The Friberg Family

Can I brag?

2012-02-18T17:32:00.003-06:00

My husband rocks! Normally I wouldn't brag and he would not love this post, but he's the best! He is so handy! I'm just so impressed with everything he has done to our home. He built the race track above for Sam. He is now working on the table above for our dining room. I'm so grateful for him! Not to mention the fact that he's an awesome dad...just had to throw that in while I was bragging. Okay, I'm done! Hope it wasn't too annoying/mushy!

Great Weekend

2012-02-18T17:28:00.001-06:00

Feeling the Burn

2012-02-18T17:17:00.002-06:00

Lately, I've been feeling a little burnt out. Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful that I get to be home with the kids all of the time, so grateful!! I was just needing a break. I have been getting up every morning at 6:00 (trying to beat the kids) and reading my Bible or working on one of my Bible studies and then exercising. It has been so wonderful and exactly what I need to feel energized for the day. But, I was still feeling exhausted. I started to feel guilty for just wanting an hour of quiet or for wishing for time away. Why do we get mommy guilt as parents? Even Jesus needed time away for rest and quiet.

So, this weekend Dan and I had a date. We are about to celebrate 7 years of marriage. So, my mom came up and watched the kids while Dan and I spent a night out. We went to dinner at PIttsburgh Blue, a delicious steak house and it was wonderful. Neither of us could stop talking and it was not all about the kids. Dan and I used to surprise each other on our anniversary and we would take turns planning a surprise for the other one. I surprised him with dinner last night. I loved getting dressed up (can I just say that I used Pinterest to help choose and outfit) and having a yummy drink and the conversation was fabulous. It's nice to spend alone time with the hubby especially when I get to look across the table at a man that I am so madly in love with. Can't say there is any sign of the seven year itch. Then this morning I surprised Dan with a massage and I got a facial. Thanks again to my parents for watching the kids.

And now, I am back! Feeling refreshed and so ready for the upcoming week and time with my adorable and fun kids. It's amazing what a little time away can do!

Isaiah 58:11

2012-02-06T16:11:00.001-06:00

The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

2012-01-29T19:07:00.002-06:00

All I can say is I love Pinterest. I have all of my house project (dreams), gift ideas, outfit ideas, crafts and new recipes organized. I consult it weekly for ideas for the kids, what to wear and dinner. I'm working on some gifts now and even made a few at Christmas time that were wonderful. I have also tried maybe 30 recipes so far. I love it!

http://pinterest.com/

Loving Life

2012-01-29T18:49:00.004-06:00

A little date with the kids after Sam's Kindergarten screening. He did so well, I was so proud of him. 44/48 questions! She said he is Kindergarten ready, however I am not sure that means much since apparently they only need to get 14 right at his age. Hmmm....that worries me a bit. Anyway, we went for cheeseburgers and malts at Snuffy's!
We were learning all about road signs a few weeks ago and Sam and Claire decorated their own cars (cardboard boxes) to push around the house and use to visit the in-home created library, grocery store, toy store and bank.
We had to move a twin mattress out of Sam's room after our visitors left, but we decided to use it as a slide down the stairs first. I have some really great pictures but the kids are in their unders so this the best I can do.
One day after church we took a trip down to the zoo with DADDY! We usually do this stuff during the week so it was such a blast to have daddy with. Please check out how cute Claire's pillowcase dress is.

2012

2012-01-29T18:26:00.002-06:00

Bless the lord oh my soul
Oh my soul
Worship his holy name
Sing like never before
Oh my soul
I worship your holy name

I think this sums up my goal for 2012. I want to pour more of my life into the Lord and loving others. I am praying for a mind free from judgement and full of love. Love for people struggling, love for people who see things differently than I do, and a mind focused on the essentials of faith and not dwelling on the differences in the non-essentials. Our service at church today encouraged me so deeply that I felt God speaking directly to me. Calling me to release my mind and thoughts to Him and let Him fill them with joy and love for his children. My children are watching me, what to I want to show them? I won't be hindered or afraid, I will be bold for what I believe and the love Christ has shown me. I've battled my life with thoughts about myself and who I am, I'll never be enough, but God tells me I am and I want to live it everyday. I don't want to waste this gift. I think about 2006 when I was saved and how far I've come since then and how much more I love people and I'm so grateful. I look forward to this year!

Here is the rest of this amazing song. I challenge you to listen and not cry! :)

Christmas Morning

2012-01-29T18:20:00.002-06:00

Christmas morning was so wonderful for us. It was almost magical. We just had the best morning and the kids were so happy! Auntie Rachel joined us and we loved having her.

Christmas with Dan's Family

2012-01-29T18:15:00.002-06:00

Here are just a few from our time with Dan's family and extended family.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-29T18:09:00.001-06:00

Sam's Christmas Program

2012-01-11T13:17:00.004-06:00

(3rd row from the bottom far left behind the kid in the all red shirt)

Sam had his Christmas program for preschool in December. It was so adorable. He had been practicing some of his songs at home, but he surprised us when we realized he had about 7 songs memorized. He did such a great job and he knew every word to every song. His memory is just amazing. I lieu of a "christmas outfit" which I am not a huge fan of, I decided to just put him in a plaid shirt and little vest. As we were leaving he decided to change vests so he was the only kid in a camo vest on stage.

At one point he grabbed the kid next to him by the tie to get his attention, he proved to be a bit like mommy, trying to get someone to talk to him.

Uncle Mike taped the whole thing for us in the back so we have several moments on video where Sam is giving Mike a thumbs up. It was so cute!

Chicago trip

2012-01-11T13:14:00.003-06:00

Dan had a work trip in Chicago, so we tagged along. It was such a fun trip. We went shopping, went to the zoo lights and had such a great time with Kristen and Rachel. The kids loved visiting and Sam really got into Mario Cart on the Wii while we were there. It was so funny because when he would race Rachel on the split screen, he thought that he was Rachel's car, so he would be so proud of himself when he finished, meanwhile the bottom car would go off the bridge or be going the wrong way and he would say "Auntie Rachel you need to turn around!" Love that kid.

He's played enough now where he gets it, but it was so funny!

Christmas x4

2012-01-10T21:21:00.003-06:00

We celebrated Christmas around 4 times this year. We celebrated early with my mom, Bob, and my brother and his family. We did it during Thanksgiving weekend and it was really fun. I convinced my mom to play me in Scrabble a couple times. I almost had to bribe her. I love Scrabble! It is always so fun to see our nieces too. The kids had a really good time with my parents. Addisen and Reagen are so stinking cute, I can't take it. Addisen is like a little model. She LOVES having her picture taken.

I will slowly get all of the pictures added. We celebrated with Dan's family a couple of days before Christmas, because this year we had Dan's aunt, uncle and cousins all join us for the holidays. It was wild with 22 people all together for 5 days. The women did some cookie decorating, we hit up the Mall of America, and enjoyed lots of food. It was unforgettable for sure.

We finished off our holidays with a visit from my dad and Laura for another Christmas/New Year celebration. It was such a great visit. We stayed in the whole time, after a busy week for the kids they enjoyed it.

We had people staying with us for 12 days straight. Bring on the bleach!! I had to Really it was so fun and the kids just loved having the visitors.

The pictures are just from our visit with my mom, I'll post the rest once I get them uploaded.

Thanksgiving 2011

2012-01-10T21:03:00.003-06:00

I'm so far behind on my blogging that I had to make a list to start getting things put in here. One would think that being at home full-time would allow for extra time to get this done. For some reason that is just not the case at our place.

Thanksgiving was so fun this year. We had a great time with Dan's family and we did some geocaching. If you have never tried it, I recommend it! I was not so keen on it at first, but when you actually find the little treasures, it's exciting! Check it out here. I'm adding a couple of my favorite pictures. I added a few more on Facebook.

2011-12-07T15:47:00.002-06:00

Here's why I laugh

The past three days I walked into Claire's room after a nap to find that she had put her hand in her diaper and smeared poop all over the bedding, her face and her clothes.

Yesterday as I left Target, Sam informed me he had to go potty, it was freezing and I didn't want to get Claire out of the car again, so I let him go in the parking lot. Then I dropped my keys in his pee.

I already wrote about Sam having the runs in his pants at the play park.

A couple days ago I went downstairs to find Claire with no diaper on. I then realized she when poop and potty in the training potty downstairs (YAY!). However the potty had no cup in it so it landed down in the toilet. I took it upstairs and cleaned it then brought it back down. On the way back down, I stepped in a stray piece of poop that didn't make it to the toilet, with my bare foot.

We decided to have a fashion show last week and Claire tried on all of her shoes. That was interrupted when Remus decided to barf all over. I got him to the bathtub in time for him to puke.

If I leave Claire in the tub longer than 20 mins she poops in it. Bobbing for poop is not fun.

The other night I rolled over and Sam had climbed in our bed. He was rolling all over so I decided to just got to his bed. I climbed in under the covers, only to realized he wet his bed. I curled up with a pee blanket.

