Any Given Day

And the Worst Wife of the Year goes too.....

2011-11-16T09:12:00.004-06:00

ME!!!!! On Saturday night, my so helpful husband helped me unload the Pathfinder after bringing some stuff home for the kids from my Mom and Dad. How did I repay him? By shutting his hand in the Pathfinder's tailgate....causing this....

He has a carpel/metacarpel dislocation. Basically it means that he torn the bone for his pinky out of the wrist and it got shoved under his ring finger. See XRAY picture below. The pen marks are where the bone is supposed to be sitting. Yeah, not good. He has surgery scheduled for Monday. They will hang his hand with weights and pop the joint back into place. they will then put in a screw from the outside of his hand through the bone to hold it in place while the ligaments scar down. Once that has been done (approx 4 weeks) they will remove the screw. So he's in the Splint for the next 4-6 weeks. Yep, I feel pretty bad about this one! Send your prayers for a quick recover for him!

1st day of school - 2011

2011-08-19T08:52:00.009-05:00

I can't believe it's time to start another school year! Andrew is in 8th grade this year (Yikes! only 1 more year until high school!) Ethan and Alex are entering the middle school in 6th grade, and Taryn is the last Christensen kids at Westridge in
2nd grade! Their growth just amazes me. They are such smart, kind children and I feel so blessed every single day to be their mom!

2011

2010

2009

Right after this picture was taken is when the boys refused to hug me outside of the car...

And, the best story of the day came about when I wanted to take this picture of Taryn with her new teacher Mrs. Hauge..

Me: Taryn I want to take your picture with your teacher..

Taryn: Mom!!! You're embarrassing me!!

Me: Just one more picture...

Taryn: Fine..(insert big sigh here)

Me: Say Cheese! (click)

Taryn: Ok Mom, that's enough...you can go now!

Me: "Tears"
I hope everyone had a great start to their school year too!

Davis v. 39.5

2011-06-28T08:34:00.005-05:00

On June 18th, I threw Dave a surprise 1/2 birthday party! He will be 40 in Decemeber so I figured he wouldn't expect a party in June! He was super surprised and we had a really good time that night! Here are some pictures of his party!

Alex

2011-05-26T11:51:00.003-05:00

I am always proud of my children, everyday, but at the end of this school year, I'm going to recognize my Alex. He managed to rack up 5 awards for their end of the school year! He got perfect attendence, participant in Battle of the Books, high Recorder unit scores, A Presidential Academic Achievement award, and the Good Citizenship Award for his 5th grade class. Alex is a sweet, sensitive and caring boy who is going to grow up into a wonderful man someday. He has such a big heart, is so willing to care for others, and has no fear when it comes to people who are different from him. Congrats Alex, you made your family very proud today!!

Couponing.....

2011-05-06T15:44:00.002-05:00

Ok,
I'll admit it...I have become totally obsessed with couponing lately. I watched that show Extreme Couponing...and I wondered...how do they do that? So with the help of several blogs, and a book called "How to Shop for Free", I have become a couponer. Granted, I don't ever want to be a hoarder, or EVER have a use for 1000 tubes of toothpaste just because they were free, I am a firm believer in saving a buck. I made my lists, gathered my coupons and set out for the store last night. I WAS AMAZED at how much I saved! I bought 91 items, at a total retail value of $275.56, after coupons and price matching I spent 158.96!!! That's a 44% savings! And this was just my first trip ever doing this!!!! I can think of a lot of things to do with that extra $120 bucks!!!! I know this takes some time to sort and get things ready for a trip to the store, but when you are feeding a family of 6, saving money is a GOOD thing!

This is the kids helping me sort coupons for our trip!

Happy Birthday to my baby girl!!! (A little early)

2011-04-15T10:34:00.002-05:00

My beautiful daughter will turn 7 years old on Sunday! I'm posting this a little early because we have quite the birthday weekend planned and I'm not sure if I would have any more time to post it! We are starting her birthday celebration with getting her ears pierced tonight! I am a little nervous about how she will handle it, but she's been counting down the days and really wants to go and get it done! Tomorrow, she is having a party at Clara's Closet in Elkhorn, it is a place that does dress-up parties and she went with the fashion show theme. They get their nails and makeup done and then pick out outfits and perform a show! I think I'm looking forward to it as much as she is! Then on Saturday night she is having her best friend Kaelie spend the night for her first sleepover! Then on Sunday we are having the family over for lunch and presents. WHEW!!!! I'm tired just thinking about it....but it will be totally worth it! Here are some tidbits about my daughter right now:

1. She LOVES to read, and is reading at a 4th grade level right now

2. She thinks that life isn't fair since her brothers get to stay up later than her since they are older

3. She hates the rain

4. She has a wonderful flair for the dramatics...(not sure if this is good)

5. She still loves to sit next to people and cuddle, and those moments I still treasure as I know they will become fewer as she gets older

6. She loves to play outside with her brothers and their friends

7. She goes to dance 2 times a week and is the only one in her class that knows the entire dance for her recital and tends to direct while she's there

8. She has the most beautiful hazel eyes just like her daddy

9. She is definitely NOT a morning person

10. She is the smartest, most beautiful, sweetest little girl EVER!!!! (I might be a little biased)

God blessed me with this perfect baby girl and I consider myself so lucky to call her mine!! Happy Birthday Taryn Johanna!!!

Taryn's concert...

2011-04-06T10:48:00.003-05:00

Last night was Taryn's first grade music concert. She had her first speaking part!! She did such a fantastic job! At last I have a non-stage fright child! A few pictures to commerate her great job!

Happy 14th Birthday Andrew!!!!

2011-03-23T16:22:00.002-05:00

How is it that my precious baby boy is 14 years old?? Only one short year away from being behind the wheel? I am so very blessed to have Andrew as my son. He has struggled and fought his way through pain that no child should ever feel and become the young man I always knew he could be. Don't get me wrong, he is a teenager for sure!!! But, as my Mother-in-Law tells me...he truly is a Mini-Dave!!! He has such a sweet smile and eyes that will get you every time!!! Happy Birthday my son!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Happy Birthday Ethan and Alex!!!! (a little late)

2011-03-14T10:55:00.005-05:00

On February 18th, Ethan and Alex celebrated their 11th Birthday!!! How is it possible that my babies are 11? It's hard to believe that 10 years ago I looked at their smiling baby faces and knew that I would love them and carry them in my heart as my own sons. They are truly a blessing in my life! They have the energy that I only wish I could have and such caring hearts! When I hear people talk about them my heart swells with pride that I have such great boys, who never put anyone down, will include everyone in their lives, and who always puts other first. When these boys get older (MUCH older...I'm thinking 30...) some girls are going to be very lucky to have them in their lives! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY BOYS!!!

They each had a friend spend the night...it was a lot of fun!

They got a room remodel for their birthday...

The birthday boys....

Happy Anniversary Davis!!!!

2011-02-23T11:41:00.004-06:00

I can't believe that it's my Anniversary again! Every year I right about the greatest things about my husband, it's hard to believe that this year will be 9 years!!! Where does the time go? I also had a good time this year finding all sort of pictures of Dave and I througout the years, they are posted on my facebook so take a look if you get a chance....

The 9 greatest things about Dave....

1. I love how much our sons resemble him in attitude, I will be grateful to have them grow up to be the kind of man Dave is.

2. He goes above and beyond to make sure I feel safe all the time.

3. Watching him sing.

4. The fact that he can understand how I'm feeling just by looking at me.

5. He gives the best hugs!

6. The way he is willing to sacrifice his wants to put ours first.

7. He cooks!!!! (thank goodness, because I really don't)

8. The way he watches the kids when they play ROCKBAND...it's like they are at Madison Square Garden instead of the living room.

9. The fact that he lets me share his life with him!!!!

Happy Birthday to me!

2011-02-08T16:20:00.008-06:00

This past weekend I celebrated my 31st birthday with a party out a Jack's Place. I was so lucky to have so many of my friends and family out to celebrate with me! I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life! A couple of pictures of the night out!

Christmas Part 2

2011-01-12T09:22:00.004-06:00

Well, now that we have the holiday season behind us, I can finally breathe again! We went to Lincoln on Christmas Eve for church and to spend some time with my dad and grandparents. It was the first time in several years that we were all together. Minus my niece Abbi who was at her dad's. :( As I knew and prepared for, this Christmas will probabaly be the last with my grandparents. I feel so blessed to have them in my life and for my children to have really known their great-grandparents. It was also good for the kids to spend time with Grandpa Steve, Grandma Terri, Aunt Kelsey and Uncle David. They of course, think Uncle David is the greatest, he will wrestle, play games, etc...all the things that a 17 year old has the energy for!!! Christmas day was spent in the morning just with our family, then Rachael and Mick came over as well as my Aunt Gail for dinner and to just hang out. I feel incredibly blessed each and every holiday season, I hope you do too!!!
P.S. Thanks to my friend Rachael Carlson, I too found a way to add a slideshow to my blog! It sure went faster than uploading the 15 photos I wanted to include! :)

Tis the Season....

2010-12-20T10:23:00.014-06:00

I can't believe it's the Christmas season already! We have been busy with Christmas so far this Dec.. 2 down (my mom and my in-laws) 2 to go!! Enjoy some pictures from our busy holiday season so far. Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year to all my friends and family!!

