A Cowboy, Cowgirl, and Cute Lil Buckaroos

The Lil Buckaroos

2011-08-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

2010-11-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

The Mountain Life.....Loving the Great Northwest

2010-10-08T09:39:00.000-07:00

For those who have been out of the loop we were able to get a compassionate reassignment to Fort Lewis, WA. This move will allow us to take Duke to the Developmental Pediatrician at CDRC in Portland, OR. We are now living in Shelton, WA. It is a nice change to be in the mountains and not in the big city at all times. We have wild berries all over and have already picked some and made jam (YUMMY!!!). The kids are enjoying the new house too. We just have to explain to Kasiddee that Grandma can't be here everyday.

Landon Frederick Nichols

2010-08-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Born: August 14, 2010

Time: 12:17 PM

Weight: 6lbs 12oz

Length: 20in

Landon is doing much better. He has been in NICU since right after he was born due to breathing complications. He has been weened from a ventilator to a CPAP breathing machine. The doctors are hopeful to put him on the next step down for weening him from the oxygen on August 19. Today I got to hold him while he received his first feeding through his feeding tube. We have just been able to hold him in the last 2 days and it is very limited at this point. Every moment is special. He is a strong little boy and we know that it has been through all the prayers that he has made the progress. Please continue to pray for Landon as well as all of us as we are very anxious to bring him home.

A kiss and off to NICU

A few minutes to hold after much begging

Kisses from Mommy

Ventilator

Holding Daddy's finger

Holding Mommy's finger

First time on his belly

Off the ventilator and holding him for the second time

Daddy holding Landon for the first time

CPAP

Helping get him situated for first feeding through a tube

Mommy gets to hold him for first feeding

Special moments brought to us thorugh prayer

Styling the shades while under the lights

WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF PRAYER

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-31T17:58:00.000-07:00

2010-05-31T17:46:00.000-07:00

Military Ball

2010-02-19T06:12:00.000-08:00

BEEF it's what's for dinner....Sportin' the Holzapfel Ranch Logo

2010-01-03T14:43:00.001-08:00

2009-12-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

Home at last....Welcome Home SGT Nichols

2009-11-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

Mr. Mischevious

2009-10-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

2009-10-27T19:03:00.001-07:00

2009-10-27T19:02:00.001-07:00

2009-10-27T18:52:00.001-07:00

Happy 5th Birthday Duke

2009-10-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

Chubby Chubby Fat Boy

2009-10-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

Kasiddee at Gymnastics

2009-10-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

2009-07-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

Taking a moment to appreciate the

beautiful creations around me

2009-07-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

FUN TIMES AND GREAT MEMORIES

Rob's RR

2009-07-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

Presenting the Robert Nichols Family

Emmett Russell

Aaron Robert

Duke Michael

Kasiddee Grace

It's been a while....Emmett

2009-06-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

4 months...17lbs 1oz...26in.....over achiever, toppin the charts

Sportin the camo look

Chillin in the walker

Curious George

"My sister loves me"

OH SO PRECIOUS

It's been a while....Duke

2009-06-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

Playing on the beloved trampoline

Riding the four wheeler with Uncle Bob

Trying out the walker

Playing in the pool

Participating in preschool graduation

Duke and his friend Riley

Loving the great outdoors

Concentrating on.........

Playing with Kasiddee

OH SO SLEEPY

It's been a while....Kasiddee

2009-06-09T10:05:00.001-07:00

"I LOVE MY DOGGIE"

"You talkin to me?"

Riding the four wheeler with Uncle Bob

"My brain is that way!"

"Mommy's sunglasses are as big as my head."

Playing with Aaliyah....Kasiddee is a poser

Playing in the dirt with Hali

Emmett and his cousins Kloie and Sophie

2009-04-01T12:15:00.001-07:00

Chunky and Smiling

2009-04-01T11:44:00.001-07:00

Yes I know I am cute

2009-04-01T11:33:00.001-07:00

Sweet baby boy

2009-03-31T10:06:00.001-07:00

Discovering how to smile

2009-03-31T10:03:00.001-07:00

Sweet and Innocent

2009-03-31T10:00:00.001-07:00

2009-03-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

My chubby little fat man. He has no problem eating. His love for eating is of course showing in the growing department. He changes so much each day it is amazing.

Duke is doing great. He loves going to preschool. When Duke was 2 he had his first autism evaluation. At that time the doctors gave him the diagnosis of Pervasive Developemental Disorder due to his age. Since he has been receiving therapy and has made great strides. March 3, 2009 he had a new evaluation. The doctors gave him the official diagnosis of being autistic. They were very pleased with all that we have been doing with him and were amazed by how interactive he was with them during the evaluation process. They said that he has quite obviously came a long ways in his progress and even though the evaluation doesn't show all of it he physically does. The doctors were able to give us some suggestions on what to continue doing and what to revamp. So the journey continues and so will all the amazing things Duke learns.

What can I say about Kasiddee or better yet what can't I say? She is a chatter box and she loves to sing. Kasiddee's rendition of Jesus Loves the Little Children is, "Jesus loves the kids, the pink and red and yellow ones." She has an ear for music. She can hear a song one time and sing it. If you are lacking in the conversation department just talk to Kasiddee she is never opposed to having a conversation.

Emmett Russell

2009-01-29T09:25:00.000-08:00

Welcoming Emmett Russell Nichols

2009-01-28T10:28:00.001-08:00

Emmett Russell Nichols

Born January 27, 2009

9:54pm

8 lbs 3 oz

20.5 in

Labor was quick and easy and we are both doing well. He's a chunk and a beautiful little boy. A true miracle and a wonderful blessing.

