tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53664342343045071932011-11-27T19:26:00.550-05:00A Family and Personal Interest BlogAbacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.comBlogger3551100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-80436142913303973012011-02-08T08:06:00.002-05:002011-02-08T08:13:55.120-05:00

I will (hopefully) get around to a full Florida trip post, but for now here are a few pictures of Disney. Most of these are of Kate with her favorite Disney character, Daisy the Duck. We were lucky enough to see her on our way out of the park for naptime. (And since we were there a "slow" week and the wait line for fairies and princesses was up to an hour, I am so thankful she doesn't care

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-73548059058368686052011-02-01T21:31:00.004-05:002011-02-01T21:43:10.248-05:00

I had never heard of the blog Today's Letters until just today. It is sweet, silly, and I actually sat down during the kids' naps today to listen to this, which was basically the testimony of how God worked in their marriage. I rarely spend naptime sitting down listening to something...you moms know naptime is precious! I can honestly say it was time well spent. Even if you don't think you

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-73198176179722108672011-01-30T10:05:00.001-05:002011-01-30T10:05:00.504-05:00

I've always wanted some prints with scripture up in our home, I think it's a good reminder, but, well, I really can't say it any better than this:"I think having scripture in our home is so important, but I’ve had a hard time finding ways to incorporate it. I’m not really a fan of the traditional scripture art with photos of snowy mountains or vast meadows {do you know the ones I’m thinking of?}"

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-65975441042393411652011-01-28T09:53:00.000-05:002011-01-28T09:53:00.940-05:00

Colin's one year pictures, courtesy of the very talented Jenny Hoke. These were taken right around his birthday, I just haven't been great at keeping the blog up to date.Jenny suggested we take pictures at the Train Museum . We had to reschedule (due to snow)! and luckily the weather was much better on our next try. The shirt Colin is wearing is Campbell plaid. I saw it last year and had to

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-42406811740487567742011-01-26T20:35:00.004-05:002011-01-26T21:53:21.757-05:00

JulyOur annual visit to the Elkhart County Fair. Kate loved the ducks (she was pretty convinced she saw Daisy Duck!) the ferris wheel, and ice cream.So nice to have someone to cook me dinner. Kate likes to make me spaghetti. :)AugustFamily outing at Coveleski Stadium.Sidenote: This post has confirmed that my basic photography skills have gone down the toilet. I don't think I have any pictures

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-37040919426834929562011-01-12T21:01:00.003-05:002011-01-12T21:15:05.818-05:00

I made this fun recipe a while ago (click on the recipe link and scroll down on the post for the recipe). I saw it on the linked blog (Fly Through our Window), and it looked easy! I gave a few of them away and they got good reviews. If it were up to me I'd lighten up on one of the sugars (probably the confectioners sugar). This is probably just one of those things that depends on your taste,

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-28164522945572529072011-01-07T21:00:00.009-05:002011-01-24T16:05:36.716-05:00

Since 2010 didn't really exist on this blog, I thought I would start the new year off with a recap. I found it interesting to flip through the last year. Here's the first half:January and FebruaryBrian moved into an office building. We have found it to be a real positive for our family, it was getting so challenging to keep a good work environment with a new baby! Apparently we didn't get out

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-69429476932430359912010-12-19T21:21:00.003-05:002010-12-19T21:32:26.649-05:00

If you didn't get our Christmas card, you're not alone. No one did. Here's what we meant to send...Our New Year's resolution: Keep this blog more up to date.(Did you notice our last post was six months ago? That was about the time Brian's business got really busy and Colin started scooting.)

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-20438005812990808522010-07-01T11:04:00.002-04:002010-07-01T11:20:03.357-04:00

Latest family pictures taken by Jenny Hoke are live on her website. We had a great time at Wellfield Gardens, which is a favorite spot of ours.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-40979237820486659532010-05-12T10:00:00.004-04:002010-05-12T10:12:35.681-04:00

Jenny Hoke came by this week to take Colin's 6-month pictures. He wasn't in the best of moods, but she still managed to get some nice shots (and a bonus Kate picture).He's shorter and lighter than Kate was at the same age:He's 26-3/4 inches tall versus her 28 inches, and 15.4 pounds versus her 17 pounds!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-81298343198355348112010-05-08T15:09:00.006-04:002010-05-08T15:20:32.114-04:00

