the schoenbecks

Thomas Is One!

2011-11-17T20:57:00.007-06:00

I am so amazed that Thomas is already one year old! He has grown so quickly and I can't believe he's not a baby anymore. He's still just as happy as can be...just as long as Momma is around!

Thomas' First Birthday

2011-11-01T21:15:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Thomas' first birthday with a Star Wars theme. We enjoyed seeing everyone and I think everyone enjoyed seeing Thomas eat his cake. It was by far the highlight of my night!

Wookie Cookies!

The cake...It didn't turn out exactly as I had planned but it still tasted good!

I like cake, Momma.

I want more cake!

Please can I have more cake?

Inga playing with Thomas' presents. The sheep from that toy has not been seen since the night of the party.

The cousins playing together.

More Leaves

2011-10-30T21:08:00.004-05:00

This time, Elsa was awake to enjoy the leaves with all of us. And we had an even bigger pile to play in. More leaves is always better!

Falling leaves!

I love Inga's face in this picture.

Thomas was trying to climb the slide. Always doing what he's not supposed to!

So much fun!

Playing in the Leaves

2011-10-29T20:48:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love a big pile of leaves? While Elsa napped one afternoon, Inga and Thomas enjoyed a little time playing together in the backyard. Thomas had a fantastic time!

Having a good time.

A happy girl.

Pure joy!

Amber's Fight

2011-10-28T21:20:00.003-05:00

One of my best friends was recently diagnosed with breast cancer at age 29...just before turning 30 in August. Amber has been such an inspiration to all of us in how she has taken on this battle. She is an amazing fighter and is determined to defeat cancer! Knowing her, she will!!! A photographer did a photo documentary of Amber's fight and shared it with us all. Feel free to watch the video and be ready to be inspired. And you might want to grab a tissue or two!

http://video214.com/play/wd1wTh1HgZCMN0cLGk4PAg/s/dark

Especially for You Race

2011-10-23T21:52:00.002-05:00

Not long ago, my friend Amber found out she had breast cancer. In support of her battle, Thomas and I joined her in the Especially for You Race. She's one tough cookie so we know she will beat this and be even stronger in the end! We love you, Amber!

Abby, Abbey, Me, Amber, and Angie ready to walk!

Thomas all bundled up before the race. It was a cold morning!

Face Painting

2011-10-23T21:28:00.002-05:00

The girls love to get their faces painted. And who wouldn't when it turns out like this?!

And why not throw in a fancy balloon poodle?

And a balloon butterfly bracelet!

The Schoenbecks Love Bath Time!

2011-10-14T22:02:00.002-05:00

We love taking pictures at bath time. I think it's because the kids are contained and can't move before I get the shot! They always have a fun time playing together.

Happy boy! My new favorite picture!

Inga with crazy hair.

Crazy hair sisters!

Elsa showing off her new do.

I don't think Thomas likes this hold!

Thomas Enjoying Life

2011-10-14T21:54:00.002-05:00

Thomas is a big fan of "Yo Gabba Gabba" just like his sisters!

A little "crabby" after a bath.

Lunch wore me out!

Ahh....sleep!

Bobcat Blast

2011-10-13T21:13:00.002-05:00

Inga and Elsa participated in the Bobcat Blast at their school. It is an annual fun run fundraiser. Thomas and I headed over to watch the girls run laps. I was pretty impressed by how many laps they each ran. At the end of the race, everyone got a bomb pop. What a great way to end the race!

The girls enjoying their bomb pops.

Thomas watching all the kids.

Science Center of Iowa

2011-10-13T21:03:00.002-05:00

While Jason worked at Guard, the kids and I visited the Science Center of Iowa. Everyone had a great time exploring. I guess we'll have to go back again!

Thomas crawling through the tubes.

Elsa and the robot she made.

Teamwork!

Thomas liked the Legos.

So did Elsa.

And Inga did, too.

Guard Family Weekend

2011-10-12T20:56:00.003-05:00

We joined Jason for a weekend of Guard duty. Along with that weekend was a gathering for the Guard families. The kids had a great time playing, petting the animals, and eating lots of chips and cookies!

The girls holding bunnies.

Elsa loved the bunnies.

A lot! She wanted to take one home!

Inga kinda liked them, too.

Too bad we can't ride this pony.

Inga loved the giant inflatable slide. She rode on it at least 25 times!

Elsa went down the slide, too.

Although, maybe she didn't.

Thomas just liked walking around the park.

He also enjoyed poking at the bunnies.

It was hard to keep Elsa away from those bunnies!

