Top 10 of 2017

This year has once again come and gone in a blink of an eye!  This year like many in the past has been filled with hard moments but overall many blessings; and the following list below (in no particular order) are Nate and my top 10 favorite things that took place in 2017.

1. Seeing our extended family that lives throughout the United States
2. Being apart of many amazing ministries at our church
3. Celebrating 12 years of marriage
4. Celebrating Elyse turning 9, Caleb turning 7, Kallen turning 5 and Ian turning 4
5. Family vacations to the Wisconsin Dells 
6. Nate moving into his own office as a financial adviser for Edward Jones
7. Elyse, Caleb, Kallen and Ian being apart of Awana
8. Participating and worshiping in Joyful Noise together
9. Being able to still send our children to Legacy Christian Academy and seeing them thrive and love school
10. Our weekend get-a-way to Duluth, MN without kids

Some firsts that took place this year:

• Caleb got stitches
• Elyse went to the ER
• Kallen started elementary school
• Ian started preschool
• Mom went away on vacation
• Ian slept in big bed 
• Kids participated in school clubs
• We went through a corn maze 
• Caleb lost his first tooth
• First all friend sleepover (Williamsons)
• First time Ian went fishing and to the beach
• Caleb and Kallen broke their first TV
• Boys saw first movie at the theater 
• Ian went to the dentist for the first time
• Elyse got rid of all car/booster seats
• Painted main inside of the house

Happy New Years, here's to 2018!

MN Zoo

A few weeks ago we received some free passes to the MN Zoo in Apple Valley. Neither Dad, Kallen or Ian had ever been there so we thought it was a great time to go.  Thankfully do to the cold and holiday season it was not packed.  We also asked Nana to join since she lives so close.  The kids had a blast and are super excited to go more this upcoming year thanks to now owning a membership.  

Visit from Caleb's Birth Family

Today Caleb's birth mother, Mariah and her family made the three hour drive south to celebrate his 7th birthday.  Even though our time is always super short it's still great having them here and seeing the kids interact together.  It's such a special treat for Caleb and I know he appreciates them coming.

Ian's Rainbow, Paw Patrol Party

Ian wanted nothing more than to have a "Rainbow, Paw Patrol" party for his 4th birthday.  Thankfully Paw Patrol involves lots of colors so it was pretty easy.  His fourth birthday party was also pretty easy since it was not like any other party I have thrown.  We quickly took down Caleb's decorations that day and put up Ian's.  Than about an hour later Ian's best bud, Oliver (whose birthday was that day) and his other good friend, Lincoln came over.  Thankfully we are all good friends, so we invited everyone over for pizza, party games, cake and the boys opened gifts from one another.  Ian felt very special and loved his friend party.

Caleb's Ninjago Ninja Party

Caleb decided for his 7th birthday that he wanted to have a Lego Ninjago Ninja party.  He invited all the boys in his class and one good friend.  Seven of the eight were able to make it and I think they had a great time.  The boys discovered what their ninja names are, made ninja swords to take home, did a ninja obstacle course, played some games, ate cake and Caleb opened his presents.  Caleb informed me it was one fun party.

A Wonderful Christmas

Today really was a great Christmas in our home.  The kids woke up at their normal time, they quickly ran down to do stockings, ate breakfast and then finished opening their gifts.  Since they are getting older their gifts are getting more expensive and therefore smaller in numbers which was really nice.  The kids spent much of their day playing with all their new things.  We finished our night off with some yummy leftovers and a family movie.  It was a blessed Christmas.   Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Advent Day 25