Three men and a lady

Birthday Parrrrrrtay!

2012-02-06T13:32:00.003-06:00

Sunday everyone came down to Pleasant Hill for Emmeric's 4th birthday party! It was a blast. We always love having people over at our house and this was no exception. We ate lunch, opened presents and ate cake. Everyone celebrated, talked, played and had a really fun time.

This is how presents went, all the kids surrounding Emmeric and enjoying the ripping.

Cookie cake with a train, what boy wouldn't love that.

Emmeric got lots of amazing presents. Tractors, CDs, new clothes, semi-truck, sensory table, goalie post and so much more. He loved it all.

Happy 4th Birthday Emmeric!

2012-02-02T15:39:00.000-06:00

Today our Emmeric is 4! He is such an amazing boy. He is crazy and excitable He always has a question, always wants to know the plan and is always busy. He is smart and funny. Emmeric is carefree and a great snuggler. He loves riding trikes, building things, the space shuttle and moon, TRAINS and anything to do with "Cars." We love you more each day Emmeric, we can't wait to see you grow in the next year. Love, Dad & Mom.

A train and track (which, is what he kept asking for) as his 1st birthday present from Dad & Mom.

Pancakes made by Daddy for breakfast.

Riding the train at the mall.

Here are a few questions I asked Emmeric today:
How old are you? 4
What is your favorite color? Red
Who is your Best Friend? Martin
Favorite Animal? Lion
What is your favorite movie? Tangled
What is your favorite book? Space or Train books
What makes you happy? Mommy, playing trains
What makes you sad? When I don't pick up my toys
What is your favorite food to eat? Apples, turkey and cookies
What is your favorite song to sing? Real Gone by Sheryl Crow & You make me feel by Cobra Starship
What games do you like to play? Hungry, Hungry Hippo and Memory

Spiderman

2012-02-01T13:13:00.003-06:00

Ed with Spiderman at the mall. Doesn't he look tough?

Ted E. Bear

2012-01-31T20:55:00.000-06:00

Saturday we headed to Build-A-Bear. We had the boys build a bear for the baby. We want the boys to bring the bear up to the hospital when they visit for the first time. They liked to stuff the bear and put their hearts inside. It was fun and will be a great memory for all of the boys.

Our finished Ted E. Bear.

Max made the bear kiss the baby. Yes, I know that coat is working hard.

A couple videos

2012-01-30T18:55:00.005-06:00

Boys jumping and tumbling.

Emmeric racing down the hill. (Sorry I didn't turn it)

Marble Run

2012-01-22T13:37:00.002-06:00

We have been putting the marble run Aunt Sarah got the boys for Christmas to good use lately. It is lots of fun to make different runs and send our marbles down.

The huge marble run we made.

Putting our marbles down.

71st CST outting

2012-01-21T14:30:00.000-06:00

Today, Eddie had to go work for a bit so we decided to join him. It was the first time we had been where he worked. He showed us the trucks and all the equipment they use along with his office. The boys liked to play with the flashlights and see the HUGE F-450 trucks. We had lunch and hung out while he worked. It was a good morning and we were glad we could see where he goes everyday.

Dad and his boys next to "his" truck.

If you don't know what Eddie does he is a part of a 22 man team that supports local emergency units when they are unable to handle a task. Eddie does a lot of traveling to local fire and police departments to train them in how to respond to emergency situations concerning weapons, chemicals and violent activity.

1 month to go...

2012-01-19T14:58:00.002-06:00

One month. I cannot believe I'm already there. We are getting more and more excited, the baby clothes have been washed, the bassinet put together, we got the help lined up for the other 2 BIG brothers. I think we are ready for this boy whenever he decides to make an entrance. I've been feeling pretty good for the most part, my hips do hurt (a lot at times). Just my body getting ready for the baby but I don't remember it being this bad with the other two. I have trouble breathing sometimes but that'll change once the baby drops. We went on a birthing tour of the hospital where we are delivering. It is very nice and I know we will have an excellent experience there. I think we have settled on a name but we aren't making it official until he comes out. This pregnancy on the whole has been good, just like the other two. I thank God for that and can only pray this boy will be just as healthy as our other two. We can't wait to meet you little boy, we and so many more people love you so much!

John Deere Expo

2012-01-14T12:44:00.000-06:00

At the Fairground today they had a John Deere Expo and since it was free we had to go. It was great, they had lots of tractors, mowers, combines, and everything else. The boys loved to climb in and out of the tractors and see all the JD toys.

On top of the combine.

Three boys in a bucket.

Emmeric's favorite the excavator.

Max's favorite, the skid steer. Until he made it honked and he had to get out.

Snow....finally

2012-01-12T10:21:00.002-06:00

Last night it started to snow and the boys were so excited. This morning Emmeric wanted to head outside 7:30. I was able to hold him off until 8:30. It took us about 10 minutes to get everything on. They went outside, made a bunch of tracks, drove the dump trucks and were back inside in 15 minutes. They love the snow but it was very cold; 12 degrees cold. I hope this isn't the first and last time they get to play in the snow.

Brrrr Mom!

This is what they do all the time. Drive together.

A look back at 2011

2012-01-01T11:56:00.001-06:00

January: Lots of outdoor snow play, snowmen and snow ice cream, play at the UNI dome

February: Emmeric turned 3, lollipop concert, Max got RSV

March: "Giggle, giggle, Quack" play with Grandma & Grandpa Pavelec, Grout Museum

April: Adeventureland Hotel with Grandma & Grandpa Schmitz and gang, Easter Egg hunts, Earth day at UNI, Max moved into a big boy bed (bunk beds), Emmeric had his Spring play at Casa, Ed got offered a new job in Des Moines with the 71st CST.

