The Nelson Family

Future Hunter

2012-01-27T15:20:00.000-08:00

Steve's brother sent this pic to us the other day. Excuse the bloody doe...but he looks so handsome and someday he will be standing in front of a deer he shot!!! Love my little outdoorsman.

My Man

2012-01-22T18:51:00.000-08:00

Steve & I rarely get pictures together so I figured I'd put this one on here. Enjoying some pizza on our Bowling night with the Benders. Love him.

Kitchen

2012-01-22T18:48:00.000-08:00

Through some awesomely timed posts on facebook we were able to score this adorable kitchen for only $25!!! Add some food & dishes and we're set!:) Even Denver gets pretty excited about cooking up some good food!

Buddies

2012-01-22T18:40:00.000-08:00

We are so thankful for our new church family and all the awesome kids (especially BOYS...lots and lots of BOYS!) Denver gets to hang out with every week. We are so blessed to have solid families with kids his age to grow up with!!! We definitely had that in Cedar Falls so it is a huge answer to prayers to find it here, too!!! Here are a few of Denver's new buddies!

D & Lincoln

Bowling & Pizza with the Bender clan. I wish this was a better picture...but through the craziness of the night it's the best I could do. Denver with Grant, Rhys, and Mason. He talks about these three guys all the time!:) (excuse Steve's head in this pic hehe)

Lil' Huntin' Girl

2012-01-22T18:28:00.000-08:00

A few examples of things Noelle loves to put around her neck...lots of hunting themes in the Nelson household thanks to daddy!

The other day Noelle came walking into room like this. It cracked me up!

Daddy is extra proud of this video. She is a girl on a mission to call in some big bucks!!!:)

TIMBERRRR

2012-01-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

Last week we were driving home from Wellman and had to stop at my parents to get something. We came at just the right time because they just happened to be chainsawing down a 100-year-old pine tree that had gotten struck by lightning a few years ago and was dead. Denver was enthralled! I stayed for awhile then left to get the groceries home and make lunch and Steve went there on his way from work to lunch and got in on the action, too. Denver couldn't wait to tell me all about it when he got home! What a fun experience for a very outdoorsy and explorative little boy!

Standing by the trunk after the first notch was cut out.

Ready to pull it down with the big cable.

TIMBERRRRR!!!

My handsome men!!!

Big boy on a big old tree trunk!

Cousins Lilly, Ruby, and D sitting on the stump.

Just for a Smile

2012-01-16T12:32:00.000-08:00

A few pictures to share today. A sweet girls in piggies and boots and a boy with a new train (thanks to daddy and their shopping trip the other day). Hope they bring a smile to your face.

House Tour

2012-01-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Ok I've been wanting to do this for awhile instead of taking a bunch of pictures, so here is a video tour of our new house. It's not the best as far as shakiness, jerking, but it at least gives you a glimpse at where we're at now. I hope it doesn't give you a headache!:)

Noelle

2012-01-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

There's so much I could tell you about our sweet pea. But for now, a few fun facts about Noelle Dawn.
*she is 13 months now
*has four teeth
*weighs 20 pounds - 25th %ile for both height & weight
*walks everywhere
*loves to eat
*loves whole milk
*still loves to sleep (with her blankie & binkie!) - at least 12 hours at night, a short morning nap, and a 2-2 1/2 hour afternoon nap
*always points at her coat and wants to go outside
*puts up with big brother quite nicely - and loves to play with him
*says a few words - mama, daddy, kitty (ti-t), baby, uh-oh
*a climber
*an explorer - especially the kitchen cupboards
*always finds a way to play peek-a-boo
*loves her dollies
*happiest girl around

There will be posts to come on this little munchkin, but we love her dearly. It's been so fun watching her grow over the last year and turn into a little girl! She did everything quicker than Denver ever did and looks so tiny to be walking! We think she is just the sweetest! Here is my favorite pic of her taken recently.

Kitties

2012-01-14T13:45:00.000-08:00

When we moved, right away Denver noticed we had quite a few "barn cats" living on the farm. He was always trying to catch them, which usually ended up just chasing them around as they ran scared from him. There are a few nice ones now, that come close - especially when it's time to feed them! Well, we had some friends from church who live in town have two kitties show up on their doorstep one chilly Fall night. They couldn't keep them at their house - so we gained two adorable kitties. Denver named them Keekee - a calico, and Coocoo - a black kitty. He and Noelle both loves these kitties! Noelle's first real word besides mommy & daddy was "TI-T!" Lately, as it's gotten a little chillier outside...Denver's new thing is sneaking them inside to play with him. It's too cute to get upset with, so often times during the day I'll let him pick a kitty to bring inside for awhile. This particular day he took turns bringing both in. Here are a few pics of a boy and his kitties.

A Boy and a Box

2012-01-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

Last week we ordered a vacuum off amazon and it came in a big cardboard box. Denver really wanted to play with it - so we cut out a door, put on a door knob, made a kitty door (post to come about our kitties), cut a few windows, and wa-la! Fun for the day! Denver (and Noelle) had so much fun in the house. He ate his snack in there, had a few "visitors" come knocking, brought a few toys in. Soon the house turned into a train station. He took all his trains (future post on his train obsession) in there and played for awhile. Later on it became his hunting blind. He sat in there hunting out the window for ducks, pheasants, snow geese, deer, elk, etc. etc. (future post on his hunting obsession). That cardboard box provided much entertainment for the day! Here are a few pictures! Enjoy:)

And last...a video of a little boy who loves to hunt. It's kind of hard to understand...but this particular hunt is for pheasants, using the new vacuum extensions as his gun. He has developed quite a hunting vocabulary since moving down here and listening to all the talk about hunting with his daddy and uncles. Kaboom!:)

Back in the Saddle

2012-01-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

It's been almost a year since I've posted! After awhile it got so long that I just got overwhelmed thinking about posting!!! So here I am - January 14 and ready to start a-fresh! MUCH has changed for the Nelson family since I last posted. We moved, Steve got a new job, and we are living in the country - loving every second! I will be posting in the near future with pictures of our new house, updates on Steve, myself, and the kids, and then will hope to keep the posts coming with what life looks like for us now! So check back in soon for a look at Life in the Country with the Nelson Family!:)

The everyday...

2011-03-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

Well this has proven to be the Winter that NEVER ENDS!!!! Uhh! One day there will be a little glimpse of warmth and sunshine....just to be followed by another dark, cold, breezy day!!! Where are you Spring?!? We are definitely eagerly awaiting your arrival!

Here are a few pictures of ways we pass the time here at the Nelson Home and also a few of Denver causing mischief during these long days inside!:) Enjoy!

Snack time!

Noelle with pal Asher after getting out for a walk.

Why is the toilet water black you ask? Well Denver decided to pour all his bath color fizz tablets into it of course! What you can't see is that it was also bubbling!

Looking good, D!

Lots of book reading.

Denver gets so excited when he can get Noelle to hold onto his finger.

Denver loves this foamy pumpkin soap. No matter how many times I put it away - he will get it out and swap it with whatever soap I have out.

First bath together. It was a little splashy but both had a great time!

Project

2011-03-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

First, let me say that most of the time having a husband that works in ministry is wonderful. He has a somewhat flexible schedule and is home for lunch most days, which is a nice break in my day from just me and the kids and they love seeing him then, too. Well......the less wonderful thing about it is the three week-long trips he takes throughout the year, as well as the other two or three day trips sprinkled amongst those. It's always hard for me to be "left behind" to tend to the kids while he is meeting new people, sharing Christ's love, etc. I wish we could experience those kinds of things together, and as any mom knows - the weeks get really long when it's just you and the children! Well, this week was Spring Break and it was no exception. We were planning on going to my parents for most of the week, but.....traveling with two kids - one of them a baby, the other a very active two-year-old - was a lot different than the other weeks when it was just me and Denver. I won't get into it - but we ended up coming home on Tuesday instead of Saturday! So here we were....all week just the three of us. Thankfully, my mom came up Wed afternoon to Thurs morning which really helped break up the week. Thank you Mom!

