Up North ~ Our Neck of the Woods

Connor's new dog - Star

2010-12-07T23:39:00.004-06:00

Last week Connor and I went and picked up his new dog. I found her on Craigslist and she sounded like a pretty nice dog...2 years old (past the puppy stage), calm, obedient, neutered, kid friendly. Her name is Star. She's supposedly a black lab, but is smaller..about the size of a 6 month old lab. We think she may be part collie since she has two different colored eyes. (Thanks to my brother-in law, Joe for that info). I think she has figured out that we are her new family and this is her new home. She has settled in pretty good already. For now she is a house dog...until spring. Since she had been used to being in the house, the vet advised us not to put her out in the barn this winter. So for now she's in the house, although she spends a lot of time running around outside. The first night we put her in a small kennel in the house but that was the only night. Since then, we now just leave her out to sleep in the living room for the night. She has done well I would have to say. No whining or aimlessly roaming the house at night. In the morning, Mark lets her out before he goes to work. This morning when Connor came into my room to announce that he was awake, he also informed me that Star was sleeping on top of his blankets at the foot of his bed. I guess she's found a comfy sleeping spot....as long as Connor stays sleeping anyway.

Connor & Star taking a break and watching a "Bob the Builder" movie

Star sprawled out resting while Connor naps.

Piglet Update

2010-10-25T23:31:00.005-05:00

Yes, we did make it to Walmart a while ago and Connor did get his Piglet. He was pretty excited.

Germs! Germs! Keep the fingers out of the mouth! Especially while riding in a Walmart cart! Now that I think of it....he did get a cold soon after this. Maybe he picked it up here instead of at school like I thought. Next time he can walk. We don't need those germs again.

Update on the Pumpkin Stand

2010-10-04T15:02:00.004-05:00

Connor's pumpkins are officially sold out already! Well close. There is 1 yellow one down there yet and I think 4 yellow ones that we did leave down in the garden in hopes that they may turn orange yet. Yesterday afternoon we went up to Grandpa Wicklund's house and we stopped and checked his pail on the way out the driveway. There was $10 in it and most of the pumpkins were gone. And this morning after we got home from school....3 more $'s and only 1 yellow pumpkin left. Needless to say he has his $8 in an envelope with Piglet stickers ready to hit Walmart. But now he tells me that he may want the elephant (Dumbo) instead. So we'll see what he decides the next time we get to town.

Mark trying to steal his earnings. :) JK. I think he was trying to convince him to hold on to it tight because it was really windy. Wouldn't want the $$ flying into the road ditch. :)

Duck Hunting

2010-10-03T16:19:00.002-05:00

Mark was out duck hunting this morning (Sunday) and was back in around 8am. I was surprised when he told me he got his limit of 6 ducks and was gonna go to church with us at 9am. He got 4 ringbills and 2 blue-winged teal. I didn't know it at the time but I had the wrong date on my camera! UGH! I hate that when that happens. It's October 3rd and not September!

Connor's Pumpkin Stand

2010-10-03T15:53:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we cleaned out the gardens. We pulled out all the vines and tomato plants and weeds, etc. Mark tilled everything up, Connor and I pulled up our last row of carrots, and hauled all the pumpkins up to the house with his Gator. Since we had surplus of pumpkins, I asked Connor if he would want to sell some of them. "For what?" was his first answer. I told him, "To make some money." Funny how kids at that age know what money is all about. "Yeaahhh!" he says. So we gathered a few things together and found a piece of cardboard for a sign and he was in business. We put up the stand at about 5pm on the end of our mile long driveway. At around 7pm I asked him if he wanted to drive down with me to check on his pumpkin stand before it was dark. I had been watching off and on, but didn't see any cars stop. He piled out of the car to check his money bucket. He was like a kid on Christmas morning when he cracked open the lid! Somebody did stop and there was $3!!! in his bucket. I was busy getting out of the car and futzing with my camera as he was checking out his pail. I should've had it in video mode to catch his reaction. He was so excited. So I guess Connor's in business. Maybe we'll have to plant a few more next year. On the ride back to the house I was telling him how he'll have to save it in his pig bank. He looks at me and says, "I can save it and buy my Piglet!" He's been eyeing this Piglet stuffed animal at Walmart for a long time. It costs $8 and I keep telling him to add it to his Christmas/birthday list. I told him that he'll have to sell 5 more pumpkins and then yeah, just maybe....he could go buy his Piglet.

Connor's Corn

2010-10-03T15:36:00.004-05:00

The reason Connor shucks his corn...to go feed the ducks and geese in Alex. He's been busy shucking the leftover corn from the neighbors chopped cornfield. I tell him that I think the ducks and geese recognize the little boy who comes in the red car with his ice cream pail. They come right up to the car and follow him back when his pail is empty. The one thing I'm gonna have to remember though...throw in some plastic bags to rubber-band around our shoes. You guessed it....lots of goose and duck poop!

Fall Time

2010-09-30T17:55:00.013-05:00

It's Fall time! Connor and I have been out and about with our camera in hand. Not too long ago we went and hiked up Inspiration Peak, which isn't too far from our house. It's the highest point in the area, or northern Minnesota I think. There is a paved trail going up thru the woods. He was pretty excited to lace up his hiking boots.
Connor made it up and all the way down without a word about being tired or wanting to be carried. I was surprised. The trees were still pretty green yet when we were up there. I was hoping for more color. The trail up and down had more color. Maybe we'll try another hike up the hill next week to check it out again.

This is me on the way down the hill. Yes, Connor loves to take pictures too! Connor heading down the hill.

Almost to the bottom.

He's pretty excited to have a plentiful supply of corn. The neighbor has a cornfield pretty close to our house. They chopped the corn the other day so now we've been taking our wagon or his gator out to the field and picking up the leftovers. He loves to sit and shuck corn. This picture is about 8am in the morning. There was still dew on the picnic table so I put down some towels. He had to go out and work on shucking his corn.

Here's Connor standing on the backside of the house. He was out practicing with his fishing pole, so yes it had to be in the picture too.

The view down the driveway from up here by the house.

Connor in the leaves...with his corn.

Heading down the driveway with his Gator.

Down in our pumpkin patch trying to decide which one to pick first.

Load'm up.

Connor in the leaves.

Raking up a pile.

Connor going down his slide into the leaves.

The pile doesn't look as big with me in it.

Connor and Mom

View from the kitchen window.

The last of the green beans.

and our first row of carrots.

We've had a busy week so far

2010-06-24T23:19:00.010-05:00

We've had a busy week already this week. This past Sunday (Father's Day) we were up to Mark's Dad's all day. I'm sure everyone has heard about the tornado that tore thru Wadena last Thursday. Well it missed Myron's house and yard, etc. but went diagonally thru his pasture and woods. Mark and Myron spent all day and night on Sunday sawing trees off the fenceline and they still didn't get done. Connor and I went out with them in the pickup (so we could see the damage) and then walked back to the house after a while. I've got more pictures of the tornado damage, but will put them in another post.

Water break time

Mark and Connor -- It was really hot out that day. Connor with Grandpa Wicklund and Dad on Father's Day night before we ventured for home.

On Monday, Connor and I went and picked some strawberries. We picked one pail for us and two for the neighbors. As you can see below, he wasn't very good at filling his pail.And no, this is not his full bucket. He taste tested quite a few.

On Tuesday we ventured to the lake/beach nearby for a few hours. We packed our lunch and the sand toys. Connor is not one who is real fond of the water, so we spent most of the time playing in the sand making lakes and rivers and smashing castles. I was surprised that right before we packed up for home that he finally decided to actually sit down in the water. I told him that next time we will have to bring along some swimming rafts/noodles, etc.

