Adventures of the VanderZwaags

Our first Chirstmas Party

2011-12-19T19:06:00.004-05:00

We had my mom's side of the family Christmas this past Saturday. We had supper and then the younger kids got to open gifts and the adults/older kids got to play BINGO. It was a fun night and Bo stayed awake for the whole party! Good thing he had taken a good afternoon nap!! Morgan and Bo before supper

An attempt at taking a picture of the younger grandkids and great grandkids. (minus Bo and Autumn...Autumn had left and I'm not sure why I didn't put Bo in the the picture!! Duh!!!) I only took about 10 pictures and this was the best one on my camera.

Visiting Santa

2011-12-19T19:04:00.002-05:00

Morgan had been asking to go and see Santa all day last week Saturday (the 10th). So we finally gave in and took her and Bo to the mall. We waited for a little bit and when it was our turn she barely wanted to sit by him or talk to him. Really? Plus, Santa called Bo a girl...shouldn't he know! :)

3 months old

2011-12-19T18:35:00.008-05:00

Bo Ryan:

I don't know what you way exactly but I would say you are close to 15 pounds

You wear 3-6 month clothes

You wear size 1 diapers

You eat roughly every 3 hours but can go longer. You eat about 5-6 ounces at a time

You continue to be an awesome night time sleeper which mommy is VERY thankful for! You wake up about 6:30 and eat. Then fall asleep on the way to the sitter and wake up anywhere between 10 and 12.

You love sporting events (and attended many football games the first few months). Now we have moved on to basketball. You attended your first girls basketball to watch Courtney and also have been to a few boys games!

We love you Bo and look forward to what the next month brings us!

Our little drummer girl

2011-12-05T19:04:00.003-05:00

We had Bo's baptism yesterday (which will have to be posted some other day since I don't have the camera with me) Afterwards we had lunch at church and Morgan decided to play on the drums. My cousin Lindsey would be proud...she has rhythm!!!

Halloween

2011-11-21T18:31:00.002-05:00

We went Tricker Treating to my parents, grandparents and aunts/uncles in Hamilton and then we went around our house to the neighbor, aunts/uncles and Neal's parents. Morgan had a costume change in between Hamilton and Olive Center. The ghost costume just wasn't working for us! We had a ton of fun but it was a long day for all of us since that was my first day back to work!

2 Months

2011-11-21T18:08:00.005-05:00

Bo Ryan:

At your 2 month check up you were 13lbs and 23 1/4 inches long (4 lbs from your 2 week check up! Mommy stilll calls you tank)
You have many other nicknames (Bolicious, Bo Friend, Bo Jingle)
You wear 3-6 month clothes (and have out grown your newborn clothes which made mommy really sad)
You wear size 1 diapers
You eat every 3 hours (4 ounces)
You have been sleeping all night from 9:30/10 until 6:30!! :) however you haven't been a great napper during the day (I think you miss mommy!)
You smile a lot and are starting to talk and occasionally have giggled (you giggled at Uncle Dwight)

We love you Bo and look forward to what the next month brings us!

1 Month

2011-10-18T17:37:00.005-04:00

Bo Ryan:

You are one month old already! Where is the time going? We are enjoying watching you grow!

Here is what you are up to...

At your 2 week check up you were 9lbs 3oz and 21 1/2 inches long (that's almost 2lbs and a whole inch since birth. You have gained the nickname Tank from Mommy)
You wear newborn clothes but are starting to grow out of them
You wear size 1 diapers (only because Mommy didn't want to buy any more newborn)
You eat every 3 hours and at night can 4-5 hours at a time
You sleep for about 2-3 hours at a time during the day and 4-5 hours at a time at night
You love to be held
You are starting to smile and are becoming more alert

We love you Bo and look forward to what the next month brings us!

HE'S Here!!!

2011-09-19T05:12:00.003-04:00

Bo Ryan entered the world Sunday, Sept. 18th at 10:06am. He weighed 7lbs-9oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. Lots of dark hair and long fingers. He is well loved (and very protected by his big sister!!) We are all doing really well! I'll try and post more pictures soon (and the whole story if you're interested!)

We're still here

2011-09-12T17:55:00.003-04:00

Since I have been harassed by a certain friend (not naming names...Carrie)

We have been super busy at the VanderZwaag house! Baby VZ is suppose to arrive sometime this week (sooner then later would be nice!!). I started a new job. I got hired to teach Head Start for Allegan County in Fennville. They had no clue I was expecting (not sure how they missed that but...thankful for the opportunity. I have been busy getting my classroom ready. The kids start next Monday and I won't be starting with them. I will be back the week of Halloween.

Morgan has been adjusting to the early mornings. We decided to not do preschool (at least not the first semester). She's ready for the baby to come! She also has been enjoying the cooler weather and loves playing outside!

Neal is knee deep...maybe neck deep in football. He has his first game this week (hopefully he'll make it since I've been joking the baby will come at 4:45 that day!!)

We have done a few different things this summer too. Morgan and I went camping for a weekend with my family. We also went to the Hudsonville Fair twice. In August, we all went to the John Ball Zoo. I was Morgan's first trip. Neal last went when he was in 7th grade and I went when I was 16. It's been a few years and a few things have changed!! Overall, we had a great time!

We anxiously await the arrival of our little one! I will try to up date pictures once that happens!

42 days or 6 weeks...

2011-08-05T13:29:00.002-04:00

Wow...in 6 weeks (or less...work with me baby) we are going to be parents of 2! This pregnancy has flown by and I'm in complete amazement of the wonderful blessing that God has created in me. I can't believe that we are so close to being done!

This past week Morgan and I went to a Big Sister/Big Brother class with Lydia and Avery. I was interested to see how the class would go (and of course how Morgan would do). I'm proud to say that she listened well and was all excited to tell Neal everything that she learned when she got home. I think she is so ready to be a big sister (even though her world is going to be rocked upside down!)

We can't wait to meet this little blessing that likes to stick it butt into my ribs every time I sit down or get ready to eat! :) We're so thankful to God too for blessing us once again!

Can't wait to meet you little one...

4 years old

2011-07-25T17:57:00.005-04:00

Morgan Lynn:

Where or where has the time gone? We can't believe that you are 4 already! This time has gone by so quickly and we are so thankful for you! You are a huge blessing in our lives and can't imagine life without you! Each day you amaze us by what you know and say!

You just had your 4 year check up and you weigh 44.25lbs and are 41 inches tall! You are growing big and strong and we are so thankful for that! You are becoming a beautiful young lady!

Some highlights of what you know...

You know all your colors, shapes, count to 30, say your ABC's and can recognize numbers 1-9

Talk consistently (we're sure you talk in your sleep) and say the funniest things sometime. You also put lots of words in sentences!

