Between Here and There

Rub a dub dub

2012-01-27T09:26:00.001-06:00

Caution to vegetarians!!!

2012-01-23T09:16:00.001-06:00

Nothing like a good chicken bone to chew on!

Birth Day

2012-01-17T09:01:00.001-06:00

We are so thankful for this girl. She is so sweet. Since first holding her in our arms to now when she wakes up in the middle of the night just to come out to say I love you and Goodnight again. I can't believe I'm already looking back and wondering how it is that she grew up so fast. 6 years old. Wow.

We started off the morning with breakfast and the first round of presents. Included were some Lalaloopsy tatoos. Kyle told her that these last a whole year. I heard her later explaining this fact to Aunt Julianna on the phone. The tatoo is Rosy Bumps n' Bruises who she received as a present and opened after dinner. We went for a short walk and out to a neighborhood park before lunch. The raced and chased with Kyle and slid down the slide and practiced her racing against the stopwatch.

We met some friends at Cameron Park for cake and playing after naps. It was super windy. The cakes on the plates weren't staying put, the cups were blowing over, it was a mess. The kids were fortunately quick to eat and off to play.

The photographer and his subject.

An impromptu soccer game started and the kids were running around and having fun. Somehow a lot of the game took place behind the goal.

Header?

Tag-in and out goalie system and dribbling through the back of the goal were all allowed.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LILLIAN!!!

One, two, three, four, five, SIX!!!

2012-01-16T08:32:00.003-06:00

Wesley the Sheep

2012-01-13T12:17:00.002-06:00

The kids were in the Christmas narrative play at church. Lillian was an angel again (sorry no pic) and Wesley was a sheep. Jack refused. The boys sat with us until it was time for the sheep to 'appear'. It is a narrative from Adam and Eve thru the birth of Christ with lots of hymns sung in the middle. When it was Wes' turn there were about 7 (6-7 year old) shepherd boys and one sheep, Wesley. Wes was pretty clueless as to his role but this photo captures his look throughout: mouth open, blank stare, ears crooked. At one point the shepherds continued forward and Wesley had to be grabbed and carried up the stairs to his spot. He was now in a prime viewing spot. We saw him and he watched us.

Overall very cute and squeezable of course.

(I'm just now posting since it was on my phone, hence the poor quality. We were told no pictures, just enjoying watching your kids. Just one please.)

Perils at the park

2012-01-12T08:36:00.000-06:00

Last week we went over to the Legend Crossing's park after school. I took the kid's scooters and a snack. Kyle met us there. Somehow it was a lot windier in that part of town but it was still really nice to be out. Jack fell and scraped his knee within minutes of being there and then did it again 20 minutes later. We ended up cutting it short anyway because Lillian had to use the bathroom at the no-bathroom park.

Yesterday we went down to Cameron Park. It was a beautiful day and I knew it was going to get cold for the next couple days. Wes loved playing on the huge playground. At one point he peered down the slide but then another kid came along so he took a step back to get out of the way. Well, wrong move Wes. There is a nice hole behind you in this spot with a ladder for kids to climb up and into. So he fell right through and landed hard on the ground. I saw this in slow motion and was only close enough to pick him up at the end of the all the bad stuff. He had that sad muffled cry - probably had the wind knocked out a little. And then he bled a little bit in his mouth but that was gone with minutes. I couldn't really find a spot that was injured and within 5 minutes he was eating a snack sitting next to me and within 10 minutes he was playing again.

Kyle came and took the kids over to check out the ducks and then I decided maybe we should concentrate on the toddler area instead of the big kid playground. We manage to enjoy the rest of the visit without anymore falls.

Hey guys, don't look at me!

Hair

2012-01-09T10:01:00.003-06:00

This boy is such a handful these days. Almost 2 year olds are trouble! This is what his hair looked like when he woke up the other day. Yesterday he got a comment from a man saying he loved Wes' bed-head look. He's perfected that look.

Happy New Year

2012-01-05T09:09:00.001-06:00

The kids got to try some sparkling apple cider in celebration on the New Year. And of course they love saying "cheers."

And here's our Christmas slideshow for those of you who are aching for extra photos.

Last day for the zoo...in 2011

2012-01-05T08:54:00.001-06:00

That was fun guys. Let's do again next year!

The real life

2012-01-03T09:04:00.001-06:00

We have had some great warm temperatures with sunshine recently although it seems to be going up and down a lot. I don't mind the freezing temps at night so long as I don't have to bundle my kids up for playing in the snow the next day. Just now the kids ran out to jump on the trampoline and decided to have Wes lay in the middle and the other two jump over him. Great game kids!

We had a lot of fun (and highly recommend to all Wacoans) going to the top of the parking garage on campus to ride bikes and scooters and run around. Nobody was around, the sky was blue, and you could see for miles.

Daddy and his girl

2011-12-31T15:09:00.001-06:00

Christmas Day

2011-12-31T15:06:00.000-06:00

Don't mind posing

2011-12-29T13:05:00.001-06:00

This is Lillian and her new Lalaloopsy doll whose name is Sugar Crumb Cake or something like that. I equally love these little dolls. I got one for Jack too named Ace Fender Bender and already bought another for Lillian's birthday whose name is something like Rose and Pink Petals.

