Bella, helping Papa in the yard at the end of their stay. 

Home again, home again, jiggity jig

Ahhhhh...
We're home.
We've been movin' and groovin' for the past few weeks, and we are now home and digging out.

I left you all hanging on our weekend to Jackson, WY... It was incredible!!! We had so much fun! The wedding was lovely, despite the rain, and the family and friends we met out there were fabulous! Jake and I had so much fun together- we danced, walked and laughed together... Not to mention our first (not last) trip down the Snake River whitewater rafting! (Photos to come tomorrow!) What fabulous memories! We are thrilled to have Cori in the family... And it's awesome to see Jonathan so happy.

While we were gone the kids spent time with Grandma and Papa K. They, too, had a great time. They visited a zoo, got huge ice cream treats, saw great grandparents, took bike rides and walks and just got to enjoy being with Grandma and Papa. I zoomed across the state to fetch them upon our return and got back home just in time to prepare for our garage sale...

A friend asked if I'd be interested in doing one, so we jumped into the "City-wide" weekend only to put in hours of work and get poured on. It wasn't a total loss, SHE did pretty well... I made enough for a tank of gas. (almost)

Jake had one last inservice day on Monday, then we jumped in the van and headed camping. We visited Governor Dodge State Park, a new one for us, and had beautiful weather! It was hot enough to enjoy the beach, and didn't rain until we were headed out the next morning. We visited "The House on the Rock" and got home late.

So that brings me to the present. We spent the whole day unpacking and washing and shoveling out of an extraordinarily messy home. I think the floor has been found in every room now- no small feat, I assure you! We've enjoyed our adventuring immensely, but are grateful to be home.

The happy bride and groom! 

Jake and I enjoyed a fabulous weekend in Jackson attending his brother, Jonathan's wedding to our wonderful new sister, Cori!  

Doodle has been a ball lover from infancy. He started dribbling at 14 months with a Discovery Toys bumpy ball.  

"Anything you can do, I can do "brother," I can do anything "brother" can do!!!" 

Elle Belle took Mattie on a long walk in the yard. Mattie kept looking over her shoulder at me with a LONG face that said,"Please rescue me..." 

Brothers forever... friends MOST of the time. 

A new, improved Monday

I found the formula to having a great Monday. Here goes...

1) Find one great friend. I'm sure a mediocre one would do other days of the week, but it is vital on a Monday to find a really, really good friend, who you can talk to about most anything and understands the mushiness of Mommy Brain.

2) Take off for the day to a destination you only frequent every other month or so. This will truly keep your mind off what day it is, and how things are SUPPOSED to be going, or WOULD be going if you were back at home.

3) Pray and request a really sunny day. This brightens the most dull of Mondays and lifts the lowest of spirits... It may even make you feel as though your living a Saturday!

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Because it felt so summer-like today (it's all relative...) I wanted to have a fry out. We are in Wisconsin, so we put brats on the grill and started to boil potatoes for potato salad. The potatoes were done, so I turned off the burner and picked the kettle up to drain them, when my whirlwind child flew through the door and smacked right into the pot of boiling water. With. His. Forehead. HE IS FINE, being so accustomed to not watching where he is going, he grinned and spun the other way into the bathroom. I didn't see all this, however, as the force of his whirlwind 50 pound body (forehead) tipped the entire kettle onto me. I have a scalded wrist and foot. Jake is sure they are second degree burns, but they haven't blistered yet (does that happen right away?). My wrist aches- I'm doing the ice on 20 seconds, then off 'cause it's numb for all of 10 seconds, back on... You get the picture. The up side? Maybe the big red blotches will hide the oranges blothes from a hasty self-tanner application this weekend. (Can anyone say pinto? That's kind of what I resemble right now.)
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Just one more tidbit to share... Jake and I take off WEDNESDAY NIGHT for his brother's wedding in Jackson, WY!!!! WHOOPEE!!!! So much to be excited about...
Jonathan and Cori found one another and are about to embark on a whole new life together... Jake and I are traveling without the kids... We get to see the whole family- brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, (grin, grin!) To top it all off, our kids get to spend the time with my parents- both parties are very excited! (Probably the kids more-so as their energy is through the roof! Hope you're resting up, Mom and Dad!!!) Isn't life good?
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We got a postcard today from my sister and brother-in-law! They are gallivanting across Europe as we speak! They started in Barcelona and should be in Italy- No, Switzerland? OK, well I'm not real sure where they are, but I pray they're safe and having a blast!!! We love you two!!! Can't wait to see photos and hear stories!!!

Backs to the action!

