The Herchenbach Family

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T11:23:00.000-06:00

We want to wish you a very Merry Christmas!!!

He's here!!

2011-11-08T17:37:00.000-06:00

Jaxson Daryl Herchenbach entered the world on Friday night, November 4th at 11:36 pm. He weighed 7 lbs 3 ozs and was 20" long.

The boys meeting Jaxson for the first time. They are pretty proud big brothers.

Kellen with Jaxson. He keeps saying 'he's a nice baby'.

Tyson & Jaxson. He sure is helpful with Jaxson.

Cooper & Jaxson. Cooper's excited to be a big brother.

A rare sight...Jaxson doesn't have his eyes open much yet.

This is usually what he's doing.

At a doctor's appointment on Wednesday, I found out that Jaxson had flipped around and was head up. Not the news I was expecting. So I started mentally preparing for a c-section and actually scheduled one for next week. My doctor told me about some things I could try to get him to flip back around, but that she had only seen it work once. You place your hips higher than your head and place ice at the top of your stomach and music/warmth at the bottom of your stomach. You can do this two times a day for 20 minutes. Well I thought it was worth trying, but was pretty skeptical. I tried it twice on Thursday, and I didn't sleep well that night so I didn't do it on Friday. Well later Friday afternoon I thought I might be feeling contractions but I didn't know for sure. Well by about 6 I thought I'd better call the hospital since I knew I would need a c-section if I was actually in labor and they said to head on over. We got to the hospital by about 8pm, and found out i was in fact in labor and was already dilated to about a 7. He had also flipped again and was head down now. I got an epidural that actually worked this time. I pushed for about an hour and then he decided to finally come out.

We came home on Sunday afternoon and have just been readjusting to life after baby since then. The boys are all really good helpers and are always wanting to hold him. Today Sue took Kellen & Cooper (& Tyson after school) so I could get some rest and get some things done. I was surprised how much I could get done with everyone gone.

Highlights of the Last Part of October

2011-11-02T10:22:00.000-05:00

Halie and her girls were home for a couple days last weekend, so we went over to my parent's house to see them. The kids had a lot of fun playing and getting to hold their new cousin Whitney. I wish we all lived closer so we could see each other more often.

Tyson & Whitney

Kellen & Whitney

Kellen got to go to the pumpkin patch one day with his class. They ended up going on the coldest day that week. Sounds like they still had a great time though. He is on the far right side. I borrowed the picture from the school website.

On Sunday, October 23rd we celebrated Ali's 6th birthday and Caden's 4th birthday at their house.

On Sunday, we went to 'trick or trunk' at school before we went 'trick or treating'. We sure got a lot of comments about having our own football team. Ha! The boys had a lot of fun and got lots of candy.

We went 'trick or treating' with Ali, Caden & Logan. When we were finished going around town, Kevin's Grandma had made a nice supper for everyone.

On Halloween night we went over to my parent's house and to my Grandma's house. We did end up 'trick or treating' with Dusty and his girls for awhile.

Kevin and his Dad finished the 2011 harvest on Halloween night as well.

I've been trying to get a few projects done around the house before this baby comes...and now that harvest is done...that would be alright with me if he would come anytime.

Harvest time

2011-10-20T22:25:00.000-05:00

The guys started harvesting beans the last week of September. They finished up on Sunday, it rained on Monday and they started on corn on Tuesday. We haven't seen much of Kevin lately. The boys like to go with him any chance they can. Cooper practically begs every morning to go "work with" Kevin. The last few days he's gone with Kevin, he wants to come home after a couple of hours and wants to play farm. One Sunday the boys and I went out with Kevin for a few hours.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kellen's preschool class and teacher....he is in the back row on the far left. He looks forward to and enjoys going to school. They went to the pumpkin patch yesterday.

Tyson with his classmates...he is kneeling in front. He still enjoys going to school, but he likes his days off too. I don't blame him!

On September 29th, my sister Halie and her husband Kyle welcomed a third daughter, Whitney

Faith to their family. She is sure a cutie.

Mom and I went out to see Halie and Whitney the next morning after she was born and Lacey and Riley met us at the hospital.

On Saturday, October 1st we went to my cousin Trevor's birthday party.

L to R: Ellie, Kellen, Trevor, Tyson, Brooke, Cooper & Allyx

Cooper was watching Kevin shave one night and wanted to be like his dad and try shaving too

He did a pretty good job...FYI there is not a blade in the shaver.

1st half of September

2011-09-17T17:43:00.000-05:00

I know, I know...I've taken a huge leave of absence from this blog, but I plan to get all caught up. It may take me awhile ~ I thought it would be easiest to work backward and forward at the same time. That way if you don't want to read the 'out-of-date' stuff you won't have to, but I want to put as much as I can remember on here since this is our family's scrapbook. I'm sure I will forget somethings, especially if I didn't take pictures or didn't have the event marked on my calendar.

If you're wondering why the extended furlough...I have no real answer, only excuses. To sum it up... the first part of April we lost a friend in a tragic accident, and I guess I felt guilty writing about all the good things that were happening in our family when I knew so many were suffering. He left behind a pregnant wife and two young children, so I guess you could say it hit close to home. Then I had to deal with the tiredness, etc. of being pregnant. Those first couple of months it took all I had just to take care of my family. Luckily by about month four, I started feeling a little more energized, but then summer hit, and it was hectic. Looking back I don't really know where it went. We packed a lot into July and August. And now it's just been a matter of feeling a bit overwhelmed with about 500 pictures to go through and figuring out which ones to add to the blog.

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Last night we went to the Mid-States Rodeo Finals in Madison. It was a cold night. My brother, Dusty and brother-in-law, Kyle both were in the rodeo. It was fun watching them.

Allyx, Jenae, Tyson, Brooke, Aubree, Cooper and Kellen all bundled up watching the rodeo

On Tuesday, Kevin and I celebrated our 8th anniversary, by going out to dinner and to a movie. We saw "The Change Up", it was good, it was funny and had a good message.

On Sept. 7th, Kellen started preschool. He has been waiting for his turn to start school and it was finally here. He goes M-W-F afternoons and loves school. He actually gets upset on days when he does have school.

Kellen's first day of school

Kellen wanted his picture taken with Tyson new bow-n-arrow. I had to oblige.

The Sunday of Labor Day weekend we went to Kevin's aunt & uncle's house. It was a lot of fun. The kids had a blast swimming, boating and playing in the sand. Tyson was a fish, he was in the pool practically all day.

Tyson jumping in the pool

It was kind of cold for kids when they got out of the pool, but that didn't stop Tyson

Cooper wasn't really interested in the pool or the boat, but I did get him to stick his feet in the water

Ali and Kellen

One day after dinner, Cooper pulled the stool up to the sink and just started doing dishes...he did a good job. I think he had more fun playing in the water than anything though.

Meet Midnight, Star & Nemo

2011-04-01T17:23:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned before, the boys each got a calf a couple of weeks ago. Tyson and Kellen's came on March 15th and Cooper's came a week later on the 22nd. The idea is to teach the boys some responsibility by taking care of these calves. Tyson is probably the only one that actually does help with the chores at this point, but it is still a learning experience for the other boys. They all do really well with their calves - they're not afraid to get right in the pen with them.

Lately, the weather has not been nice, so Kevin or myself usually end up doing the chores without the boys. It is supposed to start getting a little nicer this weekend, so hopefully they will be able to spend more time out with their calves.

Tyson with his calf Midnight

Kellen and his calf Star

And Cooper with Nemo

Kellen was trying to give his calf a kiss

Our Deadwood trip

2011-03-23T05:49:00.003-05:00

So we went to Deadwood again this year. It seems to be a trend with us, if we like somewhere we tend to keep going back. We left on Saturday, February 26th about 2 pm. Our friends Josh and Melissa went with us. We haven't taken a trip with them before - they were sure a lot of fun. We stopped in Gordon at the Italian Inn for supper. We decided to head further down the road when we were finished eating. We drove to Hot Springs, SD and stayed the night there. It was nice to get up in the morning knowing we didn't have too much further to go. We stopped by Mt. Rushmore again. This time we were actually able to get out and go get a closer look.

Kevin and I at Mt. Rushmore

That evening Kevin's cousin Troy met us in Deadwood. We went downtown and looked around and we ate supper at the Gem that night. The following morning we went out snowmobiling. With the exception of stopping for dinner, we snowmobiled from 9 til 4:30. It was a long day, but a ton of fun.

Kevin, Troy and Josh

Melissa, Josh, Troy and Kevin

Sometimes the guys would venture off the trail a little ways. Melissa and I got braver as the day went on, but we were not near as daring as the guys were.

That night Troy headed back to Gillette, WY and we just hung out at the casino that we were staying at, Cadillac Jacks. On Tuesday, we had lunch at Kevin Costner's restaurant, and did more gambling. Most of the time we were there we were gambling. Unfortunately, we didn't have much luck. That evening we ate at the Social Club and gambled some more. Wednesday morning we loaded up and headed for home. We couldn't go by Wall Drug and not stop. We had to stock up on their famous donuts and fudge. We got home about 9 pm that evening. Overall we had a great time, and look forward to going back again.