Her dad is really enjoying the camera these days and Lillian is always ready to pose for him. I really don't think either of us can explain some of these poses though, crazy kid.

Park Visit

2011-12-29T12:53:00.000-06:00

Kyle took the kids out one morning last week to play at the park. They had fun but didn't last too long due to the cold temps. It's finally decided to warm up a bit and the sun has come out.

Merry Christmas and Congratulations!

2011-12-25T19:59:00.001-06:00

What a wonderful day! Lots of great pictures to post but I wanted to post the news of my new niece being born this evening.

Adah Joy Frey
7:05pm, 7lbs 2oz.

The delivery was fast and Rachel and babe are doing well.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T15:04:00.000-06:00

2011-12-23T09:37:00.001-06:00

Christmas celebration with the CP Weltys

2011-12-22T12:51:00.002-06:00

Since our College Park cousins left this morning we decided to enjoy a little pre-Christmas celebration that included a visit to the Suspension Bridge, the park, cookie baking and decorating, opening presents, grilled ribs (!), and cookie eating. It was a lot of fun and we are very sorry to have said good-bye to them this morning. But thanks so much for coming!!!

First elementary school show

2011-12-22T12:29:00.004-06:00

Tuesday night we all went to hear Lillian and the rest of the Hillcrest Dolphins sing for their Christmas Show. Lillian's class sang 6 songs and we were very proud of her.

Visitors from Afar

2011-12-17T15:19:00.002-06:00

At long last, our family from Maryland has made it down to Texas. Wesley was released from the hospital a few hours before they arrived, and he's doing quite well now.

We (everyone except the schoolgirl) enjoyed a few hours at the Mayborn Museum yesterday. The weather has turned nicer today, and we're planning to head over to the park.

The kids's first Christmas

2011-12-09T09:28:00.001-06:00

One, two, three

2011-12-05T08:47:00.001-06:00

One On Friday after Thanksgiving we went to Homestead Heritage for their annual fair. They have lots of good food, crafts to buy and make, and lots of animals to ride, pet, and learn about. We kept it simple. We visited the petting area, sampled apple cider donuts and kettle popcorn, watched a horse get a new shoe, and viewed the sheepdog demonstration.

Two Another favorite annual activity is Christmas on Fifth at Baylor. There are pony rides, petting zoo, live nativity, carriage rides, pictures with Santa, cider and cookies, and lots of good Christmas music. The kids loved the pony ride even Wes!

Three Church yesterday was cold and rainy. Our winter has arrived. The boys wore their matching Welty sweaters that Kyle and Kelsey wore when they were little. 30 year old sweaters! Lillian is showing off the pom-poms Kyle brought home from the big Baylor game Saturday vs Texas. Baylor won 48-24! And now they are heading to the Alamo Bowl in late December. Hmmm...tempting.

Back to school

2011-11-28T16:23:00.001-06:00

It's hard to get back to the routine after having such a nice break. Plus there are so many events and activities between now and Christmas it's hard to remember that school is still in session for a couple more weeks.

P.S. One of these days I'll get a shot of Wes with a smile :)

P.P.S. here is shot of the oak all lit up.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T08:12:00.001-06:00

We had a great Thanksgiving right here at home. Kyle worked really hard outside all morning and afternoon trimming up the live oak tree. It looks so much better plus there is more light coming through now so maybe our grass will grow. Then he decorately the tree with lights and when it got dark last night we all went out and watched as they were turned on. Best year yet on decorations! We had an early dinner and then spent a little time putting up the tree and adding ornaments. It's all very exciting.

We didn't have any visitors this year but we did have a "little help" come this week to clean the floors. I hope he can come back again soon.

Here is our simple but yummy meal.

Taking notes

2011-11-22T20:12:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Lillian spent the day with Kyle at school since she has the whole week off. She attended both classes and tried to take notes. I thought she did quite well. What do you think?

Here she was just writing out words she knows.

2011-11-22T10:21:00.001-06:00

Chilling at home on a cool and wet morning.

Cleaning and cooking to get ready for cousins in a couple weeks?!?

Train Ride!!!

2011-11-14T15:52:00.001-06:00

Friday

2011-11-11T16:55:00.001-06:00

The kids (mainly Jack and Lillian) have been playing outside ever since we picked Lillian up from school. I'd say a good 90 minutes with little screaming. Jack and I found a soccer ball yesterday behind the Kwik Kar shop when we were getting inspected. It was a great find. I just saw the two of them each with a ball playing a made-up game of kicking/running back and forth. I remember those days of spending hours playing down at the park. Now they are digging, finding snails, exploring the backyard. It's all just what a kid should be doing on a perfect fall day.

This morning Jack, Wes and I went downtown to a parade to celebrate Veteran's Day. It was very cool, and very long. I'd say it probably was at least an hour and a half long. Lots of local highschool marching bands, JROTC marching and of course many veterans waving. I'd never knew until we moved to Waco that candy is thrown at parades. For the kids it is very exciting and distracting. They are more worried about getting that candy that seeing what is coming up next. Oh well. We now have a large container of candy, that was gathered off the street.

Here's a photo from Sunday of all three of them.

Jack's Birthday weekend

2011-11-07T09:08:00.001-06:00

Our sweet boy Jack is now three years old.

At the Baylor Homecoming Parade

At the park

Birthday cake and present time!

