Random Thoughts and Experiences

ALL BETTER!!!!

2009-06-24T18:17:00.002-05:00

WOW, I have been out of pocket for quite some time. Rachel is healed and better. THANK GOD!!! We have never had such a hard time healing in all the surgeries. It took a GOOD 9 days for her to be back to normal! So, thank you all for all the prayer. She is great and it is over!!!

Surgery Tomorrow

2009-06-11T20:42:00.002-05:00

Please Remember Rachel in your prayers tomorrow as she has her tonsils out. Surgery is at 9:15 AM. Pray that all goes well!!! I am feeling a bit more nervous this time compared to the last 3, so I could use your prayers too!!! Hopefully this will be her last surgery!!!

WARNING!!!! Proud Mom Post!!!

2009-06-05T08:03:00.003-05:00

I know this is so similar to the other ones, but I just can't get enough. Look at her little legs kicking away to try to get to her teacher!!! I just can't believe that she is taking to this SO well!! I LOVE the water, and I want her to feel the same way!

A FULL DAY!!!

2009-06-03T21:18:00.003-05:00

Today was Rachel's first day of Gymnastics, and she had a blast. She has come a long way since last year. It was fun to watch her do everything.

Se then had Kaylee and Lynsey over and they went riding in the Escalade. Who knew it was a 3 passenger vehicle.

I know you all may not think this is the GREATEST, but I was just beaming with pride for her. She used to HATE her face wet, and on Day 3 of swim lessons, she is really doing wonderful. They actually let them swim to them without guiding them the whole way. I must say, she pushed off the best, and made it the farthest under water. Sorry, I couldn't help but BRAG!!! I can't wait to see what happens in the next 5 lessons.

Library Time

2009-06-02T21:00:00.002-05:00

Today was the first day of the Summer Library Program. They are doing a summer in Texas. So they read them a book about a jalapeno.

They did a TeePee maze (Lynsey is with Rachel)

They also made Indian headbands!

Rachel and Lynsey had fun at the library today.

Day 2 Of Swim Lessons

2009-06-02T20:58:00.003-05:00

Today was Day 2, and it was like NIGHT and DAY from yesterday. Rachel was begging to go under water. She was so happy!!! Here she is jumping off the side of the pool and (KNOWING) she was going under once she landed.

Here she is landing under the water.

They were floating on their backs today too.

They learned to get out of the pool, and here is my baby making sure we saw her getting out.

Here is my little Fishy!!!

Family Sunday

2009-05-31T18:37:00.004-05:00

Today we went to the Jacksboro Lake. We spent time together, just the 3 of us. This is the view, pretty isn't it!Here is Rachel as we were getting ready to eat our picnic.She is a tomato fanatic. So she wanted me to get a picture of her eating one.Here she is on the pier. I love this picture. She is so sweet!!After lunch, we went over to the playground, and played.
It got so hot out at the park, so we went to Freds (Jacksboro for "Walmart") to get a little pool so we could cool off.

Rachel had a lot of fun playing in the pool. After I sat in it for a bit, I got out and tried to get some sun on this WHITE, PALE body.

We got out and dried off. I just had to post this picture, I LOVE HER BEAUTIFUL FACE!!!

She didn't really rest a whole lot during her rest time movie, so she was worn out after our full day.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

2009-05-31T09:49:00.002-05:00

Come for a walk with me down Memory Lane!
And if you have a "Memory Lane" post, head on over to Scottsville to join in on the fun!

I have not done this in a while, but I ran across this picture and just had to post it.

It is one of my all time favorites. We took Rachel to the zoo in 2006 and I got this picture. She used to have this deep laugh that was SO not feminine. I loved hearing it. She doesn't do it anymore, so every time I see this picture, I hear that laugh and just smile.

Playing with Picasa

2009-05-26T11:30:00.001-05:00

I heard about this program and I wanted to play. I love this picture and this is what I wanted to do with it. After taking pictures of the 6 cuties, I thought of how much fun it was to take creative pictures!!! What do you think????

Memorial Day 2009 Warning LOTS of PICTURES!!!

2009-05-25T19:24:00.005-05:00

Well, here are more pics of our Memorial Day fun!!

Rachel ready to walk out the door to go swimming. My big "CHEESE!!!"

Swimming with her ring. She just kept saying "Mommy, I can swim all day!"

Until it got TOO cold!They took a break from swimming to jump on the trampoline.

They took a break from jumping to have a snack. Cheerios, MMMMM!!!

When the Cheerios ran out, they were on to Captain Crunch!

One of the many games they played were Ring around the Rosie and after they got tired of falling down they decided to throw their towel in the air!!

I LOVE THIS PICTURE BY THE WAY!

The Texas sky is BEAUTIFUL!!!

My sweet girl ready to get off the trampoline!

Man I love her. We had a blast. I was so proud of her playing with the "Big Girls" and just doing whatever they were doing. She is growing up SO fast!

Rachel's New Pet **Update

2009-05-25T14:41:00.006-05:00

If you read THIS post,

you might just be wondering WHAT IN THE WORLD THAT THING IS!! I had a few comments about it and they wanted updates on him. He has gotten a lot bigger, so here is the updated picture of our new friend.

No Erica, it is not in the toilet. Although that would have been MUCH MUCH funnier!

Kerrville Trip

2009-05-18T09:58:00.004-05:00

Right near Hunt, there is the Ingram Dam. Directly across from the dam, is the Dam Shopping Center. Now, 9 years ago there was the Dam Store, a Dam Cafe, and a Dam Laundry! Now the cafe and laundry have changed names. Lo and Behold the Dam store is still there. I got me a shirt that say "I am one of the Dam People" I love it. If you are ever that way, you should see all this great stuff.We also went to Gibson's General Store. It is by far the BEST STORE IN THE WORLD!!! I hear this is how most stores were a long time ago, and I vote we go back to this. You can find housewares and paint next to each other. Sewing stuff and plumbing. From food to guns and ammo. WOW, I LOVE IT!!!! I want to have one in my town.Here is the pool toys across from the cowboy hats and jeans, and in the aisle next to it is electrical. I KNOW, fascinating!!!!!My maiden name was Cooper, so we are a bit partial to this BBQ joint in Mason, TX. There is also one in Junction, TX. Stop by if you can, BBQ is AWESOME.After all this fun, I was TOTALLY aware of the beauty God gives us to look at every day. I usually take total advantage of it, but Sunday I just kept thinking of how wonderful He is to let us look at this nonstop. So, I took this on my drive home! FABULOUS VIEW!!!

CLONEHENGE in Hunt,TX

2009-05-17T20:55:00.005-05:00

This was a fun weekend with only one regret. I WISH LANCE AND RACHEL WERE WITH ME!

I spent the night in Kerrville, and went roaming around on Sunday morning before I came home.

I went to visit "Stonehenge II/Clonehenge" with my parents, and really enjoyed standing next to it. I felt so small in this HUGE world. The view was BEAUTIFUL!!!!This is one of the statues out there. I hate to say they were not nearly as impressive as the Clonehenge Here is Clonehenge!! That is what we called it when we lived in Hunt for a summer. We didn't know it really had a name.

