The Cummings Family

Baby Cummings #4

2011-03-28T14:51:00.003-05:00

Today we had our BIG ultrasound. This is typically the ultrasounds where couples find out the gender. We chose not to this time around! James thinks I'm completely insane and that he's not going to be able to wait. I figure I'm already 21 weeks and 2 days; past our halfway mark, what's another 19 weeks?!?!

We did get to see some amazing things! The 4 chamber heart, beating! Absolutely priceless! A full stomach which means Baby is swallowing normally. We saw ribs, the spine, the femur on both legs and even got a cute profile picture showing Baby's sweet button nose!

Here are two pictures that I was able to load on our computer!

Cute button nose and lips!

Baby waving "HI!"

All our love,
Patti

January 2011, part 2

2011-02-13T15:15:00.000-06:00

Josie's first steps!!! Way to go Sissy Beth!!!

Baby C #4 - due Aug 6

All our love!!!

January 2011

2011-02-13T15:09:00.000-06:00

Catching up January 2011!

"Mary"


"Joseph"

These next pics are terrible-they're from my phone's camera. We had a total blast though. Thanks Uncle Ronald!!!!

Heading out to Elmo Live!

The stage!


The kids enjoying every minute of it! Lindsey and I just making silly smile faces at each other-ha!

The stage again-blurry is kind of cool, right?

Ben's first day at Mockingbird!!

Sled ride

Sled ride down the hill-all by himself!

Nate pulling Ben on the sled

Snowball fight :)


Ben crawling through the snow

Ben the snow angel

Nate the snow angel

Burying daddy

Josie's first sled ride

Ben going down the hill again!

Snow pile!

Family picture! Ben was too busy playing to be interrupted for a still shot!

December-catching up, part 2

2011-01-26T15:05:00.000-06:00

Apparently you're only allowed so many pictures per post. So here goes the last few pictures and a couple of videos!

Josie's first pigtails-they lasted all of 30 seconds or so! Ha!

Nate giving us a lemon rind smile!

Ben's video of pushing Josie in the basket

Nate's video of pushing Josie in the basket

All our love!

December-catching up

2011-01-26T14:33:00.000-06:00

Nate and Ben were creative and created a stick horse.

Made from wrapping paper, Josie's kangaroo and a bucket helmet to match!

A favorite hiding spot-the tv cabinet

Josie's new favorite snack?

We got to meet two of Santa's reindeer and sit in his sleigh!

Nate having a fun time decorating sugar cookies

Ben's showing off his creation!

Mommy & Daddy's newest creation-due August 6, 2011!

Sweet Jo

Ben loves building things with our couch cushions-today, a house

Ben pushing Josie in the basket

Josie loving it!!!

Nate's turn to push Josie!


The boys watching Handy Manny

All our love

Happy 1st Birthday Josephine Lily Beth!!!!

2011-01-26T13:56:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that our sweet Josie is 1 year old already! It has been a pleasure and a joy having a little girl added to our family. Here are some picture from her day!

Birthday Pancakes-a fun tradition!

Blowing out her first candle!!

She is thrilled to take a picture with Mama

Our sweet birthday princess

Snarfing a yummy cup cake

Ben's cup cake smile

Nina & Ben

Great Grandma JoJo & Nina

Ben & Mama

Uncle David & Great Grandma JoJo

Josie with her namesake Great Grandma JoJo

All our love!

November-catching up

2011-01-24T21:58:00.000-06:00

Playing Disney Yahtzee with Nina!

Nate's outfit for Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving dinner!


Josie's 1 year photo shoot proof!

Nate singing "Sunbeam"

Ben singing "Sunbeam"

It has been WAY to long since an updated. I will be posting over the next several days to bring us to where we are today!!!

All our love!

Christmas is near!!!

2010-11-17T19:07:00.000-06:00

Last Friday I had the pleasure of meeting another local photographer! Jessi was overly patient with my silly, naughty children! Look at these wonderful memories she helped create for our family!

Benjamin

Nathaniel

Josephine

Scrunchy Nose!

Silly Stick-out!

Reaching for the camera

Trying to get all 3 together

Oh Happy Memories!

Check Jessi and her husband Jon out online. http://www.jsallenbachphotography.com

Be on the lookout for your Christmas card this year!

All our love!

Truth....

2010-11-16T21:11:00.000-06:00

...I found this the other day while cleaning. I always find this on days that I really need it! I don't really remember where I copied this from, but I'm so glad I wrote these down!

*My children were created for a specific reason and are a gift to me!!

*We're on a good journey, despite our ups and downs!!

*God will use these difficulties for His good and wise purposes!!

*I can be okay even while my children are not.

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T13:03:00.000-05:00

Nate the clown, Ben is Tigger, and Josie the love bunny

All our love!

Birthday Party Fun

2010-10-30T12:55:00.000-05:00

Today was Ben's 4th Birthday party with his friends. He wanted to go mini-golfing...so off we went with 4 of his friends and Nate. It was a lot of fun!

Nate, Preston, Joey, Elijah, Ryland and Benjamin

All our love!

Happy 4th Birthday Benjamin!!!

2010-10-23T12:45:00.000-05:00

I am really not quite sure how this day has come. How are you already 4 years old?!?!?!

You are a blessing to our family Benjamin-teaching us each day to be better parents and friends!

We love you forever, you're our favorite Ben in the whole world!

Root beer from Daddy

Singing Happy Birthday over birthday pancakes

Blowing out the candle

Sid the Weather Kid from Nina

Rockin' the new undies and socks like Tom Cruise

Mrs. Weber and Ben

Benjamin in his birthday crown

Birthday cake pops for Benjamin's preschool snack

Car gift box from Miss Kayla-new school clothes inside!