Hey! It's progress...but hate to venture out too deep. :)Connor and Mom. Some nice lady sitting on the dock took our picture.
And today (Thursday) was a CIRCUS day! The circus was in town today. It was a good circus: 3 elephants, 5 white tigers, jugglers, acrobats, motorcycle riders, clowns, prancing ponies, sheepdogs riding in a funny car, etc. We had a fun time. And this time we opted for a snowcone since it was pretty warm out today. A picture of the elephants doing their tricks.

We're going to the zoo, zoo, zoo

2010-06-03T23:37:00.006-05:00

Today we ventured to the zoo. Mark had a day off from work and I had heard about this zoo over in Wahpeton, ND from one of Connor's teachers at school. After about a 50 minute drive straight west, we arrived at the zoo. It was a perfect weather day and it turned out to be a very good zoo...considering it was a small zoo. We saw buffalo, camels, grizzly bears, tigers, kangaroos, bald eagles, elk, zebras, monkeys, and others. We saved the best for the end of our zoo trip. Right in the parking lot of the zoo they have a vintage carousel from the early 1900's housed in it's own building. It was refurbished and repainted in the 1990's and now has a home at the zoo. We rode the carousel a couple times. Connor thought it was the best! Check out the video clip of Connor and Mark riding the carousel at the bottom of this post.

Mark and Connor outside the monkey cage Watching the putzy turtles

Connor's favorite bird...the bald eagle

And the zebra

Walking thru the tunnel. I'm sure when the plants get fully grown over the whole arch it probably is pretty cool.

Peacock hiding under a tree.

Connor and Mom

Connor and I on the carousel.

Connor and Dad on the carousel

Check out the carousel video below

Finger Painting Day

2010-06-02T17:11:00.003-05:00

This afternoon before naptime, Connor and I decided to move his picnic table outside for the summer...instead of it sitting at the end of the couch. We celebrated by fingerpainting outside.

Easter picture slideshow

2010-05-11T23:11:00.003-05:00

Grandpa Wicklund's birthday

2010-05-11T15:22:00.002-05:00

I know this was a month ago, but o' well. Here's Connor with Grandpa Wicklund on his birthday. Connor and I made a cake and we went out to the Pizza Ranch for supper that night.

This first picture he's patiently eyeing and waiting for Grandpa's cake.Connor with Grandpa WicklundAh, yes. He's loves cake and the mess it makes. Yes, we can see your messy fingers.

Some odds and ends

2010-04-13T22:47:00.007-05:00

It's been about a month since I put some new pictures up. I'm slippin'. Here are a few odds and ends. I've got some from Easter and a few others that I'll have to post separately and probably another day.

Connor checking on Grandma Bass' quilting.

We had just glued some construction paper to the outside of an oatmeal container and turned in into a silo for his barn. He was supposed to be decorating his silo with some stickers while I washed up a few dishes and this is what happened. :)

And whattya gonna do about it, Mom? Looks like he's giving me a little attitude.

Mixing up his corn in his blender. He loves that thing.

Out checking out the mud and puddles when all the snow finally started to melt.

Adding another sticker to his potty time chart.

He has done really well with the potty training lately. Just diapers at nap and bed time. We even had to make a quick run over to the nearby church in Vining while playing at the park the other day. But we made it! Yeah!I'm sure when he gets older he will love to know that I posted this picture on my blog.

But, I guess it's an important part of life.
Putting together puzzles with Mickey, his neighbor buddy. He loves puzzles.

Taking a spin around the kitchen table with his fire truck.

With Auntie Mel by the wind towers near Okabena. He loves to see them when we go to Grandpa and Grandma Bass' to visit.

Helping Grandpa Bass pick up chicken eggs.

Connor planting potatoes with Dad the day before Good Friday.

Fishing for a seahorse?

2010-03-15T22:42:00.004-05:00

This past Sunday afternoon, we went ice fishing since the weather was so nice. When we first went out, Connor just had on jeans with no snowpants. As it cooled off, we bundled up a little more. I was quite impressed that he lasted about an hour out there. We didn't catch many fish while Connor and I were there, but Mark stayed a while after we left and did catch a half a pail or so. Check out the video clip at the bottom. He's trying to wake the fish up to bite and also says he wants to catch a seahorse! Not likely in this frozen MN lake. :)

Mark and Connor walking to a new hole since the first ones were no luck.

Connor taking a banana break.

C'mon fish wake up.

That's it. I'm done. Going to play toys at Uncle Harvey's house.

Valentine's Weekend & Grandpa visits

2010-02-17T17:00:00.006-06:00

This past weekend, my Dad came for a visit. He and Mark were in a fishing tournament on Saturday. They didn't catch any fish. Darn. Maybe next year. My Mom didn't come because she had to work. They just returned from a week vacation in Mexico so she wasn't able to come this time. In the slideshow you will see Connor modeling his new souvenir t-shirts. Also, check out Mark and his heart shaped potato. Yeah, on Sunday he helped me peel potatoes for dinner and he actually found one in the bag that was shaped like a heart. Anyway...I had to take his picture. Also took many of Connor with Bouzer, my Mom and Dad's dog. He loves Bouz and asked me to take pictures of him and Bouz all the time. Enjoy the pictures.

The muffin man

2010-02-07T23:51:00.004-06:00

Anytime we get a few bananas that start to go mushy, we turn them into banana-chocolate chip muffins. Connor's my muffin maker helper. He's the official "banana masher". We've made them so many times that he tells me what goes in them: butter, sugar, egg, flour, soda, salt, and of course the chips...his favorite part. I should've gotten a couple of pictures of him mashing and adding stuff to the bowl, but didn't think of it until we were almost done. Maybe next time.

Cutting takes total concentration

2010-02-07T23:29:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago I picked up Connor his first scissors. The first few times were tough. Trying to show him how to hold the scissors with one hand and hold the paper with the other didn't work well with the two-year-old who wanted to do it his way and by himself. I second guessed myself thinking maybe he was too young yet. A little practice everyday and he has come a long way in a short time. At first he didn't like cutting ads since the paper is thinner. It would crimple up on him. Now the toy ones are his favorite. He likes to sit and cut paper every day. It's his new thing. Usually his cutting time is while I'm getting supper together. Works for me.

Connor's new bed

2010-01-26T15:53:00.003-06:00

This past Saturday we took down Connor's crib and put up his new "big boy bed". He was all for it when I asked him and he started chucking all his blankets and animals out of his crib. It didn't take too long and we had the new bed all up and running. So far he has done pretty good napping and sleeping in it. Although he has bonked his head a few times on the footboard already. Not sure how, but I think when he's climbing out or something. He has tried to escape a few times from napping and going to bed, but we just keep putting him back in there and eventually he goes to sleep. Last night was another story. He was up at 3:00am and was convinced he wasn't going back to bed. I ended up laying with him in his bed, otherwise he wasn't going down. And he didn't want his pillow and he wanted all his animals in his bed. Finally I convinced him that I needed to go sleep in my big bed since his was too small. He asked me to shut the door on my way out....and that was it. He woke up at 8:30am this morning. Maybe that's the trick, we just need to keep his door shut all night. I hope he does better tonight. I'm sure it will take a little getting used to since he is used to being confined to his crib and sleeping on his belly with no pillow. He has done pretty well considering, except for last night. Connor celebrating his new freedom.

