The Fure Files

Weird Winter

2012-02-09T18:59:00.001-06:00

This has definitely been a strange winter here in Minnesota. I can't remember a winter here being so mild and snowless. There have been some cold days but nowhere near as many as usual. Along with the cold days we had some days in January when we were close to or at 50 degrees. That's unheard of in Minnesota. Last year was one of the snowiest years ever and this year has been one of the least snowiest ever. Today was not exactly warm but it wasn't too bad so I took Jack outside and we rode bikes for a while and played a little baseball.

New word

2012-02-02T09:30:00.001-06:00

Ava has said shoes a few times now and points to them, so I know it's not a fluke! She has lately started sitting on the counter while I get ready in the morning. She likes to try to put the lipstick in her hair. Luckily she hasn't figured out how to roll the tube up yet.

Jack is growing up more every day. He copies phrases we use like Ava is out of it when she's tired. He wanted to know how many more sleeps until we go to Florida. And there are 50 just in case you are wondering too!

Top Ten Facts of Jack David Fure at age 5

2012-01-23T11:37:00.001-06:00

1. Right now he loves to play Lego video games and Legos and superheroes.

2. Loves to chat. A couple of times he has been home with Matt while Matt was working on a project. Matt doesn't talk when he works. So Jack has made the comment that "it sure is quiet in here!"

3. Very social. He loves to shake hands with people at church and to see his buddies.

4. He will be starting school in the fall.

5. He is a picky eater like his father. He would prefer to live on chips rather than all these strange foods I ram at him.

6. He still likes to know everything we are doing every second of the day.

7. He likes to count our family and he was #4 because he was 4. Now he thinks we need a dog so the dog can be #4 and he can be #5.

8. He loves our family and is ecstatic about having a baby sister even though she gets in his Legos.

9. He asks questions about God but doesn't understand salvation quite yet.

10. He says mommy about 1000 times a day and even though sometimes I can't focus on the task at hand when he does that, I would never put a stop to him calling me. It's such a short amount of time that I have him at home and even though I look forward to his future too, I am holding onto him and this time as long as I can!

Happy 5th birthday, Jack!

2012-01-23T11:27:00.001-06:00

We had a great time with the family earlier in the week and an awesome time with Jack's buddies yesterday on his birthday. It was fun to have them all over, and we were able to use the downstairs so they could run and play. So it was a great birthday week!

Happy January!

2012-01-11T14:58:00.001-06:00

January brings many birthdays in our family and friends circle so we have been busy with Aunt Nanny's and mine and gearing up for Jack's 5th birthday party. Also Chelsie's birthday is on the 15th. Wish we could celebrate with her! And also many friends have had birthdays so we have lots of parties in January. Fun!
And what beautiful weather we have had with multiple 50 degree days that allowed us to be outside more. We cleaned the garage and went to the zoo. Both were fun!

Diehard Vikings fans

2011-12-30T22:01:00.001-06:00

They get it from their father.

Just a cute picture

2011-12-30T21:54:00.001-06:00

2011-12-30T21:52:00.001-06:00

I had to take a picture of Ava standing on the heater ledge looking out the window since it doesn't seem that long ago I took one of Jack doing the same thing. Sigh.

2011-12-30T21:49:00.001-06:00

Jack LOVES his Legos. He will literally play with them for hours. Tonight he made a J.

Good-bye, Neighbor

2011-12-30T21:48:00.001-06:00

Our neighbors, the Ball family, have moved out. They are starting language school in Texas in January. We have had a great time with them and will miss them. Here are the kids at our last play date the other day.

Christmas pictures

2011-12-30T21:42:00.001-06:00

Wow what a great week! And still going strong. We all got sick this week at some point and we are rarely sick So that was no fun to be sick around the holidays. But we still managed to enjoy ourselves! We have had a great time with family and working on our house this week. My presents are usually things I want for the house, but Matt still manages to surprise me. He got me a Coach wristlet. So cute! We are also painting the common areas of our house gray. It's beautiful so far. It will take us a while probably, but its been keeping us busy this week. And we have a couple more parties this weekend and birthdays coming up. I forget how busy January is, too. We are looking forward to it!

Here are some pictures from Christmas.

Christmas Videos of Ava

2011-12-28T06:01:00.003-06:00

Well, we had a great Christmas this year and I just wanted to post a couple videos of Ava that we thought were pretty cute. The first is of Ava opening her first present of Christmas. We let the kids open one present each on the 23rd. The second video is of Ava playing with one of her presents and you can tell she likes girly things!

Christmas is almost here!

2011-12-21T04:48:00.001-06:00

"Only 3 more sleeps" as Jack would say. We are all getting excited about it. Even Ava. She has discovered toys at the store. This will be so much fun!

Merry Christmas 2011 from the Fures!

2011-12-13T21:02:00.001-06:00

We are not able to send cards to everyone, but we are glad to be able to keep up with you all through our blog and on Facebook. Praise the Lord for His Son and His love in giving us a wonderful year!

Here is our Top 10 of '11
1. Jack turned 4, can write his name and recently taught himself to button.
2. We had a great trip to Colorado for mommy and Ava to meet her cousins.
3. We started our moms group at church, and it's going great.
4. We had a fantastic family vacation in sunny Florida.
5. A great VBS that Matt directed.
6. MN State Fair and the MN Zoo = great summer fun.
7. Ava turned 1, celebrated with the whole family (Welcome Home, Aunt Nanny!) and recently started walking.
8. Shannon took on a new ministry as organizer of Blessing-dale's through the Metro Women's Center.
9. Celebrated 5 years at Berean Baptist Church. We really love it!
10. Wonderful holiday season already with countless blessings and memories of family and friends all year long.

2011-12-12T16:06:00.001-06:00

Jack likes his new coat that he said shows off his muscles.

Another new word

2011-12-12T13:11:00.001-06:00

I was tickling Jack and Ava the other day and Jack starts whining, "Mommy stop! You're nervousing me!"

A couple of firsts...

2011-12-12T13:02:00.001-06:00

Ava'a first haircut. I've gotta figure out a way to keep those curls alive. Love it! She's got hair like her daddy. We celebrated by going to McDonald's and for the first time, she noticed the toys. So I bought her a happy meal toy today.

2011-12-10T09:09:00.001-06:00

We have been staying busy. I think a little too busy. I always know I'm too busy when I start getting cranky about everyday things. So I'm hoping to slow down these next couple of weeks. Of course it's the hardest time of year to slow down. Christmas is only two weeks away. I still have a lot of shopping to do, and also our neighbors downstairs are moving out so we have a lot of activity surrounding that. On top of the regular busy schedule that has already almost filled our December.

Update on the kids. Ava now has 12 teeth. She doesn't open her mouth very wide so I don't always think to check. She also climbed out of her crib yesterday. She cried a little but was fine. Time to lower the mattress!

Jack learned how to button in the last week or two and is fitting into size 5. Both of them are growing and developing and are by turn making us either want to pull our hair out or die laughing. Jack is going through a clumsy phase. Someone told me that means he is growing. I don't know but pretty much every thing he holds, he spills or drops. Hence the pulling of the hair out! He still makes up words to get his point across. Ava's still jabbering. We've been trying to get that on video because I know I will want to hear it again when she's older and doesn't do it anymore.

That's a little snapshot into our lives this past week. Hope you are all on your way to a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-04T15:18:00.001-06:00

The auditorium finished. Jack and Lexi posing. Ava's new Christmas dress courtesy of Grandma Hanks with hair bow courtesy of Aunt Nanny. Thank you both!

More pictures

2011-12-03T21:22:00.001-06:00

Our bedroom and Jack's room updated. Decorating the church turned out nicely.