Okay, anyways, I was feeling the need for a project to work on while Steve was gone. Just something to get my mind off the kids and give me a break from the housework that's always here to do!

I decided to make a name sign for Noelle's room once we move. (That's another topic to post about) We are signing the papers on our house next week and it is SOLD! Hallelujah God is good! So, after that we will look for a new house (we can live here til November...but want to move by May). Anyway, again - that's for another post.

Right now Noelle is in our old room and I haven't done anything to it besides have girly crib sheets because I knew we'd be moving in not too long. So I decided my project would be making something for her new room in our next house. So mom and I headed to Hobby Lobby to get the supplies.

We didn't really have a vision, just kind of picked and chose while we were there. Here is the finished product. I couldn't be more pleased with how it turned out!

Not sure if I'll hang the letters on the pegs or above the board and use it to hang other things on...either way I think it will be cute!

My Love

2011-03-04T12:35:00.000-08:00

This blog always seems to be about the kids, but they wouldn't be who they are and neither would I without the best husband and daddy in the world.

THIS GUY:

Steve, From the time we met, I have loved your outgoing personality, ability to make me laugh, the way you know just how to get a rise out of me, your faith in Christ and ability to share it with others, your gift for asking intentional questions, your love of the outdoors, how well you fit in with my family...the list could go on and on. After we got married I came to love and appreciate your willingness to help me with whatever I needed, how you want to take care of me, your "fix-it" abilities, your wisdom in leading our family, and again...the list could continue. Once we had children, I've come to admire your patience, tender heart, desire to provide for and take care of them, creativity, endurance, and how you're able to keep the fun alive in our house when I'm stressed out.

God has truly blessed me and our children by giving us you. I know I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate you and all you do for us. You add so much fun to my life and can always make me laugh. Thank you for being who you are and being my rock when I can't stand on my own. I'm so excited for the next few months and years to see where God leads our family. I love you and so do Denver and Noelle! Also...you make the best pizza around. Seriously, it's amazing. (Come over sometime and try it!!!!)

Oh, and the best bread, too!!!!

Can't wait to spend the rest of my life being loved by you!!!

D

2011-03-04T12:21:00.000-08:00

I think it's fitting that Denver should get a post now! Can't forget about our little 2-year-old! Where do I even start? Denver - or D, as he is most often referred to in our house - is a one-of-a-kind little boy! Steve and I often talk about how God has big plans for this little guy. He is one of the most tender-hearted little boys I know, but also very independent and sometimes strong-willed. He has so much energy and life in him I can hardly keep up. Parenting a two-year-old boy has proven to be so much fun but also quite challenging. We are still figuring out how to train up this little boy to know Jesus, be respectful, use his manners, obey, and so many other things. I am reading Bringing up Boys right now and it has offered so much insight into the way little boys are created uniquely and helping me understand how their little minds and bodies are wired. Probably the biggest thing I've taken away from it so far is that little boys "masculinity" needs to be praised and encouraged. God created them to have a tendency towards rough-housing, climbing all over everything, being more reckless than girls, etc. I've learned I need to offer him more opportunities to do big guy things and the freedom to use that rough and tumble side. If he and Steve wrestle on the bed and the covers all end up on the floor, that's okay! Denver needs that time with his dad. If he jumps from the coffee table onto the couch then from the couch to the floor, I'm learning to be okay with that and cheer for him as he wants us to see how far he can leap. When he wants us to watch him golf ALL DAY LONG and nearly takes off our heads with his mighty swing, knocking over some of my decorations...well, I can only encourage him and say Nice shot! (with a little "be careful" in there too!)

Anyway, here are a few of Denver's favorite things to do these days.
*As always...EAT. This boy can eat with the best of them. He loves pretty much anything I make and eats veggies like a champ. He also loves to dip things. It doesn't matter what it is, he'll dip it in something if he can. Today it was his ham in peanut butter and cheetos in his milk. And this was not done to be funny, it was like it was normal for him. I just chuckle.
*Read books - we went to the library this week and checked out a big stack. His favorite is Biscuit. He loves reading Biscuit books and if you know him - you know he has a little stuffed dog named Biscuit that often sleeps with him and gets tucked in right beside.
*Watch tv and movies. Yes...this is a frequent occurrence at our house. His favorites: Curious George, Clifford, and most any other PBSKids shows. Veggie Tales come in on top for movies.
*Golf. Anyone who comes over to our house will probably get to watch Denver golf. It is crazy how good he is! Daddy is very very excited for when he can take D out to the course and play a round with him!
*Play outside. Though we've only gotten out a few times lately, we love to go for walks. Denver picks up all sorts of rocks, sticks, leaves, and carries them as we go. We went to the park this week! I carried Noelle in my baby bjorn and D walked. It was so nice out and we had a great time!
*Read his Bible and tell Bible stories. He talks about Jonah, David, and Daniel a LOT. He can tell each of the Bible stories and it is so cute to listen to.
*Get on pbskids.org and play some of the games. He can actually work the mouse or use the laptop and play. It is fun and he is learning a lot while doing it.

Denver is such a smart little boy. We are realizing that there was so much going on in his mind that is just starting to come out through his words. He knows all his letters - both upper and lower case, can count to 12, sing the abc's, spell and recognize several words, knows all his shapes and colors, and can sing quite a few songs. We haven't really "taught" him any of these things, he is just so observant and soaks everything up like a sponge.

Ok, this has gotten very long. I know this was probably boring for most people to read, but it's more for me to look back on and remember these days. I need to make a post of some of the hilarious things he says these days, but that will be for another time! I'm not getting any work done during nap time!!!
Here are a few pictures of our big boy who is growing up so much these days.

Ready to go choring with Papa Donnie....well not quite ready!:)

Yes, he ate the whole carrot stick.

I came into Noelle's room to find this. He heard her in the monitor and was helping get her up from nap.

This kid will find a way to golf no matter how cold it is outside!

CANDY

And probably my favorite. He found our box of cheez-its downstairs on top of the cupboard by the deep freeze. I should have zoomed this picture out so you could see the clothes basket turned over with his potty on top which he used to climb up onto the freezer to reach the box. Also on the floor was a little ziploc baggie he was going to put them in, but dropped on the way. Oh Denver, we love you!!!

A Special Time

2011-03-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

We are so blessed to have parents who love our children like crazy. Denver gets so excited when he gets to see Grandma Joyce and Papa Jim or Wawa and Papa Donnie. He has a special connection with each grandparent and often talks about them throughout the days and prays for them at night.

Denver and now Noelle have been given a special time each week with "Wawa." As most people know, Denver didn't start talking much at all until he was well over 2. Now he jabbers away to himself or anyone and is saying new things every day. Well, when he was just starting to form words, he started calling my mom Wawa. We're not really sure how it came about but just one day she was Wawa and it has stuck.
Anyway, each week Wawa comes up to watch the kids during my Wednesday afternoon piano lessons, spends the night, and then also during my Thursday morning lessons. It is so wonderful! We look forward to her coming each week. She always brings her "Grandma Bag" and Denver hustles to it as soon as he wakes up from his nap to see what Wawa brought this time. Books, playdoh, paints, and other surprises are some of the many things he finds. She also always comes with a helping hand for me around the house and encouragement to me through her words as times with two kids have proven difficult for me now and again. I told her this week it's a Win Win Win situation. She wins, I win, and most of all the kids win.

Here is a picture of Wawa reading to Denver and Noelle. Thanks, Wawa, for all your love and making our children feel so special. We love you!

2 Months

2011-03-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

This post is a little late, considering Noelle will be 3 months in 8 days, but I wanted to write it anyways to keep a record for myself.

This month Noelle started smiling a lot. She is such a happy girl most of the time. She'll smile for about anybody and often times wakes up happy already. I love coming in to her big gummy smile waiting for me to come get her.