Spring's here!!

2011-03-20T17:46:00.001-05:00

So thankful Spring is finally here. I am looking forward to a lot of nice days....in a row! I just hope the wind stays calm.

So last Saturday, Halie, her girls and me and the boys went to see our Grandmas. We had really nice visits - we really need to try to get to see them more often. We dropped Halie and her girls off at my parent's house, and just after Aubree got out of the vehicle she threw up. Well we headed home, hoping she was just car sick or had eaten to much junk. Well when I talked to Halie on Sunday morning, she told me it was in fact a stomach bug. So they wouldn't be coming to Cooper's birthday party. And once Lacey found out that we had been exposed as well, they didn't want to take the chance and expose Riley, so they wouldn't be coming to the party either. My Grandma was planning on coming too, but thought she'd better stay home too. So we were finally able to have a party, but it was pretty small. It was still fun though and I don't think Cooper even noticed the smaller party. That darn stomach bug always has to show up at the worst times. I wish it would just disappear forever. ha ha Luckily, the boys didn't catch it this time!

On Tuesday night, two of the boys' bottle calves arrived. We didn't get Cooper's yet, but it should be coming any time. Tyson named his Midnight and Kellen named his calf Star. They came to our house a little sick, so we spent some time last week doctoring them back to health. By the end of the week they were doing a lot better. We have to feed them in the morning and then again in the evening. And it just so happened that Kevin was gone trucking most of last week, so I was in charge of calf chores. It is kind of time consuming, but they have been a lot of fun so far.

Yesterday, I went with my Grandma, Mom, Sister, Aunts and Cousins to Omaha for our annual shopping trip. It was a big day, but a lot of fun. We don't get the chance that often just to spend some time together. Cooper went with us so that Kevin wouldn't have to haul around 3 boys and he did so well all day. We were both pretty tired last night. It's alumni weekend so Kevin went out last night, I decided I wouldn't be much fun since I was gone all day, so I stayed home.

The kids table at Cooper's party minus Allyx who was sitting at the big table.

Cooper opening presents

Kellen, Cooper, Tyson, Allyx and Brooke

Cooper loved his dump truck cake

He was pretty excited to dump the dirt out of the truck

The boys playing outside on a nice day. They wanted to pose for pictures - so I couldn't pass up the opportunity.

Kellen and Cooper fight over who gets to wear the overalls. I don't blame them, they both look pretty darn cute in them.

On our shopping trip yesterday. Everyone was getting a kick out of how Cooper gets every last drop of his ice cream.

Cooper's Birthday and Other Happenings

2011-03-12T10:25:00.001-06:00

On Saturday, February 26th we left for our vacation to Deadwood. We got home late on Wednesday night. Pictures to come in another post.

I spent the couple of weeks leading up to our trip getting our house all cleaned and organized, because we had planned on having birthday parties on Friday night and Saturday night for Cooper. We while we were gone, Kellen got a stomach bug on Monday. He seemed to be getting better, but on Friday we were getting ready for the party and that noon Kellen got sick again. So we cancelled the party and took him to the doctor since he had been sick so long. Turns out it was a virus. I was worried it was the rotovirus. That is awful. Tyson had that when he was 2. Every 4 days almost on the dot he would get really sick, and that lasted for an entire month. It was a horrible experience for everyone involved. Luckily, from Friday on Kellen continued to get better. We cancelled the party for Saturday night too since we still might be contagious.

On Sunday, the day of Cooper's actual birthday we took the kids in to see the firetrucks, then Kevin's parents came over after dinner for birthday cake. That night we met up with them again for supper, Kelly, Mike and their family came too. Shortly after we arrived at the restaurant the lights when out. We sat in the dark for a good half hour. The kids thought it was fun, each one had a cell phone as a flashlight. The lights came back on just as our food was being served. Quite the experience.

Well on Monday morning, Cooper caught the stomach bug and then by that evening Tyson had it. Thankfully it was short lived for them and the rest of us didn't catch it. The rest of this week's been fairly low key, which was kind of nice considering the week we've had.

Yesterday, we went car shopping and traded in our pickup. We ended up with a Yukon XL. I love it - I'm pretty spoiled!!

Today we are going to go with Halie and her girls to visit our grandmas. Tonight we are going to church and then some friends are coming out after that. And tomorrow we are having Cooper's birthday party. Busy times!

Cooper opening his presents from us

We gave him a jump-o-lene. It's meant for outside, but thought we could blow it up inside until it gets nice out. The boys are waiting for the air pump to recharge.

Fireman Kellen

Fireman Tyson

Cooper and his dump truck from Grandpa and Grandma

The birthday boy and his cake.

Really that's all he said he wanted for his birthday, was to eat his cake.

March birthdays - Sue's birthday is 4 days after Cooper's

Somebody's 3!!!

2011-03-06T01:00:00.002-06:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Cooper!!!

March 2008

March 6, 2009

March 6, 2010

2 1/2 years old

It's hard to believe our baby is already 3 years old. These past 3 years have flown by - you are growing up way too fast. You definitely are our ornery 3rd child, but you keep us laughing everyday with the things that you come up with. You love to play with your brothers and you want to be just like them. We are so blessed to have you in our lives, and we hope God continues to bless you with love, happiness and health.

Have a fun day! We love you!

The 2nd half of February

2011-02-25T08:31:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I'm not very creative with my post titles. I don't know where the time goes. I know that's a fairly consistent theme on here, but really we are already to the end of February. These past few weeks have been fairly uneventful, which is nice for me. I don't have too much new to blog about. Just the same ol' story around here, however, Kevin and I are leaving on a little vacation tomorrow. We are really looking forward to it.

The 1st half of February

2011-02-15T10:10:00.001-06:00

This first half of the month has flown by. I've kept busy 'spring cleaning' my house. It's taking a little longer than I would like it to, but I am making progress, so that is good I guess. Swimming lessons have kept us running. Last week the level 3 started for Tyson, plus we had two level 2 classes to make up from snow days. So Tyson had 4 lessons last week. Kellen passed level 1 and Tyson passed level 2 and is onto level 3 now. It amazes us each time how well he does for not having spent much time in a big pool before this. They spend most of the time in the deep end, jumping in, diving in and swimming to the ladder. They are also learning survival techniques, which is so great. I have to admit I do get kind of tense watching him in the deep end.

A week ago Sunday, we went out west to celebrate Jenae's 7th birthday. It was a fun day. I wish we could make it out that way more often. Now we even know a 'shortcut' to get there. ;)

Jenae with her cake

The kids taking their turns at the pinata

Pile on Dusty

Jenae opening her gifts

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This past Sunday we took the boys bowling for the first time. It was a fun experience. Unfortunately my camera battery died shortly after we got there, so these are my only pictures. I do have pictures on my phone, but haven't taken the time to figure out how to get them off there. Anyways, it was a great day to spend together with the family.

Tyson, Cooper and Kellen ready to bowl

Tyson has bowled one time before with the preschool last year, so he thought he was a pro at it. I think he did beat me both games though, the only difference was he had bumpers. I could have used the bumpers as well.

Kellen would carry the ball up to the lane and set it down and then roll it. It made it to the end every time, but it took forever. He and Cooper shared a turn and they actually ended up with the same score as me. I am really a bad bowler!!

Not much new around here...

2011-01-30T21:39:00.002-06:00

We started the week with Doris' wake and funeral. Both services were very nice. Doris will be missed greatly!
On Thursday, the boys had swimming lessons. Tyson is doing great! He really enjoys his time in the water. Kellen on the other hand is just fine sitting on the steps in the pool or going around the pool with the swim instructor. He has yet to put his face in the water. Even if he doesn't get much accomplished in the way of passing this level, we still feel this is great experience for him. Next year he will be that much taller and feel more comfortable in the water.
Last night our church had it's annual winter fundraiser. They served a delicious meal of prime rib with all the fixings. Every year they have a cake walk and I have never gotten the chance to pick a cake (I've played a lot). Well this year I was excited to be able to pick the first cake. It was a tough decision because everything looked so good, but I ended up getting cutely decorated cupcakes. The boys sure like them....so do I. Unfortunately, my luck didn't continue, as I didn't win the Coach purse. Bummer! They had a hypnotist for the entertainment. He was pretty good. We did make a purchase on the auction this year. Kevin spent way too much, but it's for a good cause I guess. Anyways he bought a last supper picture that I really liked. It's pretty big, so now I have to figure out where to hang it. The boys had a babysitter - it sounds like they had a good time too. It seems like we don't get babysitters much anymore. I guess that's a sign that we are really getting that old!
Today we went to town to do some shopping. We needed a lot - our cupboards were bare. Other than that our day's been fairly lazy.
This week I want to do a lot of deep cleaning and finally get some things organized. So in an effort to get as much done as possible - without being distracted - I'm going to shut the computer off for the week, which never happens - our computer is on 24/7. So we will see if I can stick to it for both the cleaning and leaving the computer off.