Elsa & Mommy

2011-10-07T21:31:00.002-05:00

Elsa had been having a rough time and I thought some one-on-one time with Mommy might help a little. I took her on a surprise trip to the Build-A-Bear Workshop. She was so excited to pick out her animal, give it a heart, and watch it be fluffed. Elsa also had a great time shopping for an outfit for her new friend. She chose a pink bunny with daisies on it and appropriately named her Flower.

She's ready for snuggle time!

One very happy little girl to have a new friend!

Naptime?

2011-10-06T21:45:00.003-05:00

Preschool is wearing out these little girls! They fall asleep just about anywhere these days. It keeps me giggling, though!

Thomas, Jason, and Elsa

2011-10-06T21:31:00.002-05:00

It's Elsa's turn for a ride in Daddy's backpack. She had a great time and didn't ever want to leave!

First Day of Preschool

2011-09-15T21:36:00.002-05:00

Inga and Elsa are both in preschool this year...and in the same class! They were so excited to begin the new year. Elsa was incredibly happy to be following in Inga's footsteps. She is so proud to finally be going to school and learning.

Little cute sisters!

The backpacks.

One with Thomas so he doesn't feel left out!

In front of the school. This is where they will be going to kindergarten through fifth grade.

Preschool is hard work!

Yep, it's official!

Hard work indeed!

Peanut Butter Sandwich Face

2011-09-15T21:28:00.001-05:00

Elsa loves peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. She also loves to make us laugh. Why not combine the two and create a peanut butter sandwich face?!

Adventureland

2011-09-12T21:42:00.002-05:00

We took a one day trip to see Adventureland this summer. The kids had a fantastic time going on all the rides and eating the corn dogs and funnel cakes!

Riding the ferris wheel.

Lady Bugs

Inga getting ready to ride Puff the Magic Dragon.

Elsa flying on Puff!

The Frog Hopper was a favorite of the girls'.

Pink motorcycles are perfect for girls.

Thomas loves watching!

All tuckered out!

Flying the plane.

Elsa's First Haircut

2011-09-06T20:55:00.002-05:00

It took her three years but she finally made it! Elsa got her first haircut! She loved being there and getting the attention. Hopefully we don't have to wait another three years before her first trim!

Sitting on the horse.

The finished product.

Chocolate Muffins

2011-09-06T20:45:00.001-05:00

Somebody likes chocolate muffins! It's pretty difficult to clean him up afterward. Especially since he shoves the muffin in his ears. Whatever makes him happy, right?!

Dress Up Time

2011-09-06T20:40:00.002-05:00

Inga gave up naps long ago so now during nap time, she finds other ways to fill her time. On this particular afternoon she got dressed up in her fancy clothes. She even finished off the outfit with some high heels. Lookin' good, Inga!

More Cake Pops and a Goose Egg

2011-08-31T22:08:00.002-05:00

We had some more cake pops so the girls ate a couple more for dessert. Later in the day, after a little run-in with the swing set, Jason and I gave in and gave them another. We think it was a well-deserved second dessert!

Lizard and Lion

Ouch!

HUGE goose egg!

That's what bumping your head on the swing set does to you!

Amazingly enough...it never really bled!

When the injury to your head is bigger than your dessert, you deserve another dessert!

Cake Pops

2011-08-31T22:01:00.002-05:00

The girls had lots of fun eating the zoo animals cake pops we got at a local bakery. Nothing beats dessert in the shape of a lion or koala!

I want some, too!

Face Painting and Lightning Bugs

2011-08-31T21:48:00.002-05:00

We attended the Downtown Farmer's Market and the girls were able to get their faces painted. They loved showing it off to everyone! We ended the daby staying up late and catching lightning bugs. They had a great time watching them light up and fly away before bed!

Sorry about the humidity! It kind of affected the lens a bit!

Happily watching her lightning bug crawl around.

Look, Momma!

We are friends!

Elsa's First Dance Class

2011-08-31T21:40:00.002-05:00

Elsa is finally old enough to be in dance class! She was so excited for her first day. She made sure she was dressed to impress! When I was taking her picture, she wouldn't look up so I was sure to get the flower in the picture as well.

I Love This Girl!

2011-08-31T21:12:00.003-05:00

Elsa was singing a song Inga had learned in preschool last year. She got the words a little wrong but I think it just made the whole thing even cuter!

And then she turned into a superhero!

Up Too Early!

2011-08-28T21:36:00.001-05:00

Thomas was up a little too early one morning. He didn't last through breakfast before he was fast asleep in his high chair. Somebody was tired!!!