Cubbie Bear cake pops for Benjamin's Awana friends!

All our love!

Congratulations TJ & Misty!!!

2010-09-30T09:26:00.000-05:00

Today we celebrated TJ and Misty's nuptials. It was a great time of two families coming together! Here are a few of my favorite shots from the evening!

My absolute favorite picture of the afternoon!

The Happy Couple

The Beautiful Bride

The boots were seriously my favorite thing :)

Saying their vows

The kiss!

Looking down the courthouse rotunda

Misty's dress was beautiful

Flowers & rings-sparkle!

Flowers & hands

Mom and I sang "Happy Trails to You" as we left

Boots! Again!

TJ presenting a necklace to Misty passed down from our Great Grandma Florence Spanier

Misty loved it!


Bride & Groom with their Bride & Groom Cake pops

Cake time!

He couldn't resist being himself---even on his wedding day! Ha!


And just for fun....Nate loved his cake pop too!

So that was more then a few....but I couldn't just pick out a few! Thank you to TJ and Misty for allowing me and the kids to be a part of your special day! I can't wait to see what God has in store for you and your family!!!

All our love!

On the move!!!

2010-09-28T15:54:00.000-05:00

Josie is on the move! She has been scootching on her bunz for about 3-4 weeks now-she just couldn't figure out how to get both legs behind her. Well yesterday she officially did it! Both legs moving in sync with both arms! She is so sweet! Enjoy!

All our love!

Josie's First Trim

2010-09-15T15:27:00.000-05:00

I didn't want to trim Josie's hair yet. But I decided I really needed to because she was starting to lick her bangs! Ha!!!

All our love!!!!

Preschool 2010

2010-08-30T19:40:00.000-05:00

Today was Ben's first day at preschool for 2010! Its amazing that he is already in the 4's class. He did a fantastic job! I was a bit nervous because he has a new teacher, but he did great! He barely batted an eye before giving me a hug and kiss and picking a spot on the carpet. Here are a few pictures from the day. I have more on my phone but can't find my memory card reader for it...I will post those soon!

Josie, Nina and Nate waiting at pick-up

Pure joy!!!

Ben and Nate posing after school

Nate, Josie and Ben-Ben's ready to be done!

All our love!

She's here!!!

2010-08-16T16:40:00.000-05:00

I am the proud Aunt to this beauty!

Emmaleigh Elaine B. was born 8/15/2010 at 9:34 pm. She weighed in at 10 lbs. 13 oz and is 21 1/2 inches long!

She is absolutely beautiful! I was so happy to be by Kayla's side through her pregnancy and through her c-section delivery!

Praying for you sweet Emmaleigh that you will grow to love God, walk in His ways, and may your life reflect His love for others!

All our love!

Happy 2nd Birthday Nate!

2010-08-07T22:36:00.000-05:00

How has it been 2 years since Nathaniel was born? It has been amazing having him as a part of our family. We had such a hard time deciding on his name before he was born. But the minute I saw him, I knew he needed to be Nathaniel James Earl. Nathaniel means "Gift from God". He has been one of our 4 favorite gifts (the other 3 being Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, Benjamin and Josephine).

We had a fun-filled day today celebrating Nate's big day. Here are some pictures to recap!

Birthday pancakes for breakfast

Zoo Themed Cupcakes-monkey, zebra, tiger and lion

Nate and Preston diggin' in

Ben loving his monkey cupcake

Our bestest friends Lyla and Lindsey!

Birthday boy!

Lyla and Ben the elephants, Nate the lion and Preston the monkey

Checking out the octopus tank

Lyla hitching a ride


Preston, Casey and Benjamin.Nate didn't want to get too close!

Over all we had a great day!

Happy Birthday Bubba! You're my favorite Nathaniel!

All our love!

Josie's big week!

2010-08-06T22:37:00.001-05:00

I don't have pictures right now, but wanted to get these bits of info. written down somehow before I completely forget! Unfortunately, I think that's how it happens when you have more than 1 kiddo!

Anywho, Josie had a big week this week! She now has 2 teeth (both on the bottom), learned to clap, got thrush, and is scooting around on her bottom....mostly in circles, but she goes forward sometimes!

Fun times watching Josie grow!

All our love!

No Neck!!

2010-07-27T10:40:00.000-05:00

Josie gets so excited that her neck disappears!!!

No neck!

Pure joy!

Happy girl!

All our love!

Onions

2010-07-27T10:38:00.000-05:00

Who eats onions raw?!?! That is just plain crazy!!!

Nate taking a bite of onion

Onion coma?

Ben showing off his raw onion

All our love!

Playing Catch up.....

2010-07-26T22:37:00.003-05:00

.....so make sure you read until you know you haven't found any new pictures! ;) June 23 seems to be where I'm starting and I'll end with today!

Bath X3

2010-07-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

The boys had their first bath with Josie tonight! I think the 3 of them will have a blast together!

The first of many fun bath times together!

Josie loves bath time!

Relaxing and enjoying the bubbles

Oh Nate! My cheeseball!

All our love!

Let's go Royals!

2010-07-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

After church today, the kiddos and I went for a drive. We made our way through Omaha, west to Wahoo, south through Ceresco to Lincoln and back east to Omaha! Whew! It was refreshing to take some time out and see God's creation throughout Nebraska!

James called when we were in between Wahoo and Lincoln and asked if the boys would like to join him at the Royal's baseball game! Of course Ben and Nate got instantly excited!

So off they went and had a boy's afternoon at the ballgame!

