The Gaumond Family

Snow Day! part 1

2011-02-03T14:27:00.003-06:00

The kids and I starts our snow day with painting while Tom cleaned off the driveway,
so we could get out the door to play.

Hands, hands, and more hands.

Where should I get to work first?

Johanna and Connor checking out daddy's plow job. Looks good.
They both kept pushing snow into the walk way.

Look Mom! The snow was pushed up onto the ledge of our outside window.

the snow drifted half way up our garage door -
Good thing our snow blower wasn't inside.

Both of our outside doors were snowed in. It was amazing to see
all the snow outside.

PS It seems that I have filled up my free storage for pictures with Blogger, so I may not be able to post again.
I am working on finding a solution to this dilemma.

Pre-Blizzard FuN!

2011-02-02T07:38:00.000-06:00

Tom built the kids a snow fort. I can't wait to see what type of fort
he could build after our newly fallen foot plus of snow last night.

Jake going for a ball. He is definately a snow dog.

A little snow slide fun - Connor loves to slide down in the snow

Johanna is a little more unsure, but still had fun. Weeeee

Hanging out near the picnic table.

RUN! The blizzard is here!!!!

Making Cookies for Santa

2011-02-01T22:26:00.000-06:00

Connor checking the batter...nope, not ready yet.

ready to roll

Connor was very interested in trying to cut out each shape, over and over again.

Let me try this all by myself Daddy, I can do it.

Ok Connor, watch me. This is how you do it.

Tom prefers just sprinkles without frosting, so we tried it his way.
The kids loved to pour spinkles everywhere.

Are the cookies ready yet?

Christmas Eve between Siblings

2011-02-01T21:41:00.000-06:00

Johanna and Connor picked out a present for each other and Val gave me the idea of
having the kids open on Christmas Eve. Thanks Val!

Johanna got a Snap N Style doll nammed Gabby.
She was so excited

Johanna picked out a motorcylce for Connor all on her own.
She kept it a secret and was so delighted to give it to him.

Getting Gabby all dressed up

Vroom, vroom!

St. Nick's

2011-02-01T17:21:00.000-06:00

St. Nick came to our house Dec 6th for Johanna and Connor.
Both of their stockings were filled with goodies.

Checking out her new coloring pad from St. Nick

Connor received a new plate, cup, and silverware set to match Johanna's.
He loved his cup!

St. Nick was very generous and knew we needed 2 sleds in our household,
so Johanna and Connor received a sled to share. It was a hit.
They decided to try it out before we could take it outside.

A Ketelboeter Christmas

2011-02-01T15:52:00.001-06:00

Zach, Jo, and Emma opening their 1st present of the year!

Connor got a cool take n play train from Orrin and Logan - Thanks!

Johanna sorting her coins from Aunt Cari

Connor loves to read. He was excited to get some new books.

Emma's most exciting gift of the day - tickets to see MaMa Mia with Cari, Lmom, and Shelby.

Brandon opening one of his gifts - a new watch.

Shelby and Johanna are buddies.

Logan helping Shelby open up her gift.

A Snuggie for me! Yeah!! I am always cold.

Here Oma, I can help you

Opa checking out his new Farmall sign for the shed.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas (I know I'm late)

2011-02-01T14:49:00.002-06:00

Connor and Johanna decided to help Tom put up the lights on the tree...
he's a brave man to enlist their help.

Johanna putting on her 1st ornament.
She received a horse ornament from the barn for St. Nick's.

Connor had minimal interest in putting ornaments on the tree.
He prefered to wear the packer helmet ornament around the living room and play with his cho cho train.

Christmas Eve with the Maloneys

2011-01-30T14:41:00.000-06:00

We hosted Christmas Eve with Mom, Chuck, Ashlee, Aunt Jane, and Michelle.
Thanks Tom for making dinner - jumbalya and corn bread muffins - mmm, mmm.

Jo and Aunt Ashlee cuddling

Connor was excited about his new Santa ornament from Gma and Papa

Papa opening a present

Connor opening his Elmo backpack, with a little help from Jake.
It was hopeful that a backpack of his own would make him forget about all of Jo's purses,
but he still likes a cute purse (or maybe just all the things inside).

TOOLS! Just like Daddy!!!
When asked what he wanted from Santa, Connor always said "tools, dada's tools".

The hammer was a hit...and so was the saw,
except when he realized he could hit and saw us

Jo's new puzzle

trying to figure out how all the pieces of this puzzle work with Aunt Ashlee

A new sweater from Aunt Ashlee. ohhhh

What every mom needs when they live in WI - snowpants! I love them.
Now I am as warm as the kids while we play in the snow.

Connor trying on Johanna's new hat

My mom lost a bet with Tom, ND vs WI basketball. ND won!
So my mom (and Chuck by default) had to sport their ND spirit.

I made a mint cheescake for dessert and Connor couldn't wait to dig in.
He even ate seconds.

Connor and Papa
Not sure why Connor had his fingers in his ear.
Probably because we asked him not to. :)

A new tradition

2010-12-13T21:12:00.000-06:00

This year we decided to try a new adventure - it's official. We loved it and we have a new family tradition, chopping down our Christmas tree.

Connor and Jo choose a tree - just thier size

Jo and Connor checking out the choices.
I think Connor is stuck in the arms out position and Jo is just strolling with her hands in her pocket.

