Rock Bottom

If there is such a thing as rock bottom for an 18-month old, Nora hit it yesterday. Besides coming down with a cold, she had a fever, was sleep deprived, and all the while fighting that darned pacifier habit. She just about had it licked, but on our way home from Grand Forks, she was so miserable, I caved and gave her the paci's. I mean - look at this poor child.

When we got home all she would eat was sliced black olives.

And it continued. Here's the ultimate display of her rock bottom, self-destructive behavior: not 1, but 2 pacifiers.

This is serious, folks. We'll start digging out again tomorrow after her fever breaks and she begins to feel better. But for now, how can you say no to this kid. She's hilarious, even when she's sick. Poor kid!

Dad's Basketball Tourney

Ross laced up the his basketball shoes this year and played on a rec ball team all winter. Their season came to an end at this weekend's Grand Am Tournament in Grand Forks. They didn't bring home the championship, but they did play 3 solid games. And Ross is limping (but he's already looking better after just 24 hours). He did great.

Nothing like subbing out for a rest, but not really getting any because instead you get attacked by your 18-month old who is screaming, "daddy, daddy!". She was super mad when he went back into the game.

The second game, I resorted to bribery so I could watch the guys play. Gus was great the whole time.


Nora liked her Minnie Mouse doll.

Everyone was played out by 3pm on Saturday. Plus, Nora started to come down with a little cold, and had a fever so we had Tylenol ready for everyone.

Other than Nora's sniffles, it was a great weekend full of good family-time, snacks, swimming, and of course, it was really fun to watch Ross play. We were all extremely proud of him - he's still got it after all these years. Speaking of, it's too bad I forgot my cheer uniform. Shoot! Next year.

Double Vision

Although I was rushing around like a crazy-person to get Nora to gymnastics on time, her class started out normal. She was all decked out in her purple leotard.


About 10 minutes into class, I noticed Nora took off running, and was headed for the rings, so I followed. As I was chasing her, I started thinking to myself, 'jeesh, her hair looks really voluminous, on second thought - pretty messy. Hm, wonder when she messed up her hair, I was with her the whole time? Weird.'

When I finally caught up to her, it wasn't her. It was her leotard twin.

I'm happy to say the other mom made the same mistake, and while I was chasing her little gal, she was keeping an eye on Nora. We both laughed.

Of course I followed them around all night with my phone until they were near enough to each other again so I could snap a pic. Twins! (Nora's on the right.)

I want a dog

Nora pesters my Mom and Dad's pup, Belle, whenever they come to town. She loves that dog but I'm not sure the feeling is mutual. Thank goodness Belle has the patience and tolerance of a saint. If Nora could talk, she would say, "I want a dog". If Belle could talk, she would say "help".






She's not safe anywhere in the house! Nora will find her.

The last of the snow

March 11, 2012 was the final weekend of snow in Fargo for 2012. Whoa - did I just jinx us by making that bold of a statement so early in the spring? I hope not. Sorry if I did, only time will tell. But one thing I can say for certain is that this is the first spring since we've lived in Fargo that there has not been a threat of a flood! Go Fargo.

Here's Nora and her BF Peyton taking after each other with dueling lawn mowers.

When Nora grew tired of mowing the sidewalk, she opted to chill with her cousin, Will, and share a snack.


And with full tummies, they hit the trail in the neat wagon that Will's Grandpa Ron refurbished. The kids love it!


Whadyasay, another trip around the block, Nor?

Gymnastics season is upon us

We kicked-off another season of spring gymnastics. This time, for Nora. After she tried on her new leotard, she was ready to go.

Gus giving her the instructional.

And Nora ignoring him, and doing her own thing which is very common nowadays. We've actually coined a new term for her, "Nora the Ignor-er". (It's best when sung to the Dora the Explorer tune.)


But when she's ready to pay attention, this kid loves giving hugs. She was so excited to go to gymnastics she started hugging me like a crazy lady. Watch out - she will hug you if you come over.


Ta-Da! Will and Nora showing off their overall arm strength doing a nice hang move.

Does it get any cuter than cousins at gymnastics? We love it!

Friends in Fargo

We love it when people make their way through Fargo on a roadtrip. We were really excited when 2 families made the trip in 1 week!

First up were the Johnsons. They were in town on Ashton's 4th birthday. We had a little shin-dig for the birthday boy but even with a party, he was not in the mood to have his picture taken.

Next up was the Demars family. We swam, ate, caught up, and laughed. All within a 2 hour span. It was a great visit!


What is up with Nora and Gus in this photo?

We know that Fargo isn't always so lovely this time of year, but it has been unseasonably warm so if anyone is looking for a cheap spring break alternative, call me. You can stay here!

ND State Basketball Tournament

Ross' cousin, Alex and his fellow Berthold Bombers made it to the 2012 Class B State Basketball Tournament in Grand Forks which meant the whole family was there to cheer him on. It was great to see everyone and watch Alex play.

Nora was decked out in her purple and gold.

Gus had to be reminded not to shake the pom pom in people's faces numerous times. Too much spirit, I guess.


Of course the kids, dad, and Grandpa Dave spent a few hours in the pool.


After all was said and done, Berthold went home with the 4th place trophy after fighting some tough battles on the court. Alex did awesome and was named to the All-Tournament Team. The TV commentators also referred to Alex many times as "one of the best players in the state". We agree.

Congrats on an awesome season!

(c) photo courtesy of Jamestown Sun

(c) photos courtesy of Jamestown Sun

Toddler Project Runway

Everyday Nora scrounges up something new to wear. She's big into making her own outfits, then bringing it to Ross or I to help her put it on. She'll sit with us until every piece is on and in place. She's got some style!