Doug & Margarethe

2010-10-23: David enjoying time with G-ma & G-pa S

2010-10-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since posting here.... We've enjoyed so many fun times with David who now tells us he is 3 and 1/2 but soon I am four! Maybe someday I will post some of those fun times but don't hold your breath.
Last Saturday David and I were drawing on the driveway with chalk. (I was entertaining him while the others were cutting the lumber for the shelves for a storage unit.) Such fun we had-- besides him riding his scooter and bike down the sidewalk.

Doug helped D&J with building some shelves in a storage place. David thought it was fun to sit on G-pa's truck tailgate. He also loved riding inside the truck to get the wood for the shelves.

I see some freckles...a typical red haired boy. Love it!! He loves to be outside running and playing. He runs fast with his tennis shoes!!

"Grandpa, I want to touch the leaves!"

2010-5-9: Mother's Day-fun time with David D @ the park

2010-05-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

After meeting David and his parents at a restaurant at noon, we took David to our home for the afternoon to enjoy time with him as his mother had to work at her new job as a CNA at a near-by care center for the evening. I took him to our park. We walked so far until "carry me"! I carried this "big" boy about a block until we reached the sidewalk leading to the park. Then he ran ahead to show me how fast he can run in his 'fast light tennis shoes'!! What energy!! The park has so many fun things to do. He loved going on these bars, down the slide, on the swing, etc. Grandpa did come to pick us up as this grandma knew she couldn't carry him home about 3 blocks!! Because of the sun and his light complextion he wears his hat. The weather was only in the mid 50's so a little cool.

Hi! Grandma!

the fun bars..

2010-5-9: Mother's Day: Fun at the park with David D from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

When we got home we played with some balls, rolling down the hill in our backyard, playing in this car and just being active. (I reminiscenced to growing up days where I along with my friends would push my brother's many go-carts! and now here I was pushing my grandson!!...not right!) On the way back to his home I asked him if he would fall asleep in my car, "No" but about 2 blocks from his house he was fast asleep. I must have worn him out! I enjoyed a good night of sleep too!
It was a fun afternoon.
I love not only being a wife and mom but also being a grandma!

2010-3-26: David singing the alphabet song

2010-03-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

This evening when we were together with David his Mommie said David had a surprise for us. He knows his numbers from one to ten but the alphabet was never consistent. Watch what David can now do with help from his mommie!!

2010-3-26: David singing the alphabet song from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Grandma & Grandpa are proud of you David!!

2010-1-27: David D..playing house...

2010-01-28T18:28:00.000-08:00

As David and his Mommie came to my door he rang my door bell, and when Gumma opened it he walked in with these sunglasses on saying, "it's sunny outside! I need my sunglathses (sunglasses) on!.. Gumma: "Really?... "Yeth!"

Recently I've noticed some of the toys I have here, David seems to have outgrown so into our crawl space we went to look for some "old" toys. Found this cupboard Grandpa Eastvold made for Kari and Julie many years ago when we would visit at Ray & Mil Trochmann's farm up in northern MN. WE also found some former dishes, etc. plus this play apron. David seemed to have a great time making food! He could really stir!

then it was to watch a Veggie Tale movie-"Madame Blueberry"

eating raisins for a snack.Babysitting Dolly

It has been such fun to have David be part of our lives & family!

His vocabulary is increasing every day. The best is receiving that tight hug

around my neck and the kiss on my cheek!

I can't believe he will be 3 years old March 8th!

2009-12-17&18: Visit from Lane S. family plus David D "helping" Penny make lefse

2009-12-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

Thursday after work I picked up Chuck & Penny at the airport. They will spend Christmas with us plus visit their daughter, Sara, who is in nurse's training in Rochester, Mn. Friday I took as a vacation day so we could make lefse. A couple days ago Penny's nephew, Lane, called to ask for an overnight stay at our house for he, his wife and baby daughter. I knew how much Penny would enjoy this oportunity to meet her Grand-niece, Hannah (about 3 months old) and parents. We had a grand time enjoying such a little one in the house!

no lack of arms to hold & cuddle baby Hannah!
the happy family

Lane & Hannah

mommie-Christina & Hannah

Penny & Chuck

Lane, Hannah, Christina

2009-12-18: Baby Hannah Sunwall enjoying the hanging toys #1 from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-12-18 Baby Hannah Sunwall kicking at the toys #2 from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Did we wear her out?!!"
So sweet!

That same evening Chuck peeled the 10 lbs of potatoes
Penny and Lane riced the potatoes before the mixture

went into the fridge over night to cool off.

Breakfast time the next am... Lane did not wish to

leave until he got to try a piece of lefse.

Grilling the first pieces.

(My grill didn't work well so Chuck went

to Fleet Farm to purchase a new grill for me.)
Sampling a few!

The grill "Master"!

The "rolling" master--Penny!

her "apple"

little David wanted to roll some lefse..

He wanted to flip the lefse over to roll some more.

He felt he learned how already to flip it...

"I fips it!"

2009-12-18: David D "helping" roll lefse & "I 'Fips' it!!" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

more rolling..

"I fips it"... to the grill

2009-12-18: David D "grilling the lefse" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Again...this is fun!

Clean-up time

being distracted...playing with the flour

'sweeping' up the flour

2009-12-18: David D cleaning up the flour mess after making lefse from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

"Cheese"
We ended up making 52 lefses to enjoy for Christmas. Yummy!

Along with much fun & laughter had by all the helpers.

2009-12-12 : Christmas concert @ Hosanna "A Night of Hope" with the Olson family

2009-12-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

When we arrived these two cousins were sitting at a table in the foyer waiting for the

concert to start. They were "reading" the Bible which was laying on the table. They were so excited to walk and see David's Sunday School room down several hallways.. holding hands as they walked (so cute!),,.buddies!!

But when we got to the SS room the door was locked! David was so dejected!

And yet proud to 'show' us his SS room!

The huggin' cousins

There were many muscians plus an adult choir and children's choir.

The whole group presenting

Thank you, Julie & David, for the enjoyable concert!

We also enjoyed seeing David's mother, 2 sisters & niece.

2009-12-4: David 'helping' G-pa with the Christmas tree

2009-12-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

We were babysitting our grandson, David, last Friday. It was time to put up our Christmas tree. Doug was getting "help" from David but when G-ma came with the camera guess whose legs are hiding under the tree!

OK, here are the workers..
So busy helping with the lights

those lights get so mixed up quickly

so keep your arms apart!

