tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44291152729799671392024-03-13T03:45:55.294-05:00The Kobiske FamilyThese are the busy days of OUR lives! :-DOur familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-69420326359818577582009-02-01T19:11:00.003-06:002009-02-01T19:50:27.621-06:00things have been slowing down...for nowWell the last time I blogged I am sure I exhausted some of you with our events. HA :-) Right now things have been nice, and slow. It is very nice to say. The kids had a 4 day weekend the 17-21st of Jan..so here is what we did. <br />We took the kids to see a play called the Alamo. (it is about the real Alamo) Austin loved it. It was a bit boring. But the kids were still excited...because as soon as it ended we drove the 30 min drive to Grapevine for our over night vacation. We stayed at the Great Wolf lodge. It is very expensive, hence the one night stay. We had a great time. We played in the giant indoor water park, then ran through the halls and up and down the stairs. Seriously, we did!! They have a game called Magi-Quest. Where you are a wizard in training and you have to find certain things in a certain order to earn wizard points and work towards your adventure of battling a dragon. Well you buy a wand, a game (that is good for 4 days) and they give you a book..that gives you clue to earn all your wizard stuff. Oh my..we had no clue what we got ourselves into. Friday night we spent a total of 4 hours running up and down the "Hidden staircase" hahah that we figured out was the emergency stairwell. I didn't realize a vacation and staying at a hotel would be sooo much physical work. It would tell you to "go up to where Pixie's dwell (the 6th floor) and then once you found that clue it would say climb up one more time or go down two. We literally ran up and down the stairs...all 8 floors. We also played for a few hours on Sat. By the time we left we were all dragging. My calves hurt for 2 days afterwards. :-) But we had a blast. I am sorry for no pictures, but believe it or not I FORGOT my camera. I was so tempted to drive home and get it. The rest of the time we just relaxed. Dan had to go to work..he only had 2 days off. <br />I do have to brag on Austin. He has had a rough few months at school with getting in trouble for misc. things...talking, not using time wisely, getting out of his seat, etc. Well he has had 3 full weeks of no red marks...only positive stickers. SO it is awesome. We praise him often and reward his good behavior with Super Mario brother trading cards. He loves them!! :-) So way to go Austin...keep up the hard work! <br />We started painting the house last weekend. Dan took a 3 day weekend off...we were going to go to Houston to watch my brother race, but he was still very sick from when he got back from his race in Germany. So we skipped it and painted..the main living area...the halls, formal dining room, and part of the living room (still need to finish it). We picked a nice color. It is called Cairo brown. A nice sand color. I told Austin we now have walls the color of the pyramids. :-D It looks nice with the white trim and doors. Next is the rest of the living room, laundry room and kitchen. The kitchen will be a different color. I will take some pictures and post them later. <br />Now last weekend when we decided to paint..I had a major issue develop with my lap top. I turned it on Saturday morning and the screen kept flickering....THEN all of the sudden it went black. I thought I lost power, but noticed all the other power lights were on. So I shut it down and start it back up. The screen came on and then BLACK! I stayed calm..went to the gym and waited for Dan to get back from playing basketball and asked him if he dropped my lap top. HAHA Had to find someone to blame. BUT he said nothing had happened to it. So I took it to my friend, Susan's house..she checked it out and we couldn't figure it out. I got all mys pictures and documents backed up on my external hard drive and felt a little better. I realized while sitting in the sun that you could see a dark shadow of what was actually on the screen. SO I get a flash light and begin to use it. haha It was NOT very easy or comfortable. So I turned on the desk top. It is almost 6 yrs old and hasn't been used very much over the past 2 1/2 yrs. Needless to say it had a lot of updates. It took about 3 hours to load and update. Then when I shut it off it took another hour to update again. I didn't remember it being so slow, but it took me 5 mins to load my email. haha. I then took my laptop in to get another opinion on what is wrong with it. welllllll they said it was the back light and since I couldn't get it to hook up to a S-video cable or external monitor then more then likely my video card was also going out. WONDERFUL.....how much?? $300-400 for the back light and you can double it for the video card. WOW!! The guy recommended me to buy a new one. soooo I looked for 4 days and debated and had panic attacks (ok not really but high stress) and finally Friday night made a decision. I got the new Toshiba. I am still getting use to it and Vista. It is different. Plus I have a newer version of Microsoft Office. So many new things. ooo and Dan said he wants to count the new laptop as my Valentine gift. HAHA I am surprised he didn't throw in Anniversary too. Since we usually do not exchange gifts for these Holidays..just cards! :-) So he better still get me a card!! <br /><br />So now I am planning the Valentine parties for the kids classes. Lots of fun! <br />So that pretty much catches you up. Today is my cousin, Michele's birthday. And later this week is Grandma Kobiske (10th) and Ashley's(6th) (my brother's girlfriend) birthday. So Happy Birthday ladies!! Love u!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-34146204032214243452009-01-20T12:13:00.001-06:002009-01-20T12:13:31.576-06:00Happy Birthday Jesus from Austin<embed width="448" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://i44.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/MVI_6981.flv">Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-36066783254175367612009-01-20T12:12:00.001-06:002009-01-20T12:12:32.095-06:00Happy Birthday Jesus from Caitlin<embed width="448" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://i44.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/MVI_6982.flv">Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-82846374752713236442009-01-20T12:11:00.001-06:002009-01-20T12:11:04.125-06:00Away in a Manger<embed width="448" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://i44.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/MVI_6873.flv">Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-76137556934979588842009-01-20T11:57:00.007-06:002009-01-20T16:20:24.380-06:00...continued...I had to take a break from the other days blog....this one will be equally long. I did add a slide show of our Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. Trust me...it is better that way. I had soo many great pictures to share..so I just put them all together.<br />I just finished watching the Inauguration of the new President. I know this is a very historical event and moment in our life...I enjoyed his speech and felt it was delievered well. I think we are in need of a positive change and I pray that this is the change that will make the difference. God Bless America!!!<br /><br />Christmas was very nice this year. It was quiet..no trips to the emergency vet to have tha cats leg fixed (last year Austin broke the cats leg on Christmas eve and it required surgery) Mike and Carolynn (Dan's parents) were here and we went to Christmas Eve service at our Church. The kids sang Away in a Manger in the beginning. it was very cute. They brought out parts of the Navitity scene. I have added 3 videos One of the kids singing at Church and 2 others of the kids singing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Every year we do this and have a little cake. I added a tricky candle this year. :-) I am learning how to do the videos on my camera and adding them here..so sorry for the angle changes and blurriness.<br />The kids got some great toys and a Wii video game. We all enjoy it. We even had lots of playing time with grandma and grandpa Kobiske too. Grandma is VERY competitive and hated losing to Caitlin (who is also very competitive hehehe)in bowling.<br />Caitlin singing on the Wii.....we have a future Rock Star!!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/rockstarbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />The day after Christmas was an exciting one. Carolynn and I decided to run to the mall to exchange something and we took Caitlin with us. As we were driving away from out house Caitlin said, "Mommy the neighbors doggie house is on fire" I didn't quite hear her right..so I asked her what she said and she repeated it exactly. by this time I was drivign away from our street and look in my rearview mirror and saw flames shooting over my new neighbors roof. I turned the car around and parked in front of their house (they live behind us) and left Carolynn and Caitlin in the car. I didn't think they were home cause they usually have a car in the driveway. So I rang their doorbell about 10 times and took off running to my house to call 911. I told Carolynn if someone happens to answer the door tell them!! It was a time of just reacting and doign what needed to be done. I called 911 and then ran around to free their dogs from the backyard and they were already in the house. They were home!! So I then ran into my backyard and was hoping my hose would be long enough to help a little. I threw it over our fences and turned it on and another neighbor fed more hose over the fence to me. I made it all the way around their house and still had hose to spare. I was thanking God for that. At that time we had 3 hoses going on the fire. It was a shed that caught on fire from an ember from their smoker which was 20 feet away in the opposite direction of the 40mph winds. We were lucky that the roof didn't catch fire or any surrounding areas. I kept the hose going on the fire until the firetrucks arrived. I threw my hose back over my fence and the whole event still had not sunk in. I walked around to the front where Carolynn was standing with Caitlin and I gave Caitlin a hug and told ehr how proud I was of her for saying something and that she was a true hero. She was very embarrassed and shy about it. That will be a day that I will not forget anytime soon. I went over later that night and exchanged phone numbers with them. I told them that next time they decide to have a bonfire to just invite us. We would bring the marshmellows :-D They are truly nice neighbors...this weekend they brought over a thank you card and a gift card for Chick-fila as thanks. Also for the little hero they gave her a wooden cut out that says, GIRLS RULE. hahah She was once again acting shy. I am just truly thankful she saw it when she did...a few minutes later and we could have been trying to put out a house or even our own with the winds.<br />We eventually made it to the mall, but I could still smell the smoke in my hair from the fire.<br /><br />On Sunday we met Carolynn's brother, Gene and his family for lunch. It is always wonderful getting to see them and visit. Their son, Nick and his wife, Tessa adopted a beautiful little girl this past summer. Olive really enjoyed Austin. After, we left I got a call from my good friend, Katy. I know her and her husband, Danny, from cub scouts(he is a cub scout leader), but we have hit it off outside of scouts too. What she told me left me with my jaw dropped wide open. She was at the Hospital with her husband who had just had a heart attack. All I could think was he is only 36!! It was crazy. I knew she couldn't be doing good...she has bipolar disorder and had just gotten out of the hospital herself to have her meds adjusted..so I was extremely concerned for her. She seemed to be holding it together very well until I asked her if she wanted me to come sit with her...she started to cry and said YES!! Of course, I was on my way. He was very lucky he caught it early. They put a stint in and all was as well as to be expected. Of course the 1st thing he said when he came out of surgery was he "needed to do payroll." haha Then he damned french fries as well. hahaha He is a Chick-fila owner. :-D He came home on New Year's eve..so a very good way for the family to start the new year..All back together at home. Another reason to be Thankful to God.