I had to write these down, because I don't want to forget. Hope it made you laugh!

Macy's 8th Floor

2011-12-07T09:36:00.003-06:00

What have we been doing?

2011-12-05T08:56:00.004-06:00

The kids and I have been having so much fun lately!

We have been painting and making ornaments, craft, and presents!

I love Pinterest and I have used it for glitter dough, a race track taped around the house, and painting.

We went a place called Williston Fitness Center and they have a big tree house and a splash pad, so we got to go swimming. I should mention that Sam got the runs in his pants while we were there and I had to clean him in the sink and throw away his clothes. I can't even describe how gross that was. When I was trying to slowly get him out of his pants without making a mess, he kicked his feet and poop flew everywhere. Wall, toilet, floor and it was all over his feet. Really great moment. We pressed on.

We went to Jumps and Downs for a birthday party and the kids loved it! One of the best kids birthday parties. Claire was a climbing machine. There is no fear with this little one.

Sam loves school and drop off is so fun. He gets to climb up to the front seat.

We play alot, read, do puzzles and Sam loves working on this sight words. He's up to around 25 words that he recognizes in books.

Reindeer

2011-12-05T08:47:00.003-06:00

Sam had a reindeer come to school! He was so excited and I went over to his school to take some pictures. Did you know, that reindeer don't like carrots? I guess I won't have the kids leave them out for Santa to give to the reindeer this year! My favorite part about the visit was when the elf would ask the kids questions and they would all yell the answer. Kids are so hilarious! Can you imagine if we still did that in a business meeting for instance? So funny!

Ponytail

2011-12-05T07:52:00.003-06:00

Sam

2011-11-09T17:02:00.005-06:00

How is he 3.5 years old? I don't get it! I was here the whole time but I feel like I missed it at times. Sam is so awesome. He's such a cool kid. He's very rambunctious and wild, but he has the sweetest heart. Two nights ago he asked me "Mommy do you want to hold hands while we sleep!" I love that kid.

Preschool has been great and his teacher told me that he has 3 other boys that he plays with every time. She said it's so cute they have a little friend group and play so great together. Awww, Sam has buddies...so adorable! He tells me about them each day too.

He loves Jesus, he could talk about Jesus and God all day long. This transition to a Christian preschool has been wonderful for him. He loves knowing facts. I find myself looking up facts about different topics all the time so he can have ample knowledge about a topic to share.

He is starting to read, I've been working on sight words with him and he is up to 15 I think that he can spell and read in a book. It's amazing! On top of that he knows lots of non-sight words too like dog, cat, owl, mom, dad and some others. He loves the beanbag game where I lay out words and he tosses the beanbag onto the word and then spells it and tell me what it is. He LOVES it!

He still loves movies and games. We play Sorry all the time. He is really into cars and playing pretend and loves sports. I can't believe how fast he runs. I just love him so much. He is so funny and full of one-liners. God really blessed us.

Claire

2011-11-09T16:05:00.003-06:00

My little baby is almost 18 months. I can't believe it. I have baby fever. I think it will pass, I hope! Claire is a little clown, she loves to make us laugh. She is talking so much now and it is so cute to watch her thought process come out in words. One of my favorite things she does is she will look at Remus and say "no, no, no, go away!" whenever she is eating something. Remus tends to beg, so it is so funny!

She is tough and Sam wrestles her a lot! She runs to mom for an escape. She loves coloring, babies, shoes and goldfish. She knows her animals, body parts as well as so many other things. She loves to look at books and play in the dog food. She cuddles with Dan and I and is no longer interested in her booster chair so she stands on a chair at the table or sits at her little table with Sam. She continues to be a big eater, loves her baths, is very opinionated about what she will wear. If she doesn't like it, she takes it off or fights with it. She likes to go outside and go on the slide and still loves the bottle.

She has been using the potty and has to dance if I turn on music.

Mostly she just exudes love. I can't help but hug, kiss and hold her constantly. She is my love bug.

Baking

2011-11-08T14:54:00.003-06:00

So, in the previous post I said we got lots of apples at the orchard. So many in fact, that I was able to make four apple pies to freeze, a batch of applesauce and a torte. Dan wanted to do the crusts so he got to work with the kids while I peeled and chopped apples.

My back was to the kids when I heard giggling. Then I looked back to them sprinkling flour on each other. All three of them were putting flour on each other. It turned into an all out mess.

Apple Orchard

2011-11-08T14:08:00.005-06:00

A couple years ago, Dan and I went to the apple orchard with Sam (late in the season) and got a huge bag of apples for $5. We decided to do that again this year. When we got there, however, we were informed that the apples were picked out and that the only apples we could get were the ones on the ground. My first thought was, well maybe it won't be too bad, but within minutes I was ready for a refund. It was so gross, the apples were rotten and bruised. I could not imagine eating one, baking with one, or making memories with my kids picking these off the ground.

I picked one up that was disgusting, and told Dan, "How about this one?" We started laughing so hard and Sam then picked up a rotten one and said "Here guys, eat this one for breakfast!" That got Dan and I rolling with laughter not only at Sam, but the situation.

We did luck out, we found some great trees in the back, still full of good apples and were able to pick them from the tree. We got some huge bags and joked about the rotten ones the whole time. It was actually a blast and we had so much fun.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-06T16:39:00.003-06:00

Sam made it to all 44 houses in the neighborhood. Both kids had a blast! We found a few "score" houses handing out full size candy bars!

Birthday Surprise

2011-11-06T15:30:00.004-06:00

My super sweet husband planned a lovely birthday surprise for me. We started the night with Trunk-n-Treat at church where the kids played games and dressed up. Sam was Batman and Claire was a ladybug. Once we got home, Dan and I got dressed up and headed out for dinner at (surprise) Manny's! It was delicious! I had crab-stuffed halibut and some yummy sides and the most amazing dessert! Anyway, Dan dropped me off at the restaurant and then went to park the car. He was gone for a while, so I thought he was having trouble finding a spot. Once he got back to me we went and had a drink next door and waited for our table. While we were waiting he handed me a card. Inside was not only the sweetest message from him (I cried), but a key to a hotel room at the W. He took so long because he was valeting the car and taking stuff up to our room! And, as if it wasn't enough, he got me new pearl earrings from Tiffany's! I love pearls and he bought me a pair that he gave me on our wedding day. I lost one of them and was just devastated. He's too much! Needless to say, I cried again!

We had an amazing dinner, evening and so much fun together. It was such a great night away. I was so grateful to Dan's parents who were in on it the whole time and stayed with the kids and made breakfast for us the next morning.

We spent my birthday at the Mall of America, shopping, seeing Mickey and riding rides. I love my life!

Have I mentioned I love staying home! LOVE!

2011-10-28T15:24:00.002-05:00

Wild Kratts

2011-10-28T14:26:00.005-05:00

Sam loves a show on the TPT (public television) call Wild Kratts. Basically, two brothers talk about a certain animal and then they inherit the animal power for an episode to tell all about the animal.

Since Sam is allowed one episode a day, he usually picks Wild Kratts. It's actually been great because I have learned so much about certain animals and it inspires me to do a craft based on the animal. While the kids work on the craft I usually look up some more facts about the animal and they I have Sam practice writing out the animal name, like owl or bat or whatever.

The pictures are of a few of the crafts the kids have done lately. We did a shark, bat, owl (with a pine cone which was so cute) and a few others. I also took notes about what he has seen and then we looked for all of the animals at the zoo last week, which Sam loved!

Pumpkins

2011-10-25T14:35:00.006-05:00

We did this cute prayer when we carved our pumpkins this year. Sam loved pulling the top off and Claire loved digging in the pumpkin and getting dirty. The pot of water with seeds in it was her favorite.

"Pumpkin Prayer"

{cut off top of pumpkin}
Lord, open my mind so I can learn new things about you.

{remove innards}
Remove the things in my life that don’t please you.
Forgive the wrong things I do and help me to forgive others.

{cut open eyes}
Open my eyes to see the beauty you’ve made in the world around me.

{cut out nose}
I’m sorry for the times I’ve turned my nose at what you have provided.

{cut out mouth}
Let everything I say please You.

{light the candle}
Lord, help me show your light to others through the things I do. Amen

Film and the pumpkin patch

2011-10-13T20:27:00.002-05:00

I got my pictures back from the film camera. The ones of Claire didn't really turn out. I missed her smiles or her looking at me. Sam's are pretty cute though. We also did the pumpkin patch last weekend. It's a great little place run by a Christian family in New Prague.

Growth

2011-10-07T20:25:00.002-05:00

The longer I walk with the Lord, the more I change. Things are revealed to me that were not there in the past. Instant conviction when I sin (not everytime, but so often). God reveals impurity to me in actions, conversations, and society. I love this, because it helps me choose wisely. I have so many opportunities in front of me and the more I walk with God, the better those choices turn out.