Enough helping...G-ma 'built' a tent over several chairs

Such fun crawling back and forth!!

the tree with it's lights.

Now the ornaments need to be hung
G-pa & David did an excellent job

2009-11-1: Raking leaves with David

2009-11-03T15:46:00.000-08:00

David wanted to 'help'G-Ma with some raking. These leaves were dry and easy to rake up as they had fallen straight down from their tree and not blown all over everywhere yet. they quickly made a large tall pile.

The great 'raker'. Often one can hear, "I do it!"

He loved falling back into the leaves

"Hi, Dat one"!

(That is our names for now.)

He loved diving into the leaves and hiding

2009-11-1: David diving into the fall leaf pile from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

"OK, I'll stop moving so you can take my picture!"

G-Pa let him help put leaves into the paper bags for disposal & pick-up.

12 bags plus the brown garbage can

2009-11-1 David & the fall leaves from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

The brown garbage can was also full.

Then David got placed in it to push down the leaves

only then he thought it was fun to play

Afterwards was bath time...!

2009-10-31: David--" Trick or Treat"

2009-11-01T19:47:00.000-08:00

David and his Daddy came to G-Ma's house for the evening as Mom had to work. G-Ma got to go with to go Trick or Treat while G-Pa manned our doorbell at home. David is in his "Ruffy" outfit as he calls it rather than 'puppy' outfit!

walking down our street..
After walking a ways around our neighborhood (less than 2 blocks) he sat down at this house but quickly got up to 'ring' the doorbell to get more candy when he was reminded what to do...maybe a little tired of walking?! When back at our house he played with the candy but didn't eat any. He really doesn't eat candy--his parents don't give candy to him. I think he likes chips better!!!

After getting home we enjoyed some chili over white rice and topped

with cheese. Yummy!! Warmed us up too!

2009-10-28: PPK-Toddler Rm Halloween party

2009-10-29T18:52:00.000-07:00

The PPK-Preschool room had their Halloween party Wednesday at 3:30pm. Various ones (teachers & students)were dressed up but by the time I arrived David D had already removed his "Dog" costume as it made him too hot!! There were children around another table frosting Halloween cookies and David D at a table all by himself but he was 'very busy" coloring. I asked him if he wanted to frost a cookie but he said, "No" and kept on coloring.

His T-shirt would flash red lights in the "ghost" area.

Here he got his Daddy to read him a book...

and to color...

his classmates enjoying frosting their cookies

G-Ma and grandson

The treat bag...

checking out the treat bag with his friend, Ryan

The "Loot"

"anymore in there?"

showing Mommie his 'Loot"

Time to go home!!.......

A fun party!

2009-10-17: David D helping G-Pa mow the lawn

2009-10-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

The other Saturday we were enjoying David at our house. Doug needed to mow so proceeded with that. When David saw him outside he had to join G-Pa so he started to run after him following him as he went around the back yard (G-Ma thought he would tire VERY soon!) He didn't so Doug let him "help" as then he knew where David was! David looked very proud to be able to mow like G-Pa!

up the hill

on top of the hill

'round and 'round

dumping the bag of wet leaves

David looked ready to jump on top of the leaves until G-Ma stopped him! I told him the leaves were very wet so we had to wait until the front yard where the leaves were dry.

They worked hard going 'round and 'round,

up & down SO many times...time to rest!

Resting too long????!!! getting antsy, David??!!

Raking the front driveway and lawn

Working SOOOO hard!

Helping to put leaves into the garbage can with/like G-Pa!

Afterwards he went around to the garbage can wheels to push the wheels to go round and round.

In the end he never did jump in the leaves before they went into the garbage can! Just too busy being a typical little boy playing with the wheels!! A fun afternoon.

2009-last weekend of June

2009-07-06T18:27:00.000-07:00

After arriving that Friday pm, we visited for awhile but as the TV was on we soon looked over at this quiet couple to see that they were fast asleep! I know Kari had worked the night before plus a short "night's" sleep as they drove here, but do you think wedding plans made them exhausted!!!
Then this past week I have been making these Scandinavian Almond cakes for the reception. I have 17 in the freezer. Just have to frost them on Friday in FF. Also got several other projects am responsible to do all completed. Now it is to wait for our company tonight and then 4 others Wednesday..wedding festivities begin in earnest! What fun to see so many family and friends coming to join us in this happy occasion.

Then that Sunday afternoon we attended a 50th wedding anniversary celebration for my cousin, Al and his wife, Ina. We wish you many more years together!

Here are 4 Erickson cousins helping them celebrate. Margarethe, Janet, Alice, & Al.

2009-07-03T20:13:00.000-07:00

One evening recently little David and his parents were over visiting. G-pa was having fun playing and teaching him some different & new things like climbing up G-pa's legs plus being up in a tree branch. He seemed quite pleased with himself!

2009-6-19: David 'climbing' tree with Grandpa from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-6-14: Sunday pm

2009-06-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Kari and I went to Fergus Falls Friday pm while Doug and Brent stayed at our house to pack up Kari's belongings from her storage unit to move her to the "Lakehouse". She will get things settled there before the wedding. This is how they looked when they left our home this pm! I had enjoyed attending the National WMF convention and then participating in a wedding shower put on by several friends to honor Kari. What a lovely shower and turnout! So many ladies came to honor her...some friends even from California, Washington, East coast, besides the many friends from FF. Some of the ladies had also attended the WMF festivities. Thank you to Jenn, Barb, Christine, & Brooke for such a lovely shower.

Later I took this "Cool David" for a stroll to the park to play on the slide plus he was learning how to climb on some 'monkey bars' with G-Ma cautiously hanging on to him...he did have fun!

2009-May 22-24: HLA 40th class Reunion

2009-06-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Several have asked me about being able to see some of the videos I took during our class reunion that was held out at IPBC. We had a great time being together as a class, some spouses who were able to join us. On Saturday pm some former instructors and spouses also came as our guests for our candlelight dinner at IPBC. It was good to renew friendships and hear how God has led in their lives. I feel so priveleged to be part of a very special group of classmates! God has shown how faithful He has been to us showing us how blessed we are!

So here are the videos:

2009-5-22: '69 HLA Harmonettes singing "Ticket for the Heaven Train" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-22: 1969-"HLA Harmonettes" singing "Jesus Use Me" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-22: Roy H. -MC announcing class verse before dinner from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-22 Head Stand by 60yr+ from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-23: "Rap" skit from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-24: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

All for now. More reunion photos another time...