May: Sanctus Real concert with Pavelec's, Honor Flight, Max turned 2, After 2+ months of redoing our basement it was finished, we prepared to put our house on the market to sell.

June: All our family came over to help "make-over" our home before we sold it, Ed went to MO for 8 weeks, Hansen's Dairy farm with the 4-H girls, Both boys took swim lessons, hosted the Schmitz family reunion.

July: Sold our Hickory Street home in 8 days, traveled to MO to see Ed (boone terre mines, swimming, Ft. Leonard Wood), spent the month moving our whole home into storage, Bridget's surprise 26th birthday , 4-H Fair. Moved in with Grandparent's for 10 weeks until Ed finished in MO and we found a home in DM.

August: Solomon Daniel was born, State Fair, lots of playing outside and with friends.

September: Janet and Doug's wedding, Solomon's Baptism (God-Mother Bridget), found out we are having Baby boy #3, found a home in Pleasant Hill

October: Closed and moved down to DM, Giant Haystack, riding in combines and tractors, lots of unpacking, new parks, and game nights, carved pumpkins, Arboretum day with Andy and Whitney, lots of Farmer's Markets.

November: Messy morning at the Hearst center with Emmeric, Operation Christmas Box, saw Wicked play with Sarah, botanical gardens, Holiday hoopla in CF and Thanksgiving.

December: Ed turned 29, Ed went to a Sevendust concert, rode the Christmas train with Grandma & Grandpa Schmitz, did lots of holiday crafts and events, got a mini-van and had our 1st Christmas in our new home.

New Year's 2012

2012-01-01T11:12:00.000-06:00

We had a GREAT New Year's. My cousin Ashley and her boyfriend Brian came down to DM to see us. We met for supper, sat for 2+ hours just talking then came back to our house and played games, toasted the New Year and kissed our loves. It was a great night. I am so excited for 2012 and all the new and great things that I know will happen to our family.

Mini-Van Family

2011-12-31T16:26:00.000-06:00

It's official, we got a mini-van. It happened, Wednesday. We didn't necessarily need a van, we knew we could fit three car seats in the back, we tried. It was more for the space of everything when we traveled. Our trunk was already cramped with the 4 of us and knowing that babies somehow no matter how small they are have more stuff than any of us; we traded our 300 for a Grand Caravan. It's got a lot of bells and whistles which we weren't looking for but was a great added perk. It was a great deal and it's comfortable. I think we will be very happy and know it will be great when baby boy comes in 6 weeks.

Christmas 2011- Part 2

2011-12-27T16:42:00.001-06:00

The day after Christmas we went over to the Schmitz Christmas. It was chaotic, fun and enjoyable. The boys love to play with their cousins and the rest of us love (for the most part) seeing them with each other. We ate soup, played lots of games, opened presents and just hung out. It was a relaxing day. I love my family, we always have a good time together.

Max opening his gift from God-mother Whitney and God-Father Andrew.

Emmeric opening one of his gifts from Grandma and Grandpa Schmitz.

Christmas 2011- Part 1

2011-12-25T10:49:00.001-06:00

Christmas morning we woke up at Steve and Sherri's home. The boys were so excited and so was everyone else. We ate breakfast, lounged around and just enjoyed each other's company. A wonderful Christmas morning.

Opening and more opening of presents.

Max, I spying with his new telescope.

The pile of wrapping paper. The boys did pretty good handing out presents and helping people open them.

The momma opening some new baby bibs.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-25T10:40:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve was a day of relaxation and family. My parents and brother Andrew came for lunch and we played. Then we went to see Aunt Whitney at work at the hospital, to church and back for a little birthday party and a few presents. It was a fun day and one hopefully focused on the true meaning of Christmas.

A classic family picture by the tree.

Happy Birthday Party for Jesus after church.

The boys opening their presents from Mom and Dad. Emmeric recieved a barn, Mr. Potato Head and a RC car. Max got a huge dump truck, Mr. Potato Head and puzzles.

Bird feeders

2011-12-24T10:28:00.000-06:00

This morning we made homemade bird feeders with Uncle Andy. Andy brought the pine cones and bird seed and we provided the peanut butter. It was a very messy project but the boys liked it, especially having a lick or two of the peanut butter.

Emmeric and Andy smearing the PB.

Mom and Max making some more feeders.

Four little feeders on the tree, hopefully some birds will come and we will see them eat.

Gingerbread Houses

2011-12-23T20:50:00.000-06:00

Tonight we made gingerbread houses out of graham crackers and frosting. They are kind of make shift but the boys enjoyed themselves and it was fun to do it as a family.

A few sprinkles here, a lot on the floor.

Almond doors and craisin windows. what healthy gingerbread people.

"Something Cool"

2011-12-20T08:15:00.001-06:00

This morning Emmeric came running upstairs and says "Mom, come see me do something cool." I agree, come downstairs to find him "jumping trucks."

A tad bit dangerous? Yes! But he cleared the trucks and kept jumping afterwards. Boys!

Christmas Cookies

2011-12-16T12:16:00.000-06:00

Last night we decided to make cookies. The boys needed something to do and since this is relatively easy and fun we mixed up the dough. Waited for Eddie to get home late, ran up to the grocery store, bought 1 cookie cutter and some sprinkles and were home to roll, cut and bake before bed. We all had lots of fun, the little's did a good job of sharing the rolling pin and cookie cutter and who doesn't love to eat the end product.

Emmeric playing with the dough in the bowl.

Helping Daddy cut out trees.

Stretch.....roll out that dough.