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-03T09:03:00.001-06:00

DIY

2011-12-03T08:57:00.001-06:00

I took on a couple of house projects this week that I had seen on tv. And I'm pretty happy with them. I haven't updated the blog with pictures from my phone before, so hopefully it's not too confusing to see what I'm talking about.

I had an old window I had bought at a garage sale for $4 that I didn't know what to do with. I saw this on a show on Friday and decided to do it. Just covered the back with burlap and hung it up and put my wreath on it. Now I need a table to go underneath it! I like this because it's a large piece of art on the wall. With art being so expensive, this is a good way to get around that and is maybe a little more interesting.

Here's a quilt hanger I found at goodwill and painted for Ava's room. This quilt was my inspiration for her room, and I've always wanted to display it.

We took the doors off the main upper cabinets and put fabric behind the shelves. I just cut up a table cloth that I had and used spray adhesive to attach it. But it really brightened up the space. Even though the kitchen is painted a bright green, it still tends to be on the dark side with the cabinets. So this helps draw the eye up and focus on the brightness. I also think its a nice contrast to dark wood.

Here are some random pictures of the house. Everything's a work in progress always evolving. I like to think of it as my playground. It is fun!

New Stuff

2011-11-23T04:16:00.010-06:00

It's been a while since I've put anything on the blog so I'm just going to combine a couple of different happenings.
A couple weekends back there was a Christian Community Fair at the Minneapolis Convention Center and we decided to go and check it out. It was a lot of fun. There were a bunch of vendor booths from different schools and publishers and camps and other things. There were also a lot of inflatable playgrounds for Jack to play in. He was absolutely loving it!

It may be hard to tell, but that is Jack coming down the big slide.

Jack is playing some basketball.

Now that Ava is walking it is harder to keep her close by!

Jack liked meeting Bob and Larry.

They also had a little petting zoo that both Jack and Ava loved.

Another thing that's been happening recently is that we've had evangelistic meetings at our church with the Will Galkin evangelistic team. It was a great week! I was expecting great preaching and we got it, but I guess I didn't realize how good they were musically! Simply put, they were awesome! At the end of the week they put on an Irish music concert. It combined traditional Irish tunes in the first half and then Irish sacred music in the second half. Then there was a clear gospel presentation. It was great and there were a lot of visitors.

Two weekends ago we went downtown Minneapolis to go to the Macy's 8th floor display. They have a Christmas display every year. It used to change every year, but for the last 4 years or so it has been the same but we still go and enjoy it. Then we walk through the skyways and enjoy the scenery. We were able to meet up with Brent and Heidi and her nephew to have a fun time together.

Here is Jack working out in the gym at my office tower before we hit Macy's

Good form!

Ava checking out one of the displays

You can't really tell much from the picture but when we got home from downtown we found the light pole that usually is on the other side of our driveway on the ground and still shining. It had just snowed so I'm guessing someone lost control.

And finally, we just had Brent's birthday party this last weekend. It was fun getting together with family once again.

Anyone that has a birthday gets to have Jack help them blow their candles out.

And if you happen to get a toy for your birthday Jack also helps you play with it. This is a gun for a hunting game Brent got for his birthday.

Blessingdale's

2011-11-17T13:09:00.003-06:00

I am the new organizer for Blessingdale's, the store at the Metro Women's Center (a crisis pregnancy center in our area). I love the name! It's so much fun organizing and for such a good cause. The girls who come can earn points and shop in our store. We had the director of MWC at our church to present the work. It really moved me to do something so we had it presented to our moms group at church. And then I visited and helped out one day and anyway one thing led to another and now I'm volunteering there. So I went twice this week and the 2nd day I took the kids since they were closed at that time and I wasn't planning to be there very long. It is in a building with other tenants, so when Jack heard other people moving around outside the door, he came running to me and said Mommy there's people out there. I said I know. Other people work in the building. It's ok. He said oh so they're not coming to get us? No. So they're good guys? Yep. So they're not gonna kill us? I was forced to stop and talk about the difference between real life and movies. It was kind of funny though. A little overactive imagination!

Thanksgiving a Week Away!

2011-11-17T10:22:00.005-06:00

I have been reflecting on the many things I have to be thankful for and thought I would share them. I know many people have posted one thing a day on Facebook, but here's mine all lumped together. Get settled because it's lengthy, but that's a good thing!

1. For my salvation and ongoing relationship with God who loves me, allows me to know Him more and more, and blesses me in every way.

2. For my family - here goes...Matt who loves me. He really is a picture of I Corinthians 13 to me. He is so patient and kind. We are not perfect people and don't have a perfect relationship, but I know he's the one God gave me, and I'm so grateful. The movies don't show love as it really is. The day to day care of someone who is just there for you no matter what is true love and romance. Someone who will die for you but also share their dessert! And an occasional piece of jewelry doesn't hurt! We have the romance too! Love you, Matt!:) To Rod and Betty, I'm grateful also to you for raising such a Godly man for me to love. Thank you and thank you for loving me and our kids with the same love! I love you both!

Jack my firstborn is almost 5. WOW - our lives will be changing this next year as he starts school and this time at home will be a memory. But how exciting to see his life grow and develop. If you've read our blog before, you know he is a very strong personality. So trying to steer it to think of others and encourage him to choose right things has been a big job, but we do have his heart. And it's exciting to see that when we choose to follow God's principles, they work! He is a chatterbox, and we love him.

And now Ava - she is 16 months this Saturday. Finally walking all over, jabbering about who knows what, getting a little territorial, but mostly smiling. She is my little clingier one which I wasn't used to, but I'm enjoying it. I just don't know why she's so dirty all the time! I didn't think I could handle having another one, the pregnancy, the infancy, etc. But God knows what we can handle and what we need. She has been such a joy and truly completes our family. They are both a gift from God and a huge responsibility. I'm grateful for them and for the opportunity to parent them with Matt.

My Dad - I wouldn't know God without you, so thank you. In spite of life and adversity, you always point us to God through your words, actions, and mostly your love for Him and us. Thank you for our upbringing.
My Mom - I'm thankful for Chelsie Hanks who loved me and had me. What a great testimony she had. I cherish the memories I have of her.
My Mom - Julie - You have been such a blessing to our family. Thank you for being my mom and now a friend. I love you. Thank you for being good grandparents, both you and Dad!
Chris - a brother who has been a faithful leader in many arenas but also in our family. I still think WWCD a lot of times!
Alicia - I am rich in sisters! And I'm so thankful for you. Every time I talk to you, you encourage me and help me grow.
Rebekah - I think we are twins. We think exactly alike about everything, and if we ever happen upon a different opinion, we talk until it's exactly alike - just like Algebra 2 right?
Nancy - our free spirit who will at any given moment burst into song! It is much duller without you around. So glad you are back home with us. The kids are happy, too!
Brent - I can't imagine our family without you. I love how you use as few words as possible to express yourself, but I also love hearing your opinion. You have so much common sense. And thanks for marrying Heidi!
Heidi - God knew we needed you in our family. You are a breath of fresh air! I can't imagine Brent being without you now...and Maddie! And who would I email every day?
And our nieces and nephews who I love like my own kids.
Kyle - always makes me laugh. I love to hear your running commentary!
Chelsie and Bethany - both so sweet and pretty and smart and talented
Caleb - so charismatic and happy - I look forward to hearing you preach!
Connor - my bug loving buddy to Jack

3. For my church -pastor, church family, and house - We have the most wonderful ladies I could ever meet anywhere! It's the greatest place for a young mom to be mentored.

4. For my friends - I have so many that God has brought into my life, and I'm so grateful for them in times of need. I have friends who just let me be me and still love me anyway!