<br /><br />We did take Mike and Carolynn to see the King Tut exhibit in Dallas. That was part of their Christmas present from us. Austin loves Eygptian stuff...so it was a double bonus. :-) Here are a few pictures<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/museumbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />In front of the Dallas Museum<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/dallasmusbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />The kids with King Tut in the gift shop<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kidswithmummybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />My little King Tut girl with a Bear! :-) She really wanted to the bear, but they were outrageously priced!! I think Dan said it was $50<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kingtutgirlbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />They did not allow us to take pictures inside the Museum...so that is it until we walked around the backside of the building and found this!! Very cool wall painting.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/tutfacebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Afterwards we decided to walk over to the JFK memorial, since it was just about a half mile away. It was a beautiful day for a walk.<br />We took a family picture in a mirrored building....I know silly, but that is us!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/picinmirrorbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin giving Dan big hugs...in front of the red castle in downtown.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/daddyhugsbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />The kids being cute in front of the water gardens in front of the memorial square<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kidswaterbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin in front of the water garden...trying to stay dry or maybe not! :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckwaterbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />In front of the JFK Memorial Square...Austin didn't really want to go for the walk until he found out it was to see where a President had died...he has seen several mock's of how the shots came on the discovery channel...so he was then all excited. We have a history buff in our family!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/jfkbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/holdingitupbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/jfkkidsbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />we had a wondeful day and then stopped by Dan's store, since we were so close. Looks like any other Michaels..just busier! :-)<br />Mike and Carolynn left early the next morning and the kids were very sad. Our house seemed empty. Maybe it was the 4 lab tops they brought with them. hehe We had a running joke on the number of laptops in our house. At one point I think we had 4 of them set up on the dining table. It was a site! The kids miss them a lot...we only see them about 2 times a year now. :-(<br /><br />We brought the New Year in at home with just ourselves. We let the kids stay up until 11pm and they brought in the New Year on the New York time slot. I think they were in for the long haul, but Dan had to get up early and go to work the next morning..so I wanted him rested. It makes me so nervous when he drives at early hours on regular days, but on New Years it is worse. I worry about the drunk drivers on the roads. I never want to imagine something happening to him. And with all that has happened in the past month it has reminded me that life is very precious. We as a family have had way too many loved ones pass too early and it just confirms the love we should show our loved ones on a daily occasion. We "are only given today...cause tomorrow is a present" This is so true.<br />Well shortly after the New year was my birthday. Yes 33 years of Cherie being on this Earth. I am thankful and truly blessed for each year. I have sooo many fond memories to also be thankful for. My day started by me sleeping in until 8:30am...kind of...the kids were up before then. Austin made me ceral in bed (even though he knew we were going to Ihop for breakfast). He is so sweet. He even wrote a note with it. Of course I took a picture. :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/loveumombs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />After a late breakfast, Dan suggested I go get my hair done, since I rarely do. last time I had a cut was the end of Sept. and a highlight/lowlight was in July or Aug. So I said OK..made an appointment with a new place. Before I left I recived flowers from my parents They were beautiful. They were the breast awareness boquet. My mom knows me and my love to help the Breast Cancer org. here is a picture<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/flowersbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />I went an dhad my hair done. I had 2 low lights put in and basically a darker blonde then what my natural color was...so I guess it was more like 3 low lights. haha he color turned out nice..even though it was hard to see some of the different colors. BUt the lady cut my hair short...she took 4 inches off of my hair. I gave her 3 instructions...I do NOT want it short, I do not want it heavily layered (only one long layer) and i do not like the swing cut..short in back and long in front. So she did 2 of the 3 things I asked her not to do. She cut it short and gave me shunky layers in the bottom of my hair and then when my side that flips out looked funny she tried cutting the normal side to match it. I was beyond upset AND it was my birthday!! I let her know exactly how I felt. She said she had to cut it that short cause the front was shorter then the back and she was evening it out. I told her the front was shorter because I taper it around my face...grrrrr I know it will grow, but for what I paid..I was NOT a happy camper! Here are some pictures...color not so bad..yes there is read in it<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/hairbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Me forcing a smile over the very short cut that just accents my double chin and fat face! :-) gotta love it<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/smilebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />We went out to dinner (cause that is Dan's form of cooking for me) and then i came home and got comfy in front of my computer and TV and watched the Supercross race Live on tv. It was great and a wondeful way for me to end my birthday. :-)<br /><br />A few days later OU played in the BCS bowl championship and lost, but being true sooner fans we left up our Christmas lights in support for the game. In fact they are still up..Dan needs to get up there and taken them down heheehe<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/oubs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />We had our cub scout pine wood derby. It was jsut me and the kids ...Dan had to work. We made new cars for the kids. They were both very slow, but we made up for in flash and style. haha Austin wanted a bullet bill car for Mario Brothers. It is a black bullet! It took a lot of sanding, but turned out cool. Dan and I both worked on it and I painted it.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kidscarsbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/bulletcarbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin got to help with the opening prayer. It was very sweet.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/praysbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />The boys (wolf pack) watching the cars go down the track<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/pinewoodbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin's was a pink car with purple stripes. And of course it had sparkles!!<br />Caitlin and her buddy from school Evan...his older brothers are scouts too. They are too funny!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/evanckbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/siblingsbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Later that day, my girlfriend, Katie that I talked about above, took me to dinner and a movie for my birthday a week late. We had a great dinner and night out at the movies. We saw Bride Wars and loved it. But during dinner we got a bad message that one of our cub scout leaders (yes another one) had a massive coronary heart attack. Ray is only 49 and luckily his neighbor is a firemen and gave him CPR quickly. He was rushed to the hospital and had surgery to have a stint put in. They then put him in hypothermia state (lower his body temp to 93 degrees) for 24 hours to preserve the brain and reduce the chances of neurological effects. After the 24 hrs it took 24 hrs to warm him back up and I am happy to say after many days of prayers he is doing much better. He is still in the hospital and very week, but it looks like his neurological function is great. He can write, talk and remembers everyone. His daughter has been in Austin's class for the last 2 yrs. So I have helped with keeping the school and teacher informed. We truly have a wonderful scout family. Everyone has pitched in making meals for the family and people have been keeping the 3 kids while mom has been at the hospital. It has been a true test for them, but one that I know we are all very grateful to have turned out positive. It just remindds me again of my above statement. Life and our loved ones are truly precious. Just in case I haven't said it enough. I love each and everyone of you...my friends and family!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-64491282397598276632009-01-18T12:32:00.015-06:002009-01-18T21:55:32.895-06:00I think I get an F in blogging!!<blockquote><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/sorry" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/sorry" target="_blank"></blockquote></a><img alt="SORRy Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u266/kitty1221_photos/05.gif" border="0" /><br />Well I know it has been over a month since my last blog and in most cases it would NOT be such a BIG deal. BUT we have had field trips, Sunday school programs, Christmas, New Years, my birthday, and misc. kids school stuff that I know you all want updates on and several down times that have kept me busy. So 1st off I am sorry for it taking so long. And since it has been so long we better go get a snack or two and a drink and settle in your comfy spot....cause this will be long!<br /><br /><br />Lets see....where to start. Well after the last blog (Dec 3rd) we had bad news come from one of Austin's classmates at school. Her mom emailed me that her husband was taken to the hospital with chest pains...he had by-pass surgery and all seemed ok....I helped with keeping the teacher informed and being a friend to the family....well 4 days passed (Dec. 8th) and he passed away from complications. He was only 53. I knew getting an email at 2am could not be good. Very sad. This family has been through so much in the last 6 months. The mom lost her father during the summer and shortly after was diagnosed with an early stage of breast cancer and received treatment...now this and all at Christmas time. My heart has been breaking for this family. Their kids are the same age as both of mine. I cannot imagine them not having a daddy to grow up with. Ronda (the mom) has a very strong faith and has been amazingly strong through all of this. She taught me a few things while I was on the phone with her a few days after the death of her husband and I want to share it. So many of us (especially mom's) like to be the strong I can do it all myself types and that I don't want to bother or inconvenience someone else. (I find myself in this mind frame often) As one of her friends was offering her help with kids, meals, laundry...she kept telling her "NO I don't need any help doing this...I am sure you have better things to do" Her friend then told her this bit of advice she gave me..."DO NOT STEAL OTHER PEOPLES BLESSINGS" She said she was dumb found by this and her friend explained. "that other people are hurting for you and with you ....many have special blessings from God that they can give in return to help and by not allowing them to do it you are in sense stealing their blessings from God" She said she never thought of it that way and said it is hard to allow people to help, but she said she could NOT steal God's blessings from people, so she was learning to let go and let God. I went to the memorial service they had for him and met Austin's teacher and the school Secretary there. We sat together. It was a very powerful and uplifting service. I truly want people to laugh and smile when it is my time to go.