kids had a full bag of candy that probably won't get eaten!

MaKena in her cowgirl outfit.
Jacob in his Scream costume.

Both of the munchkins in their Halloween costumes.

Jacob with his buddies Andy and Josh and their younger sister Lindsey out trick-or-treating.

MaKena ringing the door bell at one of the many houses we went to.

Stopping to take a quick picture with daddy!

And a quick picture with mommy!

One of our neighbors has this blow-up cat in their front yard every year for Halloween. MaKena wanted to get her picture taken with it again this year.

Carving Pumpkins

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

This year for Halloween we carved a couple pumpkins with the kids. This was the first year MaKena has carved a pumpkin and she was all excited until she saw the stuff inside the pumpkin. She was a little hesitant at first but once she saw Jacob dig in she slowly decided it was OK. She had a lot fun and had to show us all the gunk she got out each time. Both kids picked out a face or a design they wanted on their pumpkin and Lane and I did the carving. Both pumpkins turned out really nice. Hopefully we can carve pumpkins again next year!

Getting ready to carve pumpkins. Jacob was a little excited about the design he thought MaKena should pick for her pumpkin.Daddy cutting the top off one of the pumpkins.MaKena digging into her pumpkin.Cleaning out the pumpkins.Helping MaKena get the stuff out of her pumpkin.Jacob really getting the stuff out.MaKena showing daddy all the gunk she got.Daddy helping Makena.Getting ready to trace the design Jacob picked for his pumpkin.The end result.

Trick or Treating at the Zoo

2011-12-09T09:00:00.009-06:00

The weekend before Halloween the Red River Zoo had an event called Night Eyes (I think that's what it was called) and Trick-or-Treating around the zoo. In August Lane and I purchased a family membership that's good for a full year so we thought it would be fun to take the kids trick-or-treating at the zoo. The weather was cloudy and a little cool but the kids were bundled up and ready to get some candy. We stopped and looked at a few animals and then ventured into the carousel area for the costume contest. The kids didn't win but everyone go a prize. After the contest we had to take a ride on the carousel before heading back out to see the rest of the animals. The kids had a lot of fun. We'll have to look into doing it again next Halloween.

When we got to the zoo we stopped by to see the wolves first. They were howling non-stop. The kids thought it was cool. The last couple times we've been to the zoo the wolves were just laying in the grass sleeping so it was neat to actually see them awake.

Another picture of the wolves.
In the carousel area they had a couple craft tables set up. At this table the kids and I were tracing a bat to cut out.
A quick little photo of the two trick-or-treaters in their costumes.
Riding on the carousel.

Happy Birthday Grandma Vivian!

2011-12-07T20:00:00.002-06:00

Today is my grandma's birthday. This is the first birthday that I know of that I've gotten to spend with her. After dinner tonight the kids and I went to the nursing home with cupcakes for grandma. I brought a candle with so she could make a wish! We sang Happy Birthday and then ate some cupcakes with her to help celebrate her big day. Hopefully we can celebrate many more birthdays with her. Happy Birthday Grandma! We hope you had a great day!! We love you!!

MaKena and Jacob with Grandma on her birthday.

Jacob and MaKena singing Happy Birthday to Grandma.

Grandma getting ready to blow out her candle!

Happy Birthday Honey!!

2011-12-03T09:00:00.002-06:00

Today is my hard working, fun loving, handsome husband's birthday. I hope you have a wonderful day honey! You deserve it!! I appreciate all you do for me and the kids. We love you to the moon and back!!

A picture from Cancun! Oh how I miss being there!

The braces are off!!

2011-11-30T09:00:00.001-06:00

Back in September, the 21st to be exact, Jacob got his braces off after a year and a half of wearing them. (I forgot to add this post at the time!) He got his braces on in March/April of 2010 and along with the braces he had to wear head gear. He has or I should say had an under bite and his bottom jaw was a whole tooth off. Thankfully the year and half of braces and head gear worked and he now has a normal bite. But now it’s a waiting game to see if he bottom jaw stays put. I really hope so otherwise he’ll probably have to have surgery. When Jacob got his braces off he was a little nervous about the whole process but overall excited. I have to say he looked like a different kid without the braces. He’s got such nice straight teeth!

This picture was taken with my phone so its not the best quality.

Happy 11th Birthday my sweet Jacob!

2011-11-20T09:00:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Jacob! I can't believe today you are 11! You are growing up so fast. I still remember the day you were born like it was yesterday. I am the luckiest person on earth because I get to be your mom. Thanks for being you. I love you to the moon and back a hundred times buddy. Hope you have a wonderful birthday.

Happy Birthday Jason!

2011-11-17T09:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite big brother!! Thank you for all you've done for me over the years. We hope you have a wonderful birthday. We love you!!

Jason holding Karisa and Josey Kate at Christmas last year. I think Karisa was a little jealous because daddy was holding another baby!!

Hanging with Isabel!

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

On Saturday we spent some more time with the Huseby’s. Nana, Papa, Brec and Isabel stopped over Saturday afternoon for a visit and then took MaKena back to their house to play with Isabel. We met up with everyone at Brandon’s football game at the Fargo Dome that night. After the big game, they won by the way; we headed back to Lonnie and Ardis’s for supper. Alexis had planned a sleepover with MaKena and Isabel at Nana and Papa’s house so MaKena was excited. Before supper Isabel sat on the couch and read MaKena some of her school books. It was adorable! After supper, MaKena got the card game back out and sat on Papa’s lap and played the guessing game with Papa. I think this is a game we’ll have to get for our house.

Isabel reading to MaKena. (Notice the puppy in MaKena's hands. She got that the weekend before from Great Grandma Vivian and takes it with her a lot.)

MaKena and Papa playing the guessing game. I seriously think she would have played this game all night. She was having so much fun.

I love this picture!! Papa is really trying to figure it out!

Some quality time with the Husebys

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-06:00

Two weekends in a row we had some good quality family time. The second to last weekend in October Brec and Isabel were in town for a visit. We had dinner at Lonnie and Ardis’s Friday night and the whole Huseby crew was there. Isabel brought a fun game that all the kids and adults really got into playing. I’m not sure what the game was called but it involved a deck of cards with pictures of food, animals, household items, etc. on them. You put one of the headbands on your head and someone puts one of the many cards on your headband and then you ask questions and try and figure out what card is on your head. MaKena wasn’t good at keeping a secret. Many times you knew what was on your head before you could ask a question but she sure had fun playing. She liked picking out the cards and putting them on everyone’s head. Some of the items she didn’t know what they were so if you asked her a question sometimes you’d get a wrong answer. There was a lot of giggling going on that night. The kids had a blast playing and running around. It was a fun night.

Isabel with one of the many cards on her head.
Brad with one of the cats. (I have a hard time telling them apart sometimes! MaKena usually corrects me!!)

MaKena "helping"me figure out what's on my head.

Nana and Papa got in on the fun too.

MaKena helping Uncle Brad figure out what's on his head. The unicorn was MaKena's favorite card to put on everyone's head.

Uncle Brec trying to figure out what card MaKena put on his head. She didn't know what the pictures was so it took awhile!

Brandon and Alexis giving MaKena and Isabel airplane rides.

Brandon giving MaKena a horsey ride.

Quality time with the Redfields

2011-11-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

I love family time. I love being surrounded by family. It makes me feel safe and comfortable. I’m a family girl. In the middle of October, Justin and Laura were in town for the weekend. On Saturday they came out to Jacob’s last soccer game and helped cheer his team on. Jacob was thrilled to have them at his game. On Sunday mom had the whole Redfield clan out to her house for dinner and some good old family time. Everyone was there, well just about everyone! It was loud and crazy but it was fun. That’s the only way to have a Redfield get together! The kids ventured out to the park to play for awhile which made the house peaceful for an hour. I walked out to check on the little kids and take some fun pictures. Before we knew it, it was time to pack up and head home. Justin and Laura had to head back to Chicago on Monday. It was a short visit but it sure was a nice visit. We look forward to their next visit and maybe even planning a visit to Chicago of our own!

