A Little Schmidj Of This & A Little Schmidj Of That!!!

2/14/11 Valentines and 1st bike ride

2011-02-26T17:54:00.000-08:00

We started a Valentine's tradition with cards,small gifts and dinner by candlelight. WE are not making it easy for Kara's future husband.
Kara riding her bike for the first time. She prefers Daddy to just push her instead of pushing the pedals herself.

Tim's 40th Birthday 1/15/2011

2011-02-26T17:48:00.000-08:00

Tim being the humble and frugal man that is...wanted no party this year. I came very close to NOT honor his wishes. He agreed to have just family and we had a great time. I thank God everyday for my loving husband and loving father to Kara.

12/25/2010 Christmas

2011-02-26T17:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas 12/25/2010

2011-02-26T17:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas 12/25/10

2011-02-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

Kara started asking for Christmas presents since October. She would look at the adds on Sunday and tell us everything she wanted. Tim and I were both off this Christmas and we had a great day. We stayed home and Lori and my Mom both came over and spent time with us. Kara received her first bike with training wheels. Christmas Eve was special at Church, then home to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus (candle in donut, Kara started that tradition 2 yrs. ago)finished the Advent Calendar,stories of Baby Jesus and then finally to bed.

12/05/10 Kara's 4th birthday

2011-02-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

Kara has really blossomed this past year. Her vocabulary(very articulate and argumentive, come back for everything) Mastered the computer, pulls up the internet,favorites, Disney Clubhouse and tries to print a coloring sheet all by herself. Eventually have to put a block on this computer. Loves to read,watch TV,movies(knows how to turn the TV on and put her movie in without me knowing) and she loves her penguins. She only plays with stuffed animals(no dolls or Barbies)she plays school, store,"family" with them, even changes her voice with each one. She loves to sing or hum a tune throughout the day. She likes to make up her own words. She tells me she likes school but doesn't like taking a nap there or listening to Mrs.Becky. She has many,many years of listening to her teachers I tell her. We had her first "friend" party this year and she was excited to invite everyone. Told me she was inviting 5,000 of her friends. Glad she finally narrowed down a little.

Camping (cabin trip) 11/14/2010

2010-12-12T21:20:00.000-08:00

I love our annual cabin trips with my friends from High School. We have been going for over 20years. We all have our input in what we want in a cabin and now some of the kids are old enough to give their opinions too. I look forward to spending a whole weekend with everyone eating,watching football,playing games,and eating. We went to a cabin 20miles outside of Old Man's Cave this year. We all loved it and had access to a private reserve of trails and caves. We were the only ones there and it was really warm for November. Looking forward to next year.

Halloween 10/30/2010

2010-12-12T21:10:00.000-08:00

Kara went trick or treat 3 different nights and places. Weekend before to Worthington Rec.Center,our neighborhood, and friend's neighborhood. Kara was a unicorn and a penguin this year. You know from previous years, Tim is all about the candy. Kara wanted to introduce herself to each person,go in their house,ask what their dog's name was, etc. Tim was getting impatient and finally told her....the more you talk the less candy you will get now come on. Our friends were cracking up because they were always 5 houses ahead of us. We joked that Kara should of dressed up like a politician. She spoke to people like she was running for office.

9/29/10 Kara receives vest for Awana Cubbies

2010-10-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

Kara started Awana this year (Cubbies)She has done better with memorizing her versus than I thought she would do. Some older kids wear a vest with patches for each step they complete. Every week Kara would ask, "When do I get my vest?" We told her soon but she has to repeat all of her versus to her teacher without help and tell her where to find the verse in the Bible. She loves going and ask everynight is tonight Awana? She finally was awarded her vest but was not patient at all. All the kids were sitting at their assigned tables waiting to be called up to the front. Kara with each name called stood up and moved closer and closer each time. She would get excited and then realized it was someone else. She was cracking us up. We kept saying "sit down, sit down" but she wasn't listening. Finally she was called and clapped for herself and ran right up there. I was messing with the camera and missed most of it but could hear her yelling. "Daddy & Mommy, I finally got my vest, I got it, I got it. You would of thought she won an Olympic God Medal. We are so glad she is that excited to learn and memorize the Bible. We pray she doesn't lose that desire. Plus I am now learning a new verse everyweek.

Sept 25th Tim's 1st OSU Game!!

2010-10-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

We were so blessed to be given free tickets to the OSU vs. Eastern Michigan football game. Many thanks to the Mercer family. They even told us where to park for free, about a 15 minute walk to the stadium. I was so excited for Tim since he has lived in Columbus the majority of his life but has never been down to a game. We grabbed a hot dog and a water before we went into the game.(saved us $5.00)Of course, I had snacks in my bag. Great day, great weather, spending time with my hubby, and a great win for the Bucks (record 73-20 score)

Aug. 28th 1st day of preschool

2010-10-02T16:25:00.000-07:00

Kara was so excited to start school again. She was bummed she wasn't riding the big bus to school. I have it my way she will never ride a bus to school. She is with 12 other boys and girls at a Christian Preschool. We are so blessed to have this school so close to us. She walked right in to her classroom at open house and went right up to her teacher and introduced herself. We were so proud since she was the only child who introduced themselves. The majority of the kids were hanging on their Mother's leg and crying. They had a service in the Chapel for the whole school that night. Kara didn't hesitate to remind her teacher that it was time to go to service. Her teacher was very appreciative that she had a good helper already. Her poor teacher will have her hands full with Kara.