The kids 2010 - Andrew, Taryn, Alex, Ethan

Ethan and his new Bon Jovi CD
My pretty girl

Andrew got Robin Hood (he was really excited)

Taryn's "Cheetah" coat

Taryn and her American Girl Doll "Sarah"

Dave hanging his new Saints flag outside

Will's present from me...

The cousins Christensen side...Alex, Andrew, Ethan, Abby, Taryn, Laura

Alex and his new books...

Dave's new Saints rock...

Welcome to the World!

2010-11-03T09:55:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the world William Robert Mitchell!!!

This morning at 5:34am I was blessed with a new nephew! He was 7lbs 7oz and 20 inches long. Rachael had to have a C-Section but they are both doing well! He is a cute baby boy and looks just like my Brother-in-law! Congrats to my sissy!! Love you tons!

Family Pictures

2010-11-01T16:03:00.012-05:00

We were very blessed this year to have my good friend Rachael Carlson take our family pictures! They turned out so beautiful and I can't wait to have them hanging out our walls! Check a few of my favorites....Thank you so much Rae!!!!

Their first album cover....
Those eyes get me every time!!! - Andrew

Ethan

The family

My ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!!

Me and my baby girl...

Alex

She looks WAY to grown up!!

Kids

Family

Happy Birthday Buttercup!!! (a few days late)

2010-10-05T09:44:00.003-05:00

This weekend I got to go and hang out at the Ameristar to celebrate the birthday's of my BEST FRIEND Laura, and her wonderful boyfriend Adam! We had good beers, good friends, and didn't win any money! It was so nice to get out of the house and away from the kids for a little while and just decompress! It was so great to see them both and all the friends that they brought out with them.

HAPPY, HAPPY 29th BIRTHDAY LAURA!

I love you!! Can't wait until next year when we have the 30/40 party with you and Dave!! :) It doesn't seem like we planned that 5 years ago??

1st day of school....

2010-08-20T20:45:00.007-05:00

All ready to go....
Andrew David - 13 years old

Alex Lee - 10 years old

Ethan Lee - 10 years old

Taryn Johanna - 6 years old

I can't believe it's the start of another school year! Where does the summer go? It's hard to believe that my "babies" are starting 7th, 5th, and 1st grade!! Here are some great pics of them on the 1st day of school....

When did they get this big???

2010-08-16T16:39:00.004-05:00

I know I'm biased, but I really do have the most beautiful children!!!! This is the 4 of them last Saturday as we got ready to go to a wedding. I just can't get over how grown up they are!!! How is it possible that I have a teenager, 2 pre-teens, and a 6 year old going on 26!!!! I love them though!

Wow...it's been awhile without a post....

2010-07-07T08:07:00.014-05:00

It has been one busy summer...the reason that there has been no posts since May!! I will do just a quick rundown of our summer so far.....

1. GRADUATION!!!! After 4 very long years, I finally graduated from College with my Associates Degree in Business. I do plan on finishing my BA, but I am taking a little break right now.

2. Ethan and Alex took a little vacation to Dave's mom and dad's. They did several fun things, like building a grill with Grandpa, going fishing, and catching some rays...

3. Trip back to Kearney to see our good friend Tiphy, who just returned from her second tour in Iraq. We were so glad she made it home safely!

4. Andrew and Taryn took a vacation too! They also went to Dave's mom and dad's. They went to the park and several fun things around Kearney. I love these pictures, you can just tell how much Taryn adores her big brother!!!

There has been so many other things going on, that I will try and post more later this week. They include fun on the 4th of July, a trip to Des Moines, meeting Michael Buble', and Dave's 20th HS reunion! Things have been crazy and it's only been 6 weeks of summer so far!!!! Hope you are all having just as much fun!

A nice thought...

2010-05-11T13:34:00.001-05:00

Someone sent me this message today, and I really needed it.

May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.

Happy 6th Birthday Taryn Johanna!!!!

2010-04-20T08:59:00.013-05:00

I CANNOT believe that my baby girl is 6 years old!!!! Time does fly! Taryn's birthday was on Saturday and she picked to have a gymnastics party at Metro Stars Gymnastics. So her and 5 of her little friends learned a bunch of gymnastics skills and then had some time in their party room. It was a lot of fun, and the bonus was that I didn't have to set anything up or clean anything up either! We then went out to dinner with Nana and Opah, Aunt Rachael and Uncle Mick, Aunt Gail and Abbi! It was quite a full house. Taryn picked to go to Mimi's Cafe so she could have "Mickey Mouse pancakes". We came home for presents and cake and then the day was done! It was a very eventful day but she had so much fun that at the end of the day her only comment was "Mom, I wish it could be my birthday everyday!" Enjoy some pictures of the day....

All ready for her gymnastics party!

New swimsuit from Laura!! Yay!!!
Taryn with all her friends at Metro Stars...

Backflip Taryn!!"Happy Birthday, Taryn..."Taryn and her Best Friend Kaelie
All dressed up in her new dress and shoes from Laura to go out to dinner...
YES!!! I got a Nintendo DS!! I have the best Mom and Dad EVER!!
Happy Birthday Taryn, your family and friends love you very much!!!

Surgery.....

2010-04-15T10:47:00.003-05:00

Where to start....hmmmm...

At about 12:30 am on Wednesday, Ethan came into the bedroom and woke me up to tell me his stomach wouldn't stop hurting. I had him lay with me and we rubbed his stomach and waited a bit. We decided to take him to the ER about an hour later. We were in the ER, until about 4:30 am and we met with the resident on call, the doctor, and finally a surgeon because they suspected he had appendicitis. He was not presenting with typical symptoms, but had pain that was strictly on his lower right side and an elevated white blood count. They told us we could check him into the hospital and watch him or we could take him home and wait until about 10 am or so to see if the pain went away. So we decided to take him home and try and rest for a little bit. At about 9:30am the pain wasn't as severe but hadn't moved so we called the surgeon and he recommended that we bring him in to have his appendix removed even though we weren't 100% sure that is what it was. We went to the hospital, checked him into the procedure center at about 11:00am, and they proceded to wait until 3:30 until they took him back for surgery. They did do his surgery laproscopicly(sp?) so they were done at about 4:10 and the surgeon told us that everything had gone very well and it was DEFINITLEY appendicits so we made the right descision in deciding to take it out. He woke up at about 5:00 or so, and was able to come home at 7:00. We are settled in and he should be back on his feet soon. Thank you to all my friends and family for your prayers and support. Ethan is sore, but safe and sound!

Best Moments:

After getting blood drawn:

Ethan: "That didn't feel like a pinch when you took my blood."

Nurse: "It didn't? What did it feel like?"

Ethan: "It felt like you stuck me with a needle."

After he had been home last night for 1 hour:

Me: "Ethan, do you want me to help you get out of bed?"

Ethan: " No Mom, I have to get over the pain sometime"

Me: " Well, Ethan it doesn't need to be today!"

He is being quite the brave boy, but is completely bored out of his mind!

Please enjoy this nice picture of Ethan and Barry ready for surgery!

So happy to part with $25.....

2010-03-02T08:20:00.004-06:00

I have never been so happy to part with $25 in my whole life!!! Why? Because that $25 was for my.....

GRADUATION APPLICATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That's right friends! After almost 4 years of going to school part time, kids, work and such I finally finished my Associates degree in Business! I will eventually go for my BA but, for right now I'm am just glad to be done with one portion of school! I am amazed at my friends who have Master's degrees or working on PhD's right now and I hope to eventually be in that same group, but for now I'm glad to be graduating from College at all! Graduation is May 14th so keep your calendars open, because you know us...any excuse to throw another party!

Happy Anniversary to my Love!!

2010-02-23T07:54:00.003-06:00

Today, Dave and I are celebrating our 8 year wedding anniversary! It's crazy to think it has been that long! Last year I had posted 7 things that I love about Dave, so continuing tradition here are 8 great things about the love of my life!

1. He still gives the very best hugs!

2. The way he comforts me when I am feeling sad.

3. He is such a good dad!!!!!

4. The way he loves his mom.

5. The way he laughs all the way through a joke!

6. He is so passionate about music.

7. His dedication to his family.

8. HE PICKED ME TO SPEND HIS LIFE WITH! I HAVE NEVER FELT SO BLESSED!

Happy Anniversary Davis! I love you!!!

Our newest family member...

2010-02-15T09:34:00.002-06:00

We are pleased to introduce Lucy Christensen! She is a 3 year old English Bulldog. She is settling in well and getting along with everyone! She is a real sweetie!

My 30th Birthday!

2010-02-09T16:52:00.008-06:00

I'm a terrible blogger lately! But I have just been so busy! But this last weekend I was able to celebrate my 30th Birthday with a lot of my closest friends! I love all of them for coming out to celebrate with me! It was a GREAT time!

Me and My BFF Laura!

Shots with the girls!

3 of the greatest friends a girl could have!

Me and my Sissy!!

Drink much Laura???

Good Friends at the end of the night!

Blast from the Past

2010-01-11T09:21:00.012-06:00

During the snow days this last week, I was inspired by Laura to break out the old pictures and scanner to upload some pictures to facebook, but I thought I would post a couple of my favorites on here for those of you who don't have facebook (ahem...Amy)...

