my boys

Addison shoots his first buck.

2012-01-08T20:10:00.001-06:00

Our last weekend to hunt. Robert, Addison and I headed to a stand at pa's suggestion in hopes of finding a good old buck for Addison to take as his first buck. Addison took a little nap as we waited for the feeder to throw. Several young ones came in. But not the shooter. We noticed a large buck running a doe in the distance but weren't sure he would make it into shooting range. Just towards the end of shooting light, "Steve" came into the feeder. Addison aimed, took his time and let the bullet fly. We didn't find any blood under the feeder and our hearts all sank. Robert and I both felt certain he had made a good shot. We looked a bit more and found him in the draw. Addison was so excited. It was such a wonderful memory to share with him. As we were dragging the deer out Addison politely asked him "Steve, stop licking me." We cracked up. Have you seen the cabellas hunting game commercial where the deer is on the couch with the guy in the Xmas sweater?

New carpet

2012-01-03T10:12:00.001-06:00

As soon as we got home from our holiday travels we were surprised to find out our carpet was going to be installed a bit earlier than we had planned. We rushed to finish all the painting and prep the new subfloor. Both boys rooms and my studio got fresh paint and new carpet. A lot of work. But So worth it. Addison loves his new room. He hardly comes out. He plays army men and star wars and blocks all day. I recovered a lamp and added a deer silhouette on his wall. He also has camo curtains. More later. Just wanted to keep you up to date.

At it again....a few Xmas pics

2011-12-26T22:02:00.001-06:00

That's right, I'm going to give blogging another try. In order to keep in touch and keep family and friends up to date on our life, I'm going to attempt to squeeze in time to blog. I will warn you.... I plan to doing all of it from my phone so don't expect fabulous photography or grammatical greatness or perfect spelling.... It will be great if I can put a string of words together that even make sense. Hope this helps everyone keep up with our crazy life.

two random....too random

2010-07-01T15:52:00.000-05:00

been trying to clean up my hard drive and delete pictures...which for me is impossible to do. found these two and had to share. Addison was going to pose for a shot that i had in my head...but the ladybug wouldn't cooperate! I'm tickled with this picture of him though! And don't you just love Asher's curls. I do! My sweet, sweet Hubby just brought me a whachamacallit, (my most favorite candy bar ever) just because he is thoughtful, and I enjoyed the entire king size treat slowly over the last couple hours. Mom has the boys and I am enjoying listening to the rain and piddling around the house. What a blessed life I have.

heeeelllloooo, anyone out there???

2010-06-08T17:40:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure anyone even looks at this dusty ole blog....but just in case, a quick photo of me and my addi.

he and asher were ~~fighting~~ wrestling and it was getting on my nerves....so what is a better ~~punishment~~ distraction than ~~forcing~~ asking one to sit for pictures with mommy and show off his new glasses.

I took 3 pictures using the self timer mode.....got two keepers I'd say. I love pictures of me with my babies...not because I'm vain, but mostly cuz i lke ~~seeing~~ feeling the love i have for them, every time i look at us together.

san antonio trip

2010-05-24T23:43:00.000-05:00

Robert and two of my brothers played in a golf tournament a few weeks ago. All the girls hung out with the kiddos at Aunt Leta's beautiful home. We had so much fun walking through the wild flowers, swimming, and watching the cousins play together. Here are a few snapshots from our weekend.

well good grief....

2010-05-14T16:32:00.000-05:00

I just can't keep up! I want to post pictures of the boys and tell bits and pieces of our lives.....but I just can't. I don't have the time or energy. Sadly I have found that blogging, keeping a neat house, weeding the garden, putting away laundry, all have been pushed to the back burner. So far back that I'm not sure that I will even find them over the summer. No, surely I will catch up when I am home again....or will I continue to neglect and just go play with the boys? well, here is one quick pic I took of Addison when I was setting up for a session. He kindly allowed me to take 3 pictures....sat for about 30 seconds for me so I could get a picture of him that was like the one i had taken of asher a few months ago. so that is all I have to leave you with for now, no baseball pictures, no promises to be a better blogger, no super funny stories and sayings that the boys constantly provide me with.....but one stunning little boy!

family pic

2010-02-06T15:00:00.000-06:00

nothing spectacular....just a few quick pics before leaving for church a few Sunday's ago.....

i adore this last shot...my 3 boys.....love 'em!

Asher

2010-01-12T13:44:00.000-06:00

long time no post....

2010-01-09T12:53:00.000-06:00

just a couple quick snaps before we left for church last week. wish i had had more time to set the tripod up and get a family pic....but we were running out the door. so seldom we all have clean faces and combed hair!!!!! and don't let the kids expressions fool you, they love having their picture taken. (NOT!!!!)

Backpacking

2009-10-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to take the boys backpacking. Robert has such fond memories of going with his family when he was growing up. We love listening to his stories from the trips they took. I had never gone before and Robert took me after we married. I loved it. Such a wonderful way to experience the outdoors, it gives you the opportunity to take in every little detail. And it is such an awesome feeling to conquer a mountain! We've hiked the same trail in New Mexico several times. We even hiked it while I was pregnant with Asher. Flooding had changed the trail so much and we could only recognize bits and pieces.

Addison enjoys his cup of hot chocolate...love the smudge on his face. Dirty camping boy! Me cracking up because Asher picked up a stick leaned on it and said..."I'm Yoga" (yoda)

the boys spent a good amount of time whittling sticks into spears. Then practicing their aim...hoping that the local chip munk would stick his head out and we could have squirrel for dinner. I love the little blessings you can find along a hike...like this little heart shape in the moss. And Asher found this huge crystal rock...made his trip complete. Addison enjoyed chopping wood with the axe and being the leader as we hiked.

as we were walking along the trail we would have to climb over large trees that had fallen down. all the sudden we heard a loud crash, and just behind us a tree fell on the trail. it was a little scary to think about how close we were to getting smushed! The elk bugled during the night and that is an amazing sound! We even inched our way along the edge of a drop off of about 30ft. It was terrifying to watch my children stumble and slip....but we were so proud how brave they were.

The boys did such a good job, we were so proud of them. They each carried about 15lbs. and we hiked about 4 miles in and then 4 miles out in the rain.

weekend preparations....

2009-08-31T10:39:00.004-05:00

tennis

2009-08-13T08:21:00.004-05:00

hours of fun for two boys.....

2009-07-27T12:45:00.003-05:00

i get asked all the time what there is to do in such a small town.....well, not much. the other day the boys caught a locust, tied fishing line to it and played with it for hours. it was pretty funny how it flew round and round in circles, then would land on their shoulder. it was like a pet kite.

disclaimers:: these are just some snaps for the grandparents, not any fabulous photography....and the boys totally dressed themselves, and i have no idea where they got their sense of fashion, and also it appears that asher forgot his glasses for the day and obviously his mother didn't notice either, and to me this seemed like good clean boy fun and the bug was not harmed (much).

Asher:::bird whisperer

2009-07-17T10:56:00.004-05:00

my mom took these pictures when she was keeping the boys for a weekend for me a while back. she said asher sat so still and patiently waiting for the hummers to get used to him. one of the hummers flew up and looked right into his glasses then tried to drink from his nose. how many people can say they had their nose picked by a hummingbird. i love that they make such precious memories every time they are with their mema!

boys golf tournament

2009-07-09T14:05:00.004-05:00

Fowlkes boys take first and third

so glad Robert could get away from work for long enough to come coach the boys. asher was extremely serious and competitive (so surprising i know). i don't know much about golf, but his swing looks beautiful, so fluid, so effortless....

in the top right pic, Addi is laughing because when he was getting ready to hit a fish jumped, loved his expressions when he was hitting...giving it his all. but his favorite part of the game...washing his ball, every hole, every time he got a chance....he was quite proud of his shiny ball. only thing better was getting a shiny medal to go along with it.

headed out of town for a few days again....so camp pics when i return.

i'm so ashamed....

2009-07-07T21:17:00.006-05:00

i really can't believe how long i've gone without blogging. it's not that i don't have anything to blog about, or even that i don't have any time, and you know that i have got oodles of pictures....i just haven't been feeling it lately. so now i'm in the mood and have lots to share....completely out of order and random and unorganized, i really don't know what has gotten into me. crazy summer days i suppose.

so first up---church camp sweeties---

my favorite picture from the whole week....it melts my soul, she's looks like an angel....she is an angel
"ya'unt beans..."

my sil and my great niece....she loves her Grammie, I love her piggies

and her metalic eyes, so pretty!

my oldest brother....who still calls me little sis and i love it....love him, miss him, so happy to spend time with him.....a man everyone should know! weird to say, but i'm so glad he had cancer, he lives life to the fullest everyday and is such an inspiration to me. (and yes, i'll give him my kidney if he needs it!)

father/daughter tea party....love that we drink tea out of a trash barrel that has been mixed with a big 'ole stick!

the most luscious lips ever belong to my great nephew Jake...so smoochable!

ok, enough for tonight...more camp fun, painting the bell and slip and slide. and some of Asher and Addi playing in a golf tournament. but the boys need to be tucked in and tuckered out! i promise to come back soon.

