Koopman Kids

Fall Fun

2007-10-17T14:05:00.000-05:00

This first set of fall pictures were taken on Saturday when Mark and I went away over night. Our babysitter is a keeper...we go away and get great fall pictures of the kids.

Alex

Alex diving into the pile

Leaf fight!

Carsten

Savannah

Today we were to go skating but it fell through...so we headed to Waterworks Park and enjoyed the abundance of leaves. Cailyn immediately dumped some leaves on Savannah's head and a leaf fight almost immediately ensued.

Cailyn and Savannah

Cailyn and Jared

Cailyn getting Savannah

Savannah returning the favour

Tickle TortureCailyn

Jared

SavannahA rarity...picture of Savannah and Me

Playing peek-a-boo

Sorry it has been so Long....Facebook is sooo much easier to upload pictures to

2007-09-30T13:10:00.000-05:00

So due to demand...I will attempt a quick over view of September. I must warn there is lots. It has taken me at least 2 hours to do this post...I best not wait this long to post again ;o) And so here goes....

Fire Muster Days... The weather was much better than last year. We skipped the parade this year and we watched some of the competitions. We also had the chance to try on some hats and climb on the trucks.

First Day of School... The kids are excited and so was I. Alex is in Grade 2, Carsten is Grade 1 and Savannah thinks she is going to kindergarten. Thinking life will get easier with two in school full time...think again. You'll see more of Jared and Cailyn as I get to babysit them when Sylvia is at work.

AlexCarsten

Waiting for the bus

Cailyn's here!!! I missed you! Church Picnic... We had our church picninc is September this year. And there are some nice shots of the kids that I thought I would include. I have one of Emily for you Laura and hopefully Taunya won't mind one of Caleb on my blog (he is soooo cute!!!!!)

Savannah rolling down the hill

Carsten off day dreaming

CalebThought this was Tiana at first

Savannah

Carsten

Alex

Here's one for you Laura

Children's Museum... We also got a chance to make it to the children musuem. I think our favourite place was the music room. Sylvia and I couldn't resist getting dressed up and joining the kids on stage. And Kim found herself a finace ;o) We definitely have to go back since we never even made it to the 3rd floor!! Anyone want to come next time???

Sleeping dinosaurs (Cailyn and Savannah)

Savannah ice fishing

Cailyn, the drummer

Singin' Savannah

Sylvia and I living out our dream ;o)

Jared in olden day school house

Kim's fiance - Ronnie

Kim Park... I went scrapbooking for a day and Kim watched the kids. She had some amazing pictures to show me when I was done. I am so happy that she likes to take pictures like I do ;o)

I absoultely LOVE LOVE LOVE this picture. He hates his pic taken and he had no clue it was taken. There is no scowl!?!?!?

Alex
Carsten

Savannah

Love the hair

LOVE THIS ONE!!!

Run For Joy... Alex decided he wanted to do the Run For Joy. The had to run 1 km out at Fanshawe Park in London. The weather was horrible on the way and thought for sure it wouldbe cancelled but it rained on and off and the kids didn't seem to mind...it made them rather hyper. There were so many kids there and when each race started it sounded like a herd of elephants running by. This was Alex's first race and he came in 86th and there were over a 100 kids racing. I am so proud he finished the race and can't wait to do it all again next year...maybe we can practice for next year.

Huddling under the umbrella

This is the beginning of Ale's'x race

Alex running

Farmer Jack's Apple Orchard... We headed out to enjoy the gorgeous fall weather.The girls loved picking apples and lining them up and eating them...and Jared loved the apples too! We met the Felkars out there too!!

You kidding me? This would be to easy.

Can we fill this instead??

Jared

They're all mine :D

I got this one Linda!!

Want a bite Cailyn?

Savannah hanging off the apple crates

Cailyn

Savannah

Cailyn and Savannah

Savannah hiding in the tree

And bringing the apples home

And here's the Wallacetown Fair. We had a great time on rides, playing some games and checking out the animals. Barrel racing was neat!

Savannah and Carsten enjoying their first ride

Savannah and me

Cailyn and Alex ripping around on the bikes

Cailyn and Savannah on the ladybug ride

Us on the Berry go Round

Adding a new item to his christmas list

Well if you made it to the end...wow. It took me close to 3 hours to finish this. If you want more...check out my facebook as it is waaaaaay easier to upload pictures there. See ya next month ;o)

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday is Coming

2007-08-29T15:54:00.000-05:00

We promised to go and visit Aunt Jenny this summer and card make or scrapbook. So the summer has slipped away and we headed down on Monday as soon as Mark got home from work (he has been working late and lots lately so a good time to go). We made it in time to see most of the second half of their final soccer game. It went into over time and then they won in a shootout!! Way to go Jenny, Melissa and Andrea! Here are a few pictures from the Tuesday.

WATCH ME MOMMMM!!!!!

Alex lounging at Aunt Nellie's pool

Carsten swimming in the deep end

This is fuuuuunnnnn!

Savannah and Aunt Jenny

Thanks Aunt Nellie for letting us crash your pool. Savannah knows who you are which is a big shock. She told Mark she went swimming at Aunt Nellie's. Thanks again!!

And trampoline time is an ever important time at Granpa and Grandma's house. Whether they be trying tricks, "cracking eggs" or just bouncing around...the kids would play for hours if the adults wouldn't tire ;o)

Grandpa helping Savannah jump higher

Taking a break and giving the boys a chance

Carsten happily jumping

Alex flipping
The boys ever so happy Savannah giving Aunt Mel a kiss before she leaves

Falling asleep in Aunt Mel's bed in a matter of minutes

Stayed tuned for our trip to GreenView Aviaries

Happy Birthday Cailyn and Jared!!!

2007-08-24T08:44:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday we went to a birthday party for Cailyn and Jared...we had a great time despite the no water ;o) We had a great BBQ Supper and isn't it funny how most of the pictures are of the kids?

Michelle and Avery

Carsten and Nathan

Victoria on the trampolineSavannah get out!

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!!!

("Sannah won't get out")

Avery, Natalie and Savannah having a good time

Present time

Dennis cookin' up a storm

Cake time...YUM!!!

Good thing Gerald and Sylvia got water back later that night

And a few that I just had to add

2007-08-19T21:23:00.000-05:00

We've been busy. Last week was Summer Boys and Girls Club (VBS) and thankfully it went great! The bus was full as we had 65 kids over the week. Our theme was Follow the Leader. Here are a few pictures of the week.

Our loaded and very loud bus!

Our kids during one of Ken's awesome object lessons!!

Brian, one of our talented musicians

Carsten

Alex and Brendan

Kelsey and Savannah

Cailyn

Our crafts

I wanted to post more pictures but thought it best not to since I didn't have permission. Come out to our Stand up Supper evening and you'll see lots of them.

Thanks to everyone who helped out this week. Thanks also to those coming out to our Pizza supper and the closing program!!

Family Reunion

2007-08-06T19:17:00.000-05:00

Our family reunion was on Saturday and we had a good time getting to know some of our family that we haven't seen in a while. Many of us couldn't make it but it was fun for those of us who could. Thanks Mom and Aunt Nellie for the planning that went into it...we had a great BBQ supper. I even got a few pictures of adults :o)

Aunt Nellie and Mom sitting back to watch the action

Gerald, Jared and Brian Bryce and Jared Dennis and AveryThe trampoline helped everyone loosen up and get to know each other. Here's Martin teaching the boys a thing or two about trampolines

Carsten giving it a whirl

Savannah, Avery and Cailyn waiting patiently for their turns

Savannah jumping

The girls and Jenny taking a break

Savannah found a new friend in Avery Bryce and Alex were off playing lots Mike, our hockey player enjoying his supper Savannah eyes her supper Cailyn enjoyed her cake!!