The inside of the structure. It was just amazing!!! Really breathtaking. I can't imagine the real thing. This one is only 2/3 the size of the original.
Saturday was my parents anniversary, so I took this pic of them at Clonehenge.

They even have Clonehenge benches.

Austin Pics

2009-05-17T20:54:00.004-05:00

We take our 4th graders to Austin every year, and go see several things around our beautiful capitol. We started at the Visitor's Center, and saw this replica of the gate that used to hold the Deceleration of Independence.We also saw this replica of the inside of the top of the capitol.

We learned that they ran out of room in the capital, and they didn't want to change the look of the outside, so they dug 4 stories underground to house all the offices and all the extra space they needed. This is the view from underground.
This is the floor of the Rotunda as seen from the 2nd floor.

The Texas Senate and House only meet every other year, so this was the first time I go to see them in session. Representative Hardcastle invited us to watch and even introduced us to the rest of the House. He then came up to the gallery and sat with us and talked to the kids. It was really special to them, and me of course. I felt like I was around a celebrity!!! This is during one of the votes they did. They went through a lot of bills while we were watching.

This is Representative Hardcastle introducing us to the House of Representatives.

This was a view of the capitol from the front lawn where we had lunch.

We sat near this memorial, and it was beautiful. It is for all the Texas Peace Officers.
This was at the Bob Bullock Museum.My brother came to hang out with us in the museum, the kids LOVED it!! Thanks for coming Dustin.
I don't know how this picture got on my camera, because my camera only left my hands once in the museum. So, I can only guess that God took it for me. Isn't it beautiful?

God also gave us this sunset on the way home, this picture doesn't do it justice AT ALL! The dirty window of the charter bus is bad too, but still I know God sent that to us too!!!

Chuck E. Cheese

2009-05-11T20:40:00.006-05:00

We went to Chuck E Cheese for lunch and played a ton. We had to leave after a little while to go to the Dr. We headed back later to finish up the fun. I was a bit addicted to the Deal Or No Deal game. I won over 100 tickets on it. Isn't that what these places are about, winning tickets so you can buy some tiny piece of junk toy?

She wanted this cup pretty bad, so we got it and boy was it cute to see her as Chuck E.This bowling game was pretty cool.

She loved feeding the dog too. She talked about this one to Lance when we got home.Now, this one took most of the tokens, well, next to Deal or No Deal. We raced aliens around a track by spinning a ball. It was fun and we played it at least 6 times.The Ticket Monster "game" was her next favorite. She loved putting the tickets in and hearing it munch on them. It was also a topic of conversation when we got home.

All in all we had a BLAST today. I loved it, and I know Rachel did too. I can't wait to do it again!

"Mittens" The Cat & "Boogie" The Dog

2009-05-11T20:20:00.005-05:00

We went to Build-A-Bear first and made a cat to got with her dog "Boogie", who's name has mysteriously changed to Bolt (Surprise, surprise). She wanted a black cat with white paws to name "Mittens", but this is all they had, and despite that, she loves her anyway.She put a heart, kissed by her, in it, and then they asked me to put one it too. I thought that was SO sweet that she has a little of both our hearts in her.Then they told her to give her a bath to get her nice and clean. This part was so fun for her.She even got her teeth brushed.After the Dr. we went back to the mall to get "Boogie" (Bolt?) a shirt to go with the swim trunks we got him, and both the animals got to go in. Rachel decided that "Boogie" needed a bath too since "Mittens" already had one. So, he got all cleaned up,And got his teeth brushed.

I really enjoyed doing this with her. It was so much fun. The people working there were SO kid friendly. When we went back with both animals, they were so happy and asked her it she had brought her friends in for a visit. I loved it. I want to go back SOON!!!

My Rachel Made Me A Mother

2009-05-10T18:24:00.004-05:00

This Rachel at 3 days old. We were not able to hold her, so all we could do was stroke her and talk to her. That was 4 years ago. As I celebrate my 4th Mother's Day, I rejoice in the fact that I have a wonderful husband and a BEAUTIFUL daughter!!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TOO ALL YOU MOTHERS OUT THERE!!!

And The Winner Is...

2009-05-09T09:51:00.004-05:00

MEEEEE.....

I just won this prestigious award!!! CLICK HERE

HAHA!!!!

My Girls

2009-05-07T14:51:00.004-05:00

These are two of my girls from last year's 4th grade class. I love them and miss them terribly. They wanted to be on my blog, so they took this picture of themselves. Girls, now you can say

"I MADE IT"!!!!!

A Walk Down Memory Lane

2009-05-06T10:17:00.006-05:00

Come for a walk with me down Memory Lane!
And if you have a "Memory Lane" post, head on over to Scottsville to join in on the fun!

Stroll with me back to March 9th 2002
The day I married my soul mate. That is A LOT of hair by the way, and it was all mine. I have not had that much since that day. I cut it OFF the next day!!!

This is my beautiful wedding party!!!

Middle School Athletic Banquet

2009-05-06T09:22:00.002-05:00

Tonight was the banquet, and it was really nice. I love watching Lance talk about his boys because I know how much they mean to him.

Lance making his speech:

Coach and I after the banquet:

Rachel The Photagrapher

2009-05-04T21:08:00.004-05:00

I thought it would be a GREAT idea to let Rachel take a picture of Lance and I when we were all dressed up and heading to the JHS athletic banquet. It was a good idea and we did get a usable one on my 365 Blog. Here are the test shots:

TOO FAR,TOO BLURRY
LANCE'S FACE MISSING,PHOTOGRAPHER TOO SHORT,We stood her on the bed and got this one:

TOO MUCH CROPPED

"Not Me!" Monday

2009-05-04T10:49:00.005-05:00

This is my first "Not Me!" Monday post, but I follow MckMama's blog, so I thought I would follow in her footsteps today. So, here goes:

This week I definitely DID NOT spend talking about the Swine Flu and accusing several people of maybe having it.

I also DID NOT spend all weekend wondering (maybe hoping) if someone here in Jack Co. had the Swine Flu so we could have 14 days off school. Certainly NOT ME, I love my job!

I also DID NOT write this post just so I could have a Brown M & M's shot in winning a necklace on MckMama's blog.

That's it for my first "Not Me!" Monday, I hope there will be many more!!!

"Mommy, can I put on my swim suit?"

2009-04-29T20:14:00.004-05:00

" GOD IS BOWLING"

It was a bit stormy this afternoon. I asked Rachel if she wanted to play in the rain. She then asked me if she could put on her swim suit. I told her she could just play in her clothes, but she declined and insisted that she wear water appropriate clothes. I don't know where she got the idea that we don't get our clothes wet!! (wink, wink) Maybe I have accidentally taught her some of my OCD tendencies.

I LOVE THIS PIC!!!! She is sitting throwing rocks. This is only about 5:00pm.