What is currently happening

2008-10-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

One in a million smile

Lil Mischevious

Beautiful little girl

Lovin on my lil man

Playing with my Lil Buckaroos

It is a crazy life we live. We are all doing good. Duke is in preschool in Arlington. He is doing great. He loves to go to school and his little classmates love to have him around. Kasiddee absolutely hates not being able to stay at school with Duke. Duke has recently started saying "Momma" and "Num Num". In my opinion he is making the connection of what he is saying. He also has figured out what remote control goes to the DVD player. When his movie is over he will find it and bring it to whoever is around. He is trying so hard to communicate and I really feel it is just a matter of time before it all comes together. Kasiddee talks up a storm and sings all the time. I no longer get to listen to the radio in the car because she gets louder when I turn it on. Well that is all for now. God Bless.

WLC Graduation

2008-08-21T13:37:00.001-07:00

Some of you know and some don't. The last 2 weeks Rob has been at WLC (Warrior Leaders Course). This is the training for him to become a SGT. He has now passed his promotion board and graduated WLC as an HONOR GRADUATE. He is not yet pinned with his new rank, but will hopefully receive his new rank at the beginning of September. I am very proud of him and we both thank you for your prayers and support as he serves our country and defends our freedom. God Bless.

The kiddos

2008-08-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Playing in the yard

"MOMMA the bubbles are getting me"

My SWEET boy

Kasiddee and Aaron coloring together

Aaron playing in the door

ROB

2008-08-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Rob helping me with dinner

Flipping the bacon with the BBQ tongs to avoid getting splattered by the grease

OH BABY you look good in pink

OH SO SERIOUS...only on rare occasions

BELLY

2008-08-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

12 weeks 3 days

I am now 13 weeks 4 days. I have been struggling with morning sickness, but it seems to be tapering off a little more each day. I am very blessed and love every moment.

Just Life

2008-07-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

"REALLY mom the food tastes better when I'm on top of the table"

How to eat a bagel and cream cheese from the eyes of Kasiddee....with a fork

"YUMMY MOMMA"

Aaron and his new blanket....he's been begging me to make one for him

Cheesey grins from my silly boy

"HELP....Mom's cutting my hair with scissors"

Duke asleep at the dinner table

Kasiddee eating noodles and green beans

Aaron being silly while eating his noodles and green beans

Aaron tries his hardest to hide from the camera....I won

Playing at the lake

2008-07-20T16:02:00.000-07:00

Duke chillin on the boat at BLORA

Aaron....too cool to smile, he's busy enjoying the boat

Daddy and his kids

My sour face PRINCESS chillin with her MOMMA....shortly after she went potty on my lap

Kasiddee feeling the wind in her hair

Rob and Aaron getting ready to try some fishing

We spent the weekend camping and playing at the lake on July 12 and 13. The kids had a blast. Most of all I think they enjoyed our friends boat. They got to swim out in the middle of the lake and enjoy the good ole camping life. I hope they love camping as much as I do. I am pretty sure they are getting there. As long as we have smores each time I think that is all that matters.

Having Fun

2008-06-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Proud Grandma Jo Jo

Kasiddee pouring herself a drink at the Tea Party

Aaron at the Tea Party...he ate all the graham crackers

Duke at the Tea Party...eating some fruit

Having a Tea Party with Grandma Jo Jo

Big Smiles from Aaron....The Big Brother

Little Turkey...Look at the camera

Stubborn...won't smile or look at the camera

Bright Eyes

Sassy Silly Grin

Duke playing at his school field day

Kasiddee stacking blocks

Duke playing in his classroom

YUMMY

Enjoying the great outdoors...his favorite place to be

Kasiddee loves to wear dresses

Daisy's new friend...she isn't intimidated by size...obviously

Rob and Nick chillin at the lake

Rob and Lyn

2008-05-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Enjoying every moment with each other.

The greatest gift you could ever give is LOVE

Nichols Look-alike Meter

2008-05-28T10:59:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celeb - Collage - Morph

Nichols Look-alike Meter

2008-05-28T10:54:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celebrity - Collage - Morph

Duke and Kasiddee

2008-05-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

Getting a haircut....still hates it, but he is doing better with it

YUMMY....TOE JAM!!!

Now this is one way to do stretches

So PEACEFUL

This is a SMILE that can warm anybodies heart

"PRETTY"...She loves getting her hair cut, but not fixed

My little leg leach....I feel like I have a growth

Big Smiles...She loves to play outside

Who ME?

Oh so serious

The "better than the original house" in Texas

2008-05-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

The outside of our Duplex

UNPACKING, amazingly Duke didn't try to get any of this paper

It's hard to use the kitchen when it is full of boxes

This is the Kitchen

The Living Room

Duke's and Aaron's Room

Kasiddee's Room

Rob's and Lyn's Room

Well here it is....our Texas home. Some of you know the whole story and some of you don't. So to make a long story short the original house we were moving into was trashed and had been broken into. We are in a nice place now. It is definately an adjustment. To everyone in Kansas we miss you bunches. To our family we miss you too. We found a church and great things have happened through the church already. Duke's teacher goes to the church as well as a NP from Fort Hood Pediatrics. Please continue to pray for us to be receptive to what God has in store for us. God Bless.

Does anybody know what today is?

2008-04-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

I am the "BIRTHDAY GIRL".....Happy Birthday to ME

So much LOVE.....can't you see?

I love my babies

I got a close up.....It's DUKE

"Mommy take MY picture"....It's Kasiddee

Playing at the park

2008-04-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Daddy with Duke and Kasiddee

This would be the proof of Rob's photography skills

Peanut on the slide....READY MOMMA?

Sort of a profile shot....still cute

Duke and Kasiddee

Just a random day at the park. We wanted to enjoy the beautiful SPRING weather. God Bless.