5. And finally, I'm thankful for being a part of God's ministry and plan. I truly feel He has a great plan for our lives and our family, and I'm looking forward to being a part of it.

Playing with the new phone

2011-11-11T14:43:00.001-06:00

Well, now we both have our new phones and we are loving them. They are very easy to use and the cameras take very nice pictures. I was just playing around with mine this afternoon and took some pictures of the kids and got a couple good ones so here they are.

2011-11-10T06:39:00.001-06:00

2011-11-07T15:16:00.001-06:00

I got a new iPhone. I'm lucky mine came in the mail first so that Matt wanted to play with mine and get it all set up for me. I am talking into my iPhone and updating my blog wow!!! I feel like I am in the future. Anyway down to business. Ava said daddy about 4 times. Officially it's not her first word but pretty close. The other words she's said have been copying us for the most part. We bought these phones partly for the camera since ours broke a few months ago. I could usually care less about technology but I think I love this. It's already so easy to use. And it's cute!

Apple Orchard

2011-11-05T01:18:00.001-05:00

Last week our church had an activity at a local apple orchard and we had a great time. We shopped a little bit, picked out some pumpkins, and took a hayride. It was a beautiful day even though it was a little chilly.

A few fall pictures...

2011-10-26T10:14:00.005-05:00

Here are a few pictures from our trip to Stillwater for the Harvest Fest. We had a great time enjoying the pumpkins and fall stuff even though it was in the 80s!

2011-10-26T10:11:00.002-05:00

Ava is now choosing walking over crawling much of the time. She can stand up on her own without pulling herself up on something. She also has two back teeth that I didn't know about. What a difference a week makes! I think she is much happier now that she is more mobile. She is so much fun! On a mommy note, I think the space between her two front teeth is so cute. Of course, hopefully it's not permanent for her sake but I love it right now!

More updates are coming soon!

2011-10-25T05:56:00.003-05:00

OK, I know we haven't updated the blog very much lately. Well, there is a good reason for that. I have to admit that I (Matt) broke our camera a couple months ago. We made a decision to not buy a new one but to wait until we could upgrade our phones and get ones with nice cameras on them. That time is rapidly approaching. We can upgrade November 1st. Soon after that we should be able to take good pictures and videos and be able to update more regularly. I can't wait to get them because Ava is starting to really love walking.

In the meantime let me share with you some pictures that other people took of the kids playing around the fall leaves.

2011-10-18T10:27:00.004-05:00

Wow has it been that long? I guess we've been busy! We had a weekend away last weekend to Stillwater for the Harvest Fest and what a great time together. Lots of things for the kids to do. Jack drove a kids John Deere tractor to see how far he could pull the trailer, and he made it 18' 6". The guy said ok Jack was 18'6", and Jack said, "Whoohoo! Now I'm not four anymore." He is really looking forward to being 5 and has a long list of birthday wants. Whenever he sees a toy he wants, I suggest putting it on the list and that makes him happy. Of course this is a made up list and I have no memory of anything on it, but I'm sure he will end up with way too many presents and still have a good birthday!

We also went to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre (one of our favorite places) to see Hairspray. We had never seen it and didn't know much about it - we were going for the food! - and we just laughed through the whole thing. So since then, it's been kind of low key around the house which has been nice with the weather getting a little chillier. I'm still seeing green leaves and wondering if we will get many colors this year.

Ava will be 15 months tomorrow and now has a mixture of about 70%/30% of crawling to walking. She has her own language which is so cute. She says uh oh, Jack, thank you, and stinky - pretty much just repeats them. She can say mama and dada, but chooses not to most of the time. They all sound kind of alike except for Jack. But she is much more communicative and fun. She's overall a happy little girl as long as she's in her comfort zone. She is a homebody and when she gets out of her comfort zone, she gets a little nervous. But she's doing a little better on that too. Growing up! I may not have a baby for too much longer. I'm definitely ready for her to walk! I always enjoy the next stage and progress.

We've been enjoying this fall! It makes me think of the holidays. They are already around the corner. I love this time of year with the family!

2011-09-30T10:31:00.002-05:00

We have had our comment section set up to only publish approved comments because we were getting some weird comments from spammers, but that hasn't happened in so long that I'd like it to be easier to comment on the blogs. So feel free! It should be easy to do now.

Happy Fall!

2011-09-26T09:39:00.004-05:00

We sure have been enjoying this fall weather! We had a bonfire the other night for a few hours. I think we burned everything in our garage that we've been trying to get rid of. I wouldn't mind a few more months of this. I love that we have 4 seasons here in Minnesota. I sometimes wish winter wasn't as long, but I enjoy parts of it, too. And since it's not here yet, we will just enjoy October and all of its fun fall activities. Apple orchards and harvest festivals, here we come!

More Steps from Ava

2011-09-26T05:13:00.002-05:00

Ava started taking steps a few weeks back but for the last week or two it didn't seem like she was very interested in walking anymore. It may have been due to her not feeling well because she is starting to feel better and she is starting to actually walk. Here is a video of her walking and falling into Jack.

2011-09-23T12:04:00.002-05:00

Poor Ava's been sick for about two weeks now. We are not sure but they are checking to see if it is acid reflux or something else. Initially they told us it was a bug, so Jack has been praying for the bug to get out of Ava. I hope it works! We are ready for life to return to normal!

2011-09-12T10:53:00.002-05:00

Jack likes the Dog Whisperer so when Pastor said that whisperers and backbiters would be judged, he asked Matt, "Is he talking about the Dog Whisperer?"

While on a workday at church the other day, Matt was down along with some men digging in the dirt to make a rock bed. Jack said for all to hear, "Daddy? I didn't know you knew how to work!"

Fun at the Fair and Ava Walking

2011-09-01T03:47:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures from our Minnesota State Fair outings

On the park-and-ride bus on the way to the fair

Jack is visiting the pigs

Ava got to ride the carousel with Granddaddy! She liked it for the most part, but she was pretty serious for the ride since she didn't know quite what to make of it.

Jack is riding the bumper boats

If you look close enough you can see the remnants of an ice cream cone from the dairy building all over Jack's face.

I've been trying to get a video of Ava taking steps and I finally got a couple little ones. Tonight she actually took two consecutive steps, but I didn't get that on video.

Two Milestones this past week

2011-08-30T10:15:00.002-05:00

Ava has taken a step a couple of times! Still not too confident, but coming along. It might be another month or so before she starts really walking. She's more laidback than Jack and content with crawling still although sometimes she crawls with her feet.

Jack learned to write his name! He is very excited about that. Just one more year at home with me and then school for him. I have mixed emotions. I will enjoy this time with him, but I know I will love being involved in his school too.

We have been staying busy lately with Matt's work schedule and the fair, and I've been helping a friend organize/decorate her house which is fun for me.

Our neighbors, the Balls, will be leaving after Christmas to go to language school, so they are getting ready for their big move. It's an exciting time in their life in which they will be done traveling for deputation and one step closer to going to Uruguay.

We are sure enjoying this beautiful August weather and getting out as much as we can in it!

2011-08-22T14:45:00.002-05:00

I heard a song today that I haven't heard in years. An old old one called "I'm the happiest girl in the whole USA". I liked it when Matt and I were dating. My favorite part is

Skip ti de doo dah, Thank you, Lord, for making him for me.
And thank you for letting life turn out the way I always thought it could be.
There once was a time I could not imagine how it would feel to say,
I'm the happiest girl in the whole USA.

I used to always tear up at that part because I'm so grateful to God for allowing me to meet Matt and have this life that we have. And now I could look in my backseat at two little blondes, one's almost asleep and one just smiling at me, and of course I teared up again! Life is good, and I hope there's many more years of the same for us.

