1608-duluth

family photo

2012-01-17T10:45:00.002-06:00

My doula client, Jana offered to do some family photos for us this August. Here are some of my favorite

Xmas time treats

2011-12-06T08:05:00.001-06:00

Christmas time always makes me want to bake. I am trying many new recipes this year. Made some great M&M cookies and than last night made some yummy mallow fudge. It is soooo good

Weekday mornings

2011-09-19T08:36:00.001-05:00

so as summer has ended and the school year has began, we have a new routine. Myla has kindergarten from 1 to 4 so are hangout time is in the a.m As the weather is cooler we r finding old cold weather activities to occupy our time together. This morning we r painting

First day of kindergarten

2011-09-16T15:45:00.001-05:00

Starting afternoons with mrs. Elasky at Lakewiew elementary

Vannie boy

2011-07-25T08:04:00.002-05:00

Van laughing

Van being angry

Van being upset with his Sissy

Van being a happy happy boy

como town

2011-06-27T09:37:00.005-05:00

We took the kids to Como Town a few weeks back. They had a great time!!!!

marcia's pumpkins walk again

2011-05-17T07:50:00.002-05:00

This Mother's day My side of the family walked in the "walk for the Cure". We took the Light rail to the MOA ( the kids favorite part of the day) and then walked a lap. My Mom's best friend for 60 years joined us! It was a wonderful and inspiring event. I am so happy to support my Mom and her courageous Battle against Breast cancer!!!

pictures

2011-04-16T14:06:00.004-05:00

myla being sassy while modeling her rockstar outfit. picture in the tree and the kids with their new friend "Fred" the flag man.

Van climbing at the Stone arch bridge, sweet sweet Myla and the kids in our new bike trailer!

chicken pox

2011-04-04T12:48:00.004-05:00

The chicken poxes have landed on the kiddos!!! YEAH! We did not vaccinate the kid against the Chicken poxes, hoping and purposfully trying to have the kids get them naturally. We exposed them to other kids with the poxes last fall and nothing panned out. Then last Sunday we noticed some weird spots on Myla's back, they did not look like typical pox spots. I had my Mom and sister-in-law take a look and we were all baffled. So we took her in to make sure it was nothing crazy and found out it was indeed chicken poxes. We were very pleased to get the kids natural exposure to this virus!

So we have been home bound for a week and will probably continue that pattern as Van got spots on Wednesday. This has been a slow moving virus with new spots all the time, but lucky it is only a few spots at a time. The kids have been troopers and are enjoying time in our new house.

WHAT WE HAVE DONE- 504 piece puzzle, 300 piece puzzle, homemade brownies, play do, lots of biking and walking outside, watched Tangled about 100 times so far, Easter art, listening,dancing and singing with Michael Jackson, crazy 8's, pretty, pretty princess games, chalk art outside and Myla has been letting me do lots of fun stuff with her hair. Enjoy the pictures!!!

an update from Robbinsdale

2011-03-20T09:56:00.003-05:00

new picture

2011-02-20T16:48:00.003-06:00

1. myla atkindergarden open house

2. tub time

3.silly girl at the hotel

1. Angry Van

2. at the aquarium

3. tub time

Faily picture celebrating our 5 anniversary

volcano

2011-01-28T09:42:00.002-06:00

enjoy the video, excuse my bossyness!

2011-01-24T13:35:00.002-06:00

First off a shout out to Auntie KK, welove the zingers!!!!

Skating, eating, touring and having fun at the excel yesterday!

The last picture is Myla on the ice and us way up in the announcers box.

the kids

2011-01-13T10:14:00.002-06:00

Our little monster Van is doing great. He is digging us exploring new places in the big cities and really likes his weekly special time with Papa Havey. And while Van is with Papa, Myla is at ballet/tap class. As you can see she just loves dance class and is a quick learner. It is pure joy to watch miss Myla and the other girls in class. Practicing 1st position, PKs and shuffle steps. I am so looking forward to the recital in May.

NYE 2010

2011-01-05T13:20:00.003-06:00

New years eve is a little different at our house because it is my Birthday. And with my Birthday on NYE I have had some good celebrations.

This year we choose to be low key, plus the weather was not to great for traveling. Breakfast with my parents and nephews that morning. We stuck around the apartment had some yummy cake treats, a toast at 7 on the roof, a fun game of guess who (boys against girls)a late yummy dinner with just me and Lance and then watched Phish live from New York via our TV. They played one of the most fun shows I have every seen them do, so it was a treat to be able to watch.

2011

2011-01-03T15:23:00.002-06:00

My one and only resolution for 2011 is to be a way better blogger than before. With all our recent changes and more to come this will help keep all of our fabulous family and friends connected.

So right now we are living in Eden Prairie in a wonderful apartment. Our house in Duluth is for sale and being house sat by some great folks. We hope we can sell some what quick so that we can begin finding our house down here.

Myla and Van are both adjusting to our new digs and enjoy being close to all kinds of family and friends. Myla is starting a new preschool on Wednesday. She will go 3 mornings a week and Van and I get to tag along on Wednesdays. We are all excited for new adventures.

Myla is also starting dance class this week. She will be taking tap and ballet at a very small dance studio, she is soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo excited and puts her leotards on everyday. She will then have a recital in May. I will get some pictures of her at class and post soon.