You are able to write your name and recognize the letters in your name (in other places)

You love being outside (riding your bike, doing your slip 'n slide and playing on your swing set)

You love books and snuggling with Mom and Dad

You're almost potty trained during the day (some days you do really well and other days you have "askidents"

You love babies and are going to be a great big sister

Morgs, Mommy & Daddy love you so much. We can't wait to see what this year brings!

Morning at the Salon

2011-06-06T12:15:00.002-04:00

A promise that we made to Morgan was if she went 7 days without any potty accidents she could go to Denise's work (Tech Center) and get her nails done! Well, she finally did it! So she was able to get a manicure and of course I needed a pedicure!! I see a few more trips to the salon in our future!! Plus, a shout out to the tech center...they are cheap!! :)

Rural Rush 2011

2011-06-04T09:19:00.000-04:00

This year I decided it would be best to walk and not run the 5K! As, I write this I'm wondering why I did that! I can't barely move this morning! However, I enjoyed the 3.1 mile walk with my mom! It is always a fun road race in the BIG town of Overisel! It's always fun to see so many people that I don't see that often.

Add to the 5k walk, Morgan wanted to do the mile fun run. We ran some but walked most of it. She did better then last year and I think enjoyed it a little more! We'll see what next year brings! She's already asking when she gets to do it again!

Love the cropped off picture...we have better ones on Neal's camera!

Memorial Day Weekend 2011

2011-06-04T09:15:00.006-04:00

We had a busy Memorial Weekend. I was off on Friday and had my 24 week check up. The baby is doing well and continues to grow! Morgan was excited to help again! She enjoys putting me up in the air for some reason! We didn't do a lot at night since Neal had to work all three nights at Marro's!

Saturday we had my cousin's open house and my nephew's 1st birthday! Can't believe he is 1 already! Traycen is growing up so much! Love the way he and Morgan play with each other!

Sunday we headed to church and then we were suppose to head to the campground to visit my grandparents. However, mother nature changed that plan and we ended up going to friends house with my grandparents/aunts/uncles/cousins for supper! It was just as fun. The rain did stop so we were able to still go to the campground for a fire!

We were able to continue our Memorial Day tradition this year (last year the parade was canceled!) We headed to Zeeland to see Grandpa Zwaag march. The parade was good and Morgan's favorite part was the fact that the fire trucks didn't blow their sirens! (she doesn't like the loud noise) . We also got to see Ryan in the fire truck!

After the parade we went to the cemetery. We did the service there and then had our annual picture with Grandpa Zwaag. This has become a tradition too! She's a little bigger then the first one! After the cemetery we walked/rode our bike on the memory walk to the township hall. Morgan made it about 3/4 of mile on her bike before daddy saved us and drove her the rest of the way! This year there wasn't the Olive Diner (which I was very disappointed about) however they still did have a good lunch and an ice-cream wagon! (need my calcium!)

After lunch we went back home and worked outside. Morgan ran in the sprinkler for much of the afternoon. Grandpa Tom & Grandma Cris came over with her "new" swing set. So then she played on that for a while too! (Thanks Hemmeke's for the new swing set! I'm sure it will get lots of good use!!) We enjoyed steaks on the grill for supper! A good way to end the weekend and start summer!!!!

Last Day of Preschool

2011-06-03T11:50:00.000-04:00

May 26th was Morgan's last day of preschool. We were suppose to have a picnic but because of the wonderful Michigan weather that week we had to cancel it! Morgan had a great 1/2 year of preschool and loved her teachers too! It was so good for her to interact with others and learn too! We will miss it this summer but hopefully she will be able to go to Borculo Christian in the fall with some of her VanderZwaag cousins!

Morgan was very crabby this day so we didn't get a picture with her teachers...instead this is what we got!

Tulip Time

2011-06-03T11:42:00.003-04:00

This year we went down and watched my cousin Allison dutch dance on a Friday night. We didn't get any junk food (minus the quick cotton candy for Morgs) and we didn't walk much downtown either. I had rear ended someone on the way home that day so we decided we would quick see Allison and then head to ER to check on the baby! Everything was fine and we praise God that no one was hurt!

As you can tell, Morgan was being her "normal" self!! She didn't want a picture with just Allison so I had to sit in too but they she wouldn't sit up! AH!!

A nicer one in the parking lot...oh my child!

Morgan and I did go down and watch the Saturday parade with my aunt and cousins. After watching the radar all morning...we finally decided to bit the bullet and go! Glad we did! It turned out wonderful and we enjoyed the parade!

Hopefully next year we will be able to take in more of the festivities and of course the junk food!!!

Field Trip

2011-05-30T12:00:00.002-04:00

Morgan was able to go on a field trip with her preschool class to a farm. The weather was iffy (we actually had to cancel the morning group) so we were very excited we got to go in the afternoon. It turned out to be wonderful!

Morgan also saw many different animals and got to feed them and brush them. She saw donkeys, horses, pigs, chickens, baby roosters and cows! She was loving all the animals!

These cows are different then any I have ever seen! What was even cooler was the farmer would yell for the bull and they would all come up to the fence! We think Grandpa Zwaag should teach his to do the same!! :)

She got to ride on a horse too! When she got off she had to tell me that it wasn't frisky like Lady (my grandpa's horse!)

Preggo Pictures!

2011-05-09T16:35:00.005-04:00

I can't believe I'm doing this because I think it's so crazy however...here we go! This poor child...when I was pregnant with Morgan I took a picture every four weeks! Now, the first picture is at 12 weeks and the next picture we took was at 21! You can see that I'm starting to show which I'm thankful for. I hate that stage where your like "people think I'm fat" stage! I have been feeling great too which again I'm very thankful for! However, I'm feeling really big now! I can't believe that we are over 1/2 way already! It is going by so quickly! We had our ultrasound last week and everything looked good (from what they could see...we have to go back in 2 months for another one since there were a few things that they couldn't get a good picture of). I have been feeling the baby move and can't wait for Neal & Morgan to do the same! Morgan is going to flip out! Currently, she wants a baby brother but that could change since it has multiple times! She is so excited for the baby to come and will be a great big sister! She has been saying that there is a pooch in there and then she giggles like crazy! Silly girl! She has been able to go to all of my appointments and to the ultrasound (which she thought was so cool!)

12 weeks

21.3 weeks

Easter Day

2011-05-09T16:29:00.004-04:00

After celebrating the risen Savior at church, we headed to my grandparents house for lunch! Holidays are always so busy traveling from this house to that house and this day was no exception! After lunch the kids had an Easter egg hunt! The older cousins hid about 75 eggs all over my grandparent's yard! This was the first year that Morgan actually understood what she was suppose to do! She had a blast doing it too!

After the egg hunt we headed to my other grandparents. Then for supper we ate at Neal's parents. A busy day but fun for all of us! Thankful for family!

Easter Morning

2011-05-09T16:26:00.002-04:00

Easter morning we woke up and got ready for church. We also had delicious quiche that Morgan and I made the day before! (I don't think any egg shells made it in but it's hard telling!) Morgan also got a basket full of cool things from the Easter Bunny. Her favorite was her ICarly watch!