One of Kate's (many) favorite books is Curious George Goes to a Chocolate Factory. So, we thought it would be fun to visit a real chocolate factory. The South Bend Chocolate Company has a great free tour and looks a lot like the factory in the book.How many of you remember this scene from "I Love Lucy"?Colin sporting his hair net for the tour.Not sure he's a big fan of the look.Marshmallow creme

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-56469330545763457392010-04-26T10:57:00.000-04:002010-04-26T21:40:51.795-04:00

Kate modeling her Easter outfit. (The hat was my Mom's when she was the same age.)That was the actual sequence of shots.Then we introduced brother to the proceedings...She's great with him most of the time.This wasn't one of those times!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-89313710632570648042010-04-20T21:51:00.015-04:002010-04-24T22:51:56.533-04:00

Yes, it's the end of April. But, here is a last look at some of our pictures from March...Kate helps Colin learn how to eat rice cereal.What happens when Colin gets his hands free from his swaddle wrap?Scratches all over!Fun on the swings...Say, "cheese!"Colin tries to eat his blanket while swinging.

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-23239905358533363932010-04-15T14:14:00.001-04:002010-04-15T14:14:00.541-04:00

The picture says it all.Visiting Great Grandpa and Grandma...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-72757720990967457022010-04-14T21:03:00.008-04:002010-04-14T21:14:10.140-04:00

Colin had his first hair cut last month.We waited much longer before we hadKate's hair chopped the first time!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-46790692142102148052010-04-07T10:25:00.002-04:002010-04-07T10:28:51.228-04:00

Still have all our pictures from March to wade through. We (well, Angela and the kids) have continued to make lots of trips to the doctor. Nothing too serious. Work has been busy as well. Happy about warm weather, but not so thrilled about yard work starting up again!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-37420896280351554292010-03-18T21:37:00.004-04:002010-03-18T21:50:43.083-04:00

We were fortunate to go most of the winter without any real sickness, maybe a few colds. It has been a relief to avoid all of the flu that we were so worried about this fall. The last several weeks, though, we have visited the pediatrician quite frequently. (Which is why we've been a little light on posts this month...the trend may continue until we're all healthy.) First sick visits for both

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-15746492050831867052010-03-10T22:05:00.005-05:002010-03-10T22:16:15.276-05:00

Just a couple more pictures from last month...Kate found mommy's lipstick.Fortunately, she was supervised.Rub-a-dub-dub.Kate and Colin in the tub.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-5042935565222752662010-03-08T08:53:00.000-05:002010-03-08T08:53:00.612-05:00

Somehow we've started calling him "Mr. Colin"or "Buddy" instead of just "Colin."Baby dedication at our church in late February.Talk about a baby boom!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-90403299128039257052010-03-06T15:32:00.003-05:002010-03-06T15:42:17.528-05:00

This is from early February.Kate with her own little "snow shovel."We had a lot of snow this winter!As of this posting, it has finally almost all melted.Dancing and singing Mickey Mouse Clubhouse songson parts of an end table in an Elmo shirt...Come inside, it's fun inside!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-71862767763231271422010-03-03T08:25:00.001-05:002010-03-03T08:27:38.338-05:00

We're still here. Plan to post a series of February round-ups by the end of this coming weekend.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-39091518224620931812010-02-20T13:50:00.010-05:002010-02-20T14:27:34.669-05:00

Now that we are in the two kids stage, it has been harder for us with Brian working at home. We'd been thinking about it for a while, and he finally found a great office and moved in the first of this month. It's a newer office building on a high traffic road close to our house. We spent the last Saturday in January as a family cleaning it up and getting ready for ClarityBV to move in!Down the

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-84554063852151212412010-02-09T13:25:00.003-05:002010-02-22T11:47:39.222-05:00

Colin had his three month pictures taken recently. I don't have them yet, but love the preview that the photographer posted on her blog. Jenny captured his happy nature (I love the picture of him smiling!), and made him look better than he really did at the time (you can't even tell that his little face was broken out like crazy!).

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-11470069192296833252010-02-04T09:21:00.002-05:002010-02-04T09:21:00.464-05:00

January 27We've been noticing lately how some babyboys have that little old man look going...January 29If ketchup on the face makes you this happy,who are we to say no?!?

