Paulsrud Family

Noah Matthew

2012-02-15T20:43:00.003-06:00

The Paulsrud Family would like to officially welcome the newest member of our extended friend "family" Noah Matthew Pape.

Born today, February 15, 2012 and weighing in at 6 lbs 7 oz, 19.5 inches we could not be more thrilled for our dear friends Mollie & Matt on this little miracle that has joined their lives.

Here he is folks:

Looking pretty darn perfect in every way! Can't wait to snuggle up with this guy! Welcome to the world Noah!

Bath Time Fun with Dad

2012-02-08T09:51:00.001-06:00

Did you miss it?

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ok so turns out our witty little holiday card has taught us something very important - not everyone READS the holiday cards when you send them out. WHAAAAT?!?! Who would have guessed it!

Ok so in case you missed it...we are EXPECTING...a BABY....in JUNE!

Here are some things I want to remember about the first 18 weeks of pregnancy:

*Found out I was pregnant on October 25, 2011

*Uncle Scott suffered a stroke on October 26, 2011

*Post-poned our trip to California on November 6, 2011 after suffering a bad case of the flu combined with severe morning sickness

*Horrible "all day long" sickness from about 5 weeks to 14 weeks

*Two different meds to try to control said naseau

*Trip post-ponement led to the discovery of a low progestrone pregnancy (doesn't God work in mysterious ways)

*Took progestrone to keep baby safe from 6 weeks to 15 weeks

*Two trips to the ER for fluids and IV's of anti-naseau meds

*Lost a total of 16 lbs in first trimester but baby you are STRONG and pulling what you need

*First heartbeat at 6 weeks was 111; heartbeat now regularly around 144-146

*Weekly (sometimes twice a week) appointments to see Dr. Carlson from 6 weeks to 15 weeks; usually getting to see our little babe every week to be sure you were ok

*January 24, 2012 - first feeling of baby movement

*We are NOT going to find out the sex of the baby this time

*Big ultrasound scheduled for Tuesday January 31, 2012

*Due June 30, 2012

*Couldn't be more excited! All of the above will be worth it in the end!

Who doesn't love a good surprise?!?

2012-01-25T08:56:00.000-06:00

The first weekend of January - 16 of us descended upon New York City to give our friend Jenny a surprise she certainly was not expecting!

Jenny is getting married in Chicago the first weekend of February (she lives in Stamford, CT one short train ride from NYC) and gave clear direction she didn't want a bachelorette party. So it started as a few of us who missed her shower in Chicago deciding it would be fun to come to NYC to do a small shower. Then it quickly evolved into a girls weekend that NO ONE wanted to miss.

You see - Jenny is that person - we all have one - selfless, giving, supportive and wouldn't miss an opportunity to support you. So it should come as no surprise that given the chance to do something good for a great person - everyone stepped to the plate.

Here are some pictures from the night - I'd like to note that I made it out until 3:30 AM and only wish I had taken a picture when our cab on the drive back to Harz's apartment got a flat and kicked us out - haha!

Fabulous weekend with fabulous friends!!

Some of the shower goodies!

Waiting patiently (or not so patiently) - it felt like the longest walk from Grand Central to Harz's apartment

SURPRISE!

Our friend Marla got a nasty bug and was headed to London after the girls weekend so against her better judgement - made the mature decision to stay home and rest up for her work trip. She got to be there for the surprise via Skype. Missed you Champ!

After the shower - a fun night out was planned and included tapas, sangria, dancing, shots and some amazing music!

Connor got to spend his fabulous weekend with Grandma and Grandpa Paulsrud but I find no evidence of pictures on camera's here - perhaps Grandma P has some she'll share and I'll update.

Baby Pape

2012-01-24T19:23:00.001-06:00

On Saturday we celebrated the upcoming arrival of Baby Pape! My friends Jenny, Shelley and I hosted the shower along with Mollie's friend Becky at Shelley and Eric's house. Turned out to be a wonderful afternoon.

Here are some pics:

Didn't get a single picture with Mollie and I together - but we'll work on getting at least one picture of the two of us pregnant together before Baby Boy Pape arrives. Congrats Mollie and Matt - we can't wait for your bundle to get here!

Cold Turkey

2012-01-18T11:08:00.003-06:00

We went cold turkey - no more diapers as of 12/28/2011. More detail on that to follow but so far things are going really well!

Would you speak up?

2012-01-17T14:08:00.002-06:00

What would you do if you had seen something that you knew wasn't right? Would you speak up? Would you turn your head? Would you spend time talking to your girlfriends about it but not go to the source?

Consider that speaking up could change someone's life.

Please read this post today and re-blog it, post it on your Facebook page or just plain encourage people to do the right thing.

http://staeblerfamily.blogspot.com/2012/01/speak-up.html

New Family Addition

2012-01-16T10:03:00.001-06:00

The Paulsrud's would like to welcome the newest member of our extended family:

Riley Ann Sacco, born January 15 at 6:53 pm 6 lbs 15 oz. 19.25 inches

We cannot wait to meet our new (second) cousin! And a big congrats to her parents, Gabe & Amanda - love you guys!

December 8, 2011

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

I've been meaning to talk about this since..well December 8th! December 8th marked the one year anniversary of our dear friends Annie & Justin's son passing. Jack's Angel Day holds a special place in my heart. Such a short life, yet his impact has been so significant.

Here is sweet sweet Jack:

So with that, a few of us organized a Light the Night for Jack on December 8th. Without Annie & Justin knowing we had friends and family make custom luminary bags for Jack and we arrived at their house around 5:30 PM that evening to truly Light the Night for Jack.

Here was the picture of the bags in the back of my car - I'd say this ended up being about half of the total amount:

Here is the bag for Jack from Connor:

This was another one of my favorites from the priest at the church where Dan & I (and Annie & Justin) belong - Jack's Angel Day was also the Feast of the Immaculate Conception:

And one from Jack's Opa and Grandma:

So many people struggle with how to support our friends at times of great grief - and you know, I'm proud to say that when given the chance to do something good - people do great things. I didn't get many good pics of the final "Light the Night" but the best ones came from my phone:

Jack will be forever a part of me and his life has touched so many.

And now - while I have the chance I'm going to get up on my soapbox here and write a little something that I feel like needs to be said and that I know not everyone who reads this will agree with. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a very scary thing for any new parent. Doctors and nurses do their best to educate us on 'doing the right things' but sometimes things like Grandmothers and Mothers chime in and say things like 'well you slept with a bumper' or 'all my babies slept on their tummies'

Annie and Justin DID do all the right things and Jack's entrance to heaven was at his daycare providers home. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not do things that are medically proven to put our children at any more risk than they already are - I've been a mom, I know it's tempting when they sleep better on their tummies, etc. and you're exhausted but it is NOT worth it. I wish to see no one else I know (or frankly don't know) go thru a tragedy like this.

