The Daniel Limburg Family

Isaac's Baptism

2011-11-16T18:03:00.001-08:00

We recently went to California to celebrate cousin Isaac's 8th birthday and baptism. We had a fun week and Connor tried to play with Isaac as much as he could before we had to leave.

You have to admit that's a lot of kids. It's the best we could do.

First Day of School

2011-11-16T17:51:00.001-08:00

Yes, I am aware that the year is half over but better late than never, right?

Here are our kiddos on the first day of school. Megan is the proud middle schooler. Connor is now the big man in Elementary...3rd grade and entering the school system is our little Mallory that seemed way too young to be going into kindergarten. It's so strange and kind of wonderful to have all my kids in school.

Such a cute picture! He looks like he adores her and would never, ever tease her.

Hats and Sunblock

2011-10-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, I noticed a "mole" by my eye on the bridge of my nose. I didn't think too much of it but Daniel kept insisting that I go to the dermatologist to get it checked out. I finally made an appointment and the Dr said, "It looks like Basal Cell Carcinoma, your husband is very wise." Okay, I added the last part. She sent in the biopsy, made me an appointment to get it removed and sent me on my way. A month later I had an appointment with a dermatologist that specializes in MOH's surgery, which removes skin cancers like mine. He made it sound like a simple, easy procedure and I wasn't worried.

A few days later I went on to the internet to check it out. Big mistake! I started reading horror stories about cancer roots growing into tear ducts and the optic nerve, loss of vision, or even loss of an eye! Aaahhh!!! Of course Daniel starts making pirate jokes. Wouldn't I make a great Mad-Eye Moody for Halloween? Maybe I could get a glass eye that's pink...or violet?

I went into surgery with a tiny bit of trepidation...okay, maybe more than a tiny bit. The nurse puts my fears to rest and lets me know that "most likely" I will leave with both eyes. Yippee. The nurse remarks that my blood pressure is a little high. Hmmm, I can't imagine why. The doctor then proceeds to cut out a piece of my face (a small piece, but still) while I'm practicing my deep breathing. He pats my hand and sends it to the lab.

Labs come back- they got it all the first time. Hallelujah! I don't want them taking any more of my face, they took enough. The nurse hands me a mirror to take a look-yuck. But it's okay, I've got both my eyes! Woo-hoo!! No more pirate jokes for me.

A few hours later, I was at the plastic surgeon being sewn up because the dermatologist just cauterized the wound and sent me on my way. My eye looks much better than I thought it would. There isn't much swelling at all and the plastic surgeon said the scar should heal very nicely. Megan said that instead of being a pirate for Halloween, I can be Frankenstein since I've got the stitches. Oh goody.

I'm just glad it's over and that everything went well. I'm a worrier, from a long line of worriers, so I probably made this whole experience worse than it needed to be. I have a feeling it won't be my last time either. People who get a Basal Cell Carcinoma tend to get more. I'll still be at the pool and at the beach but from now on I'll have my SPF 70 on and a wide brimmed hat! If you have an uneasy feeling about something go to the Dr and get checked out!! The longer you wait, the worse it gets.

On the way home from the dermatologist...take that skin cancer.

All that worrying over a few tiny stitches.

Bryce Canyon

2011-09-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

Bridal Veil Falls

2011-09-12T16:23:00.000-07:00

Snuck a pic of the camera man

Oakley, Utah

2011-08-31T16:13:00.000-07:00

This summer we went to Utah for a wedding and family reunion. Oakley is such a beautiful town and I've fallen in love with it. Gorgeous!! And I got to see a moose!!!

2011-08-31T16:08:00.001-07:00

2011-08-31T16:01:00.001-07:00

Hot Dog Popsicles?

2011-08-29T15:59:00.000-07:00

Mallory: Mom, can I have a hot dog?
Me: Sorry, the only hot dogs we have are in the freezer.
Mallory: Oooh, a hot dog popsicle?
Me: Um, I don't think you want that.
Mallory: Please, mom, please?
Me: Okay...

Trying to take a family picture

2011-08-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

Mr. and Mrs. Rowley

2011-08-18T14:25:00.002-07:00

There was a beautiful lady
as cute as cute could be.
Life was good for her
and her 4 little chickadees.

Sometimes she would get lonely
with no Prince Charming by her side.
She longed for a partner in whom
she could always confide.

Then came a blind date with Darin
her cheeks hurt from laughing with him.
He could finish her sentences
And she knew that this wasn't a whim.

He fit into her family just right.
A puzzle piece snuggled just so.
We cheered when they walked down the aisle
and basked in their astonishing glow.