Pete relaxing after supper

Alex giving Sylvia a break

Sylvia

Melissa acting a little crazy

Jenny totally relaxing

This was this morning before we left from mom and dad's house. Mitts actually let the kids pet her and be around her. Shocking!
Catching a little big brother time

WHY GOD CREATED CHILDREN (AND IN THE PROCESS GRANDCHILDREN)

2007-07-27T09:53:00.000-05:00

I got this email a while back and thought that maybe some of us needed a break from the kids...but remember it all stems back to the garden...we had trouble obeying

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To those of us who have children in our lives, whether they are our own, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or students... here is something to make you chuckle. Whenever your children are out of control, you can take comfort from the thought that even God's omnipotence did not extend to His own children.

After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve. And the first thing he said was "DON'T!"

"Don't what?" Adam replied.

"Don't eat the forbidden fruit." God said.

"Forbidden fruit? We have forbidden fruit? Hey Eve..we have forbidden fruit!"

" No Way!"

"Yes way!"

"Do NOT eat the fruit! " said God.

"Why?"

"Because I am your Father and I said so! " God replied, wondering why He hadn't stopped creation after making the elephants. A few minutes later, God saw His children having an apple break and He was ticked! "Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit? " God asked.

"Uh huh," Adam replied.

"Then why did you? " said the Father.

"I don't know," said Eve.

"She started it! " Adam said.

"Did not! "

"Did too! "

"DID NOT! "

Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed. BUT THERE IS REASSURANCE IN THE STORY! If you have persistently and lovingly tried to give children wisdom and they haven't taken it, don't be hard on yourself. If God had trouble raising children, what makes you think it would be a piece of cake for you?

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT!

1. You spend the first two years of their life teaching them to walk and talk. Then you spend the next sixteen telling them to sit down and shut up.

2. Grandchildren are God's reward for not killing your own children.

3. Mothers of teens now know why some animals eat their young.

4. Children seldom misquote you. In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said.

5. The main purpose of holding children's parties is to remind yourself that there are children more awful than your own.

6. We childproofed our homes, but they are still getting in.

ADVICE FOR THE DAY: Be nice to your kids. They will choose your nursing home one day. AND FINALLY:

IF YOU HAVE A LOT OF TENSION AND YOU GET A HEADACHE, DO WHAT IT SAYS ON THE ASPIRIN BOTTLE: "TAKE TWO ASPIRIN" AND "KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN"!!!!!

Card Making Factory

2007-07-25T15:19:00.000-05:00

Aunt Jenny has been coming to London this week and she has made 2 visits to our house. The kids have been super excited to have her come and they wanted in on the card making action. The boys made their own cards today too. We made a few cards over the last two visits and thought I would put them on here. Jenny is a great card maker so we love learning from her and the splitcoast website. Hope all goes well Friday and we can see you again soon. Thanks for forcing me to use some of my stamps too ;o)

These 2 are my favourite

I really like this stamp set

Savannah checking out Aunt Jenny's progress

Alex helping out

Our Summer Vacation :o)

2007-07-23T15:09:00.000-05:00

Well we are back and I have lots of pictures to choose from. So if I posted to many...Sorry ;o) Most of the pictures will probably be of Savannah because she is easiest to catch as the boys run from the camera (especially Alex). The boys also went to Program for 2.5 hours each morning.

Where to start...we had a great time at Elim Lodge. We travelled up with Gerald and Sylvia and got there in good time. My parents were close behind and for some reason Adrian and Laura arrived after us ;o) Set up was not so fun for some as it rained and rained. I am sooo thankful to have a cottage. We seemed to a little of everything so here are a bunch of pictures to show what we did. There are no fishing ones as I only took my cell phone and don't know how to get the pictures off of my phone.

Our Cottage - nothing much to look at but not a tent :O)

The view from our deck out back - 5 am in the morning We had a few visits to "Play Park"

Savannah flying in her rocket shipCarsten swinging

Savannah gave Mark quite the scare the first time she did this

Savannah and Cailyn swinging with me

Savannah Pushing Aunt Mel on the swing

As much as I enjoy the pool...the beach was warmer and the kids absolutely loved it. Carsten constantly kept talking baout "catching his perfect wave". Can you tell we watched Surf's Up?

Emily

Cailyn and Savannah

After the beach we would head back behind our cottage and relax with family and friends. The hammocks (after much trouble to get them hanging) were a big hit. Thanks guys for allowing my kids to chill in them.

Aunt Jean and Alex relaxing

Melissa and her AlexThen off to do some more water sports. We did not do as much as we normally would as the weather was cool on some days.

Melissa

Laura and Sylvia

Alex and Melissa (right before Mel kicked him off)

Carsten holding on and screaming for his life

Grandpa good as ever at 57

Alex loved it & was a pro when he wiped out, paddling to the boat

Some cousins bought jet skis...here's Gerald having some fun

And this was the girls favourite ride. Mark and Gerald took the brunt of driving the girls around in their chariot (aka bike trailer).

Games Night and Day

I can't believe she is beating me!!!

Savannah taking on Cailyn

Stephen playing bocce ball with the boys

Shuffle board

Savannah's daily trip to the snackery with her daddy, their date. She wanted only crackers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Then I was informed that Daddy was taking her to the snackery every morning for bacon, popsicles and ice cream.

Father/Daughter DateStorm came on quick

Savannah playing in the puddle after the downpour

Carsten not sure if Emily's "hugs" or the shopping in Bobcaygeon was worse

The squirrel got Alex's Baby Pop and ate it

Grandma and Grandpa outside the dining room

Savannah sitting pretty
And a few more that I thought I would add

Share!!!
Savannah

Carsten

Savannah and Carsten

Checking out her surroundings

What a great week we had!!! IF you made it to the end - WOW!

Carsten's Loose Tooth Finally Came Out

2007-07-09T17:27:00.000-05:00

Well it finally happened yesterday...after much wiggling and showing us, what seemed like all the time, Carsten's loose tooth came out. Since this was his first, he was very nervous about it coming out...so one of the many times I was allowed to see how loose it was, I got a good hold of it and out it came. He was shocked...and my kids have something with losing their very first tooth on Sunday...must be the wiggling all during the service. Well luckily I had just what he wanted for a reward...a Lego set I got at VV for 1.99! It is a fire car and a little station...the car even has a real siren.

No Playing Goal and He Scores!!!!!!

2007-07-03T19:35:00.000-05:00

Well back to soccer again. Carsten worked so hard tonight even though he could not play his favourite position - goalie. Or should I say he couldn't climb and hang from the goal post today. We finally got around to getting results from his xray that he had on June 20th! Carsten broke his index finger way back on the June Grocery Day. They never sent the xray on the doctor...after calling around today we got the results...no contact sports and definitely no playing goalie for at least another 2 weeks. The bright side to finding out about the broken finger is that it is well on the way to being healed and we only have 2 more weeks of "resting" it. Carsten played great and despite getting leveled by a player and pushed around a bunch...I am proud to say he did not retaliate at all...he kept getting up and going on. He came off the field when it was his turn for a break and just said, "I do not love that boy pushing me". You do not know how proud that makes me. Alex might have responded a bit differently, and Mom as well ;o)

And here is a video (far away and hard as it is to see), Alex (#11) finally getting another goal. He is such a natural half back that he always hangs back. How great to see him going up when he was playing a forward and getting a goal (with Peter right there). I just wanted to post a video as it is so hard to catch them in a stream of action. Great job boys...you played awesome tonight!!!