2011-08-19T09:09:00.002-05:00

We ended up having a couple of appointments this week. Ava is 21 lbs and 10 ozs, and Jack is 38 lbs. Jack is 41.5 inches. I can't remember Ava's height, but they are both doing great. Ava is still not walking quite yet, but I know it will come in time. It will be nice when it happens since she gets heavy! We had a lesson in our moms group about parenting, and I remember one phrase. "Delight in your ordinary child." Everyone wants extraordinary children. There is nothing on the internet about how to have an ordinary child, just ways to create super children. But it's just kind of a good reminder to appreciate them the way they are at the pace they are. We felt Jack did things ahead of schedule, but then he couldn't eat meat until he was 3. Ava could probably eat a steak, but doesn't walk yet. All these things make them ours, and that's pretty extraordinary!

2011-08-15T10:22:00.002-05:00

This is a nice interim week in which not much is planned (on purpose). I was busy last week with a few projects around the house. I will try to get some pictures on here; but our camera broke, so that makes it a little harder. I was getting the itch to do something different in our decorating and we had no space, so we had a garage sale. We made a little money and rearranged and found some good deals, and now it looks different. There's still more I could do, but with the money I had, I do really like it. I really enjoy those little projects, so it's fun and invigorating for me while it drains Matt of all energy. He does enjoy painting, so I will take him up on that this week maybe while we paint the bathroom. I'm thinking blue.

Saturday is the softball tournament, and then we are gearing up for the state fair next week! So this is our calm week.

Say AAHH!

2011-08-10T08:07:00.003-05:00

So Jack had his first dentist appointment yesterday. Matt did me a favor and woke up early to take him. I get kind of nervous about those things. But he did great and came home with some "sloff" (floss) and a badge from a police officer that they ran into. So he was very excited and told me all about the chair and the water they squirted in his mouth. I think he might like to go back! And I'm happy that he has good teeth. I always think of the old movie "Cheaper by the Dozen". Frank says, "You children have been given good health, and by jingo it's your job to keep it." So no getting sick or cavities or ER visits allowed!

Ava went to bed at 6 pm last night and although I can hear her in there, she's just content. AAHH!

I have had a fun week or two. I'm just enjoying being at home, and that means I'm organizing something or rearranging furniture or redecorating. And it's been all of the above. I will have to put some pictures up of some of my projects when I'm done. I'm undertaking painting a desk this week. I've been wanting something blue, so here goes!

Odds and Ends

2011-08-02T05:59:00.003-05:00

About 4 years ago we put a post on this blog about Jack finding the toilet paper dispenser and using it as a toy. He was about 10 months old at the time. Ava's a little behind Jack in this section of her life but, alas, she has found it! Now comes the work of keeping her away from it!

One of our favorite times of summer is coming: Fair Time! We love going to fairs since they feel like a little mini vacation. We finally got to one this past weekend when we went to the Anoka County Fair. It was hot, but it was fun! We didn't eat too much, but we got to see all the animals and Jack got to ride some rides and play a game. It was a good warm-up for the State Fair!

Jack found this 4-wheeler at the fair and said that I should get that for him for Christmas. He's got an expensive taste! I told him I didn't have $700 laying around for that.

Ava continues to get more mobile. She still hasn't taken any steps, but she can stand on her own for a little while and she can walk with help. Here is a video of her playing with her new toy she got for her birthday and doing some walking.

A couple of Jack things....

2011-07-30T18:35:00.009-05:00

Jack was very excited about getting to have some "somersault" tonight at supper....applesauce.

He still says, "Please you may get me a drink?" instead of "Please may I have a drink?"

He gets up before me usually and goes in Ava's room, and they play together until I get up. I know I have it good! When I finally have to get up, he says to me, "Mommy, are you going to stay up all night and fix me some supper?" Me: Jack, you mean stay up all day and fix you some breakfast. We call it breakfast in the morning. Jack: I call it supper. Me: Okay

He's asking questions about God and Heaven lately since Grandma's funeral and maybe even a little before then. I love those talks. I hope and pray he sees God in me and wants Him for himself.

He wanted to play Mario Kart tonight and called it "Mama Mia". I guess they say that in the game. I just laugh at how he makes up names for things.

He still is a great big brother, much nicer to Ava than she is to him. HA She gets kind of annoyed when he gets in her way. So here we go with that whole phase. Each phase has pros and cons, I guess. I still remember the doctor telling me about Jack around this age. "The older he gets and the more his brain develops, the more annoying he will be." I thought that was pretty good....and true!

Jack is very nervous about thunderstorms because of a scary one last year in which we went to the basement. He said the other day, "Did you hear that kachowing?" I guess that means thunder.

We are working on a few things with Ava. Taking the bottle with formula and the pacifier away. It's going okay overall. I can't tell if she's more whiny because of that or if it's for another reason. But I know she's okay, so we're just working on it little by little. It's been nice to be home the last couple of days to work on things like that.

Ava's 1st Birthday Party

2011-07-23T15:23:00.004-05:00

We had a full house for Ava's birthday! We were blessed to have Chris and his family here from Colorado. There were a total of 19 people in our house sitting around the table. Of course, we had to bring in an extra table from church and a bunch of chairs. Ava loved her party (at least we think she did). She definitely loved her cake and we have the pictures to prove it! She got some great outfits and some great toys to play with.

The birthday girl is ready for her party

The birthday crew

Here was the yummy cupcake pull-apart cupcake cake (try to say that three times fast!)

Someone is ready for that cake!

Forget about the cake! I want the frosting!!

The mess begins

Add a little bit more

And some more

She's finally done and is as happy as a clam and as messy as a pig

Eating the cake is so much more fun than the clean up

Having fun on one of her new toys

After the party, we had cousin Connor stay overnight so he and Jack could have a sleepover. They wanted to get dressed up in their superhero costumes and I just had to include this picture because of the face that Jack decided to make when I asked him to smile.

Family Time, Heat & a Big Birthday!

2011-07-20T01:54:00.005-05:00

I want to start out by wishing our daughter a Happy 1st Birthday! We cannot believe that it has been a year since she was born! She is growing up so fast and reaching a lot of milestones and it is a lot of fun to have her around and watching her grow up. We won't actually have her birthday party until Friday, but we were able to get a free cake from Byerly's yesterday (her birthday) and share it with some family. One good thing is that we have more family around right now. The sad part about it is that Shannon's grandma passed away last week. She was 98 years old and had a wonderful life with a wonderful family. She was a faithful Christian servant and she will be missed. Shannon's brother, Chris, and his family traveled all the way from Colorado. He preached at the funeral and did a wonderful job. Shannon and her sisters and a couple of her cousins sang a couple songs and it was beautiful.

It is great to have the extra family around, but I feel bad for them coming in from out of town when it is so miserable here in Minnesota. We are going through a terrible heat wave. I walked out of the house on Sunday to walk to church and just about passed out! I thought at the time that this was about the worst humidity that I had ever felt and, sure enough, I found out later that the dew point for that day was tied for the worst in the Twin Cities' history. Of course we had to do a little better than that; so yesterday, the day of the funeral and Ava's birthday, we broke the record for the worst dew point in TC's history! I checked my phone at one point during the day and saw that the heat index was 122 degrees! And today is supposed to be about the same if not worse!! I told some relatives from Florida that they better fly back quickly to escape this Minnesota heat.

Ava with her cousin Caleb

Jack with his cousin Connor. These two are inseparable when they are together!

Ava having a fun time with her Byerly's cake

Ava's Uh-Oh

2011-07-14T03:27:00.002-05:00

So far, this is the best video we have of Ava saying uh-oh.