Congratulations!!!

2011-08-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

2011-08-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

Tiger's Quest Book Signing

2011-07-16T08:46:00.001-07:00

Since I'm an avid reader, my friend Danielle told me about a book called "Tiger's Curse" that she loved. I devoured it and we both waited impatiently for the second book to come out. The author, Colleen Houck, had a book signing close to our house so we decided to go. It was small and personal which I loved. We were able to ask questions and she told us fun little tidbits about the series. Danielle even won an ARC for the next book which won't be published until December. It was SO good. We brought our oldest girls along with us. Megan is halfway through the book and really enjoying it. If I can't go to India I can't think of a better way to get there than through an amazing story.

Megan made a shirt that said, "Radishes Rock" and the author had a pic taken to put on her blog. Radishes you say? Gotta read the book.

Megan getting her book signed.

Danielle (with the ARC...oooohhhhh), Gabi (won an audio book), and Megan

Pismo Beach

2011-07-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we went to Pismo Beach to go camping. We happily left our 115 degree weather for the 65 degree temperatures in Pismo. It was overcast, windy, and pretty cold. Apparently, we've become wimps. My kids will normally go into the water no matter what the temperature but it was too cold even for them. It was nice camping right by the water though.

This vacation was quite an adventure. Aaron has lots of fun sand toys (it pays to be related to the right people ;) and we all helped hauling them up. Everyone got stuck in the sand multiple times. I was pleasantly surprised to see that people were constantly stopping to help tow other people out of the sand.

The kids loved playing in the sand with their cousins and friends. They didn't seem to care that there was sand in their food, their bedding, their ears...you get the picture. But we did have great company and great food!

2011-07-09T12:07:00.001-07:00

Megan's 5th Grade Celebration

2011-06-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

My baby is going to middle school! Aaahhh! My kids are growing up so fast. Megan is going to middle school and Mallory is going into kindergarten. I sense that I'm entering a new and very special period of our lives that I need to really enjoy and savor. It's so nice that there are no more diapers, high chairs, and impossible to buckle car seats. We also haven't hit the boy-crazy, hours on the phone, mom-is-embarrassing part yet either. While I have this time that they still listen, still let me hug them in public, and still think I'm their favorite person in the world, I think I better enjoy it to the fullest.

Mallory Preschool Graduations

2011-06-14T12:11:00.001-07:00

The Limburg School of Hard Knocks
My preschool kids. I had a great group and we had such a fun year. I can't believe they're all going to kindergarten in the fall.

Ahwatukee Preschool Graduation
On the days I wasn't teaching preschool, Mallory attended this preschool so that I could volunteer in my kid's classes and have some time of my own. She loved it.

The Money Guy

2011-06-05T15:21:00.001-07:00

The other day Daniel was watching a Civil War documentary and a picture of Abraham Lincoln came up on the screen. Mallory looks at the TV and proclaims, "Hey, it's the money guy."

We got a kick out of that.

Connor's Music Performance

2011-05-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

The last week of school Connor had his music performance. The only time he's smiling is when he's dancing with a girl....hmmmm.

Mother's Day

2011-05-28T16:23:00.001-07:00

I wanted to do something fun and girly for my mom, for Mother's Day. We had a fun and frilly luncheon with all "chick food": Chicken salad sandwiches, strawberry and spinach salad, and a strawberry tart. I love you mom!

Daddy, Daughter Time

2011-05-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of cute pictures I couldn't resist taking. Daniel is a very entertaining story teller. He has many different accents in his arsenal that he often uses. Mallory doesn't always appreciate it as much as the rest of us. "Daddy please...just talk normal." Hahahaha!!!

Easter Sunday

2011-05-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's my leg

Kids searching for eggs

iPad 2

2011-05-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

In December, Daniel got a bonus and wanted to get an iPad. He heard rumors about the iPad2 and decided to wait...somewhat impatiently...for the new one to come out. About 3 weeks ago he finally received it. I haven't been allowed to touch it yet.

We're having some problems with his iPhone now...apparently it's jealous and acting out a bit.

The look of delight as I captured the glorious moment.

Pat's Run

2011-04-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

Pat Tillman turned down a $3.6 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals to join the Army Rangers in 2002. He died in Afghanistan in 2004. What an amazing man! Every year Pat's Run is held at the Sun Devil Stadium. The run is 4.2 miles because Pat's number was 42. We got to run up the ramp and through the tunnel to the stadium and the race finished on the 42 yard line. It was pretty inspiring. We were there along with 28,000 people. Wow!

me, Kati, Stephanie, Ann, LaDawn and Danielle

Megan and Mallory's Birthday

2011-04-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

During our spring break we had a family birthday party for Megan and Mallory. They got some fun stuff but being able to play with their cousins was the best present of all.

