Life as we know it...now :)

Sean loves "cleaning" the deck of snow.

Baby Gates are a MUST!
Andrew enjoys exploring...everything!

Isaac's smile lights up the room!
They all love to play together.

Daddy Time :)

Wow! It is so awesome having Graham around! He cooks, cleans, does laundry, plays with the boys, and still has time to watch a movie with me! I am wondering how I got stuff done without him ;) We are enjoying this time while he is on a break from school. Next semester will be tougher yet, as he will not only be studying for regular classes, but also studying for his first set of boards. Crazy!

We have a CRAWLER!

Yup...Andrew showed us his new trick while Graham was feeding our dogs :) He made his way right to Gus's food dish! Sean, Graham, Isaac, and I were all able to witness this awesome event, which makes it even better! Watch out world!!

Let's Catch Up :)

Wow! What an eventful few weeks we have had!

10. Went to Bentleyville (city of lights). Thought we picked a warm night, turns out the wind was blowing off the lake...NOT warm! We "ran" through the exhibit and were back home in less than an hour ;)
9. That night, Sean woke up sick with the flu :( I have never seen him so sick! It was scary and heartbreaking, Graham and I were up all night with him wishing it were one of us. Thank goodness the twins didn't get it.
8. Snow, snow, and more snow! Sean had fun shoveling and playing with dadddy. His cheeks were blazing red for a long while. The twins have had to buddle up, too. They have gotten some use out of their snowsuits, and hats and mittens!
7. Freddy the Elf came to visit for the month...we spotted some reindeer tracks outside one morning, so now we know how Freddy reports to Santa each night!
6. The twins have learned how to wrestle...thanks to watching the nightly match between Sean and daddy!
5. Andrew now has 6 teeth, sits, and claps!
4. Isaac is toothless, sits, and can really get around a room! He loves to make his way to the tree...
3. Sean entertains his babies by singing, dancing, and bringing them toys.
2. Sean does exercises with me...thanks Jillian Michaels for trying to wear him out...works for me, not for him ;)
1. Coloring, drawing, counting, cutting, and wrapping are new skills added to Sean's resume! He does an awesome job and gets to work on our Christmas calendar every day!
1/2. How could I not mention the Gingerbread Houses! We had some friends over on Friday, and the kids made these houses. Not sure who had more fun...daddy or Sean :)

We are enjoying this time of year and are excited for Graham to be done on Friday for a few weeks! We also can't wait for Christmas!!

Thanks, Auntie Alli!

We love our new PJs! I wanted to get the perfect picture of them tonight...easier said than done!

Thanksgiving

We were all able to come down to Mankato for a few days. It was so nice to have Graham with us, we usually have to leave him home in Duluth! We were able to enjoy 2 Thanksgiving celebrations, too. We went to Jason and Crystal's for a lunch of great food and great company! Then, it was home to Mankato for dinner with my family. My mom is a fabulous cook, and we all indulged once again! Sean had fun playing his heart out with all his cousins, and he even wore his first hole in his jeans. Isaac and Andrew got lots of love from Nana, Papa, Grandma, Aunties, Uncles, and cousins.

Amy and I attempted to shop Black Friday starting at 3am...We couldn't believe the people out! The parking lots were packed, the lines were extreme, and there was not much Christmas spirit going on! We walked into and right back out of Kohls...it was a zoo. Then, we headed to Herbergers where the shopping was more enjoyable, we found a few things on our lists, and we didn't have to wait in line long as they had an abundance of checkouts! Way to go, Herbergers! Next, it was time for coffee before heading to Target...but then Graham called and the twins needed me. (They had been sick with colds and not sleeping well.) Oh, well. I was able to get them settled and go back to bed :)

We ended the weekend with sickness, once again. My dad came down with the flu and the boys were all still sick with colds, so we headed out a day early. Unfortunately, Graham caught the flu bug last night, and he has been down and out since. I am hoping he is back among the living tomorrow. I have never seen him this sick! I am also praying that the boys and I don't get it!

We have so much to be thankful for this year. We have 3 beautiful and healthy boys, Graham is doing great in school, and we are all together as a family. I am so thankful for this time I have to raise our boys, too. I never dreamt it could be like this!

Best Birthday Ever!

Wow! I am so overwhelmed with how wonderful my birthday was this year! First of all, thanks for all the wishes, calls, notes and cards. I loved them all, and it felt good to think of you today, too.

