The Dick Family Diaries

Picnic in the Park & a Family Visit

2011-09-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

We decided to enjoy a picnic in the park last Friday. I am surprised at how easy it was to pack a few bologna sandwiches and drinks and swoop the kids off to the park close to our house. We really enjoyed being together, doing something different, and being outdoors. We have avoided outside in this hot weather, but this particular park has many shady trees. We had the entire park to ourselves and had a private picnic beneath the trees. Charlie snoozed a bit on the picnic blanket, and afterwards he gazed up at the marvelous sight above him, tree branches! I was an unexpected special day!

My sister-in-law and brother-in-law came in town for a baby shower this weekend and stayed with us at our house. We really enjoyed their company and the kids loved playing with their cousin Jackson!!!

First Days of School

2011-09-02T19:48:00.001-07:00

Gabby's first day of second grade! Charlie came along because this also was his all day apointment at Texas Children's Hospital. We went straight there after dropping her off.

I don't know why I decided to pose like I was a cheerleading on the front row of a picture.

Now Gabby's getting embarassed of me taking her picture constantly. I like to call myself the mamarazzi...ha ha....okay dumb joke.

Mackenzie's first day of preschool. Isn't she the cutest thing!!??

Alex's last year of preschool. My little boy is almost a kindergartener!!!

Two days a week they will go together to school, and then it will just be Charlie and me!!! Whoohoo! Actually, he keeps me pretty busy anyway.

I'm going to submit this one to pottery barn kids. They could totally model!!!

Mackenzie seems a bit frightened, but don't worry, she didn't even cry.

Lol!!!!

She was so excited when we took her to her new class.

This our home life on our off days. Look at how much Charlie adores his big brother, Alex.

The chunky boy loves his big sister Gabby too!!!!

I think he's still figuring Mackenzie out!!! Lol! Look at his face!

Thanks, Grandma for my cute outfit! Too cute not to post!

This Mackenzie talking about her first day of school experience with her daddy.

More cute MACKENZIE pics:

We painted to pass the time this past week.

Alex loves to color and draw constantly. We go through white printer paper like water.

It was a great way to start out the school year. I can feel things picking up and getting slightly more managable with having a new baby around. Charlie's been totally sleeping through the night, which is sooo cool and necessary. The coffee's been helping a lot too :) We are really starting to get into a groove and a routine, which I crave and so do the kids. I think it's going to be a awesome school year!!!!

4 Kids = 1 Busy Summer!!!!

2011-08-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

Little Longhorns

Father's Day!

Charlie first Sunday at church

I became a regular coffee drinker-i got a coffee pot for my birthday!

Mackenzie loves pretending to be a princess!!!

Gabby and Alex took swim lessons!!!

Charlie got to meet his Great Granddaddy and Grandmother.

Chad and his boys!!!

Amy got to meet Charlie. Little did we know, we would be bringing him into the emergency room shortly after this picture was taken. More on that later...

Mackenzie has begun to love drawing.

He's really growing up. Charlie is 2 months in this picture.

We made lots of recipes together!!!!!! Delicious fun!!!!

We got a chance to swim some at Grandmommy's house with cousins.

I just love these two!!! They are so cute together!!!

Charlie is starting to like toys!!!!!!

Mackenzie and Alex like to play playdoh on the back porch.

We attempted to potty train for a few days, Mackenzie did okay, but family came in town and it all went out the window.

My sister and her four kids came in town for a week!

Mackenzie likes to get out of her bed after we say goodnight, this time she made a little resting place on the staircase.

I love this picture. Mackenzie on her potty, Charlie on his bumbo.

The potty went with her everywhere.Cousins came over to play, they had popcorn and played Uno attack.

Alex and his cousin William.

Aunt Erica meets Charlie!!! The kids love their new baby bro!

Grandmommy came to babysit while we took Gabby to her meet the teacher. First day of school starts tomorrow. It marks the end of one long, challenging yet memorable summer.

Charlie is now 3 months old!!! This summer has been such a challenge to say the least. Juggling taking care of four kids is like juggling too many balls, there is just no way I can keep them in the air at the same time! I am learning though not to waste a moment of time, because I must be constantly ahead of the game, or it's too late and chaos sets in. The beginning of the summer was actually quite managable, until Fourth of July weekend, and my life got turned upside down. Notice we didn't have any cute 4th of July pics, well, that's because Charlie spent his first fourth of July in the hospital with a fever. When newborns have a fever, people take it very seriously, he was given every test you can imagine to find out what was causing the fever. We were up at Cook County Children's Hospital for 5 days, because Charlie had a urinary tract infection and was diagnosed with Grade V VUR. VUR is a reflux of urine from the bladder to the kidneys. Charlie has the worst case of this and may need surgery. He is on a constant daily dose of antibiotics. We will know more tomorrow, he has an apt at Texas Children's Hospital. But to sum it up, I've been on edge this summer. I am afraid to leave town, or do basically anything. I just want my little boy better. Although, we did manage to have some fun this summer, this summer has been the hardest summer of my life, but I love my kids and am so thankful to have them. Here's to a new beginning with school starting and all the fun of the fall!!!!!

Charles "Charlie" Matthew Dick

2011-05-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

He's home!!!!

Well he's here!!! Charles Matthew Dick "Charlie", was born at 1:16 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, 2011. He weighed 9 pounds 0 oz, and was 21.5 inches long!!! He is head to toe preciousness!!!

Baby Charlie's Nursery & Mother's Day

2011-05-10T06:48:00.000-07:00

So here it is...the nursery is finally done!!! I know it shouldn't have taken me this long to finish, but I kind of got stuck with too many sewing projects and I had to back track and just return some fabric and buy already made things. I don't think Baby Charlie will know the difference. I decided on a Dick and Jane/Star theme for his room. I don't like to be too themey, so I went with a toned down version of what I had originally planned. I think it looks nice and he will certainly be able to grow up in this room. For those of you who don't know, I am about 1 week away from my due date. If he doesn't decide to come early, which none of my babies do, so I expect to meet him next week and I can't wait!!! Just think, a week from today I will probably be in a hospital bed with needles in my arm and back waiting to meet this little guy. I looking forward to the later part of that last sentence. I also had an incredible Mother's Day. I felt pampered all weekend. I have really thoughtful kids and husband. I feel so blessed. I also felt blessed to have both our mothers joined us at lunch on Sunday. It was such a treat!!!

CMD= Charles M? Dick. After his daddy. Chad M. Dick. We are still deciding on the M.

I slip covered that chair with a white canvas. It wore me out!!!!

I know this is a far away shot, but there are Dick and Jane framed pics above the changing table.

I also sewed him a little blanket with a Dick and Jane flannel on one side and blue minky dot fabric on the other side.

