Valentine's Day

Hope you all have a wonderful, memorable and loving Valentine's Day!

Even though Nate and I have never celebrated this holiday, I still enjoy it a lot. It's fun to dress up in red and/or pink, pass out special treats and tell all the people you love how much you love them. I especially enjoy it now that I have kids to share in the fun activities with, like we did today. (Sadly I did not capture any good pictures.) We spent the morning with all our friends at a local open gym playtime. The kiddos ran around, rode bikes, went through tunnels and laughed a lot. We then ended our time by having a Valentine exchange. Elyse had been talking about giving out her Valentine's and suckers for a week. So it was no surprise she loved it. Then right when we got home she couldn't resist but open up all the ones she received (and Caleb's too). So much fun, and such a great Valentine's memory.
A special thank you to all the moms and kids who came today.

35 Weeks

Today marks 35 weeks, only five more weeks until baby boy is scheduled to make his appearance. I can't believe it and I am in no way shape or form hurrying these upcoming five weeks. There are a few reasons (in no particular order) why I feel this way. First, the thought of giving birth is a new and scary experience to me. I have been reading many books and talking with many people which has brought me encouragement, but still it is very new. Secondly, Caleb is just under 14 months and I am treasuring every minute with him right now being my baby boy. The thought of him having to become more independent so quickly is something I believe he will have an easier time adjusting to than me. Lastly, the reason I don't want this pregnancy to end is because I don't know if I will ever experience it again. I have spent the last four years believing and at total peace that God did not plan for us to have a biological child. However, I really have enjoyed experiencing every bit of it. I know every mother does not know whether or not they can conceive, but for me, I really have no way of knowing. Some part of this is beautiful and very special to Nate and I since it means we 100% have to rely on God again for what he has for our family. Another reason it's beautiful and special is because it has made me treasure every moment. Some things have been uncomfortable and not fun, but I never take any of it for granted. I treasure every kick, movement, doctor appointments, etc. I will never love this child any more or less than Elyse or Caleb, but like the other two, I am very thankful for baby boy.

The reason for this post is because many friends and family have been asking for a current belly shot and pregnancy updates. The one below is me at 34 weeks. I will try to post at least one more as we get closer, I just don't feel super comfortable posting these types of blogs since I couldn't do it with Elyse or Caleb. Thank you for your understanding.

On the Move and Way Overdue

So for the past few weeks, Caleb has made humongous strides in walking. He is now walking with more confidence at common locations and random places. We find him walking more than crawling these days, especially at home. He would probably do it 100% of the time if he could just get himself up to a standing position from any location. Overall, we are super proud of him and super excited he is walking more. In fact, last night we took the kids to the MN Caucus (long story) but he was wanting to walk down the school hallways and got fussy if we picked him up. I was one very happy Mama :0)

Thank You!

This post is dedicated to someone very important to us Klausers, my mom.

Mom,
We just want to thank you for being the woman of Christ that you are. You are one of the most, if not the most selfless woman we know. We are so grateful for you and all that you do. Thank you so much for being here for us this weekend. We couldn't have done it without you. We love you so much.

The reason behind this post is simple, I never really post about my mom and all she does. She comes up at least once every other week to spend time with the kiddos and us, which allows Nate and I time together. Although this past weekend she was a major blessing. The reason is because, Nate and I had a major list of things to do before baby boy arrives in just under six weeks (crazy). We also had things on our schedule that we needed to attend without the children. Lastly, I ended up getting super sick Saturday night and all day Sunday so having her here was a lifesaver to me. (I also want to acknowledge and thank Nate for all his help too.) I love you both very much and appreciate you.

Adventure Park

Yesterday, Elyse, Caleb and I joined our friends for a morning of fun at Adventure Park in Ham Lake. It's a large indoor playground with activities for infants to young kids. It was a lot of fun for both children.

I would totally recommend this place for other moms who have lots of children or people to go with. I probably would not go myself because I would have to either climb with Elyse or stay in the younger section with Caleb. It has lots of great climbing activities, slides and tunnels for the big kids. Little slides, toys and tunnels for the little ones. Overall, really nice!

Elyse playing in the tunnels, climbing area and racing her friends on the slide. In the slide picture with Elyse are her friends, Sarah, Landon as well as my friend, Angela.

Caleb playing in his area. Yes, he is walking in this photo. I have not blogged a video yet, but the boy walks around the house. He just needs a little more confidence to do it in unknown places. Hopefully any day soon he will be running and I promise to capture and post it soon.

Build A Dinosaur

Saturday morning the four of us headed to Lowe's to look for some home improvement ideas. While there we realized it was one of Lowe's "Saturday Free Kid Workshops". The project was making a little wooden dinosaur. Each child got their own apron, hammer and supplies. After the child accomplished their task they got a little badge to sew on their apron. It was a great father-daughter activity for Nate and Elyse. I just know they will take part in this again soon.

The before picture: Just got her apron, dinosaur material and hammer
The working picture: hammering away. Elyse did a great job, especially since Nate's fingers were never touched :)
The after picture: proud Elyse with Dada and her super cute dinosaur

After Dinner Silliness