Mr. Gunnar hanging out in the kitchen.
Justin, Mom, Grandma Vivian, Dan and Grandma Ivy visiting.

Lane, Uncle Tom, Jason, Uncle Steve, Uncle Keith, Laurie and Jerene visiting upstairs at mom's.

McKayla, Mallorie and Jacob playing on the teeter totters at the park.

Emma and Karisa joined the big kids on the teeter totters.

MaKena and Karlee playing on the big tractor tires. They were having fun!

Karisa, MaKena, Karlee and McKayla playing on the tractor tires.

McKayla, Karlee, Emma, Karisa, Jacob, Mallorie and MaKena posing for a cute picture.

The kids getting ready to play hide-n-seek.

Emma mastering the monkey bars. I love how she has her tongue out!

Karisa swinging like a monkey!

The 3 little girls playing on the teeter totters. (MaKena in pink, Karisa in green and Emma in grey.)

Jacob, MaKena, Emma, Mallorie, Karisa, Karlee and McKayla hanging out at the park shelter.

Justin and Laura opening their baby gift from Grandma Ivy. Yep, I'm going to be an auntie again!! I can't wait.

Mr. Gunnar being cute!

Grandma Vivian with all her Redfield great grandchildren. Emma and MaKena in the front, Karisa in purple, Mallorie in blue and Jacob holding Gunnar.

Uncle Justin playing with Gunnar.

MaKena being a big helper and helping Gunnar get his shoes on!

Fall Soccer

2011-11-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Jacob wrapped up another year of soccer. This year was a bit challenging. The soccer club we are part of really mixed things up this year. For the last 5 years Jacob has played with the same kids from West Fargo, which is where he goes to school. This year the club merged the Red River Soccer Club with the Moorhead soccer club and Jacob ended up on a team with 4 West Fargo kids who were on his team last year, 10 Fargo kids who we’ve never played with before and a new coach. It took the boys awhile to get familiar with each other but towards the end of the season they started playing well together. Unfortunately we didn’t win any games but Jacob still had fun and that’s what it’s all about. Hopefully next spring will be a little better.

Jacob is #3 in the white with his back to us.

Another trip to the Zoo!

2011-11-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

We love the zoo! When Lane and I took MaKena to the zoo in August we bought a year membership. We knew we’d go back again because MaKena loves animals. The beginning of October Lane had to go to the cities for a week for a work conference. He left Sunday morning so that afternoon I decided to take the kids to the zoo. It’s been years since Jacob has been to the zoo and the weather was perfect to be outside. We got to the zoo and MaKena had to show Jacob all the stuff. She was our little tour guide. We checked out the wolfs and the bald eagle then ventured over to feed the ducks. We quickly walked through the reptile exhibit then headed over to MaKena’s favorite part of the zoo…..the petting zoo. Both Jacob and MaKena fed the goats and pet the horses. Before we knew it we’d seen all the animals and decided to head inside for ride on the carousal. We were the only ones on the carousal so we got an extra long and fast ride! It was a fun day.

My two favorite kids sitting by the tiger (as MaKena called it!) outside the zoo.
Feeding the ducks.

MaKena and Jacob checking out the prairie dogs.

The kids checking out the horses.

Feeding the goats.

MaKena getting a little help from Jacob so she could pet the horse.

A cute little picture!

Getting read to ride the carousal.

Fall Festival

2011-11-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

The middle of September Lane and I took MaKena to the Fall Festival at Rheault Farms. This is the 2nd year we’ve went but this year Jacob wasn’t able to join us. The weather was great. Once we got to Rheault Farms we bought MaKena a wrist band so she could take part in all the different activities. They had a couple blow-up games from Games Galore, face painting, cookie decorating, pumpkin decorating, a mini pumpkin patch, carnival games, a hay bale maze and pony rides. MaKena’s favorite was the pony ride. To say she loves horses would be an understatement! After the pony ride we ventured into one of the buildings to get her face painted. She looked pretty cute after her face was painted like a puppy! We played a little longer and then checked out the pumpkin patch and then headed home. It was a fun filled day!

MaKena playing one of the many games set up.
Getting ready to get on her pony.

No fear!!

She loved every minute of the ride.

MaKena hanging out in the hay bale maze.

Checking out all the pumpkins in the pumpkin patch. She picked the littlest one!!

See the pumpkin on the table, that's the one she picked out of the pumpkin patch!!

Getting her face painted.

MaKena the cute puppy!!

This was one of the blow up games. The next several pictures Lane took with the continuous shot. I love these. It shows her going down the slide. Check out her face expression on some of them!

Me and MaKena on our way out of the Fall Festival.

First day of Sunday School

2011-10-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

MaKena’s first day of Sunday school was Sunday, September 18th. And as you can tell from the pictures below she was a little excited!! She did good her first day of Sunday school. No melt downs, no tears, nothing! She loved it! She's even been walking around the house singing the new songs she's learned. Jesus Loves Me is her favorite!

A big cheesy grin for the camera!
Cheese!! I'm not sure what she's looking at!

Sunday School blessing

2011-10-25T09:00:00.003-05:00

Little Miss MaKena started Sunday school this fall. We got a letter in the mail in August about Sunday school orientation. When I told her we were going to church to meet her Sunday school teacher she was excited and thought she was going to sing in the front at church. She’s watched Jacob over the years sing in church and she thought now that she is starting Sunday school that she was going to get to sing too. I had to explain that she will get to sing in church just not yet. Boy I sure hope when the time comes for her to sing up front at church she’s still as excited about it!! The Sunday before she started Sunday school we went to church for a special Sunday school blessing. All the 3 -4 year olds that were starting Sunday school this year went to the front of the church and got a special blessing. She thought that was pretty cool! Now lets just hope she goes to the front of the church when the time comes for her to sing with all the other Sunday school kids!

After the blessing we went down to the basement of the church to play some games they had set up for Rally Sunday. We ended up running into Jason, Mallorie and Karisa. The kids ran from game to game while Jason, Lane and I visited. It was a little chaotic but the kids had fun!

MaKena was singing along during church!!Standing up front for the Sunday school blessing.Walking back to our seat.MaKena and Jacob playing one of the many games in the basement for Rally Sunday.Waiting in line to play a game.Still waiting in line but giving daddy a cheesy grin!Jason and Karisa playing with the hula hoop.

Hanging with Anna

2011-10-24T09:00:00.006-05:00

I love our neighborhood. We have good friends that live 2 houses down from us and we’ve met many new friends. There are a lot of young kids on our block for our kids to play with. I love it. Anna and MaKena are good friends. Anna is Beth and Eric Mauch’s 4 year old daughter and Beth and Eric are good friends of ours. One of the last nice weekends we had this summer, actually I think this was in September, Anna invited MaKena over to go swimming in her little pool. The girls had a blast. The weather was perfect. I couldn’t believe we were having an 80+ degree day in September. The girls played in the pool and on the swing set. The neighbor girl that lives behind Eric and Beth came over to play too. It was a fun afternoon. I just love this neighborhood.

MaKena and Anna on Anna's deck.
MaKena, Anna and Brin on Anna's deck.
MaKena helping Anna up the slide!
The girls hanging out on the swing set.
MaKena sliding into the pool.