Emmeric shaking on the sprinkles.

Jesse Tree

2011-12-15T07:12:00.000-06:00

The Jesse Tree is quickly becoming one of my favorite traditions at our house. We started it last year, the boys love to hear the story and hang the ornament on the tree. It's been a good way to talk about many people in the bible and give us something to discuss during meals. Last night was day 14, I would say they both know more than half of the ornaments and who they represent by heart.

The Nativity Story

2011-12-14T08:34:00.000-06:00

We've been trying to do lots of family activities during advent; last night we acted out The Nativity Story with our fisher-price nativity set. The boys thought is was great! We did it 3 times, each time playing different parts. Ed or I read the story and told the boys what to say when it was time for their line. It was not only fun but also meaningful. I'm sure we will be doing this a few more times before Christmas.

When Emmeric played the Angel he flew around the whole living room before telling Mary she'd have a baby.

They liked to bring all the animals to the stable.

Max was a wonderful Mary. He would yell "I'm scared" when the angel came and loved to make her ride the donkey all the way to the stable.

30 Weeks

2011-12-10T14:52:00.000-06:00

Hard to believe I'm 30 weeks. Baby boy seems to have grown a lot in the last couple of weeks. I'm feeling really good except for being tired in the afternoon but it usually works out that I can lay down when the oldest 2 lay down. I did have one kidney stone a couple of weeks ago, I hope that is the only one this pregnancy. Baby is great, measuring perfect and heartbeat is strong. He is a mover, he loves to hear music or when Eddie talks right to my tummy. The boys are getting excited, although I don't think they know exactly what will happen when the baby comes. They like to lay and kiss my tummy and shine flashlights on the outside hoping he will move. Usually, he does! 10 weeks left and we are getting more and more excited.

Christmas Train

2011-12-09T16:05:00.000-06:00

Wednesday night we rode on the Christmas train in Boone. We met my parents, boarded the train and off we went to the "North Pole." Along the way we listened to a story, sang carols, ate cookies and drank hot chocolate. The boys really enjoyed the train.

It was really warm inside with extra lights for Christmas fun.

The boys wore their pajamas and pretty much watched out the window the whole time.

St. Nicholas Day

2011-12-06T07:51:00.001-06:00

December 6th, it's St. Nicholas Day. The boys set their shoes out last night and St. Nick visited our house bringing treats, books, games and puzzles. The boys loved to see full shoes and we loved to see the look on their faces this morning when they saw them.

Aren't those little shoes so cute.

Of course, we had to play the game right away! It's pretty fun, St. Nick knows just what the boys would like.

Max and his puzzle, he thought it was great that the bears had different emotions.

In a box...

2011-11-30T09:00:00.002-06:00

Enjoy the video.

Botanical Gardens

2011-11-29T12:24:00.000-06:00

This morning we went to the Des Moines Botanical Gardens for their monthly toddler time. We listened to stories, made music, danced had looked all around the center. The boys had lots of fun seeing the fish, all the plants and trees and running around.

It was warm inside and full of great paths.

It was decorated for Christmas with lights, ornaments, wreaths and even a leafy snowman.

Thankful Tree

2011-11-28T08:24:00.000-06:00

November seems like the time to talk about what it means to be thankful. To help with the concept I made a "tree" out of paper and bought some leaves at the Dollar Tree to write down what we are thankful for. We didn't do it everyday but most days at breakfast or supper we talked about how things you love, really enjoy, people or necessities are always something to be thankful for. Then I would write down what they said and they could hang it on our tree. It was fun and a tangible way to show them of all they things they have to be thankful for.

Our tree got full really fast, the boys loved putting up their leaves and having Ed & I read what they say.

The boys came up with lots of things, some days it was a struggle. Lots of their leaves revolved around things or toys which is what I knew would happen and that was perfect because they should be thankful for their toys or movies. This is definitely something we will continue to do year and year. It will be fun to look back and see how their answers evolve.

Thankful...

2011-11-28T08:11:00.001-06:00

As you can see we have some local celebrities in our home. Max and Ed made the cover of the Pleasant Hill Living magazine. It was quite the shock to get the mail and see them on the front. Back in October Ed & Max said they had got their picture taken by the local magazine but we never thought they would be on the cover. When asked what Ed was thankful for he said "For a new job in Des Moines." We are thankful for that and so many other things. If you want to see it online (Ed's answer is on Page 7) just click on: http://www.iowalivingmagazines.com/pleasant_hill/

Cookies

2011-11-27T21:15:00.000-06:00

Saturday night Sarah brought over the ingredients to make cookies. Of course Max was all over that, so while Sarah mixed the dough, Max took a bath then they got to work rolling out the dough and cutting the shapes. Max was a great helps, he loved the tree cutter the best. Thanks Aunt Sarah for a fun project.

By the end he was covered in flour, but he loved every minute.

Everyone got to enjoy them with homemade hot cocoa.

Locked In

2011-11-26T16:37:00.000-06:00

Somehow after nap Max locked himself in Grandma and Grandpa's room. We tried to use the pin to get the door open but when that didn't work, they had to take off the lock itself and pry it open. After about 10 minutes a crying boy emerged and was happy to be rescued.

It took a Daddy and a Papa to free the 2 year old.

Holiday Hoopla 2011

2011-11-26T16:34:00.000-06:00

Friday night we went to Holiday Hoopla. As always it was way crowded but lots of fun. Caboose Stop had the best window display, Scratch had the best cupcakes and Cedar Falls had the best fireworks.

Boys by Caboose Stop

2 very wiggly boys trying to hold still for a family picture! It was a beautiful night.