Connor and Tom playing Peek-a-Boo with us.

Connor hiding, waiting for Johanna to find him.

Connor, are you over there?

Ready, set, TIMBER. It only took a few minutes for Tom to chop down the tree.
We were both suprised how fast it happened.

Peek-a-Boo again.

Breakfast with Santa

2010-12-10T21:41:00.001-06:00

We had breakfast with Santa at the zoo with the Gigots and Santarius. Connor and Johanna found their cookie right away and chowed.

My little man

The whole gang - Elizabeth, Hailey, Jo, Claire, and Connor

Jo and Claire riding the bear and dog.

We talked about Santa the entire week leading up to our big visit. Jo would smile when we talked about sitting on his lap, but reality was completely different. We were one of the 1st ones to visit Santa, which did not work to our advantage.

I love the drama of this picture. So Jo.

Connor's turn next, he was reaching for me, as I was taking the picture.

I tried to help, but he had had enough.

Hot Chocolate

2010-12-10T21:13:00.000-06:00

After our snow play, Johanna and Connor had thier 1st hot chocolate. The both had a double.

Johanna looking for more to drink. Connor was sweet and shared some with her.

Love the look - she is probably wondering why I held out so long and this was the 1st time she had hot chocolate.

Connor 1st sip - he love it too!

Snow Much FUN!

2010-12-10T20:38:00.001-06:00

Johanna's 1st snow angel

Making her snow angel

Connor attempting a snow angel, but not sure what to do

I said "put your hands up" and he held them straight up. :)

My snow angel

Johanna loves sledding. It's going to be a fun winter.

Connor was Daddy's little helper, shoveling while Tom snow blowed.

Love this little man. Always with the serious look

Weee - we only had about 2 inhes of snow, but it was enough for some driveway fun.

Hangin' with the Dzwinel's

2010-11-19T21:55:00.001-06:00

Connor and Lily chilin'

Somehow Smores came up and as I looked around, we had all the ingredients.
Jo LOVES smores. After her 1st smore, she found the marshmellow bag and had about 10 more marshmellows.

Such a cute pix of Erin and Lily

Connor's 1st time making smores. He loved them.

Potty Time

2010-11-19T21:27:00.001-06:00

Connor was interested very early in going potty (16 months old). He started asking to go when Jo was learning and has kept on going. This week (Nov 17th) he has started to ask to go. That's my big boy!

Connor's 1st time on the potty!
At 16 months, he started to use the potty. He was so proud of himself.

Just a little reading material while I go potty

WOW! I did it! I made pee pees in the potty!!

Johanna helping Connor learn how to go potty.
Watch me Connor -

Our 1st apple picking adventure

2010-11-19T21:12:00.000-06:00

Connor picking his apple all by himself. Such a big boy

Jo and Connor made a friend while apple picking. The farm dog kept running in between the tree lines. Each time the kids saw him they would yell and chase after him.

Jo loved picking apples. She is showing off her pickings.
Johanna kept picking all the apples at her eye level.

Teamwork.

Kids in Motion

2010-11-19T20:59:00.000-06:00

A little late, but here it is. Our last playdate before school started at Kids in Motion.

Johanna loves purses. She collected them and then went for a little shopping.

Our friend Brook performing on stage, for one day only. Don't miss it.

Kris and Lydia playing

Silly Brook, wake up!

Bubbles! Every hour or so a bubble machine goes off and a whole corner of the room is filled with bubbles. Johanna had so much fun running through the bubbles.

Boo...to you

2010-10-25T22:02:00.001-05:00

On Friday night we went to Boo at the Zoo with some friends after a spooky dinner. Connor and Johanna were dressed in their Halloween costumes. YeeHaw!

My cowboy and cowgirl

Connor posing with me while looking at the fish

Johanna posing in front of the fish

Goodie Memorial Horse Show

2010-09-18T22:06:00.001-05:00

Johanna entering the arena with Savanah (horse). She has been riding Savanah for a few months now. Savanah is known as the "princess horse" in the barn.

Jo and Wendy, her OT, aka her riding instructor.Johanna showing off her horse trophy to Connor and Daddy

Jo waving to the crowd. She definately hammed it up for the audience.

Johanna won 1st place for best posture while riding! The other riders won for Best Balance and Best Confidence

Thank you for coming out to support Johanna for her big day! She was very proud of riding for everyone.

Mots Kite Festival

2010-09-16T22:28:00.001-05:00

I took Johanna and Connor to Mots Kite Festival downtown while Tom was at ND with his buddies. When we got there we ran into a co-worker and her son, Eli. We had an awesome time!

Connor doing a little dance for the kite "lift off"

Johanna and Eli cruizing the crowd

Oops, Connor has pig tails and Jo is the boy - it was all about Jo reaching a hole by herself. Next time I'll have to check the picture on the front.

State Fair

2010-09-14T20:38:00.002-05:00

Our annual tradition of going to State Fair with Grandpa and Grandma Gaumond continues. We checked out lots of animals.Cows are by far both Jo and Connor's favorite.

Also another tradition - Corn

Still eating...Cream Puff time. Johanna and Connor almost ate an entire cream puff themselves.

Connor loved the cream. He got upset when he wasn't shoveling it in.

A new experience for Johanna - the GIANT slide! She looked really nervous on the way up

But wheeeeeeee......

