The Kruchowski's

Natti makes the front page!!

2011-05-21T17:42:00.000-05:00

Little Natalie Kruchowski, 4, takes the Heartland Express bus to preschool twice a week. She anxiously awaits the bus at daycare, excited to see her bus driver, Roger, who she says is her favorite.

She is just one of the many people who use the Hubbard County Heartland Express for public transportation. “It’s not just for the elderly or disabled, it’s for everyone,” said Linda Bair, Heartland Express transit coordinator.
Heidi Kruchowski said her daughter, Natalie, started riding the bus from daycare to preschool out of necessity. “If we didn’t have this available she probably wouldn’t be able to go,” Heidi said. She would have to leave work to transport her daughter.

At first, Heidi admits she was apprehensive about letting her 4-year-old ride the bus by herself. But she did a practice run and saw that the bus drivers pull up to the door of her daycare and make sure her daughter can’t get off the bus until someone is outside and waves.

“I’ve been so impressed and Natalie loves to ride the bus,” Heidi said.

http://www.parkrapidsenterprise.com/event/article/id/28402/

The Preschool Graduate!

2011-05-18T21:17:00.000-05:00

2011-05-17T13:38:00.000-05:00

Lots to update you on:

2011-05-17T13:26:00.002-05:00

So- today marks 32 weeks! Only 8 weeks until “D” day! I can hardly believe it!! This pregnancy is going so fast, in part because life is BUSY BUSY BUSY lately! I am getting very excited to meet this baby- and really think it is going to be a BOY…. But since we did not find out- we will all just have to wait and see!!
Dan started a new job the first part of May- he now works for the county as well! He is enjoying the change!

Natalie has 3 days left of preschool! Her graduation ceremony is this Wednesday and I will try to post pictures on Thursday! We had kindergarten round up 2 weeks ago- she is so excited to start school at the “big” school!!
Kora starts pre-school next year- I know, I can not believe it either!! There is never a day that goes by that she doesn’t crack us up! She has the greatest personality!

Brendan is busy with baseball season, Dan is coaching this year! I can’t wait to watch his games! Less than a couple weeks of school left!

My big girl!

2011-02-16T12:27:00.000-06:00

Kora is potty trained!!! Yahoo! We are in week #2 of big girl undies :) she has been such a trooper. It sure will be nice having a break from diapers/pullups for a few months!

Yay me!

2011-01-29T07:35:00.001-06:00

We have looked at getting a new vehicle a few times- and yesterday Dan surprised me with this! He is going to pick it up on Thursday! I am such a spoiled girl! We are getting the one with front end damage- Dan and his Dad will fix it up for me in no time :)

Busy as always!

2011-01-22T21:48:00.003-06:00

I have decided that I will make an "appointment" each week to work on my blog. So many friends and so much family check my blog to keep up with our lives craziness.... and I am failing at keeping it current! I apologize- again!

So whats new since November- In a nutshell....

Jackie & Brad had a baby Boy on December 21- Bentley Mason

I had my first ultrasound and OB appointment- Due July 12

Dan started day shift after 10 years of nights!

Pax retired- Dan is adjusting well, as is Pax

Brendan's hockey team scored 1st place in their home tournament!!

Kora got tubes put in both ears 3 days before Christmas and is doing well with them!

Natalie got married (at daycare) and is obsessed with Brendan's friend Nolan

Dan, Kora, Myself and then Natti all got the flu a few weeks ago (Brendan lucked out!)

We had a wonderful Christmas and New Years

Dan turned 30!

I did not get Christmas cards mailed this year (so don't think since you didn't get one that I don't still love you!)

I Still LOVE my job!

Natti is signed up for Kindergarten screening (yikes!)

I won VIP meet and greet concert tickets to Clay Walker and Joe Nichols on the radio (I know- I'm awesome!)

I am loving my evenings with my whole family!

My belly is growing- and it is going to be a long 5 1/2 months explaining to the girls daily that baby isn't coming out yet!

My life is great- and I feel like we are on the up and up for once! Things are going ~~good~~ great!

It is true.....

2010-11-08T19:00:00.000-06:00

We are expecting again- and we couldn't be happier! I don't go to my first doctor appointment until December 20tlh but I think I am due around the first week of July! Majority vote in the house is for a boy! But as long as baby Kruchowski is health- I am happy! As of right now- we will NOT find out the gender of the baby before his/her birthday. We never found out with the girls and it is SO fun not knowing and anticipating the news on the big day.

It is nice that the girls have seen Auntie Jackie's belly grow (she is due Dec 15th) so they have a pretty good understanding of what is happening.

Babies are in great abundance on my mom's side of the family. There are now 13 great grand babies, and 2 on the way yet with the oldest being 9 (Brendan) and the youngest being 10 days. A few of the babies were at my aunts house this weekend so we stopped by for a visit..... Natalie will be a wonderful big sister. She sat for an hour holding babies, content as ever! I can't wait!

I CAN NOT BELIEVE it has been 2 months since I last posted- I'm sorry! :Life is very busy- hockey, school, work, family stuff, hunting, conferences... you name it! I will try to do a better job posting- especially now that I can keep you all posted on baby news!

My camera is at my parents house, so as soon as I get it back I will post some new, updated pictures!

Another August Birthday! Natti is 4!

2010-09-07T10:14:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to you.....!!!

2010-08-19T21:08:00.003-05:00

Kora Grace is 2! Can you believe it? I can't! She had a wonderful family birthday a few days after her real birthday- and she had a blast! She got so many wonderful gifts- she is a little spoiled!

She also had her 2 year Dr appointment last week- 38lbs and 37" tall! WOW! She is over 100% in both height and weight but Dr. Kaster said she is very proportional! Her and Natti are wearing most of the same size clothes which is kind of nice!

Monday we are going to see a specialist about her ear. Her ear drum ruptured 3 weeks ago and isn't healing so we are getting it checked out- will keep you posted!

Checking in

2010-07-28T12:48:00.002-05:00

Here I am again- finally!

Being at work on a computer all day makes it hard for me to want to jump on my own computer at home in the evening, but I am TRYING to keep up with the blogging world!

Brendan's baseball tournament was a lot of fun- they did a great job and ended up loosing by 1 point in the final game putting them into 3rd place for the season- not too shabby!

Natti already is asking when T ball will start again as her season is over as well! She is also very excited for school to start!

Kora is growing up way too fast as next week she will be turning 2! I am working on her birthday plans and am excited for her party!

I had an eye exam last week and found the culprit to my daily headaches... I needed glasses! I am sporting a cute new pair of eyes and have already seen a huge improvement at work! It is taking some getting used to, but I am happy that they are helping!

Did I mention that I am going to be an Auntie again??!! Jackie and Brad are expecting again on December 15th (2 days before my birthday!!) Next Friday they are finding out if it is a boy or girl- I am so excited and hope it is a girl so Natti & Kora will finally have a girl cousin here! I will keep you posted!

I am also very excited as a high school friend is moving back to Park Rapids with her family! I am so excited to reconnect with Hannah and hope our girls will enjoy playing together!

This weekends weekend we are headed to Cotton for another camping adventure at Grandma Beth's cabin- it will be nice to get away again and they kids really enjoy the camper!