The Zoo

2011-10-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

The middle of August Lane and I took MaKena to the Red River Zoo. (Unfortunately Jacob was at his dads that weekend.) Lane’s parents joined us for the fun afternoon. This was MaKena first trip to the zoo and she was beyond excited. I think the last time I went to the Red River Zoo was when Jacob was MaKena’s age. It had been awhile! When we walked in the main doors they have an exhibit with a couple monkeys and an armadillo. I had no clue it was an armadillo but MaKena new right away. I was impressed! After looking at the monkeys and armadillo we ventured out to check out the rest of the zoo. MaKena was fascinated with all the fish in the little ponds and the ducks. She loved feeding the ducks. We walked into the reptile exhibit and she was busy checking out all the snakes, spiders, turtles and all the other gross looking reptiles. Lane, Nana and I struggled with this part of the zoo!! Some of those animals and bugs were gross! After checking out the reptiles we headed over to the goats, horses, and the donkey and llama area. MaKena loved the horses. I think if she could have sat on the horse she would have! We fed the goats and pet the horses and moved on the camels. We see the camels all the time when we pass the zoo on interstate so MaKena was excited to see them up close. Once we finished seeing all the animals we headed inside to ride on the merry-go-round. MaKena was in 7th Heaven. She loved the merry-go-round. After getting dizzy on the merry-go-round we checked out the playground before heading home. It was a fun filled day and we look forward to going back to the zoo again!

MaKena, Nana and Papa feeding the ducks.
MaKena looking at the baby deer.
MaKena checking out the gross spider. She was really fascinated by it.

Me and MaKena feeding the goats.

Petting the horse.

A little family photo, except we are missing Jacob.

Checking out all the different fish swimming in the little pond.

MaKena, me and Nana riding on the merry-go-round.

MaKena being a monkey on the monkey bars.

More fun with Emma and Gunnar

2011-10-19T09:00:00.012-05:00

Before Jen and the kids left on Saturday we ventured back outside to play. The kids rode on the bikes, trikes and the power wheels while Jen and I chased them around. We even put MaKena and Emma to work sweeping up the grass clippings Lane left behind. Ok, we didn’t put them to work; they begged to use the broom! After lunch Jen packed up the car and headed out of town. Emma wasn’t too happy that she had to leave but we look forward to the next slumber party we get to have with her!

Emma riding on MaKena's bike.
MaKena trying to ride on one of Jacob's scooters.
Mr. Gunnar watching the girls go back and forth on the sidewalk.
MaKena sweeping up the grass clippings.
Gunnar riding around on MaKena's Dora trike. He loved pushing the buttons and listening to what Dora had to say!
MaKena and Emma cleaning up the grass. Such good team work!
MaKena looking cute! She was trying not to smile!!
Jen giving Emma a ride on Jacob's razor. Gunnar is behind them playing with an old fishing pole.
Back and forth they went several times. They'd switch between the bike and trike. They were such good sharers!

Hanging out with Jen, Emma and Gunnar

2011-10-18T09:00:00.004-05:00

Back in August Jen and the kids came to town and stayed the night at our house. It was so fun to have them stay over. It had been awhile since our last slumber party with Emma, Gunnar and Jen. We took advantage of the nice weather and played outside Friday night after supper. The kids had fun running around and riding all the toys up and down the sidewalk. It was a struggle to get them to come inside for bath and bed. We ended up bribing them with a movie!! It’s so fun to watch the kids get along so well.

MaKena walking on the sidewalk. I'm not sure what she was doing with her arms. I think she was getting ready to do a kart wheel or something!
Gunnar sitting on Jen's shoulders. I just love this picture! What a cute kid!
Emma and MaKena on the Barbie power wheels. Gunnar wanted a ride too. He was trying to figure out how he could get on with the girls.
I love this picture. It looks like Gunnar is trying to tell the girls he wants a turn. Too cute!

Gunnar finally got a ride with his big sister.

Finally he got the Barbie Power wheels all to himself!!

Emma and Gunnar going down the slide.

MaKena and Emma brushing their teeth before bed. It was funny to watch them brush together.

Happy Birthday Jerene!

2011-10-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Jerene! We hope you have a great day! We love you very much! Hopefully we can help you celebrate soon!

Jerene and Uncle Steve having a good time at Justin's wedding!

Happy Birthday Laura!!

2011-10-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Laura!! We hope you have a wonderful birthday. We love you very much and look forward to seeing you and Justin in a couple weeks!! Have fun celebrating!

Fun times at the park

2011-09-30T09:00:00.003-05:00

We love the park! If it was up to MaKena we’d go to the park every day. She loves to run around and play with all the different activities. Thankfully we have a park that’s within walking distance of our house. The park is part of the new Kindergarten Center in Osgood that was built a couple years ago. This summer they added to the original park so there’s a whole bunch of new equipment to play on. I brought my camera with on one of our trips to catch the kids having fun. Hopefully the weather will cooperate this fall and we can make a few more trips to the park.

Little Miss MaKena checking out the new playground equipment.
MaKena swinging on the new swing.
Jacob taking his turn on the new swing.
The kids getting ready to race down the slide.

The kids sitting in a new version of the merry-go-round.

First day of school

2011-09-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

Jacob started the 5th grade this year. Boy, I can't believe he's that old. I took the traditional picture in front of the door. This way I can look back and see how much he's grown each year. While I was taking pictures of Jacob, MaKena asked if she could be in the pictures too. Soon enough I'll be sending that little peanut off to school too. They grow up way too fast.

My big 5th Grader all ready for his first day of school.
Jacob and MaKena

Another shot of my 2 favorite kids!!

The Fargo Airsho

2011-09-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

The middle of August, Lane and I took the kids to the Fargo Airsho. Lane got free VIP tickets from work so we had reserved seats and even a tented area to sit and watch the show. The weather was great; it was a hot sunny day. This was MaKena’s first time going to the Airsho so I was a little worried about how she’d react to the loud planes. Thankfully they had ear plugs! We ate lunch and hung out in the VIP area and watched all the planes. My favorite part of the show is the Blue Angels. I think it’s neat how they can fly so close together. The kids really enjoyed the show and were well behaved, thankfully! Hopefully we can go again the next time they are in town.

MaKena and Jacob checking out an Air Force plane.
I love this picture. Lane, Jacob and MaKena walking around the Airsho.

Daddy and MaKena. (I love this picture too!)

Some planes flying over during the show.

The Blue Angel Planes parked and waiting for their time in the show.

Four of the Blue Angels in a diamond.

Another picture of the 4 planes in the diamond.

All 6 planes flying together. I can't get over how close they fly to each other.

Celebrating Isabel and Papa's birthdays

2011-09-26T09:00:00.004-05:00

I have fallen behind big time on my blog posts. Work has been extremely busy, crazy, stressful and I’ve found it extremely difficult to come home and spend any time on the computer. I’ve finally gone through some pictures and I have a few updates ready and waiting. Sorry for the delay.

The beginning of August we spent a Saturday out at the lake celebrating Lonnie and Isabel’s birthdays. The weather was a little overcast and cloudy but we still had a lot of fun. Alexis spoiled MaKena by painting her toe nails 10 different nail polish colors and even put stickers on her big toe nails. Isabel got her toe nails done by Nana at the same time. After the polish party the kids played in the water and tried to catch some fish. After dinner, Papa and Isabel opened their presents and we all sang happy birthday and had some cake. MaKena ended up spending the night at the lake with Nana and Papa and had a blast.

Nana, Isabel, MaKena and Alexis getting ready for the nail party!
Alexis painting MaKena's nails.
Nana painting Isabel's nails.
The finish product.
MaKena, Isabel and Alexis getting ready to go in the water.

Papa and Isabel with their cake.

Alexis and MaKena rowing a way!! MaKena kept trying to row the boat by herself!!

MaKena, Alexis, Isabel and Brandon on the jet ski.

Happy Birthday Brec!

2011-09-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Brec! (Brec is Lane's oldest brother.) We hope you have a great day!! We love you!

Brec and Isabel from a few summers ago. (Another oldie but goodie!!)

Happy Birthday Brad!

2011-09-08T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Brad! We hope you have a great day! We look forward to celebrating with you. We love you!!

Brad and MaKena at the lake 3 summers ago!

Karisa's 4th Birthday Party

2011-08-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

About a month ago we were out at Jason and Jerene’s to help Karisa celebrate her 4th birthday. It’s hard to believe she’s 4 already. It was beautiful night to be outside playing. The kids played in the backyard on the trampoline and swing set while all the adults visited. Karisa got a lot of nice new outfits and toys for her birthday. It was a fun night with the Redfield family!

