.

Trick-or-Treating for Halloween

2010-10-31T07:26:00.001-07:00

I believe...

the boys...

have outdone themselves...

this time:)

Pumpkin Carving Fun

2010-10-31T07:17:00.001-07:00

I love Benny's looks of determination:)

Finally...some decent ones:)

2010-10-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

Apples...apples...apples:)

2010-10-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Part of the Scheuer fall family tradition is apple picking. This is sometimes the time during which I try to take the kids' school pictures. Some were successful, some were not:).

This one's pretty good...

Um, yeah, I don't think so:)

(I teased Isaiah and told him that we were going to use this one for his school picture. He was not happy.)

A little better.

Ben trying to sink his teeth into an apple.

Decent family picture (minus Mom:))

Come on guys...just one lousy picture!

Ahhh, there we go:)

Labor Day Weekend 2010

2010-10-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, we had our time at the cabin with our best friends, the Tiedtke's. The weather wasn't warm enough or calm enough to take the boat out on the lake, but we had a fantastic weekend anyway. It's friends like the Tiedtke's that you can have fun with, no matter what you are doing. We love you guys!

Noah helping take down some dead trees at our cabin.

Go-Kart fun:)

April & Elsi

Drew and Noah introduced the Scheuer family to a Boy Scout tradition that Drew did when he was a young boy--Tree Tipping. When you go through a forest, you look for a tree that looks like it is dead. Then, you proceed to rock it back and forth until its roots come out of the ground and hopefully doesn't hit any innocent bystander. (See Noah's illustration below.)

I'm not sure what the fine is for "Tree Tipping" in a state park, but I'm hoping I don't find out. April and I made sure we were far ahead of the criminals so that we could make a break for it if any park rangers came by;).

Drew and Steve's turn.

Drew...this log looks slippery!

Dad...this is how it's done!

April on caffeine. Elsi, being Elsi:)

Happy Noah...Bored Noah...Bi-Polar Drew

How many crazy people can you cram on a loveseat?

Summertime

2010-09-11T20:46:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that summer has come and gone and that I haven't posted for 6 months! My camera was out of commission for about 1 month, due to the fact that I tried to clean the inside of my Canon DSL. I didn't realize that you weren't supposed to do that. Oops;).

Anyhoo, summer was hot and great. The kids and I spent over a week by ourselves at our cabin up north. Unfortunately Steve doesn't have any vacation time, so I had to figure out a way to use mine up. We went during the 2nd week of August and the Lord blessed us with 4 days that were above 90 degrees. We don't have AC at the cabin, so we spent those 4 days out on the boat. The boys were so helpful assisting me in launching and taking out our 24 foot pontoon boat, I couldn't have done it without them!

Steve was very lonely with out his family around and we missed him terribly. We were so glad to see him and his folks when then joined us for the end of our vacation for a couple of days.

I love his hair like this, but he had to get it cut for school. :(

Bowling Fun

2010-03-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, we spent the afternoon bowling with the Tiedtke's in celebration of the boys' birthdays. Grandma Bobbie and Grandpa Bill joined us as well. It was a fun day.

I can't believe my boys are 9 (Ben) and 12 (Isaiah). They are growing up so quickly!

Lovin' on Daddy.

Daddy's turn:)

Treasuring the balloon from the Tiedtke's (even though it wasn't her birthday:))

Father and Son

Bowling with Abby

Champs!

Big 12 year-old.

9 years-old!

Nana's love ~ nothing like it!

We praise God for each and every year that He has blessed us with our boys.

Cinderella and the Prince

2010-03-06T15:23:00.000-08:00

If I were a butterfly...

2010-02-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

...I'd thank you God for giving me wings.

snowmobiling

2010-02-14T17:31:00.000-08:00

Today, we had the privilege of spending time with friends from church.

They graciously offered to take our boys on a snowmobile ride around the lake behind St. Paul's.

This is Mr. Christensen. He was so patient with the boys in getting them ready for the ride.

Ready?

Set?

Go!

Meet Connor. He belongs to the Christensen family.

He is a fun-loving kindergartner who is full of energy, loves the outdoors and always has a smile on his face.

Isaiah & Connor, waiting patiently.

Isaiah's turn.

Mr. Christensen even let him steer and handle the throttle!

It was suhweet, Dad!

Steve got Connor set up with RC car.

Ben and Connor had fun driving the cars while they waited.

The sun was shining, the wind was calm and it was fun fellowship with great people.

Mrs. Christensen wasn't able to make it (we missed you, Dena!), but we hope to get together again soon.

Thanks, Christensens:).

Royalty

2010-02-08T17:39:00.001-08:00

monopoly...

2010-02-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

The fun game of Monopoly.

Counting the money.

Buying the properties and building hotels.

And Lego soldiers and army men on skateboards...

...as playing pieces?

Hmmm...Monopoly has changed a bit since I was a little girl.

Life with boys = never a dull moment:).

Did you guess the Domes?

2010-01-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

If you did, you were right! Last Monday, my mom and I spent our annual day at the Mitchell Park Domes in Milwaukee. We usually go in February, but because there was no school that Monday in January, and the trains were up and running, I figured we would hit it a month early.

I may still take the Monday the kids have off in February and spend it at the Milwaukee Public Museum instead. We'll see. It was a great day and I'll use just about any excuse to spend time with Mom:).

Where am I?

2010-01-24T17:46:00.000-08:00

What?

2010-01-17T18:19:00.000-08:00

You haven't heard of the "Chimpmunk Dance"? (That's exactly how she says it.)

Well...Elsi has informed me that it's the latest craze. She's got the moves down pat.

Get on board people!

Life Changes

2010-01-16T05:13:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy and amazing last couple of weeks.

Monday, January 4th

Miracle begins.

Steve is at work and an insurance adjustor he hasn't dealt with in over a year comes in for business. She asks him how Uranus*, the company he is working for, is doing and if his job is secure. He assures her that it is. She tells him that if anything changes, to give her a call and she will see what she can do for him.

Wednesday, January 6th

He goes to work as usual for Uranus* that he has worked for for the past 16 years. By the end of the day, he no longer had a job. There was no warning, no signs, nothing.

Thursday, January 7th

Miracle continues

Steve's painter, Bob, is on a plane for a trip to Florida. They are de-icing the plane and as Bob is looking around, he sees the owner of Uranus* that Steve used to work for and Bob still does. Bob puts his own neck on the line, goes and talks to the owner about what has happened with Steve. Bob has unbelievable character. The owner has no idea and says he will look in to it.

Steve begins networking and applies for unemployment. He calls almost anyone and everyone he can think of who has connections in the industry that may have a lead for a job. He starts with the insurance adjustor that he spoke with on Monday. She returns his call and has an interview set up for him--no resume, no application, just based on his good name.