And here's a real belly shot for you. 38 weeks.

Mother's Day morning I was gifted with several homemade cards by the kids. I really enjoyed Gabby's poems, drawings and descriptions of me. Some of them were hilarious.

This was taken right before church on Sunday.

This was at lunch on Sunday.

My mother and I.

Mackenzie is covering up Alex with her hand, but he was there too!

Happy Mother's Day out there to all you mother's!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gabby's Dance Recital

2011-05-02T14:10:00.001-07:00

This was Gabby's 5th dance recital and she did beautifully!!! We are so proud of her!!!! She participated in three dances: ballet, jazz, and tap. My favorite was the ballet. She looked so beautiful on stage!!! I wanted to cry!!! Way to go, Gabby!!!!!!!!!!!

Her mummy dance was a jazz dance. She really enjoyed being a mummy!

Her tap dance was a baseball theme. Very cute!!!!!!!!!

I ran out of batteries on my camera, so I didn't get very many of her with all of the family members that came: both sets of grandparents, her Aunt Shannon ( former RDS dancer pictured below), her Aunt Sharon, Aunt Teri and of course us!!!

Gabby was awarded a trophy for 5 years at Robin's Dance Studio. We are sooo proud of her!!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-29T14:00:00.001-07:00

Easter egg dying on Saturday.

The easter bunny came bright and early. Alex got up at 4:30 a.m. to check it out and eat a few chocolates. We stayed at my parents house, so sleeping arrangements were not our normal ones and I think the kids were too excited to wait.

The night before, we swam and hung out with our cousins. Mackenzie loved the waterfall!!!

There's nothing better than ice cream on the porch after a long swim!!!

This year I decided that Gabby and Mackenzie would be matching. This is something I rarely get to do with their age difference, and believe me, Gabby hated the bow, but I thought they were so cute in their matching dresses!!!!!!

I snapped this one right before we walked into church. I just loved the sight of my girls with their daddy!!!!!

Okay, so my pictures are getting scrambled here. This was all of the kids with their stuffed dogs that the Easter Bunny brought to them!!!

Here is after church behind my parents house on the golf course. The kids loved this open space for running and chasing the resident ducks!!!! But, we still attempted some family pics...

Only 3 weeks left!!!!!!!!!! I am soooo ready!!!

The kid dyed easter eggs again at Grandmommy's house.

Mackenzie might have dyed her hands as well!

Then we hunted easter eggs with our cousins!

It turned out to be a real 'hoppinin' easter celebration!

Everyone would agree!

A New Bed, Willy Wonka & Valentine's

2011-02-15T14:28:00.001-08:00

We recently bought Mackenzie a new big girl bed. The next step is having her sleep in it! Her crib still fits in her room, so we still let her sleep in it. It's so much easier, but with new baby coming, we need to train her within the next few months!

As a special treat, we bought the old movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and let the kids pick out their favorite candy at the grocery store to eat while watching. Believe me, that movie makes you want to eat chocolate. Try watching it without craving chocolate!

Speaking of chocolate....between Girl Scout cookies and this past Valentine's day, I am going have to roll myself around the house like the character Violet (blueberry girl) from Willy Wonka. I've got to stop! Here are some pictures of the kids opening their presents on Valentine's Day.

Yum!!!!

In other news, we are on Skunk Watch 2011. Apparently a family of skunks thought under our deck was a great place to set up camp. We've had to hire a company to trap them one-by-one. So far we've caught 6 skunks!!!!!!!! Exciting news, I know! Also in a soon to be posted post...our nursery is coming along nicely. I will post our progress soon!

Birthdays & Christmas Celebrations

2011-01-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

All the Grandkids on the Dick side of the family.

Presents at Grandma's

New shoes for Mackenzie!!!

I think Gabby's likes her present!

Santa came!!!!

In front of Grandma's house.

Chad almost wins the ping pong tournament.

Picture with cousin Katie (a little blury because no one holds still)

Hooper & Noble Cousins come visit our home.

Alex turned 4!!! We had his party at Bounce U where the whole family had a grand time!!!

Baby Jackson even had a blast!

Happy Birthday, Alex!!!

My sister Erica was in town from North Carolina!!! Her kids got to celebrate!!

Eventually Alex was so worn out he couldn't jump anymore.

Colton and Caleb came!

Hannah and Emma!!!

Grandma and Gido!!!

I'd say he had a great celebration!

We finished off the night of his birthday by going to his favorite resteraunt Rain Forest Cafe!

When the thunder and lightning started his sister Gabby was right there by his side to comfort him.

Everyone had to get a snake soveneir before we left of course...

Christmas at the Hooper's...

Gabby gets prissy in her new boots!!!

New Year's Day with my best friend Lexi. It also happens to be her birthday! Happy Birthday, Lex!!!

Alex goes back to school and gets to put 4 pennies in the bank at chapel.

Mackenzie wakes up on her birthday morning.

" Yippee!!! It's my birthday!!!"

We had a small family party for her at our house.

We love you, Mackenzie!!!!!!!

Present time!!!

We had to end the party just in time to go view Gabby's artwork that made it into the Rodeo again this year. She was awarded a blue ribbon. Out of 900 students, she was one out of 22 that got picked to go. We are so proud of her!!!!!!

We are happy to report there have been many celebrations around our household. First, Christmas, then Alex's 4th Birthday, and finding out our baby is a boy and lastly, yesterday Mackenzie's 2nd birthday. This time of year is our busiest, but it's just a reminder of how incredibly blessed we are!!! Happy New Year!!!!

Think Baby Blue!!!

2010-12-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

Well, if you haven't guessed from the title, we just discovered at yesterday's ultrasound we are having a BOY!!!! We are so excited! I am already getting pumped about decorating a precious baby boy nursery. Here are a few ideas I found online that I love:

Christmas To Do List

2010-12-18T19:48:00.000-08:00

As we anticipate the BIG Christmas day that is rapidly approaching, we have an unwritten Christmas List of traditions that we tend to follow every year. It usually goes like this:
Attempt to get a good picture for the Christmas card:
Take 1: "Alex stop making faces!"

Take 2: "Alex, again stop with the faces!"

Take 3: "Mackenzie sit still, and again Alex, SMILE!!!!"

Take 37: "Close enough...oops Chad, open your eyes!!!"

Take 77: "Forget it!"

Holidays are a time for loving thy brother and sister.

Gabby has her holiday performance:

We go look at Christmas lights as a family:

This is our yard.

Mackenzie is making her wish list, and I suspect dress up shoes will be on that list.

We make visits to Santa. He came to Alex's school.

Holiday parties at school

Gabby at her 1st grade holiday party.

We always make Christmas sugar cookies!!!! Yum!

