Danny and Mandy plus three

When??? What???

2012-02-07T10:53:00.001-06:00

My parents arrived last night from Montana, contractions most of the night with little sleep, and both of my boys have been born on a Tuesday! :)

So, do you have a guess?
Boy or Girl
Today or God teaching me more about patience. :)

Bath time fun!

2012-02-07T10:51:00.004-06:00

Little shaving cream fun before our bath!

Think they liked it!

More indoor winter fun!

2012-02-07T10:48:00.000-06:00

We usually don't wear shoes inside, but have your ever tried dancing with your snow boots on!

Totally Fun!

Looking cool in our new snow suit from a friend!

Ring around the Rosie action in out snow suits for extra padding! :)

Making tents with blankets

Do you look this good in boots?

I didn't think so! :)

Mom's night out

2012-02-07T10:22:00.000-06:00

Had Birch Hills's 1st annual Mom's night out thanks to inspirations from Suzanne!

Thanks Suzanne! :)

What a fun night of laughter, great new friends, and hopefully some encouragement as well! :)

The BEST white Elephant gift! A toilet seat! :)

Thankful for these ladies! :)

Baby Franklin???

2012-01-24T14:24:00.000-06:00

As we get closer to welcoming another little one into our home, I have LOVED seeing Zeke's excitement about his little brother or sister. He has asked lots of questions and has daily wanted to say Hi to HIS baby by talking to my tummy. If you ask him if it will be a boy or a girl, he always says boy. He has also chosen a name. . . Baby Franklin. A friend of our has loaned him some Franklin DVDs, and I think that is where he got the idea. I think it is pretty cute. :) He is going to make a GREAT big BIG brother.

This Little Piggy

2012-01-18T20:19:00.000-06:00

Today, Zeke and I were reading some books when we found a nursery rhyme book with pictures. We were reading:

This little piggy went to market,
This little piggy stayed at home,
This little piggy had roast beef,
This little piggy had none.
And this little piggy went...
"Wee wee wee" all the way home...

Suddenly, Zeke got tears in his eyes, pointed at the picture of the little piggy with none, and asked why the other little piggy didn't share.

I LOVE this little man! :)

Also, I am realizing how true it is that his little ears hear everything even when I don't think he is listening. We attended a play group today and I was talking about my doctor's appointment. I had told the other mom's that the baby is head down now. This afternoon, I put my hand on my stomach. Zeke said, "What is the baby doing now, Mama. Is the baby still head down?" It makes me wonder what is going on in the mind of our big 3 year old. :)

Our New to Us Car

2012-01-18T20:04:00.001-06:00

So, here it is: We ended trading in out 2002 Honda CRV for a 2000 Honda Odyssey! I wish I could tell you this is the actual car too, but I am feeling a little lazy tonight, 8 months pregnant, and it is -20 degrees F so I just found a picture on-line. But, our car looks exactly like this.

Zeke keeps telling me that our car has 1, 2, 3 seats now and has been talking lots about where the new baby will sit. Tobie (the dog) has even enjoyed going for rides and having the entire back seat to herself until #3 arrives. But, we are super thankful that God provided us with this car and have been enjoying the extra space. The extra bonus is we can keep having kids cause now we have space for them! And, I think Danny was a little excited that it came with a built in GPS system. Too bad the minute you cross into Canada all of the roads disappear. :) Guess it is only programmed for the US! :)

A transition

2012-01-10T21:15:00.000-06:00

Going, going, gone!

My first car I ever purchased more than 10 years ago. It saw LOTS of Montana memories, lots of home pediatric visits as an occupational therapist, the first car Danny and I drove after our wedding, Minnesota memories, lots of road trip memories, and we brought Zeke and Theo home from the hospital in this car.

But, despite our best efforts, three car seats were not going to fit into the second seat.

So, bye bye Car!

Stay tuned to see what The Bronsons will be driving now!

Christmas morning

2012-01-10T21:09:00.000-06:00

Had to add a picture or two of my boys on Christmas morning. I guess I am thankful my kids are always awake before 7am as we had plenty of time to open a few presents and still have plenty of time for Danny to get to church early and us to follow shortly there after.

Our theme this year was anything to do with tractors and farms. The boys are both enjoying their play with tractors all day long. Fun to see this change in the year that we have been here! :)

Trying something new

2012-01-10T21:05:00.001-06:00

I think kids up here are born with skates on. We just went to a hockey game where there were kids as young as 3 playing! Their jerseys went past their knees!

But, a family from church gave us skates and a helmet for Zeke to try.

You might wonder why I only have two pictures. Well, let just say I hope we last a bit longer next time. I think Zeke was actually on the ice for only about 4 minutes! :)

Winter Fun

2012-01-10T20:55:00.000-06:00

Snowflake Quesadillas were on the menu for us! They had fun!

christmas card 2011

2011-12-14T11:22:00.001-06:00

Faith Love Family Religious

Turn your family into a holiday card this season.