I get a little jealous....

2009-05-14T07:10:00.007-05:00

....when i am photographing a mother and her child/children. I WANT pictures of me and my boys, snugglin, laughing, goofing off. but i find too many excuses usually to take action and get them. Robert wanted to have a little fun and be the photographer for the night at the boys baseball games. so even though i wish i had on more makeup and my hair was fixed and not in a cap....i'm so excited to have a few pictures of asher and i. i know how fun it is to play with and love on my big boy....and now i get to see how sweet it really is. These pictures really inspire me and i am excited to get some more....

inflatable day

2009-05-13T17:18:00.005-05:00

they have a day towards the end of school where they fill the playground with all kinds of inflatable fun. Asher didn't think it was so cool to have his own little paparazzi, so not very many pictures of him...I think he was trying to lose me.

heeyy, batta batta batta......

2009-05-04T13:56:00.006-05:00

Asher also plays pitcher position. He is doing a great job of stopping the ball and making the play. His batting has improved so much this year. Last year he was very intimidated by the pitching machine, not at all now! I can't believe how much a year can grow them!

2009-05-01T07:46:00.010-05:00

I am sorry it has been so long since my last post, but i have been extremely busy with this and this. And now the boys are playing baseball several times a week....which means I'm taking lots of pics....just don't have time to post them. Here is Addison's first game of the season....

Addison plays the pitcher position, which means he gets lots of balls hit to him. he is like a machine and makes quick work of catching the ball and quickly getting it to first base.

this is one of those pictures that gives you a glimpse into what the future will be like....he is such a cutie and he obviously has the strut down.....gonna be mr. cool in high school!

and what's the best part about baseball? snow cones at the end of every game!

Sand Dunes

2009-03-31T09:08:00.001-05:00

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I should have blogged these a long time ago…sort of forgot about them. The boys both got to go on a field trip and I was thrilled to get to go along for the ride. This is the first time they have ever been to the sand dunes. It was so fun…I hope to go back as a family and really explore and look for the biggest, steepest hills to slide down.

snaps from play time at the park over spring break

2009-03-24T10:58:00.006-05:00

just felt like posting a few pictures...

2009-03-03T17:02:00.006-06:00

gearing up for a busy spring break. saying our prayers that Robert gets another promotion. enjoying the gorgeous weather. lots going on, everyday. missing family and friends, can't wait to see them. trying to squeeze it all in. just a few quick pics of my addi'boo

basketball

2009-02-27T09:18:00.002-06:00

click the 4 arrows at bottom right to view larger

J CREW complete

2009-02-25T11:38:00.005-06:00

Meet Jake

The kids and I weren't feeling 100% so we kept our distance. But we couldn't stand to not welcome and peek at our new nephew. So I stood across the room, while the boys peered in the window. Asher could hardly stand it not to get to hold and snuggle Jake. You can see the admiration written all over his face.

Pictures of Addison

2009-02-17T08:03:00.009-06:00

Here are some snapshots from a while back. Addi often asks if I will push him on the swing AND take pictures. He thinks it is hilarious when I get hit by the swing because I have my face glued to the camera. And he loves looking at the pictures we get (most of which are all a blur). He also likes having me swing and taking my picture; he loves to rapid fire and take about 50 pictures at once. BUT, I'm not posting any of his great shots, cuz I look like a big ole dork. So, here's my cutie, flying high, swinging like a maniac!

I didn't change the orientation on these pictures, because I think it is fun to see him upside down, side ways and crooked. He likes to push off of the tree and make the swing go all crazy and wobbly, the turn upside down and spin around.

like his pony tail?

this little laugh right here, is from ramming into me, he looks concerned that I might have gotten hurt huh? Good times, I'm glad I can make him laugh. I love hearing it! And if you look closely you will notice that I STILL haven't pulled his teeth on the bottom and his other tooth has grown in behind it. Every time I wiggle them he cries and I just don't have the heart to torture him given all he has gone through with his teeth. I'm hoping they will just fall out! Anyone, want to come pull them for me....I hate pulling teeth, the blood makes me a little queasy.

pretty sure, I got hit after this shot. totally worth it!

serious little look he is giving me, perfect green eyes, precious little lips, and a jaw breaker! Oh, and how those freckles sprinkled across his nose and cheeks melt my heart!

Now wasn't that fun!

it's raining candy

2009-02-14T12:53:00.001-06:00

love the expressions of the kids watching

Asher's Birthday

2009-02-14T11:40:00.001-06:00

how to keep warm in the winter...

2009-02-11T14:27:00.005-06:00

I was tagged....one word

2009-02-02T13:39:00.004-06:00

My friend Marty tagged me a while back.

1. Where is your cell phone? table

2. Where is your significant other? work

3. Your hair color? brown

4. Your mother? sweet

5. Your father? strong

6. Your favorite thing? children

7. Your dream last night? none

8. Your goal? Christlike

9. The room you are in? office

10. Your hobby? photography

11. Your fear? God

12. Where do you want to be in six years? better

13. Where were you last night? home

14. What you are not? exercising!

15. One of your wish list items? lens

16. Where you grew up? iraan

17. The last thing you did? laundry

18. What you are wearing? jeans

19. Your TV? off

20. Your pet? Bodie

21. Your computer? awesome

22. Your mood? content

23. Missing someone? kids

24. Your car? new : )

25. Something you are not wearing? jewelry

26. Favorite story? Jesus

27. Your Summer? FUN

28. Love someone? YES

29. Your favorite color? turquoise

30. When was the last time you laughed? yesterday

31. Last time you cried? last week

I tag Heather, Jennifer, SanDee

and what is a post without a picture....Katie girl, so sweet to let me have a little pink in my world!

Everyday moments

2009-01-27T09:11:00.000-06:00

Have I said how much I enjoy watching my little men play together? Just checking...cuz, I do. Most of the time they play and work so well with each other. They come up with the most amazing story line, games, and inventions. I love their imaginations. I love their little boy fingers (bitten nails and all) grasping a toy soldier. I love hearing their chatter as they discuss what is going on and what will happen next. I love their messy, straight out of bed...and right to play hair. Basically, I LOVE my BOYS and everything about them! (Though, I wouldn't mind finding a little less dirt on the bathroom floor!)

creative kids

2009-01-12T09:25:00.004-06:00

I love watching my kids play. I love seeing them formulate a plan and the excitement that grows as they work to put something together. The boys and their friend Katie had such fun, making a new drink and then setting up a stand to share it with the neighborhood. After a few minutes in the cold they decided that summer would be a better time to serve their ice cold, slushy concoction. They came in asking for hot cocoa and to get in the hot tub. Aaahhh, the life of a child. It makes me smile!

what do you do while recovering from surgery?

2009-01-12T09:19:00.007-06:00

and you have never really enjoyed watching tv anyway, and you have crafted and colored to your heart's content, and bleh...who wants to do your makeup work from school....

well, you gather random objects and make a tower of course....
let's see just how many items I can balance and stack... then I'll ask mom to take a picture of my masterpiece

and isn't this just the perfect potato to play with...a heart

next I will tie the fishing string across the room and make a trap for Asher.

That's my Addi! So glad he is feeling better. He is finally eating some and making it almost all the way through the night without needing medicine and comfort. Today is his first day back at school. I knew it was going to be really hard on him, since he had been out for three weeks. My good friend Diane and I devised a plan to try and avoid the melt down. We thought maybe if she picked him up and took him to school then he wouldn't cry. He let us know last night that he wanted his Momma to take him to school, but thanks anyway. As it got closer to time to go this morning, his eyes got more and more wet! He said "I just want to stay with my momma!" All went smoothly though, Diane picked the boys up and they giggled and laughed on the way. Then her sweet daughter walked Addi to class. I had lunch with him and his teacher said he seemed happy to be back. All the kids in his class were happy to have him back and welcomed him too. So so glad he is finally doing better. Nothing harder on a momma than watching her baby suffer!

Welcome Trig

2009-01-08T20:03:00.005-06:00

Justin and Carrie's little man arrived the day after Xmas. I couldn't wait to see him, and since we were coming to town for Addison's surgery, we planned to stop by and check out the new house and the new baby. I was completely in heaven holding that little man. It is strange how uncomfortable I feel holding some babies, and how completely at ease, comfortable, and pleasant it feels to hold others. I suppose some of it has to do with how close we are and how much I love his parents, but man, oh, man...that little guy felt like some sort of sweet bliss in my arms. I didn't even want to put him down to take pictures. So I'll just warn you that by the time I actually did share him...it was dark outside, and I was too lazy to get my flash, and blah, blah...so the few pictures I did take aren't the greatest....other than the fact that they have this super precious angel and a loving big sister and some really proud cousins. So in my mind, these are the best shots that I could have captured.

Asher was about as bad I as was. He was totally obsessed with holding his new cousin. He kept trying to rub his cheek on him, and nuzzle him like a kitten would. So cute, he was overwhelmed with the urge to snuggle with Trig. Didn't want to put him down, and couldn't keep his hands off of him.