Can I just say that we love our doctor. We see Dr. Riggs at the Covenant Clinic. He is the father/father-in-law of our very dear friends Ryan & Mallory and we feel so blessed to have a doctor who we know holds the same values and beliefs as we do. We can trust his opinion and advice, knowing that he has a solid faith in Christ and truly wants the best for our kids. He is also SO encouraging. I look forward to going myself just because he is so affirming to us as parents. We couldn't be happier!

So, onto Noelle's two month stats:
Weight: 10 lbs 13 oz. 50th%ile
Length: 22 1/2 in. 50th%ile
Head: 15 in. 25th%ile

She is doing so well! The weight gain is always a relief for a breastfeeding mother to hear. It gives me a peace knowing she's getting enough. She was so happy the whole time and so smiley....I laid her on the table before her shots and she was just cooing and smiling...then the shots came and she cried so hard. Oh it makes me tear up every time. It never lasts long and she calms down as soon as I pick her up but it sure does tug at my heart strings!

Oh our sweet Noelle, you have forever changed our family. We were living life pretty well as a family of three and never knew anything was missing until you came along. You have filled a place in my heart I didn't even know was there. We love you so much. We could never imagine life without you now. You are such a great girl! So happy and cuddly. I love to snuggle with you while you are awake or asleep.
You sleep so great for us. Last night you went from 8:30-7:30 between feedings. It was wonderful and you woke up just as bright-eyed as ever! You've been eating between 3 and 4 hours during the day now. You are a pretty good napper....sometimes you'll sleep solid for over 2 hours and sometimes you wake up after 45 minutes. But mommy or daddy can usually get you back to sleep either by giving you your binky or rocking you. I love how you cuddle right up in my arms and zonk out. It's a peaceful time and I just pray for you, Denver, and our family. You're such a gift to us. We love you so much and can't wait to know you more and watch your little personality unfold.

Now for a picture of our little doll. I already posted the two cutest ones lately, but this one is pretty sweet, too. Can you guess who put all her toys onto her so she could play?

I forgot about this first: she started batting at her toys while in her bouncy seat! I was so excited when she first did it and now it keeps her busy for quite awhile!

Cutie Pie

2011-02-28T17:38:00.000-08:00

It's so fun to dress a girl!!!!

Two of my favorite things....

2011-02-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

Feeling blessed today to have two of the sweetest kids around!

And feeling blessed by this nice weather!!!!! Wooohoooo!!!!!

Two Months!

2011-02-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Noelle is two-months-old today! We love you sweet pea!

Winter...

2011-02-09T09:18:00.000-08:00

Well I can honestly say I am so ready to bid this Winter so long! With a newborn we've found ourselves spending the majority of our days inside.....with a 2 1/2 year old the days are starting to get LONG! We've found many new things to occupy our time - sinks full of water to play in (a wet floor to clean up after!), bowling tournaments in the basement, fort-building, coloring, lots of book reading, and anything else we can think of! We've gone out to play in the snow quite a bit - Denver loves going out with Steve while he's shoveling. I bundled him up and took him to the park awhile back on a nicer day to play on the equipment. It was really fun!

One of my favorite things about these last few weeks is watching Steve with the kids. He is an amazing father and we are so blessed he can pop in throughout the day and spend time with us. Honestly, anytime Noelle hears Steve's voice she smiles sooo big. She already adores him! He has his special way he holds her and it just lulls her right to sleep. She just stares up at him when he holds her. It's the best! He is also so good at playing with Denver - the wrestling, rough-and-tumble boy play that Denver needs and I'm not so good at! They find all sorts of things to do and Denver loves it!

Another favorite thing for me is to see Denver's heart towards Noelle. Never once have I seen him get jealous of her when I hold or feed her. And when she's around he's always in her face kissing her, holding her hand, covering her up with his blanket. It's precious. He says her name so cute. I feel so fortunate that he loves having her around. He has started calling himself Brother Denver. More and more I am seeing the truly special boy God has created him to be. He is "all boy" and loves to roughhouse...but at the same time he is so gentle and tender. I think he is so wonderful.

Noelle will be two-months-old on Saturday! I can't believe it! She is doing so well! We had a rough first month - I was all over the place emotionally and she was so fussy. I truly think it was because I was so out of wack that she was having a hard time finding security/settling. This last month has been so much better and we are seeing that she is such a happy girl and not so fussy at all! (Of course she does have her moments, though!) She smiles all the time and has started cooing. Once when I was holding her while she was sleeping she giggled twice in her sleep! It was so cute!

Well there's a little update from us. Looking forward to warmer days! After we head to Noelle's 2-month checkup next Tuesday I'll write a post on what she's up to these days and her stats. I also want to post a pic of Denver when he was little beside one of Noelle right now - they really look so much alike!
Now for a few pictures. Enjoy!

Sweet Girl

2011-01-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a picture of Noelle from this week. Life has been so crazy and this girl has definitely rocked my world. I always heard that going from one to two children is the hardest and well......it has definitely proven to be a challenge for me. We are finding our way a little more each day and loving getting to know our little girl more and more. Denver is still so loving towards her and rarely gets frustrated by me holding or feeding her. I'm very thankful for that. He's also become very familiar with pbs kids shows...:)

Some info on Noelle:

She will be 7-weeks-old on Sunday.

She has taken over Steve & my room and we now have our bed in the basement.

She sleeps amazing at night. I feed her around 8:40 and she's usually asleep by 9 or shortly after, then she only wakes up to eat around 4 or 4:30 and sleeps til 8 or 8:30 and we start the day again.

She eats every 3 hours during the day.

Naps are leaving a little to be desired - but with time I know they will be longer.

She LOVES to be held or close to Steve or I.

She loves to lay on her tummy on my boppy and hold her head up. She's a strong little girl!

She smiles a lot now - especially when she's getting her diaper changed and I talk to her.

Lastly.....Spring please come soon because we are definitely feeling cooped up in the house and we all need some fresh air and to run around outside!!!!!

Introducing...

2010-12-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

Noelle Dawn Nelson

Born December 12, 2010 at 2:10 pm

Weight: 6 pounds 8 ounces

Length: 19 1/2 inches

The best Christmas gift God's ever given us!

Denver is in love and his tenderness with her blesses me.

Thankful

2010-11-23T08:12:00.000-08:00

I haven't been posting a lot lately - I'd say some serious nesting and maintaining have taken over my life lately!:) We wanted to be ready for this little baby early because we just didn't know what was going to happen since Denver was a month early. So I've got everything pretty much ready and now am just working to maintain the house til the baby comes. I'm in my 37th week - Friday will be 38. We are SO SO SO excited!!!!!! Our little one just can't get here fast enough!

But for the reason of my writing - today I am thankful. Thankful for a husband who will stay up with me all night taking care of a little guy who has a flu bug and was throwing up every 20 minutes to every hour. He rinsed and washed all the bedding for me and stayed up with Denver to catch the throw up in a bucket or wash cloth. I don't know a lot of men who could do that let alone be willing to. So today I'm just in awe of my husband and so thankful for him. I got out of the shower this morning to find Daddy and Denver sleeping on the couch so peaceful. In the midst of a stinky old flu bug I'm feeling very blessed today.

Cute Kids in Costumes

2010-10-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

Last night we had our second annual fall fun with the Hofferts, Blanchards, and Williams (minus Brett). The kids all looked so cute in their costumes last year we decided to do it again!

Here is a picture from last year.

And here is this year:

A little harder to get them to stay in one place....but just as cute!!!

(Pictures courtesy of Emily Hoffert Photography)

Our little lion.

My two favorite people in the world! Denver and Daddy.

Love this little guy to pieces!

So thankful to have good friends with kids Denver's age for him to grow up with. I'm sure there will be many more fun memories in the future!

Potty-Training

2010-10-23T07:32:00.000-07:00

There were two major things I wanted to tackle before the new baby comes in December. First was getting D into a big boy bed and second was potty-training. The big boy bed was an easy transition and Denver has been doing awesome in there. I would say he is sleeping better than he did in the last couple months of his crib. It's great. I will get a picture posted later of the way he tucks all of his "friends" into bed with him before he lays down. It is the cutest stinking thing ever! If his tenderness with his animals is any indication of how he will be with his new baby brother or sister it makes me even more excited for having our new one!