Wicked

2011-11-19T23:04:00.001-06:00

Tonight, Sarah and I saw the Broadway play Wicked at the D.M. Civic Center. It was very amazing, the cast, the set, the singing all of it was great!

Opening screen. Just like the map in the book Wicked.

In front of the Civic Center.

Operation Christmas Box

2011-11-17T12:03:00.000-06:00

This year instead of exchanging gifts with my brother and sisters-in-laws we decided to pool our money and do something good with it. In comes Operation Christmas Box. This was the perfect idea and a great thing for our children to understand the concept of giving back. We met my brother Andrew and his wife Whitney at Dollar Tree (didn't get any pictures there, blast.) We all discussed how we are picking out things for a little boy who doesn't have much. The boys were very eager to pick out everything that they would love which is what we wanted. They had the occasional "I want this" moment but it was a great teaching opportunity; some people don't have much and we have lots of we are going to give all these things to them. It was a lot of fun to pick out things and pack them up.

The boys putting the stuff in the box. You are suppose to fill a shoebox with almost anything. We chose a little boy age 2-4.

We picked out crayons, pencils, colored pencils, notebook, coloring book, scissors, combs, soap, washcloths, toy cars and trains, jump rope, books, harmonica, action figures, slinky, bouncy ball, socks, toothbrush, toothpaste, flashlight, candy and cookies. Along with $7 for shipping, it was very practical and fun to do.

The boys putting their small box into a big box. The collectors said they have already taken 36 full boxes to WDM. That's AMAZING!

New Carpet

2011-11-16T19:40:00.000-06:00

Check out our new area rug. Isn't is beautiful. I'm so happy with how it looks in the living room. Thanks Riley's Floors for doing a great job of binding it.

I stomp around in my black boots....

2011-11-15T08:02:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T08:00:00.001-06:00

Max sleeping...

2011-11-07T13:56:00.000-06:00

Sunday we drove back to Pleasant Hill at nap time (on purpose). The boys slept almost the whole time which was perfect. The following picture is how Max slept the whole way home.

Date Day

2011-11-02T13:55:00.000-05:00

Since the move I knew I wanted to start giving the boys more one on one time. I loved the thought of going on a date. First we talked about how a date is when two people go out and do something fun together. We went to Messy Mornings at the Hearst Center, to the Caboose stop and then picked out a treat to share. It was great fun, and the perfect time together. I love Emmeric, I love all his questions, his enthusiasm for everything and his willingness to try.

Shaving Cream. It was Emmeric's most favorite thing. He made all kinds of tracks with all kinds of trucks.

He painted a wonderful picture.

Mommy and Emmeric at the Caboose Stop.

The bracelet we made together at Messy Morning. I love all the animals and stars. :)

Grimes Fire Station

2011-11-01T10:30:00.005-05:00

Halloween night we went to Grimes to see Ed's friend and co-worker, Zach at the Fire Station where he volunteers. They were having trick-or treating; so not only did the boys get a ton of candy and glow sticks they got to sit in a fire truck, ambulance, walk around the station and try on Zach's bunker gear. Emmeric was very into it. Thanks Zach for letting us stop by and for showing us around the station.

My pumpkin Firefighter! P.S. Both boys are so cute in this picture.

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T13:48:00.001-05:00

We have been having a great Halloween at our house. We have read a ton of Halloween/Fall books, played pumpkin games and much more. Last night we went trick-or-treating in Waukee in Andy and Whitney's neighborhood. They did a great job saying trick-or-treat, getting candy, taking candy, saying "thank you" and "Happy Halloween." We all had a lot of fun.

My little pumpkin. He kept saying "Boo, Boo" like the pumpkin head from the book The Little Old Lady who wasn't afraid of Anything.

Maxie my caterpillar. He wanted to be a carrot but we just couldn't pull it off in time. I had this costume and he was still pretty cute.

Happy Halloween!

Arboretum Day

2011-10-26T21:11:00.000-05:00

Today we picked up Aunt Whitney and headed out to meet Uncle Andy at the Brenton Arboretum for a picnic lunch and some play. It was a lot of fun, we spent about an hour inside the building looking at all the nature things they have collected from around the ground including: tree cookies, nuts, seeds, pine cones, turtle shells, feathers, snake skins and more. The boys were full of questions. Then we headed out to the pond and the nature playground.

Andy gave the boys each a net where he helped them catch some tadpoles along with lots of scum and dirt.

Max and Andy walking to the nature playground. Such a cute shot!

Emmeric loved the hay bales. He kept jumping on and off and throwing the hay.

The nature playground: it's full of old stumps, sticks, bit logs, hay bales and sand. The boys played, dug, crawled, climbed for over an hour. It was a lot of fun, thanks for inviting us Whitney and showing us around Andy.

Pumpkins

2011-10-24T19:11:00.000-05:00

My brother Andrew is a great gardener and this weekend he shared a lot of veggies with us including: garlic, butternut squash, acorn squash, tomatoes, broccoli, potatoes and he brought 2 pumpkins for the little boys. Today we did lots of things with our pumpkins.

We played ring toss.

Pounded golf tees.

Scooped out and played with the insides.

And finally carved them for Halloween.

Farmer's Market

2011-10-23T13:30:00.001-05:00

Saturday we went to the Farmer's Market in the morning. The Downtown Des Moines market is HUGE! We spent three hours walking around, looking at produce, home items, baked goods, sampling food and listening to the music. It was a lot of fun and we ate some great food including beef sticks, bread, dutch letters, egg rolla, burritos, cheese and so much more. We also took home a few items including honey, bread and apple cider.

One of the many beautiful pumpkins we saw. I love when they have tall stems.