Fab Five Christmas 1997

Amy and I and our cute hats 1997

Rae, Erin, and I at Martin Hall Winter Ball 1998The Fab Five at my wedding 2002

Rae and I- UNK Choraleers...1999

Ethan and Alex...Can you tell which is which? 2000

Adoption Day, June 25th, 2002

Rae and Taryn at Jessie's wedding...2004

It was really fun reliving these moments...

The next time anyone thinks Taryn looks like me....

2009-12-21T10:57:00.003-06:00

Just check out these two pictures...Dave, Charlotte and Jim....

Creepy, huh??

Ugly Holiday Sweaters...

2009-12-18T10:33:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again! The ugly holdiay sweater contest at my office is upon us! We have several really pretty sweaters this year but the sure winner is the guy who is dressed like Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation...Robe, Drink, Cigar, Hat, Boots....the whole nine yards! It totally cracks me up! Here is a picture of me in my holiday decor this year...borrowed straight from my mom's closet!!

A little bit crazy....

2009-12-01T08:24:00.003-06:00

I have decided that I am a little bit crazy now. As I was planning my school class schedule I discovered that if I take 3 classes and a Lab this quarter and 3 classes next quarter I will actually graduate in May with my Associates in Business. As I looked at all my due dates and such last night, I started to wonder if I took on more than I can chew! There is very few days during the week where I don't have an assignment due, and those other days I will have to spend studying for said assignments. God Bless my husband for his patience as I am trying to finish!

A life of Thanksgiving...

2009-11-24T08:16:00.001-06:00

I'm stealing this idea from a friend because it's something I need in my life right now.

The Thanksgiving holiday is one of my favorites...food, family, friends and lots of fun. But, originally, it was meant to be a day to pause and give authentic thanks to God. Unfortunately, for many, including myself, thanksgiving is more of a one-day holiday that a way of life. I don't know about you, but I've been blessed beyond comprehension, and even in the unwelcome moments of life, I have so much to be thankful for.
What would it look like if I ONLY spoke words of gratitude the entire week of Thanksgiving? If I went so far as to look at a pile of laundered clothes that awaits my folding and putting up, a task I normally hate, and instead think and speak out loud, “God, thank you for these clothes, for providing covering.” When my daughter voicing her grumpiness, “God, thank you that she has a voice that works and you are shaping her own unique personality.”
If every time next week I see a person, I tell them why I am thankful to God they are in my life.So, starting today and going through this Sunday evening, I'm challenging myself to live an entire week full of thanksgiving.

Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. (Ephesians 5:4 ESV)

Anytime I'm tempted to think/say/do something negative (filthy, foolish, crude or otherwise unthankfull), I will instead choose, in that very moment, to give thanks to God for His blessing in my life.If you'd like to join me, please leave a comment saying so AND repost this (in our own words, if you'd like...no need to link me) on your blog, twitter, facebook, etc. and challenge your friends to do the same. Even if you're not reading this until after this morning, it's never too late to take up a good challenge. And, keep in mind that nobody who takes this challenge is going to make it an entire week without missing the mark...so, when that happens to you, just pick yourself back up and start again!

Feeling very blessed

2009-11-11T13:35:00.001-06:00

As I lay on the couch last night, with the sweetest baby girl on the planet curled up in my arms, snuggled close to my heart, I had a moment where I just felt so blessed. All the tantrums, demands, crying fits, just don't matter in those sweet moments where my pretty girl is next to me. She is getting so big and I know that these moments will be farther and farther in between as she gets older, but for now I am just going to relish in those moments with my little girl snuggled up to my heart.

Birthdays....

2009-11-10T08:37:00.005-06:00

We are coming up onto our birthday chaos at the Christensen household. For those of you who don't know you can check out my post of birthdays.... http://katichristensen.blogspot.com/2008/02/celebrating-birthdays.html

Last night Dave and I were discussing the upcoming birthday events when it dawned on me...Andrew will be 13 this year.....Ethan and Alex will be 10.....Oh my goodness...I will be 30!!!

It's hard to believe that my little baby boys that I got will all be in the double digits!! Where does the time go?

Trick or Treating...

2009-11-02T08:02:00.008-06:00

Just some good pics of the kids trick or treating..

All of them

Ninja Lord Ethan

Ninja Lord Andrew

Officer Alex

Tinkerbell Taryn

Our Candy Haul...

Getting Ready for Halloween...

2009-10-29T10:37:00.005-05:00

Halloween is one of my least favorite holidays...sure I enjoyed it as a kid, but I now understand the pain my parents went through as I was deciding what to be that year...

This year costume picking out took almost 2 hours. I was ready to walk out of the store and leave the kids behind. Alex and Taryn were pretty easy, they had decided what to be before we got to the store. Ethan and Andrew picked out the same costume this year, when we double checked with Ethan that he wanted to be the same thing as his older brother his response was.."Dad, I'm hungry, I just want to get out of here." So that was pretty much it. We have Tinkerbell, a police officer, and 2 Ninja Lords. I will have more fun pictures from trick or treating to share next week!

Taryn as Tinkerbell

Tinkerbell getting arrested...what has the world come too?

Fab Five Weekend...

2009-10-26T11:04:00.008-05:00

I'm a little late in my posting (mostly because I was sick ALL of last week)...on the 17th of October I was able to get together with the Fab Five (minus one...missed you Jessie!) for a little weekend of spa pampering and hotel stay. For those of you who don't know, the Fab Five consists of myself, Amy, Rachael, Jessie, and Laura. We've been friends since high school and this year we are celebrating the 12th year of the FAB FIVE!! We had the usual good time...

our gifts from Rachael...which of course we wore the entire time we were at the hotel..

Enjoyed a free happy hour

Played cards until 2am!

Mani's/Pedi's and facials!

I love these girls!!!

It doesn't matter how long its been, we just pick up like we had just been hanging out the day before. These girls mean the world to me and I am very blessed to have them in my life!!!

Many new pictures

2009-10-15T13:02:00.017-05:00

Our new family pictures came in and there are so many wonderful ones!!! Here is just a sampling....

Andrew-age 12

Taryn-age 5

Alex-age 9

Ethan-age 9

All the cousins

Taryn and her daddy..

My beautiful kids

The whole family..

Me and my handsome husband

Our beautiful family

Taryn and Abbi

The Mitchells

My niece, Abbi - age 5

Mom and Dad

YEAH ANDREW!!!!!

2009-10-07T15:45:00.003-05:00

Dave just called to tell me that Andrew has earned Lunch with a friend "off campus" for having 24 good days at school with no discipline problems or late work!! This is a huge step for him and I am so proud of him!!!! LOVE YOU ANDREW!!!

An ambitious list

2009-09-29T13:26:00.002-05:00

Ok, I'm tired of not having things done so I created an ambitious list of things to be done every day so that I can have my house on the market by next week! Today's list:

1. Scrape paint on outside of the house
2. Repaint spots on exterior
3. Pull weeds on all sides of house
4. Tear down dog house and dog run
5. Replace fence cap and rail
6. Wash down exterior of the house

It's a bit much but I'm hoping by having an ambitious list I will feel better about the things that I do get done!!

illness has returned-Week 4

2009-09-24T09:51:00.003-05:00

I spent Mon and Tues of this week sick with the flu. Not really the "Bad" kind of flu but, the high fever, body aches, don't want to move kind of flu. At this point in my life I find that I am even more grateful for my husband than usual. He made me food to eat, let me lay out on the couch and watch anything I wanted on the "Big TV", which I chose to be an 2 day marathon of my Beverly Hills, 90210 box set DVDs. He was such a trooper! I am so glad to have him!

Week 3

2009-09-24T09:44:00.002-05:00

I'm a little behind in my posts for class, that happens a lot in my life. I'm always behind in the things I want to accomplish. Why is that?? I plan, I write lists, I organize and yet here it is, almost October and my house that I wanted for sale in July is still not on the market...ARRGH!!! SO FRUSTRATING!!!

Ballet Begins!!!

2009-09-11T14:00:00.002-05:00

Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia, The Nutcracker....I love the ballet!! I loved dance classes when I was a kid, the beauty and elegence of the ballet was enough to bring me to tears...it still does whenever I watch it. Now, tomorrow starts my daughter's first ballet class, she has her black leotard, pink tights, and ballet shoes and is all ready to go! I can't tell you how excited I am for this, and even though I don't want to push it on her, that she will love it as much as I did. This will be the first year that I have seen the Nutcracker since I was 17, and I am so happy to take her to be able to share in this special mother-daughter time that I know she won't want to do forever!

Week 2-Newfound appreciation for my senses..

2009-09-09T09:10:00.003-05:00

Ok,
Here is my second post for my psych class. This weekend I got dirt in my eyes and lacerated my corneas. It really is the worst pain ever! I spent some time in the ER (for the ever intelligent doctor to spend two minutes in the room and go, Yep you scratched your cornea). It does give you a new respect for your other senses though. I spent a lot of time these last few days listening to TV, which I found very frustrating. I really just wanted to see what they were talking about! I also had a really good Ribeye steak that the taste of seemed even more powerful than nomal. I also could hear my kids sneaking up and down the hallway, trying not to disturb me. I do have a great appreciation for my sight right now, I guess it's true, that you never really realize how much you need something until it's gone.

Congrats Amy and Pat!!

2009-09-02T12:55:00.006-05:00

Welcome to the World

Kael Victor Nebesniak!!