Going Home

2011-08-24T21:42:00.002-05:00

A parent's dream is always that the kids will sleep on the ride home. The kids all slept on our ride home...just not all at the same time!

Elsa happy to be awake.

Inga was wiped out.

Now it's Elsa's turn to sleep...

...And Inga's turn to be awake.

Thomas wasn't having any fun.

Kansas City Zoo

2011-08-22T20:46:00.004-05:00

We spent a day at the Kansas City Zoo and this time focused on Australia and other parts of the world. (Last year we only made it to Africa.) The kids had a great time looking at all the animals. Elsa especially had a great time whenever she convinced someone to hold her so she didn't have to walk. She's a conniving little thing!

The polar bear showed off in front of the crowd.

Inga and Elsa loved watching the polar bear dive into the water.

Thomas kinda liked it, too!

Elsa and Danny feeding the sheep.

Jason and Thomas enjoying some time together.

Elsa and Inga in front of the wooden bear.

Having some ice cream on a HOT day!

Inga chose a popsicle.

Thomas chose a bag of chips.

Elsa LOVED riding the giraffe! It didn't go up and down because of the height but she chose it about every time!

Inga liked the "princess" horse.

Elsa and Jason riding for the 8th time? Probably more than that!

Riding the car in the air conditioned gift shop. They didn't want to leave. I don't think it was the ride that made them want to stay!

Worlds of Fun

2011-08-17T21:42:00.005-05:00

We spent the afternoon at World's of Fun with Danny. We were very glad to have him with us! We all had a great time riding the rides...and watching the kids ride the rides!

On the carousel.

Thomas was so hot!

The kids' train!

The big train!

Thomas is happy for some time out of his stroller.

Race cars!

Elsa had fun riding with Daddy...

...and Great-Uncle Danny.

Monster trucks!

I guess I'll ride, too!

National World War I Museum

2011-08-14T07:41:00.003-05:00

After we left Union Station, we headed up to the National WWI Museum. We didn't visit the museum. (We didn't want to hear the whines of boredom from the girls.) So instead we just looked at the view of the city from the monument.

Trying to get a good picture of the girls.

Something is bothering Inga...

She's got an ant crawling up her shorts!

The view of Union Station from the monument.

Union Station and Fritz's

2011-08-10T21:40:00.002-05:00

We headed to Kansas City again this summer for a visit with my uncle Danny and aunt Judi and a little vacation time. It was extremely hot but we had a great time exploring Kansas City. On our first venture, we headed over to Union Station to check out the model train exhibit. The kids had a great time watching all the trains. We then went to Fritz's for lunch. Fritz's is a train-themed restaurant and is pretty fun! Your food is brought to you by...what else...a train!

Thomas having fun at the Lego table.

Elsa playing at the train table.

Inga loved running around watching all the model trains!

Waiting in line at Fritz's.

Next car! Still waiting...

We made it! Now just waiting for our food to arrive.

Jump!

2011-08-07T21:45:00.002-05:00

Thomas loves jumping in his jumperoo. He's generally the happiest baby we have ever seen but he is extremely happy when he gets to jump!

Michael Buble!!!

2011-08-05T21:06:00.003-05:00

At the last minute, I entered a radio contest. The prize was a pair of tickets to see Michael Buble in Moline. Never thought I'd win but was so excited that I did! Jason and I had a great time at the concert. It was so fun and we got to listen to some great music. He is a great performer. I'd love to go again someday!

Ready for the show to start.

This is the closest we got to Michael.

Not the greatest seats for viewing, but he sounded great!

Blast Off!

2011-08-05T21:00:00.002-05:00

The space ship is a family favorite and Thomas has had his first few experiences with it. Once we put him in, they girls were very quick to follow. They don't let him do much without joining him!

Thomas in the space ship.

How many Schoenbecks can you fly to the moon?

Swimming Lessons

2011-07-31T21:53:00.002-05:00

We had a successful round of swimming lessons this summer. Unfortunately I think most lessons took place out of the water rather than in the water due to the cold temps at the beginning of the summer. I'd have to say the highlight for me was when the teachers decided to play hangman with Elsa's class when they couldn't go into the water. Maybe it's just me but I'm guessing it's probably not a good idea to play a game that requires you to know how to read with kids who barely know their letters.

Elsa having a great time during lessons.

Inga ready for her teacher to show up.

Elsa is excited for class to start!

The girls were a little chilly waiting for swimming lessons to start.