Thanks for letting us stay with you and sharing your sweet cuddles. Wish we could have stayed longer. Hope everyone is feeling all better.

Addison preop

2009-01-05T19:05:00.005-06:00

Here are a few pictures of Addison before his tonsillectomy. When we first got to the surgery center, he grabbed my hand as we walked across the parking lot, looked up into my eyes and with tears in his own eyes told me that his "heart hurt". By the time we reached the door, he had turned into a brave boy and you would have never guessed he had a bit of fear in him. He giggled and played with Asher and another boy in the waiting room. Was very big and brave when it came time to take some medicine, change clothes, and climb up in the big bed. He was all smiles and sillies. We are so proud of him!

He was throwing up yesterday, so it was a pretty rough day. He is feeling sooo much better today though. Thank you for all those who have sent prayers up on his behalf, have dropped by to wish him well, brought or sent goodies for him to eat and things to occupy his time. Tomorrow will be hard on him, since Asher will go back to school.

work, best cure for a fight

2008-12-31T10:09:00.010-06:00

I'm super duper sore today from working in the yard yesterday with the boys. We finally finished removing all the busted rock and plastic that remained in the pond. It was a nasty mess filled with leaves, dirt, rain...lots of good smelling, decomposing matter and worms and rolly polies. I couldn't believe how Asher was digging into it with his bare hands and loving the icky mess. He said "What Mom, I AM a boy!" Later he took a big sniff of his hands and said "I love that smell, it smells like summer" HMMM, not sure what he was relating that smell to, boy stuff I guess. I always remember summer to smell like sunscreen and chlorine. Addison wasn't as "in" to the whole yuck because I didn't want him to get his shoes muddy and he didn't want to go change into a different pair. So he fell into the role of a servant, which was completely by his choice and not prompted by me in any way. He began bringing us "fluids, to keep us hydrated" (I have been telling him to drink plenty so he can recover from his upcoming surgery more quickly) and snacks (which I had to feed Asher because his hands were covered in muck, but I had been wearing gloves and had "clean enough" hands by boy standards). Addison would sit and wait for us to ask for a different tool and to his complete joy would lend his knife whenever I needed it. After we got all the rocks and things out we started filling the wheel barrow with fresh dirt and filling the hole in. Asher took a break and Addison and I got to work together for a while. I love the conversation that comes with manual labor side by side with your kid. Initially I started yesterdays work because the boys were arguing and pestering. I knew they needed something worthwhile to do. Of course their attitude was not the best when we started, but within minutes of working, the grouch melted away. I saw this over and over again with boys in the foster home we worked in. The child who was making you miserable and being the biggest pain was the one you needed to work side by side with and in time would probably become one of your favorite people to be around. Anyway, after all the work was done, both boys piled in and played in the dirt.....aahhh, boys! And yeah, it is december and my boys don't have any shirts on...can you believe how warm it has been.

*just a note: I typed this up last week, but didn't have time to add photos and post until now. Addison's surgery went well and he is painfully recovering. I'll post pictures and more about it soon.

I've been missing this blog!!!

2008-12-29T16:24:00.008-06:00

Sorry it has been such a long time since I posted. Holidays are crazy times!!! Lots has happened since Halloween. Hopefully I will be able to keep up the blogging and get everyone up to speed.

A few pictures from Christmas. I actually didn't take any pictures xmas day, but these are from a few days prior. The boys were going to spend a few days at the ranch with Mema and Pa so we decided to let them open some presents from Grandma and Grandad, knowing that these gifts would be perfect for the ranch.

shaking and guessing....

I started to clone out the candy cane evidence left on his face...but this is how Addison looks most of the time. Loves tattoos on his cheek and breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner around the mouth...

the first realization of what he just opened

complete delight....(on both sides of the camera)

a few safety tips from Dad, love these pictures!

taking aim at Robert's buck mounted in the corner of the living room

Addison struggling to pump it

needed a little help from Daddy the first time...

will love and cherish this picture for years to come...Daddy's hand wrapped around my little man's tiny hand.

and of course we told them not to shoot out their eye! They actually have done really well and I don't think they have shot anything they shouldn't have. They had a great time shooting coke cans, grasshoppers, cactus, and targets. Both the boys are a very good shot. Asher really enjoys shooting targets, but Addison is itching to hunt!

Boo!

2008-10-31T10:16:00.005-05:00

Unfortunately, I didn't have time to get any pictures of the boys before they went to school. But I know you can't complain about seeing this pretty little pumpkin. I'm so lucky to be her great aunt! Asher made a big deal about not wanting Addi to be the same thing as him, so we kept his costume a secret until Addison decided on his. Asher wanted to dress as incredible hulk, but he wanted to make the costume, not buy one. He was thrilled with all his green muscles this morning. Addison chose to be a skeleton. We painted glow in the dark on a bones costume. He loved getting his hair painted black (and only fussed a little about me accidentally spraying it in his ear). They both loved painting their faces and stood perfectly still as I worked. (I knew they could be still, even though they act like they can't when I want to photograph them). It will be a full day, they are trick or treating around school all day, having a costume contest, pep rally, church gathering, trick or treating around town, and then the football game. Tomorrow is the haunted house and we are going to carve pumpkins, since we didn't ever get to it. The days are flying by. Robert is working lots of overtime to offset the sting of getting a new roof. I'm so happy to not have a pool in my house now! Well, I better get up to the school and paparazzi my kiddos some. It has been too long since seeing family...we are missing y'all. Can't wait for the holidays and some time to travel.

Church Family Fun

2008-10-15T22:48:00.004-05:00

we took a trip to a local corn maze this past weekend. we really enjoyed the maze, it was especially exciting after dark. (and letting teenagers try and find their way out)

the hayride out to the pumpkin patch was fun too

ummm, all the shots of the boys are a blur...I could not keep up with them. I could hear them giggling, but wouldn't know exactly which corner they would pop around.

and Asher kept jumping out and roaring me....ahgg, he got me a few times!

super fun, super tall slide

pumpkin bomber, why is it so fun to see a pumpkin splatter???

My super cute, pregnant with twins, friend Crystal...

with the most appropriate shirt...too cute!

Christmas Cards

2008-10-15T07:16:00.004-05:00

I posted some samples of Christmas Cards over HERE . Check them out if you are interested in having me make your cards this year.

morning sunshine

2008-10-13T15:10:00.004-05:00

Addi is my sunshine...

waiting for the bell to ring before school

a few more for Gina

2008-10-09T08:02:00.004-05:00

Now you are just gonna have to wait for the rest of them. Should be finished up in a couple of days. And I can't wait to take some more at Fiddlesticks.

For Gina

2008-10-08T10:12:00.003-05:00

I know you are anxious to see some pictures. I'll finish up the rest and get them to you soon. Here are a few for now.

sweet Emma Claire....

2008-09-30T23:09:00.004-05:00

Page brought Emma down last week for homecoming and we tried to get a few shots of her and the three girls. Wow, it was a little wild; but I had such a fun time. I love your girls! Thanks for sharing some PINK! Here are a few pictures to tide you over until I finish up the rest.

homecoming spirit

2008-09-29T14:58:00.004-05:00

we didn't participate/photograph every spirit day last week, but I wanted to share a couple of pictures from "wacko day" and show your colors day. The boys told me how they wanted their hair and wore their shirts backwards. Some other kids wore different shoes and their undies on the outside of their pants. Pretty funny stuff!

since these pictures are a little wacky, I thought I would play around with them a little bit

I've been working on a couple more post and should have them up in a few days. Sorry it has been so long. We are crazy busy with football, school, soccer, etc. The boys have their first soccer games today, so maybe I'll get around to showing some of those later in the week.

I'm wishing it was still summer.

2008-09-21T20:09:00.009-05:00

I have been looking back through old pictures and trying to catch up a little on my processing. Found these and it makes me miss summer that much more. I do love the fall weather....but there is nothing like summer fun!

I have a whole series of these, but the last two are priceless!

I think this next one is so perfect...Trust Daddy!

oh, and if you are looking for all the links and junk that used to be on the side, I moved it to the bottom so I could post bigger pics.

my favorite grass

2008-09-18T20:56:00.004-05:00

we have the most beautiful grass in the front yard. I think it is a native grass, called buffalo. I know it grows in the pastures at the ranch. I LOVE it. Not only does it give me a nostalgic feeling because it grows so pretty down the middle of the road in one of my favorite spots at the ranch, but it is soooo wispy and soft and when it is long and thick it is beautiful. It only takes a little rain and it greens right up. With all the rain we have enjoyed here lately....we have a gorgeous lawn. It looks like I actually water it and take care of it. Anyway...enough about grass, here are some silly Asher pics.

I realize most of you will think I have lost it for posting a completely blurry picture. But "I" love this picture. And I actually set out to attempt to take this picture, and I love that I got this in camera...not with photoshop. It's just fun...and though I still need to perfect this technique, I was pleased with this shot. Asher, playing in the rain....

D'Laney

2008-09-13T12:11:00.012-05:00

Future Rock Star....

such a perfect sweet baby face!

Thanks for letting me enjoy your adorable little girl for a little while.

Happy Birthday, Addison!