Friday, January 8th

Steve goes for to interview with the new company. They ask him to come back for an assessment test on Tuesday. Seems like a very good company, and we are very hopeful, but realistic. In this economy, who gets a job in just a few days?

Weekend

Enjoy things like this and spend time together as a family--

Monday, January 11th

More networking. Gets a call from a top guy at an insurance agency and he says he will call the gentleman Steve interviewed with and put in a good word for him.

Still no word from Uranus*. We are getting the impression there is no hope there.

Tuesday, January 12th

Steve goes for his assessment/interview with the new company. He is offered a job! They don't actually have a position for him, but they are creating one until the new store opens. We are ecstatic and he begins on Monday.

I am so thankful to our Lord and Savior for this opportunity for Steve. God was instrumental in each and every step of the way and we know that he orchestrated the entire thing.

Steve is truly going to miss the guys that he worked with. Technicially, he was Mike and Bob's boss, but they always worked more like co-workers than anything else and better yet, they treated each other like family. We hope they continue to enjoy their jobs at Uranus*and that they shoot for the stars;).

Seriously, though, we know they will not be strangers and we will see them often.

*Name of company has been changed to protect the company.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-01T16:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve just isn't Christmas Eve without Grandma Dorothy. Love you Mom!

Isaiah with Grandma and the Nativity he made at school.

Princess all dressed up and no where to go

Ummm, we're working on our smiles for the prince:)

One of Isaiah's favorite gifts

Ben, meets Spot

Santa lovin' on his terrified daughter

Not just one little kiss?

Well...maybe he's not all bad

The big boys have no problem with Santa:)

They received their much coveted gifts from a very generous friend of Steve (Santa). Thanks Mr. Mike! (This is the same gentleman who helped us out here.)

Kinder Place Potluck

2009-12-19T19:01:00.001-08:00

This past Tuesday, Kinder Place had its annual potluck. Kinder Place is the daycare at St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran Church, where Elsi attends two days a week. She loves it there and gets lots of good lovin' from the teachers:).

We enjoyed delicious food and fellowship.

We congratulated and celebrated Sue Lindeman's retirement after 25 years of service in various areas of St. Paul's.

We listened to Miss Becky sing a beautiful a cappella solo.

We also listened to a very talented young man, Taylor Heinzel, sing a Christmas song while his dad accompanied on the guitar (both of whom belong to one of our church's praise teams).

Each child that attends Kinder Place received a gift. Elsi was thrilled with her glittery pop-up book and has barely put it down since then.

We are so grateful that our daughter is fortunate enough to attend a Christian day care like Kinder Place. She is shown and taught Jesus' love and forgiveness every day. I wouldn't have it any other way:).

Ahhh, Mom's Christmas cookies:)

2009-12-18T11:14:00.001-08:00

There's nothing like them...

delicious Christmas cookies...

warm, right out of the oven...

unless of course, they are one of Grandma Dorothy's cookies. My mom made 34 different kinds of Christmas cookies this year--5 dozen of each! That's over 2,000 cookies! I'm ambitious, but not quite that much. I guess I missed out on that gene:).

Oconomowoc Christmas Parade

2009-12-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

In addition to our Scheuer Tree Trimming party on Saturday, we also participated in the Oconomowoc Christmas Parade on behalf of St. Paul's. We had a float, which displayed the manger scene. The kids tossed candy to the crowd and we handed out flyers inviting people to our Christmas Production, Journey to Christmas. It was chilly, but sunny.

Mike Papa, the Wise Man (or as we called him, the Wise Nun:))

Coach Papa & Isaiah (Mike is Isaiah's awesome basketball coach)

Elsi & Elizabeth, the angels

Elizabeth helping Benny tie his shoe (he was having trouble because he had gloves on).

Jeff Stache, another Wise Man (we called him the Sorcerer:))

Josh, a very happy shepherd

Ben & Isaiah as shepherds

We had a great time and it was a wonderful opportunity to witness about the birth of our Savior.

Claire Bear

2009-12-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

I have a beautiful daughter. She is cute and adorable and full of spunk. So much so that I rarely get any pictures of her. Remember this?

Well this weekend I had the incredible pleasure of spending time with my beautiful niece, Claire. She has got to be the most photogenic baby I know:).

See?

Now, bear in mind, I haven't forgotten when Elsi did pose for this picture recently on Thanksgiving. I'll take what I can get:).

What?...

2009-12-07T18:07:00.000-08:00

Isn't this...

how...

everyone...

watches TV?

Tree Trimming

2009-12-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday, we had our annual Scheuer tree trimming party at Bill & Bobbie's. Adam & Jill, Pete, Jim & Fatime, and John & Gina and their kids were all able to come. We celebrated Christmas with some of the families because they be able to be there for Christmas. We had a wonderful time and it was great to see everyone.

Cousin Ryan checking out Uncle Steve's new toy

Ben loves Dad's new toy:)

Claire chillin' in the sunny Wisconsin weather

Elsi & Ryan checking on Claire

Cousins Elsi & Claire

Ellie trimming the tree with her daddy.

Ellie admiring her handiwork

Isaiah's turn

Grandma & Grandpa opening the Wii they got for Christmas

Claire Bear getting some serious lovin':)

Cousins Eric & Joey

Elsi opening Cinderella gift & Ellie playing with Cinderella:)

Ellie playing with Mommy

Aunt Fatime playing "row row row your boat"

My cup runneth over.

2009-11-28T16:47:00.000-08:00

This is what my father-in-law said at the Thanksgiving table this past Thursday, and he is so right.

We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving...

Beautiful family...

laughter...

a father my children are blessed to have as a role model...

a son who brings joy to my heart, everyday...

tickles from, and giggles with Nana...

better yet--snuggles with Nana...

a son who has nothing but love, patience and kindness for anyone who crosses his path...

a grandpa who never tires of his grandchildren...

watching the Green Bay Packers beat the Detriot Lions (sorry Brett:))...

a little girl who will appease her mother once in a great while and pose for a picture:)...

delicious food...

having the chance to visit with my sister and aunt that I haven't seen in a long time...

Most of all, I am thankful for my Heavenly Father, who selflessly sent his Son, so that I may be redeemed. There is nothing better that that!

What are you thankful for?

sunshine, swinging and sliding

2009-11-20T17:23:00.001-08:00

Today was a beautiful autumn day in Ixonia. The temperatures were in the 50's and there was very little wind. Elsi and I enjoyed a walk, swinging, sliding and the sunshine.

Little girl swing...

