My handsome "Ring Man"

Photo Taken By: Me

Owen was recently asked to participate in the wedding of a couple very near and dear to our family. Here are a few pictures from his debut as the "ring man" (what he ended up calling himself because he could not remember the word ring bearer!)

Photo Taken By: Me

                                                 Photo Taken By: Me

Photo Taken By:Me

Photo Taken By: Everybody Photography

(*Note: Owen is holding a sign that says BLAH!)

Photo Taken By: Everybody Photography

 It was a beautiful fall day and a beautiful wedding.  We are blessed to have Jonathan and Julianna Arjes in our lives 

My husband...the Paperboy

Long before our family and the rest of the world wake up, my husband is busy working.  He fold, bags and delivers the newspaper.  The mornings are quiet.  They can be dark, cold, snow-covered or rainy.  His walk is a strategic one. It is quick paced and carefully planned. Almost calculated as not to be late for his "main job".



The sun peeks up over the horizon as he pulls his Grand Prix back in our currently leaf covered driveway.  He doesn't complain, but he yawns more often and sometimes falls asleep at bedtime prayers. 

My husband amazes me.  He is determined, dedicated and willing.  He takes pride in everything and every job he does.   Most of us would be disgusted with a 3:30am wake-up call.  He may hit the snooze a few times, but he doesn't hesitate to climb out of our warm bed and begin his day. 


Why does he do it?  Well years ago it was to help us financially.  He stepped up so I could spend more time with our children.  Today, it is to help us stay ahead.  I am thankful.  He sacrifices his time each and everyday to give us time.  He does this all and he still makes his family a priority.

I am so proud, blessed and honored to call him my husband.  He leads by example and is teaching our sons what a "real man' is. 

His hands are callused from years of working as a mechanic, gray hair is peeking threw his facial hair, his brown eyes sometimes show pure exhaustion, his shoulders are broad and open to lean on .  But when you meet him you also can clearly see he wears his heart on his sleeve.  It is big and loving and full of grace. 

If our sons take away just a fraction of Paul's goodness, they will be forever blessed.  I know I am.  I am blessed to be married to the paper boy.

Fall...ing Behind

It is hard to believe the warm season has graciously left us and fall is in the air.  Our summer was a multitude of things: hot, cold, busy, too short and memorable.  We tried our best to cram everything possible in the great-outdoors.  We took a family vacation to the north shore, bought bicycles, camped, fished, geocached, and hiked.  I did my best to keep up with my walking, but an angry low back and a shoulder injury set me back a little bit.  Thankfully I am recovering and hoping this autumn offers a few "walk worthy" days.

Owen started first grade a few short weeks ago and our evenings have been filled with this new concept they call homework.  This is not a joyful time in the Korbel household, as he becomes EXTREMELY frustrated with reading.  I try to remind him, like with anything new, this will take time to master.  This is difficult for him, as he has always seemed to excel in his "firsts".   We as parents practice patience and let me tell you this is sometimes challenging .  Prayers this becomes "easier"  with time.  Reading can be such a wonderful, life long, hobby.

Easton remains the MESSIEST child alive.  He continues to leave his "Easton Tracks"  where ever he goes.  This generally means snot wipes on the couch,  food stains on his shirt and potty on the floor.  Bless his dirty little self.  He is talking up a storm and asking questions.  Oh boy! 

Paul started a new job here in town at Viracon.  We are so blessed he LOVES his job.  There is so much to be thankful for, especially benefits!

I had a first this week.  I shot a wedding.  Shot, being in the photography sense that is.  After over 10 hours of prime photo opts I captured 1300 images of this beautiful couples day.  I have started to edit the photos now.  I celebrate with each moment I caught.  It is those simple moments that continue to mold my passion for this art.

Here is a glimpse of the day....the rest will have to await the brides approval.

Listing: Full-Time Marriage with Benefits

When Paul and I stood at the alter of our church eight years ago (this Tuesday) we made a promise, a commitment before God and our families and friends.  We promised in sickness and in health til death do us part to continue this union of marriage. 

In a society where divorce rates are increasing and statically less people are actively attending church the word "marriage" is loosely used.

