The Bergman Bunch!

Potty training my last babe, searching for jobs, crazy schedules....Life.

2011-03-07T18:53:00.000-06:00

Beautiful big snowflakes float slowly onto the busy highway as I make my return trip home from work. The 38 mile journey home will take me a little longer this evening. Many times on my way home, I take the time to reflect on the chaotic beauty of my life and ponder the importantance of where I am at in my present moment in time.

I am potty training my 3rd, and last child. Shelby will be 3 in May, and....whoa. Yes, I said Shelby will be 3 in May! The last time I posted, light years ago, I was potty training Halloran! Anyway, Shelby has been ready for quite some time, it was her mother (that's me), that was not. She is doing brilliantly, and by summer will be completely done with any form of store brand diapers. Wow!

Our life in the last couple of years has, been, well a rollercoaster of finances, no work, career changes, college, unfathomable work schedules, move to a new home, and many other hurdles, blessings and chaos that have ocurred.

So, as I drove home last night from work, after watching a woman who I "help" with Mental Health issues bash her head through her bedroom wall, beg me to let her "die", and 3 hours later have her try and eat the sheet rock from the crumbling hole in the wall I thought...Thank you Lord. Thank you, that even though some days I feel like I am frustrated, or wonder why certain struggles are present in my life, that at least I am able to overcome them, move forward and praise Him. Because, there are some people, that for whatever genetic, disease, or bad wiring connection; cannot comprehend what it is like to have a family, kiss their husband, smile, enjoy the sunshine, sleep soundly, feel loved, share a hug and so on and so forth.

So in this life of mine, this life I was given, well....I am truly blessed. That even though I have to struggle through my day at work, paste a smile on my face, the truth of it all is that I get to go home. I get to go home to a LIFE! And it's all mine and it is beautiful because of the people and purpose that surrounds it!!

I'm Back!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-11T13:20:00.003-06:00

I highly doubt after as long as it has been (1 year, 8 months, and a few days, lots of minutes and even more seconds), that anyone still wonders where I am...but I'm BACK!

We finally have internet back in our home!

So, there it is, my monumental first blog post in a long, long time!

Hopefully I'll be back soon!

2009-07-30T11:32:00.001-05:00

Well...as you may have noticed, we have not had internet for a couple of weeks now. But hopefully, next week, it will be back!! So keep looking!!

Please read the 3rd post down first "I have 58 days..." That one. Then go up one, then this one.

2009-07-14T22:51:00.003-05:00

Seriously. Not 60 seconds after the post below, I walked upstairs, took my last swig of water as I sighed and set my glass in the sink. I stared out the window thinking what an idiot I was for misplacing my U2 tickets!! My U2 tickets! What were you thinking!!

And then I walked over, thinking it was in vain to check the junk drawer again, since I had already checked it before, but for peace of my mind, I just wanted to check it again before I went to bed.

And there they were.

Right on Top, in the Ticketmaster envelope they had arrived in. I thought back quickly to my posts on my blog that I had just posted. How I thought when that U2 ad popped up on my "View Blog" page, that I looked at it and thought, "This has to be a sign...it just has to be!"

As I took the tickets out of the envelope I started to giggle like a little girl...and I cried. I knew God was there, that he, and whoever prayed for me, had helped me. And then I laughed some more and thought how if God can help with the little stuff, and show himself to me, well then heck, why not the big stuff too? The stuff that seems so overwhelming to me, that I feel so helpless with, like nothing it going to work...He can help.

And all of this, over two small pieces of paper that say I get to get in to Soldier Field, at 7pm on September 12th, Chicago, IL.

Wow.

This picture popped up on the screen on my "View Blog" page, after I posted my last post. CREEPY. OR A SIGN?

2009-07-14T22:33:00.001-05:00

I have 58 days to find..

2009-07-14T22:29:00.002-05:00

my U2 tickets!!! I leave on the 11th of September to fly out to Chicago to watch my favorite band, U2 perform outdoors at Soldier Field! I got them like 3 months ago, and I put them somewhere I wouldn't lose them and now I CAN'T FIND THEM!

THIS IS ME FREAKING/STRESSING OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1%^&&*5%%%*(^%%%$%$4#2@#^&!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!##$56^&&**&*((*%$%^^&**((((((&^t@##$%%^!*(&^%$#$@#@#$$%^&^&&**

I know I'm supposed to be thinking positive

2009-07-13T19:25:00.002-05:00

but I have had a pounding headache for 2 days with no relief from ibuprofen! I started potty training Halloran today, went well the first half of the day, and the last half had two accidents. One outside and one playing in her room. Also, Brady felt left out, so he has peed in his pants twice today (maybe 3 times....can't remember) and twice last night. Hmmm....

Also, I'm still having a hard time with Halloran's moods. She is sad/mad/frustrated during the day more than she is happy. It actually makes me sad! She's two! She should be happy and care free! But instead, she's like a grumpy old woman who hates life with brief moments of happiness.

I pray for her, try to love her as much as a human being can, and try to be more sensitive with her. Nothing. No improvements. It's very hard to watch her act this way.

So, that was my day! With a brief intermission to help my sister do some unpacking at her knew home. Wow...looks like rain outside!

I did it!

2009-07-11T16:17:00.002-05:00

A small feat, but I did it ! I ran a race! Yes, it was only 2 miles, but it felt good!

I have only been exercising, doing the Shred by Jillian Micheals the Biggest Loser trainer. Which I must say is amazing and I have been noticing huge improvements. So I feel really in shape, and every year I always tell myself, "I should go do the Isanti Jubilee Days Fitness Run." And so finally, just a couple of days ago I told myself I would!

So on Friday I did a test run....3 miles. I thought I was going to die! I must also add, in my defense, I went at like noon, and it was blazing hot. Thought I was going to die! So then the whole rest of the day, I thought it was a bad idea! I also thought it was a 5k, but it turned out it was only a 2 mile run or 5 mile run. I definitely took the 2 mile run!

I told my mom last night like at 10 pm that I was going to run the next morning...and to my surprise, she came to cheer me on! It felt really good! I rode my bike there since I only live like a mile from where it was...good warm up! And then I got there early, my running number was 5 :) (the number of kids I would have...but we compromised at three...that's called great communication and love people!)

Anyway, a couple of my friends showed up and we were off!!! It felt great, except I had drank so much water before hand, well you guessed it, I had to use the bathroom like the whole time! I told one of the girls (who had just had a baby 6 weeks ago), that it felt like I was 9 months pregnant and the baby was bouncing on my bladder! Except for at the end when I put my ipod on to Group 1 Crew's icontact song and then I kicked it down for the ending...which felt amazing. I never felt out of breath, I felt awesome!!

So yeah! That's that! I had a great time!

Ok...weird.

2009-07-10T21:57:00.001-05:00

So this was my "fortune" on a "credible" website I go to for food for thought. Here's my fortune. I needed to hear this tonight:

I am asked very often by all types of people how to stop negative thoughts. The answer is so simple: plant good thoughts! As you plant more and more good thoughts, the negative thoughts will be wiped out. Don’t focus on the negative thoughts, just deliberately think more good thoughts every day

Feeling blah today!

2009-07-10T20:23:00.002-05:00

Just a funk. Yep, I said Funk. Ha! Anyway, I kind of want a night away, (which of then I feel bad that I feel like I need a break, but I do) but this weekend there are like no babysitters to watch the kids! Which is fine, but I really feel like it would be great to get out! It doesn't help that it's rodeo weekend (and that is not even what I want to go to), and so everyone is facebooking "going out tonight" , "can't wait, it's going to be a fun night" and so on and so forth. When I know I will be in bed by 9:30pm!

So I decided to have a pity party for myself and blog about my self...pity. But then the other question that always spurs in my head then is how do a lot of moms I know always seem to get away...a lot? Some just get to go, and leave the kids with dad, which is normal and awesome because kids need to spend more time with dad. But Tom just isn't...well..as flexible with that maybe? I don't know, he'll do it, for sure. But I just don't feel like I can be like, "Well, see ya, I'm going..." this day, and then the next day, and a few days later. But some moms do. And then there are some who always have grandparents watching their kids to go out. And then there are some that go out a lot, but I have no idea how they pull it off? Divorce? Older kids?

Anyway, I think it's weird how I want to go out really bad, but I don't much, because I feel bad leaving the kids. Is that weird, or sound confusing? And I don't even want to go out to do the things that I used to like clubbing, or the bar. Sometimes, I just want to go sit at the movies by myself or the coffee shop and read a book. Wow...that sounds dreamy right now!

So...there was my rant. I'm just feeling very "stuck" at the moment. I know I'll feel better about it soon, but right now, it's just how I feel.

Things that have happened this week...

2009-07-10T10:04:00.002-05:00

I have Shredded every day this week.

I was very productive on Wednesday, not so much on Thursday :)

Got Shelby's ears checked for tubes-so far she doesn't need them!! They looked great!

Lost $20 from on top of my jewelry box...Where did it go??

Got pulled over after work and grocery shopping for a burnt out headlight. Good. Because I wasn't speeding and I had a speech all prepared ;)

Thinking about starting a daycare in my home, go to an inservice at the County on Aug. 13th.

Went swimming at Lake George on Monday, so much fun! Furnace also broke that same day, yuck.

Tom fixed the furnace again, same thing, although this time for $40 instead of $200.

Went to the Isanti Parade on Thursday and had a great time with the kids and seeing friends!

And as for today, hubby made me breakfast in bed!! He must have read my mind! And now, I don't know what to do for the rest of the day!~

Part II of Funny quotes by Brady Bergman

2009-07-07T21:11:00.002-05:00

Ok, so we're swimming at the pool, and Brady says,

"Mom, I gotta go poop!"

Me: "Really, you already did today! Alright..." (as I take off his life vest, towel him offf), and then he says,

"I really wish I was a dog so I could just poop outside.", very matter of factly.

???

Then:

Halle is whining at the table while we are eating lunch and Brady looks at her, rolls his eyes and says,

"Great attitude, Halle."

As the rest of the table rolls with laughter!

Wow he was funny today!

Funny morning quotes...by Brady Bergman

2009-07-07T10:07:00.002-05:00

Already this morning, Brady has begun his funny quotes for the day. Here are a couple:

"Mom, guess what I can do?"

Me: "What?"

"I can blow wind out of my nose!" as he proceeds to "blow wind out of his nose".

AND:

After going, eehhm, number two in the toilet.

"Mom, can I look at my p**p?"

