Our Family

A New Year!!

2012-01-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

So far, 2012 has been pretty much o.k. for our little family!!! Our health has been pretty good, we have hung out with friends a few times, the weather has been very un-winter like, the IRS was wrong with their allegations against us, we are this much closer to summer already, and we have a fifth birthday to celebrate soon!
In regards to the interesting weather, we visited our favorite park last Sunday, wearing only our jackets! Drake had such a wonderful time exploring the place. The last time we were there, he was not walking so it was a whole different ballgame for him! Calla is SOOOO close to perfecting the monkey bars and is wanting another great day so we can go again to try some more. These monkey bars are only about 4 feet off the ground and have a rubber mat under it so there are hardly any fears! The new splash-ground is also done at this park so we really want Memorial Day to come fast so we can go and try it out too!

I have also included some pics we took last Sunday before church. I really wanted another cute pic of the kids together. I think I got it!!! :)

Ripp Christmas and Drohman Christmas

2011-12-31T11:21:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas with Chad's family on Christmas Eve before going to our 9PM Children's Program. It was a great evening of food and fun! The children were spoiled as usual and didn't want to have their pictures taken.
On Christmas Day we were off to my Grandma and Grandpa's house for our celebration there. Not everyone could make it, but the group that was there was rowdy and obnoxious, as usual! :)

Picture taking is not for one-year-olds...

The best family picture we could get this year. Oh well!

Chad's brother and his family

Tiny pieces of paper...

Roller skates!!!!

Another thing to race his cars on!

Daddy and Calla

Uncle Jeddy and Drake!

Teaching Grumpy Papa and Blake how to play Lala Loopsey on the DS!

A Cookie Monster that sings!

Christmas Morning--a bit early!

2011-12-24T08:01:00.000-08:00

The Big, Jolly, Red Suited Man has been here and left for another year! Earlier in the week, Santa left a note informing the children he liked their good behavior and would be visiting them a night early as a reward. Truth be told, we are leaving early tomorrow morning and we wanted them to have time to play with their new things before then. :)

Calla left out milk and cookies for Santa, 5 cinnamon pecans for the 5 elves, and a spinach leaf for the reindeer!

We shut the gate at the top of the steps so she couldn't get downstairs until we opened it!

She was SOOOO excited to come down and check it all out!

A Hula Hoop to practice with at home! There is one a school, but you have to wait your turn and then you don't get nearly enough time to perfect it!

A mini trampoline!

Drake loves his new snow shovel!

A new Littlest Pet Shop animal!

Drake really likes to biscuit jump on the trampoline!

Playing the Uno Angry Birds game!

Drake really likes his new sled too! Now we just need some snow again!

This is his new trick, get the bottom half of the doll high chair in order to reach the piano easier!

He likes his new camping chair too, soon it will be warm again and time to go camping!

Our Little Family Christmas

2011-12-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

We celebrated our family Christmas together! Calla has been asking Santa for a desk, and only a desk. Well, it wasn't in our plans to get her a desk so we knew she would be disappointed. Chad found a "new" used desk at his work this week for a great price that he wanted for his computer room. We then had an extra desk that was just perfect for Calla's room! So as a last minute gift, we gave Calla the desk she had been begging for! She is in love with it!

Drake was checking out his new shirt.

The Dorothy snow globe!

Drake is starting to figure out that it is fun to tear paper!

A Zhu Zhu pet from her brother!

Merry Christmas!

Cookie Making with a Friend!

2011-12-24T07:15:00.000-08:00

Williams Christmas & School Program 2011

2011-12-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

Calla and a few friends ready for the Reindeer Pokey!

Uncle Jeddy being silly!

Drake eating an apple. He loved it!

Drake crawled in the chair, got a pacifier and was ready for his bedtime bottle.

Trying out her new scooter!

Uncle Jeddy gave him Redi Whip from a can and he.loved.it!!!!

Jerzi and Hula!

Jeddy and his skunk...

More Redi Whip!!!!

Chad's gift had not shipped yet, so he got man soaps!

Drake showing Jeddy how to assemble the scooter!

The girls and the Crazy Uncle!

Uncle Shane and Drake!

Bayln and his Transformers, he was really excited!

Burlynn and her Princess Set!

Trying to figure out how to get his things out of the box.

Uncle Jeddy has arrived, and his hands were clean so Calla would let him pick her up!!!!

The Lala Loopsy Tree House...what a scream she let out!!!!

Santa 2011

2011-12-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Last year, Drake was just a tiny boy and didn't even get out of his car seat to visit Santa.

This year, Santa was the scariest person he has ever met!

Even with Daddy close, he was not going near that big, scary, bearded man in the red suit.

Calla, totally enjoyed every minute of sitting on that ol' man's lap. In fact, I had to tell her that she was done sweet talking him, and to let other children have a turn.

Gingerbread House 2011

2011-12-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

Calla and I worked on her Gingerbread House last night! I just put the frosting where she wanted it and then she did all the decorating. We bought a kit last year and she just had the best time working on it and has asked time and time again about doing another one!

Denver On my Mind

2011-12-02T06:39:00.000-08:00

Chad, Drake, and I went on a little adventure to Denver this last weekend/week. Drake had to have some minor surgery done that could not be completed here in town. We took a little time to explore the sights before our big adventure at the hospital! We are home and Drake is doing wonderfully and back to keeping Calla on her toes!