You see marriage is a life-long career.  It is not listed as a temporary position in the want ads.  God created marriage for the long term. 

Marriage is not always easy however.  When two people, who have been uniquely made come together there is bond to be indifference.  Marriage is a full-time job with benefits. 

I believe most people mentally write the resume of the the partner they pray they will have one day. A woman may require their husband to be God-fearing, hard working, athletic, and loving.   Men may require their wife to be motherly, adventurous, organized or intelligent. 

We often look for someone who shares our faith, our values and our ideas.  But, as I said before we are two different minds uniquely created and sometimes there is chaos in our "shared position". 

I am, my no means, a marriage expert.  Eight years and a few devotionals later doesn't give me more points, but I am aware of how maintenance works.

Most jobs we work have a maintenance and cleaning crew.  These people fix what is broken and clean what is messy.  In marriage, that is up to us.  We disagree and insult each other.  We are quick to anger and slow to ask for forgiveness.  We break promises and make messy decisions.  It is hard to admit we are wrong and easy to blame.

We must learn to forgive, think before we speak, listen and be slow to anger.  This is a full-time job.  We must pray together, learn together and make decisions together. We must celebrate our differences as man and women and try our best to understand and embrace why God created us this way. 

So we know this is hard work, but trust me there are benefits:

Insurance coverage.   When committed to one anther we can guarantee full coverage of love.  Being loved and cared for improves our health and well being.


Life Insurance. Commitment.  Knowing, for the rest of your earthly life you will share it with anther human being, is blissful.

Dental.  Sharing this union is subject to lots of smiling and laughing.


Parenthood. Love can create new life. And parenthood, is one of the most exciting benefits of marriage. It comes with it's share of challenges, but likewise it's share of rewards.


My grandparents will celebrate 59 years of marriage this week.  When asked at a wedding, how they got that far my grandfather replied, "remember two words, yes dear".  Whether you are a man or women you can remember these words.  Try to understand your partner whether it is yes dear, I can imagine that bothers you or it is yes dear, I was wrong.  But also think of it as yes God, I will give this job everything I have got.  Marriage is indeed a full-time job with benefits.

I am a runner???

So I walked a half marathon.... now what goals do I set for myself?  I could do a full one I suppose, or raise money and participate in the Susan B. Komen walk (http://www.the3day.org/) .  Frankly, I don't have the time to train to walk 26.2 miles and I am TERRIBLE about asking people for donations (especially over $2000 worth). 


So my next goal....running.  Yup, that gross thing I GREATLY disliked in school.  Mile time came and I dreaded the day.   I run only to get away from scary dogs or to catch a stray child approaching danger.  I am out of breath in the end and wanna puke.

Why do you ask, would I want to run then?

Well, I figure I can walk a mile in less then 16 minutes so why not knock it up a notch and jog a little.  You see, I am in better shape now then I have been in a few years and I am feeling physically capable of this challenge.

I researched running programs and came across "From the Couch to a 5K"  method (http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml) and started it about 2 1/2 weeks ago.  Today I ran a mile....without stopping...or puking, but definitely panting. 

New goal .....run a 5K.  Yup, come September I will lace up my shoes again and run.  I won't break any records (or bones I hope) and I will cross another finish line.  Rest assured I will run. 

Our Graduate

It's hard to believe the school year is nearly over and my sweet six-year-old has almost completed Kindergarten. 

We attended his "Graduation Ceremony" this evening along with Mimi, Papa, Aunt Kelly and special friends Kathy, Julianna, and Johnny. 

I glowed while Owen read his line and sang "This Little Light of Mine" (awesomely acceptable at a Christian School).

We are so blessed to be the parents of this little man!  Congratulations Owen, "We love you to the moon and back!"

      (Note: I am wearing heels and he comes up to my armpit in this photo.  Wow)

Our Blessed May!

Summer may finally have reached the frozen tundra we call Minnesota.   The last few days have been lovely with an occasional shower (becoming somewhat of a theme here). 

The Korbel's are busy counting our blessing.  May brought us lots of joy. 

Paul got a new job here in town!!!  No more filling up the gas tank three times a week.  He will be working as a forklift/company truck mechanic for a local glass coating company.  We were humbled to know this job comes with WONDERFUL benefits (something we have not had in a LOOONG time), awesome hours (off work by 3pm) and good pay.  Our prayers were answered!!! 