So a few weeks ago it was time to work on potty-training! I chose a week where I knew we'd be home and didn't have a lot going on so it could be our main focus. I have to say I think we caught him at the exact right time because honestly he pretty much trained himself. By mid-morning he was running in the bathroom when he had to go without me even prompting him. It was hardly even reward-motivated. He has definitely had accidents on and off but after about two days he is good to go now. It's so freeing not to have to change diapers all day, especially poopy ones and have him take care of business in the potty! So proud of this little guy! I can't believe how grown up he looks in his big boy underwear! Oh my word I still can't believe he's nearing in on 2 1/2!!!!!

Buddy Bear was excited to get his underwear on, too!

Showing off his big boy undies!

Steve's ipod touch is a great way to get him to stay on the potty for awhile. We put Baby Noah on there and he loves it

TA-DA I did it mom!

Best buddy Biscuit.

Deer Hunt

2010-10-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

Awhile ago we went down to Steve's parents for the opening weekend of deer hunting. I didn't take a lot of pictures, unfortunately, but I guess you could say I got the most important one!:) Denver was very enthralled when we got to go into the woods to help Daddy load up the deer he shot that morning. I know Steve is looking forward to the time when D is able to go out and sit in the stand with him!

BIG BOY!!!!!

2010-08-26T17:13:00.001-07:00

And when you're a big boy....it's time for a big boy bed!!!!!!!!

Denver has done awesome in his bed (he gets out a few times every night but once he falls asleep he's good to go til morning!) We are so thankful for how ready he was for this transition and how excited!!! It really was pretty easy! He's fallen out once during the night and also fallen asleep on the floor twice after roaming around for awhile, but we can't be more pleased with how he's done! We are so proud of you, Denver!!!!!

--my flash really lit up this picture which was in the dark but this is him sleeping on the floor.

Daddy & Denver

2010-08-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Lately Denver has been all about Daddy. It's pretty sweet. They have found Summer entertainment in watching the construction outside our house. The top picture is definitely a daily scene. Watching golf is always a highlight. And of course checking out the latest sports (or disc golf) updates on the computer.

I came into the bathroom one day and he had Steve's deodorant out. He said "daddy" and proceeded to take off the cap, lift his shirt, and put the deodorant up underneath. Then he repeated on the other side. I about died! He is so observant. It wasn't quite as funny when Steve came into the bathroom and found D with his razor in his hand ready to shave. Needless to say we now keep that in the closet! Ahh!

Anyway, these two are becoming quite the buds and I couldn't be more thankful. Denver, you are one blessed boy to have the daddy you do!

Summer Fun

2010-08-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Popsicles on the front step were definitely a Summer highlight.

D has really started to find interest in helping me in the kitchen. Whether it's when I'm washing dishes, cooking, baking, he always tries to drag one of the kitchen chairs in to help. Usually I love it.:)

This morning we were making homemade blueberry pancakes. Yum!

Such a big boy! (New shoes he was very excited about!)

And of course...sweet corn!!! So blessed to have grown up on the farm and get to still reap all the benefits of country life. My dad picked a bag of sweet corn for us along with a lot of bacon and kohlrabis from my mom's garden. We had an amazing Sunday dinner with BLT's and sweet corn! Yum!!! Another blessing my parents give us is allowing us to help can and freeze so many goods for the year. We are so fully stocked on applesauce (with homegrown apples from our orchard), green beans, corn, and salsa. It is amazing! We also got a huge supply of beef from Steve's parents. His dad raised two calves then butchered them and is giving us all the hamburger, roasts, steaks, etc. we could even want from them. We are so blessed!!!!!!!

A fun place to hang out in the Summer...the clothes basket of course!

Finger painting has been included in several nights this Summer (right before bath!) and he has definitely enjoyed it! Always excited to show his pictures and of course his painted hands!

And last, Cousin Camp! Grami Tami had Denver and Lilly for two days for the first annual Cousin Camp. He came back with all sorts of goodies and plenty of stories to "tell" (since he doesn't talk a whole lot it's more us asking questions when looking at the pictures) He was VERY excited to wear his t-shirt this morning and ran into the room after Dad got him dressed saying "MOM!" and pushing out his stomach so I could see it.

What a Summer it's been! So much going on and I definitely didn't get to document it all but it's been great!

TWO!!!

2010-08-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

I'm playing A LOT of catch-up today getting my blog up to date while Denver naps. Seems I've done that a lot lately!!!

Our little guy turned two last month and we had a lot of fun celebrating his birthday! He was such a big boy and definitely understood it was his special day. So fun! We had our ultra sound on his birthday which was very special, took him to Olive Garden for lunch (of course mom & dad didn't mind the soup, salad, and breadsticks!) :), then had a small birthday celebration at our house that night. It was a very simple yet fun day! Best gift: A real golf club from Daddy!:)

Right before Steve left for Caravan we headed down to his parents in Albia where the family was getting together. This is a rare occasion that all his brother and their families are together so it was so fun! Denver loved being with his cousins and especially took a liking to cousin Kirby! She is at the perfect age to play with him and want to watch him. Here are some pictures of our weekend. We also got to celebrate Denver's birthday there, too. Steve helped me decorate a golf cake for Denver and he loved it!

Before we could eat the cake, D had to roll the ball off the tee over to the flag. It was hilarious!

Steve and I even got a little romantic 4-wheeler ride in!:)

What a fun birthday for Denver. Thanks to everyone who made him feel special and loved! (We did celebrate with my family, too, but I didn't get any pictures of that!)

2 Years Old!

2010-07-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

Denver turns two tomorrow. Here is a sneak pic of his 2-year pics by Emily Hoffert! You're the best Emily and we love the pictures! You captured Denver perfectly. Thanks!!!!!

Enjoy!

This picture was taken at my friend Allison's wedding. Captured a cute moment!

Vacation!

2010-07-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Steve & I have had a tradition of going to Chicago for our anniversary the past two years. We went to a Cubs game and some places around the city. Last year Denver went with us but we weren't so sure this would be the place to go this year.
Up until about a month before we were going to leave we were planning on going to Omaha but then we decided to stick with it and head to Chicago again.

We left Thursday morning and drove to Galena which is a perfect half-way stopping point. We walked around the shops and had lunch at a little restaurant we like.

We love taste-testing all the yummy dips at the Canning Company!

I still love the sleeping-in-the-carseat pics!!!

We reached Chicago around 3 and were eager to get settled in our hotel and find something to do! Daddy found a great little putt-putt course and we headed there for Denver's first time mini-golfing! He LOVED it! He even got his own real club and ball. He walked every hole with us and put his ball down and putted in on each green! He was awesome!:) I think daddy has a future golfing-buddy!!!!!

On Friday we spent most the day at the Brookfield Zoo. It was a HOT day to say the least but we had so much fun! Denver was a little skeptical at first - he had a hard time seeing the elephants and giraffes that were a ways away and not really moving. Steve & I were a little nervous that maybe he wasn't going to enjoy the zoo as much as we had hoped. But then....we went to a dolphin show and the day came alive! Denver loved watching the dolphins jump and get the balls. They did a lot of tricks and he clapped and was enthralled the whole time. Whew!!!

His favorite exhibits were definitely the monkeys and the children's zoo where he got to feed the goats. He loved it.

Here are a few pics we got to capture the day!

Another things we enjoyed while on Vacation was swimming in the hotel!!! Denver looked like a marshmallow but he loved it! He jumped in from the side and liked going under but then popping right back up. It was so fun!

Ranch face

Holy Cow!!! Eating at Harry Caray's! Yum!

All in all it was a great vacation and I look forward to many many more with our family as it grows!

What We've Been Up To....

2010-07-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

A lot has been going on here at the Nelson Household. So in a post of bullet points and pictures we'll try and get you updated!

