Quick Takes Friday

1. I'm a Winner!
I just found out moments ago that I won a prize in a drawing for a blogeversary celebration. Thanks Studeo for sharing your celebration with all- especially me. I really love reading your blog and am glad I stumbled upon in through mutual friends.

2. Dancing Queen
This past weekend (yes I should have posted these earlier) we celebrated 50 years of the local volunteer fire department here in Kieler. Because my husband is one of the volunteers and because we live so close to the firehouse we were part of the celebration. It included, prayer, food, fire truck rides, recognition of past and present fire fighters and the dept. history and to top it all off, a dance! Kate LOVED the dance part. Below you can see her signature moves. She wore her sparkly "dancing shoes" and came home with 4 blisters (we wouldn't have known they were there unless we spotted them- there were no complaints) and a huge smile.

This move she learned from some of the older kids who were doing cartwheels- it isn't quite a cartwheel but a fine move nonetheless.

Notice the shoes, the smile and the sense of rhythm (she gets that from me)!

3. A Good Book
I haven't had a quick read in awhile but on the recommendation of a friend I picked up "Only the River Runs Free" by Bodie and Brock Thoene. It was really enjoyable! Based in Ireland in the 1800's during the tension between lords and tenants and Catholics and Protestants the book is a historical adventure/romance.

4. May the Month of Mary
To celebrate May and Mary our moms' group did a May crowning on the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima. I accidentally posted the pictures backwards but you'll get the idea. Since the kiddos range in age from 4-about 6 mos. and there are 9 of them and 4 moms and it was raining outside- we had to for this year keep it pretty simple. We had a procession (parade the kids called it) through the house with the kids carrying flowers and singing Immaculate Mary (they got into the Ave Maria's part after some practice). Then the placed their flowers in the vase by Mary, one of the older girls crowned her and we all prayed the Hail Mary. Tada!

The group minus one picture protester.

Our Mary Crowned and admired.

Offering flowers to Mary after the parade.

5. Potty Problems
Kate had initiated some time ago wanting to wear undies and sit on the potty so I went with it since she was interested. For awhile things were going pretty smoothly (excluding naps and nights) but recently things have slowed down more and she isn't as interested in going on the toilet yet is pretty insistent on wearing underwear during the day and not diapers. This would be fine but the laundry has started to pile up with more and more 'misses'. Sometimes, when I remember I'll have her go or set the timer and have her go (w/o protest) but sometimes it seems she is just distracted and has lost interest. I was warned not to push (but I don't feel I have) and that she might regress when the baby comes on the scene (soon). But I'm just wondering what to do at present. Ideas anyone?

6. Busy Days
Seems like our calendar continues to fill up frequently and quickly! I am amazed how fast the days pass because of this. This weekend alone we have a wedding reception, a baptism (which Kurt's cooking for), dinner w/ family and we're doing chores for friends who are out of town (well Kurt and Katie are doing chores- I don't know how much help I'll be). Plus all the 'normal stuff' like laundry, Mass, garden and yard work and the stuff we can't attend because of the coming baby- my nephew's 5th birthday celebration. I'm not complaining or necessarily thrilled just observing the busyness of a small family. I can't imagine as kids grow and multiply how that might increase even more!?!

7. Time to Put in Your Guesses
Yes, I'd say its time we made our guesses on the arrival, sex and size of this forthcoming babe. Here's what I know-
Official Due Date: June 2, 2010
History: With Kate her official due date was April 1 but they moved it 'up' to March 29. She was born April 3rd at 8:58 p.m. weighing 9 lbs 7 oz. and measuring 21 inches. My mom was late with all three of us kids (me over a week, Tom 21 days and John over a week). Also, as far as boy/girl ratio- Kurt has had in his family 6 boys and 2 girls as siblings (not all still living unfortunately), there are also 8 boy grandchildren and 7 girl grandchildren on that side of the family. Also, we do not know what sex the baby is (I couldn't keep it a secret if I did!) so there will be no preliminary elimination.
Current Stats: I'm up to nearly 200 pounds (from a starting weight of 145). I had plenty of pain for two months but recently have had a reprieve. Some small contractions and I hopes to dance the baby out this weekend. ;-)
Rules: You can only enter one guess. The one closest without going over for date, weight and height will receive a small prize. So hedge your bets now! And pray for a safe and healthy birth- St. Gerard, pray for us!

Have a great weekend!

In Good Company

Well the weeks are going faster and we could technically count down in days for the babies arrival (though we don't have an exact date to count to since due dates are only 5% accurate). Part of the reason time seems to be moving (for me at least) is the presence of good company. And I've had quite a bit of it in the past week.