She loved it! I was shocked!

When we went back a few days later to the fair, I jokingly asked Johanna if she wanted to go on the slide again. She yelled "YA!"

Time to go. Connor was exhausted. He was trying so hard to sleep sitting up. Grandpa volunteered to carry him to the car so Connor could get some zzzz

My little artists

2010-09-14T20:10:00.003-05:00

Fingerpainting 101

I decided to let the kids fingerpaint, but thought outside and no clothes might be a easier clean up, even though the finger paints are "washable". One less load of laundry for me to do.

Connor wasn't quite sure, but then really got into it.

A little war paint on my tough guy.

Johanna decided she needed some too, but then decided to rinse off in the hose. She loves to be sprayed with the hose.

My beautiful girl

2010-09-14T20:03:00.000-05:00

Zoo days

2010-09-14T20:02:00.000-05:00

We went to the zoo and our first stop was the train. Both Johanna and Connor love the train.Johanna and Connor love to cruise around together. It's so adorable. These moments are the best!Connor checking out the sea lions.

Off to see more animals...

Jo's 1st day of school

2010-09-02T10:16:00.000-05:00

Johanna had her 1st day of school today! She was excited, but not in the routine of getting ready.When we got to school Johanna wanted to wait to her classmates on the bus, but they never came. (slow start for the buses) So when the bell rang we went to her classroom to see Mr. P. She was the 1st student there. As we left Jo looked like she was going to cry, but then she showed Mr. P her pictures of our family. As I walked away I dind't hear any tears, we'll have to ask Mr. P when we pick her up. Finally as I was leaving Jo's friends were getting off the bus. Have a great day big girl! Love you!!

Jo's 1st time fishing

2010-08-24T21:22:00.000-05:00

Opa took Johanna fishing for her 1st time at Indian Lake. She was a little nervous about the actual fishing (holding the pole, etc.) but liked the worms.

Johanna liked walking back and forth on the pier, except when it moved (since it's a floating pier).

Those fish were tricky! They kept nibbling away on worms, but we couldn't catch them, not a one.

Opa made a little bench seat for the back of the tractor - so cute!

Picnic

2010-08-23T12:14:00.008-05:00

Mid June, we had a picnic date with Daddy for lunch. Munching for lunch

Connor's 1st time going down the slide by himself. Such a big boy!

Visiting the Maloney's

2010-08-17T19:35:00.015-05:00

After camping, Johanna, Connor, and I visited Gma and Gpa Maloney.

Playing in the shower

Hula Hoop

Connor trying out the hoop himself.

Wondering why he can't go back outside and play on the stairs.

CW decided to be silly and wear Jo's hat.

Having some lunch with Papa

4th July BBQ

2010-08-11T22:02:00.010-05:00

On July 5th we had a BBQ with Aunt Christine, Grandma and Grandpa Gaumond, and the Dzwinel's. Tom resting up before the fun

John, Lily, and Jo splashing Tom. He was soaked by the time they got done with him

Tom's revenge - a bucket of water. John and Lily loved it, Jo wasn't quite sure.

Aunt Chris and Connor

Car Wash - the kids decided to help me clean the toys

I was the foreman, hehe

Jo was great at sparying down the wagon and cars to rinse them off.

Connor cleaning inside the wagon.

Slip-n-slide: Grandpa decided to make the slide into a water slide. Lily went first and flew off the end. Ouch...

Grandma and Chris helped everyone else down since Lily had a rough landing

John however did it all by himself and loved every second of it!

Eating our red, white, and blue dessert. He ate almost a whole piece of cheesecake himself. My little piggy...

Play ball! The cheerleaders (Jo, Lily, and Baba - Erin's Mom) on the stoop were awesome!

Nice catch Erin!

Jo and Poppy (Erin's Dad) playing catch.

Sparkler Fun

2010-08-11T21:31:00.009-05:00

Johanna holding a sparkler for the 1st time.

I love the face, amazed

making circles with Daddy

Lily's 1st sparkler.

Holding the sparkler by herself. She loved it and was very safe.

Erin and I

The girls giving Tom a hug - so happy together

Kisses too!

The girls also had a performance for everyone on the stoop. Lily asked everyone to sit around and they started singing. It was soooo cute! Love these ladies!!!!

After about 6 boxes of sparklers, there were only 2 sparklers left and 3 kids, so Baba and Poppy got the last 2 (Erin's parents). The kids had fun watching them. Next year I am hoping to take Jo for fireworks, I think she would love them. It just didn't work out this year

4th July Parade

2010-08-11T20:56:00.007-05:00

We headed to the Greenfield 4th of July Parade with the kids and Gma Gaumond. We got there a little early, so we had a quick lunch before the fun began.

Our family - love Connor's smile. Jo is checking out the parade coming down the street.

Daddy and Jo

I was shocked, Jo actually reluctantly hugged the Fire Dog. She looked like she was going to cry, but she did it.

Connor, on the other hand, loves characters. He gave him a High Five.

Johanna and I picking up candy. At first Jo was hesitant, however then figured out the benefit.

Connor waving his flag, he got at the parade.

The Milw. Brewer's Sausages

Jo checking out her loot - we got flags, candy galore, and beads. Her bag was overflowing by the end of the parade.

Jo waving her flag and watching the parade with Gma.