Sorry for the picture-less post again. I've been horrible lately at taking pictures!

Doris

2011-01-22T15:44:00.001-06:00

Sue's sister Doris passed away on Thursday. A couple of years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had surgery and chemo then, but a couple of weeks ago they found out that the cancer had spread everywhere. We just saw her at the family Christmas on January 2nd. It was a couple of days later when she went to the doctor and found the cancer. I still can't believe how fast she went. She was in a lot of pain so I know it was a blessing in disguise, but it doesn't make it any easier.

Doris was a very special lady who will be missed by all of us.

Doris & Kellen - 2006

At a family wedding this past summer.

L to R: Kevin's cousin Wendy, me, Kevin's mom Sue, and Doris

Life Is But A Stopping Place

Life is but a stopping place,

A pause in what's to be,

A resting place along the road,

to sweet eternity.

We all have different journeys.

Different paths along the way,

We all were meant to learn some things,

but never meant to stay...

Our destination is a place,

Far greater than we know.

For some the journey's quicker,

For some the journey's slow.

And when the journey finally ends,

We'll claim a great reward,

And find an everlasting peace,

Together with the lord.

Author unknown

Brrr...it's cold!

2011-01-21T10:15:00.000-06:00

It sure has been cold here lately, which isn't that uncommon, I know, for this time of year. It just would be nice if we could get a little warmer weather - spring can't get here soon enough!

I have been terrible at taking pictures lately. So, in other words, this will be a picture-less post. Sorry :(

Last Thursday, Tyson and Kellen started taking swimming lessons. They go every Monday and Thursday evening. So that makes for a lot of running, but I think it is so worth it. Tyson is really enjoying the lessons and is learning a lot. Kellen is a little nervous in the 3 1/2 feet water, but it is great experience for him just being in there. They really like their teacher, she's really good with them. It's nice, there are only 2 other kids in this class and one of them is the teacher's son, who doesn't need much help since he's a little more advanced. The lessons last for 4 weeks. After this first session is complete, Tyson will start the next level and will go for another 4 weeks.

Last Friday night, Kevin and I went to see a movie and out to dinner. We saw Little Fockers, it was really funny! Kevin's parents' kept the boys for us. They were leaving for 15 days in Hawaii, so it was good for the boys to spend some time with them before they left. Unfortunately, they have had to come home from Hawaii early. Sue's sister Doris passed away yesterday. They found out a little over a week ago that Doris had cancer - all over, but I don't think anyone expected her to go this fast. In a way, I guess, it's a blessing that she didn't have to suffer long, but it is still hard to lose someone so fast.

When something like this happens, it really makes you think. None of us are promised another day here on earth. I especially need this reminder. Most everything I worry about has no value in heaven, for example I stress about trying to keep my house spotless. (Which doesn't happen, by the way. Ever!) There are so many more important things I should be doing and need to make a conscious effort to actually do them!

Anyways, back to our week. On Saturday night after church, our friends, Wade and Kayla came out to our house. They are Cooper's godparents, so they had some Christmas gifts for him.

Sunday was a lazy day. I don't think we've had a Sunday at home with everyone here in several months! It was nice.

This has been Tyson's first full week of school. Last week he only went part of Wednesday through Friday because of the snow. And the first week after Christmas break was only Tuesday through Friday. So I'm sure he is pretty tired. He hates going to bed early every night. He has never liked having to go to bed, but going early and sometimes before his brothers is really hard on him. I keep telling him that this is not going to change for many years - that he'd better just get used to it, but that doesn't seem to help ;)

We don't have too many plans for the weekend yet, but with Doris' funeral on Tuesday I bet there will be some family around this weekend.

Holy Snowballs, Batman!

2011-01-11T18:19:00.001-06:00

We've had a lot of snow fall the last couple of days. In this area we got around 10 inches overall. So Tyson has been out of school the last 2 days. I think he is enjoying the extended weekend. Kevin, however is not enjoying all the extra work that snow brings. There is a lot of snow to be moved all around the farm.

Because of the forecasted snowfall we weren't able to go to my sister, Lacey's house for the weekend. We haven't been out to visit them in quite awhile and thought it would be a good time to go since Kevin was going to be gone, but we'll have go another time I guess. Kevin went to the Kansas City Chiefs football game in KC.

It is really cold, but we decided to brave the frigid temps for a bit this afternoon and go sledding - well our version of sledding (pulling the sled with the 4 wheeler).

The boys were glad to get outside - even if for just a little bit

Tyson and Cooper ready to go

Tyson and Kevin just had fallen off - next it was Kellen's turn

Tyson got quite a ride!

His eyelashes had snowflakes on them

Kellen making a snow angel

Cooper too

and again

If you look real closely at this picture, you can see Cooper has his mouth FULL of snow

Rosy cheeks

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Before I took the tree down I took the boys' pictures with everything they got for Christmas

Kellen and his loot

Cooper and his things (not the best picture!!)

Tyson and his gifts

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We had our last Christmas on Jan. 2nd. for Kevin's mom's side of the family. It was good to see everyone.

The kids all lined up to get their gift

Cooper, Kellen and Caden

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-01T20:00:00.001-06:00

2011 is officially here. We had a fairly uneventful 1st day of the year. We had to go pick up our kids at my parents house today. They watched them last night so that Kevin and I could go out. We just went into town - it was a pretty fun time! Tomorrow we have the last Christmas for the year. It's just in town so we don't have far to go.

Tyson goes back to school on Tuesday. He will go Monday thru Friday now. That's going to be an adjustment for all of us I think.

I have a lot of big plans for the new year - we'll see if I can accomplish some of them. They're more goals than resolutions I guess. There's just something about starting a new year, it's like you have a fresh start for a lot of things.

Christmas 2010 highlights

I have about a bagillion pictures from Christmas, it may have something to do with the fact that I got a new camera for Christmas ;) Here is just a highlight of them.

On Dec. 23rd we started our family Christmas. We gave the boys a new set of pajamas. Then we loaded up and drove into town to look at Christmas lights. Then we came home and watched 'A Christmas Story'.

The next morning Santa had come so we opened gifts.

Santa brought Kellen a pillow pet and a leapster explorer

Santa brought Cooper a big firetruck and a handy manny playset

and he brought Tyson, mouse trap and a star wars lego ship. We also gave the boys a couple of other things from us.

That evening we went to church for the Christmas Eve service. Then we went to Kevin's parent's house.

Tyson and Ali wanted to line up the kids for pictures. I thought they did a great job. Tyson and Ali up top, and Caden, Kellen, Logan and Cooper sitting.

Kevin's parents gave the kids Husker outfits.

We spent Christmas day with my family. Here Brooke, Aubree, Allyx and Cooper are playing in their pjs.

Cooper wearing my boots.

We went to my Grandma's house on the 26th.

Overall, I'd have to say we had a great Christmas. We ate a ton of great food, enjoyed giving and getting gifts, and loved celebrating a very important birthday with very special people.

MERRY CHRISTMAS...

2010-12-23T16:56:00.019-06:00

from our family

to yours!

I can't believe Christmas is here already. Where has December gone? These next few days will be jam packed with family, food, gifts and more food. I can't wait. Tonight when Kevin gets home we plan to go look at Christmas lights and watch a Christmas movie.

Our elf, Buddy

Tyson and I went shopping one day to get stuff for him to take to school. The Boy Scouts were collecting items to box up and ship to the soldiers.

Cooper looking at tractors

Tyson with his classmates at his school program. He is in the middle of the back row.

It was a cute program. They sang a lot of songs.

Tyson was kind of nervous at first, but by the end of the program you could tell he was having a good time.

It was Kellen's turn to take treats to preschool last week, and it was also his Christmas party so we made melted snowman cookies to take.

We had the Herchenbach Christmas last Sunday.

Cooper opening his gift.

Logan

Kellen opening his gift - Ali was helping him

Tyson opening his gift

There are three new babies on this side of the family. The two on the left are only a little over a month old and the one on the right is our nephew Logan.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

2010-12-09T03:00:00.006-06:00

Last Saturday was our first Christmas of the season. Only 6 more to go! I love getting together with all of our families over the holidays. A lot of years I dread this time of year because of all the busyness, but this year I am actually really looking forward to it. I'm trying to get as much done as early as possible.

I have a lot of my baking done thanks to our baking weekend and cookie exchange with my sisters, SIL and mom, but still have a handful of things I'd like to make. I still have a little wrapping to do - my least favorite job. This year we started the tradition of the Elf on the Shelf. So far I don't think it's working too well, the boys are still naughty ;) I have several other things I'd like to make traditions at our house during the holidays, but there just never seems to be enough time to do all I want to do. I'm reading a book called Touching Wonder - Recapturing the Awe of Christmas by John Blase. I'm only to chapter 3, but it is really good and fitting for this time of year.