Our Mom's Group met at our home this week. They're the kinda company every pregnant mom would want in these final weeks. Assisting with everything from vacuuming, dishes and bathroom tidying they left my home with much more luster than it had at their arrival. What a blessing to have friends like these moms! I certainly am grateful for their friendship, the laughs and conversation we share weekly and all their help this week.

Thursday was also the arrival of some out of town guests. We were so excited to host Kat and her kiddos again for a long weekend. They came in spite of my previous plans for Friday (see next paragraph) and even offered to watch Kate while I was out. Cute kid pictures will follow my company commentary.

Friday Kurt and I were able to celebrate with some of our adopted family here in Kieler. We feel so blessed to have many 'other parents' in the area and George and JoAnn are certainly not the least of these. George retired from John Deere after 38 years and we were able to be part of the cake, coffee and tour Friday morning. That evening we even caught up with them a bit more at Gooch's. We are excited for the two of them in starting this new chapter in their lives together- with grandkids on the way and an RV to break in! Kate certainly thinks of them as good company. She is always looking to do more with Jo and Georgie!

Friday night my folks arrived for a weekend visit at our quickly filling home. Mom and Dad soon became the primary entertainers with the kiddos. We were wishing for better weather Saturday but still managed to have quite a bit of fun in the rain. Kurt became (once again) the chef extraordinaire for the weekend. Turning out beer brats, smoked ribs, fried fish, smoked salmon, bagels, and two homemade pies over the course of the weekend! (I'm so glad to keep his company! And so is my tummy!) Along with eating, there were many great conversations shared, kids played with, laughs and small jobs accomplished. The weekend went WAY to fast if you ask me.

Now our home is quiet again. Kate's down for a record nap. Kurt's putzing with the car lot in our drive way (another post) and I'm reflecting on how I can continue to keep myself in good company these next three weeks and beyond baby's arrival. Perhaps YOU should come visit?!? What gift God has given me in my friends and family!

Ok, and now the pictures!

The kids loved our visit to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium on Friday. The aquariums, lizards and petting a sturgeon were highlights to mention.
Kate and I scoping out the snakes.
Pointing out the momma and baby lizards in the terrarium.
In the desert....check out my face, it was hot!
Leaping Lizards!
Seeing how rivers work.
Exploring the caves!
Breakfast of bran muffins, grapes and strawberries, yum!
Riding the Fenlon St. Elevator was once again a big hit with the kiddos.
Coffee and treats with Gramma at one of the only coffee shops open for early birds Saturday morning.
You have to love the cooks!
Kurt gives baking lessons. Today's lesson: Rolling the perfect crust for apple and rhubarb pies.
One of a few trips to the parks of Kieler.
This morning's story time. Before the mass exodus and long awaited naps.

A Kate Update

A few things I've been thinking about blogging regarding Kate these past few weeks.

MYSELF! Has been big in the life of this budding two year old. Where does that come from? One day she's needy as can be and the next Miss Independent has entered the scene. I have an appreciation for this new found freedom from help on most days. But there are other moments it gets quite exhausting (and I'm supposed to not be doing anything, how can that be?). Regardless, we've started to go the the bathroom, MYSELF. Get dressed and shoes on, MYSELF. Get a snack, MYSELF. etc, etc. MYSELF!

Since its t-minus 5 weeks till the baby's arrival we've been talking about it more frequently. Kate has been with me to nearly all of my drs. appointments and really has down the concept of the baby having a heart (she'll listen for it like the doctor does). She also knows it kicks and moves. Early on this concept was kinda funny. Especially when she went up and felt Kurt's belly and asked if his baby was sleeping. ;-) LOL! She's also been cued in a bit on our plans for the baby's birth. She knows that Gramma Ann is coming down to be with her at that time. Since Gramma's visits are so special anyway she's been talking non-stop about things that she'll do when Gramma comes. "Gramma cut my hair!" Gramma, Pops, Trevor, Kaylee, Uncle John and I sleep in the big bed." "I, Gramma's girl!" Now how on earth my mom's visit became a family sleep over is beyond me. It makes me laugh to think of my parents, niece, nephew and bachelor brother as well as Katie in the king size bed down stairs. But I too am getting more excited for Gramma's visit- especially since that means that the baby is on its way out!

In another baby realm, I've been having some intense sciatic nerve pain with this pregnancy. It has been disabling for travel since just after Easter. One of the 'solutions' to deal with the pain is laying down and icing which I try to do at least once a day, most recently. So Kate of course if she's up wants to "ice my bum, too" She's such a copycat in word and deed. I can certainly see how bad habits could be taught instead of good! As an aside, I have really struggled being 'stuck' in the area and not able to travel as I'd like. Prayers are certainly appreciated. I know that many women have things much more difficult in pregnancy and in life- I've just got to keep things in perspective.