Ephesians 5

¹ Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children ² and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

³ But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. ⁴ Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. ⁵For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.^[a] ⁶ Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. ⁷ Therefore do not be partners with them.

⁸ For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light ⁹(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) ¹⁰ and find out what pleases the Lord. ¹¹ Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. ¹² It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. ¹³ But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. ¹⁴ This is why it is said:

“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”

¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. ¹⁷ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. ¹⁸ Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹ speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, ²⁰ always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Bearsy (Princess)

2011-10-07T20:08:00.002-05:00

What can I say, my girl is a sweetie! I love how she says "ya" to answer any question. How she says "mine" when Sam tries to take her toys. She has the best facial expressions and Dan and I often just laugh when she changes her look. She looks wonderful in fuchsia, loves her veggies, is a huge climber (she can climb a rock wall, not kidding) and loves her mama! She is really into following Sam around, playing with her babies and love animals. My baby girl is so loving and I can see the sparkle in her eyes. If nothing else, she'll be tough!

I keep thinking, God must really love me to bless me with such amazing babies!

Stinker

2011-10-07T19:54:00.002-05:00

Sam's new nickname! I remember when it was "pookie" back in the innocent days. Not so much anymore. I will however, savor our mornings together. He is such a morning person. He is sweet, cuddly and such a ham in the morning. He is one fun-loving kid and I think I may have a Friberg competitor on my hands. He is constantly telling kids at the park that he is faster than them! I had an 8-year old at the park on Thursday challenge Sam to a race. I had to remind the kid that Sam is three and doesn't know what he is saying. I also asked Sam to stop taunting the kid. The boy was relentless so I ended up taking Sam home since the kid would not stop. As Sam rode his bike away, he made sure to yell behind him, "I'm still faster than you!" See what I mean? Stinker!

Love them!

2011-10-07T19:32:00.003-05:00

I cleaned up alot of poop and pee this week. Sam had a couple accidents (at night) and Claire had a blowout so I came into her room in the morning to a horrible smell and lots of poop on the t-shirt! Dan was traveling for a couple days and the kids kept me very busy!

Love these two. They have been playing together so much lately. It's really cute. Sometimes I'll ask "Claire, what are you doing?" and Sam will reply "Mom, she's playing with me, she's fine!" I love it!

I've been enjoying Fall with the kids and doing lots of projects and outings. We went to a pumpkin patch today! It's a great place and a Christian family runs it. So the exciting thing is that I used my old camera to take pictures of the kids there. I have to get the FILM DEVELOPED, that's right I used film. I can't wait to see them. It's like a little present :)

The pictures above are just my cuties! Claire is doing really well she is starting to say so many words and she recognizes the colors yellow and green and will say them. She loves to point to everything in books and ask "that?"

Sam is so wonderful. Dan and I cannot get over how smart he is. He does math unprompted in back seat when we drive. He'll just count something and then say "Mom, 4 plus 3 is 7!" or "3 plus 3 is 6!" Stinker!

Grateful #271-280 - Prayer Journal

2011-09-23T08:41:00.003-05:00

God is so faithful. I want to make my grateful list from my prayer journal. I was looking back and I am in awe of all of the answered prayers in the past month.

1. Sam has had 4 successful nights of no accidents in the bed.

2. Dan was promoted at work! This will more than make up for what I was bringing home! He will now be buying women's hosiery.

3. Dan's mom got a new job!

4. Sam's first day of preschool went so well.

5. Dan and I went on a date. It was seriously so fun!

6. My niece Reagen is getting healthier and healthier.

7. I joined MOPS and I cannot wait to get started.

8. Sam has been going to bed early and easily.

9. Both kids have been really healthy.

10. I've had more time for prayer, journaling and my Bible.

Staying home

2011-09-23T08:14:00.002-05:00

It's funny how I call myself a stay at home mom since it seems like we are always on the go! I love it! There are moments, trust me, but I feel so blessed.

Briana's Walk

2011-09-23T08:03:00.003-05:00

We did Briana's Walk again this year. Honoring Briana's 4th Birthday and so many other lost little sweethearts. What a God honoring event. I am so amazed by the strength of so many of these grieving families.

I decided to walk with Dan this year instead of run, which was a good decision since Sam ran most of the way while Dan chased after him.

Heather asked me to create a logo this year, which was such an honor.

Preschool

2011-09-23T07:55:00.003-05:00

Sam started Preschool! He is such a big boy, he goes on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:30-3. He skips his nap, so he has been going to bed by 7. He loves it! Yesterday in the car he was telling me the whole story of creation. Did you know on the "Sevenest day He rested?" He also got the sharing bag this week so he brought in his turtle that G & G Nordgren got him in the Caymans and another turtle that shows stars and the moon from it's shell.

I cried on the first day. They do a car line so you just pull up and they get the kids out for you. Sam looked at me and just waved and said "Bye mom, I'll miss you!" When did he get to brave? I've been away from him obviously, but it was just so weird to see him in a new, brave way.

I'm so grateful that I get to be at home with these two little hunnies to watch them grow.

Thanks Grandma Cathy for the first day new shirt!

Grandma Cathy

2011-09-23T07:46:00.003-05:00

Dan had to travel for work, so Grandma Cathy came to visit and stay with us while he was gone. We had so much fun with her! She always has presents, even for me!! We went to the park, we actually discovered a new park right on Lake Minnetonka, went out to eat (which is a huge treat for us) and made slime!

The slime is just glue, borax and water. I added food coloring, but I would maybe skip that next time since it turns everything green.

Loved having my mom here! Sam was being a bit of a handful, so it was good to have a buffer. I noticed that Sam acts up a bit more when Dan travels.

State Fair, Auntie Rachel & Minnehaha

2011-09-23T07:04:00.003-05:00

Auntie Rachel and Kristin came to town over Labor Day and we had such a great week. The kids love having them around because they spoil them by showing them such a fun time. We went to the State Fair and sampled many items. I tasted mini donuts, milkshakes, Australian potatoes, apples and carmel, a fajita, cheese curds, french fries and ice tea. The kids love fair food too :) Totally that mom! Sam LOVES the rides. He rode a few of them, I rode one with him where you lay down on your belly and then it flies up in the air. Kristin and Rachel took Sam o the big slide too. We also visited Minnehaha Falls. I had not taken the kids there since Claire was tiny. It's such a cool place.

I'll have to create an album with all the pictures.

Why I laugh daily.

2011-09-02T14:01:00.002-05:00

Learning Fun and grateful

2011-08-29T14:59:00.005-05:00

My sleepy boy!
Sam loves games, especially Sequence. This is a great learning game it helps with number and letter recognition, color sorting, and is almost like ISPY trying to locate the match to the card.
My cuties enjoying a snack together.
Yay for Paper Mache. Both kids loved this. I made the glue on the stove, just flour and water. They loved tearing the strips or newspaper and then getting all dirty. We wrapped a juice bottle and then painted it later.

H is for headdress! Sam loved decorating his with stickers, ribbons and paint. Claire will not wear hers, but Sam wears his everywhere.

P is for pancake. I added a cup of sweet potato to these ones!
P is for paint, pink and pig. We made pig faces with paper plates. Every time I do a craft I associate a letter with it and we list words that start with that letter. Sam then practices the sound it makes and then writes the letter. I give him a tip with each letter to remember how to write it. Like with "P" I tell him draw a line and then one big belly. Or with a small "h" I say draw a line and then one camel hump. It really seems to help and he is great at his letters.

I am a blog-stalker! I follow so many learning blogs for ideas, activities and learning fun! The kids LOVE projects. Sam is really into games right now as well. Here are some fun photos of my kids learning and getting really messy! If you come to our house to play, be prepared to get dirty! I also threw in a few that I think are cute.

Little Loves!

2011-08-26T13:11:00.001-05:00

Grateful #261-270

2011-08-24T22:34:00.002-05:00

It's been a wild week! We've made some big decisions! I am so grateful! I think of Luke 19:40, if we do not praise, the rocks will cry out. It's amazing to me to imagine the praise running through the rocks and trees like water. I love that visual!

#261 Prayers answered in an unexpected way.

#262 Swim dates

#263 Quiet boat rides in the evening with my family

#264 Extra work, I know God will provide

#265 Sharing gifts and talents with others

#266 Support and encouragement from my wonderful friends and family

#267 Game night with Sam

#268 Claire laying on my shoulder and holding her blanket

#269 Fun girls weekend coming up!

#270 Kisses, from my kids and my hubby

New Adventure

2011-08-23T13:14:00.002-05:00

So, I'm a bit behind again with my blogging! We have been having a very fun, very busy summer. Our neighbors were nice enough to give us their boat slip this week, so we have been trying to go out every day/evening. It's so relaxing.