One of the probably 5 "bands" we saw. We stopped at all of them because that is Emmeric's favorite part.

A HUGE cinnamon roll, it took up a whole paper plate. You could, and we did eat our way around the market and never ate lunch. Everything was wonderful.

Bucket Heads

2011-10-22T19:25:00.000-05:00

With our Halloween buckets we have been playing bean bags but the boys also think it's fun to put them on their heads.

Cheese!

3 buckets...What talent....

Thin Ice

2011-10-21T13:08:00.000-05:00

The boys have really been into games lately. We've been trying to find games good for 2 and 3 years old. Thin Ice is a great game for fine-motor skills, color awareness, taking turns, being gentle and most of all it's fun. The boys like to "break the ice."

Emmeric thinks it's funny to drop them from high up.

Max, concentrating really hard. He loves to get the marbles with the tongs.

Soybeans

2011-10-17T15:49:00.000-05:00

Last week we brought home a big sack of soybeans from the farm. We put them in our sensory bin and have been having fun with them ever since. So far we have used farm machines, construction machine, and just our hands. There is a lot of potential to add measuring cups and spoons along with other stuff. It can keep the boys occupied for a long time which I love. The one complaint, those beans get everywhere.

At one point Max was completely in the bin.

Need to make a road and roll it smooth.

Bubbles...

2011-10-17T08:13:00.000-05:00

This is how many bubbles you get when you dump out a half full bottle of baby wash.

Monkey Bars 101

2011-10-15T15:34:00.000-05:00

After the Downtown Farmer's Market today we stopped at a local park to play. Emmeric loves the monkey bars but just isn't quite strong enough to do them on his own. Daddy to the rescue. Eddie helped them both across more than a few times and taught them how to swing your arms and legs for momentum. It was fun to see them interact and practice together.

The look of Determination on both faces.

"Can't hold on much longer"

Raking up leaves

2011-10-14T10:07:00.008-05:00

We spent the morning raking leaves in the front yard. There were so many, we made 2 really big piles. The boys were helpful raking and sweeping the leaves up. Of course, they had fun jumping, throwing, dumping and scattering the leaves. I have a feeling we will be playing in these for a few days.

The face says it all.

Gotta load up the dump truck and take them somewhere besides the HUGE pile I raked up.

Farmin'

2011-10-13T13:07:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, we traveled back to Waterloo to do a little bit of farming. The boys love to ride around in the tractor and combine. It was a great day to be out. Emmeric was full of questions and loved seeing the stalks come down and the hopper fill up.

The corn coming out of the auger and into the grain cart.

Emmeric & I on the combine. Thanks Brent and Lisa for letting us ride.

Beans in a corn field? That's just what we found, we picked up a bag full to take home. The boys just love being in a field.

Emmeric

2011-10-13T13:03:00.000-05:00

Emmeric playing at a new park. This picture was too cute not to take.

21 Weeks

2011-10-08T17:10:00.003-05:00

21 weeks. Baby is growing, tummy is growing. Feeling really good!

Haystack

2011-10-07T20:34:00.000-05:00

Tonight at the local Hy-Vee they had a Giant Haystack and family fun night. Of course we had to go. The boys had a lot of fun in the bounce houses, eating hot dogs, and playing in the giant haystack. They each walked away with a big bag of candy and a water yo-yo. It was a fun night and something easy we could do to be apart of or new community.

Having fun in the hay.

New town, same cute family.

They each ate 2 hot dogs.

4476 Concord Drive

2011-10-03T11:50:00.001-05:00

We made it to our new home. Ed & I closed on Friday morning then Eddie went off to work. My parents came down Saturday and while my Dad painted the boys room my Mom and I cleaned. It was awesome to get it done before the boxes started coming. After we worked for 4 hours we left, spent the night at my brother's home and went back the next morning to finish. My Dad and my brother Andrew did some more painting while my Sister-In-Law Whitney, my Mom and I finished cleaning the whole house. While we were busy at the new house Ed was busy packing up our 10x20 storage unit and random stuff we had at my parents home. When he pulled in at 3 we were ready, ready to unpack the u-haul, get boxes inside and start going through them. Then my father-in-law Steve and Eddie's Uncle Steve brought a 16 foot trailer with all of our garage things inside. We unpacked and set stuff up until 7. The next day on Sunday Steve and Sherri and Sarah brought the boys down to us. Stayed and helped do more unpacking. It's been crazy, overwhelming and exciting. The boys loved to get out literally all of their toys and books, and Ed & I loved being a real family again. I cannot thank my whole family enough for all the work they did, all the help and support they gave to us during the whole process. We love all of you!

I know we will make some wonderful memories here!

New house, same great family!

Baby #3

2011-09-25T18:50:00.000-05:00

Saturday we had an ultrasound. The baby was perfect and it was a lot of fun to see our next child growing. The boys came with us, they loved to see the baby on the screen. It made it more real for all of us.

Baby laying on their tummy. Love that little butt already.

Count all 5 toes on that little foot.

Beautiful profile and hand. Half way there, we are excited to meet this little one.

Spaghetti Anyone?

2011-09-23T12:49:00.000-05:00

Max's dinner last night was this HUGE plate of spaghetti. He insisted on having this much, no sauce and ended up eating most of the plate.

Baby too...

2011-09-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

Since we told the boys we are going to have a baby Emmeric and Max love to play with babies. So the other day when Emmeric brought the baby in the car we had to buckle the baby also. I'm all about safety but I'm not ready to buckle in pretend babies. It was very sweet. They love to lay on my tummy, talk to the baby and ask questions. They cannot wait to meet their new brother or sister.