Me: "Fine."

"Wow, yuck...it looks like a sword (said with the utmost cool curiosity)!!!"

What do ya do...

I AM SO TIRED!

2009-07-05T22:48:00.002-05:00

Ughh! I feel so tired all the time lately!!!! It is mostly my fault though, I keep going to bed late, and I used to be pretty good about going to bed shortly after the kids. Now it's like after 11pm every night! And it's gettting to me!!

There I whined.

Also, I have just wanted to eat junk lately, which makes me crabby, which doesn't help with my tiredness....you see where this is going? A viscious cycle of crabbiness!

And, I haven't been "Shredding" as frequently as I was, so then I get dissapointed with myself! Sigh...

Anyway, ok, NOW I'm done whining!!

So, Shelby is almost walking! She's 13 months, and she finally, today was being very proactive about her walking skills. You could tell she was really telling herself to walk instead of her "monkey" crawl she's been doing to not scuff her knees! It was so cute! Very proud mama today! I think it's funny how none of my kids have crawled before one! Good thing I don't freak out over milestones!

We had a great 4th of July! Spent the whole day at the in-law's pool for a barbecue. L-O-V-E-D IT!

Hope everyone enjoyed celebrating our Freedom!

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T09:55:00.001-05:00

I'd like to say have a Happy 4th, with one of my favorite movie quotes, from one of my favorite Will Smith movies: Independence Day...

[talking to the unconscious alien he's dragging] Y'know, this was supposed to be my weekend off, but noooo. You got me out here draggin' your heavy a** through the burnin' desert with your dreadlocks stickin' out the back of my parachute. You gotta come down here with an attitude, actin' all big and bad... [yells]
Captain Steven Hiller: and what the hell is that smell? [starts kicking the alien, yelling]
Captain Steven Hiller: I could've been at a barbecue! [kicks the alien one last time and calms down]
Captain Steven Hiller: But I ain't mad.

Awww yes...nothing like aliens invading on the 4th of July.

Where is the summer going?

2009-06-30T21:36:00.002-05:00

It is going by soooooooooo fast! Even the days go by in a blink of an eye. And I am not the only one commenting on this fact! I feel like somethings going on! Weird! And lately, it seems a lot of others negativity and crabbiness is wearing off on me, and I am NOT liking it! I am fighting it tooth and nail it seems, the last couple of days...

I think I am winning.

I hope.

It's called prayer, perserverance, and a little gin and tonic.

Just kidding.

A little!

Anyway...

I guess I am just a little down because lately it seems some people are spitting to the wind at the blessings in their life...like they're slapping them right in the face and saying, " Ha, ha!"
I mean, there are some that I know that should be down right grateful, thankful...praising God for what he's done for them, and it hasn't even been a thought.

Tom and I were talking the other night about how "dirt poor" we feel, but how blissfully happy we are at this stage of life with our kids and how we seem to get through everything with barely a whimper of anger. Pretty amazing...and I am so thankful that Tom and I communicate. Communicate respectfully, lovingly and with eachother's needs in mind, not necessarily our own.

I thank God a lot for him.

And not that we are perfect! Like today, I kept thinking..."He is going to help me sometime today with the kids, right??!!"

But then somedays I am so grateful for his help. You just never know what each day brings, it's struggles, it's surprises, it's blessings.

One thing I try to remember is that EACH day IS a Blessing. And that through Jesus, I am truly blessed with his saving Grace and Eternal Love!

If I were a song, I would have been

2009-06-26T22:27:00.004-05:00

a Micheal Jackson song!! I know you will all think I am super weird...and I am ok with that! For I have been in love with Micheal Jackson SONGS, since I was four. Yes four. Let's sidetrack for a moment and bring you to a small tack store in a small town of Cambridge, at about the age of 13. I was with my mom and she was looking for some reins for her horse, and I was parousing the....well, I don't know boots? Anyway, in walks a young man, and not just any man, but a beautiful, tall, dark and yes, handsome cowboy. Tight jeans, tight navy blue t-shirt, cowboy hat and boots.

Now, I must admit, I am NOT a sucker for cowboys, but he was exceptional. Because he was gorgeous. And, I was 13, so most guys over the age of 17, looked great!

So, to my surprise, this young, man, this cowboy, starts talking to my Mom! What?!! What should I do? Do I stay where I am at, frozen with teenage awkwardness and self concsiousness? Or do I stay brave, and nonchalantly walk toward them so my mom would, as predicted, turn around and say,

"Oh, here's Megan, you remember her right? It was a while ago, she's growing up so fast!"

And yes, that's the route I chose, and that, my friends, is what happened.

So, I smile and say hello, more like a mousey squeak that somewhat sounded like, "Hi."

And then it came...

"Yeah! I remember when you! You would put gloves on your hands and come out in to the living room singing Micheal Jackson songs...Thriller maybe? I can't remember, but I know they were Jackson songs. That used to crack me up!"

Crack you up? I put on my brave face and smiled and I'm sure said something like,"Yep, that's me!"

Oh my...

So anyway, then, to sum up my Micheal Jackson enthusiasm, 24 years running, one of my super good friends from high school calls me on Thursday as I'm driving back to my Mom's house and says,

"Megan! I had to call you and tell you...I just heard Micheal Jackson died! He was rushed to the hospital, something about cardiac arrest. I heard it on the radio while I was driving and I thought of you! Umm...don't know if that's a good thing, or a bad thing."

Then, a bunch of hilarious squealing laughter ensues, as we mourn the death of one of my favorite artists....

Here's to you Micheal.

Thriller

Hey!

2009-06-25T15:58:00.002-05:00

I've just been at my mom's the last couple of days! Our air conditioner is broken for the moment, it should be fixed tomorrow, so we are camping out there! One more night, then we'll come home tomorrow morning so they can see their daddy!

So, nothing new...just waiting to come back home!

I am...

2009-06-22T22:09:00.001-05:00

sunburned.

But, at least it will be a nice dark brown in a couple of days. ;)

And, it means I got a lot of Vitamin D today....

Aaahhh, I love excuses...!!!!!

Why I love this man...my husband... a wonderful Father.

2009-06-20T22:58:00.002-05:00

So for starters, I obviously am very much in love with my husband, Mr. Tom Bergman. From the day we met, we were inseperable. In our first year of dating, we were together everyday. He asked me to marry him a year to the date that we met (metAugust 29, 2001, engaged Aug. 29, 2002), and we were married 4 months and about 13 days later!

But anyway, this is about how wonderful of a father he is! He is absolutely in love with each one of his children. And the part I love about it, is that you can see in their eyes, that they know their daddy loves them as well. They adore him! Right now, Halloran is the most attached to him, and she just squeals with delight when he gets home from work. I'm telling you, even if the man steps out of the room for more than 5 minutes, then walks back in, she emits the same frequency of joy in seeing him, as she would if she hasn't seen him all day! Unbelieveable!

When he is home, he IS home. He is dad, husband and friend to us all.

The more I write about it, the more I tear up, because I know how real his love for us is. He is truly amazing! Do you know, that in the 8 years we've known eachother, we have had about 5 big fights. We have our small ones, as everyone does, you know about this and that, and why do you do this, and I wish you would do this, and why do you have to be so loud....LOL!

He's always thinking of new things he can be teaching the kids, and they are also one of the big reasons why Tom showed interest in finding a church for us to go to, and then, oops, he found the love of Jesus along the way! Which in turn, has made him and even more amazing person, husband, father and friend!

He is so helpful, caring, thoughtful, loving, HILARIOUS, handsome, smart, inventive, totally annoying sometimes ;), and my best friend. I don't know what I would do without him. I am so glad God saw fit to bring us together. God knew exactly what I wanted. And top of my list, was always a wonderful father.

And he is.

A wonderful father.

You can see it in each one of our children, it's because he loves them, and they love him.

I hope everyone has a Happy Father's Day!

I have a dream, I mean, had a dream

2009-06-20T09:33:00.003-05:00

last night, that I was 15 weeks pregnant. EVEN though my hubby is snipped and I'm on the ol' BCP's. Hmmmm....

Could it have been because I watched Baby Mama last night and found out a friend is having a boy last night, and I'm around my sister all the time who is like 8 months pregnant nearly (and I saw her twice yesterday), and so with all of that pregnant energy, I'm guessing that is why all I could dream about was a pregnant 15 week belly.

Aw man.

Garden!

2009-06-18T22:20:00.002-05:00

I'll have to get some pictures up soon, but our garden is blooming! It's so much fun! We are such nerds, because we are checking it everyday, but it's fun to watch what's coming up, and which ones grow super fast, and which ones still have not decided to push through the soil! Fun!

So, so far we have tomato plants growing (we bought those as small plants), and everything else was from seed. So our green beans are growing like crazy, our peas are as well, then we have some peppers, onions, chives, cucumbers, one pumpkin, and carrots!

I'm excited to see what will turn out, and what doesn't.

Oh, and we almost lost a dog today.

She dug.

Dug a hole in the garden...

Lucky for her it was between the two tomato plants, so nothing was lost while she was trying to find a clever place to stick her ham bone.

Dogs.?

Turtles love me...

2009-06-16T16:37:00.002-05:00

I have saved two turtles in two days. One I helped yesterday cross a "deadly" (for turtles that is) road by my house that has a pond on either side. That one was just a little baby one, no more than two - three inches long!

Then today, Brady runs in the house while I'm trying to finish getting ready for Shelby's 1 year doctor check up, and yells, "Mom, Mom...Skylar has a pond turtle in her mouth!" So I run outside, and sure enough, the dog has a full grown turtle in her mouth.

Ok.

So I start chasing the dog around the back yard, (yep, I know, I'm sure it looked hilarious), and I send Brady to find a bucket.

I finally pull the turtle out from the jaws of death, as it is pulled tight in to it's secure defense system, and Brady comes with a buck...nope, a teeny tiny sand pail.

So I "put" the turtle in the bucket, granted, he didn't fit. So I went and got a bigger bucket, packed all the kids in the truck, and off we went, with the turtle sitting nicely in Brady's lap...in the bucket, the big bucket.

We, I mean, I then got out at a nearby pond, Brady handed me the big bucket with the "still in Shell" turtle, and I, Turtle Goddess, realease the scared turtle back in to the wild.

Crickey.

Just some fun pics...

2009-06-15T21:11:00.003-05:00

Uncle "B" with Brady and Halloran at cousin Heidi's Grad party! They had a blast!