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T15:41:00.000-07:00

Here we are.....UMMM we need Aaron in the picture though

The Queen and the Princess of the family

Kasiddee hunting eggs

Duke hunting his one egg

Happy Easter to all of our friends and family. We love you all. Hope you enjoy the pictures.

HE IS RISEN.........HE IS RISEN INDEED

10 things to know about Kasiddee Grace Nichols

2008-03-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

10. Sitting on the potty chair with a diaper on qualifies as using her potty chair
9. If she sees you with a comb she will tell you to be nice
8. She likes shoes and socks when they are not on her feet
7. She likes APPAS and BANAS, that would be Apples and Bananas
6. She knows I have made homemade bread even when she doesn't see me make it
5. She likes to sing multiple songs at one time...ABC, 123, Veggie Tales, No more monkeys
4. Her first sentence was "Daddy I farted"
3. She likes to watch "Mofies" (movies)
2. She loves talking on the phone
1. She likes to show you where your eyes, ears, mouth, and nose are....sounds necessary when she gets to the nose and mouth

Update on our life

2008-03-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, the only thing I am going to say is, "IN THE ARMY NOW." That sums up the whole story. So the whole point of this blog is to let everyone know what is going on with our move. Last time I said it would be in June or July, well it is actually going to be in May. I have papers to prove it if you think I am joking. We will start the drive to Texas on either May 4 or 5. Rob's report date is May 12. That will give us time to find a place. He does have the option of taking 10 days of leave to find a house, but I told him not to. He is going crazy not doing anything right now, and that would be totally crazy to ask him to sit around even longer knowing there is a shop with vehicles to work on. We will see what happens though. It is in the Lord's hands. So that is the update on the move. God Bless you all.

What is currently happening in the military life

2008-02-13T15:14:00.000-08:00

It is a good thing that the internet exists these days or everyone would have a hard time keeping up with us. We have just recently had to make the decision to PCS (move) to another duty station. We will be going to Fort Hood, TX. As of now we are scheduled to be there in July, but we are trying to get in bumped up to June. The reasoning for this is there is nothing for Rob to do at Fort Riley at the moment. Moving will allow him to actually work and not play video games. It will be better for his career since he will be able to do what he has been trained to do.

We are excited about the move, but at the same time we will be sad to leave our life in Kansas. We do plan to return to Kansas eventually. We love it here. We have a great church with awesome people and lots of wonderful friends.

For now that is all I know. To keep up with our crazy life keep checking the blog. God Bless.

The Big 2

2008-02-12T11:12:00.000-08:00

"Yes I am pretty and I know it!"

"I am the Birthday Girl aka Sassy Princess"

I want to see what is under this wrapping paper!

I will find it soon

Let me get this ribbon out of my way

"Daddy please help me"

"WOW this is FUN"

Hurray more presents

Don't sing I want to eat it

MAKE A WISH

It's about time you let me eat it......YUMMY!!!

Lil Buckaroo Duke playing at school

2008-01-17T18:26:00.000-08:00

What has Duke been up to at school? Well that is a good question. Duke's teachers and therapists are very pleased with the progress he has been making. There are obviously some areas that he is doing better in than others, but as time goes by I am sure he will progress in those areas. He is learning to use PECS. He uses his pictures at school with his teachers and he uses them at home with Rob. The little stink will not do it for me though. This week he has started trying to feed himself with a spoon, running up and down a ramp, laying on a scooter and holding onto a rope to pull himself around, and for a few minutes he sat on a swing and held on all by himself. The little things like this don't seem so huge until a person is in a situation like ours and realize that it is those little things that get us going. He has been learning how to play with toys in the proper way and not just maneuvering them. He is increasing his choice of foods finally. His favorite food right now is cheese quesadillas. The other exciting progress is that he is starting to show interest in playing with other kids. I have noticed him showing more interest in the kids at school as well as Kasiddee when he is at home. This is all so exciting for us and we thank God everyday.

On a medical note we finally have a pediatrician that is wanting to know everything possible. He has done a bone age x-ray and some extensive blood work. The bone age x-ray was to make sure that Duke's bones are developing at the right pace. The blood work that was done was to see if there were any mineral deficiencies (this possibly being the cause of everything going in his mouth) and to see if there were any problems genetically. All the blood work came back normal which is a blessing. Our prayer is that Duke continues to progress and that God continues to put the right people in our path. He is a very special little boy.

God bless you all.

The Military Ball

2008-01-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

All dressed up for our first Military Ball

Rob is trying to get away from me. I am pinching him to make him smile.

If you ask me we were the cutest couple at the Ball. It's hard to be better looking than us.

Lil Buckaroos

2008-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

Aaron with his first BB Gun

"I'm ready to go hunting Daddy!"

Mommy and Peanut playing on the swings

Big Smiles from Mommy and Duke

Swinging is so much fun

"I love the camera!"

Mommy worked hard to get this picture. He usually turns around as I snap the picture.

"Where are we working today?"

"Thanks Mommy for the inheritance of the MESSY HAIR DO!"

BIG LOVES FOR MOMMY

Mommy, Duke, and Kasiddee at the park

Duke is in PRESCHOOL!!!!!!

2007-11-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

Duke started preschool last week. He went 2 days and had the rest of the week off for Thanksgiving. His normal school schedule is Monday - Thursday from 12:00 - 3:30. They let him have a couple of days to adjust to the new environment, but now he is being pushed and is already making great strides. He is working with PECS, a picture communication system, and is starting to figure it out. He is now distinguishing between 5 different pictures to show the teacher what he wants. This is so exciting and amazing. It is hard to believe that he is old enough to be in preschool, but it is also fun. He loves going and is very comfortable in his classroom. Kasiddee thinks it is fun to go see his classroom. If it were her choice she would probably be in school already. She now calls him "Dukey" and loves to play with him. They get along for the most part, but obviously we have all had are issues with siblings at one time or another. Well for now that is all. God bless.