Just look at those cute boys!

2011-04-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

Legoland

2011-04-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

I've heard a few people say they don't think Legoland is that great, but we love it. We've been there 3 times and still haven't been on all the rides. For most of the day it was just the three kiddos and me. It is so easy to travel with them now: they're old enough to listen and not wander off, no diapers, they can all feed themselves. Life is pretty good!

Later in the day Sarah and her 4 kids met up with us. Hanging out with the cousins made it tons more fun!

2011-04-12T13:13:00.001-07:00

2011-04-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

2011-04-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

Visiting Uncle Scott and Aunt Amy

2011-04-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

After going to the beach we went to my brother's place in Long Beach. We had fun talking, playing with Rachel and eating. I wish I had taken a picture of the food. Scott made ribs for us that were absolutely fantastic. We all devoured every piece of meat. The sides went not to be overshadowed though. He also made asparagus and french fries that were heavenly. He had to make sure we were rolling out the door with a homemade chocolate silk pie. Wow! I hate to admit it because I think I'm a pretty good cook but my brother has passed me up. But as long as I get to partake of the food you won't hear me complaining.

Amy bought Mallory this balloon blowing set and the balloons were like plastic.

Rachel and Amy

All of us playing Star Wars Monopoly. Scott didn't get 1 property. He didn't know but I was using the force to control his dice.

Long Beach

2011-04-04T12:56:00.001-07:00

Over spring break we went to Long Beach and kidnapped Megan's oldest friend Sabrina. They have been friends since birth, only 3 weeks apart. We were happy that Sabrina could play hookey for the day. They had a great time at the beach. I just love these 2 girls. It doesn't matter how long they are apart- when they meet up again they just start right back up where they left off.

Sabrina and Megan...the boda bidas

Scott and Rachel

2011-04-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

We found tons of sea slugs in the water...cool looking and quite gross

Karaoke

2011-04-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

We love to sing karaoke! We may not have the best voices (that would be me) but we have enough fun to make up for it. We sang everything from Stevie Wonder to Johnny Cash to The Killers. Fun, fun, fun!! I married into the best family!! Courtney and Mimi were there too but Mimi declined a photo op and Courtney's pic didn't turn out.

Daniel having a tender moment with the song

Kira having a Charlie's Angel moment and Darin helping us find the beat

Simon Cowell would only have good things to say about this performance

This reminded me of a quote from elf: I'm singing. I'm in a store and I'm singing.

Balboa Pier

2011-03-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

2011-03-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

2011-03-29T12:46:00.001-07:00

Phoenix Zoo

2011-02-08T14:22:00.000-08:00

2011-02-08T14:16:00.000-08:00

OUCH!

2011-01-27T11:28:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I was in the front yard watching the kids play. We have a bike path right next to our house and Mallory was riding her bike. As she was riding towards me a man passed me riding his bike with his dog on a leash. Do you see where this is going? His dog crossed in front of Mallory and the leash caught her on the neck. The rider didn't notice at first and the dog yanked Mallory right off her bike. She landed on the back of her head. Thank goodness she was wearing a helmet. The man felt terrible and was very sorry and hopefully learned his lesson. Mallory had a very sore neck the next day but is healing nicely.

A good lesson came out of this though. My older kids never want to wear their helmets. They say, "I promise I'll be careful." I think they understand now that even if they're as careful as possible, accidents can still happen.

First Pinewood Derby

2011-01-26T13:53:00.001-08:00

Connor, dad, and grandpa were all very excited about the Pinewood Derby. All three were instrumental in the design and construction of the car (Papa especially). It was a fun night and Connor came in 4th. Pretty good for his first time. He really liked winning a few races.

The Nativity Story

2011-01-10T11:45:00.000-08:00

The kids dressed up in nativity costumes and they acted out the story as we read Luke 2.

Jesus Dinner

2011-01-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

On the eve of Christmas eve we planned a Jesus dinner with our family. We had lamb, salmon, unleavened bread, dried fruit, nuts, cheeses and lots of yummy goodies we thought they might have eaten during Christ's time. We ate by candlelight and the kids had a great time. I think the adults did too.

Aaron, with his sophisticated pallete, and wanting to be authentic bought us some Gefilte fish. It came in a jar packed in some kind of clear jelly. Yum!! I had one bite just to say that I tasted it.