My day started out like usual; coffee, Andrew, and Good Morning America. Then one by one the other 2 woke up to snuggle with me. Awesome! Then, we were off and running to the YMCA for Sean's Gym/Swim program and to Target quick for a few things. When I got home, there was a gift on my front step from my friend Julie! Yummy cupcakes and a Caribou card...guilt free coffee drinking for me :) Next, as I was getting lunch ready for my boys, the doorbell ran. It was a delivery girl from Erbert-n-Gerberts, I told her it must be some kind of mistake as I hadn't ordered anything. Come to find out that Amy and my mom had ordered me lunch! Awesome! About 30 minutes later, the Fed Ex guy delivered an awesome birthday package from the Ottos and my parents! Big box full of goodies...Wow! I wrapped up my day making a cake with Sean and having pizza with my family. I can't remember a time when I have ever had so much fun or felt so special! Thanks again and I love you all.

Max

Today, our Max went to heaven. Heaven is a lucky place.

I will never forget the day we brought him home. My parents took me to a tiny town in SW Minnesota to pick up my new dog. When we got there, there were two left. How do you pick? Well, we left there with two! Amy's birthday was coming up, and what a great surprise! We lived together at the time and often helped each other out with dog watching duty. Gus (mine) and Max (Amy's) were not only brothers, but best friends. They did everything together, and I will especially remember our nice long walks to the park and back.

Then, Graham came along and we decided to move in together. The hardest part in this decision was the fact that we'd be splitting up our "boys." Broke my heart. So, we decided to get them each a new "buddy." We got our little "ladies" on November 17th eight years ago. When we brought Nala and Bella home, the boys were not to thrilled. Especially Max. He would not look at the pups, Gus, or us! It was so funny and sad at the same time. It was like he knew what was going to happen. We did many, many sleepovers with all four dogs. They always did a great job when they were all together, and we'd laugh at how our laps were always so full. Taking them for walks was fun, too, although I know I got a lot of stares!

We got to live together once again when we moved into my parents' house in May of 2009, as Max and Bella had moved in with my parents. What a fun thing to have all four dogs together again! Max and Bella were able to show my dogs the art of escape and gave me many heart attacks! They spent the majority of their time together with us in the basement until the twins came. Again we moved, this time farther away, so no more sleepovers...but this is also when Max started to get sick.

My mom tried everything, bless her heart, but nothing was helping. Even though he wasn't doing well, he was still able to enjoy the pets and loves, and he always managed a wag of his tail when you'd come around. Blessed dog. He was a lover, and Heaven is a better place today because Max is there.

It is truly amazing how attached one gets to their pets. He was one of our first "kids," and has always held a big spot in my heart. I wish I could have given him one last love. Goodbye, my Max. I love you and miss you tons.

Let's Play Catch Up!

Wow! I can't believe 2 weeks can go by so fast without me even posting a thing! I guess that is because I rarely have down time. And when I do, there is laundry, cleaning, cooking, organizing...all kinds of "fun" stuff :)

10. Graham and I celebrated our 7th Anniversary on the 1st! We even had a date...thanks, Julie!
9. Isaac and Andrew are 7 months old today! I know I keep saying this, but really, WHERE did that time go?!
8. Isaac is our Johnny Jump Up King! He LOVES it and could be in there all day, if I left him!
7. Andrew is getting up on all fours and rocking back and forth...only a matter of time now! Look out!
6. Sean has really enjoyed the snow and goes out numerous times a day to play. I have begun to teach him "how" to get his snow stuff on by himself, as it is quite the workout!
5. The van has officially found its new home in our little garage. My husband is such a gentleman and doesn't want me to worry about cleaning off the snow.
4. Isaac still hates wearing hats, socks, jackets, etc. He will be my beach bum someday.
3. Andrew LOVES teething biscuits! If we forget to give him one before lunch or supper, he will remind us.
2. Sean has new "roommates." The dogs have now officially moved into his room. He loves it, and even made their "bed."
1. The Christmas music and movies have begun...Sean and I are watching Frosty the Snowman as I write this.

That's it in a nutshell!

Halloween!

Andrew and Isaac

Sean helping with moon pies.
Moon Pies

Isaac, Sean, and Andrew

What a fun day! My mom was up visiting us and made it even more special! She made us a spooky dinner of bugs (croissants and little wieners), brains (pumpkin mac-n-cheese), guts (fruit salad), and home-made moon pies (made with Sean earlier) while we were out trick or treating with Sean. The twins stayed with mom to keep her company :) and pass out candy.

We took Sean to the dorms on UMD's campus. They do a big bash for Halloween. We went to the check-in area, got our map, met our friends, and we were off on the hunt for candy! Many, many dorm rooms handed out treats...I am talking good treats! We walked until we wore out Scooby Doo, then headed home for our spooky dinner with Nana. Now that Sean has been Scooby Doo for 2 years in a row...I wonder what he'll want to be next year?

Week of Firsts...

Twins slept in their OWN cribs...exciting and sad all at the same time.

We can clearly say that the room is full :)
Andrew

Isaac

First snowfall of the season and Sean is over the moon!