Here are some very basics:

Place your baby on their back to sleep rather than their stomach or side.
Select bedding carefully; you want a firm mattress
No blankets, pillows, stuffed animals in the crib
Don't use bumper pads (started to be against the law in some areas)
Don't overheat the baby - use things like a sleep sack in lieu of blankets. It is proven that babies born in the fall/winter have a higher risk of SIDS for this exact reason

Maybe it worked for your other kids - maybe it worked for your Mom - but is it worth the risk?

Visit: http://www.sidsprevention.com/ for more information

To see Annie and Justin's blog on Jack's Angel Day visit: http://staeblerfamily.blogspot.com/2012/01/angels-among-us.html

First Movie

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

On December 19, 2011 Connor went to his first movie at the movie theater!

GG (Great Grandma Betty), Nana, Uncle Keith & Aunt Sarah were all here so we celebrated this special milestone together!

We went to the Marcus Majestic Cinema in Waukesha/Brookfield, WI:

We saw The Muppets! It was fabulous!

For 98% of the movie Connor sat just like this....

With Daddy during the credits at the end! Toss up on who enjoyed it more!?!

Such a fun day and great movie - check it out if you haven't already!

Christmas Day

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas Day - Castle Rock Lake 2011:

And yes we did more than open present but that was the only time the camera was out, the rest of the time we just enjoyed the presence of family not behind the lense ;)

Welcome to the Boys Club!

2012-01-09T09:19:00.000-06:00

Our dear friends TJ and Hillary welcomed a healthy baby boy on Friday January 6, 2012 - Harrison Thomas Templeton entered this world at 12:24 PM weighing in at 7 lbs. 3 ozs. Harrison sure made his Mama work for it but when you see that face - it's all worth it! We love TJ and Hillary and are overjoyed as our hearts grow bigger to welcome Harrison into our hearts!

I flew to New York on Friday morning and just CANNOT wait to get my hands on this little bundle of joy! I got to meet him via Facetime on Saturday morning. (I often wonder when I quote technology if someday when this blog is finished and in a book somewhere people will even know what I'm talking about!)

And here he is folks...

Oh and want to know something else? Harrison's first cousin, Greyson John was born ALSO on Friday January 6, 2012 at the SAME hospital at 12:38 PM. (that's right...14 minutes apart!) He weighed in at 7 lbs. 14 oz. Congrats to Jake and Olivia and we can't wait to meet Greyson!!

Christmas Morning

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas Morning at Castle Rock Lake 2011:

Uncle Scott always gets something "extra special" from Santa....

Lake Geneva School of Cooking

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

On Friday December 8th the ladies of the CBW Agencies, were treated to a day 'away' from the office and this years trip was to Lake Geneva with the highlight being the afternoon at.....

Arriving in style....

Someday I will have this....

Here are some other fun pics from the day!

The final menu = delicious!

Reception: Holiday Cheese Popovers & Sparkling Wine
First Course: Grilled Shrimp with Macademia Nut Pesto served over Angel Hair Pasta
Second Course: Black Truffle Onion Soup baked in Puff Pastry
Third Course: Frenched Stuffed Pork Chop with Prosciutto, Wild Mushrooms and Smoked Gouda
Fourth Course: Flourless Chocolate Pate with Chantilly Cream and Berry Coulis

Thanksgiving

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving 2011 was spent in Menomonie, WI with Dan's Family. Neither of us seemed to take any pictures (except the two I'll post) but I know there were lots of cameras snatching pictures so if anyone wants to send me some I'll update this blog entry!

We drove up on Thanksgiving morning - I've been super sick and the evenings tend to be worse so we decided driving in the daylight would be better. We spent the day/night at Dan's Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Mike's who just are the most hospitable people! Always welcoming us into their home with open arms!! We had a lovely Thanksgiving dinner and the evening was topped off by a visit with the Pickerigns. (always a blast!)

Here is Connor having a slumber party with his cuz Hunter! He also enjoyed lots of running around the Bean's beautiful home, playing piano with Carly and digging thru the Bean Grandkids Toy Bin!!

On Friday we headed back to Eau Claire and had a nice visit with Dan's Grandma and night at Grandma and Grandpa Paulsruds! On Saturday morning we hit the Children's Musuem in Eau Claire with Grandma (which reminds me I DO have those pictures somewhere?!? Or as it your camera Diane?) and after a quick lunch at the Acoustic Cafe we headed home.

One tired little boy after all that fun!

Thanks for all the wonderful hospitality at Thanksgiving!

New Addition

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Connor had a trip back to his eye doctor on Wednesday and turns out even though he seems to be seeing better he is still relying on his right eye to do most of the working.

So - our little buddy, they are making us force you to use your left eye. For the next two months (at least) we'll be patching your right eye 4 hours a day to force you to use your left eye. You thought the 'sticker' was cool at first:

(right after leaving doctors office)

But that was short lived as you soon kept yelling at me that you couldn't see :(

Doctor says this will be a harder adjustment than the glasses were because the glasses were helping Connor see better and now we are taking vision away.

You're doing a good job buddy, we know we're putting you thru a lot but will be so much better in the long run!

Current Routine:

First 2 Hours: 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
Second 2 Hours: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Santa

2012-01-05T08:12:00.000-06:00

This Mama has been pretty sick and Daddy has done so much with Connor during the holiday season, including taking Connor to see Santa!

I mean - am I biased or is he really cute?!?

Here is a summary of his first three pictures with Santa! (makes me miss the curls in the 2010 picture!)

Elmo Makes Music

2012-01-04T07:54:00.000-06:00

The Sunday after Thanksgiving we surprised Connor with a trip to see Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music! We had been to get our Christmas tree and with no nap - he feel asleep in the car on the way there. Needless to say, he was a little disoriented at first upon arrival.

For purchasing the tickets the morning of - we had pretty decent seats

He spent most of the first half just sitting quietly in his chair watching in awe. (which was far better than the kid behind us who started screaming the minute the lights went down!)

Intermission - still not sure

I always love good marketing - these Elmo balloons were $10 a piece and before the lights went up at intermission two people came out and were center stage - no chance any kid in that place DIDN'T see these and want one. And no, we did not get one.

The 2nd half Connor was up and dancing and having a lot more fun singing along!

Turned out to be a great family day!

Happy Holidays from the Paulsruds!

2011-12-22T23:02:00.001-06:00

Wishing you and yours a blessed holiday! (If you happen to be a loyal follower you might just be reading our 'news' before people get the actual cards since they just went in the mail today - opps!)

Merry Tuba Christmas

2011-12-15T11:39:00.000-06:00

We've been working on learning our musical instruments here in this house - which actually has been a total blast. And thankfully the use of technology allows us to learn what an instrument is and then go on YouTube and listen to the various instruments! What fun!

Well when (soon to be) Aunt Sarah posted on Facebook that it was a Merry Tuba Christmas at her place of work (The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in DC) which included 300 tubas playing Christmas music we were wishing we could share it with Connor. Not 30 minutes later we got a text from Uncle Keith that we could live stream what the show on the Kennedy Center website.

Here is Connor's reaction:

He probably sat there and watched it for a good 5 minutes which for an attention span of a 2 year old that was pretty good!