View the entire collection of cards.

My amazing husband!

2011-12-10T23:27:00.002-06:00

Danny spent almost an entire Saturday cutting firewood for our family.

This is one of our piles! It should last until at least January!

Thanks Honey!

My reading boys

2011-12-10T23:24:00.002-06:00

Walked past Theo's room today and smiled as I saw my boys reading.

So cute!

Thanks Mom

2011-12-10T23:19:00.002-06:00

I had the chance to go the big city of Saskatoon ALL DAY with some ladies from church KID FREE this last Wednesday as Danny took the day off. I know that is a special treat which won't happen again once for awhile once #3 arrives.

Found this in a cool little store.

A blessing and fun in a box

2011-12-10T22:49:00.003-06:00

A family from church gave us their artificial tree as they had recently purchased a new one!

The boys were eager to help Danny with the setup. And, we discovered the tree box might be more fun than the tree.

Zeke's black eye

2011-12-10T22:44:00.002-06:00

At a Christmas party last week, Zeke had a little introduction to the back of a chair.

I think the chair might have won!

We was running full speed with another little boy, turned to look at the boy, and ran right into the back of the chair. After a few tears and a little ice, he quickly recovered enough to return running around with his friend. He woke up the next morning and said, "Does it still look good, Mama?"

He wanted me to make sure and take a picture from the side too. :)

Belated Thanksgivng Fun!

2011-12-10T22:30:00.007-06:00

We had the chance to travel to Dickinson, ND for Thanksgiving to spend time with family in Aunt Becky and Uncle Jamie!

Super thankful we could do and loved the amazing weather while we were there! Zeke kept asking where the snow was! Just my big boy on Thanksgiving! Can't believe he will be a big brother soon!

Aunt Becky, Danny, and Ama cooking up something.

Lots of reading happening in the house.

And, what FUN and EXHAUSTING!

4 cousins 3 years and younger.

They had SO much fun together over the long weekend and they were busy!

Our attempt at a group photo, not bad if I do say so myself

Theo (15 months), Zeke (3), Hannah (3), Noah (7 months)

Thanks Aunt Becky!

What a fun time!

Just a cute photo

2011-12-04T22:03:00.001-06:00

Fun with Annika

2011-12-04T21:55:00.004-06:00

We have the chance to have a friend come over and play a few days a week. It is fun to see the fun games she and Zeke come up with and the pretend and imaginary play that occurs!

Check out their awesome artwork! :)

Theo had to get in on the action too!

Snow fun!

2011-12-04T21:41:00.004-06:00

Winter is here!

We had a great visit from Danny's Dad and Step mom for his ordination.

Zeke has been so excited for the snow. Hope he still feels that way when it is still here in April! :)

We are getting lots of use of my $5 sled I got at Garage Sale Days this last summer! :)

Danny's Ordination

2011-11-18T15:29:00.005-06:00

Danny was ordained on November 13, 2011.

What a special day! Our big man even wore a tie for the day!

We are proud of you Reverend Bronson :) for all of your hard work!
WE love you.

Garden lessons

2011-10-25T15:42:00.003-05:00

Danny and I are new gardeners. . . lets hope next year the carrots turn out a little bit better. :)

Getting better

2011-10-25T15:34:00.002-05:00

One of my goals while living in SK is to learn how make good bread. It seems like everyone up here makes their own bread and buns, and they are willing to share their secrets.

Yummy, here is a few photos to show that I am making progress. Caramel pecan rolls with my mom while she was visiting.
Whole wheat bread fresh from the oven

cute pics

2011-10-25T15:28:00.003-05:00

Cute Elephants

and rocking boys

A Field Supper

2011-10-25T15:18:00.007-05:00

Where are we going? Off to our very first Harvest Field Supper!
Zeke loved watching everything up close!

Yummy Food!

What a Fun night, we are so very thankful for our community!

a birthday party

2011-09-27T16:57:00.003-05:00

We were invited out to some friend's beautiful farm for their little girls 2nd birthday party! They even had a zip line for the little guys!

Theo especially enjoyed himself as he realized that he could reach the little kid table and finished off many of the other children's food as well as helping himself to more than 10 marshmallows.
Nice Theo!

We have a winner!

2011-09-27T15:54:00.002-05:00

Zeke won a coloring contest that the community grocery store held and won a Saskatchewan Roughriders blanket! Go Zeke! :)

Blessed by other's harvest

2011-09-27T15:48:00.004-05:00

We have been blessed by the generosity of others in our community with lots of produce! I especially loved this when an older couple from church dropped off some produce and even named the potatoes!

A race like I have never seen before. . .

2011-09-27T15:34:00.003-05:00

It might have been the highlight of the 2011 car show. But, what are we watching you ask?

The Annual Belt Sander Race! Fun was had by all. :)

The parade

2011-09-27T15:25:00.005-05:00

The Bronson Family got the opportunity to be in our 1st parade! We even got to throw candy!