Inga's Recital

2011-07-17T21:38:00.002-05:00

Inga had her second dance recital at Franklin Middle School. She did a great job this year and actually did both dances! She had a helper...a middle school girl named Amelia...and Inga instantly had a new best friend. Inga has been asking for another recital ever since.

Inga just before stage time.

Elsa's Tired!

2011-07-17T21:30:00.002-05:00

Elsa was a bit tired one afternoon! She gave up eating her lunch and disappeared under the table. After a minute, we looked down to find this. Doesn't look too comfortable so she must have been exhausted!

Our First Family 5K

2011-07-09T21:54:00.002-05:00

We walked/ran in our first family 5K. Okay, Jason ran a 5K and the kids and I walked about half of a 5K! We were joined by the Haag family and two moms with five kids doesn't really work when you want to complete a race! At least we know for next time to find sitters for the kids. Or just stay home with them! All in all, it was a good time, though. After the 5K, there was a fun run that the girls did with Jason. They both got a ribbon for finishing that race so they were pretty happy!

Inga and Elsa before the race.

Thomas took it easy during the race!

Our little walkers...Inga, Addi, Elsa, and Gable.

Jason and the girls in the fun run.

Inga's 3 Year Old Preschool Graduation

2011-07-09T21:38:00.003-05:00

Inga's preschool allows all of the kids to go through graduation at the end of the year. That way no one feels left out! Inga had a great year and we are looking forward to another wonderful year at Little Lions. Elsa especially can't wait since she will be joining Inga this year.

Inga before the ceremony started.

Inga with her teachers, Miss Shawna and Miss Dawn.

Elsa's Imagination

2011-07-08T21:39:00.002-05:00

Elsa loves being on camera. Hope you enjoy her thoughts!

Elsa explaining super heroes.

Elsa singing one of Inga's preschool songs. She doesn't quite have the words right but it's still pretty cute!

Anyone Want a Nap?

2011-07-08T21:34:00.001-05:00

After a busy morning, here was what the crew looked like on the ride home...think they were tired?

Our Growing Boy

2011-07-08T21:30:00.001-05:00

Thomas keeps on changing on us! He is just growing too fast.

Enjoying some pizza...yes, pizza!

Wearing Daddy's hat.

Woops!

Elsa's First Dentist Appointment

2011-07-08T21:20:00.002-05:00

Elsa had her first visit to the dentist appointment. She did such a good job! She got right up into the chair and cooperated so well with the dentist and hygenist. She even let them clean and floss her teeth. And best of all...no cavities!

Thomas waiting for Elsa to be finished.

Happy girl!

All right, Mommy! Let's get on with it!

Thomas' 6 Month Pictures

2011-07-08T21:10:00.003-05:00

Here are a few of our favorite pictures from Thomas' 6 month photo shoot. He is growing so fast!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Elsa!

2011-07-07T21:21:00.004-05:00

Elsa's birthday party was a success this year! No crying and lots of fun! When we asked Elsa what she wanted for her birthday, all she said was, "A Tiana cake!" For those of you unfamiliar with the current Disney films, Tiana is the princess from "The Princess and the Frog." We got her the cake she wanted and she had a fantastic time at her party!

We are so thankful to have such a beautiful little girl. Elsa makes us laugh every day with her silly behaviors and is so loving to all of us. Elsa is so sweet and we couldn't have asked for a more wonderful little girl!

The Cake!

Tiana on the cake.

Elsa eating her favorite meal. Well, peanut butter & jelly would probably top hot dogs but we figured hot dogs would be a bit fancier for our guests!

Inga enjoying her meal.

The birthday girl and her cake!

Such a sweetheart!

Blow out those candles!

Elsa, Inga, Brekin, & Payson jumping in the bouncy castle.

Bath Time and Cloth Diapers

2011-07-07T21:01:00.004-05:00

Thomas absolutely LOVES bath time! He loves to splash in the water and chew on his wash cloth. He gets a bit frustrated with trying to grab the toys since they always seem to float away from him!

We have also started using cloth diapers with Thomas. I always wanted to try them with the girls but heard tons of horror stories about them. Turns out they've changed a bit since my mother's day. Well, they've changed a lot! I have been so happy with the change and they are much easier than I thought they would be. I'm now trying to convince everyone to use them! We are using GroVia diapers and want to thank Lauren at Birth, Baby, and Beyond for educating me all about them!

Happy boy in his cloth diaper.

Aren't they so stinkin' cute?! And really...they don't stink!