So what's new? Well, I decided to leave my job. I know! Big step! Daycare has been raising rates and fees and we have had almost all new teachers in the past year. It's been a crazy amount of change. Needless to say I have not felt comfortable with all of the changes and we decided that we should not be paying so much money unless we are truly happy with the situation. $1410 a month for two kids, two days a week. YIKES!

We started to think about and evaluate other scenarios. I called around, did some tours, talked with my neighbors and prayed. We mostly prayed. Each time I thought I had the answer, Dan would bring up a point that would rule it out. We both prayed. Dan told me he thought I should stay home and that we would make things work. I had to trust that God may only reveal some of the answer to Dan. Mostly I trust God and I feel so good about our decision.

So, I'm excited! Sam will be starting pre-school at our church, which makes me so happy! I tend to question decisions I make constantly, was that right? did I make a mistake? Aside from marrying Dan and having kids, I think this may be one of the only situations where I didn't question whether or not this is the right decision. I look forward to spending as much time possible with my little love bugs before Sam is in school fulltime!

I know God will provide, He has never let us down. I also feel blessed to have such a supportive husband and friends and family! I appreciate the positive and encouraging words sent my way so far! So, bring on the playdates!

Little Chatterbox

2011-08-15T15:09:00.002-05:00

Claire has been picking up words left and right lately. Here is her latest word list:

Mama

Dada

Baby

Mine (amazing how quickly they learn this one)

Love you

All done

Puppy

Kitty

Duck (she quacks too)

Pig

Ball

Nana (banana)

Bye-Bye

Outside

Thank you

Bubbles

Boo

She loves to moo like a cow as well.

Grateful #251-260

2011-08-08T14:01:00.006-05:00

My two favorite boys!
Great places to visit with my kids. They loved the Science Museum.
My goofy husband. Who takes days off to spend time with us. This is at the Science Museum.
Awesome parks. MIller Park near us is so great. They have a playground, swings, sand and a splash pad.
Water babies. Seriously, how can I not be grateful for this.
Matching jerseys. I love that Sam wants to be like his dad. If he is, he'll be one amazing man!
Matching haircuts. Dan got the buzz cut too!
Claire, learning how to paint and how it ends up everywhere.
A baby enjoying boat time.
My boys fishing together on a Sunday afternoon.
The excitement from catching a "big large mouth bass" as Sam would say!

Sioux City

2011-08-08T13:53:00.003-05:00

It's almost been a month since we went to Sioux City. I drove to my mom's with the kids. Claire cried from driveway to driveway. I even stopped to nurse her, but nothing helped. Sam was awesome. On Friday morning I got up and went on to Sioux City with Claire. Sam was able to spend the day/night with G&G Bradham and he did great! He had so much fun. They went to breakfast, mini golfing, panning for gold, played skee ball, watched movies and had a wonderful time. I look forward to him being able to do it again. Why are kids so different when their parents leave? He was perfect the whole time, but the second we reunited, he got whinny and rambunctious. I can't figure it out.

I enjoyed my time alone with Claire in Sioux City. We got to see my grandparents, I had a great time visiting with my dear friend Abby and her husband (they were in town from LA), and I loved holding my baby niece.

Addisen's birthday was so much fun, but Sam had skipped his nap so he went into full meltdown mode. He fell asleep at 6:00 that night and slept until about 7:30 the next morning. What a tired boy!

Grateful #241-250

2011-07-24T18:45:00.003-05:00

God constantly gives me reasons to be grateful. I think about how I am nothing without Him. How I am so undeserving, yet He loves me. I can give Him nothing, but He wants me.

#241. I am grateful that God pursued me so that I may pursue Him.

#242. For the reminder that "things" are just "things" and God is the desire of my heart.

#243. For God's grace, when I don't get things right (which happens often).

#244. I am grateful that God shows me ways I need to change so that I can live more in His image.

#245. For the lessons God teaches me through my children. Patience, gentleness, kindness and at times longsuffering.

#246. For the reminder to see people the way God sees them.

#247. For the challenge to love someone that is difficult to love.

#248. For the desire to live the life God intended for me.

#249. For the countless gifts God has given me and the reminder that I nothing is mine.

#250. For our prayers. Especially at meal time where Sam insists that we go around the table and name what we are grateful for. His list typically includes the slip-n-slide which I love.

prayer from A.W. Tozer

O God, I have tasted Thy goodness and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need of further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune god, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still. Show me Thy glory, I pray Thee, so that I may know Thee indeed. Begin in mercy a new work of love within me. Say to my soul, “Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away.” Then give me grace to rise and follow Thee up from this misty lowland where I have wandered so long.

The first time camping with the kids.

2011-07-24T18:33:00.003-05:00

So we took the kids camping for the first time. It was glorified camping with a pool, basketball courts, shuffle board, a little store, rentals, games, movies and more. Dan's whole family came and his mom even brought a fridge. So we were roughing it with the most amenities possible to campers. Overall the kids loved it, but I did decide that right now in life I do not enjoy camping. The bugs are too much and I hate seeing the kids get bit up. Also, 4 people on a queen mattress in a tent is not ideal. The kids ended up sleeping with us. Plus, it was hard to get them to nap or sleep at night. I will say that the campfire singing and conversations were so fun as well as the pool time. Sam LOVED camping and I think we may try again when the kids are older. Until then I vote for a cabin or hotel. I never thought I would say that since I was the queen of camping in college, I guess babies and time has changed me.

On a side note, Sam played Sequence several times while camping and he is really good at it!

Here are more pictures.

Happy 4th!

2011-07-24T17:18:00.003-05:00

We once again participated in the 4th of July parade in the neighborhood. We had new hosts this year and they did an excellent job. They even brought in an antique tractor. Sam was so cute. I remember the first year we pushed him in the stroller and this year, he rode his bike the whole way with all of the big kids. My little man is growing up so fast! Claire rode in the car that we pushed Sam in last year and her favorite part was the freezie pop!

More to come.

2011-07-20T19:18:00.002-05:00

I have to add that we also went camping, had the fourth of July neighborhood parade and the kids and I drove to Iowa for Addie's 5th birthday! So, I have about 4 more posts I need to do. Right now my son wants me to lay with him and read books, so this is it for tonight!

Grateful #231-240

2011-07-20T19:14:00.002-05:00

#231. Time with family while the kids are young. Memories being made.

#232. Safety. Thank you God for protecting us as we drove on our many road trips.

#233. Movies and DVD players.

#234. A large vehicle with room for traveling, especially when I had to ride in the backseat.

#235. Yummy ice cream to keep us cool.

#236. Swimming pools! Both kids LOVE swimming.

#237. A variety of delicious s'mores we were able to try while camping (camping post to come).

#238. Amazing music.

#239. Laughing with family.

#240. Moments with just the four of us. Driving, boating, swimming, sleeping and enjoying out life together.

Road Trip to Missouri

2011-07-20T18:51:00.005-05:00

Yes, this chair actually exists in a store! Thankfully my dad does not own it :)
Trying to stay cool!
Nice wet hug!

We took a trip to Missouri to see my dad over the fourth. The drive down was a bit rough, but the kids did well on the way home. It was great to see my dad and step mom and let the kids spend time with them. Oh my goodness was it hot! We did hit up the Bass Pro Shop, which is a wildlife haven for kids. We also really loved Andy's custard and we got to see some great fireworks. Claire slept through them for the second year in a row!

Here are more pictures from that trip!

Grateful #221-230 -Whoa, busy summer!

2011-07-20T18:15:00.005-05:00

#221. This beautiful little girl.#222. Family time on the lake.
#223. Buzz cuts! Sam actually calls this his "summer cut."
#224. Sink or float. The kids love the water table, especially when I fill it up with soap and hide treasures in there.
#225. The Children's Museum - I just love this place.
#226. Movies! I love the movies. The movies are so fun! Sam and Dan went with his parents to Cars 2. Sam loved it.
#227. Creating memorable gifts. We made stepping stones for the dads for Father's Day! Here is Sam in his mask.
#228. Soccer. Soccer was so fun this year. I loved watching Sam. Here is his last game with Alivia and Presley.
#229. Beach days! How can you not be grateful for this little princess in her swimsuit!
#230. Art. Claire is really into the art projects lately. She especially loves painting with whip cream. She eats most of it :)

We have had and exciting and busy summer! I have so many blog posts to do to catch up. The kids and I have been making the most of our time outside (avoiding the super hot days). We have had a blast. Although, with all of the traveling I am ready for some down time.

PS. Claire is now saying, please, outside, and cheese.

Grateful #201-220

2011-06-30T14:15:00.004-05:00

I am playing catch up once again. We have had a really busy summer so far. We've had lots of fun, but it leaves little time to blog and update!

