My precious blessings and memories that I never want to forget!

Tracy's birthday

2009-12-04T19:21:00.000-08:00

Tracy did not want to do anything for his birthday so Kim and Mike came over and we just hung out and had a nice evening.

He is wearing I am 5 badge from Matthew since last year he was 4 not 40. :0)

Snow in Magnolia Texas

2009-12-04T18:58:00.000-08:00

all the kids loved getting out of school and playing in the snow All the neighbors came in and warmed up by the fire and read Elf on the Shelf

Thanksgiving in Arkansas

2009-11-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

Nicholasl, Marybeth and Mallory: How Great is our God

Anyone else but you.... duet
The Soggy bottom boys!

Oma and Opa's fiddle show!
Talent Show Skit with all the cousins. Feeding the 2 day old calf.

Hay ride fun

Fishing

Sisters!!!

Playing games is always fun!

Tim Stafford Family

Tim Jones Family

Jo McDonald Family

Mark Stafford Family!

Oma and Opa!

Halloween

2009-10-31T17:45:00.000-07:00

We pickeed out pumpkins at TWUMC after Matthew's football game.

The boys love carving pumpkins with Tracy!I HAD SO MUCH FUN MAKING TREATS FOR THE KIDS!!!

SKELETON GHOST AND WEREWOLF
This year the boys were all about making things scary and being boys. What happened to my little boys that dressed up as "Larry Boy". They had fun. Nicholas bought with his own money a scary CD and green light bulb for the porch and they put cobwebs in the bushes. Neither of them wore their masks, so they weren't too scary.

Stephen, Sean, Nicholas, and Matthew

Fall get together with the Bennetts

2009-10-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

Jamie worked so hard all day making fun goodies and Bryant made wonderful bar-b-q. We had a great visit. Tammy and Bryan and their two children came over as well. The kids had a blast roasting marshmallows, and watching Scooby Do on the Garage and drinking hot chocolate. Bryant even dressed up in his old Army uniform.

Carving Party at "Aunt" Sue's

2009-10-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

Sue throws a wonderful Pumpkin party every year for my old team at Valley Oaks Elem. She has done this for at least the past 10 years. I taught with all these beautiful women my first year out of college.

Sue is so thoughtful and makes this reunion so special!

Tami Clark was the diagnostician when I taught life skills at Valley Oaks.and is a dear friend.

Snow in the fall colors

2009-10-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

I love this man!

The boys had a blast sledding!!

Forts behind the condo

2009-10-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

I love being a boy mom!!! Their imagination never seems to ceases to amaze me. They add onto these forts every time we come. They have made doors, fire pits, dog house, ovens, storage areas, weapons, fishing poles ..... and it goes on and on.

Nicholas' fort

Matthew and I eating in Nicholas' fort.

Nicholas making a fishing pole

Fishing for trout

Trading food :0)

Nicholas inside his fort

Matthew's fort and his weapons.

Nicholas' dog house

Matthew's oven

Santa Fe

2009-10-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

These people are lined up selling jewelry.

The Loretto Chapel

A beautiful church-- can't remember the name????

We had a wonderful day walking around Santa Fe. We ate at ZIA'S for lunch. Nicholas saw it on Dinners, Drive-ins and Dives on food network.

Loretto Chapel -staircase

2009-10-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

In 1872 Jean-Baptiste Lamy, the Bishop of the Santa Fe Archdiocese, commissioned the building of a convent chapel to be named Our Lady of Light Chapel, which would be in the care of the Sisters of Loretto. The chapel was designed by French architect Antoine Mouly in the Gothic Revival style, complete with spires, buttresses, and stained glass windows imported from France. Although it was built on a much smaller scale, the chapel bears an obvious resemblance to the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris.
The architect died suddenly and it was only after much of the chapel was constructed that the builders realized it was lacking any type of stairway to the choir loft. Due to the chapel's small size, a standard staircase would have been too large. Historians have also noted that earlier churches of the period had ladders rather than stairs to the choir loft, but the Sisters obviously did not feel comfortable with that prospect because of the long robes that they wore.
The reputed story continues as follows.
Needing a way to get up to the choir loft the nuns prayed for St. Joseph's intercession for nine straight days. On the day after their novena ended a shabby looking stranger appeared at their door. He told the nuns he would build them a staircase but that he needed total privacy and locked himself in the chapel for three months. He used a small number of primitive tools including a square, a saw and some warm water and constructed a spiral staircase entirely of non-native wood. The identity of the carpenter is not known for as soon as the staircase was finally finished he was gone. Many witnesses, upon seeing the staircase, feel it was a miraculous occurrence.
The resulting staircase is an impressive work of carpentry. It ascends twenty feet, making two complete revolutions up to the choir loft without the use of nails or apparent center support. It has been surmised that the central spiral of the staircase is narrow enough to serve as a central beam. Nonetheless there was no attachment unto any wall or pole in the original stairway, although in 1887 -- 10 years after it was built -- a railing was added and the outer spiral was fastened to an adjacent pillar [2]. Instead of metal nails, the staircase was constructed using dowels or wooden pegs [3]. The wood for the staircase cannot be found anywhere in the region. The stairs had 33 steps,the age of Jesus when he died.
The mystery had never been satisfactorily solved as to who the carpenter was or where he got his lumber, since there were no reports of anyone seeing lumber delivered or even seeing the man come and go while the construction was being done. Since he left before the Mother Superior could pay him, the Sisters of Loretto offered a reward for the identity of the man, but it was never claimed.

Fall Foliage in New Mexico

2009-10-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

Golfing at Wildhorse in Amarillo

2009-10-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Nicholas rode with daddy!

Matthew rode with me

Boys will be boys... they stopped to play with a caterpillar :0)

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo

2009-10-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Cadillac Ranch, located along the tatters of historic Route 66, was built in 1974, brainchild of Stanley Marsh 3, the helium millionaire who owns the dusty wheat field where it stands. Marsh and The Ant Farm, a San Francisco art collective, assembled used Cadillacs representing the "Golden Age" of American Automobiles (1949 through 1963). The ten graffiti-covered cars are half-buried, nose-down, facing west "at the same angle as the Cheops' pyramids."
Another photo op fatality. (Darren Collins, victim)
In 1997, development creep forced Marsh to move the entire assemblage about two miles further west. The line of cars is far enough out in a field to allow for suitably bleak photography. The distance from any authority also encourages ever-mutating layers of painted graffiti, which Marsh doesn't seem to mind.

