The Gold Lining

The happy couple....

2009-02-17T19:52:00.007-05:00

So many favorites.... Met up with Tammy and Justin to do an engagement session down in their neck of the woods... Blogger is not cooperating so I will try to post more later! I really want to blow this first one up - huge!

fun with cousins

2008-10-09T00:35:00.003-04:00

Lilly, Chloe, Hailey and Kyle... Best shot of 200+

Lilly (aka Hailey's shadow) :)

Hailey getting a taxi ride! :)

Paige, Lilly and Chloe ~ We are so glad you could come down and visit! We all had so much fun and We miss you!! See you in May!!

Hamilton Dove Festival

2008-09-09T00:13:00.003-04:00

Our Favorite Labor Day Activity... A Good 'ole fashioned Texas Country weekend! Starting with the 'Dove Festival' and fair.... The kids were in the parade this year and Kyle diligently handed out candy to the parade viewers!

Hailey loves rock climbing..... Got all the way to the top with her friend Lindsay!

Walking around the Hamilton Gardens...

Then we headed out to Lucy's house. It is SOOOO Cute.. I could take pictures around her property all day long!! Loved this old barn out behind her house. We ate a great big Lunch and headed out to the Rodeo... Hailey actually did the calf scramble... (where they run after calf's and try to grab the ribbon off their tails!) Really too funny to watch a bunch of kids running after some poor baby cows!

Side view of her cute little cottage...

Then off to Creekside for the rest of the weekend... playing in the creek, sitting on the porch, reading, drinking, eating and just letting the kids run free... here are Hailey and Kyle jumping into the creek from the rope swing!

1st day of 3rd Grade...

2008-08-25T19:49:00.002-04:00

H had a GREAT first day... I have never seen her so excited after the first day of school.. She loves her teachers (and so do I)... She has so many friends in her class and switch class. :)

H rode the bus with a Kindergarten friend to make sure he found his way on the first day.. by the afternoon he was off and making new friends! Now she can return to riding her bike to school which makes her VERY happy!

She isn't so excited about me taking her picture this year though!! I know I say this every year but I can't believe she is going into 3rd grade... Kyle starts next week!! YEAH!

Hailey's first Triathlon....

2008-08-13T10:40:00.003-04:00

Hailey did her first Triathlon this July.... It was 50m swim, 1/2 mile bike and 1/4 mile run. She really liked it and wants to do some more... She had some trouble on the bike but she had just gotten a new one with gears so I think that wasn't the best idea to let her ride that one!

We are sooo proud of her!

Before the race... writing #139 all over her!

On your MARK, GET SET...... GO!

Kyle came and cheered her on!

So did Daddy

With her finishers medal.... I should have gotten a better picture of that! :)

It's another...

2008-07-21T15:56:00.005-04:00

girl for my sister... :) Introducing Chloe Grace...

born Saturday 7/19 at 4:17am...
weighing in at 8lbs 13oz and 21in long...
Paige did it natural again.. UGH!

I can't wait to meet her in person!! 11 days and counting!

Beach Trip.... visiting Karen

2008-06-19T21:48:00.000-04:00

playing, racing, swimming, eating (food and sand), drinking on the porch, reading magazines, and watching the sunset.... AHHHH! Good times...

Thanks Karen!

Swim Team...

2008-06-09T21:26:00.000-04:00

Hailey had a blast this year on our neighborhood swim team... She improved so much this season. Of course, I missed her best race when she caught another team and won first place... :) At least s/1 told me about it as I walked in ~so I could be appropriately excited when I saw her!!

Kyle is really quite the little swimmer.. I need video to do it justice... He is breathing down her neck to join in next year... We'll see......

Soccer

2008-05-24T21:15:00.003-04:00

H is playing soccer again this season... She is working on being a little more aggressive.. :) she is great until someone else shows up who might want the ball!! HA! A friend's father is coaching this season and he is really good with the girls... even mine who is sometimes a bit on the sensitive side!

AMOK Camping..

2008-05-24T21:00:00.004-04:00

I am really far behind in blogging but as I add posts I will adjust the dates so they are chronologically correct!! :) Went on a family camping trip to Bastrop.... Really loads of fun! Great weather! Cutest Cabins on the lake! Bike Riding, fishing, eating, relaxing and loads of drinking after the kiddos went to bed. I can't wait to do it again.... fun..fun...fun...

Kyle had just p*tty train*d himself the week before so it was interesting to be out in the woods. We did have a 'tree p*tty' However, he did show his new found skills off at the 'pavillon' dinner with the 20+ families cheering him on during meal time! AHHH ~ good times!

Dare I say...

2008-04-15T19:48:00.003-04:00

P*tty trained?? Kyle earned his 'big boy' bike for no longer wearing diapers... He just did it one day after a 'little' coaxing. (did I mention is was the day of Hailey's birthday party - NOT a great day for me!) He discovered his 'underwear pocket' and knows how to use it. :) He is quite the exhibitionist when it comes to public displays of his new talents... But being around a lot of moms he gets lots of claps for a job well done... (and lots of pictures)

We've had a few accidents but all in all he has done a really great job! Knock on wood he gets to keep his new bike... :)

Rock Star Birthday.....