I have a cazillion pictures I need to upload and hope to post some new ones as soon as I do!

At Ease

2010-06-29T21:57:00.002-05:00

So- I apologize, again! I am getting so terrible at keeping up with my blog- but believe it or not I am finally at ease with everything....

Meaning- as busy and as hectic as out life seems to be right now- it is just part of our everyday routine! The kids, Dan and I, are all on such a routine that the constant running and activities along with work, daycare and family time just..... works!

Brendan's baseball season is slowly coming to a halt. Tomorrow night is his last game, aside from the 3 day tournament next week.

Natti has 1 more night of T-ball- which she loves!

Kora is SUCH a big girl! Thanks to Jackie's consistency with Kora not having her nummy (paci) during the day except for naps and bedtime- we are now done COMPLETELY with the nummy! We are on day 2 and it is going very well! Stickers, praise, hugs, lots of clapping and reassuring has paid off!

Dan is busy as ever with work and working on re builder cars and I am busy working and playing taxi to evening activities!

We had to say good bye to our amazing friends Craig & Amanda. They moved down by St Cloud to be closer to their family. It really stinks but we are making huge efforts to stay in touch and keep up with each other!

Getting excited for the 4th... parade, fireworks, camp fire.... can't wait!

Recent pictures to come!

2010-06-09T22:19:00.003-05:00

My My My....

2010-06-09T22:08:00.002-05:00

I know, I am sorry! I have been so incredibly busy lately that blogging has been low on the priority list:

Family, work, daycare, Dan's terrible sprained ankle, friends moving, Dan's new work schedule, Brendan finishing 3rd grade, Kora moved to a bunk bed, Natti finished preschool, Vacation bible school, Businesses, baseball, T ball, summer trip planning..... it doesn't end!

Did I mention that I still LOVE my job! I wanted this job so badly, and I am SO SO SO glad that I worked SO SO SO hard to get it! There are very challenging days but I really appreciate all that I have after seeing how bag some people have it! I work with families that need assistance: whether it be with food, medical coverage, cash, transportation.... the works. It feels so good when we can help someone that we know really needs the help and support.

Dan is recouping from a severe ankle sprain.... don't ask!

I will try to get some pictures up once my camera finishes uploading!

Natti Graduated from Preschool 1 !

2010-05-22T08:22:00.003-05:00

Natti finished her first year of preschool and they had a little program- it was so cute, they sang some really cute songs!!

Daddy bought her a dozen tiny pink roses.... she thought she was pretty special! We also got her a charm bracelet. Grammie got her a little jewelry box and Auntie Kimmy gave her $10 to go to the candy store! SPOILED!!

Gloomy weather can still be fun!

2010-05-01T16:48:00.002-05:00

Went private!

2010-04-18T13:13:00.002-05:00

So- as you have seen, I went private with my blog. I kept getting a blog stalker that kept posting comments in a different language that were crazy weird, then my computer got hacked into and I ended up getting 29 virus warnings- so I did it, I went private! I am going to give it a try and see how it goes!

I hope I can keep up with my blog now and post more often! I have gotten a pretty good new routine down with work and the kids and life in general! I still really LOVE my new job and think it was a great step in the right direction for my family!

I go to a 3 day training in the cities the first week in May so it will be interesting being 100% alone in the cities! No husband, no kids, no chores, no clue where I am going! I will let you know how that goes!

Take care for now!

FYI

2010-04-08T22:58:00.001-05:00

So- I know I am slacking in the blogging world- but our computer was attacked by viruses and is getting repaired, and blogging from my iPhone is well.... Challenging! Bear with me! I hope to be back soon!!!

My little Brendan Michael..............

2010-03-22T20:48:00.003-05:00

is not so little any more!

For Brendan's Birthday Dan and I took him and his friend Nolan to the WILD hockey game on his birthday in the cities. It was a blast! Here are some pictures from the game! (The date stamp on the pictures is wrong- we went on March 21st)

I can NOT believe that he turned 9 (YES 9) on Sunday! the past 6/7 years has FLOWN by! Brendan is turning into such a sweet young boy! He amazes me with his overflowing heart! He is such a wonderful helper and loves helping his little sisters (usually!) and his dad and I! He loves school and is doing AWESOME, at the top of all of his classes! He is no longer a little boy pushing cars around and digging in the dirt- now we are on to hockey and hunting. We are truly blessed to have such an amazing son!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENDAN!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

My typical day

2010-03-22T20:30:00.002-05:00

I have been SO busy the past 4 weeks: new job, girls starting daycare, new schedules, finishing the hockey season, Brendan's 9th Birthday (yes, I said 9!)... I have been slacking on my blog but thought I would do a little catching up!

I was asked what my days/evenings are like now with my new job- so here is a typical Monday-Friday....

5:45 am my alarm goes off- I hot snooze 2 times and get up at 6:03
Shower, get dresses, do my make up
Make coffee
6:30 Wake up Brendan, get him in the shower
Dry and flat iron my hair
pack my lunch, help Brendan get breakfast and get Nattis School bag ready
6:45 wake up Natti & bring her down to watch cartoons to wake up as I unload the dishwasher
Get Natti dressed
7:00 Wake up Kora & get her dressed
7:10 let the dogs outside while I get the bags and stuff in the car
7:15 tell Dan/Dad good bye get in the van
7:18 we better be on the way out the driveway
7:30 girls to daycare (auntie's house!) for breakfast (Natti gets on the bus for preschool at 9:00)
7:50 Drop Brendan off at school (unless he rode the bus!)
7:53 I get to work until 4:30
4:45 pick up the girls
5:00 we get home, I make dinner, do dishes, laundry & get clothes out for next day, go through Natti's school stuff, play, play, play, chase, chase, chase, read, read, read
7:30 baths & snacks
8:00 Girls in bed
8:30 Brendan in bed
8:30-10:00 ME time! to clean, bills, relax....

I Still LOVE my job! All of it!

It has been challenging to mesh mine and Dan's schedule, but we are doing great! The kids have adapted well and I am excited it has worked out so well!

My new job!

2010-03-04T20:49:00.003-06:00

4 days down with the new job and I LOVE it! I have not found a single negative thing about my job (so far!). I am catching on quickly to all of the policies, procedures and daily run of things. It is a LOT to learn but I am really enjoying it!

The people I work with are so wonderful and willing to offer help when I have questions. I have amazed myself a lot this week.

I have been using my breaks to go walking (it has been beautiful this week) up town, often without my coat even!

The girls are LOVING daycare (thanks Jackie!) and I even hear "Mommy I don't miss you yet, can you go back to work" from Natti.... kinda bittersweet I guess! Natalie also started riding the preschool bus 2 times a week from daycare to school- she thinks she is quite the big girl now! She really enjoys the other 2 girls at daycare that are her age!

Kora is keeping so busy that she only wants her nuk during naps and bed time now (for those of you who know- Kora was rather addicted to her nuk!) She has loved finger painting and playing outside!

Brendan hast been affected too much with my career change yet bu is getting sad that hockey season is slowing coming to a halt! He had a parents vs kids game tonight- I wish I would have had my camera, it was fun to watch!