#201. Walks with friends
#202. Catch-up lunches.
#203. Our new boat and the time we have spent enjoying the lake.
#204. Sam's new love of spelling and finding words he knows. It's so exciting, I get giddy when he finds a word he knows.
#205. Boy time. Dan has been taking Sam fishing and to movies and it's so sweet to see their relationship flourish.
#206. Road trips and amenities such as dvd players and snacks that make them easier with kids.
#207. Dinners with good friends and kind conversations.
#208. Family pictures, the kids did not want to have them done and decided not to cooperate, but they still turned out pretty great!
#209. Fresh vegetables from the garden.
#210. Cools nights with the windows open.
#211. Family camping.
#212. Generosity from others.
#213. Claire's growing vocabulary and personality.
#214. Full night of sleep. How often I took this for granted before kids.
#215. Starting a new study. Shelly and I are starting The Pursuit of God and I am so excited about it.
#216. Weekends that are busy, but full of fun!
#217. Lemonade in the summer.
#218. Berries that are in season, YAY!
#219. Sam telling me "Mommy, I love you to the moon and back!"
#220. My husband!

Claire & Sam updates

2011-06-18T15:02:00.003-05:00

What's new with the kiddos? Well...

Claire is saying: Mama, Dada, puppy, ball, book, all-done, more, ba (bottle), uh-oh, kitty, hi, bye and she is trying to say brother (so cute). She moos and meows. She is really into matching pegs into holes and putting lids and caps on things like water bottles. She loves the water and will walk in the lake alone (scary!). Claire is walking well and is strong for a baby, I constantly catch her picking up heavy items like coolers and weights! And, she has 8 teeth. She loves cheese, noodles, grapes, blueberries and black beans amongst others.

Sam finished his first time playing soccer and I was really impressed with how well he blocks the ball. He loves grilled cheese and MIckey Mouse Club House. He really loves movies, praying, playing sports and is great at his bike! I mean he rides it up and down hills and is such a mover.

He is constantly learning new things. He counts to 10 in Spanish, and has started reading words in his books. He recognizes his name as well as dog, cat, ant, bee, owl, wow, cow and mom. If you ask him to find those words or spell them out, he can!

The kids continue to grow too fast and learn to play together. This is not without challenge, but we are proud parents!

Chicago (click link to see all the pictures)

2011-06-18T13:40:00.003-05:00

We made the 7 hour trip to Chicago this past weekend to visit Dan's sister and my good friend Kristi. The ride was not as pleasant as I thought it could be, Claire cried for the last 2 hours, but we had a wonderful trip. We went bike riding, to a huge fun wooden playground, site-seeing, to the zoo, we BBQ'd and just enjoyed our time!

We took so many pictures! You can see them here.

Grateful #191-200

2011-06-18T11:11:00.005-05:00

I am so grateful for summertime! I love being outside with the kids and using our lake access. Crafts and games outside are so much fun too! Today while we were praying at breakfast, Sam listed what he was grateful for: Soccer, oatmeal, sprinklers, and my family! I agree with all of those (but throw summer in there). Here is my list in pictures:

Cute baby ponytails!
Beachtime.
Playing with the hose.
Painting with icecubes.

Swimming!

Watertime.

Going to the zoo in the stroller.
Sprinklers.
Running for the slip and slide.

Sandbox time.

Fun with the Fribergs

2011-05-29T21:08:00.005-05:00

The kids have had a few really fun days with Dan's side of the family in the past few weeks. Here is what we have been doing:

Sam & Ella helped plant the garden at Grandma Fribergs, while Claire & Evan played outside.

Sam, Dan & Grandpa Nathan went fishing off the dock. Sam & Dan went last weekend too and caught a few sunfish. We ate them and they were delish!
Auntie Rachel was in town and stayed at a hotel one night for work. We took the kids over to go swimming. Claire did not like it at first, but she eventually warmed up to the water once she saw Evan having a good time.

Happy Birthday Claire!

2011-05-29T21:00:00.003-05:00

We had a fun party for Claire. I did a brunch which seemed to work out perfectly. She was so happy the whole time. She loved her cake and just did a little picking.

Grateful #181-190

2011-05-29T20:35:00.006-05:00

Claire is one! The time flew by. I feel like each year is just speeding up. She is such an amazing little girl. She is doing the cutest things right now. She quacks like a duck, points at everything, hugs her baby dolls, blows all kinds of kisses. She started saying book and is tossing the ball.

She is such a climber and is always up to something.

#181. This smile. Her smile is so addicting.
#182. This beautiful face. I can't get over how beautiful she is.
#183. This moment, I love holding my babies. The moment when you first meet, it's love at first sight.
#184. These eyes. Her beautiful blue eyes. The first thing you see when you look at her.

#185. Her curiosity. I know she is going to be mischievous. I am so excited about her love for new things, the way she examines and studies things. I think she may cause a bit of trouble, but I am enjoying it now.

#186. Her personality, it is starting to shine even more.

#187. The way she sleeps in my arms.

#188. Her love of books and her mama.

#189. How she follows her brother around the house. She just adores him.

#190. Claire Viola, what a precious blessing she has been. I can't imagine not having this little girl in my life. She is so dainty and sweet. She loves to cuddle and she makes my heart want to explode. Thank you God for the gift of raising a little girl, and for blessing me with this one. She is perfect.

Love you sweet baby girl.

Claire is walking!

2011-05-15T22:09:00.001-05:00

We are so excited! She has been testing out her skills non-stop since she figured this out!

Soccer

2011-05-15T21:59:00.003-05:00

Sam is playing soccer for the YMCA. He started this weekend. It was cold and rainy, but that didn't stop him. He was such a little athlete and was so into the game. We had to give him one scolding for trying to hit when a boy stole the ball, but other than that he was fantastic. Dan & I were so proud of him and could not get over how well he did. I think it helped that his friend Alivia is on his team. I hope next weekend goes as well.

Happy Easter

2011-05-15T21:41:00.005-05:00

This is very late. I was waiting for Dan to get more memory on the computer so I could upload these pictures. We had a great Easter. We dyed eggs, made bird nest cupcakes and a nest out of sticks for our dyed eggs. We also hosted neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt. We stuffed and hid 500 eggs and the kids found them within 30 mins. YIKES!

Grandma & Grandpa Friberg had an Easter egg hunt for the kids too.

Grateful #161-180

2011-05-15T21:20:00.002-05:00

#161 Sammy puts his underwear one unaided. Sometimes its backwards!
#162 Painting with feet.
#163 This little boy!
#164 Claire and her cousin Evan.
#165 This little girl who is so curious and LOVES painting!

#166 A new hard drive with lots or memory for all of our pictures.

#167 A sunny day to plant my flowers. I loved picking them out. God has and amazing imagination. If you don't believe me, spend some time in a flower shop.

#168 Dinner with a longtime friend and his lovely wife and new baby!

#169 God's faithfulness and healing of baby Reagen who got to go home this weekend!

#170 Watching a toddler soccer game in the rain.

#171 Kids who sleep through the night.

#172 Sam's excitement about his new fish. Lightning McQueen the goldfish joined our family this weekend.

#173 A walking baby! Claire is walking now. It is so adorable.

#174 All of Claire's words. She is really starting to pick up words like duck, puppy and when you ask her what a duck says, she says "cack cack".

#175 Fresh herbs growing in pots outside.

#176 Clean windows and the husband that washed them.

#177 My floor steamer. Thanks mom!

#178 Psalm 101

#179 Sam telling me "Mommy, I want to go see God with you" at church.

#180 Quiet time to blog.

Cutie

2011-05-01T11:36:00.001-05:00

Grateful #141-160

2011-05-01T11:28:00.002-05:00

I'm always behind! I am so grateful for this life God has given me. We have so much love, joy and laughter.

#141 Laughter, I have always been able to laugh. I find laughter in almost any situation and I pray my children will be the same. The key is knowing when to laugh.

#142 A fantastic playdate with a new friend from church.

#143 3 nights of sleep all night and neither kid woke up.

#144 A beautiful royal wedding to enjoy with coffee on the television.

#145 Sam telling me he loves me.

#146 Claire craving skin on skin contact and cuddling. How long will this last? I just love it!

#148 Fun trips planned for the summer.

#149 Yummy cookies.

#150 Being able to drive with no boot.

#151 Fun girl lunches with friends.

#152 A coffee date that was so refreshing and enjoyable, with a friend that I can go deep with.

#153 Adorable professional pictures of the kids.

#154 Days that are nice enough to open the windows.

#155 Dirty fingernails and faces that tell me the kids had a blast outside.

#156 Movie night with the family.

#157 Sam reading me books at night.

#158 Great new recipes that are a hit.

#159 Sam helping me at the grocery store.

#160 Art projects for mothers day!

Claire is 11 months

2011-05-01T11:15:00.002-05:00

I cannot believe how fast time has flown. I am having a hard time with Claire's first birthday approaching. I won't have a baby anymore. It makes me so sad! Claire is such a sweet girl. Here are the things she is doing now:

She pretends to talk on the phone

Blows kisses

Signs all done, more and milk

Says Uh-oh, Bye-Bye, Hi, Mama, Dada, Kitty, and Ball

Stands by herself

She has taken 2-4 steps many times but is not walking yet

She uses a straw to drink

Uses her spoon

Dances to music

She loves:

Books

Following Sam around the house

Dancing

Snuggling

Pretending to laugh

Climbing

Crush

2011-04-25T14:57:00.002-05:00

Conversation last night with Sam in bed.