Camping with the Groffs 7/10

2010-08-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with the Groff family camping. Kara had fun helping Daddy put up the tent(only Daddy and Charlie slept in the tent.)We went swimming,played on the playground,found a turtle and just enjoyed being outdooors. Well,we were spoiled with air conditioning,TV and a huge refridgerator.

4th of July

2010-07-09T14:40:00.000-07:00

4th of July 2010

2010-07-09T14:19:00.001-07:00

Kara's 1st Westerville 4th of July parade. We went 2 hours early to set our chairs up and to get a good "candy spot" as Tim would say. Great parade but after 1 hour and 30 minutes later, Kara asked if we could go home. The parade was still way down the street and really hot. We left to get ready for our first 4th of July festivities at our Church. This was their 12th year for fun,food,and fireworks. Tim volunteered at the bounce house and they had a ton of activities for kids. Free pony rides,games,bounce houses,etc. Great community outreach and they expected over 1,000 people. We stayed for the fireworks and had a great time. Back to work and the daily grind. We had a great family vacation. Looking forward to next year when we go to Disneyworld.

vacation/ Kings Island 6/10

2010-07-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

We decided since Kara loves rides we would go to Kings Island for 2 days and go to the Cinci Zoo. The first day she said, we couldn't leave because she has not "rode all the rides" She was a trooper and we stayed till the fireworks. The next morning she jumped up and said, "Look, I grew overnight, now I can ride the big red rollercoaster." We had to break it to her gently that she still wasn't big enough to ride the big rollercoasters. She cried and cried but was glad we were going back to Kings Island. She wanted to stay all day and watch fireworks again. Mommy and Daddy are way too old to hang 2 whole days at Kings Island. We convinced her to leave around dinnertime and then swim at our hotel. We had a great time but the Zoo was a lot smaller than Columbus. We were there maybe 30 minutes and Kara said, she was done we could leave. Once she saw the penquins she was ready to go back to the hotel. We had a great time and I realized Kara and her Daddy will have their special day every year and go to Kings Island together. I don't do rides and it is really a waste of money for me to just walk around all day. Afterall, I could walk around all day at the Ikea Store and get my exercise.

Kara can say the funniest things

2010-06-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

Kara's bedtime prayers are becoming longer and more specific. Taking after her mother. Our time together before she goes to bed is prayer time. Daddy has a reading time and I have prayer time. She starts by saying, "Thank you God for the world so sweet(glad she is so naive)for Nana,Papa,Grandma,and Reese cups for everyone." I am not sure where the Reese cups came in but how adorable. She then repeats what she said earlier but faster. She will say in Jesus name and then say, "oh yeah and thank you for whomever she played with that day" This can go on for some time. She has learned the art of stalling before bed even with her prayers.
Last night she asked if I was old. I said, "NO",she asked if Nana is old and I said,"A little bit old". I said,everyone gets old and she said,"even me". Yes, honey even you some day. She hugged and kissed me and said,"Mommy lets not ever,ever get old." Sounds good to Mommy!!!
I have prayed that Kara have a guilty conscience. I think it is working because every time one of us come home from work she tells on herself. She told Tim she was not being a good listener but only for a little bit.

Our 5th Anniv. 4/23/10

2010-05-07T17:27:00.001-07:00

Kara actually took this picture of Tim and I on our anniversay. I am so blessed to have such an awesome husband!!!

Franklin Park Conservatory

2010-05-07T17:23:00.001-07:00

We went for the first time to Franklin Park Conservatory to see the butterflies. She enjoyed looking at the flowers,the train and the room where people get married. She was disappointed because no one got married and a butterfly did not land on her. We still had a fun day.

Kara's favorite things

2010-05-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

Kara's favorite thing to sleep with is a penquin(that Tim gave me when we were dating)So,we bought another one so she wouldn't tear up mine. She then needed both of them to sleep. I went to buy a back up just in case we lost the second one. The moral of the story is...we should of stuck with just one. She needs all 3 of them day and night with her. She named them Peep,Pippa,and Socko. I can't even explain how and where she came up with those names. Her other thing she does before bedtime is Daddy reads 3 books and then mommy puts her to bed. I love this picture of her and Tim reading bedtime stories.

Easter 4/4/10

2010-05-07T17:11:00.001-07:00

Easter 4/4/10

2010-05-07T16:51:00.000-07:00

A little late posting Easter pictures but I finally developed them. Kara actually did 3 Easter Egg Hunts. The first one at her pre-school. Tim had her practice the night before and coached her right before. He was unbelievable,he was literally yelling at her, pick them up,run,get up,don't open the eggs yet, get as many as you can. All for 10 pieces of candy, hopefully she will not be traumatized for next year. The second one was at my parent's Church which they gave out prizes instead of candy. The third one at Aunt Lisa's house with her cousin. We also read everynight about the true meaning of Easter. Jesus loved us so much that he died for all of us. Kara about 3 days later,lined her stuffed animals in a row and starting crying(fake)she came out and said,"They all died on the cross but we shouldn't cry,Mommy. They will come back to life and we will be happy again. Tim and I were amazed just listening to her as she told "us" the story. She even mentioned the "mean soldiers" but God forgave them and Jesus and one guy went to heaven and the other one did not. We pray she will always have a hunger to learn and read the stories of the Bible.