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-14T09:48:00.001-06:00

This year was the first year we have been able to have a "real" Christmas tree and we were going to take FULL advantage. We hit the Cozy Nook Farm just west of town the Sunday after Thanksgiving and it will definitely be a family tradition moving forward!

Here's our pick waiting to get the trunk cut!

A certain little someone really enjoyed exploring the trees and farm!

Almost ready to head home!

The tree actually looks tiny on Dan's big truck!

So happy!

Daddy and his 'helper' getting things set!

And she's in and ready to be decorated! (no drill bit in the drill Connor is holding up to Dan's back - yikes, that looks bad!) Perfect size for the space, don't you think?!?

On this particular day we rushed to get the tree in and set because we were off to surprise Connor with a trip to see Elmo at Sesame Street Live! More to follow on that....

I can see clearly NOW...

2011-12-12T20:48:00.000-06:00

Well we've got a lot to catch you up on my lovely blog follwers! Amongst the fast paced nature of our lives this time of year - we also have a new addition for Connor....GLASSES!

At first when trying them on he thought he was going swimming - he thought he was wearing swim goggles, which made this Mommy laugh at a moment she felt like crying.

He is severly far sighted and right now hardly using his left eye at all - it is so weak. His prescription is so high the doctor says he will not grow out of his needs for glasses, contacts or vision correction in his lifetime. Let's continue to pray for the researchers and doctors who continue to work on the best options for vision correction.

Many people have asked how we knew to get his eyes checked - well the truth is we started to notice on occasion his left eye would start to cross. It wasn't all the time and many people have said they never noticed it. Apparently the eye crossing starts to happen when they are trying really hard to focus.

We will be going back to the Pediatric Opthamologist in January where the strength in his left eye will be measured again. If significant progress has not been made he'll start to wear a patch 4 hours per day to force him to use his left eye to strengthen it.

It hasn't been the smoothest transition, but in typical Connor fashion he sort of just goes with the flow and despite a little unhappiness seems to be starting to adjust.

In the meantime, my uber cute red-headed love is getting LOTS of attention for his fancy new specs, what do you think?!?

Shoulda...Coulda...Woulda...

2011-11-14T09:50:00.001-06:00

Should have been on a flight to San Diego on Wednesday morning...(instead was on the jet bridge and telling husband I can't fly and we must turn back)

Could have seen the ocean on Wednesday afternoon....(instead got to see the inside of West Allis Memorial Emergency Room)

Would have spent an amazing week and weekend with my Aunt and Cousins going to Disneyland, spending the Day with Thomas, doing my first 5K in years, cheering Dan on during an inline half marathon....(instead kept praying this flu would go away, my baby's chest cold would heal and thanking my lucky stars we did not get on that plane)

Wasn't the week/weekend we had expected and planned. But they say all things happen for a reason and today we are just thankful we listened to ourselves, I think the Lord was telling us despite our desires and sadness for not making the trip...we needed to be home to heal.

We're in recovery mode - will blog when we can.

Hat

2011-11-03T09:02:00.001-05:00

The tattered and torn 'summer hat' has been replaced by a new and stylish 'winter' hat ;)

Trick or Treat

2011-11-02T09:00:00.003-05:00

Halloween night meant skipping music class for trick or treating in Waukesha! A lot of the surrounding cities had their trick or treating on Sunday and it poured rain so the kids were out in full force on Monday in Waukesha.

Connor's painted pumpkin was proudly displayed

First stop - a treat at home before we left

A mischevious smile from the double-fisting puppy dog!

Yeah not sure the sign worked - either way there was no candy left when we got home which was fine by me ;)

Heading to his first house!

Trick or Treating Group - the Snow WhiteS, Spiderman and the cutest puppy on the block!

Buddies holding hands

"Nate, are you sure this is a good idea?"

Last house and little scared, tired and not sure what's going on!

Happy Halloween 2011!

Educate Yourself

2011-11-01T07:30:00.000-05:00

Did you know that strokes CAN and DO occur at any age - please take 2 minutes and read thru today's blog.

Thanks
Julie

Learn the many warning signs of a stroke. Act FAST and CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY at any sign of a stroke.

Use FAST to remember the warning signs:

NOTE THE TIME WHEN ANY SYMPTOMS FIRST APPEAR. If given within three hours of the first symptom, there is an FDA-approved clot-buster medication that may reduce long-term disability for the most common type of stroke. There are also two other types of stroke treatment available that might help reduce the effects of stroke. Read more about stroke treatment.
Learn as many stroke symptoms as possible so you can recognize stroke as FAST as possible. Click here to download the FAST Wallet Card to keep a reminder of stroke warning signs with you wherever you go!

Stroke symptoms include:

SUDDEN numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg - especially on one side of the body.

SUDDEN confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.

SUDDEN trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

SUDDEN trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

SUDDEN severe headache with no known cause.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you have any of these symptoms

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T14:27:00.002-05:00

First Three Years of Halloween! More pics to follow of trick-or-treating TONIGHT!

Hope you have a Spooktacular Day!!

Saturday at Home!

2011-10-25T16:26:00.001-05:00

So this is the kind of things people do when they get to stay home for a weekend? Actually have a clean house? Actually have a lawn that is mowed before it 'needs it'? Plant trees? Grocery shop? Do laundry? See friends? Have people over? Enjoy good food? Enjoy even better company?

I could get used to that!

Saturday night we hosted our first outdoor movie night! I think this will be the first of many to come!

My favorite moment from the night was walking outside to see my little Abby Rose all snuggled in her sleeping bag, sitting on a chair by the campire, drinking warm apple cider and watching Toy Story. It's a moment I'll have etched in my mind as a night of perfection!

Thanks to all who stopped over!

Angry Birds?

2011-10-20T14:07:00.000-05:00

Have the Angry Birds entered your life?

Thankfully ours just really enjoys the music....

Welcome Orin!

2011-10-18T21:19:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the World to Connor's "Cousin" Orin Glenn Bean - born 10/17/11, 11:11 am, 7lbs, 3 oz and 19 inches.

Proud little brother to this little beauty, Mimi!

Congrats to the whole Bean family on the new addition to your beautiful family!

Another Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-18T09:05:00.002-05:00

Because Amy blogged it so well....

http://zukowskifamilyblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/milwaukee-visit.html

Have a great Wednesday!!

Wordless Wednesday - Gracie Girl

2011-10-12T10:24:00.002-05:00

{From July}

Come on Ride the Train....

2011-10-11T14:16:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago Dan was flying in late from a work trip and we needed to pick him up so Connor and I hit the mall nearby to kill some time.Lucky for Connor they have a pretty cool train that he got to ride. Though I'm not too sure how much he enjoyed it. What do you think?

All done! (still not sure if he's happy or not?!?)

Amazing!

2011-10-07T13:18:00.003-05:00

I don't know these people at all - but literally I LOVED this video. If you don't smile watching this there is something wrong with you!