Our Crazy Kids

2011-07-07T20:53:00.001-05:00

We always have a good time taking pictures...

Thomas' big blues...

Elsa's fairy costume...

And Inga being a cheese!

Elsa's Ear Muffs

2011-06-14T21:56:00.002-05:00

Elsa's always looking to make us laugh. She decided to put on Jason's ear muffs that he wears on the flight line. They're a perfect fit, don't you think?

Elsa Loves Buddy

2011-06-14T21:36:00.002-05:00

You guessed it...Buddy has returned once again. Inga and Elsa love looking for Buddy each day. Elsa has taken to giving him kisses. Yuck! We don't encourage it but she really loves him. Perhaps one day he'll turn into her prince?

Cookies & Dancing

2011-06-10T22:55:00.002-05:00

Elsa was enjoying a cookie and a little dancing in the kitchen when I was able to catch her on video for a minute. She loves dancing...especially in her swimming suit!

Thomas' Baptism

2011-05-08T06:45:00.003-05:00

Thomas was baptized on March 27th. He slept for 13 hours the night before so he was awake for the entire service! He was very happy to be there and did a great job cooperating with the pastor. Afterward we hosted a lunch at our house and the girls enjoyed having some extra friends to play with.

Thomas and Grandpa Humpal.

Thomas and Daddy

Butch Hataway, the Elder who presented Thomas to the congregation, Pastor Jim, and the Schoenbeck family. Elsa obviously didn't want her picture taken. Butch is a long-time family friend...I used to babysit his kids!

Another attempt at getting Elsa in the picture. She decided to hide.

Will she cooperate this time? Nope! Inga's getting bored.

Inga checking out the baptismal font.

Our celebratory cake.

The Kids

2011-05-08T06:31:00.001-05:00

Inga and Elsa love reading stories together. Here they are after a bath enjoying and iPad story at the kitchen table.

Happy girls!

Thomas and Emma having a little time together.

Great-Great Grandma Pelz's 99th Birthday

2011-04-22T21:36:00.002-05:00

My great grandma, the kids' great-great grandma, turned 99 this year! To celebrate, we went to her birthday party. She decided on the menu...taco pizza! Pretty good meal for your 99th birthday!

It took a while for us to get a picture with Grandma.

I think this may be the best one?!

Undle Jack playing with Thomas. They became fast friends!

Grandma with her cake.

Thomas Keeps Growing!

2011-04-22T21:27:00.002-05:00

Thomas is growing so quickly! He is such a happy little boy. He keeps us all smiling!

Lifting that head off the floor!

Tummy time with Inga.

Mmmm....Squash!

More please!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Elsa

2011-04-22T21:23:00.001-05:00

Elsa keeps us entertained!

Here she is in one of her signature dresses...and Daddy's shoes. Nice look, don't you think?

Elsa being her sweet self. I love this little girl!

Day Out with Nana

2011-03-30T13:49:00.003-05:00

We took advantage of a rainy day and invited Nana along with us on a trip to the Iowa Children's Museum. I think all involved had a great day!

Doing a little shopping. Like Elsa's outfit? She dressed herself!

Making pizzas.

Taking care of business in the kitchen.

Checking out the worms' house.

Ready to take off!

In the hot air balloon basket.

Elsa on the carousel.

Inga on the carousel.

Ticklish Thomas

2011-03-30T13:30:00.002-05:00

We have discovered that Thomas is a little ticklish. It's fun to tickle him and listen to his sweet laugh. It is very contagious because whenever he laughs, we just do whatever we can to keep him going!

Great-Great Grandma Pelz

2011-03-30T13:24:00.002-05:00

Thomas met his great-great grandma for the first time! He was a little heavy for her so she didn't hold him for too long but he was very happy to be in her arms.

Elsa and Brogan

2011-03-20T21:28:00.002-05:00

While his babysitter was on maternity leave, we had Brogan come to our house. Elsa was so happy to have a friend to play with every day!

Elsa and Brogan on the Sit & Spin.

Feeding Time

2011-03-20T21:18:00.003-05:00

Thomas started eating baby food. He hasn't been a big fan of rice cereal. We'll see how he does with other foods once he starts those. I'm sure he didn't think it was fair that he got rice cereal while the girls got chocolate ice cream!

Umm...I'm not sure I want to try that!

Yum?

The girls after a bowl of chocolate ice cream.