2011-07-11T09:15:00.003-05:00

It's fun now that Ava understands more of what we are saying. She can nod and shake her head when we ask her questions. She chatters a lot! Getting more blonde hair with some curls. She points and talks about things. I don't really know what things, but it's still exciting. You just go along in the baby mode and kind of forget and then all of a sudden, she does all these new things and it's so exciting. I know I keep saying exciting, but it is!

First words!

2011-07-06T21:03:00.003-05:00

Today we established the fact that Ava is saying or trying to say uh oh. It comes out, "Uh Uh" but in a sing song-y way. And she is definitely trying to communicate more. She nods sometimes and sometimes shakes her head. I'm pretty sure she says hi. It comes out HAAAII again in a sing song-y way, but she does it when she sees us. She waves a lot more. Still says AH to get our attention along with some mamamamas and other consonant sounds. Very exciting!

Summer Fun!

2011-07-06T05:57:00.002-05:00

Well, it is summer and we are trying to have some fun in the sun!

Here are Jack and Ava playing in/by a pool at a friend's house.

Here is Ava enjoying a nice piece of watermelon after an outdoor Sunday evening service.

Here is Jack playing in the fountains at the MN Zoo

Here is our family taking a break in the middle of a nice bike ride.

July!

2011-07-01T14:02:00.003-05:00

Well happy July! Finally summer is here! We are looking forward to the 4th with family, Ava's first birthday on the 19th, and the fair season! Starting in with a bang with 90+ degree weather, but that's okay. Winter is still too strong of a memory for me to resent it! And thank the Lord for air conditioning!

We have been hitting the zoo every week and are hoping the government shutdown doesn't last too long. We love going there with our friends.

Ava is interacting more and more. Sometimes I could swear she says certain things like mama or hi or dada - she is probably mimicking us a little - but it's never enough to "count". She is crawling fast now and pulls herself up a lot. Her feet get so dirty outside that I decided to start having her wear shoes, and she doesn't appreciate it so far! I'm enjoying the development though. The older she gets, the easier it is for our family to do things together and to just enjoy each other. I love hearing her join us in playing or laughing.

We are practicing manners with Jack. We went to the zoo a couple of weeks ago with a very polite little boy (Wesley) who is just 2, and so I thought if he can do it, we should be doing a better job about it. So it is fun to hear Jack practicing how to say things. He has thanked me about 1000 times for a car I bought him the other day, but I haven't gotten tired of it yet!

Otherwise, that's about it. I'm just enjoying getting outside and being with the kids and getting together with family and friends. I have a few things on my to do list this summer, but I'm thinking about letting it all go and just enjoying my time to do other things. Winter will be here too soon, and there will be time enough for projects.

Vacation Bible School Fun!

2011-06-16T05:32:00.003-05:00

We are having our vacation Bible school this week and that means that we are very busy and also having a lot of fun! We are having a great week so far. We had around 20 kids the first night and all of those kids came back the next night and brought many friends so we had 35 kids last night. Tonight is our big night as we have an end-of-the-week outdoor carnival. The kids are really looking forward to it. Shannon's dad has also played a part as he is the special speaker for our adults. Here are some pictures of the VBS fun.

Fun People!!! and other Jack stories

2011-06-08T09:42:00.009-05:00

Dad was walking with Jack and told him to pick up a dime on the sidewalk. He told Jack, "Now you're rich." Jack said, "No, Mommy says we're not rich." Well what are you? "We're uh..uh..we're fun people!!!!" Sounds good to me! Family IS being rich, and we are exceptionally blessed!

Oh and when playing Lego Star Wars, Dardoo D2 is R2D2. It just makes me laugh every time I hear it, it's so cute. On the same line, he calls watermelon "lemonade" for some reason.

Matt was getting ready for work and putting his uniform on. Jack said, "Do policemen have guns?" Matt said, "Yep." Jack: "Do you have a gun?" Matt: "Nope." Jack: "Well how are you supposed to get the bad guys? Oh I forgot...you use your handcups!"

At church playing....making sword and shooting noises while jumping out from behind things....a lady said, "Who are you getting?" He said, "The Bad Guys." Like DUH! A couple of the little girls were hovering around, and he said to the lady, "Oh! They're with me."

He can be easily discouraged sometimes. I'm pretty sure I know where he gets that from! So it's funny to hear while trying to get his shirt on or something equally difficult, "These things are annoying me."

Today he wanted to play outside with his friends, and they were leaving. So he was moping, and I said, "Are you going to be sad?" "No, I'm just frustrated." That stemmed from the fact that he had turned the game off in order to go outside, and then they left. So no more game and no friends.

I raced you means I beat you.

Matt and I were frustrated the other day. Very busy day, and we were rushing to eat supper, and Jack was chatting up a storm until finally he looked at me and said, "Are you happy?" Matt said, "I'm not. Are you?" "YEP!" Nice to be a kid and not have to worry about things right? At least not the same things we worry about I guess.

Jack talks a lot. I remember when I used to wish he could talk, and now sometimes I think, what was I thinking? But then I remember how quiet and sad it would be if he weren't here. But he does seem to know just when Matt and I are talking about something serious and bursts in with something like, "Remember last time I hurt my knee? That wasn't very good." One day, Matt finally said, "Jack, why do you have to interrupt us all of the time with your comments?" Jack said, "That's what I just do." I think that comes from me, too!

Fun in the Tub

2011-06-01T15:39:00.003-05:00

Jack and Ava have started to take some baths together since she is getting too big for the sink. Ava really didn't like that idea for the first few times, but she had a great time this last time. She was loving the rubber duckies.

2011-06-01T09:24:00.002-05:00

It has been so nice recently to have the kids getting old enough for us all to have fun together. Jack and Ava laugh and laugh, and then Jack will say, "Ahh, I love having a mommy and a daddy and a baby sister." I love these moments, and we have lots of years left of it! I know it will go quickly, but I'm enjoying the time we have!

2011-05-26T09:20:00.003-05:00

I have always said Jack is a great big brother, but I knew there would come a time of annoyance at a little sister. So it makes me laugh kind of to hear now, "No, Ava. No, Ava." Or "Stop, Ava. You're bo'ering me!" (bothering) "Mommy, she's getting into my...." Well, I was enjoying babyhood. Here comes the toddler phase. She is starting to have opinions that are different than ours. She doesn't really like hearing, "No, Ava" in a stern voice. It breaks her heart. The drama is kind of funny.

2011-05-25T10:13:00.002-05:00

The 3rd tooth is here! On top. I kept hearing grinding and thought, "How is she grinding her two bottom teeth together?" Well what do you know? There's a third one now!

New Things

2011-05-17T06:12:00.005-05:00

Here are some videos of Ava doing some new things.

Ava has always been a pretty content baby and pretty happy, but she has not been much of a laugher. She doesn't really like to be tickled (Jack loved it). But she was really getting a kick out of Jack ripping up boxes and paper the other day. I tried to rip the paper, but she would just look at me. But when Jack did it she would giggle with glee.

Ava just started clapping the other day.

This isn't the first video of Ava crawling, but she hasn't been crawling very long and already has a pretty good hang of it.

2011-05-16T11:46:00.001-05:00

Ava started clicking her tongue a few days ago, and today she pulled herself up in her crib. And not long after, she clapped. So many things all at once!

2011-05-11T21:26:00.000-05:00

Ava crawled! Yesterday was the official day of actually getting 2 knees on the floor and moving. We got it on video so it is documented. She certainly gets around even though she's not crawling regularly. She even pulls herself to almost stand sometimes. Scary! And now I'm going to have to pay more attention.

She is learning how to kiss. It's so cute! I love how she leans forward with her mouth open. Also, sometimes she tips her head down so you can kiss her forehead. She loves to be kissed and with cheeks like that, who could resist? Sorry - I'm just one of those moms today thinking her kids are the greatest in the world! Oh and....I'm right!

