The Otto Family

New School Year!!

2011-09-10T15:59:00.003-05:00

Well I lost touch again with you all and I hate to say it but I'm sure my posts will be far and few between this fall.

Its been a busy start to school. Cody is entered 6th grade this fall and at this point seems to be liking it. Payten is in full time daycare and has her first homework assignment this weekend. So the two of us will be doing an "All About Me" poster tomorrow.

I'm doing 8 credits at MSU this fall so that I will be lined up to student this spring. But even more exciting I was offered a full time position and I took it with Sibley East Elementary. So a few weeks ago I started setting up two classrooms one in Gaylord and the other in Arlington. I'm a special education teacher teaching children with autism.

So you now see why I stated that our post could be far and few between. We are super busy for the next 13 weeks.

Talk to you all soon -----

Where does time go??

2011-07-18T21:32:00.005-05:00

July is almost over, so sad! We are looking forward to our family vacation next week to Rainy Lake. Should be lots of fun not sure how Payten will enjoy the car ride. But we will make it.

Here are some of the pictures I promised you a long time ago:

Payten's first hair cut. Yes is was June 3, 2011 and she was almost 2 and 1/2 years old. Not even a little trim this was her first hair cut!

Well Nana cut Cody's hair for the first time too but there was a big age difference between their first hair cuts. Very cute to see Payten looking at her toes to keep her head down.

Even a little smile out of her!

Payten and her pool taking a little time out her day to take a little deep. So much fun to see her play in the water. This past weekend "us girls" enjoyed a little float time in the lake.

Its coming to a end....

2011-07-15T09:26:00.002-05:00

Class is coming to a end! I'm working on my last project of the summer. So excited to say that I survived both classes.

I have lots to share with you all including this video of Payten and her brother, hopefully I can figure out share it with you.

Going to finish up on the project and then next week I will share good stuff with you!!!

So Sorry!!!

2011-06-23T22:42:00.003-05:00

I know everyone I made it a goal to be better at this and look its June 23 and not one post since May! I'm Sorry, forgive me.....

Here is my list of excuses:

June 5-12 Hannah's Graduation Party- I had to finish her scrapbooks before her party and do all 4 of her picture boards. I almost got finished with 9-12 grade in her scrapbook and finished her skating book. And not to toot my own horn but I thought her boards turned out awesome :)

June 13- to present 2 MSU classes- actually I started the classes the weekend of Hannah's party since I had homework due at 5 pm on the 13th. (read 3 chapters, 3 quiz questions written and answered, and another assignment) not to mention every due for class on Wednesday. Then to throw a great twist in there I decided that on top of that 5 week online/meets in class every Wednesday I could handle a 8 day law class. Let's just say the earliest I've been to sleep is 11:30 since Sunday night waking up at 6:30 (remember Otto's are not morning people) classes and homework have taken over this house hold.

Thank goodness for Hannah coming to help with the kids this week. She did a bit of cleaning and laundry, too!

Oh but on a cute note-- Payten started a DANCE CAMP this week, its been going pretty good. She is struggling to stay out there for 60 minutes and has to come and dance by me since I sit in the doorway (I know I'm not suppose to do this but she'd never stay if I didn't). I'll bring the camera tomorrow and try to get a few pictures of her to post.

Other then all of that I sure am looking for some sunshine so if any of you can order it for the next 2 months -- 1 rainy day per 2 weeks would be great! I would like sun in full force with hot days to hang by the pool and lake once these 2 classes are done plus the water to be warm so the kids will play for hours!

May Pictures!!!

2011-05-30T17:18:00.003-05:00

I'm teaching my little girl how important it is to eat veggies! She is now right up there helping me clean the asparagus.

My kids were great helpers when we planted out flowers! It was lots of fun to see both of them want to help and they were great helpers at that!

First Offical Weekend of Summer

2011-05-30T16:50:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday was my last day of school! Classroom all cleaned up, put away (except one box), and ready for next year, it felt really good on Friday to walk way and say all done. Now I'm a reading pen pal with 25 students, should be interesting to see how many postcards I get this summer.

We went to the cabin this weekend wish the weather would have been like it is right now. Sun is out hardly a cloud in the sky the wind is a little much but I can deal with it :) It was so nice not to have to worry about cleaning and laundry not to mention work and classes at MSU. Just hang with the family -- Perfect! Got out on the lake for a few boat rides, cards, sat by the fire and bean bags, just a nice quite weekend.

Summer will start for Cody on Friday, that gives me 4 days at home with Payten to spring clean the house from top to bottom and organize the scrapbook room. Once Cody is home from school I have to finish Hannah's scrapbooks and do a few boards for her graduation party on the 12th. I can wait to say so long to Hannah's scrapbooks. Its a lot of work doing life books and skating books for her for the last 18 years. Hannah will have to take that job over for herself.

Oh I'm on the deck typing away, I just ask Cody what was that ...... he said a goose just pooped on the deck, right on the other side of the fire pit. Not sure its safe to be out here?

Did I tell all of you that I'm taking classes at MSU? Only 4 more to go and on to student teaching for my Special Education License. I'm taking 2 of them this summer, one of them for 8 days and then the other class meets on Wednesdays for 5 weeks. I'm looking forward to getting 2 more out of the way and not having balancing work at the same time.

See you all soon!

6 days.... but not counting

2011-05-18T18:52:00.005-05:00

You might be asking yourself 6 days Sarah, what does that mean? Well since I'm not counting it means that's the amount of days left I have with my groups at school. Yes I'll be sad and miss the kids but I really love being at home with my kids in the summer! I also have so many project that need to get done that its not even fun. Not to mention that I'm taking two classes this summer for my masters program. So we have a busy summer!!

Well on to the beautiful weather. Can we say we love the sun, hey I just counted and we are just finishing our 4th day of sunshine without rain. Hate to say this but I'm not so sure we will be that lucky for the weekend, its worth a wish though. Actually I'm outside right now typing enjoying the night with the kids. We planted the flowers, (oh my gosh sorry to be so random but picture this: a two year old yelling with a big boy voice "Zoey get inside" and slapping her legs while she is yelling... too funny and no the dog didn't listen to her) fixed the pond and saved a fish's life, did some trimming of a plant, and well now typing and having a "soda". I think that Cody has forgot what a water hose is for, serious he's 11 and is acting as if he has never seen one in his life before. We watered the flowers in the front of the house with the sprinkler and he was running through it fully dressed as Payten is yelling at him "get out, get out!"

Last night I got to go golfing with the girls. First night out for the season and let me tell you not as near as bad as I thought it would be. I chipped one in!! I even impressed myself. So when I was gone and Cody was at baseball practice I gave Dad and Payten a job. Take down the baby crib, since we are still sleeping in a big girl bed. The tears came and came. That was for the babies she kept telling dad. Its a good thing that her new bedding and blanket came or I'm not sure she would have gone to bed in there. Still I'm not sure how naps this summer are going to work once she figures out she can actually get out of bed herself. For now she still thinks that someone needs to come and get her out.

Hoping I get the camera issue figure out yet tonight. I have a full camera card and can't seem to figure out why it won't let me download the new pictures that I've taken in the last month. I have some of our new bed, last weekend of Stacey and Darius, and some other random ones. Wish me luck on that one!

Still Here!!!!

2011-05-10T18:38:00.004-05:00

Hello-

It's been the school year almost since my last blog that I actually posted. So much has happened that well I'm not even going to try to share with you all that has happen.

So let's just start with the last few weeks. As many of you know we had big plans before baby Payten was born, we were going to have the basement bedroom/toy room/scrapbook room finished so that Cody could move down before she came. Well 2 and 1/2 years later I can officially say the project is complete, Cody is now moved into his new room!