Lance and I are just so happy to be together again and not have to worry about traveling every weekend. So happy new years and cheers to new beginnings!!!

our little rockstar

2010-10-21T14:22:00.002-05:00

We got this video of Van from the other night. Our little rockstar!

como zoo with friends

2010-10-21T14:20:00.000-05:00

Van's 2nd birthday

2010-09-27T08:28:00.004-05:00

Our little guy has turned 2! We had a great time celebrating with Dad at home for the weekend. And celebrated with a choo choo train cake.

2 years has gone by so fast and Van has become such a big guy. He is talking up a storm and trys saying most words with success. We also got great new from with Orthopedic Dr at his 6 month check up last week. Van no longer has to wear his "boots" at night anymore!! We were anticipating Van having to wear them till 5 yrs old. But Dr. Gordon saw great progress and we now move on to Van wearing specially made braces that he will wear with shoes. Van has 1 flat foot and the brace will help it to move with more ease. We are still excited for all his wonderful progress!

Other likes are Tech Deck skateboard, his new firetruck and his sissy!

Labor day 2010

2010-09-13T14:29:00.001-05:00

We had a fun and chilly time exploring Two Harbors on Labor Day

Busy summer = lots of pictures!!!

2010-07-19T12:02:00.003-05:00

June picutres

2010-06-14T14:20:00.005-05:00

1. myla and friends on the new swing set

2. Van-all dressed up, Auntie KK and Myla

3.silly myla

4. Myla and her teacher ms. carrie on the last day of preschool

Big boy bed

2010-05-17T13:59:00.002-05:00

Last Monday I got as bug in my pants and decided we would give Van a try in the big boy bed. I kept the crib up and let him try his nap in the big bed. He got out once and I quickly went in and told him to stay in bed. Well he took a great 3 hour nap and the crib went down that afternoon!

Second kids pick up all kind of things faster than the older siblings. I was a little sad to say good bye to Myla and Van's first bed, but really glad to get that thing out fo their room. And if you come over Van will surely bring you up to his room and show off his big boy bed to you.

getting bigger

2010-03-02T13:21:00.002-06:00

Myla got a new bed this past weekend and she loves it!

myla and Van singing

2010-01-25T14:47:00.002-06:00

myla skis

2010-01-19T20:28:00.002-06:00

funny conversations

2009-11-04T13:23:00.002-06:00

Last week at Myla's school they had a bucket full of bones for the kids for the kids to explore. Myla was very interested in all the bones and where on the body they belong. Last night we were on the couch talking and she asked "is this a bone" pointing to the tip of her nose. I said "no bone there, but you have a bones up here on the bridge of your nose". Myla then asked "can people walk on the bridge".

Lance and I were laughing pretty hard.

Van's 1 Birthday

2009-09-29T20:26:00.003-05:00

Van's 1 birthday

Bang-ditties

2009-09-10T14:24:00.003-05:00

Myla got a hair cut and went swiming with the help of her bang-ditties

Myla swimming labor day weekend

the ending of summer time fun in duluth

2009-09-04T15:00:00.004-05:00

The kids and I have been enjoying the beautiful weather here in Duluth this week. We had lots of friends over for an end of summer BBQ and then spent 2 days at the beach this week. We are gearing up for a fun Labor day weekend and then 1 more week till My starts preschool.

Myla turned 3 post # 1

2009-08-17T09:42:00.004-05:00

we always sing happy birthday and she gets her first present for the day when she wakes up!

My good friend Laura gave us tickets to bring Myla to the Beauty and the Beast play in town. Auntie KK took Myla to the play, but before Uncle T and Auntie KK went to the toy store to pick out a b-day gift. SHe just loves her new umbrella

The day before Myla's birthday ( I tend to celebrate birthdays for a week) Myla, Van and I went down to the beach. It was perfect weather to play in the sands and put our feet in the water. We also got to witness a boat go under the bridge, it was Van's first time.

an almost 3 yr old and A messy 10 month old

2009-07-28T19:47:00.003-05:00

Myla is almost 3, wow it seems very hard to believe that only 3 years ago I was sitting here beggin to be done with being pregnant. Now I have a beautiful girl, that is growing up and becoming such an independent child.

We took Myla's friends Connor out to ice cream to celebrate his 3rd birthday.

And Van boy-well he loves to eat and recently became a fan of smoothies. I had taken the lid off the cup but forgot to take the cup away from Van. This is what happened in about 1 minute.

doulaing

2009-07-14T16:00:00.002-05:00

As some of you know I have started my process of becoming a doula!!

Doula-is an assistant who provides various forms of non-medical and non-midwifery support (physical and emotional) in the childbirth process. Based on a particular doula's training and background, the doula may offer support during prenatal care, during childbirth and/or during the postpartum period. A birth doula provides support during labor.

I am very excited to assist Mom and Dad's in having rewarding, amazing and loving births. I was lucky enough to have 2 awesome birth experiences. I came out a stronger woman after the births of Myla and Van. Not to mention how good I physically felt just hours after birthing the babes. I had thought about becoming a Doula since I had Myla. My friend Jessica's birth of her second child help to spur the final push needed. I had assisted Jessica and Eddie in some pre labor work and just loved helping them talk about the upcoming birth. An out of town trip and an early babe made it not possible for me to help Jessica and Eddie during the actual birth of their super precious little girl Piper.