Mackenzie got to join this year!

Grandma reads the cousins a Christmas story.

We visit Santa!!!!!

Alex tells Santa he wants a remote control car.

Hey, we're just glad Mackenzie sat on his lap with out screaming her head off this year.

Gabby tells Santa she wants more books for Christmas.

Alex practices his best pirate face.

We just sit make and wait for the big day!!!!

And, we tradionally stuff our faces with every treat we can get our hands on!!!! Merry Christmas!!!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2010-11-28T15:31:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas tree decorating!!!!

Gabby is hanging up the baby Jesus at the highest point on the tree.

SMORES!!!!

Well, I guess you can tell from these pictures what we've been up to these past few days. We certainly had an awesome Thanksgiving eating, being with family and enjoying time off...however, Thanksgiving always marks the beginning of Christmas season for us. We decorate the Christmas tree, have our annual family slumber party, eat smores, stay up late and drink eggnog with coke. All of this is fun, yet hard work for the parents. But, it's worth it. We are anticipating what's to come this holiday season and finding out what our baby is. So many surprises!!! I love this time of year!!!! Each year holds something new for our kids stage of growing up. Mackenzie is just starting to participate and have fun with our family traditions. Alex wants whatever new toy that is advertised on TV and Gabby is well-aware of what's to come and knows what fun we have every year. We took our Christmas card pic today, and let's just say there were definitely more outtakes than usable photos, but it's all apart of the fun.

Fall Activities and BIG NEWS

2010-11-17T13:19:00.001-08:00

Isn't he cute!? I love my little football player!

Raw talent in cheerleading...just like her mama...he he

Mackenzie was there to support from the sidelines. She was their cutest fan!!!

This fall Gabby and Alex got to participate with their cousins Colton, Caleb and Camdyn in football and cheerleading!!!

Then we went to Dewbery Farms with our cousins. It was fun but VERY HOT! It didn't feel so fallish. But the kids enjoyed themselves.

See the excitement on little Alex's face as we rode the hay ride to the pumpkin patch...priceless!!

The sun was glaring in our eyes, but the scenery was too nice to pass up as a family pic.

That about sums up the trip.

Now, on to Halloween....we had a super heros theme this year. Gabby and Mackenzie were big and little wonder women and Alex was classic Batman.

More special times with our cousins...

I love Gabby's pose in this picture.

I bet all my many readers thought I had given up on blogging. But, I am back. I am back because my life is full of wonderful moments that must be documented. I promise to do so more frequently. If not for the one or two of you that used to read, but for me and my kids to one day look back and laugh at how crazy things were. And things are about to get even crazier....which leads me to my big annoucement....I'm pregnant!!! I am due in May. I am not sure why I took so long to post this, maybe it was my own shock that I might have four children, or denial. Either way, a baby is on his/her way to add to our Dick Family Diaries. This really is great news. We should find out if this baby is a he or she next month, hopefully, fingers crossed, before Christmas. My kids and Chad and I are dying to know. I promise to keep posting in the future!!!

Seven years ago today....

2010-09-26T15:03:00.000-07:00

Where are you going my little one? How have these seven years just slipped right through my fingers? I'll never forget the day I first saw you, the look of confusion on your little face, how sweet you smelled, how dark and soft your hair was, how exciting you made life from that moment. It has been pure joy to have the privilege to raise you, to know you. I thank God every day for choosing me to be your mother. Happy Birthday, my big seven-year-old!!!!

Cheerleaders, Football Players & Birthdays

2010-09-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

Cousin Cammie and Gabby get to be on the same cheer squad!!!

Although they are not on the same team, Alex gets to see Colton and Caleb after practice since they all practice at the same time.

Cousins making great memories!

Chad is Alex's coach. It's pretty interesting...

Cousin Katie's birthday party!!!!

Star Wars was the theme, so Jackson came dressed as Yoda. Isn't he just adorable??

Alex fell asleep in the car before we got to the jumpy place, so Gido held him for a little while while he slept.

As you can see he woke up just in time to jump into the pit of foam.

These two are both turning 7 this week! Happy Birthday, Girls!!!!

Now it's Chad's turn to party!

Happy Birthday Chad!!!!

Chad on his birthday, just before he left for work. Poor guy, he had to work on his birthday.

This month has proven to be extremely busy. We've been running around all week going to girl scouts, dance, and now cheer practice for Gabby and flag football for Alex. You heard right. Alex is now a little sports man. He may not understand ANYTHING about the sport of football, or can catch a ball, BUT he gets to start somewhere and have fun. Also, the practices for cheer and football are at the same time and place every week, so it's better for the whole family. We've only had one practice, but it was great. There is even a toddler playground near by that Mackenzie can enjoy.

We also made a trip to Austin this past weekend to celebrate Katie's birthday and visit Chad's brother Shawn and his wife Yvonne, and his sister Shannon and her husband Mak. We don't get to Austin much these days, so it was great catching up with them. Also, since Longhorn football began, we felt the vibes in Austin on game day. Hook'em!!!

Chad's birthday was on this past Monday, but we had some family over on Sunday night to celebrate, and Monday he and I went to his favorite Lebanese resteraunt Cafe Lili. The food is to die for! Now, this weekend will be Gabby's birthday party. Even though it's been a busy month, we are so happy that we have so much to celebrate. And soon you will see that there is more to celebrate.....

September Update

2010-09-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since we have updated what's been going on around here. School started, dance lessons for Gabby, ladies bible class and sonshine class for Mackenzie. Lots of love and family time had by all. Longhorn football has begun, so Chad is pumped every weekend, in fact we went to the first game at Reliant Stadium last Saturday. It was really nice. Coming up...Chad and Gabby's birthdays and a trip to Austin. It should be a fun month. And, little by little we're getting closer to Christmas....

Alex's First Day of Preschool

2010-08-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

Alex was such a big boy yesterday!!! He did great at school!

I was so proud of him! He told me that he was a good boy, so I believe him...mostly.

So, Mackenzie and I had one-on-one time together. It was really nice to get to have that special time together. There was short moment when I wished I sent her to school too, but then we had such a sweet time bonding, I knew we made the right choice letting her be home with me one more year. Looking at Gabby, I see just how fast they really grow up. I am savoring every moment of my baby! She reminds me sooo much of Gabby at this age. It's like deja vu. Especially when she wears some of Gabby's old clothes. I love it! It's like Gabby all over again, but different because she does have her own little cute personality. Her new favorite sayings are "Sit down!" or "Get down off uh there!" (to the cat) Precious and priceless moments occur everyday. Today she actually folded her hands and bowed her head to say a prayer at lunch, and said "Men!" (amen) after we prayed. I wished I could of grabbed my camera. I can't get enough of her! I guess that's a good thing since we're together 24/7!

