The Twedt Family

Finally Some Snow!!

2012-02-04T22:57:00.000-06:00

We had our first real snow of the season! Dan was thrilled because he finally got to use our snowblower. The kids were thrilled, well, you can imagine! I was thrilled because everyone else was so happy!!

Rolling balls of snow for the snowman!

This is in our backyard

Anna, Gilli and Owen with their snowman!

Owen's Last Basketball Game of the Season

2012-02-02T22:36:00.000-06:00

We can't believe it's come to an end - winter basketball. Since last fall, Owen's been going to basketball clinics and playing games at the YMCA. He L.O.V.E.S. it! Basketball is definitely a game he is passionate about! So today, with sad hearts, we went to his last basketball game until next fall. He's had so much fun learning to dribble better, guard, rebound and most importantly, he has learned to be a good team player... Luckily, we still have swimming and baseball starts in a couple of months!! Smiles!!

Listening to Coach Joel talk about good sportsmanship

Running laps to get warmed up - Owen's out front!

Practicing his shots

Getting ready to play their last game

Coach Joel and Owen (nice ribbon, Buddy)!

Anna's Ears Pierced Part II

2012-02-01T23:11:00.010-06:00

A few months ago, Anna got a pretty bad infection in her ears and had to let her holes close up. So, after making sure her ears were completely healthy, we went back and got her ears repierced... She didn't even tear up. For moral support, she brought her good friend Gilli...

Before...

After...

Woody and Bob the Builder

2012-01-20T23:03:00.006-06:00

Owen and his friend, Gentry, playing Woody (from Toy Story) and Bob the Builder

Train Tracks....

2012-01-14T15:25:00.001-06:00

Train tracks have been overtaking our house for the past couple of weeks. First we laid enough track to go around the center of our house. Now, well now, it's at the bottom of the stairs so every time we go up or down the stairs we have to step over it... Or even go through the front door...

Owen had such a great time putting it together so there it will stay... until we can't stand it :)

Quite a hill off the stair...

Here he is fueling up before the build...

Our Last Full Day in Chicago...

2012-01-10T18:05:00.011-06:00

Luckily, Anna had Monday off from school, so we were able to stay until Monday morning giving us the entire day on Sunday to hang out with the Scotts! We were able to visit and just veg in the morning while the kids played outside. Then, Heather and I went to IKEA (I'm becoming a regular now) and Dan and Todd took the kids to an Indian Princess get together. Once back home, the kids got in some more play time and we had a very nice meal (thanks Todd!)...

We hadn't been to visit the Scotts since they lived in TX. Although, we've seen them a few times in between. We've vowed to not let so much time pass before we see them again! In fact, we're planning a trip back to Chicago this summer and we're hoping they make it our way soon too. The older girls got along so well and the younger ones played a little - but mostly on their own :). There's nothing better than hanging out with people who have known you forever and you can just be you! So thanks again, Scotts! We had a wonderful time and left with so many GREAT memories!!

One last note... On our way home, we stopped at the world's LARGEST (yep - it's true) truck stop on I-80 in eastern Iowa. It was SO exciting!! My dad says I'm becoming the new 'Clark Griswold' of our family! I'll own it - proudly!! And, Clark Sr - I promise to make you proud!

Anna and Vivian

Todd and Owen cooking

Heather and Becky

Dancing to the Wii

HeeHeeHee

Michigan Avenue at Night!

2012-01-10T17:30:00.001-06:00

After drinks at the Hancock Building, we headed back out to Michigan Avenue for an evening stroll...

Super cute girlies!

O and his hot chocolate

Oh Marilyn...

Chicago River

Ready to hop the train home!

Still smiling after a long day!

The Hancock Building - Our Chicago Visit

2012-01-10T17:20:00.013-06:00

After getting the hot chocolate for the kids, we went over to the Hancock Building to head up to the 95th floor so we could look out at the Chicago skyline and enjoy the beautiful view!

Hancock Building

The sun is going down...

Navy Pier

Love this girl!

Downtown Chicago

2012-01-10T17:10:00.001-06:00

After eating at Gino's we walked over to Michigan Avenue (a dream come true for me!)...

The boys holding hands... so sweet...

Trump Building

Anna in front of the water tower (she learning a bit about this at school)

Ohh Yeah!

What better of a treat than Hershey's hot chocolate??

Our First Chicago Visit!

2012-01-10T17:00:00.001-06:00

With crazy nice weather for January, we FINALLY were able to plan a trip to see some old friends, Todd and Heather and their super cute girls!

Since we had such a great time and took so many pictures - I'm going to have to write a couple of posts for this trip!!

Since Anna had school on Friday, we left after she got out and got to Chicago around bedtime. The kids got reacquainted and then they headed to bed. That meant that we got to catch up sans kiddos!!

We decided to head downtown on Saturday! So, after we all got ready (poor Dan only got five minutes - which if you know Dan is not long enough! HA!), we raced to the train station so we could take the doubledecker train downtown. Then, we got to ride in a CAB!! Yep, a cab! I'm so much from a small town! It was Owen's first cab ride so of course I took pictures! We took the cabs (actually two b/c we couldn't all fit in one) to Gino's East and GREAT pizza joint where you can write all over the walls!

Waiting for the Train!

Owen was so excited!

Checking out the view from the top level

Owen's first cab ride!

Gang minus Heather

Vivian and Anna - fast friends

Can you find Dan's name? Hint: Left of "don't"

Almost 20 years of pure wedded bliss??

What a fun group!

Writing on the walls!

Winter Swimming Lessons - Owen

2012-01-04T22:51:00.000-06:00

Owen started his first session of winter swimming lessons! Have to get ready for summer!! He will not, EVER, float on his back for us. Get a nice swim teacher and look what happens! Owen is the one with the silver goggles.

So cute - listening to the instructor...

On his back

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T23:24:00.000-06:00

What a GREAT day!

Can I tell you why??

First of all - it's Christmas Eve

We had no particular place to be

I finished wrapping presents - with two helpers

Owen and Anna are at the PERFECT ages for Christmas

Anna asked Owen to play a game w/o being asked

We had prime rib for dinner

Christmas Eve candlelight service was incredible and awe inspiring

(although O fell asleep for most of it)

Nan's Nummies' cookies for Santa

Santa sent personalized email videos to the kids

Drove around looking at Christmas lights drinking cocoa and in our PJs

Kids got to open one present each

Anna read "Twas the Night Before Christmas" -

just as we read to her in years past

We are so blessed to be parents to these two little gifts

While we miss being with our family today and tomorrow -

They are still in our hearts and we can't wait to see everyone soon

And the BEST part of today...

Jesus was born!!

My Babies
Anna - 8 yrs, Owen - 4 yrs (cute blazer, Buddy!)

A Daddy and his beautiful daughter

Our little family

Getting ready to go out to see some lights!

Each got to open one gift

They each got a keepsake ornament
Curious George for Owen,
Tinkerbell for Anna

Carrots for the reindeer, Cookies for Santa

All Ready!!

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!!
With love from our house to yours!!

Seeing Santa at Bass Pro Shop!

2011-12-23T22:56:00.023-06:00

The past couple of years, we've gone over to Altoona to the Bass Pro Shop to see Santa. They also have some really cool activities during the holiday season such as a shooting gallery, archery station, race track, and remote control cars. They also have huge displays of animals and aquariums. The kids LOVE it here!!

The "Big Guy" himself!!

At the shooting gallery!

She's pretty serious!

In front of the HUGE aquarium

Soon enough!

Overheard at the Twedt House...

2011-12-09T22:30:00.008-06:00

Charlie, our Elf...

As we're getting ready for our Westin Crown Center weekend to visit the REAL Santa, I overheard Anna telling Charlie that it would be alright for him to just spend the weekend with Santa helping him out and that he can just be back on Monday...

- Dan

Bunk Beds....

2011-12-06T16:35:00.000-06:00

While cleaning up the kitchen from making some Christmas cookies for a Christmas cookie exchange, I overhear from the front room - "let's make bunkbeds!!"

Santa has Arrived!!

2011-11-18T22:00:00.000-06:00

One of our new family traditions since moving to West Des Moines is going to the Jordan Creek Town Center's Christmas Tree Lighting and of course, seeing Santa's arrival! They have a little ampitheater where we get to listen to Christmas music and dance. Soon, Santa arrives and he lights the HUGE Christmas tree. A beautiful fireworks display caps off the evening! It is so much fun!! This year, we went with our great neighbors, Billi, Heath and Gentry!

Owen, Anna, Billi and Gentry

Courtland's First Visit

2011-11-17T23:16:00.008-06:00

Owen playing peek a boo with Courtland

Showing Courtland how the bouncy seat works!

Super cute boys!

Anna was in heaven!! She LOVES to feed babies!

We just LOVE visitors!!! So, we were really excited when Courtland came for his very first visit to our house (oh, and Rhonda too)... We had a great time together and can't wait for when the whole Magee family can come!!

First Snow of the Season!

2011-11-09T22:27:00.000-06:00

The kids heard us talking last night about the possibility of getting an inch or two of snow during the night. They were sooo excited. But, as we got them ready for bed, no snow. Owen was downright disappointed when it hadn't started yet. About 11p, he had to get up to go to the bathroom and low and behold... it was snowing.

They were so happy, they actually got dressed and ate in a hurry so they could go outside before we took Anna to school!! Owen was so thrilled, he wore his snowpants until noon, picking up every clump of snow he found so he could throw it on the ground to watch it break!

Oh, the excitement of the first snow!!

Ottawa Veteran's Day Parade

2011-11-05T17:25:00.002-05:00

Love our tradition of seeing the Veteran's Day Parade in Ottawa!!

Harvest Party at Owen's Preschool

2011-10-27T16:57:00.014-05:00

Owen's school has a great Harvest Party for Halloween! All the kids get to dress up in their costumes and have a fun day! They first do a costume parade, then they get to play "Fall" games. They had "fishing," "golfing," "apple picking," and so much more! I was able to help out with the games so I got to dress up too! Anna suggested I go as a "Pajama" girl, so that's what I did!! It was so much fun for both of us!!

Owen, "SWAT" man Twedt and Mommy, "PJ" girl!

With his class ready to show off their costumes!

Owen showing off his costume...