Making Noises

2011-03-09T21:31:00.003-06:00

Thomas is quite the noise maker these days!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2011-02-13T21:05:00.003-06:00

Jason took Inga to a Daddy Daughter dance for the first time. They had a great time! Inga loved getting all dressed up and having her hair curled. They had a dinner served at the dance which included macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, salad dressing, (Inga said she ate salad dressing but not salad!) and even ended with mini cheesecakes. She's already looking forward to going again next year!

Jason and Inga

Inga with her curly hair.

Our little beauty.

Grace and Inga dancing away.

Inga dancing with Gracie and some new friends.

Inga, Gracie, and Zoey.

Daddy and Inga dancing.

Our Kiddos

2011-02-03T21:10:00.003-06:00

We're always having fun in the Schoenbeck house. Here's what we've been up to lately!

Inga loves practicing her tendus for dance class. Elsa does, too, for that matter. She can't wait for the day to join Inga in class!

Having fun with Thomas in his puppy costume.

Thomas' big smile!

Thomas being silly.

Thomas and Elsa playing on the floor.

Elsa showing off her new earrings. Don't worry...they're just stickers!

Another big smile from Thomas. If only he hadn't scratched his cute face!

Elsa loves dressing up like a princess. On this day she was pretending to be Belle.

A sneaky smile from Thomas.

Inga was attempting to show off her stick on earrings. Maybe next time we'll get a good picture of them.

Story Time

2011-01-23T14:00:00.002-06:00

As tradition holds, Great Uncle Danny brought a book over to share with the kids. He read it to Inga and gave it to her to keep and read again and again.

Papa fell asleep while listening!

Inga, Danny, and Emma

Cuddling on the couch.

Sibling Love

2011-01-16T21:52:00.002-06:00

We are so happy to see how much our children love each other. They have such a fun time just being together. Well, maybe Thomas doesn't care as much at this point but hopefully he will soon!

Tiny Dancers

2011-01-16T21:45:00.002-06:00

Inga and Elsa have taken to playing dance class wearing Inga's recital costumes. They have a great time teaching each other dances and leaping around the house. I get a kick out of watching them in their cute tutus!

Elsa's Goggles

2011-01-16T21:37:00.002-06:00

One of Elsa's newest finds at Nana and Papa's house is a pair of goggles. She never passes up the chance to dress up in anything and if she gets a reaction it makes it even better. If you look carefully, you'll notice that the goggles are upside down. Don't tell her, though. She won't believe you!

Check out that girl!

Mommy Makes Me Hoppy

2011-01-16T21:31:00.002-06:00

We can't turn down an opportunity to take pictures of our newest addition! Hope you enjoy these.

Inga is such a proud big sister.

Sledding

2011-01-16T21:21:00.002-06:00

Jason, Inga, and Elsa went sledding for the first time this winter at the Bowman Woods hill. They went out early in order to avoid the big crowds that usually gather there. The girls had a ton of fun and keep begging Jason to take them back.

Lane Christmas 2010

2011-01-14T21:24:00.002-06:00

We spent Christmas Eve with Nana, Papa, Uncle Dustin, Hiedi, Aunt Stephanie, and Mark. It was nice to see everyone. We only wish Aunt Kerry and Uncle Louie could have been there to make the gathering complete. One bonus to the day was the beautiful falling snow. It was a fantastic day!

Elsa and her olives.

That's about all she ate!

Inga was very excited about her new Littlest Pet Shops!

Elsa checking out her new Hello Kitty puzzle.

Dinner...complete with crowns.

Snow!!!

2011-01-13T21:33:00.002-06:00

After our first big snow Inga and Elsa wanted to shovel just like Daddy. They had a great time and Inga even used the shovel as a giant spoon to eat the snow as she shoveled!

Silly Girls

2011-01-13T21:23:00.001-06:00

As usual, the girls love showing off in front of the camera!

Bubble Heads

2011-01-13T21:20:00.000-06:00

The girls love when Daddy makes their bubble bath!

The Red Skirt Returns

2011-01-13T21:13:00.002-06:00

Elsa has been begging me tolet her wear the red skirt and I finally gave in. She was so happy to be running around he house wearing it. It was adorable!

A big "spooky" smile!

More cheese!

Admiring her "tails."

Running through the house.

Could We Be Sisters?

2011-01-13T21:04:00.002-06:00

Inga and Elsa love watching TV on our bed. We caught them in a very sweet moment...neither of them were sucking their thumb!

Smile!

2011-01-13T20:48:00.002-06:00

The Schoenbeck kiddos are full of smiles these days!

Elsa and Thomas sharing the high chair.

Big smile from Thomas.

A sweet little face.

