Outwit, Outlast, Outplay

We are "Survivors" of another school year! Our staff gathered at Great River Bowl for a night of fun on Thursday. Many of the grade level teams came dressed in spirit wear to bid another year good-bye. The "Survivor" theme was perfect for our grade level... by the end of May, most of us can say that we're exhausted and ready for summer vacation. I love my job, don't get me wrong...it's just that June, July, and August make me love it even more. Our team did not score the most points, but I think we were in the running for having the most fun. I feel so lucky to be working with such wonderful teachers and friends!

I Remember

I remember family traditions and homemade bouja.

I remember you whispering in my ear that I was special every time you hugged me.

On Memorial Day, we not only get to sleep in late (unfortunately my kids haven't learned this yet), have the day off, and go to potlucks and picnics, but more importantly we get to remember all those who are with our heavenly Father.

The kids were delighted to hear they didn't have to go to daycare today and that they got an extra day at home with mom and dad. After explaining the reason we got to stay home, Nolan was very curious...as always. We discussed those who have served and are serving in the war for our country, along with grandparents we miss dearly.

Our family had a great day. We spent the morning playing and getting caught up around the house. Great Grandma met us for lunch at Jimmy's...we took a long afternoon nap....swam with some friends before dinner...and had a yummy summer meal this evening. It was a perfect day!

It doesn't take a special day out of the year to remember my grandparents and relatives who are in heaven...it takes moments. Life is full of moments that remind me of them, and for this I am thankful. Nothing can take away the memories I have with my grandparents. They hold a very special place in my heart. I remember big events like summer vacations, sleep-overs, cooking lessons, card games, shopping, movies and popcorn ...to small details like suspenders, their laugh, high fives, their smile, mannerisms, and hugs. I remember their hands...hardworking and tender loving. Teaching hands, encouraging hands and hands that picked me up when I was down. Most importantly, I remember how much I loved them...and how much they loved me. You will never be forgotten.

Apple Duathalon

Since 1999, Mike has participated in the Apple Duathalon race here in Sartell. This race has changed a little over the years, but has remained popular for many athletes. This year's event hosted approximately 450 runners and bikers from 27 different states. Many elite athletes compete in the 5K Run-33K Bike-5K Run because it is a National qualifier for other big-wig triathalons.

This race brings back a lot of memories for Mike: racing with his two best friends from high school (Jon K. and Charlie S.), running it individually and on relay teams, winning a $1600 bike during one of the drawings, and blowing a tire in the middle of the 33K bike ride.

This was my second successful Apple Duathalon as well. Jeni Schad and I did a relay in 2005 (the year between Nolan and Lilly) and placed 2nd in the Female Relay Division. We had to tease the guys because we were awarded a "granite apple" on our first attempt. Not even sure what our time was that year, but it was pretty exhilarating.

We were both excited to participate today. The weather was near perfect. Cool, but not too cold and sunny. There was a little more wind than I think most would have liked, but we all had a stretch with it at our backs. Mike had intentions of competing alone this year, but at the last minute Jon K. and himself created a dynamite duo. Mike is a strong runner as many of you know, and Jon is a stellar biker. They had an outstanding race and ended up placing 2nd in the Male Relay Division with a time of 1:39.00 They finished 4th out of 40 relay teams and about 84th overall.

I ran on a relay team as well. One of their guys friends who is also a biker needed a runner. So, on Wednesday of last week, Mike called me and told me I was running the race too. Matt and I had a lot of fun and did pretty well too. We finished in the middle for relay teams with an overall time of 2:02. I ran my first 5k in 25:07 and my second one in 27:10.

We celebrated with the House of Pizza Fit Club after the race. Thanks Charlie and Jeni for hosting your annual BBQ. (Your BBQ is another great memory.) Congrats to all our friends who participated. And a special thank-you to my Dad and Mary for coming to help us with the kids and cheering us on.

House Hunting

Mike and I have been putting the whole house thing on hold this spring for numerous reasons. First of all, it is no surprise to anyone...the ECONOMY! Secondly, the floor plan I designed last summer is proving to cost a lot of money. No more than we expected really, but A LOT more than buying an existing home in this buyer's market. Enjoying apartment life is another reason we held off. Who wouldn't like to get out of shoveling, yard work, and constant home repairs to enjoy a pool, heated garage, community rooms and fitness center? Lastly, just because we could! There has been no pressure to do anything. We consider ourselves lucky because we are in a perfect position to just go with the flow.