Trick or Treating at Living History Farms

2011-10-21T23:00:00.029-05:00

This year we finally made it to the Living History Farms Halloween Bash! Owen went as a "Swat" policeman and because Anna still hadn't decided what to be, she went as a "Rock and Roll" girl just for the night.

Owen with his heroes - Two, count 'em two police officers. Owen offered to 'help' them if they needed it. They replied that it was them that would be available to assist the "swat" man!

Notice Anna twirling in excitement at the top of the picture...

They have so much fun together (sometimes!)

Pretending to be scared in the Cemetery

On the horse drawn wagon ride...

Getting ready to go on the "Parade of pumpkins"

HUGE pumpkin!

Roasting marshmallows

This is the side of the big barn...

Happy Halloween!

Bittersweet...

2011-10-21T22:30:00.000-05:00

Our last day of having a 3 year old in our house...don't know what really else to say other than my momma heart hurts.

A Day Out with Thomas ~ September 24, 2011

2011-10-04T22:23:00.000-05:00

A few years ago, Grandpa Greg took Anna on Thomas in Baldwin City. So, we were really excited when he said that he would take his little buddy, Owen, this year when Thomas came to Boone, IA. Owen COULDN'T wait for the day to get here and was just beside himself to get on Thomas! Anna was nice enough to hand down her shirt and hat from her day with Thomas three years ago so Owen had some great gear to wear. Here are some pictures from their "Day Out with Thomas."

Owen and Sir Topham Hat

Sweet boy...

Sweet girl...

Anna and Grandma Bonnie

In line to get on Thomas!

Peeking Out!!

Couldn't be happier!

Owen and Thomas (just wish he would have been looking at the camera in at least one of the five pictures I took)!!

Two very happy boys!!

Driving Range

2011-10-03T20:21:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, September 25, Owen got to go with Daddy and Grandpa Greg to hit golf balls at the driving range. According to Daddy and Grandpa, he loved it and did a great job!! The best part was that Grandpa gave Owen a set of his own little golf clubs. So cute!!

Home Depot Project Day - Helicopters!

2011-10-01T21:12:00.001-05:00

Usually this is Daddy's project with the kids ("No Mom's allowed")... but since we were out and about, I was allowed to go to this one. It was fun watching them build their helicopters and paint them. I tried to stay out of the way... :) This month, there was even a firetruck and clown who made balloon animals... Fun!!

Have you ever seen a helicopter with zebra stripes and polka dots??
Ps... Do you see all the pins on Anna's apron? Those represent all the projects she's done with Daddy at Home Depot... She also has a Lowe's apron with patches from other projects... She LOVES her project days with her Dad!!

Owen and Blast Ball!

2011-09-20T22:31:00.018-05:00

As you all know, Owen LOVES baseball! The Waukee Parks and Recreation department offered a short pre- T-Ball clinic this fall and I signed Owen up! What made it even more fun was that his little friend, Parker, also got to play!

Basically, they divided the kids into two groups after stretching and catching practice. Half the kids worked on fielding skills, while the other half hit. They hit off the tee. The first three balls were yellow and the last one was blue. They stayed in place when hitting the yellow balls, but when they hit the blue ball, they were to run to the 'Blast' base that was located halfway between home plate and 1st base. When the kids jumped on it, it squeaked! HILARIOUS!

So, again, knowing Owen, you know that he LOVES baseball and watches and plays the game intently! So, running to the 'Blast' base was not enough for him. He had to run past it to first base (because that's what real players do). When the other kids were hitting, they hit the ball, ran to the 'Blast' base then went back in line to hit. Not Owen. He waited on first until the next player hit, then ran to second. Again, he waited for the next hitter and ran to third when the blue ball was hit. And finally ran for home after the next one. We all got a kick out of him!

I think he's getting ready to hit again... Can't tell...

Owen and Parker - true friends!

Picking Apples at Center Grove Orchard

2011-09-17T23:42:00.016-05:00

It was Owen's idea to switch places!

On the wagon to go to the orchard... Have our apple picker!

Yes, that's Anna up in the tree!

Owen trying to get on that's up high

Got it!

We LOVE this place! So, I'm sure we'll be back to play and get some pumpkins!

Last Day at Adventureland for the Season...

2011-09-12T22:54:00.000-05:00

We spent our last day at Adventureland this season on Saturday... It was a lot of fun! We rode as many rides as we could and then our favorites a few times!! The kids had a ball and weather was perfect! Great family day!! On our way to the parking lot, Owen announced he was going to sleep in the car. He was true to his word. He fell asleep before we were out of the parking lot. We drove a few miles to get dinner and he ended up sleeping through dinner, including getting in and out of the car for dinner and then once we got home. He woke up on Sunday EARLY saying he was hungry. He's so funny!!

The "Ladybugs" - Owen's favorite ride this season. Wonder which it will be next year...

One of Anna's favorites, although Dan and I can't ride it - would make us too dizzy!

Still riding rides with her brother - sweet girl!

Next to last ride, the train...

All tuckered out...

Owen's First Soccer Experience: Grasskickers!

2011-09-09T23:01:00.002-05:00

Owen had his start with soccer tonight. He started with a local organization, V.S.A. and we signed him up for "Grasskickers." Grasskickers is for the littlest soccer players, 3-6 yr olds. They are put in groups according to ages, so Owen plays with about seven other 3 yr olds.

After learning some basics (what you do with the ball and other information), they worked on some drills. The hardest one for Owen was when they said to dribble the ball. Well, he picked up his ball and tried to dribble it like a basketball- in the grass. We had to explain, when you're playing soccer, you dribble it with your feet by kicking it little by little. Finally, the last 15-20 minutes of Grasskickers, the kids split up into two teams and played a little game. It was sooo cute! One other little boy, whose name happens to be Owen too, was really good and basically had control of the soccer ball 90 percent of the game.

He told us he really liked it and wants to go back next week! We were all excited because Anna has never played soccer, so it was a completely new experience for all of us. We're very proud of Owen for trying something new!

Anna....

2011-09-08T16:48:00.000-05:00

So, I just received my first call from a teacher in regard to one of my children. I was a little nervous when she said who was calling. I shouldn't have been. She called to tell me what a wonderful student Anna is. She said that she could tell the that Anna truly cares about her (the teacher) and her fellow students - always offering to help when needed. She also said that Anna always does her work well and quietly - a pleasure to be in class. Wow!!

This is not meant to be a post with me bragging about Anna, but more of a good job, Anna. So many times, we, as parents, don't get a chance to hear all the positive things...

VERY proud of my girl tonight! Way to go Anna!

Owen's First Day of 3yr old Preschool at SOTV

2011-09-06T23:55:00.000-05:00

My babies....

His new Spiderman backpack!

This is SOOO Owen

His hook

Me and my little Buddy - holding back the tears

Mrs. Walsh and O-man

This is the ladder/loft he was SO excited about!

We got to the school a little early to pick him up. Who knows why he had his hood on - silly boy!

Lunch at On the Border to celebrate his first day! We all got to go, even Daddy.

~ I knew today would come, Owen's first day of 'real' preschool. To me, this is the beginning of the end of having little people in our house. For the last eight (nearly) years, I have been caring for a little person. What am I going to do without having a little person tagging along with me all day, asking me to play, telling me they're hungry, just BEING with me?

Owen is already so grown up. EVERYONE has told me how much taller he is since the beginning of summer. We told him today, he's no longer a toddler, but a preschooler. Really? When did he grow into his sweet little boy self? When did my baby boy grow into a toddler?

My heart is stretched almost more than I can take tonight as I think back to how I used to hold him all the time when he was first born. It was as if he was telling me how it was going to be - me and him, him and me. I remember being so scared when they said in the hospital, "It's a boy!" What was I going to do with a boy? But, now I ask myself what would I do without one, without Owen? He is my baby even though he has grown into this little boy - he will always be... He holds my heart in his little hands...

I'm going to miss having little people around here... ~

Labor Day Weekend - Fun at the Lake!!

2011-09-05T23:21:00.000-05:00

We had a fabulous Labor Day Sunday!! We were able to go to John Redmond Reservoir and met Grandpa and Grandma Gilroy (camper Gpa and Gma), Great Grandma Gilroy (and Buddie), Great Aunt Paula and Ken, and Keyna!! Keyna flew in from Washington State for a week so it was an extra treat to spend some time with her!

It was a busy day filled with lots of fun! We explored our side of the Lake, then played games, cooked lunch and dessert over the campfire. Luckily Anna had some wonderful Girl Scouts, Great Aunt Paula and cousin Keyna, to teach her how to make Carmel peach dessert, banana boats, and pie irons. After lunch, it was craft time, then off to the other side of the Lake to see what there was to see! We definitely saw some interesting things...

Got back to the campsite for a small dinner and more desserts on the campfire. One of the best memories for me, was helping wash dishes in the RV and hearing Aunt Paula and Keyna teaching Anna Girl Scout songs while sitting around the campfire...

Great memories - Great weekend!!

Owen and Daddy at John Redmond Reservoir

Grandma and Buddie on our hike...

Anna in the creek bed

Playing Yahtzee!

Making Caramel Peach Dessert on the campfire...

The whole crew!

Anna and Owen at John Redmond Reservoir

Crazy Boy!!

Beautiful girl...

Anna making pie irons on the campfire

Labor Day Weekend - Saturday at Grandma Shirley's!!

2011-09-05T22:57:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at Grandma Shirley and Grandpa Dennis' house on Saturday! Here are a few pictures...

Owen riding w/Grandpa Dennis

Anna making chocolate ice cream

Dan washing the house! Who needs a ladder anyway?

By the way, she's not driving it herself - just sitting on it...

And now, we're having fun!!

Owen's Preschool Orientation

2011-09-01T18:35:00.000-05:00

Owen had preschool orientaton this morning at his new school, Shepherd of the Valley. He is sooo excited to begin school next Tuesday. He'll be going on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9-11:30a. His preschool room has a really cool loft area where they can climb up to the top and play. Under it, is a play kitchen/house. He's most excited about climbing the ladder to the loft!

Owen outside of Shepherd of the Valley

Owen and his new teacher, Mrs. Walsh

Owen and His "New" Bike and Other Twedt Happenings!!

2011-08-29T22:03:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, Anna, Dan and Owen went down to the creek (a secrect club - according to Anna) that's near her school with her good friend, Ellie. Ellie was the one who had initially found this cool place to explore. She's been down to the creek at total of three times in the last four days... This is how she came home today...