Walk Down Memory Lane

2009-04-29T15:10:00.006-05:00

And if you have a "Memory Lane" post, head on over to Scottsville to join in on the fun!
The year was 1991!! I was in 6th grade vacationing in Port Aransas. I LOVE this shark!!! We go there almost every year and take a picture with him still to this day. Now they have this HUGE shark, but he fails in comparison to this guy!!!The only difference in him then, and 2006, is he has developed a little plaque.The only difference now, in 2008, is he is missing some teeth. That plaque must have gotten the better of him. A lesson indeed!!!

Sweet Dreams

2009-04-25T14:17:00.005-05:00

One of my blog friends posted with pictures of her daughter sleeping saying that she loves watching her sleep, and it just reminded me of all the wonderful pictures I took of Rachel sleeping. I love too many of them, so I am going to post them all. All 18 of them. It is my BLOG AND I'LL BLOG (pictures) IF I WANT TO!!!!

Here she is 4 days old in her incubator

She used to assume this position and we KNEW she was about to wake and want to eat.

I loved when she held her hair while she slept

I can't say anything but this is one of my VERY favorites

Lance's first Father's Day pictures

Asleep at a Bangs Dragon's football game

Pooped after a Halloween party. She was a flower!

Well, I guess she is not hungry anymoreAfter Thanksgiving, I love the hand over her faceThis is my ALL TIME favorite picture of her sleeping!!! THAT IS OUT!!!Putting her feet up to sleepShe fell asleep on the couch, a RARE occasion.After watching a Cowboys game with Daddy Again, a RARE occasion on the couch

After the pumpkin patchAt another Bangs Dragon's playoff gameOn the way home from her 4 year check up, I was so glad she FINALLY fell asleep seeing as that bunny she is holding sings and I heard it for 30 minutes NON STOP!!! She would press it and wake herself up. You might notice how close her hand it to the button! AHHHHHH!!!

Welcome To Texas

2009-04-22T20:47:00.006-05:00

It was 99 degrees according to my car. WOW, I forgot that it got so HOT so soon. So, while Lance was watering the garden, Rachel wanted her bathing suit on to run through the water.

I love the water falling on her in this picture!!

Walk Down Memory Lane

2009-04-22T09:35:00.009-05:00

In following Scottsville, I am doing a "Walk Down Memory Lane".

Me in Somerset High School in Somerset, TX (1997)

Lance in Hico High School in Hico, TX (1996)

Drew's Happy Day

2009-04-19T20:12:00.003-05:00

Today was Drew's 2nd birthday party. He calls it his Drew's Happy Day! It was so cute. It has gone by so fast. We had a lot of fun. He was very concerned about if Jackie was coming to his Happy Day. It is so sweet when he calls me Jackie. I love hearing it. He only had to try blowing the candles out 5 or 6 times before he got it. It was so cute!!!

MY EXCITEMENT GROWS!!!!

2009-04-17T10:13:00.003-05:00

I am so excited about the March of Dimes walk tomorrow. I can't wait!!! If you want to sponsor me, your last chance it today!!! I would love to raise as much money as I can. There is a widget on the side that will take you to my website, or you can click:

HERE

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-16T09:06:00.006-05:00

This is a wonderful idea that the Freemans do, and I want to be a part of it! I am not just making things up, they have changed it to "Thankful Thursdays" for this week!

I am very thankful everyday for ALL my loving in-laws. Both sets of them!!! They all have accepted me for who I am. They have treated me like I was born into their family, not just married in. They are ALWAYS there for me.

Mike & Kim: They have made me see God as a Father, not just someone you pray to. They are always there to explain the biblical things to me when I don't understand them. They have loved me through all my bluntness, and even loved me more for it. Kim sat countless hours with me while I was in the hospital pregnant and she even endured watching things that made her want to faint without leaving my side!!! For these things, I will be ETERNALLY grateful!! They love Rachel more than you can imagine, and NEVER pass up a chance to take her and do things with her.

Bob & Devra: They are so loving to me. They are very supportive of me. I talk to Bob at least once a week, and you would never know I am not his (for the sake of a better word) real daughter. Devra, now she was my saving grace when I was pregnant with Rachel. She was the voice of TOTAL TRUTH. You know the one that will explain to you what the Dr. really means. Scary or not. She rarely left my side through the labor and questioned that Dr. with every decision. She wanted NOTHING but the best for us. They love Rachel more than anything and NEVER pass up a chance to spend time with her. For that I am ETERNALLY grateful!!!

My Sisters and Brother-in-laws: Well, they are all awesome and I just can't even list all the things I feel for them and their families!!!

Easter/Birthday Pics

2009-04-13T16:39:00.004-05:00

I took Rachel to the BEST photographers in the kids business. Kiddie Kandids. They are so good at what they do. I thought I would share the results.

This one is my FAVORITE!!! She looks like a model!

HAPPY EASTER FROM RACHEL!!!

Happy Easter

2009-04-13T09:27:00.005-05:00

The Easter Bunny left at little something on the fireplace for Rachel. After he did it, I was wondering if that was a little too close to the whole "Santa" thing. Maybe he should have left it somewhere else, but OH WELL!!!These panties are SO CUTE!!! I love them!!!

We had a wonderful day with family. We went to church in Weatherford, and it was AWESOME!READ MORE HERE

Easter Egg Hunt #3

2009-04-11T20:25:00.004-05:00

Today was Rylee's birthday party. It was a lot of fun for the kids. I loved watching Rachel interact with her friends. That is so wonderful for me to see that she is so social. Rylee's mom had planned so many fun things for the kids, there was:

An Easter Egg Hunt,

Pizza,Cake,A Bounce House,

And LOTS AND LOTS OF FUN!!!!

Fossil Rim

2009-04-10T21:42:00.004-05:00

Today we went to Fossil Rim and had a BLAST!!!!

Mee Mee, Rachel, and Poppy

Rachel feeding the deerRachel had free reign of the third row seat that was folded down.LOOK AT THAT TONGUE!Rachel feeding the "Wild Animal"Brushing the goatShe was eating the rest of her lunch like the animals we were feeding, with her mouth!Those ostriches, they scare me, eat like crazy animals. Rachel was braver than I was!

The North Texas Fires

2009-04-10T21:37:00.001-05:00

I am sure you all have heard about all the fires around North Texas. Well, here are a few pics of the skyline 25 miles out of Jacksboro.

Library Again?

2009-04-09T08:14:00.003-05:00

We went to the library on Tuesday to pick out some books. It was the first time we had gone and since Rachel LOVES her books, I thought it would be fun. She loved it, and proceeded to just pick the first 4 she put her hands on. It was fun.

Well, we read those 4 for bedtime that night, and surprise, surprise, we needed some more Wednesday. I really didn't mind, because I want her to learn to really use the library. Secretly that way I don't have to buy so many new books.

We went back and looked for some more books. This time she knew she wanted Clifford books. We did get one, but I showed her that there were all kinds. She still took the first few that she touched, but at least she is getting the process.