About two weeks ago, Mike and I had a serious conversation about this situation. What was it we really wanted? Of course the thought of my dream home on Mike's dream land was still appealing, but after much discussion we decided it might not be the "smart" thing to do. So, we settled on keeping an open mind and scoping out houses for sale in Sartell. I warned him that I would be very picky, because I not only drew up my house plan and knew what I wanted, but because we could be. We had actually gone through about a dozen houses before moving into the apartment, just in case we could avoid apartment life all together. Obviously, we had no luck. Mike claims he could move into just about anything...and pretty much lets me choose which houses to tour.

So, on the Internet I went looking to see what was placed on the market since last November. To my amazement, I found eight in our price range that I thought would be worth our time. Mike contacted our trusty realtor about showing times. These are the houses we walked through:

This rambler sits on a nice lot with several full grown trees in the back yard. It had a lot of perks, but we didn't get the feeling we wanted when we toured it.

When we walked up to this house, I thought it was going to be the one. The yard and landscaping were beautiful. The open entry and kitchen were also very nice. A theater room, deck, and granite counter tops made it almost perfect...until, we walked upstairs. The bedrooms were extremely over decorated for my taste. A lot of remodeling would have been needed before moving in.

This house has nice curb appeal...but that is about it. Not impressed with the layout and odd paint colors. We pretty much walked in and out of this one.

This house sat on a corner lot with a pond in the backyard. It was brand new and that was something that attracted us to it. The inside had many unique touches that made it quite charming. Even though it was new, it needed more work. A lot of paint touch ups, closet hardware, washer/dryer, deck, sprinkler system and yard were some things we would have had to do prior to moving in. The location wasn't our favorite either.

This house was also brand new. It was on the Parade of Homes a while back, and I remembered it being a rambler and built by a well known builder. When we toured it, we were very disappointed. A lot of touch ups would have needed to be done. The floor plan was a little choppy and not quite what we were looking for.

This beautiful two story home over looked a pond. When you were on the deck, it almost felt like you were sitting out on a lake. The inside was also very charming. Many very unique characteristics made it appealing...unfortunately, a little impractical... at least for our family. There was evidence of a dog as the hardwood floors were very worn.

Loved the neighborhood and how clean this home was. It had a lot of space with the bonus room above the garage, but the floor plan wasn't quite what we were looking for either. Not sure the formal dining room would get used and the house sat on a lot that was so so.

http://www.wampach.com/Nav.aspx/Page=http://www.justsnooping.com/tours/2500470/

This final home is a story in itself. It actually began about five years ago...it was about five years ago, when Mike and I drove through this neighborhood looking for land to purchase. I was in love with the wooded lots, but Mike wasn't in love with the price. They were asking $160,000 for a single lot. When we came across the acreage we currently own for about the same price, it was a no brainer...in Mike's mind that is. Most guys dream about owning land, I on the other hand, am a city girl. The idea did grow on me as we started discussing an ideal floor plan and all that the country had to offer.

I felt it was in my best interest to drive by each of the eight homes we wanted to see prior to the showings... just to get the first impression part over with.

In all honesty, when I drove by this one, I got a very nervous, excited stomach. Here sat a house on one of the lots I wanted five years ago! I went straight home and called our realtor and told him that I thought I found our house. He chuckled at my intuition and sadly told me he wouldn't be able to get me in until our scheduled Wednesday showing. This was painful news, because it meant I would have to wait six days!!! So I surfed the Internet and viewed more pictures of homes. At that time, I came across a list of Open Houses for the weekend. Yes, you guessed it...this one was scheduled to be open on Sunday from 12:00-1:30.

I barely made it to the Open House, but managed to squeeze in five minutes before it was over. I did a quick walk through and thanked the realtor for his time. When he asked me what I thought, I told him the only thing I could find wrong with it was deciding which child would reside in which bedroom. I played it pretty cool with Mike when I got home, because he often thinks I rush on things and am easily excited. In three days, he would see it for himself.

This happened to be one of the last homes we toured on Wednesday. I was very anxious to see what Mike thought. The minute we walked in the front door, he was impressed with the white walls, wood work, windows, and open floor plan. The house was very clean and well taken care of. He was pleased with the bonus room, jetted whirlpool tub in the master bath, and heated floors in the basement. He was also happy to see a bar and rec. area in the basement. The icing on the cake was the screened in porch that overlooked a huge "wooded" backyard.

He could see us living there...just like I could. We both knew that this house was move in ready and could be made ours.
Another bonus: the price had just been reduced. It was $30,000 less than when I toured it during the open house just days before.

We worked with our realtor and placed an offer on it today. With only one counter offer, we came to an agreement. We even managed to get the hot-tub that sits out on their screened in porch and the beautiful pool table. We need to schedule the inspection and finish up with one financing piece before it's official. The bottle of champagne will sit in the fridge until it is all said and done.

