Team Call

Gasp...I am a Horrible blogger lately...

2011-05-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

I couldn't possibly tell you why I have been so horrible at blogging as of late. I almost forgot my password...that is bad!!! :) Here are a few things to catch you up:

August:
Brooklyn started school and LOVES the Dual Language Program.

On August 26, 2010 Brock Colson Bailey made his presence into the world. He is such a handsome little devil.

In September Matt and Lauren got married.

I also took some of my most treasured pictures. Before the wedding dad and I took the kids to the Old Latch Airport strip. Random for most, but precious to us. My Great-Grandfather "Grandaddy Meyers" Meyers Poole built the airport. He would fly his little private plane to Puerto Rico (I believe...maybe Costa Rica...don't ask why I always get it confused) frequently. As I started taking the pictures I just let the kids have fun for a minute. Then I also was attracted to the airport hangar as well. Once I got to the wedding I should my grandfather "Grandaddy" Donald Jones. He was the son-in-law to Grandaddy Meyers when he married my Grandmother Betty. I was a little nervous to show him because they had divorced years later and as I am an "outsider" to those times I didn't know what he would say. Come to find out he practically built the hangar by himself. It was a special moment. So prints made the perfect Christmas present. :)

Of course we are in full swing with Texas size football. Whoop! Whoop! Judson Rockets!

Comal County Fair...
Brooklyn entered this photography entry into the Comal County fair and got 2nd place for her category. She was quite upset that its wasn't first. :)

Also Fall brings Homecoming! This year Ben and Geraldine were here with little Jacqueline. He had so much fun.

October brings one of my favorite events of the year...The East Texas Yamboree!

Halloween! This year Brooklyn was an adorable Peacock and Jack a "Jack in the Box." They looked so cute!

Halloween Party...
While at mom and dads we had our annual Halloween Party...so fun!

November starts the end of football season and the playoffs! The last game of the year Brooklyn, Kylie Moulder, and Isabella Munoz all went on the field to cheer with the girls. I think this was a highlight of the season for Brooklyn. She was so thrilled!

Another plus of living in New Braunfels is the annual Train show. Jack loved it. The Bailey's came along too. Jack cannot get enough of trains that is for sure.

For Thanksgiving we celebrated at Bill and Sherree's I don't have any pictures! :/ We had a great time and although Joel wasn't playing football this year we had a great time. From this point til we left for Gilmer for Christmas I was one busy momma taking pictures. It was so fun! We also found out we are expecting a 3rd August 23rd. More to follow on that starting 2011. :) We are beyond thrilled after a stressful year of miscarriages.

Christmas this year was at mom and dad's in Gilmer. Everyone was there and we had so much fun. Mom and dad got each family cows this year for Christmas. We named ours Eleanor..aka "Ella."

Isn't she cute!?! Our kids were of course spoiled and we all had a blessed Christmas.

Since it has taken me hours to get caught up I will end here. :) We brought in the New Year at Jerry and Melva's annual New Year's Eve party. You know the boys go rodent hunting the girls chit-chat and have fun. The kids walk around aimlessly looking for somewhere to sleep. We love it!

1st day of Kindergarten for Brooklyn!

2010-08-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

There she goes! Tear...Tear...:(

Brooklyn and her teacher.

A little something for the teacher.

Sunday before the big day. She had to wear this dress her Grammie made her. She is too cute in it.

Man...I love that face too!

Gotta love the SASS!

When?

2010-08-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

When did Brooklyn go from this to ->

THIS!!

She is such a sweet and beautiful angel. I am not sure how I got so lucky. I do know that time flies and I am going to miss her while she is at school. Tear...Tear...there will be lots more I am sure tomorrow at the Boo Hoo Breakfast the school is having for Kinder parents. I know she will have fun, but she was a little nervous tonight. Saying a little prayer for her now and getting some much need rest. I will post pictures again tomorrow!

The biggest Milestone YET...

2010-08-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

...Jack is POTTY TRAINED! WHOOHOO!! I HONESTLY thought it would NEVER happen! LOL I hate when people discuss "potty talk" but I am smiling ear to ear and can't help it! My mom and I had been working with him for the past couple of weeks and he would NOT go on the potty at all! A month ago when traveling he went once because I was changing him and in the middle of changing him he started to pee, so I drug him over to the potty and he went the rest into the potty. Every time we would ask him, "Jack why won't you go on the potty?" He would reply, "I did in Utah!" UGH...that was over a month ago now and on Friday it just clicked! With lots of Gatorade in hand (thanks to Aunt Emily), I sat beside him and read him a book and let him drink away while he was on the potty. In between each page I would say push and see if you can get the pees out and that is what we did until half way through the book he finally went! He was so proud of himself he has done it ever since and (knock on wood) hasn't had ANY accidents! I made a CARS sticker chart that I found online and he got 11 stickers before nap time! WHEW! At least I got my baseboards cleaned in the bathroom while doing all that waiting! LOL Next milestone dry at night and we will be set. My baby boy is getting too big! Now the next 2 weeks prepping the kids especially Brooklyn for getting up early and going to bed early since she is starting Kindergarten this year...EEK and sob! I am going to miss that crazy, smart, funny, and beautiful smiling girl all day! I have lots of pictures to post over the several weeks, but that will have to wait for this week...just wanted to make sure I documented this...yes I am beyond thrilled!

Utah Trip 2010

2010-07-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

In 3 weeks have done the following (you know there are lots of pictures...do I have to say beware...LOL):

Crossed through or stayed in 6 states - Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada
2 National Parks - Zion's and Snow Canyon

3 football camps - BYU (twice) / SUU

Cleaned 2 houses
Packed and re-packed the car about 6 times
Ate at Zupas 4 times | Jamba Juice - too many to count | In & Out 4 times | Cafe Rio twice
Kids ate free at IKEA - yes, this is a highlight for me!
Hiked the Y in Provo with the 2 kids and they walked by themselves the WHOLE time. (1 mile +)

Hiked about 5+ miles at Zion's and the kids once again didn’t have to be carried.