I completed my first WALKING half marathon with a time of 3:28:16 (I had a goal of 4:30).  My almost 57-year-old mom and I crossed the finish line hand and hand and completely soaked.  Yes, it rained all but 100 yards of our 13.1 mile walk in the countryside. 

Owen's first year of school is winding down.  With a mere 5 days left of Kindergarten my eldest son will officially be a 1st grader.  We, after lots of praying and discussion, have decided to keep him at St. Mary's again next year.  We have been impressed with the Christian Education he has received and look forward to his continued growth educationally and spiritually. 

Easton, our baby, turned 2!!!  He is ALMOST potty trained!  Since May 5th he has been in underwear.  We continue to put a diaper on him at bedtime as he tends to wake up wet.  At this point he is telling us when he has to go "poopy" (the word he uses for all  bodily functions).  He has had NO accidents since Saturday and I am hopeful this continues to be the trend. 

We spent Memorial Day weekend at the lake with Papa and Mimi  fishing, grilling and reflecting on the lives given for our freedom. 

We are counting down the days until we head NORTH (the north shore that is) for our annual family vacation.  We all are in need of a little  R&R. 

Bring on summer God!  We have our bug spray, sunscreen, swimsuits and weeding gloves ready!!!

The time has come...

It's here.  In less than 48 hours I will don my walking shoes, tighten my laces, and walk 13.1 miles.  It has been a journey.  I have gained endurance, faith and confidence.  I have lost almost 30 pounds.  I have sacrificed a little and learned a lot.  I can run with my boys and fit in my "old jeans".  Saturday is more than a race to the finish, it is just the beginning of a healthy new life. 

"Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going."  -author unknown

We're Baaaaack!

It is hard to believe an entire month has flown by since I last posted. The Korbel's have been BUSY! Spring, though it feels more like March, is hear and we are doing our best to enjoy it.


Here is a brief run-down on the Korbel Klan:

Paul- Busy as can be. Gas prices are definitely rearing their ugly heads this month. The drive to Albert Lea is getting expensive. Even though we have been experiencing below normal temps, Paul was happy to put the snow boats away for the season and deliver the papers in tennis shoes. My awesome hubby put his amazing mechanical skills to the test this weekend as he did an emergency repair on my van. A few hundred dollars later and without a hoist; my new alternator "runs like a charm".

Lisa- I continue to train for my 1/2 marathon which is now a few short weeks away. Despite a strained posterior tibialis I have pushed thorough it and am proud to report doing great. Mom and I completed an almost 13-mile jaunt on Sunday with no problem (although I must admit I was tired on Monday). Work has been incredibly busy, so I am looking forward to hiring a new staff member soon and reducing my work hours.

Owen- Owen is nearing the end of his first year of school. Through pray and God's grace he will attend St. Mary's again next year. He continues to amaze us with his maturity, manners, faith and academics. I am so proud (even if he has an insufficient in the Hail Mary ((he doesn't have to pass this since we don't practice Catholicism))) He is so happy spring is here and wants to spend every moment possible in the great outdoors.

Easton- Easton, my baby, turns 2 on Saturday. I can hardly believe this little blessing has been part of our lives that long. He recently climbed into the 25% for size (looking back, at two, Owen was 10 lbs heavier and 6 inches taller) A milestone was reached tonight, as he told me he had to use the potty and actually went. Not expecting much, but would love to ditch the diapers soon. Each day brings more vocabulary for this growing boy. He is determined to keep up with his big brother.



It seems the days slip away from us, but we make sure we always count our blessings.

Can you guess what our favorite season is????

MUD SEASON!!!

This boy can eat!!!!!

I cannot believe how much food my 24 pound, almost 2-year-old can consume.

