The Schulte's

Whole lota chub

2012-02-10T14:52:00.001-06:00

She's got some cheeks folks! And is obsessed with her hands. Carmen has RSV and an ear infection bit she's been a trooper through the nebulizer treatments and antibiotics. Siser is hangin tough!!!

Locked and loaded

2012-02-09T09:54:00.001-06:00

She's got a hammer people and she's not afraid to use it!!!

Fine motor skills

2012-02-07T21:18:00.001-06:00

Carmen is starting to love her toys. She can grasp them now and bring them to her mouth. She is drooling like crazy! Dr. Olson said this wasn't due to teething just her salivating more and not being able to swallow it all. At her 4 month check carmen was 19 lb. 6 oz and is 26 inches long!!! My big girl!

All dressed up

2012-02-02T17:16:00.001-06:00

Rockin a beautiful dress today! Such a good baby. Mama loves you sissy!!

So fast

2012-01-30T18:47:00.002-06:00

They grow SO FAST. Carmen is already so intent on grabbing her toys and watching them move around. I love watching her little chubby hands slowly come together while she's trying to grasp a rattle or toy. She's doing wonderfully and is such a happy baby, for the most part! She's got some chub to spare......

Coordination

2012-01-25T15:52:00.001-06:00

Carmen is really getting the hang of holding onto toys!

Carmen at 3 months

2012-01-24T22:24:00.002-06:00

Baby Sis turned three months old at the beginning of January. I can't say it's hard to believe she is that old because physically, she's HUGE! In 12 month clohtes currently. It's been amazing though watching her find her hands and chewing on them constantly just like her brother. In fact, I can hear her chewing on them as I type this blog.

Patty took our pictures this time around. She did a wonderful job capturing all of Carmen's chub and love of her tongue and hands. Henry was the picture perfect big brother, wanting to kiss on his baby sis and make sure she was OK when she would get upset. He was so excited that he even got to hold her and did such a nice job of making sure she didn't fall over.

Today while we were wainting for dad to get home, I caught a sweet sibling moment. Henry was laying on his stomach next to his sister while she cooed and watched him watching Phineas and Ferb. Nothing tremendously exciting or awe inspiring, but none-the-less heart melting to see these two together.

The kiddos

2012-01-21T17:30:00.001-06:00

Carmen is starting to think her brother is pretty silly these days! Henry loves to dance around all crazy and sing her funny songs. Carmen loves to COO at him and drool. She has really found her hands and loves to play with her tongue. She is also grasping for her toys. She changes everyday! Mama is sad to see her baby growing up!!!

KDLT.com South Dakota News - USD Student Volunteers Help Out On MLK Day

2012-01-16T19:04:00.000-06:00

KDLT.com South Dakota News - USD Student Volunteers Help Out On MLK Day

Smile

2011-12-15T16:39:00.001-06:00

Carmen is smiling at Henry!! Seriously could she be any sweeter???

New beginnings

2011-12-14T16:54:00.002-06:00

So I started back to work this week! I have been involved in work affairs on and off during my whole maternity leave, but honestly I do not know where the last 2 months went?! Carmen seems to be adjusting surprisingly well to the chaos of her room. She enjoys watching all of the other kids interact. It keeps her entertained and it makes me so happy to watch her and cuddle her if I need to. I am nursing her while I am there. It's truely amazing I must admit to work part-time and be with my kids!!! Henry loves peeking in on her and hasn't had his meltdowns like he used to when he saw me walking around the Center. Life for me couldn't be better! I would love to see my husband more and have a me day once in a while, but overall my mood is so much better after having Carmen than where I was after I had Henry. I believe I probably went through some post partum depression as I was working a stressful job full time and was a first time mom.

I also downloaded a new photo editing software to my phone. What do you think???

Christmas at Thanksgiving

2011-12-09T15:24:00.003-06:00

Over Thanksgiving this year, we celebrated Christmas with my side of the family! I did post some pictures on Facebook, but not on my blog. I also took some family pictures for my aunt Pam and Steph and their families. We had a wonderful time. Henry enjoyed participating in all of grandma Kim's craft projects and running around with the Scott boys! Carmen enjoyed sleeping and got a little bit spoiled being held all the time. We are still trying to reason with her that she can't be held all the time!!!

Here is Henry getting ready to open all of his fantastic Christmas presents!
I think aunt Steph and Carmen have the same pout! LOVE IT!
My sister, I mean cousin, Lindsey and her little boy Owen! Carmen now weighs more than he does!!! He was born 5 weeks BEFORE she was!!!! It was pretty awesome to have someone going through the same things as I was. Although she had a pretty easy pregnancy;)! I am so glad our kids will be able to grow up together like we did!
The Scott family Steph, Artie, Gage, and Gavin. Don't they look nice?!
The McClelland Family Jim, Pam, and Carson. They did an amazing job!!! LOVE IT:)

Yes, I know that it's a little late, but better late than never!

Say cheese

2011-12-07T13:30:00.001-06:00

Henry wanted to say cheese for my camera. You suppose this kid gets enough camera time?! Today we are nursing a sick carmen back to health and avoiding getting Henry any sicker. I am trying these mucinex mini melts for henrys cough. They seem to be working really well. Not much we can give baby sis, but we are watching her temp. It was 100.5 this am.

Sickies

2011-12-06T15:28:00.001-06:00

We have three sickies in our house. Matt, Henry, and baby sis are all under the weather battling coughs and congestion. Mama is fine thankfully! Let's hope we get this over with before the holidays!?

Admirer

2011-11-30T18:47:00.001-06:00

Carmen is in love with her brother! She always has to be looking at him or near him. Tonight he was singing her a song about trains! However stressful life is for us. Which believe me, it is! I can always turn to my kids for reassurance as to why I do it!

Chillin

2011-11-29T13:49:00.001-06:00

Today we are just chillin watching a bee movie for the millionth time! Carmen is napping on mom, her fab spot! Henry is playing with his guys. A real regular day in the neighborhood. I could get used to this!

Mirror mirror

2011-11-28T14:52:00.001-06:00

Carmen loves looking at all of her toys on her play gym. She has recently discovered how to smile and coo and really focus on objects! She's incredible!!! Henry is learning all of his letters and can spell his own name and point out letters of friends names. How blessed we are!!! And I figured out how to blog on my phone, so you will be seeing much more of us!!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T19:51:00.001-06:00

We had the most amazing thanksgiving this year! We celebrated with all our family and even had Christmas with my side of the family! Carmen had her first holiday experience and did amazing! I love my family and am feeling so very blessed this holiday season!!!! Even though I am not working right now and money is tight, I couldn't feel any richer!!!

Sleep deprivation

2011-11-23T08:40:00.002-06:00

Life with Carmen is so amazing! I am completely infatuated and in love with my sweet angel baby! I am more in love with my Henry boy as I watch him adjust and fall in love with his sister. He is already super protective of her reminding me today as I left him at preschool that I need to remember to carry baby sis. Not sure exactly what this means, but thought it was cute anyway.

I had suffered from pregnancy induced insomnia and a frequent urge to pee while I was pregnant, so my sleeping pattern had already been adjusted before Carmen came along, but since her arrival sleeping as we know it is more like napping. There are nights when I do get 4 hours of sleep in a row, but these are rare. Usually it's 2 1/2 to 3 in between feedings and diaper changes. While I love this special time with my baby girl, I am looking forward to the days when I actually get to sleep most of the night. I know it will come eventually, so I will patiently wait and appreciate the sleep that I do get.

Thanksgiving is tomorrow. I have been noticing many posts on Facebook of what people are thankful for. It's hard to even list all of them here, but as I think more about it, I am so thankful for every hardship I have faced in life. It was those times in my life that I look back on and draw strength from to move forward and ultimately lead me to my life now which is very different from where I started. No one can predict their future and where their life will lead and what hurdles will come their way. What I hope for is facing life with my husband and kids by my side. Providing for them a life that makes each of them happy!

My sweet angel baby enjoying her play gym. She is fascinated with bright colors and pictures of her brother and family on our wall. The other day she had gotten her hand caught in one of her toys that hangs from her play gym, she was stone still not sure how to get out of this predicament!

Happy Halloween plus 1

2011-11-02T14:41:00.003-05:00

This year we celebrated Halloween with both of our little goblins. How fulfilling life is when you get to share it with others! If raising kids wasn't so exhausting, I would probably have many many more kids! I just love seeing siblings interact with each other and holidays are better with so many little ones to share it with.

This Halloween we had ourselves a big ol' bowl of Mac n' Cheese and a little ladybug! Henry got rav reviews on his costume! And Carmen managed to spit up on three of her costumes! Henry and dad made their way around town to all of our friends and their neigborhoods. Carmen and I stayed home and handed out candy to all the gouls in the neighborhood!

Henry anxiously waiting to venture out and collect more candy!
What a ham!

Carmen not so excited about her first halloween outfit!
The fam! Henry was over taking pictures!

The beginning of something wonderful

2011-10-27T16:18:00.003-05:00

As I am looking through all the pictures that have started trickling in of my sweet angel baby Carmen, I am noticing all the wonderful men that are in her life. As a mother of a baby girl, it's a new arena for me to explore, but I do know the importance that positive male role models play in children's life. I want Carmen to have healthy relationships with men and women as an adult and that begins early on with her mom, dad, and immediate family. Carmen has some amazing men, boys, and little boys in her life that will help guide and shape who she will become!

Cousin Gage and Carmen!
Her big brother Henry and Carmen!
Her great-grandpa and Carmen!
I think I knew that Carmen would complete our family once she arrived. I so enjoyed all my one-on-one time with Henry, but let's face it, there is only so much a mom can do with her son. There is a role that siblings play in each others life, and I am thrilled beyond words to see how that transforms in my kids' life! Being a mom of two is everything I imagined and so much more. It fulfills me and I see my husband in a whole new light. We are really in this together juggling family, work, and each other. It's crazy, scary, wonderful, and tiring all at the same time!

The fam!!!

Sleepy baby...

2011-10-11T13:36:00.002-05:00

Carmen had her one week check up today. She is within one once of her birth weight which is wonderful! So far, she is a very laid back baby who sleeps ALOT! She enjoys looking around at her daddy and brother when she is awake. She is not as big as her brother was as far as percentile of height and weight. Maybe she won't be quit as monsterously large as Henry was as fast! I still think she looks just like her daddy and brother!