Solomon's Baptism

2011-09-21T14:19:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, we celebrated Solomon's Baptism. It was a beautiful day and I felt extra special to be a part of it because I am his Godmother.

Fr. Ken pouring the water over Solomon.

Me and my beautiful Godson.

Mr. & Mrs. Miller

2011-09-05T15:04:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday I had the honor of being a bridesmaid in my great friend Janet's wedding. It was so much fun to be a part of her and her new husband Doug's special day. I know these two will have a life time of happiness!

Don't they just look happy and in love?

Me & my hubby. Eddie sang two songs at their wedding and sounded AMAZING!

Rain Fun...

2011-08-31T08:49:00.000-05:00

The boys played for over an hour in the rain and puddles yesterday. In the end they were soaked but had such a fun time.

Catching the rain from the downspout in their umbrellas. I think an umbrella is to help you not get wet.

4-H Hall of Fame

2011-08-31T08:44:00.000-05:00

At the 2011 State Fair my parents were inducted into the 4-H Foundation Hall of Fame. This was quite the honor and they definitely deserve it. I would say a big part of me is the way I am because my parents put me in 4-H. They have done a lot to help Black Hawk County 4-H and many area youth succeed.

Accepting their certificate.

The whole family made it to the celebration along with a lot of extended family. We are all really proud of you Mom & Dad.

Tea for Two

2011-08-19T18:21:00.000-05:00

The other day, Grandma Nancy, the boys and I had a tea party. It was a lot of fun. Everyone got to pour their own "tea" have "crumpets" (hohos) and enjoy each other's company. The boys were very cute sipping their tea, adding sugar, stirring and making polite conversation. It was a great tool to teach manners on how to be respectful when someone invites you to their home.

All he is missing is his pinky up.

mmm...so tasty!

Mini-Golf

2011-08-14T07:53:00.001-05:00

Another thing on the list was to have a date night. I've missed date nights, I've missed time with just Eddie. I've missed holding hands, talking, laughing and being together. Saturday night we had a date. We went out to eat then played mini-golf, rented a movie, got ice cream and snuggled. It was the perfect date.

I won but we both did horribly! It was a lot of fun though.

It was a full moon last night so I thought it would be funny if I "ate" the moon.

Jump Around...

2011-08-14T07:46:00.000-05:00

This week the boys and I made a list of things we wanted to do with Dad when he came home. Eddie came home on Friday and Saturday we started our list. One of the things was go to the jumping pillow. It was so much fun, if you haven't been you must go. The boys and the parents couldn't get enough.

Mid-Jump, he never got off.

Being funny.

Jumping with Dad, they missed him sooooo much!

Upside Down

2011-08-12T13:00:00.000-05:00

Solomon Daniel

2011-08-12T12:58:00.002-05:00

Last Tuesday, August 2nd my second nephew was born. Solomon Daniel arrived at almost 9PM. He weighed in at 7 lbs. 2 oz. and was 19 3/4 long. He is beautiful! He did have to spend one week in the NICU because he got pneumonia. Now he is home, gaining weight and enjoying his siblings craziness. I love him already and not just because he is my God-Son but because he is apart of our family.

My boys already love him, they both got the opportunity to hold him and kiss him and get some snuggles.

Duck, Duck, Goose

2011-08-02T21:10:00.000-05:00

The boys wanted to play duck, duck, goose but moe specifically Emmeric wanted to play. So, after a recap of all the rules and how you must run around the circle we played several times. They were very silly, Max refused to call anybody anything so he just walked around the circle tapping everyone. Then Emmeric ran out of the circle and into the kitchen. It was a lot of fun. Enjoy!

4-H Fair 2011

2011-07-30T21:03:00.000-05:00

Another4-H fair has come and gone. It was a lot of fun. I got to help write comments for the judges on judging day and help my club work in the food stand. The boys and I saw a pig show and beef show. We saw so many animals and projects. We played in the corn and with all our cousins.

The Littlest 4-Hers!

My club with our banner. The theme this year was "Barn to be Wild"

Happy Birthday to Me

2011-07-30T20:59:00.000-05:00

We had a little birthday party for me on my actual birthday! Everyone came over to the house one last time for scratch cupcakes and a bit of moving. It was the perfect ending to our life there. All my family surrounding me when my husband couldn't and wishing me a Happy Birthday!

Surprise!

2011-07-24T20:59:00.000-05:00

Eddie suprised me on Saturday with a surprise birthday party! I have wanted a surprise party forever and since this year is my golden birthday I really hinted at it but since Eddie has been in MO I didn't think it would happen but... he pulled it off. He did get some help from my great friend Trisha. I was so surprised and had such a good time. All my favorite people were there, it was the best present.

Birthday girl with her best friend.

Trisha had her Dad make 5 wonderful desserts. Thank you Trisha for helping Eddie and thank you to everyone who came and made the party so special.

Sparklers

2011-07-23T12:09:00.000-05:00

All the kids love sparklers so when Grandma Nancy said she had a lot we stayed up late and had some fun. They all had a blast running around and making their sparklers shine.

They all did great running around and staying away from each other. Emmeric and Evelyn did get burnt when they touched the end after the sparkler was done.

Even Bart and I had some fun running around like we were kids again.

Baby Chicks

2011-07-23T11:57:00.000-05:00

Early this week we went out to my Aunt Mary Jean's home and saw her baby chicks. They were so cute, the boys got to help give them feed and take a turn holding them. While there, we also saw the kitty's, sheep, big chickens, collected a couple of eggs, splashed in the pool, ate lunch and played with all of MJ's great toys. Thanks Mary Jean for letting us come out!

