The Schueler Chronicles

V-day

2012-02-16T15:53:00.004-05:00

Love day may be just the number 14 on the second month of the year, but it sure is worth the excuse to make cards for one another, tell one another once again how much you love them and to eat some good food and CHOCOLATE!!!

Nothing like sugaring up that personality on a huge SpongeBob marshmallow pop.

Abram's card for Aubrey

Ayden's card for Aubrey

Abram's card for Daddy

You all know how hard it is to find a babysitter on V-day. Why take someone away from their beloved for the night to watch the hoodlums? Also, when the day falls in the middle of the week it just doesn't work with schedules to plan a big outing. So for us we decided a few years ago to plan a yummy ethnic meal for after the kids are in bed. We love to cook together and with no time constraints it is not only cheaper and intriguing, it is romantic. We have done lots of Thai, Indian and Asian in the past, this year we chose Morrocan. It was Yum-O! We had bagel chips with Chipotle hummus and various cheeses with some Barefoot Sweet Red for an appetizer. The main course was Morrocan meatballs in saffron rice and dessert was chocolate fondued (yes, I made that word up) strawberries. Tucking this one in the recipe book. Smelled and tasted so good, doesn't hurt that I enjoy very much the company I have in my valentine!

2012-02-12T22:24:00.002-05:00

Abram's mind is so abstract. It sometimes takes mom and dad some time to catch up with where his thoughts are traveling to next. 2 examples:

Dad, I'm a snowman (carrot nose must be what he means?!)

Dad, it looks like a "D", a lowercase "d".

3 years with a ham of a man

2012-02-06T16:26:00.005-05:00

For those of you viewing this blog and who know Abram personally you can attest to the inability I have to describe this 3 year old little man. He certainly is one-of-a-kind. His personality turns on at 7:15 each morning and it doesn't shut off until 8pm every night (with the exception of his 3 hr afternoon snoozer). He can hold a room's attention all on his own, he can confuse the living tar right out of you with his questions, he can charm you with his wit, he can frustrate you with his hard-headedness, amaze you at his level of knowledge and make your gut hurt from laughing entirely too loudly at his one-liners. This all can encompass Abram in just a 5 minute span. Recently I called him to the living room to shoot some 3 year old photos. When I downloaded our 10 minute session together, what I saw revealed exactly who our Buddy Bear is. I simply could not delete photos regardless of the quality. What I saw was his joy and his humor, all wrapped into one.

For those who do not have the pleasure of knowing this little man personally, I am grateful for these family blogs. This is a place where we can watch one another's families grow and become what God intended them to be. I pray that someday all of our navy paths cross once again, our kids can all giggle and play together and that we can enjoy them all in one place, at one time. For now, may you experience our little guy in the best virtual manner!

Abramism

2012-01-29T15:47:00.002-05:00

Upon waking up in the morning, Zoe is insistent on #1-getting outside to pee and #2-getting fed. If her two needs are not immediately fulfilled she will let you know with incessant barking. The other morning Ayden was late at getting #2 accomplished and so the barking ensued. As she was barking downstairs I was upstairs waking the two little boys. Abram woke to Zoe's cacophony and said, "we need to take Zoe's batteries out".

I'll be sure they aren't rechargeable batteries next time!

Emily's Daycare

2012-01-20T15:15:00.002-05:00

It was 8 1/2 years ago that I hung up my teaching hat...at least the one that came with a monetary salary. Yet every once in awhile I get the opportunity to have kids in my home for some play, learning, fun and love. Today I had 3 extras and boy were we busy bees. There was construction play in rice (thanks for putting that idea back in my head Auntie Aija), water painting, marching bands, lemonade making, pretend play with the kitchen, dancing, story time, dress up, exercise time and snack time. Phew, now I have 4 snoozy kids left before the bus brings 2 more to the doorstep. Best part of it all, these kids get along better than any group of kids I could imagine. The giggles, the manners, the imaginations and the sweat-drenched faces make for one BRILLIANT day. I still like pretending to be a teacher. I don't need the paycheck though, thanks!

construction zone
dance time

Is that Minnie Mouse painting?!

Baby, its cold outside

2012-01-20T15:02:00.003-05:00

Our Minnesota winter has truly arrived. I was more than thrilled over our 50 degree weather, so when the outside temp gauge began having a - sign in front of the number, I knew my dreams of a pleasant winter were over. The one thing the cool weather has going for it, is the chance to snuggle in with a good book, a video or some new gadgets. The kids have recently discovered mom and dad's stash of instruments in our understair storage. All 3 adore music, but mom and dad's ears require breaks now and again. To our surprise, all of them can play the trumpet with the best of 'em. Maybe our collection of 4 trumpets will get used! Ayden and Abram love daddy's guitar and then of course we can throw in the piano, maracas, tambourines, recorder and the numerous drums in this house and we have a full on jam session.

When I came upstairs after doing some laundry, I found this bunch of bookworms warming up in front of the fire.

Do you all know about LeapFrogs videos? If not, perk up your ears, these are GOLD! The Letter Factory got Ayden reading at 3 years. We never owned them, just borrowed from friends. When Christmas rolled around I put it on Abram's gift list. Gma and Gpa Schueler bought it and it is played daily in our house. Just 1/2 month later and Abram knows all 26 letters and all 26 sounds without hesitation. I love that! He sings the sounds to himself at nap, in the car, at the dinner table and loves to quiz others on sounds. It is a stitch. I love you LeapFrog!

As you can see, even the big kids are engrossed.

Menu Planning

2012-01-19T22:08:00.002-05:00

We will be celebrating Abram Jorgen's 3rd bday with a family party this Saturday. First off, like every mommy says, "I can't believe he can possibly be 3 years old already". Now, as this day approaches he has been very enthusiastic about the celebration. It will be 5 days before his actual birthday, but he is very willing to celebrate as many times as necessary. My friend Beth has talked about how her kids are given the opportunity to choose their bday meal and that each food group must be present. I loved this idea and used it first with Aubrey last year. Now it is Abram's turn. What did he order? Cake, Ice Cream, McDonald's, Cantaloupe and Green Beans. Yes, in that order! I think mommy might have to overrule this menu, there may be some tweaking that needs to be done.

A Personal Chef

2012-01-12T14:42:00.002-05:00

What does that mean? Usually it is someone hired to help revamp someone's eating habits and cook for them according to their health plan to accomplish some nutritional goals. That being said, I am here at home today with fresh homemade bread baking and working on some Mint Split Pea soup for supper. That may sound yummy, but my "personal chef" truly knows me. Who is he? Well, he stands at a stout 35+ inches, loves the word "why" and just learned to put his own shoes and jacket on. His name is Abram and today my chef came upstairs from working in his play kitchen. He had lunch all prepared for me. It was a turkey sandwich with a tomato and cheese PLUS a slab of Hershey's chocolate on it. Yup, this guy will stay on my payroll for a long time. He gets me!

Desperate measures

2012-01-08T21:51:00.002-05:00

Abbott Nathaniel turned 15 months yesterday and there is still ZERO, NIL, ZIPPO desire to move for this big guy. He still does not walk, he still does not crawl. He isn't even close!!! Now, y'all know how donut crazy this family is. For donut Saturday we placed his donut out in front of him on the floor and thought it would truly get him going since food is the only thing he gets impatient for. No go! He grunted once or twice, put his fingers in his mouth and laid his head down. Sheesh! Kiddo, your legs work, your arms work, but your passive, patient personality reigns supreme. Any suggestions on how to get this guy's fire started under him?!

Just because I think she is worthy of a post

2012-01-04T16:42:00.002-05:00

Winter or Spring

2012-01-04T16:35:00.003-05:00

There are some confused little birdies out singing today. They have been confused for quite some time here in Minnesota. When January is usually filled to the brim with snow mounds and subzero temps, we are left wondering if Winter was skipped this year. I have nothing to complain about, since it is no secret that I do not like cold weather.

So, the boys and I celebrated with a walk and park time, while the snowmobilers and ice fisherman sit with their eyebrows furrowed. I'm loving this!!!

Getting Clean?

2011-12-30T00:11:00.002-05:00

Silly mommy thought that bathtime was a time to corral kids so no more messes were made in the house and that the kids finally get rid of that dirt behind their ears where you could plant a whole garden. Apparently not. Thank you Santa for bringing messy fingerpaint soaps....oh wait, I'm Santa. Oh well, then here's to using the messes for photo ops!

Now he is squeaky clean, and wears the slick well!

Still have some work to do with her. She appears to be prepping for war. Is that battle paint?

At a loss for words with this one! (as usual)

Abramism

2011-12-29T23:58:00.002-05:00

Abram: Mommy, I'm still hungry. May I have some statues?
Mommy: silence (I have NO clue what he is talking about)
Abram: pointing Those.

Aha, he wanted pistachios! Even after correction, he continues to call them statues!

Run, Surf, Chill

2011-12-26T23:34:00.000-05:00

December 8th was the day I added a few new "1sts" to my life. In my 8 years of being a mommy, I have never been away from my children (other than quick overnights here and there). My husband and I had never been away on a "true vacation" together (meaning more than 72 hrs). Well, we went big. This has been a dream in the making for a couple years now. It was a dream to one day cross a finish line after running 26.2 miles. I had no aspirations to clock an amazing time, but I did want it to be somewhere that the after party would be out of this world. Hmmmm, where would that place be? Only my favorite place on earth-HAWAII! I even took my 2nd best friend/sister Sarah (my hubby clearly being my first) and her hubby along for the ride. So after my dream was sidelined once with a surprise pregnancy and a Baby Ta-da, our flight took off the morning after we dispersed our 4 children into great loving arms of friends and family. What follows is a plethora of photos documenting our week. So without further with do (do you feel like the relatives having to endure the nauseating family slideshow?)!