Some good friends of ours from Kansas were so nice to give us this bike a couple of years ago for Owen to ride (thank you Schrock family!). We've kept it and finally figured he was ready to ride it. The tire had gone flat, so off he and I went to the bike store today to get a new tube and tire. As soon as Daddy got home, he helped him fix it and off he went. Anna explained how to use the breaks and then Daddy explained how to pedal a big boy bike. He's ridden his trike for a couple of years, so it shouldn't have been too different, but he still needed a little help...

Helping Daddy fix the bike!

So proud!

Watching what he was doing!

Getting the hang of it...

Look at him go!

Anna starts some new things this year!! She was in Daisies last year and has moved up to Brownies for 2nd grade. Her first meeting is Thursday and she is SOOO excited. I ironed on the patches tonight (a first for me). I think it suits her! We get to spend some time this weekend with her Great Aunt Paula and cousin Keyna who are Girl Scout experts - she might even get to cook some dessert over the camp fire. She's really looking forward to it!!

Anna's First Day of 2nd Grade!!

2011-08-17T22:00:00.001-05:00

Today we officially have a 2nd grader in our house!!

Anna and Gillian (3rd grade)

The Girls (Gillian, Peyton, Alex and Anna)

The whole crew (Cael, Gillian, Peyton, Alex, Anna and Owen)

Both of them have grown about 10ft this summer!

Walking to school... See Owen and Cael down the street.

Anna and Gilli

Cael, Anna, Owen and Gilli - Peyton and Alex went to Middle School this year...

On the way into the school

Anna's new teacher, Ms. Evan (pronounces Even)

So fashionable (Anna's new favorite term)

My beautiful girl...

Just for fun - this was her kindergarten picture!

And here's first grade!

Anna, we love you more than you will ever know... You make us both so very proud. We pray that you have a wonderful 2nd grade year!!

Dinner at Gino's

2011-08-16T22:44:00.009-05:00

The night before Anna started school this year, we thought it would be nice to go out for a nice family dinner. We ate at Gino's in West Glen. We had a great time together as a family!! Hard to believe our kids are growing so quickly!!

Twedts go to the Iowa State Fair! Part 1

2011-08-15T00:08:00.000-05:00

We LOVE the Iowa State Fair!
Who knew what we were missing? We went Opening Day this year (for our first trip) on 8.11. It was not very crowded and beautiful - sunny and 77'. We went through the Varied Industries Bldg, ate pork chops on a stick - our favorites, ate corndogs, rode the Sky Glider, watched horseshoes (and learned the rules), saw the Butter Cow, walked through the cattle barn, swine barn and horse barn, saw all the tractors and then the RVs that were for sale (literally we walked through 25 campers at least), saw barrel racing, saw the massive boars and walked the Avenue of Breeds, admired the Clydesdales, ate a walking taco and we had eggs on a stick.

On Saturday night, 8.13, Dan's dream of seeing Def Leppard in concert became a reality. We were able to go see them and Heart in concert with some friends! It was really a great concert. They haven't changed much in all these years! We also were able to listen to the Nadas, a local band that seems really great! For concert night, we had a sitter for the kids so it was weird walking around without them.

Just walking in!

Owen, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Anna

Mommy and Anna on the Sky Glider (I was terrified)

Isn't she beautiful?

Daddy and Owen on the Sky Glider (yep, I was still terrified)

View looking down the Grand Concourse facing west. See, not too crowded!

Partial picture of the Midway from the Sky Glider

Getting ready to see the Butter Cow

See, I wasn't kidding - eggs on a stick!

See the house, yellow brick road and ruby red slippers - Home again!

In the Master Gardeners Area - so beautiful!

Super cute!

Owen was fascinated by the little donkey

Owen's favorite tractor

Anna's favorite tractor

Anna and all her tats! I can't remember how many she got (and Owen got them all too)!

We are planning (and have tickets) to go ONE more time this year!! We'll post more pictures!! Wish you all could join us so keep this in mind for next summer and come visit!!

Anna Lost Tooth #8!

2011-07-29T23:29:00.015-05:00

All week Anna kept messing with her tooth saying it was loose and wiggling it continuously. Well, as soon as we reached Minneapolis, we got our hotel, then got back in the car to go see Grandma and Grandpa and cousins that were also visiting Minneapolis... Next thing we hear from the back seat - "I just pulled my tooth out!!" We got out, gave her napkins to help and that was that...

We've come so far from the fear of losing that first tooth to now pulling her own... Gheesh!

When looking at her, it's the right side tooth that she lost!

Vacation Bible School At HOPE 7/18-7/22

2011-07-22T23:50:00.009-05:00

Anna went to VBS at HOPE for the first time this year! It was so much fun! I was able to help three days with Crafts and when I did that Owen went into the nursery. Next year, he'll be able to attend at the same time as Anna. It truly was a lot of fun!

Mom and Anna

Autographing their shirts (Gilli, Malea and Anna)

We were lucky enough to have two friends join us at VBS for a day or two!

The whole crew!

Girl Scout Camp!

2011-07-14T12:13:00.000-05:00

Anna headed to Girl Scout Camp yesterday! She's been anticipating it for weeks. The theme this year is "Spy Girlz." Anna LOVES being a spy. Luckily, she has two friends from school and another friend from another school in her group. She was ecstatic to know they were all in the same group! She was also all smiles yesterday when she got home. They did all kinds of cool things! Today is water day if the weather holds. I'll try to post a few more pics later this week!

Anna and Ellie

Taylor and Anna

Anna and the "Agent P's" (their code name for their group)

Our First Dinner from our Garden!!

2011-07-12T22:16:00.000-05:00

I had NO idea how exciting today was going to be for me (or Anna)!! I got out some chicken for dinner and then started thinking about what to put with it. About 15 minutes before the chicken was finished, Anna, Dan and I went out and literally picked three types of lettuce, three little carrots and green beans for supper. We went in and washed them all and of course, cooked the beans. Here's our bounty! Seriously, though, we need to thank Anna because she was the one that said she wanted a vegetable garden. She waters it most every day and she watches it grow and grow. I never would have done this without her. Never. I also never knew how satisfying it would be to go out to my own backyard and pick what we would eat in a matter of minutes... So COOL!!

Three types of lettuce with our little carrots

Green beans

Our meal: Chicken, wild rice, green beans, lettuce salad, nectarines and cherries

Anna trying the carrot

Sometimes Words are not Enough...

2011-06-30T23:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes my words are not enough to tell the tale of my heart's desires. Sometimes words can not express the feelings that come from deep within. Sometimes I wish I could say it all distinctly and with the exact feeling that my thoughts deserve. Most often, though, I wish I could just figure out what IT is.

For a couple of years, I've wanted a third child. Dan, however, has said since Owen was in my tummy, that he was so happy and content with two. I see pregnant women and dream, I see babies and try to remember when my babies were that small. Most often though, I just want my kids to slow down and not grow up so quickly.

I remember that horrible day in November 2006 when a not so kind doctor told me that I probably shouldn't have another baby and if I did, I would have to have a C-section. I do remember that we prayed and prayed for little Owen (baby number two). I also remember that having a C-section wasn't so good for my body.

I do know how my prayers for Owen were answered. I know I am truly blessed with two wonderful children who I wouldn't trade for the world. I just wish that the feelings and the desires for a third baby would go away. Or maybe, I just miss my babies being small. Often, I feel a little happy that I'm out of the baby stage and the diaper stage. But, then again, I can't seem to get rid of the crib, swing and those little bitty clothes.

I know in my head that we're done having children, why can't my heart hear the words?

Accepting prayers for a content heart...

Super O-Man's Day at the Park!!

2011-06-24T22:57:00.002-05:00

Super O-Man hits the park!!

So, it's a little short...

Anna Got Her Ears Pierced!!

2011-06-20T22:11:00.003-05:00

On Memorial Day weekend, we ended up going shopping with our dear friend, Kelly Jo, or Aunt Kelly Jo as Anna and Owen know her. We met her in Williamsburg, IA at an outlet mall. For about a year, Anna has been asking for and wearing magnetic earrings or clip ons. Well, all day while we were shopping she wanted to go to Claire's to get some new earrings. Funny thing, though, she never really wears her clip on earrings outside of the house because she's afraid she'll lose them. Well, we finally ended up at Claire's ...

A couple of years ago, Anna asked when she could get her ears pierced and more importantly, did it hurt? Dan and I had discussed with her that we decided that when she turned 10, she could have her ears pierced. This past year, she literally would stand, looking in the window at our local Claire's watching girls get their ears pierced, remarking on how they didn't cry and how great they looked with earrings. We decided, maybe eight would be a better age.

So, on that day, May 29th, when Anna walked through the doors looking for the expensive clip on earrings, I just said to her, "Why don't you just get your ears pierced today?" "Really?" she asked. I looked at Dan and he nodded yes and she got super excited and said she wanted to do it! Our last words to her - it's for a lifetime - and she was sure!!

She hopped up into the chair, grabbed the cuddly bear the clerk gave her to hold onto, and listened intently while the clerk explained how to care for her new earrings, and pierced ears, how long she would have to wait to wear new earrings (July 9th) and how long she'd have to wait to wear hoops (6 mos). We looked at all the earring choices and finally settled on some very pretty flowers that we agreed "would match everything." She didn't flinch when they started marking her ears with purple dots where the 'gun' would go nor did she cry when they pierced each ear. I know she was a little scared, but in the end, she was so brave and just so excited!!

I think for once we surprised her with a true gift that day. Although, I usually end up cleaning her ears because she's still young, she has taken charge and gets it all ready for me each time. She remembers to twist them and is really responsible for her newly pierced ears - we're really proud of her!

Anna "before" holding the "cuddly bear"

Pre-pierced ears...

Excited

And nervous

Purple dots

Anna and the very nice lady who pierced her ears

Super cute!

Anna and Aunt Kelly Jo

Smiles all around...

Living History Farms Camp!

2011-06-20T20:33:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of Living History Farms camp! Anna went for half days last year for one week and had a blast. As I recall, she said that she loved it so much she wanted to go every year until she could be a "teacher" there (aka camp counselor). So, she was REALLY looking forward to it this year. What could make it even better? A super, great friend from KS to come and stay the week with us and go with her to Living History Farms camp!! Yep, Anna's friend, Malea, came all the way from KS to spend the week with us and go to camp with Anna. When I asked this afternoon when I picked them up if they liked it, this is what I heard - "We LOVED it!!!"