Big girl swing with silly faces

Sliding

Hunting for rocks

Rock inspecting...talking to the rock

Wearing Mom's slippers:)

there's nothing like...fellowship with friends

2009-11-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

Saturday, we spent the afternoon in fellowship with some wonderful friends. Chuck, a great friend from church, invited the Tiedtke's and us to his house for the afternoon for a picnic. We enjoyed beautiful weather, food and fun. He was a most gracious host and cooked up a delicious dinner. We greatly appreciated his hospitality and hope we can return the favor in the near future.

Charles, our gracious host

Charles's & Ingrid's three beautiful girls

Gretchen

Charlotte

Rachel

Simon piles leaves on Gretchen...Gretchen goes to return the favor:)

Elsi and Daddy hanging out

Leaf boy

Isaiah, chillaxin':)

Noah in the dog kennel...where he belongs:)

The dump...

the accusation...

the anger...

the threat.

I think someone has anger management issues;)

Elsi hard at work...raking leaves:)

Charlie Boy enjoying salsa...and...homemade guacamole. Yum!

1. Elsi finds hair clip.

2. Mr. Tiedtke shows her how to use it.

3. She tries it out on him:)

Steve and Drew called me away from Elsi to something...I just had to see. When I got there, this is what I found...

April works so hard, it's great to see her enjoying herself.

Rachel and Gretchen tree climbing

Ben & Simon tree climbing

Playing ball with Abby and petting kitty

Noah...being Noah:)

Playing ladderball, solo

Looks like someone enjoyed Hawaiian Punch:)

Strolling with Mr. Tiedtke

Not really sure what is going on here?

Trick-or-Treating

2009-11-07T17:54:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, we spent time enjoying Halloween.

I started the day by taking Elsi in to West Allis, by my mom for trick-or-treating, while the big kids went to a youth group gathering--or at least they tried to, but were unable to find the farm that had the corn maze and hayride:(.

We then spent the evening enjoying pizza and trick-or-treating with our good friends (who else?) the Tiedtke's. Isaiah was Luke Skywalker, Ben was a Transformer, Elsi was a Hershey's Kiss, and Dad and Mr. Tiedtke were fuzzy dice. April worked hard making the costumes for the dads. Thanks April, they turned out great!

Sibling love:)

Fuzzy dorks...I mean, dice:)

Elsi with her buddy, Abby.

Simon, Isaiah, Ben & Noah

It was a beautiful night and a wonderful time with friends.

(There, are you happy Drew?)

picture perfect

2009-11-02T15:51:00.001-08:00

Have you ever tried to get that perfect family picture, but your kids had other plans?

Yeah, me too.

Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

Friday night, Steve and the kids spent the evening carving pumpkins.

Each of the kids had a pumpkin and a face they wanted carved, with the exception of Elsi, who had really no clue what was going on.

It was fun to watch the expressions on her face change as Dad went through the steps of carving the pumpkin.

Ready when you are...

Scooping the goop...

Designing...

Carving...

Time for Elsi's pumpkin...

Excitement!

Finishing touches...insert candle...light!

My pumpkin's hungry!

TA DA! :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

under where...?

2009-10-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but where we come from, this is soooo the "in" thing. So much so, that I think I may sport this latest fashion to work on Monday.

Then again...maybe not:)

Happy Birthday Bobbie!

2009-10-22T12:44:00.001-07:00

A couple of weekends ago, we spent a day celebrating Bobbie's birthday. It was a surprise party that had been planned and she had no clue:). We were happy to spend the afternoon with a very special lady.

Jim, hard at work in the kitchen

Steve, making the salad

Surprise!

Loving on Grandma:)

Yummy cake made by Fatime (who wasn't able to attend)

Singing "Happy Birthday"

Make a wish!

Enjoying the beautiful handmade pillow from Katherine

Friday Night Fun

2009-10-11T17:55:00.000-07:00

This past Friday night, we had a family fun night. It consisted of...

caring for dollies...

reading books about Jesus...

playing Wii...

and playing Wii as if you were truly playing the sport:)

I just love how Benny gets into the Wii games. He really puts his "all" into them.

Opinion?

2009-09-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

This school year, I decided to branch out and take pictures of the kids instead of having them done at a photographer. Would you be so kind as to comment on which pics of the kids you like the best? Thanks!

Isaiah #1

Isaiah #2

Isaiah #3

Isaiah #4

Ben #1

Ben #2

Ben #3

Ben #4

Elsi #1

Elsi #2

Elsi #3

Elsi #4

Elsi #5

Who woulda thunk it?

2009-09-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

I didn't really think that anyone loved the season of fall as much as me. However, after witnessing my daughter sing, dance and laugh with the beautiful autumn leaves(or leafses, as she calls them), I believe she may love it even more:)

3 Years-Old. Where does the time go?

2009-09-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Today marks our little girl's 3rd birthday. I can't believe that 3 years has gone by. She is such a girlie girl and adds so much fun and character to our family.

Elsi at 2 months old

Elsi at 3 years-old

This past Saturday, we celebrated Elsi's birthday with family. It was a sunny warm day and we enjoyed fellowship with friends and family. We praise God for the blessings of 3 years with our daughter. We love you Elsi Grace!

Aunt Fatime giving Elsi a pedicure

Perfect Pink Piggies!

Funny card from Nana Dorothy

Nana Dorothy & Elsi

Latest hairstyle fashion

Yummy cake!

Some strange people we invited in off the street:)

Rounding out the day with a good book.

Suhweeeet!

2009-09-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like fresh picked apples from the orchard in September. In this case, it was an 85 degree day in September (sure, now summer arrives), but the apples were delicious!

Happy Birthday Bill!

2009-09-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday we celebrated Bill's 71st birthday. The sons who live in the area and their families all attended. The weather was beautiful and we enjoyed some wonderful family time together.

Grandkids with Grandpa Bill

Row, row, row your boat (with Aunt Fatime), gently down the stream

Cousins Ryan and Ben playing ladderball

COUSIN LOGAN SAVES THE DAY!
Look at him jump!

Cousin Kate playing volleyball

Kate loving on Grandma Bobbie

Princess Elsi

Elsi, Isaiah, Grandpa Bill and Benny

S'mores!

2009-09-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Nice warm campfire.

Beautiful afternoon.

Roasting marshmallows.

Delicious!

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Laboring? I think not.

We did plum picking...

...swinging...

...climbing...

...loving on Grandma...

...running...

...family time...

...role playing...

...and stargazing.

But laboring? Not this family:). Happy belated Labor Day!

Can anyone say...

2009-08-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

...slave labor:)?

Ahhh, the joys of our boys growing into young men. Getting older, stronger, more responsible.