Mama loves her new baby girl!
Daddy is completely enamered!

Carmen Kimberly

2011-10-10T13:26:00.002-05:00

Well, she is here. Her long awaited arrival is finally here and gone....Carmen Kimberly Schulte was born on October 4, 2011 at 5:04pm weighing 8lb 7oz and was 21 inches long. She is healthy and happy and doing great!

She is such a good baby sleeping, eating, and pooping and continuing the cycle throughout the day. I completely understand this can change in a moments notice, so I am enjoying this quiet sleepy stage thoroughly!

Henry is adjusting well. He certainly has his moments of attention seeking which we were prepared for. What I wasn't prepared for was how much he was going to love this little girl right off the bat. When he gets home from preschool he goes to her and kisses her and tells her about his morning. If she's awake, she will peer contently up at him like she's listening to every word he says.

We are so blessed with two beautiful, healthy children!!!!

Dad is quit taken with his little girl!
Mom and her baby girl shortly after delivery.
Carmen napping at the hospital.
Henry cheesing it up for the camera!

Still Alive

2011-09-29T17:25:00.003-05:00

Yes, we are still here and kicking! Life has been pretty interesting lately. Between bed rest, stress of work, and taking care of a 3 year old, I haven't had much time/interest in blogging. This week, I have been trying to return to normal life. As normal as you can the week before you are due to give birth!

Last weekend, we took Henry to the duck pond in Yankton. He had a blast even though the ducks got a little too close to Henry for daddy's liking. Henry also played on the play equipment afterwards and proceeded to pull down his pants and pee for all the world to see! It's so funny how uninhibited small children are. It made perfect sense to him that if he had to pee, he needed to pull down his pants! DUH MOM!

Henry has been making the transition to big brother very well. He has his own big boy bed, is fully potty trained, and even got special big brother Phineas and Ferb sheets and blanket for his big boy bed. I am so looking forward to giving Henry a sibling to explore life with. I am just so intrigued that I will ever love another child the way that I love my Henry!

Baby Shower Weekend

2011-09-05T21:23:00.004-05:00

Well, this weekend we introduced the family to little Owen William! My cousin Lindsey's baby boy who was born last Saturday! We also had a joint shower for the future ms. schulte and the current mr. owen! Lots of family was in attendance. Henry even got to spend some quality time with his papa Jeff, uncle Nick, great uncle Kerry, and cousin's Gage and Gavin. It was a fun, wonderful, tiring weekend had by all! I am so proud of my cousin Lindsey who is quit the amazing mama!!!!!!!

Cousin Katelyn (aunt to Owen) and Henry checking out the baby during his photo shoot.
Henry was such a good boy with the baby always giving him gentle touches! He's going to make a fantastic big brother!!!!
The 36 week pregnant me...don't I look excited, tired, irritated??!!!!
My mom, Lindsey, and Owen with the quilt my mom made for Owen.
I actually really like this picture. He's got this quizzical look on his face like what exactly are you doing to me with that thing?
Probably also one of my very favorite! He is such a strong boy trying to roll at 7 days old!

Mama and her boy!

Keegan Round 2

2011-08-28T20:33:00.002-05:00

So we hit up round number 2 with Mr. Keegan last week here in Vermillion. I have several awesome pictures, but decided to only show mom 2. Keeps the excitement building! HEHEHE...I promise to post pictures of my little man sometime in the near future. He isn't a big fan of the camera lately, and I haven't felt much like taking pictures that I'm not paid to take lately!

Morgan's Senior Pictures

2011-08-21T14:14:00.002-05:00

So I have had the fortunate opportunity to work with some wonderful ladies in my work career. I was able to photograph Tena's senior Keegan a couple weeks back, and last night I got to work with Becky's senior Morgan.

To Morgan, you are so beautiful, vibrant, full of energy, and a very sweet young lady! I wish you continued success this year and in your future. I hope you enjoy these few pictures I have for you as a sneak peek. I've got SO many more to edit! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to capture these priceless images for you!

The boys...

2011-08-09T21:43:00.002-05:00

There is NOTHING better in the world to me than spending time with my family including our two hounds Bailey and Lucy. Henry loves to chase them around and tell them what to do like a true big brother. It puts a smile on my face to watch my two boys explore the trails of Spirit Mound with their dogs. I am very curious to see how baby girl Schulte will fit into this male driven life I lead. I am looking forward some "girl" time in the future. However, I hope she enjoys all the things her older brother does. It will be so amazing to watch them together interacting, playing, and learning from each other.

Matt and I are heading out for a little vacation without Henry before baby girl Schulte arrives. I am looking forward to that time with my hubby as being parents predominantly defines who we are at home. With a 3 year old always testing bounds, rarely do we get to let our guard down.

Both of our jobs can be very stressful at times, and I hope we can take this small amount of time to just enjoy being together despite my gigantic stomach as a reminder of a new future to come! It's definitely been more difficult to find time for us to just be a couple. I hope we can find that balance sooner rather than later.

THE FAM!!!!

Attention span of a 3 year old

2011-08-08T13:03:00.002-05:00

So I have noticed, just like the weather in South Dakota, if you wait long enough your toddlers attention span will shift to something else. Whether it to be the grave injustice you just bestowed upon him or the random piece of dirt on the floor that he must put in his mouth. Henry is the poster child for toddler ADHD! He is everywhere all the time 100 miles an hour in a split second shifting attention to something else. If that didn't make sense, welcome to my world!

I love my little boy though. I am adjusting to the mood swings and the "shoosh be quiet mom" moments when I have no idea what caused the devil to come out in my little baby. He is so funny, smart, and witty! When my mom was home this weekend, he rushed to me asking, "Mom, where is that little old grandma? Where did she go?" Keep in mind my mom is still in her 40's. I couldn't stop laughing. Tears where rolling down my check when my mom came out.

I also LOVE my Henry and Me time. We were together on Sunday and went shopping together. Yes, I said Henry and shopping in the same sentence. It's amazing what a full belly of food and M&M's can get a kid to do. He was angelic until he ran into the bathroom door and knocked his head. He's quit accident prone!!!

"Airplane? Where"
"Oh it's going far far away!"
3 seconds later, "Mom look at this bug on my arm"
.3 seconds later, "MOM, what doing?"

Back on the wagon

2011-08-04T22:24:00.002-05:00

So I picked up my trusty ol' camera tonight to take senior pictures for my friend Tena's senior Keegan. He's a handsome one and extremely photogenic! Thank you Keegan, you did an awesome job, hope you enjoyed Buffalo Wild Wings:)!

Well mom, what do you think?

Humidity

2011-07-20T12:01:00.003-05:00

GROSS!!!!! The weather here has been awful! Last Saturday, I almost died from not being able to breath! I am definitely more a Fall/Winter person than a summer person. Sweatshirts, jeans, and snow sound really good right now! As do roasts and steaks! Nummy....

Henry, dad, and I have been hitting the pool almost daily to beat the heat. I must say the pool is almost getting too warm with temps in the 100's and heat indexes reaching 111!!! YIKES...

We have been watching movies and going to the library for new books. His current favorite is Papa, will you get the moon for me by Eric Carle.

Henry and dad are squirt gun addicts! They have quit the assortment and love squirting each other, the fence, and Bailey and Lucy. Henry has the best dad in the world! We love you:)!!
P.S. All pictures have been taken with my phone. I have been lazy about getting out my big camera. With the humidity as high as it is, my lens continues to fog up every time I try to actually take a real picture.

Schulte Family update

2011-07-06T21:18:00.004-05:00

Yes, once again, you finding me apologizing for not blogging as frequently as I should. Life is just too darn busy right now to find any extra time to talk about life being busy, if that makes any sense. Again still suffering from pregnant brain, therefore, some of my thoughts aren't complete:)

Us Schulte's are having the time of our lives this summer. Highlights: made it to the pool 5 days in a row, Henry LOVES the big slide in town him and dad went down it three times in a row last week, went to the Sioux Falls zoo with grandma and aunt Teresa, rode 4 wheeler's with all of papa's brothers, uncle Jay, and aunt Teresa, and went to a fun new pool in Sioux Falls with all kinds of new and interesting water/sand toy combos. We got to see grandma Kim a whole bunch so far, which is always awesome as she is the grandma with "alot of tractors" according to Henry.

Henry lightlights: after turning 3, Henry is working diligently on potty training including taking himself to poop tonight! He moved into the preschool room at his school. He loves his new friends and is still learning how to listen and be a big preschooler as he calls it. Everyday he still tells me, "mom look at all my new friends!" He is enjoying having the afternoons with mom and playing outside with Bailey and Lucy. His favorite movies right now are Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs and we even went to the new Cars movie which he sat through the WHOLE THING!

We are loving our time together before baby girl Schulte comes raining on Henry's parade!

Henry and grandma reading Peter the Cruise Ship...
Henry and uncle Jay shooting off fireworks on the 4th...
Henry trying to shoot off his own fireworks!

Birthday extravaganza

2011-06-07T20:13:00.003-05:00

So Henry and mama had quit the weekend! My birthday was on Saturday. Side note: once you have kids, your birthday becomes sort of inconsequential. This year especially as it signifies the last year that I am in my 20's. MY 20's for god sake. EVERYTHING happened in my 20's. Getting married, graduating with my Masters Degree, getting a real job, buying a home, having a child, and now having another child. My 20's were about me for the most part and now as I look towards 30, I understand that my life is about my children nurturing them, teaching them, watching them make mistakes then being there to help them understand what they did wrong. I think my 30's will also be about finding out who I am. I know that sounds clique, but honestly in your 20's you don't have a clue about life, I hope in my 30's I find out the answer to that mystery!

So anywho, my wonderfully, ambitious mother decided that we should make Henry's 3rd birthday cake. I wanted a dirt race track, she settled for an actual race track, and we ended up with this???????????????????? It's supposed to be a race track in the shape of a 3....maybe....
We also celebrated Henry's 3rd birthday this weekend with the Madison gang and my parents. It was awesome having everyone down to my house, and Henry was so ecstatic see them! Henry is actually turning 3 next week. NEXT WEEK I WILL HAVE A 3 YEAR
OLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We also played in the pool at the Holiday Inn in town. Henry is a huge fan of the water not like last year were he thought monsters where going to come up from the depths and eat his little baby toes. He wiggled with delight as his family chased him around and threw water cannon balls with him. Daddy had a little fun too!
Grandma got in on the action. Again, she is quit the ambitious one. Ol' preggers sat on the sidelines and I didn't think anyone wanted to see me in a bathing suit!
So here is to you 29 years of age. I wouldn't repeat my 20's for reasons that shall not be spoken aloud, but I look forward to the years ahead with my two babies, stubborn husband, and amazing extended family!