Early morning flight took us to Honolulu via Phoenix

After our first whiff of tropical air in the airport we found this welcome sign. I think they put it up just for us?!
The first 5 nights we stayed at the military hotel, the Hale Koa. It was all dressed in lights for the holidays.
Because the race was set to begin at 5am Sunday morn, we kept ourselves on Minnesota time until that day. It was fun to wake, grab Starbucks, sit on the beach and watch the sunrise over Diamond Head.

Lost track of how many of these we saw over the 10 days.

Our only plan for Saturday was to get to the expo to pick up our race packets and numbers. It was held at the Honolulu Convention Center.

Signatures from all over, we signed his bum!

Coach Bill allowed us some beach time on Saturday, but it was limited so that we wouldn't be fried lobsters or have sun-exhaustion the next morning. So, we sat by the pool and passed some hours people watching and relaxing.

Headed to the start line at 3:30am. Was such a fun atmosphere. About 80% of the runners were from Japan. They warmed up in mass groups, stretched in mass groups, took photos in mass groups and did everything with such enthusiasm. Throughout the course their cheers were infectious. They have more fun than one can describe with words. We saw them dressed as: Minnie Mouse, Santa, Yoda, and just about everything else. We teased that most of them could have finished the race in 3 1/2 hrs if they didn't stop to take so many photos along the way. Taking it all in made the time fly!

The race began when the fireworks poured across the sky at Ala Moana Park. The race went very well. My sister said it best, the experience was very akin to childbirth. You begin with such great anticipation. You are full of energy and just giddy. At mile 8-10 you feel as though this is a piece of cake. You just roll. At mile 15 daylight broke and humidity rose. So did Emily's heartrate. We backed down for 2 miles to adjust. Then we were back in the groove. Then around mile 20 this begins to hurt, that begins to hurt and you think maybe this isn't so much fun anymore. Then you hit mile 23 and the emotions begin to creep in. You know you will finish and all you need to do is focus, control your breathing and enjoy the end result. Then there is the finish line. With a lump in the throat and the sight of your biggest fan on the sideline (yup, my hubby) you finish, raise your arms and take it all in.

Because of the 15-17 mile slowdown and a 10 minute porta-potty break (again, Japanese were not in a hurry to "get it done" we did not hit the goal of 4:59 that we sort of looked to that day. No worries though, we finished so happily at 5:18 and were thrilled!!!

We celebrated that night at Paradise Cove
To top off the celebration, our boys became part of the show!

They sure had the MOVES!!!

(an extra round of applause for my brother in law Bill, coach had just ran 26.2 miles)

Loving time alone with my groom!

Entertainment and food was good as always

Monday was our Waikiki beach day. My friend Jaime came down with 3 of her boys to play with us. We rented Paddleboards and discovered honu (turtles) and other fun sites.

That night we went to Pastor Mike Lwin's house and had a scrumptious dinner with him, Lynn and the kids. We also took a trip up Makakilo Drive to see our old house and neighborhood. It is For Sale again, hmmm, could a family of 6 fit in the 1100 sq. ft.?

By Tuesday our legs were feeling good and we took the hike up Diamond Head. From the top, this was the dream home I picked out. Dreamy house, dreamy palms, dreamy water!

This is the US Coast Guard Lighthouse we passed in the marathon. It was at about mile 10 and was the part of the race with the biggest incline. We were grateful that the incline came with such beautiful views!

No caption necessary!

Another rainbow

On Wednesday we hit the Swap Meet, then divided up. The boys went to Pearl Harbor and the girls went to Ko'Olina.

Ko'Olina has changed a bit with the new hotel towers, including Aulani (the new Disney Resort). Although we were unimpressed with the Aulani, we still loved the lagoons just the same.

At one point I looked up and saw this-a seal swam right up on the beach to check out this little family playing in the sand.

Sunset at Ko'Olina

Tootsies in the sand

After our stay at the Hale Koa we got to move in with our wonderful friends Mark and Sue Peterman. From there we could venture to any part of the island. Thursday we went on a Dolphin Excursion. Not one second of this adventure was a disappointment.

We saw honu mating (this is the PG photo of the lovebir....turtles)

We also came upon two pods of dolphins. Each pod had about 40 dolphins. We circled the pods, lined the back of the boat and when Capt. Mark gave us the go ahead we slid off the back of the moving boat into 45 ft. water and bobbed silently while the dolphins swam about us. I've NEVER experienced anything like it. At one point Capt Mark yelled at me to turn around. When I did I was starring a dolphin right in the nose!!!

These dolphins had more fun showing off their flips, riding the bow of the boat and surfing our wake.

Such attractive snorkelers ready to check out the turtle cleaning station.

More dolphins playing by the boat

We were so blessed to see 3 whales while we were out there. They were showing off their flukes for us.

Any of you "Pirates" fans? This is Queen Anne's revenge, the ship was the Black Pearl converted. Fun to see closeup!

Out to dinner at our favorite place

Misoyaki Butterfish with wasabi sauce......mmmm, that's right!

Days before our planned trip to Roy's the restaurant in Ko'Olina had a kitchen fire. We sadly went to the Waikiki location instead. Yet, we found a way to stomach the incredible food!

Friday we drove around the island. Winter waves were 15 footers this day. Not big in North Shore terms, but still fun to see.

Windward Oahu and the Koolaus

Ah, Mrs. Uyboco, name that beach. Thought of you so much that day!

For all you Minnesotans, no, these aren't Sno Cones, these are Shave Ice. And when you have one at Island Sno, it is something COMPLETELY different-onolicious!

On Saturday we moved once again, this time to Ewa Beach to stay with the McGuire family. We spent the day with them out at White Plains. The boys rented some longboards and headed out into the waves.

Our final day was Sunday. We took in church at New Hope Leeward and then had one more day at Ko'Olina. This was one of our best views while on vacation.

Corona was looking for extras for their next commercial. This time paradise wasn't just a dream though! We were truly there!

10 days later, a long flight and a 2 hour drive to Willmar and our arms were aching for hugs. The kids were such a welcomed sight. Great memories made, great time of rejuvenation, great time of reconnecting with very special people and time to be just husband and wife. It doesn't get any better than that!!!

Who's do do you do?

2011-12-25T23:20:00.002-05:00

Abram was getting ready for Christmas Eve service on Saturday. He came into the bathroom to have me comb through his hair. He told me that he wanted to "look like daddy". By this he means he wants me to spike his hair. He asked to look like daddy about 5 times as he tried to his reflection in the mirror over the tall vanity. After I had combed his hair to the side (not like daddy's), I lifted him to see how dapper he looked. He began to say, "I look like...." and his voice trailed off. His face sort of dropped. He then looked himself over in the mirror and said, "I don't look like daddy, I look like Pastor Dan."

This boy seriously is headed for a career in comedy!

I know, I know, I'm a slacker

2011-12-23T22:07:00.001-05:00

Hawaii post and photos will be coming soon.

Christmas Colors

2011-12-23T13:29:00.002-05:00

So apparently Grandma Schueler dug out the good 'ol Elvis Christmas CD while the kids were with her last weekend. How do I know this?

In the car on the way home from AWANA this week (reminder that mommy and daddy just came home from vacation):

Abram: Mommy, it's a blue Christmas.
Mom: (figuring he had no idea what that meant) Why is it Blue?
Abram: Because blue means sad and you weren't here. But, now it is a Red Christmas.
Mom: What is a Red Christmas?
Abram: It is happy now!

Later I was telling his Auntie at the Y this story. He said, "what would an orange Christmas be?"

Ready, Set, Run

2011-12-08T14:11:00.005-05:00

The house is clean, top to bottom, 4 munchkins packed and ready to be brought to their "vacation homes". The sun screen is packed, magazines for a kid-free flight are set, and my legs are chompin' at the bit to take on 26.2 miles! Our race begins at 5am on Sunday morning. That is 9am here in MN and you are able to follow us online at www.honolulumarathon.org. We intend to start a ways back in the pack to free up some room. Word on the street is that 60% are Japanese tourists "running" and that they like to unexpectedly stop for photo opportunities (here is my shocked face). We will just hang back and let our chips time us from when we cross the start line. My bib # is 6726. I am not sure of Sarah and Bill's, but we will be together. Our goal is to finish, no time goal, so none of us will leave the others stranded for that record setting time-haha!

Please be in prayer for our children's safety, traveling mercies for us, health and safety for us. Pray also that our time be a blessing to those that we get to reunite with and that our chances to worship again with our Hawaiian ohana be filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit!!! Also, pray for our caregivers. Our parents and our wonderful friends have the huge task of loving on our kids in a very special way and care for their needs.

So, off we go, iPods, fuel belts, Garmins, heart rate monitors, electrolytes, shoes, Athleta tops and pure adrenaline in hand!!! Thank you Lord for this opportunity, for giving us an amazing Fall of training, perfect health, no injuries and 26.2 miles to proclaim you as our provider of strength and the reason why we run and breath each and everyday. We adore you!

Give me a reason to celebrate

2011-12-02T13:13:00.002-05:00

Abram loves celebrating and he will find any reason to celebrate. While going to the bathroom today he looked up at the Nativity scene quilt on the wall. He asked if Joseph was a "good guy". In our house this refers to anyone who loves God. See, Abram knows full well that Goliath was NOT a good guy and he measures all up to him, Samson, David, now Joseph. He then asked, "Mom, when is Joseph's birthday?" I told him I wasn't so sure when it was. He says, "I'm going to make it January 26th like mine and we can have a party. He is 31." Do I need to have a birthday cake for Abram and one for Joseph this year? And what is Joseph's secret to staying forever young?