Daniel and me, Mimi, Aaron, Sarah, and Courtney

Ethan and Megan

Aaron trying to make the Gefilte fish not look so scary, and Daniel

Our table

the spread

Chuck E Cheese with Cousins

2011-01-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

We went to Cali for Christmas break and it rained and rained and rained. We tried to find fun indoor activities to keep the kids occupied because cabin fever is not pretty.

.

Mallory's Preschool Christmas Performance

2011-01-05T12:40:00.000-08:00

The Nutcracker

2011-01-04T12:23:00.001-08:00

I went to see The Nutcracker with my preschool kids and some of their parents. It was so much fun! We got to see one act (the second one) which I think is the perfect amount of time. We had primo seats and our tickets were only $4. It was fabulous. My favorite part was watching Mallory's awe-stricken face. She was riveted the entire time. Guess I need to sign someone up for ballet lessons...

The dancers warming up

Amelia and her mom Tina, Olivia and Sasha

Danielle, Sasha, Gabi, and Megan

Christmas fun

2011-01-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

My new gingerbread residential community

The homeless public waiting for their houses to be finished.

The Construction team

All she asked for was a candy cane

Connor's Baptism

2010-12-31T08:52:00.001-08:00

My crazy, wild, loud boy sat like an angel- AN ANGEL! - the entire time. I was so proud of him. It was a sweet, uplifting day. There were 3 children being baptized that day and he was the last one. The bishop asked if Connor would unplug the font and you've never seen someone excited to do a task. It was a very special day for all of us but especially for Daniel and Connor I think. Daniel was very touched by the thought that he was baptizing his only boy that day.

Lucas Oil Off-Road Races

2010-12-30T08:54:00.001-08:00

The day after Connor's birthday party the men plus Megan went to see off-road races while the women got some Christmas shopping done. I heard it was loud, dusty, and exciting. Connor came home with lots of posters that he was very excited to put on his wall.

Connor and Isaac

Connor's 8th Birthday

2010-12-29T14:51:00.001-08:00

Connor really wanted to go to Pump It Up for his birthday. We told him that was expensive and he could have a nice gift or the party. He opted for the party. He didn't end up lacking in presents though and we had a lot of fun. The next day I had the sore body and rug burns on my elbows to prove it.

New scooter from grandparents

Cousin Isaac

Victorious

Megan and Ben beating each other up

2010-12-29T14:43:00.001-08:00

Jenny's Sprint Triathlon

2010-12-08T13:49:00.000-08:00

I've wanted to do a sprint triathlon for quite a few years but I was intimidated. My friend Amber had done a few and she talked me into doing one. I gave myself 6 months to get into some sort of shape and (more importantly) to get up the nerve to do it. I thought it would be fun for us to do it together...and then she moved away. But that's okay. I made up my mind to do it and sent in my money. There was no turning back after that.

It turned out to be a lot of fun. I loved the swim, the bike was great, and the run was hard but I was expecting that. The race consisted of a 400m swim which is really short, a 10.3 mile bike ride and a 5k. My time was 1:22. My goal was 1:30 so I was happy.

Daniel and the kids cheered for me at every transition which was so motivating. He seemed very proud of me which made me feel so good. It doesn't hurt to have a biker as a husband either. At the very mention of me doing a tri he said, "We need to get you a road bike." And he did!

9:14
My swim- I'm in the nearest lane with the silver cap

43:17
Coming back from my ride

30:08
Starting my run

Sweet victory!

Next stop...Ironman? Hahahahahaha.....um....no.

Happy Birthday Connor!!

2010-12-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this guy is 8 now!!!

The Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

It's our annual trip to the pumpkin patch. I like this one because for a flat fee the kids get to go on a hay ride, jump in a bounce house, go through the maze, look at all the animals and pick out a pumpkin. It's a fun way to spend the afternoon and a good bribery tool also.

2010-11-05T16:45:00.001-07:00

Megan and I on the hay ride

Mallory's face when the tractor turned on. Love it!

Connor's version of heaven...a huge pile of dirt.

Mallet Band

2010-11-03T16:21:00.000-07:00

At Megan's school they have a mallet band and only 5th graders can join. This was very disappointing to Megan last year since she was a fourth grader so she made sure to join up on the last day of fourth grade. Is it bad to say that I was surprised at how beautiful their songs sounded? I loved the sound of the xylophones, although Daniel will only refer to them as glockenspiels. Anyway, it was really fun to hear her play.

On the right is Megan's "friend" Andrew and to Megan's left is her good friend Katherine.