We visited with this couple from Germany that were traveling Route 66. They said " This is some kind of crazy" :0)

NASA

2009-10-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

We took a tram ride and saw a real rocket, a model rocket fly and much more!!!!!

My little weather man!! Like father like son.

Matthew you are soooooooooooo strong!

The boys got to make their own rockets and fly them!

The boys loved playing in the two story play area!

We built our own telescope.

First Tween get together

2009-10-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

Nicholas is now able to go to the Tween functions through Homewood Christian Association for 10-12 year olds and siblings are always welcome. We all met at the mall and had ice cream and were going to ride the ferry boat around The Wooodlands. We unfortunately were not able to ride the boat because it was running late and Matthew had to be at Music but we met some new friends.

"Chip" field trip to Heidelberg

2009-09-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

The boys are earning plastic chips for behavior and attitude and in trade for electronic time and whoever has the most on Friday gets to pick what we do on Fridays. Nicholas won and chose to go see the German Shepherd puppies at Heidelberg.

HEB FIELD DAY

2009-09-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the HEB field trip - it was mainly on nutrition.

Upward Flag Football

2009-09-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

The Upwards Lions

The Woodlands Football players came out and signed balls and threw passes with the boys.Prayer before the game and a devotional during half time. It is just a wonderful and positive atmosphere!!!

Matthew lost his shoe while running for a touch down - that is determination!!

Grandma and Grandpa got to come to see a game and Matthew score a touchdown!

The boys get stars for sportsmanship, Christlike behavior, and plays.

Astros Games

2009-09-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Eaves were so kind and gave us tickets ot go with them to the Astros Game. We had GREAT seats and had a wonderful time even though they did not win. They played the Cardinals.

We even got to see the Wofford family.

We were given more tickets a week later and got to go again! We played the Reds and won!!!

The boys got free backpacks and caps! We had so much fun! Kim, Mike, Ausin and Bryant Bennett came with us.

Labor Day in Hot Springs Village, AR

2009-09-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

Oma, and the grandkids!

Aunt Jo and Lindi

Aunt Carol and Uncle Tim Safford

Maribeth and Tim
Mallory and her new fishing pole!

Tyler Stafford and Alicia

Matthew and Maribeth

Tim Jones family

Rio Grande Gorge

2009-08-10T22:29:00.001-07:00

The Rio Grande Goge is 800 feet in depth and breathtaking!

We saw a car that was down almost toward the bottom??

Taos Pueblo Indian Reservations

2009-08-10T21:59:00.001-07:00

This was the original church that was invaded by the Spaniards and is now a burial ground.

The Church was built in 1850 and is the newest building in the Pueblo community.

The grounds are separated by a beautiful stream(river) that is pure and is what they use for drinking. There is no running water or electricity in within the walls of the Pueblo village.

Nicholas and in one of the shops. Each shop is in a member's home ran by a family member. Only 15o members live with in the walls full time.

This is "Flower Rock" Nicholas bought an arrow in her shop (home).

Matthew is standing in front of two bread ovens that are still used today.

These adobe buildings need to be maintained annually and patched due to erosion of weather.

http://www.taospueblo.com/about.php

Geocaching with the Eaves

2009-08-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

Angel Fire New mexico

2009-08-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

We arrived Friday July 31st and got settled in. Saturday morning we headed to Black lake to fish. Nicholas had a blast fly fishing while Matthew had fun trying to catch ducks, unfortunately the boys did not catch a fish or a duck:0). They decided to go Golfing 9 holes aftewards while I went grocery shopping, finish getting organized and make a cake for the winery that night.

Sunday after church the Eaves arrived around 3:00. and we had a relaxing evening and had yummy ribs that Tracy made.

Monday, The kids had a blast behind the condo building forts and traps to catch prarie dogs and chipmunks.

We also went on a fun geocaching adventure.

Jones family get together in Hot SpringsVillage

2009-06-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

There home is so beautiful!!! Opa's flowers are amazing!!!

All the kids got to go out to eat while Oma and Opa watched the grandkids!!

The kids always love playing cards with Opa!!! Making cookies with Oma is a must!!! Nicholas loves to fish... almost on the verge of obsessed!!

Nadia and Roman came with Johnna and Andy. We aren't sure who caught this fish:0)

YOU GO OMA!!!!! All the kids old and young had a blast swimming and jumping off the deck.Kayaking

The boys tubed for the first time!

Day with Grandparents

2009-06-25T07:11:00.001-07:00

My mom and dad came over and spent the night. We all got up early and the boys headed off to lake conroe while Grandma and I went shopping and out to lunch. The boys returned home with 15 catfish. What a fun day!! I enjoyed time with my mom and I know the boys loved being with Grandpa!!!

GOLF, GOLF AND MORE GOLF

2009-06-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

We are doing Little Linksters agin with STPGA and loving it. Nicholas placed 1st and then 2nd on his first two tournaments at 9 hole mods and was bumped to the red tees (top spot in his age group). A whole new world. He is one of the youngest in this bracket and can not have a caddy. Yesterday was his first tournament to pull his bag and Daddy sit in the cart. At Lake Windcrest the boys are doing a golf season where they are broken down in ability groups and have a clinic every week and a tournament every week. The tough thing is they are in the afternoons (yesterday it was 104 degrees, UGGGG!!!)

I sure love watching my boys!!! We are so blessed that our daddy can come to the tournaments and is such an inspiration!!

Matthew is such an awesome little brother. He watches all of Nicholas' tournaments helps keep score and cheer him on!

The best caddy!!

Warming up

Turning in score cards.

Being his own caddy!

Nicholas has made some great friends and role models though Little Linksters STPGA!

Matthew's first golf Tournament!!! He shot 27 on 5 holes WOW!!!!