My Baby is a 1st Grader!!!!

2010-08-24T16:43:00.001-07:00

Monday was Gabby's first day 1st grade! It's so hard to believe that summer's over and Gabby is already in 1st grade about to turn seven next month! Boy, do I feel old!

"Mom!!! Stop taking pictures of me!"

She did fine. I don't think she even notice me leave the room.

Then I come home to two little blankey lovin' TV watchers. Isn't that so cute?

The day was much quieter without Gabby, so we sure were glad to see her come home off the bus!!!!

What a big first grader!!!

Think Sharp, Feel Sharp and Be Sharp!!!

2010-08-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

1st grade is around the corner!!!

-School Supplies....check!

-hair cuts....check!

-realization summer is almost completely over....NO WAY!

But, Monday morning we'll be ready to:

"Think sharp, feel sharp, and be sharp!"

-Don Hooper PhD

It's Summertime, and The Living is Easy

2010-08-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Can you tell someone had a red popcycle? Nothing says summer like a baby eating a messy popcycle!!!!

Gabby got a visit from her cousins from North Carolina! My sister Erica's kids. Hannah is on the left and Emma on the right.

Getting 7 kids to look at a camera at the same time is IMPOSSIBLE!

Nothing like a little bribe to do the trick!

We just had to bring our cousins to our neighborhood pool! They totally loved going on the slides and high-dives! (So did I...he he ;) )

Mackenzie in her bathing suit!

Alex and William were quite a pair!

This picture reminds me of Huck Finn and I don't know why! They just look like a couple of good ole' American boys having fun in the treehouse.

Mexican Food! Need I say more?

Movies!!!!

Bubbles!!!!!!!!!!!!! ( That's my niece, Keely, to the right)

Homemade ice cream!!!!!!

Trampolines and Sprinklers!!!!!

The all important cousin pic! We made a stop at my sister, Amy's house in Pfluggerville before heading to Granbury!

My favorite part, the tearoom at one of the antique stores we stopped at in Granbury! The food was delicious, but the finds were even better!

Erica and I.

My mom and me

We found this adorable children's wicker chair for only $24!!!! What a find! Mackenzie enjoyed the good deal as well!

We took the kids the the Houston Children's Museum. They really loved it! Can't you tell?

Their favorite part was the little mini-pretend resturaunt.

Gabby was already working her skills as a waitress.

Alex loved pretending he was a waiter too! Thank you Houston Children's Museum! Now my kids have realized their passion in life! JK! ;)

Fun with Befores & Afters

2010-07-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

My Dining Room BEFOFE:
My Dining Room AFTER:

My Den BEFORE:

My Den AFTER:

My Kitchen BEFORE:

My Kitchen AFTER:

I love Befores & Afters. They make life seem so easy to fix, despite all the work that went into each space between pictures. It's one of the reasons HGTV is so addicting. Tell me if you have any befores or afters you want to post. I'd love to see!!!

My Kitchen Chalkboard Project Story

2010-07-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

This story starts at Home Goods last Saturday, when I'm supposed to be on the hunt for a rug for our den (we are getting wood floors), when my eye wanders in the lamps and wall decor section. I happen to find adorable, large-framed chalkboards for sale. I love, but I redirect my attention to the task-at-hand---getting a rug, foolishly thinking I could always come back and buy one of those chalkboards later. As Julia Roberts would say, "Big mistake, BIG!"

Monday morning rolls around, and I get a bee in my bonnet that I just have to have one of those chalkboards to go in my kitchen. I mean I still have some leftover birthday money, even though I'm sure I spent most of it on that rug. Nevertheless, I can't get the decorating idea out of my mind. So instead of getting groceries like I should, I trudge all three kids off to Home Goods, passing HEB on my way. The whole way there my heart is pounding with excitement. I know this sounds like a bit much, but as a person that rarely deviates from my normal schedule, it was kind of thrilling. After a few, "Don't touch anythings." and "Who wants to ride in the carts." We are breezing through the thankfully air-conditioned Home Goods. I make a beeline back to the section where it all started only to find that ALL the chalkboards were GONE! (Ugh) This may sound kind of crazy, but I actually wanted to cry. Silly, isn't it? I kept searching the section and shelves over and over again only to find their bulletin board look-a-likes. After taking everyone to the potty, one-by-one (not an easy thing to do), feeling defeated, we left Home Goods empty-handed. At that point, I probably should have given up and went on to HEB to get my regular Monday groceries, but I didn't. We ended up going to 4 different places after that, searching for a dang chalkboard. You would be surprised how rare they really are, especially ones with a cute frame. Then the idea came to me...what about chalkboard paint? Yes, I could buy one of the bulletin boards and somehow convert it into a chalkboard. Sooo after a stop by Home Depot for paint, and Home Goods for a bulletin board. "The Project" begins......
Yup, I painted directly onto the cork board.

This paint costs $10 at Home Depot. And, a little bit goes a long way.

Not a bad paint job, I didn't even have to tape. I guess it's just my experience with painting my kids bedrooms numerous times.

As you can see, the texture was just not right for writing on with chalk.

My kitchen wall before.

Empty wall.

After: I added some antique platters.

Painted bulletin board, looks nice, but not working... So after a phone call to my handy dad, I figured I could always try popping out the bulletin board and somehow attaching a hard board on the aback that can be painted. The next night I went to Home Depot and found a very thin, smooth, but sturdy type of board and had them cut it for free to my exact dimensions. I walked out of there with a board for my kitchen and the leftover scrap (which was larger) for less than $4. Wow! I figured I could use the leftover board to paint a chalkboard for my kids to play with.

Oops! I made the mistake of choosing a screw that was too long. I later covered it up with a marker. You hardly notice it.

I was lucky enough to find several smaller smaller screws in my tool box that didn't make a whole on the other side of the frame. I used my husband's power tool to screw in the new board

Who doesn't hang pictures and paint while cooking?

The lasagna was a little neglected in the oven while I was busy with the new board, but I don't think anyone noticed.

Don't try this at home. Mixing painting, drilling and hanging pictures with cooking. Although, I'm not sure you can count throwing a Stouffer's in the oven cooking?

Ahhhh. Finished product. After, popping out the corkboard, and attaching the painted board from Home Depot, the was actually a little gap where I can store the chalk.

Now I've got a great place to write notes, scriptures or what's for dinner....etc.
A special thanks to The Nesting Place for the idea.

And, the kids have a great place to use their sidewalk chalk outside without making a huge mess.

Maybe just a small mess...

Mackenzie approves too! ;)

Antique Store Finds...

2010-07-11T19:35:00.001-07:00

My mom found this gorgeous white soup tureen for only $15!!!