Heading into the game

Casey shot this t-shirt from the airgun and James caught it!

Casey threw this ball into the crowd and James got it!

The boys had a blast! It is so fun to watch James make memories like these with our boys that they'll remember forever!

All our love!

Tent Campout!

2010-07-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Well, we set up the tent tonight in the backyard! I thought it might be fun if we all had our first camping trip together. It ended up being a boy's night...

Nate, Daddy and Ben just before heading to the tent for the night!

We're hoping to make this a weekend tradition for the rest of the summer!

All our love!

Oh Benny Boy!

2010-07-22T23:57:00.001-05:00

Don't you love my outfit?!?!

Standing on the table giving a singing performance!

Benjamin decided he wanted to get dressed. So he walked himself downstairs to the laundry room and came back upstairs wearing this outfit!!!
The jean jacket is a size 12 month and the golf shoes--those are Uncle TJ's!

All our love!

First Tooth!

2010-07-21T23:48:00.000-05:00

Bottom, right....you can't really see it yet, but you sure can feel it!

I'm so proud of you Josie-girl! I can't believe how quickly you're growing!

All our love!

Food-Painting-Movies

2010-07-20T23:41:00.000-05:00

Oh! The camera!

Yummy food!

Nate's painting experiement!

The boy's first introduction to "Toby Tyler"--Mama's favorite childhood movie!

All our love!

One of those days....

2010-07-18T16:09:00.000-05:00

...okay, I know what it looks like...I'm ignoring my kids so that I can take awesome pictures ;)

Well, kinda!

Ben actually thought he was helping by taking away the soother that Nate swiped from Josie. Nate wasn't happy with Ben helping. It was funny- 1. because this is how it was all morning-either Ben was happy and Nate was crying or Nate was happy and Ben was crying and 2. because I got this awesome picture!

Despite the kid's craziness and nap time not coming soon enough, it turned out to be a wonderful day!

I got to visit my dear friends Lindsey, John and Evie in the afternoon. It was great to see their smiling faces! It was great to see dear Evie! What a blessing and a trooper.

This picture was taken by Lindsey before I got to the hospital. As of today (Monday), Evie is on the road to recovery. She still has some swelling, but she is starting to open her eyes. She is reaching for her Mama and her stuffed animals. When I was there yesterday, she was saying Mama when she would wake up. Lindsey did say her nurses were watching her hemoglobin level as it was low.

Would you continue to lift her up in prayer? I know her parents can't wait to get her home again so they can cuddle and play together. For full updates, visit http://eviejayne.blogspot.com I know John and Lindsey would love your prayers for Miss Evie Jayne.

All our love!

Scripture Sunday

2010-07-18T08:40:00.002-05:00

"But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head."-Psalm 3:3

Thank you Alicia (here) for reminding me of our Protector and Encourager!

Farmer's Market

2010-07-17T16:58:00.004-05:00

Art!

Sunflowers!

Zinnias!

American Flag

Architecture

Random Factoids

Corn!!

All our love!

Flashback Friday!

2010-07-16T13:07:00.001-05:00

Can you believe this little boy....

Is almost 2 years old!?! Time sure flies when you're having fun!

All our love!

Bathtime!

2010-07-16T12:51:00.002-05:00

Recently I received an e-mail from Amanda over at The Eco-Friendly Family (here)! She recently hosted a giveaway from Spa Baby (here). Well, I won!!! Here is Josie's first bath in her new bathtub!!! It was super easy to use and Josie seemed to enjoy her time. Plus, it only uses a few cups of water vs. filling a few inches into the big bathtub!

All our love!

Cloth Diaper Giveaway!

2010-07-12T08:17:00.004-05:00

Since becoming a cloth diaper statistic, I love sharing about how wonderful cloth diapers have been to us to help people choose cloth diapers as well.
Check out Robyn over at http://robynandjustin.blogspot.com/ to find out her story as well as a giveaway she's hosting!!!

I love this cherry monkeysnuggles!

First Ponytail!!!

2010-07-08T12:48:00.001-05:00

Josie's hair is starting to get so long! Its pretty whispy still, but so fun! Here she is with her first ponytail!!!

All our love!

Happy 4th of July!!

2010-07-04T23:31:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at the Friesen Hobby Farm today with the crew from Perth-Andover! I made these sweet brownie "sundaes" for the picnic!

Brownie "Sundaes"

Brownie cupcakes; filled with strawberry jam and a piece of banana. Topped with buttercream frosting (frozen and scooped like ice cream), chocolate magic shell and a maraschino cherry!

Mama, Josie, Lala and Papa

All our love!

Family Fireworks!

2010-07-02T23:11:00.000-05:00

James went out and got some little fireworks so we could have a fun family night in the backyard. We have a busy weekend ahead of us and wanted to get some family time in! We had a fun time--once the silly things would finally light up!


James getting ready to light them up!

Snapping photos before the fireworks begin!

Ben snuggling Josie

Josie has the *BEST* smile!

Here we go!!!

Look at Ben's face! Priceless!

Nate enjoying the fireworks too!

I {love} this one! Ben has such a precious face!

Relaxin'

Nate got bored and decided to decorate Josie's hair with grass! Ha!

Snuggling with Mama!

Her smile just lights up her face!

Oh! I don't know what he saw, but its awesome!

All our love!

Flashback Friday!

2010-07-02T08:47:00.005-05:00

Introducing Mr. & Mrs. James Cummings!

Well today marks our 5th wedding anniversary! Where has the time gone? We've had good days and bad-just like any other marriage. But God is good and is working in our lives! We have 3 beautiful kids (if I do say so myself!) to show-off and they keep us busy most days! We are looking forward to what the next 5 years (and beyond) bring!!