Drum roll please...

2011-06-03T14:10:00.003-05:00

Well.....we had our ultrasound sooner than expected. We went in yesterday instead of Monday because I was having some issues. They did discover that I have a low lying placenta, but baby was fine! I am 22 weeks, so it was far enough along they could tell us what we were having. Henry was so excited that he spiked a fever and feel asleep on the couch!

However, the rest of our friends and family were over the moon excited because after a string of boys in our family (22 years worth), we are finally getting our girl!!!!!!!!

Henry is going to have a baby sister....Matt is completely in shock. I am already out rummaging for girl clothes, and Henry said that he would share his daddy's bed with his baby sister and that his daddy could be her daddy. How generous, right? We are very excited and since this is our final child, it will be fun to experience the world of "girl"...however hard and dramatic it will be!!!

Update

2011-06-01T10:33:00.003-05:00

So, I am finally updating the blog! Yes, I know it's been too long. Picture taking has just been significantly harder when you have an adventurous 2 almost 3 year old. There isn't much time to capture images and prevent monumental falls and crashes in the processes. But overall life has been good to us Schulte's the last few weeks. We have had two graduations and many visits to and from our grandma's and papa's which makes Henry squirm with delight!

About 2 weeks back now, grandma Linda, Henry, and I went to the Butterfly house in Sioux Falls. They also recently opened a fish aquarium exhibit which Henry LOVED. We even got to find a Nemo fishy! Henry had a blast buzzing around Sioux Falls with grandma and mom!

This last weekend we all ventured down to Des Moines for cousin Dan's graduation. Henry was actually pretty well behaved and went to the potty all day without accident. On Sunday night, Henry had the fortune to have grandma Linda, Papa, Teresa, and Jason come to grandma Kim's house! He was thoroughly confused that all of his grandparents were in one location but soon was running around while papa Jeff chased him!

Here are Henry and Grandma checking out the Nemo fishy!!
Henry having a chat with the butterfly's. He REALLY wanted to touch it, but was being such a good boy and listening. He had brought his listening ears with him to the butterfly house! YEAH...

Henry started his preschool transition this week. I can't believe what a big boy he is becoming. He loves his new friends and the new adventures they have downstairs. He wanted a big hug and kiss today but then waved me away as he sat down to brush his teeth. Henry will turn 3 on June 16th. I honestly can't even believe it!

The pregnancy is going well. I am really tired this pregnancy for some reason. The baby has been kicking up a storm and I could feel him/her stretch today on one side of my belly while they kicked me on the other. It was a pretty sweet moment for mama. On Monday we go in for our ultrasound to find out what we are having!!!! My mom will be up for the occasion!

Could it be?

2011-05-11T14:10:00.002-05:00

Could summer actually almost be upon us? Could it be that we can now just run outside to play instead of putting 16.5 layers of clothes on. Minus the sunscreen and bug spray showdown, summer is the absolute best time of year if you have little ones. What better way for them to get out of the house away from television and the boredom of the same toys then to discover all new things in the wilderness (or backyard).

Henry LOVES begin outside, as most kids do. The last few days have been absolutely beautiful in Vermillion. We have been outside all afternoon every afternoon playing in the sandbox, sliding down the swing set slide, and enjoying our water toys. It's like Christmas all over again discovering toys long since put away and forgotten.

I also recently booked our hotel room for our first family vacation! We are going to Omaha to swim in our hotel pool and visit the Omaha Zoo. Nothing horribly exciting but for someone who has never been on a vacation, Henry won't know the difference. I am excited to do these things with him before baby comes. I always want Henry to know how special he is to us. Our first child!

After we played hard, we came in and after bath and jammies raced our tractors around...
We used our fire hose to fill up our pool! Henry was in charge of course...

It must be Spring...

2011-05-05T17:38:00.001-05:00

It must be Spring when you are eating ice cream with your daddy, right?!!!!

Tired Boy

2011-04-29T14:20:00.003-05:00

Wednesday night, Henry got to go up to Grandma and Papa Schulte's house for a day or so. He was there all day Thursday and until lunch time today. They played and rode 4 wheelers, found old toys, and played in the sandbox. Henry even got grandma Linda to ride her new 4 wheeler. He took a 3 hour nap with grandma on Thursday! Sounds like wayyyy more fun then hanging out at home with boring mom and dad! We are OK with that label though, gives us some special time together as well.

I am so happy that Henry has two wonderful sets of grandparents who spend time with him and show him all the fun adventures life has to offer. I remember going to my grandparents and thinking how cool it was and how special I felt when I was with them, and I am so glad that Henry has that same opportunity!

Henry out for the count while riding home with him after lunch today. I love the mouth wide open:)!

Week 17

2011-04-28T17:10:00.003-05:00

So here it is in all of "it's" glory. Jessica pregnant week 17. I have hesitated sharing my pregnant belly because of all the comment I get about how many babies am I carrying in there? Well, folks, it's just one. He/she is a rockstar though. We got to see it at week 15 and it was bouncing and rocking all around!

This pregnancy so far has been about as much fun as a root canal (just guessing, never actually had one). Yes, I get that I should be happy to be pregnant, and I am, of course. But with all the nausea, vomitting, and time hooked up to IV machines, I haven't had a whole lot of fun pregnant moments. I have started to feel little kicks, nothing exciting, but I can tell he/she is there, so that's a highlight.

You probably won't see many more of these pregger pics, just not my thing, so enjoy!!!!

Happy (busy) Easter!

2011-04-25T20:55:00.004-05:00

Easter weekend was very busy for the Schulte family! We started off in Sioux Falls with the other Schulte's with a fun filled 4 wheeler riding adventure and indoor Easter egg hunt. The food was amazing and mama got stuffed and tired AND she forgot her camera! I know hard to believe, right? So unfortunately we did not capture any pictures from our time there. Henry had a smile plastered on his face the whole time that should be the only visual you need to remember.

Then we headed home to Vermillion on Saturday where grandma Kim, papa Jeff, and uncle Nick patiently waited our arrival. I was explaining to Matt that my mom had gone a little overboard this year because it was her first Easter with Henry. He kind of shrugged his shoulders and ignored my comment, but after about 3 hours of being home, he said you were not kidding when you said your mom was excited about Easter this year! And she was, I can't blame her though. Henry had us in stitches the whole time they were there!

Thanks to everyone for a wonderful weekend! I feel full, blessed, tired, and happy!

Here is Henry making a bunny cake with grandma. He did more licking of frosting then actually frosting the cake. Hence, the 20 minute running around in circles before bedtime that night!
Grandma ever so patiently helping Henry mix up the frosting.
Henry explaining each of the eggs he had dyed and what were on them.
Everyone getting into the easter egg dying mood!

Best Friends

2011-04-13T10:46:00.003-05:00

So I seriously think that Henry's best friend right now is Luc! He loves going on adventures with her be it a walk to the park down the block or a trek up the big hill, Lucy the hound dog is never far away. Yesterday we ventured to Spirit Mound, my favorite photo capturing location. Henry was insistent he get a picture with Lucy. How freakin' cute, right?Henry the adventurer, rock thrower, temper tantrum thrower in his glory! Here he is telling me that he has to throw rocks in the water and Lucy has to get in too. He can be quit bossy, I think he gets that from his dad, definitely!
The best way to end a big adventure, ice cream in the backyard! This kid has the life I tell ya!
When we went to the dog park the other night, a few of Matt's dog park friends couldn't believe how big Henry's gotten. I feel the same way. It's as if I blinked and he's a little mini man now. Henry is getting so smart. He is great with shapes. His favorite shape is diamonds. He pointed out a diamond pattern on a wall while we were driving one day. He also loves to count and can count up to 7 or 8 by himself sometimes 10! Henry is always talking, telling mom stories or pointing out big trucks and correcting mom when she calls it just a big truck. No mom, he'll say, that's back hoe loader or a pay loader. Oh sorry, Henry!

Friends

2011-04-11T20:33:00.004-05:00

So Henry is taking full advantage of the beautiful weather we are having even if it's only for a short time. Today we met friends Peyton, Emmy, and Hudson and their mommy at the park where we ran and ran and ran. I told Jordan that I was going to borrow her children to wear Henry out more often. Case in point...Henry even went to bed tonight with no paci!!!! YIPPEEEE....

We even took their little dog to the dog park. We actually went back later with Bailey and Lucy. It was a great day outdoors. Henry had a blast, and mommy was happy to talk about being pregnant with her fellow pregnant mommy! Thanks Krogman's!

On a side note, Henry is growing up so fast! He's falling asleep at night without us staying in the room AND he didn't take his pacifier to bed tonight. I am very proud of him. When Henry is ready for something, he jumps into it feet first and doesn't look back. It makes me very proud! Today I am a very proud mommy to one amazingly grown up little boy. I am also not sick today! Small victories add up:) We will enjoy tomorrow as I hear this nice weather is giving way to rainy ucky cold weather by Wednesday.

Out of focus, but none-the-less cute. Henry and Hudson were playing fishing with dog leashes. Very clever!
Henry and his peeps, Peyton and Emmy hanging out under the bridge. Peyton is such a good little mom holding Henry's hand and sliding down the slide with him. I even caught her asking Henry to open his mouth so she could see how many teeth he has. I don't think she realizes he is Hudson's age! It's very precious...

Progress

2011-04-08T14:42:00.002-05:00

So no pictures, but I had to post anyway...Henry had a really hard time before Christmas then well into the cold winter months at school and home. He struggled with boundaries his own and others. It felt as if we were constantly putting him on his thinking rug and brainstorming ways to help him vocalize his problems instead of physically lashing out. We tried books, rugs, spankings, talks, you name it, we tried it! We went through about a month period at school where Henry was the "bad" kid. It felt as if every daily report listed some friend he pushed or outburst he had.

We are happy to report Henry has changed significantly! That is not to say every single day is perfect with stellar results, but I have definitely seen my little guy grow up and begin to articulate his feelings and wants in a much more grown up fashion. His daily reports are wonderful. He is the classroom helper and toy picker upper (wish this was true at home). At home, he is definitely a different child. We don't spend countless time on the thinking rug. If we see a situation begin to escalate, we stop ourselves, and ask Henry to stop himself by asking him to him to use his words to tell us what's wrong. We let him know we understand his is upset or sad, but explain to him why we have to do something.