Today we woke up to a covering of snow and school cancelled (for kids, that is).

He is trying to talk me into letting him outside to play.

It is only 7:30am...

First Tooth!

After a lot of work, drooling and chewing on anything and everything, Andrew's first tooth has finally broken through! So sweet to see the little ruffles :) He is so proud and loves to rub his tongue over it, and that makes for great pictures.

Isaac is now rolling around rooms! He is proud of himself, too! I used to be able to put him in one spot and know he'd still be there, those days are no longer. He also loves to stay up late and cuddle with me. Here are some pictures from last night.

Sean loves to be outside! He wakes up wanting to go out and play, and I have to tell him "no!" It is still dark out and we are in our pajamas...not good enough, but he concedes knowing he can go out after breakfast. A neighbor lady is letting him borrow a rake for the season, and he is in hog heaven!

We can't wait to see our family and friends this weekend! Sean packed himself on Monday...

Molly and Nick's Visit...

We had so much fun with Molly and Nick when they came up last weekend! We waited up for them to arrive, anxiously watching out the door for their car to pull up. It was fun to see them and catch up a bit before heading to bed.

Saturday started out with a flat tire for Nick and Molly...they came out of their hotel to find it was completely flat! So, Nick started his day on the cold ground changing his tire...turned out to be just a nail that was able to be patched. Note to self...Tires Plus in Duluth is not the place to go for customer service...

We decided to check out a Fall Festival close by. It was a fun kid place with a hay-barrel maze, corn pit, face painting, mini donuts, hay rides, and pumpkin patch. Sean had a blast with each activity and LOVED the face painting the most! We were surprised, as the line was long and we almost didn't do it! He couldn't stop checking himself out in the mirror! He was careful not to touch it, and he would show it off to everyone he met :) It lasted for most of the day, and he was very disappointed to see it wearing off before his bath. I think that has to be part of our Halloween costume some how!

We bravely took all the kids to Old Chicago for a late lunch of very yummy pizza. 2pm is the time to go! The place was quiet and the babes were good. We ended the day making our "pumpkin with fire in it," as Sean says :) We got help from the pros, as Nick and Molly enjoy carving their pumpkins every year.

We ended our weekend with them at the park by the lake. Sean got to show off his "skills," and we all got to enjoy the beautiful weather once more. The time went too fast! Thanks for making the trip!

Otherwise, the "colds" have hit our house pretty hard. We are hoping to get over it soon. Hope you are all healthy and happy. Can't believe it is already October!

A little of this, a little of that...

Andrew fell asleep eating.

Sean helped feed Isaac.

Preschool is fun!
Sean's new favorite treat...rootbeer floats!
Climbing trees is a blast! Braeden taught him how :)

Routines are a necessity in our life. Without them, we are lost, crabby, tired, and miserable! We spend our mornings doing a variety of different things;

1. I make sure I am up, showered, and ready to go before 8am...I know, I know, luxury right?! If you only knew...
2. I like to start Sean's daily Preschool by 9am. He only lasts about an hour, so I have a lot to squeeze into that time. We work on the alphabet, numbers, cutting, coloring, painting, songs and much more! He is so smart!
3. Next, it is time to get out of the house. This is where our "variety" comes in every day. Sometimes we take a nice long walk. Other days, we can be found at Barnes-n-Noble for story/activity hour. We like to meet our friends at the parks, and occasionally we'll meet at the McDonalds that has a play place. That is a special treat :) Of course, we can be found at Target or Cub sometimes, too.
4. We try to have lunch completed by 1pm and off for naps and rest time. The twins do a great job napping. I love listening to them "talk" to each other as they are settling down. Sean has a rest time. He gets to pick out a movie and watch it in my room. He loves this and sometimes even falls asleep! That's when I get to pick up, switch laundry, pay bills, check the mail, and sit for 5.
5. Then the movie is over, and we start to play again. While the babes are sleeping, Sean likes to go out back and play. He will climb trees, play in the sand, make piles of leaves, and get dirty.

Then daddy comes home and our evening starts...which is full of more routines...

Hope your days are fun and full of excitement!

And for those of you that are wondering...the Y parking went much better this week! 3rd times a charm :)

Bananas...

It is official, all three kids love bananas!

Yesterday I decided it was time to jazz up the twins' mealtime and add bananas along with their rice cereal. They loved it! I can't get them the next bite quick enough, so cute! Still hard to believe they are old enough to eat baby food! Time goes by way too fast.

Sean likes his bananas cut up in his cereal like his parents. Imagine...Cookie Crisp cereal with sliced bananas, doesn't it sound fabulous?! Cutie pie!

Week 2 at the Y...