Nerves

2011-11-23T16:01:00.002-05:00

I have been focused on that finish line in Honolulu now since March 2010. That was, until the day I went to reserve our room at the Hale Koa. That same day I out of the blue took a pregnancy test to prove to my hubby that I was not pregnant. Ha, joke was on me and 7 months later Abbott entered our lives. He is a better prize than any marathon medal and yet, here I am 17 days from the race and my initial dream will become reality. For over a year and a half I have been so excited about this. Now, my nerves are starting to kick in. I can't believe my "to do" list and I can't believe that my "to do" list is already keeping me awake at night. My mind races about all that I need in order and what I want done before hand. Yikes! I never thought it would consume me like this. My nerves over the race are all about pure adrenaline. I have no fear when it comes to being prepared. My coach deserves an A+ for prepping us up and down and all around. No injuries for any of us is a testament to his hard work. Still, I'm not sure what to do when my nerves are already this frazzled. Yikes!

Sisters, can't trust 'em

2011-11-21T14:23:00.004-05:00

As the clock ticks closer and the days grow less and less, our excitement for Hawaii is beyond comprehension. This ride has been so fun. The laughter and the stories, the ups and downs and the far reaching spectrum of weather has made this journey so great.

The snow is here and we are longing for Ko'Olina! Coach has challenged us to dress in layers as we do our tempo and interval runs. We look rather goofy all stuffed as we run tracks and treadmills. We are considering wearing our mittens and stocking caps next time and putting our bikini tops over our stylish getups!

We now have calendars set for child care, a kennel for the pooch, clothes already starting to pile to be packed, outfits for race day assigned, playlists for that day taking a hiatus until Dec. 11th, wills updated and everything set.

Last Friday night I had my innocent, beautiful niece Jenna babysitting in the house while we had a party on the main floor. After the party we headed up to bed. My husband went to use the bathroom and said, "you haven't been in here have you"? Now what, was the toilet overflowing or something. Nope. This is what we found.

To add to the fun, while changing Abbott's diaper the next morning we found King Kamehameha in the diaper stacker!

My Family by Aubrey Johanna

2011-11-16T22:22:00.003-05:00

If you are not able to read what Boo wrote, you may click on the pics to enlarge them.

Just because...

2011-11-07T15:55:00.002-05:00

...I think she is such a gorgeous creation!

God's Wrinkles

2011-11-04T14:16:00.003-05:00

I am not sure if you can see this photo very well. I did my best to capture it. See, this patch of clouds was the only cloud present in the sky as far as the eye could see this morning. While Abram was eating his oatmeal at the breakfast table he looked out the window and saw this patch. I had not seen it, but when he said, "look mom, God made the sky wrinkled", I knew just what he was talking about. He kept his eyes on it, then giggled and said, "that is very silly".

Just the way Schueler kids are

2011-11-03T14:08:00.002-05:00

He can say 'Abbot', he can say 'tractor', but can he walk? Nope. Can he crawl? Nope. He'll be writing research papers before he ever learns to be mobile I do believe!

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T20:41:00.000-05:00

Sleepy Boy

2011-10-29T22:56:00.003-05:00

In the history of 4 kids I have never had a little one fall asleep at the table. Abbott must've been tuckered out from watching his bro and friends running about the gym at the Y the other morning. I ran upstairs for one thing and came back to find him doing the head bob!

A Visit to Grandma's

2011-10-22T14:26:00.003-05:00

The kids and I went with Nana to visit Great Grandma Grochow on Thursday.

Training Wheels are History

2011-10-22T14:13:00.003-05:00

We have had incredible Autumn weather the past week and with MEA break and daddy gone, mommy has declared outdoor play mandatory. Boo asked if she could practice riding her bike. A few weeks ago we took the peddles off to transform Ayden's old bike into a "balance bike". Yesterday she seemed to be coasting well and I asked her if she'd like to put peddles back on. She was so excited. We put them on and not 10 steps into me holding the seat as she began, she was off on her own. When she turned around to ride back to me all that was visible was a HUGE GRIN! She easily starts and stops on her own and today she brought Ayden and I on a tour of the neighborhood. This morning she asked to go out and ride immediately. Looking out on the frosty ground I told her she should wait until it warmed up. She didn't stop asking until I said "yes" around 9am. Back and forth, back and forth she went wearing a groove in the pavement. Thankfully with the weather there are many walkers out and that has given her the opportunity to show off her new talent. This little girl is tenacious and spunky. Too much so sometimes. She looked at me and said, "I want to be one of those bikers that learns to jump off ramps." Yikes! One step at a time my dear!

Hopefully we can ditch the brother's tonka bike soon and get her back on her big girl big sans the training wheels. So much easier on a tiny bike.

An obsession

2011-10-22T14:05:00.003-05:00

Abram is not a huge fan of toys. He would rather roam around or chat with someone more than play with something......unless that something is a drum. Anything in his world can be transformed into a drum. It is a daily occurrence to find many objects lined up around him in the formation of a drum set. He will belt "Today is the Day" and rock out. Apparently drums aren't only for indoors. He's taking his talent to the marching scene. At the farm yesterday he grabbed the drum, asked Grandma's permission to bring it outside and off he went to pound it out for the cows while they ate their hay. Not sure they are fans of Rock n Roll, but it didn't deter him.
PS-if anyone has a used drum set they want to hand down to us, we would LOVE it!!!

Good Morning Mommy!

2011-10-19T21:07:00.003-05:00

This is how mommy is greeted every morning when she comes to wake her littlest man up.

He has to peek to see who just came in. Remember, even at almost 13 months, this little guy does not pull to sit up. He does not walk, let alone crawl or even get up on his knees. He still has his mobile up in his crib for there is no danger of him reaching for it any time soon. He just takes his sweet 'ol time. He is loving being the baby and mommy is just fine with that!

What's Big, Green and makes my 2 yr old's heart go pitter-patter?

2011-10-19T20:49:00.004-05:00

A John Deere Combine

It is harvest season in Minnesota and driving on the flat plains you can see bursts of dust rising into the air. These dust balls are the combines and tractors out busily working. Add to that the chance to see hoards of semis hauling loads and you have a Schueler van filled with boys with their noses to the windows! My dad has been trucking for a local farmer and good friend. They invited us out to get our little farmers in the big rigs. Oh boy were Abram's eyes bugging out of his head. I thought maybe there would be some hesitation once he approached the combine or perhaps his attention span would not let Farmer Duane even get a row done. Not so much, that little boy was taking it in, from the corn piling up behind us, to the rabbits rushing down the rows, to the gravity wagon pulling up beside us, to all the gadgets and gizmos onboard, he was in heaven! As we climbed out of the JD he remarked, "I want to be a farmer when I grow up". Aubrey also got to ride along in the combine while Ayden hooked up with Papa in his semi. They got to bring a load of corn to the elevator. He told me every last detail of how the scale works, unloading goes and how many tons they totaled. What a fantastic night!

Go Ahead, Play with your Food

2011-10-18T14:10:00.001-05:00

One Year Checkup

2011-10-14T13:20:00.003-05:00

The little boys and I had a busy, but very successful morning. Dropped off library books and visited school. Ayden has a sleepover tonight so we had to drop off things he couldn't manage on the bus this morning. We also got to sit in on Aubrey's class for a few moments. Abram was even given a whiteboard and marker to try his hand at Kindergarten. He may know his letters, but the rhyming words they were working on could not hold his attention. Then off to the doctor's office. Abbott was such a trooper. He weathered his 4 shots and blood draw with ease. His stats were right on target-23lbs. 4 oz (50%), 30.5 in (52%), and EXTRA LARGE head (95% no shocker)! The big surprise came when Dr. Tim saw a red, very infected left ear. Would have never guessed that. So after a visit to the lab and the pharmacy we took my two good patients (oh, forgot to mention that Buddy got the FluMist-PTL for no shot needed this year!!!!) for a drive around the CaseIH dealership in town. Again, great free entertainment with little boys! A stop at Papa Murphy's for pizza Friday later tonight and a Caribou stop for mommy. By the time we returned home for lunch Abbott was sawing logs in his car seat and Abram couldn't contain his yawns. Success! Lunch is now in tummies and they both are sawing logs in their beds!

No Caption Necessary

2011-10-11T21:10:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Boomer!

2011-10-08T14:57:00.001-05:00

Abbott Nathaniel Schueler is 1 year old today!

2011-10-07T14:12:00.002-05:00

Time sure flies when you are having fun!

Baby Ta-da, you truly are the best surprise ever!

You have taught us that the level of joy you can give a person has no bounds.

Happy Birthday Boomer!
**Video of his 1st year will be posted tomorrow after his birthday party with family**

I am not ready for this

2011-10-03T21:16:00.002-05:00

Do you see that age ticker on the right side of this page? Yes, that one, it reads 11 months and 3 weeks. In just 4 short days my baby, the last of my children will be defined by a "_____ years" of age. No more "he is 3 weeks" or "he is 10 months". I will very much struggle the first few times someone asks what the ages of my children are and I have to say 8, 5, 2 and 1. I'm truly not ok with this. This can't be happening.

He may not walk or even crawl....

2011-09-24T21:48:00.002-05:00

....but that is just how a Schueler kid rolls. And just to be sure that he is ours, seems we have another talker. He says, "mama, dada, nana, papa and Abbott". Must be a people person!

More Abramisms

2011-09-23T13:23:00.002-05:00

This boy is on a roll. Did I mention how much fun we are having together now that I have more time to focus on #3 and #4? This boy is a ham, our family comedian! When you are with him, you best be listening up so you don't miss a punch line.

After going grocery shopping yesterday and buying a fresh pineapple he has been eyeing it nonstop. He tries to convince me that he should have some. His method this morning was using it for its medicinal purposes. He says, "Mom, I hurt my arm. I need some pineapple to make my arm feel better." All natural, homeopathic prescription. May need to bring some pineapple over to the local ER and tell them about this miracle "drug".

I was buckling him into his car seat and he was blinking incessantly. He looked at me and told me, "I'm making lightening with my eyes." Such a ham!

Abram's hair is getting long

2011-09-22T19:50:00.002-05:00

Abram: I need to get a sucker and get my hair cut at the Barbie Shop.