Spring Break Bowling

2011-05-09T15:17:00.002-04:00

Over Spring Break Morgan and I had a ton of fun! We went and did something almost every day! One day we went bowling with my cousins, aunts and grandparents! We also did this over Christmas Break and we were wondering if they were going to let us come back again! We had a great time and tons laughs!

Georgia's Party

2011-04-01T16:28:00.003-04:00

A few Sundays ago we had a birthday party for Georgia at MVP in Holland. They started out with different activities for the kids (relay race, scooter race, throwing the chicken). Then they got to go swimming. After swimming was cake and presents. Morgan had a blast!! She was so excited to go and when she got home she slept for 15 hours! Guess she had fun!!

Disney on Ice

2011-04-01T16:14:00.003-04:00

Neal and I had gone back and forth if we wanted to take Morgan to Disney on Ice. So finally, the night before the show we decided we would! She had no clue what we were going to do that night! All she knew was that she needed to take rest! We left and headed to GR. On the way she was trying to guess where we were going. At one point she was ticked because we weren't going to Chuck-e-Cheese! (Seriously!) We finally convinced her we were going to watch a hockey game. When we finally got inside...she freaked! She was like "look princesses", "there's Belle, Arial..." So excited! Still not figuring out what we were going to see! We found our seats and waited. She was looking at the ice and asking what that was. Of course we told her that's where they were going to play hockey. Finally, she looked at me and said "we are going to watch Disney on Ice!" The look was priceless! She had so much fun! I have tons of pictures but we'll just post these! :) The show was really good too!

Morgan's announcement

2011-03-07T19:29:00.002-05:00

Our Little Princess

2011-02-19T12:14:00.002-05:00

Blowing Bubbles

2011-02-19T12:08:00.002-05:00

Morgs has taught herself to blow bubbles! She is so proud of herself and does it all the time now!

Goodbye 2010...Hello 2011

2011-01-01T10:07:00.002-05:00

Our year in Review:

January: 2010 started out pretty quiet! We didn’t do much on New Years Eve and we enjoyed New Years Day with my mom’s family. This has been a tradition as long as I can remember. We went sledding behind my uncle’s tractor and then enjoyed tons of food! A great way to start the New Year!! J

February: We went to a hotel in Indiana with my mom’s side of the family. We had a great time and Morgs love being able to swim and hang out with my cousins.

March: I started a long term subbing position at Hamilton Elementary. I worked as a part-time resource room teacher. It was so crazy to be back in my old stomping ground. I went back to Subway!

April: I became an adopted aunt. My best friend had a little boy!

May: We became official aunt, uncle and cousin (1st cousin) for the first time. My brother and sister-n-law had a baby boy! Traycen Shelley arrived a month early and spent about 10 days in the special nursery at the hospital! I was finally able to hold him on my birthday in June! Which was a great present! We are so excited to spoil him!

June: I celebrated my 29th birthday (my actual 29th) so from now on I’m 29!! J Morgan was able to go camping with Grandma Cris and Grandpa Tom up north for four days. This was the longest time she had been away from us! She absolutely LOVED it and still talks about it! I’m thinking she may have to go again next summer!

July: We celebrated Morgan’s 3rd birthday! It is so hard to believe that our little girl is 3 already. She continues to grow and impress us with what she knows and her vocabulary. She is defiantly a joy! On Morgan’s 3rd birthday, I was also offered a teaching job!!! Something I have been hoping and praying for!

August: Neal celebrated his 32nd birthday! We enjoyed camping for a night with my family.

September: I started my first “real” job. I am teaching 4-year-old preschool in Caledonia (about a 45 minute commute one way). I work with 12 special education students in a general education setting. I work part-time and absolutely love it! God has been good, even in the lows He was and is still faithful!

October: We finished Neal’s 13th season of football. He ended with a 3-3 season and reached his 50th win. It was a great fall to watch football. Morgan loved being able to go down on the field at the end of the game and sing the fight song with her “boys.” She also loved the extra attention that the other coaches gave her too! Next year Neal hopes to have her as a water girl. We’ll see how that goes!

November: After trying her first daycare setting we decided it wasn’t the best thing for our little social butterfly. We decided that putting Morgs in 3's preschool would be a much better fit! Morgan loves it! She has made new friends and loves the academic part of it too!

December: We celebrated our Savior's birth. We had a green/yucky Christmas! We had thunderstorms on New Year's Eve.

There are exciting things coming in 2011 and I can’t wait. The biggest one is that I’m going back to school to finish up my masters! I’m excited for this and nervous. I haven’t been in school for two and a half years. Plus, I’m taking 9 credits and working which seems a little nuts but I know that it will be worth it in the end. We are excited to see what the Lord has in store for us!

Happy New Years!

O Christmas Tree

2011-01-01T10:00:00.004-05:00

We finally went and got our tree the Saturday before Christmas! We were the only people out there and we were hoping for a deal! :) We found the perfect tree! Neal was also able to put it in the stand and in the house with no problems (or swear words!) Decorating was a little hard for me. I like to be in control (big surprise) but wanted to let Morgs decorate too! For the record...I have left it pretty much the way it was put up by Morgs!
He was oh so excited! Can you tell??

Oh Christmas Tree!!!!
Good thing we didn't have to go far!!!!

School Party

2011-01-01T09:58:00.001-05:00

Morgan had her Christmas party at preschool. She had a lot of fun and I was able to pop in for a little bit too! I'm so thankful that she is right in my building and the ladies I work with allow me to do this!!

Merry Christmas from our house to yours

2010-12-24T19:53:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas Eve!!! On the eve of our Lord's birth, may you remember the real reason for the season. It isn't the presents under the tree but the "birth of baby Jesus, born in a barn to save our sins!! It's Jesus' birthday!!!" (Morgs' take on Christmas). We have been really stressing with Morgan that Christmas isn't about all the gifts but about the birth of Jesus. Our biggest and best gift we will ever receive. May you be richly blessed this season and in the coming year!
Love,
Neal, Rachel, Morgan & Boomer
But the angel said, "Do not be afraid. I am bringing you good news. This is happy news for all the people: today in Bethlehem, God's Son was born. You can go see Him. He is wrapped warm and snug in a manger!" (taken from Morgan's Bible) "Happy Birthday Baby Jesus"

On this day too...we want to send a special shout out to our cousin Kevin in Afghanistan (and all the men and women fighting for our freedom). We hope you have a wonderful Christmas Kev!

Still here...

2010-12-10T16:40:00.002-05:00

I promise we are still here!! We currently don't have internet at home so the blog has taken back burner! We will be getting internet back again next month since I'm starting classes on my masters!! I'm taking 9 credits! Not sure what I'm thinking but I want to be done with this and Neal has given me his blessing! So I know I will make it! 1 on-line class and 2 weekend classes! We'll be fine!!