The YMCA went much better today for Sean. I didn't stay to "watch" his gym time. Instead, I walked the track and only watched his swimming. They bumped him up a level at swimming, so that was encouraging. Note to self: remind him that he can put his face in right away! He looked like a little puppy swimming across the pool for the first half :)

Parking has been a different story though. The Y is in downtown Duluth, so they "let" you park in the Holiday Inn parking ramp for free. Well, here is how the last 2 times have gone parking there.
1. Last week, without knowing, I went up the down ramp and never got a parking ticket. When leaving I realized my mistake and was laughing at myself telling the old gal at the pay booth. She didn't think it was funny and charged me $6.50 for a lost ticket. I tried to explain it was a mistake...as I didn't think I should have to pay and showed her my Y pass...no go. I paid up begrudgingly.
2. Today, I went up the ramp the right way and got my parking ticket. When leaving, I handed her my ticket and showed my Y pass totally expecting to go. Nope...needs to be validated at the Y! Are you kidding me?! I was never told this, and I will do it next time. She wanted to charge me, but I didn't bring my wallet so I got away this time. So frustrating!

Hope you all have sunshine. It was raining here earlier, but now it is beautiful out. We'll be heading out to take a walk/bike ride when everyone gets up.

YMCA and more...

Isaac and Andrew sporting new duds :)
Sean (far left) at first Y swimming.
They made all the kids wear the floaty, he didn't need it and proved it to his teacher :)

Sean playing games in the gym.

We had our very first YMCA experience today...

He loved it! They played games in the gym for the first 30 minutes. I thought the games were a little hard and confusing, but he will catch on. Today, he was the kid just running around with a huge smile on his face :) Then they hit the pool for the last 30 minutes. He was able to show off his new swim skills. I got to watch from the observation window...hard not to be right there, but it was super fun to watch him interact.

The twins have been sporting their new outfits from Nana! They look so cute! Thanks, Mom. They are just perfect!

Finally!

All I can say is that I am so glad that all my favorite shows are returning! Love my DVR, as I have to DVR every show I want to watch. For some reason when our TV is on, it has some kind of cartoon on...Scooby Doo is a household favorite...ahh.

This morning, I took the boys to story hour at Barnes-n-Noble. There is a huge following up here, so I try to get there early to get a decent spot to sit. Just so happened I sat next to a friendly gal who was starting a New Mom's Club! She was new to town, too. There were 5 of us newbies, and we are already meeting again on Friday. I can't wait! There is even a 3 year old little boy for Sean...my prayers have been answered, as his buddies up here are now in school so we aren't able to meet up regularly anymore.

Tomorrow, Sean starts his first YMCA program. It is called Gym/Swim. I guess they learn/play games in the gym to begin, then head to the pool for some swim lessons. I can't wait for him to have this time, too. He is a little nervous and wants me there, so of course I will be. I am just looking forward to him having something fun for himself. I will take some pictures and share tomorrow.

Otherwise, we are all doing well. Graham is busy and in a good routine. He leaves Sean a note on a white board every morning. Sean loves to run downstairs to see what it says :) We then write/draw a note back to daddy. It is a great way for Sean to begin learning his letters, writing, and words! Sean is doing awesome. He loves telling stories, playing, reading books, and watching Scooby Doo. The twins are doing better. I think this new medicine is helping with reflux, so they are not as fussy and sleeping better. They are growing up so fast and learning something new everyday. Time for me just flies by. I am so thankful to be able to be home with my kids and enjoy being a mom.

Growing Up

Andrew, Graham, and Isaac
Isaac, Sean, and Andrew
Isaac (loving every bite)
Andrew (not quite sure if he likes it)
Mandy and me at Tim McGraw :)

It has been awhile since I posted, but we have been busy!

We went to the State Fair with our good friends, The Jacobys. Our families hit the fair during the day, then we headed to the hotel for the night. Mandy and I left our boys, husbands and sons, at the hotel as we went to see our favorite...Tim McGraw! We had a blast! Our boys survived and have some fun stories to tell ;)

Over Labor Day Weekend, my sister Amy and her family came up to visit us. We had a blast going to parks, to the canal, out to eat, grilling, and just being together.

Then school started for Graham. We are getting into our new routine of having daddy home less often. We make the best of the time that he is home. Sean loves to tackle and to play rough. I think I am in for it when the twins get better! They love watching the action, so I know that they will want to be in the middle of it soon! He is a great dad. He is studying hard and making us proud. We are looking forward to our future.

Sean is missing his friends. He talks about his Mankato friends all the time. His new Duluth friends have started school, so we are not able to meet at the parks like we used to. We are going to be signing up at the Y today and get him into some fun programs.

The twins are changing by the day. They just started to eat cereal yesterday! Crazy! My babies are not babies anymore :( They love it! I couldn't feed Isaac fast enough, and Andrew just spit it out at first. So cute! They are teething, so they have been a little "out of sorts" lately. We are hoping that they feel better soon.