Raise your guns in the air for THE DUKE

2007-10-31T07:57:00.000-07:00

I love my boy

Check out the eye lashes

Grandpa Mike I need my own horse I don't want to share with Kasiddee.

Picture Perfect!

Catch me if you can!

Duke is getting loves from daddy

I lovvvvvvvvve to SWING

Enjoying the beautiful sunshine

It is so much fun being outside

YUMMY Push Ems

This is cold - Don't get a brain freeze

What can I say about Duke? Well he loves dessert just like his mommy. He likes to jump on the couch, be flipped, play outside, swing, climb on his mommy, play with his daddy, take things from Kasiddee, take baths with lots of bubbles, and play in the nursery at church. He is a busy body. We have lots of fun with him. GOD BLESS.

Roll out the Red Carpet for THE PRINCESS

2007-10-31T06:50:00.000-07:00

YUMMY!!! I love Push Ems

I love to EAT!!!

Little Miss Einstein - Born to be WILD

"I can't help it I have my mother's hair."

Are you talking to me?

Grandpa Mike can I use this horse to gather cows on?

SWEET and INNOCENT

Does this picture make me look taller?

Please mommy take my picture

Swinging is sooooooo much FUN

Up close and personal with the Princess

Up close and personal with the Princess - No explanation just some random pictures

Kasiddee in a nutshell. She is SASSY, CRAZY, ENTERTAINING, FUNNY, LOVES TO EAT, LOVES THE CAMERA, and LOVES DAISY DOG. I am sure that I could say more about her, but the stench in her diaper is currently distracting me. So until next time, GOD BLESS.

Moon Lake

2007-10-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Overlooking the Lake

Duke Michael playing with a piece of grass

Rob fishing off of a tree

Rob and TJ

Trevor, Tatum, and Trenton

Hayden with his Grandma Charlene

Aubriana - she doesn't like to smile for the camera

Serenity - she loves the camera

Kasiddee and Hayden doing what they do best - EATING

Nikki helping Tatum with the fishing pole

Ok so my blogs are a little bit out of order. What can I say other than I am a mom and Duke thinks it is fun to climb in my lap when I am doing something on the computer. This makes it a little bit difficult to complete any task.

These are pictures from our first set of visitors. No worries I will eventually have them all posted. Just give me time. Until then enjoy what I have posted already. God Bless.

Welcome Home Signs

2007-10-30T18:48:00.000-07:00

These are the signs that I made for Rob's return from Iraq. The following letter is one that was left on our front porch a couple weeks after Rob's return.

Dear Soldier,
I am a student at K-State and I walk by your house quite often to get to my classes. That is when I saw the large banner that your family had put on the fron porchwelcoming you home. That is why I am writing this to you. In this day and age, it getsharder and harder support this country that I and obviously you love dearly. The lack of support for what you guys do and what you have done for us is ridiculous. I get sick andtired of people uniting for ten minutes and then going right back to stabbing each other in the back. That is why I am so thankful for hte job you guys do. No matter where you were and what kind of war you fought in, you helped keep this country free. You were willingand ready to give your life for us, and really, me. To quote the Bible "There is no greater love than to give of ones life for a friend." You do not even know the millions of the people you fought for, yet you did it anyway. That, my friend, takes the ultimate selflessness and courage. I just wanted to tell you that no matter what the media or anyone says, there aremillions of us out here that are proud and very greatful to have you watching our backs. We will never be able to repay you, and I know it is a drop of water in a lake, but please take this cigar as a token of appreciation.
Thank you and God Bless you and all the troops out there fighting to keep us safe and free.
Signed,
A Humble Patriot of the U.S.A.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DUKE

2007-10-30T15:41:00.000-07:00

We are so PROUD of our Duke

YUMMY Birthday Cake (Thanks Auntie Court for the cake)

Mr. Duke and his birthday cake - Lets get MESSY!!!

Messy boy in the tub - BUBBLES are much needed after a big piece of birthday cake

Duke and his Kansas Grandma and Grandpa - Jim and June Klotz

Oh my how time flies. Duke turned 3 on October 18. So hard to believe. We had a big birthday party for him the Sunday after his birthday. Grandpa Matt and Grandma Dar were here visiting so they were able to be at his party. Big brother Aaron was also here visiting. There were also some people from the church here for the party. It was a lot of fun.

Happy 3rd Birthday Duke Michael.

Good times with family

2007-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

WE ARE FAMILY........KIND OF CRAZY WHEN WE ARE ALL TOGETHER...................LOL!!!!!

Rob, Lyn, Justin, Nikki, & Courtney

Tatum

Aubriana

Serenity

Kasiddee

Duke

Hayden

Duke, Aubriana, Kasiddee, & Serenity

HOME AT LAST

2007-09-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

All the troops are HOME

In his arms finally, HURRAY!!!

I've been waiting to kiss these lips for a long time

I don't want to let go of my soldier

Kisses from Daddy

Kasiddee isn't too sure what to think, she is happy and confused

Together at last, BIG SMILES!!!

This year has finally come to an end. Rob is home safe and sound. It has actually been an easy adjustment. The kids are doing great. Duke has been playing with his Daddy. It is so fun to watch them together. Kasiddee has her sassy moments. Hopefully within a week or so she will see that he really is here and isn't leaving. As for me I now have someone to share my king size bed with. HURRAY!!! BIG SMILES!!!

That is all for now. I am off to enjoy my hubby. I will write more later.