My only fear now is that we are going to be gone all day today, so we will not be able to make it to get new books. Worse than that, they are closed until Tuesday!! AHHHHH!!!!

I just thought this was AWESOME!!!

2009-04-07T18:31:00.003-05:00

I have a friend who has a friend that posted this blog. I thought it was so sweet. I am sending my birthday card tomorrow. I wish you all would join in too. What a great idea!!!

Jump Xtreme Party

2009-04-05T16:38:00.003-05:00

Before Rachel's birthday party, we were painting our nails, and Rachel had to make sure Daddy was included too!!!

We went to Jump Xtreme in Weatherford, and had a blast. It was fun to have the area all to ourselves! Rylee, Rachel and Allison all sliding down together

Lynsey and Rylee

Rachel had her Bolt party. I will try again next year for a princess birthday.

She got to open her presents sitting in the throne.

After the party we came home and then headed of the the Little's house to watch college basketball. I guess this is what happens when you are friends with a bunch of coaches!

Lynsey, Rachel, and Tate (she sure looks happy doesn't she)

And Then There Were Two

2009-04-04T08:12:00.004-05:00

With all the excitement of Rachel's party today, (I will admit that I do get very excited), I was packing the box of stuff to take to the party when I stood at the kitchen sink, and I saw that my one humming bird has now became two!!! I don't know why, but it is such a joy to me to watch them at my window. So, I wanted to share that joy with you all!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL!!!!

2009-04-02T11:40:00.004-05:00

Today turned out to be a rather eventful day seeing as we had to work. "Chicken Little" (Coach Little) one of Rachel's friend's mom, took them to the park after school. From there she came home and opened a few presents while waiting for her cake to finish baking.

We then headed to the "Pizza Store" to have some pizza.

Apparently EVERY TIME her and Daddy go to the "Pizza Store", they get 3 toys out of the candy/toy machines. This time Daddy had an extra 50 cents and she got 4!

We headed to the movie store and rented a movie to watch when we got home. Before we started the movie, we had to sing and blow out candles. I made her a purple cake, it was kind of fun. I though I would go totally girl seeing as she is having a "Bolt" birthday on Saturday. Notice the beautiful flowers her Big Daddy sent her!

The Wish

Blowing out 2 of the 4 candles

Peeps Contest

2009-04-02T11:37:00.002-05:00

The Fort Worth Star Telegram is having a peeps contest. A coworker of mine has a friend that is #9 in the top 10. So you all should go check them out. They are really cute. It is neat to see how creative "Peeple" are! HAHA

http://www.star-telegram.com/Multimedia/Entertainment/9apr/090401Peeps/index.html

Relay For Life 2009

2009-03-28T20:03:00.005-05:00

I did Relay For Life this year on the Elementary team, and I stayed from 6PM to 6AM. I was lots of fun. I was so tired today, so I spent most of the day sleeping!!!

"Under Arrest"

Waiting to be "booked"Waiting for my "1 phone call" (the girls are bringing me my cell phone)Waiting for "bail money"

These girls bobbed for apple for 10 minutes, it was funny to see how many times they would go under water for an apple they were not going to eat!!Got one!!It snowed most of the night, so here is my car around 2AM.

Let's End Spring Break With A BANG!!!

2009-03-22T21:26:00.003-05:00

Today was the perfect day for flying kites. So, the three of us went out and did just that. It was a lot of fun.

Rachel and I flew them,

Lance and Rachel flew them,Rachel even flew 2 at one time.I got mine stuck in the tree, and my man got it out for me. We only lost half of one tail.

The Coaching Begins

2009-03-21T20:14:00.003-05:00

Lance and Rachel went outside to shoot some baskets. She even made a few!

More Gardening

2009-03-20T21:15:00.001-05:00

Lance tried out the trench method with his garden, and boy Rachel was really into the watering too. He decided that he really didn't like that way of watering, but it was fun to watch the water run through the garden.

Cupcake Surprises

2009-03-20T11:57:00.003-05:00

The last thing we did that Thursday was to make chocolate cupcakes with surprise kisses in them. I got the recipe in my magazine, and I thought it would be a fun project with Rachel. It was fun.

I had some football stuff to decorate them with. She loved cooking with me.

Taking the candy out of the wrappers.Adding the surprisesThe finished product

Gardening With Daddy

2009-03-20T10:28:00.004-05:00

Yesterday after Lance tilled the garden, he and Rachel proceeded to plant the garden. It was so fun to watch them together. This is their summer project. Click HERE to watch the video!!

Putting rabbit poop (disguised in a rabbit chow bag)on the gardenDigging for the tomatoesPlanting the corn Patting down the dirt. "To keep the seeds warm"

More Spring Break Fun?

2009-03-20T10:05:00.003-05:00

Lance & Rachel were out gardening yesterday, so Rachel took a break and we made a pine cone bird feeder. She loves to watch the birds, so we wanted a feeder for the front yard!

Last Stop Nana's House

2009-03-19T10:02:00.004-05:00

After all the fun for the day we went to have dinner at Nana's. Little did we know that the fun wouldn't stop at the park. The kids had a blast there too.

I LOVE THESE TWO PICTURES

Playing in the dirty for Nana's garden.

Playing in the dirt pile

On To The Park

2009-03-19T09:49:00.003-05:00

After Jump X-treme, we headed to "Chick-ul-a" to eat and play a little more there. They surely had not had enough play time, so they need more in the play room. When Lance had enough of the CRAZY kids parents were letting in there, we headed off for some shopping and then to the park. They had a blast there too.

Drew Lance and Rachel talking on the "phones" across the playground!

Nana and Lance pushing the kids in the swings!

Bounce Heaven

2009-03-19T09:34:00.007-05:00

Wednesday we decided to put Spring Break in full swing and spend a day out. We took Rachel to Jump X-treme in Weatherford and played there for a while. We met Ashley, Drew, and Nana there. It was a BLAST!!!! I played on everything! I just might have had more fun that Rachel. Seeing as we are having Rachel's party there, I wanted to test everything out. HAHA!!! Here are some pics to prove we did have SOME fun on Spring Break!

Our little Boxer

I love their faces. Every picture of them coming down the slide there are the same faces on both of them!

We got away with only 1 vinyl (sp?) burn!!!

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!!

2009-03-17T23:17:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a great day. No pinching here. We made sure we had the green one. I went grocery shopping with Amber and I was so feeling the calling to pinch everyone who was not wearing green. I didn't, seeing as I did not want to go to jail for assaulting everyone in Walmart!!!

SPRING CLEANING

2009-03-15T19:20:00.005-05:00

Lance and I have decided that we have WAY too much crap to have in our wonderful house. We have the greatest house and it is so cluttered. For Spring Break I have vowed to clean every room one by one to get ready for the annual garage sale. (I have had one every year since we began coaching!)

I did the office/guest room/JUNK room today. It was BY FAR the biggest undertaking in the house. It still had all my scrapbooking stuff from February sat in it. I had not put it all away. It had gotten to the point that I just ignored it. So that was my project for the day.