Let me just say it was an terrible job having to clean that room of his. Toys were knee high and we won't even talk about the clothes. But I now can walk down the hall and glance into the room and think to myself it's clean! Kind of gives me the bug to deep clean the rest of the house. Before that can happen I must finish up the last days of school (12 days till mom's summer starts) then the deep cleaning will began.

So joking to Payten, when I was making Cody's old bed, I said "do you want to sleep here tonight?". My baby (to my deepest sadness) replied "YES". So for the last 3 nights I've been tucking her into her brothers old bed in his old room and that's where she has stayed. Ok so the thunderstorm on Monday morning she woke up at 4 am and was scared. But I think if she was in her bed she would of done the same - for goodness sake I woke up to the storm. With my baby growing up way too fast we will be moving the bed to her room by the weekend. Her new girly bedding has been ordered. In a very short time she has become very protective of her "new" bed. Yesterday she was in the doorway yelling "Down Zoey, that's my bed!" She quickly changed her mind and decided to call the dog back since she really wants nothing more then to snuggle with the dog. She got her wish even though she didn't know it, but we found the dog snuggled into the blankets as she was sleeping this morning. It was super cute.

As summer is fast approaching us I'm going to make some short term goals:
1) kids scrapbooks caught up by summers end - in my new room that should be easy, right?
2) cleaning is up to date sooner then later - I'm so sick of a messy house
3) blog stays current through August (I said short term goals, remember)
4) and most importantly wonderful memories with my family and friends!

Bye, Bye for now

Water Kids

2010-10-02T17:11:00.004-05:00

I told you that my kids loved the water. Just a few pictures of the lake.

Here is a picture of Payten playing in the water.

Oh don't forget Cody and his 1080 on the knee board this summer!

Riding Bikes and Swimming

2010-09-28T15:29:00.009-05:00

Look at these two goof balls!

We spent a lot of time in the pool or the lake. I have two water babies on my hands that's for sure.

That one was great big brother, do it again!!

Splish Splash :)

Lots and Lots of Rain

2010-09-28T15:09:00.004-05:00

A little bit wet! Yes that was a puddle in our backyard.

Looking for worms.

Playing outside after all the rain last week!

Good bye Summer!!

2010-09-07T15:56:00.003-05:00

Where did our summer go!

I know its been awhile and I promise that I will update tomorrow in full--

Kids are getting too big too fast.

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-06T11:40:00.002-05:00

What a great weekend at the cabin with family and friends!!!!!

We had Cody's camera on the water so when I figure out how to download the pictures I will post them. But as fpr today I need to laundry done, a little bit of cleaning and run to the library with the kids.

After 2 years of trying to get Cody to try the knee board he did it. It was so cool to see him pull himself up and try a few little tricks. He did an awesome job knee boarding a few years ago until the wave took him under and he didn't get out right away. It scared him but now he is back on board ready to go for it.

Now little Payten got mad at Brent when he was going to pull Desirae` behind the boat and Cody was goin with him. She threw her arms out at him and let out a scream. I told her then go get your lifejacket and you can go. She turned and walked down the dock found her life jacket came back and was ready to go. I couldn't believe that she did it!

I really enjoied the fireworks from the lake its so different then if you watch them from your car. The shows that other cabins put on was so neat. Thanks to Laura and Shayne for staying with Payten and having a little snuggle time and putting her to bed.

Pictures soon (I hope)

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-21T10:42:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful Father's Day -- Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there. As a family we spent the day on the lake. Payten and I had to run into town on Saturday the two of us stopped at Scheels and checked out the the tubes for behind the boat. I found the one that I was looking looking for the one with 2 seats. Payten loves the new tube, I think Cody likes it t00. She would just sit there and ride around the lake in the tube. Sometimes talking and she would do her Princess wave to whoever was in the boat. Picture to come......

Fishing!!!

2010-06-09T20:06:00.004-05:00

Cody's new theme song for summer:

(thanks to the original song "Toes" he did a little remix)

I've got my pole in the water,

toes in the sand.

Not a worry in the world

a cold fish in my hand.

Life is good today,

Life is good today.

Its a sunny

its a bass

its got a big big ***!

And I know its a keeper,

as it swims deeper.

Ya!!!

My Buddy Taz

2010-05-25T09:53:00.002-05:00

So yesterday we got plants for our pond, they look great! When I was watering the rest of the plants Payten was out playing with her dog Taz. The two of them love each other. Payten finally got what she has been trying to do this week -- get on him. If only he would give her a ride.

Is it really going to hit 90 degrees today

2010-05-24T08:15:00.002-05:00

It's Monday morning the sun is shining, my coffee is warm, and it so quite here! I'm sure not for long Payten will be up shortly. I tell you she is a true Otto, loves to sleep and man she is a night owl.

Our plan this week -- well clean :(. I'm sure every mother out there knows what I'm talking about when you work all day and have outside projects things seem to just pile up in the house. Its true it doesn't help when you have a 10 year old and a 1 year old that don't pick up there toys and anything else they pull out.

On to the hot weather - sounds like it is going to be a hot, hot week. My flowers are almost all planted. I have the ones around the front trees yet to plant but we pulled out all the old bark yesterday and hopefully in the next day or two we will put some fresh dirt and new bark in place then I will finish up with the planting. Still debating if I should plant in the purple planters out front. If I do anyone got some ideas for me -- looking for something that will up hold a few days with out water here and there.

Payten and I will update pictures this weekend. We have a wedding on Saturday and the lake the rest of the weekend. Got a great offer from Desirae` yesterday to come over and use some of her blooming flowers as a back drop for pictures. So we will have to head down there and get a few shots. And we will post lake pictures I promise.

Have a great week :)

Little Mommy!!

2010-05-19T19:07:00.004-05:00

Payten loves playing mommy! She loves carrying around one of my purses, taking care of her baby dolls, trying to put her baby doll in the stroller, making bottles for baby, and feeding the baby.

Lets go shopping!

Ok so for awhile I was worried that she was taking after the boys to much but I must say my worries are gone. She shined the other day when daddy was telling me how terrible it was that she was busy for the longest time playing mommy. Bring on the trucks and fish this summer boys --little mommy is ready.

PS Last weekend when Dad was golfing with the boys, Mom took the kids to the cabin. Cody (well after many times of saying "I'm bored") went fishing. I believe in the catch and release program now my dad (Papa) on the other hand told Cody that he would clean anything he catches. And he did -- Cody caught 15+ fish! Papa thought it would be funny to give my Princess a worm and she thought it was a gummy worm. Yes she put it in her mouth worm hanging out of both sides. So gross -- I guess she can be a little boy once and awhile!! Wishing I would have gotten a picture but I was so grossed out I made her take it out right away.

Did I tell you that dad has a mowing buddy? They go all over town on the mower. She gets so excited when she hears it start .

Easter

2010-05-17T21:05:00.005-05:00

I know I'm late on this but that's ok!

Here are my kiddo's in a few of our Easter pictures

Eating a treat!

Otto Kids Egg Hunt!

She is off, yes looking for her eggs with candy in hand!

Courtney, Cody, Payten, and Dylan

Prom 2026!!!!

2010-05-12T17:08:00.006-05:00

Payten has had her fair share of Prom pictures this year. Hannah went to prom on April 26 and Jenna went to Nicollet's Prom on May 8.

Don't our girls look so cute!

Watch Out Cole she is getting ready for Prom 2026!!!!!

Payten loves the jems!

Shoes are a girls best friend.

And well make up is the best.

Pre Prom Pictures 2026 :)

Cole can't wait -- just look at that smile.

Daddy this is my little buddy!

It's May!!!!!

2010-05-06T18:00:00.003-05:00

Well I know it's far and few between on the posts these days but some imes I'd rather just go to bed early. And really I'm sure Trav would agree that our home needs lots attention (that's the plan for the weekend by the way).

