oldies but goodies

Was looking through some old photos. Couldn't pass these up.

                                  

VEGAS!!

Well, it actually happened! We all made it to Las Vegas for a weekend away - all coming from different states - UT, ND, MN, NE, PA, and CA! Had the time of my life. Never have I been so relaxed and talked so much! I miss each one of you every single day.

so happy together

 Tate is everywhere these days. 15 months old. Almost walking, but climbing like a champ. Darla and Bennett are finding out that the kitchen table is no longer a "safe" place to play because now Tate can get up there and join them whenever he wants.

 Bennett was worn out from excitement and anticipation

about Papa and Grandma coming!

 so happy together . . .

 Mall of America. The rides were great fun

 On the last day Grandma was here she spoiled us with three new sleds! We took them out for a try today and it was a success. D, B and T all had a great time. Darla is a dare devil on her sled. She purposely makes herself spin.

The snow has been so nice! I'll take winter as long as there is beautiful, white, fresh snow. Thanks Mom and Dad for taking the time to come out for a visit. We love you and can't wait to see you this summer.

I am beginning to see a trend.

the end of a wonderful year.

 14 months.

 The Christmas Season was full of childish excitement. Darla and Bennett are true believers, and that kept the Spirit of Christmas overflowing in our hearts the whole month of December. We had music playing 24/7 with the help of our DJ - Miss Darla Anne herself skipping and repeating whatever songs on the ipod that she was enjoying. Her favorite was Angels We Have Heard on High. Bennett's was Rudolph - or Frosty the Snowman.

 Being an avid reader of the Friend magazine - Darla gets great ideas (good things since I am not too crafty myself). She worked on this little project all morning long one December morning.

 These two boys are becoming quite the "brothers". I feel like each day they are better and better friends.

 Why not fill the whole table with puzzles. Yes, she did every one except the Thomas puzzle. Bennett did that one.

 Wrestling in the fort

 LOVED having the Ohlson's come to visit and play in the snow with us! Mmmmmm burritos.

 Christmas Eve reenactment of the Nativity. Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus. Erik was the narrator, wise men, inn keeper, and I was the donkey, angel, shepherds etc.

 PJ's

 After a wonderful Christmas we all climbed in the car to make sure that Darla was able to celebrate her birthday with her dear friend Audrey. The Albano's should be awarded one of the greatest hosts of all time. The days (and nights) went much too fast. Let's just say it was epic.

 Cheeks and Eyeballs. I might have kissed these faces a lot.

Newborn = Darla

Happy Birthday Darla Anne. 5 years old. Amazing how quickly time moves isn't it? I love this little girl. She is my greatest teacher. She loves crafts, reading, puzzles, sledding (found that out in Lincoln), Her grandparents, cousins, HER DAD, the scriptures, primary, stuffed animals, movies, pizza, spaghetti, and taking care of her two brothers. We love you Darla.

Feasting in Fargo

Some of our Favorites in Fargo!

Thanksgiving was a wonderful time with the Ohlson family!!!! The kids were in heaven and happier than ever to be with their friends that they miss every single day. This year I am so grateful for change, prayer, humbling mothering moments, and family (both my own and our huge extended). My life is so full of good people - how could I not be grateful?

Happy Trick or Treating!

what are these three up to?

So, what have we been up to - well I'll tell you. Darla has started Preschool MWF in the afternoons and LOVE LOVE LOVES it! She is darling and now has some cute bangs. Darla will be 5 in December and to our amazement can read! Much time is spent reading. It was an exciting moment to see Curious George at the Children's Museum. Darla and Bennett have become such good friends. They always say they are going to marry each other. :)
Bennett is 3 and always has a sword in his hand. He is still into Pirates, but seems to be leaning more towards good guys/bad guys type play. Yes, he was sound asleep on the stairs and wears costumes to the train tracks. Doesn't get much better than that. I have loved having time with him while Darla is at preschool. We always find ourselves laughing.
Tate is 11 months in just a couple days! What! I can't believe it. He doesn't crawl, but scoots - you can see his "snail trail" in the pictures above. He is enjoying being able to reach and get into Darla and Bennett's way when they are trying to play or create something. He is the best baby.