What comes along with that responsibility?

Less work for dad, of course.

Step away from the scissors...

2009-08-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

I have two beautiful sons and a wonderful husband, whose hair I have always cut. Snap on a 1" guard, turn on the clippers and away we go.

Not so, with little girls.

A couple of weeks ago, we were at church for our summer Wednesday worship and Elsi wasn't cooperating during the sermon. I took her out for a "timeout" and had her sit on the steps.

I noticed how long her bangs looked (mistake #1). Being the prepared mother I am, I had a scissors in my purse.

Can you see where this is going?

I held her bangs up (mistake #2) and clipped them (mistake #3). When I let them fall back into place, I was more than a little surprised to see how short they were. I guess that was God's way of letting me know I shouldn't be trimming my daughter's hair during Pastor Krug's sermon.

Lord... lesson learned.

2009-08-23T18:56:00.000-07:00

Today marks my wonderful husband's 36th birthday. We began the day be attending worship where, to his surprise, he was wished happy birthday by numerous people. What he didn't realize, was that I had put his birthday in the church bulletin:). Ahhh, the perks of being church secretary. When he got home, he spent time cutting the grass and then enjoyed some Wii with the boys. He was given the Wii Sports Resort game for his birthday, so they were having fun with that. After marinated chicken, cucumbers and garlic rolls for dinner, he enjoyed a blueberry cheesecake dessert. We really enjoyed the day as a family. Mr. Tiedtke even stopped by to drop off some ice cream for us to have with our cake. Sadly, him and the kids couldn't stay for dessert with us:(.

Everyone's enjoying the yummy cake:).

Happy birthday, Honey! We love you!

Tiedtke Fun at SLL

2009-08-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, the Tiedtke's. What more can I say about this beautiful family? They bring us so much joy and happiness with the time we spend together. They are a fun-loving, God-fearing, Christian family that we love dearly and we get along great with. This past weekend they joined us at SLL (Scheuer Leisure Lodge--penned by Drew) for a couple of days out on the lake.

Following our time out on the boats on Saturday, we had some issues with one of our boats which revealed my "good...bad...and ugly" side. I was grateful to go through the difficulties with such good friends because there was no judging, no uncomfortableness, no anger, only support and attempts at humor:). We are so thankful that the Lord has blessed us with such a wonderful friendship.

attitude...

2009-08-14T06:25:00.000-07:00

...and that's all I have to say.

Happy 14th Anniversary!

2009-08-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks the 14th wedding anniversary for Steve and I.

This past weekend we went to our cabin (childless:)) and spent some time out on the water floating around aimlessly on Calliope. We enjoyed some steaks for dinner while drifting on Lake Petenwell. The Lord granted us beautiful weather, which has been a rarity here in Wisconsin this summer:).

I have to say that it seems like we've been married for that long and longer. The Lord has certainly blessed us during those 14 years with three beautiful children, wonderful jobs, food, shelter, clothing and of course each other. I wouldn't wanted to have spent these last 14 years with anyone else.

I love you, Honey!

AAA? Can I get some roadside assistance?

2009-08-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, as a parent, you've gotta do, what you gotta do.

And...sometimes, when you're a potty-training, when you've gotta go, you've gotta go.

However, in this case, she didn't go.

We would like you to meet....Calliope

2009-07-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

No, we didn't rename Elsi, Calliope

Do you remember the dilapitated pontoon boat we bought last August? If not, let me refresh your memory, by directing you to this post.

Well, this past weekend, we ventured out on a beautiful, but windy afternoon, with a completely refurbished Calliope (that's what I named her). I know, it sounds an awful lot like Penelope, but I don't care, I still like the name:).

Steve and his dad did a beautiful job, restoring the boat. It is brand new! Now, all we need, is some nice warm weather in Wisconsin to enjoy it on!

What Do You See?

2009-07-23T18:14:00.001-07:00

Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see?

I see a serious Benny-J looking at me.

Red bird, red bird what do you see?

I see a smiling Benny-J looking at me.

Yellow duck, yellow duck, what do you see?

I see a silly Benny-J looking at me.

Taken, of course, from this children's book.

La la la...I'm singing with no shame...

2009-07-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, potty training, definintely not one of my favorite parts of parenting, but a part, nonetheless:).

Life at our house has been very freeing as of late, to say the least.

Elsi has been enjoying life without clothes (except for socks to soak up any driddle, when she doesn't make it to the potty in time) and spinning in circles with a colorful umbrella Isaiah retrieved from the closet one rainy day this week.

She has been doing remarkably well, considering, it is only day 6. We're still working on #2, but that's a whole 'nother post.

Meanwhile, our family will enjoy "I'm singing with no shame...singing with no shame" by our free toddler in the living room while we can. The day will come, when Mom and Dad won't think it's very cute for their daughter to be parading around in the buff:). But...that's a long way off (I hope!).

Potty training is...

2009-07-18T17:17:00.001-07:00

...exciting...

...but tiring...

...and exhausting...

...work!

One more thing...

2009-07-18T14:04:00.001-07:00

I almost forgot! We missed this family terribly...

Can you see why:)? It's good to be home so that we can spend time with our wonderful friends, the Tiedtke's:). We love you!

Family, Fun and God's Creation

2009-07-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

The past two weeks have been a whirlwind. We left our home in Ixonia on Friday, July 3rd, to go to our cabin in Friendship, WI to get a jumpstart on our long drive to Minot, ND to visit family. We spent the night at the cabin on Friday and rose bright and early on Saturday and hit the road by 6:15 am. Our original plans were to stop and spend the night in Fargo, ND, before continuing on to Minot. However, when we reached Fargo at 12:45 pm, we decided it would be well worth our while to continue on and make the trip in one day instead. All three of the kids traveled extremely well and we arrived in at my Uncle Darold and Aunt Judy's house at 5:30 that evening. Uncle Darold wasn't expecting us, so he was a bit surprised and Aunt Judy was still in town picking up my mom and Aunt Betty from the airport. We spent 3 days with Darold and Judy and then we drove to Williston, ND to visit with my Aunt Avis and Uncle Neil. After enjoying time there and a tearful good-bye, we headed off to Keystone, SD for some sightseeing and fun attractions for the second week of our vacation. The vacation was a beautiful and fun-filled time. I was so blessed to have the opportunity to visit with family that I hadn't seen in 9 years and to see the incredible sights of South Dakota. We praise and thank our Lord that He kept us safe and sound during our travels and granted us this time to spend rejuvenating our bodies and souls.

Cheap entertainment:)

Sweet dreams, Princess

Daddy's turn for a nap...
wait a minute, something doesn't seem right!
(Click on the picture to enlarge
and check out the speedometer!)