I should start by saying I was reading him a story about Cars (the movie) and there is a part there that says that Lightening McQueen has a crush on Sally the Porsche.

Sam: "Mommy, what is a crush?"

Me: "That's when you really like someone. Like when a boy really likes a girl. Daddy had a crush on mommy before we got married."

Sam: "I really like you mommy, so I have a crush on you!"

Me: "Thanks Sam, that is sweet!"

Sam: "Mommy, I crush you (this was followed by a little arm punch) and I also have a crush on doughnuts."

Watch out ladies :)

Grateful #141-150

2011-04-19T11:27:00.007-05:00

#141. The puppet show put on by Sam & Daddy to entertain Claire & I while we were in quarantine.
#142. My little mischievous baby. She is always into something with a little smirk on her face.

#143. The sanitize cycle on my washer/dryer. We needed it for all of our towels and bedding after last week.

#144. Lips & Eyelashes.

#145. Claire's new word is "keeeey" (Kitty). She hunts for a certain book and when she sees it she exclaims "KEEEEY!"

#146. When the kids play together. I love it!

#147. New recipes and yummy food.

#148. Sweet baby Claire's eyes.

#149. 500 Easter eggs stuffed and ready to hide.

#150. Moments when I am frustrated with mommy hood and I hear God remind me "Jessica, you prayed everyday that I would grant you these children, and I did! Cherish these days and these little people." Thank you Lord!

Love

2011-04-16T11:15:00.001-05:00

The case of the broken ankle.

2011-04-16T10:57:00.003-05:00

So last Wednesday (week 1/2 ago) I took the for a little walk around the neighborhood in the wagon. We walked over to the lake and decided to go down and look at it. The ice is melting and there are ducks swimming on the lake already. Sam wanted to see them. Our steps to the lake are pavers and there are a couple uneven spots. Of course I was telling Sam to be careful and watch his steps. We got all the way down to the bottom and at the 2nd or 3rd to last step there was a huge chunk of the pavers that had sunk. I stepped without looking and my ankle twisted and cracked. I couldn't catch myself because I was holding Claire (who landed on me and was totally fine). I didn't have my phone either. So there we were, no phone, hurt ankle and two kids. I called loudly for help and finally a neighbor heard me and came out. He was so helpful and went and got another neighbor and his dad to help me.

It was a very proud moment when the neighbor put me in a wheelbarrow (which he padded with blankets and pillows) and wheeled me up the hill. Very classy! We called Dan and he cabbed it over to TRIA the orthopedic center and my neighbor drove me there with the kids. We were so grateful to those neighbors and Dan's mom who met us at the center and took the kids. A couple hours later, we found out it was broken. So, I'm in an air cast. It has been a week and a half and I can take the cast off on Weds. I am supposed to step down and see if I can tolerate standing on it. If there is minimal pain I'm good, if there is sharp pain I have to go back in. We are praying for minimal pain.

It's been crazy managing a broken ankle with two kids. It's my right, so I can't drive. To top it all off, Sam got the stomach flu and Claire got a double ear infection and strep. Then once the kids were doing well, Dan & I both got the stomach flu. Needless to say it has been stressful in our house. We are grateful to be on the mend. Grateful to my mom for the help she provided, the meal from Dan's mom, Coborns for delivering my groceries, and the motorized cart at Target that I used when I had to get a couple things! :)

Grateful #131-140

2011-04-16T10:44:00.002-05:00

#131 Health- we have been so sick at our place. It makes me grateful for our healthy days. Hurry up warm weather.

#132 Help - my husband, my mom, my in-laws, my neighbors. I just appreciate it so much. Especially with my broken ankle right now.

#133 Quotes from Sam

#134 Claire's little toes. I have really appreciate having a tiny baby this time around, she just seems like such a baby to me still (even though she is approaching one).

#135 Sleep

#136 Movies - Although I am not an advocated for lots of television for kids, I have been grateful that Sam will watch them these past couple of days while Dan & I try to recover from the flu. I don't care what anyone says, I don't know what we would do without a little movie time while we are sick.

#137 Sam and his gradual understanding of Jesus and what He did for us. Today when Sam & I were talking about Jesus and Easter he said "Mommy, when Jesus is alive again does He still have to have the nails in his hands or feet?" I told him "No, he doesn't and he has no pain at all!" To which Sam replied "Should we invite Him over to play and we can show him our basement?" I love this!

#138 Pictures - I had the kids pictures taken on Wednesday and I can't wait to see the final result. www.photographybynealy.com in case you want to check out her stuff. She is lovely.

#139 Dan - We were so sick this week and at one point I looked over at him and thought, you haven't showered in a couple days and you are sicker than sick, yet for some reason I still think you are so handsome. Love that man.

#140 Quiet.

Grateful #121-130 --Verses

2011-04-06T14:34:00.002-05:00

Verses I love right now. Courtesy of Paul. I am almost finished with a study of his life and how I am amazed by his story and the way he lived. We was a true follower of the Lord.

#121. 1 Timothy 1:19

Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their

consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.

#122. 1 Timothy 4:12

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

#123. 1 Timothy 6:20

Timothy, guard what God has entrusted to you. Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge.

#124. 2 Timothy 3:16

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

#125 Titus 2:12-13

And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

#126 Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

#127 Philippians 4:11

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

#128 Ephesians 4:2

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.

#129 Ephesians 4:31

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.

#130 Colossians 1:24

I am glad when I suffer for you in my body, for I am participating in the sufferings of Christ that continue for his body, the church.

Bowling party

2011-04-06T14:09:00.002-05:00

For Sam's birthday, we went to Pinstripes and new bowling alley and celebrated with family and cake. Sam loved it and sported his new superhero cape that Dan and I bought him on etsy. I had Target make a cupcake cake in the shape of a bowling pin. We had a wonderful time. On his actual birthday, Dan took the day off work and we took the kids to the Water Park of America. I think Dan & I had more fun on the rides.

Grateful #111-120 Happy Birthday Sammy!

2011-03-28T16:54:00.008-05:00

Samuel is 3! I cannot believe how fast it flew by. I thought I would make this grateful post about him. I mean how fitting. When I think of seeing him and holding him for the first time, I am amazed at the beautiful little boy he has become. He makes us laugh, he surprises us daily and he loves. When you look at him you see his love. I'm so grateful for the blessing he has been to Dan & I.

#111 Samuel's smile that has been adorable, addicting and perfect since he was born. #112 This moment: #113 These eyes, oh his eyes. Beautiful! #114 Sam's love for sports and his willingness to try and play anything. #115 His laugh and how it is so deep and contagious. #116-119 These moments: #120 The way I love him and he loves me. Nothing compares to the love of a child. My heart swells for him and I cannot imagine one second of life without him. He is beautiful, kind, challenging and amazing.

This is a song by Sara Groves that I love, perfect lyrics for Samuel:

This is a song for my sons for when they understand it You know how life is full you know we couldn't plan it your dad and I prayed for strength and understanding for things we couldn't see or comprehend This is a song for you, to carry in your pocket take all our love with you in all the paths you walk in I can't say your life will always go like it should but I can say that God is always good and when the cold wind blows like I know it will and when you feel alone like I know you will and when the cold wind blows like we know it will Don't let your love grow Don't let your love grow Don't let your love grow cold This is a song for my sons for when they understand it You know how life is full you know we couldn't plan it your dad and I prayed for strength and understanding for things we couldn't see or comprehend

This is a song from my heart a small refrain to hold you for times when we're apart and I cannot console you Be honest with yourself and don't forget to pray and read your bible everyday and when the cold wind blows like I know it will and when you feel alone like I know you will and when the cold wind blows like I know it will Don't let your love grow Don't let your love grow Don't let your love grow cold

Grateful #101-110

2011-03-28T16:47:00.003-05:00

I'm not really sure how far I am going to get with my grateful list. I just keep adding. I think I originally posted to 1000, but I keep missing each week. So from last week...

#101 Making new friends.

#102 New appliances that will make life so much easier.

#103 Healthy new babies...Welcome baby Larsen!

#104 Claire's bye-bye wave.

#105 Coupons that helped me save $38 (on top of the discounts we already get at Target).

#106 Paul, I am so thankful that Paul wrote so many books in Bible and I have had the privilege over the past 10 months to study him.