His short game is amazing!!!

He did eney meney miney mo for his club selection here :0)

Summer Reading

2009-06-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and all the neighbor hood kids are home. Trying to do school can get tough. So I decided to start a incentive with another little girl and my boys if they hurry and finish their chapter books I will take them for ice-cream. Well 5 more kids heard about our trip and so I made another incentive if they finish another book I would take them for pizza. My boys have never read so much, in the line at the post office, in the car, at breakfast- just for pizza?? I love it. The neighbors are also coming over for our read aloud (now it is Sign of the Beaver). We are having so much fun. The kids also finished the libraries incentive. So now if the kidos hit my goal of 500 pages we are all going to Incredible pizza. The kids are also enjoying answering the quizzes from www. bookadventere.com.

Family weekend.

2009-06-01T21:02:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful visit with Tracy's brother and his family. They came in town on Thursday and we swam Friday while the big boys went fishing and caught us dinner for Sat. (15 catfish). Sat. We went to Matthew's flag football game and then went to the YMCA water park. The cousins all had a blast playing and riding their bikes! On Sunday we visited a family integrated church that they had read a book that the Pastor had written and wanted to check out. It was a wonderful experience. The children stay with you though the entire worship experience. We went to Hooks airport for lunch afterwards. The kids loved playing outside and watching the planes take off and land.

Hooks Airport

The YMCA Pool. Cleaning the fish!

Waltonia Lodges

2009-05-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

We began our trip eating at Jody's favorite Mexican restaurants in Kirvelle only 10 min. away from Waltonia, which is in Ingrim Texas.WOW!!! Where do I begin. We were so honored to be able to go on this wonderful vacation. Jody invited us to Waltonia ( a childhood tradition of his) for Memorial day. There are 16 cabins surrounding a beautiful grassy area that includes: horseshoes, volleyball, basketball, washers, swings, shuffleboard, baby animals, a fort, pick nick tables, and a covered area with ping-pong. Some families have been coming for 39 years. It is always booked for the following year. So we were blessed to be able to fill the spot of their family that was unable to come!

Greg, Angela, Sean, Tracy, Heather Matthew, Nicholas, Kim, Brian, Tori, Bryson, Teresa and Jody and Bryce.

Our Cabin # 11

We all had a blast with Jody and Angela's boats. Jody sure knew how to relax!

Nicholas loved fishing in the Guadalupe river. He caught several little brims and a small mouth bass.All the girls: Kim, Heather, Angela, Teresa, and little Tori. The water was soooooooo beautiful and cold but the kids did not seem to mind.

What a beautiful walk to the creek part of the river! Jody's cruzin cooler sure came in handy.

This boat was here for anyone to use! They had a great time!

This baby deer was bottled fed and is now a year old and loves people.

I loved the 2 week old piggies!!

Nicholas named all the piggies: Nibbler, Conner, Sweety

This mule was 1 month old on Memorial day!! He loved to play.

The baby goats were only 6 days old and still had their umbilical cord. They were so precious!!

The kids all loved the fort. Some even ate their dinner up there.

Tracy and Jody sure made amazing meals: Kerville Chicken and burgers!!!

Field Day

2009-05-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Field day at 7 acre woods was a huge success and the kids had a blast! They had tons of races: skateboard races, put-put, world cup kickers, long jump, basketball, sand trap (get spoons with your toes), 50 yard dash, long jump, splash Olympics, scuba run... just to name a few.

Six year old group

Friend time! ArcheryPut Put Golf!!!

Daddy time!!!

10 year old group.

Skate board races
Zip line

Soccer races!

Pals!!

Lunch time!

Matthew lost THREE teeth at Ericka's 11th birthday party!

2009-05-03T19:40:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at Kim's house today. We celebrated Ericka's 11th birthday. They loved the moonwalk!!!

The kids had so much fun in the sack races. Matthew lost three teeth! One by one. When he saw his toothless smile after the third, he sobbed and said he looked weird - mommy thinks he is precious!! You can also see where he decided to cut his hair own his own in this photo. He bumped his lip in the moonwalk so now he looks like a true football player. :0)

Flag Football

2009-05-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

We have a great team of boys!

Today was "The Falcon's" first football game. The kids had a blast. Matthew is so excited
that his daddy is the coach!

Guitar

2009-04-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

Nicholas is loving guitar lessons; he can play "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star".

Lake Conroe

2009-04-20T16:22:00.001-07:00

We had a great time at Lake Conroe. It was a little windy where we launched the boat but otherwise it was a beautiful day! Teresa, Jody, and Bryce came along. Bryce was a little apprehensive so Jody and him stayed on shore and fished.

Making our Easter Lap books with Mary Kate and Austin

2009-04-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

The kids had so much fun with their Legend of the Easter Egg lap book. We really enjoyed putting it together with the Bennett's!We made resurrections rolls with crescent rolls(the cloth the covered Jesus), cinnamon (the spices), Marshmallows (that represented Jesus) and we baked them in the oven ( the tomb) and when they were done the marshmallow was gone ( our rosin Savior)
We dyed Easter eggs.

and played games

and of course played with Zach the dog. Thank you Jamie for such a wonderful day!!!

My Amaryllis

2009-03-31T20:23:00.000-07:00

Science class at the museum in the mall

2009-03-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

Nicholas and Sean had a great time dissecting an egg in science class! While Matthew, Angela and I walked around the mall.

We were so excited to run into Sam and Nathan at the mall with their mommy!

Bluebonnets

2009-03-31T19:20:00.001-07:00

The boys were such great sports as we took photos in the bluebonnets. It helped to have their friend Stephan with us.

What a character!!

I can truly say that my boys are not just brothers but best friends!

Speed Fest

2009-03-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the races! It only cost $5 to get in and $1 hotdogs and drinks. They had moon walks and fun things for the boys to do before the race. Thank you Uncle Eric and Nathan for inviting us!!

There were 9 year old racers.

It was sooooooo cold - Matthew shared Daddy's coat.