My beautiful baby girl....I think she looks beautiful in bright colors!

The Gang (me, Tom, Courtney, Mom, and Brandon) at Victory 44, where Tom works!

Shelby's 1st Birthday cake! It was awesome!

We had such a great time at Shelby's birthday party! It was beautiful out, so we got to have it outside! Sweet!

I should

2009-06-12T22:29:00.001-05:00

go to bed, but you know, why? When I can surf the internet and watch useless TV until my head explodes? I mean c'mon...

Going out today!

2009-06-11T10:24:00.001-05:00

I get to go out today with no kids!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Every now and then, when this happens ( which is not a lot let me tell you...) I get to go out for something, with no kids! Today is one of those days!

Today I get to go out with my Mom, sister and brother, which does not happen often...at all! Especially kidless on my end! So I am super excited! My brother lives in Chicago, so he is on his way as we speak, and we'll meet up in Blaine around 12:30pm, and then go out for lunch and some shopping, or wherever the day may take us!

I am so excited!!!!!!!!!!!

Another "Randoms"...

2009-06-10T15:00:00.003-05:00

Day two of Level two of the 30 Day Shred...I though I would die.

Ground up Creme Brulee coffee beans this morning from Open Eye Coffees. Yum, yum!

I feel like the neighborhood babysitter...I think I will start charging.

I want a real nap.

Extended family's change before your eyes as you get older...what you thought when you were young, is not how it is when you grow up!

Finding more and more each day through the bad, how to be good through Jesus.

Waiting for people to open their eyes so that they may look upon their life NOW, and live it.

Pondering the ideas of why my baby is not taking her nap.

Wonders what to say to people.

I am so thankful I don't live my life thinking about all of the things I hate, but focusing on the things I love.

I am grateful God is showing me how to love people who are difficult to love.

Is slowly trying to phase out on gossip, assumptions, and negativity.

I wonder why the above is so hard to do!!!

So I've been thinking lately...

2009-06-09T10:12:00.002-05:00

too much that is!!!! Don't get me wrong, it can be a very good thing, and as most of you know, it can be a very bad thing as well! But recently, all of this thinking, is actually turning in to good. I've been thinking very deep thoughts lately, thoughts about life and death, good and evil, Jesus and Buddha...

Get the picture?

It's causing me to go quite insane, but at a cost. A good one. I'm learning so many new things about myself and others. I'm learning what kind of person I want to be, what kind of christian I want to be, and this is all very exciting! But then, at the same time, it opens your eyes to what is going on around you, all of the....for lack of a better term, yuckiness, that is going on around you, and it then infuriates me!

So then I have to pull myself together again, and remember what it is I am trying to do through my soul transformation. LOVE! I have to love the weakness in others, in myself. I have to love the ignorance and judgmental parts of others, because then how else will they know that there is another way to be if no one shows them? I have to be a constant accountablity partner to myself, because the great news is, is that I am not perfect! Cool! So I have to on a constant vigil to help myself not make too many mistakes. To not get sucked in to the "oh so easy" negativity, gossip, arrogance, selfishness and greed that can seep in undetected when I least expect it to.

My big area in growth lately, is learning that I can't change how others perceive things, so all I can do is to love them, and through that love, hopefully they can see another road they can walk down instead of the bitter, vengeful and blameful swamp they choose to get stuck in.

Don't get me wrong, that swamp has had me quite a few times. Sucking in me in to it's bittersweet glory of blaming others for my decisions, loathing in my own self pity, and questioning God's motives a thousand times over. But I've been down the road of grace, mercy and forgiveness too, and it's wonderment and faithfuleness has never led me astray, except when I myself wander away from it's course.

Life is choices. I have heard that statment since I was a child. And it has stuck with me. There is so much more truth to it than I could have ever imagined. Life is choices, and my choice is to live a life of love. Remembering that love is not always perfect, love can make mistakes when coming from a human body. But love is always trying, always pushing itself to do what it does best. Love.

Thank you...

2009-06-05T21:41:00.002-05:00

to my blogging buddies for stopping at the sale...you know who you are!!! I hope tomorrow goes well, even though it's crummy! Has anyone ever had a garage sale in bad weather? How has it gone for you?

I still have some great baby girl clothes, a baby bouncer chair, and my friend still has a bed with trundle and mattresses, some school desks, computer desks, radio flyer wagon with umbrella....and other misc.

Have a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And (cont. GARAGE SALE)

2009-06-03T22:32:00.002-05:00

My friend just dropped off a trundle bed with mattresses, breast pump, two person bicycle, ikea desk, two school desks, pyrex set, bread machine, crib with mattress, radio flyer wagon with overhead umbrella, guitar....... THURSDAY-SATURDAY. ISANTI, MN. CTY ROAD 5 TO WHISKEY ROAD GO SOUTH. LEFT ON SOUTH PASSAGE, LEFT ON MADISON.

And...

2009-06-03T13:46:00.001-05:00

I have a tennis racket, microwave, massage chair pad, lots of NICE men's sweaters, baby bouncer chair with massage, roller blades, lava lamp, FISH TANK INCLUDING EVERYTHING...EVEN 5 FISH!

Oh, and I have...

2009-06-02T21:06:00.002-05:00

Lot's of DVD's for a buck, books for 25 cents, there will be school desks, chairs, trundle bed, stroller with a carseat, 2 small plastic dressers, painting easel, baby toys, women's clothes...lots of different candle holders...lots of 2t-3t boy's shirts, baby girl 0-12 months...all onesies are 25 cents, white onesies 10 cents.

the list is endless.

GARAGE SALE: THURSDAY-SATURDAY STARTING AT 8 AM! Isanti, MN

OH YEAH

2009-06-01T21:35:00.002-05:00

I LIVE IN ISANTI, MN! IF YOU NEED DIRECTIONS FOR THE GARAGE SALE, EMAIL ME AT MBERGMAN26@GMAIL.COM

Garage Sale!

2009-06-01T21:31:00.002-05:00

I'm having a garage sale at my house Thursday -Saturday this week! I have Tons of baby girl clothes...ALL onesies are 25 cents! Nothing over 2 bucks (for kids clothes)! Then I have 2t-3t boys clothes, a stroller/carseat, infant car seat, swing, women's clothes, men's clothes, shoes (kids and adults), toys, househould stuff...

And everything is really cheap. I know some people say that...I really mean it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So, if you get there first, there is some amazing baby girl clothes in great condition ( some really cute dresses....).

So, if you know of anyone needing any of these items, pass on the word!

(OH, I'LL BLOG ABOUT SHELBY'S FIRST BIRTHDAY LATER...I'M SUPER TIRED)!

Eyes...tears...

2009-05-30T20:41:00.001-05:00

My baby is one today. Amazing, but sad.

I no longer have a baby anymore....just a little, cute, sweet, cuddly, loving, smiley...one year old daughter.

That's all I have to say about that for now.

Victory 44 is now selling...

2009-05-29T14:39:00.002-05:00

BEER and WINE. To some, this may not be a big announcement, but to others...well, it may be very nice to hear! Come on! It's Friday, and after a long hard week, you go out for dinner, and sometimes...just sometimes :), it's nice to have a nice, icy cold one!

For me, preferably, I like a nice glass of red OR white wine (Victory has both), and for those days when I'm feeling just a little more, oh I don't know, manly? (no), red neck? (certainly not), well, just grrrrrr... I like a nice cold beer! All the beer at Victory 44 is craft Amercian brew. Lovely if you ask me!

So, just thought you would like to know the news!

Friday, oooohh yeah!

2009-05-29T09:46:00.002-05:00

Well...although my morning has not gone as planned (was going to hit a few garage sales bright and early), it is still going perfect! I WAS going to wake up before the kids, do the Shred, shower and then get them ready and go to a couple of friends garage sales.

But.

Instead I chose to sleep in until 8 am. Where I proceeded to walk out of my room in a daze and here, "Hi Mom!", says Brady. "AAAAAAAAAAAaaah!", says me. Yeah, he scared the crap out of me.

Went up and got the baby as she was playing so nicely in her crib, waiting patiently for me to come and get her :) We ate breakfast and then went downstairs to exercise! I asked Brady, "Brady, do you think I should exercise this morning (secretly hoping he would say no, because you know, a 4 year olds opinion is very important to me)?"

"Yeah mom, can I exercise too?"

Aw man.

So, we went down stairs and I got my stuff on (I was clothed before, I just changed in to my workout gear...geez), and Brady needed to be equipped with his "exercise" shoes and shirt (one of daddy's , well, for lack of a better term, wife beaters (what are they really called....ribbed tank?)

And so we started. It was hilarious! When I got down to do push ups, Shelby would crawl over and hold on to me...very helpful little girl! Then Halle woke up and came down and joined in the fun! It was definitely a family affair! The only thing that would have made it better is Tom sitting there watching saying his usual like, "Wow, it sounds like you're going to die!" - Yep, thanks hun.

So, the rest of the day consists of a friend coming over with her boys, a graduation party tonight, Shelby turns one tomorrow, and another....wait. Shelby turns one TOMORROW!

YEP!

MY BABY TURNS ONE TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY VERY LAST BABY TURNS ONE TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tomorrow I will be crying......alot.

Searching...

2009-05-27T10:55:00.003-05:00

I think that's what life is all about. Searching. We search for answers, friends, keys, "the other sock", new furniture, new "things", what to have for dinner, but most importantly, for what our life means to the world, to us.

What I think we search the most for, is love. And you know what the funny part about that is...love is free. A smile, a hug, a kind word...all free. A feeling, a warmth, a touch...all free. Yet, it is the hardest to come by for some, the hardest thing to learn, and can be the hardest thing to accept. It can also be the hardest thing to give.

Why is that? Love is our greatest gift! Love is our most prized possession, yet can be treated like our most despised. Because, not only is love grand, but love can also let us down, be twisted, and become lost.

So love, yeah, I don't know what to tell you about love. Except it was given to us freely, and it is ours to give away freely. It should not be hard, but it is, or it can be. So what should we do? I love that saying about, ""Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt. Sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth." -Mark Twain

It's so true! We are hurt so often by love, but we should, love like we've never been hurt. Why? Because we have the tools to embrace the deep dark pit of love, and bring it in to the light.

Baby Loon born today

2009-05-26T14:12:00.001-05:00

on a lake near Isanti! Check it out! It's so cute if you get a glimpse, I saw one of the parents try and bring it a little fish today! I know, I'm a dork.

