Baby on Board-ggren

What's In A Family.....

2010-01-12T12:15:00.000-08:00

What's In A Family.....?

I haven't blogged in awhile--okay--it's been forever. Many of you know that life has changed for me recently, in a big way. I landed an awesome job in New York, and had to leave my husband and 2 daughters half-way across the United States for, hopefully, only a short time. This plan was well-thought out, and seemed life an excellent plan to properly rent out our townhome in MN, keep Josh working, and giving the girls some stability with Joy, all while I put 110% of my efforts into building my practice in a hospital. This was a great plan until my heart caught up with my head.....

It's now been 10 days since I've seen those little cuties, and a part of me is just plain empty. I've talked to them on the phone, I look at pictures of them every night before I drift off to sleep, and every morning before I roll out of my lonely king-sized bed, Josh keeps me up-to-date with their crazy stories, and I get an occasional picture, if my ridiculous T-Mobile service ensures the delivery of a MMS text. But--I don't think any of you can comprehend how much I miss those silly faces, those chubby little cheeks, the squeezes, the slobbery kisses, and yes, even the poopy diapers and back-talking, sassy, almost-4-year-old. You see, I've come to learn that these are the things that keep us going..... I'm used to being away from them on a daily basis, and my job has me traveling several times a year, but there is no substitute for seeing those little angel faces every night. It somehow just makes your day, and your life, complete.

I know I'll get through this. I've become a strong, independent person capable of doing whatever I tell myself to do. But don't think, even for a minute, that this is a small feat, or something I would recommend. I'm spending my days preparing the way for my family, putting efforts into building my practice in just the right way, working out, and lamenting on the value of what's in a family.....

Take the time today to tell those around you how much they mean to you, how much you love them, and what they are in a family to you. I certainly will, with 17 hours of distance separating me and those precious little cupcakes....if my cell phone reception can handle it from the depths of my creepy dorm room!

Joy strikes again!

2009-11-05T06:32:00.000-08:00

Supergirl!!!
My favorite girls!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

SUPERGIRL!
CheerBear!

My little Trick-or-Treaters!

Girls' Getaway!

2009-10-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Q: Whatdoyaget when you cross 5 best friends and a trip to Door County?

A: Butter & Onion Pumpernickel sandwiches, attacking cupcakes, the Rita Mustard witch project, hilarious one-liners that will haunt us for years to come, busy daddies stuck in MN, a busy bathroom, and lots of laughs and cups of Joe!

Fall Fun on the Farm!

2009-10-29T12:01:00.001-07:00

Little Miss Pumpkin Pie
Picking the Perfect Pumpkin.....

I heart this picture.

2009-10-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Teaching Little Miss to walk.....

April 2009

Is it okay if I reminische?

Long Time.....No Blog.

2009-09-22T17:32:00.001-07:00

Lately, this is how I've felt..... (see above)

Life has been hectic. But life is always good when it's hectic, right?!?

I have been extremely busy at work, and things are only going to get busier! I started in September as a ranked assistant professor at NWHSU/faculty clinician. My new clinic hours have me up at 5am, leaving home at 6am, and starting seeing patients at 7am. I'm usually not leaving work until 5pm, so I'm feeling the exhaustion. I try to leave that last final leg of energy for my girls when I get home--so thankfully I have a long commute home to rejuvenate, talk to God, and prepare! ;) I'm trying to my darndest to maintain that proper balance, but at times, life seems.....electrifying!

To My Brother.....

2009-08-28T08:10:00.001-07:00

My brother and I at his wedding, August 2002
Chad & Joy

Dear Chad,
It seems that my big brother is turning 30..... I cannot believe it. It seems like it was just yesterday that you were tying my shoestrings together while I slept so that when I woke up, I would fall on my face. Or do you remember the time that we were racing Caite while she was learning to crawl, and I got carpetburn all over my knees and Mom had to stay up all night and blow on them? I'll never forget riding in your big blue truck everyday to freshman year of highschool, only to smell like diesel fuel when I got there..... Or what about all those times when you called me "4 eyes" and "pepperoni pizza face?" And then those times when I broke up with my boyfriend and you called me to make sure I was okay.....?
Those things are seemingly a distant memory, but they have certainly not faded from my mind. The truth is, Chad, I have not spoken to you in over 7 years. You chose not to come to my wedding, you haven't met my girls or heard them ask about Uncle Chad. And I've never gotten to meet your little Justin..... It's amazing to me when I get to see Da'Montae, and am overwhelmed with this sense that I love him like my very own, yet you also have a son that I have never gotten to meet, and he started Kindergarten this year.....

And yet, I love you just the same.

I don't know what has happened in life? I don't know what went wrong. I know that you were raised in the same family that I was where love was abundant, forgiveness was taught, and unconditional love was the underlying message to each and every lesson. And I still know that God is continuing to work in EACH of our own seemingly separate lives.

I think of you and your beautiful family everyday, although it would be easier and less painful to write you off.

And though we can't be an integral part of each other's lives right now, I am blessed to call you brother.

We all love you and pray that His light shines on you everyday.

Eva--Almost 18 Months.....

2009-08-25T19:26:00.001-07:00

Our Baby Girl is almost 18 Months (September 3)--it seems that it's time for an update!

Here are some fast facts about My Little Cupcake:

~ She gives us a run for our money. We thought Emma was a handful? We thought wrong.....

~ She has an extremely strong pesonality, and while she barely gets a word in edge-wise, she somehow controls most situations.

~ She has an incredibly LOUD scream, which she has a reputation for. You literally have NEVER heard anything like it. It sounds like she is screaming into a megaphone--literally.