He loved the Cliff Diver at Casa Bonita's!

Before surgery he got to play in a small toy room and he loved this magnetic table where we moved the vehicles around.

Coming out of anesthesia...he was HUNGRY and a kinda crabby about it!

After 8 oz of apple juice, he was a bit more coherent!

At home, last night, he is pretty much back to his normal self...exploring everything. I guess we should have named him Diego! HA!

Enjoying the nice weather in Denver to explore the fountain at Casa Bonita!

A Family Celebration for Giving Thanks

2011-12-02T06:11:00.000-08:00

The Great Grand kids on my mom's side!

Hanging out at Grandma Karma and Papa Mike's!

All of the first cousins on my mom's side!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T12:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours! Today we are thankful for health, good food, friends, family, naps, nice weather, and these two cuties!

Right now it is about 62 degrees so Calla was pretty excited she can wear her short sleeve shirts still!

Turkey Trot 2011

2011-11-24T11:01:00.001-08:00

This morning I started what I hope to be a yearly tradition. I took part in the 5 mile Turkey Trot at our YMCA here in town. I have never run in more than a 5k race (3.1 miles) so I was really anxious getting up this morning and heading over there. I have been able to run 5 miles since August, but was not sure how a race would go. I am going to start training for the Lincoln Half Marathon soon so any chance I can get to run sounds like a good time to me. I ran my 5 miles in 54 minutes and 26 seconds. That would be a personal record that I am mighty proud of!

I told Chad that it should take me about an hour to run it, so they stayed home until I was almost to the finish line. Thanks for allowing me to take the time to train and participate in these fun races Chad! I love you!!

Disney on Ice

2011-11-24T10:53:00.000-08:00

This girl and I enjoyed our evening out last week to see Disney on Ice!! As always, Disney put on an amazing show! I managed to convince her that the $1.07 Sonic slush would taste way better than the $12.00 snow cone in the Cinderella cup!! We bought one last time we were there and still use the cup, but we decided we didn't need another one!

Happy Fall Y'all

2011-11-12T17:26:00.001-08:00

What a BEAUTIFUL last few days we have had here! After school, we came home and played in the back yard for an hour and today too, we got outside for a family walk and some backyard fun. We LOVE our backyard and all of the fun things we can do while out there. The last few weeks we have been working on raking up needles from the 7 pine trees out there, we love their privacy, but hate their clean up. We finally got the garden area cleaned up as well. Thankfully we have fun things for the children to do while we work.
Drake has had so.much.fun exploring the yard now that he is so mobile. He just had to check out all the fun places to play! He loves to swing and especially likes it when Calla pushes him! He does not put so many things in his mouth now so it was a bit easier to let him roam around!
Calla really enjoys swinging or playing in her sandbox. Drake was so interested in the playhouse that she was not interested b/c of that! HA! It will be fun to see what a mess they will be next summer when they can play in the sand and dirt together! I can't wait!
But first, bring on the cold weather and snow...eventually!

He loves to watch t.v. when drinking his bedtime bottle and lounge in his chair!

A bit crazy at times...

He loves to climb up on Calla's bed and jump while sitting! He does also like to stand and jump, but we only allow biscuit jumping here!

Calla had to sit with him for a picture too!

He also knows how to turn backwards and climb off of the things he climbs on to!

Calla was so serious while playing in the sand. She was making cupcakes and adding sprinkles to the top!

Children's Museum

2011-11-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

We finally renewed our pass to the Children's Museum. It ran out this summer, but we wanted to wait until Drake could enjoy it just a bit more before we started going more often. Calla was SO EXCITED that her brother could enjoy most exhibits just as much as her. I am sure we will be making weekly trips once again, especially now that the weather is colder!

Drake had a blast hanging out in the Toddler Zone discovering all there is to find there!

Calla was checking out all of the bugs.

A really cool puzzle with lots of doors to open.

The both LOVED playing this xylophone together! Yeah for them getting my musical genes! :)

The slide on the new Space Ship that just opened last week!

He thought these clouds were pretty awesome and that he should climb right in there with them!

Heading in the Escape Hatch on the Space Ship.

Riding the John Deere!!!!

Inside the Space Shuttle. It has tons of buttons to push and has real sounding astronauts that speak when you push certain buttons!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween this year with two little people to roam the hood with! We have soooo much candy that we just can't wait to eat! :) The weather was beau.ti.ful!!!! Drake had the best time just sitting in his stroller for about 2 hours and wandering the neighborhood while Calla went door to door. We are so thankful that we live in a great city, on a great street, where we are free to roam as we wish with little or no concern!!!

Drake's pumpkin is on top and I did that one. Calla's is the Cinderella one that Chad worked on for about 1.5 hours! :)

Our pumpkin shaped pizza. (could not get the pic to turn!)

Drake was supposed to be a penguin, but he barely fit in this costume!

Calla and I were both Princesses for our school Halloween Party!

Our little lobster!

My little pumpkins!