Monsoons

2010-11-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

This wash by our house is usually bone dry but it really filled up after a particularly hard rain storm. The rain ran down our street and into the wash in a huge sheet of dirty water. I'm still not used to having it rain when it's 100 degrees outside.

Mani-Pedi's

2010-10-22T13:34:00.001-07:00

We went to CA for a wedding and got to hang out with Mimi and the cousins a bit while we were there. Sarah thought it would be fun to give the girl's manicures and pedicures and of course they loved it. Between Mimi and Sarah the girls had all the colors of the rainbow to choose from. And Connor even got in on the action with a bubbly foot bath.

The Slot Machine

2010-10-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

Since I can remember my dad has ALWAYS wanted a slot machine. This might sound a little strange because my dad doesn't gamble and he hates Vegas but apparently he has a fascination with slot machines...that or a secret desire to make money from unsuspecting guests. He finally bought one for a great price and kept it in our garage while my parents moved here. Needless to say, there is not a nickel left in our entire house. Piggy banks were emptied, cushions searched, and wallets were ransacked. Thank goodness it wasn't a dollar slot!!!

Dinosaur Eggs

2010-10-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

I'm teaching preschool again and for the letter D we studied dinosaurs. The kids had so much fun searching for dinosaurs in the eggs. Even my older kids made me promise to save them an egg. Thanks for the idea Melissa Nelson. They were a big hit.

Mt. Lemmon

2010-10-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

Our ward camping trip was in Tucson at Mt. Lemmon. It was beautiful and the cool weather was lovely. Daniel was able to come with us this year but I don't have a picture to prove it. Megan claims she saw a black bear. We'll definitely camp here again.

Math genius?

2010-09-03T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is a copy of Megan's math homework. Luckily, I checked it before she shoved it into her backpack. It was a page on expanded notation and word form. If you can't read it she's supposed to write out a long number in word form.

Her answer: You take a chunk of numbers and write them in words and so on.

I laughed so hard. I don't think we'll be hearing from MIT anytime soon.

Smith and Morehouse Lake

2010-08-20T14:48:00.000-07:00

This lake is in Oakley, UT and it's just a few minutes from the cabin we were staying in. It was gorgeous and the water wasn't too cold either. We spent quite a few days here swimming, kayaking and fishing.

Skipping rocks

Kym, Mia, and Mallory

Colby and Megan

My mom, Megan and me

Man overboard

2010-08-20T14:27:00.001-07:00

Megan, Connor and Papa

Connor and Papa discussing lures

All the kids fishing. Megan was the only one to catch a fish.

We need to get out more

2010-08-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

I took the kids to IKEA to get some small tables and chairs for preschool. While we were there we went up to the restaurant for lunch. As we're sitting down to eat Connor says, "Wow, Mom! This is the fanciest restaurant we've ever been to."

Really?

Happy Birthday Daniel!

2010-08-16T17:07:00.001-07:00

Happy 38 old man! You're a better husband and father every single year! Love ya!

Why I go to church every Sunday

2010-08-15T17:37:00.001-07:00

There are actually lots of reasons I go to church but lately I've been feeling particularly grateful for the feeling of peace that I get at church every week. Throughout the week I get impatient, frustrated, stressed, etc, etc. As much as I try to stay focused I still get bogged down with the little troubles in my life. I lose perspective. And then Sunday rolls around and we get ready to go to church because that's what we do. My kids usually squirm through sacrament meeting and start whispering in my ear just when I really wanted to hear something but there's always that moment when I'm filled with the Spirit.

It can be a specific scripture, a certain song, or a comment from a lesson. And I know that the Lord is whispering to me. My priorities come quickly back into focus. I'm inspired to be more patient, more loving, more righteous. The Lord gently reminds me that I can't do it on my own. He will help me with my trials but I have to ask. I am reminded of the parable of the ten virgins. I don't know yet if I'm the wise virgin or the foolish virgin, probably somewhere in between but I do know that every time I go to church my lamp is being filled.

Visiting cousins

2010-08-13T15:22:00.001-07:00

In Utah we were able to visit all the cousins on my mom's side. We haven't seen each other in a long time so it was really fun to get together. These are all our kids. Tragically, Kadan (the boy in the red shirt) died early Wednesday morning from a seizure. I'm so filled with sorrow for their family. To Nan'l, Brandi, and all my Mitchell family my heart goes out to you. I'm thankful that I got to see him so recently. What a sweet spirit he has.

AZ to UT

2010-08-12T12:54:00.001-07:00

We hit a couple of 80 MPH test sections. Woo-hoo! Put the pedal to the metal!