2008-09-10T13:42:00.007-05:00

Addison's 6th birthday is today...and he gets to spend it at home, sick! Poor baby, he has been running fever since Saturday. All the test came back negative for infections and strep, so not exactly sure what is going on. I think maybe he is finally getting better as his fever hasn't spiked today. Just sharing some random photos to celebrate my little man.

testing out the new bike (even though he feels yucky)

he wanted a basket on the front to carry a water bottle and the treasures that he finds, found this bag instead and thought it was a perfect fit. He also picked out a headlight for it and some new safety gear. Which he will faithfully wear, and I'm so glad because he gets hurt so much!

the new bike also has pumping pegs, which Daddy had to try out.
no worries...Daddy didn't try and pop a wheelie : ) (Robert broke his rib a few weeks back showing off popping a wheelie for the boys...and everyone is enjoying giving him a hard time about it!)
I know the boys are going to spend hours and hours giving each other rides, I asked Addison if he was going to let me ride on the pegs to and from school...He didn't think so. He thought I needed the exercise of jogging beside him.

I love the way he has his lips in the next picture. This is a pretty common expression for him, sucking that lip in where his teeth should be.

I'm including these pictures, because they are what I see almost daily, or at least something like this. Addi loves leaving his little "calling card" all through the house. Random things for me to find later, something stacked, or put in a strange place. Something that makes me think of Addison and makes me smile. Some magnificent tower built out of just about anything. I find his toothbrush stuck to the mirror, coasters in the strangest places, dishes stacked in the sink as tall as they will stack, toys hiding in the water cooler, sneaky surprises on my pillow or balanced on the door knob. Seriously, he leaves little marks everywhere. Sometimes he'll ask, "Dad, did you find your ball marker standing up strange on your hat?" Followed by his trademark little smirk (that someday I WILL capture in a photo). Often times, he never says a thing, but will replace a discovered "card" with a new one. I love the little reminders of him that are scattered around the house and forever in my heart!

be sure to notice this is actually 3 vehicles taped together...why....OH MY ADDI!

And now playing in the pond the boys dug out and filled with water in the flower bed. OH MY ADDI!

this is almost the smirk, but not quite.

I love my silly little goose; that is for sure. I hope he is all well tomorrow so he can enjoy sprinkle cookies at school. I can't believe my BABY is SIX years old.

these pictures make me happy

2008-08-30T14:03:00.011-05:00

so photography wise they are really lacking. I probably could have done a much better job. But I was being lazy. Still, I love them and will grow to love them more as the years pass by. Mimi, playing with Asher's hair, who is all sprawled out and comfy. Addison getting a foot massage from Mema, snuggled up by Papa as he reads the Bible.

yep, this is our family. sweet moments.

3 little monkeys

2008-08-30T14:03:00.003-05:00

Gage, Asher, Makya

we got to start our weekend early

2008-08-29T22:11:00.009-05:00

because their was a huge gas leak and we thought we were going to have to evacuate. Robert got called in early this morning and then he called me around 9 to let me know they had a horrible explosion and oil, gas, and water were spraying everywhere. They had to evacuate the field and were talking about evacuating the city. The buses all fueled up and lined up in front of the school, only thing was no one knew where they would take all the kids. It all depended on how the wind was blowing. And there was no way they would be able to communicate with the parents, who would also be evacuated. I got a little freaked...I wanted my babies with ME. So I went and got them. Lots of other moms did too. I think they finally dismissed everyone. Robert didn't get home until after 7 and said they finally had it contained. And fortunately God blew the wind just right and we didn't have to evacuate. So, we started our weekend early. Here are a few pictures from the first day of school and so you can see Asher's new haircut. He looks so different, all clean cut.

and this house in the background is my niece's (Jade's) I just love that we walk by it every day, and the boys always ask if we can stop and say hi (and get a Popsicle) on our way home. Just makes me all gooshy inside to get to be so close to family.

and do you see the fashion statement (rubber bands around his fingers) Addison insisted on wearing to school. My little trendsetter....or was he planning on shooting the teacher?

This is Addi's teacher, she is so soft spoken and easy going. So sweet. I was a little nervous about who he would be placed with, but decided fretting about it wouldn't do much good. I prayed God would put him where he needed to be. I am really happy HE worked it out like this.

I wasn't really prepared for this picture, but she posed, so I quickly switched to auto and snapped...if this doesn't make you want to shoot manual then I don't know what will. Blah, but still want you all to see he is spending all his time with.

Hard to watch him walk away.

asher's page

2008-08-28T21:03:00.004-05:00

I really haven't done a lot of digi scrapping, because I tried it about a year ago and found it really frustrating. Well, now that I know my way around photoshop a bit better, it is so easy. And FREE...which of course I love. I think it is so fun to drag stuff down to the little trash if I don't like it and I don't have to feel like I am throwing away money. I was never one to "plan" out my pages or follow much of a design when paper scrapbooking, and I was forever wasting expensive scrapbook stuff. This is so easy and fun and guilt free. I think I may have found one more reason not to do laundry.

Goodness these pictures make me happy! Think I may have to work them into a new blog header in the near future. BUT, TGIF tomorrow and I get a whole long weekend with my boys! Yeah, I can't wait to play with them. They are just so stinkin funny. Today I watched Baby Jadyn and the boys were so excited to play with their cousin. She was very entertained by them too. Addi was giving her a bottle and said, "Mom, I just love milkin her." Cracked me up! Anyway, hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday weekend!

addison laughs.

2008-08-28T18:32:00.006-05:00

so I've been scrapping a little since the boys are in school. Got this one of Addison done, I'm still working on Asher's. I've kept myself pretty busy and haven't had too much time to play, but squeezed in a little digital scrapbooking the other day. Just wanted to share.

ETA: I better give credit where it is due....this is a free layout design from www.PixelGypsyDesigns.com Not one of my own. Only embellished by me.

tomorrow

2008-08-24T20:52:00.015-05:00

mr. cool starts kindergarten. I've created a long list of to do's so as not to fall into a deep depression. I will be chunking all the rocks from the empty pond where Addi lost his teeth, into the soon to be caved in cellar by around 8:15 in the morning I'm sure. Although I plan to run the bleachers a few times after walking the kids to school...I'm sure I will be home pretty quickly given my non love of exercising. Actually Asher has been begging for the last part of the summer to wake up early and go jogging at the track. I did set my alarm a few times...but I didn't take him, not once. Robert did though...I just don't like exerting physical energy. I'm all about spending quality time with my boys, especially when it allows them to get some individual attention, aaaahhgggg, I DO NOT like anything that remotely resembles exercising though. AND, I'm not a morning person and he really wanted to jog in the morning, really early, for no reason at all. All that to say, I probably will come up with some great excuse to NOT run the bleachers, but hey I'm thinking about it! So I will be back home shortly after school starts with an entire day filled with SILENCE. I know a lot of moms who crave this time...not me. Even though there are definitely times when my kids make me want to climb the walls (my mom used to say that about me all the time...hee hee) I miss them sooo much and have been dreading the school stealing my babies from me. I'm sure some of you will be happy that I will have more time to post more often. And my house will be cleaner. And if I owe you pictures, you might stand a chance of getting them in the near future. And I might even get out and earn a little $$. And I will get so much more accomplished in my days because I won't be distracted by little boys wanting to play Lego's, or cries for mommy to come quick and see the big fat blood spitting horny toad, or the unveiling of the newest junkyard creation, or a boy asking to have his after bath bubble beard photographed, or be completely mesmerized watching two brothers play sweetly together as they feed the ants another grasshopper, or OK, I better stop...my eyes are burning with tears. I don't want to let them go, but I guess I gotta! a few pictures from our vacation.
that is sprite dripping off his chin, this picture was followed by a huge, make your Pa proud, Turk burp. Burping contests are a favorite family entertainment.
and I would say, these curls will be going off to school tomorrow too...BUT, Asher decided he wanted to cut them off. I do love these curls and will miss them, but I am happy to see more of his sweet little face and I suppose following school policy is the thing to do.
Ooohhh, I'm gonna miss these little joys! They are my world and it is quiet and lonely (though productive) without them. I'll try and control my whining though. I better get to bed, so I can get up in the morning and find the energy to get some exercise in...Ha!

Meet Miss Avery

2008-08-22T22:35:00.008-05:00

How cute are these wrinkles?

I had such a good time photographing this little princess. Thank you David and Stefanie for honoring me and allowing me to be part of her new world. She is such a doll!

Do you want to swing?

2008-08-15T17:57:00.008-05:00

Ok, I realize that I probably don't need to post every picture form this little series, BUT seriously it was so cute and lasted for quite some time!

You need a little help getting in the swing...no problem your new BFF is here......

mmmhmmmfff...

almost there...

uuugghhh!

do you weigh somewhere around twoooofitty or so?

a sweet smile for the camera and how cute is it that Addi is got his hand ready to catch her if she falls.

MADE IT!