I can't believe that I have one more week of school and then two weeks off! It is so crazy to think that 2011 will be here soon! It seems just like yesterday we were all freaking out (well, some more then others) about the whole Y2K stuff! Seriously! Crazy!

Morgs has been doing really well! We decided that daycare wasn't for her and have pulled her from that! She is now a preschool! She goes two afternoons a week still in my building! She started the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and is loving it! It is so fun to see her actually learning something now! Drop off is so much easier (she cries for like 2 seconds and then she's good!) So thankful!

Neal is staying busy at work as well and we are so thankful for that! They are short handed but don't want to hire someone only to potential lay them off or have to cut hours in April! So we are happy with the extra hours and will take that!

Well, I need to get going home...but here's a little up date on us! Have a great weekend

Tricker Treating

2010-11-15T18:56:00.003-05:00

We had a VERY busy Halloween night. We started by going to Grandma Zwaag's and a few places around our house. Then we met my mom for supper and then went to Trunker Treat at church. From there we went to both the great grandparent's house! Morgs made out pretty well in the candy department (and so did mom & dad!!) Next year though we have decided to leave Neal at home! He sat in the parking lot chatting with the men and seemed to be on such a schedule (Michigan was playing!)

We changed the costume, after marching around as a jelly bean at school, I wasn't sure how that was going to work getting in and out of the car. Plus, from just walking at school we were losing balloons! I had so many complaiments on the costume...funny thing is I did it that day! I was also a present when I was young!

Morgs and her buddy Colton. We had to quick get a picture! They look scared because Aunt Carole had a crazy mask on when we got there and then she was trying to take their picture!

Halloween Party at School

2010-11-15T18:33:00.004-05:00

Morgs and I were able to attend her Halloween party at school. It was in the morning and it was a change of pace for me to be the "helper mom" and not the "teacher". Her teacher had little activities for them to do and lots of food (even Gluten Free Brownies). We went on a parade with the other preschool classrooms in the building.

11th Family Hayride

2010-10-18T16:50:00.003-04:00

Well, we think it was our 11th and we couldn't have asked for better weather! We had lunch at my aunt and uncle's and then went on our hayride. We had 32 people there and we have gotten so big we had to have two wagons this year! My dad drove one (with my help!) and my uncle Eric (with Ben's help) drove the other one! It was a great day with great weather and great scenery!

Morgs getting ready with my cousin Allison

The other wagon driven by my uncle

Next year's driver!! Oh my watch out!
Morgs bringing the tractor back with my dad! She is becoming so brave!

Early Tricker Treating

2010-10-18T16:41:00.002-04:00

Last weekend we went to Dutch Treat Campground. My grandparents were camping there and invited us out to visit. Every year they do a Halloween weekend. It was so much fun and they had a ton of activities for Morgs! We couldn't have asked for better weather either!

The group getting ready to get some candy! The campers hand out candy! Morgs made out like a champ!
Cora & Ben (my cousins) and Morgs

On the hayride!

Homecoming Parade

2010-10-18T16:38:00.000-04:00

Morgs was able to ride in the homecoming parade with my dad! She held her ears the whole time since the fire trucks were right behind her!

Go Chix

2010-10-18T16:37:00.002-04:00

We have been so busy with football this fall. It seems to take up every night (well it feels like it anyway!) Neal's team has been doing really well. I think they have one loss and we have two games left! Morgs loves going on the field and hamming it up with the guys!! They are all so good to her!
The varsity team has been doing awesome this season too! So we will be following them in the playoffs (well, Morgs and I will since Neal scouts for them) Hopefully we'll be at Ford Field over Thanksgiving!

Go Blue!

2010-09-19T17:52:00.002-04:00

Our little girl is such a football fan! Not that she has much choice but it is so much fun to see her get into the game! She loves cheering on "her" Chix and Wolverines! My dad always said I was just like the little girl in "Remember the Titans" but that is so Morgan! I was laughing to myself on Friday night as she was yelling "go Chix" and "go defense!" I guess that's what happens when you attend 25 football games in the first year of life!

Hudsonville Fair

2010-09-19T17:31:00.004-04:00

The last week of August we were able to babysit my nephew Traycen! Morgs was so excited!
We also had planned to go to the Hudsonville Fair that day! I love that fair! We met Denise & Courtney there and had so much fun looking at the animals and just walking around. We also watched this guy do a music show for the kids! Morgan was able to go on stage and play in the band! It was a great week for the fair! It was a great experience taking two kiddos (let's just say I called Neal at one point saying I think we are only going to have Morgs!!) I was glad that Denise & Courtney were there!! Morgs had a great time!

What's been going on?

2010-09-19T17:07:00.003-04:00

Fall is such a busy time of the year for us. This year it seems to be extra busy! We had a great summer and I know that I enjoyed the extra time being home with Morgs and I'm very thankful for that!

What's new with Morgs?
Well, she has started school (daycare!) She goes with me in the afternoon to the YMCA daycare that is right in my building! It has been so good for her yet so hard! She has been going through some separation anxiety issues! Her teacher (Miss Alexis) has been great! She doesn't cry long but it is the thought that she is! She has met some great friends and loves the structure! When I do pick her up she is never ready to go! "This too shall pass...now would be good!"
She has been staying busy at home too! She loves being outside! She also loves cheering on her Chix! She loves going to Daddy's games and practices and hanging with the boys!! We are almost done with her bedroom too! So hopefully she'll be in there soon!

What's new with Rachel?
Well, I finally got a job! (most of you know this) I'm teaching afternoons at Duncan Lake Early Childhood Center in Caledonia. I teach in a Supported 4's preschool! It is a class of "general" ed. students and "special" ed. students. I can't believe I'm starting week 3 already! It has been going really well. I'm just trying to get a routine down! I feel that I live at school! I work with a great lady (and actually the whole school is wonderful women!) So it has been fun just very stressful!

What's new with Neal?
Neal has been SUPER busy with football! He has practice every night, games on Wednesday and scouting on Friday nights! He had his first win of the year on Wednesday so that was exciting! He is getting close to 50 wins which is great! This is his 14th season! Go Chix!

What's new with Boomer?
We don't want to leave him out!! He is doing well! Tolerates Morgs which we are very thankful for! He did take off a month ago on us but thank goodness Neal's Dad found him back! That was a very scary time and we told him not to do that again!!!!

We have been busy but we enjoy too! Hopefully winter slows down a little however, I don't think it will! I'm looking at going back to GVSU and finishing my masters!

Happy 3rd Birthday

2010-09-18T17:23:00.000-04:00

So I'm a little behind! Morgan turned 3 in July!! Here are some pictures from the party!

It's beginning...

2010-08-17T14:25:00.002-04:00

This has been a yearly picture (except last year when it was canceled)! I should put the one of her at a month old...compared to now...wow!!