Torture

2010-08-10T14:24:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be a good idea to take the kids to the store to buy a toy for our 12 hour drive to Utah. I was hoping the new toys would interest them for at least a couple of hours during the drive. And it worked. There was just one flaw. I took them to pick out the toys on Saturday and we weren't leaving until Tuesday morning. They knew before hand that the toys were not to be opened until the drive but boy oh boy was it hard to keep those boxes closed for 3 days. They begged, pleaded and cried. They slept and ate next to the boxes. I did not relent. The boxes stayed closed but it was hard. And the cherry on top? They were so excited to finally open their toys that at 5am Tuesday morning they were bright eyed and ready to play and not a nap was had.

Singing in the Rain

2010-08-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

Monsoon season is upon us. The first big rainstorm of the year had all the kids running outside. Since it's 100+ degrees outside I definitely don't have to worry about anyone catching cold.

Life is Peachy

2010-08-06T14:11:00.001-07:00

I had a bunch of ripe peaches that I didn't know what to do with so we decided to make jam. Last time we made jam I followed the directions and added 8 cups of sugar :O!!! I couldn't do it again. My mom found a low-sugar peach jam recipe and I only added 1 cup of sugar. Wow! And it tasted wonderful!

Here's the link: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/peach_jam.html

My slave labor: Megan and her friend, Katherine

I had to have it for dinner...mmmmm.

When life hands you limes...

2010-08-06T14:06:00.001-07:00

My parents have a lemon tree and one of Connor's favorite things to do when we visit is to make fresh squeezed lemonade. Well, we don't have a lemon tree but we got a bunch of limes in our Bountiful Basket so we decided to make limeade. It didn't have Grammy's special touch but it turned out pretty good.

To the beach!

2010-07-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

We went to Cali for a couple of weeks at the end of June and I have hardly any pictures to show for it. We went to the beach, of course. We also went to Knott's, Legoland, the movies, the pool and played with the cousins. The weather was very mild (thank you!) and we were sad to leave, especially since it's 105 degrees now!

Flying with Papa

2010-07-19T14:33:00.001-07:00

Baby Rachel is growing

2010-07-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Camping at the rim

2010-06-08T13:17:00.001-07:00

We went camping up near Payson county over Memorial Day weekend. It was a beautiful spot and very secluded. The kids had a great time exploring. We were near a small pond and Megan caught a bunch of frogs. There were no restrooms or running water so that was a bit of an adventure but not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Somehow I managed to get lost in the woods in the middle of the night but I managed to find my way back to camp after about 15 very long minutes.

2010-06-08T13:13:00.001-07:00

Just because it made me laugh

2010-06-08T13:12:00.001-07:00

Last Day of School

2010-06-08T13:09:00.001-07:00

Mimi's Graduation

2010-06-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

We went to California a couple weeks ago to see Mimi get her Master's Degree. We are all so very proud of her! What an accomplishment! Grandmothers can do just about anything!

2010-06-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

Chicago!! Oprah!! Eclipse!!

2010-05-13T13:33:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I heard that Oprah wanted Twilight fans to email her. So I did. And never heard back. But they did call Sarah and asked her if she wanted to come to Chicago (WITH A GUEST) and see a screening of Eclipse (a month and a half before it's released) and be an audience member for Oprah's Eclipse show. ARE YOU SERIOUS???!!! Sarah called me right after she got off the phone and when I could finally understand what she was telling me I was screaming too.

First shock, then disbelief, then crazy excitement when we realized that we might actually be able to pull this off even though it was only 10 days away.

After frantic calls to acquire babysitters, buy plane tickets, and reserve hotels we were on our way. I've never been to Chicago before. I loved it. I loved the tall buildings. I loved the wind. I loved all the tulips.

After we landed we checked into our hotel, got some food, and headed over to the theater to see Eclipse. We were on the very front row to the very left (but who cares? We're seeing Eclipse almost 2 months early)!! 5 minutes before the show was to start they had the front row stand and we were taken to the comfy seats in the balcony. Score!

The film was great, maybe the best one so far. I was really happy with it. After we left of course we couldn't sleep so we stayed up late talking about the movie and woke up 4 hours later to go to the Oprah show.

We couldn't bring any cameras into the studio. It was smaller than I thought it would be and there weren't any bad seats. We were behind the main seating in the center. Oprah came out and interviewed Rob, Kristen, Taylor and Dakota. I have to give it to Oprah. She knows what she's doing. There was so much going on and Oprah makes it look effortless. The interview was so much fun. We laughed a lot and smiled even more.