This year, the camp is from 9-4p for one week. They were pretty tired when they got home. So, they had some down time and then we went out for DQ.... Fun times!

Anna and Malea ready for their day at camp!

Anna and Malea after camp with their counselor Signe

DQ ice cream treats all around!

FYI...

2011-06-20T14:23:00.000-05:00

I am SO behind in updates! I'm hoping to get somewhat caught up this week! So, please be prepared for multiple entries and pictures!! I also will be post-dating a lot of them as I want to have the dates right. Not sure if folks know, but I use the blog as a journal for the kids too. I print the posts and put them in books for them for when they are older.

Here's to catching up!

Opening Day!

2011-06-04T20:44:00.009-05:00

Kids had a great time at the pool on opening day!! It was still a little cool, so there wasn't very many people there -- which means short lines on the slides! As a bonus, Anna is FINALLY tall enough (min height is 48") to go the slides!! Had a great time until Daddy got hurt...

Anna and her friend Ellie

Super-O-Man aka Superman

2011-05-27T00:04:00.000-05:00

A Super Hero has come to live with us!! Super-O-Man a.k.a Superman! I've had a few dress up clothes for Owen, but he hasn't really ever seemed interested. Well, that changed last night...

The cape helps him run and fly faster and jump higher!

Seems as though the cape is here to stay! CUTE!

Anna's Softball Game

2011-05-26T23:56:00.000-05:00

Anna catching a fly ball for the ONLY out for her team!

Eight of the players - two were already on base and hitting!

Anna played a GREAT game tonight - she was the only one who made an out tonight for her team and she's hitting VERY well!! Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Owen's Last Day of Preschool!

2011-05-24T23:03:00.002-05:00

So today was Owen's last day of preschool at Seeds of Faith. He had a wonderful day, filled with a short singing program, playing and popsicles! This has been wonderful year for him. He has learned a lot and has had a great experience every Tuesday morning. Our family, and most importantly, Owen, has been truly blessed with his teachers and school this year. We will definitely miss them. Ps. I asked Owen what his favorite part of preschool was this year and he said --- playdough and playing with friends --- sounds like fun to me!!

Anna and Owen in AUGUST

Owen on his way into school this morning

Singing"Jesus Loves Me" - and he did all the actions!

Mrs. Peterson (asst Teacher), Owen and Mrs. Vacura (Mrs. V - head Teacher)

That's all love right there! Owen and Mrs. V

Owen asked for Burger King so he could have a cheeseburger and an Icee to celebrate!

Anna and Owen TODAY

Owen Just Wrote Out His Name!!

2011-05-18T20:47:00.000-05:00

Owen just wrote his name for the VERY first time - all by himself! I think it's a GREAT job for his first time!! So, he got his "M" and "W" mixed up, he's only 3 1/2!
I'm a VERY proud Mommy!! Great job, little buddy!
Ps. We've been having him spell it out loud, but this is his first attempt to write it~~

Here's another one! Great job, O!!

City of Clive - Big Truck Show

2011-05-14T23:01:00.013-05:00

Clive is a part of the Des Moines Metro and very close to our house. Even though it's smack in the middle of Des Moines, it often has a small town feel. We love going to the Clive Public Library and often go there for storytime and other kids' events. Lucky for Owen, they held a Big Truck show with lots of City of Clive trucks, including a Firetruck and Police car! And, there were policemen, firemen and 'worker' men!! Owen was on cloud nine the entire time we were there!

This is Anna and Owen in the back of a police car. We sternly told them this better be the one and ONLY time they are in the back of one!

Overheard at the Twedt House...

2011-05-11T16:59:00.000-05:00

Let me first say, I realize parents are not supposed to be 'friends' with their children. That being said this is what Anna said today...

Anna: "Tomorrow at school is 'Love Your Friend Day.'"
Mom: "That's so sweet."
Anna: "You're my best friend and you'll be my best, best, best friend forever."
Mom: "Thank you." (gave big hug)
Anna: "Well, you have to be my best friend because you're my mom."
Mom: "Well, not really. Some kids don't think their moms are their friends."
Anna: "You have to be my best friend because you make really good popcorn for me."

Ahh... Now it makes sense...

POTTY TRAINED!!!

2011-05-09T23:09:00.000-05:00

It's official!! Dan and I (and Owen) are saying Owen is POTTY TRAINED! I can't even begin to tell you how happy we are! This process has taken forever with Owen (Anna was sooo easy). We started toying around with it at the beginning of the year, but Owen just wasn't completely ready. It was only after we promised him a soft sword and shield and put him in big boy underwear during the day instead of Pull-ups, he finally decided it was time. Since a week ago Saturday (4/30), he has not had an accident!

After it's all been said done, he got his sword and shield, new "Cars" undies and a special surprise, a boy scooter! Anna got a Princess scooter when she was done potty training. Owen's been riding it for about a year. We offered him one when we started training, but he kept saying he had one (Anna's). So, we surprised him today with his own, boy scooter, a race car one. He was super excited! I haven't gotten a picture of the sword and shield yet, but I will post it.

I try not to be sad as there will be no more diapers in the Twedt house, but I am just a little bit. Of course, I don't want a 3 1/2 yr old in diapers, but I will miss having a little, little person in the house. I now only have a 7 1/2 yr old going on 16 and a 3 1/2 yr old who thinks he's all big boy now!

Owen, we're SO PROUD of you!!

Lost: Tooth #7

2011-05-09T22:46:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, while waiting for the Pella Tulip Festival Parade, Anna said her tooth felt like it was about to come out. I probably should have been ready after the weeks and weeks of hearing her tooth was loose and she was wiggling and wiggling it. So, I asked her if she wanted me to pull it and she said yes. So, I took a napkin and pulled it out. No pain, hardly no blood, but LOTS of smiles and giggling from Anna. She was sooo proud that it came out at the Tulip Festival Parade. She said she couldn't wait to tell everyone.

She also chose to write a letter to the Tooth Fairy this time around. She asked the Tooth Fairy for three things. 1.) A picture of herself (the Tooth Fairy), 2.) $5 (her usual take for a tooth is a gold dollar coin), 3.) A stuffed animal. This letter was written after finding out that a friend down the street wrote a similar letter and received what she asked for.

When Anna woke up the next morning and found only her gold coin, she was discouraged. I explained to her that for one, the Tooth Fairy is really little and she was not prepared to find a letter requesting something different, she only had brought her a gold coin as that was what she did with Anna. I also explained that the Tooth Fairy does things different with every child and that the gold coin was her "special" thing she does with Anna. That Tooth Fairy, is pretty thoughtful!

Here are some pictures of the cutie!!

Happy Half Birthday, Anna!!

2011-04-30T21:15:00.006-05:00

Happy Half Birthday, Anna!! This morning at 12:01am, Anna turned 7 1/2! Since she's been marking days off her calendar, she's been happily looking foward to this day for a little while!

She started by having a friend stay the night last night. Her and her friend had a softball game last night, so then she came over to play and for a sleepover after that. They ended the night by watching a movie. So she was awake when she turned 7 1/2.

We got up early, had Anna's favorite donuts and went to her favorite place here in Des Moines - Living History Farms. I'm sure you've all heard of it by now! Today was the first day they were open and they had some special activities for members and volunteers (we're members).

A couple of the activties were petting goslings, ducks and chicks, riding in a Model T car, homemade cinnamon rolls, making clay pots, playing early 1900 baseball, and just a few other things.

After that, we had softball pictures and ate at Chipotle (Anna's pick). The weather was so nice, we even got to eat outside.

The rest of her day was spent outside playing with friends in this beautiful weather - can't beat that for your half birthday!

Here are some neat and fun things about Anna - as she turns 7 1/2...

Anna's Acitivities this school year:
*Piano - She started in September - she is learning notes, positions, timing, and is already playing multiple notes with two hands - she's doing really well!
*Hip-Hop - She takes Hip-Hop every Monday night and LOVES it!
*Tumbling - She also takes Tumbling on Mondays - it's right after Hip-Hop and she is doing really well in her class. She's trying to perfect her round offs, including her one handed round-offs. She's also learning front flips on the tumble track. She loves tumbling this year. Every other year, she's done gymnastics, but this year she was really nervous on the bars so asked if she could do tumbling instead (no bars or balance beam).
*Daisies - She started Daisies in January and LOVES it! This is her first year. She even sold the most cookies in her troop. She'll move on to Brownies next year because this is a favorite.
*Heartland Club - This is an afternoon Christian based club that meets at Anna's school two Tuesdays a month during the spring semester.
*WOW (Worship on Wednesdays) and Choir: She joined the youth choir at church this past spring and has really enjoyed it. Along with that, she goes to WOW too! It's like a weeknight Sunday school class.
*Yoga: She takes this free, kids only, yoga class on Saturday mornings at the YMCA if we're there.
*Swimming lessons: She only takes one five week session of winter lessons, but she was truly excited this year as they really concentrated on diving. She's going to have a ball at the pool this summer because she's finally tall enough (49" now) to ride the slides and can dive off the boards!
*Book club: Our library has a youth bookclub that meets every other week. Each six week session concentrates on different styles/types of stories. Last session it was mysteries and this one is Folktales. She really enjoys it, but I'm sad to say she doesn't make it too often.
*Softball: LOVES it!! Her favorite positions are pitcher and first base (just like her mom!!).

-- I know it might seem like she's involved in a lot of activities, but many only meet once a month for part of the year or once in a while. She has plenty of at-home time, homework time, friend time, and down time. Most of the above activities ended in March or April... Although, she'll take piano all year.