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The kids both had field trips during this week. Caitlin went to the Casa Manana theater and saw Rudolph the Red nose reindeer. They loved it and all the snow aka bubbles that came down at the end of the program. Caitlin and her class.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kinderbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin getting off the bus. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/offbusbs-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin and her friend Evan....they are best buddies. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckevanbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />And Love being silly together.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/earsillybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin and Mommy...kind of...since she is too busy looking at the set..worried she might miss the beginning. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/momandckbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Our close up!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/meandckbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin went and saw the nutcracker at the Bass Hall. He loved it! I did not get to go on this field trip. We had 3 parents volunteer to go and only one was allowed...so she had a drawing. I did not win. So I do not have a million pictures of that day. I did go up and take the bike our class bought for the angel tree and take pictures of them with it while they were all dressed up for their field trip. Here is a picture of them with the bike we all pitched in and bought. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/harlowclassbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />and the class being very silly! hahaha<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/sillclassbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />They all looked so nice. Austin loves wearing a suit any time he can. Of course, when he tried on his old one it was too small. (could be slow down growing for a little bit) So I went to Target and bought a new one. Here is a pictures of him from that day. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/sooohandsomebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Our Sunday school was wrapping up for the year, so we had a Christmas party and were doing rehearsals for our Christmas program that all the kids put on. It was on the 14th of Dec. and was totally cute. Here is a few pictures. Austin was a wise men and Caitlin was a star :-).<br /><br />Caitlin is a star. haha<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/shiningstarbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />The whole group during the program.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ssprogrambs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />We did have a little issue with Austin at school the last week of school. He said and did something that most boys do and say, but with the way our world is now..it is not allowed in schools. So he got in a lot of trouble. I was crying in the principles office and all. What an emotional week. I was very disappointed in him, but feel we have explained to him a million times of what is not ok. Adding to my holiday stress. Luckily, I was done shopping for everyone before Thanksgiving..minus the few last minute items. <br />During and after all of this I was in the process of organizing the kids class parties for school. I planned and organized both of them. It was high stress...cause I knew I had to have everything for both parties with me when I went to school at 7:30am to help grade the PTA math stuff we do every Friday. Caitlin's party setup started at 9:30am and finished at 11pm. It went great...very organized and the kids had so much fun. I even heard a few say it was the best day ever and another parent had her child tell me what she thought of the party...It was the best day of her life! WOW that was way more then I expected. :-) Here are some pictures from the Kindergarten party.<br />Waiting for the party to start<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/yorkclassbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin and Jessica standing in line for the snowball toss!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/jessckbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />yes they eat out in the hall on the floor..we try to make the best of it! :-) Donuts and lots of other sweets. :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/hallpartybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Me and Caitlin<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckmombs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin's party set up started at 11:15am and ended around 12:45pm. It was organized, but more dysfunctional then I would have liked. :-) They made hot chocolate mix in cones to give and keep one. Also played bingo and decorated a wooden sleigh (we painted them a few days earlier). here are some pictures.<br />They got a visit from Santa and they all sung a few songs. The kids loved it.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/santabs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin and his sleigh driven by a snowman.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/aksleighbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin and his friends that sit at his table. (Sydney, Madison, Ethan)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/aktablebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Austin and Mom<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/akmombs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />After the parties were over I went home dropped off all the party stuff and loaded the car with suitcases for me and the kids to head up to OKC for a few days to spend the weekend with my family for the Holiday's. This was the longest I have been able to stay up there. i usually have to get back for Sunday school, but not this year. I got there on Friday and didn't come back until Monday. I pulled into the driveway and Mike and Carolynn pulled in before we even got the suit cases out. They got to experience Dallas traffic and what Dan drives in everyday. Ok I am going to take a break here and begin another blog that starts with Christmas Eve tonight or tomorrow. :-) Then that will get you up to date. I hope!<br />here are the Christmas Eve and Christmas morning pictures....too many to list separate so I made a slide...it is long so watch it. :-) <br /><br /><div><embed src="http://apps.rockyou.com/rockyou.swf?instanceid=131009853&ver=102906" quality="high" salign="lt" width="426" height="320" wmode="transparent" name="rockyou" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer"/></embed><br><a style="padding-right:1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/?type=slideshow&refid=131009853"><img style="border:0px;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/logo.gif"></a><a style="padding-right:1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/slideshow_create.php?refid=131009853&source=cyo"><img style="border:0px;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/create_own.gif"></a><a style="padding-right:1px;" target="_BLANK" href="http://www.rockyou.com/show_my_gallery.php?instanceid=131009853"><img style="border:0px;" src="http://apps.rockyou.com/link/view_all.gif"></a></div>Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-21359113544855685702008-12-08T13:57:00.003-06:002008-12-08T14:50:50.187-06:00Cub Scouting...Well this is 'our' 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span></span> year in cub scouts. I use the would 'our', since it is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">truly</span> a family affair. We go to most everything we can and help when we can. I have lead the last 2 den meetings for Austin's group. 11 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nd</span></span> grade boys can be a challenge, but I think I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">faired</span></span> well. The meeting in Nov was the week before Thanksgiving so I had them color, cut and assemble a turkey that held a sign that said "Give Thanks" On the feathers of the turkey, they had to write what they are thankful for. It was a good project and kept them busy and QUIET. (that is something that is hard to do at our meetings.)<br />I also did our last meeting on Dec. 1st. Our Den leader got called to work during that time..so I helped out. We covered basic info on taking care of cuts, protecting ourselves from germs and from the common cold. We talk about hand washing, too. I let Caitlin be my example of a good hand washer. So she got to pretend to wash her hands. She is awesome at it...very thorough!!! Then we made Christmas cards for Recovering American Soldiers in the Army hospital in Washington DC. I wanted to express to the boys the importance of thinking of others and doing good deeds to those you may not even know. They really got into this and so did several of the parents. I encouraged everyone, including the parents and siblings to help make cards. We had stickers, foam pieces and coloring sheets. We sent 23 handmade cards and 10 colored sheets. I then walked around giving each boy a kit-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">kat</span></span> after the project was done. I told them that, "good things come to those who do good deeds for others". Needless to say they were very excited about the chocolate and I hope they learned a good lesson in the process.<br /><br />If you would like to add the soldiers to your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Christmas</span> card list..here is the address:<br />A Recovering American Soldier<br />c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center<br />6900 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Georgia</span> Ave., NW<br />Washington, D.C.<br />20307-5001<br /><br />Then this past weekend we had a orienteering event with our whole pack. Orienteering is where there are flags placed in various spots and labeled on a map and the kids have to tell direction and find these flags within a certain amount of time. Our pack does this every year and it is a blast. Our team won last year and not bad for it being our 1st one. We ran the entire hour we has to find the flags.<br />This year we split into our teams/dens and they decided to add a sibling pack. So I decided to lead them. (since Caitlin was with them) Well we kicked butt. Our team worked hard found all but one flag and got back FIRST!!!!! We beat ALL the cub scout groups. The 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">nd</span> group that came in about 2-3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">mins</span> behind us and then the rest of them came in 20-30<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">mins</span> later. We were all dead tired and sweating when we got back, but we won! :-) And NO one found the flag we skipped..so that was good. Of course, did I mention it was only 31 degrees when we started...<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">hehehe</span> we are not use to those temps. We were layered up with clothes, but lost many layers throughout the day. After the flag hunt we had hot dogs and then had a rocket launch. We just watched, since our rocket was lost last year when Dan and his dad took Austin out to do his and they never found the rocket. :-) <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">haha</span><br />Now we have a pack meeting this <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Friday</span> where they get awards and I am making my siblings group a flag to display! :-) We rocked!!