Where to Start and How Many Pictures Can you Load up???

2007-06-30T07:19:00.000-05:00

After graduation last week...we headed to our hometown for a surprise party for my mom's 60th birthday. Wow was she shocked...calling us liars (we said we were coming down Saturday). It was a great time and we want to thank Uncle Dave and Aunt Marlene coming from the States for this special time. It was also a time to celebrate my dad's birthday which was Saturday. Happy Birthday Mom and Dad!!

You Lied!!!

The kittens that led her to the back yard

Carsten and Uncle Brian

Aunt Melissa and Savannah

Aunt Marlene and Mom

Grandpa and Carsten

Aunt Anne and Jared

After a sleepover and Aunt Jenny and Uncle Brian's we got up and had some more excitement. We got to go to Grandpa's work and see what he has been up to. The kids had a tonne of fun going around an old nursing home and collecting door signs and looking at the things left behind. We are hoping to get a piano from there and the boys and I are super exicted by that. I must admit I might tire of the pounding on the keys soon enough though. We also scoooped up a fire bell and are hoping to get a real fire hose and alarm too. The boys think Grandpa has a cool job!!

Carsten driving the payloader

Aunt Jenny, Carsten and Alex scooped up

Grandpa giving Alex a mop and bucket ride

Grandpa giving all the grandkids a ride

Tuesday...a promised trip to the Splash Pad was all we needed to beat the heat for a bit. Savannah did not enjoy the splash pad too much until the end when I went through it with her a bunch of times. Needless I was pretty wet but I think she may be over her "fear". Funny thing is...she is the one I can dump a bucket of water over her head in the bathtub but my boys freak if they get water in their eyes?!?!?

Carsten lurching away from the water

Ooooh that's cold

Come and get me!!!

Aaahhhh!

It can't get me!!!

Carsten and Alex getting drenched

When told to just stand there...Alex just stood there

Savannah "drinking" the water. Ewwww!

Hop! Hop! Hop!FINALLY loving it!!!

Soccer night again! Twice a week is sometimes a bit much but the boys love playing. Thankfully we have a good coach this year and the boys are learning the rules. Alex is a natural halfback as he loves to get the ball up but is more than willing to come back and help out the defense. Carsten was made to be a forward or goalie as he really gets those position. Crazily my boys fight over who can be goalie?!?!? I just don't get it. Well that is until Carsten finally got to play net and he kept climbing the pole and hanging from the top of the cross bar!! I added pictures of my goalies from preivous games.

Alex in action

Carsten going for a goal

Carsten in action

Yup...they still group up occasionally on the big field

Carsten "bored" on defence

Alex in goal

Carsten on the goal

Park Days and my boys finally got to come along and we had a few new kids. I took a bunch of pictures and just wanted to show everyone how well the kids actually get along. I think next week the soccer ball might come along for the kids wanting to play soccer. They have real nets at the park!!! No chasing after the ball.

Lauren and Tiana

Savannah zipping along

Damien - thanks for coming out Amanda

Alex pushing Lauren and Carsten pushing Beau

Daniel

Carsten

Caleb

Tyler Well I think that is enough for this week. There was a few things we wanted to do but never had a chance. Maybe next week. Cudos to anyone who got this far. Have a great weekend!

School's Out For The Summer..........

2007-06-22T15:04:00.000-05:00

Well I know have a kindergarten graduate under my roof. Carsten along with his class had a little graduation ceremony today at lunch. It's hard to believe that next year both boys will be in shcool full time. I am thankful for the school that God had provided us and the wonderful, caring teachers who have been teaching my kids faithfully all year long. I am sure it is not always easy. I have a few pictures and a short video of Carsten right before getting his diploma. I added Riley - she look soooo cute. Hope you don't mind Stacey. Here is the Graduating Class of 2007.

Carsten Riley

And our adventures in berry pickin'

Let's just say that Savannah did more pickin' and keepin' than Carsten did. Savannah loves strawberry pickin' but hates eating strawberries. Carsten on the other hand loved to pick the strawberries but few ended up in the basket. We had fun and got 12 greenbaskets (2 flats).

I found one!!

YUMMMMMMM!!!!

I see strawberry...I can get it!

Dutifully putting them in the baskets

Savannah offering the fruit of her labour

Probably about the number that Carsten got in the basket ;o)

Happy Birthday Alex!!!

2007-06-20T12:49:00.000-05:00

We woke this morning to Carsten singing Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to Alex, Happy Birthday to you!!! Wow! Alex has turned 7!!! It seems that kids really do grow up quick. Alex received his three presents this morning...Extravagant - Lego Fast Flyers Set, Practical - Camo pants and Spiritual - Adventures in Odyssey.

We also had a "circus party" yesterday for the four birthdays in 2 days (Alex's today, Daniel, Beau and Tucker's tomorrow). There were only real elephants and some dogs. The dogs doubled as the lions in costume...which was a bit disappointing. We had a good time though!!

And I also added a bunch from the park today. Hope it was ok to post pics of all the kids...if you want any off, let me know.

Sorry some are really dark

Hard to choose just a few

Jackson Update

2007-06-19T09:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry I didn't update til yesterday as we weren't feeling so great. Jackson had his surgery a week ago and he is back home and doing wonderfully. God has worked more miracles as he is standing so tall and was walking a few days after surgery. Kim sent me some pictures as he is pretty tuckered out and we won't be seeing him today :o( There is no real incision mark, just a couple of bruises from where the needle went in microscopically. Thank you all for all your prayers and support.

Pre Surgery (legs bent and one foot on top of

other, sometimes one foot would get caught

behind the other foot as well)48 Hours Post Surgery Standing Tall

(legs and feet are straight!!!)

Here are Jackson's walking casts and splint (opposed to
where his casts would have been - all the way up to his
splint if surgery was done in London)

Happy Father's Day!!!

2007-06-18T15:34:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures from yesterday. Picture taking with 3 kids didn't work all so great. Here is our best group shot. Please excuse Savannah's "ouwie".

The Altered Tin Class Sylvia and I took

I would love to redo this one - Altered CD

THANK YOU

2007-06-18T14:30:00.000-05:00

Haven't been on here for a awhile but wanted to come and say thank everyone who supprted the Tupperware Fundraiser. We have raised over $500!!! THANK YOU!

Jackson had his surgery a week ago today and he is back home and doing wonderfully. God has worked some more miracles as he is standing so tall and was walking a few days after surgery. I hope to see him tomorrow and maybe can snap a picture to post. Thanks again!!!

TUPPERWARE FUNDRAISER

2007-06-01T11:44:00.001-05:00

Hi all! I know we fundraise for one reason or another, but I find that a great cause has arisen leading Kim and I to kick off a Tupperware Fundraiser for Jackson Felkar (Beau and Tucker's big brother). Jackson is a 7 year old boy with severe Cerebral Palsy and he is heading to the US for surgery on June 12th. This is not simply a fundraiser for funds for his surgery but a huge prayer request too. I have included a letter wrote by his mom, Kelly, to explain Jackson's situation better.