Yesterday, my very good friend Amy gave birth to a beautiful baby boy! He is joining his big sister Deni into the Nebesniak family. I got to go up there last night with my other friend Rachael to visit. I took Taryn with me and when we got there, one of our other friends was there with her daughter. The four of us (Rae, Amy, Jessie, and myself) create 4 of the Fab Five and all of our first born children were girls, so we got a really sweet picture of all of them together.

Thank you for blessing us Amy and Pat with another member of our "extended" family! He turned us from the Fab Five to the Terrific Twenty!!

Week 1

2009-09-01T09:06:00.002-05:00

Ok,
Apparently, I get 10 extra points for my Psych class if I have a blog. So here is my blog! To my friends who check it, I will be posting once a week for the next 10 weeks. I am taking a pretty light class load this quarter (just 2 classes), but I am hoping to be done with my Associates degree next summer. It's taken me a very long time! I have been putting off taking College Algebra and I think I will continue to put it off for a another couple of quarters. That is one class I will not be taking online! Have a good week everyone!

It can't be that time already!!!!

2009-08-20T09:57:00.007-05:00

Here it is, the start of another school year, but this year is so special because my baby girl is headed off to Kindergarten! It seems like yesterday that I took her into that school when she was 3 weeks old for Andrew's show and tell in the same Kindergarten classroom, with the same teacher that he had. Now Andrew is off to the middle school with a class schedule and a locker and Taryn is in Kindergarten. I thought I would do Ok, but last night as I was laying out their first day of school clothes and having Ethan try on his shorts to make sure they fit ok, he looked so grown up and so much like Dave that I started to cry, and then everything made me cry this morning. Putting the barrettes in Taryn's hair and getting her dressed, she just looked so pretty that I cried then too! She of course walks out into the living room with all her drama and puts her hand on her hip and proclaims "Dad, Mom is crying because I look so pretty." I got pretty choked up dropping Andrew off at the Middle School, knowing that I wasn't going to walk him in, and he was going to be on his own. That was a tough moment. I hope you enjoy these pictures of the kids off to school!

All the kids

Andrew-6th Grade

Ethan-4th Grade

Alex-4th Grade

Taryn-Kindergarten

Back to School

2009-08-11T09:24:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again....Back to School! The kids start school on August 20th, and this will be the first year that all 4 of my kids will be in school. Yes, if you can believe it, Taryn is starting Kindergarten this year. Andrew is moving up in the world to Middle School and Ethan and Alex will be in the 4th grade. Where does the time go?

I do have some issues with this though...I'm starting to wonder where my tax money is going if I have to spend $200.00 on school supplies for them to take to school, and these are not recommendations, this is the stuff they have to have. No clothes or any extras, this was the basic school supply list, and I bought the cheap stuff too! No fancy notebooks or folders, just solid colors that cost $.09 a piece. It's sort of ridiculous. Enough ranting now...

We are busy with the school prep, Andrew is going to registration tonight and Taryn has her physcial (Dave is taking her, thank goodness) on Friday. Hope you all are enjoying your back to school time! :)

Catching up...

2009-07-08T08:59:00.011-05:00

Well, June and the first part of July have been crazy...so I have been a really bad blogger!!!

We have had stuff going on every weekend for about 5 weeks!

Update:

1st week of June: Mom and I finished our 10 week program for Farrell's Extreme Body Shaping, I ended up losing just over 7 inches! Yippee!!

June 6th- Took a trip back to GI for Adam Hahn's and Danny Seim's 30th Birthday party. Lots of drinking but a good time had by all!

June 7th - Left GI and went to Lincoln where my Aunt Gail and Aunt Vicki were visting from out of state.

June 14th- Cousin Jessica's wedding. The kids had a blast (as did we) Lots of dancing and being with family!

June 15th-Breakfast after the wedding, but then the boys left to go to Grandma's until the 29th, and Taryn went to my sisters for 3 days, so for the first time in a very looong time Dave and I had a couple days to ourselves! We treated ourselves to a movie (The Hangover-very funny!)
June 22nd- Garage Sale at mom's house, we hung out and helped her run the sale and then all went out to dinner!

June 28th- Had our good friends Doug and Jenn out for a BBQ and we stayed up way to late playing Rock Band and drinking beer!

July 3rd- Over to Doug and Jenns for another BBQ and fireworks!

July 4th- Went to my moms for more BBQ and fireworks! (I love the 4th of July!!!!)

July 5th- Moeller Family Reunion at Mahoney State Park. Saw a lot of family that I have not seen for 15-20 years and a lot of family that I didn't even know I had! The kids latched onto Uncle David and he was able to entertain them for several hours! Yeah for little brothers!!!

Whew!!! That's it so far, except for in the midst of all this craziness we did get approved to build a new (and much bigger) house so we have decided to put our house up for sale. Trying to get that ready has been a chore within itself!! More later!

Our new house

Back from Vacation

2009-05-13T07:51:00.009-05:00

Well, it's official. Dave and I are Vegas people. We went to Vegas on April 30th-May 2nd. We had the best time! Sometimes you just need to get away! We took a day trip to the Grand Canyon, saw the show "O" at the Bellagio (which was the greatest show I have EVER seen), and partied down on Fremont Street (the old strip). It was exhausting but great fun! Here are some pictures so you too can enjoy a trip to Las Vegas. I'm telling you FAB FIVE: As soon as the rest of you guys are done being pregnant we need to take a trip! :)

Dave and I on the plane, for those of you who don't know, I am terrified to fly, but the little bottles of liquor sure helped! :)

The Grand Canyon-South Rim

Dave and I at the Grand Canyon

The Hoover Dam at night

Hef and I hanging out at the wax museum

Dave and I and President Obama

At a fountain outside the Venitian

When it rains, it pours....

2009-04-23T13:04:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a very stressful day. We were having someone come out to do our routine maintenance our our Air Conditioner. When they came out we found out that our AC is compressor is broken and our furnace's heat exchange is cracked in 3 places, which leaks carbon monoxide into our house. Luckily, thanks to my dad who is helping us get some money it should be replaced tomorrow! Thank goodness for family!

Happy Birthday to my Baby Girl!!!

2009-04-17T08:09:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my little girl Taryn, she is 5 years old today!! I can't believe how fast they grow up! I remember how she made her appearance into our family five weeks early, and was such a happy baby. I feel very blessed!

Extreme BodyShaping

2009-04-03T08:23:00.003-05:00

Ok, 2 weeks ago I joined Farrell's Extreme Bodyshaping. I am determined to get into shape!
This is a really tough workout. I go 6 days a week for 45 minutes a day. We do cardio (kickboxing) for 3 days and resistance training (alternating upper body and lower body) for 3 days. Right now, I feel like I will never be able to move without a muscle hurting again. I am also following their nutrition plan, and for those of you who know me well, know that it is tough for me. I eat 6 times a day, protein (12-18 gr) 6 times, carbs (26 gr) 5 times, and vegetables 3 times. This by far has been the most difficult part for me. But, I have 2 weeks down and 8 more to go! I can see some results already so I'm hoping it's worth it! Wish me luck. I will keep you posted on my progress!

2 posts in one day!

2009-03-18T12:27:00.010-05:00

As promised here are the pictures from Ethan and Alex's 9th Birthday party. Them and 15 of their closest friends!

The whole birthday gang!
Ethan and his "girlfriend since Kindergarten" Macey.

Blowing out the candles!T aryn tried so hard to bowl.... Alex did quite figure out that you didn't THROW the ball!

A Big Day!

2009-03-18T12:21:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is a big day for my little baby. We are taking her to Kindergarten Round-Up. Where does the time go?? I can't believe that next year my last baby will be starting school. It seems like yesterday we brought her home from the hospital and now she is writing her name, making up songs, and singing "Eye of the Tiger" and "Wanted Dead or Alive" when she plays RockBand on the Wii. She is really ready for school, but the mommy in me just wants her to stay a little baby!

The 7 Things I love about Dave...

2009-02-23T12:34:00.003-06:00

Today Dave and I have been married for 7 years! Where does the time go? So I thought I would take the time to write the 7 greatest things about Dave to celebrate our anniversary!

1. He makes me feel beautiful, even on my "fat days".
2. He has such a great passion for music and even though sometimes I just smile and nod, I love to see the excitement in his eyes.
3. He is a very patient man, even if he doesn't think so!
4. I love his stubborness, even though it is at constant battle with mine! :)
5. He is a wonderful father, and I love to watch him show the boys or Taryn new things and see him get excited when they do well.
6. I love the way he laughs all the way through when he is trying to tell a joke, because he thinks it's so funny!
7. I love the way his arms feel when he hugs me and how I fit so perfectly in them.

I am very blessed to have Dave in my life, and I can't think of anyone else I would want to spend my life with! I love you baby! Happy Anniversary!

Does anyone even check this anymore??

2009-02-16T16:16:00.003-06:00

I'm such a terrible blogger! I love going to my friends blogs to see what's going on in their lives, but when it comes to posting on my own, I can never seem to find the time! Here's a short run down of my life since my last post.

January: Pretty boring, a birthday party for my nieces, a couple of days of vacation.