Pumpkin Patch 2011

2011-10-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day to visit a Pumpkin Patch! We have a wonderful, inexpensive, fun, exciting, little Pumpkin Patch not too far from our house. Last year, Grandma & Grandpa took the grand kids the weekend after Drake was born while Chad and I stayed home to rest with a newborn. By request, we all went this year!
They have a huge, metal slide, a mini corn maze, a regular corn maze, goats and horses, a pumpkin slinger, a hayrack ride, and even more! We had a great time and even got to cut our own pumpkin from the vine. I love living where we live so we can experience all 4 seasons and the fun things included!!

The miniature corn slide!

The mini corn maze!

The HUGE slide!!!

Corn box

Calla riding on Peanut! She loved this horse!

Uncle Shane got to help them all with the Pumpkin Slinger!

Even Drake enjoyed playing in the corn. He only tried to put some in his mouth a few times!

Happy boy!

Daddy and Calla on the hayrack ride after they picked their own pumpkin!

Burlynn loved this big slide!

The trike was much more fun when Daddy pedaled!

Hula and Drake just hanging out while some of the bunch went through the corn maze.

Our little family!

Bayln, Calla, Drake, Burlynn

Papa and Calla feeding the goats!

Happy 1st Birthday Drake!

2011-10-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

We survived the big First Birthday of Drake's!! On his actual birthday, he decided to learn to walk!! He had been crusing around furniture for quite a few weeks, but was never interested in walking with an adult's hands or with anything else. At daycare, on his birthday, he just started walking across the room. What a delight to come home and find out your baby was not only 1 now, but also walking. We went to Applebee's to eat the evening of his birthday, because that is what Calla requested!
Over the weekend, we have actually had a big family birthday party. He received so many cute outfits, which he desperately needed and so many awesome "boy" toys. We have sooooo many girl things, and very few things for boys to play with. Some of my family spent the night and we hung out some more today.
Drake, at 1 year old:
-you say: Mama, Dada, Calla, go, Ahh Boo
-you started walking on your actual birthday
-you eat just about anything we give you
-you are still up most nights at least one time, either to eat or to cuddle
-you have 2.5 teeth and seem to be working on more
-you love to be outside and ride in your stroller
-you eat just about anything you can find to pick up off the floor
-you love, love, love to play in water (bathtub, toilet, sink)

We love you so much Drake and look forward to many more exciting birthday parties!!!

It was a 'buggy' party!

The birthday boy, in his birthday clothes!

Walking with Papa!

Calla grabbed his neck when he decided to try to get down off of the step...

The morning of his actual birthday!

Sitting in his cool chair he got from Uncle Shane and crew!! He loves it!

His fun ride on Buzz Lightyear car!

Happy Birthday, dear Drake!!!

A pic of Calla when she was finished with her 1st Birthday cake!

Saying Hello to Hula!

Two hand smash!!

Feeding Uncle Jeddy!

Sticking his tongue out at Uncle Jeddy!

Ready for a bath!

Just getting started!

A Night on the Town

2011-09-17T04:11:00.000-07:00

Chad and I got to go out on the town last night!!! We have not had a night out without children since April, so it was much needed. Thanks Grandpa & Grandma for watching the children overnight so we could have some time to rejuvenate our relationship!

A Family Weekend

2011-09-05T06:09:00.000-07:00

Our family had not all been to Deshler for several months and we decided this would be the weekend! The cousins had a fabulous time together. By Sunday afternoon there were tears b/c mean things were being said (from both girls) and we decided it was time to head back home! HA! Uncle Jeddy was not there, but his Jerzi and her pups were! As always, we ate too much, watched lots of football, played a game, talked, and my Dad worked on the car. Thanks for the fabulous weekend Mom & Dad! We love you!!

Up close and personal with the pups.

An adorable face shot, look at those blue eyes!

When you hold a pup, Jerzi is really sweet about letting you do it. When you start to put it back in the box, she licks your germs off!

The dragon in the Friendship Garden.

Burlynn, Bayln, Calla, & Drake in the gazebo!

The top of the gazebo.

Burlynn & Hula :)

Running through the weeping willow branches.

The church I went to as a child! The only original church building still standing in Deshler!

2752 Flags in Honor of those that lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
Where were you when the world stopped turning?

Calla & Elly in their aprons a sweet lady from church made for them!

State Fair 2011

2011-08-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

My year would not be complete if I did not visit the Nebraska State Fair. I. Love. That. Place.
So many things (and people) to see!
We tried Swiss Cheese and Rye on a stick, chocolate covered crunchy Cheetos, a corn dog, and a yummy Philly cheese steak sandwich. I did not get to try the deep fried Twinkie on a stick. (Hey, I need a reason to go back next year!)
Calla just wanted to watch the Racing Pigs and see them eat the Oreo Cookie when they win, and ride a pony. We completed both tasks! She got a ticket from a friend (Thanks Gina!!) to do some fun things and eat some free things while there. She choose to ride the Merry-Go-Round and that completed our day.
My parents came to meet us there and hang out to help me celebrate my birthday. I have celebrated few birthdays without seeing my parents, might we weird to some of you, but my birthday just isn't quite the same if I don't see the people that helped create me!

Calla riding on Baxter!

The GIGANTIC Praying Mantis Chad found on one of the buildings. Calla's shoe is a size 7.

All the apples she picked in the Family Fun Tent.

Collecting eggs in the Family Fun Tent.

First Day of Preschool

2011-08-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Calla was so excited to be at her first day of Preschool!!! I have loved having her there with me everyday! It is so fun to see her grow and change in to a little girl!