OUR LIFE IN A NUTSHELL

2007-09-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

SILLY GIRL!!!

NAP TIME!!!

Sassy Kasiddee and her favorite food BANANAS

The Duke and his favorite food BANANAS

Our life in a nutshell. We have gone from living in "THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE" to living "PRACTICALLY ON THE KSU CAMPUS." You haven't experienced interesting until you have experienced Manhattan, KS on a KSU home game day. Lets just say that last weekend there was a home game. The parties started Friday and didn't end until around 2 am on Monday. This means very little sleep and a lot of adjusting to new living conditions, but hey that is what keeps life interesting.

We have started getting back into our Kansas life. It has been fun to be back at our church. We have been blessed with an amazing church family here and most definately missed them during our time in Oregon.

Unpacking is still in process, but we are making progress. I do have to remember that I am taking care of 2 kids while trying to do everything else. And to top it all off the anticipation of Rob's return, which by the way is Thursday. HURRAY!!! So there you have it, OUR LIFE IN A NUTSHELL. I will keep you posted.

Just some pics

2007-08-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

"UMMMMM.......I LOVE CHOCOLATE CAKE!!!!"

The day before Kasiddee officially started walking

Sitting back and looking innocent

"UMMMM....This is nummy corn" (just a reminder to young moms, it looks the same in the diaper)

Duke and I in the pool

Duke learning how to jump in the water

He did it all on his own

I think he should be the Water Babies Sunscreen model

Just me

My long lost hidden trick

I can still do it even after having 2 kids, AMAZING

What next?

2007-07-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

Discussion, prayer, and much thought have brought Rob and I to the decision of staying in the Army. He recently resigned and we will be staying at Fort Riley. For our family in Oregon and Washington this is sad news, but for our adopted family and friends in Kansas this is exciting news. I am at peace with the decision that has been made. On August 31 the kids and I will start the trip back to Kansas. This will be an adventure in itself. HAHAHA!!! LOL!!! Hopefully we can make it a fast trip. Until then we are staying with some friends. We have 4 kids and 2 adults in a 2 bedroom house. Lots of fun. We spend a lot of time sitting back and laughing at all the chaos. Well for now that is all I know. Please keep us in your prayers. God Bless everyone.

What's been happening

2007-07-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

Well obviously it has been a while since I have posted on the blog. No worries I did not fall off of the face of the earth. I have been keeping myself crazy busy so that I don't have time to dwell on how much longer until Rob will be home. The Lil Buckaroos and I have been spending lots of time with one of my friends. We have been going to the park, to the swimming pool, and wherever else the moving vehicle takes us. Most of the time we randomly decide to go do something, but that is half the fun. The joys of running your own life, you can do random things. We have also been to a family reunion, which of course was lots of fun. Despite all this craziness I am beyond ready to have Rob back home.

Look how tall Duke is getting

The goal was for Duke to climb through the tunnel, it didn't work

My mom has turned me into a fashion violation (LOL)

Duke has so much fun ripping up paper, cardboard, and anything he is not supposed to

WHO ME

Yummy this dirt taste good

Lesson learned in life, don't rub your eyes when there are rocks and dirt in your hands

Kasiddee is sleeping, but her face says otherwise

Aaron eating as usual, his appetite easily meets his dad's

The Hula Hoop star

I don't think they have marshmallow guns in the Army

Before we wish you all farewell for now we must tell a little more. Duke is continuing to make tremendous progress. He is not talking, but is vocalizing in different ways and discovering the many different sounds that he can make. Kasiddee started walking on Thursday, July 19, 2007. HURRAY!!!! She is saying a few words and is never quiet unless she is sleeping. Aaron got to spend 2 weeks with us. It was a lot of fun to see him and spend time with him. He had a lot of fun playing with his brother and sister as well as playing in the dirt. As for me, the Cowgirl, I am surviving with my lifeline as chocolate and pop or frozen coffee drinks. No worries there is some healthy food in my diet. God Bless.

And the Cowgirl WINS!!!

2007-06-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

After lots of hard work and a long wait I won my buckle. It was close, but I did it. It was a lot of fun and very exciting.

Lil Buckaroo Kasiddee AKA Princess

2007-06-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Lil Buckaroo Kasiddee playing in the grass at Uncle Ken's and Aunt Dawn's. She was having fun tormenting the dogs. I am trying to get her to walk but she knows that crawling gets her where she wants to go so she isn't too brave when it comes to walking. Every once in a while I can get her distracted and she will take a couple of steps. After a while it turns into a lunging game. She is a silly girl.

Lil Buckaroo Duke and his latest discovery

2007-06-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

Here's Lil Buckaroo Duke with his latest accomplishment. CLIMBING ON THE TABLE. He was very proud of himself. He thinks it is a lot of fun to just sit on Grandma Jo Jo's table and play. It is cute until we are trying to play a game and he thinks he needs to sit in the middle of the game.

Lil Buckaroo Duke sleeping on Uncle Ken's and Aunt Dawn's chair

Wildlife in the sprinkler

2007-06-12T11:50:00.001-07:00

What are the odds that a person would look out their living room window and see a deer playing in the sprinkler? Apparently for me the odds are pretty good because it actually happened. I stood at the window and watched the deer play for about 15 or 20 minutes. That is the first time I have actually seen any deer inside of my fence. They typically stay in the field out front or on the hill out back, but this one apparently decided to take an adventure. Of course while I was watching this I was dreaming about how good the backstrap would taste. Too bad it isn't hunting season.

The Cowboy playing GI JOE

2007-06-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

Rob is starting to pack up in preparation to come home. HURRAY!!! I just received a box of random things he was getting out of his way and there were some pictures on a CD. Below are a few of the pictures. He will have to explain the pictures later because obviously I can't since I am not the one over there.