February: Non-Stop craziness!! Andrew was suspended from school, was in a partial program at Immanual Hospital until today, which was a total waste of time and I think he picked up some more bad habits there. Trying to get him settled so he can return to school next week. Had my birthday out at Jack's Place, lots of good friends and drinking a large amount of alcohol in order to mask the stress I was feeling about Andrew. Another rough week goes by. Ethan and Alex had their birthday party Saturday. 17 Kids, bowling, pizza, cake, ice cream!! Insane, I know!! Sunday we went shopping so the boys could spend their birthday money, 3 hours later we come home with a whole mess of new toys. While I'm trying to relax from that fun trip, I listen to my voicemail, where I received a message from my friend Amanda telling me she is having surgery today to remove a large brain tumor. I just talked to her mom a little while ago and she is still in surgery, but it is going well. Please pray for her and her family. That pretty much brings us up to today! Where we have another therapy session with Andrew tonight, plus, all the other things! I promise I will post pictures from the birthday party soon!

My Insane Holiday Season!!!

2009-01-12T12:12:00.017-06:00

I know that I haven't posted in awhile, but I have had zero time! :) Our holiday season began the weeked after my last post. It all started on the 19th of December with my wonderful husband's 37th birthday! We went out for a while and then came home and hung out in the quiet house (the kids were at Nana's house). We then got up the next day and drove to Elm Creek for Christmas with Dave's family. We had a good time there hanging out with Dave's parents and his brother's family. The kids all had a great time opening gifts and playing with the cousins. Here is picture 1 of all the grandkids on Dave's side (my 4 kids and our twin nieces). It just kills me to see Laura, Abby and Taryn together. They are all the same age but Laura and Abby just tower over her! Also here are some shots of Taryn in her very first ballet outfit, and Andrew in the elf hat.

Next, it was onto home to prepare for our own Christmas. We went to Lincoln on Christmas eve to my Grandparent's house, but of course I don't have any pictures since I forgot the camera. We made it to Lincoln and met my Grandparent's at Church with no time to spare! We then ate and made the drive back to Omaha. Dave and I of course got the kids all settled, and we had to get all the kids' gifts wrapped and under the tree, this of course took until after 1 am and the kids were up at about 6 am! Taryn was most excited about her Sleeping Beauty doll that sings and they boys got skateboards (I'm not sure if that was a great parenting move on my part).

We then left our house and headed over to my mom's where we spent the day. We opened up lots of gifts and ate and watched movies. The boys all got Talking Star Wars clone helmets but the best picture I have is of Taryn and Abbi wearing them!

Then after all of this craziness, we moved onto the WEDDING! My older sister Rachael got married on New Year's Eve in Grand Island. It went off beautifully, but by the time it was all said and done I need about a two week vacation! Here are some pictures of the wedding: Taryn was the ring bearer and looked so cute! Plus, my sister really made a beautiful bride. The last picture is of course the reception where the people at the VFW don't really know what they are doing, since my sister married MICK not MIKE (take a look at the VFW sign and you'll see what I am talking about). Also Taryn, all tired out and my oldest son dancing the Macarena. On of the other highlights of New Years is that I got to spend time with two of my best friends Laura and Rachael (plus Rachael's husband Andy) from the Fab Five who I don't get to see often enough! It was a joyous, crazy, insane holiday but it sure was fun!

Ugly Holiday Sweaters.....

2008-12-16T16:26:00.003-06:00

We had an ugly holiday sweater contest at work last Friday. This picture above is of me and my friend Ingrid sporting our beautiful sweaters! My sweater came from my Mom's closet. My mom does a pretty good job of keeping up with some trends in fashion, she really doesn't know when it's time to not wear a holiday sweater, yes that's right, she still wears this particular sweater. She told me it looked cute with jeans......really......I don't think so. As ugly as my sweater was I did not win the contest, as you see in this picture below the winner was Joe (on the right) in a beautiful sweater vest decorated with santas and garland. Also in the picture is Brian who was very creative with a can of spray paint, and Mandi whose shirt is actually a large felt gift bag. It was a lot of fun and there were lots of laughing at people for most of the day!

Family Pictures

2008-12-09T12:56:00.009-06:00

Once a year, we go into Sears Portrait Studio and have new family pictures taken. I get a pretty big discount there, and they have been taking our pictures for the last 6 years or so. Last year, was my year for deciding on clothing so I made everyone dress up, meaning Dave had to wear a tie, and for those of you who know Dave, it was not a pleasant experience for him. Last year we also have the drama fest of a 3 year old trying to take a picture. We managed to get some good ones but not until she had cried, thrown a temper tantrum, and ran away from the camera room. We were kinda of dreading this year, and were anxious to see how Taryn would act.

Surprisingly, pictures went very well! Taryn and the boys were quite the hams in front of the camera and we managed to be in and out in just over an hour! That is quite a feat for a family of 6! Below are some of my favorites from the session, when the one of Taryn by herself was taken, I started to tear up, my last little baby is getting so big!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-11-21T10:42:00.002-06:00

I know I haven't posted in a couple of weeks, so here is the lowdown:

Dave and I made it through finals! I ended up with a B in all 3 of my classes, so I was pretty excited. I ended writing an extended play review for my final in Theatre. It was a good excuse to bring out the old videos of the musicals from my high school days and take a little trip down memory lane as I reviewed them. (we did an exceptional job)

I am currently back working at Sears portrait Studio over the Christmas Holidays. This is my 3rd year back and I really enjoy it. It's nice to have a job where I basically have no responsibilites. Plus the extra Christmas cash and the picture discount (75% off) is nice too!

We are excited for this weekend, because on Saturday Dave is going to go pick up our new 50" TV (it was our Christmas gift for each other) and our friends Doug and Jen and their 4 kids are coming over to our house (Doug is helping Dave carry the big TV) .

Andrew is slowly getting better. He is working on finding his calm place (don't we all need a calm place?) and is doing better with following the rules at home. He had a big breakthrough last night when he told the truth the FIRST time he was asked about stealing some cookies out of the cupboard. Its the little things that add up with him. So our focus was on how proud we were of him for telling the truth, and not about the bad behavior.

Taryn apparently skipped the terrible twos, because we are having the toughest time with her. She screams, slams doors, throws things and it outright definant with us. Trying to stay calm with her has been a challenge. But lately we have discovered if we tell her that we are not talking to her until she can be nice, she stops. Hopefully this phase will pass by quickly.

Ethan and Alex are getting ready for their 3rd grade music concert, where they are doing some music from Africa and then performing songs from Suessical the Musical. It should be interesting to say the least. They will tell you that they have stage fright, which just kills me because they won't try out for any special parts or choirs and they both have such great singing voices (a trait they get from their dad). Regardless it is always fun to watch a bunch of 3rd graders try and sing and dance!

That's it for me! If I don't get a chance to post next week, which is entirely possible with 2 jobs and 4 kids, have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know I have a lot to be thankful for this year!

It's that Time Again...

2008-11-09T19:50:00.003-06:00

Ok, here I am in the midst of final exams and final projects. The class that I thought would struggle with the most (Macroeconomic) has actually been a breeze for me. But, my other classes are killing me! I just finished my speakers notes, Power Point Presentation, and paper for my Info 1001 class! It took me forever! I am still dreading the Intro to Theatre final project of a 5-10 page play with a 3 page Character Analysis. I have so much time for this crap....Wish me Luck!

Trick-or-Treat!!!!

2008-11-03T08:41:00.010-06:00

Well, another Halloween has come and gone, and we of course have 800 pieces of candy to show for it! We went out a little later this time (mostly due to the fact that Dave was still working and that left me do handle all the make-up, costumes, etc..) They had the best time! Taryn was done a little bit sooner than the boys(I think they could have gone another 5 or 6 blocks) But, once we told them they could go home and eat candy they were all about it! It's the one day of the year where we don't say anything about the amount of junk that they are eating, we just let eat candy for about 30 minutes and then we tell them they can pick 4 more pieces and we put the rest up. Here are some pictures to summarize our evening...

Ready to go out!

Our scary "twin" vampires!

Taryn riding a unicorn!

Trick or Treat!!!

Air Force Andrew (he is wearing my dad's actual air force uniform)

Princess Taryn

Our Candy Haul!

The aftermath....

A Themed Halloween...

2008-10-28T08:45:00.005-05:00

For Taryn's first 3 halloween's we had all the kids go together in costume as a theme. I found these pictures and they were so cute I just had to show them all to you!

Taryn's first Halloween: The Wizard of Oz, Taryn was Dorothy (of course), Andrew was the Tin Man, Ethan was the Lion and Alex the Scarecrow.

The 2nd Halloween: Superheros, Taryn was Wonder Woman, Alex was Batman, Ethan was Spiderman and Andrew was Superman.The 3rd Halloween: Captain Jack Sparrow (Andrew) and his band of pirates!Last year we let them pick all their own costumes and didn't make them fit a theme, but seeing these pictures I really need to find another foursome for them to go as! Any suggestions?

Like Mother, Like Son...

2008-10-27T16:31:00.002-05:00

As I was sitting here in my office I get a phone call from my son Alex, who said "Mom, I have something to tell you and you are going to be so happy..." I of course wanted to know what this big news was. In September Alex filled out a job application at the school to be a member of his elementary school's new recycling program's team. A couple of weeks ago, he had an interview with the principal and the teacher that is heading up this program. He had a little mock interview with me, so he could practice. He has such great interviewing skills! A trait he no doubt gets from me! :) So he called me today to say that he had gotten the job! He is so excited, and we are so very proud of him! So he is the 3rd grade representative for the recycling program. The only one out of 3 classes! Good Job Alex!!!!!