Doodle and his soccer buddy hanging out and "discussing stategy" before practice...well, hanging out anyway! (As the camera pans left you see the rest of the team running, kicking, shooting and dribbling...) 

Do you blame her?

Bella loves to swing with her hair flying in the wind. Ahh... the carefree days of childhood. It sure is fun to live them anew with my children. 

Another sign that spring has sprung! Our first fall planting of bulbs EVER is showing off it's splendor! 

Spring is here (and today the temperature actually would attest to it!). We've been swinging at the playground, rollerblading, playing soccer,climbing and cleaning up the yard (darn Mattie...). 

Monday, Schmonday!

Why are Mondays always the longest day of the week? I don't mean to sound all out negative, but how is it that in a review of each week, Monday often comes out on the bottom of the "good day" list? One step forward, two steps back. I had an ornery infant today (who does NOT belong to me) and a tired preschooler (who DOES belong to me).

On the bright side, my husband (who doesn't even drink coffee) made and prepared my first cup of coffee (just the right amount of cream and Splenda). By God's grace (which was in abundance today) four loads of wash went from hamper full circle to folded and in drawers (a major accomplishment that "folded and put in drawers" part. I really don't like that end of it). The sun was out, which has not happened in a long time... And looks to not happen again for a few days. I got to bring the kids to the library. I got to read with them and even played a board game with Doodle. I got to have some kids for a friend who needed time away. I have a husband who joyfully went to work to provide for us and came home with the same smile on his face. He even mowed the lawn in record time after school and didn't mind a bit! I was able to make healthy meals which all three kids ate. I am alone now, as that sweet husband is tucking the kids in. We may even get a game in yet tonight.

Ya know... It wasn't such a bad day. Yes, it was a Monday, but my God is good. His goodness outweighs even the most wretched things a Monday can throw my way. Thanks for putting up with my initial complaints... I'd like to go back and erase that first paragraph now. Have a great Tuesday, and when next Monday rolls around, join me in counting the positives.

Where, oh where has spring gone?

We woke up this morning to a 60 degree house. The wood boiler is shut down for the year, and we thought we could finally turn the back-up furnace off, but no. Winter is back. There is a 90% chance of Rain MIXED WITH SNOW showers today. UGH.

On a lighter note, Tomorrow is Woodbury Day! Yippee! I am starting to layer up already, as by morning I may have adequate clothing on. Maybe the frost and ice will ward off some of the "not-so-die-hards." Hopefully they will be the ones who wanted soccer cleats and size 4 winter boots. I can't wait to update ya'll with the bargains.

The kids are still sleeping, so I am off to start the laundry. Friday is my usual day, but I will be off, hobbling in the cold to find more treasures to wash.

He's on his way home!

Our dear cuddly Dawson is on his way home from Grandma and Grandpa's farm. I KNOW he had a blast, what with tractors, a four-wheeler, many four-legged friends... Not to mention Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Josh, Kath-er-yn (as he puts it), and a bonus visit with Auntie Laura and Treston! All that said, OH I MISSED MY CUDDLER!!!

We are off to soccer tonight, and Daddio and Daws should be here when we get back. Only two days until Woodbury! Can't wait.

A little collage of candids for your viewing pleasure 

Just warming up...

Though it is Saturday, the alarm went off early at the Dahl house. Jake and I brought the kids out garage sale-ing. In our house "garage sale-ing" is an active verb, meaning I actively participate in the activity as often as possible. There are strategies involved and much satisfaction at the end of a well-saled day. We did OK this morning, but broke one of the most important rules involved- arriving the first day of the sale. We did hit one stellar sale, which produced exceptional quality clothes for the next year (Ok, probably 2 years) of Noah's life, and in abundance as we walked away with 8 pairs of shorts, 4 t-shirts, 3 heavy hooded sweatshirts, 4 pairs of pants, a pair of snow pants and a pair of pajama pants, (21 items!) all for $26! Get this... Not only are there no holes in the knees, the pants all look as though they are right off the rack... Not even shaded with wear!!! Mind you, Doodle is coming up behind Noah, so the large quantity is taking into account the 50% survival rate of all clothes passed down.
Just warming up, you may ask... This coming Friday is the Garage Sale day to end all, as my friends Marti, Dolly and I will head out dawn to dusk and ravage the town of Woodbury until not a single worthy bargain is left in sight. It's become tradition to head over early (or even the night before) with lists, strong coffee(OK, only for me) and all unnecessary van seats ousted. It is the one day of the year I do... Well, it's kind of hard to admit, but yes, I do wear a fanny pack. (Is there a way to whisper in type?) I know, I know, it is a bit humbling, perhaps embarrassing to those who accompany me, but I tell ya', the arm mobility is worth every gasp, guffaw and giggle I must endure. (Besides, How do you fit 150 singles into a pocket?)
Well, I must nap now... I need to conserve energy for the big day. I assure you I will dream of defensive moves that will increase my chances at more deals. I'll keep you all posted.