Uncle Darold & Aunt Judy's

2009-07-18T13:32:00.001-07:00

We had such a wonderful time at Uncle Darold and Aunt Judy's. They were incredibly gracious hosts and made us feel so at home. We are so thankful that we had the chance to spend time with them and we are going to make certain that another 9 years don't go by before we see them again:).

Ben talking Uncle Darold's ear off:)

Benny driving the lawn tractor at my grandparent's old house.
That was his favorite part of the visit with Judy and Darold.

Isaiah enjoyed driving a tractor as well:)

Uncle Darold showing us his gun collection

Annie Oakley, is that you?

Silly campfire songs

Uncle Darold played and sang beautifully

2nd Cousin Shelby showing Elsi a princess dress-up set.
She loved it!

Aunt Betty, Uncle Darold, Aunt Judy and Mom

Uncle Neil & Aunt Avis's

2009-07-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Our time at Uncle Neil and Aunt Avis's was wonderful as well. It was sort of a sad time for them as their entire crop for this season had been hailed out just a week before we arrived. They were still in very good spirits and we had a wonderful time there. They have a beautiful home and some very big tractors! I look forward to seeing them again in a couple of years.

Dancing with Aunt Avis

That's one big tractor wheel!

It's even as tall as Isaiah!

The three sisters: Avis, Betty and Mom

Playing Barrel of Monkeys with Uncle Neil

Snuggling with Aunt Betty

Rough housing with Daddy

Yay! More music with Uncle Darold

The four siblings: Uncle Darold, Mom, Aunt Betty and Aunt Avis

Benny dancing with Aunt Avis

Tearful good-byes

1880's Train

2009-07-18T12:26:00.002-07:00

On Sunday, we started our time in the Black Hills with a ride on an 1880's train. It was a one hour trip, each way, on an old-fashioned train. It was an enjoyable ride, but a bit cramped on the way there. On the way back, we were able to sit facing one another and we also took an extra seat, which made for more room.

Isaiah enjoying the scenery

Look at that, Daddy!

ALL ABOARD!

Elsi and Daddy waiting at the layover

Rushmore Cave

2009-07-18T12:16:00.001-07:00

On Monday, we also went to a tour through Rushmore Cave. It was about a 60 minute tour that went 1/2 mile. The boys really enjoyed it, but Elsi wasn't too fond of it. She just wanted to get out and hold her state of Montana magnet that Steve had bought her earlier that morning:)

Stalactites

Wedding chapel in the cave.
Some people have actually gotten married there!

14 inch hole that people go through for the spelunking tour.
Needless to say, we did not go on that tour:).

Old MacDonald's Farm

2009-07-18T12:07:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we also spent some time at Old MacDonald's Farm. It is a petting zoo for kids about Elsi's age, but Isaiah, being the animal lover, had the most fun there:). He has such a way with animals, I don't doubt he may someday become a veternarian.

Benny gently handling the chick

Hey, there, little chickies!

Elsi's checking out the baby chicks Isaiah is holding

Isaiah's right at home with the goats:)

Bear Country USA

2009-07-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

On, Monday, we spent some time and Bear Country USA. It is a drive-thru wildlife park with bears, wolves, donkeys, buffalo and a little zoo at the end for the kids. It was very intersting and fun to see. Elsi was beat this day, so she really struggled towards the end, but overall, she was a trooper:).

White wolf

Look at those claws!

Is it just me, or does the donkey on the left look like the one from Shrek?

Porcupine in the children's zoo

Bucky, is that you?

Smile kids!
Okay...nevermind...smile boys!

Mount Rushmore

2009-07-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

On Sunday night and Thursday morning we spent some time at Mt. Rushmore. The park had a wonderful evening patriotic presentation before they lit up Mt. Rushmore. We also enjoyed walking on the President's Trail, which allows for different views of the presidents from different angles.

The mountain at dusk

Lit up at night

George Washington view from the President's Trail

Abraham Lincoln view from the President's Trail

Family picture:)

Evan's Plunge

2009-07-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

In Hot Springs, SD, there is an indoor/outdoor pool called Evan's Plunge. Because the water for the pool is fed from the hot spring, the water temperature is always 87 degrees. It was a beautiful day to spend some time in the water. My little fishies loved it:)

Water fun at Evan's Plunge

Ben taking the "plunge"

Do you like my hat?

Custer State Park

2009-07-18T11:20:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday and some of Thursday, we spent most of the day at Custer State Park. The kids had a really great time hiking, collecting rocks and paddle boating. We enjoyed lunch at the park and were in awe of God's incredible creation.

Come on, Dad, you can do it!
Don't let me drop my books.

Rock climbing

Taking a break

Honing my photography skills on the hike:)

Enjoying the view after a hike

Paddle boating

Elsi, Dad and Isaiah petting a burrow

The burrow wants more!

life's a day at the beach

2009-06-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

Well, at least yesterday evening was a night at the beach. You know what I mean:). The temperature gauges in Oconomowoc yesterday read 99 degrees, so the kids and I decided it was time to find some water and have some fun. Steve was visiting with a good friend of his from high school, so I packed up the kids after work, grabbed a Little Caesar's pizza and headed out to Ottawa State Park. You may recall this park as my nemesis campground from this post. However, I had nothing to fear, since I would not be actually spending the night this time:). Elsi was originally very adamant about not going in the water, but once I dragged her in kicking and screaming, she really anjoyed it!

Enjoying dinner

Can he ever make a serious face:)?

Water football

Elsi practicing her "swimming"

Sibling love

God's precious gifts:)

Wrapping up to go home

We had such a great time and it was nice to create some special memories with my kids. Sometime's our lives are so busy, we really have to work at making time for these days:).

Fun Times at the Domes

2009-06-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we spent the afternoon at the Mitchell Park Domes. It was a Sunday, so it wasn't very busy and we were able to enjoy a delicious lunch and some beautiful scenery. We are so grateful for our wonderful friends, the Tiedtke's. They are such a fun family to be around and we always look forward to the time we spend with them. Elsi just adores Abby and Steve adores Drew. They are matches made in heaven:).

Mr. Tiedtke helping clean up Elsi after lunch

Abby showing Elsi the fish in the pond

The wonderful Tiedtke family

Where's Waldo?

Isaiah and Noah checking out a bird on the waterfall

Simon working to identify the "fuzz" on the tree

Drew and April watching the goldfish in the pond

"This little gospel light of mine..."

Daddy and his princess

Isaiah and Noah in the Arid Dome

Ben and Simon in the Arid Dome

Ben in the Arid Dome

Elsi and Isaiah in the Arid Dome

My beautiful family

Elsi and Abby in the Show Dome

"1..2..3..4 I declare a thumb war"

Wide-eyed Benny and Daddy

Abby and Elsi

Drinking this...