We were able to be on the float that carried the ministerial association and their families.

Birch Hills has a community church service followed by a parade and BBQ for Threshing Days.

What a fun experience for a three year old!

Things my boys love

2011-08-30T11:53:00.001-05:00

A little swimming followed by some fun in the mud! Visits from the garbage truck!

Theo turned 1!

2011-08-30T11:39:00.005-05:00

Theo turned 1 on August 3, 2011.

He is starting to think he is a big boy just like his brother.
Zeke was quick to help with the decorating especially when he found out he could sneak some candy!

We did caterpillar cupcakes and fruit!

Lots of them as we invited lots of friends from church.

Theo enjoying all of the attention from his friend Lorris.

He jumped right into his cupcake with a little help from brother.

Good stuff, Mom! Can I have more?

Raspberry picking

2011-08-30T11:34:00.002-05:00

Someone enjoys eating raspberries

Yummy!

Family Camp 2011

2011-08-30T11:14:00.003-05:00

We went to our first Family Camp in Canada this year in Elbow, SK.

We did lots of swimming and playing in the sand! Zeke enjoyed the trails and enjoyed running everywhere!

Lots of reading by the campfire.

Some of the Mamas and their babies. :)

What a fun week learning about Jesus, meeting new people, and making great family memories!

First hair cut

2011-08-30T11:08:00.002-05:00

We finally got around to cutting Theo's hair in July. When we were traveling in June and July, we got called a girl move than once. So, Danny got the clippers out and we went to work.

Before: After:
It looks like such a big boy! Almost makes ths Mama a little sad :(

Can you guess?

2011-08-14T22:01:00.006-05:00

I got lucky and had the same outfit packed for our trip that Zeke had worn two summers prior while we were still living in MN.

Can you guess who is Zeke and who is Theo? And, Big Brother was a great help!

Summer Vacation to MN

2011-08-14T21:36:00.011-05:00

After WI, we headed north to MN to see family! Zeke was super excited to see his cousin Hannah and also meet his newest cousin Noah! Aunt Shana planned an amazing birthday party for the two 3 year olds. She even created cool fire truck cakes, and they got to visit a fire station.

Enjoying cuddles with cousin Ashley.

We went strawberry picking while we were there!

Then, we headed to Ipoint for an amazing weekend of Family Camp! What a wonderful weekend.

Ama and Gpa after falling in the lake after being out in the canoe. They are still smiling!

Lots of great memories made!

A big Trip South

2011-08-10T17:18:00.011-05:00

I am super far behind in blogging so will be trying to catch up with some of our summer traveling! We headed down to WI at the end of June for my cousin's wedding! A fun 26 hours in the car with an almost 3 year old and almost one year old! In all honesty, the boys did amazing and we are thankful we traveled through the night.

We even managed to get to airport in Milwaukee right as my sister and her family arrived on their flight from Spokane. Zeke was pretty excited. (still wearing his pjs)The wedding was fun and thankful we had the chance to see lots of family! The dessert wasn't bad either as you can see from Zeke's face!

My sister's little boy was the ring bearer and he did an awesome job!

We stayed at my Uncle and Aunt's lake cottage with my parents and sister's family for almost a week following the wedding! We had a 4 year old, 3 year old, 2 year old, and almost a 1 year old! Busy! We even got to ride a train!

Lots of great memories made with cousins! Super special when you leave so far apart from each other!

We celebrated Zeke's third Birthday and my sister's _ _ birthday. It was wonderful to be together.

We found this AMAZING children's museum and the kids (including Danny) could have played forever!

But, Theo was not excited about learning the ropes regarding money from the around the world despite my Dad's best efforts! :)

Thanks Dad and Mom for all you did to help us all get together!

More playgroup Fun

2011-07-21T15:37:00.005-05:00

Just to prove that we do have summer in Sk! :)

Enjoying the warm weather with playgroup friends!

Big Brother giving a push to the little guys! :)

Trip To Lustre

2011-07-21T15:25:00.007-05:00

On our way back to SK, the boys and I spent the night in Lustre, MT visiting the Olfert Family! I have always wanted to see where they are farming and thankful we had the chance for a quick visit!
Fun on the swings!

A tractor ride except Zeke was too chicken to actually stay in it once it was turned on! :)

Much better when it was quiet!

Thanks so much Dawson and Alicia and boys! So awesome to see your home!

And, Dawson, thanks so much for driving in the field in the car.

Now, every time we drive past a field (which is quite often in Birch Hills)

Zeke asks me to drive through the grass. :)

Quick Trip

2011-07-21T15:19:00.004-05:00

In early May, the boys are I went on a quick trip down to MT to surprise my Dad.