This weekend...

2008-10-27T08:37:00.002-05:00

On Saturday night my very best friend Laura came to visit us from Des Moines. Our friends John and Karly came out to the house and we all had some cocktails, played some Wii and had a really good time! On Sunday morning Laura and I got up and went over to my mom's house to pick up Taryn (Laura is her godmother). Taryn was SO excited to see her! It makes me feel good to know my kids love Laura as much as I do! The boys came home later in the afternoon (they had been at their grandparents house since last Thursday), once Ethan found out that Laura was there, I barely got a half-hug before he was hugging Laura. When she left, Ethan cried and he and I laid in my bed for the rest of the evening, watching TV and eating sunflower seeds. It's those special one on one times that I love with my kids. When it's just the two of us, watching Extreme Makeover-Home Edition, and Bettlejuice. Later of course we were watching Iron Chef. Ethan loves to cook, so the food network is one of his favorite channels. With everything that we are going through as a family with Andrew, Dave and I are trying to spend some quality alone time with all the kids. It's really tough to do with our schedules but we are making an effort. We of course are in the midst of Halloween preperations. We will have a princess, an Air Force Pilot, a vampire and one undecided at this point (I know, nothing like waiting until the last minute) I will post pictures of the kids in their costumes next week!

What's going on in my life....

2008-10-16T15:06:00.002-05:00

I realized that I hadn't posted for awhile about some other things that have been going on in my life.

1. Dave has been working at H&H Chevrolet in the detail shop, he has had a really crappy schedule 1-9:30 Mon-Thurs and then 8-7 on Saturdays. Has not been fun. But...YIPPEE! Today he got the good news that he gets to switch to the day shift so we are putting Taryn in preschool and Dave will be home before the boys get out of school. It will be much better for us as a family.

2. Andrew (our oldest) was diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) it would take much too long for me to explain what this is, so if you want to know the hell we have been going through google it. He seems to be doing better and is in regular therapy, and getting ready to start EMDR (again, google it) therapy. It will be a slow road, but anything is better than what we have been dealing with. There is nothing worse than knowing your child is in emotional pain and you can't do anything to help them.

3. School........there is nothing to say here.......school is school...at least I'm not taking Math.

4. Bridal Shower coming up this weekend! My sister (Rachael) is getting married on New Year's Eve and we are hosting her bridal shower and bachelorette party in Grand Island this weekend. Should be a good time!

5. My BFF Laura is coming to visit in 2 weeks!!!! YIPPEE AGAIN!!!! We will be having a fun night of beer drinking and Wii playing with some friends.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I know I will!

It's that time...

2008-10-08T13:50:00.002-05:00

When I think back to the 5th grade I remember that was the year I started band. Well here in Elkhorn, they do not start band until the 6th grade and every 5th grader learns how to play the recorder. So on Monday I filled out a permission slip and sent $5.00 with Andrew so he could purchase his recorder and song book. I can't tell you how excited I am to have the sounds of the recorder filling my house at night. I'm sure we are in for a bumpy few months with this. It all culminates with an ALL recorder concert in February. Can't wait! ;)

Miss America....

2008-09-30T08:23:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to share this picture of Taryn with you all! I love her eyes! If this isn't a future Miss America I don't know what is! :) Dave took this picture last night with his fancy new Nikon digital camera! It just was so pretty! (minus the food on her face and the big scratch on her chin)

Heading off to Pre-School..

2008-09-26T10:01:00.004-05:00

It just seems like yesterday when this tiny bundle of joy was born...The first picture was taken the day before I went back to work, she was 6 weeks old. Her big brother Alex was holding her and they are still as close as ever. In just 1 week, Taryn will be off to pre-school! It's really hard to believe. I am (as is she) a little aprehensive about her going. She hasn't been to daycare since she was 6 months old, when Dave decided to stay at home with the kids. Now, that Dave is back to work, she is still in her own house with her brothers at home to entertain her! So we will be working with her about how "fun" school is! She is so smart, and talks so well I am anxious to see how well she does. We chose a pre-school that is pretty structured with a lot of variety during the day, which I think will work well for her since she gets bored easily with one activity! Apparently there is way too much going on for her to be expected to sit for more than 10 minutes at a time! :) I think she is ready, I just hope her Dad and I are too!!

A rare date night out..

2008-09-22T13:30:00.002-05:00

On Saturday all the kids were gone. The boys had headed out to Gibbon, NE for the weekend and Taryn went over to spend the night at my mom's. Dave and I are trying to spend some "us time" together lately. With our conflicting work schedules, four kids, and schoolwork, it's tough even to have a conversation. We started our night off at dinner at one of our favorite restaurants "Firebirds". They have the best bread! We then went to meet some of our friends down at the bar. They weren't there yet when we got there so we decided to pass the time by playing a couple games of Keno. Dave won his very first game and ended up with $111.00! So he pretty much paid for our date night! We stayed there until about 10:30 and then went out to our friends Doug and Jen's, where we sat outside, drank some beer, and relaxed around their firepit. All of a sudden it was 1:30am! I couldn't tell you the last time I managed to stay up that late! We had such a good time and it is a constant reminder to all of our married friends. Your kids are important, but don't forget to take the time for yourselves! That is a lesson that Dave and I are always learning! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I know I did! :)

A Reminder...

2008-09-15T16:17:00.002-05:00

Last night, as I was coming in from outside, I stood and watched as all four of my kids were clustered around the computer, playing a game and laughing with each other. It was just another reminder of even in the midst of all the fighting and yelling and "he touched my stuff" at some point they really do love each other. Just another reason why I feel so blessed.

On a side note: Ethan and Alex went to "High School Musical" Dance class this weekend. As most of you know, I love to dance and was thrilled when they said they wanted to take this class. I did feel a little bad for them, being the only two boys in all 3 sessions and then watching them having to do a dance to a song called "Fabulous" which is a female song in the show. But, more power to them, they had a great time, and I am thrilled to introduce them to dance.

Alex has also surprised me lately, he has a little toy keyboard that we got him for Christmas a couple of years ago and has really been after me to teach him some songs. So I taught him the song "Heart and Soul" (if you have ever played the piano you know this song) I taught him the bottom part and the melody. After practicing for a day or so, he now has mastered both, which just amazes me! He of course now wants me to teach him another song, and "Heart and Soul" is pretty much the end of my piano capablilites.

We are hoping that Dave will get this new position that he is applying for and we will be able to enroll him in piano lessons!
More later!

Home Improvements

2008-09-03T10:11:00.004-05:00

I hate painting. My back hurts, my legs hurt, my shoulders hurt and I pulled a couple muscles. We spent the holiday weekend painting two rooms of our house and moving furniture around and trying to keep my patience with my children. We created a new room for our twins and another room for our oldest son. Once we finished Andrew's room last night at about 9 pm I looked around it thinking, Oh my, his room really looks like a pre-teen's room. He has his bed, and his computer desk and his bookshelf, and of course his pirate flag hanging across his wall. It amazes me on how fast he has grown up. It seems like just yesterday that we painted a room blue to match his Finding Nemo bedspread, and now we are painting so he can be in a "grown-up" room. I can't belive how time flies. According to him now all he needs is a TV (yea, right) and it would be perfect.

Back to School.....

2008-08-27T12:08:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again...Back to School!!!!!
It is my favorite time of year since, my house tends to stay a little cleaner without the boys home all day to terrorize it. :) Andrew is off to 5th grade this year, which for us means Outdoor Education and what I'm sure will be a long couple of months while he learns to play the recorder. Ethan and Alex started 3rd grade and as always are my little social butterflies. I love taking the first day of school picture, it reminds me so much of my mom taking my picture every year when I was a kid. Of course, I do not cry every year. Talk to me next year when the first day of school picture will include all my kids! It's hard for me to imagine that Taryn will be in Kindergarten next fall. What will I do with all my free time?? Hopefully learn to relax a little! :)

Do you all remember school supply shopping? Picking out the cool folders and pencils and a new backpack for the year? Now I understand why my parents didn't want to take me. It is apparerntly a 5 hour process to pick out 8 things.

I hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Back from Adventures....

2008-08-12T10:36:00.013-05:00

We had the best weekend!!! We returned yesterday from spending the weekend at AdventureLand in Des Moines. The boys thought it was awesome and we couldn't have asked for better weather! We got to Laura and Adam's on Saturday and the boys played football with Adam, and we grilled out. On Sunday we were off to AdventureLand and had a great time! Alex did ride a roller coaster, which he thought was pretty cool.

Taryn also had a good time in Edgar with Aunt Rachael and Abbi. They played and went to the Hasting Museum, where Taryn thought the Kool-Aid exhibit was the best! Hope you all had a great weekend!

A weekend of Adventures...

2008-08-08T13:58:00.002-05:00

This weekend everyone in our family is off on another weekend of traveling. Taryn left this morning to go spend the weekend with Aunt Rachael, (future) Uncle Mick, and Abbi in Edgar, NE. If you know where that is at you are a true Nebraskan...

Dave and I and the boys are off to AdventureLand in Des Moines. We are staying with my best friend Laura and her boyfriend Adam. I am so excited to see her! I'll post pictures when we come back!

My many blessings...

2008-07-31T13:36:00.002-05:00

I have spent a lot of time in the last few days, reflecting on my life and the legacy I want to leave behind. My Aunt Jan lost her battle with cancer on July 24th, but her legacy that all things are possible with God, really has hit home in last few days. I just wanted to take a moment to thank God for my many blessings.