Bernhardt Winery

2009-03-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

Krist and Gary invited for an afternoon at Berrnhardt Winery in Planntersville. We stopped at the Relay station for lunch - it was delicious and definitely "homey". The waitress' son greeted us at the door and continued to visit and play with us during the entire meal. Oh, did I mention he was 2 years old and his name was Channing. So cute! The food was great!!

The kids had a great time playing on the grounds. Matthew and Sara stayed in the tree for ever it seemed while Nicholas threw the football and played frisbee golf.

Robyn and John
Tracy and IKrist and GaryJody and Teresa came by. I went for a ride on Jody's motorcycle - it was fun - I did make him turn around when we came to a road with a lot of cars though . . . baby steps...

Shogun

2009-03-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

Jody and Theresa invited us to go Shogun with a group to try Sushi. I loved the Shaggy dog and tried several other rolls.

The kids had a great time using chop sticks and sitting at their own grill.

Mathew was quite the chef, he flipped the egg twice and then caught it on the side of the spatula! What a pro!

Busy day!!!

2009-03-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

We had a crazy and busy day. We all got up and went home early Sunday morning. Nicholas and I went to our monthly visit to the Salvation Army and had a great time visiting and serving chili. After that we met Tracy and Matthew at Aden's 5th birthday at Main Event FUN!!! We decided we did not have enough visit time and went to Kim's afterwards for dinner.

Date Night

2009-03-07T20:18:00.000-08:00

The boys stayed the night at Grandma and Grandpa's house. They had a blast. Tracy and I went witht he Burgeron's, Kim and Mike out to eat at El Patio and then we went to Howl at the Moon - it is a dualing piano bar. We had a great time. Julie and Dave announced that they are going to have their third baby!!!!!

Breakfast in the park!

2009-03-07T08:13:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful day! I got up and went to the park with Compassion United and fed some wonderful and thankful people at the park. This is such an amazing ministry that my friends Karla and Luke began a few years ago! The web site is http://www.cuconroe.org/. I have got to know so many of these people on a more personal level since I see them not just at the Salvation Army once a month. I think they seem to witness to me as much or more than I do to them. God is so powereful in that way!

Playdate with the Bennett family

2009-03-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

We had a great time with the Bennett family!!!

Austin was quite the fishermen!! Nihcolas and Austin had a great time fishing.

While MaryKate and Matthew played board games.- I thought I had more pictures.

Sipapu New Mexico

2009-02-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

We went skiing in Sipapu for the day. We have reciprocal passes there. It is only an hour away and such a quaint town! It was a beautiful day - unfortunately the sun melted alot of the snow so it was slushy!

The little creek behind the boys flows across the entire back of the lodge. It was so beautiful!!

This castle is about 30 feet and so much fun.

The boys loved going down the slides and in the tunnels!!

The only way up the bunny (practice) hill is a T-bar. This is where I spent all of my day. The boys were great and skied with me practicing their jumps.

My Boys are sooooo talented!!

Mardi Gras in Angel Fire

2009-02-22T20:42:00.001-08:00

The boys were so excited to ride on a float and throw out candy!
It was such a beautiful day to watch the parade! There were about 20 floats and fire trucks.
I caught about 100 beads for the boys, since they were on the float.

Angel Fire ski trip

2009-02-20T12:52:00.001-08:00

It is Mardi Gras Weekend - There are tons of skiers!!
Tracy and I - I love this amazing dad and husband!

My precious boys. They are amazing skiers!!!

Aren't they the cutest!!!!

We got to the condo on Wed. night Tracy and Nicholas hit the slopes the min. we finished the unloading. On Thursday We all got up early and hit the slopes. After lunch I headed home and the boys skied until the slopes closed.

Sean's birthday

2009-02-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

We had a blast at Sean's 10th birthday party.

Valentines Day

2009-02-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day!! The boys and I went to the park while daddy got some work done and waited for my beautiful flowers to arrive. That evening Angela and Sean came over while tracy and I went to Vino and Dinner.

Valentines Day Party

2009-02-13T12:28:00.000-08:00

The boys and I went to The Woodlands UMC for a Valentine party put on by some new friends we met at WAY PE. We had a wonderful time.Sean came with us - we had so much fun making our Valentine bags.

Our new friends: Brock, Avery, and T.J.

We enjoyed so many yummy snacks. I brought some Candy popcorn to share with our friends.

Avery's mom, Mrs. Laticia made us amazing balloon figures, the boys chose motorcycles.

Interfaith at KUMC

2009-02-12T13:29:00.000-08:00

Dave and George
The Andersons and Matthews Families oversea Interfaith Hospitality. It is a wonderful ministry sponsored by NAM and KUMC houses families that are trying to get back on their feet. We are always so blessed by the families that we meet! They are always so thankful!

We try to bring a meal once a quarter -We have had generous help from our Sunday School class and other volunteers.

The boys love to play with the children up in the youth room!

A beautiful day: park and Sami's birthday

2009-01-31T20:28:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day! Linda, the boys and I met the Bennett family at Creekside park for Arbor day. The weather was perfect!! The boys rode their scooters and were so excited about getting new tree seedlings and recycling bends. Matthew even won a drawing for a beautiful Magnolia tree. There were tons of moonwalks, rock walls, petting zoo, clowns that made balloons, robots that you could drive, electric race cars and I know I am leaving something out. We had a blast!

After that we went we went home and had some lunch and Linda decided to stay home and rest while the boys and I stopped by Tomball High school to see our neighbor Mat get his Reserve Champion trophy for his bunny. Then we ended the night with the boys and I going to my brother's and celebrated my precious niece's 2nd birthday. We had a nice visit. She is all Little girl - loves her baby dolls and the color pink!!

Science Class at the Museum

2009-01-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

Nicholas had a great time at science class today. They learned about H2O! Matthew, Oma and I enjoyed the museum as well. We got a special cookie and Matthew went on a Carousel ride with Oma. After the Museum we went and had a nice lunch at Johnny Rockets. YUM!!! That night Debra and Emily came over and we had a salad night and had a wonderful time visiting!

Oma arrives and the Men Leave.