5K My Way...the Cold Way

Our family signed up to run the 5K My Way about a month ago...not anticipating it would actually be a 5K the Cold Way. Before the race this morning, I had to go into our storage garage and dig out our winter attire! Who would have thought we would be participating in weather like this? Only in MN can it be 33 degrees with 30 mph winds on May 16th! Mike pushed the kids in the double jogger and did remarkably well considering the weather. He finished 13th overall with a time of 22:45. I finished with a time of 26:07...not too bad since I honestly couldn't feel my legs the whole first mile. Unfortunately, the time they called out for me does not match the one they recorded. Several numbers blew right off the table moments after my finish. Again, only in MN! Despite the weather, it was a great event!

Congratulations to my dear friend Denell. She is such a stud!

Nolan also participated in the children's 1K and did very well. He followed the Lion pacer the whole first lap and was able to pass him on his second lap. Nolan came into the finish with a smile. He received his second medal today and is very proud to be a runner like his mommy and daddy.

I Am

I Am a big brother.

I Am silly.

I Am a mama's boy.

I Am adventurous.

I Am creative.

I Am loud.

I Am friendly.

I Am sensitive.

I Am a thinker.

I Am an observer.

I Am happy.

I Am smart.

I Am a character.

I Am my daddy's little buddie.

I Am a cheese lover.

I Am imaginative.

I Am a nature lover.

I Am spoiled (loved) and lucky.

I Am a fan of anything with wheels.

I am outgoing.

I Am a Pre-schooler.

I Am special.

I Am a talker and storyteller.

I Am caring.

I Am my mom's favorite little boy in the whole wide world.

I Am a button pusher.

I Am a jokester.

I Am a goof ball.

I AM...FIVE!

Happy 5th Birthday to our very special boy. You've grown up too fast. Having a five year old around is a lot of fun. You are ready to tackle just about anything, and we love being able to do so many grown-up things with you. We hope you always keep your sense of humor, spirit, and zest for life. Smile and be you...we love you!

Small Success = Big Future

As a parent, it is our job to feel proud of our children. It is only natural to want to share their success stories with others. Not in a way that comes across as bragging, but in a way that says, "WOW! Look at what Nolan/Lilly can do."

Most of the time, our kids take us by surprise...either by the things they say, or the things they do. I often have to ask Mike, "Did you teach them that?" Ninety percent of the time, I get a "No, did you?" response. Sometimes, we simply look at each other with widened eyes, which means; "Where did that come from?" Nolan and Lilly continually amaze us.

I often wish my brain could retain what theirs did. They are like sponges, soaking in everything they hear and see. And to be honest, I wish they didn't repeat and act out everything they've witnessed! =0) I guess it goes with their "job description"!

We had a little down time tonight (amazing in itself), so we dug out some puzzles. Nolan has been doing the 24 piece puzzles since he was about 2 1/2, and has always loved them. Lilly on the other hand, has had NO interest...until tonight. She received a couple of puzzles for her birthday and was actually excited about giving it a try. Diligently, she worked on the living room floor, while Nolan assembled his on the coffee table nearby. They both insisted on doing them on their own. So there Mike and I sat, AMAZED! Lilly, slowly but surely, got hers together... as did Nolan. Although Nolan has been doing them for quite some time, tonight he completed his first 100 piece puzzle...on his first try, with NO help!

Every parent hopes for a big future for their children. It's only natural to want the best for them. Mike and I look at these milestones and pray that they continue to grow and be successful.

Preschool...Live in Concert

Nolan was a "Medium Sized Goat"

Not shy about singing out...

Right on Rhythm

You're so silly...this was part of the song/dance Nolan taught us.

Nolan's #1 Teacher: Mrs. Smoley

We attended Nolan's first music concert tonight. Eighteen little four and five year olds performed with much enthusiasm for us. They reenacted the "Three Billy Goats Gruff" story, sang various songs, used instruments, danced, and even taught us how to boogie. Nolan has really had a great year in Mrs. Smoley's class. She is an awesome teacher. Her style fits Nolan's personality perfectly...always so upbeat, energetic, creative, positive, and patient. He has come a long way since the beginning of the year and for this we are very proud. I couldn't stop smiling at him tonight as he performed for us. He sang loud enough for us to hear him, smiled at us while he sang, beat the drumsticks in near perfect rhythm, and knew exactly what to do. It was a shining moment for him, and another reason for Mike and me to be proud parents.