A Fishing Trip

2011-08-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago, Calla told me that she wanted to go fishing again sometime. We decided it was beautiful on Saturday and Yanney Park would be the destination. We were there about 1/2 hour and Calla caught one fish that jumped off just before she got it to shore. Now she wants to go again so she can catch a bigger fish.

A few new pics

2011-08-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

We have moved right in to August with some fun times. We visited the county fair, mostly finished painting the house, visited the pool and park, and just spent some time together!

Drake enjoyed watching the kids at the park.

A kiddo pic before church...so hard to do when Drake just wants to go and Calla can barely hang on to him. :)

The house is mostly finished. We. love. it.

We had the greatest carnival at our county fair. They were very kind to parents, allowing us to take our children in, buckle them up, and then get them out when they were done. All without hurrying us along! They also allowed parents to ride the slide for free with their child!

As girly as she is, she did love this pink four-wheeler!

The boats were not as cool at the boats at Grandma Julie's fair because they did not have water to float in!

Parents could also ride the Merry-Go-Round for free...and we did lots!

She also loved the motorcycles!

Missouri. 2011.

2011-07-29T04:50:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my children and I set out on the Missouri, 2011 adventure! Drake had never been there to meet any of our family and Calla could not wait to get back there. We had such a great time seeing everyone and visiting a few places along the way. Enjoy!

Calla, Drake, and I at the empty tomb at the Precious Moments Chapel.

Putting on the annual show on the well house stage

Drake & Great Granny

It was hot, hot, hot and the girls had a great time in the pool!

Before we left for vacay, Drake taught himself how to play piano!

Uncle Jeddy and the kids

Uncle Shane & Drake

Great Granny & Grandpa with my kids!

The Precious Moments Chapel! It was as great as always!!

Papa & Drake It was so nice to be outside and not get attacked by mosquitoes!

The kids and a Precious Moments turtle

Granny gave my mom and I some old screen doors and windows so then I had to go searching for things to photograph. I have lots to choose from now to decide what will go in the frames. I found this cool wooden bridge while driving around trying to get Drake to sleep!

This was at one of the motels we stayed at!

Wamego, Kansas! Oz Museum!

Calla and the clown

She was SO EXCITED to see Dorothy's museum!

The giant Tinman and Grandpa and my kids!

Calla at Toto's Tacoz!

A neat windmill shot!

Toto's Tacoz! Great food and inexpensive!!

The Boys & The Girls

2011-07-17T13:29:00.000-07:00

Calla and I wanted our picture together today before church. After ours was done we decided we needed a picture of the boys too! I love my family!!!!

What a Wonderful World!

2011-07-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

The last week Calla has been running a 102-103 or higher temperature. If you read the previous post you know Drake did that, but his only lasted 48 hours. Calla's.never.gave.up. We called the Dr. on Monday and they said to wait another day and if it was still high to bring her in. Tuesday morning it was still high. Chad took her in and she has strep throat. She got 2 shots to help her heal quicker. We sure felt like fabulous parents. She didn't complain of a sore throat. She just wasn't eating. Now we know.
Today she has been feeling quite a bit better. We went to Wal-Mart this afternoon and bought her school supplies. My FAVORITE time of the year!!! It is way exciting for me to actually have a child to buy for this year. And not just for myself. :)
Tonight the children and I went to the elementary school Calla will attend next fall. The just finished a giant tree house and we finally found time to check it out. It is part of their outdoor classroom and I think Calla thinks kindergarten will be held there next year...not sure! We were going to play on their playground, but there were some people there pulling weeds and cleaning so we opted for a different park. They had a great time playing!
Thanks for checking in!

This boy LOVED the swing!

On her way up to the tree house.

inside the tree house

A view of the outside from across the yard!

The almost fully healthy girl on the slide!

Happy Independence Day America!

2011-07-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

We had a nice lazy weekend around here! Drake ran a high fever most of the weekend and after a visit to the doctor and no other symptoms it was decided it was "something viral." He rounded the corner Sunday evening and has not turned back...Praise the Lord!
On Monday, we had 2 parties to attend. First we went to Chad's parent's house to hang with them and the cousins. Then it was on to our friend's house. Both parties were lots of fun, but boy were we glad to have the big bangs over with so that we could all get some sleep!

The boys!

Calla and her usual 4th of July attire...headphones!

The girls!

The girl cousins with their headbands from Grandma Karma!

Drake just taking it all in! He didn't need no stinking headphones!

Calla is working on our special 4th of July strawberries!

Thanks Family Fun Magazine for the great idea! They were delicious!!!

We actually spent $$ on fireworks this year and did some quiet ones at our house. Chad was so excited to get an Army tank and introduce the children to that. Well it went off and both kids started crying...Chad was bummed!

Drake enjoying his first Popsicle.

Watching fireworks at Grandma & Grandpa's house!