It was the hardest room, and I wanted to go through it first so the rest of the week would be a breeze. I DID IT!!!!

I really wish I had done a before picture so you could see how bad it really was. It only took me 6 hours to go through everything and organize it. So, now it is done and if anyone wants to come over and see my "Junk Room", they can and I will not even be embarrassed!!!!

My New Project

2009-03-11T19:56:00.004-05:00

Today Kim, Ashley, and Drew brought Rachel home. She stayed with Nana last night. We were talking about the new rave of Project 365. Kim has been doing it, and likes it. I really think it will be fun. So, I am starting a new blog for my Project. I am really excited. You know I am a bandwagon type of person. I am going to jump on this one. I love blogging, so this way I have no choice but to do it everyday. So, here is the address.

http://jackies365dayproject.blogspot.com/

ENJOY!!!!

A not so sad "Good-bye"

2009-03-08T20:33:00.003-05:00

Seven years ago tomorrow, one of our wonderful wedding guests gave us this coffee pot to go with our kitchen. It has been a trooper for the last 7 years. This year I asked for a new one. Not because it stopped working but because of THIS. The warming plate was almost completely rusted. It still works great, but this part was bothering me, and I just wanted a new one.

Lance came in tonight with this!!!
Now I can make coffee in the morning in my new anniversary coffee pot!! WOO HOO!!!

Can't wait to make coffee in it!!!

"GOOD-BYE" old coffee pot, and "HELLO" new one.

THANK YOU HONEY!!! IT HAS BEEN A GREAT 7 YEARS!!!

314

Daisy's Pin

2009-03-08T10:18:00.004-05:00

Lance and Rachel spent yesterday outside. They cleaned the leaves out of Daisy's pin. After that Rachel helped spread grass seeds out so MAYBE there would be grass in there this summer. It was so cute to see Rachel using the spreader. I loved it!!

Gardening- Round 2

2009-03-08T10:00:00.004-05:00

After the first gardening disaster, we went an bought some grown tomato plants and some blueberry plants, so Lance and Rachel planted them outside. Maybe the outdoor gardening will go better.

One of the 3 blueberry bushesThe tomato plantsRachel digging a hole for the "Butterfly bush"Lance helping her

Thank God for plumbers

2009-03-03T21:22:00.003-06:00

We have had a problem with our kitchen sprayer being broken since we bought the house. So, we FINALLY (a year later) decided to buy the part to fix it. Well, Lance got under the sink to change it out, and guess who wanted to help.

YOU GUESSED IT!!!! RACHEL

Nature Walk

2009-03-03T18:19:00.005-06:00

Today while Lance was at a track meet, Rachel and I went for a nature walk around the block. We were looking for "treasures". What that means to her I have figured out is what I point out. SO, I am really going to do this more often. I want her to find things that SHE thinks are special. I took just a few pics, and I thought I would share them!!!

Rachel getting one of her "treasures" (a golf ball in the dirt)

I don't have many pictures of Rachel and I, so I love this one I took!!!

Family Portrait

2009-02-28T16:00:00.003-06:00

This morning when we got up, Rachel wanted to draw on her easel. She would draw someone, and then call me to see. Then she called me to show me that she had drawn all 3 of us. It was beautiful. She did 2 different elements; chalk, and marker. We try to keep her well rounded in the art aspect of her life! LOL It was wonderful. Just thought I would share the talents of our daughter!!!

My little artist at work

HAPPY 31st BIRTHDAY LANCE!!!!!

2009-02-28T15:54:00.002-06:00

I know this is a bit late, but February 21st was Lance's birthday, and we went to Texas de Brazil with some of his family. It was really nice and tasted so good. I recommend that place to EVERYONE!!!

Cupcakes from Cold Stone Creamery YUMMY

RANDOM THOUGHTS

2009-02-27T09:36:00.005-06:00

I know things around here are busy, but nothing is blog worthy. I MISS BLOGGING!!!! I need some great stuff to say.

Well, people are popping up pregnant all around me, and this is cause to make me have baby fever pretty bad.

Lance's garden I was following has gone died. So for his birthday he got some more tomato plants, and some blueberry bushes. Both of these are guaranteed for 1 year not to die. So that was good since he has never bought blueberries before. I will let you know how that is going.

For Lance's 31st birthday (on the 21st)we went with his family to Texas de Brazil. It was AWESOME!!! I will post later with pics.

Kim (my MIL) had her 50th birthday last week too, so we had a weekend of scrapbooking for the girls. It was fun. I got quite a bit accomplished. It was nice to have time to just work on my scrapbooks. I worked on Lance and I BR (Before Rachel). I must say I fell in love all over again. It was so nice to get to look back at all we have done together. With our 7 year anniversary coming up, it was fun to remember. It is funny how you really don't think about all you have done until you look at pictures. I have not ventured the wedding and the honeymoon yet. That seems really daunting to me at this point seeing as I am almost 2 years behind on Rachel.

Track has officially started. WOO HOO!!! The last season of the year.

Ok, well I had more that I thought to write about. I will post the birthday pics this weekend. Thanks for hanging with me!

A Day Out With Rachel

2009-02-19T21:17:00.005-06:00

Rachel had an appointment with the dermatologist on Wed. about her "spots" that have been hanging around since before Christmas. He basically told us that it was an allergy that flares up in the fall/winter. So that was GREAT news.

Lance went with us, so we made a day of it. We gave her the choice of the Zoo or the Children's Museum. She chose the museum. They are remodeling the old one, and have moved it to a part of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame museum. She loved it! The children's part was small, but she loved what they did have.

She loved the grocery shopping

She built the walls of a houseShe did some constructionShe loved watching these little cup airplanes fly

Then we took her up to the Cowgirl Museum and she had a lot of fun there too. She got to ride a bucking bronco and watch herself on TV.

She also got to sit in a saddle and watch a movie on Jessie from Toy Story 2. It was fun spending the day together. Thought I would share some pics!!!

Our little cowgirl

She loved serving the food out of this kettle on the fire!

Jump For Joy

2009-02-15T09:20:00.005-06:00

Last night, Rachel's friend had a birthday party at a bounce place in Wichita falls. It was a blast. Even though I have a hurt ankle due to a race through the course, which I WON. After, I found out Lance lost his shorts going through the first obstacle. I will just post pics and let you see how much fun we had!!!

This is the part where Lance lost his shorts!!! HAHAHA!!!This is the part where I came down and hurt my ankle!Rachel and Lynsey

Sliding down with the girls!

After it was over, we took a poll, and there were 4 injured adults, and no kids hurt, so I am wondering if that tells us anything!!! HAHAHAHA!!!