The cleaning crew will have to get a early start on Saturday morning! Yes the cleaning crew is Mom and Payten. The cleaning crew is also the flower shoppers for the house. On Monday Grandma Peggy, Payten, and I went and did a quick shopping trip. We found the most beautiful hanging baskets. I picked up a few more things the sad part is that the weather sure has decided to take a turn for the worse. What do you know when I buy flowers it gets cold out!!!

Here are few I took with my phone:

I'll try to update more this weekend but I guess it depends how the cleaning crew does!!

Back the Train Up...

2010-04-09T14:16:00.004-05:00

Take a look at what Payten got from Laura and Shayne for her birthday!

Her name is Carmen and yes she is a monkey. But the best part is that Laura made her and her clothes! As some of you know my sister is an outstanding knitter. I think she out did herself on this project. Shayne had to help too he had to sew the buttons on her sweater. For right now she is put up and just for looking at, Payten is a bit too young to play and take good care of her.

Wait until you see the slippers Laura made me for my birthday and the ones she made for Payten. One of my next posts I promise!!

March

2010-04-09T11:07:00.003-05:00

Trying to be one of the boys!

You can now see the reason for the lack of posting. Truly there hasn't been to much excitement in the Otto home. I've been working at school all day and 3 plus nights a week at the rink - so that has left dad home with the kids more often. The kids have tons and tons of fun as you can see in the pictures but if you are asking if the boys play girl things I'm sad to have to say no.

Payten has her own pink monster truck (thanks Grandma Peggy), she is a part of the on going wrestling match, she doesn't scare easily on hide-n-go-seek, and is the (I think) running back of living room football. They are making her into a tom boy and of course it drives me crazy. New plan for summer to teach as much skating during the day so I can be at home at night to play dolls and house with Payten.

The kids just love daddy's bedtime snacks! For a good week it was root beer floats - look at those smiles!

Feburary

2010-04-09T10:44:00.003-05:00

The month of February seemed to fly by! We finished up Cody's hockey season with two more tournaments (5 total for the season), mom working full time, Payten at daycare everyday, dad busy with work too!

We did get a snow day the 2nd week of February Cody just won't give up he said that his sister had to come out and play with him. I finally gave in!

Ok little sister are you ready for a ride?

I love it brother -- lets do it again!

Escape to Mexico

2010-04-09T10:02:00.005-05:00

Yes mom and Desirae` decided last minute to go to Playa del Carmen, Mexico! When I said last minute we mean last minute we booked our trip Jan 26 at 6:30 pm and left on Jan 28th at 6 am we came home on Jan 31. It was a day before I started my long term sub job at Monroe for 2 months.

The beautiful site from the beach!

We had so much fun -early to the beach everyday, ate, had a slushy drink (or two), then to entertainment at night, and then to bed to start all over the next day. Wonderful to only have to worry about me for 4 days. I missed the kids a ton but I'm looking forward to doing it again! Oh don't worry we didn't leave the big boys home alone they headed out on a snowmobile trip. Yes the girls were in 80 degrees and the boys in -10 degrees, I think we got the better end of the deal!

Desirae` thought my kids needed musical instruments.

I promise someday I will take you with little girl.

1st Birthday!!!

2010-04-09T09:28:00.007-05:00

We had a wonderful birthday party despite the week we had prior to her party. The 3 kids kids were sick they all took turns and mom got to clean it up (yes I said 3 kids dad was sick too)! So mom's princess wasn't her normal bundle of fun but she did shine! We had lots of people at our house including Nana and Papa, Grandma and Grandpa, Laura and Shayne, Stacey and Dylan, Hannah, Great Grandpa Larry, and Great Grandma and Grandpa Roberts!

Birthday Theme was........ Princess Pink!!!

This cake tasted better then it looked and I loved the way it looked! If you need a cake place make sure you stop at The Sweet Shop! Cookies are super cute and tasty too.

It was tough to get her to sit next to her cake, I guess she has a mind of her own.

It took her over 25 minutes to open all of her gifts. She is still learning how to do this give her till Christmas 2010 and she will be flying through gift opening.

Hello everyone I'm the Princess!

I'm not ready for bed I'm riding my new horse!

Happy 1st Birthday Payten!!!

2010-04-08T09:08:00.005-05:00

Jan 13th was Payten's first birthday! Where does that first year go? I got a new camera for Christmas this year so I did my own photo shoot. Still working on the editing portion of photo's so if anyone can give me lessons that would be great. But here are a few that are my favorite (yes I took more then 400 photos).

Look at my super cool piggy bank that Laura and Shayne gave me for Christmas.

My birthday hat!

Ok mom I'm tried now!

Now on to her birthday party! That was a rough week for everyone in our house. We were passing around a bug and of course everyone got it but mom. So that left mom cleaning up after all 3 kids. (yes daddy was sick too) Payten wasn't her charming self for her birthday party but we managed to make the best of the night. We had everyone make it Grandma and Grandpa Otto, Nana and Papa, Hannah, Laura and Shayne, Stacey and Dylan, Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Roberts, and Great Grandpa Larry! It sure was a full house.

Happy New Year!!!!!

2010-01-04T16:39:00.005-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! Well we had lots of fun at the cabin this past weekend. And YES we (or should I say Shayne) built an ice rink!!!!

Shayne shoveled the whole rink, on New Years Eve night. Yes he was sore after shoveling over 4 inches of slush.

I have tons of pictures to post but I will try to limit them to the best ones. But as any blogger or scrap booker may know sometimes that is hard to do.

All four of us playing a little hockey on Friday afternoon. Mom might have even taught Cody a thing or two. Just Kidding, Cody!!!!

These pictures were taken on Friday night, around 9 pm we headed back out there. It was 15 degrees below zero!

A quick photo of us girls before Hannah took off her toes were really cold

OK Laura may not be happy about me posted this one but it was so funny that her hair and even her eye lashes were all white.

Can't seem to get the ones of Payten and a few more to upload, I'll try again tomorow!

Christmas at the Otto's

2009-12-30T22:36:00.005-06:00

Wow what a wild long weekend! What I thought would be a fast 2 days but instead it ended up being 4. No not a bad thing but long.

Christmas Eve - Church and to Grandma Peggy and Grandpa Dave home! Lots of fun but a late night, yes our party girl stayed up till 3:00 am with a 45 minute nap around 11 pm.

Ok lets shake this -- my daddy taught me to do that!

Look what I got -- haha Hannah B.

Christmas Day - morning came way too early for 3 of us. Cody on the other hand was up at 8 and ready to open gifts we held him off till 9 am when we woke our little Princess up. Payten was not so sure of opening gifts she needed a break for a bottle half way through gift opening. Cody enjoyed it of course. Santa brought Cody a TV (I can't believe that man I never had a TV hahaha) and Payten got a Little People Playhouse with a SUV with Mom and Baby. After our Christmas we went to my parents to celebrate. Payten got a baby doll and was so excited to get her baby out.

Payten and Santa's Gift

Cody and Santa's Gift

My babies in front of the tree

Let me help brother.

Saturday - off to Zimmerman Christmas after dad had a snow mobile day trip. So you may ask what did the kids and Sarah do, you guessed it we headed into Mankato and went to McDonald's.

Dad with his new snowmobile and Brent

Sunday - we went to Great Grandma Roberts home. Then a little skating at night for mom and for the boys then went on the snow mobile again.

I was trying so hard to get a four generations picture but there was always someone not looking at the camera -- Me, Payten, Grandma Roberts and Grandma (better known as Nana or my mom)

All of the Great Grandchildren (that were at my grandparents Kyle and Kevin are missing) and Hannah B.

Now you may ask what are you doing for the new year!!!! Well dad is off hunting and the kids and mom are heading to the lake. Yes we are having the first annual Barnlund Clan New Years Eve. What are you going to do at the lake in the dead of the winter with all of this snow. I know that you are asking yourself that question. What else would we do ---- build an ICE RINK!!!! I'm super excited :) We'll have lots of fun I'm sure.