God Bless America

2011-10-07T12:32:00.001-05:00

Last night we had the honor and privledge to watch one of Uncle Keiths very best friends, Michael Minarik, sing God Bless America at the Yankee's Playoff game at Yankee Stadium. Lucky Uncle Keith was there and lucky us they actually televised it! Here he is singing:And here is Connor watching him on TV! (and I'll note he stood there just like this thru the WHOLE song virtually)

So cool! Great job Minarik - we're definitely proud!!

Fall Days

2011-10-06T14:08:00.001-05:00

My favorite time of year!

Names

2011-10-04T10:06:00.001-05:00

My sisters friend Kate is in management for a big retailer and I remember her once saying - be sure you teach your kids your names as when kids get separated from their parents and all they know is "Mom" and "Dad" it doesn't really help much!

So with that - we've been working on teaching Connor our names - what do you think, does he have it yet?

Remembering Two!

2011-10-03T10:37:00.001-05:00

Free Friday!

2011-09-30T14:15:00.003-05:00

Today, Mandie (our beloved daycare provided) needed the day off. So not only is Connor home today but Nate spent the morning with us too!

Here are some pictures from our morning together.

First up...breakfast!

Begging to go outside....

A cold trip to the park

Fun inside....the baskets!

Then it was lunchtime and now we're all exhausted and napping! Great start to my weekend! Hope you all are having a great one too.

Nana's Blankie

2011-09-29T10:11:00.000-05:00

My parents were recently on a trip to California and had spent the night here before they flew out. My mom has a yellow (super soft) blanket she usually has with her and so it was at the house. I was cold and LOVE that blanket so decided to cover up. Well Mr. Connor was having none of that......

He knew who's blanket it was and was going to protect it for his Nana!

Wordless Wednesday - A Musician is Born

2011-09-28T10:19:00.002-05:00

A Family Trait

2011-09-27T09:53:00.001-05:00

One of the funniest things about being a parent is we discover things that just make you want to giggle because they remind you so much of yourself!

We've started to notice that Connor has started to talk in his sleep. (which is definitely something I do) Actually a few weeks ago I swear he was sleep walking because he was so disoriented and then immediately went back to sleep.

Dan was traveling last night so Connor got some extra snuggle time with his Mama and I almost started laughing listening to him talk in his sleep!

I will say though..he's kind of a bed hog.

(Picture taken a different morning - so yes, that is Dan's arm in the bed!)

Bad Blogger

2011-09-26T12:34:00.000-05:00

I have been a bad bad blogger! We've done so much this summer and I seem to have missed blogging all of it (just about!). We even had a big 0-2 birthday in there.

I'll try my best to catch up over the next few days and hopefully all my faithful readers will no longer be disappointed when they click on my blog to see no updates...sigh!

I'm not going to lie I'm a little overwhelmed at even playing 'catch up' so you may see a lot of pictures and little words as I try to summarize our summer.

I will leave you with one of my most recent favorite videos - Connor has started saying "I love you too {insert name of person here}" and in this video we were trying to say I love you to Daddy who has been traveling. (sorry for the extreme close up - but I know you've all been curious about Connor's teeth too, so there you have it - double the fun *wink*wink). Enjoy and I promise more to follow.

Big Weekend

2011-09-01T11:14:00.000-05:00

We've got a big weekend ahead as this little guy turns 2....

And is in his first wedding!

We're off to Chicago to kick start the festivities! Early congrats to Jenny & Joe!!

Have a great Labor Day Weekend Everyone!

Happy Anniversary

2011-08-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

On this day....three years ago. We made a committment to one another.

In sickness or in health. All the days of our lives.

To love a lot, live life to it's fullest....oh and to have a little bit of fun while doing it!

Happy Anniversary Dano!

Remembering

2011-08-11T08:39:00.000-05:00

Today, the Paulsrud's are remembering Jack Staebler on his first birthday. Jack's time here on Earth was beyond short, his little footprints have left big imprints on our hearts.

We're praying for your parents (and sister and grandparents and aunts/uncles) today, Jack. As they do the best they can to celebrate all of the joy and love you have brought to their lives while their hearts and arms are feeling so empty.

I can only imagine the party they are throwing for you up there in Heaven today! Happy First Birthday Jack!

Who's having more fun?

2011-08-05T15:55:00.000-05:00

Dan has been doing this....

And this....

And this...

I've been doing this....

Oh and Mr. Connor...he's been doing a little of this....first time on the potty - July 21, 2011!!

Wordless Wednesday - Cousins

2011-08-03T07:50:00.000-05:00

Words-Only Wednesday

2011-07-13T00:01:00.003-05:00

Tonight I sit on the eve of a major life change. Tomorrow I close one chapter to watch another one open. Tomorrow I will say good-bye to people I’ve learned to call family. Tomorrow I take a chance. Tomorrow I take a risk. Tomorrow I take a leap of faith.

About 6 weeks ago I informed my current employer that I was going to be departing. Tomorrow is that day. This is the place I met my husband. This is the place I literally walked into the day after graduating college. This is the place that has given me once in a lifetime experiences.

I know there are people that cannot understand the decisions Dan and I have made. I know there are people who cannot understand risk. I know there are people who do not get leaving stability, career growth and benefits.

The thing about life is that things change and I believe that is a part of the journey. If you don’t me well – I definitely have always been blessed (or cursed depending how you are looking at it) with the entrepreneurial spirit and for as long as I can remember I’ve told myself that someday – I’m going to go after it – for me. Today is that day.

Now don’t get me wrong – I have the support of a set of amazing parents (who believe in me) and a husband who has encouraged me to follow my own dreams as well and without both parts, none of this is possible.

So, as the next chapter opens I’ll be graced with the opportunity to run a spin-off division of my parents company. It’s a risk – and not just for me.

But I believe in myself, I believe in the opportunity and I believe it’s the right time. No doubt tomorrow will be emotional but let this be a lesson for Connor and my children to come – take the chance on yourself. You may succeed greatly, you may fall flat on your face, but it’s ok to dream and it’s ok to believe in bigger, greater things and go after them!

Hello new chapter…I’m expecting great things from you….

Tying the Knot

2011-07-11T16:16:00.000-05:00

Guess who are celebrating a recent engagement?!?

Congrats Uncle Keith and the soon to be Aunt Sarah!

Special Day for a Special Friend

2011-07-07T09:49:00.000-05:00

Saturday July 2nd we celebrated the wedding shower of my dear friend Jenny Harz. It truly was a special day for a very special person. Jenny and her fiance Joe have supported Dan and I in so many ways and while they live in New York City and we are here you would think there is no distance at all when we are together.

Invitations by Design by Dina (personal information blocked out)

Beautiful Flowers!

Cake made by Jenny's brother!

All smiles!!

Helping Aunt Jenny open her gifts!

College Friends!

Cannot wait for the wedding!

Welcome to the World Paige!

2011-07-06T11:28:00.000-05:00

Paige Lauren Zukowski was welcomed into the world on Saturday, July 2nd, 2011 at 2:26 AM. She weighed 8 lbs. 5 oz. and 19.5 inches long.

I had the honor of going to visit her in the hospital, St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights, IL, on Saturday late afternoon.