All our love!

First word!!!

2010-06-30T23:07:00.000-05:00

Josie said her first word!!!! I can't believe how fast she is growing!!!

Josie and Dada snuggling!

Daddy was so happy Josie's first word was "Dada"!

All our love!

Rowan's Warmth!

2010-06-30T23:00:00.000-05:00

Is this not the cutest little hat ever!?!?! You need to check out Rowan's Warmth on facebook...go here! http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Rowans-Warmth/141297082548470?ref=ts Make sure you read up on the story behind this wonderful project! Let's help keep Rowan's memory alive through these hats!


I got this hat for Kayla's baby; due Aug. 24th.

All our love!

Wonderful Wednesday!

2010-06-30T08:37:00.002-05:00

Don't you just love the squeals of little babies?!?!

Can't you just hear Josie squealing?!?!?!

All our love!!

Scripture Sunday

2010-06-28T11:07:00.001-05:00

I'm a day late! I pray you are just as encouraged as I am!

“ For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. ”
(2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT)

Kayla's Baby Shower

2010-06-27T22:43:00.000-05:00

The spread!

Josie's sweet smile!

The boys playing the bottle game!


Nate enjoying one of the appetizers

Today was my girlfriend Kayla's baby shower. We had it at a local park so the kids could play! I had the privilege of making the cake! Overall we had a great time at Kayla's baby shower!

Flashback Friday!

2010-06-25T22:40:00.003-05:00

James Cummings and Patti Klindt......taken January 2004....

....wait until next week's post :)

Blueberries & Oatmeal

2010-06-24T12:58:00.000-05:00

Yummy! Mealtime has become another adventure around our house! Josie has done great so far with all of the foods she's tried! She'll be chasing her brothers before I know it!

All our love!

M-O-V-I-E

2010-06-23T22:39:00.000-05:00

I took the kiddos to a movie today. One of our local theaters is charging $2.75/person over the age of 2 for a kid's movie and popcorn. That means all 4 of us saw the movie for $5.50! Score!!! We saw "How to Train Your Dragon". It was good......the last 1/2 hour or so the boys finally got bored. But we made it to the end!

Would you join me in prayer?

2010-06-23T01:05:00.004-05:00

Our good friends the Elsaessers (as pictured below) would love to know you're praying for them! Visit their blog http://eviejayne.blogspot.com and catch up on their story. God is using them in big and small ways!

They are dear to me and I love you for joining with me in prayer! God is good all the time!

All our love :)

Wonderful Wednesday

2010-06-23T00:15:00.008-05:00

We had a wonderful delivery to our house tonight....the CD with pictures from our family picture shoot a few weeks ago! Enjoy my new favorite photos!

A girl's gotta have great shoes!

Our family

Ray of sunshine

The eyes!

King of the Mountain

Welcome to the gun show

Such a little man

Relaxing on the swing

Cute little pink tongue

Walking with Mama

GQ

Sweet girl

Kisses

Pop Break

Daddy's girl

Mama and Nate

Climbing up the slide

All our love!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-06-22T08:17:00.001-05:00

1/4 cup baking soda + a couple cups of vinegar down the garbage disposal drain = a fresh garbage disposal.

This has a been a life-saver for us. Our disposal starts to smell about once a month. I do a little baking soda and vinegar and voila! No more smell! You could also put some fresh lemon juice also for less of a vinegar smell.

All our love!

Scripture Sunday

2010-06-20T19:08:00.001-05:00

I need more reminders of God's love for me and thought you might too. Scripture Sunday may just be the encouragement that we need.

Proverbs 23: 22-25, The Message

Listen with respect to the father who raised you,
and when your mother grows old, don't neglect her.
Buy truth—don't sell it for love or money;
buy wisdom, buy education, buy insight.
Parents rejoice when their children turn out well;
wise children become proud parents.
So make your father happy!
Make your mother proud!

Happy Father's Day!

All our love!

Triple Berry Pie

2010-06-19T08:46:00.000-05:00

I'm on a new adventure***

Fresh Strawberry, Raspberry and Blackberry Pie!

I'm hoping it was yummy!!!

***A couple of friends have asked and trusted me to start making a few meals for their family on a semi-regular basis. I'm praying and seeking God to see if this may be a way that I can help our family financially from home. Would you join me? Thanks friends!

All our love!

Flashback Friday!

2010-06-18T09:51:00.006-05:00

Remember when...?

We look so happy and innocent! We had no idea what would be happening to our little family of 2 turning 3....did we!?!?!

Benjamin Michael Bertram came into this world as easy as any first-time mom could have dreamed of!

October 19, 2006 I was 38 weeks along. I had mild Braxton hicks contractions throughout the day-totally sporadic and nothing that was really needing timed. I spent the day working along like nothing was really happening. In fact, I don't even really remember telling James about them, because I was afraid he would go into "first-time dad freak-out mode"!

I had my 38 week appt. scheduled for 4:00 thatt afternoon. James and I headed to our appt. expecting to just get weighed and told that we probably wouldn't be meeting Benjamin nearly as soon as we wanted to!

Jullie, my OB's assistant did the checking that they do and surprisingly said, "Wow, you're already 5 cm dilated! Oh wow, I can feel the baby's head! You're 100% effaced! I thought for sure you'd be going late! I'm going to send my nurse in to hook you up to the monitors and we'll observe your contractions for a while."