Rob claims that he was yelling something at someone. I think he was being silly.

Rob in full gear

Just a random picture

Rob will have to explain this picture

Same with this one

Rob's claim to fame is that he can't smile when he is in uniform

Random picture

Random picture

Another picture for Rob to explain

The Cowgirl and Smores

2007-06-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

How to make a Smore from this Cowgirl's perspective

Start the marshmallow on fire

Make sure the marshmallow is nice and black then blow out the fire

Put the marshmallow on the graham cracker with chocolate and squish it so it will fit in your mouth

Take a nice big bite

Finally enjoy the spectacular taste and prepare to eat more

Sites to see on our trip to the Coast

2007-06-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Lighthouse between Lincoln City and Newport

The beautiful sunset the second night at the coast

The view out of the living room windows at the condo

The bottom is the condo that we stayed in

The kiddos packed like sardines

All the luggage ready to go home. Just for the record we women secured all the stuff to the top of the Explorer. It didn't even budge.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

2007-06-02T12:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the crazy day of our trip. We went to Newport to visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium and then to Pacific City to play on the beach. It was a fun day regardless of all the driving. The kids were troopers. I think we all dumped a ton of sand off of ourselves when we got back to the condo. The driving provided lots of site seeing and great pictures.

Top: Takoda and Ashlyn

Bottom: Duke and Kasiddee

Top: Katie, Takoda, Ashlyn, and Lyn

Bottom: Duke and Kasiddee

Just the Cowgirl posing for the camera

The Cowgirl and her friend Katie being silly

One of the sharks from the shark tunnel at the Aquarium. When walking through the tunnel you can see all around you.

One of the crab displays at the Aquarium

This is the display where you can touch the sea life

One of the Jelly Fish

The Cowgirl and the Lil Buckaroos on a vacation

2007-06-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Duke is engrossed in the movie. This was the first night of the trip. He was very happy to be out of his car seat.

The term "BAD HAIR DAY" best describes this picture. It doesn't matter what her hair looks like she is always cute and she knows it.

One in a million picture. It is hard to get Duke to look at the camera and smile. Katie and I double teamed him. He has a great smile.

Kasiddee is contemplating if she likes the taste of the sand.

The first day on the beach was a little chilly. Duke was pretty content to be snuggled in his blanket.

Here's for you Rob. I love and miss you.

Duke decided that Mommy was better than his blanket. I love it when he snuggles up to me.

I am a great photographer. Yes, I took this picture. It only took me 2 tries to get a good one. Kasiddee is in the front pack and isn't too pleased with the situation.

The Cowgirl having lots of fun

2007-05-26T20:53:00.001-07:00

This is our lovely group of ladies that went to Women's Retreat. What a fun group to spend the weekend with.

At the top of the Leap of Faith. For those that don't know what it is, it is a telephone pole with pegs on it. You climb to the top, while in a safety harness, and at the top you jump and try to catch a trapeze.

Here I am trying to get both my feet on the top of this skinny telephone pole. WOW!

Yes I know I am crazy, but what can I say it was a blast. Although I do have to say that when I was younger the pole seemed a lot bigger. HMMM!!! In case you are wondering I didn't catch the trapeze, but I had fun jumping.

My only explanation is "I am my mother's daughter." She needed me to be in a skit and told me maybe an hour before. The mask wasn't supposed to be a part of the skit, but I couldn't resist.

This is what happens when everyone has gone to sleep. Except for me and whoever will help me out. Don't worry I know the person on the other end of the prank.

Toilet paper and Saran Wrap. It isn't expensive and it decorates a vehicle very well. In case you are wondering I thoroughly enjoyed myself while doing this. Yes I admitted to doing it and they were impressed with the masterpiece.

It's been a while

2007-05-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

Howdie Family and Friends. Sorry it has been a while since I posted on the blog. I have been busy and honestly can't even tell you everything that has kept me busy. Last weekend I was at a Women's Retreat. It was at Pinelow Park north of Spokane, WA. It was an amazing and refreshing weekend. The Lil Buckaroos went and stayed with Grandma Dar. I am pretty sure that she slept well on Sunday evening after I picked them back up. This weekend we have been invited to join a friend at the coast. We will leave after church tomorrow and stay through Wednesday. Well I will leave you with some pictures. God Bless everyone.

Silly Boy! Duke thinks it is fun to look away from the camera. I never know what kind of picture I am going to get.

SO PROUD! Such a big boy. Duke is drinking out of his new cup. It has a straw instead of a sippy tip. He is doing so well with it.

She's Cute and She KNOWS It! Kasiddee is sweet and sassy and when the camera comes out she is always going to pose.

Once again out came the camera and she didn't hesitate to look. She knows the sound of the camera turning on. How sad is that?!

Here's for you Cowboy

2007-05-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Cowboy! Which is sexier the horse or my tractor?

These are just some pictures of the Cowgirl at her best.

The Cowgirl at the Rodeo

2007-05-07T16:51:00.000-07:00

Lyn and Baby packing the American Flag around the arena for the Grand Entry.

It's Rodeo Time. This weekend was the Arlington Jackpot Rodeo. I packed a sponsor flag in the 2 parades this weekend and also participated in the Grand Entry as well as the Barrel Racing. For the Grand Entry I was honored to pack the American Flag. I love my country, my flag, and especially my soldier. It was a busy weekend, but it was a lot of fun. The Lil Buckaroos were troopers. Saturday Grandma Jo Jo rescued them and took them home, but Sunday they stayed the whole day. We had a fun weekend, but we were glad to be able to have a slow day today. God Bless.