Putting all his stuffed friends that were in his crib on his new bookshelf. They didn't last long there as they are all in his bed now. And every one has to be accounted for before he can go to sleep. If there is one missing, it has to be found before he can go to sleep. UGH!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-26T15:37:00.002-06:00

Finally I get my Christmas pictures together. For Christmas we made it down to Okabena before the big snowstorm. We brought Connor's stocking along so that Santa would know he was down there instead of at home. Santa did find him on Christmas Eve and in his words, "dropped down a bag of presents for him." We did make it over to my Grandma's on Christmas Day and then opened gifts at my parents house that night. On Sunday morning we drove to Mark's brother's in Sartell for Christmas with Mark's family. We were back home Sunday night. Once back home, we did a little more stretching of the house to allow for all the new stuff. :)

Connor's 2nd Birthday

2010-01-14T23:28:00.003-06:00

Connor was lucky and had two birthday parties this year. The first one was at my parent's house a few weeks before his birthday. The second one we had on his actual birthday. We had a few friends and neighbors over for supper to help him celebrate his big day. My parents also made a surprise visit to our house the day before his birthday. They surprised us all as we didn't know they were coming. Connor says thank you to everyone for all the fun presents!

Thanksgiving

2010-01-14T23:05:00.005-06:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah....I'm like so behind. But I do have three fun slideshows for everything. Lots of pictures so the best way was to put them in slideshows. For Thanksgiving, we get together with my Mom's side of the family at a hotel in the cities. We stayed from Thanksgiving Day til Saturday. This year was the first time in a long time that everyone was there on Thanksgiving Day. We had a photographer come and take pictures, but the ones in my slideshow are the ones that I took. It's always a fun weekend as this is often the only time of the year that we see everyone. Mark and I also took Connor to the Mall of America on the day after Thanksgiving. He had fun on the rides.

Connor & Izzabelle

2009-12-16T16:14:00.003-06:00

Before Thanksgiving, we were down to my parents house for the weekend. Izzabelle, my sister Bon's daughter, was also there. Since Thanksgiving was the following week, Izzabelle decided that she wanted to come stay at Connor's house. Which she did. They played and played. For only being two years old, she did very well. She talked on the phone to her Mom daily and slept on the floor in Connor's room. They both slept well in the same room. We played in the house and outside, rode Connor's gator, and I took them to Vining to the park and to the statue park in town. They both had lots of fun and played pretty well together.

Combining corn

2009-12-03T22:28:00.002-06:00

Even with the crappy harvesting weather, Connor was still able to go for a few rounds in the combine with Grandpa Bass. He liked watching the combine eat up the corn and then shoot out into the wagon. He wasn't too excited about driving the big rig though.

My Dad talking on the phone.

Mark's birthday, church steeple, and others

2009-12-03T22:12:00.003-06:00

Playing catch up again.

Happy Birthday Mark! Mark's birthday was November 14th. We had ice cream cake at his Dad's house a week earlier and another cake that Connor and I decorated with M&M's on his birthday.

Our little country church recently got a new steel roof. After inspection of the steeple, it was decided that something new had to be put back up on the roof. Mark designed a cross and his work donated the materials and time of making it. Here it is in our living room. It stands about 5 1/2 feet tall or so and made of stainless steel. It has since been put back up on the roof of the church, but I have no pictures. Nice job, Mark!

Connor scoping out the Fleet Farm toy catalog.

Mark giving Connor a ride in the wheelbarrow that he uses to bring wood to the house.

New Swingset

2009-11-12T16:10:00.004-06:00

A new swingset. Well not new, but new too us thanks to Craigslist. It's in very nice shape and we were lucky to find it. We found it not too far away and went and picked it up this past Friday. Mark's brother Dave was here for deer hunting and went along and helped haul it home and get it set up. Didn't take too long as it came home in just a few sections. Within a few minutes they had it all together. Connor's loving it. I'm afraid we'll be out there when there's 3 feet of snow on the ground this winter.

Baker man

2009-11-12T15:59:00.002-06:00

Connor and I made some cookies here not too long ago. He loves to cook and help measure and pour. He thinks he can crack eggs, but Mom handles that one for now. I think he likes to help just to lick the beater when we are done.

HALLOWEEN 2009

2009-11-03T14:53:00.004-06:00

On the Thursday night before Halloween we took Connor out to a few neighbors and friends in the area, since we were going to my parents house for the weekend.

Here I am with my little rooster. Mark trying to get Connor ready.

Notice the Halloween socks he received for a gift.
Connor with Hank and Carolyn, friends of ours from church. They gave him a little book, along with some sweet treats too.

At Grandma and Grandpa Bass' waiting to go trick or treating. He took a liking to the pumkin pail.

First stop, Grandma Bass and then pictures on the front steps.My sister, Bon was home too so Connor went trick or treating with his cousins,

Izzabelle (skunk) and Ethan (elephant).

Trick or Treat, Auntie Crystal! Of course she loaded up their bags.

Yeah, I think I like that one.

The three amigos on Crystal and Brent's front steps.

They're all chewing on candy.

Costume contest at the Legion Hall in Okabena. Izzabelle, on the right, won a prize for her group. The little Tigger in the middle is one of my cousin's daughters, Lily. She also won a prize. Not sure who the little ladybug is.

Connor and Ethan also won prizes for their age group. The little owl on the left is one of my cousin's son, Trevor.

Aah, finally. Treat time. Dumping out the treats on the kitchen floor.

Ooh, smarties!

Bouzer coming to inspect the treats.

Pumpkin carving

2009-10-29T15:02:00.002-05:00

I got out my pumpkin carving kit yesterday. Connor decided that we should carve "bats" into our pumpkin...so that's what I did. He helped me scoop out the innerds and the seeds and I did the carving. Shining his flashlight into it to see what it looks like

Dad's flashlight worked a little better.

Connor's new wheels and fall pictures

2009-10-29T14:46:00.002-05:00

We found Connor an early birthday present, a Gator. We finally were able to try it out on a recent dry day. It'll be perfect for him next spring/summer. He has a little trouble reaching the pedal right now, but he still drove it all the way down to the mailbox and back. Teaching a 1 year old how to drive is quite the task. "Watch out for Mom's car! You're heading for the ditch!" Good thing it has a low and a high speed.

Jake chasing after him on our way back up the driveway Almost to the house

Picture looking down the driveway from the house.

Connor playing in the leaves.

Bad Beavers

2009-10-29T14:38:00.002-05:00

The other day, Connor and I went down by the lake with Mark. We stayed on shore while he went out and picked up his duck decoys. The beavers have really chomped into some of the oaks down by the lake. Bad beavers!

Trick O Treating Early

2009-10-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

This last Saturday we went up to Grandpa Wicklund's house. This was Connor's practice run at Trick O' Treating. Here he is waiting at Grandpa's front door. On the ride up we were rehearsing what he was gonna say when Grandpa opened the door. He would say, "TREAT!" But when the pressure was on and the door opened, he forgot his line.

Come in! Come in, little rooster!
Grandpa loading Connor up with treats.

Our little rooster

A few new pictures.

2009-10-26T23:31:00.005-05:00

Connor and cousin, Megan, reading booksConnor with cousins, Amanda and Megan, at Grandpa Wicklund's house celebrating Halloween a little early with a ice cream cake.Connor playing with my friend, Missy's son, JayseConnor and Mark. First pheasant of the season.Connor with Grandpa Bass on his birthday.Connor playing in the leaves at Great Grandma Bass' house with cousins, Trevor and Lily.Connor and Mickey, our neighbor who visits us pretty regularly. We made a cake for Mickey's birthday last week. Connor calls him "B".
Our "Fall" pumpkin picture.

Connor posing with our pumpkins from our garden sitting in front of one of Mark's woodpiles. Building towers with Grandpa Wicklund.