Denver announced to everyone that he is going to be a big brother! We will be welcoming baby #2 into our family somewhere around December 12! We are so excited and D will be the best big brother!!! (It was a hot day and he wasn't so thrilled about sitting for a picture. Also, you can see little red spots on his arms from a round of Roseolla!)

Welcomed a fish into our family.....

And soon after bid that fish farewell.

Denver has started talking more! He now can say quite a few words and a few 2-word phrases (hi mom, hi dad, bye mom, etc.) I tried to put a video up but it seriously was taking two hours and still hadn't uploaded so I cancelled it!

We also found out he can spell his name! We know he's known his letters for a long time but one day I jokingly asked him to spell his name and he did it! He can't say V and sometimes he gets the E's confused - if it's the first or second one. Had a video of this to show, too, but again....don't think it will ever upload! Maybe I'll try again another day.

My mom captured this special picture of Denver and "Ba-pa". Denver loves to go choring with Grandpa and help feed the pigs!

Celebrated the 4th of July in Wellman. Denver got to watch the fireworks and the parade! He loved the fireworks and did a lot of clapping and "WOW!" Highlight of the parade? The candy of course!:)

Got tossed around by Uncle Clint and Uncle Carson. I hold my breath - but he LOVES it!

Wish I would have pictures to accompany the next few things but got in a bad habit of not taking pictures so, the descriptions will have to do:(

Met Grandpa Jim & Grandma Joyce at Bailey's Ford. They stayed there for a few days in their camper for some fishing and family time. Denver loved showing off his golfing skills, chasing around cousin Spencer, and playing with Grandma's bubble machine. Grandpa made a yummy peach cobbler in his dutch oven!!! Mmmmm!
Went to the hatchery and saw LOTS of fish, all different sizes. Got to throw food in and watch them swarm to it!
Found a love for golfing!!!! (Just like daddy) Has a golf ball and club in his hand probably at least half the day. He got to go putt-putting on our vacation and LOVED it! (a post on vacation to come)
Swimming swimming swimming!!!!! We have a pass to The Falls and spend a lot of the afternoons there! Denver loves swimming and Mommy doesn't mind getting a nice tan in the process.:) Hoping to snap a few shots the next time we go!
And in just one week our little boy will be TWO YEARS OLD!!!!!!!! Wow! It will be a special day because we have our ultra sound on his birthday! No we won't be finding out if it's a little brother or sister, but still so special to see him or her on his birthday!

All in all, it's been a great Summer so far! We got back from our vacation on Sunday so I will be posting about that soon! Thanks for stopping by and catching up with The Nelsons!

HELP ME!!!!!

2010-04-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

Okay - I am in serious need of some mommy help! In general, Denver has been an awesome, sound sleeper. However...this last week consistently he has been waking up crying during the night. At first I thought it was just a fluke thing so I'd either go in there and lay him back down or hold him for a bit then lay him down. Then it turned into several nights in a row and we thought maybe he was getting a tooth so I'd either go in there and rub his back, etc. or if he woke up several times consecutively I'd give him some Tylenol. Okay....well it has been progressing over about a week and a half now to where it has turned into our night last night:

1) at 12:30 i heard him wake up abruptly and start screaming. I let him cry for a bit then went in and laid him back down and gave him tylenol.

2) 1:15 screaming again. This time I was just going to let him cry it out. This went on for half an hour. (he never does this) In to his room again - he is standing up at his crib waiting for me. As soon as I come in - no more crying, lays right back down.

3) repeat #2 at 2, 3, etc. etc. YOU GET THE PICTURE!!!!!

Okay, honestly I have no problem letting him cry it out. But I'm wondering if there is a deeper issue here!

Does he just want me? Is he having scary dreams? Can 20 month olds even dream?! Is he scared of something else? Do I need to go in there to comfort him or just let him cry and finally lay back down and go to sleep on his own.

I am at a loss! He's never done anything like this before and I figured after a few nights (esp if it was a tooth) it would get better but it is getting worse!!!!

Please please any advice would be wonderful. Has anyone else had this happen? I can't sanely go on getting up this many times during the night and want him to sleep soundly again!!!!!!

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!

That's My King

2010-04-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year. The snow is gone, new growth is found underneath. Spring flowers are blooming, the weather's getting warmer, a promise of new life being fulfilled! It is all so fitting that Easter is celebrated at this exact same time of year. The promise of forgiveness of all sins through Christ's horrific death on the cross and new life forever with Him through His powerful resurrection from death. satan has been defeated. he is powerless. My Savior is alive! Hallelujah!

I love reading Isaiah 53. Wow what a powerful message about the one and only Savior. He was awaited for many years until He came and now there is purpose. The law has been fulfilled and Heaven is available.

That's my King. Do you know Him?

Take time to watch this video. It is a sermon preached by Dr. S.M. Lockridge, the same pastor known for his sermon "Sunday's a'Comin". I ran across it and it gives me shivers every time I watch it. I hope it blesses your day!

Easter Eggs

2010-04-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

My mom comes up every Monday evening, spends the night, then watches Denver Tuesday mornings while I teach the home school Geography class at Prairie Lakes. This is such a treat for Denver and he looks forward to seeing what she brings in her "Grandma Bag" to do with him each week! Finger painting, play-doh, puzzles, books, etc. And what a blessing for us to have her come, spend time with Denver, and lighten our childcare needs!:)

This week easter egg dying was on the menu and boy did Denver have fun! They made marble and glitter eggs! So pretty! He was so excited to show me the eggs they decorated when I got home. And to show me the color stains that were on his high chair tray, too!

Thanks Grami for the time you spend with Denver. We all love you!

All done! Look at our pretty eggs!!!!

Big Shoes To Fill

2010-03-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

While Daddy's Away.....

2010-03-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

Every year there are about 3 or 4 times where Steve leaves us for a good chunk of time. Usually a week for Spring Break, a week for Duluth, a week for Caravan, then several 2-3 days trips here and there throughout the year. This year for Spring Break Mission Trip he headed to Denver, CO. While we definitely miss him during this time...it's always an opportunity for Denver and I to have some time together and to take a trip to Grandma and Grandpa's farm. He has yet to see the pigs, but loves to play outside and see all their kitties running around.

Here are a few pics from our week. He also got a haircut while we were down there...which was much needed. His hair was a little out of control. Fortunately, his cute little curls are still hanging around!!!!!

Spending some time with Grandpa with the kitties, looking out the window at the kitties, and helping him repair a shelf.

Denver LOVES Lilly & Ruby. He couldn't give them enough hugs and they played together so sweet.

New favorite activity: Play-Doh! He loves it!

Bucket of rocks.

I couldn't ask for a sweeter little guy!!!

Found Grandpa's starling trap. I love this pic.

Snow!

2010-03-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

We have loved these last few weeks with the warmer weather yet lots of snow! Denver loves playing in the snow. This week we took some bowls and big spoons out to dig and play. Then we walked around the block and Denver carried two snow chunks the whole way. It was pretty cute. Daddy and him built a little tunnel, but I didn't get any pictures of them. As excited as we are for Spring, I think we will miss the snow....maybe just a little bit!

Daddy or Mommy?

2010-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

Who do I look like????

Sharp little rascal

2010-02-22T11:09:00.000-08:00

Well my son is much more observant than I realized!

Yesterday we ran and got some milk and bananas quick and I was trying to carry Denver and the sacks into the house all at once. I made it to the entry way and quickly put him down, as I was about to drop him!
Low and behold, he marched right up to the place where we keep our hidden key, unveiled it, and handed it to me! Sometimes if my keys are buried in my purse, I'll quick grab it to open the door. Apparently he has noticed this and now knows right where it is!!!!! I couldn't believe it!

Guess we'll have to put it somewhere a little more sneaky - or higher up!

Little Fingerprints

2010-02-15T12:39:00.000-08:00

This is more a blog for me so I don't forget some of the little things about Denver these days.