Enjoy these new pictures!

Whirlwind Trip Home!

We had such a great trip home! I thought one week would be plenty of time, but I didn't get to see everyone I had hoped to or do everything that I wanted. I guess that is why I will need to come back soon ;) Week in review...

1. Sean had swimming lessons with Alli all week! He is a fish and can barely keep his head above water. I used to worry about him at my parents' pool, as he struggled to touch. Now, he touches on the very tip tops of his toes and is able to swim and get breaths...HUGE accomplishment!
2. The babies got spoiled by everyone holding and playing with them. They love all the cuddles and attention.
3. We crashed a birthday party that had a pony there! Sean got to ride it and loved every second of it! Thanks DeMars Family :)
4. Isaac went swimming for the first time! He loved it and smiled ear to ear! Andrew, on the other hand, hated it. Next year, buddy!
5. We were able to celebrate my dad's birthday and had dinner at his favorite place...Charlie's! Fun times, funny faces, and lots of snuggles with family.
6. We had to pack up our "nest" in the basement and move upstairs to make room for my sister's family as they moved back to Mankato! Sean was a little confused, but had so much fun playing with his "friends," and he enjoyed sleeping with mom. We are so glad to have them closer! Love, love, love having them home.
7. Sean got to visit his old hangout, Lisa's house. He enjoyed playing with his old buddies and came home telling big tales!
8. We hit one of our favorite family spots, Westwood, for dinner. The kids love playing on the beach and the adults love the relaxed atmosphere.
9. I was able to get a pedicure in with my best friend, Mandy. Throw a baby shower for a special friend, Andrea. Have coffee with one of my favorite co-workers, Linda. Take my babies in for their 4 month appointment. Hang out with my sisters and parents. I loved every second.
10. Had to say goodbye" to Auntie Alli. We won't see her until Christmas :( Way too long, but we are so proud of her. She is an amazing person and has gotten to do lots of great things so far, and this is only the beginning.

We are resting up, getting back into our routine, and looking forward to coming home again! Oh, and Isaac can ROLL OVER! So proud!

Activity Box

I took some advice from my sister, Amy, and made Sean an Activity Box. This is a box full of fun, new things for him to play with after lunch. Instead of fighting the nap time battles, he gets to paint, draw, use stickers, work on puzzles, and read new books. He wants to play with these things all the time, and it is becoming a good new routine for him. He could paint for hours, loves putting his new puzzles together, and enjoys taking his stickers off and on their respective sheets. Super fun and much less stress on my end! I do want to keep it special, so I only get this box down after lunch. I am hoping it lasts, and I am planning on getting new things to add to it once and awhile. Thanks, Amy!

New Table

Gus and Nala "relaxing."
Turned furniture around.

New table! Extra chairs are downstairs for now :)

Well, we finally broke down and bought a new kitchen table yesterday. We have been enjoying our time eating around our coffee table, but we were getting sick of sitting on the floor...When we were younger, before kids, we always ate in the living room with our feet up. The kitchen table was used to "look pretty" or hold stuff. Now with kids, times are changing.

Here are some pictures of our new set up. Not only did it take forever to put the table and chairs together, we needed to rearrange our entire "great room" area. (I say "great room" only as a term for living/dining area...this room is not great in size :) This involved moving the TV from one side to the other, turning the furniture, and figuring out where to put all the "kid stuff." Still not sure about the "kid stuff," but so far so good. Also, now Sean is unable to sneak up behind us! Bonus!

I should also note that we didn't spend a lot on this set. We searched the Internet and found some good deals at Shopko. So, we went to our local store to find the price even lower! We also needed to purchase an extra chair, since there are 5 of us now. The man helping us just gave us the additional chair! $40 value! Wow, thank you so much! Because of that, I got to get the table set I wanted, stayed under budget with little guilt.

Sneaky...

Yesterday was quite a day at the King house. We had a busy morning of cleaning, organizing, planning, etc. I had totally planned on a trip to the park before lunch, but I just ran out of time. So we fixed lunch, and I put Sean down for his nap. A little while later (maybe 5-10 minutes), I decided to see if he was awake. I thought we'd just skip a nap and go to the park, because he was such a good boy.

As I am walking up the stairs to his room, I start to smell something VERY familiar...NAIL POLISH! I run into his room and immediately start looking for it. He has been sneaky lately and enjoys taking my things. At first I couldn't find it and am asking him frantically where it is. "Under my bed," says the sneaky boy. Found the bottle with the cover on, but where oh where was the smell coming from. "By my window," he says. And there, on the floor hidden by his drape is two lovely bright pink spots on his new carpet. I must say that the Cajun Shrimp color looks a lot better on my toes!