Live Loon Cam

Weekend Recap

2009-05-26T09:01:00.002-05:00

Friday: Watch the boys until 4pm, hang out with the Mom til' 5pm. Have sister and unexpected friend (Lisa), stop over, then decide to eat at Pizza Hut with the kids! Next, I drive up to my mom's house in Stanchfield, and we take the kids to Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at the Braham High School! HILARIOUS! The kids loved it, but we only made it to intermission because it was waaaaaaaaaaaaay past Shelby's bedtime!

Saturday: Hang out at home for the first part of the day, and attempt to get some things done around the house! Then my mom watched the kids so my sister and I could go baby shopping - for my sister:) - and then we ate at Victory 44, and I got home at about 10pm!

Sunday: Went up to St. Croix State Park with the kids. Made a pit stop in Rock Creek due to a puking her guts out incident by Halloran! We now know that she gets car sick on long rides....yay for us! St. Croix was awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We had a great day of bike riding, playing IN the river :), a little nature walk, campfire, food and then went to a nature talk about Beavers, Otters and muskrats! Brady stayed overnight with my Dad and Kathi, and we took the girls home (both zonked out 30 seconds after we left...no joke)!

Monday: Spent the day gardening! We have two small gardens now, one with veggies and one with herbs! Here's hoping that the seeds grow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ha, ha, ha! Planted some other flowers, made a trip to Menards and then had some neighbors, family, and friends over for a fabulous barbecue!!!!! Another Perfect Day!

Today: Watching the boys today, tomorrow and Thursday, then I'm all done with that! So, here's hoping for another great day!

My man is home :)

2009-05-24T08:54:00.003-05:00

For today, tomorrow and Tuesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yipee! This morning the baby woke up at 7 am, so the three of us just hung out! Tom and I just sat and talked straight for 2 hours! Now she's back in bed already for her morning nap, and the two older kids are still sleeping (almost 9am)!

Today we are going to St.Croix State Park where my dad and Kathi are staying for the weekend! We're bringing the bikes and snacks and going to have a picnic, go to the river and do a little biking! I will be in HEAVEN! Camping is my all time favorite thing to do! I always feel perfectly content being out in the woods, swimming in the river...I love it!

Last night, I got to go out with my sister and we did a little shopping for her baby and then we went and ate at the restaurant Tom works at, Victory 44, and I was going to try something else on the menu, but I just had to get the Rueben again! I LOVE that sandwich! And I am NOT being biased when I say that it is the best Rueben in the whole world, because it's the truth!

Then, it happened to be an old high school friends bachelor party, and they stopped in there, so I got to see a few guys that I have not seen in forever! It was so great to see them, they are really great guys, so it was super fun to catch up!

Wow! It is so quiet in my house right now...I can tell it is going to be a wonderful day!!!!!!!!!!!!

Randoms...

2009-05-22T13:53:00.002-05:00

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH! Thank goodness it's Friday! I have not had to say that in 9 months!

I feel much better about the idea of gettting tubes for Shelby's ears!

I did a devotional today outside. I have not done one in a while! Felt Great! Romans 12:9

Non-discipline irritates me, yet I know I myself am not perfect either.

I'm learning to take deep, cleansing breaths. Man...it does help.

I am starting the 30-day Shred on Monday...be prepared for lot's of whiny posts.

I love my husband.

I am thankful for 3 blessings the Man upstairs bestowed upon me :)

I'm going to Chicago in September, and I'm already super excited...did I mention I am going alone?! Nope? Well, I am.

I love the smell of dirt.

Today, I have bags under my eyes.

Coffee is my friend.

Naps are my best friend, although, we haven't gotten together in over a month.

And now, I'm just waiting.

If you had to...

2009-05-21T08:33:00.003-05:00

There are many things that happen to our children and the scenario arises. If you had to....

So mine is, if you had to get tubes in your child's ears, would you?

I am really on the fence about it, Shelby probably needs them, but I've heard all the stories of hearing loss from them, damaged ear drums, and not being able to submerge their ears underwater...ever!

And of course...(to be fair)...you can have some of those same things happen from not getting them in! The problem is, in my experience, I have only known people to have the bad side effects FROM getting tubes! So, see how your experiences in life can shape your opinion with not knowing all of the facts! So HELP! I want your experiences and knowledge! I'm trying to figure out what to do, and then take in my friends opinions, doctors and chiropractors and make a very informed decision!

So please, let me know your thoughts!

My kids are Still Asleep

2009-05-20T08:37:00.002-05:00

Whoohoo! Granted, I did not get to enjoy it fully because I have one of the boys I am watching, and he was here at 8am, but still! And, the baby has a reason why she's still sleeping since she was up fro 1:45 am - almost 3 am!

I was just going to "twitter" about it, but I thought this deserved a full fledge post!

Man it's windy outside! Should make for an interesting day!

We enjoyed a nice evening outside last night with our small group friends! The kids played, we chatted and ate icecream! Perfect!

Perfect Sunday!

2009-05-18T13:51:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was picture perfect! Not only the weather, but just our day! Tom was home ALL day, which is a big deal nowadays! So we went to church, stopped at the store quick, and went home! We cleaned up the yard, our vehicles, played with the kids, and then Tom grilled an amazing dinner of steak, potatoes, and green beans. Yum Yum!

Then we gave the kids a bath and settled in and watched Speed Racer. Let's just say that I am the only one who made it through the whole thing!

Now today, back to the daily grind for us all! It was my last day of ECFE, so Tom stayed home with Shelby this morning, so I could take Brady, Halle and one of the boys I watch to class (the other boy was at preschool). We had a potluck brunch, and I brought stuffed french toast that Tom and I put together the night before, then they soak all night, and then grilled them this morning! They didn't turn out like they normally do, because we got a different bread, but they were still very good!

Now they are all down for a nap, so I think I'm going to fold laundry! Yipeeee!

Brass Rail, Grandy, MN

2009-05-16T08:30:00.002-05:00

Is celebrating 40 years today with a huge celebration! 25 cent beer, prizes, raffles, face painting for the kids from noon-2pm, and music from 3-7pm!

Could you imagine? 40 years of everyday coming in to work at a place you created?! Donna Biggins knows what this feels like...and I think she's nuts (in a good way...I think)! :) Since day one, I bet she's been there almost everyday, just like she is now. Anyone in the restaurant business knows, there is no REAL "days off". I think even on the days off, there is still almost always something to be done behind the scenes.

So what has kept them going? Well, there infamous broasted chicken. There's nothing really like it around these here parts, and their delicous coleslaw.

Now, if you don't have a lot planned for the day, stop on in! I'll be there from noon-2pm helping with the face painting (?, yes I know, I don't know why me...but I hope kids like smiley faces because that's probably all I'm good at)! They are raffling off a TV and all other sorts of things!

Have a great day!

How can you be bored when...

2009-05-15T21:56:00.004-05:00

there is so much that could be done! Granted, it is almost 10 pm...way past this ol' girl's bed time, but I'm bored! And the funniest part about the whole thing is that I could be doing a lot of things right now if I wanted. Should I share some? Ok...

-Fold laundry yuck no!
-Read my Bible or other similar soul searching items? I don't know why I always put it off!
-Pay bills....I'll leave that alone....
-Write-I have so much up in my dusty old mommy brain just waiting to come out...
-Take a shower-My hair is in desperate need of a good washing.
-Wait up for Tom to get home...Been there done that, I stink at it.
-GO TO SLEEP.

I think I vote for the last one.

Dancin' Fools for Group 1 Crew

2009-05-14T12:42:00.004-05:00

So I didn't get the best parts of their dancing day...but I got some! They were hilarious! And this is one of my most favorite songs of Group 1 Crew Eye Contact (icontact) .

Here's the lyrics:

I wanna make, I wanna make eye contact with you yeah. eye contact, eye contact with you.

I felt your spirit hit me as I walked in the room my heart was vexed what happened next I felt, so so consumed, with every word you spoke to me I gave no reply, cuz I knew you wanted to save me but I wouldn't comply, But you still tried I'm glad you did cuz now I can't wait to spend my life within your arms a savior who has loved me more than. I could ever ask or even receive, you caught my eye when I learned that you died for me.

[Chorus] I can't explain it,oh, the lovely things that you do, whatever it takes gotta make eye contact with you, it's so contagious,oh, you got me feeling so cool, don't pass me by. wanna make eye contact with you. Whatever it takes, gotta make eye contact with you. whatever it takes,gotta make eye contact with you.

You stunned my vision I see things a bit more different, different now. Had a head on collision With fate and I don't know know how You changed my world made me your home Where no one else allowed To enter cause you alone inside Makes it a full full house No need for a deck of cards Everything I need you are you're my bright and shining star Let's spend forever together Remember when u were far Loved me with a broken heart But since we've made contact Our eyes have never been apart.

[Chorus] I can't explain it,oh, the lovely things that you do, whatever it takes gotta make eye contact with you, it's so contagious,oh, you got me feeling so cool, don't pass me by. wanna make eye contact with u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u. don't ask me why gotta make eye contact with u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u, u. whatever it takes gotta make eye contact with you.

[Bridge:] it's not enough for me to see you in someone else, I need to know your voice and see you for myself, my god you've done so much in me I just can't look back, I wanna see you face to face and make eye contact. (Let's go)

[Chorus]

God is sneaky

2009-05-12T10:14:00.003-05:00

He's so sneaky! I had a terrible day Sunday and Monday and you know what he did in between all of that that I did not see till today?

On Mother's day I did get to take a nap. And during my much needed nap, he sent me my favorite dessert.

I had a horrible day yesterday, and he sent me a couple of missionaries (they were mormon, but they were from God...no doubt).

And today, he sent me a cup of coffee when he knew I was out.

He is so sneaky.

If my week goes better than the last few days...

2009-05-11T19:03:00.002-05:00

I may have a fighting chance of ending up sane!

"...and that's all I got to say about that." ~ Forrest Gump

and...

"Mama always said life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you gonna get."

~Forrest Gump

I have realized today how many truisms come from watching a movie like Forrest Gump.

What a classic.

Had a horrible day, then...

2009-05-08T23:35:00.002-05:00

it turned out, for lack of a better term, normal. It was good to feel at least normal, because my day started out with no hope in sight!

I totally set myself up for it though, in hindsight. I had my day all planned out, and that's why it all went wrong!!!!!

I miss my hubby alot, he's been gone a lot this week, and then with school...I just miss him. I thought I was more "independent". But having Tom gone like this, well, it showed me a different side of myself! I know now, that I just have to "try" and take each day...or each minute, at a time.