The kids jumping in the tramp.
They sure had a lot of fun jumping!

MaKena going down the slide.

Another view of the kids in the tramp. They spent a lot of time in there.

Jacob, MaKena, Karisa, Karlee and Emma saying cheese!!

Gunnar driving.

The little girls playing in the playhouse. Emma, MaKena, Karlee and Karisa.

More fun in the pool!

2011-08-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

We love splashing in the pool!! You can probably tell from all the pool post I’ve had this summer! But this day I decided it’s time we get a bigger pool! There isn’t a lot of room left in the pool when Jacob is in it!! So on my list next spring is a new swimming pool for the kids. But regardless of the size of the pool the kids still had fun and they were able to cool off on another hot summer day.

Jacob relaxing in the pool.
Jacob and MaKena cooling off on a hot hot day!

Pretending to be asleep! Silly kids.

MaKena squirting Jacob.

Bingo with Grandma Vivian

2011-08-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

For those of you who don’t know Grandma Vivian, my mom’s mom, was moved up to a nursing home in Fargo Memorial Day weekend. I love having her in town but I don’t love the fact that she has to be in nursing home. I remember as a kid growing up I always wanted grandma to live in Fargo. Every time she’d come visit us everyday we’d play Skippo, watch Days of Our Lives and take Bo for a walk. Then when it came time for her to leave I’d cry the entire day she left. I hated it when she left. But now she’s in town and I love it. One Sunday afternoon I finally remembered to bring my camera when Jacob and I went up to play bingo with Grandma. Grandma doesn’t like having her picture take so I had to be sneaky about it! Thankfully she couldn’t hear the camera click when I took the pictures!! Jacob helped grandma by putting the chips on her card. Everybody wins at bingo in the nursing home and the prizes are snacks or a dime. Grandma usually takes the snacks and puts them in her drawer for all her great grandchildren to have when they come to visit. They all know where the snacks are at grandmas! We love to play bingo at the nursing home with Grandma!!

Jacob helping grandma play bingo!
Jacob giving me a little smile!

Swimming at the South High Pool

2011-08-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

Lane and I took the kids to the South High pool one Saturday afternoon when the temps and humidity were extremely high. There wasn’t anything else we could do and I was tired of hanging out inside. Jacob brought his friend Andy with and we spent the afternoon cooling off at the pool. I think this is the first time the water hasn’t felt cold! We bought the boys passes to go down the water slide, so while the boys went sliding Lane and I hung out with MaKena in the shallow end. She had fun playing with all the different things and sliding down the slide. It was the perfect day to be at the pool.

MaKena getting wet under one of the little water falls.
MaKena and daddy.

Lane putting MaKena under the falling water.

My sweet MaKena Rose!

She put her goggles on. Lane and I laughed and laughed at her cute little face! Silly girl! I think the goggles are a little too big.

Jacob and Andy.

Jacob, MaKena and Andy hanging out in the shallow end.

Daddy catching MaKena at the end of the little kids slide.

Andy on the slide.

Jacob coming down the slide.

Pool Fun

2011-08-17T09:00:00.003-05:00

We’ve had an extremely hot summer this year. We’ve taken MaKena’s pool out on several occasions and she just loves to swim in it. Next year I will need to get her a bigger pool. This particular day was extremely hot and if I remember correctly I was starting to fall asleep in the chair while watching her swim!! Ah, the lazy days of summer. I’m sure going to miss them when the snow starts flying.

MaKena cooling off in the pool.
Looking cute while adding a little more water to her pool.

Here is a sequence of pictures taken while MaKena was jumping into the water. I love taking the pictures to see how they turn out. Her face expressions are priceless! Here she's getting ready to jump.

Jumping in the water.

Splash.

MaKena getting ready to jump again.

I love her face in this picture! She was having fun.

Owie!

2011-08-16T09:00:00.002-05:00

On July 19th I was at work and I got a call from my daycare around noon. That’s never a good sign when your phone rings and its daycare. Sarah, our daycare lady, informed me that MaKena was lying on the floor by the coffee table and big glass bowl fell on her head and she’s probably going to need stitches. (We found out later that one of the little boys pushed the bowl off the table.) Instantly my heart sank. I’m pretty sure the first words I said were “Oh no” and then I said she’ll be ok. I could tell Sarah was really worried and upset. I dropped what I was doing at work and ran out the door. When I got to daycare, surprisingly she wasn’t crying. Sarah taped a gaze pad to her head in case the cut started to bleed. I grabbed her things and hopped in the car and headed for the ER. MaKena really wanted her daddy so thankfully we didn’t have to wait too long in the ER before daddy showed up. The entire time we were waiting to get called back MaKena just sat on my lap, no tears. Once we got back to the room the doctor came in and looked at her cut and grabbed the glue. Thank God, no stitches. Jacob had stitches in his lip when he was 18 months and I think I’m still traumatized by that. Before we knew it the doctor was done and out the door we went. But not before we got a hand full of stickers for being such a big girl. A month later her head has finally healed. I’m sure she’ll have a nice scare for a while but at least she won’t be traumatized by the whole process.

The before picture. She was sitting on the bed in ER room waiting for the doctor. (This picture was taken with my phone so the quality isn't the greatest.)
All glued up and ready to go. Still no smiles. Poor girl. (Another picture taken with my phone.)
A day later, showing off her owie after bath.
There's a little smile!

Soccer with Justin and Laura

2011-08-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

The night before Justin and Laura left to head back to Chicago, they stopped at our house for a visit and to bring Jacob back home. The visit turned into a friendly game of soccer in the back yard. If first started with Jacob and Laura, then Justin joined in on the fun. Shortly after Justin joined I decided to help Laura out and of course the girls kicked the boys butt! Actually Laura beat the boys as I was busy trying to keep Daisy in the yard. After our friendly game of soccer we headed inside and visited briefly before Justin and Laura left. It was a lot of fun having them in town but the time goes by way too fast. We are all eagerly looking forward to their next visit.

I think this was right before Justin kicked the ball over the neighbor's fence. Leave it to him to do something like that!!
An action shot.

I'm pretty sure Justin was talking smack to Laura!

Jacob trying to score on Laura.

4th of July with the Redfields

2011-08-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here are the pictures from the 4th with the Redfields.

Lane taking Mallorie for a Jet Ski ride.
Gunnar looking cute.

Emma with a piece of grass in her mouth. Not sure why but it was funny!

Gunnar splashing in the water.

He was having fun splashing in the water!

MaKena and Karisa playing in the water and sand.

The water fight between the 3 little girls.

Jacob hanging out on the jet ski.

Jacob and Mallorie trying to catch fish.

Jacob got in on the water fight with the girls!

I just love this picture! The kids in action.

The adults watching the kids play. (L to R: Gunnar, Nate, Uncle Tom, Lane, Laura, Jerene (walking in the back) Vic (Jerene's dad in the red), Kathy.)

Another action shot of the kids and the water fight.

More of the adults relaxing.

My mom and Grandma Vivian.

Jason pulling Jacob, Emma and Mallorie tubing.

Uncle Tom showing all the kids the turtle Justin caught. (We did let him go once we got done checking him out.)

MaKena touching the turtle.

4th of July with the Husebys

2011-08-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

The 4th of July was a fun weekend but it’s hard to believe it was over a month ago. Summer sure is flying by. This year we split our time out at the lake between Brad and Anita’s lake place and Jason and Jerene’s lake place. The weather was great all weekend long. We headed out to Lake Lizzie where Brad and Anita have a cabin and spent all day soaking up the sun and playing in the water. (Jacob was with his dad this year for the 4th so I didn’t get to see him until Monday the 4th.) Brec and Isabel came up from the cities for the weekend too. We went Jet Skiing, pontoon riding and tubing. I was sore for several days after from all the tubing, but it was a lot of fun. MaKena loved riding on the Jet Ski with daddy and would have ridden it all day if we would have let her. She did a little fishing with daddy and they caught several sunnies off the dock. Saturday afternoon we celebrated Lonnie and Ardis’s wedding anniversary. Dan, Derek, Blake, Brian, Beth and Brynlee stopped over for dinner and to enjoy the bon fire. It was a beautiful night.