During my 40 minutes of being observed I definitely was having contractions. They really were nothing more than Braxton Hicks contractions as far as I could tell (on the pain scale I was imagining!). Jullie decided to send us home to get our hospital bags and then get to the hospital. She wanted the labor & delivery nurses to make the final decision. We got very excited, anxious and nervous in about 1 1/2 seconds! We asked Jullie if we could take our time so that we could call our family before heading to Methodist. She said of course!

So there we were at home getting our bags, calling our family, and stopping long enough for a banana and granola bar! It was all kind of a daze as we were so excited to finally get to meet Benjamin. We spent about an hour at home taking our sweet time.

By the time we arrived at Methodist, around 6:30 p.m., I had already progressed to a 6 1/2. The nurses decided that I was really in labor and that I needed to stay! Wow! They get me all set up and relaxed. I really was VERY comfortable. Honestly, didn't feel a single contraction. So they hooked me up to pitocin to make my contractions more regular and stronger (what the heck!?!). About 12:15 the doctor that happened to be on the floor came in and broke my water.....an hour and one minute later...

Our sweet Benjamin entered this world. He came fast and easy! I can definitely say that the last 3 1/2 years has gone fast...but it hasn't always been easy. But God is good! Benjamin has been a great blessing to our family! He is my joy! I can't wait to see what God has in store for him in the years to come!

Why don't you add flashback friday to your blog too!!!

All our love!

We have an Einstein on our hands....

2010-06-16T08:52:00.000-05:00

.....at least the hair anyway!

Bath time is always fun!

All our love !

Strawberry Jam!!!

2010-06-16T08:34:00.000-05:00

Yum Yum Yum!!!

I am definitely going to be making more jam in the future. So easy and so good!!!

Strawberries

Washed and Prepped

Mashed and Smashed

The following 2 photos courtesy of Benjamin Cummings Photography ;)

Measuring the mashed berries

Cheese!

2 lbs. fresh strawberries, 4 cups sugar (I will reduce by at least 1 cup next time) and 1/4 cup lemon juice!

Canned and ready to eat!

Yummy, sweet, red, jam!

All our love!

Very Berry!!!

2010-06-15T16:48:00.011-05:00

We had a blast today with our friends Lindsey, Lyla, Evie and our newest friend Brian. We all headed out to the Roca Berry Farm just south of Lincoln. We spent about an hour and a half picking berries. Mr. Brian did most of the work for us. The kiddos just wanted to run and play-which was great, they got all of their squirmies out :) Here are some of my favorite shots!!

Strawberries!

Sitting pretty amongst the berries

Yum!

So sweet!

Cheese!

Nate's favorite spot of the day!

Strawberry fields

Ben and Lyla played a lot of chase through the fields

Red faced and loving it!

Told you it was Nate's favorite spot!

Look at all the strawberry juice on his pants! He ate A LOT of strawberries!

Playing chase

Lyla hiding from Ben

Ben hiding from Lyla

Nate showing his strawberry

Nate's 2nd favorite spot (although it looks the same, it was a different spot!)

Nate amongst the berry rows

Can you see how stained Nate's skin is?!?

A clear Nebraska day!

I love how the blue sky looked as a backdrop to the berry fields!

Ben, Nate and Josie posing at the end of the day!

All our love,
Patti

Happy 1/2 Birthday Josie!

2010-06-05T21:56:00.000-05:00

We love you sweet girl! The last 6 months have been a blessing because you are a blessing! I can't believe you're getting so big! I love watching your personality emerge a little more each day! Thank you for being mine!

All our love,

patti

In Love!!!

2010-06-01T08:55:00.003-05:00

I'm totally in love with our friend Jennie at jenniedphotography! Here are a few of the pictures she snapped during our recent family picture session with her!
I can't wait until we get to see them all!!!

Ben's personality caught on camera!

Adoring eyes!

Sissy sitting like a big girl!

Nate flying through the air with Mama!

Josie's big blue eyes and sweet, sweet smile!

Our family, from afar.

Big blue eyes!

All our love!

Branson, May 2010

2010-05-07T10:12:00.000-05:00

We had a super fun week with Lala and Papa in Branson! Here is our fun through photos!

The biggest bath tub ever! More like a pool to two little boys!

Nate watching Ben in wonder.

Ben applying his bubble beard

See!

Waiting patiently for the Silver Dollar City Express Train

It's coming!

Doing a happy dance because the train is coming!

All smiles! His conductor had was a gift from our last trip to SDC!

Mama and Josie!

Mama, Ben and Nate!

Our conductor and the "robber"!

Josie and Lala snuggling

Waiting in line for the "Hoppy Frogs"

Mama, Ben and Nate riding the "Hoppy Frogs". Ben and I loved this ride! Nate was really unsure of it!

These next few pictures are from the "Flooded Mine" ride. This was Ben's favorite last summer-and Nate really liked it this summer!

This fence was just really cool-so I took its picture! ;)

Josie hanging out and looking all cute!

We've got a golfer on our hands!

Relaxing on the green!

Ball was lost in the dinosaur trap!

Lala and Papa watched the kiddos one night so we could head to the Sight & Sound Theatre. It was beautiful!

We got to see "Noah; the musical". The story of Noah come to life!

They had animatronic animals just like this one as well as real animals!

Nate in front of the ark

The lion and the lamb

5 months old!!

2010-05-05T11:20:00.000-05:00

It is so hard to believe that Josie is already 5 months old!

Here are a few shots of her modeling her Bumbo seat and showing you how she is learning to sit on her own!

All our love!!

Teddy Bear Weekend

2010-04-17T14:36:00.000-05:00

Well, the kiddos and I headed to the zoo today. It is Teddy Bear Weekend so off we went with Snuggle Bear and Giraffee in tow. We ended up staying for 2 1/2 hours and had a great time together! Here are some pictures from our day!