Listen to the boy

2011-09-22T13:27:00.002-05:00

Abram: Mom, I want to go outside after lunch and look for birds in their nests.
Mom: Most of the birds don't use their nests now honey. In fact, most of them are leaving Minnesota soon. They don't like the snow so they have to go somewhere warmer when it gets cold.
Abram: I want to go with them.
Mom: Right there with ya hun!

Moments with Abram

2011-09-16T11:51:00.002-05:00

Like I said before, having just two little guys at home has given me so much more time to slow down and enjoy Abram and Abbott. I really, truly am loving it! I think Abram has caught on that he has more of my attention too. It is as if he made another jump in vocab and cognitive thoughts. He understands WAY TOO MUCH for a 2 1/2 year old. Today when I came out of the restroom, he told me that I too could have a treat for going. I asked him if I get two Rolos (his current going rate for a visit to the pot). He said, "nope, you get coffee". Yes, he gets me! He also has taken a love to the clouds. He can see shapes in the clouds like no other kid can, and when he does label a cloud, the older two kids and I will look up and agree whole-heartedly at his observation. He has labeled ducks, sailboats, dinosaurs, snakes and "Roly Poly Pangolin" (y'all know who that is if you are a part of imagination library). Even though his moments with Abbott are touch and go and often end in the littlest in tears, I did have to run outside yesterday and placed Abbott on the floor. When I came back Abbott had a pile of baby toys stashed beside him. Abram was off playing elsewhere. What a helpful big brother. We are learning! As we pulled out of the driveway this morning on our way to the Y, Abram noticed that we had left some sidewalk chalk out. I told him that he needed to remind me of it when we returned so that we could pick it up. Sure enough 1 1/2 hrs. later after returning he says, "mom we need to go out and save the chalk on the driveway." Off we went to save the chalk. I love the little boy stage where they learn to create train tracks and drive Thomas trains about. Abram is there. He can maneuver those trains and come up with pretty good track ideas. Again, on our way to the Y this morning he was beside himself with excitement. He looked down the tracks and said, "there's Rusty mom!" Sure enough an orange engine had just passed down the line! I anticipate many more Abram moments in the near future. I'll keep my ears peeled and do my best to enjoy his nonstop chatter.

I wouldn't last

2011-09-09T14:57:00.004-05:00

My sister is such a huge blessing to me, in more ways than I can count. Take for instance the fact that I can come home from being out and about and find a fresh flower bouquet on my table, and two cartons of fresh farm eggs, a bag of cucumbers, beets, green beans and kohlrabi in my fridge. I often joke that I have no talents to give in the realm of growing things or keeping things alive (with the exception of my kids). I tell her often that if it ever comes to survival of the fittest, I will die off early. Guess I'll be the first to see my Savior! Last weekend she came back from a family weekend with an entire crate of apples for me. I spent the past two naptimes peeling and slicing up the apples. My fridge is filled with pans of applecrisp and fresh applesauce. This afternoon my dear sis gets to stop by and pick up her goodies. I finally get to give back! So, do you think I can survive on just applesauce and applecrisp, if so, maybe I will last!

Who would have known

2011-09-09T10:25:00.002-05:00

You can get a lot more done with just 2 little boys at home!

Abram busily built bridges and made a parade of trains and little people. I didn't even know he could do this! Is it cheating when you can get the chance to give a child more attention?! I do feel that way sometimes.

You all know that TV does not turn my crank, evidenced by the fact that we haven't had cable since 2002. But today Abbott got a dose of technology through Baby Einstein. He thought it was pretty grand!

Can you guess what we had for dinner?

2011-09-08T20:31:00.002-05:00

and I think this guy liked it A LOT!!!

Aubrey begins Kindergarten

2011-09-08T20:17:00.002-05:00

Our precious little girl woke to Sleeping Beauty singing to her on her alarm clock. She then got up to begin one of her most exciting days in her 5 year old little life. She scurried to put on her dress. That dress has been taunting her for weeks now as she has impatiently waited for the 1st day of kindergarten. Her smile never wore off as she got her hair done, ate her breakfast, ran out to get mom's newspaper, cleaned up the kitchen, brushed her teeth and made her bed. Her brother kept tabs on her all morning. His advice to her at the breakfast table was: "just be sure to pay attention and keep focused and you will do great. You are already really smart so it will be good!" He kept a minute by minute for her so that she would know when it was time to head out to the bus and they walked off together chatting about everything she would need to know to get through the day. Ayden was so excited to be the one to show her the ropes and the first to see her at the end of the day when they re-boarded the bus to come home.

Off to Kennedy Elementary and Mrs. Voss's Panda Place classroom!

Ayden made sure we got a picture of the two "school kids" together

3:30 and she is still all smiles

Favorite part of the day: Gym where they played a game where they would move certain ways to music and when the music stopped they had to act like a dead bug (OK?!)

Snack: grapes, grahams and milk

Lunch: Taco in a bag and she says she ate fast enough

Classroom highlight: a panda that is passed around to good listeners at circle time

Biggest concern: "Just so you know, I didn't get to wear my new tennis shoes at gym. I left them in my locker. So, I wasn't the fastest runner in my class, I was the second fastest."

I told her she may have learned enough today that she doesn't have to go back tomorrow. She didn't think that was a good idea!

Let the Learning Begin

2011-09-06T15:03:00.002-05:00

There is at least one way in which my little man is so much like me, he LOVES school. This may be because of the blessing of amazing teachers thus far in his education, or the endless shelves of books to pick from at school, or the fun at recess with friends. Regardless, he about leapt 5 feet off the ground with excitement when I woke him this morning for his first day of 3rd grade. He is sure it will be his best year. He said, "my favorite teacher is Mrs. Gratton (1st grade), but I have a feeling it will be a close competition since I have Mrs. Otto (my 3rd grade teacher) this year." His bus is set to arrive in 22 minutes and I can't wait to see how Day numero uno went.

Now Boo is so impatiently awaiting her Kindergarten debut. Here in Willmar they send the Kinders two days later so that all other kids are settled and there is less confusion and chaos for the little guys/girls. So, to counterbalance her intense excitement we filled the day with a picnic on the swingset, time at the Y, bead art, fingerpainting, and a trip to one of her favorite parks. I still think she'd happily trade it all to be on that bus with her brother.
Obviously his sweet potatoes and prunes hit the spot at picnic time!

Kristina and CJ

2011-09-06T14:58:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday we were treated to celebrating the marriage of my H.S. friend Kristina to her beloved, CJ.

High school friends-despite the chilly night, the setting at Kristina's grandparents' orchard was gorgeous!

With spouses

Newlyweds!
Mr. and Mrs. Collins

Extreme Makeover, Bedroom Edition

2011-09-06T14:55:00.002-05:00

Ayden's room is coming along. I have one more wall to paint and then it is simply a waiting game to see when his loft bed is done being built. Mommy is liking it so much that she may just move out of her room and move into Bugman's room!

Compliment

2011-09-04T22:52:00.002-05:00

At the breakfast table before church this morning:

Abram: Aubrey, you are pretty!
Aubrey: Thank you Abram.
Abram: I gave you a competition.

Another Abramism tonight at a friend's home while jumping on the trampoline:
Dad, check out my moves.

A Final Summer Hoorah

2011-09-02T15:29:00.004-05:00

Took the big kids to Valleyfair for the first time the other day (unless you count Ayden not remembering his 2 year old trip there). They are slowly growing tall enough to ride the rides. Ayden has arrived at that 52" mark that allows him to take in any ride. He was skeptical and cautious as usual. He did however jump on the High Roller and the Power Tower. Aubrey was pretty infuriated at the thought of not being tall enough for some rides. She wanted to take on everything and could not understand why rules couldn't be bent if she wasn't afraid. She did get a chance to try the Mad Mouse and giggled all the way. Her favorite was the monster and ANYTHING she could ride with her brother. Most fun part of mom and dad's day? The smiles, we loved the glances between brother and sister as they rode rides and giggled!

Terror

2011-08-31T22:02:00.004-05:00

Before I am nominated for any "Mom of the Year" awards, take a look at these videos. A few weekends ago we took the kids to a morning at Paul Bunyan Land. Abram was so thrilled about the idea and even promised Papa that he would say "hi" to the massive lumberjack for him. Once he set his eyes on the giant, the thrill was long gone!

#2 video was just 10 minutes after calming him down over Paul. We put him on his first amusement park ride. Again, not so thrilled.

The morning was touch and go, for every time that we walked even remotely near Paul's shed Abram would panic. At one point he noticed a climbing wall on the back side of that shed and wanted to try it, but as we approached he realized where he was, quickly turned away and said, "I want to go this way". He also was happy to board the small train ride at the park with his cousins and his Nana. He was excited to sit by big cousin Brienna. They had a nice ride around the bend, then Nana exclaimed, "look, we can see Paul from here". In pure terror Abram tried to climb over the seats in that train until Brie grabbed him and handed him up to Nana. He clung with a death grip. They continued the ride and by the time they were on the entire opposite side of the park he finally released his grip, sat down on the seat next to Nana, sighed and said, "I'm safe now". Paul never did get that greeting from Papa via Abram. Aubrey took the reigns and on our way out she ran up and said, "Hi Paul, from Papa, he couldn't make it today". Even after all that hoopla, if anyone asks Abram if he has seen Paul Bunyan, he smiles and will tell them, "he's a nice guy". If he says it to you, you now know that you can't believe a word he says!

Can YOU guess?

2011-08-30T15:34:00.004-05:00

Playing Pictionary (or Missionary as Aubrey calls it) with the two big kids this afternoon. Here is the picture Ayden drew. This is all the further he got before his sister correctly guessed what it was. Do you know what it is?

It isn't apparent? She so easily got it saying, "its the Titanic about to hit an iceberg". OBVIOUSLY!!!