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-56420209529702675262008-12-03T12:46:00.002-06:002008-12-03T14:46:47.393-06:00So much to be thankful for...I am thankful for many things. I am thankful for my health and my families health. I am thankful my husband and I are able to provide shelter and food for our children..when many are struggling too. I am thankful for my family and friends love and their important part in my life. I am thankful to live in this country. I hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving and are reminded everyday of all the things that are truly important in life! <br /><br /><br />We have been busy as usual, but with this time of year we get even busier..if that is possible. Dan is working many long days. Getting up early and working at his full steam speed. I swear he never slows down. I only ask him to PLEASE take his lunch and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">at least</span> take those few minutes to eat to recharge. Of course, he will tell me, "I eat, but it only takes me 10 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">mins</span>". <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ugghh</span>!! He is now working 6 days a week and only off on Tues. So it is very hard on the kids. He gets very little time with them and very little down time in general. I think he needs a massage day for Christmas. :-)<br /><br />Our Thanksgiving was a bit unusual this year. Dan had to work. It was the 1st time <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Michaels</span> has ever been open for Thanksgiving. He had to leave the house by 4pm and work until 10pm. Lucky for him he wasn't too busy so he got out at a decent time. Of course, Wed night he didn't leave until Thursday morning around 1 am. He worked Friday and his store has been doing awesome ever since. He is suppose to be off for Christmas Eve, since he worked on Thanksgiving, BUT we will see if that actually happens!<br />Our Thanksgiving was just us and I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">cooked</span> our own little feast. Caitlin was very sad not to have family around, but with all of our Family out of state it was very hard. We went around the table telling what we were thankful for and it was cute what they said. Austin said he was thankful for his cat Hook and food!! Caitlin said she was thankful for Jesus and mom, and dad. It was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sooo</span> sweet. Dan said he was thankful for us all being together even if it was for just part of the day and I was thankful for my above list. All my family!<br /> On Friday, the kids and I ventured the hour drive over to Dan's work (it has been about 3-4 months since we have been over there) and shopped in his store a little and then went to one of the near by malls. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">OO</span> was that a mistake. It was insane. I didn't do any of that black <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Friday</span> shopping. It has never been too appealing to me. I went to Best Buy and bought Dan's gift at 8am with the sale price and waited in NO lines. Then I went to Sam's found a better one for the same price, so later I returned the item to Best Buy. I just think it is funny people will go wait in lines (some for a full day) for something they may not even get. I guess that is where my lack of patience c<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">omes</span> into factor. I could NEVER stand in those lines. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">haha</span><br /> The kids have been getting very excited for Christmas time. We got the Christmas stuff all down from the attic yesterday and Dan set the lights up. (on his only day off) We have been slowly converting over to using LED lights. Dan loves the house to GLOW...so we have a lot of lights. :-) I wrapped a bunch of our pictures on the walls to add to some house decor. The tree will go up sometime this week. The kids have theirs in their rooms and they can't wait for the ornaments to be brought in. They get to decorate their own tree. I have non-breakable ornaments for them and they get to make their own creation. They just think it is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">soo</span> cool and Santa always brings a special gift to put under 'their' tree. :-) aka Nutcracker for Austin and Caitlin's starting <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">snow globes</span> (but she wants non-breakable/<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">squishy</span> ones ones right now.) <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">hahaha</span> <br />I am in full on Holiday mode for the kids school. I have planned the party for both of their classes and made outlines..sent out list on items needed to the rest of the class. I am spending a lot of time on the computer and that is partial why I haven't blogged. I am exhausted and try to get other things done. The kids are going to have great parties. :-) I have the crafts all planned and I think the kids will love it. <br />I also have Sunday school going on. Caitlin is in my class this year..so she loves having mommy as her teacher. We only have 2 more classes until we are done for this year and will start back in Jan. Of course, we are in full prep mode for the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Christmas</span> program the kids put on. I am thankful that we have an awesome team planning it this year and the work load for us as teachers is much less. :-) <br />It is hard to believe Christmas is just a few short weeks away. I am pretty much ready for it. I am done shopping for everyone, but my brother! He is a hard one for me. <br />Well I think that is about it for now. My mind is overload mode currently. :-) I hope you all had a blessed Thanksgiving and are preparing for the joy for the Christmas season. Reminder...it is not in receiving that you find joy, but to give of yourself, your time to others in need is when you will feel true JOY!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-46930940070222375452008-11-25T13:32:00.005-06:002008-11-26T00:32:57.226-06:00Tag...I am it!!..who is NEXT??OK I have been TAGGED by Amber <a href="http://charlieandamber.blogspot.com/">http://charlieandamber.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />Here are the rules:<br />*Link to the person who tagged you.<br />*Post the rules on your blog.<br />*Write 6 random things about yourself<br />*Tag 6-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ish</span> people at the end of your post<br />*Let each person know he/she has been tagged<br />*Let the tagger know when your entry is up.<br /><br />Okay, coming up with 6 random things about me may be difficult, but here it goes!<br /><br />1. I am a volunteer freak..I can't say "NO"...or have a real hard time at it. if I do say "NO" I feel guilty afterwards...maybe that is also known as being a control freak. :-)<br /><br />2. I have a soft spot for those who are ill, hurt, or terminally ill and will do all I can to help put a smile on their face....even those I have never met. This is a very rewarding thing for me.<br /><br />3. I am a card person. I LOVE cards!! I love sending them and getting them. It takes me a long time to find the perfect card, but I find it! Even if I read 30 of them to find it. So if you get a card from me know it is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">truly</span> from ME and not some generic meaning. I also have my own <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">lil</span> Hallmark in a drawer. Lots of cards ready to be sent out...ones I bought just cause they were so cute or sweet.<br /><br />4. I have A.D.D. YES, I admit it and as an adult I am realizing it more so. I, of course, call it multi-tasking instead of ADD. I can do so many things at once and it seems in perfect harmony to me..to others it seems just crazy! Plus I function better and get more done this way! :-D<br /><br />5. I have a weird thing about not buying the thing on the front of the shelf. You know they saw the newer stuff is always at the back. BUT I will also not buy something that looks like it has been opened or flipped through (book/magazine) Books have to all the pages just right..I can tell if they have been flipped through. hahaha I will pull many things off the shelf and look at the box that is not messed up. Dan just laughs at me and at times asks me, "are you sure you want THAT one?" I do it without completely being aware of it, but he never lets me forget. LOL I am sure this is some weird "~ism" in the pycho books! :-)<br /><br />6. I drive everywhere. Short or long trips..it is rare for Dan to ever drive when we are together. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">hahaha</span> I guess that is part of my control nature again...I get it from my dad...blame him..he is the same way! But I have driven to WI, AZ, MN and many other places and he may drive an hour..if that!! I just feel weird sitting in the passenger seat in any car, but the other reason is..I can NOT sleep in the car..never have in all the years we drove cross country for my brothers races. I would stay up most of the way with my dad and only slept when I passed out and couldn't fight it anymore. I guess I am stubborn too. :-)<br /><br />Let's see who to tag. I do not know many <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">bloggers</span> on here that have not already been tagged. So if you read this tag yourself. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">hahaha</span> Cindy, Danielle, Dad the Dude....ummm if you read this you are TAGGED! Man that was hard..I need more friends. :-)Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-40634810322420429702008-11-11T09:25:00.004-06:002008-11-11T10:31:24.412-06:00Time to slow down and catch up!!I have been very busy would be a simple way to put it. And I have not taken the time to blog....sooooooo Here we go!! You may want to grab a drink and get comfy!<br /><br />**I did add pictures to Caitlin's 1st field trip below...so check them out!**<br /><br />OK Lets see...we will go back to Sept. <br /><br /><strong>Grandparents day!</strong> <br />My parents got early and drove 3 hours to come have some homemade muffins with the kids.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/gpadaybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /> A 30 min total in a very crowded cafeteria. They were troopers and the kids loved it! Here are a few pictures. Now if you know my dad...he is very difficult to get a picture of. I ususally do the SUPRISE attack. Have camera ready and yell "DAD" and as he turns the flash goes off. So needless to say they are not the best of pictures. He was on his best behavior this day! Posed for LOTS of pictures and it didn't kill him. But I am sure it stung a bit. :-) <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckgrammiebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>Caitlin with Grammie</strong><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/muffins12.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>The kids with Grammie and Bobo at school</strong><br /><br />Later we went back up to school and had lunch with Austin. We wanted to give Grammie and Bobo the full effect of spending a day with the kids. Everyone loved it. Especially the kids. They loved having special guests come to school. <br />Austin went back to class and we took Caitlin home. This is what she did with Bobo the rest of the afternoon. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/wowbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />This is a 1st for her. She has always been slightly shy around my dad. She was teaching him how to play Mario bros. He probably couldn't see the screen, but he sat there for an hour with her as she explained everything. My heart just smiled at this huge break in her defense. When they left that evening..she was hugging him and not wanting to let go. :-D <br />Of course we picked Austin up from school. He loved having my parents there for that. I was kind of invisible to them that day! :-) We went to dinner once Dan got home from work and they had to leave to drive back. But this is what I snapped at a red light.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/dadakatroublebs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />He has Caitlin's scout hat on and acting all the part of a 5 yr old. He was completely obnoxious and getting the kids wound up. I guess it shouldn't surprise me. He turned 53 this past month (Oct. 28th) but he is very much a big kid at heart still! And I am glad for that!<br /><br /><strong>OK now my Race for the Cure in Dallas Oct 18th.</strong> <br /> Yes I did 2 of them in 2 weeks. A total of 6.5 miles in 2 weeks. Not bad for my out of shape body! I did manage about the same time at both races..so that was good!