"God has blessed Ryan and I with many miracles when it comes to Jackson. As a 23 weeker, we were told on several occasions that he was dying or would die soon. Although Jackson is still so young in years, it is obvious how he is living out God’s purpose for his life.

We have asked God for so many miracles for Jackson. First, for his little life, and then for his hearing. On Monday May 14th, Jackson celebrated his 7th Birthday. Because of God’s almighty power and love, Jackson heard us sing Happy Birthday to him. He excitedly tried his best to blow his candles out. He smiled as we asked him to make a wish.

Jackson is in immediate need of a surgery to relieve the pain and tightness in his legs. If something isn’t done soon, his hip will dislocate because of the extreme muscle tone.

There is a traditional surgery offered in London. It is an excruciatingly painful procedure. We feel that God has made us aware of a similar procedure that is much less invasive, but has that same positive outcome. Unfortunately it is only done in the States.

The surgery is not nearly as painful, since it is done microscopically. Therefore Jackson would be encouraged to return to normal activity and given walking casts. In London, Jackson would have to endure hospitalization and an epidural for pain control for 2 days, as well as a catheter. (try to explain that to a 7 year old.) Jackson would be confined to a wheelchair for 4-6 weeks, following this surgery.

OHIP will not cover the cost that will be between $8,000 - $12,000 U.S. The exact cost is unknown until the doctor decides to do one or both legs.

God is an amazing God! He has orchestrated some unbelievable events in the last couple of weeks. Making all the pre-surgical tests happen in a timely manner and reaffirming to us that this is where he would have us take Jackson.

Ryan and I would kindly ask you for prayer. Please pray for the success of the surgery. That God, Himself would release Jackson’s legs so that he may be comfortable, and perhaps gain some independence. Please pray that God would financially provide for this procedure. Please pray for Ryan and I as a couple and as parents. Most importantly, please thank Him for all that He has done for us and especially for our precious boy, Jackson.

Check out the flyer online at http://www.tupperware.ca/fundraiser2006/eng/main.htm

Please see Linda or Kim for an order form or catalogue.

*40% of all sales support his cause
*Bring in your order along with an additional order (friend, family or neighbour) and receive a gift.
*Payments can be made by cash, cheque, Visa or MasterCard
*All cheques, payable to Tupperware Representative, Sandy Potter.

For further information call Kim or Linda. Please have all orders in by Monday June 11th.

STCCS Field Day

2007-05-28T15:12:00.000-05:00

We had a great day of track and field on Friday. Alex was so determined and Carsten was so happy go lucky. They got to travel together in the same group which made it much easier for me to keep track of them. I also was getting pictures for the yearbook (500+ pictures later)...here are some of my kids.

Carsten and his teacher Alex doing ball throw

Carsten running full tilt in running long jump Alex in running long jump

Carsten in proper form for high jump

Alex jumping over

On your mark, get set, GO!!!

Running to the finish line

Savannah chilling at Field Day

The Whole School

Toronto Zoo...Our Home Away From Home ;o)

2007-05-22T12:05:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at the Toronto Zoo yesterday. We went with a pretty big group but split into a 2-3 groups as we traveled around the zoo. The kids loved all the animals they did get to see. The kids were pretty tired by the end of the trip. Hopefully we will get a chance to go back again soon. Here’s a bunch from our camera. I know I took some turtle shots …whose camera has the Gerald turtle picture on it???

Alex wanting a little more hands on

Rare shot - Mom and Savannah

Carsten waiting to get in the gate

Savannah leaping along

Rock climbing

Savannah getting a rest

Look what I see!!

Rebekah giving Carsten a break

AAAHHHHHH!!!! She got me

Cailyn intently checking out the animals

Carsten and Dad

Gerald and Sylvia ;o)

Jared

Emily

Exhausted on the ride home

Waterworks Park

2007-05-15T13:56:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at Waterworks Park today! Carsten, Beau and Tucker all had a day off of school and it was gorgeous out…so we thought it would be a perfect time to feed the ducks and I had saved up an awful lot of bread that we could feed them. All I can say is…the poor poor geese.

Tucker, Beau, Savannah and Carsten

resting under the trees

Savannah had a great time once she got the hang of it

Tucker giving the geese a run for their bread
Brave enough to hand feed them
Savannah's new pet
Aahhhhh! Savannah screamed at the geese

whenever they flew away
Let me show you how it is done

Peace and quiet gets the geese
Letting them run ahead to play gave great shots
The boys pondering life

"Savannah's Big Sister"

Chilling under the trees

Pile on him!!!

One of my favourite pictures

Beau

Carsten

Thanks for the beautiful outfit Aunt Jenny. It made for some really great pictures. Glad I found the hat too. I have been looking for the right one.

A Day in the Life of Kim While We Go Out and Crop

2007-05-11T15:20:00.000-05:00

Woke up with a not so nice headache and migraine auras so I started the day with a 7:00 am chiropractor appointment to fix my head :o( It didn’t work. After Kim got here I took my migraine medicine and soon after went to bed despite wanting to go to the scrapbook day at the RCSS. I was lucky to see what a day around here is like…it’s true the kids do behave well! Kim’s telling the truth.

I dozed off and on until I got up at around 11:00ish when I heard the kids inside and the bath water running. I found 2 little dirty piggies in the bathtub and some nice pictures that Kim took on her new camera. We decided to go visit the croppers for lunch and Cailyn and Jared could visit Grandma too. While getting some juice boxes for our trip to the park, we got sidetracked by some nice sales at the RCSS – check them out!

Then off to the park we went and the girls had a great time playing. And Kim let me try out her new camera…it has a cool setting of colour accenting that I got to play with. Anyways here are some pictures…I added 2 from our trip to Toy Shoppe of London yesterday.

Coolest Toy Shop Around - May 10

"Please don't make me wear that thing!!"

"Safety come first Savannah"

Picking some beautiful flowers to plant

Hmmm....The perfect place to plant the flowers

Supervisor Savannah ensured Cailyn did a good job
Clean as a whistle

"Whatdya mean we gotta get dressed?!?!?!"
Our lil firefighter Trip to the park

Wheeeeeee

We found more of our favourite flowers

Few Random Pictures from Last Week

2007-05-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

We had a busy week. The boys had their school Spring Program. They did an awesome job singing, reciting poems, and playing their boom whackers. We enjoyed the program immesely. I was even privielged to hear a lot of it twice (on Grandparents Day/Grocery Day)

This past week it seems all the kids want to do is ride their bikes and play outside. I know I should encourage it but sometimes it gets a bit much. We have neighbour kids dinging and dinging our doorbell for the boys to come out and play. I always feel like I have to be out there watching them, even though we are on a dead end street. After putting up the fence last summer...they have no desire to play in the fenced in area. Aaahhhhhh! But thanks be to God for wonderful weather and here are some shots of the kids enjoying the beautiful weather.

Carsten & Thomas all decked out for the program

Savannah on her brand new trike

Alex biking with a neigbourhood friend

Carsten "Look mom! No training wheels!!!"Alex and Savannah enjoying their new table.

Summer Lunch of BBQ Hamburgers and Corn on the cob

I got Savannah a trike and she even has it figured out already.