Did I tell what I got for Christmas .... A new Camera!!! Lots of pictures are to come of our great weekend I promise!

Twas' the night before Christmas....

2009-12-24T10:35:00.002-06:00

Twas' the night before Christmas.... Too much snow to go to Great Grandma's so we are stuck in town. With one crappy kid and the other being so helpful we are making biscuits and gravy for brunch. Naps will happen sooner then later today. Off to church then to Grandma and Grandpa Otto's to celebrate. When we arrive home, hopefully before Santa comes to town. Children will be tucked in to bed, so the visions of sugar plums can dance in their heads! Then to wake up to see who was naughty or nice in the Otto home this year. Off to Grandma and Grandpa Barnlund's to celebrate with more family. If the weather continues to hold out we may venture to New Ulm for one last celebration.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas. With a detailed report this weekend of our wonderful days ahead.

Guess What...

2009-12-19T11:40:00.005-06:00

Can you believe that Cody is a double digit kido! As a mom I can't believe that he is already 10 were does the time go? We are had our family birthday party on Saturday. It will be fun to watch Payten, seeing if she will try to help her big brother or not. She even had to get her big brother a gift, she has been chasing him down the hall when he gets home from school. Cody has a little shadow if he likes it or not he's got one!

On Thursday she found a present (and of course not hers)! Up to this point she has just been looking at them and touching them. But on Thursday I heard the "rip"! Too cute she just looked up at me and smiled.

Johnson Girls Annual Christmas Baking

2009-12-15T18:16:00.005-06:00

Annual Christmas baking started 5 years ago. We started the first year just on a Saturday after skating school and finishing up on Sunday, less then 24 hours. Well 5 years in we have learned a lot! This year we started Thursday at 4:30 and finished up on Saturday at 6:00 pm. The only 2 things that haven't changed is we pick our date in November for the following year (yes we had 2010 date picked before 2009 happened) and its at my house.

We started this year on Thursday night with the list of things we needed in hand a way we went to Walmart and then to Cubs to finish up the special things we couldn't get at Walmart. Including over 3 pounds of pecans.

My kitchen table after shopping!

Payten getting her first baking lesson from Laura, next year Payten can help!

After making 15 different recipes we had fun putting all of our tins together!

PS a quick hockey update: Cody scored another goal for his team during the Sunday game. Cold rink in Waseca but another fun game for Payten and I to watch.

Snow Day!!!!

2009-12-15T18:09:00.003-06:00

Some pictures from our snow day last Wednesday!

Cody and Payten are playing with the Fisher Price Bus that was Cody's when he was little. I have many pictures of him riding on top of the bus like it is a scooter. So that's how he loves to play with it and Payten. On our snow day he had her lay on her tummy on the top and he pulled her around.

Payten wanted so badly to go out and play with Cody in the snow. Not sure how many times he asked for her to come out and play too, but mean mom said no way.

Quick update!!

2009-12-09T21:54:00.004-06:00

Last weekend we went to Brezzy Point for a hockey tournament! Trav goes with 3 of his friends every year during labor day weekend. So he had lots of fun showing us the places they have stayed and visit when they are up there. As for hockey the boys played awesome on Friday night even though they lost 2 to 5 to Lakeville South. The next game, well that didn't go as well, the boys just didn't seem to play together so that left us to play Sleepy Eye for our last game of the weekend. We ended up winning 6 to 1, with Cody scoring the last goal of the game. So for Cody's score card it would read 2 goals and 2 assists.

Payten is a busy girl. Her 6th tooth has cut through and she can take around 6 steps before she decides that she is still quicker if she crawls. So fun!

I told you she is a busy little girl this isn't the first time she has played with TP so know worries if you come to our house and have to look high and low for the TP its there, just not where it should be.

It is the annual cookie baking weekend with my sister Laura. We have to plan our date over a year ahead of time so that Laura can get Friday off. So it throws a little wrench into other plans that are happening this weekend too. But I know that everyone will understand, we all love our treats!

Hockey Parents!!

2009-11-22T15:27:00.002-06:00

Yes we had our first Hockey Tournament in Huchinson. This year Cody made the Squirt B team for Mankato. He is one of only 5 1st year squirts that made this team. We had two games yesterday, a big eye opener for him playing 2 games in one night. And our 3rd game today. He didn't score any goals close a few times, but had some good passes. No penalty's which I think he was scared about. As parents we learned that at this level things can get pretty intense.

As for little sister she was a trooper. A very good little girl she fell asleep during the 3rd period which was crazy by the end of this period it was 3 - 3. Which sent us into a 5 minute sudden death over time, no goals where scored. Then we went to a shoot out it headed up with us making 2 goals the other team 0 goals. It was pretty cool we ended up with 3rd place in the tournament. Very neat for Cody to have this happen for his first tournament.

Saying Goodbye!

2009-11-20T18:12:00.003-06:00

Were saying good bye to our car seat! And not to good reasons of being to big for it. I did all my research before Payten was born which seat would take us to at least 12 months and I got one that is up to 30 pounds. It was perfect!

Until the car accident, for those of you that don't know it wasn't our fault. Just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Did you know that if your car seat has been in an accident when the airbags are deployed they don't want you to use it anymore? :( SO with that said my plan to have her take pictures in the car seat until at least 12 months is no more! Thanks to Scot and Nan for letting us use Talyn's for awhile. We have a lot to figure out including what type of vehicle to buy. At this point we have decided that we will take our time and do all the research we want before we jump into buying anything, so I will drive Peggy's old car for the time being. Thanks

So here are the last of pictures of my peanut in her car seat!!

1 month old

10 months old

I wasn't kidding you when I said she doesn't like her seat.

WHAT a WEEK!!

2009-11-15T16:24:00.006-06:00

Its been a long week! Too much is going on I'm in need of a break!

Work was for the most part was quiet for me only working on Thursday and Friday in the schools. This coming week is busier which is good.

Payten turned 10 months old on Friday! Still our little peanut. Last week I took her in to the doctor hoping they would tell me I was just being over protective and her fever was from her tooth. But that's not what we heard -- she had a double ear infection. An ear infection never crossed my mind, Cody had one and when he was 5 or 6, never as an infant.

Yes they are both eating suckers.

10 month picture - and yes she is not a fan of just sitting in here seat!

New 9 month pictures!

2009-10-26T22:18:00.007-05:00

Here are just a few of the wonderful pictures we had taken a week ago! Look how big our little girl is getting. Thanks mom and dad for the wonderful backgrounds to take our pictures against:) We have some other photo's to add from the last month too, keep checking back hopefully soon I will have my own snapshots to add soon.

Payten is 9 months

2009-10-18T14:15:00.003-05:00

This past week we celebrate Payten's 9 month birthday.

Well where does she stack up against other 9 month little girls:

Weight 14 lbs 7 oz on the 1st percentile
Height 27 1/4 inches on the 47th percentile

So its official we have a little peanut on our hands!

Now you might be asking does she eat -- all the time! She eats whatever you put in front of her.

She has been crawling for 2 months now and is about to take a few steps, she pulls herself up and walks around tables, toys and anything

Were still here!!

2009-10-18T14:13:00.001-05:00

So sorry for the lack in up dates this past month! We are still here and will update with lots of great info this week I promise.

SEPT 7th

2009-09-07T21:10:00.010-05:00

Ok so here I go with a major catch up since its been forever and a few family members (no names will be mentioned) have reminded me I'm behind.

CODY

Starts 4th grade tomorrow! We have new shoes (that he loves) and a shirt for the 1st day of school. Hockey sign up is Friday and fall hockey will start next weekend (Sept 19th). Other then those milestones not much is going on with him. Besides all the games that him and Princess P play.