Emmeric thought they were "so cute" and liked to see thier beaks and feet.

Max was not scared at all and kept trying to hold the chick on his own.

Good Morning

2011-07-19T07:08:00.004-05:00

Here is what I find myself waking up to lately.

Packing...

2011-07-14T08:15:00.002-05:00

Since we are moving 2 weeks from Friday we have been packing up the house of everything we won't be needing for the 2+ weeks we will be "homeless." On Monday my Mom helped me pack up 12 boxes, on Tuesday my Dad took down the bunk beds and took them to the storage unit. On Wednesday Steve started packing up the garage (which is a huge task) and Sherri, Sarah and I packed up almost the whole kitchen and all of Ed's clothes. I have been doing odds and ends stuff during the day. The boys and I are getting excited to move and at the same time very sad about leaving our first home. We still have a lot to do to get ready for the move but i know that it will get done with the help of all my wonderful family and friends.

Little boys playing in about 1/4 of the paper that we have in the garage.

Just a few of the boxes that we in the living room last night.

Emmeric "packing" his toys. He just grabbed a box and started putting toys from the toy cubbard in it. It was very sweet.

Orange Juice

2011-07-11T13:02:00.005-05:00

We have so many oranges at our house that we decided this morning some fresh squeezed juice sounded delicious. We all took turns squeezing the oranges and tasting how good it is.

Emmeric giving the orange a squeeze.

Yum, it's so good!

Me & My Max

2011-07-08T13:55:00.005-05:00

I love that little face!

Ft. Leonard Wood

2011-07-06T08:21:00.000-05:00

Yesteday, we traveled down to see Eddie at Ft. Leonard Wood when he was out of class. We drove around base, shopped at the PX, ate together and saw where Eddie goes to school and his room. It was nice to see him one last time before we left him for 5 weeks.

Little boys jumping on Daddy's bed.

Our family. When we were pakcing up to leave they both just started crying. Emmeric said "I wanna stay with Dad," it broke my heart to tell him we can't and then walk away from Eddie.

Music

2011-07-06T07:45:00.000-05:00

Emmeric and I sharing some ear buds on the way down to see Eddie at Ft. Leonard Wood. Gotta love a little 3OH3! with your 3 year old.

Bonne Terre Mines

2011-07-04T09:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we went to Bonne Terre Mines. It was incredible. It is a 5 tier mine; the three lower levels are submerged in water which makes them the world's largest inland scuba diving resort. It was also the world's largest producer of lead for over 100 years. We did a walking tour of the mines as well as a boat tour. We saw how the miners made all the tunnels and pillars by hand, tools they left over, Calcite, and a billon gallon lake.

Looking down a huge rail system.

The calcite on the rocks.

Our family ready to go on the boat and see the underground miner town.

Sleeping in MO

2011-07-04T08:51:00.000-05:00

This weekend we are down in Missouri visiting Eddie. It's so nice to be able to see him and spend quality time together. Steve & Sherri came with us and let us use their timeshare down here. It is a one bedroom with a pull-out couch so we had to get creative on where the boys would sleep.

Max starts out in the king size bed but they moves to his nook on the floor. He's such a peanut in that big bed.

Emmeric is more than content to sleep in his Wall-E sleeping bag in the closet that is just his size. Emmeric like his Dad like little places.

It's Offical...

2011-06-27T13:35:00.000-05:00

We're moving, the house is up for sale and we're getting more and more serious about finding a place in the Des Moines area. This is our first home and we didn't plan to be moving so quick but now that we are I am so nervous and excited. This is the home we became a family in, we brought our first baby home to, we had our wedding night at, brought our 2nd baby home too. This is the home my boys learned to talk, walk, play, sing and have fun. Where we have painted and pounded nails and changed things to make it our own. This is the home where I learned to be a good wife, where I baked, kissed my husband good bye everyday, planted flowers and trusted in God. I will miss this home with everything I have but I know an adventure is waiting for us and I know that we can be a family no matter where we are.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T17:27:00.002-05:00

Today is Father's Day and although Eddie left today we had Father's Day waffles, a few cards and just time together. Eddie truely is an amazing Dad, he is always willing to play with the boys, teach them new things and love them unconditionally. I know the boys will miss him so much while he is gone this summer but hopefully it will go fast and we can love on Daddy really soon.

The shirt says it all. (sorry babe, but I love this picture.)

#1 Dad- Eddie got this shirt from his parents. It was one one him and Sarah gave their Dad a long time ago.

Top 5 Reasons Eddie is a GREAT Dad (in no particular order)
1. He 's the one going to work everyday to support us even when he is far away and it's frustrating.
2. He teaches the boys how to pray and thank God for what we have.
3. He's a wonderful rough houser and chaser, just what little boys need.
4. He never says no to just "one more book"
5. He can always make things fun and turn a negative into a positive.

Paper Chains

2011-06-19T17:19:00.000-05:00

Eddie left today on a 56 day trip down to Missouri where he will learn all of the wonderful new things he needs to know for his new job. But, since 56 days is such a long time, I made him a paper chain full of prayers, funny things, reasons why I love him and a serious countdown. The hope was to show him we could never forget him and I love him very much.

Funny Face

2011-06-18T09:01:00.000-05:00

Emmeric being really silly at a wedding.

Date Night

2011-06-18T08:58:00.000-05:00

After a wedding last night Eddie and I went to Live at 9 in Cedar Falls. We got coffee and watched fireworks and just walked around Main Street. It was a wonderful date.

I love fireworks.