2009-5/24 & 6/1: Enjoying the Grandson!

2009-06-02T20:14:00.001-07:00

We had been with these special people Friday until Sunday pm on Memorial weekend (it was my 40th HLA class reunion held at IPBC where we had enjoyed an incredible reunion). As we neared home both of needed a G-son fix so we stopped to see the family.
35 out of a class of 61 returned for all or part of the weekend gathering! I am blest to be a part of this class. (I'll try and post another blog post of some of our shared time together...)

G-ma was able to go on a "tryke" walk with David. This tryke has a rear handle where I am in control of where we go so when he wasn't peddling we still went some where! Never too early to get accustomed to wearing a helmet when riding a bike
who can resist this smile?!

After returning from the walk it was snack time

(sorry this posted twice but I do love this pose!)

a family picnic supper of taco salad

Then yesterday after work I was to care for David while his parents got several chores done..
This little guy was "helping" plus he was muddy from playing outside

His arms behind him..what next??

"OK, I'll look at you, G-Ma..."

Helping Dad who just finished tilling and planting some in the garden

"OK, I get to water the new plants"

G-ma had to take off these shoes afterwards to remove all the mud from them!

special care

2009-5-19: David rolling down hill & eating a banana

2009-05-21T17:19:00.000-07:00

2009-5-19 David having fun rolling down hill in G'Ma & G'Pa's backyard from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

After rolling down the hill in our backyard plus playing so hard, David wanted a banana (good snack choice!). Besides eating his banana he likes to spot the airplanes going over to the point he wanted me to hold him to get "closer" to them!! We must have seen ten airplanes! (We never got very close to them either!!) That is why he is looking upward to the sky!

Grandpa keeping a watchful eye...

2009-5-1st & 2nd: Julie's 30th B-day and David

2009-05-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

When this rhodadendrum (sp?) bush buds and then blooms we know it is May 1st,-- Julie's birthday. We celebrated with pizza @ Old Piper's in Lakeville and then to their house to have Dairy Queen ice cream cake. Later that same evening Kari and Brent arrived home for the weekend. Saturday morning Kari and I had a Women's Tea at our church (another blog) and later we had David D with us for a few hours to give his dad a break while Julie worked some extra hours at Royal Cliff. D&M and K&B took David D to the park after playing here in our backyard. Refer to Kari's blog for additional photos.

on J&D's deck

J&D

(still in love after 7+ years!)

Daddy & son

Mom's cake-yummy!

Can I try the frosting?

That frosting feels good!?

2009-5-3 David counting his matchbox trucks in the truck top from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-5-2 David counting the trucks all lined up from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Playing at the park...
Uncle B watching K play!!

2009-5-3 David & Kari playing ball over the tennis court fence from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Sliding with Auntie Kari is SO much fun!!

It was so good to have Kari and Brent home this weekend. Mom & Dad enjoyed having the family together this weekend visiting around the table and enjoying little David who always seems to entertain us all with all his business, words, and smiles! God has richly blessed us!

Kari seemed to be more rested too!

(Thank you, Brent, for helping her get more sleep into her schedule!)

2009-3-30 David and his sunglasses!

2009-04-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

G-pa was helping David with the velcro on his shoes..

He put on his sunglasses but when G-ma

wanted a photo he dashed away down the hall..

He would peek around the corner at me so I was ready

"OK, G-ma, here I am!

(He had a bad hair day!)
Plus the fun with the light switch.."Up, Down"

Because of his sunglasses the lights had to be on!

"Need to push up these glasses.."

David had his coat on to go home,

put on his Mother's hat, and his sunglasses!
"Lil' Detective??!!"

Is this Inspector Clouseu??!!!

2009-3-28 the Mississippi River with it's springtime rushing waters at St. Anthony Falls, downtown Minneapolis, MN. (Lock & Dam #1).

2009-04-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

This Friday as doug was crossing over the new 35W bridge he noticed the river with many waves...strange, so he quickly exited to see what was happening. The next day we drove again to observe the rushing waters through the lock and dam area. Amazing! (Especially since the TV news was all about the flooding of the Red River areas in NW Minnesota.)

the white colored bridge is the new 35W Bridge.

The white colored bridge is the new 35W bridge viewed from Stone Arch Bridge area.

The Stone Arch bridge at St. Anthony Falls area...downtown Minneapolis, MN.

The down area after the waters have exited the Locks...alot of foam and waves.

http://vimeo.com/3933609 from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Lock #1 had both "doors" opened with alot of water rushing

through it plus the regular river route.

2009-3-28: Mississippi river & Lock #1 area, downtown Minneapolis, MN. from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

The full river with its rushing waters

2009-3-28: The Old Mill flour ruins near Stonearch Bridge, downtown Minneapolis, MN. from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.
This plaque was on the bridge wall at the Stoney Arch Bridge near the Old Flour Mill ruins.

Looking at the Old Flour Mill ruins

Another view of the Old Flour Mill ruins..

There are waterways in the lowest section that

were maybe to help run the mills.

2009-3-7: David D's 2nd Birthday party @ G-parents home

2009-03-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

Julie and David asked us to host David D's 2nd birthday party on Saturday, March 7,2009 @ 2pm. She did all the decorating, inviting of the Olson and Swanson family, friends, and close neighbors. I just needed to have our house ready plus some veggies and dill dip because she took care of the rest of the food and games. The theme was "Curious George".

This "2" was a pinata.

David D eating some food and needing to have Daddy and "Uncle" Brent sitting by him!

Julie helping her son start opening his gifts.

opening gifts with friends watching

Being careful to open each card!

"OK to rip the paper?"

So many wonderful gifts

This "car" was from his Olson Grandparent.
Quite an amazing race car!

This 'Twins' billfold has been past down from his

older boy cousins with 2-$1.00 bills in it.

A sticker pin-up game. (David enjoys stickers.)

2009-3-7: David D eating his 2nd Birthday cake from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David really doesn't 'like' sweets.

He does like salty chips!!

After the party he needed some

'down time' looking at some of his favorite books.

Fun times even after the party ended...

2009-3-7: Brent lifting David D up in the air & G-pa having him crawl up his legs to do a sommersault-1A from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-7: Brent playing with David D & then some tummy tickling! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-7: David D playing round & round & "fall down!" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-7 David D learning to 'play catch' after the B-day Party with G-pa, Kari, and Brent from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-13: G-Pa and David D playing

2009-03-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

2009-02-23:David washing his hands-standing in pulled out drawer from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-2: David playing "Up-Down" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David learned how to get up on G-Pa's back by himself to enjoy a ride....