2008-03-28T21:41:00.000-04:00

The 'Dance Party' of the year ~ H*nnah M*ntan*h style.... 26 screaming girls, body glitter, tattoos, face painting, hair dying, freeze dance, karaoke and of course ~ ice cream sundae's ... What more could any 8 year old ask for...
I have to admit, I had loads of fun...
It was a really fun party!

Now if I could just get all this glitter cleaned up!!! :)

From our Rock Star photo session beforehand. We designed a cool invitation on a CD label with some of these pictures! (Thanks Sarah!)... I ended up decorating with a lot of these pictures..

and last but not least... H opted to have a large party and in lieu of gifts we collected donations for a local organization that helps out children in the foster care system... Here is a photo of all of the donations we collected.. 15 stuffed animals, 13 baby outfits, 3 packages of diapers, 8 books, 3 packages of crayons, craft kits and $40 cash... We'll be delivering these goodies this week... I am so proud of her for her choice!

Where does the time go????

2008-03-14T09:35:00.004-04:00

Ten years ago today I was getting my hair and nails done for my wedding... stressing that it was going to rain and therefore my Antique Rolls Royce convertible Limo was not going to show!! You know the important things!! Even up to the start of our ceremony it wasn't there... but when we walked out of the sanctuary after getting married there it was!! and boy did we have a blast driving around in that thing all over town...

Our reception was just perfect and everything I had imagined. We had it in the old historic Wyndam Warwick Hotel (which has now been re-modeled into some trendy modern hotel that I don't even recognize)..... Ahhh times change..

It has been a blissful ten years - NOT! HA!! - but it has been a wonderful ten years... Many ups and downs... Marriage is just plain hard work.....but I can honestly say we are even closer now than we were 10 years ago... It is a wonderful place to be most of the time!! :)

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Babe!!!

and seriously where does the time go???

Ten year highlights?

2 children
3 houses
2 apartments
3 dogs
1 cat
1 boat
5 cars

Here's to the next 10 years...

Hmmmm what's in a name??

2008-03-02T23:06:00.003-05:00

Found this ~ interesting ~ they got one thing right... I start a lot of stuff and never seem to finish it! I couldn't even finish reading this... lots of fluff!! LOL!

What Kristen Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life.

You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip.

People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.

You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.

You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. TRUE!

You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong.

You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know.

You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.

You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless - and you have a lot of questions about life.

You tend to travel often, to fairly random locations. You're most comfortable when you're far away from home.

You are quite passionate and easily tempted. Your impulses sometimes get you into trouble.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.

You are prone to a little jealousy.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

CONGRATULATIONS!

2008-02-24T23:44:00.004-05:00

Uncle Justin ~ finally~ popped the question!!! Congrats Justin and Tammy! We love you...

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-15T18:51:00.003-05:00

Troy took Hailey out for the big day since we are going *here* to celebrate on Saturday. Daddy treated her to dinner, rock climbing and ice cream!! She had an awesome time and said it was the best valentines day EVER!!! This day of course was also paired with Flowers from Grampa, Candy, candles and towels from Grandma, PJ's from Grammy, Books and Hannah Montana PJ's from Mom/Dad... Not too mention a party at school (that might just need it's own post on my photog blog!)...

All in all ~ the best day ever!!

Bringing back memories...

2008-02-13T19:05:00.001-05:00

When I was younger I vividly remember my parents having 'fondue' parties. My cousins, friends etc would all get to sit on the table and eat fondue... I think most of the time it was cheese fondue but thought it would be a fun holiday treat to let the kids and a few friends have their own little fondue party... I need to go see if i can find the pics of all of us sitting on the kitchen table... This picture just brings it all back... They had as much fun as I remember having (although Kyle ate just forks full of chocolate!)

The Beginning of the Love Fest

2008-02-09T18:58:00.000-05:00

We started celebrating the big day of love with a small group of friends... We had a 'Martini' party.. It was something we have always wanted to do. It was so fun that I think we'll make it an annual thing. I don't have any pictures to share from the actual party but boy did I have fun decorating.. My friend Sarah helped me 'salvage' my kids lollipops and turned them into our center piece. We had no kids for the night and it was a good thing... we were pretty slow moving the next morning!

Welcome Leo and Blueberry to the Family!

2008-01-28T00:45:00.000-05:00

The kiddos got gift cards to build*abear from Grandma L.
They had an absolute blast picking out their bear, washing it, naming it and dressing it!
Leo the Hockey player and Blueberry the winter bear
(can't see so much in the photo but Blueberry has blue spots all over her).
I have to admit this is such a cute concept..... But it is not a cheap day.
It blows my mind how much these bear/outfit etc go for....

Both kiddos are in LOVE with the new additions to the family.
Thanks to Grandma L for treating us to a super fun day!!

Look a plane!

2008-01-22T00:17:00.000-05:00

LOVE this moment between K and M..... They were having a blast rolling around in the grass, riding bikes and having fun!! Just after this it started pouring rain and we saw the most amazing rainbow... It was so big I couldn't get a picture of the entire thing!! The pictures don't do it justice really... I will post that later (blogger only allowing me one right now -ugh!)

My new purse....