Camping 101

2010-08-11T20:36:00.005-05:00

Erin and I decided to take the 4 kids camping, but with a twist. We camped in my dad's yard. Erin and I set up the tent...and it stayed up all night long. hehe Connor checking out the tent. Although he took a tour of the tent, he slept inside with Oma and Opa.

Lily nailing in the stakes.

John making sure everything is staked down well.

Johanna and John snuggling

Connor and Erin taking a little walk Waiting for smores - thanks Opa for setting up the fire pit

MN Visit

2010-08-06T12:16:00.002-05:00

At the end of June we visited the Gaumonds in MN for Matty's baptism. Johanna loved playing with Caitlin!

Such silly girls

Johanna checking out baby Matty

Johanna loves babies! He's getting so big

The Domes

2010-07-29T22:05:00.002-05:00

One of the 1st days after school got out, so we went to the Domes. It was a short adventure, but they both liked looking at all the plants.

Connor's 1st sucker

2010-07-29T21:26:00.003-05:00

Connor tried his 1st sucker, much earlier than Jo did (the benefits fo being #2). And he loved it.

Mmmm

Such cute little teeth

Father's Day Fun

2010-07-29T15:34:00.008-05:00

For Father's Day we invited Gma and Gpa Gaumond and Aunt Christine over dinner. Before dinner we had a little outdoor fun.

Ready, set, slide...

Practicing blowing bubbles

trapped in the tunnel

Brewer's Game and Fundraiser Tailgate

2010-07-29T15:11:00.004-05:00

On June 23rd we went to a Boy and Girls Club fundraiser tailgate and Brewer's game. They had food, fun for the kids, and a goodie bag for both kids. Much of which Tom and I snacked on. Connor and Bango, from the Bucks. Connor was chasing him down and wanted to see him up close. Jo, on the other hand, ran the other direction.

CW insisting on a sip of beer on a hot, hot day (It was about 90 degrees outside and humid!) On second thought, maybe not too good.

Connor with Bernie Brewer. Hey, nose!

This is how most of our pix look now, the adult smiling, the kids about to cry and looking in the opposite direction.

Jo hung out with Gma and Gpa Gaumond most of the 3 innings we lasted.

Connor was tired, hot, and ready for bed. Thank goodness he had pumpkin bear. We made it 3 innings before it was too much for all.

Connor's 1st Brewer's game

Jo's last day of school

2010-07-29T14:59:00.002-05:00

I asked Tom to take a few pix of Jo's last day of school. Johanna and her friends lining up with Mr. P

Jo and Ms. Dana (her speech path) Johanna loves to wave good bye to her friends on the bus. I think she secretly wants to ride with them (too bad she has mean parents)

Jo and Mr. P

Connor's 1st Bday - cupcake!

2010-07-29T14:52:00.001-05:00

Connor wasnt' quite sure about the cupcake at first, but after a little nibble he was ready to chow down.

All in a hard days work...

2010-07-29T14:27:00.004-05:00

Connor loves to sweep and vacuum. He calls the vacuum a "buhbuh" and gets so excited when we vacuum. Good think we have Jake around - hehe

Mmm, who will sweep first? I'll take the the sweeper Daddy bought last year at State Fair. At least someone uses it..ha

Happy 4th!

2010-07-04T14:12:00.002-05:00

More pix to come - just one from when we went to the Greenfield Parade with Gma Gaumond

Our new playset

2010-06-15T22:06:00.003-05:00

While we were in FL, Tom put together our new playset. After about 6-7 hours, ta da, it was done. Thanks Tom! Johanna was so excited the 1st time she saw it.

Giving it a test ride...

I l love how Connor is pusing Jo down the slide.

Now Connor's turn - Weeee

FL Vacation

2010-06-15T20:48:00.005-05:00

For Memorial Day weekend, Grandma Maloney took us on a wonderful weekend away. The kids and I headed to sunny FL - Tampa area. The kids and I on the plan. Connor was ready for a nap and Jo was so excited she couldn't nap. Breakfast at Gma's kitchen...then off to the beach. Our 1st day at the beach Playing in the sand with Grandma Jo got into playing in the sand and building sand castles. Johanna loved the bird that joined us for snack one day. We named her "Susie". We couldn't stay on the deck because the bird was agressive. Trying both in the water at the same time...it worked out well until we came in and the waves were splashing in Johanna's face. Thanks Grandma. We had a blast.

CW's Surgery

2010-05-20T20:15:00.008-05:00

Tom took CW in this am at 7am while I took Jo to school. When I had gotten there CW has been prepped, had a little medicine to relax/relieve the pain, and was just hanging out with daddy giving High fives. A few minutes after I got there the anesthesiologist came in and then took Connor back for the procedure. Tom and I waited about 15 minutes and Connor was done! The dr. came to talk to us and told us Connor did great and that he still had a little fluid in his ear. Then we had to wait about another 10 minutes before Connor woke up and we could see him. Connnor was very, very fussy when we got to see him. He cried and was still a little floppy from all the meds. After 5-10 minutes he settled down and feel asleep. Just in time for the nurse to ok his discharge, change him, and go home. The poor guy cried the whole way home. When we got home Connor was still very fussy, but I think part of it was he was starving. He hadn't eaten since 7pm the night before. The nurse thought Connor would sleep all morning, but he didn't sleep a wink. We went to pick up Jo from school and from them on Connor was happy. Had a nice afternoon nap and was ready to play! We had a carwash (washed Jo's car, bike, and Connor's wagon) with our friends Val and Elizabeth, but Connor didn't get to play too much in the water even though he wanted to. (pictures to come)

A Mother's Day gift from Connor

2010-05-09T14:20:00.002-05:00

Wagon Rides

2010-05-06T15:37:00.002-05:00

Off in the wagon. Jo only last a few minutes and then likes to walk, but CW loves riding in the wagon. We have taken around the neighborhood and the zoo.