2009-01-28T20:54:00.000-08:00

Tracy, Opa and friend Dave left this morning at 3:00am for Tracy's annual trip to the PGA convention in Florida. The boys and I went out for donuts and headed to Bible study. While my carpets were getting cleaned "YEA!" After CBS we headed to the mall for a quick bite to eat and headed to Chuck E. Cheese to meet our friends Sean and Angela. We left there just in time to get our oil change and pick Oma up at the airport at 5:00. Her flight was a little early and so were we - perfect! I am thankful that Linda could come and keep us company while Tracy was gone.

SNOWFLAKE HERE I COME

2009-01-23T13:31:00.001-08:00

We are not sure what this factory was but it was sure a beautiful canyon!

The view driving home was breathtaking!!

We went out for Steak for Nicholas' birthday: We ended up at Quincy's Steak house where the menue consisted of Filet Menyon and Vegie Lasonya. We were nervous at first but the 12 oz steak with potato and salad was $11.99. Matthew had bread and we picked him up some Mcdonalds on the way out of town.

Colorado

2009-01-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

We stayed in a cute house in with a beautiful view. . We all got up and were in the car by 8:00 to head to Monarh (30min) away.

The boys got there complimentary ski passes since we are resort members of Angel Fire we can ski in Monarch 3 days free. I was trying to decide what to do the weather was so - so at this time.They got there boots and cold weather gear on and were ready to go and then...

I saw the wind and snow and decided to watch from the lodge with some hot co-co.

Snowmobiling for NIcholas's 10th birthday.

2009-01-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

Today we went on a Snowmobile tour for Nicholas' birthday. It was beautiful. The boys loved it but I was a little apprehensive. They enjoyed the free time that they got to practice their jumps and I was thankful we were not on the edge of the mountain.

Nicholas rode with Daddy, and Matthew rode with me.

After the 3 hour tour we all went to Angel Fired Pizza for dinner YUM!!! Then we got our stuff and Nick Smith and headed to Colorado where we would ski in Monarch the next day. It is a 3 1/2 hour drive if you don't forget your husbands ski coat half way there.

Fourth day of our trip -sledding

2009-01-10T18:54:00.000-08:00

We had a blast sledding with Kim and Mike!

I love this man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Third day of our trip!

2009-01-09T17:10:00.000-08:00

Tracy took Matthew to his final day of ski shcool. While the rest of us hit the slopes again. The weather was great again. Tracy, Nicholas and I went down dream catcher a few times and then we met up with nick and went up Chilli express again. I had a great time until we got to the "blue" steep spots which I stressed out a little and eventually made it to the bottom.Matthew with Ms. Sonya.

We went to the Rithcey Slater Uptown Winer that evening and enjoyed listing to the band.

Matthew brought his blanket and tiger to go to sleep. The boys love it there. I know what you must be thinking - you take your kids to a winery and even put them to bed there? It is not like that! It is a very family friendly place and he was pooped from skiing and wanted to cuddle we were only there for a couple of hours. Everyone brings their dogs and snacks to share ( I brought home made Carmel corn ( B's recipe) and meatballs.

Nicholas loved playing with the dogs and playing darts with Jenny.

Kim and Mike came to visit on their way home from Las Vegas. We had a great night!!

Second day of our trip

2009-01-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today we got up at 7:30 and had Matthew at ski school by 8:30. He was so excited, we saw Adam, his instructor from last year that is now in charge of ski school.

After we got Matthew settled we went and picked up my skis. I started off on Dream catcher with Nick for 3-5 runs and felt ok and we headed up Chilli Express the 3 1/2 mile lift. It was beautiful!!!! I enjoyed the slopes until we got to the first steep pitch and I panicked but my patient coach- Nick helped me through it. I just am having problems not parallelling, I think I am just scared of the speed thing and want to wedge. I hope I can get over this fear where I can someday ski with my boys.

We saw Tracy and Nicholas at the top of the mountain!

It was a beautiful day!!! After the long run we all met for lunch. My stomach was in a knot so I could not eat!

I saw Carlos and Matthew while I was waiting for ski school to end. I even got to see him come down Exhibition. Tracy and Nicholas took off for a few more runs while I went and picked up Matthew. He was with Carlos today and only 2 other kids, and he did great!!!! We had some hot chocolate and headed home.

Carlos was filling out his ski report card! An A+ student!!!

We made a snow family of four. We had a blast doing that, Matthew has such an imagination.

Trip to Angel Fire NM

2009-01-07T16:47:00.000-08:00

We left on Tuesday after Matthew's Kindermusik class around 6:00 and drove half way to Childress Texas (1:30am) and stayed at the Best Western where the boys had Texas waffles for breakfast. We were off by 7:45 for our second half of our trip. We stopped for lunch at the historic Brown hotel. and arrived in Angel Fire 1:30 local time. We barely had the car unloaded before Tracy and Nicholas were hitting the slopes. Matthew and I found a wonderful sledding hill right behind our condo.

The boys had a blast riding their scooters and having tumbleweed races at the rest area.

Matthew making a snow angel!

We found this fort behind the condo.

We had a blast sledding!

Monster Jam

2009-01-03T14:47:00.000-08:00

The whole family made a night of it and went to the Monster Jam at the Reliant center. Tracy decided to get tickets after a 3 hour marathon of watching them on television. My boys have always loved trucks of all kinds. Nicholas and Tracy went several years ago but this was Mine and Matthew's first experience. We had a blast - much better than I thought.

Matthew was not so sure about the noise, it was LOUD !

New Year's Eve 2009

2009-01-01T14:12:00.000-08:00

It was nice to be home and bring in the new year with our neighbors!

(even if it was a little before midnight) sad to say we were in bed before 12:00.

The kids had a blast setting of tons and tons of fireworks.

Grandfathe'r Services in Buffalo Mo

2008-12-30T14:00:00.000-08:00

Joe, Tim, Linda, and Mark

Tracy's Grandfather Passed away on Christmas day after a long battle with Parkinson's. The family celebrated his life on December 30th at a family cemetery where Grandad's parents and siblings have been buried. Tim Stafford did the service with amazing passion and forgiveness. I am so blessed to be part of such a loving family with such a strong faith.