I BELIEVE

The day I became a mom, my direction in life changed. On that day, I began living for someone other than myself. From the moment my baby was placed in my arms, I began to see things from a new point of view. A love like no other started at that moment. It was an intense feeling...a true, deep down feeling that far exceeded any other emotion I had ever felt. I never thought I could love something more than that baby that was in my arms, until........baby number two was placed there two years later.

My heart swells with unconditional love for my children. They bring me so much happiness and help me stay focused on what is important in life. They make me feel like a child at times and point out beauty in the littlest things. The joys of motherhood cannot be numbered, for there are too many to count. The simple, innocent things they do continue to make me smile every day. I have truly been blessed with the gift of motherhood and believe it's the most rewarding job out there. They are what I live for. I am proud to be their mom and happy to be celebrating with them today.

Being a mom has made really think about what I BELIEVE in:

I BELIEVE in miracles...each child is a unique and unrepeatable miracle.

I BELIEVE that there is no greater love than the love shared between a mother and her children.

I BELIEVE that children cannot have too much love and attention.

I BELIEVE that children bring families together.

I BELIEVE a child fills a place in your heart you never thought was empty.

I BELIEVE family dinners make a difference.

I BELIEVE the love for your children is immeasurable.

I BELIEVE motherhood has made me appreciate and cherish the simple things in life.

I BELIEVE that God is the heart of a healthy, happy marriage.

I BELIEVE I am not in control of everything, and sometimes it's best to let go.

I BELIEVE laughter is the best medicine.

I BELIEVE that belly laughs are good for the soul.

I BELIEVE that everything happens for a reason.

I BELIEVE in working hard for what you want.

I BELIEVE in the power of sunshine.

I BELIEVE in doing what you say and saying what you mean.

I BELIEVE in love and happily ever after.

I BELIEVE I married my soul mate.

I BELIEVE that a true friend is hard to find, but one you will have forever.

I BELIEVE that change is good.

I BELIEVE in the power of positive thinking.

I BELIEVE that a promise is a promise.

I BELIEVE that good things come to good people.

I BELIEVE knowledge is a good thing and one can never have enough.

I BELIEVE in the power of prayers.

I BELIEVE it is better to give than to receive.

I BELIEVE chocolate can relieve stress.

I BELIEVE that love conquers all.

I BELIEVE that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.

I BELIEVE that my family has made me who I am...and for that I am grateful.

I BELIEVE that I am a work in progress; that I am not perfect; and that I am never too old, to find something new, to BELIEVE in.

I BELIEVE that being a mother is the greatest gift I've ever received.

Party Like A Pirate

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

We celebrated Nolan's 5th Birthday this weekend like a bunch of pirates. On Saturday morning, eight of his preschool friends joined us for swimming, a treasure hunt, pin the patch on the pirate, pizza, cake, and various other pirate games and activities. The kids had a wonderful time hunting for gold coins, sword fighting, breaking the pinata, and talking like pirates. Nolan was so anxious to have his first "friend" party...and loved every minute of it.

After nap, the festivities continued with the relatives. Since the room was rented, the decorations were up, and we were still in party mode...why not have the family celebration for both Nolan and Lilly's on the same day?! So off to the pool we went...more food, more cake, more presents, more fun! The kids went to bed very happy and tired last night!

Thank you everyone for contributing to the party. The food was delicious! A big thank you goes out to Great Grandma for the very special birthday cakes. Nolan and Lilly have had these cakes picked out for almost a full year now. (The cakes were what inspired the themes of their parties this year.) They were truly masterpieces and something they'll never forget.

More Party Pics.

Ahoy Matey's...check out my cool cake!

Lilly's Princess Castle Cake...who do you think is the queen of the castle?

We're so happy to have everyone here to celebrate tonight...


A princess alarm clock!
This is no ordinary alarm clock...
the kids were amazed to see it project stars on to the ceiling
and talk like a princess when we plugged it in.


A princess bike for our little princess.
She is ready to ride with her brother now!

Thank you everyone for the generous and wonderful gifts. It was really easy to entertain them today. Nolan played with his Magnetics and Army men for close to two hours before church. He enjoyed his bath toys twice today already, took a nap with his Webkinz, drove his remote control Hummer around the parking lot, and wore his new bike helmet to the park tonight.

Lilly is loving her new doll house accessories, My Little Pony set, and clock. She was actually excited to take a nap today, because she couldn't wait to see the stars on the ceiling again. She tried out her new bike this evening as well...and did awesome for her first time on a big girl bike. Our kids are very lucky.

P.S. I spotted a toy organizer on sale in the Target ad today...you know me, only trying to keep order in this apartment!!!

Thanks again everyone!