1. My loving husband, and how everyday he makes me want to be the best person I can be, and how much he loves me.

2. My son Andrew, who is trying to overcome the grief in his life at such a young age, and the sweet way he smiles at you.

3. My son Ethan, who wants to protect everyone in his family, yet secretly wants to cuddle up on the couch with you.

4. My son Alex, who's loving disposition shows through to everyone, even when he's having a temper tantrum.

5. My beautiful daughter Taryn, who even though she got the drama queen gene from me, is still the most special girl in my life. I love they way she has such self confidence telling you "I KNOW' when you tell her she looks pretty today.

6. My fantastic family, even though we are pretty far from "normal" I wouldn't change a single moment with them.

7. Wonderful friends, the Fab Five, the people from H&H, Kearney, and Constellation, who have partied with me, cried with me and supported me in some way.

8. The fact that I know, that I am healthy and happy and enjoying life.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of the things that make me feel blessed everyday, but I just wanted to reflect and say Thank you to the special people in my life and how I feel blessed just having them around.

"If you Love Life, Life will Love you Back"

My Aunt Jan...

2008-07-16T08:23:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to write a quick note and post this site about my Aunt Jan.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/janallen

It is a great site for a loved one you have that is ill. She is a very special lady and if you get a second, read her story and the comments people have left for her and you will see what I mean. Please keep her and my whole family in your prayers.

On a brighter note, my sister celebrated her 10 year cancer-free day yesterday! I remember that time in my life like it was yesterday. I am blessed to have her in my life!

A lot of love out to my friends and family, it is days like today that you realize how important the people around you are!

Class of 1998....

2008-06-30T14:10:00.008-05:00

This weekend was my 10 Year High School Reunion. It's hard to believe that it's been 10 years since high school!!! We started our weekend with drinks out at Bandit's in GI. We definitley packed them in there! I couldn't turn around in Bandit's without running into someone else that

graduated with. So I spent most of that night running around and socializing, leaving my husband to fend for himself!

On Saturday afternoon we had a tour of the old high school, that crowd was a little more mellow, probably because we drank so much the night before, everyone was hung over. When the tour was over, Dave and I decided to go and grab something to eat at Amigos (another hangout from the high school days) and apparently that was something that everyone else thought of too, because when we were done eating about 10 more people that were at the tour walked into Amigos! We went back to my Dad's to get ready for the dinner. We had a nice turn out for the dinner and I won an award for the graduate with the most kids! Big shock there! :)

The best part was just getting to hang out with some old friends like my good friend Michelle and Roth who was my date for my Senior Prom! We all decided to take a cruise for our 20 year! I expect to have just as much fun!

I also got to spend some time with 3 of the girls that make up the Fab Five, and it was great to see them as well! We ended Saturday night with a 1:00 am visit to Perkins, which is something I haven't done in a very long time! It was a great weekend, but I am so tired!!!!

My sons, baseball stars....

2008-06-18T15:06:00.009-05:00

Ethan and Alex had their last baseball game last night. I was so proud of them and the season they had. It really was amazing to see them grow as baseball players. I have sat through 3 seasons of baseball with them, starting with T-ball and watching every member of the team run after the ball to this season where I watch them keep their heads in the game, cheer on other teamates for a job well done and be overall really excited about baseball.

Alex got to be the pitcher last night and he was so excited. He threw some good pitches and even managed a couple of strike outs!

Here they are "baseball ready" as there coaches called it. It's wonderful to see them so excited about something that could take them very far in life. (Ethan is at shortstop, Alex is farther back at Center field).

I am so proud of them!

Have a super weekend!

P.S. On a side note, Dave got a letter in the mail today saying he had made the Dean's List! Yippee!!!!!!

Vacation......

2008-06-16T13:44:00.004-05:00

Ok, so its not a real vacation, but it's close enough for me...
After tomorrow's baseball game (the last one) Andrew, Ethan, and Alex are off on a whirlwind of grandparent visiting time. So Dave and I are down 3 kids! In our house when you go from 4 kids to just 1 it is a VACATION! No more arguments, yelling, running through the house at full speed. Well, at least Taryn doens't make quite as much noise as the boys do but she can hold her own. All the boys are first going to their birth mom's parents house from Tuesday night-Sunday the 22nd. Dave's mom is going to pick up Andrew on the 22nd and Ethan and Alex are going to stay at Dave and Sandy's. We are picking up all the boys on July 3rd and going out to visit my grandma out in Imperial until the 7th. On the way home we are dropping Ethan and Alex off at Dave's mom's and Andrew off at Dave and Sandy's and then they will all be home on the 13th of July! So it will be almost a month before they are back home.
I'm glad they get this time to spend with all their grandmas and grandpas. That was my favorite part of summer vacation!

Have a great week!

Back to the grind.....

2008-06-06T10:39:00.002-05:00

Today, school started once again. This quarter I am taking Statistics and Principles of Marketing. The marketing class doesn't look like it will be to bad, but I am (as always) a little nervous about Stats. I think I will be spending some time at the Math Center for this class.

On another note,

Those of you who are parents: Do you ever feel like banging your head against the wall? Now that summer vacation has started, if I hear the words "I'm bored" come out of my kids mouth again I will probably lose it. Plus, we have had so much rain that my backyard looks like a swamp so them going outside is not an option. Poor Dave, here he is, going off about 4 hrs of sleep at night, (if he's lucky) and the kids are running around like chickens with their heads cut off. I have a feeling it's going to be a long summer!

Have a wonderful weekend!

YIPPEE!!!!!!

2008-05-23T09:37:00.004-05:00

I know my last post was about being sad, but today I found out I got a C in Intermediate Algebra. For those of you who know me, you all know how much I struggled and cried over this class! God Bless my future Brother-in-law, who helped me through these last 2 chapters, (he just graduated and is going to be teaching Math, why anyone would want to do that, I don't know). But, I am COMPLETELY done with Algebra!! Only one more Math class to go (Statistics)!!!!!!!

On a side note, my husband Dave just finished another quarter of school with a 4.0 GPA! I am so very proud of him!!!!!!!

Have a very happy Memorial Day!

Sadness......

2008-05-22T14:18:00.005-05:00

My BFF Laura, is moving to Iowa this weekend. I know it's not as far away as Nashville, which is where she moved the last time, but it is still not here in Omaha with me! :)

She is moving to Des Moines to go to school and be with the love of her life everyday! (Adam)

They are truly a wonderful pair together, but I will miss her! It is a good thing she has a verizon phone too, so that our phone bills won't be too high!

Laura and I have been best friends for almost 12 years. We have been through a lot together and there is nothing that I wouldn't tell her.

Besides my husband, Laura is my rock, the person I can always count on when I need her. That's why she is my daughter's Godmother. And Taryn really loves her Aunt Laura!

In closing I just wanted her to know how proud I am to call her my friend, and I know we will be that way forever.

Laura,

Do great things with your life and know that I am always here.

Love you!!!!!

Baseball has started!

2008-05-07T16:09:00.002-05:00

Ok, tell me if I am crazy but I just needed to get this off my chest.

Ethan and Alex had their first baseball game last night. Game time was at 5:30. At first I really liked their coaches. They really went over the basics and fundementals of playing the game. I thought it was unusal that they wanted them there 30 minutes before game time to warm-up. Thank goodness I have a sitter that is willing to take them at that time since I don't get off work until 5. Then at the game last night our coaches asked the other team if they would play "3 Out" baseball as opposed to just batting threw the line-up, so that our boys could play "more competively". How competitive do they need to be? THEY'RE 8 YEARS OLD! Plus since there is more than 10 kids on the team (12 total) instead of just sticking the extra kids in the outfield (like every other coach and team my boys have played on) they have 2 of them sit on the bench instead of going out to the field. All I have to say is if it not fun for them now, why would they continue to play??? Why does it have to be competitive? These are the reasons they don't keep score in this age group!

Ok, I'm done venting! Besides that Ethan and Alex played a great game! Both of them hit 2 singles and Ethan hit a double! I was one proud mama!!!

So Busy......

2008-05-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

No one probably looks at this anymore but I thought I would post anyway! It has been a BUSY couple of weeks. I will just give you a rundown.

1. Had my last day at H & H. Had a very long "safety meeting" where I spent time with 30 of my closest friends at H & H, I spent half the night having the best time ever and the other half of the night crying my eyes out.

2. Started my new job at Constellation. It been good, but definitley different. It has become more difficult for me to get used to working without being constantly interrupted!

3. Intermediate Alegebra is kicking my ass.

4. Ethan and Alex started baseball practice and games start Saturday.

5. Went to Kearney to have a anniversary party for his parents (40 years) it got over early so we went to Shooters (formerly The Phoenix Club, our old hangout) where we knew the members of the band that were playing so Dave did a little guest drumming. It was so good to see that look of happiness on his face.

6. On the way home I had some sort of reaction where I lost all feeling in my body and spent some time in the hospital in York.

7. Went back to Kearney last weeked for the band Sweetwater's reunion show. Got to see a lot of old friends.

8. Driving home my mom calls and my Dad is in the hospital with another possible heart attack. He spends 3 days there for them to say they don't know what happened but it wasn't another heart attack!