Little news

2011-11-03T12:33:00.000-05:00

I have a ridiculous sister who got confused with my title. So, little news means there is nothing to report and no real new photos to post. My interesting part of the day was trying to convince the car a/c not to turn on when programmed for 76 but instead kick on the heat. It seems to forgotten how to heat. And it was in the 40s this morning, definitely cool enough for the heat.

Have you ever?

2011-10-27T19:16:00.001-05:00

Have you ever had just a notsogoodverybad day? Well, the day on the whole was not quite that bad. Although it started out rough with waking up to a sour throat, headache, and dizziness. I managed fine at home the boys playing nice and not so nice. I wish they would have played outside longer. However it started to sprinkle a bit and some of you may not know but Texas kids are prone to dissolve with rain. Everyone hides inside for sure.

But tonight, oh that was a bad one. And it started off with one really bad decision. To go INTO Chick-fila. Never go into Chick-fila One-on-Three with no tethering or carrier device for at least one. The kids held hands nicely through the parking lot and I opened the door for us to enter. Whoa, where's Jack?? He was just here, how could he be gone? Really, where was he? Okay...so I found him around the corner at the other entrance. After warning of getting back in the car if they didn't stay close once we entered, we went in to order. Lillian immediately starting freaking out because she saw some school friends which is why I'd even attempted this thing to begin with (small profits for her school). So I tried to wait in line, keep Wes from squirming out of my arms, hold my purse and get money out, keep an eye and whisper orders to Jack and Lillian, say hello to friends, order, and look like I might have some control in the eyes of others. (oh but I didn't)

We found a seat and waited for the food. Within 10 minutes the kids were not eating their oh so delicious chicken and fighting over chocolate milk. Why oh why? I then told Jack and Lillian that we would not be going to the play area because it was on the other side of the restaurant and there was no way I could do it all. Then Lillian freaked and proceeded to fuss/cry the rest of the time there, and crawl under the table once she realized people were staring. Then Jack needed to go to the bathroom. Fortunately we were right there so I didn't feel too bad about leaving Lillian and Wes at the table as I went to supervise. But I managed to get a look from a lady not so sure about my decision. And then it was time to go, it was just going to get worse and I needed to get ahead of the game. Who knew my steps from the table to the car would be so far?

How was I going to carry the leftover food, my drink, Wes, the trash, hold on to Jack and pull worked up Lillian? I asked Lillian to carry the food and then Wes took off for the play area where some lady opened the door for him. Jack was off somewhere else. Walked halfway toward and Lillian came but without the food. I put my drink down, went back for the food and trash and came back. Gathered my drink, told L and J to stay put and went to get Wes. Made it outside with my very toughest mean look, struggled through the parking lot about to drop the food and stood byside the car. I still need to open it and get them in. I put Wes down to unlock the car. He took off running, I dropped everything and ran around the car and after him. Got him and started to put him in, where was Jack? Okay, they are all getting, all the stuff is in, they are all crying and mommy may shed a tear or two too.

Made it home, they were instructed to get pjs on and into bed. Again, trying to unlock the front door and Wes makes it to the end of the driveway and turns around to make sure I'm watching and about to chase. I drop it all again and bound after him. He laughs and runs into the street. I get him into the house and make sure they are all in bed within the next 10 minutes. It's okay to fall asleep crying every once in awhile.

Never again though.

Westina

2011-10-25T16:39:00.006-05:00

Hut, hut,...Hike!

2011-10-24T09:52:00.003-05:00

After bath, before bed

2011-10-19T18:04:00.000-05:00

Glorious weather

2011-10-18T09:04:00.003-05:00

No time to write anything further, we are going out to play (and do laundry).

It doesn't get any better than this

2011-10-13T19:02:00.002-05:00

(Click on here for more pictures.)

For Lillian, playing dress-up at Grammy's (a must-do) is the best thing ever. We found out that the best dress-up clothes are at Grammy's house. Lillian encouraged picture taking.

What is this?

2011-10-11T20:22:00.000-05:00

I know I know. You want to know what's going on and why I always have to change the look. It's fun and it's different. Click on the post or picture to see the full post. Click on the above left words to see alternative looks. We'll just see how we like this for a bit.

Happy Monday

2011-10-10T11:22:00.002-05:00

Lillian is off today. We are staying around home, having a lazy morning (she slept til after 8), playing inside and out, meeting up at the park later, and remembering what it was like when she was here with us all the time.

No we did not get a dog. Mango belongs to a friend of ours, he is quite cute but he won't be coming home with us anytime soon. The boys love playing with him.

Where is your belly button?

We were all excited to wear some warmer clothes to church yesterday. However it was pouring as we were loading and unloading and Muffin Man decided to sit down on the front step stairs as he was waiting his turn. We delivered him to the nursery with soaked through pants. The ladies were concentrating on his cuteness and didn't notice anyway.

Jack has been slowly progressing with getting out of diapers. I am probably more to blame on why he is not completely potty-trained yet. Here he is showing up his favorite pair of underwear.