He had fallen while visiting us and had broken his pelvis. The LONG drive with a 2 year old and 10 month old was worth the surprised look on his face! Lunch at Olive Garden with Elmo! I was happy! :)
My sister also came at the end of our trip so all the grand kids were together for one day!
Fun and busy! :)

A new defensive strategy

2011-07-21T15:15:00.001-05:00

Danny and I are moving from a man on man defense to a zone defense in late February 2011. Baby Bronson #3 will be arriving!

40 little toes

2011-05-20T22:11:00.006-05:00

I have been very blessed with the opportunity to attend a play group of moms here in Birch Hills. There happens to be 3 other little ones that come that are all very close to Theo's age. What fun to see them together as they grow!

Theo was thinking Mom was moving too far away. :)

Backwards

2011-05-20T22:08:00.002-05:00

Ever have a day when all you do is feel like you are going backwards. . .

Theo knows exactly how you feel.

He is a backwards traveling man. :)

The required Spaghetti photo

2011-05-20T22:02:00.002-05:00

Fondue Fun!

2011-05-20T21:46:00.006-05:00

We had a fondue supper. What a fun night.

Just a few pictures.

Some of my favorite little guests. :)

Easter egg hunting attire

2011-04-26T16:09:00.002-05:00

It case you like to plan ahead and are thinking about what you want to wear next year for Easter egg hunting, Zeke wanted to give you a good idea for an outfit. :) Hope you had a wonderful Easter!

He is RISEN!

Crackers anyone?

2011-04-26T15:56:00.004-05:00

I was just finishing dinner when Theo decided he was super hungry and was unable to wait one more minute for his supper. I asked Zeke to help me by giving him a few little crackers.

"ok, Mama, I did it. Theo has a snack"

I tell Zeke thanks as I see this!

___________________________________________

Theo is pumped and was trying to shovel all of them into his mouth before I took some away.

Thankful for my boys!

Bowling

2011-04-26T15:48:00.004-05:00

We went bowling with another church from town.

What a fun afternoon! It was great to meet a bunch of new people and enjoy some Canadian bowling. :) We used a small ball with no holes for your fingers.

Me and my "bigger boy" as he calls himself Bowling pictures now provided by this bigger boy Zeke.
Must have liked the shoes

Nice floor!

Cracker making

2011-04-26T15:45:00.001-05:00

Zeke and I couldn't resist making Graham crackers into the shape of eggs.

Yummy!

The Green Guys

2011-04-26T15:25:00.008-05:00

We had the chance to plant some "green guys" the other day at story time at the library.

Zeke has been fascinated with these "green guys" and asks about them quite often.

He still can't quite seem to understand why he can't play with them. :)

But, we wanted to introduce you to the "green guys" Just a little guy here. . . Meet The Peas Meet the Beans

Growing quickly!

Things grow fast in Canada :)

We need to find a place to plant the "Green Guys" quick!

Anyone?

2011-04-18T22:17:00.004-05:00

Anyone know what this is?

No far quessing if you live in Lustre :) just kidding Alicia!

_______________________________________________

Good, I don't either! But, I am sure I will know what it is and the purpose of it

after my first spring, summer, and fall in a farming community!

Farmer Appreciation Day

2011-04-18T21:33:00.007-05:00

Some friends invited us to the Customer Appreciation Days in

Kinistino, SK last week

(only about 30 km from our home) We had the chance to visit the biggest Ag World Dealer in North America (just learned this fact, I bet you are really impressed) We had a wonderful dinner (that is what they call lunch up here), got to walk around and take a look at all of the vendors, meet some new people, and I even enjoyed a special program just for the women with harvest meal ideas. They handed out a new cookbook and apron to all of the women present, and I have already enjoyed trying out the new recipes! Lots of BIG machines and BIG tires made for a fun afternoon for Zeke!

Zeke was in the picture but got distracted by something as I took it.

Zeke got a balloon animal, enjoyed watching Charlotte's web in the children's section, and learned how to milk a cow from one of the gentleman in our congregation.

Thanks James!

It was melting. . .

2011-04-18T21:29:00.001-05:00

But, April snow also brings May flowers. . . right???

Still melting!

2011-04-12T22:43:00.007-05:00

Zeke has been busy! So much spring cleaning to do outside:)

Who really needs grass to mow the lawn? You can even mow on the snow if you want. . . or the cement. . .

Busy, busy 2 year old!

So fun to watch!

Making boats

2011-04-12T22:31:00.002-05:00

Danny and the youth made boats on Friday night to float in the very

full ditches from spring run off.

Zeke enjoyed participating!

Unfortunately for Danny, his boat got sucked into

the back wash of a culvert. . . and disappeared. :( Zeke showing off his awesome boat!

8 months old!

2011-04-12T22:22:00.004-05:00

Anyone want a hug? I LOVE my big brother!

8 months old already! Such a big boy!

Breaking news!

2011-03-31T23:10:00.002-05:00

We have MUD!!! Spring is coming!!!