Thomas and Inga sharing a laugh.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-01T15:51:00.002-06:00

This year we went to Jason's sister's house for Thanksgiving. All the food was amazing! It always is at their house. It was nice getting all the cousins together, too. We had to take three pictures before George would cooperate, though. He really keeps us entertained!

Hunna

Emilia and George

Sophia, Thomas, Great Grandma Otten, Inga, Grandma Humpal, and Elsa

George was thinking, "Again?!"

Finally a good smile from everyone!

Emi holding Thomas and Inga proudly showing off her little brother.

Those seven olives really pushed Elsa over the limit!

Great Uncle Danny

2010-12-01T15:32:00.004-06:00

Great uncle Danny came up from Missouri to meet the newest member of the family. The girls always love seeing him, as do Jason and I. Unfortunately, Judi wasn't able to make the trip this time so she will have to wait a bit longer to meet Thomas.

The Schoenbeck kids.

Smiling at Uncle Danny.

Or maybe just staring!

Checking each other out.

Inga's Lips

2010-12-01T15:27:00.002-06:00

Inga recently had her lips done. After months of begging, we finally gave in to letting her get a little silicone injection!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-12-01T15:17:00.002-06:00

The whole family joined Inga and her classroom for "We Are Thankful" Day. Inga and Elsa each made turkey cookies with Daddy's and Mommy's help. The girls were the lucky ones who got to eat them, though! We all had a lot of fun going to preschool for the morning!

The girls with their finished products.

Elsa ate hers piece by piece.

A happy Inga.

Thomas slept the whole time.

Thomas in his "costume" as Elsa calls it.

One Month

2010-12-01T15:08:00.002-06:00

It's hard to believe that Thomas is already a month old! Take a look at how much he's grown.

Big blue eyes.

Inga trying to quiet him.

Proud big sister, Elsa.

Hey there!

Daddy and Thomas.

Our Little Sleeper

2010-12-01T14:53:00.000-06:00

Thomas looks so sweet when he's sleeping!

Elsa's Foofa Hat

2010-11-28T21:24:00.003-06:00

Elsa found Inga's Foofa hat from last year and is glad to be wearing this hand-me-down! Foofa, for those of you who don't know, is a character from Elsa's favorite show "Yo Gabba Gabba."

Trick or Treat

2010-11-21T17:43:00.002-06:00

This year for Halloween the girls went out with Jason while I stayed home with Thomas. Thomas had a good time sleeping while his sisters went around the neighborhood collecting candy.

Inga as a Princess Unicorn...yes, it's the same costume as last year but it's what she wanted!

The trick or treaters all ready to go!

Elsa as a mouse. She wouldn't let us put her hood up while we were in the house.

Trick or treat!

Inga's 4th Birthday

2010-11-18T08:20:00.002-06:00

It's hard to believe that Inga is 4 already! Time has flown by! We are so proud of the little girl she has become. She makes us laugh every day and amazes us with all the things she is learning. She is such a good big sister to Elsa and Thomas and has really become a great helper around the house. This year we celebrated her birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. It was great to play there with all her friends. She had so much fun and can't wait for her birthday next year!

Inga with the mouse himself.

Her cake.

Elsa was mad because she wanted the cake NOW! Once she finally got a piece, all she ate was the frosting...of course!

The birthday girl!

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-16T21:02:00.002-06:00

Pumpkin carving was a success this year. Jason did a great job cleaning out the pumpkins and carving them while the kids and I watched.

Foofa and Diego

Checking out the jack o' lanterns.

Halloween parade at preschool.

Inga's class.

We Love Thomas!

2010-11-16T20:49:00.003-06:00

It's been busy at our house since bringing Thomas home so I'm catching up on all our pictures we've been taking. We are enjoying every new day with Thomas. He certainly grabs everyone's attention!

Jason and the kids having fun.

Big yawn!

Hey cutie!

Trying so hard to stay awake.

Big sisters.

Sleepy boy.

Thomas

2010-10-29T14:36:00.003-05:00

Thomas' first bath. He wasn't too happy about it!

Ready to go home from the hospital.

He can't wait!

Thomas Jason Schoenbeck

2010-10-18T15:10:00.002-05:00

Jason and I are now the proud parents of three beautiful children! I went in on October 14th to be induced. After a relatively long day, we heard Dr. Pickering announce, "It's a boy!" It was so exciting to finally meet little Thomas! He has been a great little baby and the girls absolutely adore him. We can't wait for him to meet you all. Stop by for a visit when you can!