Bullet Post

2011-10-03T09:09:00.002-05:00

The weather has cooled down (high of 88, low of 55) but allergies are in full force. Wes and Kyle both get them pretty badly.
Lillian knows how to spell and read about 8 words now and practices on her own at home.
Jack announces "train track" every time we see one and/or go over one. He even seems to sense when a bridge is going over a train track, as opposed to a river or road.
Kyle was away on the Men's retreat from church this past weekend, see below 'tranquility' pic.
Wes is getting in a bunch of teeth right now and is also expressing himself better. His latest is explaining to me first thing that his bopbop (pacifier) is on the floor by his crib. His favorite words are still water and no (which can also mean yes).
Kyle and I are trying to make a concerted effort for veggie/fruit only meals for a short while. I was unsuccessful at giving up coffee especially when the mornings got cool.
Our neighbors with 8 aggressive dogs moved out officially. We are very happy. There is now a 1400 sqft. house for $800/mo available to rent. We would love a friendly face next door, preferable w/o 3+ dogs/animals. :)
I took the kids to the lake on Sat. morning to play on the impressive playground, wade in the water, and dig in the sand. Lillian dove all the way in despite the 78 temps. October is still good for swimming. Can't believe we were dealing with an additional 20-30 degrees a month ago.
I can't stop talking about the weather. It's perfect now. The kids can play outside all day.

We love our Grammy

2011-09-29T12:10:00.001-05:00

One of the sweetest things was when we were taking Grammy to the airport this week and Jack realizing what was going on, whined "Nooo, I miss you Grammy."

Thank you Mom/Grammy so much for coming!!!

Pushing the double stroller at the zoo.

Meeting Kyle for dinner on campus.

After church walk around the river.

The kids all have a special connection with their Grammy and spent a great two weeks with her. Poor Lillian quickly learned the disadvantage of going to school now, she missed out on a lot of time with Grammy. She even missed taking her to the airport. Next time we'll have to definitely arrange for Grammy to have lunch with her at school.

Wait, it's not Jack's birthday yet! He got treated to two outings to the train at Lion's Park.

2011-09-29T10:17:00.000-05:00

Weekend in Nashville

2011-09-20T09:48:00.004-05:00

Pre-wedding basketball game, the groom left before this picture though.

The Wrangler and his wife!

College buddies in a photo booth

This was a really fun idea. They had a photo booth that printed off two copies so we kept one and the other went in an album for Nate and Amy with a little note alongside each pic.

Even some time for a little sightseeing.

Sunday night we had dinner and stayed with Jonee and Verna.

Grammy to the rescue

2011-09-20T09:29:00.000-05:00

Kyle's parents came for a visit AND....to watch the kids while Kyle and I took off for a long weekend trip to Nashville. They arrived Tuesday afternoon, we left Thursday afternoon, Grandpa left Saturday morning, and we returned Monday afternoon. The kids did great and Grammy did even better - she survived! Amidst the everyday struggles she also dealt with one kid throwing up (on the first night!), getting Lillian ready for school, one kid deciding to stop napping, strange neighbors, hot weather, storms, and lots more...

We are glad to be back and although we missed seeing their smiling faces, Kyle and I had a great and much needed relaxing weekend away. Who is up for the challenge of watching them next time? :)

Our favorite zoo

2011-09-11T23:19:00.001-05:00

Nothing beats a visit to the Cameron Park Zoo.

New mercies every morning

2011-09-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

Leah has her new heart!! She is in the ICU and has already awoken and responded well. Regular updates can be found on their blog: Parker Family.

Leah Grace

2011-09-08T14:18:00.000-05:00

Leah Grace is on her way to the hospital for her new heart, right now! (2:00pm cst)

Please pray!!!

Cabin Fever

2011-09-07T17:18:00.000-05:00

The weather is beautiful but we are all sick. Lillian even had to stay home from school today. The kids are going bonkers so we still get out as much as possible. Last night we met Kyle at school for a little picnic.

Recreation

2011-09-05T23:16:00.008-05:00

The heat finally relented, so we ventured outdoors at long last. We even have the a/c off.

September 1st

2011-09-01T17:01:00.001-05:00

This has been a busy week, and it's not over yet.

Lillian is still thriving, today she received the Best Listener award in music class. Jack and Wes and I are getting use to being without her, much quieter. We are finding our rhythm to the day. Wes seems to be at his best when he's allowed to roam thru the house finding whatever pleases him. It doesn't necessarily end well for me but it keeps him happy. I just found a pile of cheerios on the floor that he spilled. And after lamenting over the mess and asking him to pick them up, I saw him go and pick up the dust pan and broom. He often plays in his room quietly. Yes it's true, just not for very long.

Jack loves to annoy him. Yesterday he decided it would be fun to sit on Wes' head while they were playing on the trampoline. It didn't take long before they were sweaty, red, and dirty and needed a cool down in the tub. Oh wait, that was this morning not yesterday.
I wish we could get away to the lake for Labor day. Maybe we will.

I miss Lillian

2011-08-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

Everybody misses Lillian.

We are all healthy and happy, busy and cranky, tired and excited.

It's a fun mixture of emotions.

Faces

2011-08-23T18:31:00.000-05:00

Don't expect me to be able to explain this look.

First day of Kindergarten

2011-08-22T12:36:00.002-05:00

Wow, it really happened. We all went to drop off Lillian this morning for her first day of school. It all happened so fast that she didn't even really say good-bye to us, just the teacher giving us reassuring looks as she waved us away. 7:50am -3:15pm, that is a long day. I'm so proud of her and so excited for this new chapter in her life (I'm telling myself this now for the first time remembering that really this is about her and not how we feel).