Anyway, long story short...Henry is doing great! I hope this early use of communication will help him in the long run begin to communicate as he gets older. I am so proud of my boy, and I can't wait to see him as a big brother!

Hello again

2011-04-03T15:07:00.005-05:00

Hello there! Yes, I've been gone awhile. Between trips to the bathroom, constant headaches, and a little boy who needs his mama...all.the.time, life has been busy around the Schulte household. We are excited to welcome our new baby sister or brother, but in the meantime, this pregnancy sickness crap is no fun. It sort of zaps the life out of me. For example, I went to Once Upon a Child this weekend and didn't buy a SINGLE thing! Can't you believe it? I just wasn't feeling it. I hope the normal not sick Jessica returns soon. It's tough always being hormonal, sick, feeling guilty for being sick, and always feeling behind on EVERYTHING!

But not to get in the way of a beautiful weekend, we took Henry to Falls Park! Besides a little wind, Henry thoroughly enjoyed his time there. Grandma Linda joined us for this little outing as well as dad and Lucy! Henry was amazed and how fast and loud the water was. He had to stop and admire the falls and each point. He was most excited when it started "raining" on us from the rapid falls so close to the lookout point.

Henry is at the end of his battle with an ear infection and headcold, but that means the snotty noses will be with us for a while. He was home Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with mom and dad. Let's hope he recovers soon, being sick is the pits!

Babies....

2011-03-15T14:24:00.003-05:00

Oh Henry LOVES babies...people ones, goats, chickens, kitties, sheep, and cows. Nothing escapes his eyes without an "awww...look at the baby mum" or "it's just a tiny little baby, be quiet mum the baby ___ is sleeping"

Over the weekend, Henry got to see many baby animals. Baby cows, sheep, and goats to be exact. The baby goats and sheep where his favorite. They were SOOO tiny! He got to pet one and wiggle with delight when it made all it's funny baby noises. Life is pretty much perfect when you are 2 1/2 and on the farm with your dad being a tough guy walking through the mud. This little baby cow was born the day we were there.

Henry and dad checking out the cows while mama cow watches protecting her baby.

Speaking of babies......

Henry is going to have a baby of his own...well not really of his own, but he's going to be a big brother! We are having a baby! We are 11 weeks and counting. Henry will welcome his little brother/sister at the very beginning of October!

Family History

2011-02-23T10:04:00.003-06:00

The following are some of the pictures that Sara scanned from grandma Artis's collection of old family photos. She had a dozen or so books with some really neat pics in them. This first one is of Marvin Walton, Matt's grandfather, in high school. He is kneeling by the trailer he welded in high school. I see where Matt's gets his love for making things from. I believe this picture if of Artis Walton when she was young with her siblings.

This is a very old photo from the 1800's of the family farm up by Webster, SD while it was being homesteaded.

Children's Museum of SD

2011-02-23T09:45:00.003-06:00

Over the weekend, cousin Sara from Iowa visited us! She had heard stories of some really old cool pictures that grandma Artis (Linda's mom) had lying around her house, and she wanted to catch a glimpse of these cool portraits. Since, grandma lives in Brookings, I decided that it would be neat to incorporate a trip to the Children's Museum of South Dakota. The trip did not disappoint. This place is so cool. They have different stations set up for auto body, water science, post office, grocery stores and so many more. It is a great tactile environment for little ones.

Henry had a blast and we even took uncle Jay along for the ride. It's so great to watch Henry, daddy, and uncle Jay. I still can't decide who had more fun:)! Sara and I decided about 1/2 way through that sitting in the open eating area having juice and tea was more our speed, so we let the boys finish up the tour solo.

Here is Henry fixing the car in the auto body shop. He was in heaven. The boys pumping the air pump so it would shoot a ball up the tube. Because the area had so much water, each kid got a plastic apron to wear.

I don't know why I laugh every time I see this picture, but there is a nursing mama pig in the background with piglets velcro'd to her. Henry was bound and determined to get each one and bring it to the corner.

He's got the skills

2011-02-16T08:56:00.002-06:00

Oh my Henry boy! His new found love is play doh. He talks about it, dreams about it, and overall is obsessed with it. We play play doh morning, noon, and night when we are not outside enjoying the tropical temperatures! Henry received some play doh tools from grandma Kim and papa Jeff for Valentine's Day, so he's been rolling, cutting, and making spaghetti to his delight. Everything goes well for about the first 20 minutes, then my little man gets this michevious look on his face and says, "Can I eat it?" all the while sticking his tongue out to lick it. I repeat no about 7 bazillion times. Then I hear, "You like play doh mama?" I say yes Henry but not enough to eat it. Then about 10 minutes later we have to wrap it up because he has play doh on his tongue. Boys, right?

Here is a rare picture of Henry and mama. Work is definitely taking a toll on my beauty..hahaha...stress is not good for the eyes and body:) But Henry looks adorable, as usual! Tongue out, play doh engaged!

Cutting away at his play doh pieces....he has some awesome fine motor skills:)

My epiphany

2011-02-08T21:37:00.002-06:00

So I don't know if anyone actually reads my little ol' blog, but I'm having a moment that I feel I should share. Even if it's for Henry's eyes years down the road when he is struggling to be a parent himself. OK...scary thought...anywho....

I fell in love with my son today. Yes, I have always loved Henry to pieces since the day I found out I was carrying his sweet little self in my tummy, but I mean I looked in his eyes, smelled his skin, and felt his touch in a completely different way today. Henry is MINE! He will learn about life, sharing, loving, and giving from Matt and I and the people and experiences we expose him to. Henry teaches me everyday to slow down and just cup life between my hands and love it, smell it, truely feel the happiness he does.

No one really tells you how hard being a parent is. Especially with your first. No one talks about those moments when you feel you are on the verge of insanity and all you can do is throw up your hands and walk about. The scary moments where you second guess your decision to bring another life into the world.

Henry makes these moments OK for me. He challenges me, pushes me, but in the end loves me. He makes me stop and take a breath realizing that this to shall pass and a new and fun moment is on it way. Can't you hear it, mom? I seriously cherish every single moment I have with him. Watching him as he sticks his tongue while wrestling the last stray fruit snack out of the pack. Or, seeing the joy in his eyes when he realizes that his daddy is home! HIS DADDY IS HOME!

So I thought I needed to share this moment with the rest of my blogger friends that all of the scary moments we share in silence are OK because those moments pale into comparison to the amazing life our children will lead because we care enough to be scared push through it and come out stronger on the other end!

Le Artist Henry

2011-02-06T16:02:00.002-06:00

SOOO...since this winter has been filled with snow and freezing temperatures, I had to find some new activites for Henry to do. With the educational eye to the sky, I ventured out with my bestie Amber a few weekends back to load up on educational stuff for Henry. We found finger paints and paper and play doh. Henry is in LOVE with is play doh. I also bought this pack of farm animals for a $1. He puts the animals on the 'grass' and we make 'fences' for them and 'hay'. He even created some master pieces on canvases with his finger paints.

My little man has been acting so great lately! He's polite and loves all people and has been so good! It's weird..like maybe he's gonna strike at any moment with those demons eyes he had in December. I just keep enjoying it while it lasts, as I've learned this is just a phase and shall pass:)!

Daddy, Henry, and papa Schulte enjoying some play doh time....note Ken's face, seriously, how adorable is that:) Henry painting his master pieces! I am such a proud mama..he did so good:)

Tongue out helps with the finishing touches!

Dads

2011-01-25T15:24:00.003-06:00

Dads are amazing creatures, aren't they? From little boys, through the awkward adolsecent years until they reach adulthood, I have sort of written men off as immature and selfish! BUT then they become dad's and all of those traits take on a whole new meaning, especially when you have a little boy yourself.

Matt has many habits that drive me crazy...too many in fact to name here:)! However, the relationship he has with Henry makes everyone of those nuances bareable. As Henry grows into three and begins to be a little boy not a baby anymore, he is infatuated with his dad. Everything his dad does from tools to four wheelers, Henry wants to do and have too!

The best parts of Matt are in the special moments no one knows about that we all share with Henry. One of those special times is when Matt lets Henry watch snowmobile movies while he cuts his nails. My ruff and tuff daddy cuts nails! And he does such a good job... Like father, like son...I see in both of their eyes, the love they share for the two stroke or four stroke, you pick your poison, machine!

Matt doesn't take the best pictures, I'm not gonna lie about that one. This was their attempt at, "say cheese!"

Oh my boys, big ears and all:)!

Stuff

2011-01-15T20:28:00.002-06:00

So Henry received quit the Christmas load this year. I have rearranged our basement to accomodate his collection. You will notice the big barn, train table, and tool bench behind Henry. He keeps very entertained these days moving his animals from one location to another via his new tractor and wagon (not pictured)! He builds all sorts of handy items with his foam wood pieces and additional power tools he received as well.

Here is Henry manuvering his trucks through his train set.
Here is an aerial view of Henry's day!

Our friend Brian was down today, he is also Henry's godfather. Brian helped Henry and dad set up his whole Thomas the Train set. It's actually pretty awesome!

Here are Henry and Brian contently discussing their plan of attack for putting together the monsterously large train set.

OK so to my real point in posting tonight. I have recently started my new job as Director for Henry's daycare and preschool center. For the first time in a very long time, I feel as if I am serving a greater purpose while being there. It's as if my higher power pointed me in the right direction and gave me a huge shove, like, "let's go Jessica, this is exactly where you need to be!" And it is!

I feel that I am finally being able to put all of the skills I have learned in my past careers to the test. This is a facility run by individuals who truely care about kids! For that matter care about anything more than themselves. I know that I come from a generation of people who are certainly very self centered and self focused, and being at the Center, has slapped me in the face and woken me up from my drunken self focused life.

My life feels complete! I don't have that empty yearning in my soul that I once filled with "things" All sorts of things, mainly things for my son recently, but I feel that part of me is complete now. I know my purpose, and I understand there are more important things that a matching wardrobe for Henry or the latest greatest toy.

I want to teach Henry that giving is more fulfilling then receiving. I want him to understand how fortunate he is in life, and work to help those not as fortunate. Being with my son has taken on a whole new meaning and purpose as well. Spending time with him and not worrying so much about a clean house, teaching him things, and listening to him and watching him are what matter.