Now our house still smells like nail polish remover a day later, and I have to go get more remover to work on the stain again. Slowly but surely it is coming up. God Bless Graham. He really worked hard on it. (As I had to take the twins to Urgent Care, because I thought Andrew had another ear infection...no infection, must be teeth.)

I have to find more hiding spots even higher than before. Sometimes it feels like I need a secret door where I can hide all my treasures...

It's HOT in Duluth!

We are in the 90's today, rare for up here! I decided to get out of the house and took the boys down to Canal Park by myself. It was crazy down there! It was hard to find a place to park and people were everywhere. We saw the pirate ships (tall ships) leaving, which was a pretty cool sight. Sean got to go swimming, although the spot I picked wasn't ideal. He didn't care, he just loves the water.

We found a new park to play at close to our house. It is at our neighborhood school, and Sean loves it! He learns to do something new everyday. It makes me miss my school and school friends.

Andrew can roll over! He loves to show off his new trick and constantly needs to be rolled back to his back...only to roll over right away again. Super cute. He also has his first tooth bud, so it could be any day!

Isaac is my little lover. He is always smiling and recently figured out how to suck his thumb! It is a game now with me pulling it out and giving him his nuk instead. So cute. They are all growing up so fast!

Oh, and Graham groomed our dogs on Sunday! They look "cute" and did a great job for Graham. We are trying to buy time before taking them to the professionals... ;)

Too Quiet!

Lately, Sean has been sneaking up on us. He isn't trying to scare us, he just doesn't want us to know he is awake. He will sneak down during nap time or after we put him to bed. He will be behind the couch or over our shoulder...YIKES! Freaks me out, I am just glad that I don't scream...I am close, but don't want to scare him or the neighbors!

Last night, he had his first bad dream where he came into our room to wake us up (in the past he would just cry for us). Once again, he was silent and Graham woke up to him staring at him from the side of our bed! He jumped, then I jumped! Wow! Not quite the way I am used to waking up in the middle of the night! He had a dream about "bugs in his bed." Graham had to take him back into his room, turn on the light, and look under everything to make sure there wasn't any in there. Then, they both crawled into his bed and fell asleep. What a great dad!

I thought I put you to bed...

As I am taking the dogs out 30 minutes after putting Sean to bed,

I think I see something or someone looking out the upstairs window...
Yup. That looks like my Sean.
Hi, Buddy! Shouldn't you be sleeping?!


On a side note, Sean and I got stuck in a torrential rain storm as we were taking
our dogs for a walk to get our mail. We got soaked to the bone, had fun running in the rain,
and my side still hurts from laughing!


Love you Little Man!

Firsts (Take 2)...

How could I forget one very important milestone...

Sean can SWIM! Last Friday, we were swimming at the Golf Club. He loves it there because he can touch. Towards the end, my friend Tiffany and her kids joined us. They love to go underwater. I suggested Sean give it a try...low and behold he did! Now, I can't get him to keep his head above water! He has even pushed himself further and has begun "turtle swimming" (underwater swimming)! It is amazing, and we are so proud!

Now, if only we could find a pool in Duluth to practice. For some reason they think it is too cold to have an outdoor public pool. Hmmm.

Firsts...

It has been a time of "firsts" at our house lately.

1. Sean, Isaac, and Andrew made it all the way from Mankato to Duluth without stopping! Four hours of no potty breaks or feedings...yahoo!
2. It was also the first time we rode as a family to Mankato and back! Yeah...finally we didn't have to take 2 cars...gas bill is much better.
3. Andrew has gotten his first ear infection :( After going to Duluth's Urgent Care, I so appreciate the Mankato one! The cleanliness and professionalism and wait time in Mankato are top notch...and if you have ever been to Mankato's, you know that Duluth's must be bad...
4. I just took Andrew to Urgent Care, and that is a first to have only ONE child with me! Felt strange, but the cuddle time was oh so nice.
5. Time for the Bumbo seats! Andrew is ready, Isaac is almost ready! But man, they are expensive! They have begun to learn what "sharing" is all about :)
6. The basement is finally organized, and now Sean has a fun play space and I have a great workout area.
7. The twins are days away from switching into size 3-6 months! Where does the time go?! They are healthy and strong little boys.
8. Sean ate tuna fish!
9. Sean can also put the soap in the dishwasher and start it.
10. He also learned not to draw with pen on his Pottery Barn quilt! Ugh! I did get it all out. Thank goodness for Dawn dish soap, it takes everything out!

I am sure there will be many, many more of these to come and I can't wait!

Como Zoo and More!