Hanging Loose on Aloha Friday

2011-08-26T10:32:00.002-05:00

Mom is busy making over Ayden's bedroom (his bday gift this year). So I come downstairs from painting to take a short break. I look out the window and see 3 of my munchkins playing on the swingset. This would be a normal sight, BUT, Aubrey is still in her jammies, her hair a mess and Abram is dancing around the yard in his Superman boxers and his jammie shirt. Guess it truly is Aloha Friday, whatever goes!!!

10 month Gomer

2011-08-24T17:41:00.003-05:00

I know this is way overdue, but this is Abbott at 10 months. Seems he is getting used to mommy with a camera. So much so that he even makes the "CHEEEESE" face when I come near!

Emily McCrafty

2011-08-21T22:31:00.004-05:00

I'm always being called that-RIGHT?! But, check out this fun idea my friend Beth and I came upon. We made a fun set of baby blocks at our friend Solveig's baby shower the other evening. We even decorated the little chest to match (wouldn't Martha Stewart be proud?). Hoping precious little Kinley has many hours of fun with her blocks! Phew, that should be enough craftiness for the next 10 years or so.

He did it!

2011-08-21T22:26:00.002-05:00

Ayden has wanted to jump off the climbing tower at camp for a few years now. We have spent many minutes trying to coax him off the side after climbing the wall. This past week he was chosen to go first amongst our AWANA kids while up at LBBC for a day retreat. This time there was pure determination (and maybe a little peer pressure). He went without hesitation and just jumped!

Metering

2011-08-18T21:30:00.002-05:00

**Beward of a TMI post**

A couple months ago we began the potty training plan with Abram. Off the starting line he was the easiest potty training student of all. Then came the road block-anxiety at the thought of going #2. Now we have had many people in our past struggle with their little guys in particular with this issue to the point of pretty severe medical ramifications. I never understood that and kind of scoffed at it. Well, serving a God with a sense of humor means that sometimes he can just use it to get your goat. So, a few weeks into potty training we were at a standoff with Abram. He spent many hours on the throne waging an epic battle of mom and dad's will vs. Mayhem's will. Something changed two weeks ago. Suddenly everything has changed in the 2 1/2 year old's mind. Now, all he wants to do is "go poopy in the potty". On Monday he told mommy he had to go. I about fell over in disbelief that he would tell me. We went to the potty and sure enough he had success. Fast forward a few days and 1 1/2 weeks of clean pants and mommy is away for the day. Abram is spending the day with his Nana and Papa. He tells his Nana it is time, he does his job and then turns to her with this-"Aren't you so proud of me Nana? Go get the treat bucket now." The remainder of the day was filled with 2 more small, meager, nugget sized, but productive successes resulting in some more visits to the treat bucket at Nana's. When he returned home, another small, meager, nugget sized success for a treat bucket visit at home. Hmmmm, we have now gone from withholding to metering, yes metering our poops. So much so that he will ask to go to the potty every couple of hours and try his darnedest to poop, regardless if he has something in his tank or not. This morning I told him we should go play and try again later. His response? "NO, I'm staying here, I'm going to go poopy". Withholding, to metering, Daddy says by the time he is 18 he will have evened out his conflicting tendencies!

Budding Endurance Athlete?

2011-08-15T15:38:00.005-05:00

Schueler kids have never been known to be ahead of the game in physical, large motor development as we all know. Take for instance the fact that just yesterday my 10 1/2 month old finally rolled over during nap. Ayden is no different. Never in a hurry to crawl, walk, join a sport, ride a bike, etc. So, last week when I was prepping for my relay triathlon he mentioned that he'd like to try the kids triathlon the day before my race.....what?! Did I hear that correctly! Being overly excited that he would have a little bone somewhere in his body that may be the least bit competitive, I instantly said that he may. Even when my breath was taken away at the exuberant $38 entry fee I simply couldn't go back on my word. That 8 year old woke up in the morning and jumped out of bed eager to race. Even though the thermometer surprised us with a 62 degree morning, he was ready. He had practiced the transition from his bike to running up and down our street many times over the week. Regardless of the fact that he did this in his slippahs, he was ready to give this endurance thing a try. He contemplated what to wear and even decided he could skim off some transition time if he forwent socks. Facing the high possibility of suffering blisters as a result didn't seem to bother him. So off to Green Lake we went on Saturday morning. He was ready for his 75 yard swim, 1 mile bike and 1/2 mile run. He made us very proud and was smiling the whole way! Even when they mismarked his run causing the 7-8 year olds to run further than the 1/2 mile expected, he kept charging. He was one tired, but very proud young man. 15th place was just fine with him. As for next year? Not sure it will happen again, but his pride still remains as he has yet to wash off his competition number from his bulging, athletic biceps!!!

Chilly, damp morning as we set up his transition area
Go #551

Ready to start

Testing the waters-literally!

Look at that stroke, nice outstretched arm, digging hard!

Exiting the water, off to find his bike

Maybe no socks wasn't such a good plan. Very difficult to get wet feet into those shoes!

Fans in the stands

Next photos are the play by play finish. Look at that grin!!!

PHEW!!! I did it!!!!!

Mommy's taking us to the zoo tomorrow...

2011-08-15T15:26:00.003-05:00

Last week the big kids and mommy headed to Como Zoo with one of the local churches. Being invited by Ayden and Aubrey's good friends was the icing on the cake. We traveled in style aboard a coach bus. Can't complain when it is 2 hrs. with AC, movies and reclining seats, not to mention front door service at the zoo.
Two beautiful blondies watching movies on the ride.

Ellie, Boo and Aftyn are ready to go check out the animals.

The boys are off too.

Obligatory photo at the giraffe statue

We allowed one ride at Como Town, which for the Schueler kids is a 1st.

Yup, pretty sure they liked it!

A fun, beautiful day. Sign us up for next summer!

Me and McNabb

2011-08-03T12:48:00.003-05:00

Hey Suzanna! Remember this day? Just us chicks hanging out at Ko'Olina and chatting with McNabb about his WWJD bracelet!!! Yeah, the truth is out, it was me that called him up and asked him to sign on with the Vikes.

July was a blur

2011-08-02T21:12:00.007-05:00

July 1st found us at Lake Beauty Bible Camp, then there was 31 days of vacationing blur. Next thing you know, my calendar reads "August"-Yowzas! Where did that month go? What did we do? Or should we say, what DIDN'T we do? July 1st-4th we were hanging out at our favorite corner of the world at Lake Beauty. We came home for one night, did laundry, packed Ayden up and sent him back to Lake Beauty the next day for Frontier Kids camp. He had a blast and came back one happy, but sleepy boy. He slept one more night at home, did more laundry and then we packed Ayden and Aubrey up and brought them to my brother. His family took them camping for the weekend at Baker Park. They had a muggy, but wonderful weekend with their cousins and were spoiled ROTTEN by Stephen and Klair. While they were away, the little boys were packed and sent to my sister. They were equally spoiled by their big cousins, auntie and uncle. What were us lazy parents doing???? We were on a mini-getaway to the cities and taking in an incredible Josh Groban concert. It was my bday gift to the love of my life. Back in February while he was away in Japan I was at the Y running on the treadmill when the ad came up for the concert. I about fell off the mill with excitement, ran home and got tickets before they even hit general sales. It was a wonderful night with my man topped off with some great Sushi Tango! The next day we shopped for all things Ayden. We are redoing his bedroom for his bday and so it was fun to gather goodies and plan. Everyone was reunited Sunday night, slept another night, did laundry and then the next day we sent Boo and Buddy Bear off to the Minnesota Zoo with Nana and Papa. More fun, oh yeah! The week consisted of trips to the lake and outings with our Wednesday night church group, then the next weekend we packed yet again and made a trek down to Omaha, Nebraska to visit our amazing friends Bill and Jen. We have wanted to make this happen for a few years now, and we finally made it a go. The kids giggled and played, they spoiled us rotten by letting us lounge at their pool, worship with them at church, take in the Omaha Zoo and nosh on everything from great coffee drinks to steaks the size of the entire state of NE! The kids were wonderful travelers. Home again for one night, more laundry and then repack to go to the cities. This time we were able to spend the night there with our good friends the Lwins. Mike was our pastor in Hawaii and ironically he does his postgrad studies here at Bethel (my alma mater). He brought his wife Lynn and adorable keikis Jeremiah and Genesis along. The kids loved some Fuddruckers and then lots of splash time in the hotel pool. Home for 3 nights this time, more laundry and then up north for 5 days at Breezy Point Resort. Our dear friends Scott and Solveig blessed us with a stay at their timeshare condo. Although this momma was one sick chica for much of the time, we still found a way to utilize any drop of water in any pool, beach or waterpark we saw. The kids were so waterlogged and hence, slept like logs every night. We found parks, walking trails, ice cream parlors, played games and grilled some tasty goodies. And then....phew.....nope, that brings us to the end of July. This ushers in a quiet, calm, relaxed August. July was truly ALL fun, yet we are looking forward to some down time and the chance to actually go to our own church for worship. The great thing about vacation is, you are so excited to go, and yet so excited to come home. Here are some pics of July in review!

The day after returning from Family Camp Ayden is off to Frontier Kids Camp

Schueler kids favorite animal in Omaha, the Jaguar. They even had a black one just like Jaggie.

This is what Abbott thought of the zoo!

This meerkat slayed me. He was sunbathing under the heat lamp.

Rag-a-muffins ready to see the animals.

Auntie Jinny even made the girls some steamers, complete with cocoa hearts!

Abbott lounging. With all that chunk, he just floats.

Crazy boy in the pool at Breezy Point

5 o'clock shadows

Loving the beach at Breezy!

Playing on the spiderweb at a park in Nisswa.

Hungry jaguars eating the meat from the grill.

Ice cream stop-Spiderman ice cream is a hit with any kid!

HolidayInn waterpark in Brainerd. Little boys on the lazy river with Mama.

Diva Boy?!?!?!

2011-07-29T19:05:00.005-05:00

Should I be concerned that this boy will play tractors for 5 minutes at a time, but dress up and dance for an hour at a time?