Antique platter from England, half price, $19

And now the best deal yet! Almost highway robbery...

Wicker chair: $20, matching table: $15 WOW! I am deciding about rather I want the chair to stay outside on my back porch or I might want to spray paint it an interesting color and put it in my den with a cute fabric on the cushion. Still debating...

What a deal!!!!

With being in Granbury recently, I've had the opportunity to find some really awesome deals. I really appreciate a good find. My mom also helps me. That woman could find a needle in a haystack if she wanted to use it to decorate her house.

July Aready?

2010-07-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

And the New York trip begins at Rockerfeller Center

Touring NBC Studios...Now time to meet the celebrities!!!!

Yes, I just happen to run into Julia Roberts, and she offered me a chair.

Chad's climbing the business ladder of success.

Beyonce asked me to be her back up dancer.

Chad got into a fight with P. Diddy. Who could blame him?

I'm not jealous, she's so fake.

Chad was then pulled over for an interview.

Britney was just hanging out, so I said "Hello"

That is just TALL!!!

Chad fit right in at the original Grimaldi's.

Day Two: Central Park & Met Musuem

Beautiful scenery....Chad's not bad looking either.

No, he's not an American Woman. Just the exhibit name, people!

For the Billy Madison fans: "Stop looking at me swan!"

Some of my favorite pieces.....

And, now off to dinner at Sardi's and Broadway to see Chicago!

Time Square right outside our hotel.

Nice dinner at Sardi's

I don't even look 30 do I? Don't answer that!

Right before the show

Day 3 (My Birthday): St. Patrick's Cathedral, 5th Ave, Lunch reservations at Serendipity 3, See Broadway "Promises, Promises", Midnight at Empire State Building

Inside the Cathedral, breathtaking.

Donald Trump's next Apprentice!!!

Souvenirs for the kiddos back home.

Very romantic, but short and kinda stinky and overly priced carriage ride.

My favorite spot in Central Park, where we sat on the lawn and just enjoyed nature. How often do you get to do that?

LUNCHTIME!!!!

Yummy!!!

Very Very Good Show!!!!

And to wrap up my birthday we went to the Empire State building and snuk a cupcake to eat at the top!

I'm afraid of heights, so the picture is not so clear, sorry!

Hurry and eat before the guard catches ya!

"Good Morning!" The view from our hotel room window!

Day 4: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, and HURRY to the airport

"Goodbye, New York!"

Before we take our taxi to the airport, we make a little stop at Gray's Papaya hot dogs. Delicious!!!

Back home we had a small celebration at Olive Garden for my birthday.

Now GRANBURY!!!!!!!!

Too cute not to post...

More cute...

Cousins at breakfast time.

Gabby, Alex & Mackenzie modeling their new NYC shirts!

Happy Fourth!!!!!!

Cammie and Gabby!!!

Model in the making

Hanging out on the couch!

My grandparents joined us for church and lunch

Kenzie is enjoying her lunch too!

Just the girls! My sisters, Amy, and Jennifer and my mom.

Firecrackers!!!!!

Wow how a summer flies by! I am almost sad thinking of all that I wanted to do this summer, but didn't get done. But, at least I did do some things that I wanted to do and that includes a fabuloso trip to NYC and getting some chill time with my kids at home. I also turned the big 3-0. Not my favorite part about this summer, but Chad and I certainly had a great reason to celebrate in the Big Apple. We also were celebrating 8 solid, happy years of marriage. And I think there was a Father's Day in there too. What a busy month June turned out to be! One of the reasons I have been behind on my blogging is that we also went to Granbury this past weekend to celebrate the Fourth of July with my family. We had a blast there too! I hope the rest of the summer is just as fun, but less busy, if it can be with three kids. I do still have a few more goals in mind to get accomplished, but they are not quite as fabulous as the fun we had at the beginning of the summer. I guess that would include organizing closets, skill-sharpening of my kids' school work, cleaning, more organizing, a few playdates and I bet we can have some fun at the Sienna pool some too!

Legacy

2010-06-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

This was hanging in my granddaddy's back room.

My grandparents.

Here we are having church.

My granddaddy is showing all the great-grandkids his missing finger.

My kids rang their bell, something I would do as a kid at their old house. They brought their bell with them.

A lifetime of love.

Generations gathered.

This past Memorial Day was definitely one to be cherished! These are the moments that make our life worth living. Being with Family. Having fun. Eating. But, what made this an extra special Memorial Day, was bringing my kids to my grandparents new home in Granbury, TX. For years, my grandparents have lived up in the panhandle of Texas, which made it almost impossible for my little family to ever get to see them. In April, they moved years worth of their things into a house near my parent's lakehouse. On this Sunday, we had Sunday church service in their living room. This brought tears to many of our eyes as we each realized the significance of what we were experiencing worshiping the Lord, together, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. Generations in one place honoring God. It was a moment that I know I will cherish beyond this day and time. My granddaddy spoke with tears in his eyes as he told us that he hoped that one day, we could do the same with our grandchildren and great-grandchildren, to truly grasp the magnitude of lifetimes of prayers answered. Can you imagine living long enough to worship God with your great-grandchildren? What a gift from God. Just think how pleased you are when your child does something remarkable for the first time. What a peace you would feel to see your future generations praising God. I know this moment was one that both my parents and grandparents have spent their lifetime striving for. I pray that one day I too will get to see this Legacy passed on to my generations and beyond. Praise God for my grandparents, and for their love of God, and for how they passed down their knowledge and wisdom on to us.

"Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord." Psalm 22:30

"One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts."

Psalm 145:4

Spring Pictures with Tiffany Fetter

2010-05-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

We recently had our pictures made with Tiffany Fetter. I saw some work that she had done for some people and was really impressed with the quality of her photos. With her permission, I am displaying some of our best shots! As you can see she is very talented, and very reasonably priced! I hope ya'll enjoy!

Walking the Baby

2010-05-18T14:23:00.001-07:00

Meet Sprinkles

2010-05-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

This is our latest addition to our family! Our little "Sprinkles." Her name has been Muffin, Cupcake, Nipper, Frisky.....but the final decision was given by Gabby thirty minutes ago, and we're sticking with it!!! Sprinkles. Sprinkles Marie Dick. Something kinda funny about Sprinkles Dick. He He....Oh well.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is a special day/weekend for me....

I get special treatment. My kids are extra behavied.....ish.

I get to enjoy fine dining at the country club (Thanks, Dad!)

So does Mackenzie..he he

My loving, hard-working husband spends all weekend checking off the "Honey Do" List: assembling my present, putting a trampoline together, touch up painting in Alex's room and even changing the above average number of smelly diapers. Thanks, honey!