2009-3-13: G-Pa Doug giving David D. a ride on his back-"need a break?" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-3-13:"I YUMP!"...to G-Pa, helps G-Pa up, then pats G-Pa on the back from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-2-28: David D 'helping' G-pa shovel snow from deck

2009-03-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

Our deck after getting shoveled.

" How deep is this snow?"

G-pa and David walking in the deck snow...

2009-2-28: David in the 'deep' snow and having fun from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

"Oh, this is knee deep!!"

2009-2-28: David 'helping' to shovel snow from our deck from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.
"I see my toys in the family room!"

2009-2-28: David having fun on deck. "See your toys? Yes!" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-2-28: David in snowpants & getting them off on step from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

The family just had their haircuts..

2009-January: times with David

2009-01-31T19:43:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month we were at their house helping with a project when Doug taught David how to climb a ladder...the safe way!! Afterwards we took the ladder home with us so he wouldn't get any ideas to try it more on his own.

2009-1-11: Gumpa taught David how to climb a ladder! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

He enjoys watching his videos on a small DVD player which can sit on his little table & chair set. He appeared quite into this video. I enjoyed watching his reactions as he watched the video..his hands & fingers and his facial expressions.

Then on the 29th Gumpa & Gumma had some David time...he was entertaining to watch as he ate dinner enjoying some of his favorite food. Eating his green beans. ( mislabeled this video)He is learning to eat with a fork and spoon but some of that coordination isn't complete so still easier to get the food with his hands. Then you can hear him saying a few words but there are new ones each day it seems.

2009-1-29 David eating his green beans from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-1-29 David eating from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2009-1-29 David playing with water drops and wiping them up! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

After dinner we had fun playing with various toys-- building blocks, stacking cups, reading books, a little time about lights in a darkened room, and then Gumpa put his eyeglasses on David. When he came to show me I had to laugh..reminded me of Dennis the Menace!!! His smile was so darling!

2008-12-23 & 24:Kris and Tim's visit

2009-01-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

It was great to have this time with our niece and nephew just before Christmas. As stated in the previous blog Kris came to MN and to us on Dec. 23 and left again the morning of the 24th to return home to Idaho. Tim was with us for Christmas Day in the evening when our family celebrated our Christmas meal and opened gifts. Doug with Tim and Kris H.

Uncle and niece
Brother and sister

Tim & Kristen just before leaving our home.

Then on Dec. 26th Tim left for Norway for another 6 months.

We so enjoyed that you took time to visit.

Come again!

2008-12-23:Our quick visit with Kristen...and Tim (he returned later).

2009-01-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

Our niece, Kristen, had a quick visit to MN & Wisconsin to visit relatives after being a bridesmaid in a friend's wedding in New Orleans on the weekend. Her brother, Tim, brought her to our home Tuesday pm. We immediately drove to Mankato to have dinner with Kari before she left for work @ 6:30pm.

Kris & Kari

Kari, Tim, & Kris
We drove towards home and made a stop to visit David, Julie, and little David.

Soon David D piled Kris's lap full of his stuffed toys...

Kris & Julie

Kris, David D, Julie, Tim

The 'relaxing' David!!??

It was to show 'reading'..

Putting puzzles together with Tim except Tim would try to place pieces in the

wrong spot but David would quickly put them right!

Where's my favorite"Blue" hiding!??

Puzzle time again...

Mom & David D

It was so good to have Kris and Tim visit...even if it was short!

Come again.

2008-12-20 David "helping G'ma decorate her Christmas tree!

2008-12-21T17:18:00.000-08:00

Saturday evening I was to decorate my tree since this year I was behind schedule with my Christmas preparations. (Doug and I both had the flu earlier and felt I lost 4 days.) Well, Julie and her family came over so we enjoyed some KFC first and then it was to get to decorating.

David loved this corn on the cob!
Trying to clean himself after eating!!....plus being goofy!

Now to get the tree to stand straight Doug and David adjusting the screws..

When G'ma came with her box of ornaments David immediately tried placing them on the tree. After being shown some directions of how to hang them he continued to do a pretty good job. Afterwards G'ma noticed many were all in the same place on the tree.
(David was really into hanging ornaments!)

When I asked if I could take his picture by the tree he posed for me.

(Shocker as usually he keeps moving!)

His area of decorations..

The finished tree.

We also had to decorate the mantel area with mini lights.

He held them up for G'pa as he laid them on the mantel.

Isn't it beautiful now?!

G'ma is glad it got decorated in time for Christmas!

Now it is to do some baking.

We celebrate as a family this Christmas Day evening.
Merry Christmas to you all!

2008-Thanksgiving weekend- (11-27, 12-01)

2008-12-11T18:31:00.000-08:00

David slept the night at G&G's house. He did real well! The next morning G'ma wanted to roast the 20 lb. turkey that day as it was a "free" day to get my preparations done for our dinner(s) on Friday and Saturday due to work schedules. Before preparing the turkey David seemed fascinated with the turkey as you can see...

(Julie and family went to Winona to the Olson family thanksgiving so didn't join us for our dinners.)

Thanksgiving-2008 David checking out the unbaked turkey-"it's heavy!" from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

It's heavy, G'ma!!

The beautiful turkey before being carved

Friday dinner with Kari, Brent, Doug, and cousin Sara Eidem

The happy couple--not engaged yet!!!!

Saturday afternoon Doug had help from Kari, Brent, and cousin Tim Hagen

to hang the Christmas lights on our house. They made fun doing it.

I was glad as the next day we had snow!

Kari and cousin, Tim

Kari and Brent

The beautiful results... now we have about 6-8 inches of snow on the ground.

Sunday...

Saturday dinner with cousin Tim H.

Tim checking out the lefse that Aunt Margarethe had made

Is it good??!!

Another evening we spent over at Julie and David's house.

David trying his washable crayon markers

Mom supervising..

Again playing with the Lego DuPlo blocks

Building towers are so much fun!

From 11-26-2008 Thanksgiving Eve

2008-12-11T15:15:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Eve we were just playing with little David letting him

entertain us plus "playing" with him and the toys.

Grandpa's shoes can be untied!!

Reading books..

Bear fits in G'pa's shoes!!

Shapes...

building blocks are such fun!

Learning to do memory cards... our own version for now.

From 11-15-2008: David watching Veggie Tales movie

2008-12-11T14:35:00.000-08:00

David has enjoyed the Veggie tales movie besides a couple of others his parents let him watch. One day at his home he was on this small picnic bench they have. Had to laugh! Not quite fitting this way!!