...leads to this!

The wonder of a toddler:)

Jumping for Joy!

2009-06-05T11:12:00.000-07:00

These two...

are literally...

jumping

for

joy!

Today was the last day of school! I won't be so cruel as to remind them that summer school starts in 2 short weeks:). No, really, they enjoy summer school, because I let them take fun classes that involve Legos, swamp rats, math facts and chess.

Summer is fast-approaching and ours is about as packed as can be. We have countless weekends at the cabin to spend time on boats and jetskis, a two week trip to the Dakotas to visit family first (in North Dakota) and then sightseeing (in South Dakota), fishing with Grandpa Bill, waterpark with Grandma Dorothy and lots of other fun things. I am thrilled that summer is almost here. Well, if you ask my boys, they'll tell you, it's here!

Here She Is!

2009-06-04T13:47:00.001-07:00

Could it be?

All this time?

My little girl was not a morning person because of repeated bad hair days:)?

I mean, really, look at that smile! And at 7:00 am in the morning, to boot!

The Transformation

2009-06-04T13:37:00.000-07:00

Elsi did a wonderful job for her "trim" yesterday. She sat as still as possible and did very well. I am so proud of my little girl, but was feeling a bit sad, because she does't look so much like a toddler anymore, as she does a little girl. Our princess is growing up:(. We are so thankful that God has blessed us with our beautiful daughter.

Such seriousness:)

Finishing touches

Almost done!

I Just Can't Take It Anymore!

2009-06-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day for our little girl.

Can you tell what we are going to do this afternoon?

Someone's not a morning person:)

More pictures to follow later today...

Relaxing Weekend...Sort Of

2009-06-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we spent time up at our cabin. The weather was nice (in the 70's), but not swimming weather. The kids collected caterpillars (both alive and dead), relaxed, enjoyed campfires, roasted marshmallows and slept. Steve spent a lot of the weekend working on our pontoon boat. You may remember it from this previous post. It sure looks different now! When it is done, I will take some pictures and post them. My honey is really doing a great job and big thanks to my mom for helping us to purchase it:).

Trip to the Buckeye State

2009-05-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Day weekend, we took a trip to Columbus, Ohio. Why, you ask? Well...this very special little lady joined God's family on Sunday.

Isn't she just the cutest thing ever?

Cousin Eric holding little Claire's hand

Claire Amelia Scheuer, our beautiful little niece, was baptized in to God's family. John (Steve's oldest brother) and his wife, Gina, are the godparents. We were so blessed to witness such a wonderful event. Congratulations, Claire!

We did have a little mishap while we were at Atonement Lutheran Church for the baptism. Elsi tripped on a hose and was inflicted with skinned knees.

Thanks to Grandpa Bill and Uncle Jim's quick thinking, a triage center was set up and her knees were tended to. Whew! That could have been a real catastrophe! (Pay no attention to any underlying sarcasm:)

Cousin Katherine enjoying some bonding time with Claire

Never...leave...unattended

2009-05-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is fast approaching. This morning, after my walk, I decided it was time to get the vegetable garden going. I put Elsi in her booster seat for breakfast, while I went outside to till and prep the garden for planting. When I came in, this is what I found...

Mental note to self: Do not leave salt shaker within Elsi's reach on kitchen table. Better yet...do not leave Elsi unattended:)

Soccer Time!

2009-05-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

"Hi Mom!"

Ready...

Set...

Kick!

This morning, Ben had his first soccer practice through St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran School. It was a beautiful sunny day, but a bit breezy. The coaches (Principal Nelson, Pastor Knea and several parent volunteers) had the students in different stations, with them spending about 15 minutes at each station. At the end of the practice, the kids were able to spend time in mini scrimmages. Ben really enjoyed it and is looking forward to going back in a couple of weeks. Way to go, Ben!

Joey's Confirmation

2009-05-09T14:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we spent some wonderful times with family. We traveled to Rhinelander to celebrate our nephew, Joey's, confirmation. We left on Saturday morning at about 9:00 am and returned Sunday around 7:30 pm. It is about 4 hours each way, so that is a lot of driving for two days, but we were blessed to be a part of Joe's special day. We pray that he continues to walk with the Lord all of his days.

Elsi, Nana, Cousin Kate, Cousin Joe (Confirmand), Isaiah, Papa, Ben, Cousin Logan, Cousin Eric & Cousin Brett

Cousins Logan & Brett, Isaiah and Dad playing basketball

Ben driving a "too small" tractor:)

Elsi watching Cousin Kate play with 3-D chalk

Elsi chillin' with Nana

One tired girl (and Papa:))

Softball Season

2009-05-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

5th grade is the year that sports really begin for the students at St. Paul's. They can participate in sports before 5th grade, but there aren't any real games against other teams, just scrimmages. Isaiah chose to participate in cross country, basketball, softball and track this year. He is thoroughly enjoying all of them so far. We are so proud of him!

Waiting for a pitch...

Oooooooooo, a swing and a miss. Nice try!

In rightfield

In just the 5 games the team has played, Isaiah has improved greatly. His coach, Mr. Mueller is very patient and works with all of the players to help them out.

Ben was supposed to start his soccer skills class today, but it was rained out. Hopefully I'll have pictures of it next weekend:)

Two Very Special Ladies

2009-04-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is less than two weeks away and I wanted to write a post honoring two very special ladies in my life. Below is a picture of my mom, Dorothy (on the left) and my mother-in-law, Bobbie (on the right).

My mom has always been such a great support for me. My sister, Michelle, and I were both raised Lutheran. Mom made sure we went to church as a family every Sunday and attended Sunday school. I have carried that tradition on with my family as well.

Mom has shown unconditional love for me my whole life. I never felt like I wasn't good enough, smart enough or pretty enough. She has always been there for me when I needed her and stepped back on those rare occasions when she knew she shouldn't.

Mom is a wonderful Grandma to our children. The boys and Elsi love to spend time at her house and she enjoys their company. They like to play games, makebelieve, watch movies and go to the waterpark in the summer.

I praise God for the wonderful Mom He has blessed me with.

My mother-in-law, Bobbie, is my second mom. Steve and I married in '95 and she has always made me feel like her daughter (not a daughter-in-law:)). She is a mother to 6 boys, all of whom have wives and children.

Both Bobbie, and her husband, Bill, make sure all of the Scheuer families feel loved and supported by them. They take the time to attend as many soccer, basketball, softball, football games, plays, band concerts, muscials, etc. they can. Bobbie has such a tender and kind heart and is always putting others before herself.