She is beautiful and perfect in every way! I spaced and didn't get a picture with her but she was the star anyways....here are some photos of her!

Just as I was leaving, Paige's proud big brother Luke was arriving! Loving this family of 4! Hope to see them again really soon!!

Nothing Rides Like a Deere

2011-07-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

June 18, 2011

2011-07-01T16:10:00.001-05:00

On June 18th, 2011 we gained a new official member to the Sacco side of my family! I didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked but here are a few from the day.

Congrats Gabe & Amanda Sacco!!

Never too old....

2011-06-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

for a little slip and slide!

A few more of the kiddos enjoying themselves:

And my all-time favorite picture of the day!

Thanks for having us over to the Rose Family!

Future Heartbreaker?!?

2011-06-20T17:01:00.000-05:00

Guess who is flying to Milwaukee today?!?

2011-06-16T16:36:00.000-05:00

Yup - that's right...all the way from San Diego....... Jacob and Nolan (and their mommy & Grandpa) are about 30 minutes for touch down at Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport! We've got a big weekend planned! Can't wait for them to get here.

Easter

2011-06-11T08:00:00.003-05:00

We spent Easter up north this year with Dan's family and it was a great weekend!

The weekend started with a pool party at a local hotel on Saturday! The kids were having fun with our underwater camera - but let's just say there were plenty of shots deleted ;)

Then on Sunday we had a wonderful breakfast at Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Mike's Church and Connor was definitely spoiled by that Easter Bunny!

The day was capped off with a little skyping with Andy, Jill and Mimi!

Thanks to Mike/Diane and Cheryl/Mike for the wonderful holiday memories!!

Way back when...at 18 months

2011-06-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Connor celebrated his 18 month milestone in Arizona this year! (March) But alas vacation always ends and we get back to the nitty gritty of everday life.

I'm backtracking from my blogging vacation so I don't lose track of these fun stats and photos!

On March 17th at Connors 18 month doctors appointment here were his stats:

29 lbs. 6 oz

33 inches long

Such a big boy!

Summer or Fall

2011-06-09T09:16:00.000-05:00

Mother Nature is just not sure what season it is anymore. This is what Weather.com listed yesterday:

Really? We go from 90+ degrees to 50 degrees overnight! But I guess one good thing is our little guy could sport his delightfully handsome clothes from his Auntie Jenny (and Joe) one more time before he'll likely be too big!

Remember how I said we've been pumping out the 'pond' in our backyard only to have it fill up again as we wait for our turn on the landscapers list?!? Here is the progress:

Memorial Day Weekend - Scott (my brother in law) emptying the 'pond':

After Memorial Day weekend - we went on a 10 day stretch with no rain and we were completely dried out and just praying the landscaper would get to us!

Then this morning.....

So thank you Mother Nature.....

One Year Ago

2011-06-07T07:58:00.001-05:00

One year ago today (at virtually this exact time - 7:58 AM) this world said good-bye to a phenomenal man. It's been sort of a surreal year without my Grandpa - there are times I really feel him with me though and it's like there are these moments where I see something and it just reminds me of him.

2010 was a year filled with up's and downs. I lost my Grandpa in June and my friend Annie lost her son Jack in December. It gave me a serious gut check, it made me think about Heaven in a way I've never done before. Annie had read this book, Heaven is for Real and so I picked it up one night on my Kindle. It was a turning point for me - I won't ruin it for those of you who have not yet had the chance to read it (which by the way go out and buy it ASAP) but it makes me feel good about where my Grandpa is today.

I recall many a times pouring over the many photo albums at my Grandma and Grandpa's house - always one of our favorite things to do. I remember Tracy always commenting about how handsome Grandpa was in his Navy Uniform and oh how it brings a smile to my face to think of my Grandpa in heaven where he is seeing all the colors of the rainbow, without pain and probably looking as young and dapper as he did in those pictures.

I miss him. I miss the rough touch of his hard working hands. I miss the smell of his after shave. I miss the buzz of his hearing aids. I miss watching him pour his OJ on his morning cereal. I miss so many things. But of all the things I miss - they are just selfish - he is in a great place, a place I will work hard and dream to be one day.

Here is the poem I read on the day of his funeral - a good reminder:

Death is Nothing at All by Henry Scott Holland

Death is nothing at all.

I have only slipped away to the next room.

I am I and you are you.

Whatever we were to each other,

That, we still are.

Call me by my old familiar name.

Speak to me in the easy way

which you always used.

Put no difference into your tone.

Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.

Laugh as we always laughed

at the little jokes we enjoyed together.

Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me.

Let my name be ever the household word

that it always was.

Let it be spoken without effect.

Without the trace of a shadow on it.

Life means all that it ever meant.

It is the same that it ever was.

There is absolute unbroken continuity.

Why should I be out of mind

because I am out of sight?

I am but waiting for you.

For an interval.

Somewhere. Very near.

Just around the corner.

All is well.

This is the photo on my desktop everytime I open it - a moment of pure happiness and bliss. Oh and can I end this with a little laugh - I'll never forget when I called to tell my Grandparents I was pregnant - my Grandpa answered the phone - I told him the news and he said "oh my, you better talk to your Grandma" - hahaha! Just kind of makes me laugh thinking about it.

Missing you today and everyday. Keep showing me signs you are with me Gramps!

http://www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com/sitemaker/sites/hurdhe0/obit.cgi?user=212125Sacco

Haircuts!

2011-06-06T16:39:00.001-05:00

Grace (and her respective parents) came to visit us on Memorial Day weekend! Speaking of getting haircuts...Connor and Grace got their hair cut when we were all together. Connor has only ever had his haircut by my friend Hillary and this was Grace's first cut! We went to a salon in New Berlin that has a little kids area - which proved to be a good distraction.

Here is Connor before (hard to really get him to look at my phone/camera but you can see his 'big hair' in the photo):

She asked what I wanted done - I said - just a trim - I like to keep the curls...and then...she started cutting and then...she buzzed around his ears....

And then...I realized all my curls were gone! (ok being a little dramatic but it was a littler shorter than I expected) He definitely looks like a little boy now for sure!

Grace really wanted to get up on the motorcycle - which I think is hilarious! This was her before picture:

And after her FIRST HAIRCUT (5.28.2011)

So now we've all got our summer "do's" - lets hope those curls grow back fast ;)

Pool Party

2011-06-04T21:17:00.000-05:00

Finally a nice, warm day with no plans!! The morning started with haircuts for Dan and I both (I'm about 8 inchs lighter in hair), naptime and then pool time! Dan had a wedding today he was DJ'ing so Frkol came over and kept Connor and I company.

I think this is how Saturdays are supposed to be?!? I'm not normally home to just do as we please and I have to say..it was kind of nice.

Enjoy our little pool boy.

Parks Parks Parks!

2011-06-03T08:33:00.001-05:00

So we are within walking distance to two great parks! Last night was a great night so we had dinner and then hit up one of them.

The teeter-totter was a BIG hit!

Here is a little video - the first one I took is actually better but I was actually going up and down on the teeter-totter so I'll spare you the blair witch of home videos at the park.