Christmas in Arkansas

2008-12-26T13:48:00.000-08:00

We left on the 26Th to go to Hot Spring Village to celebrate Christmas with the Jones Family

Oma and Opa and the Grandkids!

Aunt Johnna and Uncle Andy from Michigan

Opa fishing with the boys.

We had a wonderful and relaxing time.

Christmas with the Wilhite Family

2008-12-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

My Mom and dad and my brother and his family came over for dinner and celebration.

Christmas Morning

2008-12-25T09:02:00.000-08:00

We started our morning at a early 5:15AM!! I remember when we had to wake them up. Matthew received a Buzz and Woody that talked.
. Nicholas got his Texas Tech hat that he had asked for.The boys went on a long scavenger hunt and found Guitar Praise in the bathtub.

Yo-Yos, Tony Romo Jerseys, golf balls, and Monster Truck tickets, marble tubes were some of their other gifts.

After we opened gifts and had breakfast and had many yo you shows!

and Guitar Praise concerts!

Chirstmas Eve

2008-12-24T08:19:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful night. We started our Christmas Eve by attending the family candlelight service at our Church. We even got to sit next to Matthew's favorite Sunday school teacher Mrs. Bobo.

The boys love decorating Jesus a birthday cake. What a fun and meaningful tradition!The boys opened their 2008 Christmas ornaments. Nicholas' ornament was a puppy eating a Christmas cookie.Matthew opened a Buzz Light year that talked.Tracy concluded the night by reading The night before Christmas right before the boys ran out and fed Santa's reindeer oatmeal. As I then tucked them each into bed this glorious night we thanked our amazing Savior for what he has done for us this year! I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband and two precious boys!!

ELF ON THE SHELF

2008-12-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

You wont believe what we found at our home today - Santa's elf! Yes it is true. Fiddle(we got to name him) showed up with a book to let us know about him. He is a delightful fellow that travels to the North Pole and lets Santa know what we have been up to every night - we are so excited to find out where he will be in the morning!!! We even got to go online at www.theelfontheshelf.com and register him. I love the magic at Christmas time. We are so blessed to celebrate this miraculous time of Jesus birth. I struggled at times about the "magic" of the season not to get confused for the reason we celebrate Christmas then I think about my faith and how magical and real it is!! Even if you don't believe in Santa you do believe that life is a magical and joyful gift that our
Savior has given us.

Fiddle would move every night into a new place.

Cookie Decorating

2008-12-22T21:11:00.000-08:00

Cerise and her two kiddos and Danielle and her two kiddos and my two all decorated cookies and had dinner together. We had so much fun - it helped me just take a breath and get into the Christmas spirit!

I am not sure if more frosting ended up on the cookies, tummies or the table?? :)

Fort Worth Dallas -

2008-12-21T18:15:00.001-08:00

Tracy and I just got home from a wonderful trip to Fort Worth, Texas. I gave Tracy concert tickets to Billy Bobs to see Eli Young Band and Pat Green for his birthday.
Oma and Opa came in on Thursday to watch the boys while we went to Fort Worth. I am not sure who had more fun Tracy and I or the boys. The boys built a amazing gingerbread house and stable and cut out cookies with Oma. Opa took Nicholas to golf clinic and they all went ice-skating. When they did manage to stay home, Oma did school and crafts with the boys and Opa played many card games. The boys love when Oma comes and teach them Math and handwriting!Oma brings books from Tracy's childhood Christmases! The boys love to listen to Oma read!

Tracy and I got to the Worthington hotel on Friday night just in time to catch a cab (my first cab ride) to go to dinner at Joe T Garcia's for dinner. I loved the menu, you had a choice of fajitas or enchiladas and yummy chips. We walked from there to Billy Bobs to see the SOLD OUT concert of Eli Young Band. What a blast!! Saturday we hooked up with Kim and Mike (thanks Kim for the beautiful hotel room that you gave Tracy for his birthday!) and went out to lunch and walk the Stock Yards. We had a blast walking around a real cowboy street with longhorns and fun shops! We had dinner at Risky's barbecue - all you can eat ribs yum! Then we headed back to Billy Bobs thanks to our wonderful cab driver Sami. This experience was a little different- with EYB we had reserved seating and arrived at 10:15 to sit and see the concert that started at 10:30 but for Pat Green we had general admission tickets so we arrived at 8:00 and stood by the rail to save our great spot. It was a great concert but standing for 5 hours , man my feed hurt! We ended the trip with a wonderful cowboy breakfast - the food was great the YMCA is going to be calling my name!!!! What a wonderful weekend!!

Nicholas and I went to a Adams Tour golf tournament

2008-12-17T20:43:00.000-08:00

Nicholas and I went to see his golf coach and our neighbor's cousin play their final round at Black Horse golf course today. They did not know each other until today - it was so great to watch them play each other. Roger (Nicholas' golf coach and Jeff) were so kind to us we got to go up to the green to watch. His golf coach even told Nicholas that the last put was for him. What a fun day!!

Nicholas and Jeff Ward

Nicholas with Coach Roger Stebbins

We even got to watch them turn in their scores. Roger shot par and Jeff one over.

Nicholas and the YMCA

2008-12-17T18:31:00.000-08:00

Nicholas went with me to the YMCA today. The director let him come 3 weeks early to start working out. I can not believe he is almost 10!!!! He did great. He rode the bike for 2 miles, ran on the tread mill for 2 miles and rode the elliptical machine for a mile. Wow - he keeps me on my toes. I sure love this time I get to spend with him!!

YMCA BRUNCH

2008-12-16T18:34:00.000-08:00

We had our second annual YMCA brunch and Jenny's beautiful home. She made amazing food and made us all feel so welcome. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful group of friends that support each other as we attempt to honor our bodies that the Lord has blessed us with!