Aaaagh! I'm so tired! If you guys would have seen how I behaved this morning, you would have thought I was posessed. I felt horrible, I looked horrible, and all I thought were horrible things. God's so funny. I think he sent me an "air" slap across the face, because that's how quickly I snapped out of it. My first half of the day just felt hopeless and then the afternoon came and Wham, I started to come back to reality.

Weird.

Thanks God.

So now, I am patiently waiting for Tom to come home from the restaurant. It's late. Waaaaay past my old lady bedtime. But for him, I'll do it. I love him to pieces. Sometimes, I forget how deeply I do love him and need him. You can get so complacent, so used to having someone there because they're your spouse and that's just who they are. But they are there because you LOVE them, and you can't live without them! Duh! Why do I forget that sometimes?!

I have the same relationship with God sometimes. I get complacent, think I can be "independent"...don't really need him. But I do. I need him a lot. I love Him and I can't live without Him either!

Tom?! Where are you? I'm startin' to get deep here...and it's late. I might start talking about politics,religion and abortion soon! Heeeeeeeeeeeeelp!

Maybe I'll go wait by the TV.

:)

Meditating

2009-05-07T09:08:00.002-05:00

So, I started meditating a couple of months ago. For one week. (yeah, I have a hard time with motivation...when it interrupts my sleeping in:) )

And let me tell you, it was exhilirating, lovely, and calming! I loved it! I felt better about life, myself, and I felt I had more patience than I had ever received! So why did I stop? Not sure! It was probably like this in my head, "Ok Megan, get up, it's 6 am..c'mon, get up before the kids do, relax, ease in to your day, you'll be so glad you did this later!"

Me: "Just 5 more minutes...that's all I need, then I'll get up, I promise!"

An hour later in Megan's bed...

Me: "Oh crap! I gotta get up and get Brady ready for preschool!"

Then Megan's day....rush, rush, rush...no patience...rush, rush...clean, clean...

Yeah...so I need to do something about that. Get back to prayer and meditation and optimisim.

I think that is the key.

We shall see.

Hola

2009-05-06T13:13:00.003-05:00

I feel like I want to move to Mexico. Anonymously. Me, my children, and my husband. He can cook in a little cantina by the shore. I'll ly lazily by the beach, 3 children in tow and write about life...

Oh but wait. I'm in Minnesota right now, with my kids, two extra children, a dog, no husband (at work), and not much time to write and let my mind wander...

So for now I'll just wipe runny noses (mine included), change some dirty diapers (4 done already), and eat reese's peanut butter cups to mask the stress building inside...for right now.

On a happier note....

Well...

It's gorgeous outside!

And...

As each day passes as I get older, I thank God for the insights he gives me to how precious our life is, how to love, and to know that these earthly things will someday be a part of a funny past history of my life.

Most Importantly

2009-05-05T09:50:00.001-05:00

Please pray for a dear friend of ours having surgery at 11 am. It's very important that he and his wife have our prayers during surgery, recovery period, and most importantly...for Faith that everything will be alright!

Thank you!

Another day, another dollar...

2009-05-05T08:42:00.002-05:00

I know completely what that phrase means now!! It's just another day, earning another dollar...but I will enjoy it! Every minute! That's my pep talk for today, since I will be working ALL day! I have the two boys this week again, 8:20-4pm. Then I will go waitress at the Brass Rail from 5pm-10pm!

I have given away my Saturday shifts at the Rail because Tom got a new job as a cook at this cute yet stylish new restaurant, Victory 44, and so he is now working Saturday nights. Luckily, I feel very good about giving up my "money making" night because I used to be the one that needed the dough, but now one of the girls that fills in lost her regular job, and now needs more hours at the Rail. God is good, isn't he?!!!!!!!!!! What timing...

So, I'll try and keep my Wednesday and every other Thursday, we'll just see how it all pans out.

As for other random news, I am helping with the planning of a free for all clothing give away at our church, First Baptist on May 9th. People can donate their clothing and baby accessories on May 8th from 9-11am and 4-6pm. It's clothing for the whole family that is needed, plus baby toys and furniture. I think it is going to be amazing, yet we still need volunteers AND donations!!! So, if you're around, I'll take your help, or donated items!!!

Have I told you lately too, that I have many preggo friends right now? Well...I do! I am so happy for each and every one of them. Being pregnant was one of my most favorite and memorable things I have ever been able to do, and the one thing in life I am most proud of myself for! Sometimes I am sad that we are done making our little family, but most days I think to myself how crazy I would be to do it all over again! I am so looking forward to our moving on with the family we have created together and start making some amazing memories of camping trips, birthday parties, parks, vacations, field trips, and well, the list is endless right?!!

Although, with everything that we have to be thankful for, we are going through a big transition in our life, and I would appreciate any prayers sent our way...like to sell our truck, financial concerns, and peace of mind that we are on the path that God has in mind for us! I think we are on the right track...with a few loose ends!!

Well, as you can tell, I have a lot on my mind these days...I could probably keep writing, but, I am watching kids today! So I should probably act like it!

May you all have a very blessed day! Really, Truly!!!

Victory 44

2009-05-04T14:06:00.004-05:00

I am not going to lie, that on Friday May 1st, 2009, I needed a break. A break from what you ask? Not from work, or life, or from stress. A break from non-stop child pig-latin gibberish! It had been a long week. I started watching two other children, which was an adjustment, but a fairly easy one. But by Friday, I realized I was saying things to adults like,

"Aaaw, are you ok?" I think this may have even come out of my mommy mouth in regards to my husband, " Do you need to go potty?" (ok, I'm joking, but I have done that before...as a joke)

So anyway, I needed some adult time, some "I don't have an 11 month old hanging from my pant leg, a 2 year old girl going-on-fourteen screaming for her sippy cup with milk, a four year old boy asking why can't I go across the street like the other kids do" kind of break.

So.

My friend Sondra had asked if I wanted to go to the opening night of her husband Erick's new restaurant. So I found a sitter and off we went!

Sidenote: My husband Tom just got a job there and started today as a cook while he goes to culinary school!

So we got there and in the back door we went! Sondra was going to give me a tour when Erick goes, "Sorry guys, throw on an apron, we're packed and need your help!"
Well, ok! So we hopped on board and started cleaning dishes, serving water and drinks, taking an order or two, and listening to all of the excited people waiting to eat!

To make a long story short, about an hour and a half later, we sat down ourselves, to enjoy some of this delicious food that everyone was raving about! I ordered the rueben, and let me tell you this.

A
M
A
Z
I
N
G
!

It was superb! Delicious! Scrumptious! I literally ate really, really slow because I did not want the flavor of the beef, sauce and buttered bread to leave my lips! Completely amazing! I wish you could bottle up, or even better, pop a horse sized pill that had your favorite flavors of certain dishes that you just needed a small "fix" now and then of, so that you didn't have to think about that particular meld of flavors until you were able to have it again!

I know why people get addicted to food. It is truly like a drug that you fixate on, especially when you are able to consume the best of the best.

So I beg you, if you are around 694 to Highway 100, to Brooklyn Blvd down by Victory and 44th...please, for your own happiness, please stop in at Victory 44.

You will not be dissapointed.

Unless they ask you to work first, for free.

:) Thanks Erick! I had a great time and the food was just what I expected it to be....fabulous!

Shelby is 11 months old!

2009-05-01T09:49:00.006-05:00

First let me say....I am not very happy with putting pictures on to blogger!! If my picture in my file is the right "side up" it comes on to my blog upside down or sideways...

So I have many cute pics that I wanted to post of Shelby, but I can't! What am I doing wrong? Melissa???

Anyway, Shelby is 11 months old as of yesterday! Wow! She is walking behind those walker toys, is not content crawling anymore, she wants to be standing or "assisted" walking, she can climb stairs, eat hot dogs and many other types of foods, says mama, nana, and dadda, still takes two naps, sleeps from 6:30pm-7:30 am, smiles a ton, loves people, likes to eat dirt/leaves/grass, likes to smack me in the face when she's excited, and is the light of my life!

But.

She is going to be one in a month.

Then, bye, bye baby. Hello toddler.

How depressing.

Projects...

2009-04-30T14:14:00.002-05:00

Today since it was a little dreary earlier, we made chocolate chip cookies!! The kids had a blast!

Yesterday, we spent about two hours collecting dirt, rocks, leaves and twigs and then after lunch we made nature collages!

And here is the only picture I took of Brady in the wedding he was in on Saturday because then my camera went dead. But, that's the back of my mom's head in this picture, and she has plenty!

So which one is it????

2009-04-30T10:36:00.002-05:00

So....was it my first bouncing baby boy that sent me in to pre-term labor 3 times just to tease me?

Or my first beautiful baby girl who thought that might be fun?

Or my second beautiful baby girl who wanted to throw me off track??

Well....

It was my first baby girl (but second child in sequence) who decided that would be fun! Halloran!

And, each time starting in middle February 2007 in to March (she was born March 19th), that I went in to pre-term labor, there was a snowstorm! At like 1 am each time!!! One time, my MIL, who lives just across the street, got stuck in a snow drift! Yes, my MIL who lives across the street decided to take the car instead of walk in the snow storm!! But bless her heart for coming as quickly as she could!!!

And ever since she was born, Halloran is just as impatient with each task she does, as she was with wanting to enter this world!!!!

Yay!

2009-04-29T13:53:00.003-05:00

So my first day watching the two extra kids went fabulous! The day went by quick, everyone was good, 4 out of 5 took naps....awesome!

I even got laundry folded, part of the yard raked, kept up with the dishes/messes, and read my book! I still am in shock! And so, thinking it was just luck, today seems to be going by much of the same way! Unbelievable!!!

So, I'm so glad I am doing this, it seems to be falling in line with my life...which means it is probably what I am supposed to be doing right now!

One sad note.....

I finished the Twilight saga :(

But it rocked!

So I bet you didn't know...

2009-04-28T09:13:00.002-05:00

That I started watching two other children today! And not just for today, but for the next 4 weeks (or so)! It was a totaly last minute deal. I found out about it on Saturday that someone may need someone...and they came over on Sunday to meet us!

Monday I had a dr. appointment ( I was going to reschedule it, but then thought since this was my last "free" day for a month, I better go to it), visited a friend, and then came home and got the house ready (mostly ready). Then I arranged rides for Brady for preschool for this month, and did laundry! Whooohoo!