But that experience got me excited and ready to begin the training. So I just signed for a Doula training next weekend. I then need to attend 3 births and take care of other paperwork stuff. So if you know if anyone in need of a doula, please let me know. jodi

living easy this summer

2009-07-06T21:18:00.004-05:00

Summer time in Duluth, I love it and absorb it every chance I get. I easily remember the coldness of Winter and embrace all the heat. So most days Myla and I spend the morning in the backyard. Playing in her sandbox, taking care of the gardens and our raspberry bushes or pick up trash on our block. Our neighbors Jo and Kylie, who is 18 months often join us. Myla is definitely aware she is older than Kylie and tends to be pretty bossy with her. But I am excited to see their friendship grow and can imagine them playing together peacefully someday.

We get out often going to the reservoir, the canal, throwing rocks in Lake Superior and playing with friends. We have pulled out our outdoor fire pit and have had smores a couple times. Myla of course loves those special nights. Summer is fun and we are definitely enjoying it.

Myla, Van and I spent last week at my friend Jill's cabin in Nisswa area. We had so much meeting her 3 month old daughter Auna and getting out of the city for a few days. We had a fun time doing the "local" thing in Nissaw. The late morning before we left Jill got the boat out and took us for a nice relaxing ride around the lake. By the end of the 45 minute ride all 3 were sleeping.

an over due update

2009-06-15T14:14:00.003-05:00

It has been too long since I have last posted. We have been busy enjoying the outdoor and chasing after Myla and Van. Please click on the link below to views a bunch of pictures we have taken over the last 2 weeks.

http://picasaweb.google.com/thevoelkers4/BeinningOfJune2009#

2 videos of Van crawling and talking

2009-06-01T13:51:00.003-05:00

a year of ECFE

2009-05-31T12:09:00.003-05:00

The first pictures is September 11, 2008 on our way to ECFE for our first class, Van is still livin in my belly at this point. The second picture if This past Thursday, the last day of class for Myla. Next year will bring a whole new adventure as Myla will be attending preschool 3 afternoons a week. Ohh how they grow.

a photo session

2009-05-27T21:05:00.001-05:00

We had a awesome photographer take some family and kid photos 2 weeks ago. They turned out pretty wonderful and it is fun to see our family captured in photos. Follow the link to view them.
http://lmpreciousdesigns.zenfolio.com/m-v-may-2009

our new backyard

2009-05-21T20:40:00.005-05:00

Lance and I have lived at this house for the past 7 years. Ever since we moved in I begged Lance to put in a tall fence in the backyard, ( we have some "interesting" neighbors). So finally last year we put it in and loved all the seclusion it provided.

This years mission was a sanbox for the kids. After discussing and researching we picked out the needed material. 3- 4x10 and some screws. On a sidenote, while at Menards loading the material we overestimated the give of a windshield and cracked it. We both felt pretty stupid to think we could have gotten it in there, but hey we have insurance and had a new windshield the next day.

We built the sandbox in about 1 hour, it is 5 x 10 and is holding 1 truck load of sand!! Myla loves it and plays in it whenever we are outside. It can accomidate 6 kids and still have lots of room to move around. So the sanbox arrival required more fencing in the back and we have gotten that done over the past 2 weeks. Lance's Mom was up for a visit and to help with yard work and relieving a brick sidewalk in our backyard.

Van's better than ever feet

2009-05-19T13:59:00.004-05:00

The first picture is of Van's feet after birth and the next picture is his beautiful feet today!

Van's casts were removed last Thursday. Dr. Gordon was very pleased with how they looked and worked. We were given the good news that we were done with casts for a few years and will now get Van's braces. Those words felt so good and were such a relief. This is the moment we have been waiting for since we first found out about Van's clubbed feet when I was just 22 weeks pregnant.

I have been reflecting a lot about all that Van has gone through in his short life thus far. 3 surgeries, 15 sets of casts, 2 nights at a hospital and and lots of dr. visits. The amazing aspect of this is Van's wonderful attitude throughout everything. He has figured out how to sit up, rollover and crawl with castys on. He is an amazing boy and I am so excited to watch him continue on his journey, growing and healing.

The 1 pic is of his new braces that he received today. Van will have to wear them for 18 hours a day, which majority of that will be sleep time. We believe he will be required to wear the braces for nighttime for the next 2-3 years. He does not seem to bothered by them so far, hopefully that continues. The other 2 pics are Van at the Dr. office last Thursday with free feet.

The next pic is of his new air Jordan shoes!! Dr. Gordan told us to get him some high tops, to help strengthen and support his ankle. Well after trying on about 15 pairs of shoes-the ones that fit and were cute were these stylin shoes.

I also want to thank everyone for all of the love, support, prayers and positive energy sent our way other the last year. It was amazing to feel all of our friends and family holding us through all of Van's journey. I am now just waiting to see our little man walk...

slideshow of pictures

2009-05-10T19:55:00.004-05:00

We have all had a busy week, with alot of pictures taken. So I put together this little slideshow of some memories in the making.

Crawling

2009-05-04T20:51:00.002-05:00

Early this evening Sarina, Brittany and I were visiting in the living room with Van. All of a sudden we all watched as he figured out how to crawl forward!!!!!! We continued to watch for the next 10 minutes, dangling keys in front of his face to coerce him into more movement. Now all evening he was experimenting with his new freedom. And all of this movement is with the casts! Wow- babies are amazing and resilient. I will try and capture some video soon.

uPdaTe

2009-04-27T14:38:00.004-05:00

All is good here in the Voelker household. We are all grateful that Springtime has come to Duluth. Myla and I seem to spend every morning we are home out back playing in the yard. She loves it outside; swinging, playing in the sandbox or helping Mom with yard work. Van usually sleeps for the majority of the morning, but usually gets out for a little while before lunch. Van is so mesmerized by the outdoors, he looks around and enjoys all the new sounds. We also have a swing for each of the kids set up in back and both love spending time swinging away.