Beth Moore: A Christmas Come Together

2008-12-11T22:44:00.000-08:00

My mom, my friend Kim, and I went to see Beth Moore tonight. We had so much fun! Ce Ce Winans opened with beautiful praise music as did Travis Cottrell. Beth Moore spoke from the Gospel of Luke (which is what the boys and I have been studying in CBS) about Elizabeth and Zacharia. I am not going to do her message justice but I took got out of it was that our Awesome God always hears our prayers and always has an answer - it just may not be on our time schedule it sure wasn't for Elizabeth's ( to have a baby as an elderly women??? - can you imagine???) Beth's four main points were: We need to 1. Be looking for Him 2. Bring our disappointments to the alter 3. Believe to the bone that God has heard you 4. Blessed are you when what comes naturally to others comes supernaturally to you!

I was so excited to get to see Karla- we have not seen each other in over 3 years!!

Let it snow, let it snow

2008-12-10T23:01:00.000-08:00

What a fun day in Magnolia Texas - We got snow!!!

I just thought this was so beautiful!

The boys loved making snowballs.

Matthew and I loved sitting by the fire!

Tracy's 40th Surprise party

2008-12-06T23:44:00.000-08:00

I was so nervous to through Tracy a surprise 40th birthday party. He was making it clear that he did not want to celebrate it. I wanted him to know that I was so proud of him for all he has done for our family and loved him more than I ever have. Thank you all for making this a wonderful surprise!

Cutting down our Christmas Tree!

2008-12-04T19:59:00.000-08:00

We all look so froward to cutting down our very own Christmas tree every year!

A Houston Chronicle photographer was at the tree farm today and took some photos. We were on the web - yeh we are famous.

The boys loved drinking hot chocolate while we waited for them to put our tree in the truck.

The Zoo trip with my brother

2008-12-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

The boys and I had a busy day trying to get back in the swing of things with school. We left around 3:00 and got their hair cut and then off to Grandma and Grandpa's house to decorate the tree. We sure had fun over their and had a wonderful meal! We then went to Uncle Eric's to stay the night ( and to keep him company while Aunt Maris was out of town). We got up and had a great breakfast and headed to the zoo. We could not of asked for a more beautiful day -all the animals were out and the kids had a blast. The boys enjoyed filling out there bingo cards and answering their questions. My boys told me that the Comodo dragon was their favorite thing to see. We also had cotton candy and a slush - yum - more sugar!! It was sure nice to spend this time with Eric, Sam, and Nathan!

Thanksgiving in Arkansas

2008-11-30T19:59:00.000-08:00

Wow! We had a great time visiting family in Arkansas! We left Tuesday and arrived in Searcy around 11:30 pm at Tim and Brittney's home(Tracy's brother and his wife) . We had so much fun visiting with them and playing with cousins (Maribeth-7 and Mallory -4) We also got the pleasure to play with 9 mo Haiden Tim and B's faster baby! He is so precious!!! Nicholas got the honor of helping Daddy and Uncle Tim put electrical wires into the ground and doing odds and ends to work on Tim's new shop. We all left Thursday to go to Two Moons ( a beautiful lodge) where all the family met for an amazing Thanksgiving dinner that everyone contributes. This Thanksgiving traditional weekend was started by Grandmom (Tracy's mom's mom) She always got her 4 kids together every year in Arkansas(mid point) now it has grown into 27 people and a blast. All the cousins have so much fun together. Friday night we had our annual talent show and wow was that entertaining! We have some extremely talented family members! :0) Saturday we celebrate Christmas -adults draw names and the kids get wonderful gifts from all. That afternoon we went on a hayride and fed some beautiful horses one weighed 1,800 pounds!! We ended the night by watching a great firework show put on by the cousins. Sunday was time to hit the road back home after eating some amazing food!!!!! Did I mention there was a snack table that was open all the time with over 10 pies, 5 or so different cookies, popcorn, trailmix, candy, baklava and much more UGH!!! Back to the YMCA for me! Well all said and done I had a blessed weekend with amazing people that all praise our wonderful Lord for all HE does for us! One of the aunts made such an amazing point - we are sooooo blessed to be able to be part of such a close nit Christian family that love each other and the Lord so much!

The hay ride was so much fun

Nicholas loved the Black Stallion!

All of the horses were so beautiful!!

Oma and Opa with the grandkids!

The boys loved all the dogs, especially Rae!

Aunt Johnna

The Games boys play!

2008-11-24T15:11:00.000-08:00

I am writing this down where I don't forget. .. I love the games kids make up.:

The kids have made there own economy out of pine cones, pine needles, leaves and grass in our back yard. Each neighbor has their own pile of "money that they can use to buy snacks and toys.

Today they found an old bottle in the lake and made a treasure map for all the neighbors to find. They are taking it very serious!! They even got an old baseball and signed it so there would be a great prize at the end.

These are just a couple along with football, fishing, baseball, 4-corners, lemon aide stand, car wash, basketball (several different games with basketball), scooter races just to name a few.

I love the creativity that comes along with playing outside! We have had such beautiful weather and we are blessed that the boys have so much fun with our neighbors.

Grandma's Birthday- Aunt Cindy's visit

2008-11-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Grandma - We sure love you!

Me and my Daddy!!!

My dad with his little sister Cindy!

Aunt Cindy, Nicholas and Matthew

What a fun night. We celebrated Grandma's birthday and got to visit with my Aunt Cindy from MO. Aunt Cindy brought the boys toy planes from the airport. The boys loved them. Grandma, Grandpa, and Aunt Cindy added their hand (thankful feather) onto our Turkey. I wish our visit was not so short!!

Sound of Music

2008-11-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

The boys and I got to see our friends perform in the play Sound of Music put on by class act production! It was wonderful!! We had so much fun. It was sure a joy to see Emily and Mrs. Debra in the play singing so beautifully!!! Mr. Rae was the music director, what a talented family!! Pictures to come...

School day...

2008-11-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

Today has been a good day so far!! The boys and I are doing some Thanksgiving themed school today. I think we are going to just study the story of Thanksgiving, pilgrims and such until December. We have enjoyed learning about the development of the firs presidency and how the government was formed. The timing was perfect with the election taking place and all, but it is nice to take a break from a set curriculum! We have found some great Thanksgiving stories! I wish I would not stress as much and make time for more themed based lessons! We have has fun with our thankful turkey this year instead of us just putting what we are thankful for on the feathers we have had some neighbors and friends put theirs thoughts on it as well. So if you get a chance come by and add to our turkey.
Nicholas has mastered making omelets for breakfast; well for lunch and dinner as well. He asked if we could open a bakery - he is quite the chef !
I am so blessed to be home with these boys!!!