Strike a Pose

2010-03-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

Kara comes out of her room and ask Tim, "How do I look?" She is wearing our 3D glasses,pajama bottoms around her neck(she said, it was her scarf),pajama shorts with both legs in one for a skirt,and rain boots. She said, "Do I look ravishing". I made the mistake of asking her to pose for a picture. She is 3yrs and 3mos. now with an unbelievable imagination. She has a "pretend mouse" living with us name,"Jerry" He is the one that makes all of the messes,tears things up and sleeps in the ceiling fan. She wants to leave cheese and toys out for him. Tim and I are ready for "Jerry" to find a new home.

Christmas 12/25/09

2010-01-08T16:23:00.000-08:00

Kara was such a joy this Christmas. She was so amazed and excited about looking at Christmas lights and watching traditional Christmas shows on TV.(still watching in January)Tim did an awesome job on her new/old dollhouse. Tim's Dad made this for his sister about 30 years ago. Tim cleaned it up and gave it a new paint job and looked great. She only asked for GeoTraxx(train set)this year. She has watched the DVD about 100times and know matter who asked that was what she told them. She also loved her new table and chairs with her tea set for all of her friends. We all had a very blessed Christmas and looking forward to new memories and traditions for the year 2010.

Christmas and Christmas Eve 12/24/09

2010-01-08T15:49:00.000-08:00

Kara was so much joy this Christmas. She was amazed and excited about everything. She loved all the Christmas lights and watching all of the tradional Christmas shows on TV.(still watching in January)We started our Happy Birthday to Jesus tradition last year when Kara picked out a donut vs. a cake. I didn't plan very well thinking something would be opened Christmas Eve after Church. Well,I was wrong from Krogers,Giant Eagle,Dunkin Donuts,and Tim Horton's were all CLOSED. Tim was thinking just go home,no big deal we can find something at home. I insisted a tradition is tradition so we found donuts at the BP down the street. I will buy them the day before next year.

Baking Christmas Cookies 12/09

2010-01-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

Kara's first time making cookies from start to finish. I always knew Tim had more patience than I except baking cookies with Kara. Tim is a very precise direction,instruction type person. Whatever the box says then their is NO deviating from the recipe or instructions. Unless,of course your baking with Kara and she decides how much goes in the bowl,the floor,the countertop,on herself,etc. I guess Kara and I are on our own for the next batch.

Kara's 3rd birthday

2009-12-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

We all had a such a great time for Kara's birthday weekend. Started Friday night going to CocoKey Resort and swimming and spending the night. Some of our friends joined us for Spider Man cupcakes(yes,Spider Man,she wanted Princess and Spider Man)and swimming. Saturday we relaxed at home and celebrated with just us. Sunday,celebrated with family at our house. Monday at the Snowflake Castle with friends. Whew,Kara had so much fun but she didn't like the rule that you have to open the card before the present. Thankfully,by Sunday she got it down!!

Kara'

2009-12-11T11:14:00.001-08:00

Go Bucks!!!! Smell the Roses 11/21/09

2009-11-22T08:55:00.000-08:00

Our traditional gathering for the OSU beat Michigan Party is always a great time. Especially if OSU wins which we did!!! The "Lynn's" (we all have the middle name Lynn including now our daughters Jessica and Kara)Had a great time just hanging out watching the kids play and eating of course.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-03T10:48:00.001-08:00

Kara made up her mind months ago she wanted to be Spider Man for Halloween. So she let me put a red skirt over her costume and she wanted her beads. So, I guess that now makes her Spider Girl. She was also a cat for Westerville's festivities and tells people she was Spider Man and a Cat. She had a so much fun going with her cousin Kennedy this year.

Fall Festivities Oct. 27,09

2009-11-03T10:43:00.000-08:00

Kara had more fun carving a pumpkin this year than last year. She actually liked getting her hands inside and taking out the seeds. She kept saying, "ooohh, this is cool"

Go Bucks

2009-10-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

Kara would wear her OSU jerseys everyday if we would let her. She is still a little tomboy with a little girlie thrown in there. As you can see in the pictures she wants her jersey and her "neckalaces" on. We will be at the store and someone will be wearing a OSU shirt. Kara will notice right away and insist she needs hers on. She will pretty much sit through the whole game and watch with us. She cheers,and ooohs during tackles and ask is he okay. She even recognizes Jim Tressel on the news. She told Tim last week she wants to play football not be a cheerleader and we can watch her on TV.