DAD

Busy with work. He just got home on Sunday evening from his weekend with the boys golfing. Sounds like they had lots of fun 45 holes on Friday -- I think they are crazy for playing that many holes in one day.

MOM
Will start work tomorrow! This year I have decided that I would let my Para Professional job go and Substitute teach this year. I was fortunate to receive a long term position at Monroe in the Kindergarten till Oct 9th. Then we will see where I go from there.

PAYTEN
I know you are waiting for an update from our Princess.

As my last stated she is on the move, well she is getting very adventures. Pulling herself up on anything that is the right height. Getting into everything and even climbing on things. Silly girl:) Dad got home and started calling her peg leg cause she is pushing as she crawls with her right foot.

Talking well in her own language of course. At night she tends to talk even more like she is telling everyone about her day. And she is so loud when she talks.

Food need I say more she loves food. We went to the state fair and she was going nuts when the 2 of us were sharing a chocolate malt she couldn't get enough. This lady came over to me and asked how old is your little girl my mother and I are trying to figure it out. I'm sure she couldn't believe I was feeding her ice cream. Her favorite treat right now is a freezes her dad and brother can't get away without sharing if she is up. She will eat anything we give her. And loves drinking from her sippy cup.

Daycare we start tomorrow. Dad will drop her off in the morning and I will pick her up. I'm sure it will go great. But I'm a bit nervous when it comes to eating, since she hasn't really had baby food from a jar. Don't worry I packed her some from home just in case she needs it!

Pictures are next!!!

Look what I can do now!

Helping Mom out with the folding.

On the bus to the State Fair - we look like we are tried and our day has just started.

My silly big brother and I.

I have to help Cody with his chores all the time.

Riding my Dad's dog.

Watch Out World Here I Come!!!

2009-08-13T22:04:00.002-05:00

Yes Payten is on the move! Today she is 7 months and started crawling. We all new it was coming she has been moving all around the room but today she was showing off for Daddy when Cody and Mom were gone! I'll post pictures in the morning before we leave for our Friday wedding.

Is it really August!!!

2009-08-11T12:29:00.003-05:00

Were does the time go -- I know I ask that question all the time but seriously it August. Our summer has been slipping right through our hands. Days are getting shorter, can't say its getting colder (its been a weird summer for weather), and its time to start thinking about shopping for Back to School.

Three weeks until Cody goes back to school, Payten will start daycare, and Mom starts subsitute teaching.

Its Already Wednesday!!!!

2009-07-29T15:37:00.002-05:00

Not to much happening this week at the Otto's. We have the annual Otto Camp out this coming weekend hopefully I'll get the camera back tomorrow its been at the shop since last week. So really not much to say.

Barnlund Family Pictures

2009-07-20T23:10:00.010-05:00

The Whole Gang

Our individual family photos

Mom, Dad, and Hannah

Shayne and Laura

And our Family

Thanks Barb for taking our pictures again :)

Big Brother and Little Sister

2009-07-16T20:43:00.008-05:00

I think Cody has fallen even more in love with his little sister then before. He loved her that you could see and he talked about her all the time. But in the last month its unbelievable how much he has fallen for her. Sunday he got her out of bed changed her diaper and took her with him back to his room. I really couldn't tell you how long they were in there talking and playing. Today I caught him playing Teenage Turtles with her. They had the normal turtles out, the baby turtles(these are the ones she got to play with) and the trucks that go with it. She was holding her turtles, laughing and talking Cody was taken his turtle and talk to hers. It was just so darn cute.

Dad came home for lunch today and his little girl woke up just before he had to leave, so he was holding her in his chair and Cody walked by and said hi to Payten. She looked up at him gave her big smile and lunged out of dads arms for Cody. It was so funny!!

He even said to me today when I needed to pull out the pizza you just finish up with supper, I'll finishing feed Payten her peaches.

Playing in Cody's room - trying on his glasses

Cody feeding Payten her Peaches

Watching Big brother play Wii

Trav and I just had this talk the other day our biggest fear is when she starts running around he doesn't decide he wants nothing to do with her. Right now Payten is Cody's 1 fan.

She's 6 Months Old!!!!!

2009-07-16T20:29:00.008-05:00

6 months 1 month

Can you believe it? To be honest I can't. We have our 6 month appointment in the morning, I can't wait to see how much she weights.

What can we do at 6 months:

roll over -tummy to back and back to tummy

sit up forever (ok not forever but its a long time)

starting to army crawl -she gets so mad if her toys are just out of reach so she is starting to figure out a way to get them

Foods -cereal, peaches, pears, peas, zucchini, sweet potatoes, and what ever else she can con someone into making it small enough to give it to her

playing with her toys and her brothers toys

Weight- 13 lbs 4 oz (7th percentile)

Height- 24 1/4 inches (8th percentile)

So just to compare my kids a little bit, (since they are peanuts) Cody is 9 1/2 years old and he only weighted 59 lbs at his check up today.

6 month Pictures

2009-07-10T14:08:00.007-05:00

Here are some of my favorites:

I was so happy with them! There were a lot more too but I'm sure you get the idea from these. Thanks Barb!

Another week gone

2009-07-10T14:02:00.002-05:00

Wow where does the time go. Payten will be 6 months old on Monday. We have our doctor appointments later next week. Kinda funny we have our 6 month and 4 grade well check ups on the same day. Payten is getting so strong, turning on her tummy and back, sitting up, and trying to get on all fours. She is learning how to get to her toys if you put them just out of reach.

July 4th!!!!

2009-07-10T13:53:00.007-05:00

On the 4th we had a nice quite day. We went to the lake the kids had a great time on the boat.

My boat ride, like the pink life jacket!

Cody sure thinks he's smart driving the boat!

My turn daddy -- can't forget to let Payten drive! She looks so serious when she is driving.

Visiting Great Grandma Johnson

2009-07-10T13:50:00.001-05:00

The kids, Laura, Shayne and I all went to visit Grandma Johnson on July 3rd.

Friendly Days

2009-06-29T11:05:00.009-05:00

Payten and Cody enjoyed the weekend. Big brother went on rides with the little sister and both enjoyed the parade.

I sat with Grandma for the parade.

My friend Danica and I.

My brother took me on the Merry-go-Round

Dad and Cody on the cars, this was Cody's favorite ride.

Don't for get the Kiddie Cars the kids got to ride on.

And last ride of the weekend was the Dizzy Dragon!

Daddy even won me a pig from a game.

Play Date/ Slumber party

2009-06-26T07:44:00.006-05:00

Yes we had a late night play date which turned into a slumber party for a little bit. Danica came over last night after I got back from skating. The daddy's had to shoot trap last night.

Busy weekend ahead. I'm sure we will have some pictures by the end of the weekend so stay posted.

Hot Days = Cool Water

2009-06-25T20:22:00.008-05:00

Today was the second day this week we went to the pool at Nana's and Papa's! The first day the water was still cold but today it was nice. We put little girl in the pool and she didn't like it. But with some time she started to warm up to the idea of the water.

Hannah and Payten, she didn't like it at all when she was put into her tube.

I like it much better when my big brother helps me and talks to me when we are in the pool.

Sweet Peas!!

2009-06-23T14:11:00.002-05:00

Well the first night she didn't think so much of her peas but now she is a eating them like a pro. Next to try -- sweet potatoes! Pictures soon I promise.

Mommy's thumb sucker

2009-06-19T10:36:00.004-05:00

Yes I believe we have a thumb sucker on our hands. It is so interesting to me how some children take a nuk and others don't. And that my children seem to pass that stage and go right for there hands. Cody sucked on his right pointer finger and Payten has found her thumb. Once we figured out what she was up too we got a picture of it.