Then at G & G's house he wants to watch his special Veggie Tale movie we have for him. After picking him up from the babysitters about twice a week it is the first thing he wants to do. then we play.

This one is called "Lyle the Kindly Viking"-a lesson in sharing...
It also has some "Classy songs with Larry"

Grandson and G'pa enjoying the 'movie' with their snack!

11-15-2008 David watching "Veggie Tales-Lyle the Kindly Viking"- a lesson on sharing from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

It's done! Let's turn the TV off!

2008-10-18: David and his new bed

2008-10-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

David wouldn't stay in his crib at home so off to Ikea is was to find a twin bed. This one seemed to be the right one because it could expand as he grows until it needs to expand into a twin size bed. So Grandpa and Daddy were to put it together. Little David sat on Grandpa's lap to "help" them. Once he was shown how to put a screw into its' hole he thought that was his job. He really was intense in his help!

How is that screw to fit in?...

Let's see,.. what is my best position to get it in place?

Then it is to take the 'allen' wrench to tighten the screw..

We're soon finished except for this one...

We're done.. so into the bed he quickly tossed his favorite toys and blankets!!

Afterwards he did a little dance upon the bed before laying down to try it out!

I think he likes it!
(David is now 19 months old)

2008-10-05 contined post: #2 learning to put stones into his pockets

2008-10-05T19:57:00.000-07:00

David at 18 months...

I love this smile of fun!

looking for the right stone

David putting stones into his pocket 09-2008 from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

"Grandma, Help! I can't get this stone out of my pocket!!"

Mom is now needing to check his pockets before washing clothes!..
She may find a number of surprises I presume!

2008-10-05: David (@18 months)'s recent visits to G'ma & G'pa's house

2008-10-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

I will try to post several blogs...#1 playing with the dirt pile:
Doug had put a pile of black dirt by the side of the house to use to spread on portions of our lawn that were thinning and then to add grass seed. When David would come to visit, it was the first place he headed to check out. It entertained him for quite awhile putting dirt into this bucket, emptying it and then refilling and emptying it again and again.

I like to see how he is concentrating on pouring out the sand...

do you see his tongue sticking out?!

2008-August: Several recent David videos @ 17 months

2008-08-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

David playing by bike rack from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David (17months) stacking "Discovery" toy cups in sequence (8-20-2008) from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2008-08-19 David at 1st MN Twins baseball game

2008-08-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

Our church, Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren, got group tickets to attend "Lutheran Night Out" for the Twins game on August 19th. Julie, David, David D, and I rode the light rail train from near the MOA to the Metrodome (David D and my 1st ride on this train). The train was packed. While we waited DD enjoyed some time climbing through this sign.

Soon his Daddy had him watch for the coming train...

"What is this thing?.."

The train is all decorated...

Once we got off there were SO many people..doesn't David look overwhelmed!
The ticket lady was excited for David to see his 1st game!

Once inside we quickly found Grandpa who carried him up the many steps to our seats.

David taking in all the noise and people!

There's a ball down there??? Where?? I can't see it!
Secure in Mom's lap..

The happy family enjoying the game

The sign listed our church name with other Lutheran church groups attending.

Taken from across the stadium (sorry its blurry)

We were in section 226

August 19, 2008 David at MN Twins vs Oakland Game 13-2! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David lasted quite well but it was getting way past bedtime so the family

left about the 6th inning. G&G stayed for the whole game!
A fun time was had by all !

2008-August 5th: neighborhood National Night Out

2008-08-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood celebrated August 5th with a picnic in the backyard of one of our neighbors for the National Night Out. It was a beautiful evening. Doug was out of town for his job so Julie, David, and little David joined me. David loved the freedom in that backyard, the flowers and especially enjoyed splashing the water of the birdbath! (Ish!)

a great turn-out of neighbors enjoying one and another...
the happy 3!

testing the water!!

What fun!

2008-07-12 Some recent David videos...

2008-07-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

When Doug was picking up fallen branches in our yard before mowing the grass,

David wanted to "help" his Grandpa...one stick at a time!....

We were relaxing on the deck..no water in the pool this time but

David loves all the designs in the pool anyway..

He wanted his Mommie in the pool with him

David stomping over pool's edge from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.
David really does like blueberries. He doesn't quite get the

spoon holding the food to his mouth yet..

David-eating blueberries! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

He does this at his house but our high chair buckle is harder.

David-learning to buckle himself into his highchair from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David going down the slide at the park from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

2008-07-09 David and the sprinkler!

2008-07-13T15:23:00.000-07:00

David and the sprinkler from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David- tasting sprinkler water! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David-the "glee" of running thru the sprinkler from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

The soaked David!! He had had so much fun! ...

bath time next...!!

2008-07-09 David and the hose!

2008-07-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

David found my hose on the deck and started to play with it the other day. I'm not so sure it was the best thing to do but even his "Ga'Pa" got into it! There is a hole in the hose which needs repair...

David-pulling hose & "telephone" listening to G'Pa from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David-giving G'Pa the hose from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

David-the hose, squeals of delight! from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

After all his play David got a well deserved tub bath!

He had had such a fun time playing!...

2008-07-04 Erin & Nate's wedding

2008-07-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

These 3 ladies were former MK's. Our parents worked together in Cameroun for many years so I have known them most of my life. The daughter of the lady in blue got married on July 4th. We were privileged to attend this wedding where the groom and his groomsmen were in their military uniforms. The brides' brother had introduced the couple to each other as he and the groom were friends at school.

2008-06-25 At the MN Zoo with Julie and David D

2008-07-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

A week ago Wednesday I went to the MN Zoo with Julie and David. It was hot and muggy so many of the animals were resting in the shade of the trees.

The bears were very entertaining.

The 3 bears seemed to enjoy cooling off in the water.
We were behind some thick glass with many other people.

MN Zoo-two bears playing in water

The prairie dogs...watch out for those humans out there!!!

These guys seemed to be extra hot!

MN Zoo- David on park bench

We were in front of the wolf area.(The real wolf was sleeping in the shade...)
The school children enjoyed this area cooling off in the dancing waters.

We enjoyed being entertained by the dolphins.

MN Zoo dolphins with ball & David waving at dolphins bye-bye

MN Zoo dolphins jumping together 3-4 times

Going home...

A fun day at the Zoo!

2008-06-23 David...

2008-06-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

David, Julie and David on their deck

David was enjoying running through the sprinkler...