Enjoy the video! Van was finding it hilarious to watchhis Sister blow bubbles. This went on for 20 minutes or so.

Pictures

2009-04-19T14:47:00.002-05:00

Easter 2009 and Van's casts.

Myla update

2009-04-08T17:40:00.003-05:00

A little update on Miss Myla Margaret-

She is 2 and 3/4 yrs old. She know she will be 3 on her birthday, which she can proudly say "july 30fth". Myla loves being a big sister and spoils Van her attention and Love. She talks to him in this high pitch loving voice, it is darling to watch their friendship grow.

Myla is also a big fan of nakey time! Pretty much everyday I find her unclothed and dancing around the house. She has also started having pretend play with her dollhouse and other toys. I hear telling the dolls "it is time for bed, here's your icepack." The icepack? Well Myla for some reason needs an icepack (any kind will do) to go to bed at night. Lance and I oblige, whats the harm.

As it gets warmer outside we all enjoying playing in the yard. Myla has a lot of fun in her sandbox and her new trike from Papa Haven and Grandma Marcia. Myla is planning on helping me with the garden this year and wants to plant sunflowers.

She is growing up very fast. We are planning on sending Myla to preschool next fall. Myla loved the tour we had there last month and can't wait to start school. Enjoy the pictures

Van's 2nd Surgery

2009-04-07T09:42:00.003-05:00

Saturday after surgery, doing good!

Right after surgery.

Van's 2nd surgery was this past Friday. The plan was to cast the foot that was operated on last week and then fix his left foot. We should have been prepared that since the fist surgery went so well-the 2nd would not. Well-let me say the surgery itself went well-everything else not so well.

Apon arriving at 6 a.m. we were put in the open floor PICU area-this is the area for day surgeries and what not. It is just not the same as having our own room or bathroom. We were then brought down to pre-op at 6:30. So there in a very small, busy area Lance, Van and I sat and tried to keep busy for 2 hours. Thank goodness Van feel asleep. All the Dr. checked him out and off he went.

Lance and I went to the family waiting room. After 1 1/2 the volunteer came over to us,we both thought boy that was quick! And the volunteer told us-they just started surgery-we panicked for a little bit wondering why it took so long to get started. We later found out they had a very, very hard time getting an IV in. Van had over 20 pricks, 6 Dr.'s trying and finally a ultrasound machine to find the vain in his head.

So surgery on his foot went well and as Dr. Gordon told us- his foot definitely needed the surgery to be fixed. His muscle in his right foot was not stretching like Dr. Gordon would like and believes there will need to be some more work done with Van as he gets older. As for now we are going back to the hospital on Monday morning 5:30 am. for a quick sedation ( no needles) to get new casts on both feet. We are hoping to get tye dyed casts this time!

As for Van at home-he is pretty good. He does not seem to be in to much pain, but very frustrated on his lack of choices- which is his back, his tummy, his highchair and a floor chair. The funny thing occurring is the cast/splint allows Van the strength to get into crawl position very easily, even scooting backwards a little bit. Last night he did a complete circle around me. I will try and get a video of this up soon.

Van's 1st Surgery

2009-03-26T19:19:00.004-05:00

We had a great evening with Van,he is pretty happy ( probably because he is on morphine). Grandma Jane and Sissy came for a visit. Then I got a break and My sister and I took Myla out for dinner. Our night went really well-only getting up every 4 hours. We are scheduled to leave the hospital around 3. We are so thankful to all our wonderful Dr.s, nurses and other staff. We are very grateful for all the love, prayers and support from all our friends and family. Now next Friday is the left foots turn!

After surgery we meet Van back in his room. Dr. Gordon said surgery went great! Van's foot was very tight and the surgery was definitely needed to correct the clubfeet. below is Van and Daddy sleeping after a long morning.

Van was in Surgery and post op for 3 hours, this is Lance and I's station in the family waiting room. Labtop, magazines, paper and coffee.

Van and his feet pre surgery! He was happy and chipper all morning!!

Funny sissy

2009-03-25T19:36:00.002-05:00

Last evening before bead Myla was entertaining Van by running back-n-forth from the kitchen to the living room. As you can see Van was very amused. Ohh brother and Sissy!!!

Vacation

2009-03-18T14:31:00.008-05:00

We hit the road Saturday morning for a extra long weekend in the cities. We started off stopping by St. Paul Children's museum. Upon getting there-Clifford had also just entered the building

We then explored the rest of the exhibits including the water world, the ant holes and the swamp. That museum is so much fun that we all, even Mom and Dad, had a great time.

I dropped my parents off at the airport for Vegas on Sunday morning and then we got ready for a party with our friends that live in the cities. We had such a fun time catching up, eating, drinking and playing with the kids. Thanks for all of you that made the trip to Robbinsdale to see us.

We got up Monday morning and headed to the Mall of America!! Our plan was to go tour the underwater world. While in the cities our cell phone pretty much died-so the first stop getting a new cell phone. This is always fun-a new gadget Lance and I can play with. The pics below are of Myla and Van patiently waiting while they activate the new phone.