The boys have loved putting puzzles together on their breaks.

KINDERMUSIK

2008-11-11T20:03:00.001-08:00

Matthew loves Mrs. Swick and loves learning how to read music. This program is amazing! He has a sweet class with 7 children. He has enjoyed making percussion instruments, learning new songs, playing games and learning beat and rhythm. This is a two year program that he will learn to read music and learn to play the glockenspiel, recorder and the dulcimer.

The Way P.E.

2008-11-11T19:20:00.001-08:00

Nicholas and Matthew have had a blast this semester participating in the Homeschool P.E. program at the YMCA. Nicholas has participated in challenge courses and swimming. Matthew has played several different ball sports. Today was our last class for the semester. They had field day today and received running awards for the Running Club. The boys truly enjoyed it even though it was forced to be inside due to the rain.

The Way P.E.

2008-11-11T19:20:00.000-08:00

Love For Christ

2008-11-09T20:31:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful ministry. Nicholas and I have been going to the Salvation Army now for approximately 2 years with The Love for Christ ministry at Klein UMC. We go on the second Sunday of every month and feed the hungry. Nicholas is usually in charge of the drinks as his mom loves to sit in the crowd and visit with the guests. We have made some dear friends. Nicholas and I have also had the opportunity to go downtown to Lord of the Streets and serve at Christmas time as well. I treasure the car ride home discussions Nicholas and I have.

This is Diane. She is a regular guest at the Salvation
Army. She always has a story about her cats.

Foundry Women's breakfast

2008-11-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful morning. My mom invited me to a breakfast at her church. I had no idea what to expect. My mom, Aunt Carol (my mom's sister from Iowa) and myself walk into a beautiful room with each table decorated by individual women with tremendous talent. We were served an elegant breakfast. Then we were truly blessed by the amazing praise and worship music performed by Lisa Pierre. Lisa is Beth Moore's worship leader. She is truly using the gift God gave her. Her music is so powerful. The morning ended with the Foundry drama team putting on an inspirational skit about being a virtues women. It was surly phenomenal morning that I was honored to share with my Mom and Aunt.

Creekside Park

2008-11-07T20:24:00.000-08:00

Jamie called me and said they were going on a nature hike and wondered if we could go along. We could not pass this opportunity up. It was a beautiful day. The kids had a blast looking for bugs, tadpoles, critters, and whatever else my cross their path.

Nathan's 5th Birthday Party

2008-11-07T18:32:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun celebrating my nephew's 5th Birthday at the Bowling Alley! Nathan was so proud of turning 5!

This is my brother and his beautiful family: Maris, baby Sammy, Nathan and Eric.

My dad, mom, and Aunt Carol!

Me and my boys! My Dad and my precious niece!

Comunity Bible Study

2008-11-05T18:33:00.000-08:00

The boys and I are truly blessed to be able part of CBS (Community Bible Study) at the Woodlands United Methodist Church. There are over 200 women in this study. We are studding the gospel of Luke. Each of us have our own study on the exact same verses. I am trying to get in the habit of making a set time that we read God's word daily. There are weeks that I do struggle with the time factor of the study itself. I know Satin is the one in charge of that. The boys have such wonderful leaders in the homeschool class. I'm in a group of aprox. 12 women that are amazing and so strong in so many different ways. I have met some great new friends. I am so thankful that the Lord has placed me in such a caring and loving environment. A bunch of us went to the park on Wednesday after class for a picnic - so much fun!!

Sue's Pumpking Carving Party.

2008-10-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

I love traditions!! An old co-worker of mine from my very first teaching job at Valley Oaks Elementary puts on a pumpkin carving party for our whole team (from over 10 years ago). Nicholas was so proud he carved the entire pumpkin all in his own for the first time. It is so nice to see everyone and see how our lives are changing. I am so grateful to Sue for doing this every year!!

Rail road photo shoot

2008-10-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

I got the opportunity to take some photos of my boys and neighbors today. Someday I would love to take a photography class. The kids were such good sports! Jackie treated everyone to Sonic for a drink afterwards.

The Wings over Houston

2008-10-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time at The Wings over Houston air show. What an amazing experience! It was a real eye opener to see some of the the military up close. What an inspirational day as well, we saw the different branches of the military recognized. There was even a reenactment of World War II. You can not leave there with out an feeling of Awe for all of our soldiers that are fighting four our freedom!

7-Acre Woods Field Day

2008-10-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing day at 7-acre woods that was put on by Homewood Christian Association. It was a beautiful day!!! We did the zip line, petting zoo, put-put golf and even a pumpkin scavenger hunt. We are truly blessed to be involved with such a wonderful home school group. Days like this remind me how thankful I am for the wonderful flexibility that homeschooling offers.

Play date with the Benetts

2008-10-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of this beautiful day and set up a play date with Austin and Mary-Kate! Austin brought over a casting net and Nicholas and Austin fished from 12-5 non stop, well maybe 10 min to scarf down a corndog. Mary-Kate and Matthew helped for awhile and then played their own games and such. Jamie helped me get my overwhelming amount of fall things in order for the next month. She helped me get back on track and reminded me that I do still have time to do the fun things in school along with curriculum! I struggle with this - I loved my theme based curriculums! This year I was getting nervous with a 4th grader. So I changed some things because I was afraid that he was not getting everything he needed. Then I remind myself why I am homeschooling... I question even if the Bible study I am doing on Wed. is too much ? I do know though, if I don't have God the center of my week or my life then the rest does not seem to fall in place. Finding balance and time management is an ongoing prayer of mine!!!!!

Cousins

2008-10-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

I was so honored to be able to watch my niece and nephew this past Monday. The boys sure enjoyed Nathan and Sam. They had so much fun together playing outside on the swing set, fishing, watching Barny, playing cars and much more.