2008-01-08T23:18:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to see if I could post a picture off the world wide web... This is, however, my new purse and I am excited! haven't been out of a diaper bag in a loooooong time!! (technically I am still not ~ but preparing for what may be on the horizon! ~ cross your fingers) and I got it on sale... You gotta love Macy's one day sale!!

Merry Christmas to me!!

(Also trying to learn to attach a link!) You can find it HERE

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T23:04:00.000-05:00

Relax and enjoy your day!!

Tis the season to reflect and begin a new... Here's to a rejuvenating 2008!

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas....

2007-12-25T00:38:00.001-05:00

What will keep kids busy for hours???

2007-11-29T17:13:00.000-05:00

Bales of Hay!!???

Creekside

2007-11-26T16:56:00.000-05:00

So we headed out to San Saba to 'creekside' for Thanksgiving ~ a great house that our friends built in the country. We sat around and drink, ate , drank some more, ate some more , played, shopped, took pictures, and slept!! Thanks L & J! We had a blast!

Now we just need to plan that girls weekend out there ~ w/margarita machine:) !

Our View from the deck! That's the driveway ~ you don't want to miss that!!

H & L running around outside

J, H, B, L, B and K Climbing the gate...

Finally ~ my big boy bed

2007-11-18T16:54:00.000-05:00

Yes, FINALLY! We have waited a long time to finally be able to move all of my grandmother's stuff out of my parent's garage, to get to the attic, to get to the bed, to have the mattress made! PHEW! He loves it!

Pictures coming soon!

I'm 2 you're 3....

2007-11-17T23:13:00.000-05:00

Kyle turned three but insists that he is still two and I am 3.... Yes I am 3(0 ish) but that is another post... What does a boy who is turning 3 need? 3 parties of course... 1 at Gymnastics place, 1 at the park w/playgroup friends and 1 with family... Here is some pictures of the 'car party' at the park...

My sister made these 'car cakes' for me and my friends....

May the force be with you....

2007-11-02T22:04:00.000-04:00

Princess Leia and Yoda had a fabulous Halloween... Yoda could not figure out what alternate universe we had entered but was thrilled with the whole idea... So we go outside and run around, knock on peoples doors, say trick or treat and they give us CANDY! OMG ~ Why don't we do this all the time???

We had friends over for dinner and then headed out to the cul-de-sac... It was great weather for an evening walk! Hailey did the rounds with the little ones and then met up with friends cheetah girl and ballerina for another round..

The Halloween Parade....

2007-10-31T22:53:00.001-04:00

Earlier today we had a 'halloween parade' at my grandmother's assisted living home. The residents really loved seeing all the kids. I think my grandmother is just over the moon that 20 kids came to visit HER in her room! And yes, my 90 year old grandmother is dressed as Vampiressa - OH BOY!!

Mother/Daughter Camping Trip

2007-10-26T14:15:00.000-04:00

It was just absolutely PERFECT Weather! 70's, Sunny, little breeze... Beautiful! We took hikes, made crafts, and spent lots of time with other girls and their moms. Really a nice weekend getting to make some new friends!!

Hailey and Skye

The girls on our hike around the lake

Modeling their blankets that they made ~ Really cute craft project!

Hailey

2007-10-13T00:57:00.001-04:00

What is Hailey like? She is kind, friendly, sensitive, shy, smart, silly and very loving 2nd grader. She loves school, friends, riding her bike, playing soccer, teach her brother new things and keeping her new room clean! She really is growing up so fast!

Flying into Fall..

2007-10-08T23:37:00.000-04:00

So much has been going on in the last month. Just getting up and running into a routine for school and activities has been challenging. I feel like it is finally balancing out. I have lots of opportunities coming up for pictures so stay tuned.....

Both the kids are loving school and even K runs in everyday to see his teachers! (no more tears) Hubs and I are working hard on eating right and exercising. Just a snapshot I got of the kids after bath time ~ just hanging out with each other!

Mama is 90!

2007-09-23T09:05:00.000-04:00

Mama turned 90 this week ~ The whole family came from near and far to celebrate with her... She is an amazing 90 year old woman. She is still really active and prides herself on how well she gets around on her own. While she lives in an assisted living facility she really on receives assistance with monitoring her meds. She had a great weekend and is super tired!

Happy Birthday Mama!!

Mama and her 3 GREAT grand children!

now this is the way to get a ride to the big family photo shoot~ thanks Uncle Justin!!

Kyle's first day of school...

2007-09-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

He was really not sure about the whole thing! Loved his backpack though! He could have walked around all morning with either Hailey's (the pink one) or his.... He cried when I left but reportedly got over himself in a a few minutes and had lots of fun! All in all ~ a great day!

1st day of 2nd Grade

2007-08-28T10:12:00.001-04:00

Can hardly believe it... Seems like yesterday it was Kindergarten. Of course in 2nd grade I had very little to say about the 1st day 'outfit'.. Cause all white is not what I would have chosen!! LOL! She had a great day! She knows plenty of kids in her class and likes her teacher... All in all a banner day!!

Love love loves her new sneakers~ something about new sneakers, backpacks etc that really gets you excited for the first day of school - a fresh new sparkly white beginning ~ I guess! :)

LIlly turns 1!

2007-08-20T09:52:00.000-04:00

Can't believe it has been a year! Little Miss Lilly is One! We went to DC to visit her on her big day. Took lots of pictures which I'll post more later but here is the birthday girl!