We then headed to the aquarium. This place was awesome-we have a few pics but then the camera died. We saw sharks, yellow fish, blue fish, sting rays, an octopus, touched star fish and witnessed a 150 lb sea turtle poop.

We had a wonderful vacation. It is so much fun to do special activities like that with the kids and watch them experience new places, animals and surroundings.

our week

2009-03-12T14:57:00.002-05:00

Not much going on here in d-town. Lots of home time this week and got some cute pics and video to share. The video is kinda long-but funny!!

Myla and Issac's dinner party

2009-03-06T13:01:00.002-06:00

Last Friday evening we watched our friend Issac-while his Mom and Dad had a wake to attend. Both Myla and were very excited for Issac to eat dinner and play with us. We usually are done visitng with friends by late afternoon, so this was something new.

We had pancakes and sauage-both Myla and Issac really enjoyed them, put down 3-4 mini cakes themselves. After dinner I let them watch a little bit of Shrek. While Lance and were cleaning up we over heard the kids;

Myla" I love you Issac"

Issac "I love you Myla"

and then... smack they gave each other a big kiss on the lips.

It was too cute and melted my heart. We feel so lucky to have such good friends. I told Myla we can have another friend over for dinner soon.

Beach party Dance

2009-03-06T12:00:00.006-06:00

Last evening was Myla's ECFE dance at school. We have been looking forward to it all week. We started out the day going to our ECFE class; which was having beach day. The kids were asked to were their favorite beach clothes and bring their favorite beach toy. Hence the inner tube and sunglasses.

After a nap and dinner Lance and I got both kids ready to party. It was a very nice time-Myla danced her butt off.

Lance's b-day

2009-02-27T14:58:00.004-06:00

Lance celebrated his 31 birthday on Tuesday. His wonderful co-worker Shelia cooked him a salad, steak and potato lunch. Followed by some lovely cold stone cupcakes from the other ladies at his work. They were wonderful.

After work Lance came home to a decorated house, Balloons from Bree and a lots of b-day cards. By his request I made ribs for dinner. Then Myla and I made his favorite lemon cake for dessert.

And if you haven't heard-Lance got a super hip 686 jacket for his b-day. I don't think I have any pictures of the jacket yet... i will post some soon-Lance is in love with his new jacket.

rolling, rolling,rolling

2009-02-25T08:47:00.003-06:00

Van figured out how to roll from belly to back yesterday!!!!!!!!! It was pretty exciting as my little man is growing up. Enjoy the video!!!!

our kids

2009-02-17T19:40:00.004-06:00

A couple of cute things

Myla and I went for a walk on Sunday, I did not get a picture-but really wish I would have. She had jeans and her coat on, followed by a big black tutu and a small balloon-on-a-stick in each hand. It just makes me smile thinking about it.

Van woke up from his nap the other day and Myla joined me in going to get him. As usual she wants Van to lay in bed with her. I put Van down next to Myla. She proceeded to chat with him and then covered herself and Van with a Blanket. I just love watching their relationship grow

I have started to give Van cereal. He has not quiet not the knack of it-but he sure has fun watching Mom.

Auntie KK and I decided to have a special Date night with Myla and take her out for Gelato this evening. Myla got all dressed up and really enjoyed herself; but only Auntie and I enjoyed the gelato.

my sick little boy

2009-02-07T09:58:00.003-06:00

Van started to get his 1st cold this past Sunday-we thought he was doing pretty good as he was smiling and playing. Well his cough and temp got worse, so Wednesday afternoon I brought him to see our Pediatrician. Well one look and listen to Van's breathing and we were hospital bound!!!

Van was having a very hard time breathing-so the Dr. wanted to make sure we would stay ok. So I called Lance to let him know what was going on. Lance called our wonderful next door neighbor girls-Bree and Brittany and they took Myla ( FYI Bree and Brittany are awesome babysitter)!!!

picture 1-Van smiling during his hospital stay

2 daddy and Van playing with Ralph

3. the scary cage-I mean crib for Van

So we had a sleepless night of nebulizers, nurses and coughing. Followed by great news that Van got to go home Thursday afternoon. We have to keep giving nebulizer treatments to Van at home-but he was doing better. We get home to a sick Myla and as the day goes on a sick momma.

But today we are all feeling much better-thank goodness. It seems as if we have not left this house, besides going to the hospital, since last week. Lets just keep up the positive attitude that we are all on the mend.

friends from the cities

2009-02-04T08:36:00.004-06:00

My very good friend Krista with her family came up to visit D-town this past weekend. We had a great time visitng with you all. Myla and I are loving snuffy and big bird-thanks again.

Van the man

2009-01-29T16:30:00.002-06:00

We had Van's 4 month baby well visit yesterday. Our wonderful pediatrician Dr. Heather checked Van out and he is doing great.

His stats:

weighs 18 lbs.

length 26.5 inches long

He is in the 90 % for weight and 92% for height. Dr. Heather thinks he is just going to be a big guy! More to love for us!!!

Myla's riding

2009-01-27T13:44:00.004-06:00

We spent this past weekend at my parents house. Since the weather was subartic we spent all of the time inside and here is what Myla learned how to do:

Her first attempts onSaturday:

Riding on Sunday after a long night sleep and food!