Sunday afternoon we headed over to Jason and Jerene’s for a few hours. Justin and Laura were in town from Chicago and they were hanging out at the lake all weekend along with Jen and Nate and the kids. Everyone was a little quiet and mellow at the Redfield Lake. I think they all had a little too much fun the night before! MaKena, Karisa and Emma played in the sand and ran around in the water together. Gunnar even got in on the action and splashed around in the water. It was hilarious to watch him play. He would splash and splash and giggle and giggle. We did a little Jet Ski riding and paddle boating and soaked up a lot of sun. We ate an early supper with everyone and decided it was time to head back to the Huseby’s Lake. Jason was getting ready to take everyone out for a pontoon ride and we all know how long those take (just kidding Jason!) and Lane and I aren’t familiar with the lake roads and didn’t want to be driving back in the dark. (It was a good thing we left when we did as the pontoon ride didn’t get back to shore until after 9 and we left the lake around 6!)

Around noon on Monday Lane and I picked Jacob up and spent some time at the Huseby’s lake. Jacob went for a Jet Ski ride and tubing while MaKena rode around in the pontoon with Nana and Papa. We then packed up and headed over to the Redfield’s lake. Mom, Uncle Tom and Grandma Vivian were all out at the lake on Monday. It was great to see Grandma at the lake. She really enjoyed it. When we got to the lake the three little girls started having a water fight. It was funny watching them. Later Justin was out in the lake trying to catch a turtle. Eventually he did and all the kids had to check him out. We ate a late lunch/early supper with everyone and packed up our things and headed home. We were exhausted from a fun family filled weekend. Too bad it had to end. I’m already looking forward to next year!

Below are pictures from the 4th with the Husebys. In the next post I'll have pictures from the 4th with the Redfields.

MaKena "fishing" off the dock.
Brandon and Isabel on the raft.

Lane and Alexis on the jet ski.

Brec, Isabel, Brandon and MaKena relaxing in the sun.

Isabel, Alexis and MaKena floating in a tub. The water was so nice and warm!

Lane, MaKena, Brandon and Isabel. (If you click on this picture you can see the funny look on MaKena's face. She was not happy for some reason.)

MaKena eating chips with daddy.

Lane and MaKena on the jet ski.

Alexis, MaKena and Isabel.

MaKena pretending to be asleep on Nana's lap.

MaKena cuddling with Papa.

Jacob and Alexis playing football in the water.

Me and MaKena.

Lane and Jacob on the Jet Ski.

Brandon, Jacob and Alexis.

MaKena and Lane on the Jet Ski again!!

Alexis, Jacob and Lane.

Gunnar's 1st Birthday Party

2011-08-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Jen and Nate celebrated Gunnar's 1st birthday at Grandma Vivian's nursing home. It was great because everyone was able to make to the party. Gunnar got a lot of neat boy toys and fun clothes. When it came to cake time he wasn't a big fan of making a mess (just like his big sis!). He didn't want anything to do with cake. Maybe next year he'll make up for this year!

Nate helping Gunnar open presents.
All the little kids watching Gunnar open presents.

Gunnar digging into his cake. He wasn't a big fan of getting messy. Just like his big sister!

Trying to get a picture of Grandma Ivy with all of her great grandchildren. It didn't work to well! In this picture we are missing Karisa.

There's Karisa but she wasn't in the mood to be in a picture!!

Happy Birthday Lonnie!

2011-08-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

Today is my father-in-law’s birthday! Happy Birthday Lonnie! You are a great Papa and dad/father-in-law. I know we don’t say it enough but we really appreciate all you do for us. Hope you have a wonderful day and we look forward to celebrating with you tomorrow at the lake. We love you!

Baseball

2011-08-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

Another year of baseball has wrapped up. Where has the summer gone? Jacob enjoyed playing baseball again this summer. He was on the same team as last summer, with a few new kids, so it was fun to see everyone again. This year instead of a pitching machine the kids pitched to each other. Some games got a little longer than others. We did have some real nail bitters too. A majority of the time Jacob played in the outfield and at the plate he got several hits. He's not a real but threat at the plate but hopefully with time he'll get a little better. All that matters now is he enjoys playing and I enjoy watching him grow and have fun. Hopefully next year he'll be with the same group of kids as they played really well together.

At the plate.

Jacob getting ready to hit the ball!
He made it to 1st!!

Running home!!

Throwing the ball.

Happy Birthday Nate!

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today is my sister's husband's birthday. Happy Birthday Nate! We hope you have a wonderful day. We love you!!

Nate, Jen and Emma at Justin's wedding.

Father's Day

2011-07-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

On Father’s Day we were invited down the Brad and Anita’s lake for the day. It turned out to be a beautiful day for the lake. Brec and Isabel were in town so it was a fun filled family day. We (me, Lane and MaKena – Jacob was with his dad for the weekend) got to the lake around noon and hopped on the Lonnie and Ardis’s pontoon for a ride around the lake. MaKena sat with Papa to help him drive the boat. After a few minutes with Papa she knew what lever to push to make the boat go faster and kept trying to make the boat go faster. After the pontoon ride the kids got their suits on and hit the water. MaKena was having a blast. She jumped in the water to Uncle Brad and swam around. She was fascinated with trying to catch fish (aka minnows). She would make Brad carry her around in the water while she had the fish net in hand trying to catch fish. Later in the afternoon Brad took the kids tubing. I have to admit I was a little worried MaKena wouldn’t like it. Boy was I wrong, she loved it. No fear! Before we knew it, it was time to pack up and head home. It was a fun day!

Riding around the lake on the pontoon.

MaKena driving the pontoon with Papa.

Alexis, MaKena and Brandon.

Ardis, Brec and Isabel.

MaKena catching fish with Brandon.

MaKena, Alexis and Brandon getting ready to get in the water.

Another pontoon ride! I was a perfect day for a boat ride. (Lonnie, Lane, Isabel, Alexis, MaKena, Ardis and Brec)

Lane, MaKena and Alexis sitting on the back of the pontoon. I think MaKena was telling a story!!

MaKena swimming with Uncle Brad and Isabel on the raft.

Alexis, Isabel and MaKena on the raft.

Brandon carrying MaKena in the water.

Brad was trying to talk MaKena into jumping off the raft.

Isabel with her goggles!

The kids getting ready to go tubing.

Having fun tubing!

Papa, MaKena and Nana. Papa was opening his Father's Day gifts.

MaKena showing off her big catch!!

Swimming pool fun!

2011-07-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

MaKena loves to swim. Whether it’s in the tub at bath time, in her little pool on a hot day or at the lake, she loves to swim. We’ve had several hot days this summer so I set the pool up one Saturday afternoon and let her swim the day away. I honestly think she would have stayed in the pool all day if I would have let her. She’ll slide down her slide every way possible and if you don’t watch her she’ll do it again! Then she’ll jump off the little seats and splash water all over. The fun she creates for herself is pretty amusing. But after 3 plus hours I was tired of sitting out in the hot sun so I told her it was time to head inside and get some dry clothes on so we could have supper. Thankfully she didn’t put up a fuss! I’m sure we’ll have many more fun days in the pool this summer!

MaKena cooling off on a hot day!
Down the slide she goes. I've decided we'll need a bigger pool for next year. Maybe one that I can sit in with her!

This a shot of one of many times she jumped off one of the seats.

Down the slide she goes again. (This was Father's Day weekend so Jacob wasn't able to join us for the fun.)

Happy 4th Birthday Karisa Jo!