<br />This one Dan and the kids got to go too. They didn't complain too much about getting up at 4:45am and heading to Dallas before there was any sign of the sun. Here are a few pictures:<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/meandrmbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/akandrmbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/kidstargetbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin would NOT take a picture with Ronald McDonald....she was excited to see him, but didn't want to go near him. She has always had a fear for "humans" with mask or painted faces. BUT she is ok with the stuffed animals dressed ones. Who knows!!<br /><br /><br /><strong>Teacher Birthday's</strong>...<br />yes both Teachers had birthdays 10 days apart. So I planned and gathered money and we did an awesome group gift for both teachers from their classes.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/harlowbirthday125.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>Austin is giving his teacher 'bunny ears'</strong><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/harlowbirthday109.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/groupbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><strong>Red Ribbon week</strong> <br />Which is a week spent to promoting drug awareness to kids and reminding them to JUST SAY NO!! Well Dan and I had a lot of ties with this at the kids school. We hung red crepe paper zig zag down all the halls in the school and placed red bows on every pillar on the outside of the school and a few on our school sign. It was perfect and more like I remember Red Ribbon week being at school when I was a kid. We also created the posters for our kids class. THe kids colored the things I brought in and Dan and I made the posters at home. THey turned out AWESOME!! Here is a picture of both of them.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/redrbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>Kindergarten</strong><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/redbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>2nd grade</strong> <br />We did not win the poster competition. Dan was sad! :-( He truely did a lot of work on these. The tree was all him. I just had the plan and he created it. I lvoe when we work on projects together...even if there is a bit of arguing about the fact that you should measure and calculate before drawing lines :-D. I pulled out the calculator and told him the exact spaces we needed and we had to erase all his lines he already drew. haha<br /><br /><strong>TWILIGHT </strong><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/twilight.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />OK I am now a Twilight person..hahah I have had a girlfriend trying to talk me into reading these books for a few months. They are 2 inches thick and all I kept thinking is I have NO time to read that. And wasn't sure I would even enjoy reading something about Vampires. Well I was wrong!<br />I picked up the book the Sunday before Halloween and didn't put it down. Things were slowing down a bit for me...so I figured I could spend a little time reading here and there. Well I didn't anticipate the addiciting nature of these books (there are 4 or them in the series and an unfinished book online...so 4 1/2 books). I finished the 1st book Monday evening and bought the 2nd book, <em>New Moon </em>. I finsihed that one on Wed evening. I bought the 3rd book (<em>Eclipse</em>) and finished it right as everyone was trick or treating. I made a book run Halloween night for the 4th book, <em>Breaking Dawn</em> (purple hair and all..ooo you will see. The last book is the thickest. It is about 3 inches. I was completely absorbed into this series. I was getting sick..so it was good I did very little and just laid around all day. It is a very easy read and a page turner. I finished the last book on Sunday. So I read the entire series in a week! My house showed it. I am still trying to catch up! :-)<br />Now my girlfriend, Katy who got me addicited, has also talked me into going to the midnight showing when Twilight comes out in thearters on Nov 21st. I have never been to a midnight show..so this will be a new thing for me. Not sure what the hype is about on seeing a movie before anyone else..but I have to do it at least ONCE! :-)<br /><br /><strong>HALLOWEEN</strong><br />We love Halloween..it is soo much fun to dress up. Caitlin was a Devil Queen (I got it for $4.50..so I can not complain) and Austin was Commander Cody a Storn trooper from Star Wars. I was a diva witch again! I had purple hair. It was fun!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckdevilbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/aktrooperbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/candybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckhallbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckkittybs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin thought I needed a little pet, since I was a witch!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/mommpakbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />And Austin thought I needed protecting from Michael Phelps (one of our teen age neighbors)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/hallobs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />neighborhood kids in front of our house!<br /><br />Now we have Thanksgiving and Christmas a head of us. It will be an even busier time for me. I will be planning 2 class parties, 2 class field trips, Sunday school, and a sunday school program. I am sure there is more I am missing right now. Dan has to work on Thanksgiving this year for a few hours..so no quick trip to OKC to spend with my family, but we will make the most of it here. I think my mom is coming down, since my brother, Ashley, and dad will be gone.<br />May your Holiday season be filled with all the things that are important to you. Christ, your family, friends and health. <br /><br />I will try hard to update more often!! ;-)Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-7375883554447425682008-10-17T16:49:00.002-05:002008-10-17T17:07:43.442-05:00Time to brag!!!I have to say I am so proud of Austin. He got a 103 on his spelling test today. As most of you know Austin has a hearing loss. We have to work extra hard with him to get the words down..cause sometime sounding out just doesn't work!! He does a lot of memorizing. He has 20 spelling words and 3 bonus words every week. He has been doing well and had a few in the 90's, but never a 100!! Until today!<br />We had a deal. He wanted the storm trooper gun that went with his Halloween costume, but we decided if we were buying a costume he would have to earn the gun or buy it himself. We decided on him making a 100 on the spelling test would earn him the gun. He didn't believe in himself and said he never made a 100 and would never make one. :-( It almost made me cry, but I gave him my best pep/I believe in you talks! I was teary eyed by the end of it. I told him he could do it!! I just knew it..well he did!! <br />After school today, I was standing outside the school waiting for him and he comes walking up with his paper held to his chest. I knew he did great..just by the look on his face. He turns it around and shows me the paper and yells, "I got a 100" I said, "NO, you got a 103!! :-) Yes he got the 3 bonus words right too. This week those words were: magnetism, electromagnet, and poles. He was perfect! Of course as I went to hug him he literally jumped into my arms and wrapped his legs around my legs and I got the full body bear hug!! I had to go show it off to a few of my friends. I was soo proud of him. See hard work pays off! <br />I called Dan and handed Austin the phone and he told Daddy the good news. :-) Then I called my mom and and Dan's mom to tell them. I guess I was excited!! :-) <br />So yea for Austin on his 1st (of many) 100's on a spelling test. Now off to find that storm trooper gun and then cub scouts tonight! <br /><br />I am running my 2nd race for the Cure tomorrow. I am running in the Dallas one! :-)Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-40134261578184332442008-10-15T21:53:00.004-05:002008-11-11T09:25:01.869-06:00Caitlin's 1st Kinder field trip....KINDAWell today Caitlin and her class...along with the the other am/pm kindergartens were suppose to go on a field trip to Green Meadows Farm/petting zoo. Well they went...KINDA! hahaha<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/gmbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>Getting excited!!</strong><br /><br /><br />The bus pulled out of the school at 9am and off they went. 2 of my friends loaded up with me and we headed out. BUT not before stopping at one house for a change of shoes and another for a forgotten camera and then a stop for soft drinks for the trip. So we are off!! <br />I figured we would catch and pass the bus, but never did. It was a good 25-30 mile drive...so I was surprised. We get there and there are NO buses yet. OK so we go and stand with the other parents and one of the other mom's say.."one of the buses broke down." GREAT!!! And yes...it was the one with Caitlin on it. But they also took an odd way of getting there...so no one passed them on the way. The bus pulled off the highway and waited for another one to come. They switched the kids and were on their way. Right before they got there..it started sprinkling and that sprinkle increased until the skies just let loose and it was down pouring. Did I mention we were going to a farm aka outside!! <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/lunchbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />So the buses finally arrive and they decide to have us all huddle on the bus and eat lunch with the kids. So we ate lunch and watched the rain come down. After an hour, it was time to call the field trip a failure!! KINDA!! The kids did get to ride a school bus on a really long trip. :-) <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/momckbs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><strong>Do you see the rain coming down :-)</strong><br /><br />Before leaving, they pulled the bus over to the bathroom and let the kids go potty and then loaded them back on the bus. So they took a field trip to a 2 stall bathroom in Grand Prairie, TX on Joe Pool Lake. HAHA! <br />The rain did not let up until we got back to the school..where it barely rained! Of course, the teacher told us that she was there until 3pm..so we could leave our kids at school and they would do fun stuff in class..if we had errands to do or something else. I took this opportunity to FINALLY finish my book I have been slowly working on over the past month. <br />They are hoping to reschedule the trip, but not sure if that will happen. Since the school buses will have to be paid for again. But we will do another fun field trip later. So hopefully it turns out better then this one....even though it wasn't sooo bad...they got to ride a bus!!! :-)Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-44219377287028899992008-10-09T19:25:00.003-05:002008-10-09T20:08:32.760-05:00Race for a Cure weekend<a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/DSCN8629-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />It was AWESOME!!! Our team raised $15,800! We won the top donations for a team. Believe in Boobs in 1st place hahaha we rocked!! We will all get plaques for our awesome job as a team.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/IMG_5509.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />My shoe :laugh: <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/IMG_5325.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />I drove up on Friday. I had a ton of stuff to do. I met my friend Shantel, her friend Shawna and her mom Carol for dinner and we put together goodie bags. It was wonderful to see her again. We knew each other when we were little girls from the motorcycle races. She is now in treatment for Breast Cancer and just turned 32yrs old 2 weeks ago. She had 5 radiation treatments before we did the Race for a Cure event. She and her family are the reason we won top team. They mad very generous contributions to our team in Shantel's honor!