Van 4 motnhs old and Happy brithday cousins

2009-01-27T13:36:00.004-06:00

It is very hard to believe that little man Van has already been with us for 4 months. Van is a pretty good babe, he likes to smile a lot ( especially at his sissy). Currently he is figuring out how to get his fingers in his mouth, trying to roll over and enjoys spending time in the upright position. He is a pretty big eater-still getting up 2 times a night. Van and Myla are the greatest of friends, I just love watching them together. Van looks at Myla with so much love and interest; it fills my heart.

And Happy 3rd birthday to cousin Laine and Happy 9th birthday to cousin Ben-these are 2 of Myla favorite people.

chocolate face

2009-01-15T11:27:00.003-06:00

Myla helped me make a delicous cake yesterday afternoon, as you can tell from the video.

Myla's 1 skate

2009-01-13T16:08:00.002-06:00

After alot of chatting between Lance and I, we finally decided to get Myla her 1st pair of ice skate. So Sunday morning we went to play it again, spent way to much money and walked away with a pair of skates. Myla was pumped to go. Her and visited our local ice rink the night before and she loved exploring or sliding around it in her boots.

So Myla took her nap. She got up and we all got ready, I was going to skate with My and Lance was carrying a bundled up Van. We walked down the block to the ice rink and Auntie KK met us there. Myla and I both got our skates on and began the journey.

My Dad told me to have no expectations for her to do much on the skates and that is the frame of mind Lance and I were in. Myla did pretty good-she can take 4-5 step on her skates without falling, can almost get to standing by herself and liked being dragged around by KK and I.

It is now the Arctic up here so no skating till Saturday. Also a new link on the upper right corner:

MYLA AND VAN"S ONLINE PHOTO ALBUM. You can view all of our photos. enjoy

Van 3 months old and his sissy

2009-01-09T14:23:00.003-06:00

Van is now just a little over 3 months old. He seems as if he has turned a corner recently and become a super fun baby to be around. Van loves his big Sissy Myla-as soon as she comes by Van starts smiling and is totally engaged in Myla's actions. Van also loves kisses from his Mom-he smiles and coos at me.

Van is enjoying the wonderful world of baths. Now that he is cast free, we have been giving him baths, with Myla, nearly every night. He really enjoys the tub and water. It is a precious moment to seeing your children take a bath together.

And Myla, as you can see above she is a little entertainer. She is currently learning to use the potty like a big girl and succeeding pretty well. If she can stay accident free for 24 days in a row, we will spend the night at the waterpark in town. Myla loves the waterpark and is trying very hard to be a big girl.

christmas time 2008

2009-01-05T09:21:00.004-06:00

The Voelker family had a great Christmas this year. It was our 1st road trip in our new mini-van, what a difference the ride was for us. We spent xmas eve and day with the Lucas family. And Friday-Sunday with the Voelker family. Van got to meet his Auntie Jenny and Uncle Mike from NY, his great grandma Jenny and Papa Doc and great Uncle Jack and Auntie Jean.

The kids got such wonderful presents and lot of love from our families. Lance and I feel so blessed with our families and can't wait to see you all again soon. Enjoy the slide show!! And

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

hello to the Doyles

2008-12-22T17:16:00.003-06:00

This is for our dear friends the Doyles who are in Nebraska for the Holidays.

the monkey, hot chip and atmosphere

2008-12-16T08:58:00.004-06:00

So nearly ever morning I hear Lance and Myla dancing and singing. They listen to Hot Chip or Atmosphere's song "you don't know". Myla loves singing and dancing to both songs-and we love wathcing her. Also the monkey mask was from Halloween-Myla loves to have us wear it.

and turn your volume up!!

Polar Express round 2

2008-12-13T11:44:00.005-06:00

We attend the Polar Express for the 2nd year in a row. Myla and her friends all had a great time. Myla was still scared to sit with Santa, but she did get close enough to tell him what she wanted for Christmas. Below is a funny video of Myla and Connor singing on the Train! Such good memories.

Best Friends

2008-12-03T15:21:00.003-06:00

Myla and Van are already the best of friends. Myla loves to talk to Van and just recently Van talks back. Van smiles every single time Myla comes to see him. I am excited to watch them grow up as brother and sissy. Enjoy the video!!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-28T11:45:00.002-06:00

For the first time ever We had Thanksgiving here in Duluth at the Voelker household!! Everything went just perfect; good food, fun games and family.

Lance's parents were up for a visit during the first part of this week. They stayed at the waterpark and of course a good time was had by us all-but espically by Myla. Myla loves to go down some slides, getting splashed by the big bucket of water and being in the Vortex with Mom and Dad. Lance loves the big waterslides and had to force me to go down 1 with him. It was a nice visit with the Voelker grandparents.

My Mom and Dad came up to join our family plus My sister and Brother-in-law for Gobble Gobble day ( that is what Myla was calling it). We ended the evening with a fun time at the hotel pool and even saw a boat go through the canal. Now today a little bit of shopping for the girls and work of course for Lance.

Homebith NYT

2008-11-13T14:05:00.001-06:00

A great article on Homebirth. Thanks for sending it my way Jenny.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/13/garden/13birth.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&emc=eta1

Van 7 weeks old and a crazy 2 yr old

2008-11-10T19:38:00.006-06:00

Life is general good here at the Voelker household. Van is getting big now. He sleeps better at night, cooing at us and starting to show an interest in toys. His casting process is going really well. Van will get his 6th cast Tuesday morning. As it looks he will need 2 more cast after tomorrow and then will have a small procedure preformed in his Achilles heel. After that he will then be wearing some feet braces. We are very optimistic and know that things will turn out just fine.