Mithing Tooth

Mithing Tooth

Child:
I’m having trouble thpeaking thinthe I lotht my little tooth.

Jutht yethterday my tooth wath fine—today it wiggled loothe.
At firtht I thought it thilly

when my tooth fell out today,

but no one theemth to underthtanda thingle word I thay.
I athked my mom to clothe the door. She thaid,
Mom:
That would be rude.

The door does not like wearing clothes;

it’s happy in the nude.
Child:
I thaid a mouthe wath in my room

and she should come and thee. She thaid,
Mom:
Your mouth is on your face;

it’s right where it should be.
Child:
I wonder if you underthtand the thircumthtanthe I’m in.

I told her I wath feeling thick. She thaid,
Mom:
You’re looking thin
Child:
At latht she thaw how mad I wath

and thought I might thtop breathing.

She laughed and thaid she didn’t mean it—

She wath only teething.
THE END!

We discovered Nolan's first wiggly tooth yesterday. He was shocked actually! He couldn't resist wigglying it with his tongue and telling everyone he saw about it. Of course, it was exciting news... and news like this must be shared. He considered himself lucky to have a loose tooth...especially since this meant the Tooth Fairy would hopefully be paying him a visit. He didn't want Mike or I to touch it yesterday, and insisted that it would fall out on its own. I was a little worried he'd swallow it, so we kept a pretty close eye on it today. After dinner tonight, it was ready! (Even though he wasn't sure he was!) He wanted me to feed him an apple- or at least hold the apple straight so he could bite into it. That just about did the trick, but not quite. It started to bleed and was hanging on by a thread. He wanted to give up, but both Mike and I knew that it really needed to come out before he fell asleep. A little more talk about the Tooth Fairy got him fired up enough to allow Mike to give it a quick tug. A second later, he was grinning from ear to ear as we all celebrated the mithing tooth! I think the anticipation and unknown made him fearful, but once it was over, he was thrilled. He couldn't stop checking out the hole in the mirror. His tongue is drawn to the new empty space and he laughs when he takes a drink.

A tooth fell out and left a space

So big, my tongue can touch my face.

And every time I smile, I show

A space where something used to grow.

I miss my tooth as you may guess,

Lucky me, I get to brush one less.

Dear Tooth Fairy,

This is my very first tooth. Could you please let me keep it? I would be very happy if you left me a surprise under my pillow tonight. Thank you.

Love, Nolan

p.s. Neither Nolan or I wanted to part with the first missing tooth, so we decided to leave her a letter. Hopefully she'll let us keep it! =0)

Riding in First Class

When Nolan and Lilly woke up from their naps today, Mike told them he had a very special surprise. He told them we would be going to the school for the "Vehicle Fair". This event was planned by Mike and members of the Early Childhood Program to help raise money for the young learners in our community. Numerous work vehicles were parked on school property for kids to see. Because Mike lined up the Limo for the event, it was ours to use for the day. So...the kids got transported to the event in style.


They were thrilled when the car pulled up in front of our apartment building this afternoon. Lilly thought she was a princess...she even told me she should have been wearing her glittery shoes. Nolan just thought it was cool. He couldn't get over how long it was. The seats were slippery and they didn't have to sit in a car seat!

Mike was the perfect chauffeur. He escorted several kids to the event and even took us all out for ice-cream before returning it.

Sixteen people in one vehicle....a night to remember!

My Little Characters

We love your character Lilly. So spunky, full of life, and sweet. Your personality shines bright in every room you walk in to. The man who drew your picture today said that you were perfect for the job! You sat and smiled so sweetly the entire time he drew your picture. (approx. 10 min.) Everyone in line couldn't help but smile right back at you. Your happiness is contagious! You made me giggle when I told you that your cheeks must be getting sore from all the smiling...you touched them to see if they were and looked me straight in the eye and said, "No mommy, they're not sore...they're just happy!"

A personality that is uniquely yours is developing right before our eyes. So caring, adventurous, and energetic. You have a bounce in your step and a twinkle in your eyes that makes those around you smile when you're near. Your dad and I love to watch you experience life and all that it has to offer. You've grown up so fast...too fast to be honest. I love the dimple in your cheek and the fact that he caught that. I hope you hang on to those squeezable, kissable (baby) cheeks a little while longer. You're a super special kid and we love you Nolan!

These drawings were done at the S.T.A.R.S. Carnival we attended today. It was a fabulous, family event put on in our community to help support Children's Mental Health. The kids had a blast playing games, bouncing in the inflatables, eating homemade cotton candy, and making projects...while I stood in line 45 minutes to have these drawn. It was worth the wait. Both kids really enjoyed sitting there for the sketches.