~ She looks adorable while standing in the corner.

~ She loves bananas, grapes, and mandarin oranges. She dislikes meat.

~ She JUST got off the boob.....

~ Yes, she has blonde hair and big, bright, blue eyes. No, she is not the mailman's daughter.

~ She is usually happy as can be at 7:59pm, but when 8pm rolls around, she wants her bed NOW.

~ She sleeps until 9am most days, and wakes up incredibly happy. Her cutest moments are from 9-11am.

~ Eva gives the BEST kisses.

~ Her favorite word is "Mama"--she says it at least 100 times a day!

~ She has the most confident "strut" that you have even seen--arm swing and all!

~ Her first instinct in EVERY situation--happy, mad, surprised, etc.--is to SCREAM.

~ She is very squishy, although weight-wise, just average. Check out her kissable cheeks.

~ Eva LOVES to read books. Alot. Don't get upset if she chucks a book at you, she just wants to read.

~ She wants to eat first thing in the morning, and likes to eat standing up.

~ While there are days that her strong personality is alot to take, we cannot imagine life without her.

~ I have never met anyone quite like Ev.....except myself. ;)

Montae's 1st Birthday!

2009-08-23T19:53:00.001-07:00

Birthday Boy and Emma hiding in MooMoo's cabinet!
Reunited with our girl!

Birthday cake! Yum!

Montae and his Daddy

Check it out--it's my first birthday!

Can WE have some cake too?

Birthday party fun!

Bring on the cake!

This stuff is GOOD!

YUMMY!

I LOVE cake!

Do I HAVE to stop, Mommy?!?

FINALLY, I get some cake!

The aftermath.....

Get this blue stuff off of me!

Can you find me in my presents?

Partied-out girlz!

Eva's Independence.

2009-08-16T17:41:00.001-07:00

Eva drinking Mt. Dew Ultra Violet ON the coffee table.
Eva surfing on the coffee table with said Mt. Dew.

Eva STANDING on the coffee table.

Em is gone this week..... Within the first hour of being the only child, Eva decided to display what she would do if there was no big sister around to torment her and keep her in line. ;)

The 2 Faces of Eva.....

2009-08-16T17:39:00.001-07:00

Happy. Very happy.
Mad. VERY mad.

And folks, we don't have alot to offer besides that.

TWINS Game 2009!

2009-08-16T17:36:00.001-07:00

I'm Just Trying To Get ONE Good Picture.....

2009-08-16T17:27:00.000-07:00

Em, stop squeezing Ev and hold still.
Eva, get back over here.....

Guys, look over here!

Emma, sit up.

Eva, stop wiggling.

Cute, now Ev, get over here.

Oops, did Eva fall off the bed onto the nasty hotel floor?

Girls.....look at the camera!

I guess this will have to do.....

Changing Woman!

2009-07-31T15:56:00.000-07:00

I have made 3 out-of-character decisions for myself.....

1) I am joining a book club. Peculiar because I hate reading. However, I have read a couple of books recently that I have thoroughly enjoyed, and I love to grow and learn, so whythehecknot?!?

2) I have decided to learn how to read maps. In fact, for Christmas, I am going to ask for my dad to buy me a good map as a gift. Wannaknowwhy? Because during my latest road trip to a funeral in IL, I somehow ended up in MISSOURI. It is time, Cara, you need to master map-reading.....

3) And the latest and greatest decision of mine--I have to decided to go against my will, and please my husband, and play Fantasy Football this year. GASP! Do you remember how much I despise Fantasy Football? Read this..... And wish me luck because Josh has vowed NOT to help me in my draft--I must kick his ass on my own!

College Reunion.....

2009-07-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

Dinner at Applebee's
Reminiscing.....Would you believe how many noise violations we had in our dorm room?!?

Sarah, Rachel, Kimmy, Becca, Me

Fave Roommate!

My college roommate's father passed away last week, and forced me to be reunited with her, and the girl's next door. While it was a somber affair, we had an absolute blast, remembering ALL of our wild and crazy times. The drive and week off work were totally worth every minute of reminiscing that we shared! I love these girls! CUW--woody-woo!

"Bad Baby"

2009-07-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is Ev standing in the corner for the first (of many!) time.

Doesn't she look cute being naughty?!?!

Reunited!

2009-07-23T18:56:00.000-07:00

The girls are back from their 6-day trip to Joy's family farm, and I just returned from a 3-day whirlwind trip to southern IL for a funeral. We're so glad to be back under the same roof again, but fun was had by all!

E-mail

2009-07-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Friend: After reading Baby On Boardggren..... Does Emma ever wear clothes?
My reply: Man, I take a lot of scuff for that. I did inventory--there are only THREE pictures of Em without clothes (and 2 of them were the same night). What can I say, the child likes to be without clothes around the house! I have learned to choose my battles.....

Am I a bad mother.....I am starting to get a complex?

What's happening?!?

2009-07-11T13:16:00.001-07:00

The girls and I on the 4th!

We have been a busy family lately! Summer is in full swing, and we are taking one day at a time! Josh and I have been busy with work, and the girls have been busy enjoying the summer days with Joy! We are enjoying every moment, but these monkeys keep us busy!

"Mom, don't mind us, we're just eatin' chips!"

2009-06-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

Cabbage-Patch Girl!

2009-06-26T13:33:00.001-07:00

Growing up, I always loved to sport the Cabbage-Patch hairstyle, which consised of 2-piggies on top of the head. Eva has grown to love this 'do, as well.