Awesome Email I Needed to Share

2007-04-30T12:40:00.000-05:00

You think you're bored? Take a look at what this guy did with all the time on his hands.! WOW *** "THE LEGO CHURCH" This is amazing! Someone certainly is talented and patient to createsuch a masterpiece. A few quick facts:

How long to build it? It was about a year and a half of planning, building and photographing.
How many pieces of LEGO to build it? More than 75,000
How big is it? About 7 feet by 5 1/2 feet by 30 inches (2.2 m x 1.7m x .76 m)
How many LEGO people does it seat? 1,372
How many windows? 3,976

It features a balcony, a Narthex, stairs to the balcony, restrooms, coatrooms, several mosaics a nave, a baptistry, an altar, a crucifix, a pulpit and an elaborate pipe organ.All I can say is .... "WOW!" Have a blessed and wonderful day, today and everyday.

Adventures to Help Pass the "Turn off the Screen Week"

2007-04-27T15:15:00.000-05:00

You just don't know how badly we wanted to turn the tv on when we got home. Too late for a nap...tired and whiny children...stuck inside due to the weather, with nothing better to do than annoy their siblings. But we persevere with only a few more hours to go. We even turned the tv off at Adventures on Wonderland. We had a great time as we spent most of the day playing. I spent a lot of time playing and taking pictures, but hopefully next time I will visit more. ;o)

We had a great group of friends together...Laura and Emily; Sylvia, Cailyn and Jared; Laura, Jordan and Hailey; Kim, Beau and Tucker; Sue, Erin and Caleb, and us.

Our youngest playmate, Hailey

Hailey's sister, Jordan

Carsten, feeling much better

Beau and Carsten

Emily, Alex, Beau, and Carsten

Twins, Beau and Tucker

Our little guy, Jared

Tucker - "My hair is all soggy"

Caleb practicing for ball - men's team need any help?

Alex wall climbing

WACTH ME! WATCH ME!!

JUMP!!!

Can we take these home?

"Our Twins"

Cailyn's Ball of a Time

Sylvia - look how much they love each other

Jared - Licensed to Drive

Bombs Away

Turn Off the Screens Week!

2007-04-26T11:37:00.000-05:00

Turn Off the Screens Week - must have been an adult without kids who thought turning off the screens for a week would be a good idea. No TV, computer, gameboys, anything with a screen. I must admit...it is not as bad as I thought it would be...weather pending we might just get through the week.

Here is a video from the first day (Monday) where they "helped" me clean out my pots and pans cupboard. I added a few from this morning too.

Might need some ear plugs!

STCCS Annual Spring Crop

2007-04-22T06:49:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much for an awesome day yesterday Sylvia! All the planning came together and it was a great success. Thanks to everyone who came out to support our school. Can't wait to hear how much was raised. Thanks again.

Anne of Green Gables

2007-04-13T23:51:00.000-05:00

I went to Anne of Green Gables tonight with Kim, Amanda Pennings, Sylvia VMS, Laura Zondag, and Rachel Koetsier. We had a great time and would highly recommend you go see it. The time flew and it was really late before we realized it and decided to head home. As you can see by the time of this blog post. For more information check out http://www.ldcss.on.ca/

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells! Um...I Mean Our Easter Egg Hunt

2007-04-09T21:02:00.000-05:00

I heard the kids listening to Christmas music and dancing around the house this morning. This is what I saw when I came down the stairs

Last year about this time...I was preparing to leave for Holland. My kids and Kim had their first easter egg hunt ever when we were gone (both the kids and Kim's). I am not sure who had more fun. So today we...being dutch...got the easter treats on sale and used last year's plastic eggs and we had an easter egg hunt today. The kids had a blast!!!

From Last Week

2007-04-09T20:37:00.000-05:00

Beau and Tucker asked Savannah to come with them to the nursing home on Thursday. They dressed up like little bunnies and wished the elderly a Happy Easter. A great time was had by all. Carsten wanted to stay home. So we made Rice Krispy Squares and Jannyne's Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie (thanks for the recipe Jannyne). The cookies were AWESOME!!!

My lil bunny

Beau and Savannah

Tucker and Savannah

When can we eat it mom???

The Good and The Bad

2007-04-04T16:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday after a few errands and our Coffee Break Bible Study/Story Hour, we met up with some friends at the park. We played for quite awhile and just enjoyed spring. The movies that I posted are hilarious to me... "He flipped off! Oh no!" and the second one... "I think I'm gonna get homesick" I really don't know how kids handle the merry-go-round. My kids all enjoyed a good time playing in the backyard too. However, I discovered "bug bites", swelling and blotching on Savannnah. Not sure what it was, she received a bath and benadryl, while discussing it with Kelly and Kim. I drew pen marks on Savannah so I could see the progression of the rash, bites or whatever it was. (Can't wait to explain her it is not ok to draw on herself). Wierd thing is she was happy and not complaining. She slept great...might have to try Benadryl again ;o)

This morning I had to go to Grocery Day at school and Kim checked her out at the doctor and was told if it gets worse to go to the ER. It was spreading a bit more, some spots better but new ones coming. She was getting some on her face and neck, so off to the ER she went. They took her in immediately and kind of in a rush. Savannah was dancing and happy, playing around with her toys. The diagnosis...Some sort of bug bites...probably ant bites... and a reaction to it...HIVES!!! Off to the school assembly and had to show off her hospital bracelet because it had letters on it. And Alex gave her a bracelet which she loves to show off too.

Sorry about these blurry ones as they are camera phone pics.

My hives and ant bites??

My new bracelets ;o)

Wheeeeeeee

My Carsten Boy

Needing a picture for Mom

"He flipped off! Oh no!"

"I think I'm gonna get homesick"

Ontario Science Center

2007-03-31T18:52:00.000-05:00

The kids were so excited to see the CN Tower and all the tall buildings. And they got to see a nice big Wind Turbine! Here are some pictures from our day trip to the Ontario Science Center. We won't mention how the drive went ;o)

Hair gone wild!!!

The Boys helping Dad put the skeleton back together

Daddy catching up to Savannah

Our astronauts

Savannah crossing the bridge in the rain forest

Virtual Bobsledding

Testing out the best sliding surfaces

Ready to head home

Here's a video of the kids groovin' to their own music

WE DID IT!!!

2007-03-30T20:28:00.000-05:00

Today was beautiful again and we decided that after the boys came home from school (and if they were up to it) we would bike to the Fire Station with food for the needy. As you can see they had the energy and we did it - we actually biked all the way there and back. We stopped at a park on the way home to muster enough energy to get all the way home ;o) The pictures are a bit out of order but it'll have to do.

There is a food drive going on right now. When we brought the food into the station they asked us if we wanted to check out the trucks. My kids were eager to get into the trucks. Savannah felt right at home even. So if you're feeling like you want to get to check out the trucks...stop on by.

We actually made it - Savannah got the easy ride in the bike trailer

Here is my silly boy being a bowling ball while going down the slide

Peek Into Summer

2007-03-26T18:49:00.000-05:00

God sure blessed us with some absolutely gorgeous weather today. We began the day with a thunderstorm and a few kids in our bed. I thought we might have yucky weather all day but it turned out to be a beautiful day. With 24 degree weather, Savannah and I met the boys at the bus stop and we headed off to the park. They were thrilled with the impromptu trip. As soon as we got home they even got into shorts and short sleeve shirts. Wow what a day!!!