Cookie Monster

2009-06-19T10:23:00.007-05:00

We have a Cookie Monster in our house!

Daddy will let his little girl have anything she wants, when it comes to food. She is so funny when people are eating she has to be right up here with us or tasting it too. Today I'm going to make peas we'll see how she likes them!

5 months

2009-06-15T11:18:00.003-05:00

WOW can you believe that Payten is 5 months old all ready!! Its crazy.

Busy Weekend!!!

2009-06-15T11:00:00.003-05:00

Again another weekend flew by :( We had a Graduation Party we attended in Prior Lake (Congrats Spencer!) on Saturday. And on Sunday we dug out the boat from storage and started working on the battery and mom did a little cleaning inside it.

We then decided it was way to late in the day to head to Lake Tetonka and not knowing if the boat would be ready we went for a boat ride with Brent and Des on Lake Washington. Way cool boat. I know what your thinking Did Payten go? You bet she went. Did she like the ride with the life jacket? Not sure what she would say about the life jacket but she enjoyed her ride. I think the saddest part of her ride was that the life jacket was so big in the front that she couldn't get her fingers in her mouth. But over all she did a great job. Once we got home she was telling us her story you could ask her about the ride and she was all giggles. Sorry I was a bad mom and forgot the camera next boat ride I will for sure get lots of pictures to post.

BIG GAL FOOD

2009-06-11T11:31:00.008-05:00

Little Gal Payten loves her cereal and we even tried Papa's mash potatoes.

I like Papa's potatoes!

I found some cute pictures of Cody and Payten playing together. If you have ever seen Cody's scrapbooks there are pictures of Aunt Laura doing a similar thing.

Making it soft for my little sister!

First Night of Baseball

2009-06-11T11:20:00.004-05:00

Here are the highlights: Cody's team plays 6 innings or 2 hours. (yes 2 hours) The boys pitch even innings the coaches the odd. For the first time they play 3 outs or 7 runs!!! Tuesday and Thursday's you will be able to locate us a ball field, nice part is that all Thursday games are in Nicollet.

Cody' first night of pitching. He did a good job I thought, better then I could do that is for sure.

Saturday June 6th 5:56pm

2009-06-08T09:19:00.008-05:00

Payten and I had a talk a few weeks ago when she looked like she was going to roll over. I told her she had to do it for the first time at night or when school was out. Because I wanted to be the first to see it.

Saturday was the first night mom was away from Payten over night. We had a wedding in Lakeville so the kids went to Grandma Peggy and Grandpa Dave's for the day. Dad got a call (really a few missed calls), it was Cody. We talked to him and he told us that Payten rolled over at 5:56!!! The message he left was so cute. Go figure she waited until I was done with school and I still missed it. But with Cody's message I didn't care, he was a super proud big brother that he saw it for the first time and was able to call us and tell us all about it.

So Sunday she had to show off her stuff, she rolled from her back to tummy and back again. These are the pictures I got

Trying to get over

Here I go

I made it

Daddy... Hannah Did It

2009-06-08T09:13:00.005-05:00

So Friday night Cody was at a birthday party and Trav had a golf tournament. I found a sitter for Payten, so I could join Trav for happy hour. Hannah was ready to babysit and had big plans for the two of them!

Yes she painted her toe nails!

And then they went for a walk and stopped at the swings for the first time.

Wrap up from the last two weeks

2009-06-05T08:45:00.004-05:00

Woo hoo.... lots to catch up on. First Thanks to our parents for taken care Miss Payten for the last 7 weeks. Because of them I never worried about her and she never had to deal with colds, pink eye, or any of that stuff you can catch at daycare. And I know that they had lots of fun with her. She knows how to flash that smile at them all and boy can my mother and her have there little talks. Its so cute to watch Payten look at her and just talk.

Last week Grandma Peggy took Payten to see Great Great Grandma, and Great Grandpa Larry came along for the ride.

It was a busy few weeks. Cody started baseball so we have been having practice 2 nights a week, I've golfed a few times, Dad has hit a few more golf course, and our quite weekends seem to fly by.

SUMMER IS HERE!!!!!

2009-06-04T16:16:00.002-05:00

I'm done --- its official --- school is out! Cody was done yesterday and I'm done today. Sorry I know some of you out there don't like me right now. So look for a nice long up date in the next few days and some good pictures too. In between pool time and cleaning the house I should be busy.

Hi from the Otto's

2009-05-23T11:03:00.007-05:00

Good morning to all! It was another busy week at our home with planting flowers, the garden, dad golfing, work and school. Seems like the days fly by even faster now. I hope that it slows down for summer.

Cody has 7 days left of school and mom 8 days left, again I'm not counting! Hoping to have a relaxing weekend ahead of us but we all know how that goes. Planting the rest of my flowers today and a graduation party after that. Tomorrow we are all going to visit Shayne and Laura. The girls are going to flower shop (maybe hit the farmers market) and the boys are going to go golfing and to golf galaxy. Then we'll come home and visit friends. Monday mom and the kids will relax and dad is doing a golf tournament.

Did I tell you all that the girls and I are trying a new summer thing, Monday night Girls Golf. By no means am I good but it sure is fun.

This week I did find a little time to try a home photo shoot for her 4 months. Here's what I got:

Here's a silly one she was falling over when I snapped it

Here is a picture of Danica and Payten there Daddy's were letting them show off there legs. Give them 16 years in Prom Dress and my guess is those Daddy's won't be as happy.

Rainforest Jumperoo

2009-05-16T16:25:00.002-05:00

Here is the newest toy that was put together for Payten. She seems to like it. She's is still a little short to get it to move the way its supposed to go but give her time and she'll be a jumping machine.

4 Months

2009-05-14T18:40:00.005-05:00

Look who's 4 months old:

Payten Jean

Weighs - 11 lbs 12 oz

Height - 23 1/4 inches

All the moms out there know about the percentiles the kids are put into, she was placed in the teen's for everything :)

So you may be asking well what can she "do":
-Smile some may say she can smile on command
-Drool, maybe a sign of teething
-Hold her head up for as long as I have been typing and looking at her during this post
-Sleeping through the night, well that has been for along time but no changes in sleep pattern
-Picking up toys to play with
-Hold her bottle, with a little help from a blanket or pillow
-Grab hair
-Giggling she seems quite ticklish under her arms
-Tell stories, so watch out babysitters she might tell on you
-Almost rolling over

I'm sure there is more and I'm not remembering them all. So in the next few weeks if I remember more I'll post them in the up coming few weeks.

One last thing 14 days till summer vacation, we can't wait in our house.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T12:12:00.003-05:00

Another week has come and gone! Can you believe its already May and Payten is only a few days shy of 4 months? I can't! Seems like it wasn't that long ago we were in the doctors office checking my blood pressure every other day. Or it was about a year ago when Trav and I found out we were expecting. Crazy -- remember when you were a kid and the months seemed like forever to go by. Must come with age that time flies.

Last count only 18 days left of school for this year but really who's counting, I'm not! Ok maybe I am. We have another not so busy week ahead of us and I'm sure it will become just as crazy as the last 3 weeks were.

Payten seems to really like going to visit Nana, Grandma and Stacey when I'm at work. She knows how to flash those great big smiles all the time. She is starting to giggle -- about the weirdest things. One day this week I was changing her diaper and talking to her and she just started to laugh at me I couldn't do anything but laugh at her which turned into quite a silly moment. She is drooling all over which makes me think that she might be teething and boy oh boy can she twist. We think that she is going to roll over but its a trick she gets up on her side and gives up. Soon she will be rolling all over and we will be thinking of the time we were safe to leave her on the bed while we brush our teeth.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all!! I wish you all a special day -- try to enjoy a simple day. Spend a few moments thinking about your baby's. Even if your they are grown think of a few special moments you shared with them when they were kids. And if your children are still at home smile at them take a moment to enjoy the smile you will get back.