Today's Menu(s) included:

Breakfast:  2 bowls of Toasty O's (Trader Joe's version of Cheerios) with almond milk
                 1 cup almond milk
                 handful of blueberries
                 Trader Joe's granola bar

AM Snack:  1 handful of Annie's Sour Cream and Onion Bunnies
                    Snapea Dried Peas
                    sample of banana chips, ginger snaps and juice at Trader Joe's

Lunch:  Panera BP &J sandwich
            Yogurt
             Soy milk
             Dessert: 1 scoop cotton candy ice cream from Cold Stone

PM Snack (s):   1 handful blueberries
                         1 apple
                         banana chips
                        Annie's Bunny Grahams
                        Pb & J Crackers (3 small)

Supper:   Whole wheat fish taco with cheese, lettuce, and orange peppers
               Strawberries
               1 bite of a brussel sprout
               1 cup almond milk


Bedtime Snack:  Pirate booty white puffcorn
                          1 cup chocolate almond milk


Not to mention about an additional 4 cups of water


I am scared to see what it is going to be like in the teenage years.  I see lots of $$$ signs now!

My To-Do List

After reading a old friend's blog I decided I too need a to-do list.
I figure posting it on my blog will help, as you all can hold me accountable. 

1. Walk a half marathon with my mom- Since Feb 5th I have put more than 100 miles on my walking shoes.  I cannot wait until May 21st when I tie them up and walk 13.1 miles.  It has been a journey, let me tell you.  I never thought a little walk could change my attitude on a healthy lifestyle, but it has.  I also am enjoying all the mother/daughter time I have shared with my mom as we have been training.

2. Lose 40 pounds by June 25th (when we leave for vacation)- I am proud to say since I began training in February I have dropped 14 pounds.  Not only am I enjoying the feeling from working out, but I like the results too. 
3. Daily devotions- Paul and I have made a commitment to do a daily devotional together.  We are utilizing the 365 days of devotions by the authors of the Love Dare.  This is all new to us and even though we go to church, teach Sunday school, pray with our kids and speak daily about God we have never had the intimacy of praying and learning together.  I admit the first night was a little awkward, but it was pretty awesome to have my best friend and life partner to take this challenge together.  We look forward to enriching our marriage, faith and our relationship with Christ. 

4. Save more and work less-  It is my hope (and my daily prayer) that by summer I will be working less and spending more time with my precious sons.  Saving money and spending less is becoming more habitual for us and we continue to learn how to be more frugal daily. 

5. Organize- My back store room could use an overhauling.  We desperately need to organize and label the boys things.  Not quite ready to part with anything yet, as we are not sure our family is complete yet.  Time to break out the label maker (one of my favorite electronics).


Cannot wait to check these off of my TO-DO list!

I'm a big boy now!

It is official.  Easton is a big boy!

No....more.....crib......

It has been confirmed......

this boys is always hungry.

Thank goodness HyVee had a sale on Annie's Bunnies this month plus I had a coupon!  Let me tell you I stocked up.  I think we should consider taking out stock in Trader Joe's.  Their apple juice (watered down of course) and granola bars have become a staple our house. 

It is surprising to me he still remains in the 15% range for his age.  Then again, he has quite the digestive tract and he is his father's son!!

What's for dinner.

I found this recipe on http://www.weightwatchers.com/ and thought I would give it a whirl.

Fish Tacos
Ingredients
8 item(s) frozen breaded fish stick(s)
4 large burrito-size wheat flour tortilla(s)
1/4 cup(s) light sour cream
1/2 cup(s) salsa
2 cup(s) lettuce, shredded
1 large tomato(es), chopped
2 oz low-fat cheddar or colby cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions:

Cook fish sticks according to package directions.

Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

Top each tortilla with 2 fish sticks, 1 tablespoon of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of salsa, 1/2 cup of lettuce, 1/4 of the tomato and 2 tablespoons of cheese; roll up tortillas and serve.

I omitted the tomato and sour cream and added mashed avacado instead. The boys loved it and so did Paul and I.  It was simple prep and easy clean-up!

Easton thought the fish tacos rocked.  I think he ate a pound of blueberries too!

Faith and the FLU

Is happy to report after a horrible week we are all smiling tonight.

Influenza A took up residence in the body of my 6-year-old son this week.  I cannot express how awful this was.  He had an extremely high fever (104 degrees), hardly spoke and spent an entire day on the couch moaning. 