"Maybe tomorrow boys, maybe tomorrow"

Oh Hoppy Day

2007-03-22T10:28:00.000-05:00

Off to the Bus Stop this morning, the weather was rather

warm at 12 degrees!! It felt nice compared to the usual -12

The weather looked kind of rainy so out came the rain coats.

I got one picture of Alex but he was really grumpy and

thought it best not to post it. My little frogs hopped to the

bus stop and had lots of fun so here are a few pictures.

Can't Wait to Scrapbook This Page

2007-03-20T19:23:00.000-05:00

I saw a "No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" layout and couldn't wait to take the pictures and do a page just like it for Savannah's scrapbook. She got her pj's from us for her birthday and today was her first time wearing them. She loves Curious George. Here are just a few pictures from the bunch I took. Boy did Savannah have fun playing/jumping on her bed. Now just as long as she doesn't do it all the time. I also had to include one from supper of Savannah and daddy.

Daddy's Little Girl

March Break is Coming to an End

2007-03-19T13:15:00.000-05:00

This morning Alex and Carsten were playing dress up for a bit. Savannah was being the photographer for the day. Aside from dress up Carsten was busy at his job for "when he grows up"...an illustrator.

Sometimes I forget to enjoy my kids and just let them be kids. This afternoon I came downstairs and found Savannah and Alex having a little lunch party. I snapped some pictures and a few videos. I posted the shortest because most of you probably aren't interested in watching them anyways, but my kids love to watch them and it is a nice way for family from far away to see a glimpse into our lives. Someday maybe I will tape a temper tantrum because life isn't always this good ;o)

Well tomorrow is Alex's first day back to school after March Break and coffee break resumes. Carsten goes back on Wednesday and we're all excited. We miss our regular routine, but we have also enjoyed the time off.

Click...say cheese and Carsten, my author and illustrator

Carsten, my giraffe and Alex, my dragon

Alex and Savannah having a little dinner party

Alex and Savannah saying grace

Day 4 & 5

2007-03-17T19:53:00.000-05:00

Day 5 – Another Day Down, Monday to Go

Dad took the day off of work. We chilled around the house. We got a movie to watch and we also got to play some games. We also cleaned up the mess we made, sort of.

The best part of the day was when Carsten and I were sitting at the table. I asked him how we feeling and he said, "I'm so happy...God answered Dad's prayer that I would feel better and He did! I don't have strep throat anymore." It was priceless and so comforting to hear.

Day 4 – Doctor Visit and Play Date with Emily

I came downstairs and found Savannah and Alex like this.

Carsten was getting better and we found out it was a virus and not strep throat, at least that is what the swab test showed. We had a pizza and crazy bread lunch with Emily and her parents. It was nice to visit with friends.

March Break Day 3 - Bowling Party

2007-03-14T20:59:00.000-05:00

After much deliberation…the "party" was a go. Carsten’s medicine kicked in and he was feeling pretty good after a nap. We had the opportunity to go bowling late this afternoon. The kids had a great time and can’t wait to go back. This was Savannah’s first real bowling and she did great! She only dropped the ball once on her fingers but she did get a strike too! We got a short video of her in action. After bowling we went to Swiss Chalet for a great supper - cheap night and the Balloon Lady was there. What a March Break party it turned out to be.

Savannah's Video

2007-03-13T20:25:00.000-05:00

Day 2 was not near as exciting as yesterday and hopefully I remember it all as my first post didn’t go through :o( We spent the morning spring cleaning out the game & puzzle closet and all around the house. With gorgeous weather we were itching to get out for a bit. Off to our doctor’s appointments. 3 out of 4 of us had appointments – what better time than March Break? Savannah was getting caught up on her shots. The doctor was very impressed with her as she didn’t even cry after her two shots. I must admit she did snarl a bit at him after the first one. He was just really surprised as he said kids always cry. I attributed it to her rough and tumble brothers…and the sucker I gave to her in between the 2 shots. Alex didn’t even realize he had an appointment as he played game boy right through it. I am still hanging in there too. The one kid that didn’t have an appointment had a bad cold and so I just asked if there was a bad virus going around. Carsten was feeling cold and wearing a coat (in our nice 15+ weather). The doctor said it is going around and he was cold yesterday too. So off we went with our prescriptions for eczema cream, inhalers and headache medicine…thinking we were good to go. After a few errands and Carsten really not seeming to be himself (he only ate half his ice cream cone), we went home where he told us that he was cold and his head hurt. I took his temperature and it was 101.6 and I promptly got the flashlight out to check his throat…my guess...strep throat. Baffled as to why he didn’t tell me when we were at the doctors today, even after asking him. I gave him some Tylenol and waited for Mark to come home and off we went to the clinic. After a 45 minutes wait (and we were there just before 6!) we got our script and diagnosis…strep throat. We are planning to talk to our family doctor about it as he has had strep 4-5 times this winter, guessing he hasn’t really gotten over it a few times. Carsten is a great sick kid though!! He held in the tears until we got home (waiting almost 30 minutes for script filling) where his complaint was his bad headache. I understand the headache thing totally. So now Savannah’s shots have caught up to her, Carsten fell asleep on the couch minutes after he got home and Alex is full of energy. I didn’t take any pictures until getting back and here is the 3 I took. Please excuse the water soaked pillow from Carsten’s cool cloth for his head. Hopefully tomorrow is better.

March Break - One Day Down, 4 to Go

2007-03-12T19:21:00.000-05:00

We finally have something to update our blog with. Today we started our March break off by sleeping in till 7:00!!! (Thanks to the time change) After lounging around for a bit, we rushed off to the RCSS to buy rubber boots for my city slicker boys (Savannah still had some that fit - or so we thought). Then on we went to the Felkar Farm, where the kids all hung out for a bit and then off we went to Grandpa and Grandma Simpson's farm to check out the baby lambs. They even had a brand new one born yesterday. After having a great time there, we headed back to the Felkar Farm and after a delicious lunch and some more play, we headed out to the horse barn and had Alex (and Aunt Mel's) dream a reality, horseback riding. We even had time to play in the hayloft and help brush down the horse. The kids sure were tired when they got home, but no worries...THE KIDS ARE PLANNING THEIR MARCH BREAK PARTY...bowling, swimming, more farm play, movies, etc. Good thing March break is a week long. :O)

Our grumpy girls...attitude!

Thankfully not all day ;o)

We spent much of the day saying "Down Mater"

And the reason for our purchase of rubber boots...

Checking out our baby lambs

Some outdoor fun

Our horse adventures

New Babies in the Family

2007-03-08T20:28:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to James and Cindy with the birth of another

baby girl Serena Grace. She weighed in at 8 lbs, 3 oz and 21

inches in length. All seems to be well with mom and baby.

We thank God for his great blessings.

We also are pleased to show a picture of a

"temporary" addition from John and Sue.

Her name is Destiny Skye (not sure on spelling).

She is a tiny peanut at 5 lbs, 5 oz.

2007-03-07T21:33:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures from the last little bit. No real time to blog much.

Savannah is learning to skate (she does NOT like her helmet)

Carsten - My snow Angel
Alex getting a ride
Amanda and Jeffrey's Baby Shower

Savannah and her friend Nemo

Jen Z. building me a track

Disney On Ice

2007-03-01T22:58:00.000-05:00

Carsten, Cailyn, Gerald and Sylvia got to go to Disney

on ice this morning. We made it tonight, weather and

even the right date :o) We had a great time. Here are
a few pictures from the show. I may post a few more

when I get some of Kim's pictures...my camera

batteries died and my memory card was full. Enjoy!