Jack's been so loving lately, and even though he can be a tough kid to parent sometimes, he has my heart. He really is still the best big brother. I heard him talking to the kids outside yesterday through the open window. Ava started whining a little bit, and he said, "Oh just a minute, I have to go talk to Ava. I'll be back in a minute to talk to you again." And then, "Ava, are you okay? I'm right here." AWWWW!!! It's those moments that I want to take a picture and never forget them. And that's what this blog is for.

Happy Mothers Day to me!

2011-05-09T09:34:00.005-05:00

Lots of good things come on Mother's Day! Matt always takes good care of me! It was nice to be with our moms for lunch. We had Ava's baby dedication yesterday as well, and that made it special. I'm thankful God allowed me to be a mom to my two little ones. It is an honor and privilege to be with them every day.

First time Ava sat up in bed

Not long after that...

First time in the tub...not too happy.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T07:36:00.011-05:00

Progress!

2011-04-22T09:46:00.003-05:00

Ava pulled herself up to her feet yesterday, but didn't quite know what to do when she got up there, so sat back down. She also pulled her knees up to start crawling, but hasn't actually crawled on her knees at all yet. She still kind of just scooches backwards. But fun! I know it won't be long!

The Poser

2011-04-14T05:54:00.003-05:00

Ava has started to grasp the purpose of a camera. The other night I was taking her picture and as soon as the little red light went on she got this silly grin on her face. I kept doing it and every time the red light would come on she would smile. It's a lot easier to get a good picture when they know when they are supposed to smile!

Scooching!

2011-04-06T19:11:00.002-05:00

So Ava is scooching! Not crawling, but scooching backwards and around. Scooching is probably not a word but I think everyone knows what that means.

Tyler is a beautiful newborn baby - perfect skin and perfect baby sounds. So fun to hold!!!

Welcome to Tyler James Ball

2011-04-04T09:53:00.001-05:00

Ava's not the smallest person in the house now. Tyler has finally arrived and should be home tomorrow. I can't wait to hold him!

You Punk!

2011-04-04T09:49:00.004-05:00

Matt likes to call Jack a punk - it's his pet name for him I guess. So yesterday when we got home from church, Jack asked right away if he could play games and kept on. Matt finally said "No, go away." Jack came to me all sad. So Matt saw that and said, "I'm sorry I hurt your feelings, but it hurts my feelings when you don't listen to me right away. I love you." Jack said "I love you, too, you punk!"

Random

2011-03-30T08:52:00.003-05:00

I haven't put any Jack-isms on for a while, so thought I would do a few while I'm thinking of them. If you're friends with me on facebook, I apologize for being redundant.

In devotions the other night, Matt was reading a new book to Jack and said that the Bible is a letter from God to boys and girls. Jack said: "To ME?" Matt said, "Yep!" and kept reading. Jack leaned over to me and whispered, "Mommy! The letter is to ME!"

A little further on the same devotion time - the word Jericho came up. Matt said, "Can you say Jericho?" Jack said, "Yep! Mommy, can you say Jechiro?"

Love that! And there are certain words I just don't really correct because I enjoy how he says them or makes them up. For example, he frequently uses the word, "Lasterday" like "we did that lasterday."

Since Jack likes to know our schedule, I will tell him in the morning what we are doing for the day. And now if we have down time, he will come to me and say, "Mommy, what should we do today? Should we do Legos, play swords, or little men?" I think it's cute to see inside a little boy's brain of planning his day. He wants to get the important things in!

We are hoping for a new baby in our house this week! And glad that it's not ours this time! Our downstairs neighbor Kristen is almost a week overdue, and we are all on pins and needles. Our church has had 5 new babies in the past few months, so that has been fun!

Happy Birthday, Matt! And Daddy!

2011-03-28T12:52:00.004-05:00

We had a great time celebrating Matt's birthday with our family this past week. We also celebrated 8 years of marriage the day after his birthday. We got some bikes so that we can start some family biking this year, and he got a new Kindle. Jack was very excited about his gift to Matt - Lego Batman for the Wii. So yes, Jack is now into video games - yay. my favorite. They have been getting the Lego superhero games lately. So that gives them time together. I have tried - really. I'm not video game inclined, I don't think.

Anyway, happy birthday and anniversary to a wonderful man. I love him more and more all of the time.

Home (Almost but not quite as Sweet as Florida) Home

2011-03-19T14:54:00.017-05:00

So anyway, we had the best time and yes, wanted to stay longer. Jack and Ava did great overall, and we enjoyed time together with just our family. I think everyone needs that time away from everything to just be together. We did some fun things, too! Went shopping and golfing, to Cocoa Beach, to a Twins game and to 2 Disney parks - the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. So it was an all around wonderful time, and we are just hoping that spring comes soon!

2011-03-04T08:45:00.003-06:00

Busy busy busy week! Our first mom's group went great yesterday! The lesson was on organization - one of my favorite things! - and everything went smoothly. Just a tip for anyone wanting to start a moms group - you spend more time figuring out the kids program than the moms program because there will be a lot more kids than moms! But if the kids are well occupied, the moms can relax and enjoy themselves easier.

So today is church decorating for our missions conference and finally after this weekend I can seriously start packing, I think. Florida is 5 days away, and I'm ignoring the weather that's saying a huge storm is coming and the airport might be shut down. I think I'd cry if that happens.

Jack and Ava are doing great overall, but both a little under the weather or something. Ava's had trouble sleeping with a little cold and maybe a fever, and Jack's had some sort of sores on his mouth. Both seem to be clearing up I think though.

Here's a picture of Jack's new big boy bed. I'm looking for some cute bedding, and wouldn't it be fun to make a sail for the boat somehow?

Tooth Proof!

2011-02-21T19:54:00.000-06:00

Here's a picture of that tooth

Progress!

2011-02-21T15:02:00.003-06:00

Ava has had two developments this past week besides turning 7 months old. She has two teeth coming in the bottom and she started eating cereal and baby food. It's so cute to see her lean in for a mouthful. We tried to get a picture of the teeth, but mostly got her tongue. So we will keep trying.

Pictures from Colorado

2011-02-12T11:22:00.010-06:00

For my birthday this year, I asked for money to go to Colorado to see my brother Chris and his family. They hadn't met Ava yet, and I wanted them to meet. So my family all contributed so I could go. Thanks, Everyone! I had a great time, and it was nice that Dad was able to go, too. I don't know how I would have navigated the airport without him. He was a huge help with Ava! And fun to have along! Everyone asked me, "Ooh Colorado! What are you gonna do on your trip?" My answer was "See my family, of course!" We did do some things, but my goal was just to be together. And it was GREAT! The weather was beautiful! So here are some pictures of what I did...

Chelsie and Bethany got baptized while we were there

I love that both Kyle and Ava are smiling. Very rare with Ava so far!

Cousin Buddies - Connor and Caleb

AWWW Chris and Alicia - We did birthdays since I probably won't see them until next year.

Chick Fil A!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Hanks men

I love this - Connor brought out his dinosaur book and was reading it to Ava. That's something Jack would do. So cute!

BIG Smile!

2011-02-10T06:02:00.003-06:00

Well, as you can tell from the picture, Ava is starting to show some really big smiles. She gets really excited especially when she sees Shannon, Jack or me. She's still not much of a laugher, but she loves to smile. Shannon says that it seems like her face cannot contain her happiness! Of course, even after a long day or a bad day it is absolutely impossible to not smile when you see your daughter looking at you this way!

This is for you, Nancy!

2011-02-01T16:19:00.001-06:00

Nancy said she doesn't have any pictures on our blog, so here's one! Love you, Nanny!