Right now the kiddos are watching Super Why, (which is why I am blogging now) and Tom is home for a little while this morning and helped me with the transition of the "drop off"!! Very nice of him!

So, I won't be going many places that aren't within walking distance for the next few weeks!!

Who am I?

2009-04-27T14:27:00.003-05:00

I am.

I am Megan.

And, when I found out what that exactly means, when I find out what God has meant for my life, I will let you know more about me and, who am I?

That is my thought for the day.

Disclaimer: Beware, this thought is very random and may cause you to be puzzled for the rest of the afternoon. If this puzzlement is not gone after a few hours, consult the Lord your Saviour.

Shelby walking, Brady getting married, and Halle sad

2009-04-25T07:58:00.003-05:00

So, Shelby's walking with some help behind a walking toy! It is so cute, and I have to post a little clip, not because it shows off her best walking skills, but because of the end!

And today, Brady is getting married! Well, at least that's what he says! He is the ringbearer in my cousin's wedding today! He is so excited!!!! He did great at the rehearsal last night, and did not need much assistance from me!

When we left to go to the church last night, Halle screamed bloody murder when we left. She was so sad and heartbroken that we were leaving her! I felt like dirt!!!!!!

Anyway, here's the video, hope you enjoy!

Bergman Fact of the Day!

2009-04-24T08:01:00.001-05:00

Only one Bergman Baby put me in to pre-term labor 3 times before they decided to arrive, which led to 3 shots in the butt to make the contractions stop.

What a little stinker!

And the answer is....

2009-04-24T07:52:00.002-05:00

Shelby!!! Shelby is my only blue eyed baby (like me) out of the Bunch! Brady has brown (must come from Tom's side) and Halloran has green like her Daddy!

And that is an answer to a Bergman Bunch Fact!

Work

2009-04-23T16:25:00.002-05:00

I am leaving for work right now.

Can you hear the enthusiasm in my writing.

Good.

Brady's Ringbearer outfit...

2009-04-22T14:43:00.002-05:00

Cute! Definitely need that top button buttoned though I think!

Outfit= $16

Shoes= $14

Total= $30

I own it. He can wear it again.

Tux at rental= $65 (not including shoes)

I don't own it. He can wear it for about 8 hours.

Glad I asked to look for our own outfit!!!!!!!!!

Thank goodness it's sunny!

2009-04-22T09:35:00.002-05:00

Because I am so tired again! And no, I did not read last night! But Halle got up around midnight...Shelby at 4:30am, 5 am, and sporadically after those two (but I didn't get out of bed for the rest of them).

But, when I finally arose out my slumber, I saw how beautifully crystal clear it was outside with the bright shining sun and thought to myself, "I can be awake today, right?"

Yes I can.

Until I have to go to work, and then the anxiety and tiredness will set in. I am dreading going in. I am dreading the rush. I am dreading making people feel annoyed with their unjustified wait time.

But for now, I think I will go out on the deck and soak in some Vitamin D and sunshine for my soul.

Been shopping and reading and reading and reading!

2009-04-20T14:25:00.007-05:00

I am so obessessed with those Twilight books!!!! I stayed up late trying to get through the 4th book, but I am trying to not stay up too late so that I do not suffer the next day!! So as much as I wanted to just plug through and finish, I used my self control, and put the bookmark in and shut it!

Saturday I went shopping for the wedding Brady is on Saturday. I found the cutest outfit (it's not going to work for the wedding though, so I have to go back), and he looked very dashing in it! I also found the girls some cute dresses for cheap! Burlington Coat Factory is very awesome for low prices and a large assortment, so it was actually fun!

Here's some pics of my finds...

Bergman Fact of the Day!

2009-04-18T21:15:00.002-05:00

We have only one child with blue eyes.

And that is a Bergman Fact!

Going shopping!

2009-04-18T09:53:00.001-05:00

I cannot tell you how long it has been since I have been "really" shopping. And although I am not going for myself today, it will still feel great to actually purchase something...anything, from a department store!

Today I will be hunting for a cute ringbearer outfit for Brady! He's in a wedding next weekend.(yes I know I am cutting it close, but when I found out the tux for him would be $65 bucks, I thought, "I don't think so.")

So, wish me luck that all goes well!!!!!!

Holy Cow

2009-04-15T22:50:00.002-05:00

it was busy tonight at the restaraunt!! It was a nightmare! I mean, it was great because busy nights mean good tips usually, but sometimes, it's just too much to handle. On weeknights, you are the only waitress for the whole place. Which means:

-deliver menus with a smile
-take drink order
-get them there drinks
-take their order
-give it to the cook
-bring out their coleslaws
-bring out food when it's ready
-bring them anything else they need in between
-write up their ticket by hand
-get them change if needed
-get them a doggy bag if needed
-clear their table
-clean their table

....now picture this when like 10 tables come in at the same time, a few more tables come in after that, the phone is ringing (and yes, the waitress has to answer that to, take the to go orders, get them their to go order when they come in and bag it), you are running out of coleslaws, ice and cups...

and that was my night.

And then people lingered from then on, I never stopped to pee, eat, or socialize from 5 - 9:30pm. And then I cleaned.

And this was all after I woke up at 7 am, got ready, got 3 kids ready, went and picked up a friend's kids so she could get some packing done without the CUTE little ankle biters, had another friend stop over with 3 kids (so glad she did!!!), had my nephews come over at the same time to play, made lunch minus two nephews and friend w/ 3 kids, fed two babies at the same time, 3 toddlers and one adult (me), then at 1pm, friend comes and picks kids up, I put my kids down for a nap and do laundry and read a book...for a little bit because THEN,

the kids decide to get up early from their nap.

So then we go outside.

And then I went to work.

And you kow what happens after that.

Getting better...

2009-04-14T14:31:00.002-05:00

Shelby had her 4 doctor appointments today at the U of MN! It started out with her ultrasound, which took about 5 minutes, and she cried. Only because she's at that stage where she does not want to just lay there on her back. Then they took us to another room for her VCUG. This one took longer, more laying, but with a catheder. Putting the catheder in was not the thing that bugged her, once again. It was just laying there!

She was so mad!

So she cried for about 15 out of the twenty minutes. To take a breath.

Then we were not supposed to have appointments until 1:45pm and 2:45pm. So I called friends who lived in the area, and they were both doing something...yeah, you know who you are!! It was fine because I went to the laser clinic and asked if they could possibly fit me in....(fingers crossed)...yep!

And, she didn't have to get a laser treatment done, even better!

Then I went to the urology clinc to see if they could fit me in...(fingers crossed again)...yep!

I got to the U of MN at 9am, had both tests done by 10 am and had our two clinic appointments done by noon! Shelby slept the whole ride home...I am so glad it went so smooth!

On the way down I was listening to Rascal Flatts, and the first song I heard was one that has now summed up the last few days for me, on what I need to do to get over the neighbor who hurt me....here it is:

Stand

What a weird few days...

2009-04-13T21:14:00.002-05:00

So this morning I woke up with a huge shooting pain in my right side. I could not take deep breaths, and it was difficult to move around. Tom turned around from driving to work and came and brought me in. I was there from 7:30 am until after noon.

Appendicitis?

Kidney Stones?

Ovarian Cyst?

Intestinal issues?

Well, they don't know! After the doctor was pushing around on my tummy and left the room, the pain started to subside. After two hours of intense pain, it was just gone. Sore, but gone.

I had a CT scan and bloodwork. It all came back fine, just some extra fluid, but normal. Weird. But, in any case, I was just soooo happy that the pain had stopped. He still said he is not ruling out appendicitis, I just have to see how I feel in the next couple of days. But I feel fine now.

Now tomorrow I spend the whole day down at the U of MN. Shelby has her bladder ultrasound, VCUG, and laser therapy all in one day. I am a little nervous, I'll be by myself. My in-laws have Brady and Halle overnight tonight. Shelby's first appointment is at 9am, 10am then 1:45pm and 2:45pm.

I have a long day ahead of me!

And...

2009-04-11T10:18:00.002-05:00

I am so thankful my sister came over right away. I was a mess, and she really calmed me down. Until she left and that neighbor guy showed up.

Nice.

Feeling much better today...

2009-04-11T09:15:00.002-05:00

I feel much better today. I am not letting it get to me, and that helps. I went around to all the neighbors on the block after it happened, and told them all equally:

"I'm saying this to every neighbor, someone called the police on something that was not an emergency. I'm sorry if that person felt that was their only option, but I wish they would have come to us with it." Most everyone was very kind about it. The older women that I talked to couldn't believe someone did that, and had hugs and words of comfort. The ones who "appeared" to not be home, or weren't home, I left a note.

One of the dad's I left a note with, felt the need to come to my door pissed off about the note. He thought I only talked/gave the note to JUST him. I had to calmly explain what happened to him AND explain, sir, that I had talked to half the neighborhood already, and needed to wait for my husband to get home to finish the block.

"Well,", he says," I called my neighbors up to see what was going on and none of them got a note." That's because I may have not made it to them yet, sir.

Ughh.

I had almost come to a emotional resolution until he showed up. He knows who called too. But I didn't ask, because I was sure he wouldn't tell.

But, I know it will come out eventually, it's a small neighborhood, and most of us know eachother.

I will not confront them, because I may have already. I honestly don't think they will tell me to my face when I walked up to their door. They were definitely not up to it to come to us in the beginning.

Now, I have to go to work for the whole day, a place that carries no comfort.

Yay for me.

But, thank you to those of you who did pray. I felt unusually calm last night, and feel much better today, knowing that I did the right thing. So, thank you so much.

Defective "Help" Button Part II

2009-04-10T15:35:00.002-05:00

Now today, I have had an unhelpful neighbor.

It serioulsy has me spinning on emotions...mostly embarassment, guilt and hurt.

I need your prayers today to be strong, forgive, and move on (because that is hard for me).

I know alot of you pray, and that is why I posted it here today, because I need His Strength.

It's not a SUPER serious problem, but enough to leave me "emotionally" wounded for a little bit.

To my friends, I will only tell you what happened over email, because I know there is no judgement from you.

I'll say it again, it's not a HUGE deal, but had me by the "jugular" today. Hit me where it hurts. Stabbed me in the heart. They found my button. (all figuratively speaking)

So please, take a moment to pray God grants me peace and my neighbor, some insight and humbleness.

Thank you. This was so hard to write, but I needed some Godly help, and an outlet for sanity.