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-83381067901371450582010-02-03T08:40:00.001-05:002010-02-03T08:40:00.352-05:00

January 19 - Colin has a day at the salon courtesy of his big sister. Kate loves making a "bzzz" noise and drying hair with her pink hairdryer. Colin wonders if the indignity will ever end.Hair-drying is sober business.January 22 - Hanging out around the house.Kate is a talented fake sleeper, especially for a 2-1/2 year old.This was just for fun at playtime, ...... but she has seriously fooled us

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-67241281472621055742010-02-02T08:26:00.008-05:002010-02-02T08:26:00.389-05:00

My mom cleaned out a storage area late last year and uncovered stuff from when I was a baby. Good timing too - we were just able to squeeze my first baby shoes onto Colin's feet!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-69036597740307867412010-02-01T08:59:00.009-05:002010-02-01T08:59:00.468-05:00

Continuation of our January roundup...January 7 and 9 - Food and fun around the house.Do you like grapefruit?"I do like grapefruit!"Play-Doh, Sesame Street PicnicDetail of our handiwork.Note the color coordination of chairs and characters...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-48645266696281712912010-01-31T15:17:00.011-05:002010-01-31T15:57:59.892-05:00

Just realized we haven't blogged a single picture taken in January. Sorry! We're going to try to crank through them in a series of posts over the next few days.January 2 - Cousins Kate and Grace love playing together!"That's the saddest story...""On the other hand...""Do you want to make silly faces?"January 6 - Colin just after his 2-month checkup (his stats were posted earlier).He's generally a

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-4892946544968431612010-01-23T15:46:00.003-05:002010-01-23T15:54:36.420-05:00

This picture is from a few weeks ago...His arms started inside his pajamas and velcroed tight in the sleep-sack.Not sure how he got his one arm completely out of both!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-44210844619294114952010-01-14T20:13:00.004-05:002010-01-14T20:30:11.497-05:00

Brian and I will periodically get on a kick with a certain food. In the past, there has been blueberry pancakes, popcorn, and most recently homemade hot chocolate. We (ok, I) try every homemade from-scratch recipe, and decide which we like the best. And gain weight in the process.Anyway, hot chocolate is much less labor intensive (and therefore possible for a mom of two kids two and under to make

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-22220737823717329722010-01-11T22:48:00.003-05:002010-01-11T22:55:22.175-05:00

Colin had his two month checkup last Wednesday. I think I mentioned in a previous post that he had really filled out, so we were curious to see his weight. We guessed he would be 10-10 1/2 lbs. I was shocked when he weighed in at 12 lbs 3 oz (63 %tile). He is 23 inches long (54 %tile), and his head measured 15 1/2 inches (35 %tile). He did great with his immunizations and is very

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-82518139698629013192010-01-06T06:00:00.005-05:002010-01-06T06:00:00.702-05:00

My grandparents are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary today! At a recent holiday gathering, I caught this picture of Grandma hugging one of her many great-grandchildren.They would be the first to say things haven't always been easy, but that it has been a terrific journey. In my life, they've contributed to values and interests like family, faith, frugality, games, reading, and travel,

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-41327881527857860962010-01-04T23:02:00.000-05:002010-01-04T23:02:00.609-05:00

Just a few pictures that show what our life has been like lately. Right now Kate loves Mickey Mouse, lollipops, and Playdoh. She got a set that makes some pretty realistic looking food. Here we made some chocolate chip cookies and s'mores. Right now Colin likes baths, being swaddled, and pacifiers. He's rolled over a few times (from his tummy to his back) and is starting to try to "talk."

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-40700725796868103662010-01-02T22:35:00.005-05:002010-01-02T23:02:24.104-05:00

One of my family's traditions is frosting cutout cookies on Christmas Eve. I say frosting because my mom does all the hard work -- she mixes, cuts out, and bakes the cookies in advance. The rest of us just show up and decorate that night. This year Kate got in on the fun, too. Kate with her finished products. She liked the blue frosting, and didn't quite know how to spread it around, so she did

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-5556457481643892272009-12-25T06:07:00.002-05:002009-12-25T06:15:45.563-05:00

A little sugar goes a long way when you get these girls together!From left to right: Jenna, Anna, Brian, Grace, and Kate

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-32326003549093557672009-12-17T20:12:00.003-05:002009-12-17T20:32:22.905-05:00