<br /><br />Our morning on Saturday started at 5am. My mom, cousin, Michele and I stayed in a hotel near our meeting place so there was no 45min to hour drive. :-) We got up had a small bite to eat and then headed to my friend Shantel's house. That was our meeting place. They rented a bus limo for us to ride in to downtown. It was amazing...and we took lots of photos inside. It was very nice of them. <br /><br />Here is a pic of our team<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/boobteam-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Then we got down town after a few detours with traffic and blocked roads. There was only 3 of us doing the 5K...Michele (my cousin), Connie (my friend) and me...so we met at the start and started our run. I was sooooo excited. I felt ready to take on the world! The start was insane with that many people. I felt like a sardine. :-) Once everyone spaced out it was much nicer. I did not run the entire race. I walked some...much more then I planned. But I finished in 41 mins. So now I have a goal for my next one. ;-) <br />After the race they had a survivor ceremony. It was very emotional and inspiring. They had all the women fighting or who survived the disease go around the bases at the baseball stadium. So it was all pink shirts and hat on the field. The number of women out there was just shocking. I cried! <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/survivors-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/Shan.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Shantel was our reason this weekend. She is truly an amazing person! Please keep her in your continued prayers as she endures treatments and fatigue that will happen in the coming weeks.<br />We had lunch after leaving the closing ceremonies. One of the waiters, said we had the "best damn mission statement ever" :laugh: <br />Our MISSION!!! Save the Boobies<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/mission-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />AND we did just that! :-)<br />Later that night I went out and had a girls night out with my two cousins, Michele and Whitney. In honor of our weekend and our cousin bond...we got 'Believe' tattoos and had lots of fun. <br />Cousins<br />before the race...<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/cousin-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />before our night out..<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/m_431501ac68d54db8aea2e88e52f3b762.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Sunday I spent most of the day with my brother, Robbie and Ashely at his house. He hurt his hand at the Pro challenge in Tyler, TX. He ended up dislocating a bone in the hand and fractured the head of the bone. But they said he can race still if he wants or feel like he can. BUT he decided it would be best to get a cast and let it heal. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/believe-2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />I guess that is my weekend in a nut shell! HAHA Thanks to everyone for the support! I highly recommend you supporting this great event and jump in and participate in it!! I did and can't wait for my next one.<br /><br /><br />***an update to that last statement....I am signed up to do the Dallas Race for a Cure on Oct. 18th. Yes another 5K..man I better start losing some weight..haha! I also plan on doing the one in Ft. Worth which is typically held in April. So check out my site and feel free to make a donation. It is tax deductible and a wonderful cause. <br />www.komen-dallas.org/goto/cherie<br /><br />I will tell you about Dan's camping trip with the kids later!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-28273811207038578422008-09-21T15:00:00.002-05:002008-09-21T15:16:23.723-05:00Austin updateAustin has been doing really good in 2nd grade. I think that has to do with his wonderful teacher he has. Of course, all the hard work his mom and dad do with helping him study. I am sure doesn't hurt either. haha He has made a lot of new friends in class and in the neighborhood. We have some new boys that moved in down the street and they play outside ALL the time.<br /> He struggles with spelling, since he spells how he hears sounds. We had a tough word list last week and we were happy that he made a 73 on it. But later, I found out by several parents that their kids failed it..BIG TIME! So that made us feel even better about the 73. :-) He tries really hard and we work hard at home. <br />This week we have a meeting to discuss what kind of things we can do in the classroom to make it better for his learning. His hearing loss causes a lot of difficulties in the class room. Especially since most teachers teach from several different places in the room. <br /><br />He is in cub scouts again this year. We have a very large Wolf Den. BUT the boys really enjoy doing stuff together. Their 1st meeting is tomorrow night. <strong></strong>Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-54073006557762359192008-09-18T20:26:00.002-05:002008-09-21T14:59:23.076-05:00Spanish???Caitlin came home one day and told me, "I went to Spanish today". I was kind of taken by surprise, but I thought, "OK maybe they are learning Spanish" But just to be sure I asked her a few questions. Well after a few questions I figured out she met to say Speech. hahaha She goes to speech 3 days a week for 30 mins. She loves her speech teacher, Mrs Williams. She even asked if she could have homework in speech. She is soooooo excited about having speech homework. Of course after the 1st week of class she got a surprise..a flute whistle. OOO and it is PINK! A word she loves to spell all the time for us now. She keeps referring to it as Spanish...I correct her, but she doesn't care. :-D<br /><br />They have been learning all their colors and how to spell them. So every week she comes home and tells me how to spell new colors. She also loves to write new words all the time. I just love how excited she is about learning. Austin was never this excited!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-17964426685004113902008-09-10T21:36:00.002-05:002008-09-11T14:47:41.442-05:00Mom Song...I feel like I am moving at this speed some days. hahaha A friend shared this with me...so I am passing it on. :-) <br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RxT5NwQUtVM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RxT5NwQUtVM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-28474968087883897852008-09-08T16:06:00.004-05:002008-09-08T16:50:28.567-05:00"Rollie hair mommy"...Update on the lawn mowing..we had aliens hit the yard... I mowed the yard and it looks great, except for a small strip along the curb. That is where the aliens landed. :-D OOP'S!! Dan did noticed! At least I helped mow!<br /><br />Monday night Caitlin insisted that she have "rollie hair" like her teacher. We have been down the rollie hair road before. last summer when she decided to cut it short thinking it would make it curly like her 2nd cousin, Cristina. Well that didn't work. But I have now gotten the hang of those little pink rollers. (the soft ones) We had lots of practice with dance recitals. SO I told her after her shower we would roll her hair. she was soooooooo excited. Here are a few pictures of her on Tuesday morning.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/rollie2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/rollie.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br />Here she is doing a little dance :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/dancin.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />She is so silly and her curls were still there after school and even stayed until daddy was home. She was so cute and the curls looked better as they softened.<br /><br />THEN....<br /><br />The kids had picture day on Friday. Only 9 days into school and they want more money! hahaha<br />Of course Caitlin wanted "rollie hair" again. I tried to talk her out of it, but I figured I wanted her happy for her pictures and not sad and crying. So I gave in..no biggie..it could be worse like pink hair or something like that. HAHA<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/moskpicday.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /> <a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckpicday.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br />I loosened the curls much more this time around with the blow dryer.<br /><br />And here is my handsome boy...he is looking more and more like his daddy! (and not too much longer and he will be taller then mommy)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/akpicday.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />We started back with our Wednesday night routine....going to Church! Our wonderful pastor cooks an amazing meal every week for the congregation. It is not a cafe type of food...It is a full family cooked meal. For $3 a person...we look forward to it every week. One night I don't have to cook and no dishes. :-) The kids eat with the kids club and they do activities and crafts. They have lots of fun too. Dan and I usually work on my Sunday school stuff and talk with fellow church members. This week we decorated my Sunday School room. We got a lot accomplished in a very short time. Sunday school rally day was this past Sunday..so we were on a time crunch. Here is Caitlin and I on our 1st day. She is in my class this year, since she is now a BIG kindergartner. <a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/mommaandck.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br />Of course she thinks she owns the joint since mom is her teacher. HAHA Not too bad, but she did pick out her chair and the color play-doh that would be in the pocket of her seat. :-)<br />But I am excited for this years Sunday School...I am going to have a great class. Most of the kids I have known since they were 2!<br /><br />When we came home from church this is what we found on the couch....<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/hook1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/hook.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br />Hook on his back laying over a pillow. He must have been comfy, cause he didn't move. He is one odd cat! And not because he weighs almost 25 pounds haha!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-32616034886384581992008-09-02T08:20:00.004-05:002008-09-02T09:40:38.155-05:00Labor DayWe had a veny uneventful relaxing weekend. Dan had to work..so it was just the kiddos and me. 5 days of school and a 3 day weekend. What to do?? We did nothing..that pretty much sums it up. We watched movies, did laundry, played legos, played outside with a few neighbor kids on Saturday. On Sunday, we played outside, I mowed the yard, finished the laundry and then on Monday cleaned and reorganized the pantry, the kids played in the mini swimming pool while I tried to read a book over their loud giggle, and I sprayed the entire outside of the house for bugs. (we have had a few ants pop up in the house) That pretty much sums it up. Nothing too exciting.<br /><br /> <br />Now my brother raced in Houston this weekend and won a new Toyota pickup truck. It was a 4 race series and he WON! The funny thing is when I saw the picture they were at a gas station. I then asked what they give you a new truck but leave it on empty for you. MAN!! Since he got a new truck for his birthday back in May, he plans on selling this one. I believe he already has a few offers. I really wanted to go watch him race, but the 4 1/2 to 5 hour drive just didn't sound much fun to me especially with gas prices going back up almost 20cents this weekend. <br /><br />Hope you all had a great weekend~!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-27002305208163340172008-08-28T09:27:00.003-05:002008-08-28T10:24:17.539-05:00Half way....We have made it halfway through the week and I have to say I think we are all adjusting well to this school thing. :-) I can honestly say I have not done much with my 'free' morning time, but that is OK. I went to breakfast with my friend Gingin on Tuesday and Wednesday...well lets say I caught up on all the lack of sleep I got at the beginning of the week. I woke up 10 mins before having to go get Caitlin. My nap was suppose to be a relaxing time with the new book I got....I guess you have to open the book to actually read it :-D <br /><br />I totally forgot to take a picture of Caitlin with her new teacher on her 1st day..so here she is on day 2 with Mrs. York. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckyork.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin is loving her class and all the things she is learning. I think she is super smart she is already using sign language at home. They will learn lots of signing in class..letters and words. 