Finally February!

2011-02-01T16:09:00.004-06:00

January is over! I thought after Christmas it would slow down, and then I thought maybe after January, and now I'm thinking maybe in a couple of weeks! Busy busy busy!

Ava's 6 month appointment today revealed that she has an ear infection. I knew something wasn't right! So no "finger poke" today as Jack would say. He calls shots "finger pokes" since that's what he remembers from getting his iron checked. So that is too bad, but at least she didn't have finger pokes. Just prolongs the agony for a couple of weeks down the road until we get rid of this ear infection. She does not suffer in silence, but she's been pretty good considering.

This weather is getting me down! I don't think it will ever stop snowing. It will probably be June before it melts, so we are looking forward to a break in Florida in March! Can't wait for that. It's our favorite place for vacation this time of year since it's always nice there!

We have had lots of babies born lately around us! Mostly boys, but one girlfriend for Ava. Fun! Showers galore! And we are hoping to start up our moms group officially in March. We are excited about that and hope it goes off without a hitch. So that is taking my time and energy lately.

Jack's Birthday Part 2

2011-01-20T01:09:00.001-06:00

Here is Jack making his wish before he blows out the candles.

Ava had fun with Granddaddy

Jack really did love all of his gifts, but this Iron Man costume is definitely his favorite thing. I think he has worn it every day since he got it! He is in a super hero phase and loves to play dress-up with our downstairs neighbors. He has "saved the day" countless times since Saturday.

Jack's Birthday Part 1

2011-01-20T01:01:00.000-06:00

Amazingly enough Jack is almost 4 years old! His birthday is this Saturday, but we had to have his birthday party early so we had it last Saturday. We all had a great time as the family came over for supper and then we opened gifts and then we were able to Skype Nancy out east and Chris, Alicia & family in Colorado.

Here is Jack with his Toy Story themed cake.

Jack was very excited about his party and was waiting "patiently" for everyone to arrive

Here is Jack posing next to all his gifts. He really didn't want to wait to open them this year. He would have been fine skipping supper so he could rip right into the presents!

Happy Birthdays!

2011-01-19T11:36:00.002-06:00

Jack is 4 on Saturday, Ava Jane is 6 months old, and I am....too old! Can't believe it! Matt said if we had met when we were 20 and had kids right away, we'd have high school graduates soon! That is just crazy talk. I feel about 10 years younger than I am. And besides our immediate family, Nancy had a birthday on the 1st and my niece Chelsie had a birthday on the 15th - happy birthday to all!

Can't wait to celebrate with Chelsie in person this week. I am so thankful that with the money for my birthday, I am able to visit Chris and Alicia's family in Colorado for a few days. Just me and Ava. It'd be nice to take Jack and Matt too, but they will have some quality time together, too, I guess. Very Very Excited for this weekend!

Kids Update

2011-01-05T17:58:00.004-06:00

In the last month, Ava has laughed, rolled over, and this past Monday actually reached for me! Matt says she gets extra bonus points for that. Today I was waving to her, and I could see her trying to figure out how to do that. She is definitely growing quickly, and I can't believe she will be 6 months old in a couple of weeks. When you only have one, you wonder how you could love any other baby as much. And yet, it has happened! And Jack is still so good with her. I love seeing her smile so big at him and him trying to make her laugh.

Jack will be 4 soon. It has been nice getting past the Terrible Twos and what people don't tell you the Worse Than Two THREES. He really is a huge help and a joy to have around. Of course, it has been challenging keeping an active boy busy indoors in the winter. I've heard that if your puppy runs all around in circles or up and down the halls that it is not getting enough exercise. Well, that's what Jack does.

Pics from Christmas

2010-12-31T04:46:00.009-06:00

Here are some pics from our different Christmas celebrations:

Jack loves getting clothes!

Of course, he loves getting cars, too! Here he is with Grandpa and his new Batmobile

Jack was so excited about this new shirt that he decided he had to try it on then and there!

Even Matt had to try on this shirt as soon as he got it from his sister.

Here is Jack opening his stocking on Christmas morning

Jack absolutely LOVES his Iron Man action figure

He also loves his Cars play rug as you see below

This truck from Brent & Heidi was definitely the hit of the party when we were at Granddaddy's house. Jack was playing with it all morning.

Ava was blissfully ignorant of all the fun that was happening around her.

Jack sure was interested in Granddaddy's new singing hat!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T07:42:00.003-06:00

Do you have any resolutions? Heidi asked me that a few weeks ago, and mine's always the same - lose weight! But after thinking about it a little bit, I like the verse, "Let your moderation be known unto all men, the Lord is at hand." I thought that would be a good verse to live by this year. If we live in remembrance of Christ's return every day, the things that are important to us might be different. And that affects many areas of our lives. But it's a good goal!

What a great Christmas! We had the best time with our families and at church. Good food and good fellowship - can't beat it! Jack racked up with so many nice things and his birthday is coming, so it might be about time to clean out that toy box again since it is piled pretty high. Time to get rid of old stuff and make room for the new, right? I've done the same thing with myself, and Matt has, too. I'm looking forward to the next couple of weeks since we have a few birthdays and then I'm heading to Colorado with Ava. I can't wait to see Chris and Alicia and the kids and for them to meet Ava in person. It's been fun skyping a few times with them. And now we can do that at home since we got a web cam for Christmas.

Check out my brother's new book Morning Manna by R. Chris Hanks. Lifeway is carrying it, and you can order it online. It is a devotional that will be a blessing to you! Chris and Alicia are so talented and can do anything. They make candles, too. Their candles are in high demand and are sold in stores all over Colorado. They are called Mountain Lights, so check them out, too! I think you can order them online. So that's my commercial for them - go buy a book and a candle! I can't imagine anyone paying me to write! OR make candles! WOW!

The day before the day before....

2010-12-23T08:41:00.003-06:00

Fun shopping! Time with my sisters - so nice to have Nancy home! I am looking forward to our day together today before tomorrow when everything really starts. Church, the Fures for their Christmas, and then home to get ready for ours the next morning. I'm so excited to see Jack's face opening his presents. Ava won't be too aware quite yet! Then to the Hanks at 10 am for presents and fondue! What I love the most about this time of year is time with family. Can't wait!

Pictures from the Christmas program day

2010-12-14T16:30:00.011-06:00

Waiting to go in...

Walking and waving....our little star

These pictures turned out terrible. But here's one anyway.

At home

Christmas Program

2010-12-14T16:15:00.003-06:00

Well, the Christmas program this year was a success! Whew! Sigh of relief. I'm glad it's over, and I'm glad it went so well. All of the kids did a great job. Jack was in the front row and we could hear him singing. And he did his part right and when he was supposed to - again, WHEW! And they were all dressed up and so cute! So we had a great time. The families both came and all came over afterwards for some sandwiches. It was so much fun. We let Jack open a present early for doing so well.

So this week we are making our gifts for the church. Our annual fiddle faddle. Well, we just started doing it last year copying Chris and Alicia, and everyone really liked it. It enabled us to do more for more people in the church, and it's something we are making ourselves. And it's kind of fun. And quite tasty!

So this Sunday is our cantata and then Monday Nancy comes home - whoohoo! We are very excited especially Ava since she hasn't met Aunt Nanny yet. We are looking forward to some good quality family time this Christmas.

My car is again in the shop - what is it about Christmastime and car problems? I think it was in the shop last year, too, right around this time. But thank the Lord, He is providing us with our needs. We have a house to live in, food to eat, cars to drive, and clothes to wear. Oh and our health! Really no complaints!

We are all ready! Decorations up, presents bought, and just waiting....I need a project! Really though I'm glad I'm done. This way I can be ready to enjoy my family when they are all here and off work without feeling like I have a lot to do. So looking forward to it all! Merry Christmas to you all!