Mom, this one's for you!

www.joshuaborggren.com

2009-06-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

Check this guy out--he is seriously awesome, and needs an opportunity to give you a quote!

2009-06-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Ever have a day like this?

I do. Today, in fact.

Some of Emma's Lines Lately.....

2009-06-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

"Ev, (she shortens everything) you are a bad baby."
"I want pizza rolls."
"It's okay." (after she's done something naughty.....)
"I have super powers!"
"Will you make me a nest?"
"That's a-scustin'!"

And my favorite: "Are you kiddin' me?!?"

Baby Signing Time

2009-06-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Joy has been working hard to teach the girls Sign Language. She uses cute little videos that they get on their excursions to the library. Naomi taught Emma Sign Language when she nannied for us, but Eva had little experience with it, and Emma wanted to add to her vocabulary. They are doing so well with it!

Please disregard the sisterly "love" displayed in the video!

Pretty Girl!

2009-06-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

Emma had her first day of Vacation Bible School today at our church! Last night, at 10pm, she came up to me and said, "Mommy, can you paint my toenails? I need to be pretty for my first day of school!"

Gardener Girls!

2009-06-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Gardener Eva
Gardener Emma

2009-06-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

Today--6 years ago--I married my friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, and love.....

S-P-E-L-L-E-R!

2009-06-10T06:27:00.000-07:00

Temper Tantrums.

2009-06-08T15:03:00.001-07:00

Our little Squish-o-matic is small, but mighty. She has taken to throwing actual temper tantrums. Immediately following this photo, she literally stomped her foot and fell to the floor to make a dramatic scene. Mom, I don't know anyone that ever did that--do you?

Sleepyhead?

2009-06-08T15:02:00.001-07:00

Eva has slept until 11:30am the last 2 mornings. Must be growing?!?

Daddies are SO much more fun than Mommies.....

2009-06-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

Vali-Hi Drive-In!

2009-06-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Most Friday nights, we can be found at the drive-in movies. Where else can you tailgate, see 3 brand new releases for $7, and take your kids to avoid baby-sitter expenditures?
We are now coined, "drive-in experts."

I Scream, You Scream.....

2009-06-08T14:55:00.001-07:00

We all scream for Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream!

WHAT?!?

2009-06-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight, we were putting Eva down for bed, and Emma came along to say prayers. We did today's highs and lows with Emma.

Emma's favortie part about today: Butts.....

WHAT?!?

For the Love of Books....

2009-06-07T15:30:00.000-07:00

Josh and I have decided to start getting our house ready to put on the market. This preparation began this weekend with the Great Cleaning the Garage Event. Because we have outgrown our home and have no storage to speak of, we put everything into the garage that we don't know what else to do with--even Josh's beloved book collection. When Eva came along, the book collection had to be boxed and shoved into storage in the garage so that we could manage a crib in our master "suite."

As we were cleaning this weekend, I walked into the garage and saw Josh sitting on the ground on his shelving unit, talking to something, and then hugging it. Wannknowwhatitwas?

His books.

Oh well, I guess it's better than some hobbies. Like collecting purses and shoes.....

My Most Favorite Little Man.....

2009-06-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

My most favorite little guy, my only (one that I get to see....) nephew, and my Godson, Montae, just hit the 9-month mark. Look at this little guy--I love this little man, and miss him everyday. He brings so much joy to our lives.....

Photography By Joy.....

2009-06-01T17:51:00.001-07:00

All smiles for Joy.
Laughter.....

Deep in thought.....

O.M.G.

2009-05-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

My eldest daughter is currently eating her 17th Totino's Pepperoni Pizza Roll. This is her favorite food, hands-down, and has become a staple at our house. If you examine the package, a typical serving size is 6 pizza rolls. This is a new record for her. We fed her lunch, I swear.

Napoleon Dynamite Re-Inactment

2009-05-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

You've all seen Napoleon Dynamite, right? Remember the seen where Kip asks Napoleon to "pull him to town?"

Cait: "Cara, it'd be nice if you could pull me to DQ....."

Brainwashed?!?

2009-05-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

Mommy: "Ugh, my tummy hurts."

Emma: "I bet you just need to be adjusted....."

Happy Birthday, Joy Joy!

2009-05-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

We hope we made your day a bit more special!

"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others come into our lives, become friends, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same...."

All of God's Grace.....In Each Child's Face!

2009-05-11T07:43:00.001-07:00

Emma showing off her 'tude!

I <3 profile pictures!

Eva DOES adore Emma.....

Easter dress fun!

Emma: 3 years

Eva: 1 year

Montae: 8 months

We are truly blessed.....

I Love This Man!

2009-05-09T17:57:00.001-07:00

This is one of many treats promised to make my Mother's Day complete!

2009-05-08T06:49:00.000-07:00

Birthday dinner at Josh's favorite restaurant--Wildfire!
Josh & Brandon at the bar....

Kristin and I

What a fun, crazy night!

Gay dancers.....

OLD and passed out, while the rest of us played Rockband!

HAPPY 32nd BIRTHDAY, Josh!!!

This has been a fantastic year for you--each year makes me more proud of you! I am so proud of who you have made yourself become (Josh got great news this week), and I can't wait to see what this year brings for you!

I can't wait for our night out on the town tonight with great friends!

I love you!

Spring Vacation!

2009-05-04T15:49:00.001-07:00

Emma and I baking cookies at Moo-Moo's house!
Caite sleeping with her little man.....she works nights and is always sleeping. :(

One of many "dance parties!"

Night out with my college roomies!