Noble Christmas

Jenae reading the Christmas story

My Dad holding Riley and Aubree

Me and my sisters Lacey, Halie and sister-in-law Erin

Santa arriving

Kellen was excited to talk to Santa

And Cooper not-so-much

Riley wasn't too fond either

Even my Grandma got to sit on his lap

Cooper got a firetruck

Kellen and Aubree playing - he was the dad and she was the mom

In their 'house'

'Round here lately

2010-12-07T10:30:00.002-06:00

The month of November is kind of a blur now. It's hard to believe Christmas is only a little over 2 weeks away. So much to do.

Some of the highlights and one lowlight of November & the first part of December include:

Our nephew Caden's 3rd birthday
Kevin was gone deer hunting opening weekend - he didn't see the trophy buck, so he didn't get one. That's ok with me - we don't like the meat & I definitely don't want a deer head on my wall ;)
We kept my niece Aubree for a couple days - the boys love having a little girl around to play with
My Grandpa passed away
My mom, sisters and I attempted our annual cookie baking weekend. It was a lot more low key this year. We wanted to enjoy our time together more than we have past years.
Thanksgiving - we went to my Grandma's for dinner and then to Kevin's aunt & uncle's house for supper. That Saturday we went to Omaha for Kevin's mom's side of the family.
Last Thursday I officially became Catholic.
Saturday and Sunday, Kevin and Tyson went to Kansas City to a Chiefs football game with Wade and Kevin's brother Jeff. This was Tyson's first big football game. He had a great time. Early Monday morning Tyson woke up with the stomach flu. NOT FUN!! He thought he got it from going to the game. After we explained to him that you can pick up the flu anywhere, he said he would go to another game sometime.
On Saturday Kellen, Cooper and I went to the Noble Christmas. Santa even showed up again this year. Kellen jumped right up on his lap, but Cooper was scared. I'll post pictures soon.

Silly boys

Kellen

Cooper

Tyson

Tyson came down one morning wearing his brother's jeans. I must have put them away in the wrong drawer.

Cousins - the boys with Kelly & Mike's kids.

Cooper, Tyson holding Logan, Kellen, Ali and Caden

I love it when the boys get along together. They can be so sweet to each other. Sunday night I let them watch a movie while we were waiting for Kevin and Tyson to get home.

So Thankful

2010-11-24T22:15:00.000-06:00

I have been so bad at taking pictures lately. I don't know why I'm so fascinated with taking pictures of my boys sleeping, but I love this picture. He is just so peaceful in this picture, which is not a term I use to describe Cooper while he is awake.

Since it's Thanksgiving already tomorrow, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on the many blessings that I'm so thankful to have. Too often I take for granted all of the important things in my life.

I am so thankful that I have a loving, faithful, supportive husband. Yeah we have some disagreements, but I know he will always be here for me and our family. He works so hard to provide a great life for us. He is a great dad to our boys, too. He's a very hands on dad, and makes it a point to spend quality time with all of them.

I am very thankful for the 3 healthy, rambunctious, happy boys that God has given us. Sure it's not always easy to raise children, it's physically, emotionally, and mentally challenging, but it's so worth it. I feel so blessed to be a mom, and that I get to be at home with my boys. I'm so lucky to get to spend this short season of their young lives with them. They continue to inspire me and make me so proud.

I am greatly thankful for our family. Our parents are wonderful role models for us and do so much for our family. Our entire family is so supportive and they are always right there if we need them for something. Our families are very important to me and my family.

I am thankful for God's love. He continues to amaze me with all of the blessings he has bestowed upon my life. I have so much - I definitely don't deserve such an awesome life.

The other day I was at my parent's house and my dad showed me this video that he recorded off RFD TV. It really puts everything into perspective, I think.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Grandpa's funeral

2010-11-19T22:33:00.004-06:00

**Updated to add the link to Halie's blog. See below.

Grandpa's funeral was today. It was a sad day. Really, it has been so hectic around here that it hasn't really sunk in that Grandpa is gone. The next time I go visit my Grandma after every has settled down, and Grandpa isn't there - then it will hit me that he is no longer with us. He was such a great man, who inspired so many people.

After the funeral we went to my Aunt Jean's house and read the cards and everyone said basically the same thing - he was a gentle, kind man who always had a smile on his face and a positive attitude. I always felt that way about him, but apparently everyone else did too. Over the last couple of days in talking about Grandpa, people would say those same things too. He made such an lasting impression on so many people. One of his physical therapist from Madonna came to the visitation last night and the other one came to his funeral this morning. Grandpa made such an impression on these two ladies that they have kept in touch all these years.

Halie and I both talked about Grandpa at the funeral. Click here to read what Halie said.

This is what I said:

Grandpa was a gentle, kind, loving man. He was always so happy to see us when we would stop by for a visit. Grandpa’s love for his family was felt by everyone, and we loved him very much.

Grandpa has been such an inspiration to me. It was 8 years ago in March when Grandpa was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome. He survived, but he was paralyzed. Grandpa spent almost a year at Madonna in Lincoln learning to walk again. I lived in Lincoln part of the time he was there and I feel like I got to know him a lot better during that time. There wasn’t a day that I went to see him that he didn’t have a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He has been through so much but always rose to the challenge to fight on. Grandpa had so much strength inside and out, which I believe is due to his strong faith and his love for his family.

Another way Grandpa has inspired me is by his loving marriage to Grandma. The love they shared was so real and it showed. During one of my many talks with Grandpa while he was at Madonna he told me that he and Grandma never had a fight, and I find that incredible. It exemplified the deep love they shared for one another. If we could all have half the love they shared for each other in our relationships - this world would be a better place.

As Grandpa would have it, I think we should celebrate an exceptional man’s great life. Everything he stood for teaches there is life after death.

Grandpa, I’m glad we were able to share your life with you. I can’t image it without you - I miss you already, but you are healed now and I’m thankful you are free of pain. I’m sure you are having a happy reunion with your family that has gone before you.

Grandpa, you’ve inspired me in so many ways - Thank you Grandpa - I love you.

My Grandpa

2010-11-16T09:28:00.007-06:00

My Grandpa passed away this morning. I am sad that he is no longer with us, but he doesn't have to suffer any more. He is in a much better place now. These last couple of months my Aunt Jean has taken care of my Grandpa in her home. I am so thankful for what she has done for him.

My Grandpa was a wonderful man. He has been an inspiration to not only me, but I'm sure to most people who knew him.

My Grandpa is a fighter. Over 8 years ago he was diagnosed with Guillain Barre syndrome. He survived, but he was paralysed. He spent a year in the hospital doing physical therapy so he could walk again.

My Grandpa always had a great attitude even when faced with all of his medical issues.

My Grandpa loved my Grandma so much. I remember Grandpa told me once that they have never had a fight.

My Grandpa loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren very much.

I am going to miss my Grandpa so much. He was such a gentle, kind, loving man. He has inspired me in so many ways -

Thank you Grandpa - I love you very much!

July 2004 - Grandpa and Grandma holding Tyson and Jenae

Christmas 2004 -

Grandpa and Grandma with their kids: Jean, Bill and my Mom

Christmas 2005 - Tyson and Grandpa

July 2006 - Grandpa holding Kellen

September 2006 - Kellen's baptism - Grandpa, Grandma and Kevin's Grandma

March 2008 - Grandpa holding Cooper

January 2009 - Grandpa giving Tyson a ride

Christmas 2009 - Grandpa and Grandma

Christmas 2009 - Grandpa, Grandma, Bill, Jean, my Mom

Halloween

2010-11-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Tyson with all of the project he made at school.

Last Saturday we carved pumpkins.

Cooper was a cowboy, Kellen was a soldier and Tyson was a ninja. Kellen still wasn't feeling very well, but he wanted to go with us for most of the day. We left his with my parents when we went to visit my grandparents, but he came with us the rest of the afternoon and evening.

Logan was a bat, Ali a cowgirl, and Caden was a dragon

We met up with Kelly & Mike and their kids to go trick-or-treating. The weather was fairly decent, thankfully. We ended up at Kevin's grandma's house in town. Daryl had picked up pizzas for everyone for supper. The boys ended up with a ton of candy and treats, it should be enough to last us all year, but I'm sure it won't.

Wedding weekend

2010-10-30T22:39:00.001-05:00

Last weekend we were out in O'Neill for my cousin Heather's wedding. Tyson was the ringbearer so we had to be there Friday night for the rehearsal. We stayed at my sister's house that night, since we had to be back at the church at 11:30 for pictures the next morning.

Heather and her dad, Frank

Riley at the restaurant - he's getting so big. Such a cutie!