The white cowboy...Make a silly face!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-62371026636020249212009-12-08T22:12:00.004-05:002009-12-08T22:26:59.775-05:00

Here are a few things I am thankful for right now (in no particular order)...-My best friend...Brian. I love that spending time with our family is important to him.-My mom, who still takes care of me.-My dad, he can always make me laugh (and who thinks A Muppet Christmas Carol is the best Christmas movie ever).-My younger sister took a week of vacation to help me after Colin was born. She was

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-48321728570647683812009-12-05T21:45:00.004-05:002009-12-05T22:22:19.264-05:00

The more kids, the more difficult to catch them looking the same way at the same time. Some pictures of all the first cousins at Thanksgiving...Two girls and two boys, with a tiebreaker on the way!(not us!!!)

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-43848365554158728022009-11-25T09:52:00.004-05:002009-11-25T10:04:32.333-05:00

Kate sporting her "big sister" shirtand a "cheesy" smile before church.Colin finds it boring yet swanky!Colin at just over 2 weeks old.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-15295415724458907362009-11-20T22:03:00.004-05:002009-11-20T22:18:57.153-05:00

Where did the week, no wait, two weeks go?Oh yeah, sleepless nights, diapers, work deadlines, illness, and probably some other stuff we can't remember! On the other hand, things really do seem easier the second time around.We're happy that Kate seems to have warmed up to her little brother. Of course, he's still trying to figure out what we're all looking at...The following picture captures the

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-81319174145690530052009-11-07T11:09:00.003-05:002009-11-07T11:42:19.671-05:00

Colin Matthew7 pounds, 2 ounces20-1/2 inches longhead 13-3/4 incheschest 12-1/2 inches

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-61535034141008807502009-11-06T22:05:00.003-05:002009-11-07T11:45:24.104-05:00

Details another day, but everyone is doing well.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-63476707412878527112009-11-04T19:42:00.014-05:002009-11-04T20:21:21.587-05:00

While we wait on the baby, thought I'd post a few pictures from our weekend in Frankfort, Michigan for my step-sister's wedding.The happy couple,Nick and Tracy,cut the cake.It was a beautiful weekend in September,with perfect weather for a beach wedding!Kate playing with toys providedfor the kids at the reception.View from our balcony at sunset.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-52048675156418110852009-10-29T20:18:00.002-04:002009-10-29T20:24:10.745-04:00

We're still at home. I am officially on "maternity leave," so it feels a little like we're waiting around, but the baby's due date is still several days off. Unfortunately, we recently found out that all the area hospitals, including the one we'll be at, are closed down to any visitors under age 18 due to H1N1 flu concerns. So Kate will not be able to visit the hospital or see the baby until

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-33650765358270159962009-10-22T13:14:00.004-04:002009-10-22T13:26:06.704-04:00

Recent signs indicate that baby could make its appearance a little bit earlier than its due date (11/3). Not sure where the time has gone, as we haven't scratched a whole lot off our pre-baby to-do list. Guess we better finalize that short list of potential names!Here is a random picture from this summer. Kate loves it when I mow the lawn...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-73898393648127650252009-10-11T14:17:00.003-04:002009-10-11T16:08:34.000-04:00

Anyone with a two year old (or maybe just anyone with a kid) can attest to the fact that they like to say no. Kate is no exception. Friday at lunch she told Brian and I that she "loves no-ing." It took me a few minutes to figure out that she meant she loves saying no. I told her that it's fun to say no, but maybe she could like "yes-ing," too. When I tucked her in for bed that night, I told

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-2024639313528836352009-09-29T19:58:00.006-04:002009-09-29T20:21:06.209-04:00

Had a weird experience while shopping online recently...Angela clicked to submit on an order at the website of a major retailer, but it didn't go through. Before she even had time to figure out if it was a website glitch or something else, the phone rang. It was an Amex representative asking if we had just tried to make a purchase!They were calling to making sure it was an authorized use of our

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-15847058824621414792009-09-23T10:00:00.003-04:002009-09-23T10:03:36.050-04:00

Wondering what to wear?How about dad's shirt and socks!?!(At her request; Awwww.)