2010-12-08T10:24:00.003-06:00

As I was working on the blog, I heard Jack playing with his phone. It rings and says, "Information. May I help you?" He answers, "Uh yeah, I'm a superhero. Bye." Told ya!

2010-12-08T10:07:00.004-06:00

We had a crazy busy week last week. Lots of church stuff on top of the regular schedule, so it got kind of crazy. This week is our slow down week with last night being the first time at home in a while. I went to the mall yesterday and had a blast. I don't do that like I used to, but it's still just as fun!

I think we are caught up on Christmas shopping - just a couple of small things left! So that is a good feeling. Ava is almost 5 months old. She is using her hands so much more now which means look out if you're holding her. She will grab anything. She had her 4 month appointment last week and is perfect according to Dr. Sprenkle. She did a little better on the shots, but it's still heartbreaking. As I was signing the consent form, I felt like such a traitor. Yes, honey, I gave them permission to hurt you! UGH! But I guess it's better than getting a terrible disease. I must keep things in perspective.

Jack is loving the snow. He has been able to play in it a few times and loves it. We have enjoyed having the Balls back home downstairs, so he has been able to play with them, too. Kind of nice in the winter especially to have playmates! He is in a superhero phase. I don't really get it, but it's kind of cute. Daddy's still his favorite playground. He's getting ready for his Christmas program and has a speaking part this year, so we'll see how that goes! It's exciting to see how much he can memorize. I'm really looking forward to his opening presents this year. It will be fun to watch him.

So the next thing is to get the Christmas cards out! I will be working on that this week. I usually have them done by now, but there really hasn't been much time. So here we go!

2010-11-27T15:41:00.001-06:00

Life Moves on...

2010-11-27T15:30:00.002-06:00

Ava is holding her head up pretty well now and can sit in her Bumbo chair! She loves it and smiles so big when we put her in it. She has been pretty happy lately and is so much fun. She screeches to hear her voice and has started using her hands to reach for things - and me. At least that's my opinion.

Jack is growing up so fast that I'm sad at some things he doesn't do anymore. For example, he talks so clearly now that I miss how he used to say things. He still practices hard though on certain words and phrases.

Thanksgiving was so much fun with the families! It went too fast, and now we're on the fast track towards Christmas. We have done most of our Christmas shopping though, so we're doing okay on that. Now to get the letters out and just go to tons of events in this busy season!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-17T10:19:00.003-06:00

It's almost here! In thinking about this time of year, I would like to say that I'm thankful for my relationship with God more than anything in my life! Without it, my life would be impossible to live successfully. And He has given me the desires of my heart in my family and in our ministry. I am completely content with our life.

I'm so thankful to be married to the man God created for me. Matt is truly the leader of our home and has wisdom and kindness. He is a great father, and I'm thankful to be a mom to my two favorite children! I'm thankful Matt is supportive of my staying home with them through these formative years.

I'm so thankful for the opportunity to have one of each. Jack is so much like me in so many ways; and so far, it seems that Ava has Matt's calm personality. Until you make her mad with not getting a bottle in her mouth fast enough!

I'm thankful for our church. From the first time we visited, we never wanted to go anywhere else. God might have other plans at some point in our lives, but I always feel that there's no place like Berean! The people are amazing and have just taken us in and loved and encouraged us.

I'm thankful for our families and that we live near most of them. I wish the rest were closer, but I'm still thankful for the times we have had together.

I'm thankful for amazing friends who love and encourage me.

I'm thankful for God's provision. This year I'm not babysitting, and there wasn't any leftover for Christmas, and God has provided in a way that is unbelievable! I could never have worked it out this way on my own.

I'm sure I will have more to add to the list, but these are off the top of my head. Looking forward to next week to sit down with family and be properly thankful in front of the turkey!

2010-11-17T10:05:00.003-06:00

I haven't written in a while. We have been busy, but also haven't had much to write about, I guess. So we are getting close to the holidays though - very exciting! We started some shopping yesterday and actually put a good dent in our list! I am looking forward to Black Friday. I don't do the 4 in the morning thing, but I do like to go a little later when it is less crazy. Our secret is the Mall of America. So far, it's the best kept secret. Everyone is out at Walmart or everywhere else. So Rebekah and I are headed there!

We are all adjusting I think finally to Matt's schedule and having another child. And it helps that Ava is past a lot of the newborn stuff such as waking us up in the middle of the night. She is a good sleeper and a good eater, so that is a huge help! Ava will be 4 months old this Friday already! And I remember Jack rolled over at 4 months, so we will be beginning some milestones soon, I think.

So we are headed into a busy weekend with church stuff. Friday and Saturday are packed with fun things to do! We were out of town filling in at a church in Rochester this past week, and we missed our church. There's no place like home! It's nice to be part of a church that makes us feel at home and embraces us.

Jack is getting closer to being 4 and is getting to be very grown up. We can't talk about his Christmas presents this year in front of him. He's too alert and picks up on it quickly.

It seems like this holiday season is already going by quickly! I think it helped that the weather has been so mild up until now - 12 inches this past weekend! Crazy. So anyway, I have listened to some Christmas music and watched a couple of Christmas movies, but haven't gone too nuts yet. Haven't decorated yet. I'm a little in denial with the snow and am still hoping for a bit more of fall. I would enjoy even the 40s for a while. But I think this is kind of it and that winter is coming! The snow sure is beautiful though, and Jack and Matt built the bottom roll of a snowman so far!

Doesn't this just make your day?

2010-11-05T22:48:00.000-05:00

This smile makes it all worth it!

Our Little Pumpkin

2010-11-05T10:32:00.001-05:00

Here she is trying to hold her pacifier in. Very intently!

Peter Pan

2010-11-05T10:29:00.002-05:00

Jack with his "boney arrow". It's funny how kids hear things.

Busy Busy Busy

2010-10-26T11:25:00.002-05:00

Busy lately! WOW! But very fun stuff. We started our Ladies Meetings at church, and that is always a blessing! We also had a church activity at Apple Jack Orchards. Of course, we forgot our camera; so didn't get any pictures - bummer! It was fun; and we got some yummy Honeycrisp apples, a caramel apple!, and some apple donuts. YUM! There was a lot of things to do for Jack - a pony ride, a cow tractor ride - so cute, the apple shooter, and hay piles to climb on and slide down. It was a great time. This coming up Sunday is Harvest Home Sunday with a full turkey dinner - can't wait! We've also been able to have some friends over, and Jack had friends sleep over so that their parents could go on a 10 year anniversary weekend. We had a great time with them. And of course seeing family is the best, so we've been able to squeeze a little of that in, too!

Ava is now 3 months old. She went through a screaming phase last week almost like she was teething, but I think it's a little early for that! And now she seems happier and back to herself. Smiling more and more, and I'm adjusting more now, too! I had a fun organizing day yesterday - going through our stuff to give to Goodwill and going through Jack's and Ava's clothes for some other lucky young child! And just doing some housey stuff. I love a fun project that makes the house look better. Whenever I start to feel cramped, I know it's time to declutter!

Jack has started Cubbies and is learning lots of verses now. I'm excited and glad for him! He's learning things like how to keep his hands to himself and how to be nice to his friends and his teachers - that's their rules. Pretty good ones!

I'm all of a sudden so looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas shopping and then Christmas. All of the family together - or most of them at least! Hint Hint - Nancy and Chris and Alicia! By the way, Happy Birthday, Alicia! Hope you had a great birthday. Love you!

More pictures

2010-10-11T12:04:00.003-05:00

Pictures from our fall weekend getaway

2010-10-05T08:37:00.003-05:00