Dan has enjoyed my new job because it has meant quite sleeping conditions for him after working evenings! He will have the kids every Friday while I am working.... he is excited and so are the kids.... I will let you know how it goes (if my house is still standing after tomorrow!)

Life Changes

2010-02-13T12:50:00.003-06:00

Beginning March 1st I will be starting my new job as an office support specialist in Social Services!!!

This news came at a great time on our lives and I am SO excited to be starting a new chapter in my life! The girls will be going to daycare at my sisters house and I know they are excited for that as well! Natalie will continue preschool and is looking forward to riding the preschool bus 2 times a week!

I sure am going to cherrish the time I have with my kids and husband even more knwing that I will not be around them all day long anymore.

It will mean huge change in our life and schedules but I am up for the challenge and know how much this is going to benefit me and my family! I have been searching for a "career" for a few years now and I think I have finally found it! Yay for prayers answered!

the green machine

2010-02-11T14:32:00.003-06:00

So, after looking into making my blog private, I have decided to NOT go that route as I can only have a certain number of people allowed as viewers then.

On another note- Dan picked up my "new" (to us) van from the cities yesterday. Yes, it is lime green... it is kinda growing on me. Dan and his dad will be fixing up the damage on it and then it is mine!!!! It has leather seats and auto everything! I am so excited to have a van again!

Going Private!

2010-01-27T14:01:00.002-06:00

So- I never thought I would have to go this route- but after a couple of recent events I have decided I will be making my blog private. Meaning- if you would like access to read my blog you will need to email me and let me know so I can add you, or leave me a comment after this post!

I have been receiving strange comments to some of my posts and I don't know who they are from. Also- after receiving a call from our bank debit card today with suspicious activity for over $400 in attempted charges- we are cracking down!

I hate to do this as I love people (people I know) being able to keep up with our lives, but it is scary! So- please bear with me on this change.

Not for the weak stomach!

2010-01-23T14:13:00.002-06:00

I had a birthmark on my right leg, and have had it since I was a baby. But- my doctor didn't like that it was "growing with me" and suggested I have it removed. So- yesterday I finally did it!

It honestly didn't hurt at all- not even the multiple shots! It took quite awhile to remove because there was a med student there helping (Kara, her name is Tessa, she did/does go to school with Eric!) Anyhow- I have internal and external stitches and will have the outer ones removed in 10 days.

This little procedure didn't stop me from going to the BSU Beavers VS UND Bulldogs hockey game in Bemidji last night and driving home in the freezing rain (hockey pictures to follow)

Practice will make perfect!

2010-01-13T20:52:00.002-06:00

Park Rapids Panthers Mites #11

2010-01-13T08:47:00.004-06:00

Brendan's hockey picture 2009-2010

Brendan has his first games this past week. His team is now 4-1....He scored his first Goal at the Pequot Lakes Jamboree on Sunday Jan. 10th... below is a medal he got.

Pictures from Christmas

2010-01-13T08:29:00.004-06:00

Not so sure what this look is all about!

Brendan's personalized jersey #11
Kruchowski sounds pro.... right!

Kim & Ob

Kora modeling daddys new boots

Smiles

Koras roller coaster.... she loves it can you tell!

My lights

Our dogs

Fondue after church on Christmas Eve

The "surprise gift" Brendan thought he was done opening gifts!

Can you say "excited?!"
Kora's gift was way bigger than her! (the roller coaster!)

What a mess! But SO much fun!

Brendan, Natti and Kora got daddy a #4 Vikings Jersey! He loves it!

Cobee getting into the spirit!

Nelly was hiding out in an Old Navy bag while I was wrapping gifts

Happy New Year!

2010-01-11T15:51:00.005-06:00

So what is my excuse this time?

Honestly.... I lost my camera and I do not enjoy posts without pictures- BUT, today I found it!!!

Christmas Eve-
We went to church for candle light service on Christmas Eve, came home, opened family presents and then had Fondue with my parents and grandma. It was a lot of fun!

Christmas Day-
We had the WHOLE family over and did gift exchange and ATE and ATE and ATE, watched a movie and hung out.

It was a lot of fun and I enjoy trying to impress everyone with my cooking abilities, and the kids enjoyed being home to play with all of their new toys.

New Years Eve-
We drove to Cotton MN to have Christmas with Dan's family... his brother Matt, wife Sara and our niece Lidia couldn't make it and Tony left an hour after we got there to do a musical gig in Duluth so it was very quiet hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa! We opened presents, played games, took a sauna (the kids and grandpa) and were in by 10PM (yes, I am getting old!) Hopefully next time we can stay longer and see everyone!
*** Pictures to follow!

My Family

2009-12-24T23:09:00.001-06:00

Getting ready....

2009-12-22T12:40:00.003-06:00

For CHRISTMAS!!!

I LOVE Christmas, it is my favorite holiday! I love the hustle and the bustle, the lights, the decorations, cookies, trees, presents, Christmas music, Santa visits, candle service at Church, the family time, Christmas cards, fancy new dresses, and telling the story of Christmas to the kids.

I Love Christmas!

The kids visit Santa at the Two Inlets Store.... Natti was deep in conversation, Brendan played along, Kora.... well, you can see for yourself on that one!

Romeo relaxing under the tree before we put the gifts under it!

The start of Christmas goodies

Christmas cards from friends & family. I love seeing the family pictures, it is fun to see how everyone has changed!
The stockings are hung, the tree is trimmed, gifts are wrapped...

The girls trying on their Christmas dresses, and dancing on the tile floors (they liked the "clicking" their shoes made on the floor)

NEW COMPUTER!

2009-12-09T17:12:00.003-06:00

Visit this blog and check out how you too can enter to win a new HP computer!

http://www.mckgiveaways.blogspot.com/

I could really use a new computer, my DELL is worthless!

BSU Beavers Hockey Game

2009-11-24T09:09:00.003-06:00

We went on some family dates this past weekend, including the movies Friday night to see "Christmas Carol" and then Saturday we went to Bemidji and ate at the Chinese buffet and then went to the BSU hockey games VS Huntsville Alabama. It was AWESOME! Natti LOVED the Beaver mascot and asked to have a picture with it!

Sunday we went on a family hayride (pictures to come!)

The Park Rapids Youth Hockey was the guests at the game. After the game they were invited to skate with the team, get pictures and autographs! Brendan was in seventh heaven!

During practice a puck got hit over the wall and Dan caught it for Brendan, and during the game Natti nearly got hit with a game puck, and we got that one too!

Natti and the Beaver

Lovin the game!
VICTORY!

Autograph from Tyer Lehrke (a distant relative of mine!)

Team pictures!

The whole gang- BSU team an PR youth

Brendan and his autographed T shirt!

where have I been?

2009-11-13T21:23:00.002-06:00

Wow, I can not believe that I have gone a few weeks without blogging. I do have a few excuses including my computer crashing and having to replace the hard drive and other board- and NO, I did not have everything backed up and I lost a bunch of stuff. I now own a few zip drives and back up regularly!