Pay it Forward :O)

2007-02-28T21:18:00.000-05:00

Kim, Daniel, Beau, Tucker, Savannah and I were to go to Disney on Ice tonight. We figured out all our plans and arrived at the arena in decent time. We were to get our tickets from a guy from Down Syndrome association but he wasn't there. Upon calling he said it was for tomorrow. The kids were a bit disappointed but we left and decided to go get some supper. As we were leaving the parking, we decided to give our parking pass to someone. Kim and I were happy to let someone have it since we just paid for it and didn't need. Happily we left.

Fast Forward - We decided on Swiss Chalet as it was Kids Night and the Balloon Lady was there. All the kids got balloon animals and we enjoyed supper. As we were getting the kids ready to leave and we left cash for the bill. The waitress came up and said that someone paid for our bill. We asked who and a couple a little ways away took our bill. We were so shocked as we didn't know them. We all went to say thank you and we gave them some Tim Horton's certificates as a thank you. We were so blown away and we were telling the kids "Wow isn't that awesome that God sent this couple to us and how God provides" putting big smiles on our faces. When we got to the van our CD was on the song "Awesome God". Sure gave me chills at how God just works everything for good.

Maybe I will be able to post some pictures tomorrow and hopefully we get a chance to see Disney on Ice

Playtime

2007-02-22T16:41:00.000-05:00

I finally downloaded some pictures and videos

the hard way (without Mark's help). So here

are a few pictures of the kids having a

"sleepover" in the boys room.

This first 30 second video is Carsten singing nicely this time and Savannah not to thrilled about it. The second is Savannah singing Twinkle Twinkle by herself.

Amazing!!!

2007-02-21T08:41:00.000-05:00

I saw this yesterday on my Baby Center Bulletin Board and then saw this article in the London Free Press today. I felt the need to share this. I really don't see how anyone can argue that God is here and His amazing creation in all of us. Here is a link to the story www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17237979/ Yesterday there was a video too

What a Day!

2007-02-20T16:45:00.000-05:00

At least it is the happy sick kid this time. Carsten woke up this morning saying he was going to throw up. After a few times, he proceeded to say his throat hurt too and he had a headache. My guess was strep throat as that is the only time Carsten won't eat and says he has a headache. So off to the doctor we went late this morning and he acted like he was fine. Made me think I shouldn't have taken him. But sure enough he has strep throat. We are pumping the medicine into him and hopefully he'll be able to go to school.

While Carsten was throwing up...Alex tried out his new phone by calling Kim this morning at 6:30 am!!! Alex kept saying, "someone wants to talk to you Carsten, someone wants to talk to you Carsten". We were like, "WHO are you talking to?"
Kim wasn't working and boy did we yelp for him to get off the phone so she could go back to sleep. Thankfully Kim was really good about it all.

A Video for Aunt Melissa

2007-02-16T10:51:00.000-05:00

Aunt Melissa droppped by yesterday to visit and give Savannah her birthday present. Since Savannah wasn't here, we said we'd video her opening it up. My camera only takes 30 second videos so there are 2. Without further ado, here ya go.

Thankfully the kids are playing quietly now ;o) Savannah says, "Thank you!"

Bus is Cancelled

2007-02-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

The bus is cancelled this morning and since I have no vehicle...my boys are blessed with a "snow day". They are a bit bummed because it is Valentine's Day and they can't hand out their valentines and have their little parties. Maybe we can whip something up to make it a bit better.

I have got the nasty cold that has been flying around. I must admit I can't stand it when I'm sick because things just don't run smoothly. The sore throat, coughing, stuffy, running nose, sore ears is driving me nuts. Add in kids that don't want to be home and it is making for a fun day. I just hope that the kids don't get sick now. Hope you are having a better day all.

Happy 2nd Birthday Savannah!!!

2007-02-14T07:12:00.000-05:00

Well this is now the 5th time I am attempting to post this - anyone else having issues lately? We celebrated Savannah's 2nd birthday this weekend and all the way till yesterday. On her birthday she got a phone call from Dora the Explorer wishing her a happy birthday. Yesterday we had a party with some of her friends. After a Carebear themed party we had supper at McDonalds. The cake turned out pretty good and Savannah was a bit scared of her candles. Here are some pictures from the last few days.

Happy Birthday Savannah!!!

2007-02-12T15:02:00.001-05:00

Wow...my baby girl is 2 today. Seems like time has flown by. Here a few pictures of her. I hope to post some birthday pictures later.

Two weeks old

One year

Not quite 2

AWESOME GOD!!!

2007-02-06T09:09:00.000-05:00

Here are the kids belting out one of their favourite songs! (You might want to turn down your volume.) We were on our way to McDonalds - they were just in a praising mood. Our singers for the ride were Carsten, Tucker, Beau and Savannah (yup she sings it too, if you can hear hear her over Carsten). Thanks Jannyne for telling me how to post them.

Toothless Alex

2007-01-31T16:45:00.000-05:00

Alex was showing me how loose his tooth is on the

bottom this morning and so I asked him if I could

just touch it and see how loose it was. He told me not

to pull it out though (I pulled his first one out). So I

checked it and told him to just pull it out and he did!?!

Boy was he shocked when it actually came out!

Alex has now lost 4 teeth - all on the bottom. His

front 2 teeth are loose too. Soon Alex will have no

teeth left to pull out. What a shame after all the

dental money we've dished out. Actually it is sad to

see how quickly our children grow up.

Please excuse the marker all over his fingers.

(Pictures got taken after school)

Carsten - My Lego Man

2007-01-31T16:33:00.000-05:00

The kids each got their own Lego magazine yesterday in the mail.

Wow do they love it when they get them! Carsten wants to have

his picture in the lego magazine and insisted that I take some

pictures of him and his creations. So I think we might have to

start really building and see what we can come up with. Here

are Carsten's creations that he whipped up in the last few days.

Alex finally decided he wanted in on the action. Maybe they can

come up with a huge original creation.

Apple Sauce Factory

2007-01-30T08:36:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we made applesauce with my mom - 46 jars :O)

Savannah had a grumpy moment followed by happy.

We hope to go and make some more in at few weeks.

Savannah lugging the apples to the work station.

Can I have one???

Apples R Us

Grumpy and Happy

The Finished Product

Our Big Sleepover Party :O)

2007-01-27T19:53:00.000-05:00

Mark was gone last week to North Carolina for business so we had to keep extra busy so we didn't miss him too much. We had a great week for the most part. Our highlight was our sleepover at Jackson, Beau and Tucker's house (their parents were away too). We had a big party with 6 little kids and 2 big kids (Kim and I). Here is Jackson's reaction when we came in the door.

I think one of the most fun parts was playing

in the hay loft. My city slicker kids are starting

to become a bit more at home with it all.

Beau,Carsten, Jackson, Alex, Savannah and Tucker

Here are the kids getting a closer look at the horses.
Boy Aunt Melissa would be jealous ;o)

Bath time - We got the kids clean as a whistle and all
ready for bed in good time to watch Charlotte's Web.