Cooper, Tyson and Kellen all ready for the big day

Michael, Tyson, Trevor and Ellie

Tyson and Madison

Kevin, Cooper and Jacque

Once the dance started Kellen and Brooke took to dancing. They danced every song until Brooke had to go home. It was the cutest thing. They would look to see what everyone else was dancing like and then they would do the same thing,

Slow dance

Gettin' down

It was a fun, memorable weekend! But we sure were tired this week! Monday and Tuesday we spent unpacking and getting rested up. Wednesday we went to Tyson's first parent - teacher conference. I didn't know what to expect, but we got a great report from Tyson's teacher. She said he's doing really well - so that was good to know! Thursday I went with Sue and Kelly to a Christmas decorating thing/class (I don't know what to call it) to get ideas for this holiday season. Last night we went out to eat with the guys that helped us with harvest and their families. We do this every year, it's always fun to get together and celebrate another year's harvest complete! They finished up with harvest last Saturday, but still have lots to do before winter gets here.

Today we carved jack-o-lanterns, that was a project! The boys had fun. They are so excited about Halloween tomorrow. We had a pretty big day planned for tomorrow, we want to get to see all the great grandparents and grandparents, but Kellen isn't feeling too well so we'll see how he's doing in the morning.

Lately Around Here

2010-10-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

Cooper and Kellen with a couple of our new kitties

Kevin had to take his truck in to get worked on so he was able to give Kellen a ride to preschool last week. Kellen thought that was pretty cool.

At school he painted the pumpkin that he got at the pumpkin patch.

Kellen conked out the couch again.

Last Saturday the boys and I went to my parents house for the day. Halie and her girls were there. In the morning, we visited my Grandma Forre and then after dinner we visited my Grandpa and Grandma Noble and aunt Jean. Halie took pictures of all the kids and then did some of just my boys. I think they turned out really good. Halie does a great job!!

All the grandkids.

L to R, Bottom to top: Aubree, Riley, Allyx, Kellen, Cooper, Brooke, Tyson and Jenae

My boys!

October

2010-10-15T15:41:00.000-05:00

I don't know where the time goes!! I can't believe October is half over!! Since I've been an adult, I've heard people say again and again that time goes faster as you get older - well holy cow - I can't imagine it going any faster - but I'm sure it will!! There are just not enough hours in the day!

Well the guys have been harvesting right along. The weather so far has been very cooperative. They finished up on beans last week and got started on corn.

Cooper and Kellen ready to go help in the field

One boy rides with Grandpa in the combine and the other boy rides with Kevin in the tractor. I think they would go with every day if they could. Tyson gets to go when he is out of school.

The boys and part of their pumpkin crop. Sue helped Tyson plant and take care of the pumpkins in her garden. He's pretty proud of them. You can't really tell in the picture, but alot of the pumpkins have the kids' names carved on them. He made one for each of his cousins and his and Kellen's teachers. Kevin's Grandpa used to do that on pumpkins when Kevin was a kid.

A couple of Saturdays ago I kept my nieces, Brooke and Allyx for the day. That was fun to have some girls around here. The boys had fun entertaining them.

That Sunday, the boys and I went to my cousin Trevor's 8th birthday party.

L to R: Tyson, Trevor, Kellen, Michael & Cooper

Brooke, Cooper, Tyson, Trevor, Erin holding Allyx, Michael and Kellen

The birthday boy!

Last Saturday I went to my cousin Heather's bachelorette party. It was a fun night!! This was about the only G-rated picture that I had from the night ;) This is Heather and her bridesmaids. L to R: Brittani, my sister Lacey, Heather, Renae, Laura and Darci.

On Sunday we went to town to do a little shopping and out to eat, and then that afternoon we visited my Grandpa who is still in the hospital. It was so good to see him, it had been awhile since we last saw him. We were able to visit with my Grandma for a little bit as well.

Monday I was able to go with the preschool to the pumpkin patch with Kellen. The kids loved the little train.

That's Kellen at the top of the lookout tower

All locked up

They got to take a little boat ride across the pond

On the bus on the way home, Kellen and another little boy in his class fell asleep. It was the cutest thing! They must have been shot, because that bus was so loud and it was not a comfortable ride.

Kellen came home and slept a little longer. Kids fall asleep in the weirdest positions!

September

2010-09-28T09:58:00.002-05:00

Once again this blog has been neglected.

I'll start where I last left off - the second weekend in September. On Sunday the 12th, Kevin and I went with our friends, Wade and Kayla to Kansas City. We stayed at Ameristar the first night. The rooms there were so nice. I did a little bit of gambling, but I still wasn't feeling too well, so I went to bed early. I kept thinking I had to be getting better, but little did I know I would end up being sick for about 2 weeks - I have never been this sick before!

On Monday, we packed up and headed to our next hotel and dropped off our luggage and then headed to Arrowhead Stadium to tailgate for the Monday night Chiefs game. The game didn't start until 9:15 PM!

Monday was also our 7th wedding anniversary!

Tailgating

We had great seats

and it turned out to be a good game...

but shortly after the game began it started to rain. So we left at half-time. We were soaked!

We drove home on Tuesday. Kevin's parents had kept the boys for us.

The following Saturday (18th), I went on the annual Herchenbach family Christmas shopping trip. I still wasn't feeling too great, but I thought I'd better go since it was in September this year. It's usually in October and right during harvest, so some years I'm not able to make it. I didn't get a whole lot of Christmas shopping done, but it was a lot of fun!

We shop 'til we drop!

L to R: Kevin's cousin Kris, aunt Dee, aunt Luann, cousin's wife Melissa, and grandma Janice.

This past Sunday, I went to my cousin Heather's bridal shower, while Kevin and the boys went to Ali's 5th birthday party.

Yesterday, the guys started harvesting beans. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate this year and they can fly right through harvest.

Kellen's 1st day of school

2010-09-11T14:51:00.002-05:00

Kellen's first day of pre-school was yesterday. He is actually going to play group at pre-school and he will go to actual pre-school next year. We had planned on sending him to pre-school this year and next, but then I found out that this year the teacher changed it to all day pre-school. Last year Tyson just went two mornings a week. And I being the selfish person that I am was not ready to send Kellen to school two full days a week already!! That will be here soon enough.

He was pretty excited to finally get to go to school like his older brother.

Leaving him at school was way harder than it ever has been with Tyson. Tyson is always a little nervous at first, but he gets to school he's like see ya mom. Kellen on the other hand was excited to go and he didn't seem nervous, but he kept telling me on the way to school that he wanted to stay with him, that he would need help coloring, etc. The teacher was very understanding, and after about 10 minutes of trying to convince him that I was going to be leaving, but would be back to get him real soon, the teacher came and distracted him while I left. I was so worried for him all morning, but when I went to pick him up she said he did really well.

I wasn't feeling well yesterday at all, but I knew Kellen needed me to take him to school. Kevin offered to take him, but I thought I needed to since it was his first day, probably just more for myself than that Kellen actually needed me. Anyways, halfway over to school, I realized that I forgot his registration papers and the payment. Then when we got there all of the kids had their name tags on that the teacher gave us at the open house. So when school was out I just took all of the stuff I had forgotten in the morning. But worst of all it hit me hours after he was home from school that he was supposed to take something for show and tell and wear red. I felt horrible for forgetting, but I had a somewhat good excuse I guess. I will be a much better mom for pre-school next week!!

Highlights from the past couple of weeks

2010-09-11T14:27:00.001-05:00

I know it's been quite a while since I posted last. I have no excuse! These past couple of weeks have been a lot slower than our fast paced summer was. We still have had enough going on, but I feel like we get a break between activities.

Kellen & Cooper fell asleep after a long day of shopping. We don't have the most comfortable seats for sleeping.

I tried to get a nice picture of the boys...

but as you can tell that was difficult

Guess we'll have to try again

Last Sunday we went to Kevin's aunt and uncle's house by Omaha. The boys had fun swimming in their pool. Sitting on the steps are Cooper, Kellen, Tyson & Ali

Cooper

Going for a boat ride - Tyson, Kellen, Ali, Emma, & Haley. Cooper was on the boat too, just in the back by Sue.

Tyson & Kellen loved the boat. Apparently, Cooper wasn't so sure.

On Monday we went out to the Whitaker's to celebrate Aubree's 3rd birthday.

Kellen, Tyson, Riley, Jenae & Cooper by Aubree

Opening presents

Tyson's the ring bearer in my cousin's wedding coming up in October. So we made a trip to town to try it on. He looked pretty sharp. We did a little shopping while we up there with my Mom, Lacey & Riley.

Circus, Circus

2010-08-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

Since school started last week, it has forced us to be a little more scheduled around here which is a good thing I guess. I seem to function a lot better, and in turn so do the boys. Also by getting up at 6:45 on school mornings I am able to get a lot more done. I was pretty tired last week after getting up that early. Tyson was too, he's normally not one to admit he is tired, but last week he said he was and looked very tired. He is really enjoying school, everyday I ask him about his day and he doesn't say a whole lot. You really have to pry it out of him.

While he is at school, Kellen & Cooper are 'partners in crime' as we call them. They play together really well for the most part - they do have their moments for sure.