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-56880362177744873912009-09-17T10:49:00.002-04:002009-09-17T11:00:27.219-04:00

Busy week! We'll have covered a good chunk of Michigan between a funeral and a wedding...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-65820618128884876782009-09-09T17:50:00.003-04:002009-09-09T18:00:20.490-04:00

A favorite game of late...A little voice from behind the curtain says:Is she in the chair?NoIs she by the door?NoIs she in the closet?NoIs she under the bed?NoAnother popular variation for car rides:"Is your name (insert random noun)?""No."Repeated many times!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-6418535385581480152009-09-03T14:38:00.004-04:002009-09-03T14:51:17.124-04:00

Where did August go? Just when I was feeling good about catching up on photos through July... Anyway, we kicked off August with a visit to Michigan. Kate even got to drive a tractor for the first time!Okay, she wasn't really driving.And, I'm not sure if it really qualifies as a tractor?She had a lot of fun with great-grandpa, making silly faces and trying to learn how to wink.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-89416844157423652492009-08-18T11:28:00.004-04:002009-08-18T11:46:35.359-04:00

At a county fair last month, we saw "stinky pigs," a big cow, a "big wheel," and much, much more. Kate was determined to ride the Ferris wheel. We thought she would be too small, but there was no age or size limit with adult accompaniment!We kept a firm grip on her, ...... as the signs on each cabin/chair indicated:"FALL HAZARDThis ride does not have seatbelts or other passengerrestraint devices

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-34960035293727363532009-08-10T21:02:00.006-04:002009-08-10T21:13:39.428-04:00

Is there anything more fun than scooping dirt and rocks?How about with a bucket at the beach?Kate and her friend Mia playing at our church camp-out last month.They actually did a good job sharing!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-53505822949327066162009-08-03T19:45:00.005-04:002009-08-03T20:09:41.043-04:00

Colts football play? Nope, just exploring the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Lilly House with the family a few weeks ago...Our nephew is 1.Our niece just turned 5.After we got the kids off the numbers, we noticed a sign that said getting on the numbers was a big no no. Oops!"Scrunchy cheek" smile bonus.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-48893702839492547652009-07-29T19:15:00.003-04:002009-07-29T19:29:28.141-04:00

Introducing... Pink PuppyPink puppy has even had to join us at the dinner table lately.Quite painful for a not-a-dog-lover person like myself! :)

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-777633788885058352009-07-22T19:59:00.004-04:002009-07-22T20:15:26.025-04:00

Ice cream birthday cake! Can I taste each color? Can't quite work the pedals...But, loving the tricycle!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-30472705336874645522009-07-14T19:13:00.004-04:002009-07-14T19:17:56.589-04:00

In case you were wondering how to pick blueberries, here is the way to do it in "style."Not too many of them made it into the bucket!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-67620940090527579102009-07-07T21:06:00.002-04:002009-07-07T21:12:41.801-04:00

We had fun celebrating Kate's second birthday this week. She is definitely not a baby anymore! I can't believe some of the "grown up" things she says and does. Here are the stats from her two year check up: Height - 35 3/4 inches (92%), Weight - 27 lbs. 10 oz. (61%), Head - 18 1/2 (35%)

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-47156345697338099792009-07-02T10:57:00.003-04:002009-07-02T11:04:27.083-04:00

Since everything is so intertwined now that I'm self-employed, the barriers between work and family break down "occasionally." Anyway, this is just to say I'm celebrating the first anniversary of my business!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-25695469768643045692009-06-22T10:14:00.002-04:002009-06-22T10:35:09.335-04:00

While on vacation, we visited the zoo.Everywhere we went, Elmo went too!The polar bears were a big hit.Sporting a Los Poblanos t-shirt and new appreciation for a polar bear toy after the trip...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-40171560864034948042009-06-15T20:20:00.003-04:002009-06-15T20:20:01.783-04:00

First swing...Thanks to Grandpa's help and a perfectly horizontal branch on the white birch tree!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-78589193044300484072009-06-13T19:57:00.003-04:002009-06-13T20:12:57.923-04:00

Baby!As before, we didn't have them confirm boy or girl.We're just grateful everything is checking out okay so far.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-4587338444975992822009-06-03T21:08:00.005-04:002009-06-03T21:30:14.156-04:00

We enjoyed some of the best breakfasts I (Angela) have ever had at the little inn we stayed at last week. Each morning we had a choice of two dishes, and usually at least one of the dishes had some kind of hot peppers on them. Brian and I like to try different foods and loved everything.Our last morning there, one of the inn's employees commented that we had done a pretty good job eating the