#107 Dinner with family and no kids

#108 Sleep

#109 Cute baby swimsuits

#110 Claire's kisses

Claire is 10 months

2011-03-25T13:49:00.004-05:00

I had her into the Dr and she had another ear infection. She weighed 17lbs fully dressed with boots on, so not sure the actual size. She is waving and saying bye-bye now, throwing mini-fits when she doesn't get her way and eating crazy amounts of table food. She loves beef stew, broccoli, peas, mango and noodles. We have also tried toast, pancakes, olives, avocado, cheese, yogurt, pears, banana, beans, chicken, carrots, potato and sweet potato, ice cream :) and more. She is such a good eater. She absolutely loves to dance, any music and she gets going. She also loves to use her spoon, sippy cup and put objects into cups, bowls or buckets.

I cannot get over the cute swimsuit assortment that Dan brought in to Target this season.

I have 3 suits for her already. Love them!

I'm behind...

2011-03-25T13:48:00.001-05:00

I'm falling behind on my grateful posts. I'll be doubling up again this week as soon as I can get more time to write. My family is coming to celebrate Sam's 3rd birthday. Busy, busy weekend.

Swimsuit time

2011-03-15T21:04:00.003-05:00

Dan brought home a swimsuit that Target may bring in for toddlers. Adorable.

Grandparents

2011-03-15T20:56:00.002-05:00

If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden. ~Attributed to Claudia Ghandi

Grateful #91-100

2011-03-15T20:47:00.004-05:00

We have so much to be grateful for. This past week my dad's house started on fire and was partially destroyed. It is a total mess. However, I am grateful, that he was home to call 911 and stop it and that everyone was safe. Also, he is a hunter and gun collector who happens to make his own bullets, if that fire would have reached all of his ammunition, I cannot imagine what would have happened. It's amazing how things can go so wrong, yet we can still see God's power and protection. Thank you Lord for their safety.

91. Veggie Tales. I am so thankful that there are movies that I can let Sam watch without worrying about the content. I am unimpressed with the effort Disney makes to create G movies. I like their movies, but Sam picks up every naughty word.

92. Sam in his sunglasses. Especially when he asks me "mom, do I look cool?"

93. My husband, who turns 31 tomorrow and is still gorgeous!

94. Max Lucado's Devotional which said: Our problem is not so much that God doesn't give us what we hope for as it is that we don't know the right thing for which to hope.

95. Push-pops.

96. Inspirational church service with my husband, while the kids are in the nursery.

97. Claire, the amazing little eater who will enjoy anything I put in front of her.

98. A dinner the whole family ate together. Very rarely can I make one thing for everyone so that was an enormous blessing for me.

99. Family dinners around the table. If I can hold the kids off we always eat as a family. I cherish that time.

100. The sun and the warmth that remind me to hang on, Spring is around the corner.

His Love

2011-03-07T15:31:00.002-06:00

I was talking to Dan last night as we went to bed and I told him I was having trouble understanding God's love for me. No one knows every thought you have ever had, every thing you done, everything you have said except God, yet He chooses to love me. I was trying to make sense of that. How is that possible? How can you know every sinful thing about someone and still just love them? Not just some things, but everything. But He does. And then I realized I was trying to make God human and make His love human and that is where I was wrong. That's the amazing thing about God, He is not human so we cannot comprehend His love. I love this song, it's a great reminder of how great our God is.

You dance over me while I am unaware
You sing all around but I never hear the sound

Lord I'm amazed by You
Lord I'm amazed by You
Lord I'm amazed by You
And how You love me

You paint the morning sky with miracles in mind
My hope will always stand
For You hold me in Your hand

How deep how wide
How great is Your love for me

AMAZED LYRICS - LINCOLN BREWSTER

Grateful #71-90

2011-03-06T19:34:00.004-06:00

So, I missed a week. We all had strep throat. All of us!! Sam had a rash so I took him in and...strep! Who would have guessed? Dan had a sore throat so he got tested and same thing. Then I took Claire in for her 9 month appt and they tested her to be sure before shots and she had it too, so I decided I better get a test and sure enough it was positive. So we all had it and the one nice thing about it is that we are all on medicine, so it's hard to forget to take it :) So I am playing catch up on my gratitude list.

#71 6 years of marriage to my wonderful husband! On Feb 26 we celebrated 6 years. Our wedding was so gorgeous. I loved our beach setting with close friends and family, it was so romantic. Our guitarist was amazing too. I always have to listen to our wedding song and I just think about that time and how lovely our life is.

OUR WEDDING SONG

Outloud By: Dispatch

Would you be the wind to blow me home

Would you be a dream

On the wings of a poem

And if we were walking through a crowd

Well you know I'd be proud

If you call my name out loud

Do you suppose that I would come running

Do you suppose I'd come at all

I suppose I would

And if we were walking

Down a dead end street

Would you be the one to let our eyes meet

Or would you just keep on walking

Down to the turn around

'cause you know I'd be proud

And if I was gone from the land we know

Would you be the dawn

And let your beauty still show

And if you were walking

And heard the cold night coming

Would you call my name

'cause you know I'd come running

#72 When Claire giggles so hard she gets the hiccups. It happens every time.

#73 A date night with my hubby. We had delicious food and wonderful conversation.

#74 My mom and stepdad came for the weekend so we could have a night out. They are amazing with the kids. They just know how to spoil them and the kids loved it. At one point Claire even tried to jump out of my arms to grandma. It's so sweet.

#75 Shopping with my mom. She let me pick out clothes for Claire for her birthday and it was such a blast. We really had a great time drooling over all of the cute clothes at Target.

#76 Podcast sermons. I love that my church puts the sermons online so I can listen and listen again.

#77 How sweet Sam is. When I watch him I see what a sweet little man he is. He gives Claire his things, just to share. He always wants to grab and extra snack or drink for mommy or daddy. He gives up his seat for the dog and he puts his change in Claire's piggy bank sometimes. He will ripped pages out a book to make a new story for "kids who don't have stories." So little lady will be very lucky to snag him someday. Especially if he is anything like his daddy!

#78 God's surprises.

#79 The blender. Go ahead and laugh, but that puppy has been the best appliance for me with kids. Today I had leftover potatoes, carrots and sweet potatoes, so I just threw them in the blender with greek yogurt and I had a souplike meal for Claire in minutes. Love that thing!

#80 Kind neighbors. I feel so blessed to have the neighbors that I do. Our neighbors have shoveled our walks, given us clothes and toys for the kids, loaned us tools, cut down our dead trees, taken our car in for an oil change, watched our dog, watched our kids, one drove me down to Childrens when Claire was sick, and so much more. Our neighborhood is just fantastic!

#81 Sam has been potty trained for a month. We are still working on naptime and bedtime and hand washing (I don't know why he tries to skip this).

#82 Old videos. We pulled up old videos tonight and watched them. I love seeing Sam as a baby or Claire right after she was born.

#83 God's Word. I'm so thankful for a manual on how to live my life. As convicted as I feel at times, I am grateful.

#84 Apple service people. They are so great I would recommend buying a Mac to anyone because the service is outstanding.

#85 Dance parties. Sam is really in to dancing right now and we spend many nights with the music on showing off our amazing moves. Claire loves to do it too!

#86 My generous friend Allie who has loaned all of her girl clothes to Claire. Claire gets to wear the cutest outfits and the majority of the time they come from our loaner bin. We are so lucky!

#87 My grandparents. They have done so much for me and they are such wonderful people. I truly just adore them. They are so generous and kind and I feel so lucky to get to have them in my life.

#88 Handyman husband who has been working on the house. He loves to "fix" things and I'm so glad he has been able to teach himself to build things and work on the house. Plus, I know it is a stress reliever for him. Sam loves to put his work gloves on and follow Dan around the house. I just love how Dan will give him little "jobs" to do.

#89 Saturday morning routines. Every Saturday, Dan takes Sam to the gas station to get a paper and donuts. Each night Sam will say "Daddy, when we wake up let's go to the gas station and get donuts, one for you and sprinkle one for me and a muffin for mommy" We have to remind him that it only happens on Saturday.

#90 Quiet time. I have loved that Sam naps for me. It has given me time to get things done as well as alone time with Claire. I think he is slowly giving them up, but I am hoping for a while longer.

Timberwolves

2011-03-03T13:01:00.003-06:00

Sam and Dan went to a Timberwolves game. He had Scooby-bones, cotton candy and a juice box all within about 2 hours. He was so wild when he got home. He loved it and was so excited to talk about the basketball game.

Playing outside

2011-03-03T12:53:00.002-06:00

We've been out a couple times this year. I mostly get nervous that Claire will get too cold, Sam seems to be a machine. We went sledding with Auntie Rachel and the hill was huge. When we got to the bottom Sam would jump in the sled and we would have to pull him up the hill. EXHAUSTING!

I love these kids!

2011-03-03T12:43:00.001-06:00

Sweet fort Dan built for the kids

Inside the fort

Family Fun

2011-03-03T12:24:00.005-06:00

Sam drawing with my pastels from college. I love that he is using my old art supplies.

Finished product

The kids painted a tablecloth for Grandma Friberg's birthday. We used balls rolled in paint and forks and brushes and it was so fun. Claire got to crawl in all of the paint.