(and check out the CUUUUUTE Cake!)

Happy Birthday Lilly! We love you and miss seeing you!

Beach Trip

2007-08-16T22:36:00.000-04:00

Trying to go in order even though I am weeks behind...

Before meeting up with friends ~ Our Family left a little early and took our time meandering through small town Texas.. We did a local zoo, shops, dinner and parks. Then relaxed by the hotel pool. Above was the favorite 'exhibit' the kids saw... Yes , Folks that is a construction crew creating a new exhibit... Tigers, bats, otters ~ none held a candle to 4 men digging and building in the stream... HA!!

We met up with our friends (3 other families) Had a blast hanging out, swimming and playing on the beach. There were 11 kids in all so our 'incognito' plan didn't pan out very well!! Hailey really misses her buddies and had lots fun. You know I love taking pictures at the beach so I have loads more photos but alas, blogger is not cooperating! The kids helped find a crab and I have some great photos of that!! ~ The whole family had a great time and hope we can do it again next year!! IT really makes me really miss RR!!

Onward to donuts

2007-07-27T18:10:00.000-04:00

This morning in the grocery store Kyle and I went to get chips for playgroup... after I put them in the cart ~ Kyle pointed to the sky and said "Onward to Donuts" !!! I just cracked up! Of course I didn't have my camera with me so this is his recreation!! He is a trip!!

Children's Museum

2007-07-26T21:54:00.001-04:00

Love the children's museum here in Houston - so fun! Friends came to visit from Austin and we headed down there for the day... Kyle had a 'blast' at the rocket launcher station (no pun intended) I have hardly any pictures of Hailey inside the museum because she ran around the place with her friends while I tried not to lose Kyle!

The annual lake trip...

2007-07-22T21:45:00.000-04:00

to celebrate T's birthday.. It was a whole knight theme.. Kim really did a great job on the cake and of course they loved their inflatable swords!! FUN! We all had a blast swimming, riding in the boat, eating and of course visiting friends (even though I was finishing up my 'book') Thanks Writ and Kim for hosting another fun day!!

Kyle's a fish!

2007-07-21T22:46:00.001-04:00

Yes, Kyle is proof positive that I didn't do anything to make Hailey hate the water when she was little! He is a fish! He is actually swimming across the pool (okay only about 6 or 7 feet) but he really kicks and moves his arms.. I'd say not bad for a 2 year old! The only problem ~ getting out of the pool 'fits' ~ UGH!

This is my - "Hey everyone ~ I am getting ready to swim" stance!

Here comes the Sun....

2007-07-09T23:38:00.000-04:00

Any of you who live in Texas know that we have had nothing but RAIN RAIN RAIN... for what seems like forever... Although the kids enjoyed playing in the rain with their umbrellas..... Hey Amy R... That is Kyle's Cars umbrella from Christmas ~ courtesy of our favorite Disney employee... :) THANKS!

4th of July

2007-07-04T23:45:00.000-04:00

Didn't really take any pictures since it was mostly rainy... This isn't even close to a good picture but this is Kyle's first reaction to the first firework of the evening... It just makes me smile.. We had a great 4th... Lots of fun! We are so very fortunate to live in such a wonderful country!!

Hailey's new do...

2007-06-27T23:21:00.000-04:00

Short and Sassy.. She is having fun with it and realizing how much easier it is to deal with than her longer locks...

I think this is a ...

2007-06-27T20:43:00.001-04:00

glimpse into my future.. :) Brings back memories!!

Surprise

2007-06-19T00:13:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, at around 8pm my doorbell rings ~ I answer it to find two of my friends there in party hats ~ Singing Happy Half birthday to You... Happy half birthday to you...

They brought a half of a cake, party hats and favors

and then the strawberry margaritas started flowing!!...........

What a fun surprise!! Thanks S and A!!!

(*for a little background - S. and I both have birthdays within a week of Christmas. As anyone who has a 'Christmas' birthday knows... when growing up, having a b-day party around that time of year it is next to impossible! So both of our great moms would have 1/2 birthday parties for us... in June after School got out.. It solved all the problems of our December dilemma... So of course it was fitting that S planned this little surprise shin-dig on my half birthday... I need to get going on planning hers in just a week!! Hmmmmm!)

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T10:03:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all you Dad's out there!!

Troy you are the greatest dad and hubby! We love you! Hope you have a great day!!

and to my dad ~ You are the best!! I love you!

Fun at the Beach...

2007-06-16T17:38:00.000-04:00

Gotta love Mr. J - Helping out with all the kiddos to get them in the shot!! Then he got stuck with no where to go hide!! HA! Too Funny!! Hey Aunt Em.. Do you see the suit that Little L is wearing? Do you recognize that?

We braved the weather and it turned out to be PERFECT! It wasn't too hot.. not too crowded and soooo very much fun! We had a blast with our friends.. I love early mornings at the beach and especially with friends!! Thanks to the whole W family for coming down for a visit!!

I took 284 pictures so I can just show a few.. there are some on my other blog too! :)

Kyle made a FACE!

2007-06-11T13:51:00.001-04:00

His first recognizable drawing.. and it was a face! Of course it wasn't on paper so I needed to take pictures to prove it! The way Hailey and I oooed and aaaahhhed over it ~ you'd think it was a Picasso!! ~ He is so proud!!