Connor with Mom and Dad and playing

2009-10-12T15:49:00.004-05:00

Mark's been cutting and stacking a bunch of wood lately. This is the pile he has stacked in the hayshed. Should keep us warm over the winter, although we've started using some of it already with this darn cold spell. Connor with some of his animals

Mark went out duck hunting this past Saturday. He got a few that day.

Connor wasn't liking the cold.

Connor and Mom. I figured that we didn't have a recent photo together so I set my timer on my camera. I told Connor to "Smile at the blinking light!", but he never did....but as soon as it takes the picture...then he smiles. Of course. Nice picture still though.

He decided to empty out his one whole bin of "Things with wheels". So I asked him to line a bunch of them up for a photo.

More yogurt, please!

2009-10-12T15:26:00.003-05:00

Mel's Birthday and Bon's house

2009-10-12T15:13:00.003-05:00

Connor patiently waiting for a piece of Aunt Mel's birthday cake.
Now can I cut it? At my sister Bon's house. Connor with his cousin, Ethan and Bon's beagle, Tina.

Ehtan, Connor, and Izzabelle playing in Iz's bed.

Connor posing with Bon and Joe's dogs, Tina and Tiny

My niece, Izzabelle, and her dogs, Tina and Tiny

My sister, Bon and her daughter, Izzabelle

Worthington Turkey Day

2009-10-06T14:53:00.005-05:00

My sister, Mel, ran in the Turkey 10K. We all cheered her on. Here is my sister Crystal, her Mother-in-Law, Cheri, my Dad, and Connor waiting for Mel to come up the street. Mel racing to the finish

Crossing the finish line. Way to go, Mel!

With her t-shirt at the end of the race.

Mel with Connor, who is pulling on her earring.

Connor enjoyed the rides before the parade started.

Waiting for the motorcyles to start.

Trying to find a winning duck He picked out a dog (of course) for picking up a prize winning duck.Watching the parade with everyone. He's holding onto his pencils that they were passing out. They were his drumsticks when the marching bands went by.

Playing catch up again

2009-10-06T14:40:00.003-05:00

Connor's first day of school, well ECFE anyway. He wasn't too sure about this picture thing in the morning.Connor playing training with Mom and Grandma Bass
Eating his train cookie that we picked up at the Little Falls craft show.

Sweetcorn that we picked out of our garden. I think we froze around 32 bags!

Checking on the pumpkins was a daily ritual.

Connor waiting in the paddleboat for me. We went paddleboating at Hank & Carolyn's (friends of ours who don't live far away) a few times this summer. Checking out the water after paddleboating.

Harvesting one of our pumpkins.

Trip to the State Fair

2009-09-17T14:58:00.008-05:00

This is Connor's 2nd trip to the State Fair. Pretty good for not even being 2 yet. We met my parents and sisters there. I took a lot of fun pictures and then about half way thru the day my camera battery went dead. UGH! The spare I had along, which I thought was charged ended up not being so there were no more pictures that day. We got some in the animal barns and riding the rides. It was a fun day.

Some new pictures of Connor

2009-09-17T14:37:00.003-05:00

Connor watering his tomatoes Relaxing in Dad's chair watching a movie
Posing with some flowers we picked from our garden the day before.

Connor with our flowers from the garden

His new hiding place -- inside the cupboard

Getting a ride on the train at Verndale Pioneer Days

Pizza Ranch with Teresa

2009-09-17T14:25:00.003-05:00

We were down to my parents house not too long ago and went out for supper with my Mom's sister, Teresa, and brother, Donnie, in Slayton. We also met my Mom's cousin, Joann, and her husband, Joe there as well. They live in Floria most of the year and stay in Marshall for the summer. We all had a nice visit.

Connor with Great-Aunt Teresa My niece, Izzabelle -- nephew, Ethan -- and Connor with Great-Aunt Teresa.My Mom with her sister, Teresa -- brother, Donnie -- and cousin, Joann and her husband, Joe

A Visit from Bon and Izzabelle and Ethan and Grandma

2009-08-28T00:35:00.005-05:00

My sister Bon, and her kids Izzabelle and Ethan and my Mom came and visited us for a few days. We went to the Vining Watermelon Day parade. The weather wasn't all that great when they were here, but we still found lots to do. Connor loved playing with Izz and E.

My Mom with Izz, Bon, and E at the parade

Connor with Grandpa Wicklund and Dad at the paradeConnor pestering Izzabelle by sitting on her lap.We went fishing one day. Here they are all looking in the water at the fish.

Bon all excited about the fish she caught. Connor's not too thrilled.

Mark with a nice sunny.

Connor and Izzabelle feeding grass to the baby calves.

We went and visited the neighbors dairy farm one day.

The three amigos all intent in watching Connor's favorite movie:

Baby Einstein Old Macdonald Farm. Connor calls it "The Cow Movie"
Playing in the sandbox. It was cold and windy that one day that we had to dig out the winter hats.

A few new pictures

2009-08-28T00:05:00.003-05:00

Windy hair-do's after riding the 3-wheeler Just chillaxin' in once was Grandpa Wicklund's rocking chair.
Connor all proud of the flowers we picked from our garden the day before

Making sure they survived the night in the house.

Connor's new hiding spot....inside the cupboard!

This last Saturday, Connor and I went to the England Prairie Pioneer Club tractor event near Verndale. They had a train that went around the event grounds. At first I didn't think he was gonna go, but then once they started moving he was ok. They went for like a 5 minute ride. I watched from across the grounds as they wound their way around. About half way thru he must have started to get nervous as I saw him hanging on to his hat with both hands. You can see him here in the third car as they come pulling back in. He looks like the guy from the Fat Albert cartoon with his hat pulled way down over his face. I don't think he could see cause his hat was pulled down so far.

15 Year Class Reunion

2009-08-27T23:56:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, Mark and I attended my 15 year class reunion in Lakefield. It was a fun night catching up with everyone. It's hard to believe that 15 years have gone by already. Time sure does fly.

Group photo

The last ones to leave and close up shop.

Mud for Bee Stings?

2009-08-06T23:50:00.003-05:00

Tonight just before coming in the house, Mark took Connor down the driveway for one last ride on the three-wheeler. As I was on my way to the garage to put toys away, I could hear Connor cryyying as the three wheeler is racing back to the house. I thought, "WHAT IS GOING ON???" Mark comes rip roaring into the yard with Connor screaming and drives over behind the house to the garden. As he tears by he says, "He got stung by a bee!" Oh geez! Mark's magic bee sting remedy...mud! He starts making mud pies in the garden. Supposedly he tells me that putting mud on it will help. OK. Whatever. I had no remedies. It must've helped cause Connor quit crying and even got back on the three wheeler for a few more rides. He left the mud on for quite a while and when we washed it off in the house there was just a small black/blue/red spot almost like he had gotten a shot. No more tears so it must not hurt anymore. I guess we're thankful that he's not too highly allergic to bee stings.

Bass Family Reunion

2009-08-06T23:03:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday we went to my Grandma's house for a summer family reunion.

My Grandma Bass and Aunt Judy dishing out the ice cream cones.

My niece, Izzabelle, eating her ice cream.
Connor's liking his ice cream cone.

My cousin, Stacy, and Brother-in-Law, Brent, playing Jenga.

Many of my Grandma's great grandkids lining up for sack swing rides.

My sister, Bon, and daughter Izzabelle

Me and Connor

My Mom with my nephew, Ethan

My cousin Justin, Brother-in-Law Brent, Sister Mel, and Sister Crystal holding my niece Izzabelle

Many of the great grandkids pose for a picture.