Good thing it's washable.

Anyone else remember bag puppets? We made pirate ones and then Sam made a boat out of a cereal box for him to ride in.

Claire likes finger painting

I found a tutorial to make these cute dragon gloves and this monster hat in my Family Fun magazine. Sam loves them and he was really good at helping me.

We have been doing some fun things at our place. We are trying to survive being inside this winter.

Happy 9 Months Claire!

2011-03-03T12:16:00.002-06:00

Claire is 9 months and it has flown by.

Here are the things she is doing now. She dances to music and loves it. She walks behind her shopping cart. She is starting to say words and is close to puppy. She copies me and looks at Remus when I say it. She loves finger foods like rice, peas, stew, ravioli, pears, sweet potatoes and anything else I let her pick up. She is a mama's girl right now and can be found crawling around the house saying "mama" "mama" as she looks for me. She is really good at peekaboo and loves to play it. She sleeps great in her crib and is still a peanut. She weighs 16 lbs 2 oz (10th percentile) and is 28.5 inches tall (80 percentile). The doctor called her long and lean!

Grace & Ginger visit

2011-03-03T12:12:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple more pictures! We finally backed up our computer and freed up some space so I could empty the camera so beware I have many posts to come.

Grateful #61-70

2011-02-22T14:37:00.003-06:00

#61 Dinners with friends. Conversations that are worthy of time and thought. Yummy food and our kids growing up knowing each other.

#62 Baby legwarmers and how cute Claire looks in them.

#63 Classic games that bring Sam so much joy. He loves Candyland and Hungry Hippos right now, that game is timeless.

#64 Sermons that reach right in and change your heart. Our pastor gave one like this on Sunday. It brought a whole new meaning to a heavy topic.

#65 A connected husband and the way he is so involved with the kids. He loves our kids and it's so obvious. He would do anything to protect them.

#66 Snow days and spending time as a family

#67 Finger foods. Claire loves her finger foods.

#68 Workbooks, Sam loves working in his pre-school workbooks. Matching and finding things that are similar is what he loves right now.

#69 Imagination. I could listen to Sam make "soup" go to "Sam's store" play "Baseball" all day long. He is constantly making up what he is doing and imagining things. It is amazing to watch.

#70 Love. I am blessed to see how love grows. Recently I was sharing with some friends the way my love for Dan has grown. I am excited everyday to see him when he gets home from work. I look forward to that 6 o clock hour every single day. He is traveling this week, so :(.

Pictures

2011-02-20T21:37:00.007-06:00

I love this picture because she looks just like Sam when he cries.

The girls: Ella, Lilly & Claire

Claire looks like my baby pictures here with less hair. I like it because I always think she looks like Dan.

I made her little headband and then bought her cute leg-warmers on Etsy.

Paul was kind enough to take pictures again of the girls. Claire cried most of the time, but we got a few really cute ones. Lilly and Ella were hams the whole time.

Siblings

2011-02-20T21:31:00.002-06:00

These two are definitely related.

Grateful #51-60

2011-02-15T13:04:00.003-06:00

#51 Claire plays with my skin on my neck when I rock her at night. It is so sweet and sometimes painful, but I love it! She falls asleep just rubbing her tiny hand on my neck.

#52 Potty training, Sam is completely trained during the day (we are still doing diapers at bed)! YAY!

#53 Playdates, I hosted a playdate on Monday and it was so much fun. Great moms and great kids and I was so impressed with Sam's sharing.

#54 Flowers. Dan brought home a dozen roses yesterday. He's the best!

#55 A good book. I only read if the book is good. I don't have the time or energy to invest in a book that is not going to be good. I need ones I can't put down. Right now, that book is Redeeming Love. It is so great and I highly recommend it.

#56 Thoughtful gifts. I am so amazed at the ideas people come up with for gifts. The kids were spoiled for Valentine's Day and my dad and stepmom sent Sam M&M's with his name on them. He thinks they are the coolest thing!

#57 Sam fell asleep on my arm two nights ago while I was reading. I looked over and there he was with all his lips and eyelashes, snoring away.

#58 Slippers. I love house slippers. I get new ones each Christmas and wear them out very quickly. I bring them in my purse when I go places.

#59 With all of the sickness we have encountered in our house, I am so grateful for health.

#60 Fellowship. There is nothing more encouraging than meeting with women who share your faith. The discussions are so meaningful and memorable. I feel blessed everytime I get to share conversations with encouraging women. I had such a wonderful discussion and playdate last Weds and I was so grateful for it.

Little People

2011-02-11T07:41:00.003-06:00

My good friend Kristi visited a couple weeks ago with her family. We had such a great time with all of the kids. Lots of Chi O's and their babies! I have a few more pictures I need to get uploaded, but here are a couple.

Big Kids

2011-02-11T07:32:00.002-06:00

My kids are growing up so fast. I can't believe that Sam is almost 3. He is so excited for his birthday. He wants a cake on March 28, at least that is what he keeps telling me. He also wants a snow birthday, so we made be sledding if there is snow on ground ( I hope not).

He is doing great on the potty. He is on day number 6 of underwear and is just wearing diapers at naps and bedtime. We are really working on washing hands, who knew that would be so hard to get him to do? I did not expect that part.

Claire finally reached 16lbs and is cruising the furniture. I think she just wants to keep up with Sam. She has been a great sleeper. She is on her third ear infection, I have been praying for no tubes. I have a major fear of my kids going under. As year one quickly approaches, I am enjoying every second I can snuggling her.

Sam's Holiday Program

2011-02-11T07:24:00.002-06:00

Sam's program was on a Friday this year. Sam doesn't do school on Fridays, so we had to bring him back to the school for it. Let's just say he was not having it. So we watched the other kids sing and dance and Sam decided to sit it out. I think he got stage fright which is like his dad, not his mom :)

So after the performance, Sam decided he was ready to show us. We enjoyed a private show!

Children's Museum

2011-02-11T07:15:00.004-06:00

We had a blast at the Children's Museum a few weeks ago. I had to work really hard with Sam on sharing the blocks, the boats and the grocery cart. It is very challenging to make kids share some of the coveted items at the museum.

As we were playing, we heard a loud siren and then a woman in the museum ran around and hustled all of us out the emergency exit. We were sent out in the 5 degree weather with no coats. My little ones were freezing and Sam started to cry. It was the fire alarm and Sam was so good, he stayed right by me and held my hand very tight. Luckily it was a false alarm.

Grateful #41-50

2011-02-08T12:10:00.004-06:00

#41 Nursing, I realized a while ago, that being able to nurse my babies is a gift from God. It's one of His natural miracles where He uses something He already supplied on this earth to perform something extraordinary. I love nursing, I love how it feels to hold my babies against my skin and to know that they need only me for that moment. I nursed Sam for 14 months and Claire is going on month 9. I feel so blessed that we never had to buy formula and I can give them just what they need. This is nothing against people who choose not to nurse or women who cannot, it is just something I am thankful for.

#42 Sam sharing toys with Claire. He has been very concerned lately with making sure Claire has toys to play with.

#43 Holding Sam's hand when he sleeps. His hands are so cute and I love the dimples.

#44 Claire's painted toenails...that's right, I painted them and they are adorable.

#45 Preschool at home, I have been teaching Sam curriculum at home and it is so much fun. We are learning about health and good food this month and last night when Dan got home, Sam told him "Daddy, you can eat pears whenever you want and they will give you energy! I need energy to run fast and jump and play soccer and football!" I love this, it's so cute.

#46 My supportive husband. We have some decisions to make and they are hard, but Dan is so supportive. He's truly exactly what I need.

#47 Playing with Claire and her nuk. She loves to take her nuk out and try to put it in my mouth, it makes her laugh so hard. Lately she likes to do it at 2 am. It's still really funny at that hour.

#48 Prayer, thank you Lord for hearing them. Thank you for never changing. Our devotional yesterday reminded me that Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever. He is always there when I need him. He hears me. Lately, with everything going on in our society I find myself praying every night, "God, please let my kids know you and your Son. Of everything I ask I think this is the most important, that they know you!"

#49 Healthy babies...welcome to life baby Presley, baby Wynn and baby Billie. I love hearing about new babies and my friends becoming first time parents.

#50 Hot chocolate. It's my favorite part about playing outside in the winter. My mom always made it for us when we were younger and I do it for Sam every time he plays outside.

I'm amazed at how much I have to be grateful for. When I stop and think about it, I am so grateful for everything God has provided for us. We are not money-driven, so material things do not satisfy us, we are driven by love, and we have so much!

Posting to come

2011-02-08T12:08:00.003-06:00

I have so many fun things to blog about, but my computer is full! Dan and I have so many pictures on the computer and I did a back up, but I think I need two back ups, so until I can get a second back up hard drive, I can't upload my pictures. Soon, very soon!