And we re-emerge

2011-05-31T13:36:00.000-05:00

Wow - that was a long stretch of no blogging! Did you miss us?!?

Here is a short run down of what we've been doing to keep ourselves busy:

Closed on our first house on April 29th
Connor had his first trip to US Cellular Field to watch the White Sox on Saturday April 30th
Walked in the MS Lakefront Walk in Chicago in honor of an amazing and inspiring women, Chris Hussmann
We've been taking down wallpaper
We've been painting
We've been cleaning
We've been steaming carpet
We've been emptying the mother nature made pond in our new backyard
We've been watching our emptied pond refill with water with LOTS of rain
We've been praying for and trying to support in any way we can, Connor's 'weekday Mom', Mandie, as her family has experienced a horrible tragedy in the death of her 29 year old sister (PLEASE pray for them)
We've had last minute trips from Grandma and Grandpa Paulsrud to Milwaukee and last minute trips to Nana and Papa Coughlin's - to give Mandie some time to be with her family
We've been to Menards and Home Depot more than I care to admit
We've packed boxes
We've unpacked boxes
We've filled holes in walls and made new ones
We've made several car load full trips to Goodwill and countless trips to fill the dumpster
We've fixed a lawn mower, generously given to us by TJ and Hillary and mowed the lawn
We've assembled patio furniture
We've bought a grill, assembled it and cooked on it ;)
We've sent Connor to be our representative at "soon to be cousin", Amanda's bridal shower
We've cashed in so many favors with Frkol, Mollie/Matt, Eric/Shelley -we'll be paying them back for years to come....
We've watched our little boy turn 20 months, count to 10, say the alphabet, talk non-stop, giggle, sing, smile and TOTALLY go with the flow
We've laughed
We've shed a few tears
We've lived

Oh and I can't find the cord for my camera so no pictures - I'm sure it's in a box somewhere ;)

The good news is -we're back and hopefully more blogging to follow. Now that I've got that off my chest...what have you been up to?

Video

2011-04-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen Connor in a while - you'll be surprised at how 'chatty' he is these days. He has a lot of words now - hello, bye bye, thank you, please, water, your welcome, more, mama, daddy, papa, nana, down, up, sit down and more!

Oh and if you know his dad - he comes by his chattiness naturally ;)

Enjoy this video of Connor at his G&G Paulsrud's house at Easter time.

Best Buds

2011-04-25T10:22:00.001-05:00

Mandie took today and tomorrow off so thankfully our friend Shelley is taking Connor so he's spending the next two days with his buddy Nate. (Shelley is Nate's mom)

Here are they are on a walk this morning:

Thanks again Shelley!!

Signs of Spring

2011-04-21T09:30:00.001-05:00

We live in the Midwest - just when we think Spring is on the horizon Mother Nature hits us with snow to remind us not to count our chickens before they hatch!

A few weekends ago we had an 80+ degree Sunday so hit a park after church. (I'll restrain myself with a rant on the snow we got this week....)

Here are a few pictures (Connor is wearing a new outfit from his GG Betty!):

Oh and we had a few very special visitors that day

I Scream - You Scream

2011-04-20T09:52:00.001-05:00

We all Scream for ICE CREAM!!!

Easter Bunny?

2011-04-19T12:42:00.000-05:00

Update on the house is the closing is actually now going to be 4/29/2011 - so a week from Friday!!

Last Thursday, GMR had a Family Easter Party. Connor came in and was true to his dislike of being anywhere near large costumed adults ;)

Very concerned waiting our turn

Ok this isn't cool Mom

Are you going to make me cry to get out of here?

House To Be

2011-04-18T13:49:00.000-05:00

Loving his new house to be...

Probably went up and down those stairs 50 times during the inspection ;) Things look they are moving forward full speed ahead! Closing on May 2nd! WHOA! :)

Dubuque...Dubuque...Nahnahnahnahnah...Dubuque....(my siblings get it)

2011-04-14T13:22:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago we hit the road with the destination = Dubuque, IA! We had decided it has been far too long since we've been to visit my Aunt Penny, Uncle Dan and Cousins Gabe & Natalie.

We had a fabulous weekend and while I don't have a ton of pictures LOTS of fun was had!

Here are a few from the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium! WOW - is that a really neat place! If you ever pass thru the area its definitely worth a stop.

Did You Know....

2011-04-13T15:19:00.001-05:00

...that colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer in both men and women

...that regular colorectal screening can detect and remove pre-cancerous polyps BEFORE they turn into cancer

...22 million people each year are not up to date on their screening

...today at age 30 I have now had two colorectal screenings/colonoscopy's (one of which has removed pre-cancerous polyps)

...if you are over the age of 50 and have not had one, please talk to your doctor

...that while it does not have the most pleasant 'prep' for the procedure this will SAVE some peoples LIFE

...I have too much left to live for to not do it, do you?

Great-Grandma Betty

2011-04-12T08:53:00.000-05:00

Two weekends ago we spent the weekend with my Grandma, Connors Great-Grandma to celebrate her birthday.

Here are a few pictures from the weekend. Happy Birthday GG!!

First up was a trip to the Discovery Depot Childrens Museum. We don't have many pictures due to the constant running around with said child.

On Sunday Dan, Penny, Natalie, Gabe & Amanda arrived for a day of fun, silliness, delicious dinner, gifts and OF COURSE birthday cake!

Couldn't have said it better myself....

2011-04-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

My good friend Amy is much more on top of her blogging than me - so go check out her blog on how we all spent our Friday night...I couldn't have said it better myself!!

http://zukowskifamilyblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/boys-club-together-again.html

Have a blessed Sunday

Best Buds

2011-04-08T14:07:00.001-05:00

Connor and the "Godfather" aka Uncle Keith

One step closer

2011-04-05T21:48:00.000-05:00

Well - it's official - we are one step closer to being homeowners!!

We have an accepted offer on a house we love and it's been worth the wait! Say a few prayers the inspection all goes well!

Cousins Cousins Cousins

2011-03-15T23:28:00.000-05:00

We just got back from our vacation in Phoenix! I'm going to do my best to get back to blogging. Our kiddo has turned 18 months and is growing and changing like crazy!

Tonight I wanted to share some pictures of Connor, Grace, Jacob & Nolan - all born in the late summer/fall of 2009. Grace was born in August, Connor in September and Jacob & Nolan in October...but aside from Miss Itty Bitty Grace - they are getting pretty close in size!

So much fun to have them all together! We snapped a bunch of photos and I've decided the progression is hilarious so I have to post them all.

Enjoy!

Weekend Fun!

2011-02-21T09:28:00.000-06:00

Well Dan and I spent our weekend in pre-licensing classes to get our Life and Health Insurance License. But that meant Connor got to spend the weekend playing and hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa Paulsrud that made the journey down to visit us!

We got the below note from Connor (aka Grandma Paulsrud)...enjoy!

Hi Mom and Dad,

Here I am at the Big Back Yard with Grandma and Grandpa Paulsrud.

I love a Cozy Coupe! I love turning the sterring wheel back and forth!