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-9227884464533302442009-06-02T20:11:00.003-04:002009-06-02T20:34:53.388-04:00

If you're ever in Albuquerque, definitely consider a stay at Los Poblanos.Trying to wade through hundreds of pictures after a trip is always a challenge. To get things started, here are pictures of the "famous" peacocks on their grounds.Kate called this blue one the "big one" since it had its feathers spread most often.A white one on the roof of the inn.And, the white one with its feathers

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-61478451723592075672009-05-26T23:18:00.003-04:002009-05-26T23:41:54.226-04:00

North ElevationCourtyardOkay, not really our new home.We're in denial that vacation is almost over...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-73601167946543897172009-05-20T07:53:00.004-04:002009-05-20T08:21:20.849-04:00

If mom and dad eat corn this way, I want to too..."Feed Elmo.""Elmo likes it!"

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-79303674145692589922009-05-11T21:02:00.002-04:002009-05-11T21:10:12.469-04:00

Kate has become obsessed with putting on shoes.Will mom's shoes fit Elmo?How about Kate?In spite of switching left and right, she managed to walk all the way down the hall in them...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-436584483246102172009-04-30T11:12:00.004-04:002009-04-30T11:28:28.230-04:00

After nearly 20 years in storage, my favorite toys of all time are being enjoyed by a new generation!About 1/4 of the cars have a door or hood that opens. So, every car is presented to mom or dad with a request to "open dat one!"It may be difficult to see in the picture above, but I'm showing her how to open the hood of an orange Boss Mustang.This was a Matchbox car made in England by Lesney

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-65248014194447553402009-04-23T08:46:00.003-04:002009-04-23T08:49:27.145-04:00

Overheard this morning...(to the tune of Baa Baa Black Sheep)Baa baa big Elmo, baa baa big ElmoOne for a mama, one for a daddyBaa baa baby Elmo, baa baa baby ElmoOne for a mama, one for a daddy

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-28670996222249719502009-04-19T13:18:00.004-04:002009-04-19T13:28:41.119-04:00

Mom: "Do you want to help me make pancakes?"Kate: "Help me. Help me." (Translation: Yes, I want to help you!)Here she was stirring ingredients for buttermilk pancakes. Today, she was excited to help with lunch by putting potatoes in a pot of water.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-89521093887270819372009-04-11T12:12:00.003-04:002009-04-11T12:32:23.913-04:00

Our church hosted an Easter egg hunt for the kids this morning...Decorating the bag.Quick! Grab as many as you can!(They let the little kids go first to grab the easy ones from the floor and tables.)As we were leaving, Kate said, "fun ducks."

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-48009606078636747962009-04-07T12:04:00.003-04:002009-04-07T12:10:26.752-04:00

Our little corner of the world now has a dedicated page at msnbc.com, The Elkhart Project, about economic woes.Oh, and that's on top of recent news that our congressional district was 423 out of 435 on a recent "well-being index."I attribute it to our close proximity to Michigan! :P

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-23671797453811091862009-03-31T09:20:00.002-04:002009-03-31T09:23:27.615-04:00

It's not enough just to eat Kix anymore......increase the degree of difficulty by stabbing them with a fork!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-66771414585356028452009-03-21T00:21:00.002-04:002009-03-21T00:29:56.045-04:00

As a way of dealing with cabin fever during the long winter, we signed up for "Gym Tots" at our local YMCA...It's pretty low key and has been a good way to introduce activities that we just don't think to do around the house.Similar to swim lessons last year, Kate wasn't crazy about things at first. But, now she wants to try all the stations, saying: "Kate do. Kate do."

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-18665638348965026372009-03-13T10:01:00.003-04:002009-03-13T10:10:15.376-04:00

...who is the saddest of them all?Everything is a reason to see how she looks in the mirror now!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-67817986677364984932009-03-04T09:11:00.004-05:002009-03-04T09:18:56.703-05:00

Sad, but true...This is actually an upgrade from our "trusty" old wagon!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-7176434172246814152009-02-28T12:32:00.003-05:002009-02-28T12:38:38.819-05:00

"Dear Jesus. Thank you food. Thank you Elmo. Thank you animal cracker. Thank you toys. Thank you Elmo. Thank you animal cracker." (Etc.) "Amen!"We pray with Kate before mealtime and bedtime. She has enjoyed adding an Amen! to the end for a while, but today she said a prayer on her own for the first time.