Also, somehow she got switched and Mrs. Reid is her teacher not the other one I mentioned back in June. We met her Thursday night and she seems great. There are 23 kids in her class but they will be doing a lot of classroom time with the adjoining class that also has 23 kids.

Lillian is holding her new backpack from Matt and Hannah. It is very fancy and even has her name on the front. :) I can't wait until we pick her up to hear about everything, guess I'll have to add to this post.

It was 3:37 when Lillian finally got in the van. I'm still trying to figure out the best person to vent to regarding the pick-up line. Why do I have to sit in a car line wrapping around the neighborhood for 30 minutes in order to pick up my kid?! Well, I got over this frustration quickly enough to begin asking the questions, "how was your day dear?" She has tried her best to describe the events of her day. There was rug time, different centers with geometric shapes etc, P.E., lunch, recess, rest time (to help cool down from recess), storytime, and crafts. She can't really remember any of the kids names and forgot the main teachers name too. But she has firmly confirmed that she will be returning tomorrow.

Five Years w/ the Dygglers

2011-08-19T22:35:00.003-05:00

Earlier this week we said 'goodbye' to our friends, Mandy & David (better known as 'The Dygglers.') Mandy just finished at Baylor, and they're off to Tennessee, where David will finish his degree in the near future. We're going to miss them, and we're grateful for the ways they made life in Waco better.

5 years

2011-08-14T12:37:00.000-05:00

Did you realize that we've now lived in Waco for 5 years?! Here is a picture from our first days of Lillian on the couch and here is Lillian (sitting up all by herself) last week, showing off her urban side.

Corn is good

2011-08-10T16:28:00.000-05:00

July 2011

September 1977

Trip Collage

2011-08-08T09:30:00.001-05:00

Lancaster, OH July 13 -30, 2011

College Park, July 2-12

Durham, NC June 26-July 2

Do you recognize this girl?

2011-07-28T16:17:00.000-05:00

She is on her way to kindergarten in just over 3 weeks.

Steak and Shake

2011-07-28T16:14:00.000-05:00

We have a lot of catching up to do on the blog. Lots of fun and pics to post. Here are a couple shots from an evening out at Steak and Shake.

Do you know the Muffin Man?

2011-07-15T10:54:00.000-05:00

Climbing up

Falling down!

Best day ever!

2011-07-06T16:54:00.000-05:00

As declared by Lillian, the 4th of July was "the best day ever." She spent the morning and afternoon with her cousins and cousin's cousins at the Rosenfelder cookout. Then after about an hour rest, skype session with Grammy and Grandpa, we headed out to the Zuba's for more food and fun. The evening ended of course with the crew watching the fireworks at the University. Lillian was whooping and hollering over every firework. She let me know that it was so awesome!

Unfortunately Jack, Wes and I spent most of the time inside on our own. Jack had gotten sick during the night and needed to be kept away from other kids. I of course didn't mind being kept away from the excitement of the fireworks but Jack would have enjoyed it for sure.

Compare for yourself

2011-07-04T07:40:00.000-05:00

We love our friends in Waco and all the fun stuff to do with our friends. But Kyle and I just can't stand the heat, so we got out of there. I may have to do this post every week just so it is well documented. Those 10+ degrees are a world of difference. We miss you Waco but we aren't coming home yet!

Waco, TX (76710) Weather

Save This Location

Updated: Jul 4, 2011, 7:25am CDT

UPDATE DATA

Nearby TruPoint Locations: Dallas Love Field | The Ferrell Center | Your Address

TodayJul 4

Tue5

Wed6

Thu7

Fri8


Mostly Sunny	Isolated T-Storms	Mostly Sunny	Sunny	Mostly Sunny
103°F	103°	102°	103°	102°
High	High	High	High	High
75°	75°	76°	77°	76°
Low	Low	Low	Low	Low
Chance of Rain: 20%	Chance of Rain: 30%	Chance of Rain: 10%	Chance of Rain: 0%	Chance of Rain: 20%

Details

Next 5 Days

College Park, MD (20740) Weather

Save This Location

Updated: Jul 4, 2011, 8:25am EDT

UPDATE DATA

Nearby TruPoint Locations: Ronald Reagan Washingt... | Byrd Stadium at U. of ... | Your Address

TodayJul 4

Tue5

Wed6

Thu7

Fri8


Isolated T-Storms	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy	Scattered T-Storms	Isolated T-Storms
90°F	90°	89°	88°	84°
High	High	High	High	High
70°	70°	71°	71°	70°
Low	Low	Low	Low	Low
Chance of Rain: 30%	Chance of Rain: 20%	Chance of Rain: 20%	Chance of Rain: 40%	Chance of Rain: 30%

Details

Next 5 Days

NC week

2011-06-28T14:03:00.001-05:00

We made it safely in two days and roughly 20 hours driving from Waco to Durham. The kids did super amazing the first day and somewhat well on the second day.

They are all enjoying playing with Asher who is sharing his toys very nicely.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.9

Silly

2011-06-14T09:50:00.000-05:00

Lillian is attending VBS this week along with 750+ other kids. Fortunately Caleb and a couple other kids that she knows are in her class. She claimed to be a bit nervous yesterday as I dropped her off. Looks like they are having lots of fun.
Jack has switched from "ok Mom" and "thank you Mom" to a very whiney "i don't want to."
Wes is fighting a cold but still improving on his walking and basketball skills.