Goofy boys

On Thursday afternoon, we took the boys to the circus. I forgot my camera so no pictures. I think the boys had fun, it wasn't really what we expected. They didn't have any circus animals and did mostly acrobatic stunts. They did have a motorcycle cage that was pretty neat. After the circus we went out to eat and then we did a little shopping.

On Friday evening we took the boys over to my parents house so they could watch them for a little bit while Kevin and I met with our priest. I am starting Catholic classes to become Catholic. He hopes to have us completed by Christmas time.

On Saturday evening we went to church then out to eat with some friends. On Sunday afternoon we went over to Daryl & Sue's house to celebrate Daryl's birthday.

All the grandkids: Ali, Caden holding Logan, Tyson, Kellen & Cooper

Holding Logan

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-18T09:40:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was Tyson's first day of school. I took him in since it was the first day. He was really excited and maybe a little nervous. He only went until noon yesterday, and Kevin picked him up. He said he really liked school, but the bad part is that he has to go to bed early.

First Day!

This morning the bus picked him up, it comes at 7:20 am and he's the first one on in the morning. Today is a full day so he will eat lunch there too. He will not be able to take a sack lunch (all the kids have to eat a hot lunch), so he is a little anxious about what they'll be serving. He can be a very picky eater! Today they are having chicken patties - I think he thought that would be good, it's mainly the fruits and vegetables that he doesn't like.

I had a harder time sending him off on the bus the morning then I did taking him into school yesterday on his first day. Seeing my little (growing up so fast) boy get on that big school bus was hard and then he waved goodbye to me and that just got me. I'm tearing up just thinking about it.

Waiting for the bus

I can't wait to hear all about how his second day of school went.

Another busy, but fun week!!

2010-08-16T10:17:00.002-05:00

A week ago Friday, we went to the horse races in Columbus. We always have a lot of fun there. We didn't have any luck, but we had a good time.

Cooper after his blue slushy

Tyson was blue too

Cooper, Kellen & Caden

We had some really HOT days last weekend, so we hooked up the slip-n-slide. The boys had a blast.

Tyson had no fear

Kellen & Cooper didn't like to slide down so they either walked down or scooted down

The cold water felt really good on such a hot day

That night after church we went with Kevin up north to check pivots. It was a fun laid back Saturday.

On Sunday we went to the fireman's picnic. Tyson had fun playing the games. Here they are playing the wheelbarrow game. Tyson and another boy were a team.

That same boy said he could give Tyson (all 52 pounds of him) a piggy back ride for the next race - the piggy back races. (They are in the gray shirts) Kevin and another guy were going to give Kellen & Cooper rides but Cooper was scared and was screaming.

I was Tyson's partner for the egg toss

They also had water balloon fights

Then we all got to go on a ride

I thought it was pretty fun

Tyson enjoyed it

Cooper was not so sure. We rode around town for a little while, then we saw another firetruck and they doused us - we were soaked!

On Monday we got the slip-n-slide out again. Kellen & Cooper's turn.

One of Tyson's friends, Jack, came to play for the day. Here they're waiting for Kellen & Cooper to get out of their way.

Jack's turn

Tyson

On Tuesday, Tyson had his kindergarten physical. We went to my parent's house for dinner, my mom made kumla, which is a Norwegian dish. It was really good! Then that afternoon we went into school to get all signed up and pay for lunches, etc.

On Wednesday, they needed some help at my old job, so I went into work for the day.

On Thursday, my cousins were back at my Grandma's house from Omaha. So I took the boys over to play with them, and we went to the pool. Trevor & Tyson

Cooper & Kellen

Cooper wasn't into swimming too much that day

Michael, Trevor & Tyson

We pretty much had the kid pool to ourselves

Michael, Tyson & Trevor goofing around

Kellen

On Thursday night, my sister-in-law Erin, had some girls over to play games. It was a fun girls night out!

On Friday night we took Tyson and Kellen to see Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore in 3D. We had the theater (for our movie) to ourselves. The boys had a blast!

On Saturday Kevin & I went to his cousin's wedding in Omaha. It was a pretty good time. My parents kept the boys for us.

Yesterday we went to our church's annual bazaar. They have a big meal, games, raffles, etc. It was fun, but we were all so tired that we came home early and went to bed.

Kellen going down the slide

Today we actually don't have anything planned for once. We have one day to regroup before school starts tomorrow. I think we all are going to have to start going to bed early from now on. Tyson goes from 8-noon tomorrow, and then all day Wednesday and all day Friday.

Our Last Days of Summer

2010-08-05T13:46:00.001-05:00

Now I know the summer season is far from over, but since Tyson will be starting school in a little over a week I feel like our summer is coming to a close. It went by way to fast, and I find myself trying to squeeze in everything that we didn't do that I had planned. Well some of it isn't going to happen -- this year...but we still have the weekends.

I really didn't think it would bother me too bad that Tyson was going to be starting school this fall. I know he loves school and is really looking forward to kindergarten, so that's how I've justified it with myself...til now. As the 17th approaches, I keep thinking about how much I'm going to miss him! He went to preschool last year, but that was only 2 half days a week. I'm sure it will be fine, but I just feel like I need to do all this stuff with him in the next week. I don't even know what stuff I'm referring to - just spending a lot of quality time as a family - I guess.

I sure love these boys!!

Look mom - I caught one

The boys are fascinated with the crop dusters. This one was spraying the corn by our place so we got to see it up close.

L to R: Kellen, Ali, Tyson & Cooper; Caden's in front

Last Friday we went to the pool. We met Kelly, Ali and Caden there. My mom met us there too. That evening we went to ball games - Kevin was playing in a slow pitch tournament.

On Saturday, I had a girls day out with my mother-in-law and SIL Kelly. We got massages and did some shopping. It was a ton of fun! We went back to the ball games on Saturday afternoon.

Brooke got a new pony - so we had to go check him out. The boys loved him. It makes me want to get one ;)

Allyx wanted in the arena pretty bad

Brooke leading Kellen on Pepper

Cooper had a lot of helpers

Brooke and Kellen riding double. The pictures I took of just Brooke were too blurry to post.

Kellen had the "best seat in the house"

Our little vacation, part 2

2010-07-27T07:19:00.004-05:00

So we spent Sunday morning around the hotel. As you can see in the picture below our rooms were directly across the hall from each other, which worked out so well.

The kids thought it would be fun to play ring-around-the-rosie

It was pretty cute!

Kellen, Brooke, Aubree, Cooper, Tyson and Jenae

Then we packed up and went to the Amazing Pizza Machine. It was a ton of fun!

Jenae, Kevin and Tyson on the bumper cars

Kellen, Tyson and Jenae getting ready to ride the frog hopper

We got Tyson and Kellen $10 all you can ride passes for the day. With older kids that is definitely the way to go.

My mom, Kellen, Tyson and Jenae rode the roller coaster...

a couple of times

Cooper wasn't the bravest kid of the bunch. He liked to sit in this truck and pretend he was driving it, but if you started it up he wanted out.

Kevin and Tyson in the go-carts. They're in the #3 car. We rode the go-karts a couple of times. Well the last time I took Kellen he ended up getting car sick. He didn't throw up, but he came real close. We had to quit the race early because he didn't look good and then he covered his mouth with his hand. Poor guy - Kevin held him for awhile and he fell asleep. When he woke up he was a new kid - but no more rides for him that day. He did fine on the go-karts earlier in the day, but we figured all the rides he went on just added up to too much for him.

Kevin and Tyson - the go-karts are really fun, even for us big kids ;)

Cooper was brave enough to try the go-karts one last time. And he actually liked it.

Kevin and Tyson in the bumper cars

Before we headed home we went to my Grandma's house for her birthday. We missed the party, but we had a nice visit with her. It took us a few days to rest up from our vacation - we were all pretty exhausted. It was a really great weekend!!

This past week has been fairly uneventful, but we were busy too. Wednesday night we went to town to do some shopping (just for the boring necessity stuff) and out to eat. Thursday night we went to a seed corn supper. Friday evening was Logan's baptism at Mike and Kelly's house. Saturday we went to church and out to eat again. And Sunday we got the pool out and had a water balloon fight.

Today we are going to freeze sweet corn. We picked it all last night and will spend most of the day today preparing it to freeze. It's always a big job, but so worth it - I think.

Our little vacation, part 1

2010-07-25T19:02:00.002-05:00

A week ago Friday, we left for a little trip to Omaha for the weekend. That day was pretty laid back, we did a little shopping, and went out to eat, and then spent the rest of the evening in the hotel pool.

Ready to go swimming

At the pool.

This is the 3rd summer we have stayed at this hotel and it's because of the pool. It is very kid friendly.

We got up bright and early to head to the zoo. There we met up with my Mom, Halie, Erin, Jacque & Lacey and their kids. It had been several years since some of them had been to the zoo, so I felt bad because it was one of the worst zoo experiences ever!! It was incredibly hot and extremely crowded. The heat I could tolerate, the crowd I could not. We had several strollers with our bunch so it wasn't the easiest thing to do to maneuver through the crowd, but people are just down right rude.