Swimming, Swimming, in the Public Pool

2011-07-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

When days are hot, we know where to go! With temps into the upper 90s this week we hit the pool a few evenings. We have been waiting all summer for the weather to still be warm after supper so that we could do this! As an employee of the pool, I get in free. The children are under 5 so they are free, and we pay $2.00 for Chad...we didn't get a pool for our house this summer knowing it was so cheap to let someone else maintain the pool!
Drake just LOVED sitting in the corner and playing with the stuff that floated his way. It is shallow enough so that he can crawl around, but it is kinda rough on his knees.
Calla was all over the pool! She is much braver this year and is able to kick while she floats around on the floaties.
The first night I took both kids by myself and just stayed in the baby pool and we had lots of fun, but Calla really wanted to go down the water slide in the big pool. We got Chad to go with us the next night and I got to take Calla down the slide. At the bottom she got her face a little more wet than she liked and she told me that Daddy does a better job on the slide than me. I took her one more time and then it was decided that only Daddy could take her down. HA!

Happy 4th of July!!! Be Safe! God Bless America!

Community Olympics 2011

2011-07-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Community Olympics. For those of you not familiar with this; here you go! Your team consists of 10-30 adults that are willing to take part in a variety of sports. The teams are created before mid-May and are told what events are available and sign up for those they want to take part in. Our team was Recess Renegades. This team consisted of most of the people we played (And won!) Kickball League with in early spring. We did recruit a few other members (my brother Shane was one!) and were pleased with our performances during Olympics.
Some of the events:
Chad and I played coed-badminton. Lots of fun!
Shane participated in and won the men's obstacle course! He also did tug-of-war.
Saturday morning started out with a 5k run/walk. Then Shane and Chad went and played a round of alternating throw disc golf. I played in water polo...so fun! Kickball got canceled and we were devastated...
I also participated in croquet! Shane did archery and survived the rigorous Boot Camp! (It was super hot and intense!)
Saturday night they had an 80's Lip Sync and Minute to Win it competitions, our team only did the Minute to Win it.
Sunday was a 2 mile walk and then I went and did a 50M freestyle swim competition. Chad and Shane helped the men's indoor volleyball team take 4th place. We skipped out on the cup stacking to be contenders in the volleyball.
There were many other activities that our other teammates took part in and did well.
Our team finished 11th out of 25 teams!
Our children were graciously taken care of by Grandma Julie and Papa Bryan. We could not have done this without their help!
We are recruiting for next year's team...if you are dying to be a part of our team, let me know! :)

21 Day review

2011-06-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

I have come to the end of my 21 day challenge. Overall, I am pleased with my progress. I do have some areas that I could have worked harder.

Pros:
I completed both of my 5k races!! The first one I ran most of it and finished with a time of 35:27. I probably walked 1/4 mile of this race. My time was an improvement over my 5k in April where I finished in 38:04 and walked close to a mile and 1/4 of this race.
My second 5k was this weekend and I ROCKED this one!! I finished with a time of 34:11 and RAN then entire time!!!!
After these two great races, I believe my body is ready to train for a 10K .
I am much more aware of my food choices and the amount of sodium I take in daily. (Without intentionally salting any food!)
I lost 6 lbs and I am ok with that for now. I feel like I am just becoming more healthy overall and trying to not focus on the number on the scale...hard to do for me!

Cons:
I did not get in as many miles running as I would have liked to. Swimming lessons started and we have a new format this year and I have been taking time to adjust my schedule daily to meet the needs of the students.
I could have eaten more fruits and vegetables and smaller portions some days.
I didn't lose more lbs. As mentioned before, I am trying to not focus on this.

My new plan:
Tomorrow I am starting the Bridge to 10k plan.
I am going to add some strength training in to my schedule.
I am starting a new 21 day challenge. Anyone else in this time?

21 Days

2011-06-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

On June 5th, I found this moving post over on my friend Becky's blog and knew it is exactly what I had been looking for. Motivation. A reason to keep hitting the pavement. A plan to follow.

I jumped on last Sunday and set out with one thing in mind last week and that was my 21 days, one day at a time.
On Tuesday, I followed Becky's link back to the original woman that had posted about the 21 day Challenge. Tricia. Tricia is an amazing, outstanding, motivating woman that I can't stop reading about!! The short of her story is this: She weighed 278lbs and decided to take a 21 day challenge and eat healthy and move her body every single one of those days. She did it and lost 20lbs during those 3 weeks. Fast forward to today and she has lost about 130lbs and has run a marathon! Please go to her site and read about her amazing journey if you are needing some motivation!!!

I thought about not posting this here, but after my great results during my first week, I just HAD to share with all of you in hopes it would be the motivation you are looking for.

I really want to be down one pants size by the time school starts. When I get to that size, it will be the size I wore in high school...12 years ago. I have been running some this spring and have 2 5k races I am signed up for, but just really needed this extra boost to keep me moving.

Last week I traveled 10.3 miles. Running 6.5 of those miles and going on walks with Calla in a stroller for the rest.

I also started using an app on my Ipod called "Lose It!" to track what I am eating and my movement. I downloaded it several months ago, I think it was free...don't remember!

I documented my weight last Sunday (June 5th) when I started and then I got on the scale again yesterday, after one week. Guess what?? I lost 5lbs!!

My goals for this week:
eat more fiber (the app tells you the nutrients you are taking in)
eat more vegetables/fruit
run more than 6.5 miles
take a walk most evenings with my Calla girl in the stroller

Please leave me a comment if you too are taking Tricia's challenge! I want to keep up with you and your goals as well!!