A house of games

2011-03-31T22:50:00.006-05:00

What fun to have a two year old closing in on 3!

Lots of new games and imaginary play!Can you guess what we are doing?

No, we are not in time out.

Here is a clue: "Ready or not, here we come."We are playing hide and seek! We have been playing lots of that here!

____________________________________________________

Anyone hungry?

You are welcome to join us on our picnic!

Come hungry and bring your imagination!

A two hat day

2011-03-31T22:40:00.004-05:00

Zeke has felt the need to wear two hats lately. Putting on his two touques before heading to play group. :) Theo even got in on the action but somehow got away with only wearing one hat. I will have to check with Zeke on that one. :)

A road trip?

2011-03-31T22:37:00.002-05:00

Anyone want to go on a road trip? We went to Edmonton for a conference for our church. Our first Canadian road trip. And, don't worry, Theo didn't drive the whole time. :)

A trip to the Park

2011-03-31T21:45:00.008-05:00

Zeke and I had our first park experience In Birch Hills!

We had a blast!

We had one Happy guy!

These made me laugh. . . there is no going around on this

merry go round until this snow melts a little bit! The tire swings don't get much air at this time of year either since they are sitting on the snow.

Zeke loved this swing as he was able to sit down without help!

But, one of the best parts of the day. . .

Better than watching a movie at home. . .

Eating snow high atop a snow pile while watching the

front end loader and dump truck hard at work.

This is the life!

An open house

2011-03-13T22:11:00.008-05:00

Lots of shoes Lots of food

Lots of new friends

equals

an open house!

We are thankful to be up here in Birch Hills and enjoying

getting to make new friends in our church!

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I also LOVE the sun coming up in the morning!

And maybe, just maybe, the snow will actually melt sometime soon!

Reading Fun

2011-03-13T22:08:00.003-05:00

Counting

2011-03-13T21:57:00.004-05:00

Something we hear quite often in our house is:

One, Two, Cuatro, Cinco, Seis

_________________________________________________

Danny speaks to Zeke in Spanish quite a bit so this is how Zeke is now counting.

I think it is pretty cute!

Brothers

2011-03-13T21:38:00.008-05:00

I've had so much fun watching as my boys are interacting more with each other!

Fun at the Costco with the BIG cart!Zeke telling stories to "Wheo" at the end of lunch.

Having fun in the bath!

Good times!

I love my brother!

Are you talking about me?

Family Day

2011-02-26T20:17:00.003-06:00

We celebrated our first Family Day on Monday!

What an awesome idea for a holiday. Family Day is observed in the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan on the third Monday of February. This holiday celebrates the importance of families and family life to people and their communities.

_________________________________________________________

What do people do?
On Family Day, many people plan and take part in activities aimed at the whole family. These include visiting art exhibitions, watching movies, skating on outdoor ice rinks, playing board games and taking part in craft activities. Some communities plan special public events, and art galleries and museums may have reduced price or free entry.
As the weather is usually very cold in February, hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies are popular snacks. Other people use the long weekend as an opportunity for a short winter break or to travel to visit family members or friends. As Family Day falls on the same date as National Heritage Day, some people use the day to explore their personal heritage and family history.

Public life
In the provinces of Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan, many people have a day off work and schools are generally closed on Family Day. Many businesses and organizations are closed, but post offices may be open. Public transport services may run to their usual or reduced timetables.

How cool! (and, it was COLD) And what a fun Family Day!

A Birthday

2011-02-26T20:02:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday Danny!

Started out with a request from Zeke to "sleep"

He loves to pretend he is sleeping in our bed although he doesn't

seem to hold still for much longer than a few seconds.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

Danny requested french toast and lemon meringue pie.

Zeke helped me get the bread out of the bag when making the french toast. I guess I wasn't paying attention, because someone took a bite out of each piece of bread.

And, the pie.

A few views around our town

2011-02-26T19:53:00.005-06:00

Welcome To Birch Hills, SK

Thought you might want to look around a little bit

The view as you near town

Our grocery store

Our curling rink

Stayed tuned for more pics later to continue the Birch Hills tour

A pizza helper

2011-02-22T16:01:00.002-06:00

Someone has been helping make some yummy pizza!

6 months old!

2011-02-22T15:54:00.004-06:00

I'm still in shock. Did you hear?
I can't believe it either!

Yes, it is true! I am already 6 months old!

Travel to Canada

2011-02-18T16:21:00.008-06:00

Our travel to our new home in Birch Hills, SK took about 25 hours!

We hit quite a bit of bad weather the last 8 or so hours.

Who moves to Canada in January? We do. :)

_________________________________________

Think it was like -30 degrees Celsius when we arrived.

Ask me in about month and I can tell you how cold that is in F.

It felt cold! This was my view for the entire TRIP, staring at the back of the

moving truck and Danny's car.

Every time Zeke sees a moving truck he still gets excited. Me, not so much.