2011-07-24T09:00:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday Karisa! We hope you have a fun filled day. We can't believe you are 4 already. We look forward to celebrating with you. We love you!!

Happy 7th Birthday Isabel!

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 7th Birthday Isabel!! We hope you have a great day. It’s hard to believe you are 7 already. We look forward to celebrating your special day with you. We love you!!

Isabel (in the bright pink) playing cards with her cousins at Christmas.

Midwest Kids Fest

2011-07-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

I’ve never been to the Midwest Kids Fest at Island Park until this summer. What’s the Midwest Kids Fest?? It’s a kid’s fest set up in Island Park in Fargo. There are several interactive educational booths and many carnival games set up all over the park. Along with an entertainment stage with a bunch of different acts going on all day. It’s a lot of fun for the kids!

I took the day off to head to Island Park with Lonnie and Ardis, my kids and my nieces and nephew. It was supposed to be a nice day until late afternoon but once again the weather people got it wrong. We got out to Island Park around 11 and within a half hour of being there it started to down pour while the kids were playing on the playground. We tried to stay dry but it was a little difficult! Once the rain stopped we ventured back out from under a tent to have some fun. A lot of the booths got ruined due to the rain and ended up shutting down. The kids went on a wagon ride pulled by horses and a train ride pulled by a lawn mower. We ate some kettle corn and walked around. The kids played a little longer on the playground and then we decided to head to the DQ for a dry lunch. It was a lot of fun even though we got a little wet. Maybe next year the weather will cooperate!

Jacob, Isabel and Brandon on the wagon ride before it rained!
Me, Alexis and MaKena on the wagon ride.

MaKena, Alexis, Isabel, Brandon and Jacob waiting to ride on the train ride thing!

The kids on the train ride.

I thought this picture was cute of the kids walking away from us!

Daisy

2011-07-13T09:00:00.004-05:00

We did it. We are dog owners again! A couple weeks ago Lane saw an ad in the paper for Hush Basset puppies for sale. This particular litter was ¾ basset hound and ¼ cocker spaniel. The ad said they looked like basset hounds but smaller. We decided to call and set up a time to look at the puppies. We didn’t tell the kids, especially Jacob, because we weren’t sure if we wanted to go through with it. So we looked at them and told the lady we’d let her know either way. It was right before the 4th of July and I knew I didn’t want to deal with a puppy over the 4th. We talked about it all weekend long and finally decided Monday night that we wanted to get a puppy for the kids. On Tuesday Lane, MaKena and I went to pick the puppy up. We then went to my grandma’s to surprise Jacob (He was visiting GG with Uncle Justin and Aunt Laura). His reaction was priceless. I wish I would have recorded it. He was thrilled. We decided to name her Daisy. It’s funny because MaKena will call her Daisers from time to time. She’ll say “Daisers come here.” The kids just love her but I have to be honest, I forgot how stressful the puppy stage can be. There have been many times I’ve ask myself “what were we thinking!!” But once she gets past her puppy stage and is fully potty trained it will be a lot better! She fits in well with our family!

Jacob checking out his new puppy.

MaKena with Daisy.

MaKena and Jacob with Daisy.Daisy relaxing on Jacob.

Nail Polish

2011-07-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

To say MaKena loves to have her nails painted would be an understatement. What girl doesn’t like to have their nails painted? One night after bath I got the nail polish out and told MaKena we’d repaint her nails. I have to say she has some of the weirdest toe nails! Usually when I paint her nails some of the paint rubs off onto her other toe so I decided to get some cotton balls out and wedge them between her toes. Kind of like they do in a nail salon!! (Actually I don’t know if that’s what they do at a nail place because I’ve never had my nails done professionally!!) After I finished I had to take a picture of her toes because I thought she looked so darn cute!! I’m sure there will be many more nail painting nights at our house!

Life is good! Eating snack, watching a movie and getting her nails done! Check out the cotton between her toes!
Cheeeeesssssseeee!!!

A close up of her toes!

Rib Fest

2011-06-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

I took the kids to Rib Fest the middle of June. For those of you who don’t know what Rib Fest is I’ll explain. Every year the 2nd weekend in June (this year it was June 8 – 12) a bunch of vendors from all over the US come and set up stands in the Fargo Dome parking lot and sell ribs. There’s a contest for the best ribs. Along with the ribs there’s music entertainment each night and Games Galore sets up a bunch of blowup toys for kids to play in. On Saturday they had free parking and gate admission for a few hours so I decided to take the kids down to the dome for some fun. The weather was great. Of course there were a lot of other people with the same idea but it was fun. The kids got their wrist bands and off they went to play. After a little play time MaKena decided she wanted to play on the Rainbow Systems playground that was set up. While MaKena played Jacob watched an act that was going on under a tent nearby. He even got to toss the guy a pin while he was on a unicycle. Once the juggling act was finished grabbed some lunch and then played for a little while longer. I could tell MaKena was getting worn out so we called it a day.

MaKena getting her face painted. She LOVES to get her face painted. At home I have to watch her close because she'll take her markers and color on her face.
She asked for 2 flowers!

Jacob and MaKena waiting in line.

Up they go to the top.

Down the come!

I think MaKena would have spent all day playing in the sand and on the swing set. MaKena and Jacob going down the slide.

MaKena looking out the binoculars.

Jacob getting ready to toss his pin to the guy.

A perfect toss!!

Jacob and MaKena checking out the fire truck. Both kids love fire trucks!

Hanging out on the back of the fire truck.

Jumping like crazy in one of the many jumping toys.

More Sprinkler Fun

2011-06-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

For the second day in a row we hooked the sprinkler up for MaKena to run through and cool off. This time she was supporting her cute little bikini! She loves to be outside and especially loves to play in the water!

Sprinkler Fun

2011-06-27T09:00:00.003-05:00

Summer has arrived! We had a couple really hot days back in the beginning of June. When I say hot I mean hot! I think it was 92 – 94 degrees. It was hot! I didn’t have MaKena’s pool down from the attic so we decided to hook the sprinkler up and let her run through it. Rosemary, the neighbor girl, came over and joined MaKena. There was a lot of screaming going on and a little running through the water. I think the water was a little cold but it sure felt good on the hot day. Hopefully we have many more warm days to run through the sprinkler and swim in the pool.

Getting ready to run through the sprinkler.
Here she comes!
A little closer.
Nope, not going to jump over it! Such a goofy girl!
Attempting it again!

Almost there!

MaKena and Rosemary discussing a plan on how to run through the sprinkler. At least I think that's what they were talking about!

She finally jumped over the sprinkler.

The Park

2011-06-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

After a fun filled day at Cat and the Hat and “helping” daddy and papa on the deck on Sunday MaKena and I headed to the park by our house. We don’t go to the park much anymore because we have a swing set in our back yard that MaKena likes to play on. We decided to go for a walk and ended up at the park! MaKena always has fun at the park. She’s like a little monkey going from one thing the next. She sat still long enough for me to get a few good pictures of her otherwise she was on the go the whole time. Oh how I wish I had half her energy some days!

Cheese!!!
MaKena getting ready to slide down the slide.

Down she goes!

Climbing up the steps to slide back down!

She loves the slide! I couldn't take pictures of her swinging from the bars because I was too busy helping her so she wouldn't fall. It's a long drop to the ground!

The Deck Project

2011-06-24T09:00:00.002-05:00

This summer Lane has taken on a project. He offered to build a deck for Lonnie and Ardis’s neighbor. Unfortunately the weather hasn’t cooperated this spring / summer so he hasn't had a lot of time to work on it. After MaKena and I spent the day at Rheault Farms visiting Cat in the Hat we headed over to see Lane’s progress. Lane and Papa Lonnie were working hard and MaKena got in on the action. She really liked helping Papa and Daddy. She helped Daddy mark the boards with a pencil, she helped Papa shovel dirt and sand and she even helped clean-up by sweeping the sawdust mess daddy made with the saw. She was in 7th heaven!!

Lane and Lonnie working hard on the deck.