First day of preschool 9/11/09

2009-09-19T18:59:00.000-07:00

Kara has to get up around 8:00am for school,which is only 1 day a week. She normally gets up between 9-10:00am. The first day of school Tim and I went in to wake her up and her response was..."I go back to seep,I will go to school this safternoon." I don't know why she thought the afternoon was even an option or where she heard that from. Tim told her she has a long way to go till she is out of school. She finally woke up and off we went to school. She started playing in the kitchen area and told Tim he could stay but I could go. Tim told her that was not nice and both mommy and daddy are going to go. We waited a couple more minutes and we told her bye and we love you. She didn't even stop playing or look up at us,waved her hand good-bye and said love you, bye. She did pretty good compared to some of the other kids crying and holding onto their parents for dear life. I'm glad she is independent and outgoing but she could of shed a little tear form Mommy. I shed enough for the both of us!!

Kara's new cousins 8/27/09

2009-09-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Kiernan and Reileigh arrived healthy and beautiful on 8/28/09. Her big sister Kennedy and cousin Kara were so excited.

Here I am Daddy 8/14/09

2009-08-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

Tim was looking for Kara while he was washing the car. He looks over and Kara yells out,"Here I am."

Look out Kara has the hose 8/14/09

2009-08-16T18:24:00.000-07:00

Kara has mastered the sprayer on the hose. She loves to help her Daddy with whatever he is fixing or cleaning.

High Maintenance

2009-08-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Kara will ask for a "assage" when she comes down with me to help with laundry. Last week she climbed up on the table,put her face in the face rest and said,"assage me mommy." I started to rub her back and she looked up at me and said," I need lotion and cover me up." Oh boy,we are in trouble,Diva in the making.

July 4th 2009 Conneaut,OH

2009-07-12T22:01:00.001-07:00

July 4th, 2009

2009-07-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

We were invited to Conneaut,OH(along Lake Erie)for the 4th of July. Many thanks to Lisa,Kyle,Willa and all the kids. We had such a great time. Kara swam her little heart out. A little too cold at the beach but she had fun looking for rocks. Her favorite part was the parade. She never understood why people were throwing her candy. Tim, being the great dad that he is, pretty much shoved kids out of the way to get the good stuff for his daughter.

First Camping Trip, Deer Creek 6-19/6-21/09

2009-06-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Kara will not eat corn at home but loved corn on the cob. Kara doing her chores to empty the water and a picture of our cabin.

Our First Camping Trip 6-19/6-21-09

2009-06-24T18:59:00.000-07:00

I finally convinced Tim to go camping and we had a great time over Father's Day. By definition most people would not call our camping cabin, "True Camping." Kara had a great time just being outdoors,going to the beach,watching movies on her DVD player, and getting to sleep with mommy everynight. Tim didn't want to eat outside because the bugs were in his food, the wind was blowing the plates,etc. We are camping,therefore, we are eating outside on the picnic tables not in our little air conditioned cabin. Our cabin had everything we "Needed" except bathroom facilities. We took Kara's little potty,since we started being serious about potty training earlier in the week. She has done really well except on Saturday. She was just excited to have her cousins there to hang out with us. I have to admit the cabin with AC is key in June. We also had a small refridgerator,microwave,electricity,and it slept 6. We had 2 picnic tables, fire ring and an electric hot plate chained to one of the picnic tables with a shelter. We went to Deer Creek State Park which has alot of things to do. The beach,fishing,playgrounds,lodge,cabins,campground,etc. We will definitely do this in the future. I have visited all of our state parks and we are blessed to have so much here in Ohio. I suggest going to the website www.discoverohio.com to see what day or overnight inexpensive trips to do this summer.

5/30/09 Jose&Kristen's Wedding

2009-06-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time at the Byer's wedding. I think Kara and Emily had the most fun dancing and twirling around in their dresses. The girls were so cute and we had to take Kara kicking and screaming off the dance floor to go home.

Race for the Cure 5/16/09

2009-05-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Each year the Race for the Cure gets bigger and bigger,over 45,000 people. Pretty amazing to see such great support here in Columbus,Ohio. This was my 10th year,Tim's 3rd year and Kara's 1st year. This year was even more meaningful to support one of my high school friends who is now a SURVIVOR!!! We supported Sheila Downing's team,
"Sheila's Believers." She had over 120 people who walked and raised money for the cure for Breast Cancer. Unfortunately, I know way too many friends and family members who have been struck by this disease. ALL THE WOMEN WHO READ THIS, PLEASE,PLEASE GET YOUR YEARLY MAMMOGRAM AND DO MONTHLY SELF EXAMINES!!!!

Swing set wins this time

2009-04-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Tim and I are acquiring grey hairs faster by the day with Kara. She fell off the swing set on Friday night. Trying not to be too over zealous we just put ice on her wrist and gave her motrin. I feel horrible waiting 2 days before we took her to Children's Close to Home on Sunday. She was moving it and playing but still favoring and it started to swell. When the doctor told us it was a buckle fracture of the right radius arm. I looked at Tim and he knew exactly what I was thinking. I said, on Saturday it looks like a Buckle Fracture and we should take her. I should of gone with my instincts on Saturday and taken her at that time. Thank God she doesn't need surgery, no plates or pins. She has to wear her cast for 2 weeks. A couple hours later, Kara said, "Mommy, I done with my boo band, it is too heavy,can you take it off." Poor thing, bathing will be fun trying to keep it covered. Pray,pray this a quick and pain free recovery for Kara.