1st day they learned restroom..so they can raise their hand with the sign and not disrupt the class. So she is using it at home too. She comes to me with ther fingers crossed..not saying a word and I have to tell her that she doesn't have to ask to go potty at home. hahaha it is so cute. At breakfast yesterday she got up and I asked her where she was going...she looked at me held up her crossed fingers and I said OOOO OK. Wow he have a new language in our house. <br />Here is the sign I taught her...I love you...As she leaves the car she turns and gives it. It just makes me SMILE!! Here is a picture I caught while she did it the 1st time. <br /> <a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/iloveumom.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Isn't it cute :-)<br /><br />Then my big kids walked into the building all by themselves. I sit and wait cause Caitlin looks for me to wave one last time before she goes into the building. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/allalone.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Austin has been a great big brother this week. Helping Caitlin with her backpack when they get out of the car and making sure she crosses the crosswalk. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ak.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We had parent-teacher meetings last night and then another tonight. It is going to be a great year! :-)Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-57874125051749070352008-08-26T00:14:00.008-05:002008-08-27T07:59:56.170-05:00The 1st day.....<a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/1stday08.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Well here they are ready to go to the 1st day of school. Austin being the very protective big brother was giving her lots of advice.. 1) You cross the street with the guard 2) here is how you sing the school song....break out in opera style singing 3) you don't get on red or sent to the principal's office. He speaks of all of this from experience....so he knows HA!<br /><br />I did not sleep much the night before....I was a tad bit emotional for some reason... I finally fell asleep somewhere around 2am. It must be that my brain is still on Olympic time. HAHA! Then I was woke up even earlier thanks to a cat falling off of the window seal at 5:30am (of course right next to my bed) So I was up. I made a cup of coffee and did more reflection time of Caitlin and her 1st day of school and Austin going to a new room...thinking of all the stuff his teacher needs to know. Oo the joys of parenthood on the 1st days of school. So at 6:30 I grabbed the video camera and put it on night vision (I love doing that) and walked into Caitlin's room. I woke her up telling her it was her 'big day'...it 'finally' was 'here'..she was a 'kindergartner'. she smirked at me then squinted and said "MOMMY...I am still sleepy" Not what I was hoping to capture, but that will work. So then to Austin's room... he was much easier to convince to get up. <br /><br />They were dressed, eatting scrambled eggs and bacon and it was almost time to go. While I was doing Caitlin's hair these are the things she told me... <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/bigdaykinder.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />"Mommy you don't have to walk me into class I know where it is" <br />(Are you kidding me...I am walking you all the way to your seat today!)<br />then "Mommy, daddy can take me to school in HIS car...you can stay home" <br />(seriously...this child was about to be missing a chunk of hair if she continued...I told her Mommy wanted to be there and take pictures and that I loved her very much)<br />She then adds, "I am a BIG girl now mommy"<br />(all I thought is I know I know I know and what I would give for you to be little just for a few more moments.....then i told her..she was a big girl, but she would always be my lil girl forever and we made a deal!)<br /><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/1stdayschool08.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />So it was time to load up and head to SCHOOL<br />The two of them seriously wanted us to stay in the car and to let them walk up. Here Austin gave another pep talk to Caitlin...Plus a few more RULES! :-) <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/mybabies.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We entered the overly crowded cafeteria where all the parents were bidding final farewells or maybe they were silent cheers that school was finally back in session. :-D<br />Here Caitlin is patiently waiting to go to her class<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/waiting.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Then it was time to make that walk to her future.....actual school!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/going.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We made it to her class and the little lady who didn't want anyone there was all the sudden ok with us being there...No she didn't hang on Dan's leg begging for him not to go, but she wasn't shoving us out the door either. <br />I helped her with her name tag...just to make sure she didn't poke herself with the safety pin. :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/pinningonnametags.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/momandC.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Mommy's BIG little girl.. :-) <br /><br />Then all the sudden she realized that she was not sitting at the table with her friend, Kaden (blonde boy behind/side of her in white with green stripe shirt) She was sad...sat her head down and I was afraid she might cry. But she just sat like this for a bit....maybe she was a bit overwhelmed or nervous<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/lilscared.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/jitters.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Then the almighty Daddy gave her a pep talk and all was right in her world again. OF COURSE!<br /><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/dadandC.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We then LEFT! Kind of.. we then went to Austin's room to check on him...see it is much different when they have been there done that and in 2nd grade. hahaha<br />Here is Austin and his new teacher Mrs. Harlow<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/AKandHarlow.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We then made a trip to the Tear and Cheer meeting for the parents of kindergartners...there was nothing special here...mainly donuts and more of a sense that parents were cheerful. I was hoping for a sweet poem or something like my friend, Danielle got, but nothing. They sold us on the reasons to join the PTA and that was about it. We chatted a bit and then finally left the building to go have breakfast without kids. :-D Denny's here we come! Afterwards I was wondering how Caitlin was doing and all the fun new things she was learning. It was almost time to go get her already... and I had done well..not a single tear. <br /><br />Here she is being set free....<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/free.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />She was very happy and came to ME 1st and gave me a big hug...then went to Daddy. It usually Daddy 1st and then a 'hi' for mommy. So this was great. <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/daddyandck.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Let's go Daddy<br /><br /><br />She SURVIVED and so did we. She told us about all the things she did and that she sits at the green team rable and what color table all her friends sit at. I think she is going to have no problem making friends, since she has previously met over half the class already from various places over the past 2 yrs. <br />Well day 1 down and many many many more to go. We get to this everyday.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/letsgo.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-32739363391623752672008-08-24T21:17:00.006-05:002008-08-24T22:06:18.553-05:00Tomorrow....??Yes! FINALLY, I have been able to tell Caitlin, "Tomorrow is the day you start school" She has been beaming all day. We even went and picked out a new outfit (a dress) for the very special occasion. Then of course we had to get matching shoes..so off to payless. She then insisted that we paint her nails. "they have to be beautiful mommy" is what she told me. She is 5 and going to kindergarten....not 16 and going on a date!..YIKES! Of course while I was painting her nails at 7:30pm she fell asleep. OUT COLD! But not before she told me she had to have a heart on the big toes hahaha mommy is not a professional, but I tried~! :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckready.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/beauty.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />She was so sweet and angelic. We just starred at her and thought, 'WOW she is going to school'...it is still hard to believe that this time has already passed and we are at this grand moment in her life. It is only the beginning of many great things she will do. It is just the beginning!<br /><br />Speaking of great things!!! Our kids have decided they want to be Olympians. They have spent many hours in front of the TV with mom and dad watching the great Olympic athletes. Austin has decided that he wants to do fencing or be some kind of runner. He thinks from all his pirate and Jedi training; he would make the perfect fencing athlete. :-) Arghhh!! <br />Now Caitlin on the other hand has very grandeur plans. She wants to do gymnastics, swimming, diving, beach volleyball, track and field...pretty much everything she saw! We told them with a LOT of hard work and dedication they can accomplish anything! And of course we will be there to cheer them on. :-D<br /><br />This weekend we had 2 birthday parties and a cub scout swim party. We realized that Caitlin is a little fish. I didn't take pictures, but she was swimming above and under the water over 6 and 8 foot deep water the width of the pool. And very well, I might add. I guess with size 2 to 2 1/2 feet..she has her own built-in flippers. :-) HAHA! I guess I should look into swimming lessons for this fall! (since I have yet to take the kids to one..oops) <br /><br />The Olympics are closing now and we must go to bed early for a change. A start of an early and exciting day will be here soon! <br /><br />The backpacks are waiting and ready to go!! :-D<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/IMG_4982.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Check back again for how the 1st day goes.Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-14322480896188603672008-08-21T21:51:00.003-05:002008-08-24T21:17:08.123-05:00Can it really be that time already?????Well the answer is yes...Caitlin is old enough to go to kindergarten. O my! My baby is going to school. She is very excited and has been for months! Everyday I hear, "Mommy do I go to school to tomorrow?" I say, "NO" and she says, "The next day?" hahaha I have been hearing this for a long time..so I am excited to tell her Sunday night that she will go to school "tomorrow". :-) Austin is not as excited about going, but I am sure that will change. He says he will miss his kitty, Hook. (not mom??) haha<br />Tonight we had meet the teacher night. Austin will be starting 2nd grade..WOW! His new teacher is Mrs. Harlow. She seems really nice. He was excited to see one of his friends, Colby, was in his class. They have been in the same class every year of school. Plus he is tall like Austin..so they were very excited to see each other. He also has 3 girls from his 1st grade class in there. Emily, Brenna, and bailey...he was excited about that too. He makes friends easily, so I am sure he will make a lot of new friends. <br />Now Caitlin met her teacher...Mrs York. She is the same kinder teacher Austin had. She is different now that is is a mother. So we are excited. Plus she missed half of the year when Austin was there. So it will be nice to have her full time. Caitlin thought she was staying at school today and I could pick her up later...Such a big girl already. She made her teacher a picture and took her a little pad of paper. Already a suck up too. haha She was a little shy and quiet at first. She is excited that she has several friends (all boys) that will be in her class. Most of them younger siblings of Austin's friends. She will have her friend from her speech class there too....Kaden. They were best friends and so cute in class. So I am sure it will be good that they will know each other. Plus she knows, Kyle, Xavier, and Evan. We will have an awesome room mom group too. I have worked with several of them and ooo we will make sure the kids have great parties!! :-) Here she is seeing her new classroom<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ckmeetteachernight.