I LOVE finding little "fingerprints" to show me what Denver's been up to when he's toodling around the house while I'm cleaning, doing dishes, etc.
-all the little pieces from his shape game found randomly around the house - his ball slide, the big glass fish bowl, in the basement shower drain
-the remote shoved in the vcr
-his little squishy balls shoved in the vcr
-the lid of his bowl shoved in the vcr (got a theme with the vcr here)

Other little things about D I want to remember.
-the way he says e-i-e-i when he wants to watch Old MacDonald
-how he loves to try and put his shoes and socks on - and how he sits at the exact same place in front of the couch every time to do it
-when he find his little magnetic kitty and says "shh" and gives it a hug and kiss
-how he opens to the pages in biscuit when the ball is in the mud and makes a face and says "uhhh"
-how he blows on his food or other hot things
-when he tears a kleenex up into tiny little pieces and throws them, then picks them up and throws them again, and again......
-when he hides something and goes "uhhh?" in a high pitched voice and puts his hands up like where is it?

Oh Denver, I love how you make our lives interesting with the little things you do!

Success!!!

2010-02-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for your prayers! We felt the hand of Jesus over Denver throughout the whole morning....which began at 5:15!!! Ah! We had to be to the hospital by 6, checked in and taken to our room, got Denver out of his pj's and into his gown, which was so cute! Then we just hung out in our little room until 7:15 when we walked him with the nurse down to the door where we had to hand him over to her. He didn't even cry. He was amazing. We only waited for maybe 7 minutes and it was already done! Talked to the doctor - it was a good thing we did the procedure because the fluid in his ears was all thick and syrupy and wouldn't have drained on its own. Waited another 15 minutes and got to be there when he was waking up. He was confused and fussy when he first woke up but then just let me hold him and snuggle him, his blanket, and of course Biscuit.

All in all it was a very successful morning. We were home by 9:15, he ate a banana and headed off to bed at 9:30 and we all slept until 12:15! It was amazing!!! Now he's happy as ever and hopefully now maybe he will start talking soon!:)

I didn't have my camera but I did have my phone and we had some fun getting some cute pics of him before his surgery. He was pretty excited to have that gown with all the stars on.

We love this little guy!

Showing me his tongue.

He liked showing his tummy under his gown.

D and best bud Biscuit

You were amazing today, Denver. We are so proud of you and love you so much!

Tubes

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, Denver's slow to get to his milestones. He didn't start crawling until 10 1/2 months, walking at 15 1/2, and still hasn't really started talking. He says dada a lot, grunts a lot, says e-i-e-i when he wants to read Old McDonald, but other than that is a very quiet boy. He doesn't even really jabber.
He also had a string of ear infections from the beginning of November until right before Christmas. When we went to his ear check and again to his 18 mo. check-up he still had fluid in his ears. With his delay of speech, Dr. Riggs thought we should see an Ear Nose and Throat doctor to check out his ears a little closer.

So on Tuesday we went to see Dr. Rotenburg and sure enough, his ears are full of fluid. While he can still hear us, it is most likely muffled and very unclear. So, tomorrow morning we will be heading over to Covenant to get tubes put in his ears. I know this is a very common procedure and takes only 10-15 minutes and I'm really not nervous about that part, but he has to be put under anesthesia for it to be done and that's what I get a little more worried about. I know he is in good hands with the doctors, and even better hands with Jesus, but any prayers for Denver tomorrow morning would be appreciated. 1) That the operation is quick, uneventful, and successful 2) that getting the tubes does help with his speech development!

Anyway, that's all for now! I'll let you know the results and hopefully the words he starts saying soon!!!:)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

Love, Denver

An 18-month-old!

2010-01-26T12:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it! Denver turned 18 months! Wow....the time has flown by! He is definitely a full blown toddler now! We are growing to love the little heart and personality God has given him. We know he is a special little boy, created for a purpose, and pray for the wisdom to train him up to follow God's plan for his life.

A few things about our #1 boy!
He loves.....

*balls balls balls

*books

*food

*his blanket
*his bed
*his daddy (and mommy of course!)
*giving hugs and kisses
*doggies
*being chased
*my piano students
*people
*playing with his friends, especially best bud Halle

His personality...
*independent yet obedient
*reserved yet friendly and scared of no one
*quiet yet playful and full of life
*happy happy happy
*kind
*loving and oh so sweet

Things that fill our days:
*reading lots and lots of books
*walks across the street in the snow to see the doggies

*shooting hoops, carrying balls around, playing catch
*long wonderful naps!
*hugs
*helping mommy swiffer vac the floors
*building with blocks
*rolling around with his blanket

Things I don't want to forget about these days:
*the way he grunts when he helps me carry something heavy
*the giggle/grunts he makes when he's really excited to play basketball or read his Biscuit book
*the way his eyes light up when he knows he's going to be chased
*that little pointing finger to tell us what he wants
*how he gives hugs so freely when I least expect it

Denver, your daddy and I are so proud of you. You are so loving and kind, energetic and full of life, and you bring so much joy to our house. We pray for you every day and know that God has a special plan for your life. We are so blessed to be your mommy and daddy.
We love you, Denver! You are the best!!!!

Highlights

2010-01-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

Too much time has passed to write up a lengthy review of our last two months, so I will do a photo montage with little highlights and snippets along the way. Enjoy!

Denver had an ear infection that persisted on and off for a month and a half. It was NO fun!!! He was finally back to 100% by the week before Christmas! Also.......HE LEARNED TO WALK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We spent Thanksgiving at my parents and celebrated "Thanksmas" with the Miller family.

Denver loves the kitty at my parents house. This is him giving kitty a kiss. He does know how to kiss with his mouth but this is his preferred form of kissing.:)

And of course when you're at grandma's you have to make some sort of a mess!!!! He liked getting into cereal boxes and pulling all their movies off the shelves and taking them out of their cases.

Highlight of the trip: Riding in the combine with Grandpa!!!!

Soon, a snowstorm hit most of Iowa and we got all bundled up to head outside and watch Daddy and Carson shovel. It didn't last long but was fun for a short time! Dare I say more work than it was worth??? At least for this year...:)

My parents came up to visit for their anniversary weekend and Grami brought a Nativity book for D to play with. He loved taking baby Jesus out "kissing" him then putting him back in his manger.

We also used this as an opportunity to get dressed up and take some family pictures for our Christmas card. They turned out pretty good for using a regular old camera!

D is so blessed to have two sets of wonderful Grandparents who love him and love Jesus. We need to get one with Jim & Joyce to complete this set!

ON TO CHRISTMAS!!!!!

We headed down to Steve's parents the Tuesday before Christmas and stayed until Christmas morning. It was so fun to get together, even though Steve's oldest brother Brian and his family wasn't able to join us. The boys seized the opportunity to go do a little hunting! Maybe Denver can go along next year!!!

Cousin shot! These three were so awesome with Denver. They loved on him so much. There will be MANY fun cousin adventures in the future I am sure!

D loved opening his gifts!!! And especially liked the attention he got when he put the bows on his head. Best gift: a basketball hoop with FIVE basketballs!!! THIS KID LOVES BALLS!!!!!

What a fun week with Steves's family. We love you all.

On to my parents for Christmas day and the three days following. D loves his baths, especially in Grami's big tub! A little toboggan ride from Grandpa. It was fun....

...until Grandpa took the corner too fast. hehe

We celebrated our Christmas on the 26th. What a feast! Here is only half the table. Wish I would have gotten a group shot. Come to think of it...wish I would have taken more pictures at both Christmases. :( Next year!!!!

Denver and cousin Lilly playing "toddler games" on the computer. Denver gearing up to open presents! Best gift? Big red wagon with seats/seatbelts, cup holders, the works!!!

Uncle Keith with Denver and Lilly before nap time.

Cousins Denver, Ruby, and Lilly.

We are so blessed to have wonderful families who we know will love Denver and point him towards Christ. It was a wonderful Christmas!

A NEW NEW YEARS TRADITION

The annual Nelson/Riggs New Year's Eve Sleepover.