Big Girl Bed 4/23/09

2009-04-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

We decided to move Kara to her toddler bed since Tim and I were both off for 4 days. I was told you do not get a lot of sleep at first. Up and down putting them back in bed. Kara has done remarkably well. She has stayed in her bed and only sneaks out to get a book. She hasn't learned you put your head at one end and your feet at the other end. I took this picture on Friday. Looks like she is hanging on for dear life.(upside down).

Baby elephant at the zoo 4/16/09

2009-04-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

We saw the cute little baby elephant at the zoo last week. Kara didn't understand why we had to wait so long(1 hour in line)We barely made the cut off to see him. He sure is cute.

Easter morning 4/12/09

2009-04-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

Our Easter morning was a little bit disappointing because Kara was sick. Kara was up the night before with a 103 temp. So,Tim went to Church and I let Kara eat cheerios on the couch and keep her binky and blanket most of the day. She proceeded to get better as the day went on. So, we decided to go to Tim's family for a yummy Easter Lunch. Later that day we decided to tell her the Easter Bunny came while she was playing in the basement. We hid eggs and her basket for her to find. She was more concerned how the Easter Bunny came in without her hearing the doorbell or him knocking. I am glad our "stranger danger" talks or sinking in her little head. Being so Type A,I was kind of sad we all didn't go to Church,wear our new clothes,take pictures,etc. As the day progressed it was actually very relaxing and calming. I spent a lot of time praying,reflecting and reading books to Kara. I have to remember life is not on "Patty Time" but "God's Time." We will take our "post Easter" pictures this Sunday and everything will be okay!!!

Easter Eve 4/11/09

2009-04-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

We had dinner with my parents and colored Easter Eggs. Kara's first time coloring eggs and she was more interested in the cool bunny spoon. She did a good job not spilling the dye everywhere or cracking all the eggs.

Easter Egg Hunt 4/4/09

2009-04-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Our 1st of many Easter Egg Hunts at our Church. Thanks to all you helped with food,crafts,preparations,etc. A huge thanks to Sara and Justin who took on this mission. We had a great turnout and lots of fun.

Kara at Graeters 3/7/09

2009-03-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Treyton, big 3yrs. old. Kara went down the tunnel slide all by herself for the first time. Tim and I no longer have to climb up with her and be the only adult flying out of the end of the slide. (not a pretty sight) The Graeters on Bethel have a play room for kids next to the restaurant side. All the kids had a great time eating ice-cream and running around. Kara went on the "banana" like a teeter totter. The look on her face is pretty scary. Luckily she doesn't know the #1 rule not to jump off while the other person is in the air. I hope and pray she learns the rules and will play nice. We went to a playground this week and the kids were running by her going up the stairs. Kara did not like this and kept yelling, "I'm first." We told her she had to share the playground and the slide. She then turned around and put her arms out and yelled again, "I'm first." The other kids could not get past her and just looked at her. Tim and I were amazed and appalled by her behavior. Where do they learn such selfish behavior??

1st. time on "Big Girl Potty"

2009-03-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

Kara went poopy on the potty tonight for the first time. Whoohoo! I am not sure if this is a one time deal or she will be consistent. She has been "practicing" for the last week but never really does anything. She has her video she loves to watch and about 4 books she reads while on the potty. She even ask for a sticker for "sitting" on the potty. She asked to go on the potty before she went in the bathtub. Tim calls out very quietly because he wasn't sure how big of a deal we should make of this moment. Kara was so excited and proud of herself. We all cheered and now the fun of potty training begins.

Future Doctor or Nurse

2009-03-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

Kara and Tim came to have dinner with me at work last week. I forgot I had my scrub hat on and she had to have one too. She tells me, "I a Doctor."

Quiet time is good

2009-03-01T18:47:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of her because I was ready to find her doing something she wasn't supposed to be doing. She was playing in her room and then she became quiet. She is usually talking to her stuffed animals or dolls. So I quietly peeked around her door and saw her reading a book. She even got the pillow out of the chair and placed it on the floor for her head. She looks like "kid" not a toddler.(sniffle)

Play dates are fun

2009-02-16T05:37:00.000-08:00

Treyton came over to play with Kara last week. They play so well together. Boys play so different than girls. He brought his Ironman over to play with Kara and her Ironman. Treyton wants to hit them together and make boy sounds. Kara holds her Ironman like a doll and tries to change his diaper. She didn't get the whole wanting to fight thing. Everytime one of them got into the rocker they wanted their picture taken. I videoed them dancing but I will have to figure out how to transfer onto the blog.

American Idol

2009-02-16T05:27:00.000-08:00

Kara loves to sing especially at Aunt Lisa's house. She has mastered the microphone already. When she sings her voice gets higher and softer. When she sings in the microphone she is trying to be a baritone and she is very loud. Her favorite CD is by Dan Zane,(he is on the Disney Channel) we have one in her room and in each car. She ask for it as soon as we get in the car. Tim and I are hoping she will like another CD soon!!!

My Daddy is the coolest

2009-01-24T10:51:00.000-08:00

Tim is such a trooper when it comes to living with 2 other females. Kara likes to share her hat with Tim. She just cracks up when he puts it on. I can't wait to see what he will do when she wants to play dress-up and paint her nails.