9. Intermediate Alegebra is still kicking my ass.

That has been my last couple weeks in a nut shell. Hope to catch up with you all soon!

Have a good weekend!

NEWS......

2008-04-02T07:15:00.002-05:00

I posted this on my myspace page as well, but just in case you don't see that here is the news again...

After much thought I have accepted a position with a company called Constellation NewEnergy and will be leaving H & H Chevrolet after 5 1/2 years. I loved my job at H & H, especially the people I worked with and it will be very hard for me to leave.

But.....the money and benefits at the new job will definitley make me feel not so sad... :)

I just couldn't turn down an opportunity that will be better for my family. Also, Dave started work as well so he will be working nights starting next week.

I will be ending my last day at H & H with a traditional "Safety Meeting" across the street at the Penthouse Lounge (it took Dave a couple "meetings" to realize we were just going there to drink beer and complain about work). It will be a tough day but I am excited to start new challenges at Constellation on the 14th!

Hope you all are having a wonderful week!

My Brother the Star!

2008-03-17T20:07:00.006-05:00

This weekend I attended the musical at the high school I went to that now my brother is a freshman at. I felt very nostalgic being there watching my brother perform on the same stage that I did 10 years ago. It doesn't seem like it's been that long! They have got some power house singers in that school! I was VERY impressed!

It was also the first time that my kids have been to a musical. It was a very long show from about 7:30-til almost 10 with a 15 minute intermission. I was SO VERY PROUD OF THEM! They were so enchanted by everything that was going on that they didn't even move! The music, the lights, the costumes and they of course loved the cookies at intermission!

We went to the show on Saturday night. But, my dad had an extra ticket for Sunday's show so me, my dad and Kelsey went back for a second time! This time we sat in the center of the 2nd row and everytime my little brother came out on stage Kelsey and I made "jazz hands" at him. At one point he did start to laugh and had to look away from us!

I was so glad I had the opportunity to share this with my family. I had such a good time doing musicals in High School that I hope my kids will love it as much as I do!

So in ending.....YOU ARE AWESOME DAVID! I was proud to sit in the audience and watch you carry on a great tradition in true Wilson family fashion! I love you!

Going Back....

2008-03-14T10:29:00.003-05:00

This weekend I am taking a trip down memory lane. I am taking my family to go and see the GI Northwest musical "All Shook Up". It will be the first time I have been back inside my High School in 7 years. It is very interesting to me that I will be going to go see a musical in my school with my kids. I was in all the musicals during high school and now we are going to watch my little brother (he is a freshman) be in the musical. I am really looking forward to my kids seeing their first show! I hope it convinces at least one of them that they need to be onstage!

Hope everyone has a great weekend and I'll post to let you all know what the kids thought!

Well, this next class should be fun......

2008-03-05T09:41:00.002-06:00

I was so excited in my last post to have finally passed my algebra class, but today starts Intermediate Algebra....................

You know it's probably my own imagination making it worse but just reading the syllabus gave me a stomach ache. Plus I'm starting to think that I have actually taken on to much for these next few months.

GOOD NEWS: Dave is going back to work! Its a second shift from 4pm-12am, so it saves us a ton in day care!

BAD NEWS: (this is where I think I took on too much) He will be gone in the evening so I will have to handle, 4 kids, dinner, homework, plus my 2 classes, work, and baseball season (2 games a week).

For those of you who know me really well, you know I am a list-maker (a trait I inherited from my mother). Dave doesn't make lists.....and doesn't really understand my list making obsession!

So, if you thought the lists were bad before..........................just wait until this all starts!

I hope you all are having a good week and we'll talk soon!

I FINALLY DID IT!

2008-02-26T12:33:00.003-06:00

I just got an email from my Algebra instructor and I was so excited that I had to share it with you. I PASSED!!!!!!! (it is a pass/fail class) This class has been very difficult for me (since this was my second time taking it) so I am so thrilled to be done with it! I hated algebra in high school and I hated it in college. Just thought I'd share my good news!

Hope your all having a good week!

Happy Anniversary....(one day early)

2008-02-22T10:22:00.003-06:00

I won't have anytime to post tomorrow so I thought I would knock it out today while I had a chance! Tomorrow is Dave and I's 6 year wedding anniversary. It's hard to imagine that we have been married 6 years already! Which means....we have been together 7 years and have known each other for 9 years! Where does the time go....

I consider myself very lucky to have a husband like Dave. He is a great husband, father, son, uncle and tries 100% at the things he does. He just finished his first semester of college and I am so proud of him for doing that!

So at this time 6 years ago I was counting my blessings that Dave and I were about to be married. And now I still consider myself very blessed that he decided to marry me.

Happy Anniversary Davis!

Being Sick.....

2008-02-19T09:11:00.002-06:00

I feel like I should put a big quartine sign outside my house. It all started with Andrew, who was sick Friday, Saturday and most of Sunday. Yesterday, Taryn woke up at 6 am with a fever. My baby, who has NEVER been sick is looking at me like she did something wrong. Dave takes the boys to school only to get a call at 9am that Ethan needs to be picked since he is running a fever and then they call again at 1:30pm that Alex needs to be picked up too! Dave spent more time running back and forth to the school yesterday than he did at home! By the time I got home from work yesterday everyone was laying around like slugs. So I grabbed a can of Lysol and a paper towel and started cleaning. They started to feel a little better (except Taryn) last night. They are all still home today and Dave informs me that he is not feeling so hot either! Guess I know what I am doing tonight too! (Pretty sure it involves Lysol!) :)

I hope no one else's family is sick!

Happy Birthday to my babies!

2008-02-18T12:46:00.007-06:00

ETHAN AND ALEX 2004

You know, when you hear the phrase "they grow up so fast" it really doesn't mean anything until you have kids of your own and you realize how very true that is! Ethan and Alex had just turned 1 year old when Dave and I started dating and today they turned 8 years old!!!!

Dave and I spent a very looooong afternoon yesterday with Ethan and Alex and NINE of their closest friends at the movie theater. It did bring back many memories of the birthday parties I had as a kid.

I couldn't tell you the number of times I had a party at Skate Island, or Super Bowl. We also had a lot of slumber parties, but my favorite party was when I was allowed to invite 2 friends and we came to Omaha, got our hair done, went to a fancy dinner and stayed all night in a hotel! So, me, Wendy and Tara had the best time! It must have been my 11th or 12th birthday since I was still in grade school.

Yesterday as I constantly reminded kids to stay with us, quiet down, quit throwing the stuffed puppy around, I thought what a good memory this will be for my boys!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ETHAN AND ALEX!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2008-02-14T14:13:00.003-06:00

To all the people in my life that I treasure.....

Happy Valentine's Day!

I love you all!!!

Parent Teacher Conferences

2008-02-13T10:50:00.004-06:00

We have parent-teacher conferences tonight for our boys, now I can remember being in school and being so worried about my parents talking to my teachers. Was I doing all right? Was I talking to much? (for those who know me well, this is always an issue!) Now, since I am I parent I have those same worries about my own kids. I wonder if they are doing all right in school. Am I doing enough as a parent to make sure they are doing the best they can. So I wonder.....

When did I become my mother??????

I'm starting to think that it was the time that I said "because I said so!" as a response to a question. My husband will tell you the first time he met my mother that he knew we were exactly the same person in almost all aspects. So for the first time in my life :) I think my mother was right when she said that I would be paid back times 10 for all the grief I put her through when I was a kid!

I hope everyone is having a good day!

Celebrating Birthdays......

2008-02-12T08:46:00.001-06:00

For those of you who don't know, December-April is Birthday/Anniversary chaos for my family.....we have a birthdays on Dec 19th and 21st, then ones on January 14th and 17th, then February starts with birthdays on the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 8th (mine), 2 on the 10th, the 15th, 18th and our anniversary is the 23rd and my in-laws are on the 29th. In March we have one on the 13th, 23rd, and 24th ending finally with one on April 17th. All of this is just immediate family and my nieces, and nephews!!!!!

So I decided to go out and have a party to celebrate my 28th birthday this last Friday. Dave and I went to Jack's Place (local bar) for drinks and karoke with 9 of my good friends! A lot of us really stop having birthday parties for ourselves unless it's a milestone birthday, 21, 30, 40 etc...
but why not celebrate the fact that you are living life and having a good time doing it! We sang, drank, talked, and celebrated my birthday and I couldn't think of better people to spend it with!!

Of course I don't think myself or any of the girlfriends of the guys we were with will be forgiven for signing all the guys up to sing N'Sync's "Bye, Bye, Bye"!!!! But they were troopers and sang the whole song!
To all who came out to celebrate.....THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!

Especially my husband, he's such a rockstar!!!!

Day One.....

2008-02-11T14:50:00.000-06:00

A couple of my friends have started blogs and my husband had had one forever so I thought it was a good idea to put my thoughts down as well so everyone knows what we are up to. So here it goes...

Last night we had to get everything ready for our boys to take to school for Valentine's Day. Now, I remember when I was a kid the excitement of the Valentine's Day Party at school. Making the boxes or bags, writing out the Valentine's Cards for all my friends and anticipating all the candy I was going to receive.

I'm sure everyone remembers picking out that special Valentine for the boy or girl that you had a crush on. Last night I watched as one of my twins set aside a special card for a little girl in his class. My thoughts instantly transported me back to 3rd grade!

I hope you all have a good week and I'll hopefully post more later!