Lil Buckaroo Duke and His AMAZING PROGRESS

2007-05-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

Duke is now learning how to be a big boy and sit at the table. This was his first time not being in a high chair or booster seat.

Duke is really enjoying this big boy stuff. He is also enjoying the KIX that he is eating.

Still being a big boy and doing a very good job. So proud of you Duke.

Just one of those random pictures. Had the camera out and thought I would try to get a picture of him looking at the camera.

This is Duke's new therapy ball. He tried to play on it by himself and as you can see it didn't work so well. I think the saying, "I've fallen and I can't get up" is perfect for this picture.

So much is happening with Duke. Since we have started his new 12 week music therapy he is making great progress. We are only 11 days into the 12 weeks and I am so excited about everything. He is starting to respond to verbal commands. For instance, he tried taking Kasiddee's cup, and when I gave it back to her and told him to find his cup he went and found his cup. This may not seem like much, but for Duke this is so amazing. He typically would have thrown a fit and I would have had to find his cup for him. He is also starting to respond to verbal commands given by Grandma Jo Jo. The next big thing is that he is starting to make eye contact in a significant way. Normally he would look through a person and not at them. Now I can get him to look at me for a lengthy amount of time. Along with the eye contact he is also tracking things. When my mom holds her hand above him before tickling him he will watch her hand through the whole process of getting to him. The next big thing is that I got Duke to drink out of a straw for the first time. I had to get some new sippy cups and decided to try one that had a straw and not a sippy spout. He was ticked off at first, but after all of my stubborness he finally figured it out. I am so proud of him. These are great strides for Duke and I know that there are more to come. God has definately blessed our lives with Duke.

Busy Lil Buckaroo Kasiddee

2007-05-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

Grandma Jo Jo got me hooked on black licorice. This is what I look like after one piece. Can you imagine if I had another one. YUMMY!

Kasiddee has recently figured out how to play catch. As you can see she gets excited beyond description.

Grandma Jo Jo is waiting for Kasiddee to throw the ball back. You never know where the ball is going to land. We still have to work on her aim. There is plenty of time for that.

Typical Kasiddee. She heard the camera turn on and froze. She was getting tired so a smile wasn't even close to happening.

Never afraid to explore new things. Kasiddee had to examin what was under the table. Needless to say she ended up mad because she got confused how to get back out.

Kasiddee is not yet walking. She likes to venture around the furniture, but the thought of letting go is just not on her priority list. On the top of her priority list is finding Papa Mike when we get to his house, and after that she wants to take his pen and his glasses out of his pocket. It is a game. It really confuses her when he takes them out before he picks her up. She waves bye bye, loves to eat, hates it when I leave the room, loves bed time (thank goodness), likes to be chased, loves to pull on Daisy dog's ears, loves to talk to her Daddy on the phone and look at his picture on the computer, loves to look at herself in the mirror (she can change moods in an instant when she spots a mirror), and has recently decided that being locked up in a car seat is not fun (bummer for me it makes for long car rides). She is a fun little girl. She is constantly jabbering about something, and when she has a vocabulary of more than Mommy, Daddy, Dada, Duke, and Hi it is going to be very interesting to hear what comes out of her mouth. If all the attention is not on her she will find a way to make it turn to her. I think most females are like that at some point in life, yes including myself. I wouldn't trade her for the world. I love my little princess, sassy and all.

God's Creation

2007-05-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. Psalms 121:1-2

All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again. Ecclesiastes 1:7

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief; for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Matthew 17:20

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! Isaiah 52:7

Lil Buckaroo Kasiddee AKA Princess

2007-04-28T21:37:00.000-07:00

Sassy little princess. She is happy because she is being held.

Sweet and Sassy. She loves the camera.

Getting ready for her first tea

party.

Kasiddee and her cousins at the tea party. So much fun.

Oh so sassy. She now has 2 nick names. Peanut and Sassy Kas. She thinks she rules the roost and I am having a difficult time convincing her otherwise. I better get her under control before she is a teenager. Thank goodness I have a few years. She is walking along furniture, but is too chicken to let go. She is constantly jabbering, but I am not always sure what she is jabbering about. She loves to see her Daddy's picture on the computer and talk to him on the phone. She also likes to sit in the chair with Grandpa Mike. If anyone has food they better plan on sharing because she will figure out a way to get some. She may be small, but she is like dynamite in a small package. It requires a lot of chocolate to keep up with Kasiddee. I think God gave her to me so that I don't have to be too worried about exercising. Keeping up with her is exercise. She truly is a blessing from God and I wouldn't trade her for anything.

Lil Buckaroo Duke

2007-04-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Just chilling in the chair while Duke does his new therapy.

Duke is trying to get the headphones off. Enough therapy for him he wants to play.

Duke loves to play in the grass. He loves to feel it between his toes.

If he tries hard enough maybe he can peel the grass in two pieces.

What is there to say about Duke? Or what isn't there? He is receiving Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. He receives about 6 visits a month from his therapists. There are 3 different people that work with him and they each come 2 of the 6 visits. He has made lots of progress with his eye contact. He is starting to pay attention when someone walks in the house. He is also more receptive to new people. Of course he has his moments, but don't we all. His Occupational Therapist started us on an at home therapy for the next 12 weeks. He has 2 sessions a day that are 30 minutes each. The headphones he wears are special headphones and the music he listens to is specially recorded to help stimulate certain parts of the brain. While the songs are playing certain high and low pitch sounds have been randomly placed in the music. This is supposed to help trigger certain areas of developement that he is behind in. One in particular being speech. It is possible that through this we may hear Duke start talking. I know God has a plan, but I do pray that His plan is for some speech to develope. Please keep us in your prayers. I have been warned that there could be moments of frustration as Duke's body is experiencing the changes that may occur. I will keep you posted. God Bless.