We got to the point where everyone was ready to get out of there. We were done close to 1pm. We headed back to the hotel and crashed for a bit and then we went swimming.

Later we ordered in pizza and played games and visited. It was a lot of fun!

This monkey was taunting the kids

Posin' by the polar bears. L to R: Jenae, Aubree, Kellen, Tyson, Brooke (too busy looking at the bears) and Cooper.

This bear was swimming right by us

We rode the train so we wouldn't walk out and see all the animals.

L to R: Tyson, Jenae, Halie holding Aubree

L to R: My mom, Brooke, and Erin holding Allyx

Jacque & Lacey with Riley

Our bunch going through the desert dome

Lacey and Riley in the aquarium.

A small glimpse at how horrible the crowd is!

Kevin and Tyson in the tunnel in the aquarium

Jenae, Mom, Brooke, Tyson and Kellen in the jungle

Cooper must have thought the waterfalls were too loud

Tyson going down the slide at the pool

Kellen enjoyed the water too

Cooper having a snack in our room

Halie and Erin with Allyx hanging out in our room

* Part 2...coming soon

Jr. Rodeo

2010-07-21T16:30:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday the kids participated in a Jr. Rodeo. It was a really hot day and it rained on us a couple of times, but it was pretty fun.

Kellen, Tyson, Jenae, Brooke and Aubree

Ali and Caden came to cheer their cousins on

Kellen and Tyson both participated in the goat tail tie. Here's Kellen running out to the goat.

Here they are doing the boot race

Next year I think Cooper will be able to do the events. He seems to have just as much fun watching his brothers and cousins though.

Tyson doing the stick horse barrels. He ended up winning this event, and I would guess at least 40 kids participated. He was pretty proud of himself. We were proud of him too!

Putting those long legs to good use!!

Kellen followed Tyson around the barrels for his turn. He did a good job too! That sand is pretty deep for the kids.

Watching the action!

L to R: Jenae, boy in red ??, Aubree, Caden, Tyson, Ali and Cooper

Kellen riding sheep

Jenae was able to bring her horse

Jenae did barrels and poles on her horse. She did a good job!

My cowboys (we are in the car wash)

We had some tired kiddos that evening

The 4th, The Fair, and Birthday Parties!!

2010-07-14T21:10:00.002-05:00

Wow - what a week. I'm beginning to think that these first couple of weeks of July are our busiest time of the year. Maybe even more hectic than the Christmas holiday.

WARNING: Quite possibly the longest post ever ~ Lots of pictures.

We had a good 4th weekend. We kept it pretty low-key and stayed close to home. Friday Kevin and I went on a date. We went out to eat and to see a movie. We saw Grownups, it was hilarious! We also had to do our birthday shopping that night. We have a lot of July birthdays. Friday the 9th was Kellen's, then on the 12th was Tyson's, the 13th was Kevin's and today is my Dad's birthday.

On the 4th we went over to my parent's house. We had a lot of fun!

We played horseshoes

We had a fire and roasted hotdogs and marshmallows for smores

The boys played and played

The boys had sparklers

On Wednesday we kept Brooke and Allyx for a few hours in the morning. The boys liked having some girls around here to play with.

Thursday I took the boys to the county fair. We met up with my parents and Erin and the girls. We had to check out the petting zoo.

Tyson, Cooper, Aubree, Brooke and Kellen at the carnival

Ridin' the rides

Tyson loved the Ferris wheel

Our view from up top

We had to wake Kellen up early on his birthday. Kevin was spraying and needed to get going early, and he wanted to be there when Kellen opened his presents from us. We gave him a toy rifle and...

a bike. I think he was pleased.

He requested birthday cupcakes.

That evening we had Kevin's family over for the boy's birthdays. The kids enjoyed an indoor picnic. Our cats would have had a hay day if we let the kids eat outside.

The birthday boys and their cake

All the kids and Grandma

Opening gifts

Grandpa helping Kellen with his new legos

On Saturday we had my family over for June/July birthdays. Riley was 1 on June 30th and Allyx turned 1 on July 6th.

Riley opening his gifts

Allyx opening her gifts

The boys opening their gifts

Cooper and Brooke with the birthday kids: Kellen, Tyson, Riley and Allyx.

That evening Kevin and I took the kids back over to the fair to enjoy a few more carnival rides and fair food.

On Sunday we crashed. We were all pretty exhausted.

On Monday we celebrated Tyson's birthday.

Tyson was pretty excited to get a gun like Kellen got

The birthday boy

Yesterday I had to go back into work to help them with a couple of things. Then last night we went out to eat for Kevin's birthday. Today the boys were in a jr. rodeo. And Friday we leave for a little vacation. Busy! Busy!

Happy Birthday Tyson!!

2010-07-12T10:09:00.000-05:00

(All the birthday boys, Dad's - 14th, Tyson's -12th, Kevin's -13th)

Happy 6th Birthday Tyson!!

It's hard to believe you are already 6 years old. You are growing into quite the young man! You are a very special boy to us! We hope you have a fun birthday today and a great year to come!

We love you very much!!

Happy Birthday Kellen!!

2010-07-09T02:57:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday Kellen!

These past 4 years have flown by, and you are growing up so fast. You are always so sweet and you love playing with your brothers. You are a very special boy to us and we hope you have a fun birthday. Our wish is that God continues to bless you through the coming year.

We love you very much!!

The past week

2010-06-30T15:58:00.002-05:00

It's been another busy week and weekend. Last Wednesday, we picked up Ali and Caden and had them at our house for the day to give their mom a break. The kids played hard all day. I tried a couple of times to get them to rest a little bit, but that didn't happen. I think they all had a fun time.

Tyson, Cooper, Caden, Kellen and Ali

Tyson had his last t-ball game of the summer Wednesday night. He was the catcher in the picture above. He hadn't played that position yet. The t-ball season went by really fast. I think Tyson had a good time. Now that we have the first year under our belts, we know what to work on and practice.

The mosquitoes have been horrible this year. It seems that they really like Cooper. He's bit up all over. One bit his eye lid and his eye was swollen a couple days last week.

On Friday we took the boys to the drive-in movie. We saw Toy Story 3 and The Karate Kid. They did really good considering we didn't get home until 3 AM! Kellen stayed awake until 2:30 and he didn't even sleep in the next morning.

Shortly after we got parked at the drive-in, a pickup pulled in next to us. Turns out it was someone we knew. Small world! She was a classmate of mine. They were there with their two kids. The boys had fun playing with their little boy. He would say things like "I want to sit by the brothers".

On Saturday, I went to a bridal shower in Omaha for Kevin's cousin. I got home just in time for church - Kevin had the boys all ready to go.

On Sunday we went up to Norfolk to do a little shopping. That evening we went over to my aunt's house to have a little 4th celebration. She had homemade ice cream and other treats and we watched fireworks. In the picture above, is my grandma holding Kellen and Tyson.

On Monday morning, they called from work to see if I could come in that morning. So I went in for a couple of hours to help them figure some things out.

Yesterday, I took the kids to the pool. We haven't been there yet this year. Erin, Brooke and Allyx were there and my mom came in and met us too.

Today's been pretty laid back. And tomorrow we have to go to Columbus to run some errands and Tyson has an eye doctor appointment that he needs to get into kindergarten.

Summertime!!

2010-06-24T06:57:00.002-05:00

This summer is flying by. It's really been hot lately and it rains almost everyday. We are saturated, and most people around here have been flooded at some time or another over the last couple of weeks. Luckily where we live/farm we don't have to worry about flooding too bad.

Last Wednesday (6/16) Tyson had a t-ball game. He's getting better as the season goes on. We've been practicing pitching the ball to him. On Monday (6/21) he had another game and hit all 3 balls without the T. So he was pretty proud of himself.

On Wednesday (6/16) I had to make yet another trip to the doctor's office with Cooper. On Tuesday night, he went from fine to having a temp over 105 in less than a hour. Talk about scary! We thought for sure it was his ears and tonsils again. We kept him on Tylenol & ibuprofen all night. Apparently, he had hand, foot and mouth disease. The only symptoms he had was a high fever and some sores in the back of his throat. So it may have been that or something else altogether. When I got home from the doctor with Cooper, Kellen was sick with the same thing. Luckily, it was a very short illness. They were both feeling much better by Thursday. We kept close to home for the better part of the week since we didn't want to expose anyone. One good thing is I am glad it wasn't Cooper's ears - he would have to had seen a ENT doctor about tubes if we went back one more time with ear infection.

On Father's Day we had a full day planned. We went to my parent's house for dinner. Almost all of my siblings, their spouses and kids were there. Then we headed over to spend time with my grandpa and grandma. It was my grandma's birthday. Then we went over to Mike and Kelly's for supper. It was fun, but long day!

Logan

The boys have been spending a lot of time outside. On Monday they were in the pool from 10 in the morning until 4 that afternoon. And they only got out then because we had to go to t-ball.