Did I also mention that we all got confirmed Influenza A, unconfirmed H1N1- ALL OF US (minus Brendan, he was at his moms) AT THE SAME TIME! 104 degree fevers, coughing, serious head pressure, head aches, ache body, tired, "hit by a cement truck" feeling.... icky, and the Tamiflu we all got put on was horrid. We couldn't sleep and it made us feel weird. But e are all well now! Dan and Natti had it real bad (both ended up in the ER on different occasions) Kora and I had it a little easier (thankfully!) It is so hard being a sick mom taking care of a sick husband and sick kids. Not that I would wish my kids to have it too, but it was easier taking care of them with me being sick because they were very laid back, TV watching, lounging girls!

We were sick over Halloween and Dan and I felt horrible that we didn't get to take the girls trick or treating, so, when we were all well I called my relatives and friends and took them in their costumes trick or treating a few days late! They had a blast and got way too much candy!

Brendan started hockey. Yes, I am officially a hockey mom! He is very excited and doing pretty good considering this is his first year! It will be fun going to games and tournaments to see him play! Natalie gets mad every time Brendan leaves for practice stating "Daddy, today I have hockey too" and then she cries when they leave without her. Dan said he is going to get Natti skating too!

Kora- what a BUSY little girl! I think she runs circles around how Natti was at her age! She is into everything! She also has turned into a major Mommy's girl! Natti is more of a Daddy's girl now, so I guess it makes it even!

My washing machine broke, ummm, about 3 weeks ago (yes I am going crazy without it!) and tomorrow Jackie, Zak, the girls and I are going to Fargo to get a new set! I am SO SO SO excited! I love doing laundry, I do it every day- and I have been feeling a little lost! I HATE carting it all to my parent's house but thankfully have had that option or I would have oodles of it!

That is about all I can think of. I would love to post some pictures but any new ones I had got erased when they replaced my hard drive. I lost about 2 months of pictures :( I will try to get some new ones up here soon!

Animals in pajamas

2009-10-20T14:24:00.002-05:00

Kora's Grandma Beth made this beautiful quilt for Kora's bed. It is animals in pajamas- too cute! Kora loved it- she would sit on it and point at all of the different animals on it! Thanks Grandma Beth for staying with us and for the beautiful quilt!

Happy Birthday Grandma Carol!

2009-10-14T17:48:00.004-05:00

A whole bunch of Dan's family from the Duluth area was going to make the drive here this past Monday to have lunch to celebrate his Grandma Carol's birthday. Unfortunately Grandma got the flu and we had to postpone the day. Uncle Tom & Aunt Mary had bought this beautiful cake so the kids and I threw some candles in it and sang to her anyhow (We know she will see this on here!) Happy Birthday Grandma Carol!

What is grading beans??

2009-10-02T14:04:00.005-05:00

Frist off- these are some of the products that use beans from Green Valley Bean !

I helped with bean grading at Green Valley Bean this year, and have been asked a hundred times what exactly that entailed. Here is a quick explanation of what my mom and I did!

First we weigh in the loaded trucks. The huge outdoor scale that the trucks drive on is hooked into this computer program. We weigh the truck loaded and after it empties to get the weight of the beans that were in the truck.

Next we do a test to measure the moisture of the beans in the truck. This tells us which bin the beans should go into. This picture the beans were 15.4% moisture.

Then we measure at least 500 grams of beans from the ice cream pails that the guys catch when unloading the trucks. This is the sample we work with.

Next the beans are pured into a special pan that allows the too small beans, dirt and whatever else to fall through. The pods, dirt, night shade, etc. Is called the FM- foreign material. We weigh the FM and record the result on the sheet.

Then we pick out the bad beans: bloopers, molded, split, stained etc. Weigh and record that amount.

These are the "Pick" or the bad beans.

This special grid with 100 holes counts out beans for us. We get 200 beans and do a "soak" note the round pie tin with beans and water. The water wrinkles the beans and makes it easy to spot the beans with splits. We take out all of the splits, count and record the number.

This is an example of a split bean

We bag up the foreign material and the pick in one bag, roll it up and put it in a bag of the remaining bean sample.

They are then able to get an idea of what to pay for the beans based on what in the load was good beans, foreign material and bad beans.

Bow hunting- a success!

2009-09-24T07:42:00.002-05:00

Dan got this nice buck the other night when he was out bow hunting!! He was VERY excited!

The ever so fast growing 3

2009-09-24T07:22:00.005-05:00

I took my 3 little monsters to Bemijdi last night and got their pictures done. I LOVE the pictures of the 3 of them and had a VERY hard time limiting my purchase! hope you enjoy them too!

First days of school!

2009-09-15T09:13:00.003-05:00

Natti went to her first day of preschool Sept 9th. She goes Monday an Wednesday mornings. She LOVES school and to my surprise was anxious for me to drop her off. She did cry for me once her first day half way through her class, but has done great since! I can not believe my little girl is in school already!

When you ask her who her teacher is she replies "Miss Ham" and her helper "Miss Maam".... Her teachers are Miss Pam and Miss Faye.... oh what a silly little girl!

Brendan started the 3rd grade this year- SCARY! He is very happy to be back at school. He is very excited because this year he will be playing hockey for Park Rapids! Yay for being a hockey mom! Brendan amazes us with his eagerness to learn and his love for reading!

Kora walks!

2009-09-11T13:00:00.003-05:00

Kora walked across Auntie Kimmy's living room about a month ago and this stubborn little girl hasn't walked since.... Until now!! Here is a video of the 5th (I think) time walking!

Kora's 1 year pictures

2009-09-04T20:59:00.005-05:00

Birth - 3 years

2009-08-30T20:17:00.005-05:00

Natti turns 3!!

2009-08-30T20:02:00.003-05:00

Natalie turned 3 years old (yes I said 3!) on Thursday August 27th! Despite her little sister coming down with a highly contagious childhood virus, and having to cancel her big party, Daddy, Mommy, Brendan, Kora, Papa and Grandma were still there to help celebrate with a mini party! Auntie Kimmy stopped by for cake after work too! We couldn't risk any of the cousins and friends that were invited of getting sick too. Natti still had a blast opening presents and having cake & ice cream. We will try to have a pizza party soon so the cousins and friends can get together!

Grandma made Natti her Dora the Explorer cake!

The cool name candles from Autie Mary!

She didn't even cry when we sang "Happy Birthday" this time!

The traditional birthday girl bite of cake

Opening presents!

My Big girl in her Dora birthday shirt!

AND, the new Dora bike & helmet. Yes- she is obsessed with Dora!

No I didn't fall off the face of the earth!

2009-08-23T14:33:00.005-05:00

WOW- it has been awhile since I have posted.... sorry!

So what's new with us?

Dan- busy working on taxidermy projects, and working. Getting ready for the hunting seasons to begin! (Bear, Goose, Deer.....)

Me- I went to an amazing child care conference in Mahnomen a week ago. I hope to go again next year. There were some amazing speakers and I learned a lot! Thanks to Grandma Beth for staying with us to watch the kids! Kora was sick so it was extra challenging.

Brendan- Found out he has Lymes Disease, which explains why he has been so tired lately. The Dr thinks we caught it early on and should be able to treat it and move on. He is anxious for school to start, only 2 more weeks left of summer!

Natti- Got signed up for preschool this past week. VERY, and I mean VERY excited for school. We went school shopping in Fargo yesterday for some new clothes! Natti turns 3 on Thursday the 27th (WOW time flies!)