Snow is here

2009-01-17T07:49:00.001-08:00

In the Zone

2009-01-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

Kara received from my parents her own recliner to watch her shows. She definitely takes after her father once she is in her chair. Forget about talking with her,asking her a question,etc. She is in the zone.

Dress up time

2009-01-17T07:37:00.001-08:00

Where's Waldo (Kara)

2009-01-17T07:33:00.000-08:00

Kara loves playing with her stuffed animals and dolls. She likes to feed them and share her drink with them. She also likes to put them in "time out". She deepens her voice and points that finger and tells them she will be back in a minute. I wonder who she hears that from????

Christmas Day 2008

2008-12-26T19:30:00.000-08:00

Our plans changed this year because I had to work and Tim was on call. We were blessed to have Christmas morning together. We woke Kara up,I am sure that will change over the next few years. She saw her Barbie tent and lots of presents. She kept saying, "Wow,present for me, what's in there?" She was so excited with each gift and of course, wanted everything opened right now! The pictures tell it like it is she is little bit of a princess and little bit of a tomboy. She only asked for an "Ironman" for Christmas. So she is wearing her tiara and princess slippers while holding Ironman and her tools. She was so much fun and a just a blessing to watch. We can't wait till next year.

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of us starting our own Christmas traditions. We started by doing our advent calendar. Each day was a story of the Bible leading up to Jesus birthday. Kara was so excited each night to get her book from the calendar and read before bedtime with Daddy. Our next tradition is our family photo at Church after the Christmas Eve service. Kara was a little more challenging this year to be still and quiet during the service. We were told by many people that she is a little chatter box. That is an understatement, she had to comment about each person, every song,etc. Our next tradition is before bedtime we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and she blows out the candle. She said she wanted a doughnut not a cake for Jesus birthday. So we stuck a candle in our doughnut with the melted green icing. We learned that Kara and doughnut(sugar) means she will be up for a couple more hours. Another lesson learned by Tim and I. Next year we will eat our cake or doughnut earlier. Then we all snuggled in our beds awaiting Christmas morning.

Turning 2 with a bang 12/12/08

2008-12-13T20:01:00.000-08:00

Our sweet little girl is literally scarred for life. Our first (prayerfully the last)set of stitches. Kara met her match with the kitchen window seal and LOST. I received the dreaded phone call at work from Tim Friday evening. I met them at the Children's Close to Home (our 3rd visit in 2 years)Kara was perfectly fine and playing with every sick kid in Westerville in the waiting room. They removed the band-aid and she didn't like that at all. They put numbing gel on her forehead and across the laceration. We waited 30 more minutes and then she received (1)stitch inside to bring it together and 8 more on top. The minute they gave her a freeze pop she stopped crying. She has been such a trooper (better than Mommy and Daddy) We came home and I told her we needed a picture of her battle wounds. She sat up and said "Cheese", almost like she was proud of her stitches. The next day, we asked her how her head was and she said, I'm okay Mommy. She has not complained once or even bothered the stitches. I hope she is not accident prone like her Mommy. I didn't get my first set of stitches until I was 3 years old.

Our Kara is 2 Years Old 12/05/08

2008-12-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe she is 2 already. I am grateful she still allows me to rock her and sing to her. That is about all she lets me do these days, as Kara says,"I do it". Her vocabulary is something else and she amazes us each and every day. She loves her swimming lessons. She will float on her back with just a little bit of help,hang onto the edge of the pool and go under water. She doesn't go under voluntarily,just yet. She is too busy waving to all of the women doing water aerobics.(Which they all love and wave back)She is our social butterfly and for a 2 year old she is pretty pleasant when we go out to eat and she loves to go shopping,the majority of the time. We have to tell her to turn around that all of the people eating are not here to see and talk to her. She is into her cartoons and tells us what she wants to watch. She loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,Caillou,Imagination Movers,and Sesame Street. She could watch cartoons all day if we would let her. She is into dolls and her stuffed animals but her other favorite is "Iron Man." When asked what she wants for Christmas she says,"IRRRON MAN" in her growling voice. She is a little bit of a tomboy,especially when she goes head first down the slides. She is also very much a girl when it comes caring for her bears and dolls. We are so blessed and we thank God each and every day for her.

Kara's 2nd Birthday

2008-12-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

Kara's 2nd Birthday Party 12/06/08

2008-12-07T11:24:00.000-08:00

Kara had so much fun at her party this year. What a difference a year makes,this year she opened all of her cards and gifts pretty much by herself. Her favorite word was "WOW, present for me".

Kara's 2nd Birthday 12/05/08

2008-12-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

Kara was so excited when she woke up and saw all of her birthday decorations. She kept saying "WOW, Happy Birthday Kara". We started our day at the Westerville Snowflake Castle with her friend Treyton. The did a puppet show,craft,pictures with Santa and Mrs.Claus. We went to Bob Evans for lunch so Kara can get her favorite, smiley faced french fries.

Kara's first parade 11/29/08

2008-12-04T07:29:00.000-08:00

Kara loved Gahanna's Christmas Light Parade. We had so much fun just watching her expressions and how excited she was with each float. She kept saying "nutter one" she loved the marching bands and the horses the best. Kelsey and Helena had fun with Kara and let her wear one of their hats. The parade is always the Saturday following Thanksgiving for future reference at 6:00.