Diaper changing...not as easy anymore

2009-08-06T22:42:00.003-05:00

Connor was giving Grandma a run for the money when she was trying to change his diaper one day last week. He is just a little wiggle worm and any chance to get away....he makes a run for it.

Then after the diaper is on, it's a task to get his shorts back on.

Off goes Grandma's glasses

The little turkey....Grandma had her hands full.

A Week in Okabena

2009-08-06T22:19:00.005-05:00

Last week while Mark was in Canada fishing,

Connor and I spent the week at my parent's house by Okabena.

Connor popping bubbles with Auntie Crystal

Riding in "Big Red" with Grandpa, Uncle Brent, and Goldie

Connor feeding the chickens corn

Grandma giving Connor a ride in his car

Playing farm with Grandma Bass.

One day we also went and visited a high school friend of mine, Angie and her husband, Mike and kids Carter, Simon, and Brynn. Connor had so much fun playing. They have so much fun stuff and a huge shed full of toys. And an indoor sandbox! And we rode 4-wheeler. It's just too bad that we live so far away from each other. We'll have to go visit again sometime.
Connor playing in the big sandbox

Connor playing with Simon and his teepee

Some Odds N Ends

2009-07-31T00:36:00.006-05:00

Connor just getting up from his nap thinking he can fit in this little basket

Checking out Great Grandma Bass' flower garden

Smelling the flowers

Grandpa Bass pulling Connor on his tricycle

Grandpa giving Connor a ride on his tricycle

He found this funny hat one day in the closet

He thought it was cool :)

and wore it for about an hour while playing....until I took it off after realizing his head was all sweaty underneath it.

Walking thru the sweetcorn in our garden - a daily ritual when we check out the garden each morning....when we are home.

Vacation at the lake

2009-07-30T23:21:00.007-05:00

The week after the 4th of July, we spent on vacation at a resort in Osakis with the Bass relatives.

Connor with his Bass cousins: Izzabelle and Ethan.

Grandpa Bass gave them suckers while we unpacked.

Connor playing in the sand with cousins: Trevor, Tyson, Lily and IzzabelleA sunset ride in the paddleboatConnor and Mom with Trevor and Tyson Connor checking out the dock
We went visiting a petting zoo farm one of the days.

There were goats

and potbelly pigs and other animals

Grandpa Bass and Connor sharing some oranges

Aunt Mel giving Connor and Izzabelle pushes on the swing

Miss Izzabelle celebrated her 2nd birthday while on vacationIzz with her #2 cake
Connor helping Izzabelle open her presents

Connor waiting to go for a boat ride

Mark, my sisters: Bon and Mel, and Izzabelle and Connor.

I hopped in too and Mark took us for a boat ride.Connor driving Dad's boat

Bon and Izzabelle

Izzabelle and Grandma Bass roasting marshmallows.

On the last day, there was a circus in town. My Mom, Mel, and I took Connor to the circus. Here he is sneaking a bite of Grandma's cotton candy.

My cousin, Stacy, reading Connor a book before bedtime. And the family picture on the day we were leaving. We need to remember to take this earlier in the week when everyone is still there. We were missing a few: my Dad's brother Roger and his family and Bon and her kids.

Okabena 4th of July

2009-07-30T23:12:00.002-05:00

We took in the festivities in Okabena on the 4th of July.

Connor excited for the parade to be coming. Helping Grandpa Bass sweep pennies in the penny pitch stand.

My sister, Mel, and niece, Izzabelle trying out the fishpond.
Connor and Dad watching the fireworks.

Busy, busy

2009-07-30T22:05:00.004-05:00

Aahhh yes, I'm back to my blog finally. We've been busy on the go too much lately. I'll try to summarize and throw in a few pictures along the way:

Our 4th anniversary. We were up to Mark's Dad's that weekend and he picked us up an ice cream cake. Where have those 4 years gone already? Connor with his cousins, Ali and Kari

All of the Wicklund grandkids: Ali, Kari, Connor, Amanda, Megan, and John Checking out the fire truck at the parade in Urbank

Connor showing Grandpa Wicklund all his candy loot from the paradeGrandpa Wicklund, Connor, and cousin John Connor posing on our front steps

Pictures with Grandmas

2009-06-23T17:23:00.004-05:00

We went and had Sunday dinner at my Grandma Bass'. Like all kids who go to Grandma Bass'....they head straight to the bedroom to find the tote of toys. Most of the toys in the bin have been there forever it seems, but like all kids....Connor dives into them too. Tractors and trucks with missing pieces, old tin plates, and plastic cups, tupperware blocks, the two plastic cows with broken legs and more. He loves playing at Great Grandma's, just like we all did.

Connor with Great Grandma Bass

Connor with Grandma Bass.

Connor's loves playing with toys at Grandma Bass' too. She has lots of newer toys. Just as many if not more than he has at home! Doesn't take him long after we are there to dive into the toybox in the living room.

Connor and Bouzer

2009-06-23T17:17:00.004-05:00

Connor's highlight of the weekend at my parent's house is probably their dog Bouzer. Here I asked him to sit with Bouz for a few pictures.

Parade season is here

2009-06-23T17:03:00.003-05:00

This past week we took in two parades. First we went to one in Wadena last Thursday, but after about 5 minutes it got rained out. Ugh! We stood under a tree at first but then they called the parade off. Darn. Connor was just getting the candy thing figured out. Then this past Saturday we went to the one in Fulda when we were down at my parent's house. It was a nice parade. Connor enjoyed the fire trucks, and the police cars, and the tractors, and the horses. He also picked up lots of candy...with help from Mom and Dad.

Mark and I and Connor at the Wadena parade with John and Kari (niece and nephew) and Mark's Dad, Myron....a little bit wet, but a quick picture before packing up and going home.

Mark showing Connor how to pick up parade candy.

He's got the hang of it now.

Connor showing my sister, Crystal, and Grandpa Bass his candy loot.

Grandpa, just give me those Smarties

First Sweetcorn

2009-06-23T17:00:00.003-05:00

No, not our sweetcorn. Mark picked up a few ears in town to try. It was Connor's first attempt at sweetcorn. It didn't take him long to figure it out...since he loves corn anyway. It was quite tasty.

Tractor rides

2009-06-17T00:54:00.004-05:00

While up at his Dad's, Mark decided to get his tractors out of the shed and take them for a little spin. Mark's friend Mike also helped get them going. It didn't take too long and they were cruising around the yard and down the road. They were like 3 kids out cruising on their new bikes. :) Now only if the weather cooperates to have them in the parade on Thursday.

Connor out cruising with Dad

Grandpa Wicklund taking his grandsons, John and Connor, for a ride.

2009-06-17T00:43:00.002-05:00

This past weekend we were up to Mark's Dad's house. Mark's two brothers were home and his sister from Wyoming came on Sunday.

Here is Connor's cousin, Megan, giving him a stroller ride. Walking with Megan on the way to feed Grandpa's cows.

Cousins, Amanda and Megan, helping Connor feed the cows cornIn this one it looks like he is telling the cows,

"Stop right there! Don't come any closer."

Some cute new pics

2009-06-17T00:23:00.004-05:00

Connor hiding in his fortTaking a book break Cheesin' for Mom

Posing with his bib overalls. I asked him to stand in front of his bed. :)

Memorial weekend and others

2009-06-08T23:28:00.009-05:00

Below are a few "catch up" pictures. Some are from the weekend of Memorial Day and some others.