Our friends Ryan and Mallory spent the evening with us, full of a wonderful dinner at their house (notice the BEAUTIFUL cake) ;), back to our house for bedtime for D, snacks and games for us adults (which the girls won of course), then bringing in the New Year, and off to bed for a sleepover. In the morning, more games, then up to Waverly for a little Pizza Ranch lunch! Couldn't think of a better way to celebrate New Years or better friends to start this tradition with!!!! Already looking forward to next year. And to seeing if our 2010 predictions come true...including this one: South Dakota declares independence from the US.

And that brings us to the present! Whew! Hopefully you will be seeing more frequent posts in the months to come. My goal is once a week...we will see!:)

Playing Catch-Up

2010-01-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my lack of blogging lately. Well...by lately I mean the past 2 months! I can't believe it has been that long. About a month ago I decided to bid farewell to facebook, which also meant a lot less time on the computer/internet in general. It has been amazing. Actually like a huge burden was lifted, knowing I didn't have to feel guilty about the amount of time I spent on the computer and not having the pull to want to get on there. However, less time on the computer meant less time to blog and once I got out of the habit, the days, weeks, and eventually months flew by! But, I have a new year's resolution to blog more so hopefully I will be able to stick with it and stay up to date now!!!

Ribbit Ribbit

2009-11-04T07:55:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Denver and I went down to my parents. Here are some pictures of our eventful weekend! One of the things I most wanted him to do was ride in the combine with Grandpa, but with the weather lately this didn't happen!:( But we did manage to do some fun things!!!

D playing in his tent that Grami set up for him.

Playing with the seeds while the rest of us carved pumpkins.

Me & Lilly...ewwwww slimy!

D loves the kitties at Grandma and Grandpa's house!

First haircut......not his favorite part of the weekend.

Big boy with his new haircut, looking at all the curls that got cut off! Fortunately, it looks like his hair is still going to be curly!!!

Mommy and her little froggy on Halloween.

Ribbit! Happy Halloween!

We all happened to go trick-or-treating at great-grandma and grandpa's at the same time! We also accomplished getting all 7 cousins in a photo that turned out very cute!!!

Cousins Denver, Lilly, and Ruby. Clint, Nicki, Lilly, and Ruby dressed up as Steelers. Lilly was James Harrison and Ruby was the football!!! So cute and Nicki made their costumes!

It was a great weekend and we look forward to heading down to Steve's parents next weekend for more family fun!

PEEK-A-BOO...

2009-10-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

HAPPY FALL!!!!!!!!

Love, Denver

Future Golfer???

2009-10-10T11:32:00.001-07:00

Denver smiled big for me when I was taking his picture today! I love it when he does this! I think he's looking more and more like Steve every day!

Do we have a golfer on our hands? He hadn't even see anyone do this! He just started trying to hit the balls with the clubs. I think he's a natural, Dad!

Fall

2009-10-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Denver & I went to the pumpkin patch with our good friends Dan, Jess, and Halle. It was brrrrr cold but fun! (Fortunately, Denver received a hat in the mail from Great-Grandma JJ that he could wear and stay warm!!! Thanks, Grandma!) We went on a hayride, though the corn maze, saw the animals, and got some cute pics of the kiddos. It was a fun afternoon!

Where's Denver?

Mommy and her best boy

Hayride

Right before heading home...this is the sweet, tender boy we have - Halle didn't want to be in the wheelbarrow too badly...this made Denver sad, too.

What a fun day it was! Happy Fall!

Big Boy

2009-09-29T13:17:00.001-07:00

Our little Denver is growing up! The baby days are slowly fading and a little boy is beginning to emerge! While it is amazing to see these changes and so fun to watch him grow....a little piece of me misses my little baby! However, I am continually amazed at how much is really going on in that little mind and body of his! While he is still holding our hands to walk and still a pretty quiet little boy, he understands so much and knows exactly what he wants! I am realizing that this is difficult for both of us!!! His wants are expressed through whines and grunts, sometimes fussing, and my patience is being tested!:) I'm sure a lot of moms out there can relate! Let's get some words going Denver so you can express yourself in other ways!:) Despite it all, our days are joy-filled and delightful. I'm beginning to miss the warm weather and can't believe I have to put a coat, socks, and shoes on when we leave the house now! No more bare feet!!! Here are a few pics of the one we love.

The simple things: climbing into wherever he can fit!

I'm a big boy - I am starting to eat with a bowl and spoon! And I love cereal just like daddy!

Another favorite place to crawl into.

He loves looking out the window. One morning all three of us were looking out and here comes a squirrel right in front of us on the lawn! And about 3 or 4 birds. Denver was pointing and grunting sooo excited! The little things!

Another cereal pic - not sure why this one's down here and the other one's up there...oh well!

I'm excited to get some Fall pics taken of D with some pumpkins and harvesting with Grandpa!!! I'll try to get them up soon...I'm not quite back in the routine yet!

When the house is quiet........

2009-09-29T13:12:00.001-07:00

......you know they're up to no good!!!

Videos

2009-09-10T09:42:00.000-07:00

Halle and Denver playing piano together. So sweet! Denver and Daddy playing a favorite game at the bathroom door. Enjoy!

2 Months Later.....

2009-09-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I just up and stopped blogging for almost two months! Once Steve got back from Caravan it was go go go for us and *blink* it's Sept. 10! Frequently I would think - boy I should post a blog - but for some reason I just felt overwhelmed because so much time had passed so I wouldn't do it! Now here we are - Denver is nearly 14 months, school has started back up, my piano lessons are up and going (13 students and loving it!), and CHAOS starts next Wed! So it's time I get back in gear and start posting much more often!

I can't even begin to post pics/videos of the last two months - so here are some recent pictures of the boy we love. He is so silly and such a little sweetheart! No walking yet, but he's getting closer! He's got a fake laugh that makes me die laughing every time. You will see it in the videos. He's just simply the best. We loves him more than words can tell.

He loves picking my flowers. I have so many I don't mind anymore.

Ok - I did not put this post-it on his back. I came into the room and there it was.

Denver's friend Halle came to play. There's a cute video I will post of the music they made.:)

This is how I'm able to clean the bathroom when D's awake!

I taught D how to go down the stairs. He loves going up but would always try to go head-first down, so I taught him to turn around and go on his tummy! It's one of his favorite things to do -that and throw things down the stairs.

And this would be how Denver feels about food....FEED ME!

Sweet Halle. Jess this pic is SOOO sweet!!!

Some more piano playing buds. We love Halle!

D loves his drum! And being naked!

Last, my favorite pic. We took 4 of 5 pics like this - I was holding the camera and said 1-2-3 -CHEESE. Each picture turned out like this - D smiling perfectly. I love my little sweetheart!

Missing You

2009-07-31T07:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Daddy,

I miss you so much! You are the best dad in the world! I love when you play with me while I'm swinging. I hope you are having a good time on Caravan. We are taking care of things here. Your garden looks really good. I can't wait to try some of your tomatoes! Mommy and I are praying for you. See you Sunday!!!! I can't wait!!!!! I love you so much and mommy does, too!

Love, Denver (head bonk)

One Year Pics

2009-07-22T13:08:00.001-07:00

Emily Hoffert took these amazing one-year photos of Denver! We took some at our house and some at Barn Happy. They turned out great! Thanks Emily!!!!!! My favorite pic of the day is now our header, but the rest are all close contenders! If you click on them, you can see them better! Enjoy!!!!

My rocking chair from childhood.

We rigged this scene up at the back of our house. Not bad!!! What a sweetie!

One of my favorites.

Biggest smile we caught!

Ok, could anyone else see this photo in some sort of a gardening or farming magazine?!?

I love this photo! He did such a great job the whole time...but was ready to be done!!!:)

PARTY!!!

2009-07-21T08:46:00.001-07:00

Ah the quiet of nap time!!! Let's get these posts done! Steve washed the dishes for me this morning (thanks honey!!!) so I've got a little more time to update my blog as Denver sleeps!