Easter Morning

2010-05-06T15:27:00.001-05:00

Connor found Easter eggs as soon as he got into the living room.

mmm, what's in here.

A new book - Peter Cottontail I found an egg

Jo seperating her findings - m&m, jelly beans, and coins.

PS Like Jake in the background checking out the Easter eggs

Easter Brunch

2010-05-06T15:15:00.004-05:00

On Easter we went to brunch with Gma, Gpa Gaumond, and Aunt Christine. The kids ate and ate, and then had some more. It was really windy outside and sunny. What a beautiful day. Thank you for brunch Gma and Gpa.

Cute pix

Thank you for our Easter baskets

Dyeing Easter Eggs

2010-05-06T15:08:00.002-05:00

We dyed Easter eggs and Johanna loved it. She wanted to make more and more.

Jo did great with the egg spinner this year all on her own. We made some cool looking eggs

Connor giving the egg spinner try. He figured it out quickly.

A few shots of CW

2010-05-04T13:30:00.010-05:00

Look out

Connor has his own style of driving - dukes of hazzard

Playing a little soccer with Gma Gaumond

St. Patty's Day Pix - I love Connor in this shirt. He is such a cutie!

Tug-of-war. Connor and Jo's favorite activity. together.

Shoving a half of banana in his mouth. His favorite - nanas

11 months old - so serious

CW 1st time in the Burley

2010-05-04T13:17:00.002-05:00

Both looking and smiling at the same time, I don't know if this will ever happen again. hehe

Slides, Swings, and play!

2010-05-04T13:01:00.005-05:00

Connor trying out the slide - he loved it.

Jo liked to wait for CW to slide down with her. Such a good big sis! Slide train

Hip, Hip, Hippotherapy!

2010-02-23T21:01:00.014-06:00

Johanna started her 1st session of Hippotherapy today. On the way there we talked about riding a horse. Jo kept saying "horsie" over and over. When we got there she was ready to go. Trying on her helmet for the 1st time. Oops a little big - time to adjust Wow that's better - I'm ready to ride.

Johanna went with Ms. Wendy, her new OT to see her horse. Today she rode Chipper. Without looking back, she walked off to meet Chipper. At first they were going to try some toys in the therapy room, but Jo had no interest in that. It was time to ride!

After meeting Chipper and walking him out to the arena, Johanna told Wendy she didn't want to pet him or get on him. But with a little help, she was riding. She was so proud and never seems scared.

Circling back around to see us again.

Waving to the the crowd.

Playing a little game - Jo practiced reaching for the "bracelets" while keeping her balance on Chipper. At 1st she did it while Chipper stood still, but then while he was walking (very slowly).

Ms. Wendy wore the rings on her head and Jo gave them to the volunteer, by putting them on her arm.

A little action shot... Connor taking a break from munching Cheerios to watch Johanna on Chipper

So proud - She learned to tell Chipper to "stop" and "go" when she wanted him to stop or walk.

Hanging on tightly. Johanna was steady getting onto Chipper, but when it was time to get off, she had "sea legs" for a couple seconds.

Johanna had a awesome time on Chipper. Wendy told me that Jo was "so cute" and "adorable" and of course Jo just smiled her little smile. Wendy also said that she was amazed at how well Johanna adapted to being on the horse, especially for her age. Jo was one of the fastest to get out there and ride. I am so proud of Johanna - she's growing up so fast.

I don't think she wanted to leave today. Before bed Johanna and I looked at the pictures of her and Chipper. I could only convince her to go to bed after I told her I would print her a pix of her and Chipper to talk to school. As she went to bed, she kept saying "Chipper" over and over again. I could even hear her saying his name from the living room. I asked her if she was going to dream of riding Chipper and she said "ya".

See you next Tuesday Chipper -

Betty Brinn

2010-02-12T13:32:00.005-06:00

We took a trip to Betty Brinn last weekend for a little family fun. Jo loves to run up the ramp and slide down the other side. Connor couldn't quite crawl up the incline, but he tried.

Peek-a-boo. Connor loves his big sis.

Connor loves to stand - he even will let go and grab something else if he can reach for it. Crawling through a log

Row, row, row your boat. Connor was too busy watching Jo on the slide to enjoy the boat.

Connor's 1st try on the slide. He wasn't quite sure about it, but had fun.

Let's try it again Johanna.

Hiding out in a tree cubby with daddy

Johanna and I went to the "Big Kid" side and played some music and did a little craft.

Goodbye baby food...

2010-02-12T12:54:00.004-06:00

Connor has decided only he can feed himself, unless he is completely distracted. So he tried feeding himself some Sweet Potato Bisque.

What's in here?

Ta da- dump!

Hey I found a carrot in here. I'll get it.

Daddy was suprised when he came home to see Connor covered in food.

I can do it!