My little Elsi just adores her Nana. She knows she gets the kind of loving that only a grandma can give from her. The kind that is patient, gentle and soft-spoken. (Sometimes Mom isn't so much that way:)). And that's what Grandmas are for:)!

So this Mother's Day I want to make sure that both Mom and Bobbie know how much they mean to me and our family. They are such special people in our lives and we look forward to spending Mother's Day with them.

It makes me sad, that there are families who don't take or make the time to spend Mother's Day with their mothers. I understand that families are busy and lives are hectic, but one day out of the year to honor the person who gave birth to you, raised you, loved you unconditionally and continues to, even to this day, is too difficult to make time for. That just really makes me sad.

I hope those reading this blog will take and make time for their mothers in less than two weeks, by spending the day (if geographically possible), phoning or sending a card or letter.

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful Mothers out there and I hope you have as great of a mother and mother-in-law that I do!

Tent Camping...not for me:)

2009-04-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Our dear friends, the Tiedtke's (who else:)?), invited us to go tent camping with them at Ottawa Lake Park for a fun-filled weekend.

Steve and I camped a few times in a tent, in our pre-children era. We did camp one time with Isaiah when he was about 3 years-old in a tent. We then wised up and bought a pop-up camper. We thoroughly enjoyed our 1981 hard side Apache camper. Ahhh, what fun times we had with that camper. We then moved on to building a cabin near Wisconsin Dells. We decided we no longer needed the pop-up (or so we thought), so we sold it. Well, when we were invited to go tent camping, I thought it would be fun.

Ahem, I stand corrected.

Yesterday (Friday) was beautiful. Drew and April thoughtfully set up our tent for us prior to us arriving with the family. I loaded everything in to Penelope and cruised on over to the campground with the top down. Steve met us there after work. It was a bit breezy, but temperatures were in the 80's. We enjoyed a wonderful time around the campfire (started by Noah), roasting marshmallows and making smores. The adults then did their Friday night Bible study.

Then came bedtime. We had a wonderful air mattress to sleep on, but it's just not the same! My neck hurt, my back hurt, my legs hurt and I was cold. The low was only 62 degrees, but the ground was cold! to mention the gale force winds that were moving through. Elsi was exhausted, tired and crabby.

I woke up Saturday morning around 6:30 am to go for my walk. I was surrounded by swarms of bugs for the majority of my 7.5 miles.

Upon arriving back at the campground, I ate breakfast and then went to shower. While showering, I was serenaded by croaking toads at my feet. Yikes! I then was stuck in the bathroom for a bit (with my toad friends), because a thunderstorm had begun to move through and I didn't care to venture out in the treacherous weather. Steve thoughtfully came to pick me up in the car and both the Tiedtke's and Scheuer's decided it was time to pack up camp and hit the road.

Packing up camp in the rain is no fun. Let me make it crystal clear that Steve did the majority of the packing, I only helped a little. We then left for home.

Noah illustrating how to build a fire without matches!
Noah is an excellent Boy Scout.

Abby sharing her punch balloon with Elsi

Ben & Simon checking out the amenities of the Tiedtke's tent

Noah relaxing in Penelope

Abby, Elsi and Simon blowing bubbles

Elsi and Noah sitting by the campfire

Mr. Tiedtke adding a log to the fire

Isaiah enjoying a smore

Elsi enjoying some plain marshmallows

Camping is exhausting!

That was the longest 17 1/2 hours of my life.

While the company was delightful (as always), tent camping is not for me.

I think next time, we'll invite the Tiedtke's up to the cabin and they can pitch their tent on our septic field and we'll sleep indoors.

A Day at the Zoo

2009-04-17T16:30:00.001-07:00

Today was a beautiful day! I am so blessed to not have to work on Fridays. Drew and April and their son, Simon, invited Elsi and I to go to the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, with them. It's a perfect zoo for little people, like Elsi, not so big and overwhelming. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed a wonderful day with some great friends.

Elsi strolling with her buddy

Checking out the rhinos

Following the turtle along the glass

Flamingos

Enjoying lunch

Simon and April

Elsi sharing her Bugle with Mrs. Tiedtke

Polar bear

April and Simon checking out the prairie dogs

A beautiful bird in the aviary

The zoo is one of our favorite spots. You may remember a previous post of our visit to the Milwaukee County Zoo and this rare creature. He may look familiar to you...:)

A Blessed Easter

2009-04-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated Easter by attending the 8:00 am church service at St. Paul's with 521 other brothers and sisters in Christ.

Pastor Krug sang the solo, He's Alive, right from the pulpit. I love that man and can he ever sing!

We had Easter breakfast in the Fellowship Hall, hosted by the Youth Group.

We joined for a fun afternoon at the Bill & Bobbie Scheuer's house. We gathered with Jim & Fatime and family (with their friends Gary & Faith), Pete & Felicia and family, Bill & Bobbie, Pam (former neighbor of Bill & Bobbie), our family and my mom. It was a beautiful afternoon, so after lunch, the children enjoyed an Easter egg hunt outside.

We are so grateful to have family and friends to gather to celebrate Jesus' resurrection. For without it, we would be nothing. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross so that we may have eternal life. Alleluia! He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Isaiah, Elsi and Ben

Elsi and her buddy, Mr. Tiedtke

Elsi spots an egg

Cousin Ryan & Ben on the Easter egg hunt

Isaiah showing his collection to Grandma Bobbie & Grandma Dorothy

Dividing the "loot" evenly

Putting the candy in baggies

Uncle Jim "helping" Elsi (get more candy!)

Face painting:)

2009-04-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Elsi took some time to do some face painting. Or perhaps we should call it "face markering." Didn't she do a great job?

Can someone please tell me....

2009-04-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

...when this sweet, adorable baby...

...got to be...

...such a big girl?

About 3 weeks ago, we took away Elsiana's pacifier at the (ahem) young age of 30 months. She cried the first night or two, but then all was well. I think Steve and I were more afraid of the effect on us, more so than on her. Last night marked the first night she spent in her "big girl bed." I think I have been unconsiously been putting this off, because she is definitely our last baby and I wanted to hold on to that as long as I could:). She did a great job, but that could have something to do with the fact that she was absolutely exhausted after "napless" afternoon with Nana and Papa and was just too tired to move:).

Journey to the Cross

2009-04-02T10:44:00.001-07:00

Yesterday at St. Paul's we had our Journey to Cross for Lent in place of our regular Prime Time session. This was a wonderful opportunity for the children of the congregation (and parents who chose to participate) to use their five senses to experience the "journey" that Jesus took before his crucifixion. It was enjoyed by all. The children were really excited about the live donkey, which our wonderful friend, Chuck, procured from a local petting zoo.