Anna's Accomplishments:
*She's doing really well in school and truly loves it! She's even reading at a second grade level. And, she writes wonderful stories.
*Learned how to hop on a pogo-stick
*Can now crack an egg
*Can do a front flip on the tumble track
*Can count money
*Dive off the diving board
*Climb our front tree really high
*Use a power drill (under Daddy's supervision)
*Learning how to garden

Anna's Favorite Things
*All kinds of fruit (especially strawberries, raspberries, kiwi, Cuties and canteloupe)
*"Phineas and Ferb"
*Chipotle
*"Ramona and Beezus" - the movie
*"Rio"
*Softball
*Climbing trees
*Riding bikes
*"Tangled"
*Riding her friend's electric scooter
*Anna doesn't merely walk anywhere - she does cartwheels and round-offs to get from point A to point B
*"HOP"
*Chinese Food
*Drawing pictures and writing stories
*Playing with her friends (and brother)
*Tank tops and flip flops
*Swimming
*Listening to Music
*Abigail, her American Girl Doll
*Play games
*StarKiss ice cream bars from DQ
*Having her nails painted
*Reading chapter books

Anna is truly a wonderful little gal to be around. She LOVES school, her friends and her family. She is a super big sister and daughter! We LOVE her very, very much!

Entrance of Living History Farms

Holding the baby chick

Balls of clay

She's going to hit it hard!

Waiting on 2nd base

Riding the Model T car (built in 1920)

Owen...

2011-04-30T20:56:00.005-05:00

Two cute, quick things about Owen...

1. Owen has been using the potty alot lately - even starting to "ask" to go to the potty. Lately, he's been wearing big boy "Thomas" undies while we are at home and changing into Pull-ups when we go out. But today we left him in his big boy pants all day - even when we left the house. No accidents so far... Woo Hoo!!

2. Anna is down at a friend's house and Owen wanted a snack. I'm tired, so I turned on the T.V. I couldn't really find too much to watch, so I turned on "Rudy" the football movie. A few months ago, we got caught up in the ending of the movie, and here again, turned it on just about in the same place. Owen of course, started watching it b/c it had a football in it. As the movie came to an end, the players and spectators start chanting, "Ru-dy, Ru-dy." Little Owen, was so moved, he started raising his fist and and shouting right along with the show! So, cute!!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T20:27:00.013-05:00

We started our weekend with an Easter Egg Hunt in Waukee... It was chilly, but fun!

They had an "under 4" section and then an older section for Anna's age. Here's Daddy and Owen - they hunted together!

Kiddos after the hunt!

Yes, those are Owen's feet hanging out of the couch. He got tired Saturday night around 6:30p, went upstairs, got his nuk and climbed in... It grew quiet, so when we checked on him, this is what we found.

Easter morning

Here we are!

We truly enjoyed having Grandma and Grandpa here to celebrate with us!

What a wonderful weekend we had! Most importantly, what a wonderful Easter morning!

Often, I cannot find the words to express my faith. But, I have to say a little something on this beautiful day...

During Good Friday service, they spoke about how Mary must have felt being Jesus' mother and the anguish she was going through. How she could not bear to see her son in so much agony...dying... but yet how could she not watch. She watched as Jesus carried the cross, bloodied from his punishment to his death. As a mother, I can't even imagine...

I was brought to tears as I thought of how much God loved us to have his son die on the cross for me, even with all my imperfections and issues, for me - for us.

And, then, on the third day, Jesus rose from the dead - "He is Risen! HE IS RISEN INDEED!" Oh, what a wonderful day - for me, for my children, for you!

We pray each night and thank God for our blessings, our family and friends... So, know that tonight we will be thanking God for you...

Happy Easter,
Becky

Happy Half Birthday, Owen - He's 3 1/2!!

2011-04-22T15:18:00.020-05:00

I thought this would be a great time to share some of what our little guy Owen has been up to...

Owen Loves To:

*Play Ball - Of any kind, but most especially basketball and baseball

*To dribble and makes a lot of shots on the highest level of his mini-basketball goal

*To bowl and golf on the Wii

*To play with 'building' things - Lincoln Logs, K'Nex, blocks, Handy Manny construction site

*To watch Curious George and Caillou

*To ride his trike and scooter (although, it used to be Anna's Princess scooter) - we offered to get him a boy one when he potty trained, but he insists the Princess one is his

*To play with his trains and cars

*To swim

*PB and J sandwiches, strawberries and bananas, cheeseburgers and fries, hot dogs and MILK! He drinks more milk than all the rest of us put together.

*To play fort with Anna

*To PLAY OUTSIDE!

New Things Owen is Doing:

*Spelling his own name!! He first spelled it O.P.T. because that's what we sometimes call him. We've quickly changed our ways! He's been trying to spell it for about a week, but still sometimes forgets the "e" and "n." He also recognizes the letters for his name now.

*Singing: Ever since we started brushing his teeth, I sing the ABCs during the brushing. He now sings his ABCs, "Bob Builder (he leaves out the "the") - can we fix it? Yes we can!," and "He's got whole wor-ld in His hands." And, I wouldn't be completely honest if I didn't mention "Shake your boo-ty, shake your boo-ty. Yeah, Yeah" Singing is a VERY big deal for Owen - I never thought he would sing... and since we've been going to Mommy and Me Music regularly, he even does actions to some songs!! Wow!!

*He is slowly but surely moving from Pull-Ups (potty training pants - that are kind of like big kid diapers) to Thomas the Train underwear. He is wearing them most times when we are at home.

*Along those same lines, just today, for the first time, he told me had to go potty - he never has told me he needed to go - I always just tell him we need to try.

*He went number two on the potty yesterday for the second time ever - but the first "trying" to do it. The first time (a couple of weeks ago) was a total fluke...

*Dribbling the basketball

*He knows his colors, shapes and can count to 15 (most of the time).

*Hits the baseball w/o a tee - just from Mommy's pitching.

*This kid really doesn't like bandaids. I really should say hates (even though I know hate is a bad word in our house) bandaids. Unfortunately, he and Anna had a bit of a bad fall the other night and his hand hurts bad enough from a scrape, that he actually is wearing a bandaid and requesting them... Now, that's news.

*Yes, that's grape jelly on his cheeks...

Some Cute Owenisms:

*"I have idea"

*"I love you more!"

*"When I'm big like Daddy, I'll be four."

*"Score!" - game he and Anna play in the car announcing they found a yellow car.

*"It's my turn to talk." - Gotta love this one in our family!

*"Love you too" - which I hear all the time b/c he ALWAYS says it back as well as "I missed you too."

*"Anna, can you play with me, please?" or "Anna, can you read to me, please" or - "Anna, can you XXYYZZ with/to me, please?" - He loves his sister...

We are truly blessed that this little boy is part of our family. He is truly a gift....

2011-04-20T22:04:00.009-05:00

I decided to treat the kids today and take them to see a movie this afternoon.

Just the three of us...

We picked "Rio" - a super cute movie about some near extinct birds. I loved sitting between the two kids, often watching them instead of the movie. Anna, laughing and eyes wide open, moving to the music. And Owen, this was his second movie in the theater. He was mesmorized by the scenes and beautiful colors. His feet didn't even reach the edge of the seat when he was sitting back all the way. He ate his popcorn one piece at a time and drank from his little cup, cheeks puffed out. About 3/4 of the way through the movie, he asked if he could move to the other side of Anna and sit next to 'sister.' Right after he moved, the evil villian bird popped up out of nowhere and both kids pulled up their arms and waved their hands in fear - at the same time! HILARIOUS! Then, they laughed together as they realized everything was okay.

As the movie came to a close, the end scenes were filled with fun music and dancing. Both kids swayed and moved their little bodies to the music...

Such a great day for a movie!

Is It Just Me...

2011-04-19T16:12:00.004-05:00

Is it just me, or are my two favorite little people growing up too fast? It's a rainy day out today, not to mention a bit on the cold side. After getting Owen from preschool, we came home to play some indoor catch, have some lunch and just sit. He wanted to watch Caillou, his new favorite show (of the week), and I just wanted to sit and be with him.

As we were sitting there, I tried to remember when he was really little - like when he was a little baby. I see the baby pictures of both kids and I just don't remember them ever being so tiny. Of course, I remember bits of pieces when they were that little - like Anna's first holidays when I wouldn't let anyone else hold her - didn't want anyone to break her you know...

I remember holding them when they were born, their little bodies fitting perfectly in my arms.

I remember Anna when she was a toddler and preschooler and taking her to the park, for storytime, gymnastics, for playdates... And I do the same for Owen now.

I remember holding them both when they were babies at church. I know I should have put them in the nursery, but it was such a wonderful, fulfilling feeling to hold them swaying to the music and looking down at them with such thankfulness that they were in our lives.

And soon, she's going to be a second grader and Owen's going to go to big boy preschool.

I asked Anna today as she got home from school if she remembered all the things we used to do when she was little, like going to the Library. She didn't. She said she remembered being happy. I guess that's the best I can ask for...

Goodness, I love these guys...

Overheard at the Twedt House

2011-04-17T17:50:00.002-05:00

Today, I was lying in bed with Anna and Owen, hoping that all of us could get a short nap. Anna wanted to watch the last few minutes of "Barbie and the Fairies" or something like that. Of course, it was a "Happy Ever After" type of ending where Barbie and Ken get married in front of all the Fairies (from what I could tell with my eyes closed). As they are clapping for the new couple, Anna says, "I think kissing is gross." Owen pipes up, "Anna... Anna.... When Mommy kisses me, it's not gross, it's nice."

This just days after I told Owen he sure was cute and he looked right back at me and said, you are too...

He is soooo sweet! I hope to remember these days when he's too old for his mom...

Happy Sunday,
Becky

Anna Singing at Church

2011-03-31T12:41:00.005-05:00

Recently, Anna began singing in the Children's Choir at church. She LOVES it. The Saturday (3/5) after her first class, she was already singing at the Saturday night service. She'll be up singing again in a couple of weeks!

It actually has been really nice with her interest in choir. Her practice (or class) is on Wednesday nights. Basically Wednesday nights at Lutheran Church of Hope are for families. We go and eat dinner with a lot of other families then Anna goes to choir, then to WOW (Worship on Wednesdays). Owen goes to his usual preschool classroom (Jubilation Station) where he sings, does crafts and plays. Then, Dan and I go to a parenting class. We're home by 7:30p. It's nice...

Owen and his buddy Cam...

2011-03-25T12:53:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of Owen and his good friend, Cam. They are almost exactly the same age! Cam and Owen met at MOPS and have been playing ever since. Cam's mom and I try to get the boys together as often as we can - at least once a month - not counting MOPS meetings.

Super cute boys!!