2011-06-08T19:25:00.000-05:00

The baby of the family, not quite ready to grow up.

He climbed into the doll stroller by himself.

Lillian's New school

2011-06-04T16:28:00.003-05:00

Ready for school

I just got the phone call from Lillian's new kindergarten teacher! We were waiting and hoping for this call for the past couple months, hoping that she would get into the magnet school that is just a mile away. And yes! Lillian's name was drawn in the lottery! More information will come by mail but here is the school information and a picture and info on her teacher.

Almost walking

2011-06-04T10:37:00.000-05:00

When it's not happening, it's hard to believe that it ever will.
But sure enough, this guy has been finally exploring
the idea of being on his feet.
A step here and there, then four steps...and he's almost there.
Maybe within the next week. Guess I gotta find him some shoes...

Daddy came home with this craigslist find this week.
Jack is in to dunking only and
Lillian has shown herself to be a pretty good shot.

Evening park visit

2011-05-30T15:09:00.000-05:00

You gotta walk before you...

2011-05-28T00:07:00.005-05:00

Wesley, who refuses to walk, loves climbing. Here are a few videos of his exploits in the play area at the mall. It's probably his favorite spot in the whole world.

2011-05-20T17:25:00.003-05:00

Hill Country

2011-05-17T21:50:00.014-05:00

When we saw pleasant temperatures in the long-range forecast last week, we decided to take a trip down to the Texas Hill Country. We visited several state parks and camped outside of Fredericksburg. Trying to get Wesley (who thought the tent was his playdome) and Jack (who was Jackish) to sleep was a bit of a challenge. In their defense, their normal evening routine involves a healthy amount of post-lights-out activity that doesn't get interrupted unless they get too loud. They, if they were more articulate, would probably argue that we were changing the rules on them and intruding upon their brotherly activities.

Nevertheless, it seems that Wesley might be a little too young for camping. Poor Jack was attacked by a squirrel at Inks Lake State Park. His feet were dangling from a picnic table bench, when a squirrel scratched (bit?) his bare feet. Fortunately, he was more scared than injured.

Among the highlights were: our ascent of Enchanted Rock (which Lillian climbed by herself), dining in a German restaurant in Fredericksburg, and 'swimming' in the creek at Pedernales Falls SP. All in all, we had a very good time.

Skin update

2011-05-11T18:06:00.000-05:00

Hives on stomach and face, April 29

Hives on arms, April 29

Wes' skin is magically doing better as of sometime Sunday or Monday. It's like night and day, we'd forgotten how nice and soft baby's skin really is. He has an appointment at the Allergist on Friday. If we'd gone last Friday I think they might have reported me to CPS, his skin was THAT bad. They will most likely be sticking his back to find out what it may be. The blood test from before Easter indicated that he did NOT have food or grass allergies. I'll let you know what is determined Friday. In the meantime, he is doing well.

Today, May 11

On another note sweet sweet Jack has had a fever since yesterday morning. I didn't really notice until lunch time when he didn't want to eat lunch! I put him in bed at about 11:45 (he'd been yawning for the past hour or so). He laid right down and was almost asleep by the time I came back with Wes. When he woke he had a 102-103 temp and was very lethargic. He doesn't seem to be complaining about anything in particular but last night was so sad because he kept waking up in sweats with very scared cries for help. I eventually climbed into bed with him. Funny enough, with his hot body next to mine, the scary dreams transferred over to me and it wasn't long before I was crying for help. :) We made it through just fine though. His fever seems to be gone but his energy and demand for constant snacks has yet to return. I think he had at least a four hour nap.

Lillian was very kind this morning as she, Wes, and I drove away leaving Jack and Kyle home she says to me "I like Jack a whole lot Mom."

Kite Festival

2011-05-08T23:48:00.005-05:00

We had so much fun on Saturday at the Kite Festival with the Wallaces. Caleb and Lillian loved running underneath (!) this huge kite. The kids all got their own free kite.

It was a beautiful sunny day (giving us a good taste of our long summer ahead...!). We had a little picnic in the shade, ran into a couple friends, took part in parachute races, came up empty-handed in a candy-drop, and had an all around great morning.

I think you can kinda see Caleb in one pic, his green shorts and that is Lillian in complete pink of course. Then in the second one, Bethany is standing with the littler boys so they wouldn't get too close and knocked over.

After a much needed nap time for all we went out again to fly kites over at Baylor. Kyle and I really got into it. Once the kite was fully extended even Wes got a chance to hold on.

Let's go fly a kite.

(Bethany and I both forgot cameras so this is all you get, sorry!)

17 questions about mommy

2011-05-08T08:09:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine posted this on her blog yesterday. I thought it looked fun so I asked Lillian the same questions this morning. Strangely they are very similar to Leah's answers for her mom. Obviously #12 is my favorite answer, the rest of the answers....?