Member of the US Army, but more importantly God's Army

2007-04-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

Many of you may be confused as to what Rob is doing right now. I am going to answer that question. Rob is still in Iraq. We are unsure of when he will be returning do to a possible extension of his tour. He is a tank mechanic, but really he works on whatever he is told to work on. We all wish that he didn't have to go at all and was home right now, but orders are orders and obviously this is what God had in store. We both want to be obedient to what God is calling us to do. When Rob returns he will have a few months and then he will get out of the Army. The kids and I have obviously already found a home in Arlington and our plan is to permanently be in Arlington when Rob is done. So far God has made it very clear that we are doing the right thing. Our prayer right now is that Rob will find a job with good pay and benefits when he gets back. He has some options available, but of course it all depends on where there are job openings. We ask that everyone be in prayer for us that we are making the right decisions and would continue to trust God. Thanks to everyone who has sent Rob care packages and letters. We both appreciate your thoughts and generosity. God's Blessings to all.

Here are some pictures of our much loved soldier hard at work (most of the time working).

The Cowgirl and the Lil Buckaroos enjoying life at the barrel race

2007-04-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

Duke in the Pack N Play enjoying life in the great outdoors of the Wild West and waiting for mom to get done barrel racing.

Lyn and Baby waiting for their turn to race around the barrels.

Kasiddee in the stroller contimplating life at the moment and waiting for mom to get done barrel

racing.

What does Barrel Racing really look like?

2007-04-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Lyn and Baby Barrel Racing on April 21, 2007

Lyn and Baby getting ready to take turn 1 (first barrel)

Lyn and Baby coming out of turn 1 and heading to the second barrel

Lyn and Baby getting ready to take turn 2 (second barrel)

Lyn and Baby coming out of turn 2 and heading to the third barrel

Lyn and Baby rounding off turn 3 (third barrel)

Lyn and Baby coming out of turn 3 and heading to the finish line

Lyn and Baby looking at the finish line

What the Cowgirl is up to

2007-04-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

Some may be wondering how a mother of toddlers can have time to get out and do something without the children. It is actually a very important thing in the life of a mother. We mothers often get looked past because people think "well that is their job." This is true and false. Our job is to be the primary caregiver, but this is not intended to be an escape for the dads. A Daddy plays a very important part in a child's life.

I love my children, but I also love being a cowgirl. I was raised on a horse and it is a passion in my life. I love being able to help my dad gather cows and I love to Barrel Race. This is only possible because I am not afraid to step up and make it happen. I find people to help with the Lil Buckaroos and then I go play Cowgirl.

This weekend I had a Barrel Race on Saturday and Sunday. It was a challenge, but I made it happen. Between friends and family we all pulled together and it turned out to be a good weekend. A little crazy, but then again who's life isn't crazy?

This Cowgirl is now looking ahead to the Arlington Jackpot Rodeo. I will pack a Sponsor Flag in the school parade on May 4 and in the rodeo parade on May 5 (yes while riding my horse). I will also participate in the Rodeo Grand Entry and I will Barrel Race on May 5 and 6. After the rodeo I look ahead to the last barrel race in the series I have been competing in. That will be on June 10. I am in the running to win a belt buckle. Pretty exciting. Hope I do.

So you see it is possible to have a life and have toddlers. Challenging at times, but in the end rewarding. The Lil Buckaroos are tired by the end of all of it, but then again so is this Cowgirl. We all sleep very good when it is all said and done. Hurray for sleeping through the night.

Wildlife

2007-04-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

When you live in the middle of nowhere there are lots of sites to see. It's not city lights or shopping malls. It's, in my opinion, better than that. WILDLIFE. Out here you can see so much of God's beautiful creation. I see deer everyday in the field across from the house. I wake up every morning to the sound of rooster pheasants strutting around outside. At night I can see all the stars in the sky. It is truly a haven out here. To some this type of life is not even in their list of things to do. For Rob and I this is what we have always known. Wildlife, Horses, Cows, Home Grown Beef In The Freezer, and best of all the nearest neighbor is at least 2 miles away. It is a blessed life we have.

The Family out West

2007-04-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

Here we are. The Nichols Family. It took a while to get a good family picture, but we managed. It was cold outside and the kids were in less than cooperative moods. The picture still turned out good. Enjoy.

The Lil Buckaroos

2007-04-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Duke Michael Nichols

Kasiddee Grace Nichols

Aaron Robert Nichols

What's been happening

2007-04-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

What hasn't been happening. Life is crazy. There is never a dull moment when you have 2 Lil Buckaroos 15 months apart. We have once again settled out west. We live in literally the middle of nowhere. It is great.

Rob stays busy working to make sure that he is providing for the family, being Daddy, and being God's Servant. Lyn stays busy being Mommy, Homemaker, Cowgirl, Cook, Ranch Hand, and God's Servant.

Duke loves to pester Mommy when she is trying to do stuff around the house. He feels that life should run as he sees best. When he wants something you better give it now or watch out. He loves to go outside and run around our big yard.

Kasiddee is the sassy one of the family. She is learning the world of walking along things and trying to talk. She is a Daddy's girl so it is a rare occasion when Mommy actually gets called Mommy. She loves playing with Daisy Dog and seeing the horses at Grandpa Mike's and Grandma Jo Jo's house. Basically she feels that life revolves around her. She has a lot to learn.

Aaron is the big brother. He lives with his mom. He is in Preschool now so it is hard to see him very much. Hopefully through the summer we will be able to spend more time with him. He loves his brother and sister and misses them lots.

So life as we know it is "A Cowboy, Cowgirl, and Cute Lil Buckaroos" living life in the West.