That is all I have for now and I am going to be out of town for a few days, getting the computer worked on and doing some school shopping. More to come soon, though.

finally getting a chance to catch up on some photos

2008-08-12T08:52:00.005-05:00

Posting pictures from all the family events from the summer is sort of a daunting task. So I'm going to try and post just a few pictures at a time. I know some of you are anxious to see your adorable kiddos...but lets face it, our family isn't lacking in the juvenile department and I've got lots of little people to post about.

This pic is from our impromptu family reunion in San Angelo so that we could all see The Murphey's while they were traveling around the U.S. Tristan is Shay and Mandy's little guy. He is so full of life and I loved chasing him around trying to get this picture!

Colt is one of the island crew....

He and Asher are best buds....it was so sad when it was time to go and they both were crying. They wanted to spend the night together, Philip said we might could work that out in about two years when they came home for another visit. : ( We will put it on the calendar for 2010. I know doing mission work on a beautiful island sounds wonderful....but I also know the sacrifices that are being made. Thank God, for such selfless people! We loved every second we got to be with you.

cute pictures of Addi and Ally coming soon....

giggles and grins

2008-08-10T08:03:00.004-05:00

just wanted to share...I love this picture! I think Addison was tickling Asher so he would smile for me. I don't know how many times in my day I am blessed with this little snapshot, my boys, best friends, open mouthed, full laughter. Bet it made you smile too!

a Texas Beach vacation

2008-08-01T00:15:00.018-05:00

I'm going to jump out of chronological date order (which totally freaks me out) and post about our vacation. I want to share pictures from our trip to Abilene, and the family reunion in San Angelo, not to mention a few from July fourth and other summer fun, BUT, I am so excited about sharing our beach trip with y'all. It was the B.E.S.T. trip! It was so relaxing and perfect weather, pure and simple fun. It was so nice to just play with the boys and explore God's creation together. We were all equally excited about the "treasures" we found on the beach. I loved watching Addison's reaction as he saw the ocean for the very first time. I loved when they would find something and run, run, splashing through the water to show me. I loved that Robert enjoyed playing in the waves and digging up creatures and feeding the sea gulls just as much as the boys. I loved sitting back and watching my three men. I loved being awestruck over and over again by the beauty and grandness of the masterpiece of our Lord. I loved watching the boys build sand castles and delight in destroying all their hard work. I enjoyed Asher's homemade shell pie and sand and shell pizza. I loved watching my children be so willing to share their toys with strangers and so friendly to everyone.

The boys LOVED the ferry ride. It was pretty special because when we first went across dolphins were swimming all around us.

This is what Asher does every time he plays in mud or anything that is that consistency (seriously he would do this with pudding if I would allow it). Goofy kid. Look how pleased he is with himself, like he's really enjoying his mud bath.

SWAMP THANG!

Asher thought these skimmed boards looked so fun, he found out they were a lot of work for a little thrill. He had a great time giving it a go, though.

We planned on going to the Aquarium and to see a few movies, but we were all completely satisfied with just "being" on the beach. It was nice to not have the commercialized vacation. We took our camper and ate in all but one meal. Robert cooked steak and shrimp on the grill. We ate unbalanced meals at odd times of day. We had special treats like yummy vanilla coffee and cereal straws. We stayed up late and hunted for crabs with flashlights. We woke up early and walked the beach and watched the sunrise. We ate sandy sandwiches and lots of juicy watermelon. We found snails, sand dollars, sea stars, crazy cool fish, ghost shrimp, and crabs with funny buggy bulging eyes. We dug for buried treasure left by pirates and rode the waves to our hearts content. It was a completely, perfectly, wonderful time!

Addison loves to whistle, he is either whistling or talking most the time. It is a pleasant, happy little whistle, but I do get a little tired of hearing it from time to time...so I say, "Hey, whistling Boy!", and he smirks and says, "ooohhhpp, sorry Mom." And don't ya love his tattoo. My kids are crazy about tattoos (wonder why?)!

Page's girls

2008-07-19T19:22:00.007-05:00

Here is a little looksie for you Page. Thanks for letting me photograph your precious girls. I had such a good time.

some other cuties from church camp

2008-07-04T16:23:00.007-05:00

This little girl's momma and I grew up together. I think it is neat how we both ended up with our own Addie. She is quite a princess, so pretty inside and out...just like her Mom.

and another princess...enchanting Ella...

Baby D'Laney's Daddy and I grew up together and I just have to say she is much cuter than her father, must be her pretty momma. : )

This is Preston, cousins with Princess Addie...and yeah, I've know his momma all my life too. See why camp is so fun...a big ole reunion.

Now, Logan....

He lived on the neighboring ranch next to us and I had the joy of keeping him every once in a while. He completely amuses me with his constant pirate babble and his fine hunting skills.

It has been a lazy holiday for us. Robert had to work and the boys and I have just been hanging around the house. We set up the badminton game that Addison has been begging me to put up since summer started. I was too hot after assembly to participate in the play. It clouded up and cooled off a little while ago, so we played for a bit. Then the rain came pouring down., of course the boys wanted to stay out and play in it. Not me....I decided to play with pictures and blog, and enjoy their giggles and stay dry. We feel so blessed to finally be getting some rain. And since it has been raining a little, we can shoot off fireworks tonight. The boys are soooo excited. Happy Holiday!

church camp...the family pictures

2008-07-02T08:53:00.017-05:00

So one of the best things about church camp is that most of our family comes. It is like a mini family reunion. And there are a lot of little girls in my family, so I got the chance to take LOTS of pictures. So get ready for picture overload.

Rylie and Hadlee (my great nieces)

this is the new thing...Asher loves giving Addison a piggy back ride

The kids pulled all the little chairs underneath our camper and would sit for hours, giggling, burping, talking, and we probably don't want to know what else. One day I couldn't find any of them anywhere...silly me, I walked by them several times and never thought to look in "the hideout".

Baby Jadyn (my great niece)

love the bubbles....

My brother Zane...playing some softball, and sporting his dishtowel wings....not sure what that's about?!?

and there is my nephew Caleb (Zane's youngest) eating a sucker while playing catcher

and Robert is up to bat...

check out the dirt flying....

Little Miss Hadlee and I were buds. She loved having her picture taken and would ask me. And anytime I noticed a good light in her eyes and asked her to sit for me, she was happy to. It was so refreshing having such a cooperative little model. Her eyes are slightly different and I wanted to try and capture their beauty and uniqueness.

Hadlee would stop and pose for me, then she would say, "Ask me who's my favorite princess."

She loved Ariel the most and would sing....aaaahaaaa, aaahaaaa, aaaaahhhaaaa

Hadlee's sister, Delani isn't quite as excited about having her picture taken, but I managed to get a few of her.

we had lots of water fun....and of course that turned into mud fun....

This was Leroy and Carrie's first time at camp....I am so glad they were there. Carrie is one of my most favorite people to hang out with. She makes everything so funny...and she says whatever she thinks. Their little family is so funny...all of them, Delani acts just like her momma!

my sweet boys posed for a few minutes...only cuz I bribed them

totally worth a few popsicles.....

Josi....silly, happy, cracks herself and everyone else up...Josi

I wished I had gotten a few more pictures of Rylie. She was always willing, but she was so busy running around all the time, I feel like I hardly saw her. She is so big now!

Stacey (my niece, Rylie's aunt)

This isn't even all the pictures....I still haven't uploaded off my other card yet. enough for now though.

Petree Pool Party Pictures....

2008-06-26T20:14:00.013-05:00

just a quick post

2008-06-13T17:44:00.002-05:00

to let you know that we are going to be gone to church camp all week, so no new pictures for a little while. I was really hoping to post the rest of the wedding weekend pics before leaving, but I can see that it is just not going to happen. I do have some cuties from the Petree pool Party, so check back. The boys are getting nice tans from hanging out at the pool. They are loving every minute of summer freedom. They are keeping me busy though...and I'm lovin every minute of my boys. I"m so glad they are ALL mine again! Hope everyone else is having a great summer too!

Can you believe it

2008-06-08T22:59:00.010-05:00

I've got more pictures from the holiday weekend. I'm slowly but surely catching up. I haven't taken too many pictures lately either because we have been so busy. So here is swimming round one with the family back in May when we had the reunion/wedding. The kids loved swimming at the embassy pool.

I swear I feed my kids; good grief you can see his ribs.

I include this picture mainly to showcase his new smile. I think he is trying to hide his gap. Pretty cute stuff!

Asher had so much fun playing with Junior. I know Junior was terribly sore for a few days, but it looks like he enjoyed the fun some too!

I really wished I could have increased my shutter speed a little more and stopped the action better, but the light just wasn't there. My iso was maxed (like you can't see the grain) and my ap was wide open. Still, I like the effect and thought that it was a cool capture.

I'll tell you where there was some suuuweeeet light though. Right on the steps, where the kids would park it to rest a bit. Check out the amazing reflection. I love it!

This one just cracks me up...so Addi, big ol' toothless grin and a sweet little wave! And look at those little piggies....mmmm, just makes me want to nibble on the little raisins.

Alright, so here's a funny of Asher. Robert told him to shake his hair out....how can the face go in two different directions at one time?!?