While down in Okabena over the Memorial weekend, we went and visited my friend Missy and her husband, Kurt, and their son Jayse. Also visiting them were their friends, Pat & Kelly and girls. We all went out for pizza and then visited at their house while the kids played. Below is a group photo of the kids: Andia and Aliyah, Connor, Zharayya, and Jayse. It was nice to see all of them and Connor had fun playing.

Grandpa Bass and Connor feeding the chickens corn.

Rides in the tractor bucket are the best!

Connor with his cousins, Ethan and Izzabelle

The one rare picture of the three of them all sitting together.

They don't usually sit still long enough in one spot to get a picture.

Connor with Great Grandma Conn on Memorial Day.

Connor playing in his sandbox.

Grandpa Wicklund and Connor mowing the lawn.

Up North Vacation Anyone??

2009-06-03T23:01:00.008-05:00

Anyone looking for a nice cabin by the lake for a summer getaway? Friends of ours, Hank & Carolyn, live on Spitzer Lake near us and they own a cabin next door to their home. They are looking for guests to come and enjoy their cabin/lake, etc. Following are details and a slideshow of pictures that I went and took:

Knotty pine interior

2 bedrooms - both with queen beds and one room also has a single bed

Nice large lawn area for yard games. The lawn is like carpet.

Cabin has deck and patio

There is a 14' fishing boat with 6 h.p. motor and also a paddleboat available for you to use

There is a fish cleaning house and fishing guide available if needed. Hank said that he could help with the fish cleaning if you aren't sure how to clean fish.

He also said to mention that he will have a fish fry one night (both Hank & Carolyn are very good cooks) and there will be fresh vegetables from his garden.

There is a barbecue grill and picnic table

There is also a bunkhouse right off of the dock for extra sleeping quarters. Has a queen size sofa sleeper and a double futon. This is a very nice little house as well. Has an oven and a fridge, but no running water. Check it out in the pictures above. Very nice!

Spitzer Lake is a good fishing lake. Hank says he catches fish right from his dock.

$800/week for up to 5 people. Shorter stays are negotiable. No smoking inside and they request no pets.

They are located on the east side of Spitzer Lake, which is 9 miles south of Battle Lake. Alexandria is a quick 35 minute drive.

Come and enjoy the lake. Hank & Carolyn are wonderful hosts and would love to have you come and enjoy their cabin and lake. Everything is very clean and well kept. You can call them directly at (218) 864-5873 or call or email me too if you have questions or want to reserve a stay.

Check out this DNR link for info on Spitzer Lake: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lakefind/results.html

Connor's 1st Haircut

2009-06-01T23:37:00.003-05:00

On the same day that he got his cast off, he also had his 1st haircut. It was a big day for him...actually was the day of his 17 month birthday. Again, I was surprised at how well he did. He sat and watched as Lisa clippered up his hair. No tears, no crying, and he sat so very still. Such a good boy. I think he looks older now. No more baby locks.

The Cast Comes Off

2009-06-01T23:17:00.003-05:00

On May 22nd, Connor got his cast cut off. X-rays showed his broken leg was all healed. Yeah! He did good and was a brave little boy. Didn't cry til the very end when the cast was almost off. He did a double take at his leg and then started itching it. He's getting better at walking again. Still is clumsy and falls down a bit...but getting better. He kinda walks with his left foot pointing out. Doc says to give him a few weeks to get his muscles going again.

We celebrated with pizza and chocolate pudding afterward

First time fishing for the season

2009-05-28T23:40:00.004-05:00

The weekend of my birthday, before Crystal and Brent headed for home, we decided to try our luck at fishing since the sun was out. Mark caught and released two bass and that was all we caught. Very rarely do we ever get skunked at Mark's Great Uncle's lake....but we did that day. Oh well...we had fun in the boat. Connor got his first taste of fishing for this year. He did pretty well out there.

Happy Birthday to ME

2009-05-28T23:28:00.004-05:00

Another year older. My sister Crystal and her husband, Brent came and visited us the weekend of my birthday. Mark's Dad, Myron, also came and we all went out for supper. On the night of my birthday, we had Dairy Queen cake and then the next day Crystal and Connor made frosting for another cake that she had made and brought along. There's always room and a reason for cake :)

Connor and Mom. He took an early sneak of the frosting!

Mark, myself, Connor and Mark's Dad, Myron

My sister, Crystal, and Connor watching a movie.Crystal had help making the frosting.Cake #2 on the second night. Yumm.Connor after devouring most of his piece.

Catch up time

2009-05-28T23:12:00.004-05:00

My Mom painting Connor's new roomConnor fell asleep while eating his lunch. This was when my Mom was here for that week and he was sooo not gonna take a nap that morning.Snuggling with Grandma He got tired of waiting for Mom and Grandma to get his new room set up and since his bed wasn't set up yet....he fell asleep in Dad's recliner.

Mother's Day picture. We went out for dinner and on the way back thru Vining we decided to stop and take a photo on the "Big Foot" sculpture at the edge of town.Connor with his bent-knee cast My blankie
Connor's new play area of our living room. A little more space without that overstuffed chair.
Connor posing with his cast.
Riding his horse

Connor's Cast

2009-05-14T13:37:00.005-05:00

Finally I am back. We have been busy, busy the past couple weeks. Connor's cast hasn't slowed any of us down. We were down to my sisters', Bon and Mel's for a while and also took in the zoo. I'll have to put a slideshow of zoo pictures together. That will be in another post. From there we came home last Tuesday and my Mom followed us home. She stayed for about a week and helped with a big project. We switched our bedroom with Connor's. First we had to empty our room, which was a chore. Our house looked like a tornado hit. For about 4 days there was only a path and we were sleeping in the living room on the hide-a-bed. We primed the walls and painted and then started moving all of Connor's stuff in so we could empty his room out and at least put up our bed. He slept in our room for a few days in his pack-n-play while the new paint smell wore off. Anyway...it was a task and now it's all done and still trying to put things away. Thanks MOM! We moved our big overstuffed chair out for the time being to allow more room for Connor to play in the living room. He loves having his toys in the living room and still having room to play.

Connor with his cast.

Connor with his new cast covered up...playing with his cousin, Ethan at my Mom and Dad's

Riding truck with Izzabelle at Bon's house. Watch out for the tree!Peeking in Izzabelle's playhouse.

Playing in the tent with Grandma Bass.

One more buggy ride and then we have to go in. Getting the hang of walking with his cast. Pushing Izzabelle's grocery cart.Connor with his new tricycle. This is another story. Since bringing this thing home we had a mishap with it already and it's now in the shed until he is big enough to ride it. Last Friday I was pushing him outside and his leg/foot got wrapped in the front wheel! UGH! He cried and screamed and wouldn't walk on it so we took him in to the doctor. Thank God his good leg wasn't broke! We didn't need two broken legs. So for now it's put away until he can reach the pedals.

Connor broke his leg

2009-04-27T13:30:00.002-05:00

There was one tragedy while we were at Grandpa and Grandma Bass'....Connor broke his leg! He was crawling down the stairs on his belly last Monday morning and missed the last step. He turned to stand up and slipped and twisted and fell. My Mom and I took him in to Urgent Care just thinking it was going to be a sprained ankle or knee and the x-rays showed a broken leg! He has a cast from his toes, past his knee to his thigh. Will have that on til the end of May. He is back to crawling again. He gets around with his cast but has a hard time pulling himself up and standing. Poor kid. I've never had a broken bone ever and here he brakes a leg before he is even 2! Since my camera is out of commission...sorry, no pictures of Connor in his cast. Will post some when I get it up and running again. Hopefully this month flies by fast and everything heals up good. Then he can get back to running and playing outside again.