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />and her with a monkey in the Reading center area..it will look different on Monday.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/chickaboom.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />So for 3 hours in the morning I will be kid free! WOW..next week will be hard on me, but give me a week and I will be finding all sorts of things to fill that time. Then I am sure I will be begging for more. HAHA! <br />I am looking into college classes. Since I will have to take a few or maybe a lot of refresher courses or updated courses since I have been home for so long. SO I can start working toward the time when I do go back to work. Who knows maybe I will go back and do the occupational safety stuff that interested me so much my last year in college...some 10 yrs ago! I know hard to believe..I am that old HAHA!<br /><br />So summer is almost over for us. One last weekend and let me tell you it is BUSY! We have 2 birthday parties on Saturday (Kaden's and Natalie's) and then our end of summer swim party and BBQ with the cub scouts. Everything pretty much fell back to back to back. So we will be on the go! Then I have a Sunday school meeting on Sunday and then hopefully a nice last day before school!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-58180708315887650712008-08-14T21:28:00.006-05:002008-08-18T16:27:37.314-05:00Komen race for a cureI have formed a team to run in the OKC Komen Breast Cancer Race for the Cure on Oct 4th. We are looking for sponsors and donations. So many of us have been effected by this disease in one way or another....a family member, loved one, friend, or co-worker. Please support this great event. I run for my Great Aunt Carol, my friend, Shantel Newman Gonzales and fellow sunday school teacher, Barb Guinn. But I also run for myself, my daughter, my mom, my mother in law, my grandmothers, aunts, my girlfriends future...I run for all women. Hoping they don't have to deal with this someday, but if they do they can have the help they need. <br /><br />You can even join the team (sleep in for the cure) and not run or you can walk the 5 k or a 1 mile walk. Every bit helps!! make a difference and Check it out!! <br />THANKS!<br />www.komencentralok.org/goto/Cherie<br /><br />if you want to join my team click here<br />www.komencentralok.org/goto/believeinboobs<br /><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/46bdcb74.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-56562628221645115082008-08-11T13:31:00.004-05:002008-08-11T15:54:28.610-05:00Another Stay-cation..kind ofDan had another week of vacation he had to take..so we did the same things..Hung around at home, but took a 2 days trip to Oklahoma. <br /><br />I had to watch the kids this week..so 2 days where here at home. Dan is funny. He is not use to that many kids. He said well.."I was thinking I might like another kid, but after today..I have changed my mind" hahaha He survived. Of course I think worrying about work was harder on him then 5 kids in the house. His work called over and over throughout the week. Problems with this and that. He is short handed an assistant manager and the one running the store while he is gone is brand new. So he has reasons to stress. So when he goes back to work tomorrow he's already got a game plan. :-) WORK WORK WORK and hopefully cover some of the info his assistant needs to know in the process. He already told me he will probably not be taking his other day off this week. Something I have gotten way to use too. Corporate just doesn't get that you can't throw a brand new person to the company into the 2nd highest volume store in the company and not expect some bumps to go with it. HAHA<br /><br />Well back to our stay-cation... We took the kids swimming one day, but after being there for an hour the pool was closing sections off for various reasons. One for a chemical imbalance and then another because some kid threw up in it. Leaving the entire pool area closed. SO we left. They actually gave us a ticket to come back. <br /><br />One night we took the kids to play tennis. That was interesting and FUNNY! It was HOT and the kids were trying which were giving Dan and I a lot of laughs. Here are a few pictures<br />Left handed.....<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/fbc9294e.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />OR Right handed??????<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/c14c50ea.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />Caitlin had a ball, but she would get mad when she missed the ball (and it was often!)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/d2d039d6.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Dan spent a few nights playing guitar hero..here is a picture Caitlin took<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/6b7b99e3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We decided to take a trip to Oklahoma. Dan hasn't been there since Jan. and the kids and I went the 1st weekend in June for a day to see my grandparents as they drove from AZ. We also figured this would be the last trip up there until who knows when..with school and my Sunday school starting soon. <br />So we left on Friday and drove up. it took almost 5 hours. It was crazy. There was construction on the highway and we sat there for a long time..not moving an inch. We all felt like turtles in a race. HAHA We stayed with my brother and his girlfriend, Ashley. We drove to Shawnee (another 30 mins) once we got there with my brother to pick up some stuff for him and then met some of his friends and went to dinner. Yes we had 14 people with us on a Friday night. We ended up splitting into 3 groups 4-4-6 to get seated faster. Which we did and ended up all sitting in booths right next to each other. So it worked out nice. Of course we were seated 1st and the last to get service and our food. Our waiter needed some work. :-)<br />We then drove back got the kids ready for bed and tried catching the end of the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. We missed them :-( <br /><br />BUT we sure have been catching some great Olympic action all weekend. Sunday night we watched the men's 4X100 relay in swimming and WOW was it an epic race. I am sure most of you know which race I am talking about. It has been ALL over the news. We were cheering them on, but when the last 50m came we thought they are getting silver, but then with 40m to go the USA started gaining slowly on the France team. By 20m to go he was right with him. I was standing in my living room..yelling, "COME ON...KICK KICK..GO GO GO GO..YOU CAN DO IT"!! I think it worked!! Then when the finish came up with the gold going to the USA..Dan and I went NUTS!!!! We were high fiving each other and just all smiles. The race was intense! It was so close, plus they killed the World record..I mean DESTROYED it!<br /><br />So we spent the weekend in Oklahoma hanging out with my brother. Dan strained his back somehow the day we left. Must have been the suitcase ;-) So he didn't do a whole lot while we were gone. But he did ride my borther's girlfriend's motocycle. I missed it, but was told it was funny, since it is a small bike :-D I say my best friend Melissa. We went by her house for a bit. She had an extra kid she had to take to his house so we were unable to visit long. I miss her and all our time we use to spend together. <br />Saturday I did get to spend some fun time with my best friend of 18 years, Andrea(but we are saying 10 so we don't feel so old hahahaha) here is a picture of us at the store before heading out.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/4c1e53c7.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />She invited me to go to OU's campus corner for some bar birthday party. I haven't been to a bar in a long time. So why not. Her husband has been hired for a bouncer/id check for a bar down there as an extra job. So we hung out with them and her sister who works a bartender in the place we were going too. Of course there were no special deals on drinks. X-) We went and had a great time.<br /><br />She is also Caitlin's Godmother and she came by on Sunday to see Caitlin. Caitlin was excited she even made her a card that said "I love my Godmother, Andrea" She told me what she wanted to write and I wrote it down on a piece of paper for her to copy. It was cute. Andrea loved it! Here is a picture of the 2 of them.<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/5be9e70a.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We had a nice time, but was a little sad we were not able to see my parents. BUT they had an anniversary last week (Aug 1st...34 years) and they went out of town and did a few things in Arkasas over the weekend. They so deserve the time away and I was so happy that they were able to take it. I can not think of a time when my parents have gone on a trip just the two of them without it being for one of my brothers races. So it was way over due!<br /><br />We came home Sunday night..watched the great Olympics and now we are watching 5 kids. HAHA Dan goes back to work tomorrow and is hoping that his back is feeling well enough to play basketball tonight. He might need it for stress relief going into work tomorrow :-DOur familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4429115272979967139.post-89353240219681201612008-08-08T10:31:00.003-05:002008-08-08T10:52:26.295-05:00Block Party!We had a block party last weekend for one of our neighbors who are moving. They have been the best and organized most our get togethers. So we will miss them. Now we have to try to keep it going. We also have new neighbors....so we got to welcome them in with a nice get together. I planned this party. It turned out great. The invite everyone loved. We rented a margarita machince..which has been a tradition for our cul-de-sac parties. :-) Here is the Big Cypress crew<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/5b64c5ac.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I made flour bombs (knee highs filled with flour) for the kids to have a good time with. And they did! Along with a few adults...aka Dan! :-) Later the adults would find one and smack each other with it. Needless to say the cul-de-sac was a whiter shade. :-) here are a few pictures. One it looks like it is snowing from so much flour flying!<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/852da098.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/b86ccdc3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We had a lot of fun.<br /><br />Now here is a funny picture of Caitlin<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/bbada4d3.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Austin and Jake (one of the boys I am watching this summer) playing Mario brothers. They made paper mustaches and even built a fort in my formal dining for the club house. They were very funny doing this. :-)<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/7058e777.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Here is a picture of Puffy saying her bedtime prayers. I just thought it was cute the way she was sitting with her feet together. >^..^<<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/ab32aaeb.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />here with her pretty eyes<br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/15a44641.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Caitlin's new hair cut..I promised it to blogs ago...sorry!<br /> <a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/eb26bde1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Here is a picture of my new haircut and color. We added a lot of low-lights so it is darker, but some of the dark color has already washed out. Gotta love blonde hair it doesn't seem to keep dark color very well...at least for me. OO well I like it! <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f6/RRsis/c22a7dc8.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Now I need to go finish getting everything ready for our mini trip to Oklahoma City. YEA! We are going somewhere for our last vacation days. The kids start school in two weeks and then I start teaching Sunday school again. So this will be one of our last free weekends. My parents are out of town, but we will stay with my brother and visit with them and some of our friends up there. So off to the OKC! :-) <br /> Love you all!Our familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031008693273022974noreply@blogger.com1