Nate

Ben

Giraffee getting weighed

Bear's turn on the scale

Bear getting measured

Flu shots to stay healthy

Both Bear and Giraffee were very brave getting their shots

Bear had an ear check up

Nate and Josie

Bear getting an x-ray

Bear's heartbeat

Giraffee's heartbeat

Ben listening closely as he was told that Snuggle Bear would need surgery

The nurse talking to Ben about Bear's surgery

Giraffee getting a bath

Josie holding her bee

Snuggle Bear being taken to surgery

Orangutan

Ben and Nate watching the gorilla

Gorilla taking a nap

Snuggle Bear's smile is fixed and we're happy he made it through surgery successfully

Happy Birthday James

2010-04-16T23:06:00.004-05:00

Well-I think James had a great birthday! I sure had fun inviting our friends and family out to dinner on his behalf as well as ordering an amazing birthday cake for him! Here are some photos to recount our evening!

How could I not get him a hockey themed cake? Check out www.sugargirlcakes.com and order one of Tiffani's cakes! SO delicious!

Nina laughing at something while holding Josie!

John and Lyla! Lyla and Ben had a great time running circles around the table! I don't know about Lyla--but Ben went to bed really easily tonight!

James eating, TJ sticking his tongue out and Misty laughing!

Dave and Tammy Schill

Amy Buss--apparently something was appalling?

Singing Happy Birthday

Blowing out the candle

Chocolate cake with espresso infused buttercream and heathbar candybar sprinkled on the buttercream. Wow! Delish!

Kayla and Nate!

All our love!

Josie smiles...

2010-04-16T22:11:00.003-05:00

...when she wears comfy diapers!

She and I especially love our Monkey Snuggles diapers!

Josie is all smiles!

Josie was talking. I think she was saying, "Mama, you need to get me more Monkey Snuggle diapers!"

How could I not get her more? Look how cute her bunz look in these!!!

Top to Bottom Baby Boutique in Omaha sells these Monkey Snuggle diapers! You should click the heart above and check them out! I can't wait until they feature Monkey Snuggle diapers as their product of the week so that I can stock up on more cute diapers!

All our love!

Josie's 4 month checkup

2010-04-14T15:41:00.000-05:00

Waiting in the lobby

The all-famous glove balloon

Waiting around

My cutie pie

Nate and Josie snuggling before getting checked out.

Josie is 17 lbs. 11 1/4 oz and 25 1/2 in. long! She is "above average" but the dr. said she is a healthy little gal! No solid food yet. He said since she is doing so well with just nursing, we'll wait until 6 months for solid food :)

Happy Easter!

2010-04-05T14:52:00.015-05:00

We had a great day today celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Enjoy celebrating with us through pictures!!

All our love!

EO All Purpose Cleaner and Giveaway!

2010-04-05T10:49:00.002-05:00

http://www.truthbetoldblog.com/

Head on over to the truthbetold blog and check out the EO All Purpose cleaner she is reviewing and having a giveaway for!
It sounds like a great product! And for 15% off...even if we don't win, sounds like a great deal!

All our love!

Rainbow Cupcakes!!

2010-04-03T11:40:00.000-05:00

Benjamin, Nathaniel, Josie and I had a great time making rainbow cupcakes tonight. We were going to take them to Roger and Denise's house for a dessert, but we decided to eat them at home instead! Here is our little adventure in baking through pictures! Enjoy!

All our love!

Top to Bottom

2010-03-30T23:43:00.001-05:00

I've discovered a great family running a great store here in the Omaha area. Justin and Jessica Quick switched their kiddos over to cloth diapers just as we did. They struggled with waiting for their diapers and related products to arrive in the mail. This has motivated them to open the Top to Bottom Baby Boutique right here in Omaha. It is Omaha's Premier Cloth Diaper Boutique! Because one of their great products has just come out with a new line, Justin and Jessica are hosting a giveaway! Check out their blog here and their website here! Come one come all! Make sure you tell them that I sent you! :)
Patti

Miss Josie

2010-03-29T11:25:00.000-05:00

I can't believe my little girl is almost 4 months old. Here are a few snapshots of her this afternoon in the exersaucer. She is strong enough to hold herself up for about 10 minutes before she gets too worn out. Its so much fun to watch her grow each day!

Go see a couple movies here!

All our love!

Bubble Wrap!

2010-03-28T00:29:00.000-05:00

Oh the joys of popping bubble wrap!

Nate preparing to jump!

So much fun!

Ben was having a blast getting a running start on his pops! You can watch them here!

All our love!

Ben singing in chapel

2010-03-25T00:20:00.003-05:00

Today Ben's class got to sing a special song in chapel again! I always love seeing my bashful little guy up at the front singing praises to Jesus!

Ben waiting for the music to start!

Ben's class minus one

Nate enjoying the music.

Watch this vide o very carefully to see Ben bob his head to the song! He's "loosening" up, slowly but surely ;)

All our love!

Polar Bear Cub Club

2010-03-24T23:51:00.000-05:00

We had a fun time at the zoo's Polar Bear Cub Club kickoff breakfast this morning! My little monkeys got to sit next to the monkeys to eat breakfast! Here are some pictures from our day!

Monkey #1 Ben

Monkey #2 Nate

Monkeys #3 & #4

Grady the Penguin

Benjamin got to pet the penguin. Their feathers are so soft!!

Nate driving the safari truck

Ben climbing aboard!