We had the pleasure of meeting Sean's (old) daycare at Como Zoo yesterday! It was a little longer of a trip for us to "meet" there, as we left at 7:30am and they left at 8:30am, but it was totally worth it! My kids are good little travelers :)

We got there a little early, which was my plan. I needed to feed the babes and get my stroller set...lunch, water, camera, phone, umbrella for shade, blankets, baby borne, sunscreen, etc...and don't forget the babies and Sean...

We connected with our friends at a cool picnic area away from the swarms of people. We learned quickly that it is hard to eat lunch when you are so excited to see your friends! I was even able to see my friend, Mandy, as she took the day off to travel with her young ones, too!

To our surprise, a firetruck shows up and parks right next to our picnic table! They were there for another party, but welcomed everyone to come and check out their truck. Then 2 canine units pulled up and show us their dogs! It was awesome! Sean was over the moon! He talked with the firemen, checked out their truck, pet Cody the police dog, and visited with an officer. He had a great time! The men were so incredibly nice! Thank you St. Paul firefighters and police officers! You made my son's day!

We finally hit the Zoo and had a great time. It was hot, and my goal was to keep the sun off the babes. They are still too little for sunscreen, so I had to be strategic. Sean loved seeing all the animals and running around with his friends. A little bit of chaos, a lot of green shirts (Sean in his fav "Toy Story" shirt), and a huge amount of excitement! It was a great time. Thanks, Lisa, for setting it up and inviting us to join you! What a wonderful day! Check out our pics!

Mankato...

We just got back from a week in Mankato. It is amazing how fast a week can go by and how I didn't do as much or see as many people as I wanted/planned. I have put all 4 of my boys to bed, so now it is time to catch up!

Sean had swimming lessons with my sister and his friend every day. We lucked out on weather this year! It was hot and sunny all 5 days, hooray! Last year, it would get cold and rain every time he got into the pool.

My sister-in-law, Ginger, came home on Tuesday. We were able to spend some good quality time with her, too.

I did squeeze in a pedicure and a dinner out, but that is about it! The rest of my time was spent with family. With my sister living in Kansas, it is hard to not spend as much time as possible with her and the kids. We never know when we will see each other again.

We had the twins' baptism on Saturday morning with a lunch at my parents following. Such a special milestone, but we were extremely disappointed with the priest. Amazing how much words can hurt and can't be taken back. He is not the compassionate and loving man like Father Colletti is. We sure were spoiled with him! I wish, and still might, have the service redone. On a positive note, we were thankful to have our family and friends there to support our babes.

The 4th was fun, and we celebrated it on the 3rd. Tradition has us at Westwood for dinner, then on the boat for fireworks. I had to sit in the house for the fireworks this year, but Sean sure had fun! Crazy thing was, he started telling me about the boat/fireworks a few weeks ago! I couldn't believe that he remembered from last year.

Graham ran the "fun run" 8K in St. Peter on Sunday morning with my sister, Amy. They both did an awesome job, and it was so fun to see them come through the finish line. They both set goals and achieved them. I am so proud! When asked if I would run it next year, I replied, "I only run when I am being chased!"

Our nephew, Braeden, was admitted to the hospital on Sunday afternoon. He had been having flu-like symptoms for a couple days and wasn't getting better. Things got really bad in the hospital, and they even talked about shipping him. Thank goodness, things have started to improve (as of tonight), and he even called me tonight which brought tears to my eyes. I love all my nephews and nieces so much!

We are now back home in Duluth. Sean had T-Ball tonight and enjoyed playing in the dirt more than the game itself :) The twins are playing "catch up" and needing a little extra lovin' which is fine with me! Graham is back to construction and remodeling a neighbor's bathroom. I just hope to straighten things up and take a long walk tomorrow...we will see!

Father's Day and T-Ball!

Graham had a great Father's Day with his boys! He spent most of the day at school studying (not the fun part), but then came home to make home-made pizza with Sean! They had a blast, and it tasted surprisingly good!


Last night, Sean had his first T-Ball game! It was adorable! When he was playing in the field, everyone chased after the "hit." When he was up to bat, he put on the helmet and hit the ball on his first try. Then he stood there (I guess I forgot to teach him how to run the bases!), so his coach got him running. He ran and ran, past first base and into right field :) Needless to say, he wasn't sure what to do when he was told to run, and I have it all recorded. You have to love the innocence of it! He was so excited and had a blast with his new buddy, Tytan. The twins had fun watching him, too. Andrew even got held by his new buddy, Chloe. Fun times!

Two Months Old!

The above picture was taken this morning! This is the first time I got them all to smile at the same time!

New Pictures...

Sean looking cool in shades!
Isaac
Andrew

Sean loving his new sand and water table.

Daddy and Isaac

Everyone is growing up so fast! Twins are 8 weeks old now and Sean is 3 going on 15.

Wow!

Let me catch you up on our crazy life!