Happy Valentime's Day

2009-02-15T09:09:00.002-06:00

February 14th marks an important day in Lance and I's relationship. It was our first date 9 years ago. Wow, how time flies. I remember that day like it was yesterday. The gum, clothes, food, everything. We were not planning the encounter, but it was meant to be. I know every event that happened from our first meeting on the second day I moved into my ASU dorm room, Aug. 1997, until Feb. 14th 2000 was written in Heaven. Nobody can deny we were meant to be together. The story is incredible. It is really amazing that we ever really dated, but that makes it all the better and more meaningful that we are married and will be forever. Someday with Lance's permission I may post the story that he wrote for me when he proposed. It is a story of our journey to engagement written in a children's book. It is amazing. With that, I will say I hope everyone had an wonderful Valentines Day.

Gardening Update

2009-02-15T08:56:00.002-06:00

Well, I know I have not updated about Lance and Rachel's garden in a while because Lance asked if I had blogged about them. Here it is: We did have a little plant tragedy. They were under the wine rack, and as they were looking Rachel leaned on a bottle of wine (there only for looks, I don't drink wine :-( and it fell on some. It was a sad occasion. So, here are the after pics of what is left. They are growing so fast. I think Lance is going to take them outside today!!!

Warning--Bathroom Story

2009-02-13T12:48:00.006-06:00

Last night, Rachel was in the bathroom when I went in to check on her. She was off the potty getting toilet paper to wipe with. I saw that she had pooped, so I wanted to help her. I was picking her up to put her back on the potty (to teach her not to drip when she got off), she was fighting me telling me "NO Momma, it says to get off." She kept repeating it as I was trying to explain why you stay on. So I let her go and she grabbed the Kandoo wipes and showed me that it has a picture of the frog OFF the potty wiping his bottom. I really would like to let Kandoo know that children BELIEVE this frog and he really should stay on the potty. HAHAHA!!! So, just in case anyone has any question as to whether you are supposed to stay on and wipe, or get off and wipe, refer to this picture!!!

How a Blog Can Change A Life

2009-02-10T18:25:00.003-06:00

I have been randomly reading blogs, and right now, babies seem to interest me the most. Particularly it started with NICU stories. I found Kayleigh, WOW, what a family. Glorifying God with every success and setback in her days in the NICU! She has been there over 7 months, they are troopers.

I am not sure where I found The story of Audrey, but I have started from her first post, Angie is amazing. I have found that she speaks to my heart more than you can imagine. This woman has AMAZING faith! She also writes a wonderful story every time, you will not be disappointed. I have not caught completely up with every entry, but I am working on it and it is WONDERFUL!! I am wanting to comment on every entry, but I think I will send an e-mail when I get caught up.

If you have a chance, you should dive in. They are both great reads and really down to earth!!! Beware, you are in for a lot of emotion and you will want to read every entry.

My new Tattoo!!!

2009-02-08T17:57:00.007-06:00

Well, after 11 years, I FINALLY got a new one. They say that 90% of people that have one tattoo, will get another one. I have always wanted an ant on my toe, but this is WONDERFUL!!! Devra and Lauren inspired me when they wanted me to get a matching one. I love it more today than I did last night when I got it!!! Thanks girls!!! Every time I see it I will think of you!!! Oh, and by the way, they guy that did it gave Vanilla Ice his on the show "Celebrity Bull Riding"!! EVEN BETTER!!!

My new TAT

Bonded Forever
The poster in the shop of Vanilla Ice getting his Ty Murry Tattoo

A Proud Member of the Kirby Family

2009-02-05T11:33:00.003-06:00

It all started with a ring of my doorbell. Some guy was passing out raffle tickets for FREE, I know that NOTHING is free, so I was suspicious. All he needed to enter me in the raffle, was my name and phone number, so I gave him my classroom number and figured if they called me there, I could easily get off the calling list. As I was telling Lance about who was at the door, I was looking at the ticket and on the back it said that if you give them your number, you are consenting to have a Kirby salesman call you. Well, then I got excited, because we have a stain on the carpet that we had wanted to get out! I figured in my "2 rooms cleaned free" they could get that stain out. Boy, after that I was stoked. So when the lady from Kirby called, I was GLAD to tell her I wanted them to get a stain out and to bring the goods to do it. I had a great plan, I was go to get him going to make him think I was totally impressed, and keep him going until the very end. Then, I was going to thank him for cleaning my carpet and send him on his merry way.

So there I was, picking everything--"toys" up off the floor. When my doorbell rang again. In comes Larry with a box of goodies to clean my carpet and get that pesky stain out! Well, Larry goes into his speech, and he is cleaning away, and boy I was acting it up about how impressed I was. Secretly, I was shocked at how much dirt was in my couch cushions. EWWWWWWW!!! I mentioned that I can't believe that there was not any cat hair in the couch, and he asked if we had cats. I told him no, but we did have a Boxer. He said that he vacuums his dog quite often. WHAT? VACUUMING A DOG??? I could not believe it. So, I thought for fun I would let him try. Now, I am sure I have told you all how CRAZY our dog is, so this would be quite humorous. She was a little out of control for at first, but once he got her to sit long enough to vacuum her, she LOVED it!!! I could not believe it! Just in case you were wondering, she was very dirty. Her pin is mostly dirt so I knew she would be.

He then cleaned the ceiling fan, and that was also impressively easy. Then, he went on to tell me that I would never need a step ladder to get to the fan or even change light bulbs. WHAT? CHANGING A LIGHT BULB? I didn't believe that, so I wanted him to show me. Amazingly enough, you can change light bulb with that vacuum. Crazy I know, but true. Then he was showing me how to blow up a balloon, and Rachel did love that. Next, he asked me if he could do a corner of our mattress. I let him do Lance's side, and it was HORRIBLE. Don't let them do that because you will want one of these vacuum cleaners. It is better not to know. That was the kicker for me. I really had to have one. It was THAT bad. I just can't believe that is what we slept on. I have really always wanted one, and now I have one, and as I sit here, I can't wait to go home and vacuum. That sounds insane, but true!

Leaves, Leaves, Leaves

2009-02-03T18:12:00.003-06:00

Lance was out this evening raking the the leaves. Man, there are a TON!!! Rachel wanted to jump in them. Boy, she had a great time. If you know me at all, I am not big on her getting dirty, so I am really glad that she was already in them when I got out there. Then it was already done and I could just enjoy taking the pics. So, here they are.I LOVE THIS ONE Where's Rachel?
This is my sencond FAVORITE!!

The planting of the garden

2009-02-03T17:36:00.003-06:00

Last year, Lance and Rachel had an awesome garden. It was huge, yet didn't produce a whole lot. So, Lance has done research and figured he started too late. With that said, He has already begun preparations for this year. He and Rachel have started the seeds in a little indoor greenhouse. I now remember his obsession with it when he came home today with more bulbs and seeds. He will never have enough!!! HAHA!!!

Adding the water to the little dirt pods

Planting the seeds

Happy Birthday Daisy

2009-02-01T09:28:00.004-06:00

Mixing the cakeIcing it (yes, it comes with icing) Decorating it

So proud of her cake

Daisy waiting while we sang to herShe LOVED it I think it had a little bit of sugar, she was CRAZY after eating the whole thing!
Daisy turned 2 yesterday, and we made her a canine cake, did you know they had those?, and Rachel loved it. We decorated it and sang to her. Now we are hoping she will grow out of her puppy ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

BRRRR!!! The cold spell is over!