2010-02-02T20:38:00.004-06:00

Connor loves to feed himself and is refusing to eat "baby food". So noodles and peas it was. He ate it all with no problem. And then ate some cooked apples. What do I have for dinner tonight?

I think I see another noodle.

Oh, yum!

Trapped!

2010-02-02T20:32:00.001-06:00

Connor sometimes gets "trapped" in the living room to play. He now tries to escape.

Munchin MumMums

2010-02-02T20:23:00.002-06:00

Erin had suggested a new snack for Connor and he loved them - MumMums. They are like giant puffs (they dissolve).

Connor is even good at biting pieces off. He loves to eat.

Watching the lights on the fan

Gone! It only takes him a couple minutes to gobble them down.

Our little artist

2010-02-02T13:54:00.003-06:00

For Xmas Johanna received an art easel from G & G Gaumond - she LOVES it! Thank you.

Her favorite part of painting - getting messy! She loves to make hand prints. She paints just like her mom

How many colors can I use at once? hmmm

Cruizin

2010-02-01T22:12:00.003-06:00

Thanks Gigots for the walker. Connor loves to cruise around the house and play with Johanna. The 2nd time CW got in his "car" he figured out how to walk around. Now he can turn in the hallway without even bumping the walls. Amazing! Jo thinks Connor should take her babies for ride

What Jo?

Man, this is hard work.

Where should I go next? Jake doesn't look like he cares

I can run in this thing - watch out, here I come!

The Gaumond train - it's the newest game. They follow each other around the house. very cute

Are you coming Johanna?

Silly boy

2010-02-01T22:02:00.003-06:00

Connor decided to stick the container on his face - it was cute. Then he tried to see how daddy would look.

your turn dad

Doing Laundry, our way

2010-02-01T21:49:00.001-06:00

Weeeee

Hang on Connor, here we go

So cute.

Bath time

2010-01-20T13:46:00.002-06:00

Connor loves his bathtime. He loves to splash and crawl around the tub.

Connor's little mohawk. His hair is starting to grow slowly.

1st teething biscuit

2010-01-20T13:18:00.005-06:00

Connor's 1st attempt at a teething biscuit - he loved it!! We had to keep an eye on him though because he kept biting off huge chunks. Then he wasn't quite sure what to do.

Getting a little bite

Connor was a mess by the end, teething bicuit everywhere.

Silly Jo

2010-01-20T13:07:00.004-06:00

Johanna is such a sillly girl - super cute too.

Love those eyes.

Eating Puffs

2010-01-20T12:52:00.005-06:00

Connor loves puffs. He loves to feed himself and constantly tries to grab our plates or our food.

Gottcha

Thanks mom - I love to feed myself

How do I get this in my mouth?

Ut, oh I dropped it I found it - yeah!!

Hanging with Grandma and Grandpa

2010-01-19T14:08:00.006-06:00

Watching a little ND basketball with Grandma and Grandpa. Jo is definately a grandma's girl.

Being silly with Grandpa

I love Connor's pose there - he's thinking about something deeply

Poor Jake- when he does get attention, he's harrassed.

Cruising the house

2010-01-19T14:03:00.002-06:00

Connor loved to cruise down the hall. His favorite spot was the bathroom, when the door was open.

1st day, part 2

2010-01-19T13:41:00.004-06:00

Johanna's report card today A+ When I got to school her teacher said that she had a "Terrific day!". She cried for a couple of minutes after I left, but then she was ready to learn. She participated, talked to her new friends, even told them what to do politely (sit down, wait), and did a great job on the potty. The classroom aide said she wished she could have a classroom full of Johannas. That's my girl! The big day was almost over. I went in about 10 minutes early to catch a peek, but the class was in music. On their way back I stuck my head out the door to take a pix. When I said "Hi" to Jo, she just looked at me like "What are you doing here?" and kept walking. I was suprised, almost sad. She's a big girl now.

Walking out with my class. I was the caboose

In front of my new school. Jo was yelling "Bye" confidently to all the students and teachers in the hall as she was leaving.

Most of her friends were getting on the bus. I think there was a sense of jealousy. We had to wait until the bus pulled away before we could go to the van.

Just waiting.

Johanna's 1st Day of School!

2010-01-19T08:56:00.006-06:00

Johanna posing for her 1st day of school picture. I don't think she really knew why things were crazy this am. She just was taking her time eating, wanting to play with Connor and her Mermaid Barbie, etc. And mommy and daddy kept saying "We have to go to school today!"

I love her pose in this pix.

Walking up to the front door. Thanks Erin, John, and Lily for my new backpack. I'm ready for school in style. Mom, are you sure we should go in there? Actually she was watching the older kids walk into the building and getting out of thier car.