3 year pictures

2010-08-11T13:29:00.001-04:00

Neal and I decided to take Morgs' pictures again this year. So much cheaper then a professional! We did some in Saugatuck and some at home! I just ordered them today so I'm pretty pumped! Here are a few...
Neal's favorite (of course!!)

4th of July

2010-08-11T13:24:00.004-04:00

Morgan and I (Neal had to work at Marro's) watched the fireworks in Allendale this year. They were great! We had great seats and were able to leave without much wait! Thanks Staat's for letting us use your yard!! :)

Lawn mowing with Daddy

2010-08-11T13:12:00.003-04:00

Morgs hates loud noises!! We have to have her ear muffs with us if we know there may be something loud. She has gotten better though. Morgs has rode on Grandpa Tom's tractor and the lawn mower with no ear muffs (even though she still prefers them!)

This day she had just woken up from her nap. Asked for Daddy. So I had let her outside thinking Neal was there. Nope, she walked over to Neal's parents in her pull up and no shoes!!

Camping

2010-07-29T12:55:00.005-04:00

My parents went camping in Lundington at the end of June! They wanted Morgan to go with and after some thought, we let her go. They went from Wednesday to Saturday! Morgs loved it and still talks about it! Lots of swimming, riding bike, feeding the BIG cat fish, playing on the playground and playing with friends(friends of my parents went too and they have two girls that Morgs loved playing with!)! She had a great time! There is an Elk farm close by that they went to visit

Too much energy....

2010-07-27T14:22:00.003-04:00

Sunday Morgs had TOO MUCH ENERGY!!! So I made her run around the house twice! It was very entertaining because her shorts were way too big so they kept falling down...plus she forgot undies...so sorry if you drove past and saw a naked butt!!!

No power=play in the rain

2010-07-27T13:55:00.004-04:00

We have had our fair share of power outages this year! The last time it went out about 7:30 and was back on by noon (thank goodness!!) Morgs was heading camping with my parents so we were trying to pack with no power! She thought she would ride her bike...being extra safe!!

Happy 3rd Birthday

2010-07-15T17:24:00.003-04:00

Morgan Lynn:

We can't believe you are 3 already! Where has the time gone! We love you so much! You are becoming such a beautiful little girl! We are so proud of you!

You are still working on the potty! We hope that you will have this down soon! Mommy & Daddy would love to take you to the zoo!
You are getting so big...38.5 lbs and 38 inches! We are so thankful for a healthy little girl!
You talk non-stop! You say the funniest things! We love listening to your stories and just plain listening to you talk!
You continue to amaze us with what you know! You are a smart little cookie!
You love playing outside! Riding your bike and walking to Grandpa & Grandma Zwaag's house
You love animals! All kinds! You love your Boomer James and ask for him often when you are gone! You love "your" horse Lady and rabbit Bella! You don't like Mama cows but for the most part you like all animals!

We love you Morgs and we are so thankful for you! We can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for you!

Love,
Daddy & Mommy

Over Load Update!

2010-06-08T12:31:00.001-04:00

I mock my friend Keelie because when she up dates her blog she up dates for the month...well Keelie...now I'm waiting to hear from you....there will be lots of up dates coming!!!!!!

Our little runner

2010-06-08T12:16:00.004-04:00

My dad had this brainy idea that Morgs should run the 1 mile fun run at the Rural Rush in Overisel. I decided to run the 5k. I had reservations about having Morgan do it but we figured we could stop at any place and turn around. After the 5k was done (which I won't tell you my time but I will say I ran the whole thing which is an accomplishment since I haven't ran 3 miles since May 2009!! I'm finally able to walk today and not be in such pain!!) we lined up for the 1 mile fun run. The plan was that Morgs and my dad would run it and we would watch them. That didn't work...Morgs saw me up the street and decided she wasn't going unless I was going with her too...since we weren't that far up I start going with her! AHH! The longest mile in my life (I think I would have done another 5k then to run this mile) but the fact that she finished the whole mile and when we came around the corner to the finish line and the football players are clapping and people are cheering for her...it was all worth it!!

Neal cut my dad's head off...I think I have a better picture on the camera! She loves her shirt that she got and I have a hard time getting it off of her!

Memorial Day

2010-06-08T12:15:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day was a great day...well...wait!

It started storming early Monday morning!! It hit hard at 7:22 and we lost power. We assumed everyone lost power...nope...just us! I called it in right away. We fell back to sleep.

We woke up later and found out the parade was canceled. We decided to head to the cemetery since that was still happening. After the cemetery we headed to the Olive Diner at the Olive Township Museum!

Then we went home and watched it rain and played in the rain since we still had no power. Morgs and I were able to shower at my BFF!!! Thank you! After talking with the nice lady at consumers they figured we had been struck by lightening so she said someone would be there in 60 minutes...no one came! I called again and then said someone would be out at some point but there was no restoration time. AHHH!!! We had this last year with no power on the fourth of July! Someone did finally come out at 8pm to only find out that our transformer was shot and another group would have to come back and fix it...it could be tomorrow, three days or a week...LOVELY!!!!! Praise the Lord the power was back on Tuesday afternoon!!! Hopefully we are done with power outages for the holidays this year!

Traycen Shelley

2010-06-08T12:09:00.000-04:00

It's finally official...Sunday, May 30th, we became aunt, uncle and cousin!! Traycen Shelley Burton decided he would make his arrival when no one was expecting it (he wasn't due until the end of June)!! My brother and sister-in-law welcome this cute baby boy Sunday afternoon. Tray was 6 lbs. 4 oz and 19 inches long. He is currently still at the "Hilton" Hospital because of feeding issues. He needs to eat 58mls and is currently eating around 40-45...but just today he eat his whole feeding by bottle!!! Yippee!!!! It has been hard for Morgs because she isn't allowed in the special nursery and I can't hold him...so keep eating Traycen and we'll keep praying that you get to go home soon!!!

Dandelion Festival

2010-05-12T13:53:00.003-04:00

We had so much fun at the Dandelion Festival in Borculo! It had been such a busy week that week so it was so nice to have some family time! The day turned out so nice! Morgan and I actually got a little burnt (sunscreen is in the car again!)! The parade was fun! Morgan didn't care for the tractors or fire trucks but she loved the horses and CANDY!

After the parade we walked down to the church. I was amazed at how everything was free. Last year we went but we didn't eat anything because we forgot money...this year we realized it was free so we had lunch there too! Morgan had a blast!! The church does a great job and we had a great day!

Morgan rode the horse by herself!

She loved jumping in the blow up toys!

Of all things...she had to play with the cows!

Tulip Time

2010-05-12T13:35:00.003-04:00

We went down to watch dutch dancers three times last week. We went twice to watch my cousin Allison and once to watch Morgan's sitter Angie. It wasn't the greatest week but we still had fun! These pictures were from the Wednesday before Tulip Time actually started! So glad we went then because the week of Tulip Time wasn't the greatest weather! We actually watched Allison dance in the rain! Morgan sported rain boots instead of wooden shoes! She didn't care though...she was able to stomp through the puddles! We didn't make any of the parades this year...maybe next year!