And now, my present...A PORCH SWING!!!! I have always wanted a porch swing.

Notice Mackenzie gently pushing me off the swing.

What a trio!!! I love my babies!!! Thanks for making me be a mother. I couldn't have asked for a better job!

Earlier on Saturday....We invited are good friends Lexi, Adam and Garrett over to play games and eat some hot dogs, hamburgers and watermelon.

Life is Good!!!

Dancing Queen & Drapes

2010-05-04T12:50:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was Gabby's fourth dance recital. She did such an awesome job!!! We were so proud of her!!! She even won an award for Most Improved Dancer! This was her first year to really be displaying showmanship, smiling and well...putting on a show!!

Doesn't she look like a porcelain ballerina? The kind you would put on a shelf in your room?

She was so surprised to win an award. I had to keep it a secret longer than I almost could. But, somehow managed to hold it in until award time.

And, the grandparents had to show their support!!!

In other news, I made a new addition to my breakfast nook...CURTAINS!!! I have been obsessing (Chad was getting sick and tired of me heading out to Joann's and Hobby Lobby every Saturday) about putting curtains in my kitchen. I finally researched a tutorial online at Nester's and found a ridiculously easy curtain to make. I have yet to stitch one stitch on these, however I do plan on hemming and lining them when I get a chance. But for now they provide so much warmth to my entire kitchen and den. I just love them.

Finds

2010-04-29T15:41:00.001-07:00

My best friend and mom and I went antiquing today in the Richmond and Rosenburg area. I have been really longing to do so, since I rarely get to shop anywhere right now with the two kiddos in tow. But, today Alex was at school, so I figured I could handle just the one little Mackenzie, right? Wrong. She was quite the busy one, almost broke a few valuables, but we made it. I was very pleased that most of the things I got were under $10. I think Chad would be pleased as well or maybe he might just see this stuff as a bunch of old junk, but I love the old country style. It's amazing how one piece can transform my modern kitchen into an old historical home. Well, maybe not completely, but almost. My goal is to add one little item little by little to achieve the old classic country style. I've been wanting to go this route for years, but I get stuck with my same ol' same ol'. Since now I'm still moving in my new kitchen, I am trying to be a little more choosier with my accessories. I am officially phasing out the mass of roosters that I have collected through the years. Not that I don't like a few ones here and there, but for a while there rooster was almost everywhere you looked. My next mission--another plate wall with white antique platters.

Say What?

2010-04-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, I took this picture while driving today. I just couldn't miss the opportunity to share this logo. Can you believe someone would even think to name their company this? I have to admit, it caught my attention. But for now, I'll stick with Chad. Ha Ha!!!!!

Mackenzie Lately

2010-04-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's pancake syrup all in her hair!

Her first popcycle. Look at her little smirk on her face. I love it!

We call her "Babe-a-rella" because she is obsessed with cleaning.

Soooo, I went to Marshalls today. Can you believe these cute outfits I got for M? And, each of them were under $15. I love Marshalls!

My sweet little baby girl is growing up! She is literally EVERYWHERE and into EVERYTHING!!! I am really working hard to keep up with her. If we leave the house, it doesn't matter where we go, I have 10 minutes or less before she's ready to get down and SPEEDWALK! I love my active little cutie, but she is definitely putting Mommy to the challenge.

Easter

2010-04-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

Dying Easter eggs

We made a bunny cake!!!

The Easter Bunny came!

Mackenzie loved her wagon that held blocks.

Gabby loved her soft cotton-tailed bunny!

Alex loved his chipmunk movie!

After church was the egg hunt...

Pretty spring day...

We went to church with Grandma and Gido!

What a cute pair!

This picture was taken right in front of our car at church. We had to park in a field.

Then we ate some lunch....and played.

We can't get enough of those egg hunts!

Pretty flowers!

I love this happy picture!!!

As you can see, we had a fantastic Easter celebration! Happy Easter!!!!

The Big Move

2010-03-04T08:19:00.001-08:00

President George W. Bush Gala

Bye Old House!!!!

Kids can help pack too!

Mackenzie thought walking up and down the boxes was the most fun!

Our New House
BEFORE:

Den

Kitchen

Rodeo Day was today, and I thought this was too cute not to post!

These past few weeks have really been disheveled. We moved just after Valentine's Day. Since the move, we've been very sloooowly unpacking partly because I'm super busy taking care of the little ones, and partly because we were getting ready for the painters. We also made a trip out of town to Granbury. Typically we wouldn't leave town for just any reason, especially when our house is chaotic, but it was a special occasion--going to Fort Worth Christian's Gala where we heard George W. Bush speak!!!! It was amazing to be in the same room as a former president. He was so down to earth and laid back. I really enjoyed hearing him speak, and getting to see actual secret service agents around the perimeter of the room.
On another note, the painters are here today commencing the painting/wallpaper removal/remodel. I am tooooo excited! Although it was harder than I thought to choose paint colors and make decisions. It's so hard to know what will look good. I took pictures of the before to share with you. Everything is supposed to be finished at the end of next week. I'm crossing my fingers hoping it will be what I have envisioned in my mind. You know a tiny paint color swatch sure can look a whole lot different on a large surface area. I just hope I won't be disappointed!

A Day Filled with Love

2010-02-14T14:32:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all a warm and happy Valentine's Day!!!!!!

Big Changes in February!!!

2010-02-05T08:36:00.000-08:00

Gosh, I've really gotten behind on all blogging/facebook lately. And, we've had some pretty major things happen this past month. It started rather quickly after Mackenzie's birthday, when our house seemed to be busting at the seams with new toys from two birthdays and Christmas. Chad kind of started thinking we were growing out of this house, which at first I was resistant to admit, but after looking around, I agreed. We have been in this house for 5 1/2 good years. We've enjoyed so many wonderful moments and memories in this house. All of our kid's first birthdays, first steps, bringing babies home from the hospital, etc... How can we possibly replace such a house? After thinking and praying, we decided to put our dear house on the market. Once this decision was made, we began the long journey of repainting, sprucing up, paring down furniture, giving away and putting away toys, taking down clutter and so on and so on. After nine days on the market, we had an offer!!! We were a bit shocked, but it was happening. I wasn't sure that I was ready for everything to be happening so soon. Of course we are still in the ups and downs of whether everything will work out with this buyer. But soon afterward, we made an offer on a lovely, bigger, two-story house in Sienna Plantation, that I absolutely love and think it just perfect for us. We made a contingency offer on it. And now I am on an emotional roller coaster hoping everthing with work out. I am trying not to get my hopes up too much, but I can't help it. I can't stop decorating the new house in my mind. But, I am ready for anything whatever the outcome. I know God has his plan for us, and I will just follow whatever that is. I just thought I would share with the rest of ya'll who don't know yet. Please be praying for us that this all works out. We close on February 12th on our old house and February 16th on our new house!!!!! More updates to come!