How old is Mommy? 12
What is mommy's favorite color? Pink
What is mommy's job? Cleaning the kitchen
What is mommy's favorite thing to do? Watch TV
Mommy's favorite place to go? Grocery store
What color are mommy's eyes? Blue
What color is mommy's hair? Brown
My mommy loves to relax by... Sitting on the couch
She likes to wear... Dresses on Sundays
She loves to cook... eggs and toast
Her favorite chore to do is... clean the laundry
Mommy always tells me... I love you
It makes mommy happy when I... make stuff with her
When mommy shops she loves to buy... cookies
Mommy's favorite food is... pasta
Mommy's favorite movie is... Beauty and the Beast
What is Mommy the best at doing? Folding laundry

Choo—choo

2011-05-02T16:15:00.001-05:00

Jack loves playing with his trains.

Yo!

2011-04-28T11:19:00.001-05:00

Must buy of the Week!

2011-04-27T08:16:00.001-05:00

1973 Ford Country Squire Station Wagon - $3000 (Lake Whitney)

Date: 2011-04-26, 8:41PM CDT
Reply to: sale-cxhfv-2348299540@craigslist.org ^{[Errors when replying to ads?]}

This is a one owner, garage kept, 9 passenger station wagon,runs good, clear title, sell as is, no waranty, low milage 65K, call Randy 254-386-6346

Location: Lake Whitney
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

9 passenger vehicle!! That means Kyle and I could have 4 more kids and still fit! And it would be a perfect first car for Lillian when she turns 16.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T23:42:00.003-05:00

This is the annual children with the Flowering of the Cross picture taken between services. Wes was encouraged to be a part of it so I sat him down. Jack was turned around with his back to the camera until he was physical righted. My favorite part may be the guy in the background who's name is K.Paul. He is one of the friendliest guys at church and I never realized it until this pic, but he kinda looks like Colonel Sanders in his Easter suit.

I think Lillian is showing off her shoes here. And Jack wants to say hi, as long as he doesn't have to share the cupcake.

What can be cuter than a Muffin Man sitting on a wall? Maybe matching brothers sitting on a wall.

(Also notice purple all over Lillian's neck from a stamp included in the goody bag from church - don't worry, it matched her afternoon outfit just perfectly.)

Well, we had a super terrific great day!

Happy Easter to all our friends and family.

He is Risen, alleluia!

Princess Dance Party

2011-04-21T13:30:00.001-05:00

This free digital greeting card customized with Smilebox

1-2-3

2011-04-21T12:53:00.001-05:00

Wes is battling allergies these days, this is the best he has looked in awhile. We have ruled out any food or dust mite allergies. They are testing for grass now which I really really hope he does not have. I realized the other day that I started using a new fabric softener that could be causing the problem. I hope to receive a call from the doc next week.

Jack has been doing so well in speech lately and he really seems to be coming into his own. He has also started to show an interest in using the potty and has surprised me with initiative on that front. He's received a couple candy rewards already for his progress.

Lillian is making new (girl!)friends at MOPS which we attend twice a month. Here are two of them taken at a zoo visit a couple weeks ago. She is looking forward to school and all the excitement and newness that comes with it. She has been playing a math game on the computer a lot lately and I'm hoping that she knows her numbers plus some addition, etc before September. Any other sites that have good learning exercises, pass them on please.

Scrapbooking, etc

2011-04-19T13:58:00.001-05:00

This site allows you to scrapbook without all the scraps. The collage is interactive and you can add videos or use as a slideshow. Tons of options including cards, books, burn to dvd, or print with lots of variety. It is so much easier (and FASTER!) than some of the photo websites I've used in the past, Snapfish, Shuttlefly, etc.

Check it out

2011-04-13T13:15:00.002-05:00

Blogger has put together some new looks for your blog. Check out the links to the left to view our blog and others in a variety of ways. I think my favorite is the flipcard. Which one do you like?

Morning business

2011-04-13T12:53:00.003-05:00

Here is our van on its way to the shop. We are hopeful that the problem will be an easy fix.

***EDIT: The van was fixed easily and cheaply!! Yeah, only $45, amazing! And the tow was free thanks to AAA. The hardest part was driving all the way out to China Spring, the closest TRUSTED shop we've found.

New words

2011-04-06T14:09:00.000-05:00

Jack is just amazing us these days with lots of new words and imitating us and Lillian at times. A couple of days ago we were talking about a token that the speech therapist left at our house (belonging to one of Jack's favorite games). Jack said "I love money." Money is not a new word and we've been working on "I love you" but putting it together like this was very expressive and exciting!

He also says Lillian's name in a very cute way, since her name is impossible for most 2 years. He has said these words lately around us and during speech therapy: whale (as a southerner would say it), mouse, I do, lunch, snack, wateee for water, Asheee for Asher, and funny.

Bad Days and Good Days

2011-04-03T12:44:00.001-05:00

Well, we are surviving. The kids and I are on our way to recovery. Kyle, the last one to get sick is still in the midst of his battle. Pray for his strength to return and for the bug to be completely gone so that he can try to start the week off on a better note. He has a lot of work to get done plus he leaves Wed/Thurs for another conference.

We skipped church this morning although we felt a little better I knew we weren't in the clear to be in close contact with others. The kids and I went out early to give Kyle some quiet rest. We stopped for coffee and breakfast, a quick shop around Target, and then on to a first time visit park. There were only a couple other dog walkers/joggers. It's in a perfect spot over-looking the lake and west of Waco. Here are a couple shots of some Bluebonnets that are starting to peak out.

Sorry the quality of these pictures is so poor, I'm using the camera on my phone which is maybe 3mpx.