Last Day of Gymnastics

2010-05-12T13:18:00.003-04:00

We had our last day of gymnastics a month ago (I know...I'm so far behind!!!)

Morgan loved going to gymnastics! Her favorite thing was to jump on the tramp! When we first started I was so stressed out because she didn't know what she was going and she didn't always want to listen. About half way through the lessons (about five weeks in) she really started to understand what Ms Stephanie was aksing of her. She also now will occasionally will do something she had learned in gymnastics! So cool she actually learned something!

Courtney came to our last lesson! Morgan got a purple ribbon for all her hard work!

Once we were all done, we had to go out for ice-cream to celebrate!

Before I was a mom

2010-05-10T11:50:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms! I enjoyed my day (even though my food was "warm"!!!) Thanks Mom B & Mom V for all you do for us!

Before I was a Mom;
I made and ate hot meals,
I had unstained clothing,
I brushed my hair every day,
I had quiet conversations on the phone,
I slept as late as I wanted and I slept all night long.

Before I was a Mom;
I cleaned my house each day,
I never tripped over toys or forgot lullabies,
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous,
I had never been puked on, pooped on, spit on, chewed on, peed on, or
pinched by tiny fingers.

Before I was a Mom;
I never thought about immunizations,
I never held a screaming child so the doctors could give shots,
I never looked into teary eyes and cried,
I never felt my heart break into pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt,
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

Before I was a Mom;
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down,
I never sat up late hours of the night watching a baby sleep,
I never got up in the middle of the night to make sure everything was okay,
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.

Before I was a Mom;
I had complete control of my mind, my thoughts and my body,
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside of my body,
I didn't know that having something so small could make me feel so
important,
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,
the wonderment, or the satisfaction of being a mom.

Before I was a Mom;
I never knew that something so small could effect my life so much,
I never knew that I could love someone so much,
I never knew I would love being a Mom,
I didn't know the bond between a Mother and her child,
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much.

Morgan & Lady

2010-04-22T16:27:00.003-04:00

Morgan LOVES animals (well most...she doesn't like mama cows)! My grandma Burton has a ton of animals at her house (cows, horse, chickens, dogs, cats, bunny...I think that's it)! We actually call it the critter barn! Morgan loves going out and seeing the horse! Morgan petted her, fed her grass and let Lady lick her new shoes! Morgs also kissed Lady a few times!

So Tired

2010-04-22T16:25:00.001-04:00

Yes, she is sleeping!!!!

Babies

2010-04-11T16:13:00.003-04:00

It has been a baby weekend!!! My best friend had her little boy on Friday morning!! I had dreams about it all night long so it was pretty crazy when I called her Friday morning only to find out that little Landon was born! He is super cute and we were able to visit/meet him on Friday night! So excited to be an "aunt" Congrats Hillary & Adam!!!!

Morgan did awesome holding him! She just sat there an stared at him! She hasn't quite figured out why we had to visit him at the hospital..."Shouldn't he be home??" I had to share him with her which I didn't enjoy!!! :)

Last night we received another phone call saying that Elma Faye was born! Neal's cousin Doug & Laura welcomed another little girl! We had to visit her today too!!!! How exciting! Congrats to you guys too!

Morgan was loving holding another new baby (all by herself!!)

Easter

2010-04-08T09:38:00.005-04:00

Holidays are always so busy for us! This Easter didn't seem too bad. We started the morning out by going to church! Then we stopped at my grandparents for coffee and then headed to my other grandparents for lunch! After lunch we had an Easter egg hunt! Headed home for naps and then Neal's family came over for supper! A busy but fun day!

opening her Easter basket

Picture before church

An attempt at a family picture! Love the wind!Jordyn & Morgan looking for eggs

Gymnastics

2010-04-08T09:26:00.006-04:00

Morgan has been going to gymnastics for six weeks. She goes on Thursday nights for 1/2 hour. I won eight free weeks to Horizons in Hudsonville. She is enjoying and has made some new friends too! The class is a perfect size and she has really been learning a lot. Morgan says her favorite part is jumping on the tramp and singing while stretching!

Waiting to do stretches

Doing the bars with Ms. Stephanie! She has been great

At the end of the class they get to ring the bell! Then they put their right hand on their head and get a stamp! This is a highlight of the night!

Still only a penny!!! :)

2010-03-31T14:47:00.003-04:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-31T14:40:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, Morgan & I went to an Easter egg hunt in Hudsonville. I had heard about it on the radio and I thought Morgan would like it. I was thinking it was outside so she was a little over dressed to be doing it inside but she still had fun! She was much more interested in the Easter Bunny (which SHOCKED me)! She did get a few eggs and had fun opening them to see what was inside!

A little behind...Georgia's birthday party

2010-03-31T14:35:00.004-04:00

Well, we have been so busy around here and the blog has taken back seat! Things are going well here just SUPER busy! Loving this beautiful weather (as does Morgan who could be out in it 24-7!!)

A few weeks ago we were able to attend Georgia's third birthday! This year we went to DeAnna's Playhouse!! This was our second time there and Morgan loved it more this time then last! Plus, we have a pass to go back so hopefully we will be able to use that!

4 months until we are 3

2010-03-17T18:42:00.002-04:00

Crazy to think that in 4 months we will have a 3 year old! Hopefully the terrible twos will go with it! :) We love you so much Morgan and are so thankful for you! You have such a personality and the things you say make us laugh sometime! You are getting too big!! Love you!

Dancing Queen

2010-03-17T18:32:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago when I was working Subway, Neal brought Morgan in to visit me!! I was shocked to see her boo-boo! She was dancing in the bedroom and hit her face on the clothes basket! It is now gone but she still has a little red mark! She better work on her dancing skills!!!

Craig's "Cougars"

2010-03-16T23:41:00.003-04:00

Last night we went to Craig's Cougars (as Morgan called it!) with Neal's parents, Eddie, Megan, Uncle Dwight, Aunt Von & Trevor!! We had a great time! I was nervous about Morgan not liking it because it would be over stimulating however she LOVED it and was very upset when we had to leave!!!

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What is going on?

2010-03-06T17:09:00.007-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posting! It has been so busy at our house this week! What has been going on here...

On March 1, I started a new job! I am working as a part-time resource room teacher at Hamilton Elementary. The full time teacher's case load was too full and they needed to hire someone to finish out the year. I am considered a long term employee and I'm praying this leads to something permanent for next year! I will be working in the mornings starting this coming Monday (I worked 3 full days this past week!) I'm working with mostly 2nd graders and some 3rd graders!! I'm so thankful for the opportunity and excited to see what the future holds!!!