Here we go to class

When we went to leave, Johanna wanted to bring Connor along. Today it was girls in one car, boys in another. Walking up to school, Johanna did well. She walked by herself and watching all the older kids coming in. Johanna was a little reluctant once we got 3/4 of the way down the ramp. Maybe it was all starting to make sense. She was very interested in all the kids walking past her to get to class. When we make it into the room she was okay as she took of her coat, but then really wasn't sure of the new situation. Mr. P asked her if she wanted to do a puzzle and she just burst out in tears and grabbed me. I, of course, had to give her a little hug and tried to encourage her to do the puzzle. Not a suprise she didn't want to do a puzzle - lol. He even tried to bribe her with some baby dolls, but that didn't work either. I had packed a little mini Creative Memories album in her backpack with all of her and her brother's portraits. I told her if she missed Connor she could look at pictures of him. This made her smile and she started to show Mr. P her pictures. As I started to give a little distant between us the tears started again. I told her I was going to go the bathroom (that's what I use to tell her at her old "school") and I would be back in a little bit. She agreed and sat down at the table with some other boys and looked at her pictures. After a few minutes of talking with her new speech therapist, I peeked in the room. She was sitting on the carpet with the group, holding her album open, watching Mr. P do circle time. She glanced back toward the door when the announcements came on, but then went right back to watching Mr. P.

I, on the other hand, held it together until I left the school and then shed a few tears for my little baby girl becoming a big girl. I know she will love school and she will do great!

Happy 1st day of school Johanna.

Dinnertime

2010-01-18T21:39:00.003-06:00

Johanna loved to help feed CW when he started eating solids.

I love how Jo has her mouth open when feeding CW.

Christmas Tree shopping

2010-01-18T21:19:00.002-06:00

Since we moved into our house we have bought our tree from St. Greg's Boy Scouts at church. This year, Johanna helped Tom pick out the tree. Walking in the lot checking out trees with the boy scouts

After they trimmed the they asked Johanna if she wanted to smell the tree. Connor slept in the car while Tom and Jo shopped

Munchin Mangos - Yum

2010-01-18T21:06:00.002-06:00

Connor loves mangos - it was one of the first things we ever put in his food feeder.

Oops, wrong end

Arrrr - I love mangos!

A little popeye look

Trimming the Tree

2010-01-17T21:04:00.010-06:00

Connor jumped while we decorated the tree.

Getting out the ornaments

Tom helping Johanna put an ornament on the tree.

Johanna was a little hesitant to put the ornaments on the tree by herself, but tried a few.

Yeah the lights are on! Johanna loved Christmas lights. We would watch them before bed (out our front window) for as long as she could. It was very sweet. She also taught herself to say "lights on". My little cuties

Connor loved the tree - he crawled over there to see what trouble he could get into all the time.

Breakfast with Santa

2010-01-17T20:13:00.006-06:00

We went to breakfast with Santa at the Milw Co Zoo with our friends, the Gigots. It was lots of fun! Our family photo - thanks Val for taking our pix.

Connor munching on a bagel

Elizabeth liked the puppy - love her smile! So sweet.

Connor liked the puppy too - the elf was great with the kids.

Connor checking out the trees and decorations.

Hey, who are you?

I said I liked you, but meeting you made me think differently. lol

Kneeling Tall

2009-12-02T20:32:00.005-06:00

Today Connor and Jo were playing in his crib while I was trying to clean some things up in Connor's room. Connor was sitting and just grabbed the side of the crib and pulled himself up to a kneel. So strong!

Hi everyone - check me out. So proud of himself

Candy Cane Lane

2009-12-01T21:44:00.005-06:00

Erin, the kids, and I all headed for a stroll down Candy Cane Lane. It was about 45 degrees out, so we thought we should take the kids out before it gets too cold.

John posing with a moose. John and Lily

Johanna, John, and I - Johanna didn't want to put her head in the hole.

Erin and Lily - so cute! The Grinch was there! Lily did not like him at all. She was so scared she was shaking. But Jo and John both shook his hand.

A Maloney Visit

2009-11-29T22:03:00.006-06:00

Say Cheese!

That's hilarious! Not sure what was so funny, but very cute.

Posing with Papa

I love this pix - so cute.

Are you sure?

P.S. Gma Maloney - we are all up to date on the blog!

Crawling soon...

2009-11-29T21:51:00.003-06:00

Connor is a mover and I think we soon will really experience it. He loves to scoot on his bottom now around the carpet/room. He can even army crawl around the room.

Today he had his eyes on the remote control.

Ready...

Set...

Go!

I got it!

There were 2 little crawling motions involved in this successful adventure.

Standing Tall

2009-11-29T21:46:00.002-06:00

Connor is a strong little guy - he loves to stand!

If he is interested in something, he will stand for about a minute by himself (when leaning on something). He loves that blow up zebra (Jo got it from Jungle day at daycare).

Super Stars

2009-11-29T21:31:00.005-06:00

Johaana has had lots of good poses lately. What a sweetie.

At daycare the theme of the day was JUNGLE - both kids got a rescue pack filled with goodies. Sunglasses, bugs, flashlight, binoculars, etc.

Hey, are you talking to me? Super Cool

Gobble, gobble

2009-11-29T21:24:00.002-06:00

Like my turkey?

I had to show off Connor's teeth - I can't get a pix of them. He has 2 bottom teeth and about 2-4 more coming. Hopefully they will come in a little smoother than the 1st 2.

Happy Turkey Day!

2009-11-26T23:41:00.005-06:00

Connor and Daddy - Happy Thanksgiving!

Jo having a little snack with Grandpa. Look closely - Johanna and Grandpa are both wearing blue hair clips. So pretty.

Cooking with Grandma in the kitchen. Johanna and I made a little turkey for Thanksgiving.

Gobble, gobble

What a pose - Aunt Christine and Johanna

My little lady - so cute!