We celebrated Denver's birthday last Sunday with both sides of the family! Steve gave the talk at church (he did great!!!), so everyone joined us at Naz, then headed back to our house for lunch, a trip to the park during Denver's nap, cake and ice cream, then opening presents. It was a full day but we had so much fun and are blessed to both have families that love and support us! So here are some pictures of the fun day! My camera died, so thank you Mom and Jim for the pictures!

My debut birthday cake making....it's a cow if you can't tell!!!!! And it was a lot of fun to make!:)

He has such good manners! He just picked off little pieces of frosting.

Yum!!!! There he's getting a little messier!

Mom, I'm all done!

Love my little one-year-old!

Presents!!! A barn and animals that make sounds!

A fun ball from Grandma Joyce.

Trying out the new toys!

Kirby was so great with Denver all day!

Denver's friend Madison came to the party!

All in all it was a wonderful day! Happy Birthday Denver!

ONE!

2009-07-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

One year ago today, we welcomed Denver Steven into our family and lives. He weighed in at 5 lb. 4 oz. and measured 18 1/2" long. He was a month early, so tiny, fragile, and fully dependent on us. It brings tears to my eyes as I write this and look back at pictures of when he was first born. I almost feel like I didn't know what it was like to love before I met Denver. Of course I have loved many people in my life, and the feeling of love I have for Steven is amazing, but to love someone who NEEDS you, who can't physically survive without you is incredible. Someone who God has entrusted to you. My theme verse for this first year of Denver's life was: "Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you. Guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." -2 Timothy 1:14. I know the meaning of this verse may not exactly be your child, but to me, Denver is the good deposit which God has entrusted to me. It is my God-given role as his mother to guard him, and with the help of the Holy Spirit train him up to become a man who loves and serves his Creator. Wow....what a mission. A woman's legacy truly is her children and I pray daily that I can be a mother whose children love and serve Christ before all else.

I've never got a glimpse of God like I have watching Denver grow. Children are just a little picture of our amazing God and Creator. They are a MIRACLE!!! Nothing less! How they are formed from a little part of their mommy and daddy, grow inside of you, develop, how they ARE life from the first moment, then come into this world and watching Denver develop physically, mentally, and emotionally over the last 12 months has been remarkable. God is amazing. AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING!!! I just can't even express it!

Now...on a lighter note, I'd like to document the top 10 things I have learned as a first-time mother this year!

10) That first all-gum smile is simply the best and most rewarding thing in the world!

9) All babies are different - as hard as it is...you can't compare your baby to any others.

8) Baby poo stains almost instantly....

7) 3 letters: PDF! (for you Babywise/Preparation for Parenting people out there, you know what I'm talking about!!!!) AMAZING! Denver has been sleeping 10-12 hours a night and taking two 1 1/2-2 1/2 hour naps every day since he was a wee little thing. I would recommend ANYONE to read this book!!!!!!!!!! If you are a first-time parent I would say it is a must!

6) Husbands and wives must stand united!!!

5) There's nothing better than the sound of jabbering from the crib after a nap or nights sleep.

4) I've never loved my husband Steven more. He is an amazing father.

3) Date nights are still a must!!!

2) LAUGH! Even when you're clueless and frustrated!

1) Every day is a gift.

I have about a bazillion more, but I will stop there!!!

Well this is definitely my longest post ever!!! Happy 1st Birthday Denver!!! We love you and can't imagine our lives without you!

Little of This, Little of That

2009-07-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

Little ride on the zip line...

Little fast, little fun!!!

Little swig of whole milk! (first time)

Little unsure...

Little more sure...

Little helping with the laundry...

Little excitement in the pool...

Little smile for mom.

Little plunking on the keys....

Little pianist in the making.

Little independence...

First Video!

2009-07-11T20:11:00.001-07:00

Denver taking his first ride in his new swing!!!!

Mmm...Watermelon!!!!

2009-07-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

My friend Jessica had a great idea to get some pics of our cuties eating watermelon! It was fun to watch their little personalities come out: Denver - the focused eater, Halle the sweetie who would rather be on the move!!!

Denver takes his eating VERY seriously!

This pic pretty much sums up the photo shoot!

It is so fun to have another mom to hang out with whose baby is the same age as Denver. One of God's greatest blessings is friendship!

Bath Time!!!!!!

Recent Hapenings

2009-07-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Denver took a bubble bath with Daddy.

Denver started pulling himself up to things!

We are finding Denver loves to make us laugh!

Since we have no yard, we have put a swing in our porch!

Denver loves it! Wheeee!

My handsome baby...who is becoming a little boy!

A rare occasion...Denver let Daddy cuddle him before nap.

We went to my parents and introduced Denver to the pond!!!

Being silly in the pool.

So fun! I miss being on the farm and in the country!!!

Swimming and Spaghetti

2009-06-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

The other day we went swimming! It was a beautiful day and Denver loved it, of course! He has a fascination with holding my sunglasses lately, but maybe not quite as much wearing them.:)

Family pic in the pool!

First meal of spaghetti! He loved it and enjoyed the mess, especially! I left the room for a bit and came back to this...he has a new thing with putting toys and things on his head. Usually he doesn't even put his hands in his hair when he eats...but not anymore! I couldn't help but laugh...and get the camera!

Never a dull moment to our days!:)

New Beginnings

2009-06-24T20:01:00.001-07:00

Tonight we had our new friends Dan and Jessica Friesen over for the evening, along with their daughter Halle who is a month younger than Denver. They were pretty fun to watch and Halle was very friendly with Denver! They played together very nice and Halle had a good time climbing on her new buddy!:) We look forward to many more times spent with this family! Thank you God for bringing new friends into our lives!!!

One more new for our family...meet Coach Nelson! We are very excited that Steve is the new assistant golf coach at Cedar Falls High School! He had applied for the job, went in for an interview, and came home wearing this!!!!! I squealed with joy! We are thrilled that he will be able to combine his love for golf and high school students to serve the Lord!!! God is SO GOOD!!!!

Nelson Family Weekend

2009-06-24T19:37:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we spent time with Steve's family down at his parents' farm in Albia. I didn't take a lot of pictures, but I did get a few with Denver and his cousins. Kirby played SO well with Denver! She was always right there where he was and he loved interacting with her!

He also took a liking to his cousin Grant! These two share a love for food...and for silly faces!:)

It was good to be together and fun for the cousins to get to see each other!

Where's Denver????

Here are some pics of our family dressed up for pictures.

Recent Happenings

2009-06-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy lately it's been hard to keep up on this new blog...plus I need to get in the habit of putting up new posts!

Grandma and Grandpa Nelson

came up awhile ago and we enjoyed spending the day with them. Grandma watched Denver during my piano lessons and was a very good boy! He enjoyed reading books with Grandma a lot!

Denver has also been swimming in his pool a lot lately! He LOVES to swim and we hope to venture to The Falls soon!

Along with swimming, Denver has been getting EVERYWHERE!!! It's all I can do to keep up with him anymore!:) He is a little explorer and is starting to figure out where everything is around the house! He loves the bathroom.....we are learning to keep the door shut after he was found sucking on the toilet seat....(i know!)! The other day we found him like this..........

He is such a joy! I feel so blessed to get to spend every day with Denver and praise God for him every day! At night when I pray with him before bed, all I can say is thank you Jesus for the gift of this little boy. We love him so much!!!!!

Weekend in Wellman

2009-06-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

We spent the last few days at my parents house in Wellman and Denver had a high old time! He got his first taste of green onions, started crawling, and got a lot of love and attention! We saw a lot of "sooo big" this weekend, as well as patty-cake and bye-bye! He's got a lot of tricks and is eager to show them off and get some laughs!:) He also loved to swing in the orchard. We got to spend the whole day on Monday with Lilly, which was also very fun! She played so well with Denver! Grami Tami and Keith both got to enjoy the two of them snuggling up together! it was pretty cute!:) What a great weekend!!!

Disclaimer: I'm still getting the hang of this...sorry for the layout! I will get better!:)