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-80746198861137821422009-02-27T11:36:00.002-05:002009-02-27T11:42:55.754-05:00

We were enjoying a quiet evening last night after putting the little one to bed when we heard a strange mechanical squeak/beeping noise...Was it the dishwasher? the refrigerator? a pipe about to burst?After a while, Angela noticed it was happening every 6 minutes. Turns out it was her cell phone reminding her to charge the batteries. It was buried in a diaper bag, which was why it sounded so

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-7591609171154488692009-02-19T14:38:00.002-05:002009-02-19T14:46:20.475-05:00

With apologies to The Office..."Fashion show, fashion show, fashion show at home!"Kate sporting both an Elmo purse and a Mickey Mouse watch.We asked her to say cheese for the camera; thus, the cheesy grin!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-79508558371541451962009-02-11T18:10:00.002-05:002009-02-11T18:14:50.172-05:00

We spent several days last week hanging out with my sister. It gave the little cousins a chance to do what they do best - wear out their parents!But, they're so cute in the process!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-16622914118125189422009-02-09T09:11:00.002-05:002009-02-09T09:25:41.489-05:00

This week's word is "hiatus."Hiatus is "an interruption in the intensity or amount of something."http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=hiatusAfter more than a year and a half of steady posting, we're ready for a little break. We'll continue blogging, but more sporadically. Just wanted to keep our faithful readers in the loop! :)

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-58642980417674315212009-02-03T09:09:00.004-05:002009-02-03T09:21:56.746-05:00

Since the snow keeps coming whether we like it or not, we made the best of things with some sledding this past weekend.Kate didn't like the concept at first.But, after a ride down the hill she wanted more!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-31659744528760345322009-02-01T07:45:00.002-05:002009-02-01T07:45:01.137-05:00

Kate's word this week is "okay."Example usage: When you fall down, just shake it off and say "okay."The grown up word(s) of the week is(are) "cabin fever."Definition: "Cabin fever is an idiomatic term for a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person or group is isolated and/or shut in, for an extended period. Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, forgetfulness, laughter, and

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-25819316397691153452009-01-28T17:31:00.003-05:002009-01-28T17:40:37.769-05:00

"It's not easy being a baby genius..."Believe it or not, she actually does enjoy followingalong and copying the faces in this "Mirror Me" book!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-79395834066632831512009-01-26T12:51:00.007-05:002009-01-26T17:08:45.441-05:00

I (Angela) took Kate in for her 18 month checkup today. She had a few more immunization shots, which was obviously not much fun. But, I was excited to hear there will be no more until kindergarten!I was expecting her to have grown a lot, since she's already wearing the size 2 clothes I thought she'd be wearing NEXT winter. She's now 35-1/2 inches tall (99%-tile), and weighs 24 lb. 5 oz. (45%-

Angelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05513482247448843936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-15380656062492256952009-01-24T19:38:00.006-05:002009-01-24T19:57:56.265-05:00

Kate's word this week is "bargain," which she says in reference to one of her "favorite" books.We think she mostly just likes the baby on the cover. But, she also asks us to read it and pays attention to a few tips before wriggling down to do something more interesting.The grown up word of the week is "cascade."One definition is "a succession of stages or operations or processes or units" (e.g.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-89314683652170425492009-01-21T15:10:00.002-05:002009-01-21T15:15:09.034-05:00

Long, long ago...Time flies when you're having fun!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-24473920600444676792009-01-18T08:03:00.000-05:002009-01-18T08:03:00.338-05:00

Kate's word this week is "Applebee." Note that this does not refer to the restaurant of that name. Rather, she says it to request a specific song from the "Kitty Keyboard" she received for Christmas.TO THE TUNE OF “B-I-N-G-O”"I once had a cat named ApplebeeHe ran away from meApplebee, ApplebeeApplebee, hear my pleaMy little friend ApplebeePlease come back to me"The grown up word of the week is "

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-89854750401643542292009-01-16T09:13:00.003-05:002009-01-16T09:36:26.525-05:00

This week, a new website for the business finally went live...www.claritybv.comI would welcome any feedback or "tough love" from the family and friends that read this blog. Who else can you count on to tell it like it is? :)

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-13761443261876480612009-01-14T11:08:00.002-05:002009-01-14T11:21:02.808-05:00

We braved the icy/snowy roads this past weekend to visit my mom and have some "18-month" pictures taken of Kate.I''m not sure who spent the most time in front/behind the camera. There was not much sitting or standing still going on...