Here is my first trip up the steps to the slides on the toddler jungle gym!

I had to sit here for a minute to work up the courage to go down the slides, but I did go down them and they were fun too. Grandma doesn't have a picture of me going down because she was busy at the top of the slide while grandpa caught me at the bottom of the slide.

It was fun!!

See you tonight,

Love,

Connor

Finding the Truth..Answers

2011-02-21T09:23:00.000-06:00

1.I have to wear socks when I sleep

Sorry Aim, I cannot stand wearing socks when I sleep! Even in the dead of winter its only on a very rare occasion that you might find me sleeping with socks on.

2.My eyes are naturally green

Negative - definitely got the most beautiful baby blues from my dad!

3.I secretly love clipping my nails

Eww...awful! Hate it - hate everything about it. I even hate clipping Connors nails. When I was prego the sound of even the nail clipper made me gag..yes, really..made me gag.

4.Love spicy food, the hotter the better

Oh heck yeah! If my nose is running and mouth is burning I'm on the right track. Now if only my hubby didn't hate spicy food.....

5.My first concert was New Kids on the Block

Negative..the Beach Boys...Illinois State Fair...days before my Grandma Coughlin died. A trip I'll never forget.

Finding the truth...

2011-02-18T11:02:00.000-06:00

My friend Rachael over at The Shermans 5 tagged me to do a post where I confess 5 things about myself, 4 which are FALSE! Can you find the truth hidden within the lies? You might be surprised!

I have to wear socks when I sleep
My eyes are naturally green
I secretly love clipping my nails
Love spicy food, the hotter the better
My first concert was New Kids on the Block

Now it's your turn to choose which one of the above confessions is actually true. Can you guess which one it is? Good luck!

Amy at the Zukowski Family Blog and Jill at Growing Beans, you are tagged to continue the post.....

The small things...

2011-02-15T09:15:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it's good for Mom and Dad to get out too!

On Saturday February 5th - we had a fun afternoon out (Thank you Eric & Shelley!). We had lunch at AJ Bombers where the bloody marys come with a small bacon cheeseburger...yes you read that right! (on the yellow toothpick I'm holding)

Then it was off to Lakefront Brewery to enjoy a few beverages and laugh a whole lot!

Fun fun afternoon! Followed by an evening with our little man!!

First Hair Cut

2011-02-11T08:44:00.000-06:00

Remember how I said eventually I'd get back to covering the things I missed on my blogcation? Anywhoo - first hair cut was one of them!

Our friend, Hillary Templeton, came over to my parents and gave Connor his first cut on Thanksgiving weekend. Both Grandparents, Mom, Dad and GG Betty were all there!

Before:

During:

After:

And haircut number two is coming this weekend because the 'big hair' is back! Though I'm doing all I can to protect my little babies curls! Love them!

Milwaukee Admirals

2011-02-09T17:10:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago we hit a Milwaukee Admirals game with Dan's Uncle Gene and his two grand-kids Sam & Josh. The Admirals are a hockey team in the AHL and play at the Bradley Center here in Milwaukee. They happened to be playing the Peoria Rivermen that night and it sure was a fun outing. (Though I have to say - it was good I wasn't cheering for the Rivermen...who absolutely got SMOKED by Milwaukee!)

Here were a few pictures from the night:

Announcing of the players!

Sam & Josh were initially all about the food - but totally got into the game once it got underway! (not a good picture but the only one I had!)

Connor & Uncle Gene enjoying a Friday night on the town!

I have to tell you - I believe God works in mysterious ways. A year ago in December - Dan's family lost his Aunt Vicki (Gene's wife/Dan's moms sister). Previous to that - I had only met Gene and Vicki once, very briefly and never met their kids/grandkids. You see - they live less than 30 miles from our house and hard to imagine so much time went by and they weren't a part of our lives. Vicki's memorial services allowed us to reconnect, I got to meet Gene and Vicki's children and grandchildren. They've been a blessing to our lives and we hope they've enjoyed having us around a bit more too. I can only think the Lord had a way of bringing us all together - maybe at times we needed each other most? Wish I had, had the opportunity to know Vicki better - I am sure thankful she is sharing her beautiful family and legacy with us.

Connor's 1st Snow Day 2011.

2011-02-03T21:09:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Wednesday February 2nd was a day to remember! GMR Marketing even closed due to the weather. So Connor got to stay at home with mommy and daddy. Naturally given how much snow there was outside we figured we had better document that the snow was almost as deep as Connor is tall!
I would like to note that we did have mittens for Connor but he kept taking them off and we were outside for about 3 to 4 minutes.

What a smile this guy has...

The look of... I am going to eat all this snow!

Mommy's little snow monster!

Daddy's future sledding buddy... Just not quite ready for this cold stuff yet.

Check out the giant icicle on the side of our building just off our back patio.

In some places even deeper than Connor is tall. Waist high at some points.

And now... for your viewing pleasure... a very short video of Connor's short lived outdoor snow day experience. He enjoyed sledding in the hallway much more than being outside.

Here are a few photos from yesterday's real snow day in Chicago! Holy smokes, these guys got hit bad. I am sure there are a lot of great photos. I have seen a lot of wild ones from other peoples blogs and face book posts. These are just crazy to me.

Wow. It covered most of the US.

Lake Shore Drive in Chicago! Woah Baby.

Deserted bus. Kind of reminds of that movie, The Day after Tomorrow.

The opposite of the HOT seat. Burr

I am so glad weren't in that traffic.

Now that's a snow drift! This is under a bridge.

This really does remind me of that movie.. "Snowmageddon" scary to think these folks were trapped in their cars.

Snowmagedden 2011

2011-02-02T10:38:00.001-06:00

Here's one of the ways we're spending our snow day! Enjoy!

And a little of this (though the little stinker never does the whole thing on camera...but he can!)

Christmas Sacco Family Food Challenge

2011-01-30T16:28:00.001-06:00

We've had a few requests to see the video/recap of the Sacco Family Food Challenge that happens annually at Christmas time. Enjoy! (it's long so no hard feelings if you're totally disinterested in this first minute - ha!)

PS- I will be making it an absolute priority to get new glasses in 2011. Yikes.....

Pearly Whites?

2011-01-24T10:47:00.000-06:00

What do you think about my pearly whites?

I was enjoying some beets and applesauce (hence the bright colors on my face)!

Man vs. Food

2011-01-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

What do you think - could you eat all of this in one sitting? It's the Double Revere Extraordinaire: Two half-pound burgers grilled and topped with cheddar cheese, Apple wood smoked bacon, haystack onion rings and Irish whiskey BBQ sauce. Served between two grilled cheese sandwiches.

If you'd like to give it a try - it's from Reveres Wells Street Tavern in Delafield, WI. Dave was the only brave one to try....

It's ok - I think we'll just stick with the grilled cheese

Oh and in case you are wondering...the food won on this edition of Man vs. Food

Bears vs. Packers

2011-01-23T10:50:00.000-06:00

We all know where I stand on this rivarly....it's not always the easy road to take living in Wisconsin and sometimes I make some concessions.