Discipline, Where Discipline is Due

2011-07-25T21:56:00.003-05:00

We are on vacation. Kids can occasionally get a tad rowdy, or a little rowdy in a fun new place. This meant that a timeout zone had to be established. The cold tile floor in the condo entry was the place (yes, we are cruel parents). At one point Abram was not being very kind to his little brother. I warned him that if he was unkind again he'd be in a timeout. At that point I left to shower, Mitch headed off to grill. I came out minutes later and there was Abram in timeout. I said to Mitch, "what did Abram do to Abbott?" He looked at me clueless and so I asked if he put Abram in timeout. Nope! Wasn't him. There Abram sat, quietly in timeout waiting to be released. Guess who put him there? Mommy #2. Boo says, "I put him in timeout because he bopped Abbott on the head with this car." Thanks for having our back little lady.

Celebrity Look-Alike

2011-07-20T18:34:00.003-05:00

Who do I look like? Or Who looks like me?

None other than......................

A Night at Schueler Stadium

2011-07-12T21:03:00.004-05:00

Tonight was a triple header at Schueler stadium. First game was a nail biter between the 3 musketeers and the parents. The kids took an early lead at 2-0, but the parents rallied to take the game at 3-2. The scorekeeper/cheerleader was at the top of his game! (Quick stretch between games and a stop for freeziepops)

Next game was a long and slow battle of Boys vs. Girls. The girls squeaked out the win with Aubrey's incredible performance smacking the ball without the use of the tee. She was also the MVP as the center fielder, fielding balls and gunning them to the base for the out. (Pause for station identification and dance entertainment by none other than Abram the Great) Final game of the night was Bug and Ma vs. Boo and Pa. Boo and Pa came out strong and were flying around the bases to bring in 3 runs. BUT....the showstopper of the evening was when Ayden came to the plate with the score at 3-3 and 2 outs. The pitch....and he sent the ball sailing over daddy's head, squealed his tires and made a mad dash to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and finally homeplate, just as daddy was heading for the tag out. There was cheering, there was high fives, there was celebratory dancing and more!

The rest of the evening was lent to chalk art,

scooter riding

and Boo practicing riding her bike minus training wheels. It was a lovely evening! All players headed into the clubhouse, were tossed into the bathtubs, prayed with and are now sleeping soundly. Summertime bliss!!!

No Turning Back Now

2011-07-11T23:19:00.002-05:00

It is official. We are Honolulu Bound this December to check it off my bucket list (ok, I guess it is the only thing on my bucket list since I haven't made one). But yes, we will be going big for my 1st ever marathon. ALOHA!!!

WHAT?!?! I'm already 9 months?!?!

2011-07-11T23:14:00.003-05:00

I am 20lbs. even (48%)

I am 28in. (48%)

AND

my noggin is a whopping 47.5cm (95%)

Perfection

2011-07-05T23:01:00.008-05:00

I know nothing in this world is "perfect". That word is reserved for only the Big Man Himself. BUT, if it were able to be used for something else, this would be the word used to describe our 4th of July weekend!

Perfect place, perfect time with friends and family, perfect weather, perfect Biblical teaching, perfect food, perfect air conditioned camper, perfect laughter at the campfire, perfect beach time and the list could go on and on. Lake Beauty Covenant Bible Camp is where you will always find us on the weekend of the 4th of July and this summer it held every bit of expectation and exceeded it. There was an enormous shift for us as parents this year as well. It came in the form of an almost 8 year old having free reign of the campground and a 5 year old with much more freedom to bike and go as she pleased. It was monumental to just be able to sit back and watch our kids enjoy the experiences at Bible camp just as I did growing up. Their perma-grins, their laughter and their pure exhaustion when they hit their pillow at night is worth it all.

This year also was off to a great start even back in January. That is when we reserved the camper. Each year we have upgraded and for this momma her request was put in long ago. Knowing there would now be 6 of us I requested accommodations with 3 specific things: a bathroom (preferably a clean one with a shower), a kitchen (no more packing in coolers) and A/C so my babies would sleep well (allowing the mommy and daddy to sleep well). My persistence paid off and our accommodations took away any last stresses I had. It was wonderful. You can bet we'll be on the phone on January 1st reserving that puppy again!!!

What else was monumental this year? Aubrey (5 years) and Conner (6 years) DOMINATE the climbing wall and bound off the zipline with ZERO hesitation. Surely that put the pressure on others who's knees were knocking together as they stood at the edge of the 25+ foot platform!

Abbott's inaugural year won him over. He loved his first beach experience. We figure the sand he rated a 10 for consistency since he kept taste testing it over and over. He also loved the chilled out atmosphere which allowed naptimes in Nana's arms at chapel and beachfront naps in the shade.

As for Abram, he took his first trip out to the Orbit (water trampoline) and even tried to persuade us to harness him up so he could try the wall and zipline. His highlight of the weekend? Any time he was in the presence of his beloved Ashley.

Our patriotic little Boomer"I like this camping stuff"
"and so do we"

Boomer playing at the beach with big cousin Brie

Auntie Buffy made Boo and I braided twins

Aubrey loves teasing her Uncle Don

(when mommy wasn't present, she apparently squeezed a chunk of watermelon over his head)

Abram's pool/bathtub at the campsite

(just for the record and to torment you when you are older Abram, you decided pooping in there may save you from a trip to the toilet)

Boo headed up the climbing wall

No Fear (or maybe some if you look at that face)!

The fearless cousin duo

The zipline cheering squad

Beachtime fun with daddy

Mommy's get to play too (Klair, Emily and Sarah)

The result of another fun day at Lake Beauty

Sparkler fun before the fireworks

Who gave that kid fire?

Abram with "his" Ashley at the fireworks (and Ryan protecting his label as the boyfriend)

I Love a Parade

2011-06-27T16:04:00.004-05:00

This weekend was all a buzz with daddy's 4 "Godspell" shows happening, parades marching, family friends visiting and even a newborn baby to visit (yeah Newbergs). Don't get me wrong, it was all very enjoyable, but very busy all the same. Saturday morning we still found time between a visit to the hospital and jumping into the parade route to enjoy our Saturday morning donuts. Then, we loaded into Papa Reese's gator and road with him through the parade route with the Willmar City Council. Abram thought he was hot stuff sitting up front with Nana and Papa.

Not only was he in a cool farm machine, but he was also being constantly plugged with a new piece of candy-yeehaw! Ayden and Aubrey were in the back with their big cousin Jenna. Their task was to toss candy to any pleading kids along the parade route. Abbott happily sat in my lap the entire 45 minutes as happy as a clam. By the end he was rather sleepy so he crashed in Nana's arms once we were back at the Daniel's home (thanks Bri and Beth, not sure what we will do next year when we no longer have your highly desireable plot of land along the route). Our parade spot also seemed to transform into an active advertisement for the "Godspell" performances. The crazy tie-dyed shirts draw quite a bit of attention. Nearly 2 hrs. after the start of the parade those singers hopped into the parade themselves and tested their vocal chords even further. They danced and sang their way around the town. After donuts, coffee, and lots of candy, we Schueler parents continued our reign as parents of the day by bringing the brood to McD's for lunch. What a fun, healthful start to our day!

Creating Play

2011-06-27T15:57:00.002-05:00

When you are the oldest of four and mommy has had a long, busy weekend and she requires a nap at naptime herself, what do you do? Whip through about 3 books, cuddle with your buddies, play outside, and come up with creative ways to use your game boards. Today Ayden made his Blokus game into a city skyline with clouds. He then told me I had to take a photo and post it here. So here you are, straight from the artist himself!

Happy Father's Day Daddy!

2011-06-20T09:51:00.002-05:00

Daddy and his full quiver

There is no doubt that I married the best man for me. That is because his love for me doesn't stop with just me, it overflows to his children. I used to daydream about being a mommy and with that dream came the dream of the man who would be on that journey by my side. I am so blessed to see that everything I ever dreamed up was not just my desire, but God's will. Thank you God for our amazing daddy!

Giving Him to the Lord

2011-06-20T09:33:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful way to celebrate Father's Day. We brought Abbott Nathaniel to be dedicated to the Lord at church this morning. I have to tell you, the Holy Spirit was really teaching me about what it truly means to surrender my children to Him. When I was teaching at VBS the other week, one of the lessons I was able to relay to the children was that of Hannah dedicating Samuel to the Lord. Now, with 4 kids it is apparent that I am the Peninah in Elkanah's family. That however does not change the fact that these children are God's and they are borrowed to Mitchell and I and that requires us as parents to give them back to who they belong to. Hannah says, "I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted me what I asked of Him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord." We pray the Lord's guidance, blessing and reign in Abbott's life. May he come to know the riches the Lord holds for him and he makes Him his Savior and lives his life worthy of that calling!

This is for Posterity

2011-06-20T09:15:00.003-05:00

Friday morning was a beautiful morning here at the Schueler house. Chore points were flying all around and 5 of the 6 residents in the house were hard at work-dusting doors, vacuuming in forgotten corners, organizing closets and shoes, washing the deck and more. The house was SPOTLESS and the head domestic engineer (yes, mom) was one happy lady. Now I understand that having a clean house should not be how a mom rates her success at her job, but when it only happens once in a blue moon, boy does it feel great. In fact, so great, that I told Mitch I have to take photos for posterity. This way, when I have a polar opposite day where there are legos strewn about, laundry up to my eyeballs (this is not an exaggeration) or there is toothpaste coating every sink in the house, I can just tape these photos to the ceiling above my bed, flop onto my bed and look up and just imagine the mess away. So here is to you Emily and her busy worker bees and their clean home. This is what it looks like void 4 little ones running amok:

GQ Tryout

2011-06-17T14:25:00.002-05:00

Not sure why the photo quality on blogger has become so poor, but thankfully Abbott's 8 month cuteness can overcome the grainy blog.