After the show we explored Chicago some more. We went to the Magnificent Mile and down to Lake Michigan. Then it was time to head to the airport. It was a quick trip and we packed in as much fun as humanly possible.

Our show airs Thursday, May 13th at 3pm on Oprah!! Maybe you'll see us in the audience. We're the screaming fans in the Twilight shirts. ;)

My first Chicago deep dish pizza. The crust was heavenly.

View from the top of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)

Inside a Plexiglas box at the top of the Willis Tower, notice that I didn't go very far out. It was unnerving to be able to look down that far.

2010-05-13T13:29:00.001-07:00

Our very nice hotel room

View out our window in downtown Chicago

Cute baby Lizzy

A shot of us right before the Eclipse screening. We walked a mile to the theater and Chicago isn't called the windy city for nothing.

2010-05-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

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The theater where we saw Eclipse

Sarah and I after being in the audience for the Oprah/Eclipse Show

I loved all the tulips

I loved looking up at all the enormous buildings.

Millennium Park

2010-05-13T13:06:00.001-07:00

Under the silver bean in Millennium Park

The big silver bean. They must wash it everyday b/c it was so shiny.

My favorite flower

Chicago River

MUSE

2010-04-29T12:07:00.001-07:00

We've waited so long for this moment! My favorite band Muse came to Phoenix and it was incredible!!! Silversun Pickups opened and they sounded really great too. A few of Daniel's friends from work came with us. I can't wait to see them again...in September...in LA! Woo-hoo!

2010-04-29T11:19:00.001-07:00

MUSE - The Resistance Tour

2010-04-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

Lake Pleasant

2010-04-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

My parents came for a visit and we went to Lake Pleasant for the day. It was a beautiful day and the water wasn't too cold for the brave at heart. The kids found a mud pit which was the highlight of the day for them.

2010-04-29T10:57:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

2010-04-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Easter Egg Hunt with friends

2010-04-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

Easter Fun

2010-04-19T13:06:00.001-07:00

This year instead of dying eggs we decided to make Rice Crispy Eggs. They're much tastier too.

Lizzy's Blessing Day

2010-04-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

Camping at McDowell Mountain

2010-03-24T10:17:00.001-07:00

We went camping this weekend. McDowell Mountain is about an hour away. It was much prettier than I thought it would be. It was green (as green as Arizona gets) and there were lots of wild flowers. Unfortunately my camera died after 3 pictures so this is all we got.

We're always up for camping buddies if anyone wants to come with...

No Cancer!!!

2010-03-12T14:12:00.000-08:00

So yesterday was one of the best days of my life! I'm sore, and have a rough time getting up and down, and rolling over, but my remote control muscles are working great! I caught an episode of The Price is Right, and now the universe is back on center.

Before surgery yesterday in the prep room, the Dr. came in to visit and talk about what was going to happen. He had already done that for me when in his office, but I guess it's standard protocol for the entire staff to repeat themselves. Each nurse asking me the same questions, and now the Dr. repeating the procedure... The plan was to take out a Lymph node in my deep groin - or lower inguinal space of the retroperitoneal cavity. While on the table, the surgeon would send the lymph node to pathology, so they could inspect it for disease (Cancer is all I was thinking about), if the lymph node was healthy, then they would go to plan B a deeper node, and continue this until he found a unhealthy node to sample. Luckily for me, the first node was diseased so I only have a 4 inch scar near my downstairs. I understood from the Dr. that if I awoke with a small scar then that meant I had cancer.

When I awoke I asked the nurse in the recovery room if I had a large scar up my abdomen or if it was a small scar. He replied I had a small scar, I then knew I had cancer. The nurse hadn't heard the results - actually I don't think they do, they just have a job of making sure I was comfortable. I tried to convince him that he owed me $500 for a bad bet he made with me before I was knocked out, but to no avail - he wasn't coughing up the dough! It wasn't until Jenny came into the recovery room that I learned I didn't have cancer. WHAT A RELIEF!!!

Turns out the first lymph node they removed was in fact diseased, but not with cancer, at this point they aren't sure, so we start a new waiting game while the pathologists study the tissue and figure out what is making me so weak, and sore. Dr.'s guess is Sarcoidosis or Valley Fever.

My faith in God, my testimony of tithing, and my loving friends have blessed my life this past month! I love you all, and I'm so thankful for answered prayers, answers that pushed us to move to Phoenix, answers that comforted my wife and kids, and answers that calmed my mind, so I could focus on staying happy.