Kids' New Monkey Bathroom

2011-03-05T12:27:00.004-06:00

Here are a couple of pictures of the kids' new "Monkey Bathroom." It has some new green paint and all the monkey fixin's! We're hoping to put up a couple of pictures on the wall, but haven't taken them yet. One really nice thing about repainting, is we were able to switch out the old towel bar. I never liked it so it's nice to have something much nicer!

If you come and visit - you can see it in person!! :)

Owen and the Incident Report

2011-03-04T22:55:00.004-06:00

Tonight, we were lucky enough to have some of our best friends from KS staying with us, Eli (10) and Avery (7). We thought it would be fun to take them to the YMCA to swim.

Once we got there, the kids changed quickly and got into the pool. Dan stayed with them while I changed. I was coming out of the dressing room into the pool area, when I saw Owen get out of the pool (1ft deep area) and run toward the kiddie slide. We have previously told that boy time and time again, to WALK... but no, he can't or won't, do it. Usually, after a warning, he gets time out. So tonight as I'm walking toward him watching my step so as not fall on the slippery tile, Owen falls down hard right by slide. He hit his head so hard that now he has a big ole' bump and he also scraped up his side around his ribs. He was crying so hard and it was difficult to get to him quickly because it was slick.

I finally reached him and I held him close and tried to comfort him. As soon as we sat down on a bench, a YMCA lifeguard came over and asked how he was, then another one... Well, those of you that know Owen well, know that he does NOT like strangers. So, all of these people coming up and getting in his space was freaking him out even more. Then, another lifeguard, with a clipboard walks over, along with bandaids (Owen REALLY, TRULY won't wear bandaids - blood could be pouring down his knees and he refuses bandaids - that has happened to us, it's the truth) and an ice pack. As soon as he saw the bandaids, he started screaming again - really screaming - I explained to the guard that he really doesn't like bandaids. I had to smile my, "yes, I know it's weird, but what do you do, he's three," smile.

So, he backed off on the bandaids and I forced the ice pack on his head. While all this was going on, the guard pulls out the clipboard. It's an incident report. Really? An incident report? Really?

So, I got to fill out an incident report within five minutes of arriving at the pool. Yep, within five minutes. As soon as I was finished, Owen was done crying and ready to get back in the pool. We were literally five feet from the kiddie slide, so Owen hops down and starts toward it. Yeah, he was running again, and wiped out again... this time his forhead and his other side...

I kid you not...

Anna's Poetry Party

2011-03-03T22:39:00.002-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, a little red-headed first grader brought us a hand written invitation to her 1st Grade Poetry Party. We all were invited for breakfast and some poetry. When we got to her class, there was juice and donuts and lots of smiling students ready to share their wonderful poems. Anna had a poem about a bunny, her little brother, her likes, her wishes... all really neat poems. We had a great time with her this morning...

Great job, Sweetie!

My Sweet Boy

2011-03-02T13:55:00.002-06:00

just asked me... "What can I do to help you?" I kid you not, he really came up to me while I was doing dishes and asked all by himself, no requests for help, no suggestions, nothing - sweet boy. He's a keeper!

James and the Giant Peach

2011-02-27T23:29:00.002-06:00

Back in October, I won a "Mega Raffle Basket" at Anna's school carnival! We got a lot of really fun tickets and gift cards. One of the really cool gifts, was four tickets to go see "James and the Giant Peach" at the Des Moines Playhouse. We got to go this past Friday night. It was a really fun show where most of the actors were kids. Owen and Anna were just amazed at all the fun actors/actresses, not to mention the songs and props! The show lasted 1 hr and 15 minutes - just perfect for a three year old! Lots of fun - and ice cream for dessert - not a bad night!

Ps. One of the best parts - Owen sitting on my lap with Anna sitting between Dan and I holding both our hands. True contentment and happiness....

Mismatched, Upside-down Clothes and Sporting Crazy Hair Day!

2011-02-24T14:23:00.004-06:00

This week at Anna's school it is "Anti-Bullying" week! Each day, they get to wear fun types of clothes to celebrate anti-bullying. Some days they got to wear their favorite sports attire, or twin day, etc. Today is "mismatched, upside-down clothes and sporting crazy hair day!!" How do you think she did??

Her pants are one of my old t-shirts, upside down with her legs through the arm holes. It is also backwards. She has a belt holding it up. The shirt is another one of my old t-shirts, backwards and upside down. Her waist is through my neck hole - yep, she's that small. She has on two different socks and two different shoes!

Her hair is a mix of braids, buns and ponytails with all different types and colors of ponytail holders.

Her backside...

And her feet...

Fun times in FIRST grade!!

Top Sellin' Girl!!

2011-02-22T20:51:00.005-06:00

Tonight, I picked up Anna's Girl Scout cookies and guess what?? They told me she was the "Top-Seller" of her Daisy troop! Another girl sold 176 (or 174 I can't remember) but Anna sold 180!! Many thanks to all that bought from her, we'll be delivering them soon!!

GREAT JOB sweetie!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T22:00:00.002-06:00

My two little Valentines.

As parents, we have good days and bad days, days we cringe at hearing what we say to these little guys we love so much, and days we want to remember forever. There are days that we want them to grow out of the stage they're in and days we want them to never grow up. EVERY day I want them to know I LOVE them with all I have.

I hate to say it, but I'm not a huge fan of Valentine's Day. I really never have been, but it is fun to celebrate those that I love so very much. It's fun to give (and get) extra hugs, kisses and words of affirmation. I think we all need days where we go out of our way to appreciate and show love to our family and friends. Let's face it, there are many days that we forget...

So, even with the "little bit too small" outfit, and Owen's messy hair, we loved on each other ALL day... Hope you were able to do the same with your special Valentines.

*See the hearts on her tights (it all matched!)

Weekend Fun!!

2011-01-17T23:16:00.002-06:00

This past weekend, we were invited by our neighbors to go to their parent's lake house for some sledding and family fun! It was us, their family of four and another friend's family of six!

We had a lot of fun; eating, playing games, watching the kids play together, relaxing, dancing to fun music, sledding and tubbing (hot-tubbing). We originally were going to come back home on Sunday, but we had so much fun sledding and playing, we stayed an extra day.

Back in Ks, we didn't ever really have a lot of snow, so sledding wasn't really something we did a lot of. With the kids, we even just stayed in our front yard, which most of you know, was not steep at all. Well, this hill was steep and the path ran right into the very frozen lake which was also covered in snow. We all had a ball! Dan went airborne once and then hit a little tree (well, kind of little) with his hip. He's a bit sore to say the least. One really fun run was the six girls on a huge toboggan. I was in the back because, well because I was a little frightened. You can hear me screaming almost the entire way down the hill on the video.

A couple of final fun facts... This is the FIRST time I've ever walked on a frozen body of water. Second, I've never seen a snow mobile in person, and we got to see some on the lake (I really want to drive one now). Finally, I think I might actually get some snow pants and consider snow skiing. I've never done that and I had so much fun sledding this weekend, I might actually try it.

I will be getting some pictures of us sledding so I will post those soon!

All EARS!!

2011-01-13T14:38:00.003-06:00

So excited as I write this post - I took Owen to the E.N.T this morning to have a check up on his ear tubes since it's now been a year since he had them put in (12/18/09). We found out that both tubes have fallen out as they should have done and that everything looks VERY healthy. He also had a hearing test and PASSED!! So, no additional tubes planned for now and we don't have to use ear plugs ANYMORE!! I am to keep a close watch on his speech and make sure he's looking at us when we call his name (but -- could be if he doesn't, he's just being a 3yr old boy). If we see any problems down the road, we're to have them checked out, but as right now, we can close this chapter!!

As I look back to a little over a year ago, and how concerned we were with his speech (well, speech delay really), I know putting those tubes in was the exact thing he needed. He is speaking just as he should for his age now. We sometimes have to laugh, because he truly does speak very well now and ALOT! Just this morning he was singing "Shake your booty, shake your booty..." Yeah, I don't know where he got that one!! :)

Love to all!!

Becky

Overheard at the Twedt House

2011-01-05T21:11:00.003-06:00

Yesterday: Owen and I needed to go pick up Anna from an after school event. Owen hadn't had much of a nap and just wanted to sit on the couch. I told him that we needed to leave "now." He looked me in the eye and said, "No. You go, I stay." I told him I could not leave him alone at home. "Yes you can. I stay here (pats couch) and watch T.V. You go get Anna. I be okay." Right...

Tonight: As we were putting Anna in bed, she asked Dan and I if we were 'baby professionals.' I wasn't sure what she was referring to so I asked her to explain. She said that she wants to know how babies get inside tummies and she's been waiting her whole life to find out. I immediately said, well if you've been waiting that long, you can wait until tomorrow. Hopefully, she'll forget tomorrow!

Anna Reads to a Kindergarten Class

2010-12-21T16:40:00.013-06:00

At Anna's school, when kids demonstrate good behavior and good choices, they get a punch on their punch card. There are four words on their punch cards - Respect, Caring, Safety and Responsibility - "Four to the Core" they call it!

When a student gets enough punches to fill a word, they get to choose a trinket from the 'trinket' box at school, play a game in the hallway, or some other little treat. Once they fill all the punches on all the words (fill their card), they get another, larger "prize." Some examples of these include, picking a day for a PJ day for your class, or bring a toy to school day, call mom or dad, and other great rewards.

As Anna was getting punches this last fall, she could only think of one thing she wanted for her "prize" once she filled her card. She wanted to go back to her Kindergarten class and read to the class. So, on December 21, 2010, she took her very own book, "Moose's Loose Tooth," to read to Mrs. Mullenbach's class. She thought it was a very fitting book since "alot of kindergarteners are loosing their first teeth."

It goes without saying that we were very proud of Anna and her wonderful behavior that earned her a reward, but that she picked such a neat 'prize' makes us smile all the more...

GREAT job, Anna!!

Owen on the Bars

2010-12-16T11:10:00.002-06:00

Mommy and Me Tumbling...

2010-12-16T11:05:00.002-06:00

Last Mommy and Me Tumbling Class

2010-12-16T11:00:00.002-06:00

Owen is moving up in tumbling now that he's three... It truly has been a lot of fun going with him each Thursday. Here's a picture of us... I'll put a couple of videos on another post!