I have to admit this was probably one of the most scary experiences I have had as a mother.  I tried my best to tend to his every need.  He was so mad at me though.  He cried when I made him drink water and when I placed him in a cool bath.  He probably thought I was the worst mommy ever. 

I prayed.  I prayed for his fever to stop, for the Tamiflu to start working and for rest for us all.

By Thursday his eyes were twinkling again. 

By Friday he was bouncing off the walls (a call to the doctor confirmed increased hyperactivity is a side effect in 1% of children who use this medication, we collectively decided to discontinue it at this time)

It was a long week for sure. 

Praise God we have faith!!

It's a crying sorta day....

What we are reading....

After reading about this Bible on three friends blogs I decided to purchase it for our family.


Photo courtesy of Amazon.com


What do I think?  Lets ask Owen!

Owen: Can we read just one more chapter, PLEASE!

I think you have your answer!!

"Katching" up with the Korbels!

We are teething (well not all of us, just Easton).  We were disappointed to hear the teething tablets we have trusted for a year now have been removed from the shelves to address an issue with manufacturing.  We were relived to know that after investigation by the FDA, it was found this company (with over 85 years of safe products) will be returning this product to the shelves soon.  You can read about this recall here: http://www.hylands.com/news/hylands-teething-recall.php

We welcomed sleep.  After teething for a week, fighting off strep throat and an ear infection this little boy was in NEED of rest.

 

We had a sleep over and danced the night away.  Easton has a way with the ladies I tell you.  Too bad all these beauties are his cousins.

Mommy created a few FREE books with her favorite photos.  This one was made using Shutterfly. 

http://www.shutterfly.com/photobook

Mommy and cousin Greta worked on a new shirt for Owen

Crafting continued as we made some new wall art!

This horrible unorganized mess of toys and workout equipment

became....

 

Lastly, I purchased my footwear for the big race.

With 3 weeks of training behind me and 7 lbs of weight off my body I am looking forward to May 21st!

Bring on 13.1 miles of of open road!

What a great week we had!

Handing over the keys....

My employment decision was placed in my hands and I was given the keys.

I have decided to take back a seat for now. 

I am seatbelted in his love.  Protected by God. 

He is in control and only he knows my path.

Thank-you Shelly for your kind words of encouragment and faith.

I cannot wait to see where HE takes us!

Prayer Request

My employment.

I have a lot on my mind. 
I have a big decision to make.
I need your prayers.


I am in the drivers seat right now.  I am in control of it all.  The brakes.  The wheel.  The gas. 

Now here comes the hard part. I am at a T.  Which road do I take?

I believe God will give me the answer.  Please pray he holds my hand along the way.

What we have been doing............................

The boys made "BUBBLE BEARDS"!

 We snuggled on the couch when mommy and Easton were battling strep throat!  :(

We made and gave daddy his Valentine's gift.  I found this project on this awesome website: http://www.icanteachmychild.com/

We watched 8+ inches of snow fall on our DRY driveway and green trees!

We tasted some of our art projects (limited to Easton and no worries, it is non-toxic paint!)

It was a quiet, calm and much needed relaxing weekend.  We are on the mend now (thanks to some amoxycillin and chiropractic adjustments). 

Wish I could report we were leaving for somewhere warm this weekend........oh, well!

I just love them!

 

 

http://www.active.com/walking/st-joseph-mn/we-walk-marathon-and-half-marathon-2010

In less than 4 months my mom and I will don our walking shoes and complete our first 1/2 marathon.  I am excited to check this off on my "bucket list".  Training began a little late due to my low back issues last month, but one week in I am feeling confident I will be ready come race day.  I just wish I didn't have to workout on a treadmill in my basement.  Hoping this -14 degree weather improves and I can enjoy a stroll in the outdoors.



Remember when.....

 The sky was blue, the trees were green and we were comfortable in a t-shirt?

Seems like so long ago, since all I have been seeing lately is a lot of white and long johns!

"Walking in a Winder Wonderland"

Today was perfect.

After church we bundled up and took to the outdoors.  As you can see we strapped on our snowshoes and went hiking in the woods.  Minus a few "how far away is the van" questions we enjoyed our day.  We even got in some snuggling and  hot chocolate when we got home. 

Too bad tomorrow is Monday again!