My favorite naked girls! ;)

Shopping trip with my sister-in-law, Megan!

Look at all of our purchases!

My girls loved Great Uncle Arthur! We stayed with my aunt and uncle while we visited my grandparents!

I went hunting on my grandparents' land for these Morel mushrooms! These were going for over $200 a pound while we were there....

Last time I went hunting, my aunt and I found several bags full, this trip, I found THREE mushrooms. :(

Emma performing on stage!

Hannah Montana, "Haniah Mueed" stage! Hand-crafted by my uncle!

Crazy Squish!

Playing on the playground in Springfield, IL.

We ALL love GrandMommy!

My cousins kids: Carlton, Emma, Haniah, Vivian, Aunt Jone (GrandMommy)

My cousin Melanie and I!

My Grandpa & Grandma Nickel!

"My Grandpa's 'Great'!"

She will LOVE this picture someday!

Aunt Jone on the drums!Car. Again.

The girls playing outside!

Emma feeding the ducks.

My cousins' kids.

Eva playing outside at Moo-Moo's!

Emma!

The girls and I left 10 days ago to meet my Mom and go visit my family that lives in Central IL. After a long weekend, we headed back to my parents' house in Milwaukee and spent the week there. Josh joined us Friday, after a trip on the Megabus (Thanks, Erin and Richard!), and we drove home yesterday! We had a blast touring the family!

Old Couple?!?

2009-04-19T18:56:00.001-07:00

So.

It occurred to me today that Josh and I are becoming "more alike." Let me explain.

We like similar things. We order the same meals. We know what the other wants.

We go to bed at the same time (usually). We can figure what the other is thinking.

We have the same routine--wings on Tuesdays, pizza on Fridays, popcorn on Sundays.

We are getting old.

We figured it out today--we have been together for almost TEN years. Oh. My. Gorsh.

I will really FREAK out if people start telling us we look alike.

I guess we are growing old together.....

Squishy=Skinny

2009-04-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

On our trip home this past weekend, Eva decided that it might be fun and exciting to not want to eat or sleep. I thought she wasn't feeling well until my Mom described how I was a baby--unadaptable, routine-oriented and demanding. However, Josh and I like to make up our own plausible explanations as to why our kids are "special." Josh decided that perhaps Eva has gotten a complex because we started calling her "Squishy" at such an early age, and suggested that it has gotten to her head. So, we decided that to prevent further eating disorders, that we should change her name from "Squishy" to "Skinny." She immediately started eating normally again when we got home. Glad we nipped that one in the butt.....

This is Josh. He is a Metrosexual.

2009-04-17T13:22:00.000-07:00

He is Risen, He is Risen, Indeed!

2009-04-13T11:57:00.001-07:00

13-Month Update

2009-04-03T06:28:00.000-07:00

Eva is now past the 1-year mark, and I think it is time for an update on our cupcake for her "baby book."

~Eva is now walking! She had been taking a few steps here and there, but decided to walk across the room Monday night while Mommy was at the gym. :( She now walks everywhere!
~Eva jabbers all the time, but we can make sense of these words at the appropriate times: "Momma, Dadda, Em-ma, done."
~She is experimenting with organic 2% cow's milk, but still prefers Mommy's boob juice in a bottle.
~Eva is sleeping about 12-14 hours at night, and about 3 hours during the day!
~Eva's personality is really surmounting. She is not as laid back as we originally thought.....

Favorites!
Food: Bananas--she eats a whole one most mornings, also ANY fruit--we have to give her proteins and dairiy BEFORE the fruit or she won't eat anything else!
Drink: Mommy's boob juice, and WATER--she drinks it so fast that she is out of breath!
Activity: Reading books--she brings us books and plops on our laps
Cartoon with Emma: Dora--she loves to dance to the theme song!

Emma's favorite things about Squish: knocking her down, jumping on her tummy, and listening to her laugh--all at the same time!
Daddy's favorite thing about Squish: Her "squish-factor" and her giant blue eyes.
Mommy's favorite thing about her cupcake: The way she completes us, and makes every day another day that I cherish.....

To Pump, Or Not To Pump?

2009-03-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

That is the question..... I have been pregnant or nursing for that last 4 years--non-stop. I am tired of it. But, it is healthy for my babes, it burns me an extra 500 calories to produce milk, and it is FREE! I am very proud of the fact that I work full-time, and neither of my girls ever had to even taste formula. But when should it end? Any sound advice?

Baby Book Stats

2009-03-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

I took Avers for her 1-year-well-baby-check today. Here's her stats:

Height: 29 3/4 inches (50%)

Weight: 22 lbs, 2 oz (almost 50%)

Head circumference: 18 3/4 inches (95%)

Our little cupcake is healthy and growing, as expected.

Northwestern People--Employee Spotlights

2009-03-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

Northwestern People (featured in Northwestern's weekly newspaper)

Employee Spotlight: Cara Borggren, DC, faculty clinician

How long have you worked for Northwestern?
I have worked for Northwestern for almost three years. I started working here right after I graduated.

What did you do before working at Northwestern?
Before working at Northwestern, I was a student here in the chiropractic college. This was my first "real" job – I was a non-stop student and waitress before that.

What does your job entail?
My job as a resident entails something different each day. It is technically divided into 3 parts – teaching, clinical practice, and independent research. I love the variety!

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy the variety, and I love mentoring students. I love being able to really help students and relate because I know what they are going through, being that I was just in their shoes.