Defective "Help" Button

2009-04-10T10:21:00.006-05:00

Why is it that some people have a defective "Help" button? I have been waitressing for a few months now, and here is what I have found:

1. A waitresses job is to help.

-most seem to lack in the helping once it no longer entails Customer = Tip

2. A waitress if very polite and respectful to all of her customers.

-but not to the people or bosses they work for

3. A boss of a restaraunt should be entirely thankful for the good help they have that only work for minimum wage.

-they overwork, mistreat, and are rude to their employees because they think they can

I could go on, but these are the main trends I am witnessing at my place of employment.

Example #1:

The cook I get along with and enjoy to work with (after being forced by one boss to help me Wed. night finish the vacuuming) did this when she got done with her duties, while I still had half of the place to vacuum.

Sit at the bar and talk on her phone.

I almost cried. One because the vacuuming is the most time consuming task of the night. Two because she knows my back is out of whack and vacuuming always makes it go out. Three, because it's nice to "Help" people.

Therefore, there are some people, even friends, who have a defective "Help" button in their genetic makeup.

And I intend to help them find it.

Favorites...

2009-04-09T07:41:00.005-05:00

My favorite color is Purple!

My favorite flower is...Sunflower!

My Favorite Song Right Now is...

By Your Side, by Tenth Avenue North

My Favorite Book is...

Twilight

And that's it for now!

I have a confession...

2009-04-08T08:14:00.002-05:00

I won't hold you in suspense, because it's not a life changing one -well, not really anyway.

I am a Twilight fan.

There I said it.

I was up until 2 am finishing the second book of the series.

Did I mention I had only just started that one that morning?

Yep.

Did I also mention it took me only two days to read the first one?

Oh no.

I'm addicted.

I'm not very smart either, I have a cold, Brady and Halle both have dr. appointments today and I have to work tonight.

Yep.

Not real smart.

~But totally worth it...~

Leftover Fish Tacos, my knight, and baby friends...

2009-04-07T08:49:00.002-05:00

Fish Tacos...never had them before.....YUM! Thanks Erick! FYI, from the time I took the picture of the taco, to the second picture (the end result) was probably like two minutes.

Yep.

Good stuff.

Shelby was so happy to have a friend to play with...that saw the world from the same level as her! They followed eachother around the whole time they were together! So cute! Thanks Melissa for letting me watch them, it was a lot of fun!

And last, but definitely not least, my knight in shining armor!! What a cutie pie!

My King

2009-04-06T10:01:00.005-05:00

If you want to know the King I serve...I challenge you to watch the whole thing, even if you don't believe. Click the statement below.

This is my King...

No Swimming again today!

2009-04-06T07:09:00.002-05:00

What?! I got up (against my will), but I did, and went to go swimming. This time, there were cars in the parking lot, but as I got to the door, a fellow swimmer in front of me stops, looks at something posted, and turns around. Really? Again? Yep.

"All Pool Activities Closed for the day." the sign read.

Aww man.

See, now that I can have dairy back in my diet, I really need these workouts! If I had my own treadmill, or eliptical in my home, I wouldn't feel so defeated. But I don't, and so I need that pool! I guess when it gets warmer I could go for a bike ride until my hip and back get better, then I can run again. But until then, I need to swim!!!

Oh well.

So, I'll go and eat that blueberry muffin I purchased on my way home as a consolation prize....geez Megan!

Random

2009-04-05T09:16:00.005-05:00

Just a couple of pics of the kids! Halle was showing us where all of her facial features are! Anyway, all of the kids have a tiny cold, and now, I am sporting one too. Funny, since just two days ago I was bragging about how I have not been sick this winter and that it is the first winter in 4 years that I have not been sick. Funny.

BUT, two nights in a row now that all of the kids have gone to bed, stayed in bed, and stayed asleep the whole night through! Sweet!

AND, Tom has his first assignment due for school tomorrow! So cute, my hubby is in school! I am very proud of him for following his dream, and not letting a "normal" life tie him down to doing what will make him happy! It will be challenging, buy I have a lot of faith in him, and a lot of prayer that he remains grounded in his new faith.

Also, snow? We just had a fire last night with friends, and now there's snow? Weird.

Oh, and Group 1 Crew was amazing! The concert was very cozy, meaning there was not many people, which also means that we were like super close, like, I could see Blanca's beautiful skin!

Told you this post was going to be random!

I feel like I had a newborn...

2009-04-03T07:30:00.003-05:00

last night! Shelby was up every two hours last night! And even in between those two hours she would cry or moan. What?!!!? I think it due to teething. That's the only thing I can think of. No fever, but a runny nose that started during the night. These are the times when I remember why I agreed to stop at 3 kids! I always in my heart of hearts want more, and if Tom were today to say, "Let's have another!", I would still say "yes". (remember though, he is snipped, LOL)

But, I am getting over that want, finally. I talked about it to some friends a couple of weeks ago, and I think that helped a lot. I think as a woman, especially when up enjoy almost everything about it...the conceiving :), the pregnancy, the delivery, the baby:), you always will want to have more. And I think we all know our "number" or "limit" within us of what we can handle, or what we "envision" our families to look like. And even when I was younger, much younger, I always thought in my mind that I would have 3 of my own. I say "own", because I am hoping for the chance to adopt some day.

But anyway, I just went off somewhere else, let's get back to the main story of, NO SLEEP. Because, not only did Shelby not sleep, we were up from 9-11pm with the older two! We just put Halle in a transitional bed. (her crib with 3 railing walls and one open side with side bars) And she was getting out constantly until about 10:30pm, then Brady thought it would be cool to get out of bed because why Brady? "My owie on my knee." The one he got that morning. Yeah. So cool.

So anyway, I am going to follow suit from a friend that said the other day she drank a 6 cup pot of coffee...Well, I'm on my first cup and almost ready to pour another! And, I didn't get to go swim today, because I was too exhausted...so know I feel yucky about that too! But it's ok! Because I am going to the Group 1 Crew concert tonight and I will not let anything like one night of lack of sleep to bring me down!!!

And just to give you fair warning, to all of my pregnant friends (and sister, but she already knows this), I will steal your baby for a few hours here and there...I love babies, and there is nothing like giving a baby a little lovin' even from a crazy friend!

Oh my gosh!

2009-04-02T09:19:00.002-05:00

I forgot! I am now officially NOT on a dairy-free diet! I went to the dr yesterday for my back pain issues, and then talked to her about this dairy thing. She said she really did not believe that that is what is causing me to breakout. She really thinks it's hormonal (which I could totally believe that more than dairy, or, I just CHOOSE to believe that!!), so I'm going to see a dermatologist in a couple of months.

And,

I have to get physical therapy done for my back. But I was kind of expecting that one :)

Tired!

2009-04-02T09:13:00.002-05:00

My mornings have needed a little kick start each day! I'm soooo tired when I wake up (I mean, I know you're supposed to be a little tired, but come on!), and so then I'm a little cranky! Last night I waitressed and that always is a good work out, and so then I sleep well! That helps, but then I sleep so hard that I could keep sleeping like that for a really long time! And it doesn't help that Shelby's been waking up at 5 am for the last two mornings! She is definitely teething, and unusually crabby, which is very unlike her!

I had a couple of great friends over yesterday for a play date and that was so much fun! There were 3 babies crawling or rolling around, and we all had a blast!

Today will be a long day. Tom is working and then he has his school orientation tonight. I'm not sure what we'll do yet, although, the sun is out so maybe the kids can go outside for a bit?!! Tomorrow night we go to the Group 1 Crew concert and I am sooooooo excited! I'm going to dance my butt off! Love, love, LOVE their music!

My sister is having a..........

2009-03-30T21:07:00.001-05:00

BOY!!!! Whoohoo!
Ughh, I can't wait!
Keep growing little buddy, I like my babies pudgy...since none of mine were :)

Shelby is 10 Months Today!

2009-03-30T13:56:00.002-05:00

WOW! 10 months has gone by really fast! She is an amazing baby, I know I've said it a million times, but she is and I feel truly blessed to be her mommy! We always get comments like, "Does she smile all the time?" Yep, except for when she's getting shots, laser treatments, when her bottle is inces away from her lips, and when she's really tired.

She wakes up so happy that it is truly contagious, and I'm so grateful for that! Right now Shelby is crawling EVERYWHERE, pulling herself up on things, mimicing sounds, gestures and laughing a lot! She loves crackers, her brother and sister, everyone, the dogs water bowl and baths!

I can't believe she'll be one in two months!! My last baby is almost done being a baby...

Should be an interesting...

2009-03-30T10:59:00.003-05:00

day! As soon as I'm done with this, it will be laundry time! Ughh! The kids are outside playing right now, before the snow/rain comes, Shelby is taking her morning nap and I'm blogging and eating cashews!

This week is going to be sooo busy! Today Tom goes down to the admissions office at his school to do final schedule and money stuff, tomorrow Shelby is supposed to go down for an ultrasound and VCUG (I'll be there from 9-3pm), but I still can't find anyone to watch the other two so hopefully it does snow so Tom will be home from his side job, Wednesday I have a doctor appointment because my back and hip just are not getting a whole lot better, then a massage that I bid on at the silent auction at Coy's benefit Saturday night, Thursday Tom has orientation, and Friday we are going to the Group 1 Crew concert at Bethel University with my sister and hubby and bro Brandon! I am sooooo excited about that!

So yeah! I had invited friends over for Thursday for dinner, forgetting that Tom has orientation that night, and of course I have him cook for guests now!

OH! And my sister finds out what her baby is today! And possibly if their bid on a house went through! I am ever so patiently waiting for her call ( yeah right, so not patient).

Well, that's that!

It's the Sun!! Wow!

2009-03-28T09:50:00.003-05:00

The sun's back!~ It's amazing that something so simple can "brighten" up your day and your soul all at the same time!

Just wanted to say today, that if you do not have plans and want to feel good about something, you should make your way over to Spectacular Events in Isanti. From 4pm-10pm, there is a benefit for Tom's cousin's son, Coy Anderson, 16 years old with Leukemia. He has had a rough road, and is fighting everyday to fight this disease that lives in his body.

There will be a DJ, food, and silent auction and some games. It would be great to see others rally around his family in their time of need...

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/coyanderson

Friday!

2009-03-27T09:38:00.003-05:00

Yeah! Even for stay at home mom's, there is something about Friday that feels so good! Although, I did not go lap swimming all week. Well, I take that back, I went Wednesday, but it was cancelled. As I got in to my car that morning at 5:20 am, pulled up to the high school, got out of my car, walked up to the door, and noticed a sign that said, "Pool Problem, Lap Swim Cancelled". Nice.