Our swimming pool...

2007-06-06T21:17:00.001-04:00

This pool, while not attractive, has provided hours of fun for kids of all ages!! I finally got Kyle kicking, blowing bubbles and going under water! YEAH! We are looking forward to our summer!

We miss all you crazy Corbetts!

2007-05-29T22:56:00.000-04:00

Old friends..

2007-05-21T18:36:00.000-04:00

Well not old - Young Old Friends Came to Houston from a faraway land ~ Pennsylvania!! HA! They wanted a little taste of Texas so we took them out for a Texas experience ~ Goodes BBQ! It was very tasty and even though it was in the big city probably not something they get to do in PA!

It was great to catch up with you both.. It was lots of fun ~ and we easily picked up where we left off! Hard to believe it has been almost 7 years since I'd seen them! If it wasn't for 2 year olds, early meetings and time ~ We'd have had even more FUN!! :)

Wish I had pics to post but you'll just have to use your imagination!! Thanks M and S for coming by.. :) We wish your whole family all the best! (and hope all your wishes come true!!)

1st Haircut!

2007-05-18T23:25:00.000-04:00

Not a fan of anyone touching his 'locks'.. He worked very hard for his late growing head of curly blond hair ~ but it was getting a tad unruly! After bravely watching girl friend Maddie get her locks trimmed.. it was his turn.. I ended up having to hold him and only that was possible because of lollipops!! He now affectionately calls them "hair pops" .. Here the fearless duo are with their new do's!

2007-05-13T20:36:00.001-04:00

Thumbs up for Mother's Day!

2007-05-13T20:17:00.000-04:00

A great Mothers Day was had by all! I got to sleep in til 9:30am, eat my favorite breakfast, got some great gifts and then spent the day swimming with Family... (and I am headed out for an evening with 'the girls'!! )

Kyle also gives the holiday a big 'thumbs up' as his menu for the day was ~ 4 Popsicles, 3 cupcakes, a few scoops of sherbet, 2 bags of chips and some lemonade.. (by all the grandparents) Of course, there was a yummy adult spread that included some protein !! Thanks Tina and Paul!

Fun Day!!

Tidalwaves

2007-05-09T18:26:00.000-04:00

First Day of swim team... First lap didn't go so well but she has forged on... with the Great Spirit that she has... This will be a 'character building' activity!! and I LOVE that about it !!

Thank Goodness for Great Friends!

2007-05-07T00:52:00.000-04:00

In my wise old age I have realized the importance of great friends. I am fortunate to have such great friends in my life. There are lots of different kinds of friends. There are friends come to visit you and you scurry around cleaning, buying food, and just overall planning for their visit. And then there are FRIENDS!! Friends who come in to your house ~ help you clean out the trash, organize the craft supplies, put your kids toys away, pick up the laundry, and of course ~ climb on your kitchen cabinets to place the 'decorative' items up above the upper cabinets. Just friends who are whatever you need them to be at that moment. I don't always need so much help ~ but this move has kicked my butt!! It was just the 'visit' I needed to kick start this 'new' house of ours!! Thanks Lela!! I really don't know how I am going to make it when you are living 1/2 way around the world instead of 2 1/2 hours away.. :(

Girls enjoying the sunshine in the backyard!
and touching toes while they ate their ice cream!!!!

The boys were TIRED!! Crashed out watching Thomas the Train!!

It's Soccer Season!

2007-04-26T09:12:00.000-04:00

This is Hailey's third season and she is really beginning to understand the game. At this age they actually have positions (Offense and Defense). She is on the team this year with her very first coach (a drill Sargent!) and 4 kids from her school! Lots of great fun parents!! We are looking forward to a fun season!!

We played the dragons last week and one of their players was on Hailey's first team. His Dad came up to Hailey and said "WOW ~ Hailey you have really gotten good since I saw you play last year!" She felt great about that!! She has become much more assertive and shows little fear out on the field!! Although we are still working on the sideline drama!! Ahhh the joy of Girls!

Mother/Daughter Camping Trip

2007-04-17T18:37:00.000-04:00

We had such a fun weekend just us girls... Hailey and I headed up to 'Camp his way' on San Rayburn lake in Zavalla Texas. It was a great place. There were tons of activities for us all to do ~ horseback riding, a zip line, archery, fun challenge obstacle course and of course lots of space to run and play. The staff cooks every meal for you and the food was great camp food! We slept in these covered wagon cabins.

H. riding 'Sugar' the horse... She used the reins all by herself to tell Sugar where to go!! I was so proud of Hailey this weekend. She really went out of her normal confort zone and tried lots of new things!

Hailey getting ready to fly down the zip line through the trees!! It was sooooo fun!!

Bluebonnets!

2007-04-09T22:37:00.000-04:00

I convinced 2 of my friends to go on a 'bluebonnet hunt' ~ Driving out into the countryside in search of the 'bluebonnet'! We finally found a great field full of them just when I was about to give up! We had a whirlwind of fun with the kids running around crazy in the field as we snapped pictures as fast as we could!! I always love a good adventure!!

Aunt E. and Uncle A.