Going part time, I needed to find some extra income to make up what I would be losing if I was working full time! Back in high school & college I worked as an artist...Sandwich artist that is! I was hired February 22nd and started working on Saturday! I have worked five shifts all ready!!! Everything is pretty much the same except for the toaster (which I'm afraid of and get nervous every time I ask a customer "do you want that toasted"! and the computer! However, it will get better!! I know that I didn't miss the smell of onions and green peppers!!!

Like I said...this week I worked 3 full days and then they had off Thursday and Friday for conferences! I was asked to work at Subway on Thursday so we had Courtney come and babysit!! I student taught Courtney when she was in 1st grade (she is in 7th grade now!! Man I feel old!) They had a great time playing!

It never fails that Miss Morgan gets sick as soon as I can't take time off! We spent Thursday morning at the doctors office with her again! (a month ago we were there too! our insurance LOVES us!!!) They thought she had pneumonia again so they sent us to get chest X-rays! Thank goodness it isn't and she just has inflammation of the lungs (whatever that might be!) So we are on two meds and hopefully she will be her little normal self again soon!!! She did biff it this morning but I can't get a picture of her nice war wound! I'll try to get one soon!

Neal & Boomer are doing well too!! Nothing new with them!!! I think that is it for now!! Enjoy the sun!!!

Hello to Grandpa & Grandma B.

2010-02-24T19:16:00.003-05:00

My parents are in the Bahamas this week so Morgan wanted to send them a little hello! She wasn't the happiest (no nap!) so I wanted to get one quick...sorry Mom & Dad she was eating!!! :)

Fun in Indiana

2010-02-21T20:27:00.002-05:00

We just got home from a mini vacation. We went down to the Farmstead Inn in Indiana with my mom's side of the family. We left yesterday afternoon and came back this afternoon. It was fun to get away for a day and it was fun for Morgan to get to play with my cousins! She loved swimming in the pool and loved being able to spend time with everyone! She was kind of confused as to why we were staying the night but loved that we were in the same room as Uncle Travis & Aunt Marcy (and her baby cousin...they are expecting in June!) Morgan loved seeing all the buggies horse (that's what she called the horse & buggies!) She'll be talking about this trip for a while!!!

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Boomer fun!

2010-02-21T20:03:00.003-05:00

Feeding Boomer

Scaring Boomer with the vacuum!

A year

2010-02-17T08:08:00.005-05:00

Saturday was one year since Morgan was confirmed to have Celiac! The year has gone so quickly! We are so thankful that we have a happy and healthier 2 1/2 year old! We are also very thankful for Dr. Locke who was consistent and pushed to get a reason for the weight loss!

Then NOW!!! WE LOVE YOU MORGAN LYNN!!!!!

Silly Rabbit

2010-02-13T12:33:00.001-05:00

Reading

2010-02-10T15:31:00.002-05:00

Morgan has been reading to herself for a while and now I finally caught it! I love the ending!!

Sick

2010-02-05T19:27:00.003-05:00

I have decided there is nothing worse then having a sick child. I just feel so helpless! Morgan came down with a cold on Monday. Runny nose...nothing too big. By Tuesday night it was getting worse! Wednesday morning...fever, deep cough and red cheeks. Then I noticed teeth grinding which put me over! I continued to give her Motrin every 6 hours! Nothing touched it! After 4 nights of not really sleeping (me or her) I decided to call the doctor. I was able to get her in this afternoon and I'm so thankful I did! Double ear infection, sinus infection and PNEUMONIA....seriously when the dr. said all this I looked at her and said..."anything else?" Oh...she doesn't have strep! Well good!! So we are on an antibiotic for 10 days and a nasal spray! This is what she is currently doing and has pretty much done all afternoon! Poor sweetie!

Hope-Calvin Game

2010-02-04T18:14:00.007-05:00

Last week Saturday we went to the Hope-Calvin basketball game (thanks mom!!!) We had a good time plus they won!! :) Morgan is quite the little ham!!!

Getting ready to go!!! Sporting her new "New Crew" shirt (Thanks Grandma!)

Cheering her Dutchmen on!

watching the half time show! (some crazy girls jumping rope! It was incredible!)
"Uncle" Joel & Morgan

A new family photo!

Go Chix

2010-02-01T09:05:00.001-05:00

Only in Michigan

2010-02-01T09:00:00.003-05:00

Sunglasses, Beach Chair and mittens!!!

1 year CD check up

2010-01-22T15:31:00.002-05:00

Today we had our year check up for Morgan's Celiac. I'm excited to say that we don't have to go back for a year (unless something major shows up on the labs but not very likely!) Our little girl weighed in at 36.1 lbs! (97th%) and 35 1/4" (50th%)!!! We are so excited! When Morgan was diagnosed (almost a year ago) she weighed 20.7 lbs and was 30 1/4 inches long! We are so thankful for a healthy and happier baby!!! We love you Morgan Lynn!

Gum doesn't go...

2010-01-22T15:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday on the way home Morgan was chewing gum. This is nothing out of the ordinary for her...she loves gum and does a great job chewing it and putting it where it belongs....until yesterday!!!!! Up her nose...yes....so I pulled over because now her nose is starting to bleed and she is having a hard time breathing...I have nothing with me to pull it out. It is 4:48pm so her dr. is closed. So I'm thinking I'm going to have to take her in when I think...farmer's blow! (I'm so thankful this didn't work backwards) I plugged one side and made her blow...out it came!! So no gum for a while!

Kix Cereal is now GF

2010-01-22T08:20:00.004-05:00

Little things thrill us...especially when they deal with Morgie's diet!!! I have just learned some EXCITING news!!

General Mills, it appears, is on a roll. First it released its gluten-free Chex, then it unveiled those Betty Crocker gluten-free Baking Mixes, next it expanded its line of gluten-free Chex to include six flavors and now, as Gluten-Free Philly first reported Saturday, gluten-free Kix?

Can I say how much I LOVE the General Mills company! They have done great things!!!! Before Morgan was totally diagnosed with Celiac...she LOVED Kix! That was pretty much all we could get her to eat (which is crazy because it has oats in it)! So now we will have to go to Meijers today to pick up a box!!! (FYI...GM hasn't put GF on the box because they are concerned about cross contamination...however...make sure you still check the box...if there are no oats...you are good to go!!!)

2.5 years old

2010-01-15T17:08:00.005-05:00

Holy Cows....our little baby is growing up! She is becoming such a big girl! She says the funniest things that will make you wonder where she heard that from. Like yesterday when my mom asked her to pick up her toys and she said "I always have to pick up everything" Where does she get this? She is talking non-stop (don't know where she gets that from!) She loves reading and actually is able to read a book to us (I guess that's what happens when we read it so much!!) She loves to dance and sing, loves music and loves playing games on the computer! Morgan loves watching movies and loves to play with her babies and kitchen set! She loves animals and loves being outside! It is so amazing to watch all the new things she learnes or picks up! She is a little sponge! We love you so much Morgie Lynn and can't believe you are already 2 1/2 years old!