Kara's first Trunk or Treat 11/01/08

2008-11-07T12:31:00.000-08:00

Kara has had so much fun dressing up for her 3rd night in a row. We were invited to a Trunk or Treat at the Vineyard Pickerington Church. We had so much fun going from station to station and hanging with the Groff Family. Emily and Kara are quite the pair.

Trick or Treat x2 10/31/08

2008-11-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

Kara had so much fun going Trick or Treat, she went two nights in a row. Thursday we went to my parents and Friday we went in our neighborhood. Tim and I had the hard job of eating, I mean checking her candy!!!! We had practiced the day before saying Trick or Treat and Thank You. I am not sure who told her to say "More Please" instead of Thank You. She figured out "More Please" got her MORE candy. She was so funny watching her walk up to the houses in her cowgirl boots.

Kara's first costume/birthday party 10/18/08

2008-11-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

Kara was the youngest at Tanner's 6th birthday party but she kept up with the big kids. She was a little scared of some of the costumes but she warmed up later. Lisa did a great job with different stations,games,food,decoration,etc. Kara loves his younger brother Treyton (HULK) and Tanner was Iron Man. All of the kids were so cute and the parents had fun too.

Fall is so much FUN!!! Oct. 18th

2008-11-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Kara carved her first pumpkin with Mommy and Daddy's assistance of course. She would not put her hands in to scoop out the seeds. She kept saying "eeewwww" Daddy do it.

Kara's First Pony Ride 10/11/08

2008-10-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Kara actually rode a "real pony" for the first time at Apple Butter Day in Groveport. She tells me she wants to ride a "pony" but never follows through. She will not even get on the fake one at Meijers. She held on like a champ. She wouldn't even look at me or talk,she was concentrating so hard. She talked non-stop afterwards how she rode the pony.

Kara's gone fishing 10/11/08

2008-10-12T18:40:00.001-07:00

We went to Groveport's Annual Apple Butter Day on Saturday with friends. They have a "fish a thon" for kids 0-15years old. She didn't enter at first but once she saw her friend Dominick fishing then she wanted a turn. She has patience like her mother so she didn't fish long enough to catch anything. She had fun holding the pole and looking at the worms. Her friends Kyle and Dominick each 4 years old took
1st and 2nd place. Kara won more plastic worms so I guess her Daddy will be taking her fishing again.

Pumpkin Patch Circle S Farms 10/3/08

2008-10-12T18:33:00.001-07:00

Kara's first trip to a pumpkin patch with our Sunday School Class. She had so much fun, running from pumpkin to pumpkin saying "this one."

Kara's first visit to a Circle S Pumpkin Patch 10/3/08

2008-10-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Our Future OSU Cheerleader 9/27/08

2008-09-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

Kara will run into the room if she hears football on TV. She will then shout "Ohio State, Go Buckeyes". We will tell her that it isn't Ohio State but whatever team is playing. She gets so mad and goes right to the TV and yells even louder. She can almost repeat "I,O" after I say "O,H" We are still working on that one. Here are her many faces and poses while watching the OSU vs. Minnesota game. Hard to believe she will only be 22 months next week.

Our Little Buckeye Girl 9/13/08

2008-09-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

Kara loves to watch Ohio State Football. We are OSU fans ourselves but we never thought she would be this interested this early. Our friends Kyle and Lisa had a tailgate in their driveway for the USC game. She had so much fun playing with Treyton and cheering on the Buckeyes.

Heart Walk 8/23/08

2008-08-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Kara participated in her first Heart Walk. This will definitely become a tradition for our family not a memory. I have done the Race for the Cure, MS, and Juvenile Diabetes Walk but never the Heart Walk. What a great way to spend with your family to support ways to prevent Heart Disease. This was also a way for Kara to honor her Grandpa Jim. Whom unfortunately she will never meet, at least on this Earth. We had a great time,great weather,and great exercise all in one. Plus the free stuff and food they hand out at the pavilion.

Our little Cowgirl 8/18/08

2008-08-21T19:30:00.002-07:00

My parents went to Branson, Missouri for vacation last week. They brought Kara the cutest cowgirl outfit with boots and all. She was too funny, watching her walk in her new boots.

Our Big Dancing Girl 8/16/08

2008-08-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

We attended a wedding this past weekend of Tiffany and Jordan Winnestaffer. (Congrats) Kara had so much fun running around,talking with people and dancing. We realized this past weekend she is no longer our "Baby Kara" but a "Big Girl". The ring bearer was so smitten with Kara. He is only 6yrs.old (older man)He kept telling her how pretty she was and asked if he could dance with her. When Tim and I picked ourselves up from the floor we waited for her response. She said, in her cute,innocent,little voice, "NO", Dance Daddy. Tim had the biggest smile on his face. I told him to try again later, she was just being shy. He didn't give up and kept coming back for more rejection. Needless to say she never danced with him, only with her Daddy. (sniffle,sniffle)

Helping Daddy 8/13/08

2008-08-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

Kara loves to help her Daddy when he is fixing things in the house. So,he decided to put her to work outside. She actually did very well dipping the sponge in the bucket then washing the car. I am not sure what she liked the most, being sprayed with the hose or playing with the sponge in the bucket. Tim is so patient with her and I love watching them together.