The boys thoroughly enjoyed playing with Blaze and Darion. I can't believe how well they all got along, not hardly any fuss at all from anyone.

and this little guy, stole my heart.....what a beautiful baby, and so happy and good natured.

Last one...back at the grandparents house. and just for the record, the kids didn't put the big dent in the wagon....not completely sure who did, but I have a pretty good guess it was the one acting like the biggest kid of all! Not pointing any fingers, just not taking any blame! HA! Sorry Grandma and Grandad. Anything else broken?

Finally, a new post!

2008-06-08T22:59:00.007-05:00

I really have a kazillion other things I need to be doing, but it feels like forever since I blogged. Things have been CRAZY. Church camp is next week and we have been scrambling to get ready. We have spent plenty of time swimming and playing too though. These are some pictures of the boys from the wedding weekend. I just now had a chance (er, um...neglected other chores so I could play) and worked on a few.

Check out my new desktop, every month I download the freebie at http://shabbyprincess.typepad.com/shabby_princess/ and drop in my pictures. I love it, cuz I don't have to take the time to scrap it and I just smile when I walk by the computer and see such art.

Look how they both have their hands...so cute, their own natural pose.

This one just melts me.

pictures from the brunch

2008-05-20T13:43:00.005-05:00

Goodness we had a full, fun weekend. Robert's little brother tied the knot on Sat. so we had all the prewedding and post wedding fun we could pack into the holiday weekend. I took a "few" pictures so I'll break it up into several posts. These next ones are from the brunch. What a beautiful location!

Angela (my SIL) got a little teary eyed about having her dream come true of seeing all the cousins playing together. It means the world to me to be part of this wonderful family. Our kids had such a good time together and got along so well. I love that they will always have each other...and someday, they will laugh watching their children wrestle and run.

Here is Robert and some of his siblings....yeah, he has a big ole family.

the boys after swimming

2008-05-20T13:43:00.003-05:00

Very busy finishing up Jenny's pics, getting ready to leave for the wedding this weekend, end of school craziness, and baseball is winding down finally. Just needed a break and thought you would enjoy seeing the little monkeys. Can't wait to see all the family this weekend, we are so excited to get to the city.

I'm on the ball today....pictures of the boys, as promised

2008-05-18T23:30:00.005-05:00

These are some random pictures from the past couple of months. I know everyone was needing a AA (double A, as Papa refers to them) fix! These are not the best pictures or even my favorites, but just wanted to share anywhoo.

This next one is from the boys school music program. Asher had a speaking part and preformed with his class several songs. He was very excited about it and enjoyed himself. Addison cried the day of the show saying they make him stand up for soooo long and why do they even have to do a music show. He stood on the edge of the group, mostly in the dark (so none of his pics turned out) with his hands in his pockets and a frown on his face. I love how their personalities and likes/dislikes are different and how they are growing into their own individuals. This is so marking of who "they" are. Asher is social, loves being the center of attention and getting the crowd going. He'll talk to anyone about anything. Addison isn't really shy, but he is reserved, and quite the momma's boy. Not too interested in making a scene or getting noticed. He is satisfied to go off and play by himself, or just sit in Mom's lap if he is in an unfamiliar place. A lady that works at the school stopped me the other day and said she needed to tell me the saddest story. She went on to say that she found Addi crying at school, off to himself in a corner. She asked him what was wrong and he told her (in between sobs) that it is just so hard to leave his momma. He just loves her so much and misses her and wants to be with her. AWWWEE, that's my baby. Ok, I sort of got off on a tangent. I was saying all this to explain why I had no pics of Addi, only Asher, even though they both were in the performance.
So here is a story board of Addi and his BFF Kreek. The two toothless wonders!

one more girl...I'll post some pictures of the boys soon!

2008-05-18T23:30:00.003-05:00

just wanted to show you how blessed I am. I had the awesome honor of photographing this gorgeous girl for her senior pics. She is so fun to be around and such a sweetie. Here is just one...I have a ton, so keep coming back for more. And I am hoping to post some pics of the boys tomorrow, if my day goes as planned.

another little sweet pea....

2008-05-11T16:06:00.002-05:00

Do you think I should change my header since I keep posting pics of other people's kids, and does it bother you that they aren't even boys? I just can't help taking photos of little pig tails, bows and ringlets. And trust me, the boys are not jealous at all....they are thrilled to have the camera focused on someone else! So this next little sweetie is such an adorable little girl, her brother's play baseball with the boys so I snagged her for a few minutes during one of the games. I love her creamy, perfect skin and her teeny, princess lips, and her chubby, dimpled hands and her silky, white hair.

a sweet little girl

2008-05-07T14:24:00.002-05:00

Asher played catcher....

2008-04-29T14:30:00.004-05:00

Mimi, don't read this....just look at the pictures! I used colorful language that will make you blush!

In last night's game, the catcher got hit with a ball and had to come out of the game. Asher quickly volunteered to sub in. The coaches were trying to get the back up catcher to go in, but he wouldn't....he was afraid of getting hit. I can't tell you how proud I am that Asher wanted to give it a try. At the beginning of the season he got hit with a ball and has been a little timid ever since. Every game he gets a little more courage, but this totally blew me away that he was brave enough to be catcher, especially after seeing his teammate get hit. So, as they were giving him the gear and getting him suited up, the coach handed him the cup. Asher said, "Oh, thanks, I need this for my knee." The coach laughed and said, "No, it's for your tool." Asher was pretty confused, especially when they started trying to help him put it in the proper place. I don't think he has ever heard that particular terminology. Fortunately I rounded the corner into the dugout about that time. So we finished getting him all padded and protected and I was quickly giving him pointers about catching, like don't stand up when they are swinging, stay squatted down, keep your glove up, don't get hit by the batter...as if I have a clue about catching...but from a mother's perspective they seemed like good ideas. So since it was his first time EVER to catch they threw a few practice balls to him. The VERY FIRST ONE came whizzing out of the machine before he was even properly positioned, bonked him right on the head, bowled him over backwards, rolled him on the ground. YIKES he wasn't even ready. I was so proud that he hopped right up, laughed and got into position for the nest pitch. FEARLESS!!! He did a really good job. I asked him if he wanted to catch again next game, he said no. I was surprised and questioned him because he seemed to enjoy it so much. He informed me that the catching was fun, but he DID NOT like that cup! Later at home when he was saying the prayer at dinner, he thanked God for the awesome day he had, and for giving him the courage to try out being catcher. I love watching my children "grow", overcome, and lean on the Lord!

Speed bike rally...

2008-04-26T01:07:00.004-05:00

There was a motorcycle rally here last weekend and of course I took pictures. Some of the tricks were amazing, especially considering they were doing them at speeds up to 90 mph. So here is a little taste of the excitement for this little town.

Pardon me while I play around with photoshop...soooooo many cool things to do.

Ok, these next two just crack me up. The kid is not getting hurt, but it sure looks like it given his expression and the warning signs. I don't know him, just loving the sweet zoom that gives opportunity to capture things from so far away.

I actually have several other great pictures...but I won't bore you with any more stunts. None of the boys though, they had a brief reprieve from my torture.

A little about Asher...

2008-04-24T11:22:00.004-05:00

Asher recieved an award at school and we had a great time celebrating him yesterday. When I woke him up, he hopped out of bed with excitement because this was his Junior Brave Day. He said he was going to scrub his teeth really good....I'm guessing so they would be extra shiney for pictures.

Asher has always enjoyed playing by himself and creating a scene to act out his imaginations. He loved building forts and hideouts when we were at the ranch. He decide to use the same concept of piling brush for fort building....but in our garage, with ummmm....whatever he could find. He worked several days on this masterpiece, and he was very proud of his perfect hideout. He was not happy when I decide to clean up the garage and destroyed his wonderful world of pretending. I hope you can see how he layered and stacked, positioned and propped each piece of building material. Just a little bit of Asher that I hope to remember forever, but I'm glad to see the mound of stuff put away.

Jadyn

2008-04-18T09:17:00.010-05:00

Remember my sweet little great niece that showed up in this world three weeks early? I couldn't wait to take some pictures of her, but then she got terribly sick and was in the hospital. When she finally did come home, we stayed away for fear of spreading germs and didn't want to risk getting her sick again. Well, she is doing so well now and growing and healthy and I am such a blessed Aunt to get this precious little model. I can't tell you how excited I am to get to practice my photography skills on such a beautiful baby. Jade and I attempted to do a little photo shoot last week. We were a little pressed for time and Jadyn wasn't really thrilled about being positioned and dressed and undressed, so I was nervous that I didn't get any "good ones". I definitely see areas for improvement and things I need to work on, but I'm lovin some of these shots.

I love that we only live a few blocks from each other. I love that her older sister calls me Teya. I love that they have a huge, fun backyard and my kids always want to go over and play. I love that my boys "protect" and look after and adore their cousins. I feel unbelievably blessed by each little moment I spend with little Miss Jadyn, especially knowing that God could have called this little angel home. I am so grateful that He is giving us all the opportunity to love her. She is ohh, so lovable!