On Tuesday, we made plans to go to the pool in town with my mom who is keeping Jenae and Aubree this week, and Erin and her girls. Well when we got there the pool was closed. We tried to go to the park, but it was like a swamp. So we ended up coming over to our house and played in the pool and sprinkler.

Tyson and Jenae coloring the sidewalks

Cooper being his usual goofy self

Carnival

2010-06-22T21:43:00.000-05:00

I am way behind on posting pictures, etc.

On Saturday, June 12th we went to a carnival that my church was putting on during Shell Creek Valley Days in Newman Grove. We met up with Jacque, Lacey & Riley there. My mom was there too, but she had to work part of the time. We also got to visit with my grandma and my aunt Linda. The boys had a blast!

Here's Lacey with the clown - she was making balloon animals for my boys, but they were too shy/scared to go by here so Lacey stepped in

They had a lot of games to play - I think the boys played almost every game they had

Riley sure looked cute in his little ball cap

Tyson trying out the bean-bag toss

Riley liked to pick the ducks

After the carnival we went out to my dad and mom's house for supper. The kids had fun playing outside. Cooper was being goofy on the big wheel.

Kellen playing with the balloons that Riley won at the carnival

Riley liked being pulled around in his little car, I think Tyson had just as much fun pulling him

That evening my parents kept the kids and Jacque, Lacey, Kevin and I went into the street dance in town.

What Makes a Dad

2010-06-20T11:03:00.000-05:00

God took the strength of a mountain,

The majesty of a tree,

The warmth of a summer sun,

The calm of a quiet sea,

The generous soul of nature,

The comforting arm of night,

The wisdom of the ages,

The power of the eagle's flight,

The joy of a morning in spring,

The faith of a mustard seed,

The patience of eternity,

The depth of a family need,

Then God combined these qualities,

When there was nothing more to add,

He knew His masterpiece was complete,

And so, He called it ... Dad

Author is unknown

Happy Father's Day!!

Welcome baby Logan!!

2010-06-14T20:39:00.001-05:00

Kevin's sister Kelly and her husband Mike had a baby boy on Saturday night (on my birthday). They named him Logan Michael, and he weighed 8 pounds and was 20 inches long. Ali and Caden are pretty excited to have a new baby brother. He's sure a cutie!!

Ali holding her new brother

The boys each had to have a turn holding him too

Kevin's grandma Janice with the kids. L to R: Caden, Tyson, Cooper, Ali holding Logan, Janice holding Kellen

Congratulations Kelly & Mike!!!

It's official

2010-06-12T13:35:00.000-05:00

I am now a full-time stay-at-home-mom. Tuesday was my last day at my part-time job - it was somewhat bittersweet leaving. I have had a paying job since I was a senior in high school which was eons ago. And I babysat for money years before that. That said I couldn't be happier to do one of the hardest, non-paying, most thankless jobs that there are and stay home with my kids all day, everyday! It may be a hard job, but on the other hand it is one of the most rewarding ones as well.

I've worked 2-3 days a week since having kids, and I've always felt that I had the best of both worlds. I think that was selfish of me to think so, but I liked being able to get out of the house every week. This year it just got to the point where it was going to be a struggle to get kids where they need to be when school starts and we were out of daycare options, so it just made since to quit.

I feel very fortunate that I am able to stay home, I know that is not a possible option for all families.

On my last day at work, Kevin and the boys sent me flowers. The card was so sweet, it said "We're looking forward to working with you on your new job". That made my day!

T-ball

2010-06-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Tyson had his first t-ball game on Wednesday night. It was a first for all of us, we are learning so much along the way with Tyson.

He missed the first game of the season last Wednesday because of the stomach flu. We didn't know that even though it's called t-ball that they pitch to you. We didn't practice that at all. When the kids didn't hit the ball after 3 tries then they put the 't' out there.

Tyson was a little nervous before the game, but he said he had a lot of fun. He had a lot of people there supporting him at his first game. Both sets of grandparents, Kevin's sister Kelly and her kids, and my sister-in-law Erin and Brooke were there.

Tyson has 2 games next week. And one per week after that through June.

The team (Tyson is on the far right)

The coach going over some pointers before the game

Batter up

A busy fun weekend

2010-06-05T13:28:00.001-05:00

We packed a lot into the extended holiday last weekend. It was busy, but it was also fun to see everyone!

First on our long line of events, was my cousin Michael's 6th birthday. The boys always have fun getting together to play with their 1st, 2nd and 3rd cousins.

The birthday boy with his cake. L to R: Cooper, Kellen, Tyson, Ellie, Conner holding Aubree, Michael, Trevor, Madisyn, and Brooke (Riley and Allyx were napping)

Michael opening his gifts. He had a lot of helpers.

The whole gang. It wasn't very easy to get everyone to cooperate, as you can tell. L to R: Riley, Kellen, Brooke, Allyx, Aubree, Ellie, Madisyn, Trevor, Michael, Cooper, Tyson & Conner

We had to leave the birthday party early since we had to get the babysitters picked up. I had my 15 year class reunion on Saturday night. I really wasn't sure I wanted to go, but living this close I figured I should. I ended up having a really good time. It was great to see people that I haven't for many years. It was a little disappointing in that only a little over half of our classmates were able to make it. It's hard to believe it's been 15 years!

On Sunday, we went to the Noble family reunion in Albion for dinner. It was also my Grandpa's birthday, so that made it extra special. They had a nice turn out, and all of my family was able to make it this year. That afternoon/evening we went to Kevin's parent's house. A lot of Sue's family was back home, so she had everyone out for supper.

Grandpa and Grandma got a new toy for the kids...a motorized pickup. The kids all loved taking it for a spin. The little kids are to little to drive yet, but they had fun riding. Surprisingly they all got along pretty well taking turns.

The boys have been over to their house driving the pickup almost everyday since then.

On Monday, we went to Kevin's aunt and uncle's house to spend more time with the family. It turned out to be a really nice day. They had water balloon fights and ran through the sprinkler.

Kevin and Mike even got in on the fun throwing water balloons.

The kids also played a game with water balloons that was like 'hot potato'. When the timer went off the water balloon popped on you.

Kellen and Emma running through the sprinkler

Halie, Emma, Kellen and Tyson had a lot of fun in the sprinkler

All Gave Some...Some Gave All...

2010-05-30T18:00:00.010-05:00

The bug bit us

2010-05-28T16:49:00.001-05:00

We've had a bout with a stomach bug around here. Tuesday night/Wednesday morning Cooper and Tyson were sick. And a little later in the day, Kellen came down with it. Thankfully it is a very short illness. Tyson always seems to get hit the hardest. They were all feeling much better by yesterday morning. So far Kevin or I haven't caught it. I think we are about out of the woods, but I have thought that before and that is not always the case. I'm still trying to get caught up on sleep. I slept from 11pm to 1am on Tuesday night and that was it. The next night was a little better, but I am still exhausted.

Yesterday we helped Kevin move to a couple of fields. He was going to spray and needed a ride. The boys love to go along any chance they have.

Exploring in the field while we waited for Kevin to fill the sprayer

The boys each got a turn in either the truck or tractor yesterday, so that made their day

Cooper had a collision with a window sill a couple of days ago, and has quite the little shiner

Playing with the baby kitties

A mama cat feeding the kittens. We have a total of 17 kittens now. So hopefully we can find some good homes to send some of them.

We have a very busy and fun weekend planned. Have a safe Memorial weekend!

A fun and not-so-fun weekend!!

2010-05-19T18:25:00.001-05:00

This past weekend my parents branded calves-it's a family affair. My sisters and brother and their families were all there. Along with Brian, who is a 3rd cousin of ours that likes to come to the farm and help out with the branding. They planned everything for Sunday, but the weather forecast was calling for rain all day. So they started on Saturday afternoon and finished up on Sunday. There's a lot that goes into getting cows and calves ready to move to pasture. Everybody worked really hard!

The not-so-fun part was that I had to stay home on Saturday with Cooper since he was sick, but Kevin and the boys went over to help. Cooper had a pretty high fever again. Well on Sunday Kevin offered to stay home with Cooper so that I go over and see my family.

I took Cooper to the doctor on Monday, and he has double ear infection and infected tonsils again. He had this same thing less than a month ago. He is on a stronger antibiotic now, so hopefully that will take care of it!

My helpers in the pickup, we had to lead the herd. Aubree was upset because she saw her mom and wanted to be with her.

The cows/calves all worked, branded and sorted and ready to be moved to pasture.

They moved down the road without any problems

Practice roping

Tyson wanted to take a picture of Jenae, looks like she had the same idea

Springtime

2010-05-17T08:19:00.000-05:00

Last Friday the boys helped Kevin's mom plant her garden. They had a lot of fun!

Cooper was up to his usual ornery self

Ali and Tyson helping Grandma with the cucumbers

Kellen and Cooper helping Grandma plant beans

The boys played a little t-ball

Baby kitties - this is our third batch of 5! And we have one more cat yet to have her kitties.

These two can be the best of friends and the next moment they are fighting - - BOYS!!