Mommy, I think my ponytail is too tight 6/27/08

2008-08-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Kara's hair is finally long enough for a ponytail. Unfortanetly,she will not leave them in her hair. I was able to get a few pictures before she said, "Pretty" and then proceeded to rip it out.

July 5th Chatting or Scheming???

2008-07-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

I would love to know what they are planning to do next??

July 5th Reynoldsburg fireworks and family/friends picnic

2008-07-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

Kara enjoying the holiday playing with friends and her cousins. Kara and Kennedy looking like true angels.

Kara's first visit to the Columbus Zoo 6/17/08

2008-06-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

Kara loved the zoo,she especially liked the penquins,monkeys, and the tigers. She couldn't understand why she couldn't touch them or hold them. She was so good and excited for each new animal she was able to see for the first time. She would say "Hi" and wave good-bye to every animal.

Father's Day 6/15/08

2008-06-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

Kara with Daddy and Papa on Father's Day. Kara is becoming more and more Daddy's little girl. She already knows Daddy isn't "really" going to discipline her. She has him right were she wants him and Papa too. She loves her Papa,she will ask many times a day for her Papa.

Congratulations Jessica Lynn 6/7/08

2008-06-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have "BFF's" Bobbie,Tracy and Debbie. We have all been friends for over 30years+. Hard to believe Jessica is old enough to be graduating. Here we are with just us girls (the Lynn's)and with all of our kids, Jessica,Connor,Zach,Dominick,Kara, and Dalton

Kara enjoying the fountains at Gahanna Creekside 6/7/08

2008-06-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

Kara is becoming more and more Daddy's little girl.

Kara and Emily

2008-06-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Kara loves to play with Emily. When we arrive at Church, Kara says, "Yeah Emawee"
They are so cute reading a book together and playing in Kara's little house.

Kara with family on Mother's Day

2008-05-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

We had a blessed day with Tim's family and my family on Mother's Day.

Mother's Day with family

2008-05-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Kara loves to play with her cousins Carson,Conner,and Kennedy. Kara was missing 2 different times but found in the living room playing the piano and singing to herself. We all decided to hang out by the piano watching Kara and Kennedy playing. They were so sweet sitting together at the piano.

Kara's many poses

2008-05-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

Kara is into wearing sunglasses when she is outside. Nana bought her these princess glasses last summer. The pictures of her in "I'm a Little Miracle" shirt is for the display at work. Westerville is having their 100th Anniversary and any baby that was born at St.Ann's will be displayed. I had to stretch the onesie on her since it is only a 6mos. shirt. I promise the picture with her hands behind her head was not prompted. She is our little ham but mostly our blessed Little Miracle.

Play dates are necessary for Kara 4/7/08

2008-04-26T19:40:00.001-07:00

This was Kara's 2nd play date and she definitely needs one weekly. The first one with Emily Groff went very well. The second one was with Tanner and Treyton Mercer which also went very well. Amazing how boys and girls play differently at such an early age. I feel play dates are great for her and Mommy as well. Kara realized when she plays with toys that do not belong to her, she has to play by their rules. Treyton let her know if you want to ride my toy I am in front!! Kara will learn sooner or later that she will not always get her way. By the look on both of their faces, I wish I knew what they were saying. (or maybe not) All ends well with hugs for everyone.

Play dates are necessary for Kara

2008-04-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

First time on sliding board and swing 3/27/08

2008-03-31T11:25:00.000-07:00

My Mom and I took Kara to Blendon Woods last week. She wasn't too sure about the swing or slide. She was too busy watching the older children and saying "Hi" to all of them.

Kara just being her cute little self!!

2008-03-31T11:21:00.001-07:00

Kara giving us her "I'm sorry" face. She can cry one minute and laugh the next. She is constant entertainment for us.

Kara watching TV

2008-03-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

Kara loves watching her cartoons and basketball. Her favorite shows are Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Ki Lan,Dora,and Handy Manny. She could watch TV all day if we would let her. We will change the channel from cartoons to the news and Kara yells "NO" and tries to get the remote. She loves to read books as well. So, I guess we are not "bad parents" for letting her watch TV.

Easter 3/23/08

2008-03-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

Kara's 2nd Easter and she enjoyed her new movies,books,candy(not from Mommy & Daddy)and her favorite was Mickey and Minnie. We had a great day at Church and spending time with family and friends. We are so blessed!!!

Our Annual Easter Egg Hunt 3/15/08

2008-03-23T18:46:00.000-07:00

Kara's 2nd Easter Egg Hunt but 1st one she could participate in. She was so cute with the Easter Bunny. She kept saying "Hi" and rubbing his arm. She kept saying bunny everytime he walked by. She was so good being so cold and rainy. Nana and Papa helped her with her craft. Cousin Carson painted her face for the first time. Daddy and Mommy helped her eat all of her candy. Small sacrifice but that is a one of many parents have to make.

Kara's new "Ohhhh" face

2008-03-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

We love Kara's new face she makes when she gets excited.