So what do you think?

a few field trip pictures

2008-04-12T10:04:00.008-05:00

Addison's class took a trip to a local ranch. The kids loved seeing hundreds of chickens, a couple llamas, several peacocks (that were even kind enough to fan their tails for the kids to see all the pretty colors) and horses. Each child had a turn bottle feeding a couple of dogie goats and throwing a handful of food in the pond for the catfish. They all had the chance to go for a short ride around the ranch.

Can I just say, these kids ride in style, air conditioning, dvd players spaced throughout the bus...nothing like when I was a kid!

He is so excited, he can hardly stand it!

After we left the ranch, we headed to the local park for a picnic lunch and to let the kids play. They each got some bubbles and it was so neat seeing the bubbles fill the park.

and now it is time to go back to school : (

Busy, busy....

2008-04-09T13:37:00.004-05:00

I have sooo much to do, so I really haven't had much time to play with pictures/videos and doing any posting. I went with Addison on his field trip yesterday. I can't wait to share some of those pictures. It was a blast getting to hang out with him all day. He crashed when we got home and I had to wake him up so I could take Asher to practice. I'm so behind on laundry and housework from all the running we have been doing. I have done about 100 loads of laundry today...ok, maybe only four, but it feels like 100. I so despise folding and putting clothes away. I used to make the boys have "folding parties" with me when they were home schooled. Now, I am left to party solo and it is waaayyy less fun than turning up the music and throwing socks at the boys, then calling them UNDERWEAR BOY AND SOCKBOY and sending them off to put the laundry away and save the day! I'm so looking forward to summer so we can resume our lovely parties, plus they can wear their swimsuits all day everyday and I won't have as much laundry to do. Well, on to a few pictures. These are not the best, but I am too chicken about getting hit with a ball to stand inside the fence and really position myself in the perfect spot. So, hope you enjoy anyway!

Thursday

2008-04-02T13:40:00.005-05:00

Wow, yesterday was CRAZY! Normal day as far as the kids going to school and Robert to work, but we had a full schedule for the evening, then an unexpected wrinkle made life come into perspective. As soon as the kids got home we started homework and snacks. Mema and Pa were passing through town and stopping by, we then were swinging by Josi's house to wish her a happy birthday and let the kids slide down her new slide a few times. Addison had a tball game and Asher's peewee game was immediately following. Just as we were getting ready to head out to Josi's, Asher tells me that a girl just crashed in our yard. I thought he meant a little girl on a bike, but he explained it was a lady in a car. So I hurried to check. Our across the street neighbor had put her baby in the car and then run into the house to get something (they were on their way to the hospital to get a few stitches for a cut over the baby's eye), the 2 yr. old little girl got out of her car seat and climbed into the front, she hit the gear shift in the middle and put the car into reverse, mom came out about this time and hurried to stop the car, she was knocked down and run over by the car, the car headed down the driveway, across the street, over the curb, over a big dirt hump (the boys like to ride their bikes/four wheelers over), just missed the telephone pole, and hit the old t'bird park next to our house (Robert hopes to work on this car with the boys when they get a little older, evidently it has some sort of good engine or something). The mom was bleeding on the back of her head and was in total shock, she was crying and in a lot of pain. The daddy went to get the baby and found all the doors were locked. I had him stay with the mom and call 911 and I went to be with the baby. She wasn't crying and the car was still running, so I knew she was ok. I talked to her through the window and finally she unlocked the door. About this time my parents drove up, then the ambulance. The little girl is fine and the mom is too. She had to get stitches in her head and has a fractured arm, but overall I think that is a pretty good ending to what could have been a horrible accident. God blessed us with so many things, just in the moments of the accident. Only minutes before Addison had been riding his bike....right there, right in the path the car took. Thank God the old car was there too, otherwise the car probably would have come through the house, into the room where Asher was. I don't know how many times I have wished that old car was not there, in the middle of the yard, looking so junky. And of course the injuries of the mother and baby could have been much, much worse. We went on to Josi's and then to the boys' games. But all of us were.....well, I really can't think of the right words. These sort of things really make you think though.

The egg hunt

2008-04-02T13:40:00.003-05:00

Coloring Easter Eggs

2008-04-01T13:52:00.002-05:00

I was lazy this year and we didn't color eggs at home. Fortunately they got to decorate a few at the church party. Hope to post some pictures of the hunting tomorrow. We have tball and baseball practice tonight and our first games on Thursday. The boys are feeling great! They actually have made it through an entire week of school and the weekend without getting sick. Praise the Lord!!!

Happy weekend!

2008-03-28T13:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry no pictures today, I have been cleaning house all day, so that when the boys get home we can spend our time playing and not working!!! I have missed them soooo much this week. I got spoiled over spring break. I am really excited to hang out with them for the weekend. Just wanted to pop in and say hello; I hope everyone has a beautiful weekend and great spring weather. Off to get my boys! TA TA

just some more pictures from spring break

2008-03-27T18:02:00.006-05:00

Asher had the best time using Dude to run the cows off. Pap's cows were eating the trees that they just added to their yard. Asher really enjoyed throwing the stick towards the cows, which made Dude run to fetch it, which made the cows scramble. I wish Bodie had a little more spunk these days....a boy and a dog is hard to beat.

Tristan...fun little guy! Check out the drooly, muddy line down his belly. So cute!

That's all for now.

Gage...more spring break pictures

2008-03-27T12:39:00.009-05:00

I tell you, it is true, I take waayyy to many pictures! But I just love it so much. Our little sweets grow and change EVERY day, and I just hate how quickly I forget. So, I will eventually finish up the spring break pictures and move on to Easter (got to go in order ya know). I still have a few of Tristan to post and more of my boys for sure! I hope I got some good ones of the egg hunt and sweet little Josi and Jadyn. I haven't even put them on the computer yet. Ohhh, I am so behind in sharing. I got some great pictures of our picnic and time at the ranch from the beginning of s.b. that I still need to post. Aaa yi, yi....those kids have got to stop looking so cute. and now baseball/tball is starting and I have already taken some of the boys practicing. Ok, I know you don't want to read anymore...so on to the pics!

More spring break fun....

2008-03-26T09:54:00.006-05:00

The kids always love when they get to play with Hunter. These kids spent almost every hour of every day together when they lived next door to each other. We all miss it! How blessed were we to get to live by such wonderful friends, the perfect neighbors, for a few months. I wish it could have lasted longer, but I am so happy that the boys can play together just like always when we do get a little time carved out in all the visiting and running we do when we go to town.

This kid is the cutest, real cowboy out there! All that is missing is a piece of wheat for him to chew on!

Love it!!! What a sweet boy!

Hunter actually wanted to have his picture taken, so he came up with a few poses.....

He wanted a few pictures of himself shooting, or hunting, I can't remember just what he said.

This is him shooting birds.....too cute!

Thanks for letting us come over and play. We all had such a good time.

Little red head....

2008-03-25T14:18:00.004-05:00

I had so much fun snapping some pictures of Carrie and Makaya. I love, love, love taking pictures of little girls...and it is such a bonus when they have fun red curls! Thanks for making time to hang out with us over spring break guys. Wish we could spend more time together, we miss ya'll!
I love how she is holding her hands in this next one. Isn't she dainty....

I know I went a little crazy with the pp on this one, but I just had to see the color of those curls with a little added umph!

Sunflower, like her momma!

Don't you love the dirt on her shoulders?!?

ohh boy!!! all these boys!!!

2008-03-24T08:47:00.003-05:00

We had such a good time over spring break. We did soooo much. These few pictures are only a teeny tiny, snippet of our fun. I love when I get to hang out with my cousins and their families. We were such a close crew growing up and I love getting to see our kiddos bond. These boys are going to be a real mess of trouble, I can tell....I see some crazy times ahead of us. Each child brings their own dynamic to the group and has such a different personality. They really are quite a mix! I love the faces they are making.

Ok, that's all for today, but I hopefully will post more tomorrow. I have so many pictures to share....I take waaaayyy too many.

Ok....I'm over it and I will post again.

2008-03-15T20:57:00.003-05:00

Here are few pictures of Asher playing on the cellar door. It actually needs repair and we don't let them play on it anymore, but he was up on the cellar and batted his eyes as he asked to slide down just this one time.

And here's Addi, with his AMAZING eyelashes again.

We will be doing some traveling for spring break, so won't be blogging for a while. See you soon!

I'm just saying.....

2008-03-13T22:13:00.002-05:00

that it is incredibly discouraging to type out an entire post and then not be able to save it. I am seriously thinking about switching, because blogger is so annoying. Anyway, I will post soon, but I'm having a little temper tantrum right now!!!!!

furry hat

2008-03-10T21:56:00.002-05:00

Addison and Asher both have begun bribing me. They know how much I love taking their pictures and are coming up with some unique manipulations. I had this hat in the "donations" box and Addison was helping me unpack (translated...pulling everything out of all the boxes and telling me to put it away). I didn't intend this box to be unpacked, but you know how helpful this little guy is. : ) Both the boys refused, REFUSED, to wear this hat, even with all my pleading and insisting that it is terribly cute, stylish, and cool. Aaaww, but things change in the mind of a smart little boy, his wheels started cranking, and aaaahaaa....instantly, a plan begun to be made (all in a split second, in the time it took me to stuff the other 3 things that had been flung out of the box, back into the box). So Addison's idea was born... and it went something like this....