Chuck with the donkey

Isaiah petting the donkey. Such an animal lover:)

All in a Day's Work...

2009-03-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are pictures of Isaiah's time with Steve at work, today.

He was picked up from my mom's around 11:00 am this morning and got a Cousin's sub for lunch.

They then proceeded to spend the day ordering parts, pulling parts, writing estimates and, of course, working on Penelope:).

Delicious club sub

Very interesting car. Where's the rest of it?

Ordering parts

The new boss. Listen up guys!

More work on Penelope

Two very special young men:)

Isaiah even chose to dress like Dad for the day. I'm so happy they enjoyed their time together.

Hard at Work...

2009-03-26T12:40:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, Ben had the privilege to spend an afternoon with Dad at work. He chose to wear his Saturn shirt and baseball cap for the day.

Steve picked him up from my mom's house at around 11:00 am. They grabbed some Subway subs and headed back to the shop.

They enjoyed lunch together, receiving phone calls and working on the Impala.

Ben enjoying a rare treat - soda!

Talking on the phone with a very important customer - Mom:)

Doctoring Penelope

Both of our boys (as well as me) are so proud of their dad and the work he does at his job.

Pictures of Isaiah and his time with Dad will follow shortly.

One of those guys...

2009-03-24T06:07:00.000-07:00

I just don't get it. Guys and their cars.

My honey, is one of those guys.

A couple of years ago, he purchased a 1968 Chevy Impala convertible. For me, a car gets you from point A to point B, but for guys, it's different. Even my boys are enthralled with the car.

I have to say, since it has been getting fixed up, it looks a lot nicer. Some of the gentlemen that work for Steve at the body shop have been incredibly generous in sharing their time and talents on the car and they haven't charged one cent in labor.

When they let me, I will post pictures of these wonderful people:). Pictures where you can actually see their faces.

Fixing quarter panels

Thanks Mike or Bob or whoever you are:)

Prepping for a paint job

Isn't she beautiful?

I call her "Penelope," but Steve doesn't like that:)

The interior is already being redone, so the next step is the convertible top. Then it will be finished (for the most part).

Yay!

A brand new, 41 year-old car.

I just don't get it, but I love you anyway, Honey:).

Good Times with Friends:)

2009-03-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, we spent a glorious day with our best friends from church, the Tiedtke's. Steve and Drew began the day with the Saturday morning Bible Study through church. We then went bowling in the afternoon to celebrate their youngest son, Simon's, 9th birthday party. We continued by going to church for a showing of Madagascar 2 with juice and popcorn. We then went to the play Get Smart at Lake Country Lutheran High School. We ended the day with dinner at Chili's at 9:30 pm. It was an exhausting, but incredibly fun day:). We then saw them the next morning at church:).

Mr. Tiedkte, you can't have any of my pizza!

Isaiah & Ben bumper bowling

My door prize for the highest score (of the adults)

What is he drinking?

Play Dough, with less mess:)

2009-03-13T10:36:00.001-07:00

Joining the Army?

2009-03-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

I think Ben and Elsi are planning to join the army:)

Happy 11th Birthday, Isaiah!

2009-03-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

My eldest son (on earth:)) celebrated his 11th birthday this past Friday. I cannot believe that he is already 11! He is such a wonderful young man. He is very considerate of other people's feelings, super intelligent and most definitely a man of God. He knows passages in the Bible better than me!

When I found out I was pregnant with Isaiah, I had been through a tragic car accident only months prior in which I lost my first son, Noah, at 5 months into my pregnancy. I was on a blood thinner for a blood clot in my leg and I had to undergo major abdominal surgery. It was after that I found out I was pregnant with Isaiah. My OBGYN told me that there was a plethora of things that could be wrong with him--dwarfism, mental retardation, birth defects, just to name a few. I underwent numerous ultrasounds while I was pregnant with him. Each of them were promising, but yet I was told by my doctor that we wouldn't know until he was born and years later, if everything was truly okay. Steve and I put our trust in God and put Isaiah in His hands. He was born 6 1/2 months later, absolutely perfect. As time went on, we realized just how perfect he was and continues to be:). He is such a wonderful blessing and we are thankful to God for giving us the precious gift of Isaiah. Happy birthday, Sonny:)!

National Lutheran School's Week

2009-03-07T15:42:00.000-08:00

Our family is so incredibly blessed to have the ability to send our children to a Lutheran school. St. Paul's is filled with wonderful faculty and staff. I am so grateful to have my children surrounded by teachers whose love for their Savior is evident in all they do and say. I am also thankful to work there myself:).

This past week St. Paul's celebrated Lutheran School's Week. If our school raised $800.00 or more in a Penny Challenge for A Place of Refuge, the Principal, 5th grade teacher and 6th grade teacher would all shave their heads. Well, guess what:)? We made our goal. The students were ecstatic to see some of their favorite gentlemen BALD! It was great!

Mr. Hoeppner (Isaiah's homeroom teacher)

Principal Nelson

Mr. Mueller

Love the new spring haircuts!

Mr. Mueller being "uplifted" by his 7th/8th grade boys' basketball team

Happy Birthdays!

2009-03-07T15:05:00.001-08:00

Isaiah blowing out his birthday candles

Benny getting ready to blow out his birthday candles

Cousins Stephanie and Elsi

Cousin Circle:)

Febraury and March mark busy months for my family. We have 7 birthdays that we celebrate (8 including Mom's cat:)). We always try to get everyone together one Saturday and have a nice gathering. This year it took place on February 28th at my mom's house. Uncle Bill & Aunt Sandy, Uncle Tony & Aunt Charlene, Cousin Stephanie, Dave & Rosa, Grandma Dorothy and our family attended. It was great to see everyone and spend time together. We praise God for the gift of family.

Bad Hair Day:)

2009-02-22T17:04:00.001-08:00

Independence is Imminent

2009-02-20T14:58:00.000-08:00

It is difficult for me to face, but my Princess is getting older and is asserting her independence, among other things, daily.

Mom! These don't match!

Is this right, Mommy?

WHY....WON'T....THIS.....GO....ON?!

Almost there!

Mission accomplished!

I'm exhausted! Give me my nukie!

The Men vs. The Boys

2009-02-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Dad and Isaiah, the opponents

Dad whiffed the jump ball

At the end of the basketball season at St. Paul's, the players face off with the parents, or in this case, it was the dads. Steve and Isaiah enjoyed a memorable evening of basketball together with the other players and Dads. BTW, the dads won:). All the families closed out the season by enjoying some pizza and cake in the fellowship hall.