So thank you to my cousin Lindsey who told me to get involved if I felt I was missing something. I had no idea what journey it would take me on, but I am certainly enjoying the ride!

Think I've figured it out...

2011-01-08T21:58:00.002-06:00

OK, so I must admit that I have been struggling since about the beginning of December with my Henry boy. It started out being what I thought was him getting sick. He was sort of whiny and throwing and hitting ALOT. This used to indicate he was getting sick, and once he actually got sick things would return to normal. WELL, much to my dismay things did NOT return to normal and in fact started getting WORSE!

It escalated through the holidays with increased hitting and throwing temper tantrums. It was so bad that on Christmas Day he actually hauled off and fist punched me in the face because we had to go take a nap. I couldn't believe that Henry could possibly be so naughty and what was causing him to continue to be so naughty. Frankly, it's embarrassing when nothing you try works on your naughty kid and people are staring at you.

So fastfoward to this week. Henry was going to stay over at papa and grandma Schulte's house. Everything was hunky dory until about 6 o'clock when Henry proceeded to squirt half a tube of Desitin on grandma's carpet and then started to get disciplined by 3 people at the same time. It once again escalated to him throwing a toy at papa's new TV and hitting mom and grandma. Needless to say, Henry did not stay over night and went home with me where it took an hour to get him to bed.

On Friday, a light went off for me. I decided to try some de-escalating techniques with him, and so far they have worked. He still is having tantrums, but they are NOTHING like they have been. As long as I don't escalate, he doesn't. We use big words and calm voices and repeat in ours heads, "pretend to be calm, act calm, and you too shall be calm!" I feel as if I can enjoy my baby again. We laugh together, run around together again, and I can hold him and soak up his smells and appreciate him again. Pray for us!!!

OK seriously, never in my life did I ever think the calm little bundle of joy below could turn into a crazy 2 1/2 year old wild hooligan:) LOOK at that FACE!!! OK maybe there is a little mischeif written across those eyes...

Happy 2011

2011-01-07T13:39:00.003-06:00

We rang in the New Year with the Schwartz Family in Iowa this year. The evening itself was pretty uneventful for the adults as we all where in bed way before midnight. It sounds like, however, the evening was slightly different for my teenage brother! Imagine that:)!!!

Henry got to see his great grandparents as well when they opened gifts with us on Saturday. Henry was spoiled again, as usual and received several awesome new books and tractors and a huge barn!

Grandpa and Grandma helping Henry with his new tractor and wagon!

It sounds like Henry just woke up from nappy, so I don't have long, but we are currently dealing with a very difficult 2 1/2 year old strong willed boy to say the least. He was going to stay with papa and grandma Schulte last night, but after several spankings and fits, mama had to bring him home with her. We are really at a loss as to what to do. It just seems despite our best efforts, the little turkey won't stop hitting or throwing to get attention when throwing a tantrum. He is definitely NOT the sweet well tempered content baby we started out with.

Christmas 2010...a litte late

2011-01-02T21:15:00.003-06:00

So I understand that it's 2011 already, and I am JUST now posting Christmas 2010 pictures, but hey, give me a break. I have survived 4 christmas AND starting a new job in the last week give or take! Henry scored the mother load this year with gifts and time with ALL of his family! I say it time and time again, but this little boy is surrounded by more love than any other little one I know:)

We spent Christmas Eve with the immediate Schulte clan and Christmas Day with my family. Amongst his many gifts Henry scored tools, a guitar, train set, and farm set to name only a few.

I LOVE Henry's little tongue. It's always out when he's concentrating or having a lot of fun... I see where he gets the 'tongue' thing!

Henry was speechless when he saw that santa bought him tools:)!!

Henry chowing down with Uncle Nick..

And of course, one can always use a good shave before dinner!

I have yet to post pictures of our Christmas in Iowa over the weekend! Henry got to see more great grandparents and his other favorite puppy Harry the wonder hound!

Cookie Taster

2010-12-20T21:50:00.002-06:00

So, I would like someone to remind me that I am a mother to a very tempermental child who does not appreciate being told no and given rules and boundaries. It's like I am an abused wife that keeps going back for more expecting different results. OK that might be a little extreme, but in my defense, Henry has developed an affliction for hitting his mama.

Over the weekend, I got the wild hair that Henry and I should go to Grandma's and make cookies for christmas. I'm all about starting traditions with my son that involve food and family. What's more to love than that combination. I apparantly forgot that I had given birth to godzilla child, and from the time we arrived to the time we left, Henry was in rare bear-like form. It's really the whining and hitting that get me. Seriously, kid, your mother is NOT a punching bag!

I did manage to capture a few sweet moments Henry had with his grandma. He LOVES this woman to pieces!

Note: After Henry put the dough in the pan, he ate the entire section of dough, raw! Gross, I know. He's OK and hasn't suffered any lasting damage...Oh wait, maybe that's why the godzilla, helicopter arms, whining brat still inherits my sweet little boys body.

Snow Video

2010-12-19T20:19:00.002-06:00

The boys had an absolute blast outside today pushing snow around and riding on the snowmobile.

I don't know if life gets any more blissful than this. It has truely been a wonderful holiday season. Time with my mom and family and the boys at home doing what boys do best! I love it, and I love my boys.

Snow Fun

2010-12-19T16:48:00.003-06:00

So it's cold, dark, dreary and your toddler has cabin fever. Mind you it's only December with the LONG winter months ahead. What do you do? Well, if you are a Schulte, you make your own fun! Henry and daddy can find fun in any weather especially winter, daddy's favorite time of year. Today they cleared snow, played with Lucy, ATE some snow, and now are off on a snowmobile ride. I think daddy has found his new best friend!

Should the look on Henry's face scare me? I feel it foreshadows many lonely winter days ahead when my boys are off together out in the winter wilderness.

Family

2010-12-15T16:52:00.002-06:00

So I don't think one can really understand the importance of family until you yourself have a child. Family has certainly taken on a whole new meaning for me since my little man came into this world. Before, you sort of look at your parents, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, as people who will always be there and sometimes can be giant pains in the butts. Let's face it, that's reality, am I right?

Once I became a mom, I finally got it. It's sort of like the little lightbulb in my head clicked on and I understood that family there is to help teach values, morals, and bring up your child, look after them, and love them as much as you yourself do. Because I love my son so much, I truely value my family for who they are and what they have to offer my Henry. I can overlook the quirks and irritating nuances more easily as I understand how much they love my boy.

So happy holidays to my wonderful, amazing, and crazy Schulte Family!!! Life is truely a blessing with each of you in our lives. My Henry wouldn't be the amazing, wonderful child he is without all of you!!!

Viva La Mexico...

2010-12-14T19:11:00.002-06:00

Last week, I got to experience a little piece of paradise in the middle of Winter. My family set off to celebrate my grandparents 50th Wedding Annivesary. It was truely a once in a lifetime experience. To get to spend that kind of quality time with my family whom I see on holidays and the occasional weekend visit was so special. I feel very blessed today as I reflect on my time with them.

This is the view every night beautiful sunset and pirate ship cruise boats..humm..interesting. All the girls with grandma and grandpa...how special?

My mom and I with the beautiful Mexican sunset...Thanks mom, I had a truely wonderful time with you!

My cousin Lindsey and I. Our time together was short, but it was really fun!

A day with my boy...

2010-11-30T20:25:00.003-06:00

So this is my last week home before I take my big vacation to Mexico! We leave Saturday morning, and on Sunday night, I was already feeling like a bad parent. I started to tell myself that I was crazy for thinking that I could leave Henry for a week. A WEEK with daddy in charge. Oh boy, what kind of craziness with decend upon my clean little house while I am away? What will Henry go out into the world dressed like? Daddy has a strange habit of matching jammie tops with jeans. Don't ask! How will Henry survive without his mama? What if he gets sick, and I'm not there? Will he think I have abandoned him and write me off as dead?

Ok and people wonder why people are on mass amounts of anti-depressants. I am depressing myself just thinking about all the what ifs. But I made a promise to myself then and there that I would stop all the what ifing and just enjoy this week! That is precisely what Henry and I did today.

First it was getting out our nativity scene and playing with the Baby Jesus and his mama, daddy, and three wise man. We talked about how the wiseman brought gifts for the baby, and Henry kept bringing me each wiseman saying, "Here mama, here is a present for you!" *tear*
When that was over, Henry found daddy's cordless power tool. Then it was on....It works best when you stick your tongue out when you work the drill. Henry learned it from his daddy.

After fixing the dump truck, we decided that Lightening McQueen needed a tune up...

After everything was fixed, tuned up, and generally checked over, we took the cars out for a spin..

I even believe that my hubby was slightly impressed when I brought out coloring pages for Henry that I discovered online. We colored Mickey Mouse, Thomas the Train, and Pooh for free!!!!

I love spending this kind of time with Henry. Seeing his face light up when I start zooming a car around or offering to "go to walmart" or pizza planet with him. For such a short time in his little life, I'm going to be funny, smart, exciting, and generally his whole world, and I'm going to take full advantage of this time with my baby bubba....

A hunting we will go...

2010-11-27T10:18:00.003-06:00

My brother and dad came to visit us after Thanksgiving this year to see Henry and of course hunt with Matt. This morning was a flurry of activity was the boys readied themselves for another exciting Matt Schulte Tour Guide adventure!

I didn't get any Thanksgiving Days pictures as I suck! But these are equally as sweet..I am dealing with a very tempermental boy as he's been spoiled all week by friends and family..so I gotta jet...enjoy!!!

Christmas what??

2010-11-24T13:29:00.001-06:00

Over the weekend, my well intentioned mother-in-law thought it would be a good idea to take Henry to the Festival of Trees in Sioux Falls. I agreed thinking at least it's indoors and not watching Cars, Shrek, or Toy Story for the millionth time. We thought Henry would love the trees with their shiny lights and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus. Boy where we wrong...the only thing on Henry's agenda were the free balloons and running around like a wild holigan!!!! He could have cared less about the tree lights and Santa. There was a guy playing songs on his guitar and tons of other crazy toddlers running around so that's what we did at the Festival of Trees, stand with the other mothers and watch our children go crazy. Henry did manage to take a 3 hour nap afterwards though!