Kora- Had her 1 year check after a week of a 103.7 temp, double ear infection, cutting 3 new teeth and dealing with a UTI. She weighed 27.8lbs and is 32" tall! 96%! She took her first steps across Auntie Kimmy's living room a week ago.... we know she can do it, but she only does it when she wants too now!

That is about it for "whats new"... I will try harder to keep up on the posts and get some new pictures up here soon!

Kora Grace: Birth-1 yr

2009-08-04T08:04:00.008-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday Kora Grace! What a wonderful baby, happy and full of smiles! It is so hard to believe that you have been in our lives for a year already - where did the time go!!!! Happy Birthday Princess, Daddy & Mommy love you dearly!

Here are some pictures from birth to 1 year! How you changed over the months!

Kora's 1st Birthday pictures!

2009-08-03T09:55:00.004-05:00

Would you believe....

2009-07-28T07:40:00.002-05:00

Kora is potty training!!!

Yes, she really is. No, I was not planning for this already!

It all started the other day when it was more than evident that she was working on a #2 in her high chair. I thought I would spare her the struggle and set her on the potty and she went #1 and #2. I figured it was not fair to count this as potty training since I knew she was going to go. This happened again at my parents house and again I figured... I knew she was going to go. Well.... yesterday I put her on the potty just to see what she would do, and 5/6 times she was put on there she went almost instantly!!! She smiles and waits for the "yea, what a big girl. Mommy is so proud of you (clap) (clap) (clap)".

Will she continue with this potty training??? I guess I will keep putting her on there since she is interested and obviously knows what to do on there!! What a big girl I have- and can you believe, she won't even be 1 yr old for a week yet!!!!

This past week in pictures

2009-07-20T21:19:00.002-05:00

So I am slacking a little bit in blogging, but I have been busy dog sitting for my parents who were in Hugary for 12 days, preparing for our annual kick butt yard party, starting new daycare families, and getting ready for my baby to turn 1. I did manage to find some "fun time" this week- here are some pictures to prove it!

Natti warming up with her new buddy

The kids playing by the lake

Kora enjoying her "mini" pool, much warmer than the lake was!

Snuggles with Grandpa once Natti woke up

Peek a boo, I see you

Our garage sale find for daycare

My 3 monkeys

"I am TROUBLE!"

4th of July weekend

2009-07-06T07:46:00.008-05:00

My 3 kidos relaxing at the farm before we head to the parade!

Kora sporting her red, white & blue outfitNatti and her daisy crown mommy braided for her (I love this picture!)
Me and my polka dot bikini!

Cooling down with a little apple juice

Playing at the lake

Uncle Ob tubing with Brendan, Natti & Ethan (Natti is the only one who didn't fall off!)

The fire bugsNever too old for sparklers

Waiting for the fireworks show to start

Natti doing fireworks with Uncle Ob

A little game of ball

Brendan up to bat

Kora waving at the parade. She LOVED it!

Natti checking out her goodies

Relaxing with Auntie

Natti liked the firetrucks

Brendan waiting for more candy!

At the parade

I am SO cute!!

The kids with Auntie & Uncle

I can do it all by myself!

2009-07-01T09:53:00.006-05:00

Kora got this from Uncle OB & Auntie Kimmy for Christmas last year and she LOVES it! She gets really P.O'd when I take her off from it! She is kind of getting a little attitude like her big sister!!! I can not believe that she will be 1 next month! She is getting so big... doesn't seem possible that it has already been almost a year!!!

I haven't posted the video yet, but Kora is crawling.... everywhere. Thankfully, she didn't start really crawling until about 2 1/2 weeks ago. She gets into everything now and is So fast!!

2009-06-29T08:19:00.003-05:00

Dan took the girls & I out fishing and swimming at the lake this weekend. It was Kora's first time in a boat, and her first time swimming in a lake! The water was pretty warm but still a little shocking when you first got in! We didn't catch anything fishing, but it was fun watching Natti try! Kora fell asleep in the boat for about 45 minutes from the rocking of the waves.

Bunk Beds

2009-06-24T12:34:00.002-05:00

The bunk beds we ordered for Natti & Kora came today! Every time a piece of her bed was carried into the house she would say "Thank you for my new bed!" It was so cute! Bed's Plus of Park Rapids delivered and set up the bunk beds for us- how nice!!

Natti will be on the bottom bunk until Kora is ready to move out of her crib. Natti moved out of the crib at 15 months (seems like forever ago!) Natti climbs up to the top bunk easily but has a hard time turning around and coming back down once she gets up there.

AMAZING DATE NIGHT!

2009-06-22T13:48:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday, Dan and I went on an AMAZING date! We headed over to Fargo and did a little shopping, went to Red Lobster and stuffed ourselves with Lobster pizza, Crab Legs and Shrimp Scampi and then headed to the Kenny Chesney concert at the Fargodome! What a awesome concert! I was bummed out when it was over because it was so good! We didn't get home until almost 2 am! Thanks to my parents for taking the girls for a sleepover!

Disappointing

2009-06-22T13:39:00.002-05:00

As I posted not long ago- I had been saving my cleaning money for a trampoline for the kids. Well- last Thursday the night strong storm picked up (litterealy) the whole trampoline and threw it across our yard where it hit, broke, bounced and rolled across the rest of the yard, across the road and into a barbed wire fence. I was (and still am) so disappointed that I didn't even take a picture to show how far it went. Dan and Brendan were gone so it was just the girls and I at home. Natti and I had been watching out the patio window and saw the WHOLE thing happen. Natti was so upset she cried for her "tram-p-paline" ( as she says it) until 11 that night! Dan thought it might be salvageable but it isn't. There is a nice hole in the trampoline part, the safety net is ripped and all of the legs and poles are bent. We tried to straighten them out but they bend back if you jump on it. The force of the wind and hitting the ground actually sheared off most of the screws that held the trampoline together! How disappointing. Needless to say we are again saving for a new trampoline!

If anyone is looking for a safety net that fits a 12' trampoline let me know. There is a little rip in the net but it would work if you don't have one yet (better than nothing!) It just seems like such a shame to trash the thing.

Rhode Island

2009-06-17T10:43:00.003-05:00

Dan and our friend Crag, took off Sunday afternoon for Rhode Island to pick up a wood boiler we bought from a guy over there. Over 3,000 miles, and 50 some hours of non stop driving,16 Toll booths, 18 gas fills and lots of fast food (yuck)- They made it back last night safe, no tickets (Thanks NY trooper for letting them off) and no flat tires!

YEAH- No more propane heat!! I was SO worried about them driving straight there and back without stopping, but they took turns driving and sleeping and thankfully made it back home safely!

The new toy

2009-06-08T08:39:00.003-05:00

I have been saving my cleaning money for a trampoline, and I finally had enough, so yesterday we got and set up the trampoline for the kids. I didn't think it would be hard to set up, but it took FOREVER! I will number the pieces when I take it down for winter so it will be easier to set back up next summer (Thanks OB for the idea!)

Natti didn't jump much in it, but liked sitting and bouncing as Brendan jumped. Kora giggled the whole time she was in there and thought it was hilarious when Brendan jumped.

Nat was wore out after setting up and playing in the new trampoline, she fell asleep in her daddy's chair after lunch.