Mackenzie's 1st Birthday

2010-01-10T19:54:00.000-08:00

Birthday breakfast, she gets the traditional pancake breakfast!

"I'm all dressed up for my party!"

I know, we had enough cake to feed an army!

It's almost too pretty to eat!

Her first taste.

She likes it!

Uh, oh....big MESS!

Okay, I know this is placed randomly among Mackenzie's birthday pics, but it is related. We ended the party a little early to go and see Gabby's art work that was picked to go to the Houston Livestock Rodeo for the school district. Her picture recieved a blue ribbon of excellence! We were so proud of her!

Present time!

"Um, I think I'll just stand on this one instead of opening it!"

"I love you, Gido!"

Mackenzie's party was a success! It was a small affair with just family. We had lunch, ate cake, and opened presents. We moved quickly, but for an impatient little one-year-old, the pace was perfect. Also, we needed to get up to Dulles High School to view Gabby's award winning artwork. I wouldn't miss that, but I was so torn. I guess that's what happens with multiple kids. You have to split your time. Mackenzie didn't know the difference and we had the best of both worlds. We are so blessed to have our little Mackenzie in our lives. I can't believe it's been a year!!!! It has gone by way too fast! She grew up over night! I am so glad she came into our lives! She makes me so happy! I love her little personality! I love how sometimes for just a quick moment, I feel like I traveled back in time with little Gabby as my baby. She reminds me sooo much of her! I love her little blonde hair, so different from what we expected from a quarter lebanese child! I love her strong death grip on anything that she want to hold on to and not let go of. I love her playful nature. I love how she adds so much to our family! I love now that she walks, she just wanders around our house getting into mischief. I love how she has become so attached to me that when I leave a room, she follows me worried that I might leave the house. I love how she tries to wash her brother's back and head in the bathtub. I love the way she savors food that she loves. I love how she is such a little lady because she prefers a fork for messy food. I love how she was my earliest walker. I love that as soon as she was mobile, she would make her way to the front door when daddy came home. I love the way she bear hugs any stuff animal or baby doll. I love seeing her smile at me through the slats of her crib after a good nap. There are so many things I love about her! I could go on and on! And, I can't wait to be there to watch her grow into a little girl. She is so precious and adorable and we love her tremendously!!!! Happy Birthday, Mackenzie!

Happy Birthday, Wild Thing

2010-01-06T20:30:00.000-08:00

Alex in his "wolf suit"

King of the Wild Things!

Mackenzie was enjoying her lunch!

Boy stuff!!!

Girls just want to have fun!

The post is a week late, but, hey, it's been a busy week and Christmas was a looong post. And, I felt it was important to keep Alex's birthday separate from Christmas. It's hard having a smashing terrific Christmas, the kind where you're feeling you need a few days just to let all of the excitment simmer down. Well, for the rest of my life, this can't happen!!!! Why? Because I have two precious children whose birthdays fall 3 days after Christmas and 2 weeks after. As I am writing this, my decorations for Mackenzie's 1st birthday are on my kitchen countertop. We aren't done yet! Meanwhile, every nook and cranny are crammed with toys, etc... I'm rambling. Anyway, Alex' s birthday party was a success despite the fact that we had to postpone it a couple of days due to both Gabby and Alex having strep throat!!! But, atleast it gave us a little more time to set up for his wild things party! I loved the theme of his party because Alex reminds me so much of the character from the book, Max. He is truly my little wild thing, but I love him. Alex really enjoyed having his party with all of his cousins and his friends. I think this was his first party that he really understood it was his birthday. Of course by this point he is on toy overload, but he still tore through those gifts like a pro. At the end of the day, I'm glad for all the happy memories and that he had a good time. I can't be completly relieved being that Mackenzie's party is Saturday, but it will be a much simpler party with just a few family members, so atleast I won't be sewing and decorating til the wee hours like Alex's party. I go overboard and I don't know why! What can I say? I just love putting together my kid's parties! But I'm ready for a break... Here's more...

Christmas Season

2010-01-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

Meeting Santa at the Country Club

Gabby performs a Christmas dance at Robins

Gabby's party at school

Time to bake sugar cookies. First they had to clean the cookie cutters. If only I could get them to do dishes more!

Mackenzie has become quite a little walker and talker!

LOOK at all those COOKIES!!!!

Gabby loses her other front tooth!

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!!!!

Baby's first Christmas present!

Christmas Eve morning we each opened one present!

Hannah and Emma visited our house!

William and Alex playing in his room!

Look-a-likes

Setting out cookies for Santa

Santa came!!!!

Baby's first Christmas!!!!

Most of the Hooper cousins take a picture!

Sometimes you run out of tables and the floor works just as well for an indoor picnic!

Christmas lunch

Opening presents=chaos

Mackenzie gets a basket of babies!

Alex was sick on his birthday, poor guy. Happy 3rd Birthday!!!!

Trampoline, a new Christmas present!

Alex opens a few new presents!

Aunt Shannon and Mackenzie at Grandma's house

"Look, I match the furniture!"

Gido reads "The Night Before Christmas"

Gabby loves her new guitar! Rock on!!!

Grandma shows Mackenzie the new see-saw!

Well, this has been one of the busiest Christmas seasons!!! Being a mother at Christmas time equals work! This work includes, decorating, shopping for gifts, hiding gifts, wrapping gifts, setting out gifts, trying to find a place to store the new toys in my already busting at the seams house! And 3 kids at Christmas, means triple the presents! I still enjoyed every aspect that encompasses the Christmas season from the family slumber party, baking sugar cookies, visiting Santa, looking at Christmas lights, shopping alone with Chad, setting out Santa, watching our kids see what Santa brought, visiting with family...it was quite a season! I look forward to it every year, and I also somehow crave normalcy. And, after spending the whole day yesterday taking every Christmas decoration down, I'm almost feeling normal. We're all feeling a little sad that it's over but we're on getting ready for Mackenzie's 1st birthday, so that will be a lot of fun for the whole family!

Mackenzie Meets Santa

2009-12-13T16:09:00.000-08:00

Snow!!!

2009-12-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

Please disregard the pink hat and mittens. They used to be Gabby's, but we needed something.

In other news, Mackenzie took her first steps on December 1st, making her my earliest walker out of my three kids. She is 10 1/2 months. Wow! I guess she's learning from her brother and sister!!!!

Isn't she growing up sooo fast?