All things boy

2010-11-21T21:59:00.003-06:00

Henry got to feed the baby cows tonight over at Daddy's feedlot in Iowa. He also got to ride in the tractor and lift hay bales with the payloader. Could life get any better? Oh wait, yes it could, to top off the evening, Henry got chicken nuggies and got to watch Cars on the way home.

yard work

2010-11-08T22:05:00.003-06:00

Sunday saw the Schulte's outside accomplishing some much needed yard work. The lawn got mowed which means the leaves got bagged. All I had to do was rack the leaves that had collected in the corners of the backyard and under the trailers along the south side of the house.

I like to refer to the south side of our house as the ghetto. Since this is where Matt seems to collect trailers, pieces of boards, patio blocks, an aluminum beer keg, and other misceallenous crap. He told me that this was even beginning to both HIM...that's right folks, Matt actually thought an area of his own was cluttered...write it on your calendars!

Henry was a little helper boy assisting mom in poop cleanup and helped us throw boards into the trailer to be taken to the dump. He then found one of daddy's little drills and proceeded to "drill" holes in the boards and "fix" daddy's tires on the trailer. He is a boy through and through.

Owning your own home is a lot of work! But when it is done, it can be very rewarding. I think our house looks great!!!! Now we just need to weed the yard, empty the cutters, and blah blah blah...in reality, it's never done:) right?

On some additional notes, Henry is officially sleeping in his big boy bed. We still have his crib to take down, but mama has decided that Henry is very capable and will continue to sleep in his bed. He loves his Toy Story sheets and pillow and sleeps surrounded by llama llama, pooh bear, woody, a teddy bear, and rex, the dinosaur.

Henry is also using the potty consistently. We have a period of time everyday that is potty time and working up to longer intervals. He does well about going on the potty and really enjoys wearing big boy underwear. He will even occasional tell us that he has to go! We are taking it slow and letting him lead, but I think he's doing fabulously!!!!

Lastly, we bought a new vehicle!!!!! Finally, mama has enough room for her boys, dogs, and junk. Last week, Matt and I bought a 2007 Saturn Outlook. It's similiar to the GMA Acadia and Chevy Traverse. It is all wheel drive and gets great gas mileage, plus it's got an amazing third rown seat. We are very happy with it so far!!!

That's all for now!!! I was trying to get Henry to lay in the leaves but he was more facinated with playing with them....

5 years ago today...

2010-11-05T09:01:00.002-05:00

I married the man who has helped make all my dreams come true. We have laughed together, fought with each other, raised two dogs together, and gave birth to our son together. Not that everday is roses and ice cream, but there is no one else I could even imagine going through this crazy thing called life with. Matt keeps me grounded when I start to fly off the handle, and I realize how much he needs and appreciates my love and support. He is so attentive and loving to his son, and I can't wait to see Henry learn all of the cool things that daddy does. So to you my dearest friend and love, Happy Anniversary!!!! Let's hope the next 5 years settle down a little bit...hahaha...

P.S. I just need to comment that I hate how skinny the girl in this picture is...then I realized it was me. Now it's 5 years and one kid later...hahaha...

Happy Halloween

2010-11-02T08:23:00.003-05:00

Halloween this year was certainly different than last year. Henry was much more aware of what is involved in the whole process. And thankfully, he was very cooperative with the 'costume wearing' situation. My Henry bubba was Spot the Dalmation! He loves his puppies Bails and Luc, so what better way to spend an evening with your best pals then as one of them. Speaking of pals, Henry got to see his buddies Bumble Bee and Fairy Princess aka Philip and Kate!

It's not often I actually post pictures of myself on my blog, so here is one of me and my fav puppy dog!

What does a puppy say, "ruff, ruff"

If you notice in his hand, he is carrying a car! He is taking me to Pizza Planet aka Henry playset!

A little funny for your day...

2010-10-29T12:04:00.000-05:00

So I don't have any pictures, but I will have lots from Halloween after the weeekend. I do, however, have a funny for you today. Matt woke up to get in the shower this morning and came out of the bedroom to find the lights in Henry's blaring away. He expected to find a toddler destroying his room but instead he found little Henry Marvin sound asleep on his pull out couch curled up with his blankie and pillow sound asleep!!!! I LOVE IT:)! At least he's staying in his room and being quiet about it. It's stories like these that make me enjoy being a mom so much...

Round two...

2010-10-26T20:58:00.002-05:00

What started in August as another right of passage for my sweet boy, turned into a 3 week nightmare for Matt and I. We thought that since Henry was two we should try the big boy bed. Since his crib converted into a kind of half toddler bed, we gave it a whirl. For the first week, we could hardly get him to stay in bed. It was so bad at one point we were locking the door on him. How horrible did I feel just admitting that right now?!

After three exhausting weeks, we gave in and put the tired bubba back into his safety net, his beloved crib. For two months, we were home free 12 hour nights and 2 to 2 1/2 hour naps during the day. Then one fateful evening while Matt was out of town, I heard the door slam downstairs, my baby bubba had managed to climb OUT of his crib. He was so proud of himself! He beamed at me, "Mama I sleep with you, K?"

So we are entering round two of the big boy bed saga. With a totally new bed in hand and Toy Story sheets surrounded by every known stuffed animal on the blanket, we will venture forward into the world of the unknown. Pray for us first timers!!!
Henry getting ready for nappy, covering his Curious George with his blankie!

Henry LOVES big boy bed and his Toy Story sheets!!!

Seriously, could he look any more grown up on this picture???!!! *tear*

Cheryl and Bill

2010-10-20T21:20:00.004-05:00

Since beginning my tenure as receptionist, I have come to know an amazing medical staff. This office is filled with extra ordinary individuals. One such lady is one of the nurses, Cheryl. Her and her significant other, Bill, are two exceedingly loving individuals. They are so good with each other and both so nice to my son, who had to tag along for our photo session. I hope you enjoy your sneek peek Cheryl. I had such a nice time with you guys this evening!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-18T21:04:00.002-05:00

This weekend Henry and I made the trek to Iowa by ourselves for the first time to visit grandma Kim, papa Jeff, and uncle Nick. In typical teenage fashion, Nick was either sleeping, taking his PSAT's or gaming it up with his friends, so the rest of us ventured to the local pumpkin patch to see what we could see. We saw big tractors, pumpkins, roosters, and a kitty cat! The weather was perfect and so was my little man! Papa, I want this pumpkin and this one and this one...

Henry feeding the rooster and chicken corn with Papa Jeff

Henry LOVES pumpkins!

My little man standing a big 3 ft!!!!!

Wittmuss Family...Take TWO...

2010-10-14T20:54:00.004-05:00

OK so I could seriously post pictures all night from our session this evening with the Wittmuss family. The photos turned out that well. I will only post a few for mom this evening. I think they turned out fabulously and really captured this families fun loving nature. I L.O.V.E these two kids. Ella is about the most well behaved fun loving girl I have ever come across and little Theo is a twin in personality to my Henry. Sarah is sort of a kindred spirit as we are more alike then she probably realizes. So to you Wittmuss family, enjoy!!!!

There are more to come, mom. I'm going to have a burn a disk for this one!

Ode to 50 years

2010-10-12T13:19:00.002-05:00

What do you say to two of the most influencial people in your life when you are asked to take their 50th wedding anniversary pictures. You say YES, of course!

How do you describe how important they are to you....hopefully through my lens....

My grandma and grandpa George are two of the most amazing indivduals anyone will ever meet. Their kindness and generosity as been felt by people all over the globe. I am so fortunate to have had these two there while I was growing up to guide me and offer me shelter at times when I most needed family in my life. They have raised 4 daughters together and are still married! Yes, folks that in and of itself is a major feet. I look to their wisdom and guidance as I raise my own son. So to you grandma and grandpa, I love you more than words can express. I owe so much of who I am to your strength and love! Thank you, thank you for loving me unconditionally and Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cousins...

2010-10-05T13:06:00.003-05:00

Henry got to spend some incredible time with his cousins this weekend. I wish these guys lived closer because Henry just adores both his cousins Gage and Gavin to pieces. It was funny to watch because Henry would follow Gage around and Gavin would follow Henry around! Too precious...Well my little man is up so I'll just share pictures with you for now:)

Gage and Henry buddies forever!

The boys!

Gavers!

He's gonna get those big boys!

Forts

2010-09-30T20:11:00.002-05:00

Fond memories from my childhood include fort making with my cousin Lindsey. To be young and have this whole magical kingdom at your finger tips was so incredible. We would line our grandparents three season porch with blankets and chairs and chase each other around and pretend we were queens awaiting our princes rescue. Tonight daddy helped us create a magical kingdom of our own. Only this magical kingdom had a repair shop stocked with tools to repair cars. Very practical. Very fun when you're two!

This weekend Matt and I are taking some much needed time away from Henry to focus on each other and our marriage. It's amazing how the chaos of life can keep couples apart. Henry will get the chance to make more memories with his grandma Linda and papa! Henry and I will be visiting my family in Madison before Matt and I take off for our own little get away. I can't wait for Henry to grow up with cousins of his own to share in all the special memories I have with mine!!! Daddy getting down to business...

Henry exploring his own magical kingdom!

Daddy showing Henry how to get in and out...

Daddy time

2010-09-29T13:22:00.003-05:00

Yes, this will be another Spirit Mound post, but once can't hardly stay away from a place with interesting buggies, mud puddles, and streams of water for the puppies to jump into. Last night we had the pleasure of having daddy with us, so we got to bring BOTH puppies. Bails and Luc had a blast. Henry had an even better time bossing them around and jumping in some pretty fun looking mud puddles of his own. Come mama, we go on an adventure!

Luc the dock jumping dog!

I thought this shot was cool of the flower and grass. Much of the grass out there has been under water so it's all matted down and weird looking.

My attempt at artistry. I couldn't ever get a good shot of Henry playing in the weeds because my camera kept wanting to focus in on the weeds and not him, so this was the best I could do:)

Brian, Teresa, and the big truck...

2010-09-28T20:59:00.003-05:00

Henry had a once in a life time experience over the weekend. He got to ride in a big truck with his uncle Brian and aunt Teresa! Brian was part of a parade to raise money for Special Olympics and asked Henry to ride along during the parade which involved over 66 big trucks and other assorted police escorts and firefighting brigades. My little man who is already obsessed with big trucks, playing with them, talking about them, stoping whatever he is doing to watch them go by, cannot talking about his special day! Henry after the parade checking out the fire truck...and papa keeping an ever watchful eye on his boy!