Curly Sue

2009-05-27T11:11:00.001-05:00

Kora's hair is really changing! It can be as straight as can be and then if she gets a little warm it curls right up! I hope it gets more curl as her hair gets longer!

Our weekend at the cabin

2009-05-21T13:06:00.004-05:00

We went to Dan's Mom & Step Dad's cabin last week. It was nice to get away and the kids had a blast! Here are some pictures from our trip!

Natti and Nina

Kora loves hats!
Playing with Grandma Beth

The catch

Snuggle & Snooze

Natti fishing with her new Barbie fishing pole

Brendan heading out with Grandpa fishing.... again

Yes, Natti managed to snag her clothes with her hook (observe Nattis picture fishing above- no adult supervision as Dad has his back turned to her.... hmmm)

Relaxing on the car ride

I don't think we could fit anything more- 5 people, 3 dogs, a kennel, bags, fishing supplies....

Kora's 9 Month pictures

2009-05-10T14:27:00.008-05:00

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T14:14:00.003-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!!

Dan and the kids built my flower garden and got a couple of plants for me for Mother's Day!! I will be transplanting sme more plants from my moms and I am excited to do it now! As you can see our well is in the middle of the flower bed- this is because our well is in the middle of nowhere and has been backed over by a pickup truck before, so we decided this flower bed would help the eye sore and prevent some expensive repairs! Thanks Dan, Brendan, Natti Kora, I LOVE IT!!!

Natti watering my new flowers

Just a little bit more
Kora thought it was just too much excitement for her the handle

Relaxing after shoveling dirt

& pounding railroad ties

"Touching the Future"

2009-05-05T13:28:00.002-05:00

I don't wear power suits,make speeches,or drive a fancy sports car.
I've never been elected to the Senate or made a big sale.
I don't "do lunch", have a big impressive office or carry a beeper.
I spend my days wiping away tears,giving hugs,and serving peanut butter and jelly.
A good day is when I go through a whole day without a temper tantrum, bite marks,or a toilet training accident.
My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys and laughing children.
You may not think that what I do is very important
and you may even whisper behind my back "What a waste of a good mind."
But I know better. I make a difference because I am changing the world one child at a time.
Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance to touch the future.
I am proud to say "I'm a child care provider".-by Marti Doyle

Playing with friends

2009-05-05T13:10:00.003-05:00

Natti's sleepover

2009-05-05T13:00:00.003-05:00

Natti had her 1st Big girl sleepover at Grandpa and Grandma's house this past weekend without her brother or sister . I was surprised when Natti called to tell me goodnight because she missed me, and surprised when my mom told me that Natti woke up Sunday morning and said "My mommy should be here to get me soon right?" and even more surprised when Natti told my mom while having breakfast that she thought she maybe needed to cry a little because she missed her daddy! What a goofy little girl!

Grandpa was doing a ride along with Dan Saturday night so when Grandpa left, Grandma and Natti played, painted her nails and gave her a big bubble bath and then they watched Cinderella together.

I know Natti had a blast because all she talked about all day Sunday was playing at the farm and her nails and Cinderella- I forget sometimes that she is only 2 yet- she acts and talks much older than she is!

Kora is 9 months old!

2009-05-05T09:58:00.003-05:00

It is hard to believe that my baby is 9 months old already! In 3 months she will be 1- AHHH!
She is SUCH a good baby. She is always happy, and wakes up every morning with a big smile on her face!

She still only has 2 teeth and isn't crawling yet, but is close! She can get on her hands and knees and rocks back and forth and tries to move her hands and knees forward and does a face plant into the floor. It is fun to watch her try so hard!

When we are sitting on the floor she will pull herself up to standing by pulling on me. She cruises around the WHOLE house in her walker ad thinks it is funny to roll into our walk in shower or pull on daddy's work radio in our bedroom.

She eats by herself and can use a sippy cup. She LOVES the occasional Kool-aid treat from Papa.

Mama, Dada, Papa Nigh Nigh (nite nite), and Baba are pretty much her only words but Dan and I thought she was trying to say Natti the other night.

She is so easy going and enjoys hanging out watching what is going on around her. We are so blessed to have such a good baby! Here are a couple of pictures from this week.

Family pictures

2009-04-28T12:51:00.002-05:00

Grandma with all 9 of her Grandkids

Paul, Jared, Kim, Jackie, Heidi

Jenny, Megan, Grandma, Dena, Annie

The Rugroden Family
Grandma and her kids
Tim, Tom Grandma, Sue

The WHOLE family- all 33 of us!

Paul, Jenny, Nate, Adam, Jeri, Jared, Sandy, Nate, Megan, Jade, Dave, Brad, Kim, Dan, OB

Wyatt, Katie, Annie, Max, Tim, Tom, Grandma, Sue, Natti, Jackie, Zak, Heidi, Kora

Dena, Grace, Madelyn, Brendan, Ethan

S is for...

2009-04-20T10:55:00.003-05:00

S is for... Spring is here (we think!)

We have been outside EVERY day for the past couple weeks, playing, flying kites, doing yard work (I LOVE doing yard work, honestly!!) Here are some pictures from the last week or so!

Natti wanted in the stroller with Kora. She was tired of walking when we were out pulling horse fencing. She fell asleep snuggling Kora!

Natti riding her "dirt bike" as she calls it

Brendan's kite was as high as it could go!
Dan and Brendan flying kites on a windy afternoon!

Kora loves being in the walker outside, she cruises all over the patio!

Natti LOVES being outside!

The big family get together!

2009-04-13T09:04:00.007-05:00

On Saturday we got the WHOLE family together and got pictures, ate, had an egg hunt, visited and played outside. As soon as I get a copy of the CD I will post the WHOLE family picture. Here are some from my camera of the day!

This was the best attempt at a family picture that I got on my camera

Grandma with all 10 of her Great-Grand kids!

Brendan, Wyatt, Kora

Natti, Ethan, Jade, G.G, Zakary. Madeline, Max & Grace

The whole Rugroden family

Heidi, Kora, Kim, Natti, Mom, Jackie, Zak, Ethan

Dan, OB, Dad, Brad and Brendan

Grandma with her 3 kids

Tim, Tom, Grandma and Mom

Kora and Max
Max is 8 days older than Kora... Kora is in the 102% on the height & weight charts (can you tell!)
I filled over 100 eggs for all of the little kids to have an egg hunt! They had a blast!

Coloring Easter eggs!

2009-04-13T08:56:00.004-05:00

The Kruchowski's dying Easter EggsPleased with the outcome

What is this mama?

Dan and Brendan goofing around

Concentrating at making the perfect egg

Look at my egg grandma!

The finished products!

R is for...

2009-04-08T16:53:00.005-05:00

R is for... Ready for Summer!

We played outside today- and we are ready for summer!! The bikes and trikes are out, the bubble stock is full, the sandbox is ready for sand, the wagon is out- although the tires are flat, it is an easy fix! Bring on the sunshine and beautiful weather!

Some more pictures

2009-04-06T14:50:00.001-05:00

My gift certificate purchase!