Finally arriving at the border! But, we still had about 10 hours left to drive!

Tobie and Theo cuddling on the ride.

Using many forms of entertainment for Zeke

during the drive and at the immigration border.

Zeke having fun with the camera!

___________________________________________________

The AMAZING crew helping us move in on a VERY cold day!

Thank you everyone!

They also had a potluck waiting for us when we finally arrived and a fully stocked kitchen.

What a blessing!

Chaos! Now the work begins to make this into a home!

Thanks for the prayers.

We are having fun settling into our new home, meeting new people, and making friends!

Travel to MN

2011-02-18T16:00:00.008-06:00

We had the chance to once again travel to MN for a pastor's retreat and to see family!

Yummy Chili with family!

I especially like the centerpiece! :)

___________________________________________________________

A few days before we arrived my sister-in-law and family

adopted a puppy and their goat had a kid. It made for one happy 2 year old! Lots of cuddling. . .

We did our second annual Bronson Photo Scavenger Hunt in the Fergus Falls.
This was my team!

Zeke and Hannah together again!

The firetruck was a big hit!

Zeke also got the special chance to spend a day with Aunt Shana and Hannah while

Danny, Theo, and I were at the retreat! Good times!

Riding on a Bus!

2011-02-18T15:50:00.004-06:00

Someone got to ride on a bus!

On Danny's last day of driving bus in Billings, he got permission to have a special assistant! And, boy was that assistant excited to travel with Daddy on a bus! Good times, do you like the vest?

Safety first, makes him Mama happy!

Christmas 2010

2011-02-18T15:43:00.003-06:00

New hats from Aunt Katie! Hanging out with Papa!

Fun with my Mom!

Playing Catch-up

2011-02-18T14:59:00.009-06:00

"Look at the camera, Wheo!"

I haven't blogged in awhile! We have BEEN busy! Christmas with family, traveling to visit family, packing, moving to Canada, and unpacking!

Here is a little update!

A fun weekend at the cabin before leaving for Canada!Hiking with ZekeMy favorite place!

This reminds me of a time a few years ago. . .

Our wedding day!

How things change!

Family of 2 increasing to a family of 4 in 3 1/2 years.

What a blessing!

A New Journey

2010-12-18T11:51:00.009-06:00

We are getting ready to head out on a new adventure. . . A place where we will see lots of these. . .
And lots of these. . .
And lots of empty roads with beauty all around. . .
_________________________________________________

Danny and I have accepted a call to Birch Hills, SK.
Congrats Pastor Danny!
We are very EXCITED about this opportunity.
We hope to start up there by January 15th!
Give us a call if you are in the area. :)

We would love your prayers as we look for a place to live, complete paperwork for our move, pack and unpack again, and get ready to say some awfully hard goodbyes. Thanks!

Birthday Fun!

2010-12-14T22:43:00.004-06:00

I turned a year older on the 12th,

and I had plenty of help with blowing out my candles. . .
and eating my ice cream treat!

Thankful for my boys on my birthday!

Another trip

2010-12-14T22:21:00.009-06:00

Someone was REALLY excited to go on an airplane!

The escalators and the moving walkways were an extra bonus!
As Zeke was running down the jetway onto the plane,
he yelled, "We go on airplane, Wheo! We go on airplane, Wheo!"
It was so cute that he wanted to share this
exciting adventure with his brother. :)

Can you guess where we went?

Buda, Texas

Danny had an interview with a church down there and
we all went down for a wonderful week of meeting new folks and enjoying Texas hospitality!

Theo seemed to enjoy the walks outside in the 60 degree weather.

Zeke even made new friends. :)

An amazing night

2010-12-14T21:51:00.006-06:00

Baby Jackson continues to grow and is now hanging out in Denver

with his Dad and Mom as he grows bigger and gets stronger. We had the amazing opportunity to be a part of the body of Christ reaching out to help Baby Jackson's Dad and Mom pack up their home and move into their new home.

They were busy caring for Jackson and MANY folks stepped up to help in a big way!

It was an amazing thing to be a part of! :) The babies even got their chance to help. :)
We finished packing up their home, loading them into a moving truck, unloading them in their new home, and cleaning their old home from top to bottom in less than three hours!
It was a miracle with more than 30 people coming out on a cold night to help whever they could. And, the plan all came together in less than a day.

Continue to grow big and strong Jackson.

We are praying for you and your parents!

A School Bus Story

2010-11-27T18:00:00.002-06:00

This is Danny. Last Tuesday I drove school bus for an elementary school. This was a route I had never driven before so I was relying on the students to help me find the right places to stop. However, other than statements like, "Yes, people get off here, but they're not riding today," or, "You keep going straight until you turn," I really didn't get much help until after I turned down a street that goes through on the map but not in reality. Up until that point I had only dropped off two students and there were two stops left. Someone finally said, "The rest of us get of at the last two stops." Thanks.