2009-01-30T13:45:00.004-06:00

Well, we got 2 days to stay home and it was just us 3. We really enjoyed it. We introduced Rachel to hot chocolate. She loved it. It was neat, because she doesn't really like chocolate milk but she liked the way it made her all warm inside.

Another Day of Ice

2009-01-28T08:20:00.002-06:00

Here we are at home again because of ice. WOO HOO! The only bad part is that we will be going to school 2 beautiful days in May. But for now, it is AWESOME!!! Our grade goes to the FW Stock Show tomorrow so that makes for a great 2 day and 1 field trip week!! I love teaching!

God Bless Texas

2009-01-27T10:20:00.001-06:00

WOO HOO!!!! It is icy and we are staying home!!! 80 degrees last week and no school due to ice today. God Bless our great state!!!

A Look Back Part 3: MY SOFTIE

2009-01-26T17:45:00.007-06:00

Rachel's Nana gave Rachel this SUPER soft tiny blanket for her to hold and love on. She really got attached to it, and still has 2 to this day. This one has been put up, but it is another item to watch her grow with.

This is a few days after we brought her home1 Month 2 Months3 Months4 Months5 Months 6 Months
7 Months8 Months 9 Months
10 Months

11 Months

1 Year

2 Years
We forgot last year to take a pic, so I thought this would show how grown up she is!

A Look Back Part 2: At Home

2009-01-26T17:41:00.002-06:00

When you have a preemie, you really have to look at items that are in everyday life to see how small they really are. So, here are some pics we took soon after we got home of our newest addition. With Lance being a coach, this was a must have pic.
This is one of my favorites to this day.

A Look Back Part 1: Cook Children's NICU- 04/02/05-04/14/05

2009-01-26T16:59:00.009-06:00

In honor of the March of Dimes Walk coming up, I wanted to take a look back over the almost 4 year that have passed. We have not looking back this far in a while, so it was a blast!!! This is a look back at our days in the NICU! This was the morning after she was born. She was 35 Weeks when she was delivered. She was IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restricted), so she was the size of a 33 Weeker. She was 3lb 12oz and 17 and 1/4 inches long. She was on the Ventilator for 8 hours due to the Magnesium they gave me while I was in labor to bring my blood pressure down. Once the meds wore off, she was breathing like a champ.

04/02/05

This is a little sun tanning session for her and her jaundice. She did this quite a bit while she was there.

04/03/05

04/04/05

After 12 days of waiting for her to learn to suck from a bottle, and keep her temp, they let us room in and go home. Before we got to leave, she failed the car seat test, and we had to purchase a bed car seat so she would keep her oxygen levels up in the car.
04/14/05

Addictive Personality

2009-01-22T11:57:00.004-06:00

I have always prided myself on not having an addictive personality, but I really think I might have one. I am addicted to Blogs for sure. I love to read about other people's lives. I am addicted to reality TV. Now, I am thinking that I am addicted to getting into running/walking long distances to support organizations. I am going to do the Relay For Life here in Jacksboro. This is a HUGE deal here in our town. My MIL is heading up the team in Stephenville to walk for March of Dimes, so I am definately do that one. This one holds a SPECIAL place in my heart. I know first hand what it is like to have a premature baby. I know the sorrow of leaving the hospital without your baby, and bringing her home much later. Rachel was 5 weeks early when she was born. I went into labor at 25 weeks and was on bed rest for 5 weeks before she was born. So, she was a whopping 3lbs 12 oz. She was a resident of the NICU for 12 days before coming home at 4 lbs. She is as healthy as can be now, and we are eternally grateful for the care she got at Cook Children's FW. So, needless to say, I am stoked to be able to help out and raise money for this organization. If you so feel led, please make a donation to help these mothers and premature babies.

Busdriver Rachel

2009-01-19T17:50:00.003-06:00

When Lance comes home from an away game he lets Rachel on the bus while he is waiting for the boys to be picked up. She loves it. She loves to just see the school bus and sit in the big seat. It is fun to see the joy it gives her. She loves to open and close the door too.

Lance's first Championship WIN!!!!

2009-01-19T17:40:00.003-06:00

Lance and his 8th Graders played in a basketball tournament this weekend and he won 1st Place. It was AWESOME. It was fun to see his boys do so well. It was a good game too. That always makes for more fun!!! So, I took lots of pics and thought I would share my pride with all of you!!!

Rachel and Willam

2009-01-19T07:05:00.006-06:00

Rachel and I had a super busy weekend. So did Lance, but I will get to that in my nest post. We went to see a friend of mine and her son to have a play date. It was a blast, and the kids played together so well. It was nice to catch up and watch our kids play together. When we met neither of us had kids so it was neat to see the difference in both of our lives. Here are some pics!!!

Eating some "Poot Nacks" (Fruit Snacks)

It is so hard to say goodbye sometimes!!!

Rachel's First "REAL" haircut!

2009-01-15T14:17:00.006-06:00

The before front and side View:

When Rachel was 18 months or so I took her for a haircut. It was not a real haircut, it was just a trimming of the longer than everything else hairs that she had since she was born. But all in all, I saved them and I mark that as the first. So, now her hair is a little above her bootie, so we are going to get it really cut into a style. So, I thought that I would do before and after. So, here it is!!!

Chicken Fried Steak Night

2009-01-11T10:27:00.005-06:00

When we were sent home from school on Monday, Lance was watching TV and saw this chicken fried steak recipe, and decided that he wanted to try it. I don't make that, so I was in for not cooking. IT WAS AWESOME!!!!! Did I mention that he made homeade mashed potatoes too. So, that brings us to last night. We were having friends over and dicided to make it again. This time the chef had a helper. It was the cutest thing I have ever seen. I took a ton of pics. Sorry, just wanted to share.

Seperating the rollsShe cracked all 5 eggsby herself and she only dropped a few shells in that we had to dig out. (We did warn the company) HAHA!!! She also did all the stiring.My two loves working. Notice the towls that they have in thier pants.To wipe our hands they told me!!!Seasoning the meat. Lance turned his head, and boy there was a lot of pepper on that one. (Again, we gave a warning to our friends)I really think she liked the poof that came from putting the meat in the flour.Notice the flour on her mouth, and pants! I LOVE IT!!!She had to wash her hands every time she got them dirty. She really doesn't like to have dirty hands. That is TOTALLY my fault.Chef Rachel

The finished product!!!!

Snow White, is that you?

2009-01-11T10:14:00.004-06:00

This is Rachel on Halloween 2008. She has change a bit in 2.5 months, wow, just had to say that since I hadn't looked at it since then. Oh, sorry, there is a story with the next picture.

She refused to wear this wig I bought for the costume. So, now she wore it most of the day. Watching TV, playing, all that. Now that it is messed up from being in the dress up box. Go Figure.