2009-04-06T14:47:00.002-05:00

Dan and I went with some friends the the DU (Ducks Unlimited) banquet in DL a few weeks ago and I won the Grand Door Prize- a $500 G.C. to MN Warehouse Furniture in Erhard, MN. Yesterday I went with a friend and picked out a new Ashley Sofa and a Lazy Susan for the kitchen table and a candle. Here is my new sofa- the most comfortable thing ever! I had to lay down on the couches at the store to test them out to find the perfect one... here it is!

The Circus

2009-04-06T14:18:00.004-05:00

On April 2nd- Me, Brendan, Natti, Kora, My Mom, Brad, Jackie, Ethan and Zak went to the Shrine Circus in Detroit Lakes. It was a lot of fun and the kids had a blast! Here are some pictures from the circus!

Just some pics!

2009-03-25T14:39:00.001-05:00

Brendan is 8

2009-03-25T14:02:00.003-05:00

Q is for...

2009-03-25T13:55:00.002-05:00

Q is for... Quick cooking lesson!

Natalie LOVES to help cook; dumping, mixing, stirring, turning on the mixer, cutting out... everything. So she was in seventh heaven the other night when she was at Grandma's house and she got to help cut out biscuits.

Lil Munchkin Doodle

2009-03-13T13:38:00.000-05:00

http://lilmunchkindoodle.blogspot.com/
Check out this CUTE site!!

P is for...

2009-03-13T11:30:00.003-05:00

P is for... Playtime

We got a new little bounce house and the kids love it. Kora just squeals when she is in there! There is little static if you can't tell by Nat's hair!

More of beautiful baby Zak

2009-03-13T11:29:00.001-05:00

O is for...

2009-03-13T11:09:00.003-05:00

O is for.... Obsessed!

Brendan's latest obsession- hockey! Before this year he has only skated (or tried) 1 maybe 2 times. Him and Dan have been going out a couple times a week to learn to skate. It is fun to watch his progress each time he goes out! Dan was big into hockey when he was in school and is excited that Brendan wants to share in his passion!

N is for...

2009-03-09T21:28:00.003-05:00

N is for.... New Nephew!!!

Zakary Eli Campbell FINALLY entered the world early this morning!! Weighing 7# 15.5 oz and 20.1 inches long. Jackie and Zak are both doing well. Jackie was glad she finally went into labor on her own, otherwise she was going to be induced tomorrow (Tues.)

He looks a lot like Jackie, maybe we will finally have a brown eyed baby in the family??? We are SO excited for them and can't wait to give him lots of love as he grows! Ethan is finally a big brother and I know he will be a good one! Congrats Brad, Jackie and Ethan!

M is for...

2009-03-06T14:36:00.002-06:00

M is for... Make up my mind!

So, my computer has been down for about a week, now it is fixed and I can blog again! (It has been awhile!)

I am going back into doing daycare starting Monday March 9th. I had tried working at Northstar Orthodontics for about a week and a half, but the job itself, the pay, and the environment made me feel like a worker in a Chinese shop. Also, I am not sure how many times I came home from work and Dan would say "I wish you were still doing daycare. It was easier having you home all the time"... YEAH, he realizes that I really do a lot around here!!! Mission accomplished! SO- back to daycare. This allows me to be home to get Brendan on and off the bus, home to take care of the girls, get chores done around here and make some money.

L is for...

2009-02-19T07:30:00.003-06:00

L is for... Love

Dan and I are celebrating our 4 year Anniversary today! It is hard to believe that 4 years ago we were anxiously getting ready for our big day! I look back over the past 4 years and I am in awe of all that we have accomplished and experienced. The births of our girls, Brendan growing into a little man, packing, moving, moving, moving and moving again, birthdays, holidays, jobs, family trips, laughs, tears, joys, and all of the memories we have shared and created. On February 19th of 2005, I married my best friend and made a life long commitment to our relationship- I am so happy I did! Happy Annivesary Dan, I love you!

One important memory of our wedding day... After the service, Dan said we should head to Menahga to see my Grandparents who were too ill to make it out in the cold to come to our wedding. As all of our guests patiently waited for us for dinner, Dan and I went down to the Menahga nursing home. We walked into my grandparents room and they both just lit up! You could see they were not in real good health, but they were SO SO excited that we made the trip down there to see them on our wedding day. I got pictures with both of them, cried a little, and kissed them both as they said how beautiful we looked. When Dan and I were in Jamaica on our honeymoon, my grandmother passed away. I was never more thankful that Dan took us down to see them on our wedding. During my grandmas passing, she kept saying that she thought I was an angel when I was there in my wedding dress. It makes me smile to know that!

Pictures and a video

2009-02-17T16:01:00.003-06:00

K is for....

2009-02-12T06:44:00.002-06:00

K is for Kora

Kora said her first word one day after she turned 6 months old. I came home from work and Kora was sitting on Dans lap in the recliner and I walked over and smiled at her... "Ma Ma Ma" came flying out of her mouth as she smiled. My heart melted! She lately only says it if she is in the swing or bouncy or on the floor and I am not playing with her or she wants me to pick her up. She also says Pa Pa and Ba Ba (bottle) now. Man she is growing up fast! I will try to post some new pictures tonight after work. I am kind of slacking on my blog since I started working.

I got tagged!

2009-02-02T21:04:00.002-06:00

Here are the directions:
1. Go to the 4th album in the place you store your pictures on your computer
2. Select the 4th picture in that album (no exceptions)
3. Post it in this post with an explanation and link it back to your tagger (which I don't know how to do so I just linked her blog through her name above)
4. Tag 4 people to do the same thing
Here is my picture:

Ok- so you asked for it! Yes, this is a real animal, and no it isnt alive. Dan was taking some pictures for taxidermy and Brendan was his lucky candidate! Kinda funny!

I tag, Hannah, Kara, Rori and Ashley

J is for ...

2009-02-01T14:25:00.003-06:00

J is for January

I can not believe that January has come and gone so quickly! Yesterday was BEAUTIFUL!! Here are a couple pictures from out afternoon!

I is for...

2009-01-20T21:18:00.002-06:00

I is for... INTERVIEW

After much thought, discussion, figuring and planning, Dan and I have decided it is time for me to get a job out of the home. Maternity leave and moving put a damper on daycare as we are further out in the country and kind of "out of the way" for people. I turned in an application to Northstar Orthodontics last week, took their test and today I had an interview. Before I even made it back home I received the call with the job offer.

It is full time, Monday thru Friday, health insurance, 401K, paid holidays, accrued paid days off... the works. I start on February 2nd. I have some mixed feelings since I have been home with my babies for 2 years now, but I know I need to help contribute more to our family. THANKFULLY- my sister Jackie has room for the girls in her daycare. This will make the whole transition about 100 times easier for me since I know they will be well cared for. Dan is going to have "daddy daycare" on his days off so daycare will be part time for the most. I have thought and prayed much about this, and I hope I am making the right decision. I keep hearing "whatever is meant to be, will be." I hope they are right!

I do look forward to the daily adult communication but know that my family time and Dan time will be less, and that is the downfall. Natti is registered for pre-school starting next September, so I know this will help her adjust to being away from me, and Jackie's daily preschool curriculum will only make her that much more ready!

I enjoy new adventures and will eventually work out my new routine and schedule of getting a kid up and organized and on the bus, and two little ones up and dressed and to daycare first thing in the morning so I can make it to work on time... this may take a little getting used to for ma and the kids but..... whatever is meant to be, will be!