Time!!

2009-04-29T16:34:00.005-05:00

Where does the time go? 2 days left of the work week -- how busy we become. Really I'm trying to catch up here, thank goodness nothing much has been going on here. Mom is back to work, trying to keep up on laundry, cooking, cleaning. Ok so Trav is gone for supper tonight I'm so excited I'm not cooking. And I'll be honest cleaning is on the back burner. I rather sit and hold Payten or sleep at night. The kids and I are going to lay low on this rainy evening.

We had a quite weekend as well, helped Hannah with her hair for Prom on Saturday and Sunday we stayed home. Here are a few pictures:

Hannah and Payten

Cody teaching her the tricks on his game

Back to Work

2009-04-23T21:34:00.002-05:00

TGIF woo hoo!!!! Its been a long week, yesterday I got up and was glad it was Thursday. Then I thought again it was only Wednesday. Its been good to be back to work but when a little girl (I won't name any names) sticks out her bottom lip and wrinkles her eyebrows it breaks my heart. She makes me sad the little goof knows just when to play the game. Poor daddy in 12 years:)

It makes things a lot better knowing that she is with family for the most part when I'm at work right now. The worse part of being with family is that I can never thank them enough -- So thank you just in case I forget!

We'll write more this weekend -- enjoy the beautiful weather

Daddy Daycare

2009-04-19T10:16:00.004-05:00

When Cody and I got home from the ice show last night this is what we came home too:

Too cute :) One more show to go!

Bitter Sweet Weekend

2009-04-18T12:22:00.002-05:00

We have 2 shows left of "Charie and the Candy Factory on Ice" it will be nice to be done. Its been a really long week! But once the show ends this means I'm going back to work Monday. Not sure how I'm feeling about it. I have a feeling I'll have a long week ahead of me -- but we can do it.

Oh.... Payten went to her first ice show last night I have a really cute picture on my phone of her watching the show I'll try to up load it!

Dr. Visit for Toe

2009-04-16T17:28:00.002-05:00

We visited Dr. Springer again today. He noticed the same changes Trav and I saw with her toe, it has moved. The Dr. decided that she will not need another cast right now. The plan is to tape the toe in the the right spot for the next 2 months. I was glad we didn't need another cast right now (we did take a nice long soaking bath this afternoon just in case we did get another). We were able to see that her toe does go right into the correct spot and will stay there until she wiggles her toes. So with the tape he believes that it will continue to stay in the right spot.

Today is the Day

2009-04-15T08:23:00.005-05:00

Today is the day I get to soak of her cast. At the OFC our doctor doesn't want to cut off the cast so this afternoon (when Cody gets home from school) we will soak it in warm water and vinegar. We have another doctor appointment tomorrow at 3:20 so we will see what happens. The one thing I know for sure Payten will have a few baths in the next 24 hours --she loves to sit and soak, splash, and smile in the bath. Is she all girl or what :)

Oh No!!

2009-04-15T08:20:00.008-05:00

Guess what I forgot to do..... Payten turned 3 months on Monday!

Here's her picture:

3 months 2 months

1 month

My Puppy Cousin

2009-04-13T12:54:00.003-05:00

My auntie Laura and uncle Shayne have a baby girl. When she came to Easter we got to see her all dressed in her Easter dress. So we had to have a little photo shoot.

Payten and Cousin Dazzle

Recovering from Easter

2009-04-13T12:42:00.006-05:00

On the hunt for our baskets!

Sitting with our loaded baskets from the Easter Bunny.

All dressed up and ready.

We had lots of fun yesterday. When we got home we were ready for bed. Mom and the kids slept in this morning :)

Easter Dress

2009-04-11T10:37:00.001-05:00

Happy Bunny Day!!

2009-04-10T15:58:00.010-05:00

Easter traditions!!! What did you do for Easter when you were a child? Decorate eggs, look for hidden plastic eggs, go to Grandma's for dinner! Well as a very young child we would go to my god parents house to decorate Easter eggs -- the real dye, I still look back at pictures and can remember those nights. As this tradition ended it was because life got to busy, what did we do to "Save" time. You know the plastic wrap that you put over the egg, put it into boiling water for 10 seconds. The total time it takes to do a dozen eggs is 5 minutes. I sat and teased my mother about the plastic wrap eggs today -- as my mom, Cody and I did there eggs. Cody was laughing at me, he just couldn't believe that's what we did. They did dye eggs for the first time in years. It was fun.

So last night we did our Easter eggs. This was the first year I really was able to watch and let Cody just go for it. Things stayed clean and he did lose interested after 5 eggs. It was a lot of fun. Payten didn't get to do her own eggs but she watched and did a wonderful job smiling at the camera.

Cody has really figured out how to make his little sister smile. He has this little Easter song he'll sing to her and she will smile away at him. We are going to my parents house for dinner on Sunday. Then we will celebrate with the Otto Family later that day. Lots of fun :)

Chores for Payten

2009-04-09T19:38:00.009-05:00

Cody wonders why in the world Payten doesn't have to do chores around the house too. So here are a few pictures with the new things Payten can do!

Payten can clean out the dish washer! Watch out big brother she might get you.

She loves to help with Thursday Pizza night.

Toe!!!

2009-04-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

You may know that Payten's 4th toe on her right foot is crossed over her 2nd and 3rd toes. Yes it folds right over the top. Our doctor told us the day he first saw her and at her 2 month visit that once she was standing and walking on it, it would straighten out. It was just the way she was packaged inside. The more we looked at it and thought about it we wanted a 2nd opinion. We really wanted to see if there was something that we could do about it now instead of waiting until she was older. This way we figured it wouldn't even bother her now to get it fixed. My worry was in 5 years she would have to have surgery on it to get it fixed. And she would have to deal with it when she is walking.

So we saw Dr. Springer at the OFC in Mankato this morning. As far as he could see the bones look good and it was just the tendon in her toe that needs to be stretched out. Then came our news, she is going to get a cast for two weeks! We will remove it and then the next day go in for a check up and we are guesses another cast. How long will she be wearing the cast you ask! Not really sure it all depends on how the tendon grows. Our best guess is a couple months.

Then we are waiting to get the cast at OFC and what does mom remember I don't even have a picture of her toe the way it was. We took one with my phone so it isn't as good as it could be but its better then nothing.

I'm hoping to hold off big brother until after her Easter dress pictures to sign the cast. We are having them on Saturday afternoon. I guess we won't need the tights I bought to go with the dress :) I'm glad we are getting it taken care of now vs. later.

Perfect Monday Morning

2009-03-30T09:08:00.000-05:00

Hello to all my friends! Doesn't it feel like time goes way to fast. Payten is helping me type this morning -- she is getting so big. So as I type she is sitting on my lap snuggling and making her baby noise with arms moving like she is telling her story. We have 3 weeks until I go back to work. I'm looking forward to working with the kids and seeing my teacher friends but I all ready know I will miss Payten. I'm glad that we'll have time this summer to hang out with big brother he really likes his little sister. He's still learning that you shouldn't wake a sleeping baby from her naps. He's not afriad to pick her up and cart her around or even change a few diapers!

Daddy decided to take Payten on Saturday morning when Cody and I went to skating school. Normally she comes with and hangs out with us in the office but since she had to go to show practice the night before and she helped me play ice show music. Daddy wanted her to stay with him, sounds like they had lots of fun. They went to Grandma's, to the shop, and to see Joe. When mom got home at 2:30 she was looking for her little girl (I really was missing her) and they were still gone :(. When they came home I was thrilled to see her and since Cody went to play at a friends house and Dad had to go look at a job, we took a well needed nap!