We met our friends Jessie and Christopher this morning. Nate was fussing because he wanted to be *the* only kiddo to drive the safari truck. Jessie was very gentle with him!

Josie and Christopher hanging out in the stroller.

Our craft was to make flying fish. Ben got his fish to land in the "ocean".

Nate carrying his flying fish.

An action shot of Ben's flying fish.

I am not a *huge* reptile fan...but this was *the* coolest snake ever! Look at those eyes!

All our love!

Just for fun

2010-03-24T00:16:00.000-05:00

I found these little headbands at the Target $1 spot. I couldn't resist!

Peek-a-boo!

Attack of the Nate-bunny?

My sweet little daisy!

All our love!

Josie's sweet laugh

2010-03-23T00:12:00.000-05:00

Watch this video of my sweet little girl's laugh!

All our love!

Spring has Sprung!

2010-03-22T21:46:00.010-05:00

Thank you Jesus for the sunshine and great weather today! The kiddos and I headed out to the backyard this afternoon after rest time (we no longer have naps--according to Ben!) *wink, wink*

Here are some snapshots from our gloriously fun afternoon!

See! Spring is here!

The inaugural mowing of the lawn!

Nate kept asking where his ball was...

..."ball"! I snapped this while he was showing me the ball and saying ball!

Its a two-thumbs up kind of day!

Josie loved her first trip to the backyard-all smiles!

Her cute little tongue just cracks me up!

More mowing...

Nate in the clubhouse...with his ball...

This little bird had the sweetest little chirp...

...this bird's chip wasn't quite as sweet. But we had fun watching it every time it would fly overhead.

Wheeee.......
Still holding on to his ball!

Nate decided he would take a turn at mowing the lawn.

Ben decided his bear was hungry----so he decided to feed him just like Mama feeds Josie.

Sandbox....super fun, but was pretty messy considering the wind.

Strolling down the hill

Playing together

Nate's turn

We hope that spring is springing near you too!

All our love!

Hair for Haiti

2010-03-14T08:09:00.001-05:00

This afternoon, one of our local hair salons, Seven Salon, put together a fundraiser for the Red Cross for their relief efforts in Haiti. So I thought this would be the perfect day to get the boys' hair cut like I've been meaning to do. I explained to Ben and Nate that by getting their hair cut today, they were helping boys and girls in Haiti. We had a great time!

Getting started....

In the process....

Nate kept rubbing his head to feel his new do...

In the car with cookies, peppermints and a great haircut!

Since Josie didn't need a haircut, we picked up something special for her.

The kiddos sat still long enough for me to snap this shot.

I'm pretty sure that Ben isn't impressed...

Nate *loves* giving Josie kisses!

All our love!

Z-O-O

2010-03-07T22:03:00.000-06:00

We spent the afternoon at the zoo as a family today. We had a great time!

Aquarium:

Orangutan house

Ben took this picture of James kissing the orangutan

Cat House

Hubbard Gorilla Valley

Wild Animal Pavilion

All our love!

3 months old!

2010-03-05T21:17:00.000-06:00

Josie turned 3 months old today! Where has the time gone? Look at our sweet Josie-girl...

All our love!

Playtime with Lyla and Evie!

2010-03-05T19:32:00.000-06:00

This morning we went on a playdate with Evie and Lyla to BounceU! We love our friends!

Ben *loved* this "rock" wall! He got up it the first time all by himself....

Ta-da!

Ben was not a big fan of the huge slide...but Lyla loved it!

Unfortunately, I took no pictures of Evie or Nate! Bummer!

All our love!

Breakfast at Preschool

2010-03-04T19:23:00.000-06:00

This week was Lutheran Schools Week. We got to eat breakfast at preschool with all the other kiddos, parents and all the teachers! Ben got to meet Mrs. Weber-we're hoping she is his teacher for this coming fall!

Josie finally fits into the hat that Nina crocheted for her!

All our love!

We are a circus....

2010-02-27T15:59:00.004-06:00

...most days...but today we got to GO to the circus! Check us out!

We love you!

Our God is a GREAT BIG God

2010-02-27T15:48:00.004-06:00

and He holds us in His hands!!!

Check out Ben and his class singing during chapel here.

We love you!

Josie and Mama head to Washington!

2010-02-20T22:36:00.000-06:00

Here are some photo highlights from our trip!

Meeting Papa Tom

Young and Not-so-Young

Playing before heading to Grandpa Irv's house

Josie loves kisses from Papa Tom

Grandpa Irv's mountain, Mt. Rainier

Dad, Patricia and Chris

Mike and Dad

The Boys! Dad, Grandpa Irv, Chris and Mike

Josie loved talking to Chris!

Smiling at Grandpa Irv

Four generation picture

Papa Tom and Josie

Snuggling Grandpa Irv before saying our good-byes

Too cute!

2010-02-19T22:30:00.000-06:00

While I was packing my suitcase today, Nate and Ben were entertaining themselves with wipe packages. Here is a picture

and here is a video!

Blog Giveaway!

2010-02-18T23:31:00.001-06:00

http://jessicalovestosavemoney.blogspot.com/2010/02/giveaway-crochet-teddy-bear-hat-from.html

Visit Jessica's blog and enter her giveaway! This etsy seller has some beautiful & cute hats!

I hope I win!

Patti

Nate and Josie

2010-02-15T22:24:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pics of Nate and Josie...enjoy!

Nate apparently found the wipes warmer container to be a comfy pillow to snuggle with underneath Josie's crib!

My big boy trying to use the big boy potty!

Taking after his Daddy and Big Brother!

Snoozin'...

...in the laundry basket!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T21:33:00.000-06:00

We went to visit Grandma JoJo and Uncle David today. Here are a few pictures from our day!