Playing Navy Once Again

2011-06-12T21:51:00.006-05:00

This weekend was Mitchell's final weekend with Command Naval Forces Japan. This has been his Naval Reserve unit for the past 3 years (he will be moving to a submarine unit in Chicago next month). We were able to spend it in style as it was also the annual Dining Out for the unit. We have a hard time passing up the opportunity to dress up, go out for a formal evening out and enjoy the hoopla surrounding Navy traditions. Not sure we can count on both hands how many times we remarked how wonderful it feels to still have a tie to the military. These weekends are filled with great people, lots of laughter and sort of a feeling of belonging that is not describable to most, and yet all our military friends would understand the feeling of which I speak! This year we left behind #1 and #2 to have a weekend of fun with their older cousins Seth and Jenna, and we took #3 and #4 with us to enjoy a weekend of fun with their youngest cousins Teddy and Emmett. We stayed at the Valley's B&B, which turned out to be thee best in accommodations since the Dining Out took place just 3 miles up the road on a riverboat out of Stillwater. We even had the Valley taxi service at our beckoning call so that we could avoid parking stresses downtown. The evening was calm and sunny which afforded great views of Stillwater, the lift bridge, the powerplant (or not so much) and even a few hot air balloons dotting the sky. Dinner on the boat had all the trimmings of a Dining Out. The Grog Bowl was a gathering place for many and led to a serenade by my uniformed hubby to me (postings on YouTube coming soon, I'm sure) and a patriotic singing tribute as well. As for me, I kept my egregious violations at bay from Mr. Vice so that no one would be offended by a serenade from me!

The rest of the weekend was laden with lots of fun. The two little boys spent time playing outside with cousins, going to a great local park with cousins, going to church with cousins, and the hit of the weekend-going to see the city's "big trucks" with cousins. The boys all had the chance to try out the garbage trucks, fire trucks, mail trucks, tractors, dump trucks, bulldozers and the hit of the day, the school bus. They took us on a ride around the parking lot in that silly 'ol school bus and one would have thought Abram won the lottery. He was in H-E-A-V-E-N!!!
So from eldest to youngest in the Schueler clan, we can all agree that this weekend earns a whooping A+. Hard to top!

Godspell

2011-06-08T21:45:00.002-05:00

Here is my plug!!!

My incredible hubby has been so very busy working on the production "Godspell" at church. The hours he puts in to memorize his lines as "Jesus" is abundant. Gads, that Savior of ours had a lot to say!!! Anyhow, it will be a wonderful production and will be a great night out. Please take a moment and email me the date you would like tickets for and how many and we will hook you up. The performance dates are: June 23-25 at 7pm, June 26th at 2pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. I have been told that it is completely family friendly, however, with any telling of the gospel, children should understand that there is a crucifixion scene. Of course, we all know the end result does not leave Him in the grave!!! Get your tickets now!!!

Fun in the Son-VBS 2011

2011-06-06T21:29:00.002-05:00

Pandamania is in full swing at our church, as it is at so many other churches. The weather has been an A+ and the kids and I have had fun helping out. Our little pandas are on the worship team this year and so is mommy since it doesn't require a microphone so no one can hear me sing!!! I also get to teach the lessons alongside a very talented friend and I just love to see the kids get so intrigued by what story they will hear next. The kids come home with beet-red faces and tired little bodies, but they are smiling and are so anxious to get back the next night. Love that! Here they are in action!

So You Think You Can Dance

2011-06-02T22:02:00.000-05:00

Aubrey Johanna Boo is FIVE!

2011-06-02T20:36:00.004-05:00

Greeting the Bday girl in the morning
Her new girl bike, no more riding the brother's Tonka Truck bike!!!

She already put a couple miles on those wheels today!

For a mommy, these birthday things are quite bittersweet. In one light I can look back on 5 years and just revel in all that this little princess has accomplished and marvel at the beautiful little girl she is. In another light I can blink and remember meeting her in that bright pink hospital on the hill in Honolulu and wonder where time has gone. Just sitting here typing I have tears strewn down my cheeks. Simply put, I adore this little blonde bombshell. She has spunk, she has the best giggles in town, she loves her Jesus, she adores her brothers, she tries her best at everything she does, she has some of the tightest hugs in history and she ends my day perfectly each night when she says, "I love you mommy" as I shut her bedroom door.

Memorial Weekend

2011-05-31T14:50:00.005-05:00

I am at a loss for words when I come to post this entry. Memorial Weekend is just magical, that is all I can come up with. It is a weekend with Bible camp friends where the hugs, the laughter and the fun just never end. This year was no different. It was 3 1/2 days filled with tons of food, a visit to a wonderful petting zoo, fast car rides, trampoline jumping, scooter riding, kitty petting, bonfire mischief, firework popping, Wii playing, quiet napping, veteran celebrating, God worshipping, and lots more. Wish I had photos that truly could capture every moment (ok, there are some that would still need to be weeded out). Already planning for next year! We love you Steeles, Hamlins, Klatts, Reeses and other Reeses (we loved having Nana and Papa surprise us by coming up on Saturday!)! PS-if the slideshow isn't working, too bad, I have no idea why it is so finicky

The Graduate

2011-05-31T14:43:00.004-05:00

Boo is that little sister that wants nothing more than to be right in step with her big brother, so the fact that she finished Cubbies and is now a Sparkie and that she finished Preschool and now is a Kindergartner makes her grin. It certainly happens in the blink of an eye and yet it is so fun to see them change and become "exactly" what the Lord has created them to be!

AWANA awards night

Last day of Preschool with teachers Mrs. Huisinga and Mrs. Watland

Adventures in being a big boy

2011-05-26T18:44:00.003-05:00

Little update, or rather BIG update on Abram and his potty adventures. It is day 4 of potty training and we are happy to report that Abram may be earning the "easiest" potty training award. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought "Mayhem" would be the easy one. He has surprised the undies right off of us! He is yet to have the #2 success but after our prelim day of potty bootcamp, he has not had one single accident in his pants. He no longer asks to blow out the candle or have mommy do the potty polka. It is just a "go get it done" and continue with play mentality. Love that! He has been all about town sporting dinosaurs, Buzz Lightyear, Spongebob and now Diego. He is like a walking advertisement. Can we get paid for these endorsements?

It's OK to flaunt your good looks....

2011-05-23T19:47:00.002-05:00

...when you look this good!

I had been noticing lately that Abram had been rather infatuated with the little boy underwear aisle at the store. So much so that he wanted some for himself. No argument from me, especially if it means a step closer to one more child out of diapers. For some reason he picked today. Mommy was not prepared for this, but he informed me that he wanted to put big boy pants on after nap. That is just what we did. His choice in undergarments is SpongeBob, or in a close second place is dinosaur tighties! We put them on and I presented the Dr. Phil method to him just as I have with the last two kids. We put undies on his bear and he gave bear a step-by-step lesson in how to use the potty. His eyes about popped out of his head when he saw bear go potty (mommy pouring water into the toilet from behind bear). Then came the fun, bear was given a "Potty Party". We danced the "Potty Polka" and blew his train whistle in celebration (as much as his photo will be available for blackmail purposes, a video of our potty celebrations would be just as humiliating). Now it was his turn to perform. We filled him up on juice and traveled to the bathroom ever 5 minutes or so. I'll never grow tired of the moment when your child first gets "that" sensation. Again, eyes almost popping out of his head. He was thinking he was pretty hot stuff and knew his success would warrant a potty party of his own. In Abram's mind a party is not complete without blowing out candles. So, candles we had. Each time he went in the potty tonight, we'd dance, blow the whistle and blow out the candle. If that is what it takes, so be it. For Ayden success was granted 5 M&Ms, for Aubrey it was a sticker on a chart, for Abram it is the chance to blow out the candle. The best way to report his success is in this: the candle was blown out 10 times tonight-woohoo!!! Way to go big boy!!!

Now we've seen it all

2011-05-16T21:28:00.002-05:00

As a mom of 4 kids, I can now say I have just about seen it all when it comes to strains of illness. It is like a continuous circle, one kid brings home a bug from school, it filters through all 4 kids and two adults before the next bug comes home and begins its rampage on the family. This time around the Schueler clan has been battling an endless stream of Strep. Strep throat? Not necessarily. I had no idea how many forms strep can come in. We have had some little boys with it amounting to diaper rash-like symptoms causing endless fights with GI tract problems, we have had the typical sore throats and fevers. It wasn't over though. For the mom she had a sore throat but it vanished very quickly. The only thing left behind was swollen lymph nodes visibly starring her back in the mirror. Never seen or felt such a large mass in my neck-yuck! Then came this Friday. I felt a wee bit of achiness and thought it was the jitters for my Saturday morning 1/2 marathon. I took some Motrin and headed to bed. Saturday morning was cool and somewhat damp. Actually, it was great running weather in my mind. I began my Maple Grove 1/2 marathon at 7:30am. I have trained hard and long for this alongside my sister and even by mile 4 I knew something was up. Where was my strength? At mile 8 I ran past a lady laying in the grass being attended to. The sirens were headed her way and she had clearly passed out. At that point in the race, I was so light headed that I thought maybe I'd just like to join her on a nice ride to the hospital. Instead I could do only one thing, walk. Miles 8-11 were made up of me trying to walk/jog, just to merely reach the finish line. I did that. It wasn't pretty, but I did that. I crossed at an atrocious 2 hrs and 10 minutes. On any other day it would have really irked me to see that miserable time. That day it didn't. Between knowing how I had felt and also the number of hills I overcame, I was just proud to have finished. The rest of the day continued to go downhill. I had zero appetite and began the shivers and aches. That night I went to bed and woke to myself scratching my arms at 3am. I walked into the bathroom to flip on a light and WOWZERS! I was covered in hives. Mitch ran to a 24 hr drugstore for some benedryl and we let it go until morning. Sunday was a blur to me. I did eventually head into urgent care when the hives had not only covered every inch of my body, but I could not regulate my temp or keep my eyes open for more than an hour. What did the doc say? Strep. Yes, once again, it came in yet another form that I was not accustomed to. So, here I am, it is Monday night and I am no longer contagious, but I am still one giant polka-dot. Real attractive! Now I hope I've seen it all!