Yes, we really saw snow today. And like a kid, I went outside with Alex and spun in it, and tasted it and laughed. I was so giddy. It's one of those rare moments when all of the conditions were right and it happened here in Houston. It was an incredible feeling. I haven't seen much snow in my life, so when I see it it thrills me so. Alex loved it, although he didn't understand how rare the moment was, and he was ready to go back in. His mittens were soaked, and so were our boots. I only wished Gabby was home from school so she could have joined us. Maybe it will still be here when she gets off the bus. I know she would have had a blast with us. Seriously, I have done nothing today, but stare out the window and drink hot cocoa. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

Thanksgiving Vacation

2009-11-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

Just relaxing...that's what the holidays are all about!

"What? Oh, I just needed a tissue."

Baking pumpkin spice cookies with mommy.

Hanging out with cousin Katie at Grandma's house.

Aunt Shannon is helping Mackenzie walk.

Guys talking sports.

Dinner time!!!

Baby's first Thanksgiving.

Naptime already? Nah, just pretending.

Time to get out the Christmas decorations!!!

Decorating fun!

Every year we have our annual slumber party. First we have Chinese food in the dining room, then we have smores and eggnog for dessert, next we decorate the Christmas tree, and lastly we have a slumber party where we watch Polar Express and sleep in the living room.

Egg nog and smores!

Alex had to change his pajamas after spilling his eggnog, but that didn't stop him from enjoying decorating the Christmas tree.

Movie time!!!!

This year we added a smaller tree to our den, so we have two trees. I love having two. I never get tired of seeing Christmas trees.

And now we have five stockings hanging from the fireplace. It's a great feeling seeing their little names in a row. I love my kids! I love Christmas! This year's gonna be a great one!

We had an excellent Thanksgiving this year! We spent this year with Chad's family in good ol' Missouri City. This year was everthing wonderful that you would expect of a perfect Thanksgiving:

#1 Good Food

#2Family Fun

#3 Christmas Decorating (to follow)

Is doesn't get any better than that!

To Do Box

2009-11-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

To Do:

-Laundry

-Kids

It's nice to have everything in one place for organization sake!

Halloween!!!!

2009-11-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

Alex's preschool teacher, Ms. Laura, painted faces on Thursday.

My kids showing off my friend, Amanda's designer halloween shirts.

Meow!

AHoy Mate!!!

Gido was a Benihenna (sp?) Chef

Mackenzie loved Grandma's pumpkin that lit up and laughed.

Cousins!!!!

We had an awesome Halloween. For me Halloween isn't about evil monsters or scary ghosts. It is about the joy I see in my kids eyes as they get dressed up and go trick or treating. And that's exactly what happened this year. Alex was the most excited. He was thrilled about the whole experience, especially when he tried to stuff candy in his mouth constantly. At the end of the night he was sad b/c he thought Halloween was over and his candy would be gone. He was happy to learn that his candy would be waiting for him in his pumpkin at the top of the fridge to be rationed out at dessert times. But, I mean come on, who can eat that much candy? Mackenzie could care less about the whole night. Gabby had the trick-or-treat thing down by now, but she was still very into it. We also carved the pumpkin that we picked at Dewberry. Other than being a little grossed out, Alex and Gabby enjoyed watching a plain ol' pumpkin turn into a real Jack O' Lantern. Halloween was definately the family day we wanted it to be and now I just gotta put away the decorations....ugh. Out with the old and in with the new... Thanksgiving!!!!

My Little Pumpkins

2009-10-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

It went a little fast than I expected!

Little buds!

Cole and Abbey joined us at the farm!

I love Alex's pose in this pic.

We took a family trip to Dewberry farms a couple of weekends ago. It was such a treat. If you've never been, I highly recommend this family adventure. It has become a tradition every year. This was Mackenzie's first year, and that made it even more special. There was so much to do there. This year was a little cooler than past years, which made is seem really autumn. The kids had a blast jumping on the hay piles, riding the corn ride, jumping on the bubbles, picking out pumpkins, visiting the farm animals and playing on all of the various play equipment.

We picked out three pumpkins and we plan on carving the large this weekend to get ready for Halloween. I love this time of year. We have really been looking forward to all the holidays this year to spend as a family.

Happy Birthday Gabby!!!!

2009-09-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

After school on Friday.

After her "makeover" at Sweet n Sassy

Rainforest Cafe

We have had such a wild and crazy weekend in the celebration of Gabby's 6th birthday. She is officially 6-years-old! Friday night Gabby had over some friends for a Hawaiian themed Slumber Party. The girls had a blast. It really brought back memories of the slumber party days. Then Saturday, her real birthday, after her friends went home, we took her to Chuck E Cheese for lunch. Then after, she was surprised by a trip to Sweet n Sassy to get her hair, makeup and nails done. Afterwards, she got to pick out a dress and a new pair of shoes to wear out to dinner at her restaurant of choice, Rainforest Cafe. There, she opened the rest of her presents with all of our family present. It was quite a birthday celebration! But she is such a sweet girl who loves surprises and she deserves it! I got a kick out of when I asked her if she had a great birthday to which she replied, "No...it was AWESOME!!!"

Alex's First Day of Preschool

2009-08-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Alex had our own preschool at home.

Gabby's first day on the bus.

Isn't this a cutie?

He did so great today! He knew we were dropping him off and picking him up later. He barely noticed that we left because he was so enthralled in all the new toys and things to do. I was so proud of him. He seemed like such a big boy. I could tell that he was excited to finally be doing what he has seen Gabby do. He even asked if he would be seeing her there because he remembers she used to go to this school. He was sad when I told him Gabby went to a different school, but he quickly got over it. I am praying for him and his teacher!

Gabby Goes to Kindergarten!!!

2009-08-24T14:42:00.001-07:00

Gabby had a great day! And, I didn't even cry when I dropped her off. I thought I would, but I was too caught up in the details of the morning and the newness of it all. I also had a great feeling that she would be okay. She was sooo excited!!! She told me that she loved her day...they went to Art and the cafeteria for lunch. She told me they learned how to be quiet everywhere. Ha!!! Her favorite part was playing on the playground and seeing her old best friend from preschool there. She did great!

Sister Look-A-Likes??

2009-08-08T17:16:00.000-07:00

Baby Mackenzie

Baby Gabby

Baby Alex

Who does Mackenzie look like? Gabby or Alex? You tell me?

"Cooey Bird"

2009-08-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

My grandaughter, Hartley, was playing nearby

This is our nickname for Mackenzie. Leave it to Gabby to come up with a nickname that sticks. First we called her Cooey, because she was a baby and she coos. Then when we noticed the feathery way her hair stands up on her head like a bird, the name morphed to "Cooey Bird." Then sometimes we say the rare "Cooey Bird", one of the rarest of her kind. Just silly stuff that parents say to their babies. But you can see from some of her pictures. She really has a fuzzy chic head.