Yanney Park Day

2011-06-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we celebrated Yanney Park Day here in town. During this wonderful event, the United Way has their annual Duck race. They drop thousands of rubber ducks down the canal and the top ten get prizes. We never seem to win...maybe next year! There is also live music, a food fair, jump-a-roos, fishing, and just small town fun!

The weather was just fabulous on this day and Drake enjoyed riding in his stroller for most of the day.

Calla has talked quite a bit about the jump-a-roos from last year and was so excited to see this new one. It stretched almost the width of a gymnasium and is a really cool obstacle course with this awesome slide at the end!

The swans had their 'ugly ducklings' following them around on the lake. It was a beautiful site!

Calla couldn't wait for the Duck Race to start!

Back again...

2011-06-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Thought I would tell you all about our a-ma-zing weekend we had in the big cities! Blogger decided to upload pics all in a crazy order today, so I will just comment on each one to tell you our story! Thanks for checking in on us again...you would think when I am working 1/2 time that I could update more, guess not! HA!

Two sassy girls outside Cracker Barrel! They did a cute rendition of Jesus Loves me along with the pose!

My 3 favorite men :)

Calla and the "Tin Man" at our motel!

Drake got to go swimming for the first time. He just hung out in this ring and enjoyed the water.

We visited the zoo and got to spend the day with my cousin Landon and his daughter Edyn! Calla had to compare her wingspan to an eagle!

Cute Edyn!

Calla and her otter friend :)

Drake after his swim

Long live the dinosaur at the zoo!

The Crooked House is still there too!

Drake enjoying the zoo!

Calla decided she loves flamingos at the zoo during our trip. Our public library does not have enough books for her to learn more about them...bummer!

Paper eating lion...check!

She was SO looking forward to "holding" a butterfly at the zoo. When we arrived our map for the day said the butterfly pavilion was not open until the next day...when we walked by it was open and Calla was elated!!!

Feeding the goats

Burlynn enjoying the real Taylor Swift!

So our seats were really far from the stage...it still was the best production I have ever attended!!

Calla on the caterpillar!

Calla during Frankie Ballard, she missed her nap earlier in the day.

Daddy and Calla getting excited to find our seats for the show!

Drake enjoying his first bath in the big tub!

So, I am not real proud of this picture, but I just LOVE Calla's face so I had to share. This would be when Taylor first took the stage singing "Sparks Fly." Obviously, I was bawling and Calla was awestruck! I was just so overtaken by emotion watching Burlynn and Calla see her step out on to that stage and see her!
Taylor sang for 2 solid hours. There was so much action going on during her songs that we thought we were on Broadway and not some arena! Calla has hardly stopped talking about it since and often talks about the next time we see Taylor!

Thanks again for visiting our page and sorry for the delay, I will try harder to stay on top of it!

One. More. Week...

2011-05-20T19:24:00.001-07:00

until we get to see this girl. We. Can't. Wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A new bike, Graduation, and silliness!

2011-05-15T05:36:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was a busy one! My cousin graduated from high school in Hastings so we went for the day. First, we found a fun park to play in and run off some energy after our car ride! What a great park it was! Both children did wonderful at the ceremony and then ate lots of wonderful food at the party! Calla found some new friends to run around with.
The most exciting part for Calla was that Uncle Shane was bringing Burlynn's old bike for her. She was beyond excited to get it home for a ride. Well she fell asleep on the way home and we tried to wake her up, but she was super tired. Monday morning, she was up before 7AM and crying that she didn't get to ride her bike. We got her dressed and let her take a spin before daycare. She has improved greatly since the first few times on it and we look forward to taking walks around the neighborhood soon with her!

Drake at the park! It was windy so we kept him in here and he did great!

Drake and Paige! He loved her necklace!

Chad showed her how to be silly with Pringles. Guess we won't buy them anymore! HA!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-15T05:33:00.000-07:00

I got to celebrate my first Mother's Day as a mommy of 2! I got a wonderful card that Calla wrote all by herself!!! (Makes preschool teachers happy when kids coming in know how to write!!!) I also got 6 beautiful, red roses! Thanks, Calla and Drake, I love you!!

May Day!

2011-05-15T05:31:00.000-07:00

Calla made May Day baskets for her friends at church. She had such a great time decorating the cups and deciding who she would give it to. Her friends loved their little snack that day!

He is ALIVE!!!

2011-04-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

We had several Easter Celebrations this weekend and they were wonderful! Blogger was uploading pics in weird order so sorry about them being so crazy...ugghh!

Hunting eggs at Grandma Karma & Papa Mike's house!

My beautiful children in their Easter best!

Our Family!

Checking out some of their Easter goods from Grandma Julie & Papa Bryan!

Grandma, Grandpa & the children!

She is loving what Easter Bunny left for her and Drake!

The Egg hunt here in town!

Drake trying a banana puff for the first time!

Drake at 6 Months

2011-04-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

Drake,

At 6 months
*you weigh about 15 1/2 lbs
*you wear size 3 diapers
*you wear 3-6 month or 6 month clothes
*eat 3 containers of baby food and cereal and formula each day
*FINALLY only get up one time each night
*you sleep in your own bed, on your tummy, not swaddled
*you usually put yourself to sleep now
*you LOVE Calla: even when she is shaking you, screaming in your face, keeping you awake, etc.
*you are so ticklish under your chin (just like Calla used to be)
*you really enjoy your pacifier
*love to jump in your Jump-A-Roo
*enjoy rolling, and rolling, and rolling, and rolling around on the floor
*sometimes get stuck under the couch or the chest while rolling
*you are not interested in sitting on your own (you like to arch your back!)
*you like to be where the action is and not playing by yourself where you can't see anyone
*have been healthy for about the last 2 weeks now
*you are happy unless you need something
*you have no teeth yet
*you have some fuzzy hair that I love to spike in to a mohawk

Drakers! We love you to the moon and back again!!!