Soccer...the first edition

The boys both had their first soccer game of the season on Thursday night. They did very well! Noah had a nose-on collision with a Hornet (his opponent), thus the bloody rag. They both had a good time and are really enjoying their first season! 

Our girl...

A copy of "The New Strong-Willed Child" by Dr. James Dobson on CD for a busy mom: $28
A three year supply of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers: $50
A lifetime of being the mom to this precious little wonder: priceless 

The kids were up for a candid photo shoot this morning.  

They're back... and I'm grateful!

O.K., so the house isn't silent anymore. There are trails to clean up, and piles. Lots of dishes, some extra stinky chore clothes. There are spats to break up and attitudes to prune, chores to keep reminding them of and many demands... Most all at once.

It's anything but silent now, but I'd have it no other way. There's laughter, and giggling, scheming and whispered planning. There are shrieks (not always of joy) and even a little tattling. This is what our home is meant to be. Filled with life, and noise and children. And even messes. Lots of them. It was nice to have a break, but even nicer to have them back.

Absolute Silence

My dear husband packed up the troops last night and headed to his parents for the weekend. They were a truckful of energy when they left! Everyone, driver included, couldn't wait to get there as it is planting season, and that means tractor rides. Bella was beside herself... Grandpa Jerry is very close to her heart!
I am scheduled to work for a couple hours tonight, so I am home- in the most silent house I have ever heard. I have a stack of chick flicks and a closet to organize. So, if you call today, I just might not answer. I would hate it long term, but am going to enjoy my day of silence...

(For those of you joining me from balmy regions, it is snowing outside right now. Tiny floating flakes, but snow none the less. Yes, April 30th.)

"When you're the best of friends..."

Noah spent the day at school with Jaker on Thursday (Bring your child to work day) and the two younger kids had a blast together. There were wrestling matches, games and lots of breathless giggles! 

Try this out!

Your Linguistic Profile:

80% General American English

15% Upper Midwestern

5% Yankee

0% Dixie

0% Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Stranger in the Night!

Bella has a terrible habit of crawling into our bed at night. Jake and I are both beyond the infant stage of sleeping lightly and hearing every sound, so we rarely know she's there until morning. Except for the two mornings she has had an accident in OUR BED!
This, very fresh in our minds, prompted a preslumber chat with our darlin' dumpling about how "she has her own bed for a reason, and it has a plastic mattress that Mommy can just wipe right off if she has an accident. Mommy and Daddy's mattress is quite different, and needs lots and lots of work and attention if she has an accident in our bed." On the chat went with a blunt moral, You may not come in our bed at night! Call for us if you need us!
So, we all slept soundly, and very still, evidently. Jake woke to an elbow in the ribs (from a pajamaed prowler later identified as Noah), "Dad, move over, it's not Ellie!"

Our little woodsmen, fueling the fire. 

Yellow tub water

Last night we burned a pile of brush in the side yard, and it was kind of misty/rainy, so I hauled Ellie in and stuck her in the tub. We had a pack of Crayola tub tints, so I broke it open and blindly tossed one of them in the water. Moments later I turned to find a bright yellow tub. Now kids in yellow water only leave me thinking one thing, but no, 'twas true... Crayola makes Yellow Tub Tints!!!

This past Sunday we celebrated the first anniversary of "stuck in the truck" day. Just one year ago our precious little girl stuck her entire hand down the stake pocket of her Daddy's pick up truck and proceeded to poke one chubby little finger out of a hole in the side of the pocket. The poor imp just couldn't pull her little hand out! We eventually had an ambulance, fire truck, police car and rescue squad SUV in our driveway, and it took a sheetmetal worker on the fire department to cut open the side of Jake's pick up to identify the little finger caught in the hole. They then cut out the stake pocket and were able to get her free. She didn't have anything but a little red mark around her finger and a look like, "What?" on her face. What a memory!

A new cousin...

Praise the Lord!
We got word, and photos, of our new niece/cousin today!
Jake's sister Jamie and her husband, Scott are adopting a daughter from China. We now have a beautiful face to put with our prayers. She will be coming home in about six weeks. What a sweet blessing it is to add on to our family in such a special way!