MaKena getting in on the action.
MaKena posing for the camera!

Daddy and MaKena with their pencils in their ear!

MaKena helping Papa dig a hole.

Such a good helper!!

She loved to help Papa with the shovel.

Happy 1st Birthday Gunnar!!

2011-06-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 1st birthday little G-man aka Gunnar! I cannot believe you are a year already. I remember the day you were born. Where did the time go?! We hope you have a wonderful day and we can’t wait to celebrate you big milestone with you. We love you!!

MaKena giving Gunnar a kiss on his BIRTHday!
Gunnar holding mommy's fingers as he walks around.

Cat in the Hat

2011-06-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

The United Way of Cass Clay was hosting The Cat and the Hat at Rheault Farms on Saturday, June 4th. The weather was perfect so MaKena and I decided to spend the day at Rheault Farms to see Cat in the Hat. Unfortunately daddy was busy working on Willie’s (Lonnie and Ardis’s neighbor) deck so he wasn’t able to join us. When we got to Rheault Farms it was hard to decide which activity to do first. There were so many to choose from. We quickly got in line to get MaKena’s face painted. As we stood in line I asked MaKena what she wanted on her face and to no surprise she said a horse. Once it was her turn she sat down and the guy (yes, we got the only guy at the face painting table) asked MaKena what she wanted. He quickly got her to change her mind and she agreed to have a pink flower instead!

After the face painting station we headed over to make our own book. We didn’t really make a book; MaKena just colored and wrote her name. Then we spoiled our lunch and had some free ice cream and watched Penny and Pals. I don’t think MaKena is a big Penny and Pals fan. She didn’t really care too much about what was going on. After a quick lunch we stood in line to have her picture taken with none other than the Cat in the Hat. The line was long but worth the wait! She waited like a big girl and when it was her turn to get her picture taken with the Cat in the Hat she had no problem sitting on his knee and saying cheese. I was worried that I’d have to be in the picture with her!

When we finished visiting with Cat in the Hat we checked out the fire truck and police car. MaKena really liked sitting in both and asking the firemen and police officer questions. It was cute. Then we headed back over to the blow up toys and did a lot of jumping in the crayon jumper and climbed up the slide several times. We couldn’t leave without playing on the jungle gym. Finally I had had enough fun for one day and decided it was time to leave. The melt down didn’t start until it was time to go!

MaKena sitting like a big girl getting a flower painted on her face.
"Making" her own book. She told me she was drawing a dinosaur!

This was a mommy dinosaur.

Drawing her name! Can you see it? She is writing the a at the end of her name.

Jumping in he crayon jumper. She LOVED jumping.

More jumping.

Climbing up the blow up slide.

Down she goes!

Cat in the Hat!

MaKena with Cat in the Hat.

Checking out the fire truck.

Posing for a quick picture on the back of the fire truck.

"Driving" the police car!

Swinging on the monkey bars like a little monkey!!

Bonanzaville

2011-06-21T14:00:00.000-05:00

It’s been years since I’ve been to Bonanzaville in West Fargo. I think the last time I was there was for a school field trip when I was in 4th or 5th grade. I remember it was one of my favorite field trips. I was a big Little House on the Prairie fan and going to Bonanzaville as a kid reminded me of the show. This year Jacob’s year end field trip was to Bonanzaville and I volunteered to help out. I had to meet at Jacob’s classroom around 10:00 and from there we hopped on a school bus and headed out to Bonanzaville. I found out real quick that 4th graders can be loud and rowdy! Once we got to Bonanzaville we broke off into our groups and it was up to the parents to keep track of the kids in their group. We were given a packet with information on each building and a scavenger hunt. We had about a hour and a half before lunch so off we went venturing through the different buildings. Some of the buildings the boys were interested in and others they were in and out in no time. After lunch we hit the last few buildings and it was time to head back to school. All and all it was a fun trip. Jacob and the two boys in our group were very well behaved, which was a good thing! I’m glad I volunteered as it was fun spending the day with Jacob.

On the bus ride to Bonanzaville.

The 3 boys in my group!

The boys in the court house.

Jacob by a John Deere Tractor.

Old school fire truck.

On the bus waiting to go back to school

Some funny MaKena stories

2011-06-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

On Father’s day we headed out to Brad and Anita’s lake to celebrate with Lonnie and the Huseby clan. On the way out to the lake MaKena was talking non-stop. At one point she looks at me and says “Mom, I want to swim in Anita’s ocean.” And then without even thinking twice she says “actually I don’t think it’s an ocean, I think it’s a lake.”

Later on in our road trip we passed a cow. MaKena pipes up and says “look at the cow.” Daddy said “No MaKena, that’s a bull.” MaKena doesn’t know the difference between a bull and a cow so she continued to argue with daddy. At one point she said “Daddy it didn’t have horns. It was a cow.” I looked at Lane and told him he wasn’t going to win an argument with MaKena. About 2 minutes later MaKena says to Lane “Daddy that was a cow.” And the argument starts again! Finally she says “Daddy just stop talking about it.” I about died laughing because she was the one who brought it up!

After spending the day at the lake we were packing up and saying our goodbyes. Uncle Brec was saying goodbye to MaKena and this is how the conversation went…...….

Uncle Brec: Goodbye sweetheart.
MaKena: I’m not your sweetheart. I’m my mommy and daddy’s sweetheart.

I’m not sure what else was said as I was in the house. Oh, the things kids say!

Happy Birthday Justin!

2011-06-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite baby brother!! We hope you have a wonderful day! We can’t wait to see you and Laura in a couple weeks. We miss you tons. We’ll help you celebrate your birthday when you are home over the 4th. We love you!!

Justin looking sharp on his wedding day! (July 24, 2010)

An Update on Karisa

2011-06-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

I received a text from Jason last night around 10pm informing me they were home with Karisa and all was good. I don't know too many details but the fact that they are home with her is a good sign. Hopefully she is on the mend and back to herself in no time. Thanks for all the prayers.

Please pray for Karisa

2011-06-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

I need some help. My 3 year old niece, Karisa, is in the hospital and could use some prayers. She was admitted yesterday after Jerene took her into the doctor because she was having stomach pains and diarrhea. The poor thing has been sick for a few days and has strep throat on top of her stomach pains. I headed up the hospital last night to visit my favorite 3 year old niece (I can say that because she is my only 3 year old niece!!). She’s got an IV hooked up to her arm and every now and then she gets really bad stomach cramps and cries because they hurt. Hopefully today they can get some answers from the doctor.

Karisa in the big hospital bed. She was hiding behind the pillow because she didn't want me to take her picture. (The quality of the pictures isn't the greatest, they were taken with my phone)
Goofy girl, trying to touch her tongue to her nose.

Mallorie in her new glasses. Doesn't she look so grown up? Love your glasses Mallorie!!

The Fort

2011-06-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

What do you do on a cold, windy, rainy Memorial Day weekend? You build a fort. It’s no surprise that the weather would be cold and raining on Memorial Day weekend but we tried to make the best of it. Jacob decided he wanted to build a fort so I gladly let him. I remember building forts all the time when I was a kid. He built the fort Saturday night and asked to sleep in it that night. When MaKena got up Sunday I found them both giggling and playing in the fort. To hear the giggles of my 2 children just makes me smile. I just love them!!

Jacob sitting by his fort.
The fort.

Another view of the fort.

MaKena and Jacob being goofy in the fort.

Aren't they cute??!!

Pretending to sleep.

A look at the inside of the fort.

Wii

2011-06-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

MaKena got her first chance at playing the Wii. I put in Mario Cart and gave her the steering wheel and off she went. She certainly wasn’t breaking any time records but she sure had fun. I got a kick out of watching her try to play. Silly little girl!

MaKena really concentrating on driving the car. She's really focused!
She looks like a pro!

Taking a break to look at me.

She's really getting into turning the wheel!!