As for Myla, well she is in her "trying 2's". She can be the best little girl and then easily turns into devil Myla. She through her first big tantrum on Saturday morning. It lasted 1 hour because I asked her to pick up her Legos before she got her Milk. Myla screamed and cried, begged for her milk and was rolling around on the floor. Finally she stopped, picked up her legos, I gave her the milk and things were just fine. I won the battle for now.

Van Haven Voelker 6 1/2 weeks old

2008-11-04T18:13:00.002-06:00

Van started to smile this week. It was just precious and full of love. So I was able to finally catch a smile on film.

Halloween cities style

2008-11-04T18:01:00.004-06:00

We took our first road trip with Van for the Halloween weekend. Van did great in the car-we stocked him up with milk and he sleeps the whole way. So we spent Halloween evening at my parent's house. Myla was a butterfly and Van a pumpkin. And Lance a choir boy from Winona senior high!

Myla had fun trick or treating. But she had more fun passing out candy to all the kids at my parent's house. The kids would come up and say "trick or treat" and Myla would give them a piece of candy and say "trick or treat" back to the kids.

Van 4 weeks old

2008-10-24T19:42:00.004-05:00

Van is doing really good. He is awake for longer periods and seems to really be absorbing his surroundings. I am waiting for a smile from him anyday now. Enjoy the video and pictures of Van and Myla on turning 4 weeks old.

Boo at the Zoo

2008-10-22T12:12:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday Myla and I joined Michaela and Connor at Boo at the Zoo. The kids got a chance to trick or treat, look at animals and show off there costumes. Myla was a butterfly and Connor a front end loader. We also ran into the kid's friend Zoey who was Cinderella. We all had a great time. For me it is so fun to see Myla enjoying Halloween and really experiencing things for the first time.

a visit from Grandma Marcia

2008-10-20T13:41:00.003-05:00

Grandma and Myla by the lake, holding the grandkids, making cookies with Myla

My MOm was up all of last week spoiling us all!! We had a great time getting out and about

in Duluth. Thanks for the visit Mom.

Van 2 -3 week old pics

2008-10-18T15:56:00.003-05:00

Just some new pics of Van. I will try to get better about posting but it is alot of work with a newborn and a 2 yr old.

2008-10-11T15:01:00.002-05:00

Some new pictures of Van and Myla. Everyone is doing really well-Van has already gained 1/2 lb and goes to get his new casts on Tuesday. Van does not seem at all bothered by the cast-which is good comfort to Lance and I. Mylais adjusting well to all the changes-thanks to special Daddy time and playdates with friends.

Van's video

2008-09-29T13:46:00.004-05:00

Due today!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-19T14:51:00.003-05:00

So I am due today-but pretty sure at this point nothing is happening. I am getting very impatient and really, really want to meet our newest family member. Pics taken Tuesday night. The second pic shows off the henna painting we did on my belly.

I have been taking the last few days to have sweet little Mommy and Myla dates with each other. We went to the beach on Tuesday-it was just warm and beautiful. Myla and I played in the sand and went for a walk. I am taking in the last few moments of being a Mommy of 1.

1 day of school

2008-09-12T14:07:00.002-05:00

Myla and I started our ECFE class yesterday. We are back at the same school we were last year, Rockridge and have some of our great teachers again. This will be a weekly event for us on Thursdays, even when our new one arrives. Myla is definitely more comfortable and confident in class this year, which should make for some fun adventures for the both of us.

pictures

2008-09-08T14:03:00.003-05:00

Myla finger painting with Lance and I.

Myla taking a post finger painting bath in the sink. I think she may be to big for the sink???

Auntie Jenny and Uncle Mike's visit to d-town

2008-09-08T13:47:00.003-05:00

Lance's Sister Jenny and her husband, MIke from NY visited us over labor day. We all had a great visit-spending a hot Labor day at the beach. That was uncle Mike and Aunt Jenny's first expereience swimming in the big lake. We had some good meal and they got alot of time with little miss Myla. Thanks for the visit Voelker/Ness's we love you!!!

37 1/2 weeks

2008-09-04T13:29:00.004-05:00

at day at the beach

2008-09-04T13:21:00.002-05:00

Lance, Myla and I joined Auntie KK and Uncle T at the beach. It was a super hot day so the cold water felt so good. Myla just loves the water-she jumps right in face first! We had to take her out after her lips turned blue. What a day!

SCCU BBQ

2008-08-25T14:34:00.003-05:00

On Saturday Lance's Credit Union held a BBQ for members. Lance was the chef !!!

Above Myla being silly at BBQ and Myla and Daddy checking out a caterpillar

Myla and Zoey

2008-08-25T14:24:00.003-05:00

Last Friday Myla's friend Zoey and her Mom came over for a playdate. The girls had fun with each other and it was fun for us Mom's to watch our little girls play together.

midwife visit

2008-08-21T13:01:00.004-05:00

I am now 36 week prego!! Yeah only 32 days or so to go. We are all very excited to celebrate our babes new arrival. I am not sure how much bigger my belly can get-enjoy the picture from last Saturday.

Below are pictures of the family at our now weekly Midwife visits. Katie is a fantastic Midwife and we are so happy to have her attend the birth. Katie also delivered Myla, so they have their own special little bond. Myla is Katie's helper to hear the little Voelker's heartbeat. Each visit Myla gets to put jel on the soundmachine and help Katie to keep it on my belly. It really is the cutest thing to see Myla's face filled with pride and love as she gets to be the big sister.