2007-04-09T00:23:00.000-04:00

Last week Aunt E. and Uncle A. came to visit! ~ Both kids had so much fun with them.. The visit went quick but we packed a lot in!!

We've moved!

2007-04-04T22:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Hailey!

2007-03-26T11:02:00.000-04:00

We are still in the process of moving so Hailey had her birthday party with her classmates at a ceramic painting place here. We went with a 'purple paint brush' theme! The girls had lots of fun! She got lots of fun things!

A friend helped me with the invitations and I had this cute cake made and cookies to match.. They all turned out so cute! I will post pictures of them all soon!

We're Moving!!

2007-03-09T19:03:00.000-05:00

and we are all really excited! Especially Hailey! Blogger won't let me post more pictures... I will try to update later... We move in on the 15th so we'll probably be offline for a little while. Lots to post about ~ our family has been really busy.

Valentines Day...

2007-02-15T21:57:00.000-05:00

Troy (and friends) planned a great romantic dinner at a fabulous restaurant complete with Limo, Champagne and lots of fun! (little fender bender with the limo and a drop off at the wrong restaurant added to the laughter of the evening!) It was definitely one of my most memorable and favorite valentines days!! Great Date! Well done guys! I don't have pictures so you'll just have to imagine a beautiful romantic lodge... :)

After all that we got into the car and Troy gave me roller blades... I was so excited b/c after baby #2 my feet do not fit in my old ones so it is something I really had wanted. I didn't even ask for them so it was a really special surprise for me... Hailey is excited for us to go blading together!!

Thanks honey for a great valentines day !!! We love you!!

Mardi Gras

2007-02-12T01:03:00.001-05:00

Grampa and Grandma had all the grandkids over Saturday night (Kyle finally met the age requirement! YEAH!) Troy and I enjoyed a quiet afternoon, evening AND morning..... AHHH!!! This parties theme??? MARDI GRAS!!!

Complete with decorations, confetti, necklaces and a parade!!! and a beautiful cake ~
(Mason got the piece with the plastic baby so he gets to host next years event!!)

Lots of fun ~ Both of my kids were asleep with in 5 minutes of heading home!

Thanks Grandma and Grampa!!

Throwing confetti from upstairs!! How fun is that? But, boy was that a mess!!

Picture won't post - I'll try later!

My little heart attack

2007-02-09T00:13:00.000-05:00

This child ~ I love him but OMG ~ he has no fear... This is today at the park...

Fell off this 2 times... he dangled there for a while before I could get to him... Then I stayed underneath it and he slipped again. He is busy watching all the other kids... UGH!

Rock n Skate...

2007-02-08T00:02:00.000-05:00

Hailey's girl scout unit had a 50's themed skating party for mother and daughter ~ It was a lot of fun skating with the girls.. Even her teacher was there and joined in on the fun!

Hailey has been doing lots of skating these days and is getting pretty good at it..

My first time Ice Skating

2007-02-01T22:39:00.000-05:00

Hailey and I went with a friend to Ice Skate for the very first time... She was hugging the wall for a short time but after a little while she got the hang of it.

Braving it without the wall

Her friend Kristen (yep even spelled the same!) was catching on quickly and lapping most of the girls!! They all had a blast! We had a fun lunch at California Pizza Kitchen and some shopping too... Of course, we missed dad and Kyle at home but it was a great girls day out!!

Rainy day fun

2007-01-24T17:14:00.000-05:00

It has been cold and rainy for what seems like forever here! I am sure people in Seattle have no sympathy but we are used to the sun around here! This is one of Kyle's favorite activities.. Is there Gymnastics in my future???

The Set up... Pull up a chair..

The dismount...

and of course... THE LANDING! (but the picture won't post ~ argh!!)

Whats a little cold?

2007-01-16T17:25:00.000-05:00

Troy proving that 30 degrees won't kill you ~ even in your bathing suit! Not sure how I get roped into these photo sessions?

Out in the country...

2007-01-09T00:12:00.000-05:00

Fun weekend with friends... It was chilly ~ but perfect for big sweaters, hot chocolate, fresh baked cookies, card games and of course getting dirty while playing at a construction site! Love letting my kids just roam free! What a treat! Happy Anniversary J & L!

L & L

D. not wanting to brave the stairs~

H & L playing on 'walk the plank' ~ See kids can entertain with NO toys! I love the imagination at work!! No plugs or batteries needed!!!

K heading out into the great beyond, but checking back to make sure I knew it!

Pose #1 that the girls composed for their session - I'll post pose 2 and 3 later!!

Happy Birthday Uncle Justin!!!

2007-01-02T00:21:00.000-05:00

Uncle Justin is sooo much fun!
We hope you have a great day!!
We love you!!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T00:12:00.000-05:00

Hailey and Daddy dressed up for our '80's party for New Years Eve.. Hailey in her 'crazy ' side ponytail thought the outfit was not pretty and the make-up (blue eye shadow) was "ridiculous"! Although when we arrived she realized that yes, mommy was right that is how everybody dressed in the 80's!! We had lots of fun! Hailey crashed out on the couch at 10:30 ~ She just can't hang!!

Happy New Year Everyone!

The Children's Museum...

2006-12-29T00:45:00.000-05:00

Love the Houston Children's Museum ~ sooo cute! I have tons of pictures but right before we left the kids found the 'make-up' station... So these are definitely my favorite pictures of the day!!