H is for...

2009-01-12T17:36:00.002-06:00

H is for... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday Dan! Dan is celebrating his 28th Birthday today! He has to work tonight so I made him a birthday cake and sent it to work with him to share with the guys that are on with him. I am having everyone over Wednesday night for chicken alfredo, salad, cake & ice cream! I feel bad that he has to work on his birthday and that we cant celebrate until Wednesday, but he'll survive! So anyhow, Happy Birthday honey!

G is for...

2009-01-06T21:44:00.001-06:00

G is for... Get together

We celebrated the Petersen Family Christmas on Jan. 3rd at Dan's mom and step dad's cabin. All of the kids, and their kids were there! We had great food, family time, fishing, and of course presents! We got to meet our 1st and only niece, Lidia Lou as well! She flew to Minnesota with her mom and dad for 6 days! It sure was nice having everyone together- which seems to be less and less very year as none of the kids live in Cloquet any more. Here are a few of my many pictures from the trip.

Our happy little family

Matt, Sara and baby Lidia

All of the grand kids

The whole family- Sara, Lidia, Matt, Steff (Tony's girlfriend), Tony, Beth, Mark, Me, Kora,

Dan, Natti & Brendan

The kids and their kids

Tony & Steff

Little Miss Kora bug- she is busy with her hands all day long now!

The girls and I taking 5

Dan, tired from a late night snugging the babes

Grand kids

Fishing- you can see it from the cabin... this was Natti's first time on the ice

Natti and her very own snowglobe

Me, Natti & Lidia

F is for....

2008-12-26T17:23:00.004-06:00

F is for Family

I have the best family ever! Dan was home for Christmas... no work!!! This defiantly made the top 3 Christmas' ever! Everyone was in such great moods and enjoyed family time! We went to Christmas Eve church service at 3pm and then went home to open our family gifts. We went to my parents house for a fabulous dinner, drinks, hot tubbin and relaxing times. Christmas Day we had EVERYONE here at our house for Christmas dinner and more gift opening and then we spent the day eating, playing with new toys, visiting and relaxing! What a beautiful day!

E is for....

2008-12-18T08:56:00.003-06:00

E is for EVERYONE!

Last night the whole family was here for my Birthday, it was a very nice evening! We got a group picture. Everyone looks pretty good, which is hard to do with so many youngins!

D is for...

2008-12-16T07:17:00.003-06:00

D is for DARN COLD!

Like the 30 below weather isn't bad enough, I woke during the night only to discover that the boiler for our floor heat picked the coldest night ever to quit working. Our house is a chilling 51 degrees! Natti and Brendan are buried in blankets in Brendan's room upstairs and Kora is cocooned in blankets with me. YUCK! The heat people will be here sometime this morning, until then the kids and I are heading to my parents house so we can get Brendan ready for school (he will be a little late today!) Dan is in a cold induced coma in our room (he worked until 4am) I guess if he gets cold he can go out to his shop (heat works in there!) If it wasn't full of stinky dead animals, I would maybe have considered venturing there rather than bearing the cold to my parents house. Hopefully this will be a quick/cheap fix.... like December isn't stressful enough with money! I am sure more posts related will follow! Stay warm!

Meeting with Santa

2008-12-09T09:13:00.003-06:00

Santa was at Walmart this weekend so we had to make the trip to town to see him! Natti was SO SO SO excited to see him and told him she wanted a dolly house from him! Brendan whispered to me "I know this isn't the real Santa, he is just Santa's helper... Santa is far too busy to go to everyone's Walmart to get pictures done. Don't worry, I won't tell Natti". How cute! Kora wasn't sure what to think, he facial expression says it all! When we were done with pictures we had a little shopping to do there and Natti saw Santa walking around the store and I thought she was going to jump right out of the cart and chase after him. She waved and waved at him when se would see him! I think she is a little excited!

C is for...

2008-11-29T21:05:00.006-06:00

CHRISTMAS

We decorated the tree as a family and we all had a great time in doing so! It turned out beautiful! Along with putting our tree up I also did some of my holiday baking: 6 dozen frosted Christmas sugar cookies, Melting Moments, Lefsa and caramels. I have a few more things to make and I should be set... if my hubby keeps his hands out of them!

CAR RIDES

We traveled to Corcoran for Thanksgiving at Dans Uncle Tom and Aunt Mary's house. The food was AMAZING, but we would expect none the less from Aunt Mary! Dan and I didn't eat again until the following afternoon we were so full! The kids travel SO well, but always make up for it upon arrival! The day was very nice.

On the way there we were talking about what we were thankful for and we had to laugh when we asked Natti because she paused dep in thought and then I asked her again "Natti what are you thankful for?" and she smiled and said "PAX" Oh kids are funny!

COMPARISON

Kora had her pictures taken a week or so ago, and one of the outfits was one that Natti had worn. It is fun to look at the two pictures and see how alike/different the girls look! Natti was a month and a half older in her picture!

B is for...

2008-11-19T17:16:00.005-06:00

Baby

My baby is already 3 1/2 months old! Where does the time go? We went to Sears on Bemidji to get her 3 month pictures done. They turned out great!! I am not sure why some of them are upside down and turned, but I can't get them rotated for some reason!

Mom and Beth- I have 5x7 for each of you and you even get a choice this time!

Choice #1

Choice #2

Choice #3 (it is a horizontal picture not vertical)

A is for... ANIMALS

2008-11-18T09:57:00.006-06:00

I am starting the alphabet challenge. Meaning, each post I do will include one letter starting with "A" until I get to "Z". It encourages me to find something to post that can give you more insight on our lives and educate you on events that are happening!

A is for ANIMALS:

As many of you know, Dan went to a Taxidermy school last spring in Cushing! He is really enjoying his new hobby and has quite a few projects in the freezer to start working on... 5 deer, a bobcat, ducks and many fish! If you need a good taxidermist I could recommend a great one!

Gunner Dan's Taxidermy (218) 252-7112

Here are some of his pieces of work that he has done already

How do I make comments to a blog???

2008-11-17T11:26:00.002-06:00

This is a question I have received a few times... so thought I would answer it for you!

Under each blog entry you see "comments" and if you click on it you can create a username and password. After creating this you can post comments to any blog entry! Pretty simple so give it a try! If I could figure it out I know you can!

Hunting

2008-11-14T21:54:00.002-06:00

Dan took a shot at a nice buck from my mom's stand down the highline. They tracked it for about 9 hours total and then they lost the blood trail :( The kids and I were in the Tahoe part of the track following the group as they went along.

Natti getting bored as we sit and wait

Kora, happy as always!

She fell asleep while we were sitting and waiting

Brendan the mighty sidekick hunter

Dan, Brendan, Mom and Dad checking where exactly the deer was from the stand

Would you believe it......

2008-11-12T22:30:00.003-06:00

If I told you that Kora has cut her first tooth!! WOW. She is only 3 months old, and not only did she cut a tooth, it is either a molar or an eye tooth. We will have to see where it shifts to once it is all the way out. Have you ever heard of that? Natti didnt even cut her fist tooth until 7 months! Kim says she will start walking and talking next week:)