Emmeric's Swim Lessons

2011-06-17T14:15:00.000-05:00

This week Emmeric did swim lessons. It was fun for the most part, just some basic floating and kicking. Just to get kids comfortable in the water. We did it because it was cheap and something to do. Emmeric liked it except for having to put his head under water. In time I think he will be a great swimmer.

Blowing bubbles in the water.

Kicking and paddling. (What a face)

On Guard

2011-06-15T07:30:00.001-05:00

Sticks make great swords. Last night we did some serious sword fighting. It was a lot of fun and the rough-housing is just what the boys need while Daddy is gone.

Family Time

2011-06-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

Eddie came home yesterday! It was so great, after 8 days of not seeing him and barely speaking to him it was like heaven. After everyone left our fix it party we had some serious family time. The boys took a bath then we popped some popcorn and watched Space chimps. It was the perfect night.

I love my 3 boys. Something always feels off if one of them is missing! Love you Sweets!

So tired...

2011-06-13T12:24:00.001-05:00

Sunday we had a fix our house party. This is what the boys looked like at 3 PM after going all morning.

My Max turned 2

2011-06-13T07:35:00.001-05:00

My Maxie turned 2 yesterday. We didn't do anything big because we had a party in May. Although almost all our immediate family was over wroking on the house. He got lots of hugs and kisses. A few late presents and the biggest surprise of Daddy coming home for the night. He had a good day. It's hard to believe that 2 short years ago I gave birth to my sweet, loveable, high needs Max.

Max is pretty amazing he loves to climb, swing, ride in the big red truck, eat just about anything, love on his blanket and talk. I love the way he always wants to help me, follow Emmeric around, and has an amazing imagination. He loves to drive semi's and backhoes, read books, play restaurant and drink chocolate milk.

Max: Daddy and Mommy love you so much and we pray everyday God will be with you and bless you in all that you do.

Hansen's Dairy

2011-06-10T15:15:00.001-05:00

My 4-H club toured Hansen's Dairy farm this afternoon. It was very interesting and we had a lot of fun. The boys loved the baby cows, hay bales and of course the ice cream. We love Hansen's milk and their other great products.

Making Butter

Farmer Max doing some milkin'

Emmeric with a few cows in the background.

Look at all that milk!

Shadows

2011-06-06T09:53:00.000-05:00

9 AM is the best time for shadows. I love those little shadows.

Schmitz Family Reunion

2011-06-06T09:47:00.001-05:00

This year my brothers and I planned a family reunion for my Mom's side. Since we are getting much to big for a house and it's too hard to plan another get together at Christmas we did a reunion in June. We met at Byrnes park for a potluck, gunny sack races, water balloon toss, skee ball, playground, pool and good ol' family time. It was a lot of fun and the perfecdt day for it. I think everyone enjoyed themselves and I hope we started a great tradition.

Around 40+ Schmitz's came out for the event.

Gotta have good food.

4th generation Schmitz's loved the skee ball. They lined up and took turns playing all afternoon.

We had water balloon toss and gunny sack races. The little kids went first and here are the big kids. I think by the end of the race all but 2 were on the ground and crawling to the finish line.

The Littlest Jumpers

2011-06-06T07:58:00.001-05:00

Gunny Sack races are always fun. Both the boys loved it yesterday at the Schmitz Family Reunion.

Biggest Thank You!

2011-06-05T07:40:00.000-05:00

Today my wonderful, amazing and helpful brothers Andrew and Bart came over to help me with my house. Since we are getting close to put our house on the market there are a few things that need to be done. One of them is to scrape, prime and paint the trim around all 12 of my outside windows, the three outside doors and the shed out back. They came without asking and put in 8 hours of hard labor. I am so grateful! Without them it would have been a lot more difficult. Since Ed has been gone it's hard to find the motivation. time or know how to do the things that need to be done around the house to sell. Thank you Andrew & Bart for all your help, I love you both so much.

1st dip of the Summer

2011-06-03T21:59:00.001-05:00

Today, it was so hot we just had to get the pools out. We had a blast, from 9 AM till about 4 PM we partied it up pool side (minus a 2 hour nap). The boys loved the water in their new hats!

Maxie loves to squirt with the waterbottle, hose and squirt guns.

Emmeric loved to throw the sinkers in the pool and make them "plop" while after yelling "money."

My "little butts" as I like to call them. I love my pair of boys.

Last day of School

2011-05-26T14:41:00.001-05:00

Emmeric had his last day at Casa Montessori. He had such a great year. He learned lots of things and made some great friends. It's bitter sweet that we won't be back there next year.

Emmeric & Martin on the last day of school. Same pose as the first day, from this post.

Emmeric & his teacher Linda. She was so good with him, I will miss her as Emmeric's teacher and a friend with great advice. Thanks for a great year Linda!

New Basement

2011-05-23T14:56:00.001-05:00

After many weekends of Eddie & Steve working on our basement it is finally play ready. It is so wonderful and amazing. The boys love to wake up and run downstairs. I love having a big space for the boys and all their toys. It is so nice!

We have a couple of windows to frame and a base board to put up. But it is still great to play in.

Even more space, it's wonderful

Maxie's 2nd Birthday Party

2011-05-23T07:55:00.001-05:00

Sunday, we had Max's 2nd birthday party. Yes, 21 days early. But if we wanted the all important Daddy to be in attendace for this milestone it had to be this weekend. It was a lot of fun, pretty low key, all family and some great neighbors. Max got some amazing presents that will be perfect for summer, car trips and just fun play!

He wanted a dump truck cake so that's what he got.

New scooter from Mom & Dad. He can already steer and pedal. (alittle)

All the little boys crowded around to check out the presents. He was so good at opening and telling everyone thank you.