And our sleeping lil angels
Carsten and Tucker

Alex and Beau

Jackson and Savannah

Jackson and Alex went off to school in the morning
but the fun just kept coming. We hung around the
house for a bit, playing hide and seek, colouring
and eating Nana's chocolate cake. Then off we went
to do some errands, lunch at Zellers and the most
fun - swimming with 5 little ones. We got to
babysit Phoebe for the day :O)

Carsten, Beau, Tucker, Savannah and Phoebe

The kids having a "car wash" after swimming

We can't wait to do it all again sometime!

Please excuse any mistakes. It took me over an hour

to get the pictures and stuff where I wanted it.

Happy Birthday Jenny!!!

2007-01-20T23:55:00.000-05:00

Driving through a mini snow storm, we dropped the kids off at Jackson, Beau and Tucker's house on the way to the Party. Kim babysat them all and the kids had a blast on the farm. When we got back... we heard the wonderful sounds of snoring...and found all the kids sound asleep. Alex in his sleepy state when we got home told me that their grandpa would like to have him back when they doing the hay next summer and that he even got to help feed the horses. Carsten was tired and his legs hurt - I suspect he jumped lots today. Savannah was awake the whole way home and chattered occasionally - if only we knew what she was saying all the time.

To celebrate Jenny's birthday, we went out for Supper at the Wheel's Inn Restaurant called Axle Annie's Bar & Grill. After supper we went bowling. Wow I forgot how much balance you need for bowling. Here are some pictures from our evening.

We had a great time and we hope that God will grant Jenny many more birthdays. Hope you had a great day!!

It's the Weekend!!!

2007-01-19T19:51:00.000-05:00

We made it y'all. It's the weekend!!! It has been a busy and tough week at times but hopefully we can enjoy some good family time this weekend.

I must admit Carsten was driving me nuts today! He started asking if we could go pick up Alex at the bus stop at 9:30-10:00 AM!?! Sadly he had to wait till 4:00ish and let's just say that made it a very long day. I thought I was going to lose it as he continued to ask. Funny though how they can miss each other like crazy but when they are reunited they fight, wrestle and bug each other. Can't live with him, can't live without him. Here's some pictures of them this summer having fun...

Savannah has been showing some attitude lately. She has personality as some people may call it. Her faces that she pulls sometimes makes me crack up and I know it can become a problem but I must show some of these. She's been practicing since Christmas and I must find out who has been teaching her.

She can be mischevious at times and down right "innocent".

Well that's all for now folks. Have a great weekend!!!

NO School Today!?!?!?

2007-01-15T22:16:00.000-05:00

First we got the call that the bus wasn't running and then came the call that school was cancelled. We did some errands and grocery shopping this morning. After that we went swimming at the YMCA and the kids had a blast!!! I have to admit I enjoyed it as well.

After warning everyone all day today to watch out because it is slippery. I fell on my front steps when I was leaving to go get diapers. Needless to say with some help getting inside...I have spent the night icing my ankle and didn't get the diapers :O(

All in all it was a good day...hope I can walk tomorrow.

Our Trip to the Children's Museum

2007-01-11T18:34:00.000-05:00

We have had a crazy busy week but we took timeout today to go to the Children's Museum with some friends. We had a great time with the Dinosaurs and the caves, on an arctic adventure, in the jellyfish junction, being big people in a little world, and on a trip to outerspace and back in time. Wow the kids sure were whooped when we were done but didn't want to leave. The kids were sleeping minutes after we got home and woken for supper by the smoke alarm ;o)

Jelly Fish Junction

Beau
Our new friend Phoebe
Love this picture of Tucker
Savannah
Savannah and Tucker stuck in space
Cartsten pretending to be a polar bear - Polar
The boys watching their pennies swirl around
Dinosaurs attacking
An Arctic Adventure

Carsten, Savannah, Phoebe, Beau and Tucker

Our Birthday Party

2007-01-11T18:20:00.000-05:00

The kids wanted to have a birthday party for mom. So we ordered a cake - a carebear cake - and had a little party with them. Alex was even a magician for the party! Carsten Watched him in disbelief. Grandma came down to visit too. January 4, 2007

Savannah talking to her carebearAlex doing balloon tricks
Carsten amazed!
Cuddle time with Grandma

A Trip to the Fire Station

2007-01-03T18:56:00.000-05:00

The kids were feeling much better. Yesterday, Jackson, Beau and Tucker met us for a tour of our new fire station. We had some great fire fighters show us the "ropes". We got to play around on the fire trucks, see how some of the equipment worked, where fire fighters sleep and eat. We even got to wash the fire truck (it had just come back from a call).

Thank you to all the fire fighters who daily put their lives on the line to keep us safe. We pray that God will watch over our fire fighters and keep them safe.

Our Fire Station
Our Heros The Kids listening intently
Partners Alex and Beau

Lights Flashin'

Jackson was soooo excited!

Savannah taking them for a drive

Alex

The mask makes him sound funnyPutting us to work
Beau, Alex, Tucker, Savannah, Carsten and Jackson
Large Boots to Fill

Happy New Year!

2007-01-01T15:17:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all a happy new year. God has blessed us in the past year - keeping us happy, healthy and safe. We're remembering some of those times right now as we have the flu in the house :o(

Koopman Christmas

2006-12-26T20:20:00.000-05:00

Our last family Christmas party has come and gone. We just came home from our Koopman Christmas party. We all got to reconnect as we have not all come together since our Koopman camping this summer. Sadly Paul, Carol, Hadassah and Josiah couldn’t make it down for Christmas this year. Everyone else was in attendance though.

Following the opening of the kids’ presents we all got to play some sports – mainly hockey and some basketball. Supper came which was a feast of pizza, KFC chicken and salads and much much more. After supper the adults gave out some presents and we then had an opportunity to play more sports and the wonderful word game Take.

Hope we can get together again soon and also can't wait to meet the newest addition to the Koopman family in March.

What'd ya get???

Boys waiting anxiously
Scott finally got a present
Savannah got the last present
Alex and Carsten opening their present of

Rescue Heroes and Lego

Caleb checking out all the presents Ben and Brayden
Oma and Savannah cuddling
Enjoying the Feast
Erin and Danielle
Brayden, Alex and Nicholas
Hockey Game in Full Swing (Wearing Off Supper)

Carsten loving hockey even after
getting hit in the head with a stick

Savannah scooting around the gym

Kierra, Katelyn and ClaireIntense game of TAKE

Koomans Christmas

2006-12-24T22:23:00.000-05:00

We had our Koomans family Christmas party yesterday at Brian and Jenny's house. We all had a good time and Aunt Jenny did a great job cooking. Thanks so much! Next year it's at Melissa's ;o)

I thought I would post some pictures and not write too much. As you can see the kids just wanted to open presents, not have the cameras in their faces ;o)

Scott, Alex, Amy, Jessica

Carsten, Savannah and Abby

Uncle Brian and Scott

Carsten a little excited about presents

Amy and Jessica waiting patiently

Uncle Brian and Aunt Rosemary at supper

Melissa and Alex

Alex and SavannahAbby

First Day Off of School

2006-12-22T21:16:00.000-05:00

School is out!! Today was our first day of Winter Break. The boys were excited and up early, while Mom and Savannah wanted to stay in bed a little longer. We eventually got up and started at the day with some tidying up around the house.

We had a great time today as we made Christmas Cookies. Our friends Beau and Tucker joined us in our adventure in the kitchen. The kids were so eager to help and some even more eager to eat ;o)

Finally Joining the Throngs of Bloggers

2006-12-22T20:47:00.000-05:00

Just checking to see if this actually works.