Troublemakers

2011-05-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I earned my mommy badge once again when I brought 3 kiddos to the doctors office at once. Don't worry, I applied my deodorant about 4 times prior to the excursion to help stave off the inevitable sweat attack from such a duty. I had to take all 3 because two little boys were getting checked for strep in response to another boy in our family (#1) testing positive the day before. A little girl had nowhere else to go. Mommy also had to have some lab work to do that required the bathroom visit (TMI I know)and so the humor in 3 kids smashed in the lab bathroom with me sent me into an uncontrollable giggle fest! Lets just say, 4 year olds and 2 year olds are oh so curious. The best part of the visit was when we were waiting to see Dr. Tim. The nurses had set us up in our exam room and Abram was hopping about the room with his beer belly hanging over his diaper and nothing else but his socks on. To keep them entertained until Dr. Tim came we decided to play Simon Says. They were rubbing tummies, doing jumping jacks, wiggling their bums and more. I then said, "Simon Says sing 'Free'". Ok, this is Abram's #1 Hit song and when he sings it, he BELTS it. Our exam room shares a wall with the doctors/nurses station. They are all working diligently when all of a sudden they must have heard, "WE ARE LIVING TO MAKE YOUR NAME HIGH, JESUS, LIVING TO MAKE YOUR NAME HIGH". Simon tried to change the command quickly, but they were relentless. Next thing I know, the nurse enters, trying to be Oh so kind. She politely says, "we would like to move you all across the hall, there is a much larger room there so you have more space." Okay honey, I know you are trying your Minnesota nice, but just say it, we know why we are being moved. We are troublemakers and Simon is just as at fault as his/her little chorus!!!

Boo's checking her list, she's checking it twice

2011-05-10T13:33:00.002-05:00

You thought it was only Santa looming over your every thought and movement. You thought it was only the man in the red suit who would have to deem you "nice". Think again, Boo is also on the job:

(Waiting for a train today with cars and cars filled to the brim with coal)

Boo says, "I think the trains go to Santa and bring the coal to the naughty people."

Beware, she's watching you too!

He Regards Himself Highly

2011-05-09T21:35:00.001-05:00

At bath tonight Abram was looking at himself in his bath mirror.

He grins and says, "cute picture".

The Title of "Mother, Mommy, Mama, Mom"

2011-05-08T18:54:00.003-05:00

Title was given to me back in November of 2002 when we found out we would be welcoming a new little person just 8 months later! Now my title is used by a whole team of hoodlums.

Mom and her "A Team"

Prom?

2011-05-07T19:08:00.000-05:00

Yup, Mitch and I were able to go to Prom this year, just a mere 16 years after our first go 'round. A wedding, 5 states, 7 houses, 4 kids and numerous grey hairs later and we still agree no better date may be found! The Prom was put on by our high schoolers at church and to say we had a blast would be an atrocious understatement. The theme was "A Night at the Movies" so of course we came dressed in character from "An Officer and a Gentleman". Mitch wore his whites and I snagged a $14 Goodwill dress. We called it good and went to have fun with friends. Fun we had!

Abbott Man is 7 Months

2011-05-07T18:59:00.000-05:00

and has these two shiny, sharp chompers to show for it!

What Ladybugs Like

2011-05-06T13:47:00.002-05:00

I was prepping the living room for a carpet shampooing. I moved all the furniture out and then vacuumed before bringing in the steamer. As I was vacuuming #3 lays down on the carpet and begins a conversation with a bug. The rest goes like this:

#3: I see a ladybug momma. (he runs to the kitchen where he finds a pile of yen from daddy's trip to Japan. He brings the yen back over by the ladybug.)
#3: Ladybug wants money momma.
Mom: What does a ladybug need money for?
#3: Go shopping.
Mom: Really? And what does a ladybug need money to go shopping for?
#3: Peanut Butter

Ah, sheesh, silly momma, how could I not have guessed that!!!

He makes us laugh

2011-05-02T21:36:00.003-05:00

We were on our way out the door and Abram grabbed this tape measure off the counter. He stretched it across his body and said, "long I am".

Our Easter in Pictures

2011-04-25T14:41:00.012-05:00

Praying your Easter was filled with the good news of Jesus resurrection. It truly is the greatest day in history and we surely enjoyed the Lord blessing this day with sunshine after a few gloomy days. Reflecting on the days leading up to his resurrection it was so glorious to go celebrate His victory over death with His church this morning. We also had some fun with the silly secular traditions. The kids had an indoor hunt for eggs when they woke this morning. Then after church we were able to feast and play with the Reese side of the family at Nana and Papa's. The celebrating continued at the farm later that afternoon with Gma and Gpa Schueler. The weather even let us enjoy a not so traditional Easter dinner of hotdogs and s'mores at the fire pit! Love that!

The "A Team" on Easter 2011
Finding the loot left by the Easter bunny

Boo's first fishing rod, princess of course

Ready to hunt

"I see one" was what he said over and over and over again

Filling the basket

Another

Obligatory pic before rushing off to find eggs

And they're off

Abram had no trouble catching on to this egg hunt idea

"I SEE ANOTHER ONE!"

Aubrey found this large egg and was so happy. Then she opened it and it was empty. She squealed, "its empty, do you think it is the lucky egg mom?"

Brie spots one in the bush

Conner pauses before dashing to the next egg

A little boost from Uncle Stephen

The uncles are getting more and more clever in their egg hiding each year

Cousins minus napping Abbott

Aunts, uncles, Nana and Papa relaxing in the sun

Bday kiddos, Seth and Brie

Brienna LOVES babies

Playing at the farm gets 2 thumbs up by Abram

Chillin' with daddy

Watch out, Abram's taking the wheel

What happens when you go off and startle the calves in the barn? They stomp manure all over your clothes and in your hair. This results in gma bathing you and dressing you in a pretty silly getup!

Boy on a muddy mission

Yes, they still have their church clothes on. What kind of a momma am I? I'll be making a goodwill stop this week to stock up on play/farm/mud clothes!

The mechanic needed to fix her ride!

Farm pooch Wally is so patient with the kids and all the hoopla

He is happy as long as he has his 2 favorite fingers to suck on

Those are some happy mud boots

We WILL make good memories!

2011-04-25T14:29:00.004-05:00

Are there any other mommies out there that feel like creating traditions and memories with their children can often feel a bit overwhelming? Take egg decorating and sugar cookie decorating for instance. I sort of feel like 6-10 little hands frosting, sprinkling, painting, drawing and dipping can cause me, the mom, to understand how a person with ADD feels. I get a workout in doing laps around the table and half the time I can't even remember why I came around the table to help one child before going back around to another child! And goodness, I even had a wonderful helper in my friend Solveig. So here is my post and ode to our Easter decorating morning together. It doesn't come with a soundtrack so just imagine the cacaphony for yourselves and I will continue to cross my fingers in hopes that it is creating wonderful memories for the little people!

Schueler tongue always helps the job get done
Looking tasty!

Master egg decorators

I found that you can shrink wrap the eggs with a hair dryer

So much more kid friendly than using boiling water

Aubrey's Spring Preschool Program

2011-04-20T21:30:00.002-05:00

Nothing cuter than a class full of precious preschoolers singing, reciting Bible verses, and using their learned sign language to entertain moms and dads with cameras and video recorders in hand. The program was followed up by a feast of baked goodies and fruit and a homemade gift from our girl. Have I mentioned lately how much we love this little peanut? She is such a gift from God!

Signing and singing "I can sing a rainbow"
More sweet singing with friends Aftyn and Soren

Aubrey was the sun and moon in the story "The Very Hungry Caterpillar"

Never Underestimate

2011-04-20T21:18:00.004-05:00

I know I have said it before, but I will say it again, "never underestimate what your children can understand." You may think things are sliding by them or that they are just catching a passing thought here and there. No, this is not so. Abram is at that point in his language development where it all comes together. We are hoping this means he will soon be done with his tendency to repeat things in his Rain Man like way.

When I woke the kids this morning I told them to look out the window. Abram ran to the window in Abbott's nursery, looked under the shade, gasped and exclaimed, "Frosting". Yes, it is April 20th and there was snow on the ground. Considering his cuteness I was able to chuckle even at that white stuff.

His longest sentence thus far came this morning when his cousin Seth and Ayden were headed out to catch the school bus. He looked out the window once again and said, "I see them walking in the snow." (Hurray for the correct usage of pronouns!)

Last night mommy and daddy were about to cancel their date night on account of some unavoidable circumstances. We were chatting about what to plan for dinner in place of our night out. Should we take the whole family out, order in, thaw something, etc. Abram walks by as we are chatting and says, "Go to Pizza Ranch". Never had we mentioned this option and we have not even been there for over 7 months and STILL he offers his two cents. Daddy said, "did you just say you want to go to pizza ranch?" He says, "yeah, go please". (no, we didn't go, in case you were wondering)

Going outside to play with cars on a homemade ramp the kids were all choosing their toy cars. I told Abram to go pick one out. He comes back proudly, holds it up and says, "How 'bout this one mom?"

Guilty as Charged

2011-04-18T18:19:00.005-05:00

Victim:

Perpetrator (alias "Mayhem"): Weapon: Flashlight

Sentence: 5 minutes in the corner and a heartfelt apology

**This may just be a glimmer of what our future with 3 boys under one roof will be**

**It must be noted that today Abbott shows no remaining signs of the altercation and has shown great resilience**

Who's Who?!?!

2011-04-14T21:33:00.002-05:00

There is no denying family resemblance between these two handsome boys. Top photo is my dad, bottom is our Abram. Heavy genes come in the Reese blood!