Finally, I Learned Something About First Grade

2010-12-13T22:00:00.001-06:00

When Anna gets home from school every day, I always ask, "What did you do today?" or "How was your day?" I often ask, "What did you write about in writing?" or "Who did you play with at recess?" I struggle though, to get much more than, "nothing much," "good" or "lots of kids" from her. So I finally got a plan. I told her when she got home from school that I would either paint her fingernails or toenails. She was super happy because we haven't had the time lately to do that. But, I told her, there's a catch. For every nail I paint, you have to tell me ONE thing about your day at school. It turned out to be a great idea and even after her ten thoughts, she kept going. Then, we read books and did a puzzle. Soon after, it was time for her to go to her dance and tumbling classes.

As she got in bed, she said that she really had a good day. She even said that she would like to stay home tomorrow after school to play with me instead of going to play with friends. Now, that was a compliment, a huge one! A happy mommy heart for sure!

2010-12-12T19:28:00.008-06:00

Back in August, my dear friend Sara, suggested that they come visit in December and we take our girls to see Mary Poppins at the Des Moines Civic Center. What a great idea!!

So, last night, we dressed in our Christmas best and off we went in the ice and snow downtown to see Mary. What a "practicially perfect" night, filled with singing, laughs, and a little excitment (the weather).

Anna's favorite part was when Mary and the kids went to the "Word" store and sang "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!" Her second favorite part was when Mary Poppins flew over our heads and away (yep, really happened). Some other favorite parts were when the statues came to life to sing and dance, when Michael came out of the chimney saying, "Hell-o there!" (which was the topic, filled with a lot of laughter, on the way home), and when Bert literally tapped danced on the ceiling. I have to admit, though, my favorite part was when Anna started singing "A Spoon Full of Sugar" and "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," LOUDLY, along with Mary. With that, she got a lot of smiles from all the people sitting around us.

Luckily, our chauffer, Dan, drove us straight to the door as we were engulfed in a snow, wind and ice storm. Then he came back and picked us up and took us home. By the time the show was over, our exit to get home was the last 'open' exit on I-80 as the weather was so bad and the roads so treacherous, they closed it all the way to Omaha.

It truly was a wonderful night and we are so blessed to have such great friends who come and visit. The whole experience was so much more fun because we had them there to share it with! What a wonderful memory for all of us - It was an incredible night!!

Potty Training Part 1

2010-12-09T22:47:00.003-06:00

So, I told Owen a week or so ago that the box of diapers I was buying that day was going to be the last. Hmph...Well, yesterday we went to the store because we were almost out of diapers. We have been talking to him about pottying on the potty. We've promised him a scooter if he goes number two on the potty 5x. We've talked to him about all of his friends that go on the potty and how next year he can't go to school if he doesn't potty on the potty. Most times, he empatically says no. "I don't want to go on the potty," he says. His pediatrician assured us that this is common and not to worry about him. He'll use the potty when he's ready. However, the last couple of days we felt like maybe we were getting through to him - and when we were at the store he saw on the diaper there were pictures of babies and on Pull-ups there were "big boys." So, he told me to put back the diapers and get the Pull-ups. He was ready to use the potty - Whoo Hoo!!

This morning started off well, he took a shower (his choice - doesn't happen often!) and got those Pull-ups on. We went to tumbling, and tried to go on the potty - nope couldn't go. But, once got to the Library, he had pottied in the Pull-ups. Tried again at the Library to go, but again, didn't need to. Got home, had gone in the Pull-ups. Changed the Pull-ups, tried to go before nap - didn't need to go - pooped in Pull-ups. This is how it went all day....

So, tonight, he's in a diaper. I certainly didn't want to go back to them, but let's face it, he only wants the scooter and right now, doesn't want it bad enough. We'll wait until after the holidays and try again. But next time, we'll never go back to diapers. I want to make sure of that!

Making Cookies

2010-12-06T17:00:00.001-06:00

I had a MOPS Cookie Exchange to go to so we made some cookies. Both kids helped make the cookie dough Sunday night. Then, Owen and I cooked the cookies. He was such a big helper rolling the balls into the sugar! 6 1/2 dozen cookies later - we were up to our ears in cookies!

Mommy's Special Christmas Present

2010-12-05T20:36:00.012-06:00

Just ask Dan, I truly don't want much as far as presents and cards go from the kids. I just want memories - memories made with the kids and captured through pictures, videos and handprints! I especially LOVE cards that are made with handprints (I also have a special place in my heart for turkey's made with handprints). So, when we found out a local store, Creative Kidstuff, was making tiles with thumbprint reindeers, I was ecstatic! So, today... I got my special Christmas present!

Anna following directions perfectly...

Mommy getting frustrated because Owen won't follow directions...

Owen following directions after the lady had to leave the room so Owen would follow directions...

The finished product.... Well worth it... And the lady at the store was very understanding!

Riding the Train

2010-12-05T17:32:00.000-06:00

Cute video of the kids riding the Christmas Train at Valley West Mall... Owen was in heaven as he got to ring the bell the WHOLE time!

So Thankful...

2010-11-30T14:23:00.003-06:00

On this last day of November, wind howling, flurries flying - I am so thankful for our little family; for Dan, for Owen and Anna. Nothing special happened today, it's just another day. But isn't that how so many of our days go? Yet, there is something so right, so clear about days such as these. As I look into Anna's dancing green eyes and Owen's big blues, my heart just swells. We are blessed... We have relative good health (darn the cold season), we have a great family, wonderful friends, a warm house. We are blessed... and I'm so, so thankful...

Owen and Cooking Class...

2010-11-22T10:03:00.004-06:00

First question I bet you have, is really a cooking class? Yes, he always wants to help at home, it was a very inexpensive class for 3-5 yr olds and it gets us to the Y. So, on Saturday, Owen went to his first-ever cooking class. They made turkeys for Thanksgiving... Luckily, I had Dan take the camera to take pictures because I never saw the turkey in person - it was gone in about 5 seconds. If you're wondering about the blue horse, it's from Owen's class at preschool. All the students get to take Holly the Blue Horse home for a week and take pictures of her doing all the things we get to do on our normal days.

And a nice bonus, while Owen and daddy were at cooking class, Anna and I got to spend some time together. We walked/ran a mile on the track - yes she beat me by one lap. We did 100 jumps with the jumping rope and did some weights (her idea, not mine). It was fun and she wants to do it again next week!

Owen Funny for the Day (and the Bad)....

2010-11-19T16:51:00.003-06:00

Let's do the funny first...

Mommy: "Do you know what color that is?"
Owen: "Noooo."
Mommy: "Grey"
Owen: "Great"
Mommy: "Grey"
Owen: "Great"
Mommy: "Grey"
Owen: "I already said that."

Now for the bad...

Took Owen to Backyard Adventures, a fun little play place for kids. An older boy was playing with Owen and they were in this little fort like thing. Next, I hear the older boy saying to the other kids trying to come in (not to Owen), "You can't come in here." So then Owen started saying it. I quickly told Owen that wasn't nice and asked how he would feel if someone said it to him. He stopped. Then, a few minutes later, I hear Owen yelling at some other kids, "I'm going to kick your butt!" In his little messed up speech. I ran over and told him he absolutely can not say that! "It's naughty!!" I said! He said it again. So, I told him that if he said it again, we were going home. He told me, "He said it first," pointing at the same boy. UGGHHH....

Needless to say, he hasn't said it again...

Buddy Twedt 12/1/1997-11/3/2010

2010-11-03T21:24:00.007-05:00

Dear Buddy,

Thank you for being our faithful companion for over 12 years. Thank you for watching out for us and keeping us safe. You are the best friend any one could ask for. You have been so patient with us over the years....Like the time we put doggie snow boots on your paws and you pranced around. We couldn't tell if you were excited to wear them or embarrassed - we just wanted to keep your paws warm. Sorry for all the Halloweens we made you dress up in that super cute devil's horns and cape. But, you were the cutest dog in town! And, I'm really, really sorry that I made you jump into the pond to see if you could swim. I didn't realize you hated water that much. Who knew that you weren't really into swimming?

We have so many memories together. We remember you as a little hair ball with long legs. Remember when you lost your teeth right after you came home with us? We didn't realize puppies lost their teeth, so we thought we had broken you some how. We remember taking you to TX and staying in your first hotel room. You barked the entire night. And remember, we had to drive back in one day because we couldn't risk staying in another hotel. Or that day that you hurt your knee so badly that you needed surgery. Remember how much Daddy loved you and carried you up and down the stairs after your surgery so you could still sleep in our room in the new house? Remember he fell down the stairs carrying you, but you never touched the stairs or floor? He kept a hold of you, never let go. He still has the scars to prove it.

We were so lucky to have you as our Buddy. Do you remember that there were two other people before us trying to adopt you? Somehow, we were lucky enough to bring you home. Who would have given you up? You were already house trained and obedient trained by 5 mos? You were so smart as a puppy. You were and are so adorable.

One really special memory I have of you is of you sitting next to the beautiful surprise lily in our backyard. That picture of you and the lily ended up getting you in a doggy calendar. Just so handsome sitting there in the sun.

I wish we would have walked you more, taken you for more Sonic ice cream, brushed you more, held you more. I wish we could have taken you to the lake more so you could explore. I wish we could have spent more quality time together.

Buddy, you have been the most faithful, most obedient, most loving companion to us your whole life. We hope you know that we know you didn't mean to bite Dan. We know you weren't well and probably were hurting. We know you love us and would never knowingly harm us.

Buddy, we will miss you more than you will ever know. I hope you know how much you were loved and will always be loved. You were one of a kind.

For now, we will just picture you in a field of tall grass, coat blowing in the wind, tongue out, smiling ... ready to run...

Buddy Twedt 12/1/1997 - 11/3/2010

Dan and the Unfortunate Accident...

2010-10-24T23:37:00.011-05:00

Well.... Some of you know about this and some of you don't.... So, I probably should just start at the beginning...

On Tuesday night, October 19th, I received some calls while at a PTO meeting from Dan. The first couple of calls, I didn't take because I thought maybe he just had a question or something and I am the secretary at the meetings - it's hard to take calls while your taking minutes... Anyway, he was very persistent, so I took his next call.

This is what I heard: "Buddy, kennel, wrist, bleeding badly, won't stop, hospital, come home now." I immediately went back in the meeting, pushed off my notebook, grabbed my neighbor so she could help with the kids (thanks so much Julie!), and rushed home. We came in the door to see some blood on the floor and Dan in the bathroom trying to clean puncture wounds on his right wrist and left thumb. I was able to assess the situation and off we went to urgent care.