Notice how soaked he is...

running from Grandma from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

Bye-bye to the cars ("Beebo") from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

D running around & from GMa from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

running with phone-?Kari? from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

There are more videos to post so keep coming back to check when they can get posted...

2008-06-19 Family visiting from So.California!

2008-06-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

My brother and his wife, Jim & Marilyn, came to visit. They had a very busy schedule while here in Minnesota but we were privilged to have them stay overnight several times while they were here. Later on in their stay their son and his family joined them. It was a real joy to have them and great to be together again! (P.S. Just realized some of this post is repeated...enjoy anyway!)

We ate together Thursday pm with a surprise cake to celebrate Marilyn's birthday!

.. Angel food cake, ice cream and strawberries. Yum!

Those still able to sit around the table and not involved with child care...

The little 2nd cousins..David & Jayden.

The whole group gathered together only this once otherwise someone was always missing!

These 3 enjoyed driving this rental Hummer3 while here in Minnesota.

The older 2 will most likely pass on their "love" of cars to the youngest!!....

Krista & Jayden
Krista is such a great Mommie!

Jamie, Krista, & Jayden

I loved having time to enjoy my grand-nephew!

Jamie and Krista are wonderful parents to Jayden!

It was fun to see them in this new role in life.

Thank you for coming to visit us!

2008-6-21 Deac's 1973 class-- 35th year reunion

2008-06-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

The night before we three (Margie, Margarethe, & Marilyn) gathered at a MOA restaurant for some extra visiting & a meal. While we were in school we were known as the "3M's". We had a great time being together as Marilyn now lives in southern California.

The classmates of 1973 who gathered this day at Sandy's house.

another view...

Sandy,Paula, Nancy

Margie, Marilyn, Margarethe

Jan. Karen, Mary

Char, Rachel, Shelley

Deb, Nancy

Nancy, Karen

Joanie & Petra

Jeanne & Margie

Where we ate our lunch..the patio overlooking the pool and lake.

Our delious lunch from Buca's...

Desserts...Yum!!

The backyard view...so enjoyable and relaxing.

Reading some letters received from those not in attendance.

inside sharing time from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

outside sharing time from Margarethe Swanson on Vimeo.

During our training at Deaconess we student nurses would gather around the portable

organ and sing to the patients on that hospital floor each morning before we started..

Singing our class song..."We rest on thee, Our Shield and Defender..."

What a fun day reminiscing and enjoying the beauty around us. We will be

anxious to gather again in five years!

We hope the rest of you can make plans to join us at that time!

Thank you to Sandy and Tom for opening their lovely home to us!

Great hosts!!

2008-6-19 David & Jim's family

2008-06-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

The new haircut for summer!

David now knows where his nose is plus his tummy!!

Grandma & Jayden

Getting a family photo shoot before everyone disspersed...

The 2nd cousins..David (15 months) and Jayden (3 months).

These 2 guys were so pleased with themselves for getting this rental for their

weekend here.. a Hummer3. Looks like the 3rd generation will also like cars!!!

The birthday girl!!.. Happy Birthday, Marilyn!!

Some of the family around the table not involved with child care...

David with Jayden "talking" in the background I believe..!!

Kari, this video is really for you to see David in action these days...

2008-6-14 AM: 35W Bridge Update Photos

2008-06-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

Looking from the south end towards the north side. While we were there this barge came with these cement prefabricated sections for the bridge which they were planning to install that day. The newspaper says they are trying for 4 per day. There is some web site which can explain the process better. The red crane is called "BIG BEN" . The work is being done 24/7 and should be done early- before Christmas, 2008.

This platform of barge, crane, tugboats, etc. was interesting to watch

The north end which had not changed much in looks from the last time we visited.

Downtown Minneapolis in the background

Those cement sections in the barge will be fitted into those

corresponding areas on the bridge above

The prefabricated cement sections

to fit into this area after the scafolding is removed
The drapes are to catch the "epoxy" from falling down below

One of the large cement support posts on the north end with

downtown Minneapolis in the background

Look! this guy was working hanging over the edge but so high up!!! He was safe.

The north end of the bridge where the road was leading up to the bridge.

Many of these braces would be removed once the cement is poured.

Again the north end. The street in the background is University Ave.

When we walked back across the men were quickly removing the

scafolding so the cement sections could be installed

Hope you enjoy the update in photos!

2008-6-14 David "helping" Grandpa S.

2008-06-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

Doug needed to fill in black dirt on various parts of our lawn so he had this pile of dirt.

David was curious... and wanted to "help"...

Making fun out of a project! Grandpa and helper!

On another ride David was grinning from ear to ear

& holding on to both sides of the wheelbarrel.

While Grandpa ("Bumpa") was spreading shovels around the grass area, David was running back and forth with his handfuls of dirt and then throwing them down on the grassy areas.

Afterwards was bathtime to clean up a very dirty little helper!

He ate good and then a good night of sleep.
He had enjoyed such a busy and fun afternoon!
(I had video clips which again wouldn't download.)

2008-6-14 David enjoying ice cubes!

2008-06-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

We were watching little David. It was warm outside where he wanted to be so I went and got a glass of ice water. He wanted some only he drank from the top edge of the glass so he got COLD water down his tummy which 'shocked' him and made him giggle. Soon his hand was in the glass grabbing the ice cubes so he could suck on them, plus it was fun to play in the water!! He was so funny. I got several videos but they aren't able to load this pm so here are some photos to enjoy!

By this time his pants legs were wet with water.

We had also taken off his tennis shoes. I love his little barefeet..

"Oh, I hear an airplane going overhead!"

The ice cubes kept falling out of his hand but he was determined to suck on them.

There's an ice cube in his mouth & one in his hand..

2008-6-12 Babysitting David

2008-06-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Doug and I got to babysit David the other evening...we ate our dinner on their deck.

Relaxing after dinner...
Playing peek-a-boo under the table

"I can see you, grandpa!"

2008-6-8: Some sites of Mpls

2008-06-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

Several people from Madawaska, Maine (the northern tip) came to the Twin cities as part of their job. Doug is assisting them with an implimentation project. They had never been to Minnesota so we were able to show them some of the sites. We first went to see the Minnehaha Falls from the bridge looking down to the path below. That path can take you to the Mississippi river about a mile away...

The beautiful Minnehaha Falls

Down the road we went under the "Ford Parkway" bridge crossing between Mpls and St. Paul . This is the Mississippi river..so clear and magnificent!