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would you choose?
If I could literally live anywhere, I would choose Hawaii. I love the warm climate, non-stop sunlight, and most of all, the fresh fruits! However, realistically, I would choose to live by our parents for a year, so that we could get some of the wholesome grandparent goodness for our kids. Raising our two young daughters without family here has been the hardest thing I have ever done.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?
My favorite outdoor activity is going to the drive-in movie theatre and tail-gating there. We go all summer long.

What are you looking forward to most in the next few months?
I am most looking forward to summer activities with my family. My husband recently started a new job, so he actually has normal hours now and weekends off, so our summer should be filled with fun trips, time on the lake, and everything great about Minnesota summers!

Do you prefer Cold Stone or Dairy Queen for ice cream?
Cold stone; I get chocolate ice cream, with some sort of chocolate candy mixed in, topped with some sort of chocolate fudge topping. I heart chocolate.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Spare time – what's that?! I am insanely busy from the time I get up until I go to bed, with my job and my family. I try to prioritize time with friends, and I am always up for a shopping trip. I do make sure that I work out on a regular basis, or I loose my balance and ability to juggle!

If you were a sea creature, what kind of sea creature would you be?
I would definitely be an octopus. Wouldn't it be fantastic to have eight arms?

Thoughts on Vegas.....

2009-03-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

1. The city seriously never sleeps. Seriously.
2. I now understand why Britney Spears accidentally got married in Vegas. I get it now.
3. Vegas should consider a no smoking ban citywide, too. Ack.
4. The economy is DEFINITELY not hurting in Vegas. There were no signs of less "tourism."
5. I have the potential for having a slightly addictive personality.
6. Regarding #5, I did come home with more money than I left with. $50, in fact.
7. I preferred staying slightly off of the strip--it allowed me time to walk off my buzz.
8. Flights home from Vegas at midnight are VERY exciting.
9. Anything goes in Vegas. And, what happens in Vegas, DOES stay in Vegas.
10. That's all I have to say about that.

One Smart Cookie!

2009-03-11T12:43:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine recently started a tasty business! Grace creates custom homemade treats to your liking. Not only are they delicious and cute, but they are also a "healthy treat," made with organic products. These are the party favors that she created for Eva's cupcake birthday party--aren't they adorable?!?

If you have a need for her unique product, I highly recommend her. She uses only the best ingredients, involves her Christian family in the process, and is very reasonably priced! Call her today @ (763)205.3688.

You will not be disappointed!

I HEART facing forward!

2009-03-11T12:39:00.001-07:00

Eva's first experience at a forward-facing carseat! We LOVE turning around to see 4 beautiful eyes! And, our dual-screen DVD player just got better!

Eva's Birthday Party

2009-03-11T12:28:00.000-07:00

Eva had no nap the day of her party, and decided, "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!"
Sunday Brunch with the famly at Sunset's--yummy!

Emma making her cupcake at the Cupcake Buffet!

Devouring her cake!

Hugs for Joy!

Our Little Cupcake is 1!

The 1-year-olds!
Richard & Shirley, Josh & Eva, Aaron & Natalie

Emma helping open Eva's pile!

Family photo--again, the Birthday Girl is exhausted.

Vegas!

2009-03-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I am leaving for a business trip to Vegas for 3 days. I am attending a conference at the Tuscany Las Vegas. Having just celebrated Eva's 1st birthday, I am quickly reminded of this very conference last year in Washington D.C......

I was presenting a research project that I had completed the prior year to important leaders in the chiropractic profession. I knew when I agreed to present that I was going to be "cutting it close," being that I was due with Eva in February, and the conference was the beginning of March. Little did I know, Eva would arrive 10 days late, and I would be flying to D.C. with a new baby 9 days post-partum, and presenting at a very important conference 10 days post-partum. I had no choice, however, and this presentation meant alot to me, my profession, and my future career. So, we left Emma at my parents' house (her first long overnight trip), and Josh, new Eva and I flew to D.C.

The whole trip is a fog to me, but all in all, it went well. Besides the looks from everyone of 'what kind of parent brings a new baby on a trip of this nature,' it was a fun trip. Josh took Eva one of the days in her seat, and walked to the capitol for miles and miles and miles. She did great on the flights, slept most of the trip, and Josh and I actually had fun.

As I leave tomorrow, I will remember that great event in my life, but I am relieved that this year's trip is me and my electric breastpump.

Professional Birthday Photos!

2009-03-05T19:39:00.000-08:00

Emma: 3 years old
Eva's 1st Birthday & 1st cake!

"Sister's Birthday Party"

Birthday Girl!

2009-03-03T17:57:00.001-08:00

Joy took the girls to the museum for a fun, birthday outing!

Hey, everyone! I am 1!
Emma gave Eva a baby with a cupcake!

Hugs for the birthday girl!

Lovies!

My Sweet Cupcake!

Eva's favorite birthday present! Her OWN baby doll!

Trying to eat the "cupcake!"

Eating an olive and breadstick at her birthday dinner!

Mac and Cheese (Eva's favorite) at Olive Garden!

Eva playing babies.....

What a fun birthday! Joy spent the day doing fun things out with the girls while Mommy and Daddy worked. Josh thought that Eva would enjoy Olive Garden, so we went there for a birthday dinner. Now we are all stuffed, ready for bed, and looking forward to a Cupcake Birthday Party this weekend!

Happy Birthday [tomorrow], My Sweet Cupcake!

2009-03-02T19:00:00.001-08:00

Dearest Eva Rose,

How can you possibly be one already? The year has flown by, as you have taught us to cherish your giggles and bright blue eyes, squeeze your squishy cheeks, and savor every perfect moment with you. You bring so much love, happiness, squish, and meaning to our days.