Mom, I'll let you take pictures of me. How 'bout I put this hat on and you take my picture!

big smiles, turns his head to the side (sort of like a little puppy dog), big smiles, blink, blink, blink.....

and ya, know I almost forgot about the cluttered floor from the boxes that had been unpacked in record time (it doesn't take much time to unpack, if you aren't actually putting things away)

cuz, really, ain't he cute!

I actually don't recall what this particular bribe cost me, I think maybe homemade donuts or being pushed on the swing (things I would totally do for my kids anyway...but, ssshhh don't tell).
Both the boys love taking my picture too, though. How can I say no after torturing them?!? So aren't you lucky to get yet another lovely pic of me....in a totally rockin hat! (that doesn't fit my head). I sure love my boys...they make me laugh so much, so many times a day!

I actually have quite a few pictures worth posting, so hopefully I can get both kiddos well and at school on the same day and have a little more time to play around on the computer. Addi lost another tooth, due to the rock pond incident. I'll post pics soon.

sick/well/sick/well

2008-03-04T19:04:00.011-06:00

well, we didn't make it very many days. Asher came home from school early yesterday. He's fine today though. Robert came home early from work yesterday too, and he is still in bed today. Ready to be done with all this sickness mess!

Asher and Katie....these kiddos are like brother and sister in a lot of ways. They have known each other almost their whole little lives. I used to babysit Katie, now they are in the same class and sit at the same table at school. They have a blast playing with each other. Lots of giggling!

two days in a row

2008-03-04T19:04:00.006-06:00

The boys have BOTH gone to school for two days in a row. I am seriously excited that they aren't SICK right now. It snowed yesterday, and there was the neatest frost on my windshield this morning. We were out riding bikes this afternoon though. Got to love the weather! The boys are playing quietly in their rooms. I wonder what they are up to? Last night they had so much fun, sneaking around, whispering and running up and down the hall. This morning they gave me a present all wrapped up with sweet drawings. They find so much joy in giving! It truly tickles them to pieces and they squeal with excitement when they make a gift for someone. So, that's all I've got. Just trying to do little better about posting....even if it is just a short little blurb about not much of anything.

Oh, thought this picture was cool. Addison was looking in the oven, watching his stained glass creation cook.

???

2008-03-01T19:55:00.005-06:00

I don't have any exciting news to tell. The boys are sick again...auggghhh!!! Asher is mostly just struggling with asthma. Addison has some sort of virus thing. They don't really feel bad, but they aren't my healthy little men for sure. Robert is really enjoying his new job. I'm am settling in to the town life again. So, I'm not feeling especially chatty or newsy, or even like blogging at all. I was feeling guilty for not posting anything though, because I know you all check it like a hundred times a day, just hoping for a morsel of excitement from our lives. Yeah, I know you do...so I will try and do better so you don't go insane.

a couple of pictures of my homemade yogurt. I thought it looked neat reflecting on the smooth top.

I know I'm a dork...it's pretty yummy stuff though.....and isn't it pretty....ohh uggg NEVERMIND

and I am not really sure about sharing these, they were terrible photos to begin with and then I threw some textures on top as I was trying to learn and experiment and create....so they are really not so wonderful.....but like I said, I'm not much in the mood to blog.

hopefully a better post next time.....

conversations with the critters....

2008-02-20T10:28:00.001-06:00

We went to a different church the other night to hear a sweet lady talk about her ministry in Haiti. When we walked in, the church had some change jars set up to collect money for an orphanage they support. Such a sweet exchange the kids and I had.

ASHER: Mom, are those for money for the poor people?

ME: Yes. (both boys start digging in my purse to find their wallets. as they put money into the jars the conversation continues)

ADDISON: Are they hungry?

ME: Well, it is for children that live in an orphanage, that is a place for kids that don't have parents.

ADDISON: Well, maybe they can use this money to buy some parents now.

If you ask Asher what his favorite part of school is, he'll tell you PE and recess. Last night when I was tucking Addison into bed he says, "Mom, there is one part of school that is hard and I don't like. I don't like when they make me run around the track. That's hard and it's not fun." He's so much like his mother!! Asher on the other hand comes home so excited that they got to go to the track and race. He's so much like his father!!

last one....

ME: Asher, it's about time to do your spelling words.

ASHER: I don't like school. Why did they even make school?

ME: Why do you think?

ASHER: to learn stuff...

ME: And do you learn stuff at school?

ASHER: Yes, but learning isn't fun!

Breaks my heart to hear that. Learning is fun. Learning CAN be fun. But I have to agree those stinking homework worksheets are NOT FUN. I think we will practice our spelling words in a plate full of pudding. Now doesn't that sound like more fun than copying on paper!

awww...just a swinging....

2008-02-18T21:44:00.004-06:00

The boys love this swing!!! They ask me to push them almost every day. As a compromise they will let me take pictures....just as long as I keep pushing. It is quite a challenge to really get a good shot....in and out of the shadows, constantly moving, trying to find the right light without making the kids squint.....

but every once in a while...

Though they aren't perfect, this momma just loves them. You know I'm referring to the pictures of course...my kiddos couldn't get any better!

Ok, so maybe I make it harder than it really is....Asher took this one of me

And here are a few Addison took....

Super fun times.

My baby is growing up so fast!

2008-02-13T21:04:00.006-06:00

Asher turned 7 today. I can't believe that I am old enough to be the mother of a 7 year old! He has grown up so much this year. The other day it ocurred to me that he didn't need ANY help getting dressed. I mean, he has been dressing himself for years, but I have always enjoyed being needed every once and a while for the occasional impossible zipper or the stubborn button. He's reached quite a level of independence now though. I still like to baby him and fix and do for him, but he honestly can fin for himself pretty well on his own. He can make his own egg sandwich, cooking the eggs and all. Makes my bottom lip pout a bit. We definately don't want to hold our kids back and not see them grow and develop....awww, but it just makes me so sad that it flies by so very very fast! I wish I could remember it all better too. Things I didn't think I would ever forget have slipped away. I still feel them, but can't quite put my finger on the exact memory. Asher's name means, Blessed and happy....we knew right away it was the name for him. I truly feel blessed and happy to have him each and every day. He is so thoughtful of others, and loves the Lord so much. He trust in Jesus and wants to obey....How could a mother want for anything more? How could there be any blessings greater than children? I snapped this picture literally just before he walked out the door this morning. It is so hard to let them go! Go ahead and grow up though kiddo...you are going to be a great man someday! (sooner than I would like)

I couldn't choose between colr and black and white...so you get the same picture twice.

and keep those prayers coming for sweet little Jadyn. She still is "not out of the woods yet". She has RSV and pneumonia and is likely to have a lengthy stay in the hospital. I took this picture the day she was born. I love her hands folded so sweetly, almost looks like she is talking with God. Precious Baby Girl, keep fighting!!!

I should go to bed...but I'll recap the day real quick!

2008-02-11T12:15:00.001-06:00

Addison stayed home sick from school again today. He gave us quite a scare last night. He went to bed early, but woke up before nine and was screaming in pain. I couldn't console him and he was thrashing around and crying terribly. He was burning up with fever and finally explained that his head was hurting something awful. Once we got his fever down, he rested peacefully most the night. He has run fever on and off today, and slept a good bit. For the most part he seems fine tonight though. He was very clingy and I got some good snuggles in today, as well as a few pictures. His eyes were so glassy and pretty, I couldn't resist.

Then he drifted off to sleep and I snapped a few more. Isn't he stunning, even when he is sick!

Asher was looking incredibly cute in his bright green shirt and was somewhat cooperative about pictures this afternoon. I can't believe he is about to be seven. Man...I wish I could stop time! Especially now with them gone off to school all day. I am missing them soooo much!

I wanted to play around in photoshop some, so I'm sure these aren't to everyone's taste...but I was just having some fun and entertaining myself...procrastinating about doing housework!

wow...he looks so grown up!

I just thought I would sneak this one in too (it is from last week some time), because it just makes me smile. The boys love their new swing and I love taking pictures of them on it. Asher thought he would like to brush up on his photography skills as well and ran to grab his camera too. Addi got completely tickled by all the attention and was overcome with the giggles. You can't tell me you can look at that and not smile.

I hope a few moments from our day has brightened your world as much as the boys do mine.

And unfortunately I need to ask for all your prayers once again. Our sweet baby Jayden is very sick and in the hospital. I can not even imagine what her parents are going through and how scary it was to hold their breathless newborn. She is stabilized and doing better, Thank the Lord!!! But please remember her family as they continue down the road to recovery with her. She is so tiny and has quite a battle she is still facing.

Pictures of the house

2008-02-11T12:15:00.000-06:00

Just a few random BEFORE/DURING pictures of the house....

pantry/closet:

bonus room:

kitchen:

Addison's room:

guest bedroom:

the living room:

these floors were in pretty bad shape....just wait until you see the way they turned out....beautiful!

the finished product coming soon!