Not feeling too good around here

2011-04-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd be able to get in a fun April Fools Day post but we are all serious around here today. I don't know what's going around but it's not good. Tuesday night Jack starting throwing up (but slept well during the night), he seemed to be better during the day with only one other episode. But now it's spread to Wesley who spent most of the night throwing up or trying to throw up. I slept in Jack's bed so that I could be close to Wes and after finally getting some longer sleep, got woken up with the news that Lillian had gotten sick in her bed too! Lots of laundry and cleaning up and now my stomach is quite shaky. I'm hoping to pull through with no incidents....

Kyle was convinced to stay home today. Here is a pic of Lillian when she had a horrible cold when she was just over 1 year old.

2011-03-29T23:25:00.002-05:00

50 Outdoor Activities Your Children Will Love

Need some activities for these perfect spring days before the heat overtakes us.

Challenge to do at least 5 (? 10) in the next month.

Kyle in Durham

2011-03-28T12:03:00.000-05:00

Kyle spent 4 days in Durham last week W/O us! But he was busy researching, presenting a paper, watching Duke basketball (with some avid Dukies), catching up with a couple friends, and meeting a lot of great people at the ISAE conference. Mom and Dad were able to hear him present his paper (and take a couple photos).

We missed him but were glad he had such a great time.

Park fun

2011-03-26T19:31:00.001-05:00

The kids had fun last night at park. Wes was able to climb all the way up the slide and was quite proud of himself. Jack was having a blast throwing the frisbee and kicking the ball. Lillian surprised herself by climbing all the way the monkey bars.

Contemplation

2011-03-24T12:18:00.000-05:00

Life without dad is....not good!

Spring has sprung

2011-03-22T10:22:00.001-05:00

Warm enough?

2011-03-17T17:45:00.001-05:00

It's above 80 degrees so it must be time to get wet!

My newest hobby: Couponing

2011-03-17T12:33:00.002-05:00

I tried a couple years ago to be better about clipping coupons and therefore saving money on food and staple items. It was not the right time and I was soon buried in coupons and not using a single one at the store.

But I've started again. The first thing to do is start collecting, through the paper (multiple sets), internet, magazines, and anywhere else you can find. Then you organize, then you research, then you head to the stores. I use a couple of different sites- blogs mostly that have already done the research for me and can tell me directly to go to such and such store and buy this product using this coupon. I've learned that I have to be completely prepared before I get to the store. Usually I go without the kids and I take a list and just the coupons I'll be using.

The receipt shows todays venture. I "bought" two Right Guard deodorants. They each cost $3.99 originally but the store is having a Buy One get One Free promotion= (-$3.99), then I had a manufacture coupon for Buy One get One Free= (-$3.99). In essence, the store is paying for one, and the manufacture is paying for one. I'm getting both free, and I walked out of the store without paying a penny!!! This is of course not an everyday deal so you have to jump on them when you can - I have/had a total of four of the these coupons. This means that I received 8 of these (the coupon/promotion were also for Right Guard body washes) for a total of $31.92 in savings. So Kyle should be smelling fresh for awhile....

If you'd like to get in on the action just check out the blogs under SAVINGS to the left. OR, if you'd like to help me out and collect coupons for me that would be amazing. The Waco paper often does not have the same value and definitely not the same amount of coupons that larger papers have. I would be happy to send you a envelope with stamps (no need to cut, just send the whole insert or inserts after collecting for a couple). If you don't subscribe you could always ask your neighbors, friends, people at church or even scout out Starbucks on Sundays. :) And email me if you have questions or want to help out. I'm just at the beginning so we could learn together.

Nothing like FREE to get you excited!

**EDIT: This week until Saturday Walgreens is having a sale on diapers (possible made by Huggies - they work great for us) for Buy One get One free (orig. $8.99). Plus there are store coupons for $2.00 - which apply to each pack in your order = $2.49/pack. Email or call if you need the store coupon.
size 1 - 50 diapers .049/diaper
size 2 - 42, .059/diaper
size 4 - 31, .080/diaper
size 6 - 23, .108/diaper

It's a sad day in Waco

2011-03-14T16:10:00.002-05:00

Thumb down to the Digglers moving!

Matchey matchie

2011-03-14T09:27:00.002-05:00

Jogger Babe

2011-03-12T10:57:00.001-06:00

Monkeys in the tree

2011-03-12T10:52:00.001-06:00

Mealtime around here

2011-03-07T10:14:00.001-06:00

fun, tiring, messy, crazy, never-ending, silly

Picnic

2011-03-01T12:33:00.001-06:00

2011-02-27T12:35:00.001-06:00

Seattle or Bust!

2011-02-18T16:41:00.003-06:00

No, you are right, we are not on our way to the NW. Although it would be great to see our Port Orchard cousins, I don't think Bethany and I are up for the challenge of a +2000 mile drive with 5 kids in the back (we are willing to make the drive however, w/o these 5 kids :)).

These are our friends Samuel and Caleb Wallace who came over for the Dinner and a Jump package that we offer on Friday nights, starting this past Friday night. It was a hoot, at one point we had all five kids and two moms on the jumpoline. We managed to get through the afternoon with no serious injuries.

So, call us up to check availability and prices for our Dinner and a Jump package at your Waco Welty home. (limited time only*)