You complete us.

Happy Birthday, Sweet Cupcake.

Mommy, Daddy & Emma

XOXO

Squish Hearts Food!

2009-03-02T18:56:00.001-08:00

Lasagna mess, I mean fun!
Lasagna hair. "Lasagna-hawk?"

Ew.

Breakfast Banana.

Yummy.

Home Improvements

2009-03-02T10:29:00.001-08:00

Now that Josh has weekends off, we have been spending the last few weekends working on some home improvements. With Josh's new job taking him to Burnsville, and my job already in progress in Bloomington, it seems that a move south will be in our future, when the time is right. In order to prepare, we have been busy the last couple of weekends swapping rooms, rearranging furniture, hanging curtains, painting the bathrooms, organizing closets and throwing out vast amounts of useless crap, installing hardware on our cabinets, and such.

Come check out our improvements, and send a qualified buyer or renter our way! ;)

Selfish Reward?

2009-03-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

I made a vow to myself when I decided to subject myself to 2 baby deliveries without drugs or other medical interventions, that every year around my kids' birthdays, I would indulge in a massage to commemorate the physical strife I put myself under, in order to avoid medical mishaps that occur with epidurals and drug intervention, to experience the all-natural delivery. Eva's birthday is tomorrow, so my body is preparing for some upcoming relaxation.....

Is this selfish?

The nice part is that because of where I work, I can enjoy a 1-hour massage for $20, and it can be formatted to fit my work-day! I can't wait.

Hicks?

2009-03-02T06:41:00.001-08:00

Josh: Emma, you and Eva look like twins today!
Emma: We're not Twins, we are Bears, ya hick!

Later on.....

Cara: Emma, tomorrow [today] is Papa's birthday!
Emma: It's not Papa's birthday, it's my birthday, ya hick!

Seriously, where do they pick these things up?!?!

Today's Inspiration--The Who's

2009-02-25T12:39:00.000-08:00

"At the end of the day, it's not what you do, it's who you do it with....." --Chiropractic Inspirational Speaker from NWHSU's Homecoming 2009

Today, I am especially thankful for my husband, who has finally found his place in life, and my 2 beautiful sweeties, who I undeservingly get to call my own, and the family and friends who surround me. [You know who you are.]

The who's in my life make me complete.

My Twins!

2009-02-18T14:09:00.000-08:00

Emma Bjorn!

2009-02-18T13:58:00.001-08:00

Bjorn Girls!

Emma asked Joy to make her a Baby Bjorn for her baby, so that she could be like Joy! Somehow, Joy made a makeshift Bjorn out of an apron, that I haven't been able to reproduce!

Fangs!

2009-02-18T13:55:00.001-08:00

It seems that Eva has fangs! Last week, one of her top teeth ,just lateral to the midline teeth, popped through. Luckily, her other top 3 teeth cut through this weekend, but we have been laughing at her fang!

Guessing Game, Anyone?

2009-02-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

Would anyone like to guess what Eva's first word is (minus the typical MaMa and DaDa sounds)?

That Emma.

2009-02-17T09:14:00.000-08:00

The girls and I enjoyed a day together yesterday. What do girls do when they have some free time? Shop, of course. I had the ginormous double stroller, and walked away from it to check something out, to return to this conversation, already underway:

Store Clerk: Well, you sure are some adorable girls.
Emma: Yep.
Store Clerk: How old are you?
Emma: [matter-of-factly] Six months.
Store Clerk: Do you mean, like, 2 and 6 months, or 3 and 6 months.
Emma: Nope. 6 months.
Store Clerk: What is your name?
Emma: Crazy Emma Borgen.
Store Clerk: [laughing] What is your sister's name?
Emma: CRABBY Eva Borgen.....

Store Clerk: Well, it was nice to meet you, Crazy and Crabby!

My Valentine.....

2009-02-14T17:46:00.001-08:00

New York--Here I Come!

2009-02-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

I am flying off to New York this evening for work. I am looking forward to the business trip, but I am going into it exhausted. We just had Homecoming at Northwestern (our yearly conference to get our continuing education credits), which meant sitting in an auditorium for 3 long days, and we had the Homecoming formal which kept us out late Friday night, and the Wishes And More Valentine's Fundraiser Ball last night, which was another late night (pictures to come!). I am hoping to sleep on the flights, but the next 3 days are going to be work-packed.

Pray for Josh as he is a single parent this week, and super busy with work too.....

Mom, Where Are You.....?

2009-02-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

Josh and I were looking at our schedules for next week. I am in New York for most of the week, and Josh continues training in Eden Prairie, but has 2 late nights while I am gone. We both feel that we are at pivotal moments in our careers. And yet we have 2 kids that need us dearly at home. Where do we meet in the middle? We need a Grandma.

It's Days Like These That I Wish I Wasn't Salaried....

2009-02-03T18:39:00.001-08:00

I saw 30 patients between 7am and 10am this morning.

A New Start

2009-02-02T06:48:00.000-08:00

Today marks the start of a new career for Josh, and a new life for our family. Josh has worked very hard for the past 6 months to get where he has gotten, and for that I am very proud of him. I believe that he has achieved goals that he didn't even know he had, and has certainly taken on an adventure that is outside of his comforts of the restaurant world. Mark my words, though, he is going to be so successful at what he does, because he believes in it..... I have never seen him so happy, and so apprehensive, as he did this morning when he left in his suit! ;) As his new boss put it, insurance agents work hard, but they also play hard. We are looking forward to new friendships, new work hours, and 2 all-expense paid trips a year!!!