Henry and his papa checking out the big trucks after the parade...two peas in a pod...

Henry waving to us during the parade. I think a small part of him kinda thought the parade was for him because people kept waving at him! He has the cutest wave cupped hand and all! It sounds like he was overall a good boy during the drive. Teresa did say that there were a few times the noise got to him and he would say No Brian when he honked the horn!

shopping cart

2010-09-23T21:16:00.003-05:00

So I was having this conversation at work the other day about filling up my online shopping cart on numerous online clothing stores but not actually buying anything. It's sort of a dark secret I harbor carrying it around with me like an ugly hunchback thing...er..something. So I have decided to come clean...right.here.on.my.blog.

My name is Jessica, and I secretly shop online without actually buying anything....

There I said it...
pheww...do I feel better...

I hope I can help other mothers out there who desparately want to dress their children up like little dolls but don't have the money and would feel too guilty spending it on expensive clothes even for their adorable children...I know you are out there, and I'm here to say, it's OK!

But seriously, when your kid is as damn cute as mine all dressed up....how can one resist????

I am slowly weeding out Matt and I's closet in order to assess our "needs" for our annual Schulte ladies shopping trip in October. I put "needs" in quotes because seriously, we don't NEED anything. I have hauled about 3 loads to the consignment shop though to help out those that probably actually do NEED clothes.

However, I probably do NEED professional help...Can I put that in an online shopping cart and buy it???

Memories...

2010-09-22T20:39:00.002-05:00

Memories of our childhood shape who we become. I think that is part of the reason raising a child seems like such a daunting task. No parent is perfect, and I am not certainly the first one that's going to try, but I am very aware of the importance of memories and what they can do to transform an innocent child into a productive or disfunctional adult. I think Henry's going to have some amazing memories...just.like.his.daddy!!!!

On another note, I think it's also important for new families with small children to identify who they are as a family. Since having Henry, I have received countless pieces of advice from well meaning individuals on how to raise my son. Being a first born myself, we inherently strive to please those people around us and rely on their validation to gauge how we are doing. Yes, this probably sounds like a bunch of pyschological mumbo jumbo, but I strongly believe in the value of the core family unit. I have studied it signficantly in my day, and look to apply some of those techniques to my own life.

So to all those well wishers, thanks for the advice, truely, but when I need it, I'll ask:)!

Adventurer....

2010-09-21T21:40:00.003-05:00

So I've slowly started to piece together Henry's cues and reactions to the pull of the tides and the stages of the moon. I know once he starts throwing things including toys, books, and hitting mom that in order to redirect that behavior it's best we get away from the house. Once I said we are going on an adventure, Henry suddenly turned into model toddler. Imagine that, huh? So off we went with no real plan in mind but to engage my little man in some exploratory play. We mosied on down to Cotton Park and ventured over the bridge and into the jungle via the watery swamp where all sorts of creatures lured waiting to jump out and request a duel with Henry the farmer, pirate, truck driver!!!! But first a little swing, k ma?

He ran, jumped, and hopped over this bridge about ten times...

My big little man...

Perfect

2010-09-19T21:18:00.002-05:00

When I was deciding what to name this post, I had a few options...but perfect is exactly what this is. A boy and his daddy hunting with their puppies. No Henry and dad weren't actually hunting, but Henry did get to see where daddy takes the puppies during pheasant season. Henry was pretty timid of the all grass and brush at first, but it didn't take long before he was trampsing through alongside his daddy calling to bals and luc to come and find their birds. Henry was having so much fun he actually sat in a bunch of sand burns, so we promptly stripped him down and dad picked them off with a pliers. Had anyone driven by they would have been very confused by the scene! Note: This picture was actually taken with Matt's point and shoot Canon, thanks dad!

Spirit Mound

2010-09-14T20:31:00.003-05:00

Sooo...what to do with a moody toddler with no daddy around who has already played in his sandbox, went to story time, watched Toy Story, got to swing on the swing, and pick up poop...hummm??? Run around outside with his puppy pretending he is a super adventurer stick-carrying farmer...duh!!!:) Spirit Mound did just the trick and served two purposed including getting our crazy Lucy out for some much needed adventure time of her own. Really, does being a mom get any better than seeing this look on your child's face?

Super hero!!!!!

OK so this I thought was a really cute picture until I realized they were looking at another dogs poop...not so cute...

He ran and ran and ran...perfect for wearing out one cranky toddler...

Love you too bubba!!!

On another less sappy love my bubba sort of note. We tried out story time again this year. Last year we only made it two times before I decided the intense sweating and panting on my part chasing Henry around wasn't worth it anymore. It was slightly better this time although I think the story time lady was starting to loose her patience. I just can't get over how much energy this kid has and how horribly he listens especially to me. He goes to school and I believe listens there...I hope with time he gets the hint and we'll continue to "practice" story time at home as well. Some much to learn in such a short time my little man...

Busy tractors, busy days!

2010-09-07T19:55:00.006-05:00

For those of you that know Mr Henry, my title phrase will come as no surprise to you. It's the title of Henry's FAV book. This weekend, my baby bubba got to live out his fantasy which includes anything chocolate, tractors, and big cows!!! MOOOO....

We had a fabulous and busy weekend throwing up, pooping, traveling to Iowa, and seeing big cows all in 72 hours! If it sounds like fun, just have a two year old, life is never boring.

Matt and I did join the entrourage of parents that have given in to the whining and crying on long trips and purchased a portable DVD player for our travels over the weekend. While it did help, it definitely did not solve the severe boredom at the end of the trip!

Henry did GREAT overall and even got to sleep with mom and dad at the night time and took a 3 hour nap on Uncle Nick's bed all by himself.

We have been meaning to take Henry over to Matt's feedlot, and this was the perfect opportunity to break up the ride back. Henry thoroughly enjoyed his time with the baby cows and mama cows as he called them. He strutted around the a peacock big feathers and all!!!! Life is like a bar of chocolate, it doesn't get any better than that!!!

Grandma Kim passing on the tradition of cookie baking to her grandson! Lord knows Henry's own mom isn't real great..hahaha...

Henry got his first ride in a big tractor!!!!

Henry was not even afraid of the cows and had a great time with his dada.

COWS!!!!

Butterfly House

2010-08-29T21:06:00.002-05:00

Another item on my bucket list of things to do with Henry before summer is over was the Butterfly House. It did not disappoint! Henry was in small insect heaven. They even had this exhibit of strange animals like a tarancula called a bird eater something or another. Yeah, no joke! Henry was a model toddler running and playing and screeching with delight when the butterflies flew by him. It is so much fun to see the world through his eyes. I had a smile plastered on my face the whole time. Henry pondering the world of insects.

Have I mentioned lately I LOVE my new camera!!!

I couldn't get a decent shot of Henry all day. Here he is with Grandma Linda too engulfed in watching the flying butterflies to care that his mother is trying to take his photograph.

"Let's go this way, no this way!"

I love his little hands on his shoes. There is even a buttefly flying by my camera lens.

Helper Boy

2010-08-26T21:05:00.002-05:00

When you are two, you become a very big helper! You believe will all your heart that you can leap from tall buildings in a single bound and even carry heavy water jugs without giving yourself a hernia! You thoroughly enjoy picking up all your trucks, shoving them on a shelf then insisting mom leave it alone because you picked up all by yourself. Oh the joys of two!!!!

Funny things Henry said today:

Mom: Henry did you poop or was it toots?
Henry: Mom it was just toots, OK mom just toots!!!

I was throwing the frisbee for Lucy and everytime I would hit the tree in the backyard, Henry would come up behind me and spank my bottom and say no mama no hit tree. Then I would ask him why are you spankin' me, and he would look up and say, "Mama your butt is right here" He must have thought I asked him where my butt was....

Henry says, "Mom I do it!"

Henry is such a big helper watering mama's flowers.

Big trucks and snacks

2010-08-23T21:00:00.003-05:00

Henry LOVES ice cream or i cream as he calls it. And what better way to consume i cream them to smear it all over yourself and the chair you are occupying!!

Henry loves to mimic all the little things Matt and I do including reading big truck magazines. Daddy likes to read them when he goes potty..hehehe...Henry likes to read them because daddy does!

Did you know?

2010-08-18T21:20:00.002-05:00

Did you know that Henry does not usually sleep through the night and enjoys getting up at 5:30 am or 1:30am and sleeping with daddy, did you also know that daddy secretly likes this time with his boy when he curls up next to his daddy and falls asleep?

Did you know that Henry is NOT potty trained yet? Yes, you can gasp that even at 2 years old, he still does not hold his potty through the night and is not yet capable of telling us every time he has to go the bathroom.

And yes, did you know that Henry has a stye in his eye?! Yes, we have been to the doctor for it and even the opthamologist, and we are currently treating it with a cream we put on twice a day for a whole month.

But despite this horrible lapse in parental judgement, we have an amazing two year old boy who:

knows his name
can sing the entire alphabet
is not afraid of strangers
eats all of his veggies
does not drink juice
adapts to any and all new situations with ease
gives hugs, kisses, and I love you's with such gusto, it makes my heart melt

I know it's amazing that children manage to grow up even in dire situations like Henry's!

Vroom vroom daddy! Henry is in love with his daddy's 4 wheeler!

Mama I can make a road! Henry's other favorite pastime...

Vroom...

2010-08-16T21:20:00.002-05:00

Tonight found my boy and I outside enjoying the beautiful weather we are FINALLY having. We took the dogs for a walk and enjoyed a little drive around the drive way! If there is anything my Henry boy loves, it's being outside doing anything with his puppies, family, or playing on his swingset and in the sandbox! Wanna a ride mama?

I figured that I took a few pics of Lucy yesterday that it was Bailey's time tonight. I think this one turned out nice. H doesn't have the usual stoned look on his face!

Introducing...

2010-08-15T21:51:00.003-05:00

The newest member of the Schulte Family......My Nikon D5000 camera. and her sisters the Nikon 55-200 and Tamron 18-270. Yes folks, I have entered more seriously into the world of photography. It is truely a dream and something I never thought would actually happen!!! Here are a few of the novice shots I took today while trying out my new baby.

I couldn't leave out my Henry boy riding on his papa's 4wheeler!

Henry boy turning 2...