We had a rainy day in the Northwoods. The kids spent the day indoors with some friends. I had my every-third-year mending day. It really took me almost the whole day. NOT for quantity, mind you, because most of the things I had set aside to mend... well, the kids grew out of in the meantime. SO, after a good load down to the garage sale bin, I had ten items and yes, it took me a good chunk of the day. I am a bit rusty, but threading a machine is like riding a bike, and by late afternoon I had a neat little pile of (crookedly) hemmed, and repaired (with the addition of small blood spots) clothes. Penciled in another good mending day for 2008 and we are set.

We had a wonderful surprise tonight when my college roommate, Holly, called and said she was in town! We got to spend the evening together while her daughter Hannah played with the kids. Ellie was very quiet and observant of Hannah...not sure what to think of a girl who could go toe to toe with her in the director's seat- especially on her turf! They always play well together, and we all had a fun night. Holly and I have a unique friendship where we share a brain... scary for her, I know, but what a gift she is!

The kids are sound asleep, and I am headed that direction! g'night...

Our Mr. Photogenic at the playground yesterday... 

This was my view of Ellie from the computer chair as I typed today's entry. Go zoom! 

Ellie playing jumprope with her Daddy and her John Deere trike! 

TGIF

A weekend is upon us!
Ellie wanted her hair in "three braids, cause I'm three!" So, we french braided three braids. She looked a bit Jamaican.

From there we dove into a bit of a crazy day. Leah had a tough morning...she is generally a very good baby, and had a stretch this morning where she cried like never before. I held her, tried swaddling her, laid her down and rubbed her tummy- nothing seemed to help until I fed her a little bit and she went to sleep.
That kind of set the mood for the morning. Doodle needed to go to kindergarten screening, though when we got there we didn't actually need to have it done because he was screened last year. (One step forward, two steps back...) So we bustled on to church! It was our last day of CHAMPS (Our homeschool group). We had a pinata for our Spanish class. Very fun, and VERY full of candy. I think Noah nabbed about a third of what was in it.

Then home where, Ahhh... We're settling into a family evening. The boys and Jake are playing baseball and frisbee (beginning to be an evening tradition). I just finished cleaning up supper and Ellie is trying on many pairs of shoes before she makes the final decision for her evening apparel (I love having a daughter!). Jake and I have a stack of movies for tonight- yes, I'll fall asleep in the middle, but he puts up with me and will try to carry me up after they are over (I will wake up and protest!) Then in the morning I am going to head out on the chain of lakes to give kayaking a try with some friends (I'll keep you posted!).
I'm going to go out now and spend the waning daylight hours with my precious family...g'night!

Ahhhh...

Noah and I finished first grade yesterday. Today was our first official day of summer vacation. It was blissful. We made Stone Soup for supper (Stone soup was one of Noah's last reading stories, and with it, he got to make up a recipe on his own. We used the same ingredients, I tweaked some of the proportions e.g. 10 green peppers?! and I must say, he did pretty well!), played outside in the 65 degree weather, leisurely went to story time at the library, and got all of my winter/summer clothes switched.

I had my first official Soccer Mom meeting tonight. It was not nearly as high stress and competitively tension-filled as I prepared myself for. I am the Uniform mom for the Falcons, but I think I'll be OK.

Bedtime has come to the Dahl house, time to brush lots of little teeth. good night...

There! CinderEllie is done! 

Noah and his boy necklace... 

The boy necklace

Ellie got several shiny bead necklaces in her Easter basket this year, and for some reason her cool older brother took a liking to them. He started to wear them daily, without any shame(Note the photo of him doing math). When we headed out, I would try to nonchalantly suggest he take them off. One day he was heading to music class at the public school and I asked him to take a pearly pink one off before we left. He objecting, claiming,"But I really like it!" So, we made a deal... "Mommy would love to get you a boy necklace. Would you like that?" He grinned and shortly after that I got him a boy necklace, which he wears with joy 24 hours a day.

Doodle in his everyday giddup. 

Noah working hard at math. 

Bella helped me scrub the porch floor in a dress and galoshes :) 

We're back!

We had a little password trouble for awhile, but we are back.

My parents visited this weekend. Mom and I pulled an all day shopping excursion on Saturday, topped with a trip to the Olive Garden and Coldstone Creamery... ahhh...
The kids played hard with Papa K and Daddy. Doodle learned to ride his bike withOUT training wheels. He was beaming with pride! Bella is in her "four-outfits-a-day" stage...dirty girl... which poses a problem in the laundry department.

We started a new adventure last week watching "Baby Leah" four days a week! She is a sweet baby and so far it is going very well.

Noah and I will finish first grade early this week! We will keep you posted! He is doing very well and looks forward to giving public school a try next year.

And I will leave you with some photo updates