Sledding Fun

2010-01-09T19:06:00.001-05:00

We went sledding last week with all my cousins! We had fun (Morgan didn't really like it but we made it!)

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Bathtime Fun!

2010-01-09T18:49:00.002-05:00

Last week when Neal & I were doing laundry, Morgan took off all her clothes and said..."I'm taking a bath! This surprised us since she hates bathtime until I realized what she was doing! Crazy girl!

New Years Eve

2010-01-01T12:05:00.003-05:00

Last night we went to Nate & Danielle's! We had a YUMMY supper and played Catch Phrase! We were also entertained by Morgan!! :) Thanks guys for a fun night!

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Two 2 year olds=TROUBLE!!

2010-01-01T11:53:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, Morgan had her first friend over (her age and without her mommy!) Avery (from church) got to come and play for a few hours at our house! It was quite interesting. We picked her up and brought her to our house...on the way there I hear all this giggling! So funny! We got home and had some lunch. Then the fun really began! They loved playing with each other but at times would have difficulties sharing (which I expected!) You could tell both girls were super tired when Avery left! Morgan slept for 3+ hours and I know Avery slept a while too (I needed a nap too!)!!! Come again soon Avery!!!! It was funny to me to think that people do this every day! I give you lots of credit if you are a parent of a multiple! I had both girls on the potty at the same time...it just cracked me up!

Eating lunch!

Being Silly!

Hugs!

Christmas with the Bonstells

2010-01-01T11:52:00.001-05:00

We had a great time Wednesday night! We learned a new game (which I think would be fun if we played it more)! Morgan got her first computer! Which she loves and now can "check her email" Neal & I got a gift card to Logan's with a sitter! Yippee! Neal also got a card shuffler thingy..that's another story! Thanks guys for a great night! We are thankful for you all!

Stamp Art

2010-01-01T11:50:00.004-05:00

Wednesday night Morgan decided to give herself some tattoos. Neal was in the shower and I was getting our salad ready for the Bonstells. It had been quiet for a while and I walked into our bedroom to find this...

In the shower she went! While she was waiting for the shower she looks at Neal and says "Bear"! She had stamped a bear on her (somewhere!) Needless to say this was a few minutes after she had rubbed butt cream all over her tummy! Two days later...she still has the tattoos!

Chocolate Cake

2009-12-29T15:18:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow night we have our Christmas with the Bonstells. We have to bring a dessert so I thought it would be fun to try the Betty Crocker Gluten Free Cake and then make Better then Anything dessert with it. Morgan was excited to help me make it! She kept saying...no gluten...I eat it! :) So cute! Bonstells please know that (well I think) I got all the egg shells out!! :)

Colton & Morgan

2009-12-29T15:11:00.005-05:00

Today we had Colton come over to play! He is starting to crawl and get into everything!! He was so much fun and it was fun to see Morgan play with him again too!

Morgan helping Colton eatMorgan in her new "Critter Barn" tunnel that she got from Grandpa & Grandma Zwaag. Colton was in there too but you can't see him!!!

Burton Christmas Party

2009-12-28T11:17:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we had another family Christmas Party! We had my dad's side of the family. We had a nice meal and had a fun time. Here are a few more pictures. We have one more family party in January.

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Christmas in Pictures!

2009-12-26T09:32:00.000-05:00

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Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T07:45:00.003-05:00

On this (rainy/cold) Christmas Morning...from our house to yours....MERRY CHRISTMAS! May you celebrate the real reason on Christmas today. The birth of our Savior Jesus Christ!

But the angel said, "Do not be afraid. I am bring you good news. This is happy news for all the people: today in Behtlehem, God's Son was born. You can go see him. He is wrapped warm and snug in a manger!" (taken from Morgan's Bible) "Happy Birthday Baby Jesus"

Step into my office!

2009-12-21T12:53:00.004-05:00

I couldn't help but take a picture of Morgan in her "office" at my grandma Burton. She told Neal to step into her office!! Where does she get this stuff from!!! She enjoys checking her email from Grandpa Burton! Too funny!

What a difference...

2009-12-20T22:45:00.004-05:00

What a difference a diet can make! We are so thankful for a happy, healthy and GROWING little girl!! Thank you Lord!!

Christmas 2008

Christmas 2009

Family Pics

2009-12-20T22:42:00.003-05:00

My mom wanted a new family picture...it is really already old since my brother and sister-n-law are excepting a baby (which is in the bed if you ask Morgan!) at the end of June!! We will be first time aunt, uncle & first cousin! We are pumped!!!!

Lynema Christmas

2009-12-20T22:34:00.005-05:00

Tonight we had Lynema's Christmas (my mom's side)! It is always fun to get together with them. This year we really changed it up...we rented a hall and did Bingo gifts for the adults and name exchange for the kids! It was a lot of fun! Morgan got a new dolly and bottle, toy food and pots and pans! She loved playing with her dolly that she named Gert (not sure where that came from but...whatever!)

Morgan & Brayden (my cousin's son) They hugged a couple of times! Too cute!

Morgan LOVES Aunt Sarah

Opening her dolly

She didn't leave her dolly...she pushed it around in her stroller!

O Christmas Tree

2009-12-20T22:25:00.006-05:00

Yesterday we FINALLY got our Christmas tree! Not sure what took us so long this year to get it! We should have gotten it in November when it was so nice! My dad had been "grooming" this tree all year and was hoping for it to be his (my mom put the fake tree up again) but instead we got to take the prize home!! It is being held up by ribbon but we still love it! It was so wet that we didn't do anything to it but let it dry last night! Today we put lights on it! I hope to have it decorated by Christmas! (final picture to come later...I know you can hardly wait!)

Ready to find our tree (or as she says mines tree)

Thanks Dad for cutting our tree down! It would have taken us a lot longer if it wasn't for the chainsaw!

Neal & Morgan observing Dad (do they work for the state??)

I wish I would have had a picture of it up on the blazer! It was a lot better then last year when we held it by electric wire!!!

Feel the Zeel

2009-12-20T22:17:00.003-05:00

This past Thursday night we went downtown Zeeland to Feel The Zeel! Santa was "visiting" and they were offering horse drawn carriage rides! I can't wait to get the picture of Morgan and Santa back! She was having a fit!!! Hands in her mouth wailing that she didn't want to talk to him! Funniest thing ever!!! From there we went to the candy store to fill our bag from Santa! Next we got in line for the carriage ride! I think we waited a half hour for it! It was freezing cold and I probably wasn't totally dressed for the occasion either! Oh well...Morgan had fun! Funny story...you won't catch Neal singing...so when we sat down in the carriage only to be handed song sheets!! He just looked at me...then the people across from us start singing! Wow!! They couldn't carry a tune and I thought Neal was going to hit someone! Too funny!!

waiting for our turn! She did great waiting!

on the ride

petting the horse (Molly or Tim)