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER!

Christmas Blessings!

2006-12-26T12:31:00.000-05:00

After 15 long hours of looking for her on Christmas Day ~ my grandmother finally got pulled over by police for going 20 miles an hour on a major interstate! We are so very Thankful that she is okay and back safe and soud at home...

Santa Claus is coming to town....

2006-12-24T00:57:00.000-05:00

He stopped by for a visit ~ Kyle was really not into the whole talk to santa bit ~ but Hailey loved it! Hope you all have a Merry Merry Christmas!!

Uncle Justin and Kyle looking out for Santa and his reindeer on Christmas Eve....

and Hailey left Santa specific instructions on who the snack was for... just to be fair!!

The Caroling Party..

2006-12-20T23:32:00.000-05:00

One of our familys favorite Holiday traditions is going to our friends caroling party. Not only does it give us an excuse to visit with friends but it is a really fun party for the whole family! This year it was even hot enough that I had margaritas instead of hot buttered rum!! Thanks to L and J for the great party again this year!!

Everyone getting ready for Caroling sleigh ride #1!!

Happy Birthday to me!!

2006-12-17T18:07:00.000-05:00

Can you guess where I was as the clock struck Midnight??? Yep.... Along with my sweet, adventurous friends Lela and Jeanne, we ventured out into the night to scope out the Extreme Home Makeover house in Austin. We took pictures, walked around and chatted with some volunteers until almost 2am... Lela even scored us some T-shirts!! Of course she told them it was my 40th birthday but I guess that sounded more exciting than 33 or whatever age I turn today!! Yeah me!! It was soooo fun and a once in a lifetime experience!!

The back of a dad of one of the designers (one who has to stay all night ~ not one who goes to bed at a decent hour!!)

Side view of the House.... It is going to air at the end of February or so... 6 kids, 5 have some form of autism ~ The room on the corner there is a 2 story trampoline room with Kites at the top of it!! Very cool! I took tons of pictures.. even with out flash there was usually so much light around the house you would think it was 2 in the afternoon instead of 2am!!

It's Christmas movie time!!

2006-12-12T20:58:00.000-05:00

I was practicing taking inside pictures with no flash~ and caught
Hailey and Kyle in a comfy spot to watch a Christmas movie before bed!!

Notice Daddy found a comfy spot also!!

Fun Surprise!

2006-12-09T19:31:00.000-05:00

This morning at around 9am.. We went out front to see two beautiful hot air balloons floating over our nieghborhood! The kids had sooo much fun watching them.. We were actually close enough to see when they turned the 'fire' on and made the balloon go up!!

Why 2 year olds don't have Christmas Programs!

2006-12-08T00:54:00.000-05:00

Kyle's riveting performance of "HUH? What are you people looking at, clapping for and taking pictures of???"

Has anyone seen my Mommy?!!

Hey Emme - Are making bunny ears behing me??

Hey Ms. Cindy ~ When is this over???

I really wish I could post video ~ It is even more riveting~~!!!

and well....

2006-12-03T01:15:00.000-05:00

Kyle is pretty upset it was the end of the season too! He really wants to get out on that field himself!! I personally can't wait!! HA!

Last Soccer Game!

2006-12-03T01:11:00.000-05:00

Fun was had by all at the Dragons last soccer game! It wasn't their strongest showing but they tried hard!! We all followed up the game with a trip to Times Square for foood, cake and Trophies. We had a great group of kids and parents this season which makes the whole experience that much more fun!! Thanks to Coach Al! and Great Job Dragons!

Kyle's Way...

2006-11-22T10:34:00.000-05:00

This is what Kyle would rather be doing than taking Christmas pictures.... Going in and out the doggie door! Never mind that the back door was wide open ~ He just kept going in and out the little door made just for him...

Lilly is here!!

2006-11-21T09:22:00.000-05:00

Hailey is in LOVE with her little cousin Lilly! She holds her every chance she gets... Here are a few pics from the very first time they met!! I have been really impressed with Hailey's patience with Lilly ~ Even in the car when Lilly is screaming at her ~ she never got frustrated she just kept singing to her and giving her the binky! and she finally got her calmed down on our 10 minute ride home from lunch yesterday!! I think sometime in the VERY DISTANT FUTURE Hailey is going to be a fantastic mom!!

My big Tonka truck

2006-11-21T09:20:00.000-05:00

What the hit this huge metal Tonka truck was... Hours of playing fun!! Hailey and Kyle took turns pushing each other all over the house! Thanks aunt Connie!!

2 years ago...

2006-11-15T23:13:00.000-05:00

Time just flies by... Everyone tells you that your kids will grow up fast.. but as I approach the terrible two's I find myself wishing it would go faster... UNTIL I look back.....

I was looking through old pictures and found pictures of H & K from 2 years ago after Kyle was just born. It is hard to believe it was 2 years ago (on Friday!) Hailey looks so little to me ~ she is a very good big sister and Kyle adores her... They have both grown up soooo much! Don't get me wrong, I am not wishing for a baby or anything but wow ~ Time does fly by....

NCE Carnival!

2006-11-14T20:36:00.000-05:00

Celebrating 25 years for our elementary school ~ The carnival was really fun!