Congratulations, Josh, I am so proud.

Wanted: Nanny

2009-01-30T17:47:00.000-08:00

Family searching for Nanny for 2 days only--Thursday, Feb. 12 and Friday, Feb. 13--while our Nanny is on a much-needed vacation. Girls, aged 3 and 10 months. Must be healthy, have patience, and enjoy combing curls and reading books! $50 each day, your lunch included, and probably a few hugs, too! Please call Cara today if you can help out!

We did it!

2009-01-30T17:46:00.000-08:00

We made it 5 weeks on just my s****y salary! I am definitely ready to go shopping again! ;) Josh is trying to make a case for never needing to work again--ha ha.....

What A Weekend!

2009-01-27T15:10:00.000-08:00

Jared & Leighan
Mr. & Mrs. Clark

I have another sister! ;)

Kisses for the bride and groom!

Papa and Ems at the "reception"

Squish and Grandma

Sisters (in-laws!)

Eva loves her Uncle Jon!

The Siblings!

Josh, Me, new sister Leighan, Jared (Josh's brother), Jon (Josh's other brother), Megan

A soon-to-be-soldier and his new bride!

Josh and Eva at Jared's Going Away Party.....

Emma crashed with Papa!

Eva and MooMoo

Caite(my sister) and Montae came for the Going Away Party too!

Jared and Leighan cutting their cake!

Montae--the life of the par-tay!

Eva wasn't so fond of the Dora party hats.....

Emma enjoying her birthday lunch! When we are home, we have every function at the restaurant where Josh and I met. It seems so fitting.....

Birthday girl hanging out with my Mom while our car was in the shop (yes, again!)

Birthday girl enjoying her party!

Em blowing out her THREE candles!

Opening a butt-load of presents!

Eva wants to help too!

Giant Dora doll!

Attempt at a family picture after everyone was over-tired!

We have just returned from a whirlwind trip home from Chicago! We were able to see lots of family this weekend as we celebrated the marriage of Josh's brother Jared to Leighan, saw Jared off as he joined the Air Force, and celebrated Emma's 3rd birthday! Here are some pictures to display how much fun was had by all!

Tiny Dancer!

2009-01-21T16:08:00.000-08:00

Emma had her first dance class tonight! This is her all ready to go to the studio!
Dancing with all of her friends!

Twirling fun!

Anal Emma.....

2009-01-21T16:07:00.001-08:00

Josh found this in the bathroom after Em "washed" her "B's." She may have a touch of OCD.....

My Little Fishies!

2009-01-21T16:06:00.001-08:00

A Blessed Christmas

2009-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

We have finally put all of our Christmas gifts away. We were blessed with gifts! Seriously, people, where are we supposed to put all of this?!?

It's Not Every Day.....

2009-01-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

It's not every day that you get to have a lengthy discussion with Jesse Ventura (former governor of MN) about The Young & the Restless in clinic.

And, it's not every day that the nursing home that you see patients at calls and tells you not to bother coming because the patients are enthralled in watching Obama take office, and would not show up for care.

AND, it's not every day that you get to celebrate your baby's 3rd birthday with your combined families (Chicago, here we come this weekend!).

Finally!

2009-01-19T06:20:00.000-08:00

Last night, Eva slept for 11 hours, in her own bed, without waking up to nurse. [Translaion: Mommy slept through the night for the first time in over a year.] She has technically been sleeping through the night since she was 6 weeks old ("experts" say that 6 hours is sleeping through the night). She consistently sleeps from 8pm-7am, but consistently wakes up to eat at 4am EVERYDAY, but recently, she has been waking up FOUR times to nurse. [Translation: Eva has literally grown in front of our eyes this past week.]

Let's hope for another sleepless night tonight!

The Facts.....

2009-01-13T09:55:00.000-08:00

So here is the goings-ons at our house lately:
~ It is now official. Josh has changed careers. He has worked so hard to take the classes, obtain licensure, interview with companies, and ultimately land a job that not only "believed in him" to become an insurance agent, but also saw his potential--American Family is making him a full-blown agent when he concludes his training in March. I never thought he would be a business owner before me (!), but I am SO PROUD of him. Our dream is to purchase a building, and have both of our businesses in one location.....
~ On a different note, Potbelly "caught wind" of his upcoming career change, and even though Josh intended to work diligently until starting his training with AmFam in February, they needed their GM's on board for the new year, and fired him 2 days after Christmas..... This ultimately led to more vacation time with family around New Year's, but also left us without Josh's paycheck for 5 weeks. We have learned to trust God to provide [and eat what is left in the cupboards]!
~ Josh has been an amazing House Husband. He has picked up ALL of the slack at home, as my schedule is crazier-than-ever this term. I come home every night to a meal, chocolate cake, folded laundry, and a welcoming hug. He is enjoying extra time with the girls, and is doing what he can to find odd-jobs to make ends meet.
~ All of the aforementioned facts have done nothing but draw us closer together, and to God. Enough said.

Happy 30th, Angela!

2009-01-12T12:53:00.001-08:00

The Girls--Tami, Ang, Bess, Me, Caela
Caela, Josh, Ang, Me

Today is my friend, Angela's, 30th birthday! I had the honor of throwing a SURPRISE party for her on Saturday night at The Bulldog in Northeast. Ang thought her best girls were taking her out for dinner & dancing, when actually a crowd was there waiting for us!