Uncle David made this car for all the kids who come to visit to play in. The boys played for at least 45 minutes having a blast!

Four generation picture!

Benjamin helping Uncle David fix the kiddie rocking chair.

Grandma JoJo and Sissy Jo smiling at each other!

All our love!

Catching up...

2010-02-14T00:22:00.022-06:00

Well, I did great for the first few weeks of Josie's life....now I'm behind. Here is a brief update of the past few weeks that you've missed......

Daddy and the boy's at Ben's preschool for our family picnic day!

Nate was the brave one and touched the alligator!

Ben liked this fox (I can't remember its actual name!)

I think Nate's next souvenir from Silver Dollar City is going to need to be his own conductor hat....I know I'm his mother, but could he be any cuter!?!?!

Ben loves "his baby". He is a VERY good big brother!

Josie's one-sie says it all! Cute!!!

I found these sweet little bows for Josie's hair. She really doesn't look impressed here.....

Nate has *the* best "cheese" face!

Ben has *the* best "cheese" face!

I love the succession of these next photos! Its great to see my kids smiling together! They're the best!

Although they're not all looking at the camera, this is my favorite of the 3 of them together thus far!

Nathaniel looks like he is in pain, but this is his "cheese" face while doing "di, di, di" (dip-ketchup)

Nate and Preston having a good time pushing Ben in the basket!

Preston pushing Ben in the basket....role reversal from April 2008...

When Ben pushed Preston in the same basket!

Josie and her "princess pinkie"

Josie and Nina snuggling!

Seriously...I can't get over his cheese face! Anyway, Ben does think Nate is super cool....just look at the shirt! ;)

Wouldn't it be great to sleep like this?

These pictures are from our Family Date Night at preschool this week. We had a "snowball" fight, colored mittens, put together puzzles, decorated cookies and had a great time spending time together doing such fun activities!

Well, I am going to do my best to keep up from here on out...no promises, but I will make an effort!
We love you all!

The belly...dun, dun, dun

2010-02-12T10:32:00.002-06:00

I frequent a local message board that is booming with up-and-coming babies. So we recently posted our "belly pics" on the message board. Holy belly, was I huge. I mean I know my kids were 8lbs 5 oz, 9 lbs 11 oz and 9 lbs 11 oz....but boy oh belly! Here are my reminiscent belly pics!

In the hospital just a couple of hours before Benjamin was born!

This picture was taken 3 days before Nathaniel was born. I think that the summer of 08 had to have been the hottest one on record--either that or I was extremely pregnant!

This was our final snuggle of just Mama and the boys. We snapped this right before leaving for the hospital. Josie made her arrival only 3 hours later!

I'm sorry if you've had to shield your eyes! ;P
Patti

New Furniture!

2010-02-11T16:12:00.001-06:00

Well, its official, James and I are adults! We now are the proud owners of a couch and loveseat (that match) with two end tables and a coffee table (that match) and two table lamps and a reading lamp (that match)....there is a theme here, it all matches! Here is Nate showing off his cheese and our new loveseat, table and lamp!

Just because I can't wait

2010-01-19T14:49:00.002-06:00

I can't wait to post these precious shots of our kiddos!

Josie is all smiles in the bathtub!

Ben is full of smiles!

Josie has more smiles for me! Her hair is the best after bathtime too!

Nate snuggling on a blanket while watching 'toons

All our love!

Baked Potato Soup

2010-01-18T13:07:00.001-06:00

This has become my new favorite for dinner.

I think it is Nate's favorite too! ;)

Say Cheese X 3!

2010-01-16T14:41:00.000-06:00

That's right....all of my kids are full of smiles! Enjoy pictures from our week!

Ben, Josie and Nate enjoying the blanket that their cousins Kelsie and Kendra made for Josie!

Snoozin'

Smiley boys! They figured out they could both ride at the same time!

Having 'girl talk' with Nina

Josie's first smile caught on camera! She has the sweetest smile and has started cooing and talking too!

All our love!

Update from Papa Ron

2010-01-14T13:24:00.001-06:00

"Arrived in Bujumbura on schedule just after midnight in the midst of heavy rain and lightning. Elie and Japhet were there to meet me. Both send greetings. .

I got a good night's sleep last night and feel almost human today. It is overcast, hot and humid today.

Japhet just called a few minutes ago saying that we could not get to Mutambu today because heavy rain has made the roads very bad and bridges are washed out as well.So much for the January dry season,I guess! The members in Mutambu will try to find a way to get to Bujumbura tomorrow and I can meet with them here.

It appears that wet weather might be a problem although Mutambu is the only real isolated camp on the itinerary.this time. Pray for favourable weather and good roads."

Ron is spending some time in Burundi through the beginning of Feb. If you'd be praying for him and the local Gideon's as they work hard to spread the love of Christ!

Rockin', Rockin' Green

2010-01-10T15:03:00.002-06:00

I recently purchased a new soap for my cloth diapers. We were dealing with major stink issues and Ben even got an ammonia burn OUCH!!
I was a part of an online scavenger hunt in November that introduced me to the Rockin' Green detergent. I just got my order of Rockin' Green soap in the mail last week. I ordered the Lavender Vanilla scent--to die for! They have Grape Soda and Cherry Almond that sound good too! Well, I've already soaked and washed my diapers....I think we're on the stink mend. Josie and Nate have been back in the diapers for a day now, no excessive stink and no ammonia burn! Praise God!
So, now to the good stuff. Go to this blog http://mcmahonlove.blogspot.com/ and enter the giveaway. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Patti