This is looking south on the river...

The Lock & Dam No. 1 which helps the boats get up the river and over the falls.

the falls of the river..

Then it was to drive the river road to downtown Mpls. It was to see the scuplture gardens..
The legendary "spoon with the cherry" with the Mpls skyline in the background..

We walked the grounds seeing other scupltures and flowers. These took my fancy as the colors were so striking.

Their name...

This one was unique!!

Afterwards we went out for a delicious steak dinner before taking them to their hotel.

2008-June 4th-Wednesday with David D

2008-06-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

This am David came about 9:50am as his mother had an appointment. We were inside for a few minutes playing by the fridge but soon it was to go 'outside' on the deck!

David and his "Mom or Mama"
David and his Mema

While we were outside he heard the airplanes overhead but they were above the clouds.

This coupe car is a hit with him going in and out of it making sure the side door is shut, putting some toy in the trunk, honking the horn, and then doing it all over again!! What a busy boy!

At times he is "talking' all the time sometimes very determined, sometimes saying something like "da-wow, da-wow", but always on the move... here he seemed spacey?!!

Before his mom left on her errand we got ready for a walk to Colonial Park about 2 blocks away.

Notice he is "waving" his hand bye-bye to "Mom"

My neighbor, Danette & her dog, Winston, went on the walk with us... the playground had slides that were fun plus these steps and these yellow objects that went round and round. Such fun!

David was all smiles enjoying himself going up and down--slides and steps!

Maybe here he was gettting tired & spacey watching Winston fetch his ball.

Notice David is on his tip toes!

Now it was getting hot outside.

Fun to watch Winston ...

Aah!! A drink of water!!

Then home for more cold water. It had been a fun time outside.
Grandma was tired as David had been on the go all day except for an hour and 50 minute nap!

He doesn't sleep much but we were able to cuddle for a few minutes to wind down before Mom returned. It's a privilege to have these times together!

2008-May 26 Enjoying David!

2008-05-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

Doug took David up their hill in the backyard. Little David enjoyed running down the hill. At the end of this blog MAYBE the video will appear to view!...

Then the first time in a tree! What fun to see the world this way!!

These are really shorts he is wearing!!

Snack time over at Grandma's house after all the play time outside. He is good to sit down on the floor to eat his snack if not in the highchair but then proceeds to tap the floor beside him for me to join him!!

Our backyard has several pines trees with cones. Doug wanted to pick them up so he put some in this brown sack. David loved "helping" him and was proud when he did it so he clapped for himself!

Our picnic...The chef and his helpers!

2008-May 24-26 (Memorial Day weekend)

2008-05-27T19:18:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend Doug & I enjoyed a relaxing time in our trailer, reading, taking walks, and Doug was able to make things ready with the trailer flushing out the pipes, etc. so we can enjoy the trailer once again after the winter months. We like this RV Park as it is next door to where we store the trailer when it's not in use. Our "rig" is definitely one of the smaller rigs in the parks anywhere! Just right for us now! There are bike trails not far away which we can also enjoy.

the entrance into our trailer & kitchen area

a relaxing swing...

Viburnum shrub flower??

May 20, 2008 The beauty of Spring is here!

2008-05-21T17:09:00.000-07:00

Some photos of spring from our house...the backyard and from the front door.

Quite the contrast from the supposedly first day of spring weather we had

(refer to my photos of March 21st). I love all the colors!

The lilacs in bloom in the backyard.

the lilacs

The lilacs

Crab-Apple blossom tree buds...

Some of the buds close up.

Looking north down our street from the front door. The trees are quickly getting their leaves.

The view from my front door. I love this tree when in blossom.

It was cool outside but David wanted to be outside in his car! I needed him to wear a scarf to keep warm. Was about 58 degrees at this time! Warmer weather is in the forecast!!?

2008-5-16 David & his coupe car!

2008-05-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

One of our neighbors said he found this coupe car on the curb with a "FREE" sign. He was taking it home even if he didn't have any small children or grandchildren but when he saw us he told us to use it for our grandson! David loves it!! Right away he knew how to get in and out of it as you can see.

May 10, 2008 35W bridge update in photos

2008-05-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

The view from 20th ave bridge where they store the cement sections to the new bridge.

Cement bridge sections

The north end of the bridge

Also the north end of the new bridge

The crane to assist on the north end and overlooking downtown Minneapolis

The north end..look at the sections where the cement sections will be placed

The section over the water is still to come.

The south section being constructed.

The south section. The sections over land are being built first.

In the background you can see the HHH metrodome and the American Red Cross building which helped in the recovery process at time of collapse.

May 10, 2008 After bath

2008-05-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

After little David's bath it is to hurry to diaper him. He loves to crawl around on our bed if I've given him his bath. We play, giggle, and try to "catch" him!!! He loves it.

Is this a pose to advertise "Huggies" wipes??!!

After all that play he 'needed' a cracker and milk..

Now, ready for bed!!

May 11, 2008 Mother's Day

2008-05-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Today was Mother's Day! Julie and I were taken out to brunch following our AM church service. We missed not having Kari join us but she did call.

Little David was not happy to be in photos at this time..

Julie and her family(little David had a good nap while we waited to eat)

Our brunch

David was done eating lunch so he had stroller time

May 1, 2008 babysitting David

2008-05-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

The birthday Mom plus her boys...

Before leaving giving G-pa a last minute hug with "Tubby"- the hippo!! A fun evening!

Today is Julie's birthday. We got to babysit little David so Julie and David could have a peaceful birthday dinner. Not so hard on these Grandparents! He ate good and then he wanted to go outside! What a busy little guy!! His 'new' tennis shoes allowed him to walk easier in our backyard. It was to test out the stones by the house which G-pa wanted put back into their stone area and not in the mouth to taste, "help" G-pa clean out between the tiles on the deck (actually David would take away the kneeling pad and dust pan when G-pa wasn't watching close), plus just walking around the yard even with his 'lunch' bag slung over his shoulder like Mom. Sometimes on the videos you can here him say."Dow-wow" which he kept saying all evening. I believe he was talking about their dog, Jack.

Doors are to be closed in David's opinion (his fingers didn't get caught in the door!)

Here's several videos to enjoy D in action!

The sequence of this blog is not perfect. Guess there is more to learn about blogging with videos and photos and how to master blog them better.

May 1, 2008 David having fun with his ball & "building blocks"

2008-05-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

David having fun with the ball and grocery bag...

These 'Coke' insulators were so much fun for David to play with his Grandpa.