The most exciting part of the route, though, was when we saw two deer in a field and one of the kids, probably a first grader, started yelling "Reindeer, reindeer," about 20 times or so in the most high pitch voice I have heard in a long time. It was so annoying I almost had to pull over to avoid driving in the ditch.

Thanksgiving Cabin Fun

2010-11-27T16:21:00.006-06:00

Shh, it is a secret.

Do you like our fort? We went Thanksgiving weekend to my parent's cabin,

actually we ended up being stuck there.

But, I have to say, it is one of my favorite places to be stuck. :)

________________________________________________

We got a good amount of snow and then about two days of lots of wind.

We ended up with drifting snow up to 6 feet tall.

That made for a very happy husband on the 4 wheeler with a plow.

And, a very happy 2 year old exploring the outdoors.

But, also dreaming about driving the lawnmower with Papa next summer.

A long trip

2010-11-27T16:02:00.008-06:00

We went on a LONG trip. . . over the river and through the hills. . . to a winter wonderland called Birch Hills, SK
Where, you ask, is Birch Hills?
Well, it is in Canada.
____________________________________________
Go north, and then go north some more and you will arrive there.
It takes about 15 hours from MT with a newborn and a 2 year old.

Zeke even got to try his hand at hockey.

Danny had an interview with a church there and we had a wonderful time.

And, we continue to be thankful for his promise to us in Jeremiah.
God knows our plans even when we don't.

A Good Sport

2010-11-27T15:48:00.006-06:00

We continue to live with my parents as was the plan for the "summer," except now it is almost December! They have continued to be amazing and it has been SUCH a blessing for us.

Thanks for being such "good sports"

We love you Papa and Elmo! Thanks!

We are VERY THANKFUL for you!

Thankful for my boys

2010-11-25T15:28:00.005-06:00

Zeke, almost 2 and half

Theo, 3 monthsTheo working on his wink like his big brother

Please continue to be in prayer for our friends Aaron and Sommer.

They delivered their little boy 15 weeks early, weighing 1lb 13oz.

Here is his little diaper next to his mom's hand and it is actually too big for him!

Pray for them in the long road ahead of them as he continues to grow and develop.

Prayers please

2010-11-20T15:51:00.001-06:00

Please be in prayer for our friends!

Please be in prayer for Aaron, Sommer and Baby Boy Eberly. They are expecting a baby boy due in March. Sommer has been admitted to the hospital and put on bed rest due to premature labor. She is currently 5 cm dilated and only 24 weeks pregnant. Pray for the health and development of their baby boy and for strength and peace for Aaron and Sommer.

Multitude Monday on a Tuesday

2010-11-09T14:07:00.002-06:00

Today, I am Thankful:

21. a quiet morning

22. scripture memory

23. laughter of a 2 year old

24. smiles of a 3 month old

25. leaves falling

26. the promise of Spring

27. a working car

28. a good cup of tea

29. the vacuum when you have a dog and boys

30. a sewing machine

31. airplane travel

32. return of my husband from travel

33. unexpected generosity of a friend that bought me to tears (of joy)

34. piano music in the background

35. an unexpected evening to myself (thanks Mom)

36. sleeping baby

37. God (again) teaching me to be content in the moment

38. visiting an old church and feeling loved

39. disposable diapers when someone ate two many blueberries

40. a full night sleep

41. the comfort of home

42. my husband hard work for our family in the dirt (as Zeke calls his construction job)

Our family of Frogs!

2010-11-08T11:46:00.005-06:00

We headed over to Zoo Montana for some fun with two cute little frogs.

It was a beautiful fall day and we had a blast!

Out little boy is getting SO big!

Multitude Monday

2010-11-01T12:36:00.003-05:00

Lately, I have found myself being negative. . .

Negative about not knowing what step is next for Danny and I, negative about what I am doing right now to contribute to the world, negative about continuing to live in my parent's basement with no clear direction, negative about my lack of sleep due to Theo, negative about my crazy days where I get nothing done when hanging out with Zeke and Theo. Unfortunately, I could go on. All this negativity only hurts me, my family, and my relationship with Jesus. I have so much to be thankful for and my attitude should reflect that.

So, I am trying a challenge from aholyexperience.com

To give thanks or to not give thanks

I want to choose to give thanks and make a list of 1000 things I am thankful, an endless list of found Beauty, a chance to give intentional thanks

And so today, I begin with a few. . .

a chubby little boy with a big smile
a big brother who loves his Baby Wheo
the quiet of the night while feeding my son
two cute little boys dressed as frogs causing people to smile
a husband who loves the LORD and seeks to lead our family
the opportunity to wait on the LORD
my parents and their willingness to allow us to invade their home for 5 months. . .
the sound of "Hi Mama" with a big smile
Clean cloth diapers
the magic of play
the colors of Fall
the fun in leaves
going to church as a family
your word
a challenging Bible study
parks
feeling better after having a cold
a hug from a two year old
a quiet house
nap time

My boys

2010-10-26T15:30:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure who is the "Bigger" brother when I look at this picture. Zeke is now 24lbs and in the 5th percentile for his age with his weight

Theo is 14lbs and in the 95th percentile for his age.