Ang and I met on our first day of Chiropractic school 6 years ago. We have been through so much together--Board exams, cadaver lab, boring seminars, an internship, my disc herniation, etc.--and have grown together professionally because the other was there. She is not only my friend, but also an awesome auntie for our girls. In fact, she is Eva's Godmother, and is currently employing my hubby! We have grown so close over the years, and I just know that she is always there for me.

Ang, here's to 30 more YOUNG years.....

[Check her out at www.healthwise-chiro.com]

Names.....

2009-01-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

Josh: "Emma, what is your name?"
Emma: "Emma."
Josh: "No, what is your full name?"
Emma: "Crazy Emma Borgen."

Yep, that's about right.....

This is it.

2009-01-06T02:47:00.000-08:00

Alot has been going on in life, and in my head, since my last post. More priceless time was spent with my family, and a new year brought a new term with my job. Josh and I have experienced new scenarios in life. I pulled a 14-hour day yesterday, and now it is time to start another day. I am being challenged in ways I never thought possible, simultaneously, in so many different areas of my life right now. I have honestly never been so busy or felt so overwhelmed in my entire life. The pressure is on at work as I am carving out my future in the final months of my residency, and learning the appropriate balancing act of being a successful chiropractor yet an effective mother has never been more important. I have to play my pieces strategically.

I must lean on Him..... I can't possibly do this on my own.

Chubbie's

2008-12-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

That is one HUGE burger!
All the fixins' on Chubbie.

For one final treat at my parent's house, we decided to take Josh for a surprise treat! Chubbies has fantastic burgers that are the size of your plate! He had no clue what I was ordering for him, and was shocked when his burger came! He WAS able to defeat his challenge!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T18:21:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from Emma & Eva!

"Mom, seriously, only TWO more pictures."

Hooray for presents! Merry Christmas everyone!

Merry Christmas to Me.

2008-12-23T15:37:00.000-08:00

I have mastitis. Again. Please pray for my boob. I am in a lot of pain, and feel terrible. Ugh.

Remember When.....

2008-12-22T06:04:00.000-08:00

Remember when I was complaining about Josh and his Fantasty Football crap?

Well, I have had a change of heart. Josh has been in the "superbowl" for fantasty football every single year that he has played. He has always gotten at least his money back for playing, and usually won some extra cash. This year, his league decided to "up the anty" and guess what--he is in the Superbowl again. He is 3 points behind his opponent, but Josh has 2 players yet to play tonight in the Packers v. Bears game. If the Bears defense and Josh's best wide receiver (Greg Jennings) score 4 points, Josh will win a LARGE sum of money. He called me last night and told me not to spend the money yet, but that I should start figuring out what I want!!!!! Yippee!

O.M.G., I am so nervous. Go Bears defense, and go Greg Jennings!

Northwestern Today: Natural Care for Those in Need

2008-12-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

Northwestern Health Sciences University is working with the Volunteers of America of Minneapolis, Minn., to provide more accessible natural health care to the elderly in the community. Volunteers of America has provided $150,000 to Northwestern’s Wolfe-Harris Center for Clinical Studies to produce a one-of-a-kind project, focusing on the organization’s services for the elderly. According to Roni Evans, MS, DC, dean of research at Northwestern, this is more of a demonstration project versus a research study. She says, “The primary goal is to determine the feasibility of developing a sustainable and replicable model for providing integrated chiropractic, acupuncture and massage services for Volunteers of America’s elderly residents.”
According to Dr. Evans, the integrated services will be offered to elderly residents with varying degrees of impaired physical and mental function. Some of the residents are in transitional care and are expected to return to their own homes; others are in assisted living, long-term care, or memory care. “We would like the Volunteers of America residents to experience an increased function and quality of life through our services,” says Dr. Evans.
According to the United States Government Census Bureau, by the year 2030 nearly 25 percent of the United States population will be age 65 or older, while the population of citizens ages 85 and older is expected to triple in the next 40 years. Dr. Evans explains, “The older society gets, the greater their health care needs become.
The preparations for the project began in September 2008, placing chiropractic, acupuncture and massage fellows in the Volunteers of America facilities.

The fellows involved are: Lori Baldwin, LAc; Deanna Benson NCTMB; Cara Borggren, DC; Corrie Vihstadt, LAc; Jodell Skaufel, DC; and Kristine Westrom, MD.
Included in the process is: Establishing doctors’ orders, developing methods for sharing information and documenting services, and identifying resource needs. This needs to be done before services are offered to the residents. Dr. Evans says, “There is so much potential for natural health care professions to meet the needs of the elderly and, through integration with other health professions, establish a greater role in the larger health care system.”
Mark Zeigler, DC, president of Northwestern, says, “I am excited about the opportunity to work with Volunteers of America. I look forward to what this can mean to our profession when the project is done.”
“Everybody is working very hard so that we can begin offering services to Volunteers of America residents by the end of January 2009,” says Dr. Evans. There are several things to be accomplished before services are offered. According to Dr. Evans, “Among the most important is learning more about the Volunteers of America’s facilities and how we may best help them meet their needs in caring for their elderly residents. We look forward to expanding chiropractic, acupuncture, Oriental medicine, massage services, and practice-based research in more facilities in the future."

Eva--9 Months

2008-12-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

Family Photo Shoot!

2008-12-17T14:34:00.001-08:00

Our first ever family photo shoot! Great job, Joy!

[Not sure why they are so small--I had issues when scanning. You will have to click on the image to see them enlarged, if you want!]

Happy 35th Anniversary, Mom & Dad!

2008-12-17T14:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the example that you have shown us.....

Merry Christmas from the Borggrens'!

2008-12-17T14:31:00.001-08:00