A Getaway Weekend!

2011-04-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

We got to go to my parent's house over the weekend to celebrate Burlynn's 5th birthday! Here are some pics of the fun we had!

Calla insisted they have a picture together b/c they had not had one for a while!

Easter Egg hunt! We will not all be together for Easter so the girls got to have their hunt early. It was a beautiful day for it too!

Drake and my Grandma Lorene :)

The birthday girl and her Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle cake!

Shane was excited to get a Ninja Turtle shirt to match Burlynn's!

Quick! Take a picture before I roll over 13 more times and end up way across the floor!

My babies!

Professional Pictures!

2011-03-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share a few of our pictures we had done! I love them!!!! Our friend, Kent, at Plonkey Photography did them for us. Check him out on Facebook. Look for Plonkey Photography in Kearney.

I shared this pic of Calla when she was about the same age as Drake! How similar they look!

It's only been a week!?!?!?

2011-03-20T17:34:00.000-07:00

So as I sat down to write this, I was looking at my last post. One week ago I wrote about Chad and Calla in the snow. Today it was 72 degrees here and we played outside all afternoon! Also we look at all that has happened in only one week.
Sunday night was a long one with Drake. He was up quite a bit and seemed to be coming down with a cold. Monday morning he had a 100.6 temperature and so we decided we would split the day and keep him home. Since we had had RSV about a month ago we also decided we should call and get him in for an appointment. Chad sent me a text at 8:35 that said Drake had been crying for close to an hour and to get the first appointment available. I called in and had to wait for the nurse to call me back. She called me at 9:10 and we set an appointment for 9:30. By this time Drake had calmed down and went to sleep, but his breathing was really troubled. At the Dr.'s office they got right in and immediately were concerned with his breathing. They drew blood to check his white blood cell count, took a nose swab to check for RSV and Influenza, then did a chest x-ray to check for pneumonia. After all of this and an hour and a half later they decided it was a lung infection and he needed to go straight to the hospital. Chad was with him all this time and had sent me a few text updates. He called to tell me they were hospital bound and that I should finish class and then come. Well...I had 35 minutes of class left but I sure didn't stay. I told my para what was going on, talked to two fellow Christian friends at school asking for prayers, called my superintendent and made a beeline for the hospital. When I got there, Drake was having his oxygen monitor attached to his foot and laughing at the nurse. What a relief to walk in and see that!!
He had his vitals checked about every 1/2 hour and then about 3:00PM we started his breathing treatments with the respiratory therapist. We did them every 2 hours for the next 12 hours. His oxygen levels never got below 90 so he never had to be put on oxygen...Praise the Lord! Chad's parents willingly took Calla for the night and picked her up from daycare and spoiled her rotten and took her back Tuesday morning!
At 3:00 Tuesday afternoon we were told we could go and left the hospital about 10 minutes later...we were ready!
During the night, he screamed for over an hour. We just thought he was extra tired and because of the albuterol he could not sleep. At noon on Wednesday, he had a 103.2 temperature. We called and got him in to the Dr. at 1:30. While there, all of the same tests were repeated. It was finally decided he had pneumonia! Uggh! I thought we were going back to the hospital. Instead they gave him a shot and then a different antibiotic and continue the breathing treatments every 4 hours all at home.
He sound pretty good most of the time now, but when it is close to treatment time he gets kinda rattley!!
We have not given him cereal all week because we wanted to let him be for some parts of the day! We did give him sweet potatoes and bananas this weekend and he loved them both!

Hospital cage bed! He didn't use it because he slept with me in the normal bed.

The sweet nurse brought this to him Tuesday morning and he played for a while!

Calla in her "Patrick's day dress shirt!"

Chilling at home!

Sweet potatoes!

Seven Years

2011-03-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago today I married the most giving, informative, caring, geeky, loving, amazing guy in my world!
Seven years ago we were living in Lincoln, had jobs not careers, lived in an apartment, had lots of money to spend, could sleep and wake on our own schedules, had lots of time for friends, went out to eat, and watched T.V.
Today we live in Kearney, have careers we love, own our 2nd house, owe lots of $$ to daycare each week, have schedules dictated by a 4-year-old and a 5-month-old, very rarely see our friends, eat fast food if we eat out, and watch Bubble Guppies on DVR.
Whoa!!
I would not change one single minute of this great 7 year ride we have been on. Things have not always been easy, but together we have made it through. Calla and Drake are just amazing additions to our family and we are so blessed that they were chosen for us!
I love you Chad!

Then.

Now.