Thomas Jason Schoenbeck

October 14, 2010

4:41 p.m.

7 lbs., 9 oz.

20.5 in.

It's a boy!

Tipping the scales!

Awake and checking things out!

Momma and Thomas

Daddy, Momma, Thomas, and Dr. Pickering

Two very proud sisters!

Big sister, Elsa!

Big sister, Inga!

Taking care of baby brother.

Thomas Videos

2010-09-29T21:38:00.003-05:00

Elsa really enjoyed the ride on Thomas!

Baby #3 at 36 Weeks

2010-09-20T21:09:00.002-05:00

I had another ultrasound to check on the baby's size. Everything is looking good but we'll go a little early with this one since it's head is measuring on the larger side. We have a few new pictures to share of the youngest Schoenbeck.

Baby's face.

This is the baby's head...with hair!

Fingers...

...and toes!

Thomas the Tank Engine

2010-09-20T20:59:00.002-05:00

We took the girls to Boone, Iowa to go for a ride on Thomas. They were very excited to see him and, besides the cold, had a great time! Jason and I weren't too impressed with the train ride itself (It was probably the slowest train ride we'd ever been on and the scenery was a bit drab) but the girls had fun and that's all that matters.

Standing in front of Thomas.

Hurry up and take the picture, Momma! It's cold!!!

Inga on the train.

Elsa looking at the other trains at the station.

Daddy & Inga

Elsa & Momma

Inga & Elsa playing on the miniature caboose.

Choo-choo!

Brogan's 2nd Birthday Party

2010-09-20T20:52:00.003-05:00

Our friend Brogan celebrated his 2nd birthday with a circus theme this year. We had a great time celebrating with him and dressing up a little bit as well!

Elsa goofing in front of the camera.

How she finally decided to smile.

Inga the clown.

Inga and me with our clown noses.

Inga's rainbow wig.

A family of clowns...Elsa was embarrassed by all of us!

A Family Outing

2010-09-15T21:29:00.004-05:00

The girls finally got Daddy down to the Iowa Children's Museum. They had a great time showing Daddy all the fun rooms to play in and can't wait to go back again!

Flying the plane.

Inga in the hot air balloon.

Elsa in the basket of the balloon.

Inga flying away!

Elsa's fighter plane.

Inga making a craft.

Elsa putting all the vegetables away from her harvest.

Updates

2010-09-15T21:20:00.003-05:00

Just to give a brief update of what we have been doing over here...

It was favorite hat day at preschool and this is the one Inga chose to wear.

Elsa couldn't resist being in a picture with Inga...especially when she gets to make faces in the background!

Inga all ready to go!

Quiet time at our house. This is one of Momma's favorite times!

Elsa's first black eye. It was pretty faint so it didn't show up very well in pictures. We are very glad it has healed and gone away, though! Maybe next time she decides to dive into Momma's lap, she'll wait until Momma is ready instead of face-planting into the hardwood floor!

35 Weeks

2010-09-15T21:13:00.002-05:00

Here are the latest pictures of my growing belly. I am 35 weeks right now and my belly has grown so much since the pictures we took at 25 weeks! Time is running out before this baby's arrival!

Inga's head compared to my belly.

Hello, Baby! Are you in there?!

Matching Dresses

2010-08-29T21:36:00.003-05:00

The girls are now fitting into a couple beautiful dresses that were given to them by Aunt Shelby. We decided we should get a few pictures of the little beauties. If only they would both cooperate every time we wanted to get pictures of them!

Elsa is all smiles...Inga is grumping.

Inga decided to warm up after I offered her gum if she would smile.

Then she started having fun with it!

Both girls making faces.

Silly girls!

Beautiful smile, Inga!

Elsa's big, cheesy grin!

Elsa's Bib

2010-08-29T21:33:00.002-05:00

Elsa is turning into a little entertainer. After most meals, Elsa flips her bib over her head and makes sure we all look at her. She is such a silly girl! I decided we should get a couple pictures to share with all of you!

Look at me!

I'm a silly goose!

Play Group!

2010-08-29T21:28:00.002-05:00

When Inga was only about 6 months old, we were invited to join a play group with three other mommies and their children who were all about the same age. Since then, all the older kids have gained a little sister and two of the families will be adding new babies this fall. We were missing one family at our last play date but still decided to take a couple pictures to update how the children have grown.

Elsa, Mattie, Rory (who wouldn't be in the picture without Mommy, Sarah) and Inga. Rory's older brother Rowan didn't want to be in the picture. Maybe next time!

One more...but with Rory hiding her face!