2010-08-04T20:13:00.003-05:00

Yes, I understand that it's August, and Henry officially turned two June 16th. It's safe to say, we've been a little busy this summer! I'm not sure what sparked my desire to take Henry's 2 year pictures today other than I am deliriously tired and completely drained of all conscious understanding of what is going on around me or that I realized it's been almost two months since my angel turned 2.

I throw the term angel around loosely these days. It's amazing how perceptive toddlers are to your moods especially when your mood equals godzila monster craziness. It's at these moments, Henry is at his peak. He loves to hit and throw things at me during these times, and after two years of sleeping through the night, decides NOW is the perfect time to throw mom and dad for a loop.

Needless to say, what started out as great beginning to sleeping in his big boy bed has turned into a war of wills. And man is Henry stubborn, I have no clue where he gets that from...hehehe...

But on a lighter, happier note, my little boy is blossoming into quit the amazing toddler. He is so smart and articulate polite to those around him and considerate, most of the time, to his mother. Case in point, this evening, after being smacked in the face while carrying him to change his poopy diaper for the umteenth time, I put Henry down and walked away. He came up to me put my head in his little hands and said mommy don't cry, I give you a hug. Just like that will solve everything and it's OK.

Anyway, here is Mr Henry Marvin Schulte in all of his two year old glory!

My boys

2010-08-04T13:25:00.003-05:00

When I dreamed of having a family, these are the kind of moments I hoped to have! Lazy Saturday afternoons spent at the lake swimming with my family, making sand castles, and laughing together. Unfortunately, as life would have it, these moments are few and far between, but we did manage to capture a few this past weekend. Henry was doing this rolloing in the water move...

Henry and daddy splashing in the deep end with the big kids!

Bye mama, we are going to go and be big kids now...

Siblings

2010-08-03T21:17:00.002-05:00

So when I was growing up, I always wanted a little brother or sister to take care of and let's face it, boss around! This evening, I had the fortunate opportunity to met a big sister, Ella, and her sweet brother, Theo. Ella was such a great big sister, Theo, you are very lucky, my man! P.S. little Theo also reminded me of my Henry boy...Theo's love for diggers and motorcycles are identical to Henry's love for the same motorized boy toys! Man do I LOVE boys!!!

Happy 30th Birthday Matt

2010-08-01T21:39:00.003-05:00

So my husband turned 30 last weekend! I would have posted pictures sooner but my hard drive decided to crash on me last week, and we finally have it up and running again.

We had such a fabulous time with all the friends and family that took the time to join us in celebrating Matt's 30 years! He is very fortunate to have such supportive and loving family and friends because I would have never been able to pull it off on my own. Here are a few shots from the weekend including Henry's new water toy from Grandma and Grandpa Schwartz! Thanks guys... Henry to handsome firefigher!

I LOVE LOVE this pic...Henry's like, "What, who, me?" and "Sadie's trying not to laugh and prentend to be mad"

Surprise Matt!!!!

The infamous cake that my Aunt Stacy made. Fit the occasion perfectly! THANK YOU!

On another note, we have been postponing Henry's inevitable transition to a todder bed for quit some time. I don't want to call Matt and I lazy, BUT yeah we've sort of been that way with this mildstone, but in true Henry fashion, he showed US just what a big boy he really is. Night one was a little rough, but we figured it out. Nap today went well and tonight Henry gathered up his blankie and toddled himself right off the night night land. Really, that's it? Could I possible have given birth to such an easy going child? I'm still waiting for some atomic bomb to drop. In the meantime, I will enjoy what an amazing family I have and how blessed Matt and I are to have Henry in our lives for all of the teachable moments to shares with us.

Great Plains Zoo

2010-07-22T21:18:00.005-05:00

I have been planning all of these trips I want to take Henry on this summer. This week I realized that summer was over 1/2 gone, and we hadn't done anything on my list. So I have made a bucket list of things I want to do with Henry before the summer and nice weather fades to cold, windy, winter weather, and we are forced to watch Toy Story 2 over and over again.

One of the items on my list was taking Henry to the Great Plains Zoo. I can officially check that one off my list. Who doesn't love a mini horse?

That goat really wanted to tell us something as he was leaning way too far over the railing.

The fam!

Henry LOVED the goats and the goats LOVED Henry!

Henry, our own grizzle bear, checking out the original sleeping bear in his own domain.

Following our fabulous trip to the zoo, we met up with the rest of the Schulte clan and friends Brian and Sarah for supper. Henry was in prime showing off mode as usual and entertained us with screetches, throwing food, repeated requests for "more" in sign language and finished her off with grandma Linda's ice cream down the from of his shirt. Does life with a toddler get any better?

My water boy is back!

2010-07-18T21:19:00.003-05:00

So for the better part of the summer, Henry has had 'thing' against swimming. Really anything to do with water outside of his bath tub, Henry has kept away from as if it were the plague. There was even this little girl at his school who stopped me one day to see if I was aware of Henry's fear of water. She said she 'saved' him from the water when the kids in his class where squirting their teachers. It was so sweet, I guess...

So anyway, ever since papa Jeff introduced Henry to a squirt gun of his own, Henry has made a miraculous recovery. To you Papa Jeff, we are eternally grateful. We have even made it to the point where now you can't get him OUT of his pool. Henry in his freshly filled pool AFTER having spend all morning swimming and afternoon at the lake. He can't get enough!

Henry checking out the little ladies at the lake. He had a blast making sand castles and chasing the fishes in the water.

When life has you down...

2010-07-12T16:54:00.004-05:00

....spend some time with the ones you love... HAHAHAHAHAHA...yes, can you believe we actually went through with this? The girls and I had a wonderful, scratch that, BENT OVER LAUGHING time capturing our bad cowgirl sides during the 2010 Girls Weekend in the gorgeous hills of South Dakota.

This was the view from our hilltop condo overlooking Hill City, SD.

We couldn't resist capturing grandma and an absent.

A recent visit

2010-07-07T20:43:00.002-05:00

My parents came to visit me the weekend Matt was in the hills with his Uncles and brother. I thought I would share a few pictures from that visit. Henry had a blast being the center of attention as he usually does! Papa Jeff even bought Henry a water gun which eventually lend to the end of Henry's fear of the water. Who knew, right?

Stickum up cowboy!

Pooped...

2010-07-04T21:45:00.003-05:00

My sick little boy sleeping on me after school on Friday. He layed this way for 2.5 hours!

So Henry and I managed to get sick at about the same time late this week. He started off his on Friday with a temp of 104! Yes I said 104, at the doctors office. I then shortly followed Friday evening/saturday morning with an 8 hour barf fest. Sorry if you have a quezy stomach. Poor daddy had to step up for the morning and part of the afternoon while I recouperated on Saturday. I am feeling better today, but poor Henry is still spiking a fever. So much for our long relaxing weekend:)! The joys of parenthood and everyday life apparantly:) I am to watch a movie with the hubby while the little man sleeps.

I hope everyone got to enjoy their independance day and took some time to really reflect on what that means in our lives today. I think of the soliders overseas and what they fight for is as real as it was so many years ago in our own country. To the soliders of today and their families, I salute you and have very thankful for what you give my family and friends everyday:)!

A WEEK without my blog!

2010-06-28T21:20:00.004-05:00

So after lightening struck our house/near our house last Tuesday evening, I have been without cable or internet. Can you believe someone in this day and age actual went almost a whole week without either? Yes folks it can be done, and I am here to prove it. Henry and I were very busy as we didn't have anything else to do expect hang out with each other.

We did fortunately have some great visitors and did a few fun things while we were forced to live in the olden times without such luxuries. Side note, the above mentioned storm also took out my old college TV we had downstairs and both of our garage door openers. AWESOME! Thank you mother nature...NOT!

Some Henry updates for those of you we don't get to see as often as we would like:

Henry decided that he is now big enough to go potty on the big potty and even poop. He will tell you when he's pooping but usually while he's doing it or shortly after.

Henry can identify all sorts of big trucks all on his own and wowed grandma Kim when he remembered what a volcano was.

On the way home from school, Henry loves to talk about how tall the corn is and where the beans are planted. A good South Dakota farm boy in the making!

In general, Henry loves to talk all the time! He waves to everyone he sees and will tell them his name and that he is 2!

Henry is also entering the stage of, "Henry do it" Where this crazed being enters my sweet little boys body and demands to do anything and everything on his own and will not take no for an answer. If said object is not immediately released into his custody, this crazed being will then begin to scream at extremely his decibels earning us glares, stares, and pointing fingers out in public! Man, I love toddlers! Henry lovin' on grandma Kim. We were braving the sweltering heat to play in the water.

Stickum up grandpa Jeff!!!

Henry and his girls out to supper...nummy!!!

Henry riding on a horsy at the vets office.

Farmer Henry checking his crops!

Ouchy tall weeds mommy!

Happy 2nd birthday to Henry at grandma Linda's and papa's house. Grandma Linda made Henry a giant cookie for his birthday!

Henry turning 2!!!!

2010-06-16T21:18:00.003-05:00

So my baby bubba boy had his second BIRTHday today! Isn't it amazing how much little ones learn and adapt to their environment? To think this time last year, Henry couldn't even crawl yet, and now I can't get him to stop running everywhere and climbing up too tall ladders and slidding down slides. He's even obsessed with riding his new Strider bike and motorcycle.

He amazes me each and everyday! I have learned so much about life and myself just from being Henry's mom. There is no greater accomplishment besides a marriage than having a child in ones' life. Creating and nurturing a life is God's greatest gift. And what a gift my Henry is to me and everyone he encounters.

Tonight we ran into old friends and had ice cream with some neighbors. Henry got to eat his favorite meal, chicken nuggies and fries. He was in his prime flirting with his friend Kate and anyone else that would give him their eye. Henry's old babysitter, Han, was at ice cream and couldn't believe how big her Henry has gotten. Everyone that is or has been a part of Henry's life can only smile and say good things about him. Is there anything else I could ask for?

So to you Henry, I say this: My love for you in unconditional! I know there will come a time where I won't be very much fun to hang out with and you and I will fight about decisions you think you are ready to make, but for this snapshot in our lives, I cherish our special relationship our little language we have with one another. When we swing together and look over at me, the world stands still and there is only you and I in it...
Mama and baby bubba...if I looked haggered it's because Henry got us up at 5am this morning...

Playing in his sandbox on his second birthday!

Mowing with daddy on his birthday!

Watering the sidwalk on his birthday!!

Birthday boy, say cheese!!!