Swimming & Sledding

2011-03-13T18:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it was 55 degrees here. Chad worked in the garage doing some cleaning. Calla rode her tricycle around the driveway most of the day. Drake and I stayed inside because it just wasn't quite warm enough for him to be outside. At one point Calla came running inside, screaming, bawling, carrying on. I ran to the door to see if something tragic had happened. "Daddy said I can't swim in the garage!" Well Calla it is just a bit cold to swim outside. "I want to swim in the garage and it won't be cold in there." How about we swim in the bathtub?!?! "Yeah!!! Mommy's nicer than Daddy!" Pffffffffffft Daddy!!

Today it was 30 degrees here. We got close to 2 inches of snow this afternoon. Thanks to daylight savings time it was still really light outside at 6PM. Chad and Calla went out to build a snowman and go sledding. It was the best snow for a snowman and took very little effort to form the body. It was much harder trying to decide what to make her face from.

Five Months

2011-03-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

Drake is 5 months old today! He weighs right at 15lbs. This week he started rolling over from back to front pretty consistently and screams when he gets to his stomach and can't figure out how to roll to his back again. If you let him get mad enough, he will roll back over, but we aren't mean parents like that. He loves to chew on everything. Cereal is his new favorite food, but still really enjoys his bottles. He is finally drinking 6oz at most feedings, but still wants to eat every 4 hours...round the clock. His eyes are really blue except for a nice brown fleck in his right eye. He adores Calla and all of her noisy antics. Of course he spends the most time with her and looks for her when he can't see her but just hear her voice. His jump-a-roo is a favorite toy at home now. Most nights he actually sleeps in his bed, swaddled, and not in the bouncy seat. He has been on more antibiotics in his life then Calla has been on in her 4 years. We hope that germ season is over soon and he can build some immunity. We love you Drakers!!!

Drake's Cereal Adventure

2011-03-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

Drake got a taste of his first 'real' food last week. He really enjoys it! Nothing like rice cereal when you are 5 months old. While feeding him Calla told me to try some, I stuck my finger in and tasted it. I told her it wasn't too bad, so then she had to try it. Now every time we feed him she wants to taste it!

Snow Day and Tumbling!

2011-03-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

Monday it snowed. All day. Tuesday another system. Even worse. Monday night schools canceled for Tuesday. Winter storm warning. Six to 12 inches of snow expected. Tuesday morning warning changed to an advisory. Four to six inches of snow expected. Noon Tuesday still no snow. Now expecting 1 to 3 inches of snow. About 5:00PM started freezing rain. A bit slick. Lots of happy teachers and students. Several mad superintendents. Sometimes the weather man is right. Sometimes he is not. One more day of school added to the end of the year. Big deal.
Tuesday evening. Calla had tumbling. Class at the YMCA. Calla calls it "CMY." Tumbling was fun. Super fun. Asking every day, "Is it Tuesday?" Can't wait to go back "free (3) more times!"

Drake's Dedication

2011-02-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

Today we had Drake's Dedication at our church. We were so blessed to have most of our family here to celebrate this special day in Drake's life! We are also so blessed to have such a wonderful church family that is willing to aid us in the Christian upbringing of our children.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.
Deuteronomy 6:5

Train up a child in the way that he should go, when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6

Eileen baked this wonderful cookie to share with everyone today!

Our handsome fella!

Pastor Dave and our family.

Our little family!

Calla helped open up Drake's gifts.

Drake and Papa Mike!

Calla's 4th Birthday Party!

2011-02-20T18:12:00.000-08:00

Whew!!! What a FABULOUS day we had here!!!! We celebrated Calla's 4th Birthday with a wild My Little Pony party, lots of family, lots of laughs, lots of food, lots of toys, and a Whoopee Cushion!

Calla's pinata hat after it was broken.

Blowing out the candles!

A little picture by the fireplace...Burlynn didn't want in.

Calla and Grumpy Papa

She was "so sided" (excited) that she got a Barbie Car!!!

A pic of Calla and some of the gifts.

Four silly, cute girls eating lunch!

My pretty girl before church!

My wonderful children together!

The birthday party room.

This was our cake project that started Friday night. We started with our yellow cake mix and Calla decided she wanted it to be purple, pink, and blue.

In the pan, ready for the oven.

Out of the oven.

All decorated!

This is what the inside looked like! It was really hard to get a picture, but it looked pretty awesome! (Gel food coloring works the best!)

The party room this evening. One happy, tired girl that can't decide what to play with first!

(Calla got a Whoopee Cushion from Great Grandma Mona. My brother Shane had a wonderful time placing it under people the rest of the day.)

I love you Calla! You have matured in to such a beautiful little girl. You have a big heart and lots to say. I pray that you continue to have such a great love for life and all of those around you!!
Happy 4th Birthday Baby Girl!!!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2011-02-20T17:25:00.000-08:00

Calla and her heart shaped pizza she made for supper!

My little love bugs before daycare!

R.S.V.

2011-02-20T17:20:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago, Drake was diagnosed with R.S.V. Not at all a fun week in our house. The happy, easy going baby Drake turned in to a crabby, non-smiling, needy baby. We spent the week holding him, trying to get him to eat, holding him, giving (forcing) him medication, holding him, trying to get him to smile. He slept in his bouncer seat that week so that when he coughed he would be not laying down flat. Well now, he wants to be held a lot and will pretty much only sleep in his bouncer seat. He no longer has a cough and his nose runs only when he is upset.

Thank the Lord he got over it pretty quickly and only required one dose of meds and no hospital stay!!