Grandpa & Grandma Bass'

2009-04-27T13:14:00.006-05:00

Last week, Connor and I spent a few days at my Mom and Dad's. My sister, Mel, had spring break and was there for the week, so my sister Bon and her two kids and Connor and I all came and spent a few days. Check out our pictures below. I forgot my extra camera battery and charger at their house and my camera is now dead. I was able to transfer some of the pictures, but not all of them. Will have to get the rest on here when it's back working again.

Helping Dad unload wood

2009-04-17T23:01:00.004-05:00

The other day, Mark took Connor outside after supper so that I could get the dishes done, etc. After I was finished, I went outside to see what they were up to. Mark had him in the trailer helping unload some firewood! He's says, "Just as well start him early." I guess. He likes to help me vacuum the house too. Maybe someday he'll take over that job for me too. :)

Visit to the dairy farm

2009-04-17T22:48:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday afternoon, Connor and I went visiting the neighbors. We went over to Mickelson's at end of our driveway who have a dairy farm. We visited with Mickey and Shirley and then went out with Jasson to see the cows. They had some new kittens right by the front door. Connor was all into the baby kitties (even though I don't care for cats much). He likes to go to the farm. Maybe once it gets nice out, we will have to make it over there once a week to check on the animals.

Cathy the calf eyeing Connor but he has his eye on the cat coming around the calf hut. Checking out the two calves that were just born the day before.

The loons are back

2009-04-17T22:41:00.003-05:00

The other day when we came home there were two loons in the pond along the driveway. We heard them fly over the house the day before, so we knew there were some around. Seeing the loons means summer is on the way! Yippee! But then I also had a couple mosquitos buzzing in the house today. UGH! We could do without the mosquitos for a couple months yet.

Ridin' 4-wheeler

2009-04-17T22:21:00.007-05:00

The other day we finally brought Connor's 4-wheeler outside for the first time. The mud has finally all dried up. He did pretty good, except he needs to work on his steering. He only rode it for a little bit and then he was ready to get off and just walk/run around the yard. He loves to walk around outside.

Abandoning his 4-wheeler on the driveway. Ready to run.

Easter Morning

2009-04-16T23:17:00.004-05:00

Connor finding his Easter basket inside his oven after church on Easter Sunday. Liking his new book Checking out his new Baby V.Smile gameConnor posing with cousin Ali

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-16T22:11:00.004-05:00

This past Saturday, we took Connor to the Easter Egg hunt in Wadena. The Chamber of Commerce puts it together and they set out 14,000!! eggs for the kids. There are three different age groups so all the kids are able to pick up eggs. We got there ten minutes early because we didn't want to be late, as it is over in a matter of seconds. The hard part was trying to keep Connor from going after the eggs before we could start.

Mark trying to keep Connor outside the fence. Connor and Mom Mark helping Connor pick up eggs. He got his Easter bucket full All proud of his stash

Grandpa Wicklund's Birthday

2009-04-16T22:02:00.005-05:00

Last Friday was Mark's Dad, Myron's, birthday. We took him out for supper and later had birthday cake at his house. Mark's brother, Adam, and wife, Becky, and daughter, Ali, also came up for his birthday and the weekend.

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

Ali and Connor with Grandpa Wicklund

Connor chillin' with Grandpa on a Sunday afternoon.

Our visit to Goodhue

2009-04-13T14:57:00.011-05:00

I'm little behind, but again working on catching up. A few weeks ago, Mark went to California for work. Connor and I dropped him off at the airport on a Saturday and from there we went and stayed with my sister,Mel, and hung out with my sister, Bon and her husband, Joe and kids Izzabelle and Ethan until the following Wednesday when we picked Mark up at the airport. We went to the park on Saturday, swimming on Sunday, shopping and visiting our Aunt & Uncle on Monday, to an indoor park and to the Mall of America on Tuesday, and then to the airport to pick up Mark on Wednesday. Busy beavers we were. Connor had lots of fun playing with Izzabelle and Ethan. We colored Easter eggs, made spring flower necklaces, and did lots of playing. Check out my slideshow of pictures and the video of Izzabelle pushing Connor on the scooter.

Fun pictures of Connor

2009-03-25T23:00:00.002-05:00

Doesn't Connor look like he's watching some big suspense filled horror movie? Well actually they were just watching a Baby Einstein movie. Mark looks thrilled doesn't he? He he!

He likes to climb into his totes, boxes, and baskets.

He climbed into this one and I gave him some paddles and we were doing "Row, row, row your boat". I think this basket is just a tad small....but he always thinks he can fit.Playing with his puzzles.

Learning to save his money already.Drink break with his John Deere cup.

Hopefully the Last Sled Ride this winter

2009-03-23T17:06:00.004-05:00

These are also from a few weeks ago. Here's Mark pulling Connor around the yard. Our snow is pretty close to gone now, hopefully it doesn't come again until December.

A little bit behind

2009-03-23T13:34:00.005-05:00

These pictures are from a few weeks ago when we picked up Connor at my Mom and Dad's after we returned from vacation. I'm a little behind, but am getting caught up.

Izzabelle and Connor with their dogs that Aunt Crystal gave them.

Waiting to dive into Uncle Brent's birthday cake.

My sister Bon's kids, Ethan and Izzabelle, trying out their new jogging stroller.

Grandpa Bass giving sled rides with the 4-wheeler. There was new snow overnight so there was just enough for a few final rides before the snow was all gone.Aunt Crystal (she would ride in the sled even if there was no little one to ride with her)

and Connor riding in the sled.

Riding in Sled video

Our Little Man is Finally Walking

2009-03-14T14:16:00.006-05:00

Connor stayed at Grandpa and Grandma Bass' last week while we were on vacation. On Tuesday of last week he finally started walking by himself! By the end of the week when we picked him up, he was walking all over the place.

Rub-a-dub-dub three kids in the tub. Bon and Izzabelle and Ethan were also at my Mom and Dad's for a few days. Here are the three kids all taking a bath.

Our Cruise to the Bahamas

2009-03-13T23:11:00.004-05:00

Last week we were on vacation. I finally finished putting my photos together. Check'm out. Mark and I went with Mark's Dad, Myron and friend, Violet. We flew to Miami and boarded the ship. Our first stop was Nassau, Bahamas where took a tour of the city in a limo and also did a glass bottom boat tour of the harbor and then out to the reef to check out the fish. Our second stop was Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's own private island. Our last stop was Key West, Florida. Here we took a tour of the city by a trolley. We had a good week. Weather was warmer than at home but was only around 75 degrees.

The Many Faces of Connor

2009-02-20T11:42:00.004-06:00

I took some pictures of him while he was playing in his high chair.

Leave me alone Mom, I'm playing!

Playing in his high-chair

2009-02-20T11:39:00.003-06:00

Connor likes to play in his high chair with his trucks and tractors. He usually plays for a little bit after eating and then also while I'm getting supper ready. Then he can see what I'm doing on the stove.

Valentine's Cake

2009-02-16T22:42:00.003-06:00

For Valentine's Day, Connor and I made Mark a cake while he was out ice fishing. Since Connor was in bed when he got back home, we took a picture before we ate it for Sunday dinner.

Hello Dad! Kid has fingers in cake!

This is my piece

The Little Climber

2009-02-16T22:22:00.006-06:00

Connor's new thing is to climb onto or up into things. He loves to climb thru his kitchen. There was a divider in the center but he kept pushing on it so I finally took it out. Now he climbs thru it all day long. His other new thing is to climb into this playtable thing. He climbs in there and then has to think twice on how he's gonna get back out. It's funny to watch him.

Here he's climbing in.