Spring Soccer

2011-06-10T09:00:00.001-05:00

The spring session of the soccer season has ended for Jacob. For some reason the spring session seems to fly by. The weather didn’t cooperate very much this spring but they did manage to get all their games in. They played 5 games in the spring and I think 4 of them were in the rain. I think that’s perfect weather for playing soccer but not for watching it!! Jacob really enjoys soccer which makes me happy!! I love watching him play. Each year he’s getting better. Hopefully this summer I can get him in a soccer camp to help him with his aggressiveness and to learn a little more about the game.

Jacob in action!

This was Jacob's last game. Check out the sky. It was raining hard when we got to the game and it eventually stopped. Then with 1 quarter left in the game it started up again and we got soaked. Not fun!

Jacob running to the ball.

Jen and the kids came to watch Jacob's last game. The little G-man (aka Gunnar)!

Emma and Jen.

MaKena cheering on her big brother. It was cute, she's say Go Green, Go Jacob! She's one of his biggest fans (next to me!!).

Happy Birthday GiGi!

2011-06-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Grandma Ivy aka GiGi! We love you so much. Thank you for all you do for us! We hope you have a great day and we look forward to celebrating with you.

Grandma coloring with MaKena at Thanksgiving.

The kids fun run

2011-06-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Jacob took part in the kids marathon for the 3rd year in a row during the Fargo Marathon. He really enjoys taking part in the mile run even though he looks like he’s about to die at the end of the race! This year Brandon was running it too. Jacob really wanted to run with Brandon but Brandon was running with Dan so I decided I’d run with Jacob so he didn’t slow Dan and Brandon down. Talk about a cluster!! Of course the two boys had to as close to the front of the pack as possible. I was actually getting nervous for the kids mile run! But I was nervous about getting run over by a herd of kids!! The race started and off we went. Dan and Brandon took off really quick and I knew there was no way we’d keep up with them. So Jacob and I weaved our way through the pack of kids and eventually made it to the finish line. The last 100 meters I looked at Jacob and told him to sprint while I jogged it in. I was so proud of him. He crossed the finish line around 8:20 and his best time for the mile in school this year was 9:43. Maybe next year he’ll be down to 7 minutes!! We’ll work on it. It was a lot of fun running with him. I think we’ll put MaKena in the ½ mile next year!

Brandon and Jacob before the big race!
Alexis got a nice shot of me and Jacob running. This must have been about the time I told him to sprint!!

After the race, the boys showing off their medals! Look at how red their faces are!

Jacob dumped some water on his head because he was so hot!!

Jacob after his mile race.

Dance Class

2011-06-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you ask MaKena who her best buddy is she’ll say Anna. Anna is Beth and Eric Mauch’s (good friends of ours) 4 year old daughter. They live 2 houses from us and the girls used to go to daycare together. A few weeks ago Beth asked me if MaKena would like to join Anna for friend’s night at dance class. I knew MaKena would love it so I said yes. I was right, she had a blast. The girls were in a little room with about 20 other girls with a couple teachers. The parents got to watch through a window. The friends got to participate with the girls in the class and they even got to wear tap shoes. It was cute. When the class was all done I thought MaKena was going to have fit when they took her shoes off (I think she would have wore them home if she could). Thankfully she didn’t. She had a lot of fun. I wouldn’t be surprised if MaKena wants to be in dance. Hopefully we can hold off on that for a few years!! Thanks Anna for inviting us! It was a lot of fun!

MaKena waiving her little hand off at me!! That's Anna in the blue suit next to MaKena.
Another little wave!

MaKena and Anna holding hands waiting to start the next song.

Looking at the window for their moms! Look at Anna's cheesy grin!

MaKena giving Anna a hug. How cute is that??

When the class was done they got a sucker.

Clay Your Way

2011-05-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

I’ve never been to Clay Your Way until the end of April. I decided the kids and I would check it out and make some Mother’s Day gifts for my mom and Lane’s mom. We went the Saturday before Mother’s day so it was a little busy. I knew before we went in that I wanted to do flower pots. Both my mom and my mother-in-law like flowers so I thought it would be a fun gift idea. I gave MaKena strict instructions to not touch anything when we got inside. We found a table and I told her and Jacob to stay put! I really didn’t want them to break anything! Once I found the pots the girl working gave us some directions and on our way we went. It was a lot of fun. MaKena and I worked on one pot while Jacob worked on the other. About a half hour into the project MaKena started to lose interest. Before I knew it she has managed to mix the paint together on the plate and had about 10 different paint brushes in the water. I guess she was finding her own fun! Once we got the pots painted we stamped the kids hands on them and finished them up. Jacob was really into decorating the pots. I think I’ll have to take him back to make something else without his sister!! MaKena was not happy when we couldn’t take the pots with us. I tried to explain to her that they had to cook them before we could take them home. She was proud of her work and wanted to show it off!!

MaKena helping me paint the pot.
MaKena painting away.

Jacob painting one of the pots.

MaKena getting her hand stamped on one of the pots.

Jacob getting his hand painted so he could stamp it on one of the pots.

Stamping his hand on the pot. (I'm not sure what MaKena was telling him. It almost looks like she is going to give him a kiss!)

MaKena by her hand print on the pot. They showed up much better after they were "cooked."

The lake

2011-05-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

In April we ventured down to Brad and Anita’s Lake place to help them paint. Last fall they purchased a lake home on Lake Lizzie. While the adults painted the kids took turns riding around on the 4 wheeler. The weather was a little cool but the kids didn’t seem to mind. They were dressed warmly. I honestly think my 2 kids could have spent the entire day on the 4 wheeler. When we first got to the lake MaKena wanted to go swimming. She wasn’t very happy when we told her she couldn’t go swimming. There was still ice on the lake. I’m sure they will have many more weekends of fun this summer. If we ever get summer weather!

Jacob and MaKena
A closer picture of Jacob and MaKena.

Brandon and Alexis waiting their turn for the 4 Wheeler.

Jacob and Brandon

Ferris Wheel

2011-05-23T09:00:00.001-05:00

After MaKena’s haircut in April, Lane and I stopped at Scheels to get her a new pair of shoes. While we were there MaKena saw the Ferris wheel and wanted to ride it. I was surprised because every time I take Jacob to Scheels he says he doesn’t want to ride it. So MaKena and I hopped in line to ride the Ferris wheel. She loved it! Except when they were letting people off and our chair would swing. I think she thought I was making it swing. She was not happy when it started to swing. I think she was getting a little scared. Every time we’d come around where Lane was standing she’d be waiving and yelling “Hi Daddy”. Maybe next time Jacob will join her??

Me and MaKena getting buckled in.
Round and round we went!

Waiving to daddy.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-05-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

This year for Easter Jacob was with his dad. So the Easter Bunny hid enough eggs for Little Miss MaKena to find. She came upstairs shortly after 8:00 am to wake me and Lane up to tell us the Easter Bunny left eggs for her to find. Then she proceeded to tell us that she put them in her basket already. Shoot, I forgot to tell her not to find the eggs until mommy and daddy were up. Oh well. So Lane, MaKena and I headed downstairs and re-hid the eggs she found so she could find them again. Silly little girl. After all the eggs were found we got ready for church. After church we went to Nana and Papa’s house for lunch. When we got there MaKena had a bunch more eggs to find. She was in 7th Heaven!

When Jacob got home from school on Monday he got to find his eggs the Easter Bunny left for him. Thankfully MaKena was napping so we didn’t have to worry about someone finding them! All and all it was a good Easter. Quiet but relaxing.

MaKena getting an egg out of the couch.
Pull an egg out of her basketball hoop. (She's still in her PJ's with her hair and a pony tail from the day before!)

Looking for eggs at Nana and Papa's house.

Jackpot! She found a lot.

Counting all her eggs she found at Nana and Papa's.

Jacob with his Easter basket.

On the hunt for eggs. He's easier to take pictures because he doesn't run from one egg to next anymore!

Jacob counting his eggs. We have to make sure he found them all!