On April 9th my Grandma and Grandpa Roberts (my mother's parents) will celebrate their 60th Wedding Aniversery. So there children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren surprised them at Whiskey River for supper on Saturday night. It was lots of fun, I think my grandma thought that there was something up when my uncle drove them to Mankato and they didn't stop for dinner they kept going! It was cute.

We are done with hockey for the winter season! Our last game was yesterday afternoon Cody was excited to play. We need a break its been a busy month with games and practices 3 times a week. Yes I know he will be a Squirt next year and it will be that busy all season. Hopefully it will be a bit shorter. Now I just need to find a camp or two that will help him get ready for next year.

Big Weekend

2009-03-16T12:03:00.001-05:00

What a fun weekend! Thanks to our awesome babysitters both nights. We had a busy weekend with Brent and Desirae` wedding. But we sure had lots of fun. Wish I would have remembered my camera I would have posted a picture of the happy couple. Take my word for it everything was just beautiful.

Payten did great at least that's what they told me. She continued to sleep great even though we had our shots. I'm hoping that she is the same as Cody, he didn't like them but he seemed to be just fine after the fact.

2 months

2009-03-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

Today we had our 2 month check up! How big we are getting, according to the percentiles she is in the upper teens compared to other children her age. So really she is just a peanut, but we all think she is getting really big. We got shots today, she was not a happy camper with the nurse. Hoping that the weekend goes well, since we have sitters coming both Friday and Saturday nights.

2 months

2 months
9 lbs 7 oz
21 1/2 inches long

1 month

Mankato Mite Purple vs. Sleepy Eye Mite

2009-03-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

Cody played in his first real hockey game this past Saturday (March 7). Up till this point they have just play in house games. So when we got the call for the game on Saturday of course he was going to want to go. We traveled to Sleepy Eye for the game. Cody had lots of fun. He even scored a goal he would be sure to tell you that it was in the 5 hole. The final score was 6 - 5 and Mankato won. We all had lots of fun at the game, it has changed so much since he started. He is starting to get aggressive, get in there to fight for the puck, and learn the rules of the game. Cody is in purple and number 24.

When is it too early to Potty Train??

2009-03-08T22:40:00.000-05:00

Payten doesn't always go Poop everyday. So tonight was the big one! We decided to take our bath and once I undressed her down to her diaper I discovered a mess. After yelling a few times for Dad to come help he didn't come, so we headed out into the cold to get our wipes. After we started our clean up she kept going. We started to run out of space in the diaper, whats a mom to do? Put her on the potty I guess! She did both jobs. After we yelled at Dad he came with some hesitation. He left and came back with the camera. Here's the proof:

So is 2 months old to early to start potty training???

Way too long!

2009-03-05T08:33:00.000-06:00

Its been too long. Where does the time go. Wednesday the 25th was our wedding anniversary, 3 years. So the kids went to my parents while we went to "Neighbors" for dinner. That was the first time either of us had eaten there, it was very tasty. On the 28th Trav and I both attended bachelor and bachelorette parties, so Peggy came to babysit on Saturday night. Grandma had a fun night babysitting all her grandchild. The above two events were the first times that Payten was without mom or dad. She did wonderful and the grandparents had fun too!

Almost for got about our trip to the Grand Rios Water park in Brookland Park. We spent the night there on the 21st, the Bode Family joined us, as well as Cody's friend Colton. It was a nice park and we had lots of fun. I would say that I even had fun going down the water slides. Wasn't so sure I loved the idea of swimsuit attire when I haven't seen the sun in months but oh well. Connor was the only one that wasn't sure of the water, Payten slept most of the time we spent in the water park. Next year I'm sure Connor will love it and he'll be the friend to help Payten in the water!

Cody coming out of the slide!

Colton's turn was next to come out of the slide!

Hurricane Slide

The Boys in the lazy river

Cody has 3 weeks left of hockey. The big tournament starts next week to be honest I love him playing but a season that starts in October and goes til the end of March is too long for us. He made the Level 5 team in January (its an advanced team that certain players were picked for extra ice) We have been doing our best to get him to the extra practices but some days it doesn't happen. So we will have hockey Saturday, Sunday, and Thursdays can't wait for the 29th to come for it to be over. The only bad part is once hockey is over we start ice show practices for mom, good thing its not that much extra time at the rink. The ice will go out right after the ice show (April 16 - 19) and then won't start back up til June 8th.

Payten is getting big. Lots of smiles and laughs. Nights for the most part are going good. She is sleeping at least 4 hours sometimes up to 6 hours at night. Once and awhile she pulls her night owl tricks, guess she has some of her parents in her. Monday night she didn't give up and go to bed until 1:00 am, yes that was the day this week mom was up at 7:00 that morning with out a cat nap what a long day:)

I'll get some pictures up of the kids in the next few days. After practice on Saturday I'll post some of my hockey super star and of the little sister at practice too!

Hanging Out

2009-02-23T16:16:00.000-06:00

Check out my boots! Auntie Laura made them for me.

Payten and Mom were having a little play time.

So Honey Bunny (the dolls name) and Payten had time to play. Look closely and you can see a little chubby tummy on Payten.

Sleeping Beauty

2009-02-18T08:07:00.000-06:00

Are we just growing or are we getting our nights figured out? The last two evenings we have fallen asleep around 10 up just before 2 then sleeping til 6:30 or 7. Yes this morning I woke her up at 7:15 to change her and feed her. Mom and Dad had a little talk with her how we need to start staying awake more during the day and sleep at night. So that's what we have been doing trying to stay awake more during the day. Lets put it this way Mom has had two wonderful nights of sleep, and Payten seems just as happy.

Friends Sharing the Chair

2009-02-15T14:17:00.000-06:00

Shortly after this photo was taken I heard a rumble coming from Payten. So I shared with her that I would check it out in a few minutes, I wanted to make sure she was done. Then seconds later Zoey got up out of the chair, she headed to the floor where I was sitting. I soon found out why she left the area. Wow --- that one was good!!!

1 Month Picture

2009-02-15T14:07:00.000-06:00

Princess "P"

One Month Old

2009-02-15T12:36:00.000-06:00

Princess "P" (aka Payten) -- This is what Cody likes to call her. She was one month old on Friday. Where does the time go! Looking back at pictures of Cody I always thought that i would never forget how little he was or that first tooth. But now that he is nine (yes nine) its amazing how much you do forget. Lets hope that with this blog I'll remember all the little things to put into Payten's scrapbook. So, as much fun as it is to add pictures and little notes about us. This is really a blog for me so that I don't forget all the little things.

Happy Belated Valentines to all! Looking out the window it feels like spring. Let hope it stays beautiful till spring really arrives. I'll post our one month home photo later. She looks so small in her car seat without her snowsuit. ;)

Payten's Baptism

2009-02-12T09:56:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pictures from baptism on Sunday Feb 8, 09.

The gown that she is wearing was made by my Grandma Johnson both Laura and I wore it for our baptisms.

Mom, Dad, and Payten. With her sponsors Stacey, Laura and Shayne

Big Brother Cody and Payten!!
Mom's cutie pies

Getting Bigger

2009-02-10T09:09:00.000-06:00

Miss Payten's is So Big

Jan 13 6 lbs 6 oz Length 18 1/2
Jan 18 5 lbs 14 oz
Jan 27 6 lbs 6 oz Length 18 3/4
Jan 30 6 lbs 10 oz
Feb 10 7 lbs 8 oz

She is getting so big! Our newborn outfits maybe have another 2 weeks, then on to a bigger size. I need to take pictures of her in all her little girl outfits so I can put them in the scrapbook. Fun thing about her out growing her NB outfits is that she has so many cute 0-3 month clothes to start wearing.

Hello

2009-02-09T13:38:00.000-06:00

Hello to all of our family and friends! As much as I have said I wouldn't have a blog I think it might be an easy way to share Payten and Cody's pictures and tell you a little about about us. So stay tuned!!