With every blessing I've had, I was reassured that with the Lord's help, and the support of loving friends and family, the Limburgs would be OK, and we are! So thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. If I need to rally the troops again, I'll make sure to send out the war cry so you can come to our aid again. And if you ever need our help, please don't hesitate to ask!

I love you all!

Rallying the troops

2010-03-10T22:15:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, March 11th is my surgery date to remove a lymph node to find out if I do indeed have cancer. This entire journey to this point has been humbling, and amazing. The fear of cancer, or the fear of the unknown is frightening. The worst part has been the waiting game. I sent out a simple note on Facebook to let my friends and distant family know what's up a little over 2 weeks ago. The awesome thing for me has been the overwhelming support and love sent my way. I wanted to share an email I received from a close friend. Matt Robertson and I worked together at Shimano, on day one I knew he and I would become good friends... Below is a email he sent me on Feb 22nd entitled "I talked to the man for you" This email was sent after my inconclusive results came back from my biopsy.

Daniel,

Saturday I went on a little pilgrimage. Thought about you a lot. I wanted to ride down to the temple in SD – even though I can’t go in. but I could not arrange the train ride and general plan in advance. The second option – plan B, was to ride the same distance around OC. So I laid out an 80 mile ride, but almost didn’t make it 5. I was on the bike path headed up the drainage from the back bay when I hit a dog doing 20miles an hour (me not the dog). It was some kind of boxer, pug-like thing, a total brick. Somehow it can move 200mph and literally jumped 5 feet directly to the left to make the interception. I may have hit the brakes, I don’t know, but I stopped dead and flew over the bars, smashing into the ground – hands, elbow, knee, hip, back all taking some damage. Ouch. I was pretty worried that something was busted but everything seemed to be OK.

That was when the dog started talking. He said, “Hey guy, don’t even think about heading back home! You have 75 miles to go and I am not taking excuses today” Actually, he didn’t talk. But the point was made. Sometimes the old adage - ‘get back up and try again’ seems to make light of reality. Sometimes you are not sure if you can get up. but this time I could. It was my longest ride of the year (5 hours) and the longest ride I have ever done in OC, it was also the hardest I have ever stacked on a road bike.

My interpretation of the situation is that I was given a lesson in adversity and perseverance that I was meant to pass on to you. Whatever the first impact of your situation, don’t let it break you, find the strength in your family and friends who love you and look forward to ‘riding out those aches’ with all of us.

Anything at all, just ask!

Matt

This note hit a chord, and of course brought tears to my eyes. I forwarded the note to Jenny, and she was inspired to write the following back, which pretty much summed up my thoughts.

Hey Matt,

Daniel was really touched by your email and sent it to me. I just had to let you know how much it effected me after I read it. It was kind of like a light bulb went off. Ever since we found out something was wrong I've tried to keep myself in good spirits but I'm a worrier (from a long line of worriers) and the waiting of course does not help. Anyway, after your email I just had such a strong and intense feeling of comfort. I just felt like saying, "You know what? We got this!". I almost think we've been training for this. This last year we really overhauled our lives and Daniel's in the best shape he's been in years (aside from possible cancer, lol).

I know your family has had to weather a few storms of your own so thank you for helping me to see that we'll be able to ride out these bumps. Of course I don't want to see Daniel sick but I know that we can fight this and will probably come out the better for it. Daniel has a great friend in you.

Jenny

I really feel ready for what lies in front of me. Not knowing sucks, but my body says it's ready, and my spirit says fight! My brother Jeff while in the ICU in Portland, wrote this note a few days before he passed - "life is absurd, but worth it". It is SO WORTH IT! All the little things that jump in our way, and slow us down, so worth it. Whatever adversity is in front of me, I will face boldly, and ready. I have hundreds of friends waiting to help me pick up my weapons, and push forward. I'm humbled by everyone's comments, especially by those who've picked up the phone and called me. I love you all! I'm honored to be your friend. And I know I can beat this! With all of your prayers, love and good vibes, we will get through this. I thank the Lord everyday for people like you in my life! Thank you!

I just hope, if I do have cancer and loose my hair, that I don't loose my eyebrow hair, cause those two guys really hold the face together.

Tea Parties

2010-03-06T16:45:00.001-08:00

Megan and Mallory's birthdays are only 10 days apart. This year I threw them both parties on the same day. Mallory's party was from 10-12. Megan's was from 3-5. It was such a fun day. Mallory was beside herself with joy when she saw all the girly decorations. Megan is 10! I'm in the double digits now and my baby is 4! Oh, I love these girls!