So, we were about to go see the animals at the Fair, and we told her we needed to get dressed, and I went in her room looking through her clothes saying "This is cute!" to all of her shirts. It was funny.

Jack County Fair

2009-01-11T09:52:00.003-06:00

We were out of school on Friday for the Jack County Fair, and it was neat to take Rachel. We went last year, but she just saw the animals. This year we actually watched some of the judging and she was telling us which one she thought was the best. I would love for her to do this when she gets older. My little brother showed pigs when he was in school, and I love being in the middle of it. So, we took her and looked at all the animals.

This pig was snorting at her, and she thought that was hilarious. This is the typical laughing face!!One of Lance's students let her in to scratch her pic. She thought that was neat.

But most of all she wanted to spend time with this animal. It was the one she was most concerned with!!! HAHA!!!

I know, give me a break, we have a dog. All of the animals and this is the one she wanted to pet more than any other!!

Early Release Day - "TOO COLD GO HOME"

2009-01-11T09:41:00.004-06:00

When they let us out of school because of the ice, Lance picked up Rachel. (He doesn't like me driving in bad conditions so he insists that I go strait home.) And when they pulled up, she came charging in ready to go get some icicles for a snack. They went and hunted every one they could find to put in a bowl. She snacked on some then (after a good rinsing) and then I do believe that we still have some in the freezer.

The LAST Vegas Blog :-(

2009-01-06T10:59:00.000-06:00

The last night we were in Vegas, we went to the Hooter Hotel and Casino. I loved it there. Everyone was so friendly, and they had Shiner Bock for the guys. You know they don't have that much out of Texas. Anyway, they had 4 Hooter's Girls that we recognized!!! HAHA!!!

Walking the streets of Vegas

2009-01-06T10:29:00.000-06:00

Just some pics I took while exploring the strip our last full day in Vegas!!!

The M&M Factory. That thing is 4 stories!!!

The Eiffel tower at Paris

The Venetian was beautiful!

This one is of the lights while I was standing on a bridge! It was beautiful!!!

Lance and I at the Ballagio Fountains

Me, Lance, Brad, and Ashley at the Bellagio

School is out at NOON

2009-01-05T12:26:00.000-06:00

Yea for letting out early because the weather is getting bad! We also didn't use a bad weather day since we are here past 9:15!!! WOO HOO!!!! We don't have to come until 10AM tomorrow, so that makes this a 2 and 3/4 day week!!!!! Got to love TEXAS!!!!

Rose Bowl 2009- Penn State vs. USC

2009-01-05T00:10:00.001-06:00

We got tickets to the Rose Bowl from Mike & Kim for Christmas, so that was the whole reasoning for the trip, so on New Year's Day we drove 4 hours to watch the game. It was AWESOME. Ashley took more group pics, so when I get those I will post them, but here is what I have so far. We had to go for Penn State, even with it being a long shot, because Lance says that we cheer for ANYONE who play against USC. That what Texans do. So, that is what we did. It was a blast.

Lance and I with our new Penn State gear!

The band didn't spell PSU toward us!!

Their famous "Walking Lions"

New Year's Eve-Part 2

2009-01-04T19:42:00.000-06:00

This was the surprise we got for being in the right place at the right time!!!

We saw Steven Tyler in the canopy and were wonder where he was that they were showing him from.

Then we turned the corner and there he was up on stage!! WOW!!!

By the time we walked through the crowd, we were about 8 rows from the stage. It was awesome.

I videoed a little bit with my camera, and if I can get it uploaded I will post that too.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-04T19:21:00.000-06:00

We went down to the strip New Year's Eve, but planned on being back to the hotel later since they were shutting down the streets for only pedestrians, and we had been warned about how CRAZY people get down there. So, we decided to go down to Fremont street thinking it would be much better. We gambled until about 10 minutes before midnight and then went out under the light show and it was AWESOME. They counted down and then showed fireworks and a ton of memories from 2008. They even popped some fireworks under the canopy. We go another HUGE surprise too, my next post will be about that. This was in my opinion the BEST place to spend New Year's Eve!!! So, Happy New Year Everyone. I hope this is a great year for you all.

These are fireworks light up on the canopy and real ones popped underneath it.

WE ARE BACK!!!

2009-01-04T19:17:00.000-06:00

We got back to the airport from Vegas Saturday around 10:30, and by the time we picked up Rachel and go home, it was 3 AM. It was not so bad for us since our body clock said it was only 1 and we had been used to staying up till at least 3 (Vegas time) 5 (our time). So, we came home and went to bed. The trip was AWESOME. I think I am going to post in terms of events to that it is not competing for the longest blog entry. So, my next one will start that. I must say I recommend Vegas to everyone!!! It was awesome!!!

Las Vegas Here We Come!!!

2008-12-29T09:42:00.000-06:00

For Christmas from my in laws, Lance and I got tickets to the Rose Bowl game on New Year's Day. We are going with my SIL and her husband, so we all decided to stay in Vegas and drive to the game. What a great idea. I am stoked. Lance and I are going tomorrow night and we are coming home on Sat. night. WOO HOO!!!! I can't wait. We have never been. Nana and Big Daddy are keeping the kids for us, and I just know that will be a blast. So, I just wanted to post and say FAREWELL until I get back. I will post pics as soon as I can. Happy New Year EVERYONE!!

Round 6- Martin

2008-12-29T09:32:00.000-06:00

Drew and Rachel in their matching PJ's

Lance taking a nap with Rachel in the princess tent

Well, Saturday was our last Christmas. It was a TON of fun too. We went to Nana and Big Daddy's to spend Christmas there. Rachel and her cousin Drew play so well together so that was wonderful. She got a new Tag reading system, and LOVES it. It is so neat. I must admit that I was a bit sceptical, but it is AWESOME!!!!

Things "Santa" learned this year

2008-12-27T09:09:00.000-06:00

This was Lance and I's first year really having to sneak to play "Santa". So, we learned a few VERY IMPORTANT lessons.

NEVER wait to get the presents until the 22. Buy them as soon as she puts them in writing!!
Wrap before Christmas Eve
Pray a little harder that she is not sick so she is not up and down A LOT before we turn in. (We ended up having to hide the presents behind the couch so she couldn't see them)
Buy more than one roll of "Santa" paper.
More stocking stuff so she can see there is something in it and REALIZE that "Santa" had been there. HAHA

Which makes me think about a question that I always wonder about other people's traditions. As a child ALL of Santa's presents were wrapped, and Lance had them sitting out open. What is your thoughts on that. We have combined the two for our family, but I am always curious as to what others do.

Pics from Rachel

2008-12-27T08:35:00.000-06:00

Her taking a pic of Elmo
She came running up to me and said that Elmo took this pic of her HAHA!!!

More Elmo

One of her first pics. Her baby!

Here is the other side of the one I took of her with her camera!!!

Notice my mother -in-law got us and Elf on a shelf for next Christmas. Thanks my blogging friends for the idea, I can't wait to do it.