"My Birthday!"

Since Elyse's birthday, Caleb has asked when it's going to be his birthday.  I would have responded with, "A long time little man.  We have to celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, Dad's birthday, and hopefully birth of baby brother."  But Elyse decided to tell him that it will be his birthday when there's snow. 

Sick as it is, snow flurries began to fall today.  All of a sudden Caleb comes running and screaming, "Mom, it's snowing, it's my birthday!" :)  I could not stop laughing and then had to explain we have a long time before December 16th.  Sorry buddy.

Apple Orchard

With kids waking up early from naps and temps in the high 50's we couldn't help but enjoy one of the last nicest days of fall.  We headed east to a local apple orchard where we went on a hayride, played in the little house and of course, checked out the store and bought some yummy goodies.  I couldn't have enjoyed my Sunday anymore.

 

Three in One Room

For the past few months Elyse and Caleb have been sleeping in their bunk beds.  Last night however, we decided to move Kallen over to their room too.  We pretty much brought his crib into their room.  I was hesitant at first, but I think calling that bed, "Kallen's bed" for so long, and him helping bring things over made it a breeze.  There was not one tear.  He happily went to bed.  All kids talked for about two minutes and then were out and slept till 7:30 AM.  Everything went perfectly, so here's to hoping it's not a one night special. 

(Apologize for the pictures, I quickly captured them right after turning the lights on because I knew they all were dying to get out of their beds and begin their day.)

College Get Together

Nate and I adventured out for our first night away from all three children yesterday.  We headed south to Ames, IA (Iowa State University) for what I consider a perfect day!  We began by eating at our favorite college restaurant, Great Plains Sauce and Dough Company.  Then spent the day driving around campus and reminiscing, visiting with some friends at their new home, and attending a friend's beautiful wedding.  The best part about the day besides seeing our friend happily get married was being able to spend the night socializing with some of our closest college friends during and after the ceremony.  And to top it off, we woke up to a breakfast for two, and came home to a clean house with three happy children.

 

A very special thank you to my mom for sacrificing her weekend to watch the kids.  Words can not express our gratitude.  We love you lots and appreciate all you do to help us. 

Laughing Dog

Nate brought home this laughing dog today and I am beyond tired of hearing it, but go figure, the kids can't get enough of it.

DSC 3886 from NSquared on Vimeo.

Big Shoes to Fill

Kallen, I know you want to be like your dad, but as you can see, you are going to have some big shoes to fill.

Cinderella's Ball

For over a week Elyse knew she had a date with Nate scheduled for last night.  Although she didn't realize it was going to be the best "Daddy-Daughter" date she ever had according to her.  I found a Cinderella's ball put on by our school district's community education program.  The night involved Elyse hanging out with Cinderella, Rapunzel and Mulan.  She got to decorate her own princess cake, make a necklace, dance like Mulan, and even spend time dancing with Nate.  The smile on her face when she came home was priceless!  She even asked right before bed if she could go again next year.