I worked last night waitressing, and I was non-stop moving from 5-9:40pm. It was just steady, and I went right from waitressing to closing down. I don't mind cleaning up there, it's just the vacuuming that is the ultimate worst! It is a huge area to clean, and on top of it, the vacuum is like trying to push a small man in a chair across the carpet. And then you have to move all the tables and chairs...just talking about it makes me cringe!

And then I left there with that feeling of, "Did I leave something on? Coffee pots? Lights? Did I clean well enough?" Because if I did do something wrong, it will for sure be ever so "politely" commented on by the morning staff and long time owner. I'm trying not to let it get to me, but there are some really negative, gossipy people there, and it drives me bonkers!

But anyway, so I tried getting up to go swimming today, but I was still not sleeping at midnight, and when the alarm went off this morning at 5am, I just could not bring myself to get up! And then I milked the rest of my sleep until 8 am, even though I clearly could hear all of my children up at 7:30am!

Tonight we celebrate Halle and Brady's birthdays with the family, so that will be fun! OH! I also, for my birthday, got tickets to the U2 concert in Chicago! I am so excited! I am going to bring my brother (who lives in Chicago), he's going to pay for my flight for my birthday, and I think it is going to be amazing! It is at Soldier Field, and it's an open stadium! I have been to two other U2 concerts, but being outdoors will feel amazing, I just know it!

Well, the sun is out, so that looks promising! Awesome!

Brady Eugene Bergman

2009-03-25T14:59:00.004-05:00

Was born on March 25th, 2005 at 10:51 am. He weighed 5 lbs. 15 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long.

It was a gorgeous day that day, althought I hardly remember the scenery. I remember waking up sometime in the middle of the night to, ehhm, pee and thought it was weird that I had appeared to have already, yep, gone. Ha ha ha ha...but seeing as how tired I was, I changed my umentionables (panties, underwear) and threw a towel over my side of the bed so I didn't have to wake up Tom and went back to sleep until 6 am when Tom got up for work. I was feeling a little crampy and told him to keep his phone close. Seeing that this was our first time, and my due date wasn't until April 2nd, Tom said, "Ok, but I'm sure it's nothing honey." Because you see, with your first one, your due date, in your mind, is when you are going to have your baby. Maybe a couple of days before, but definitely not any sooner than that.

*Sidenote: I really had not peed, I had started leaking amniotic fluid!! I realized this much later that day...

So I laid in bed for a little while longer, but since my "cramping" was not allowing me to sleep in on that glorious sunny morning, I thought, "Well, I might as well get up and get ready." So I hopped ( well, not really hopped, but walked, I mean waddled to the bathroom) and got in to the shower. As I was putting on my make up, I realized that I was having a hard time getting through the process because of my "cramps" (aka contractions, but I thought they were cramps) and I kept feeling like I had to, Ok, I'll say it...poop. Finally I call the clinic and tell them what is going on, and they said, "You should definitely come in, it sounds like you are having contractions."

WHAT?! No I'm not, I'm cramping, right? I thought to myself. But I quickly got dressed and try calling Tom. And then I try calling Tom again. And again. And again! Aww man, really? So I get my already packed suitcase ( I was very proud of myself after this, that I had listened and packed my suitcase a month early!), get it down the stairs...and that's all the further I got it because the pain from my "cramps" ( I was still telling myself that this is what they were, not contractions silly nurse), was crippling me from lifting my suitcase! So I just hop in the car where Tom finally calls me back and I tell him what's going on. Luckily, he was working in Blaine at the time, so he was going to make it back soon!

I call my sister and mom and let them know, as I am on the phone with my sis', I have a hard time talking a couple of times due to the pain. She was living in the cities at the time, and she said, " I'm coming!"

So anyway, I got to the hospital at almost 8 am. I was at a 4 and made it to an 8 when I asked to get an epidural. I had tried a bath and back rubbing at this point and needed some relief! I got the epidural and started pushing shortly afterwards. I pushed awhile, about an hour and fifteen minutes and then it happened! He was here! Brady Eugene Bergman! Ohh, he was so beautiful and teeny!

Who knew that little boy would give me a run for my money for the next two months of tears, happiness and sleepless nights. But it was so worth it. He is an amazing boy, so caring and funny and compassionate! I just love him to pieces...and now he is FOUR!

Summer filling up?!

2009-03-24T10:44:00.002-05:00

I always think it is strange when your life can be planned out, so to speak, ahead of time with dates, events, trips, concerts, and other things so far in advance! Don't get me wrong, I like to plan things ahead of time if possible, it makes me feel calm and at peace about it becomes I can prepare, be excited, plan....but our summer is already filling up! I know that others have far more events already on their calendar. But have you ever stopped to think about how crazy it is that it is March and a few weekends in August are already taken up on your calendar? I think it is strange.

April we have a concert on the 3rd, April 18th is pancake breakfast and preschool carnival and a night up in Duluth to celebrate the kid's birthdays. May is Tom's birthday month and possible camping, June I'm planning a shower for my sister, a couple of graduation parties, and camping. July a wedding reception in Superior, WI, and August a friend from Australia is coming to visit (10 years in the making), a bachelorette party and wedding of a dear friend! And of course, my Birthday!

I guess it's not a lot, but I know there will be more activities to put down in writing. Which is why our beautiful summers seem to fly by I guess! Not only does having children make life seem to run away from us like an accelerating freight train, but then you add more "stuff" to the mix and in a flash you're 28 years old (almost), with 3 kids, a husband, a mortgage, and lots of bills to pay. And you're brain is filled with an abundance of overflowing memories that you quickly try to capture through cameras and pens.

And at the end of the day, all I really hope to have accomplished, is, "Did I make sure that I loved today?" I sure hope that I can feel good about that at the end of every crazy, busy day.

Sleepy...

2009-03-23T13:58:00.002-05:00

Ughh. Brady got up twice on Saturday night after I had worked all evening, and I'm still feeling the after effects! Oh well I guess! I did not make it to swimming this morning because I wanted to get in every minute of sleep I could! My brain just does not seem to be functioning correctly today either, which is not helping. I was going to take a nap, but then I figured I would not sleep well tonight, so here I am!

I feel like I have a lot to say, but I can't think of one thing. Which is weird for me. So...

I'll talk to ya later.

:)

Going to work!

2009-03-21T15:34:00.002-05:00

Aaagh. I am getting ready for work and it's so unbelievably gorgeous out! Oh well...I suppose I should get used to the fact, especially since summer is coming up and I'll have to work then too.

Had a great day with just Shelby today! My dad came and picked up Brady and Halle. Tom and I went to Blaine with Shelbs and watched our brother-in-law's hockey team that he coaches. Then went out to lunch with our neighbors!

So it was a nice day, would have been perfect if we didn't have to work! (Tom is cooking tonight and I'm waitressing! Should be fun!)

Halle's Birthday

2009-03-20T08:47:00.003-05:00

So, yesterday was an amazing day with Halloran on her second birthday!

Two years ago, I could not fall asleep. I was having contractions starting at around 10 pm. I laid there, got up, laid there, got up. And with so many false alarms before that (3 pre-term labor visits in the middle of the night-all snow storms, one involving my MIL getting stuck in the road), I wanted to make sure that this was it! So finally at around 1:30 am, I told Tom, call the neighbors, we gotta go! Needless to say, he did not believe, but he diligently obeyed!

So our neighbor Katie came over, and we left. When we were in the truck on the way, I knew this was it. The contractions were almost unbareable, and I was having a hard time taking deep breaths. We were up in a room by 2:15 am. About an hour and a half later I had an epidural, and about 10-15 minutes later...I had Halloran in my arms! No lie! As soon as I got my epidural in, laid back down, Rhonda, my midwife said," Well, you're ready!" A couple of pushes and there she was! My mom and sister even came up there! It was so nice! So at 3:51 am, Halloran Marie Bergman, named after Tom's mother's maiden name Halloran, my middle name Marie, was born. 7 lbs. 1 oz and 20 1/4 inches long.

Oh yeah, she was born with a little dark mohawk.

Aaaahhh, home sweet home...

2009-03-19T15:03:00.002-05:00

Busy, busy day! Had quite the mad dash out of the house this morning to get Shelby to her appointments! We had some fun with Halloran this morning, videotaping her blowing out candles on breakfast cupcakes with all of us wearing tinkerbell tiaras and singing! Then Tom rushed Brady to preschool, I got Shelby ready and myself and out the door we went to the U of MN!

Her appointments went very well. They are noticing that her birthmark is shrinking, which is great! She did end up getting a second treatment of the pulsed dye laser. I went in this time with her and helped hold her down while the did it. The first time Tom and I chickened out on going in with her. Luckily it is only about a 20 second deal. She goes back for a check up for that in 3 weeks. She also has an ultrasound on her bladder on the 30th...the same day my sister goes in for her ultrasound to find out which sets of baby clothes she gets of mine, boy or girl!

Tonight, Tom and I get to take Halle out for her birthday. It is super rare that we get out alone with her, so I am really excited and I hope she finds her birthday extra special this year. We are going to take her swimming at the hotel pool, and then out for dinner! Yipee!

I missed all of you as well, thanks for checking back with me!

Holy Canoli!

2009-03-18T22:56:00.001-05:00

Computer is Back!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would like to write a ton tonght, but for a quick recap of my day, I've been up since 4:45 am to go lap swimming and I then worked this evening waitressing and then went to Walmart for some last minute items for Halle's 2nd birthday tomorrow! And now I need to go to bed for Shelby's U of MN appointments tomorrow! Yes, that was plural!

I am so happy to have my computer back!

Some hope...

2009-02-17T13:26:00.002-06:00

Well, I got a call today from the U of MN, and we got Shelby scheduled for her first laser treatment of her hemangioma birthmark on Thursday...this week! Yikes! But, the more I've been reading, these treatments will really help her. It will get rid of the birthmark that is ulcerating. It is getting better now, but from everything I read, it can happen at any time, and the ulcerations may not stop until we get rid of the tissue that is causing her all of this pain!

So I am excited, but extremely nervous at the same time. My prayers are that this is what solves the problem, and that soon, she can be totally pain free!

Mark your calendars and set your timers, for lots of prayers on Thursday at 3:15pm! (Oh, go ahead and start praying now...if you have a few moments). :)