Swimming in Superior Waters

2008-08-08T14:42:00.003-05:00

It has been a beautiful 2 weeks in Duluth. These few weeks in July and August when the weather is perfect, the water is warm and Duluth is at it finest. These are the days I think about on -30 degree day in January.

Well Myla and went down to the beach for a relaxing swim and playtime in an endless sandbox. Myla loves the water and has no fear of just jumping in head/face first. It was a sweet little time for me to spend with Myla. We both had lots of fun!!

Friends and Birthdays

2008-08-08T14:28:00.004-05:00

Myla had her last Birthday party this past Monday. She celebrated with her dear friends Connor, Issac and Zoey. My friend Jessica hosted the event for about 10-12 kids and there parents. We all had a great time as the kids were just in a great moods, playing and sharing with each other.

Tall Ships

2008-08-08T14:06:00.003-05:00

This past weekend 3 beautiful old pirate like ships came to the Duluth Harbor. Myla and I ventured down to the canal to view them coming in. It was fun-but I have never seen so many people in Canal Park before.

We also decided to return to Canal Park this last Monday to get an up close view of the ships and see one of them depart.

It was really beautiful and unique experience to see these ships and also another reason to live in Duluth! They are planning to have ships back in 2 years and I would suggest a visit to see them.

Myla's 2nd Birthday Part 2

2008-07-31T14:53:00.002-05:00

Below is pictures/video from Myla's actual 2nd Birthday yesterday. We had so much fun. It started off with a playdate with lots of friends at Michaela, Connor and Liam's house. We had cupcakes, pool time and decorated some bags.

When then came home for lunch and nap. We then went to the park with Daddy, came home and swam in Myla's new pool. Auntie KK and uncle T brought over pizza for dinner, Myla's favorite! we finished off with a special Elmo cake made of cookie and presents.

The day ended with Myla spontaneously going pee in the potty for the first time!!!

Myla's 2nd Birthday part 1

2008-07-31T13:52:00.003-05:00

Myla turned 2 years old yesterday!! To celebrate we had a big Voelker/Lucas family birthday party in the cities this last weekend. We all had a great time!!

Fu Fu

2008-07-27T20:37:00.003-05:00

Last week Myla out of nowhere says to me Fufu and Laughs. I started saying Fufu back to her and she just giggled and giggled. She is at such a fun age-always making us laugh and keeping us on our toes! Enjoy the video

sleepover

2008-07-27T20:29:00.002-05:00

Last Friday my Sister Katie and her husband Tony, took Myla for a sleepover. We dropped her off for dinner-her favorite PIZZA. Then they took a trip to the park and Myla got to stay past her normal bedtime. She slept great, except for getting up at 6:00 am. Auntie KK and Uncle T dropped her off around 11. Myla, Lance and I are very lucky to have family up here near us to spoil Myla. Thanks Auntie and Uncle

the d-town zoo

2008-07-27T20:10:00.003-05:00

About 2 weeks back Myla and I met our friends the Doyles at the Zoo. We had a good time and enjoyed some great weather. We saw some pretty neat animals and reptiles. Althougth the zoo is in need of some definite improvments for the habitants. Enjoy the pics!!!

31 weeks and counting

2008-07-14T14:33:00.004-05:00

So I am in the middle of my 31st week of pregnancy. I am overall feeling pretty good. Lately my back and hips have started to ache-espically with a lot of activitly. I am going to start to slowly get all the baby clothes cleaned and get our things ready to go for the new one. I think it will help help all 3 of us get a little more mentaly prepared for our babes new arrival.

Pictures below are from Saturday. I don't feel like I have a big baby belly-but when I see the pictures of myself I feel huge!!!! Myla was feeling left out of the pictures so she lifted up her shirt to proudly show off her little belly.

asleep

2008-07-09T13:59:00.002-05:00

On the way to Winona we caught this darling picture. Words cannot express how much I love this little girl of ours. I cherish everyday I get with her!!

4th of July weekend

2008-07-09T12:57:00.003-05:00

Our family did some traveling this past weekend. We started out by driving down to my parent's house in Robbinsdale for Thursday night. We had a nice visit and good dinner. Then Friday Morning we packed up and went to Lance's parent's house in Winona.

It was fun to visit with Grandma, Grandpa, the Great Grandparents and Lance's Aunt and Uncle. It was pretty warm down there so Myla was pretty much naked the whole time playing in the pool. Myla just loves naked time!!!

We had our first experience with eating capon.

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-capon.htm

It was pretty good and juicy. Myla also experienced fireworks for her first time. She was not too impressed and just kept saying ouch.

And the last picture is of Myla having the best donuts in the world from Blato's. It is a must have for every visit to Winona!

1 Hair cut

2008-07-08T13:42:00.003-05:00

As many of you know-Myla has been sporting a mullet for the last 6-7 months. But this weekend Grandma Jane gave Myla her 1st Hair Cut!!! This was against Lance's wish-but his Mom convinced him it would help her hair to grow fuller and faster. We really only took off a 1/2 inch in the back but it was a big moment for Lance and I, realizing our little one is getting big. Enjoy the photo-montage

http://www.jumpcut.com/view?id=79B876304D1E11DDBF8E000423CF382E