During the drive, Dan explained that he had been in the office working and the kids were down in the basement playing. Buddy, out of the blue, started urinating on the floor and on some papers that were on the floor. Dan yelled at him (because he's almost deaf) but Buddy didn't budge. He then tried to push him on his behind toward the door. He didn't budge. So, Dan attempted to grab his collar. When Dan did that Buddy turned his head back and bit down on Dan's wrist. Dan pulled up his arm toward the ceiling and Buddy held on going up on his hind legs. Dan finally was able to get Buddy off, but his wrist was badly bitten with many deep puncture wounds. He called our neighbor and he helped get Buddy back in his kennel.

Once at urgent care, they cleaned his wounds. He was given a tetanus shot. But, they couldn't stitch him up because they don't do that for dog bites. It has something to do with trapping the bacteria from the bite. They showed me how to dress the wounds and sent him off with antibiotics.
I did forget to mention that all of last week, Dan had important meetings downtown from at least 8a-6p. Most nights, he was there much later. So, on Wednesday, he had a long day. To make it even longer he was exhausted from little sleep because of the pain he was in. He called the doctor's office and was given a prescription for Hydrocodone (sp). That evening, he did feel a little better and slept better due to that. Unfortunately, though, his hand was really beginning to swell up.

Thursday he woke up and his swelling was much worse. Sadly, he had a long day in store for him at work and didn't get home until a little after midnight. We knew, then, though that he would need to go to the doctor the next morning. At that time, his hand was so swollen, you couldn't see his knuckles.

Friday morning, he went back to the doctor's office that he had gone to Tuesday night. They told him as nicely as possible, that there wasn't anything they could do for him and that he needed to go to the E.R. and begin I.V. therapy (w/antibiotics). He considered Dan's treatment again, and decided to send him to a orthopedic hand surgeon first for his diagnosis. Once there, he got a sonogram. The radiologist found that while he had some fluid near the bone, he did not have any pus on the bone, so they would not have to operate that day.

The orthopedic surgeon then decided that Dan needed to be admitted to the hospital with a central line I.V. so he could receive antibiotics via the I.V. Since it was Owen's birthday, he asked the surgeon if he was SURE he had to go to the hospital. He considered the question and asked how responsible Dan could be. Dan of course, can be very responsible. So, he sent Dan downtown to a facility that could put in the central line. Dan was also told that he needed to sit very still or be lying down the entire weekend as if he was in the hospital.

So, Dan has been home, wearing a plastic cast type thing with a central line going from his arm into his chest. Every six hours at 12a, 6a, 12p and 6p he has to administer the antibiotics through the line. He's done a really great job of sitting still and keeping quiet despite Owen's birthday on Friday and Anna's school carnival today, not to mention Aviva's open house.

As for Buddy, we spoke with our vet here and our KS vet and both agreed that Buddy acted defensively, rather than aggressively. However, that doesn't make the bite any easier to excuse. We are very concerned for Owen and Anna's safety. If he would have done that to one of them, their little bones would have been crushed. It's just such a sad situation because those of you who know Buddy, know this is not the real Buddy...

Dan is supposed to go back to the orthopedic hand surgeon tomorrow morning at 8a. We're hoping for good news!!

Race for the Cure 2010

2010-10-23T13:57:00.005-05:00

My friend Melanie and I...

One of the things I had planned for this weekend, was to walk in the Race for the Cure 2010. Luckily, I was able to get the kids up and ready and Dan felt confident they could take care of themselves for a little while when I went.

It was really neat. They had 23,000 runners/walkers this year. It was amazing to see!

Happy 3rd Birthday Owen!!

2010-10-22T00:53:00.014-05:00

For a few weeks, all we've been hearing is "My Birfday's COMING!" and "My Birfday's First!" (in Twedt October Birthday order) and "I be 3!" Well, his Birthday is finally here!! Since it's early, I'm going to try and not be too sentimental - at least not now... So, instead I'm going to share a little about Owen's last year...

Some of Owen's Firsts in the Last Year:

* Took first Train Ride (in SD)

* Had Tubes put in his Ears

* Had to take Speech Therapy

* Learned to Pedal

* Saw Sesame Street Live with "Melmo"

* Moved from his Crib to a Toddler Bed

* Started preschool

* Took his First Tumbling Class

Things Owen Loves:

* Riding his Trike

* Swimming, swimming and More Swimming

* Storytime

* Baths

* Playing Baseball and Basketball

* Swinging

* Coloring

* Playing with Trucks, Cars, "Copters" and Trains

* Golf

* Talking on the Phone

* Camping

* Jumping (a.k.a Dancing)

* Playing Outside

* School and Tumbling (seriously - can't get enough)

Owen's Favorite Things:

* Color - "Lellow"

* Restaurant - "Donalds"

* Drink - White Milk

* Lunch - Cheeseburger and fries

* Fruit - Strawberries

* Character - Curious George "George"

* Favorite Animal - "Hawk Hawk"

Owen's Sayings in the Past Year:

* "Outside"

* "I do IT"

* "Me Turn"

* "Where is us Going?"

* "So Scared" - Heard a lot at Disney

* "Hurt Bad"

* "Nuk"

Owen, here's to you, lil' Buddy. You are the best little boy a family could ask for. We hope you had a Wonderful Birthday and that you loved your Thomas cake (that you picked out all by yourself)!! We all love you sooo much!

One More Day...

2010-10-21T08:10:00.003-05:00

I only have one more day of ever having a two year old of my own in our house... Sigh... I didn't realize when I first became a mommy that it would be so exciting, yet so sad having Birthdays. I want them to continue growing and becoming the people they are to be, but man, it's so hard to have them grow up. Yes, there are some parts of baby time, toddler time, etc, that I would rather pass right over (temper tantrums for example) but I so love and cherish each day I have with them.

Sigh...

Becky

Preschool Birthday!

2010-10-19T12:10:00.002-05:00

Woo Hoo!! Owen celebrated his Birthday at preschool today! He got a Birthday sticker to wear, they sang Happy Birthday to him and he got to hand out treats to all his preschool friends. I was so happy that I got to come early and help him celebrate!

Only three more days until he BIG day!!

Pumpkin Patch with MOPS

2010-10-15T14:42:00.009-05:00

Today, Owen and I met some moms and their kids out at Howell's Pumpkin Patch in Cumming, IA. We took our lunch and ate out there too. We had a great time!!

Owen found 'his' pumpkin.

Owen and some friends...

Owen feeding some goats

According to the pumpkin - almost 3 ft tall

Shoveling in the corn pool

Driving the tractor

On top of the world (really 2 hay bales)

Owen and his friend Eric

Loves to swing - always gets some giggles

Fun, fun...

Owen and Eric

What a great morning!!

Story Time and Owen...

2010-10-14T19:55:00.007-05:00

Owen and I go to storytime at a local library once a week. I've taken both kids since they were really little. We love the Clive Library (shown below) because the classes are small, last 20 minutes and have songs and stories. Owen has finally, after a year attending this story time, moved from my lap to the carpet. And sadly, now that he is turning three, will be moving to the preschool story time soon where mommies don't attend with the kids. We sing two 'welcome' songs at the beginning and Owen, just today, finally started doing the movements... The first song is so cute - called "Tony Chestnut" after a bear, but really is "toe, knee, chest, nut (head) - nose I love you, toe knee nose, toe knee nose." Super cute... you point to the different parts of your body. Then, we do "Open, Shut Them." This is a song to help keep your hands to your self and in your lap... cute, cute...

Open, shut them song...

Playing with the parachute today

Where's your head?

Second time that he sat on carpet (away from mom)

Favorite part - bubbles...

Checking out a Curious George book...

Just What I Needed to Hear...

2010-10-12T23:11:00.003-05:00

Tonight at dinner, Anna said out of the blue, "I'm so glad that you stay home with us." Then, Owen's hand popped up and he said, "Me too!"

Wow, what a great boost! I will be able to hold onto those two sentences for months... It's amazing how just a few kind words can make such a difference in my heart.

To Anna and Owen - I'm so glad I stay home too.

Friday Fun!

2010-10-11T10:47:00.002-05:00

Just a little bit of Owen!!

Heavy Heart, Stubborn Brain

2010-10-07T12:47:00.008-05:00

Yes, I know this blog is mostly a place to post pictures and talk about what we do here in Iowa. But, I have a heavy heart and stubborn brain these days. Sometimes when I write down my thoughts, I can get to a better place -don't you remember those pictures from November 2008? I was so upset because the kids wouldn't sit still for Christmas pictures, then I blogged about it and felt better - laughing actually, immediately. So, maybe this help - and maybe some of you can help me.

I want to know how you can forgive someone when they don't seem sorry at all? I normally am not a person to hold grudges. I just need a little time to get over my hurt feelings or my anger, then I'm fine and dandy. Yes, I appreciate a "sorry" if it's warranted, but more so, I just want the person to try not to do it again. But, how do you forgive someone if they hurt you (and more importantly your family) and they don't act like they did anything wrong or just plain act like they don't care and haven't really given it any thought? Yet, there is an obvious issue.

In my heart, I know we are supposed to forgive as we have been forgiven by God. I really get that. But, how does my brain catch up with that idea? How do I even step into the room with that person(s) without them ever, ever even acknowledging to me that they hurt us so badly.

I am a mom and I love both of my children with such a huge heart that I'm sure that no one could ever fathom the enormity of it. Although, I'm sure all moms feel that way. How can I look at said person(s) and in my brain and heart say - okay, I just need to forgive them. Again, though, never a "sorry," never a "I'll (we'll) never do this to you guys again," never a "wish we could talk this through to solve anything," never a "I'm sorry this affected your little ones. We'd like to make it up to them."

I've prayed about it, we're still praying about it, our family has people praying for us. Will time heal all wounds? Even the ones that never actually are spoken about? How do I get over the continual fear that even if it can get back to a "normal," how do we trust the person(s) to not do it again if they never ever utter a word that they are sorry or want it to be better or even that it won't happen again?

How do you forgive someone that doesn't even think they did anything wrong? I want to follow my heart and forgive because it is sooo heavy and I want more for me and my family. But my brain brings up other memories and thoughts... What do you do?