Well it is beginning to storm here so I'm going to close for now and shut down the computer...more later. Happy Friday- and weekend!

BBQ Champion!

That's him in the yellow!

Yes, you read right...I am married to the John Deere Dubuque Works Barbecue Cook-off Champion!

This just in, Kurt's FABULOUS Smoked BBQ Pulled Pork won this year's competition. I know many of our friends and family have experienced and enjoyed this dish in the past. And now we know how good it really is! ;-) So it was well worth Kurt getting up at 1 o'clock in the morning to take it off the smoker and shred it.

Congratulations Kurt! You can cook for me anytime!

Another Quick Journey

Well, this year's Lenten/Easter Bible Study has wrapped up for the season. You may recall my mentioning it in a post back in February when it began. Our last session here in Kieler was this evening. It was (as last year was, too) a real joy to lead. We had nearly 25 participants again this year with some that had returned for a second season. My friend JoAnn and I worked together to get things going. I was once again in awe at how God works all things for His plan.

I have used The Bible Timeline in the past and it continues to be a great basic resource in cracking open the Scriptures for adults. Since we've done the 'quick' version at our parish the last two years I have taken the liberty to add a few Bible Basics to the evenings and open things up to other questions that folks might have on their minds. It is always humbling to have to go back to the Word and the Tradition of the Church and recall answers for others (including myself) to grow in knowledge and faith. I am so pleased to see how the Spirit continues to burn in the hearts of so many! Hopefully there will be much fruit that comes from these evenings! All glory to Him of course with much gratitude for the gift of sharing faith.

In thinking about this, I am so thankful to Kurt for allowing me this teaching opportunity and outlet. I don't know how long I'll be able to balance this addition to marriage and family life but at the moment these evenings have been counted as treasure. A needed break. Some quality adult conversation. An opportunity to share what I have been given. In short they bring me joy! And none of that would be possible with out my love and his willingness to take on Kate for the evening solo.

Anyway, tonight, I arrived home to a sleeping house with so much joy and such energy I had to wind down by sharing a bit here. Continued Easter Blessings! And thanks for reading!

Post 100- Katie's Birthday and Easter Weekend

Kate's birthday cake, made on Good Friday in preparation for the festivities.

Gram reading one of the books she received for her birthday (Her favorite book, "Katie Can!" written by Gramma Ann for her birthday).

Modeling her gift from Mom and Dad- a monkey sweatshirt that she continues to wear frequently.

Opening her gift from Gramma Helen a Magna-Doodle for those car trips north.

Our parish hosted an Easter Egg Hunt for kids the morning of Kate's birthday. She and Gram ran fast to find a few. It was a big hit!

Finding an egg!

Kate and her friend Miriam after the hunt showing off their treats.

They also had a bounce house and crafts for all the kids to take part of that day. Here are the girls crafting it up.

Thought you'd enjoy the belly shot in this one. As an aside I'm measuring right on and continue to count down (7 weeks +/- to go). More on that in another post.

Kate in Pop's glasses- too cute of a picture to exclude.

Getting ready to blow out her candles.

Unwrapping presents, one small piece of wrapping paper at a time.

Gramma Ann helping with the gift from her godparents.
Showing off her 'new' boots and her birthday suit, later that evening.

Kate's summarizing of the weekend-
Her favorite gift- boots from Aunty Trina (seen above)
Her favorite moment- sleeping with Gramma
Her favorite food- Big Bird Cake
Her favorite song- ALLELUIA!

It was great to have some of our families here for Easter. I wish I'd have thought to bring the camera to Mass Sunday morning to see Kate and all decked out for the celebration. My folks and John left Sunday around noon. By that time Kate had crashed on the living room floor of her own accord. Easter and company was exhausting!

Happy Easter from all of us here in Kieler!

We're getting ready to celebrate...

Easter and Katie's 2nd birthday! I'm super excited for Triduum services these next days! And Kate's birthday falls in the midst (Holy Saturday). My folks and brother John are headed down tonight for the weekend. Today we got to practice blowing out candles (she wasn't able to do it a month ago) at our Mom's group gathering. And of course all the kids sang. She thought it was great. We also go her pictures taken this week. We usually have my SIL take them but it didn't work out to do it on our last visit and I wasn't sure when we'd visit again so I bit the bullet. Portrait Innovations had a special and we got plenty of pics of this one shot. Though I sure had a tough time choosing.

You can't tell from the picture but she was less than thrilled to be getting her pictures taken. The studio frightened her and she was just not about it. That says a lot for Aunty Trina doing them next time. ;-)

P.S. My next post will be #100 can you believe it!?!?