She was loving the 'silly string' booth!! HA!

She ran away....

2006-11-12T23:37:00.000-05:00

To the other side of our car... H. had a bad day yesterday, twisted ankle, missed soccer game (cause she was behaving so badly), couldn't go to Dance Camp, lost bike privledges... and the list goes on... It was a long draining day for all of us... H. decides she is running away ~ she no longer wants to be in our family... she picked up her chair and moved to the other side of the driveway... We couldn't see her from the house but you know me... I snuck out there w/my long range lens and took some photographs to commemorate the moment... I will show these to her and possibly her boyfriend one day!! She did move back in ~ She got cold!! Not that cold ~ I think it was a high of 78 that day!! HA!!

Kyle's 2nd Birthday...

2006-11-04T09:07:00.000-05:00

Even though we are a little early we celebrated our birthday with a party at Pump it Up ~ Another playmate in our playgroup has a birthday close to Kyle's so we did a joint party! The little ones always want to do the big slide themselves but at open playgym the big kids are climbing over them! We rented it out so it could just be the 2 year olds.. No big kids to contend with!! Kyle had a blast!! It was the right party for him ~ what a treat!!

We did a Curious George/Monkey theme... So Kyle is dressed as George himself!!

Not a fan of the 'crown' though!!

Figuring out how to blow out the candles on their Monkey cake I made out of cupcakes... pictures of that one coming soon... . Happy Early Birthday Kyle!!

Kyle's Halloween

2006-11-03T16:24:00.000-05:00

Not so much in to posing that night but he got lots of attention as the 'Harley Dude'... as he rode his 'hog' from house to house. After about 3 houses he figured out he needed to park his hog ~ get his pumpkin~ and get up to the front door and they would give him stuff!! Too Funny... Notice the new head gear!!! Pop Pop bought it at the Harley stor for him!! It has little motorcycles all over it!

Hope everyone had a happy halloween!!!

Halloween

2006-11-03T16:20:00.000-05:00

We have had tons of computer problems ~ thus my lack in posting!! Here are a few pictures from our Trick or Treating!! Camille and Hailey aka Rock Star Diva & her friend the American Idol contestant...

Hailey scored TWO goals!!

2006-10-28T14:47:00.001-04:00

Hailey had an awesome game today ~ Two Goals!! It was extra special because both Grampa and Grammy came to the game! Grampa got to see the 1st one and Grammy got to see the 2nd one!! Great Job Hailey!! We are so proud of you!!

The goal itself!!

This is Hailey's reaction to scoring a goal!!

Coach Al giving her the high fives!!

and of course the 'ROCK STAR DIVA'

2006-10-27T18:00:00.000-04:00

all sparkles and shine.... She loves her headset and shoes!! We are all ready for Halloween over here!!

Harley Dude!!

2006-10-26T23:54:00.000-04:00

Gettin my 'hog' out for a spin

You aren't taking me to school in this ~ Are you???

Nothin but wide open road....

And so it begins....

2006-10-25T18:30:00.000-04:00

Hailey is so fun to talk to at times... But oh gosh ~ here come the boys and girls stories... Today's story goes something like this (Hailey's friend we'll call her E. and E 's crush ~ we'll call him T.)

T. says he wants to kiss E.

E. is excited and gets ready ~ T. puts sand in her mouth instead and gets a card change (in trouble). Hailey says E. is sooo upset that he got in trouble... I say ~ wasn't she upset that he put sand in her mouth... Hailey says ~ Well Yeah but she hasn't given up her love for him!!

This of course prompted a discussion on how we should let people treat us ... Sigh!

It was Fall ~ at least for today.................

2006-10-22T22:33:00.000-04:00

Finally it was cold enough this morning to break out the sweaters! But getting Kyle to be in a picture was another matter!! He was much more interested in dragging around a chair he found behind the wood cutout scarecrow! He does continue to copy whatever 'sissy' does so Hailey has become quite the accomplished photographer's assistant!!

We bought several pumpkins and then headed home for a nice warm lunch ~ I love fall and miss the season so much!! I am sure it will be in the 90's some time later in the week! UGH! But for today ~ It was fall!

Fine Neighbors.... and fine wine!

2006-10-21T00:03:00.000-04:00

Today we all picked up the kiddos from the bus stop as usual and didn't come inside until 10:30pm... The weather was beautiful ~ the kids played ~ several bottles of wine later.... it was 10:30! I love having fun neighbors.... :)

Unidentified blonde aerobic instructor serving minors!! Call CPS -!!!
He really was trying to get in on the wine action... He really liked it!!

Aiding in the delinquency of the minor.... another aerobic instructor!! I think all that exercise effects their judgement!!

.......so we tricked him with apple juice in a wine glass!

Three aerobic instructors drinking in the street - You'd think I'd get the the gym more often with this kind of pressure at the bus stop!! JK... You know I love you guys!!

Hailey is trying to hang on til the last second!!

Oh Rainy Days.....

2006-10-19T23:24:00.000-04:00

As you have probably heard.. It has been raining here ~ A LOT!! Poor Kyle is becoming live art as he lets his sister tape post-it notes all over him.... He has just woken up from his nap...

Full Body Treatment

Showing off our 'paper earrings'!!

Can you believe she is doing this mom???