Ta Da. I made it! And now he's trying to get his butt out. :)

Connor's 1st Snowmobile Ride

2009-02-09T16:38:00.005-06:00

On Sunday, I took Connor outside sledding, etc. and after Mark and his Dad finished up tinkering on his car, he gave Connor a ride on his snowmobile. Connor wasn't too sure about it when he came back to the house. I took a short ride too.

Making Krub and Doughnuts

2009-02-09T11:29:00.008-06:00

This past Saturday we met Mark's brother, Adam, and his wife, Becky, and daughter, Ali at Mark's Dad's house. They wanted to learn how to make Krub (a Norwegian specialty that Mark's Grandma used to make). We asked Mark's Great Aunt, Arla, if she would come over and help with the recipe and cooking. She also brought along her recipe for homemade doughnuts. Since there were enough hands in the kitchen, I was the photographer.

Arla and Adam mixing up the potatoes for the krub.

Making the patties and putting the pork inside Mark's Dad, Myron, putting the krub into the boiling water. Boiling for 1 hour

Myron taking them out already

Mark testing the final product. Passed inspection. Both he and Adam said they tasted just like they remember their Grandma making. I think they each had like 4 or 5.Connor trying the krub. He ate up quite a few pieces so they must have passed his inspection too.

Sister-in-law, Becky, making doughnuts

Niece, Ali, cutting out the doughnuts Adam frying doughnuts
The finished product. Very tasty. I dipped mine in a little sugar.

Finally some warmer weather

2009-02-05T17:53:00.006-06:00

Finally some warmer weather today. We were outside a few hours enjoying the nice weather. I pulled Connor down our mile long driveway to the mailbox in his sled. He thought that was great fun. I pushed him a bunch of times down the driveway hill near the house. Just enough snow there to cover the driveway and icy enough that he could really sail without me having to push to hard. He loved the dogs running around outside too. He could sit and watch them all day. Tomorrow sounds like it's supposed to be nice too, so I'm sure we'll doing it again tomorrow.

Mom, Dad, and Connor

2009-02-03T22:15:00.004-06:00

Today was picture day...a good day for pictures.

Connor playing with his ball. Mark and Connor This next picture is Connor and I trying out the self-timer on my camera. I looked back in my photos and the last time we did this was back last September. Connor's grown up some. I haven't changed too much. :)

The new "I Don't Know"

2009-02-03T22:01:00.004-06:00

Connor has really picked up on the "I don't know" thing. You ask him questions and he does his "I don't know" and kinda looks around and shrugs his shoulders. I ask him where his socks are since he always pulls them off and he does his "I don't know." Ask his where his puzzle pieces are and he does his "I don't know". What happened to your cow? "I don't know." It's cute so I decided to get a few pictures today to show you.

Where's your cup? Where are your puzzle pieces? What happened to your socks?

Mel Came to Visit

2009-02-03T21:45:00.004-06:00

This past weekend, my sister Mel came to visit us. We went shopping on Saturday while Mark went snowmobiling. She stayed for 1/2 of the Superbowl game and then ventured for home. Connor was excited to have her come to his house.

Connor with Auntie Mel

A Week at Grandma and Grandpa Bass'

2009-02-02T13:36:00.006-06:00

I'm a little behind at posting so these are actually from a few weeks ago. Mark went on a trip to Ohio for work for a week, so Connor and I spent the week in Okabena at my Mom and Dad's. Here are a few pictures:

My sister Crystal reading Connor a book before bed.

Grandma trying to help Connor with his lunch. My Dad thought it would be fun to share his chocolate pudding. Looks like he has his hands full. Izzabelle and Connor playing with Izzabelle's beauty salon. Actually got them both to sit and rest for a while. Pestering Bouzer. Poor Bouz. My sister Crystal with Connor and Ethan.

Not Walking Yet

2009-01-14T22:41:00.003-06:00

Connor is still practicing yet. Still hasn't been brave enough to take those first steps on his own. He's close, but still is scared when you let him go. So for now, he waddles like a penguin pushing his toys around the house.

Connor's New Kitchen

2009-01-14T22:29:00.003-06:00

Today Mark brought home a new "kitchen" for Connor. I had seen it posted online on a local classified website for pretty cheap. Mickey, our neighbor, was joking with me that I'm gonna turn him into a girl. Nah, I said...he's gonna learn to help Mom with dishes and to cook and bake and also go hunting and chop wood with Dad. He'll be a well rounded kid.

Slideshow - Grandma's 80th Birthday

2009-01-13T22:10:00.001-06:00

Happy 80th Birthday Grandma!

2009-01-13T16:07:00.009-06:00

This past Saturday we celebrated my Grandma Bass' 80th birthday with a open house and dance in Okabena. A fun time was had by everyone. I have a lot more pictures and will work on posting a slideshow here as well. For now...here are a few pics.

Mark and I and Connor with my Grandma

My cousins, Alecia & Stacy and my Grandma

The whole Bass clan

Bass Family Christmas

2009-01-05T09:52:00.010-06:00

And finally on the Sunday morning after Christmas, we had Christmas breakfast at my Mom and Dad's and then opened gifts. Thank you everyone for all the nice presents.

Bon & Ethan Bon, Joe, Izzabelle & Ethan

Grandpa and Grandma Bass with the Grandkids

Me helping Connor open his presents.

Izzabelle helping Connor open his presents

Yeah! A chicken

And a cow!

Mark and I and Connor My Mom opening her presents

My Dad with his loot

Santa was good to my sister, Mel, too

My sister, Crystal, excited for her new atlas

My favorite aunt, Teresa, opening her presents.

My niece, Izzabelle, opening her presents

Christmas at my Grandma Bass'

2009-01-03T13:17:00.009-06:00

On Saturday we had Christmas at my Grandma Bass'. Family photo time.
We take group pictures every year.

My Dad and his brothers and sisters with my Grandma
Back row: my Dad-Vern, Verl, Roger
Front Row: Donna Mae, my Grandma, and Judy

And now everyone with their spouses.
Back row: Terry, my Dad, Verl, Roger
Front Row: Donna Mae, my Mom - Donna, Grandma Bass,

Judy, Marsha, and JoAnn

My Grandma with 14 of her 18 grandchildren

My Grandma Bass with many of her great grandkids

Our family picture
Back row: Mark, Brent, Crystal, Joe, Bon
Front Row: Amy, Connor, Izzabelle, Donna, Ethan, Vern, and Mel

My Dad's brother, Verl and his family.
Back row: Brandon, Alecia, Bob, Jeff
Middle Row: Shelly, Marsha, Verl, Eric
Front Row: Stacy, Trevor, and Lily

My Dad's brother, Roger and his family
Back Row: DJ, Shannon, Josh
Front Row: Roger, Tyson, and JoAnn

My Grandma with my favorite aunt, Teresa (my Mom's sister)

Connor with Great Grandma Bass

Wicklund Family Christmas

2009-01-03T12:21:00.003-06:00

On Christmas Day we went to Mark's brother, Adam and his wife Becky's, for Christmas. Here Connor is chillin' on Uncle Adam's lap.

And chillin' with Uncle Dave

Megan, Ali, and Adam (Amanda in the background)Opening presentsChecking to see what Grandpa's got
Mark trying to help Connor jump on his new dance mat

To: Connor -- From: Santa

2009-01-03T12:02:00.003-06:00

Here is Connor opening his presents on Christmas Eve from Santa. After all the birthday presents, he started to figure out what "presents" are. Mom trying to show him how his new colors work

We thought it would be fun to see if we could fit him into his stocking like last year.
He wasn't too thrilled about the whole idea.

Here he was last year in his Christmas stocking.