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-90203938800371896832009-01-11T13:26:00.003-05:002009-01-11T13:46:44.978-05:00

Kate's word this week is "barcode."Yes, she apparently knows what a barcode is, as she has pointed them out on different objects and says, "barcode, barcode" over and over. It is weird to see what kids pick up on...The grown up word of the week is "mundane"Example quote from John Adams: "I have seen a queen of France with 18 million livres of diamonds on her person, but I declare that all the

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-18528636200592059892009-01-08T06:23:00.005-05:002009-01-08T08:14:25.490-05:00

Lately Kate has been interested in actions/verbs, such as running, reading, and even cooking!Here she is "cooking" in the kitchen with mama at her request. Yes, those are Kix she has in the skillet there..."Mmm. Good!"

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-4597289594972602472009-01-06T20:11:00.002-05:002009-01-06T20:19:15.868-05:00

My cousin Lisa wrote a nice post about my grandparents' 59th anniversary, "A love story." She even has pictures of all four generations of the family from the holidays.

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-38010301770580930612009-01-04T14:07:00.007-05:002009-01-04T14:23:44.055-05:00

Okay, this one could be the word of the year given how often we hear it..."Elmo" is the word this week, as we went to see Sesame Street Live last Friday.Kate was prepared with both her Cookie and Elmo dolls!(We passed on the $8 Elmo balloons...)Every time a song ended, Kate said "More, more. Elmo."The grown up word of the week is: "respite."Example: We enjoyed a respite from the usual routine

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-10648632787072063752008-12-31T07:09:00.002-05:002008-12-31T07:09:00.623-05:00

Another year, another bunch of changes...Brian quit his job and started a business.Angela adjusted to life with both daughter and husband in the house and gained a brother-in-law and sister-in-law.Kate went from being an immobile infant to a precocious toddler.Last year's recap: Best of/Worst of 2007.We did complete another house project in 2008 - a basement renovation.In 2009, hopefully we'll be

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-224577086440233412008-12-28T07:27:00.006-05:002008-12-28T07:27:00.218-05:00

Kate's word this week is "ride."Example usage: "Ride, ride, ride."(As in, keep pulling me around the basement in my new wagon until you are completely dizzy...)The grown-up word of the week is "ice."Example usage: There was steam and fog coming off the ice on our roof and driveway yesterday, as we went from -0- earlier in the week to 60 degrees!Last week's words were "up-a-down" and "family."

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-50708469147018856542008-12-26T20:03:00.003-05:002008-12-26T20:07:27.889-05:00

Quick update on the double ear infection... Kate slept much better last night and took a good nap today, so the worst seems to be over. She felt good enough to beg for pie tonight anyway!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-62760872576430914322008-12-24T09:29:00.006-05:002008-12-24T10:18:20.617-05:00

Our friend the junglewife tagged us in a blog game called picture tag...Here are the rules:1. Go to the 4th folder in your computer where you store your pictures.2. Pick the 4th picture in that folder.3. Explain the picture.4. Tag 4 people to do the same.The picture I found was a scanned photo of my grandfather (dad's side of the family) as a young man.I've thought about him a lot this year as he

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-4516079395324828802008-12-22T18:28:00.003-05:002008-12-22T18:33:09.986-05:00

Blame it on all the germs at family gatherings over the weekend... Kate went to the doctor today and found out she has a double ear infection! Poor kid is absolutely miserable. Hopefully the antibiotics kick in soon!

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5366434234304507193.post-15189068557022958142008-12-21T06:06:00.006-05:002008-12-21T06:06:01.026-05:00

Kate's word this week is "up-a-down" (upside down - the down portion should be said with gusto).Example usage: Bear is upside down!(Having fun alternating bear and cookie monster upside down.)The grown-up word of the week is "family."Example usage: How many family gatherings do you have this holiday season?Last week's words were "music" and "lunatic."

Abacushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17549794720831612291noreply@blogger.com1