I think Zeke better watch out or Theo is going to catch him!

Theo is two months old

2010-10-26T15:22:00.006-05:00

This guy is already two months old and weighing a hearty 14 lbs! He is such a happy and content baby! I am so thankful.

A Birthday!

2010-10-26T15:12:00.003-05:00

We celebrated my Mom's birthday! She has plenty of help to blow out candles. A happy "Elmo" with her boy.

Fun at Grandpa's Farm in MT

2010-10-26T14:50:00.009-05:00

We did make A-maize-ing Memories together! I think my parents might like Zeke. :)

Zeke in his cow train.

I'm not sure who is more scared! :) Zeke or my mom!

My Dad and Mom

Zeke with his friends Tyler and Tatum

What a wonderful night making amazing memories!

Trip to MN and ND

2010-10-26T14:27:00.009-05:00

At the beginning of October, we traveled to ND and MN to visit family, friends, and for Danny to attend a conference on preaching. It was Theo's first long car trip and he did great!

Zeke continues to practice his winking with each and every picture. :) We visited his cousin Hannah and had some toddler fun!
We visited Uncle Andy and Aunt Shana and enjoyed some Harvest activities!

It is a challenge to get two toddlers to stay in once place for a picture.

Zeke with his "piggies"

The Whole Gang

We also enjoyed some amazing pancakes with some seminary friends and their families! Thanks you guys for setting that up!

Fun times! We miss you all.

Week at the Cabin

2010-09-26T20:46:00.012-05:00

I am so thankful for this beautiful place!

My sister, Katie and her family came from Spokane for a visit. We spent an amazing week together at the cabin with a 3 year old, 2 year old, 1 year old and a 7 week old!

It was a Fun and Busy week.

We all enjoyed nap time. :) Cooking with Elmo (that is what they call my Mom)

Watching Papa fish!

Fun with the Lawn mower and trailer

Riding horses with Cousin Ryan

Reading with Papa

Morgan loving on her newest cousin!

We hiked up to the hole in the rock

Katie and I couldn't resist taking a picture too.

There is probably a picture of us somewhere at almost the same age as Ryan and Zeke. :)

What the piggie does at our house

2010-09-26T20:43:00.002-05:00

The Half Marathon

2010-09-26T20:19:00.007-05:00

Danny and his sister Becky ran the Montana Half Marathon last Sunday!

This was the first time we saw them on the course! Still Smiling :)

They Finished!

(Zeke, Theo, and I missed them crossing the finish line

as Theo decided it was more important for him to eat. :)

1 hour 56 minutes and 8 seconds! Impressive!

Our family

We are so proud of you Daddy!

Scottie's parents cheering them on!
They even brought signs and pompoms.

Great job Becky and Danny from your biggest supporters!

We love you!

Baby Shower for Theo

2010-09-26T20:03:00.008-05:00

Yummy Food. . . Lots of Laughter. . . Good Friends. . . Little Helpers. . . Wonderful Memories. . . Proud Dads

What a blessing!
Thanks to the folks at Yellowstone Lutheran Brethren for the wonderful shower!

The Big Brother

2010-09-13T21:33:00.003-05:00

Zeke has been a great big brother so far!

I had to share a few things he has been doing in his new role. :)

He often talks about Theo but it usually sounds like Baby Wheo. I have even started saying Wheo now when I refer to Theo.

He will often climb up into my lap and point to the right side and say, "Zeke's side" and then point to the left side and say, "Wheo's side."

The other day he ran to the bathroom when I told him I was giving Theo a bath. He came back crying saying "Where Baby Wheo Mama?" He expected Theo to be in the bath since I said I was giving him a bath. Who takes a "bath" in a sink?

Today when Theo sneezed, Zeke said "Bless Wheo"

My dad is a diabetic and has to give himself insulin shots a few times a day in his stomach. He tries to do the shots discreetly and not directly in front of Zeke. Yesterday, Zeke picked out a large pen from a container of pens during fellowship time at church. He lifted up his shirt and placed the pen on his tummy and slowly pushed the other end of the click pen. It took me a second, but then I realized he was trying to give himself an "injection" just like Papa. It is amazing how much that kid takes in!

______________________________________________________________

An update:

We are still in Montana and Danny just finished serving as the pastor at Yellowstone for the summer while the pastor was on sabbatical. It was an awesome summer and Danny did a great job! He is continuing to do some framing/construction with some friends and driving bus. I am enjoying being home with my two boys and we are praying about my need to return to work. We are waiting to find out what might be next in regards to church work for our family and where we might be living.

We would appreciate your prayers. Thanks! Danny, Mandy, Zeke, and Theo