Well last weekend we went to our friends, the Pape's, to watch the Packers vs. Falcons playoff game and I decided I might as well pull the tags off this Packers shirt Connor received as a gift...I hate having things go unused.

So I'd like to state for the record - this does not make me a Packer fan and actually because Connor wore this last weekend...it will free him up to be in orange and blue THIS Sunday when it really counts.

After all - he's just too cute not to share. I will just choose to ignore the awful Green/Gold color combination and the logo! Go Bears!

What's For Dinner?

2011-01-22T10:41:00.000-06:00

Connor has been cooking up a storm since Christmas. G&G Paulsrud got him this awesome kitchen and he's definitely enjoying every minute of it!

Comfortable?

2011-01-21T10:39:00.002-06:00

Do you think the kid lives the good life??

The Boy Must be Growing

2011-01-20T08:46:00.000-06:00

So I have about 5 blog posts I've started and never completed and uploaded. Our internet isn't working at home which is proving challenging for me to get anything up.

So today - a short story and some pictures so at least this post will get up! On Tuesday - our wonderful "Weekday Mom" (daycare provider just doesn't seem to do it justice) Mandie - told Dan when he picked Connor up that he seemed to have a larger than normal appetite. For those that know him, this will be shocking because he already has an above average appetite!

So we come home - he has another extremely large dinner (I'm talking portion size bigger than mine) and 3 glasses of milk. We clean up dinner and Dan and I are sitting at the table sorting mail and we look into the leaving room and see this...

At first (from afar) I thought he was eating the inside of a stuffed animal...so I got a little closer.....

Oh no - he had pulled a loaf of french bread off a shelf in the kitchen, taken it out of its wrapper and was sitting in his chair enjoying a little after dinner snack.....guilty as charged....

Good thing he's so cute!

Wish it was on better terms...

2010-12-09T22:25:00.000-06:00

I make no apologies for the lack of blogging - we've been living life and well, that just hasn't involved blogging. I have plenty to share and promise I'll get to that. I have lacked the inspiration to write - to take the time to sit down and put my thoughts on paper.

Today, well today was the day - I needed to write. Yesterday, a member of my team - who I would call a friend, lost her 4 month old son. We don't have the specifics at this time but that doesn't matter - that doesn't bring him back.

Today has been one of the most difficult days I've faced.

Today we mourned - for the loss of a beautiful young life taken too soon
Today we mourned - for the pain our friend is burdening with this loss

So I ask, each of you - strangers, friends and family....

Pray for Jack
Pray for the wonderful parents he left behind
Pray for his sister Maddie

Pray that God is able to let YOU cherish each and every day

Luke 18:16

[16] But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Annie, if you read this - we love you, we're praying for you, we're here for you

2010-11-11T21:59:00.000-06:00

We're leaving...on a jetplane!

Good bye work
Good bye stress
Good bye dirty apartment
Good bye piles of laundry
Good bye computer
Good bye cloudy days

Hello San Diego...we can't wait to see you in about 14 hours! :)

Congrats Uncle Keith!

2010-11-08T21:18:00.000-06:00

In case you haven't seen the article - Uncle Keith is making her directing debut at the Cape Rep Theatre in Cape Code with the show the "Drowsy Chaperone"

The show is getting great reviews and we just couldn't be any more proud!

Click here to read the review

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T12:26:00.000-05:00

You

better have voted yesterday.....

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T08:51:00.000-05:00

Eventually I'll get all the pictures posted from the last few weeks but I know my avid blog readers are waiting oh so patiently for some Halloween pics....so without further ado....

Saturday October 30, 2010 - we (Connor, Grandma & Grandpa Paulsrud and I) drove down to Racine, WI for the "Skeleton Skamper" to meet up with Dan who was the DJ for the 5k Run and 1 Mile Trick or Treat Walk!

Digging for the goods.....

On October 31st, 2010 we made a few stops with our favorite neighborhood lion.

First up - Mollie and Matts:

Then it was off to the Rose's for more fun!

Cutest witch on the block!

Nate was going to be a vampire but well....it was a little tight....

Thankfully the Zukowski's had let us borrow two costumes they had for Luke last year and we had the other in the car - so hopefully they don't mind that Nate wore the Little Monster for the few houses we went to!

Our little lion is in LOVE with this little kitchen at the Rose's - we could be having the party of the century in the same room and he wouldn't leave it....

There were a couple of people anxious to head out trick or treating

So off we went!

Enjoying his loot....

Then we headed back to the Rose's - we attempted a group shot and this one is my favorite (there are a ton)- captures the spirit of the moment!

A few last pictures with our lion before we called it a night

Happy Halloween to all!

Thanks again to the Zukowski's for so generously sharing Luke's costumes - they were a huge hit!!

Pictureless Post

2010-10-25T14:47:00.000-05:00

I know - I know- you people really only come to this Blog for the pictures...well, let's blame Dan! I have taken a ton of photos and he needed to make room on the memory card so they got dumped onto one of his hard drives and well...I haven't gotten them yet so that's why the Blog has been delayed in being updated....who's buying it?!? No really though, I will try to download the pics from the hard drive tonight or tomorrow.

So we've been busy with the following which are all fantastic excuses for my lack of blogging. You can all now THANK Dan...who did the last two blog entries!

Here's where we've been and not blogging:

Been to a wedding
Dan has worked 3 weddings
Visited an Apple Orchard/Pumpkin Farm with the Fays & Sandvigs
Rallied for Aly at Briggs & Al's Run
Been to visit Great-Grandma Betty
Fighting a nasty cold/virus
Had family photos taken
Had a weekend at home
Taken our first three steps
First molar is here and another making it's way
Spent Saturday Night with the "Boys Club"
Been to a jewelry party (Connor and I make quite a duo at these...)
Checked another Milwaukee bar off Connor's list of places to visit
Been to Arrowhead High School Homecoming
Had the most expensive, unfulfilling fish fry to date
Kept countless people from touching Connor's hair (what is it with strangers and their desire to touch his hair?!? It's hair people...)
Resisted the desire to cut Connor's hair
Got thru some not so fun tests on my stomach...which all came back clear!
Jacob and Nolan turned one and we can't wait to celebrate with them (3 weeks from today we'll all be heading to Disneyland together!)
Been to our first Gymboree Play & Music 3 and LOVED it!
Celebrated Mollie's Birthday
Slept very little
Have piles of laundy and not so clean house
Made lots of memories!

Today's 1st Year Photos

2010-10-22T21:17:00.002-05:00

Well stay tuned. Today we did Connor's 1 year baby photos with the McConville's. I am sure there will be some great ones. We'll most likely see them in a few more weeks.
However! I did take some photos at the Coughlin's today after the photo shoot. Check out this little stud muffin!

Connor played all day today. We did photos with the McConville's from 9am to Noon and then we went to the park and played for an hour and did more photos at the Coughlin House. This photo was taken with Connor in the tree! He was over 7 feet in the air! Woah, he's not afraid of heights just yet.

And now he's playing in the leaves.