Army Crawling

2009-11-26T23:35:00.002-06:00

Right when Connor turned 6 months old he started army crawling. Now he is all over the room, chasing balls, pulling the trash can onto his head, and getting into everything.

Busted!

Playing with Opa

2009-11-26T23:28:00.002-06:00

When we went stayed at Oma and Opa's after Nick's wedding, Johanna was all about playing with Opa. She wanted him to go everywhere with her. It was very cute.

Bath time

2009-11-26T23:08:00.004-06:00

Connor tried out sitting in the tub - he was great. Occasionally he splashed so much, he almost feel backwards. He even tried to scoot around in the tub while sitting.

Now the 2 of them play tug-o-war over the cups in the tub.

Looking so silly - how did she get her tongue into a triangle shape?

Oh, Connor you are so funny.

I'm done

Let's Eat

2009-11-26T22:52:00.004-06:00

Connor's 1st sippy cup try - he grabbed it and stuck it in his mouth. The boy has amazing motor skills.

mmm - water

Connor trying to get his bowl all clean

Jo helping Connor get cleaned up after eating.

Puffs

2009-11-26T22:39:00.004-06:00

I let Connor try a puff, but he wasn't quite ready.

I helped him get one in his mouth, however he didn't know what to do with it. So he swallowed it whole, then coughed.

But that didn't stop him from trying to get more. I just made sure none made it to his mouth.

Loving to Jump

2009-11-26T22:33:00.001-06:00

Connor loves to jump in his jumperoo. He's wild!

Big Boy Bath

2009-11-26T22:16:00.008-06:00

I decided to try out Jo's old tub with Connor., but he's too tall. He is suppose to sit on this end, but soon was slipping down since there wasn't enough room for his legs.

Jo sharing a duck with Connor. It's actually the duck from my baby shower with his name on the bottom.

Propped up with his feet

We moved him to the other side, where he is suppose to lay back, but he just sat up.

He sat nicely, but I can't believe it was that comfortable.

Making Caramel Apples

2009-11-26T21:50:00.005-06:00

Johanna and I made caramel apples one day. She was a great helper - peeling the caramels, putting the sticks in, decorating apples.

We put on sprinkles and M&Ms on the apples - yum!

Tada - Caramel Apples Aunt Ashlee came for a visit - she enjoyed our caramel apples with us. Johanna figured out she could peel the caramel off and not have to eat the apple.

Trick or Treat - Milwaukee Style

2009-11-25T22:42:00.009-06:00

Getting ready for Trick or Treating - Connor was a froggie!

A monkey Jo playing the symbols

Here we go - let's get some CANDY! Johanna quickly got the idea of trick-or-treating and loved it. Connor came to visit a few neighbors with us, but since it was cold, he helped daddy pass out candy. Cruising the neighborhood Mmm, what did I get?

Jake was ready to check out the candy too.

Connor wanted to bite too.

Halloween Night

2009-11-25T22:17:00.008-06:00

On Halloween Night Johanna and I joined our friends, Steve, Val, and Elizabeth for trick-or-treating in thier neighborhood. It was awesome!! Their neighbors had bonfires out in front yards, had spooky sounds coming from their homes, and some even dressed up. Yummy candy too!

Johanna hung with Steve ALL night - we joked that it was her adopted daddy for the night (since Tom was home with Connor).

Val and "E"

We're ready - let's go!

Elizabeth ate through the wrapper at the 1st house we stopped.

Chillin'

2009-11-25T19:43:00.000-06:00

Johanna loves to play in Connor's gear. One day I found her in his car seat playing with her baby Mary. Ooops - mom found me Smile baby Mary

Another day she got stuck in Connor's highchair. She just jumped in from the kitchen chair.

Ahh, relaxing

This is the 1st time she crawled into Connor's highchair - she thought it was so funny.

Chomping on Apples

2009-11-20T20:47:00.005-06:00

Connor loves to eat - he takes after his sister. I decided to try apples in his "chewy" since he was fussy while Jo and I were eating dinner. It was a success - he chomped on the apples for about 20 minutes.

Connor instantly was able to hold his "chewy" and chew on it. He even dropped it in his lap 1x, grabbed it, and started to chow down again.

Sweet

2009-11-20T19:24:00.004-06:00

Connor's 2nd food was Sweet Potaotes. He loved them too! What a suprise? Johanna loves to feed Connor. She tells him to say "ah" and opens her mouth too when she puts the spoon in his mouth.

Let me help Jo

1st Cereal

2009-11-20T19:06:00.004-06:00

Connor had his 1st rice cereal right before he turned 5 months. He instantly had his mouth open and was ready to chow down.

Here, let me hold that for you mom? We also soon learned that we couldn't leave anything on Connor's tray, because he stole it from us right away.

Mom, I want more!

Snacktime

2009-11-20T14:15:00.001-06:00

Johanna made a little snack - chicken and hot dogs. Mmm

Sitting unsupported

2009-11-20T14:00:00.002-06:00

Before 6 months Connor was sitting steady. He could sit for about 10-15 minutes by himself.

Tripod Sit

2009-11-20T13:48:00.004-06:00

The first day Connor tried sitting, he was almost there. What a strong little man. He just turned 5 months in this pix.

Whoa!

Playtime

2009-11-20T13:43:00.003-06:00

Johanna sharing with Connor. This idea was very short lived. Soon Johanna was taking all of Connor's toys away from him.