10. Had a big garage sale with my mom and Amy, love how people love my junk!
9. Enjoyed Braeden's and Charlie's birthday party! How fast a year goes by! Was able to introduce the twins to more family. It was a fun time.
8. Learned that packing with 3 kids was easier said than done! Graham helped a ton when he came down for the big move!
7. Had the bleeding wound on my nose checked out at derm. Found out it was cancerous. Referred to another doctor. I love the sun, the sun doesn't love me!
6. Loaned out Graham to help Amy get her things loaded in their Uhaul. Then, he came home and loaded ours.
5. Got up early to begin our drive north and to say goodbyes to my sister and her kiddos. Went well and only had to stop once! Excited, sad, happy, nervous...
4. New house filled with boxes. Slowly but surely they are getting unpacked. I am learning to not stress about them...yeah, right.
3. To cities for nose surgery. Went fine. Now waiting to see how it heals. Might need a skin graph, but praying that I don't! Will find out next week.
2. Cleaned up my classroom. Hard to do this year with not finishing the year and knowing that I won't be back next year. Bittersweet. So glad Les (my principal) let me keep my things in my room! So glad I had the pizza party with my class.
1. Stopped by my cousin's Grad Party on our way back t0 Duluth. Once home, had to buy Sean a new bike. He got the same one that he has in Mankato, and he got to ride it through Walmart! He thought he was the bomb! (he is!) Now we are able to take long walks; me pushing the babes in the stroller and Sean riding his bike! Awesome! Now, rain and cold need to go away...bring on the sun and warmth.

Now, I am back online after not having Internet for awhile. Feels good to be connected. I will post pictures soon. Everyone is getting so big!

Mother's Day

I feel so blessed to have 3 little miracles! Today is a day for me to reflect on my life and how we have gotten to where we are now. It hasn't always been an easy road for us. We have had lots and lots of bumps and detours, but it has been an amazing ride! We are so lucky to have one another!

Sean and Graham went shopping together and spoiled me this year! I got beautiful roses, the sweetest cards, and a new patio set! Super excited, as I have been wanting a new one since we sold our last one with the North Hill house. I am super picky, and Graham did a perfect job :) Can't wait to get up to Duluth and rock in my new chair! Thanks, honey!

Happy Mother's Day to all my family and friends! Hope you enjoyed your day, too :)

Time Flies!

I can't believe that our twins are already over 2 weeks old! Where does the time go? Their little personalities are really coming out. Isaac is my easy going, nothing ever bothers him, kind of kid. Andrew loves to eat and wants to eat all the time, hence he lets us know when he is awake :) Both love to cuddle, and they really enjoy being next to each other. Sean's voice calms them down, and he is a big helper with getting nuks and blankets. Sleep is precious for us parents, but we knew that going in. I am looking forward to being with Graham and getting the middle of the night help on a regular basis. Whether he gets up and changes pants, rocks them, or simply keeps my side of the bed warm, I really miss not having him around every night. Our time is coming soon!

Sean is doing awesome! He is totally into his "babies," trucks, bike, and movies. He loves playing with his friends and always has lots to say. He is sneaky...likes to stay up late..."borrows" my camera to takes random pictures. He is more fun than words can describe.

We are so blessed to have 3 healthy and happy little boys. They are our miracles, and we thank God for them every day.

The Twins Are Here!

Andrew and Isaac

Top: Isaac Bottom: Andrew

Sean and Isaac, Graham and Andrew
The Elephant in the window is from Big Brother Sean :)

Sean and Andrew

Isaac and Andrew

Wow! They are almost a week old already! Where does the time go?

Check out my friend's blog to the right, Stacy's Photography. She came to the hospital when they were 8 hours old and took some great first pictures! Scroll down her blog to find the slide show :)

Camcorders...Ugh!

With the new babies joining us any day, I have been trying to clean off the hard drive of my camcorder by downloading our movies onto my computer. Simple, right? Wrong!

I have been working on this for quite a while, and I have been missing out on great filming opportunities in the meantime. I kept hoping my husband would just do it, but he never seemed to have the time ;) He kept telling me to take it in to Best Buy and see if they could help. But, I was stubborn and knew I could do it. Well, months have gone by, and I am still getting nowhere and more frustrated by the second.

So, I took it into Best Buy on Friday with Sean in tow. We patiently waited for our turn, then explained our problem. He guy was able to click a few buttons and away the downloading went! Ugh! Why didn't I listen to Graham earlier?! Now, I have these beautiful movies on my computer to watch at my leisure and a cleaned of camcorder to capture many more magical moments yet to come!

Did I mention that he did it for free? How cool was that?! Thank you Best Buy Man :) Maybe it was the songs Sean and I were singing while we waited...

Wordless Wednesday...Easter