G. used it as a tool to teach numbers besides...sorry the video didn't work out to view this way.

2008-April 26th: LDH Alumni Banquet-35th class reunion

2008-04-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

My 35th class reunion from nursing school! Only 3 of us chose to attend the banquet but more of us will gather on June 21st at a classmates lovely home. It was good to see so many former RN mentors and friends from former days when we worked side by side caring for our patients. So many stories to be told! I feel so priveleged to be taught the art of nursing from the Christ-like perspective ("At His Feet" was our school's motto).

Rachel and her mother, Stella, are/were both nurses.

Rachel and Jo have been my OR supervisors/managers.

They have little turnover of staff as they both have showed such care for

their staff plus are excellent at their jobs!

It was great to see and visit with our brother-in-law, Gary's sister, Sue.

She was celebrating her 25th class reunion.

Celebrating Aunt Dorothy Gilbertson's 87th birthday

2008-04-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

Happy 87th birthday, Aunt Dorothy!

Her birthday was April 15 but we celebrated on the 19th with many family and friends.

Her family presented a program at 2:30pm with many

musical numbers (and jokes by great-grand children).

Aunt Dorothy and her children: Lt to rt-Sue, Dennis, Mary, & Jim with grandson-Mark Elworthy and nephew-Doug S behind them holding this beautiful quilt her mother had started many years ago, then D. had added squares to make it a twin size and now Mary had made it to be a double-bed size. (Sorry 2 photos of same came up. I don't know how to delete that mistake in the midst of composing a blog without deleting everthing.)

Same photo!!
Mary & Dorothy showing me some squares with special memories.

After the wonderful program Aunt Dorothy's family presented to her ,

we visited her room-apartment down the hall. She was an accomplished organist and pianist and had given lessons to many students over the years. I asked if she would honor us with a special number on her piano. She obliged by playing a piece written by Durand I believe.

Listen to the video to a portion of what she played.

Very well done!

2008: April 20th Spring is here!

2008-04-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

David was so happy to go outside! He tromped from side to side giggling and sort of dancing as he explored the deck. We were amazed he kept this hat on which he needs to wear as he is so fair-skin. His mommie had told him he needed to wear it and so he did!

He seemed like such a "big" boy.

He had such fun with this bouncing ball.

The grass still seems strange to him.

These steps are big for him. It was a lot to coordinate getting up the

steps plus getting this ball back on the deck.

He ran in the backyard looking for places to make a "basket"!
The bouncing ball just made him laugh.
I love to hear his giggle of joy.

Easter weekend--March 23, 2008

2008-03-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday pm I was honored to attend the 85th Birthday party for this dear lady, Marge G., who has meant so much to so many people throughout her life. Two of her children and 1 granddaughter were also in attendance. She was thrilled to see so many family and friends.
David visited the Bunny while visiting his other grandparents this weekend.

M and Sara E. We enjoyed her company over the weekend.

Sara, Julie and David

David and his Daddy had a lot of fun working this "track" set. David loved to put his hand on the moving track and that made for alot of crashes. These toys easily fit in his hand.

He is eating "big-boy" food these days.

Spoon handling coordination isn't all in place yet.

"I have an orange colored face!?"

First day of Spring??!! March 21, 2008

2008-03-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

This photo was to have been placed just before the last photo to show the amount of snow on the deck railing....

Winter wonderland!

(View from our front door)

My cousin's daughter, Sara , visiting for the Easter weekend. She helped us shovel many times this 10+ inches of wet snow. We were grateful for all her help!

From the street looking at our home.

The mailbox.

Tree in our backyard

Look at the level of snow on the deck railing

This wet snow stuck to the post besides the railing

See the snow on the metal railing?

PPK-nursery 'music' class 2-20-2008

2008-02-24T13:19:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday I was invited to attend the music class at PPK in the baby room. I wasn't sure what to expect. This lady came to the baby room with her guitar bringing along a container of various bells and animal-shaped clappers, etc. She would sing along with her guitar. I was amazed how the babies did seem to like the instruments and music even if they mostly just wanted to taste and touch the instrument of bells, etc. The babies did just sit there and watched her. After awhile David and his friend, Jack, found her larger container with extra baskets in it and proceeded to empty her container!! This lady said she washes each toy after each class. The class lasted about 20-30 minutes. A young teen then came into the baby room and she gives the babies their snacks. David and Jack followed her immediately as soon as they saw her!!

Is this our future NBA player??!! from 2-16-2008

2008-02-21T19:45:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure how this post will turn out! These were taken while in Lacrosse. He was one busy boy. He appeared to know what to do with the ball once Doug had the basket near him--putting the ball into the basket, taking it out, and putting it into the basket again. We were amazed as he
is just 11months + 1 week old!

These motor sounds are made with his tongue between his lips. What a character!

Fun at the motel pool in Lacrosse...2-16-2008

2008-02-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

David likes the water. The lights in the pool area were very green so the coloring isn't great on these photos but David had fun. The water was a little cool also so he didn't get to be in the pool very long. There were 2 young boys in the pool who he liked to watch as they played and splashed. We adults enjoyed watching David!

Hi! I'm going swimming!

Can't I just walk into that water!

Catch me, Auntie Kari!

It's colder than I thought!

Grandma warmed me up!

Should I go back in?!

I had fun!

After a hot bath I warmed up and then I was so thirsty!

Visiting Kari in Lacrosse..2-16-2008

2008-02-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

This is the area of GrandDad's bluff in Lacrosse. See the American flag on the top point? We drove up to this area to look over the Lacrosse valley.

Before our drive there we stopped to pick up Kari from her apartment. David was entertained.

He seemed to know what to do with the computer mouse...only thing it's Auntie Kari's computer!! (Sorry but the video positioned itself at the bottom of this post)

The Olson family in front of the building at Granddad's bluff.

Way in the distance you could see Iowa.

Sunset overlooking Lacrosse.

The larger buildings in front of the sun are the 2 hospitals not too far apart.

Kari's hospital is the one closer to us.

Do they look cold?

Sisters..

the family...

David and Julie.

It was so COLD outside with a slight breeze. My fingers felt frozen as I wasn't dressed warm enough, especially after taking so many photos!! In the next blog the evening events continued.

that next video of 2-14-2008

2008-02-15T19:43:00.000-08:00

The motor sounds...!

Tomorrow we are going to Lacrosse to spend the weekend with Kari

along with Julie, David, and David D. Should be a fun time as a family.

Am sure you will see some photos!!