Saw 2 Polygamist women at Ross in Southern Utah...those that are interested...they purchased white Keds.
Also saw the LARGEST man I have ever seen...his legs were bigger than the width of Joel’s shoulders around...this is not an exaggeration and we were at McDonald’s.
Visited with 4 college friends and one ex-missionary that served in Gilmer.

Passed 8 temples, Provo, Draper, SLC, Monticello, St. George, Mt. Timpanogos, South Jordan, Mt. Oquirrh

Shopped in 6 different Down East Basics stores. Don’t judge me...judge Joel. He is CRAZY!
Traveled about 4,000 miles
Spent 94 hours in the car
1 Dinosaur museum

1 BYU Bean Museum

Brigham’s Winter home

1 Owl, 2 lizards, 2 deer, 2 baby bird eggs hatch

Swam twice

Screamed at the Garmin numerous times...because I am always right when driving.
Crossed Draper mountain 1/2 a dozen times
Worked too many hours on the computer...yes someone shoot me now! :)
Took 2,500 pictures
1 Sealing - Congrats Carly and Andrew

The kids met 3 of their Great Uncles, numerous cousins, and their Cousin Cameron...okay really just Joel’s.

Brooklyn slept over at Liz and Heath’s once and camped out with “Aunt Bugga” and her cousin Gracen once.
Caught Toy Story (We ALL loved it)
Thanks to Joel’s efforts BYU offered one of his kids a full ride to play football in 2011

Visited two LDS visitors centers (SLC and St. George)
Got to see Heath and Liz’s new house...yay! Congrats guys!

Put jackets on 3 times...just about perfect weather for summer.
Survived 78 mile/hour winds while riding a horse and buggy (not the brightest idea I have ever had)

Major Cities visited: Albuquerque, SLC, Provo, St. George, Vegas
Tore one contact so hiked Zion's with one eye.
Slept in a full size bed for 11 nights....yes I am a Saint!
Quit counting how many pine cones we picked up for Uncle Don....Jack became a little obsessed
Held a 3 week old and that is ALL Brooklyn has talked about since.
1 water gun fight...Heath ended up just dumping the water on the kids...some things never change. :)

1 hot dog roast

Visited the Hoover Dam

Weathered High 40’s to 115 degrees
Saw one Ferrari and one Bentley
One motorcycle that drove right down the middle of the lane
Changed the car seat WAY too many times!
Passed a bicycling group that were riding from Austin to Anchorage in 90 days. Crazy stuff!
Listened to Cameron and Joel go on and on about Ex girlfriends and “dates” and how they still have “it” (whatever that is)
Bowled and the results were Cameron, Britni, and Joel....yes Cameron still has to win at everything, but surprisingly Joel and I didn’t fight! :)

No hospital visits!
One case of Vertigo...Joel started off the trip with it...and it was No Bueno!
One “pop a squat” event along the interstate with the other girl in the car and no we were not successful!
Went 9 miles in 2 hours on Day 1 about 40 miles outside of Albuquerque. Yes we wanted to SCREAM!!!!
Mailed post cards once I got back to Texas....always a day late and a dollar short..thats me!
Tried to coerce a least a dozen friends to move and come see us in Texas. You people know who you are....COME ASAP!
Had “Vacation Sunday” twice. Translation - sitting in church not worrying about the responsibilities that I have to fulfill after sacrament and we still kept the Sabbath day Holy...just short. Yes...you can say SLACKER!
Ate too much = Gained too much = My swim suit will not be happy and thus those around me. Hey its VACATION! :)
3 weeks of memories made...Priceless!

Favorite sayings by the kids during this trip:
*Jack called Aunt Patty the following: Aunt Potty, Aunt Bugga (her grandkids call her Bugga), and Grandma Grape. Man he was so confused.
*Another Bugga related story...we were in St.George near their home we were staying at when we saw a roach. I said ewww...don’t touch it and Brooklyn replied, “We are near Aunt Bugga’s home...maybe thats were she got that name.” I had to laugh...smarty pants.
*When leaving Cameron and Tara’s house I said, “Brooklyn put the water down, the last thing I need is a peeing little girl every 10 seconds.” In which she replies, “ Mom I have to be hydrated for the trip.”
*While we are at Hoover Dam, we got out and walked around. There was a Jeep just like ours with a Texas license plate and all. I said “Oh, look guys there goes are car.” Jack replied, “Oh, no my candy is in there!” Joel asked him, “ are you worried about anything else?” He replied, “my bags too, but I really wanted my candy!” Yes, he is my moms little candy man...the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
*When seeing the Y on the mountain Jack would scream, “Look...the BYU!” It sounds like BAYOU though. He has a little cajun in him I guess.
*I was talking Brooklyn about the early pioneers and the persecutions they went through. We then discussed Joseph Smith and him being executed in Jail. When she comes out of nowhere and with lots of passion, “If I was there I would’ve kicked those mean men in their faces!” Jack then piped in and said I would’ve shot back with my gun! My kids have such a fierce streak in them sometimes. LOL

Mothers

2010-04-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

As of lately I have really been thinking about mothers. This past year there are several mothers that I know will have a grievous Mother's day. Each of their situations has been really weighing on my mind and heart. For those that don't know I am the chorister in Primary (3-11 year olds) at church. Yes, I lead and teach music...Can you believe that? Deaf tone, non-beat keeping Britni leads music? I have really struggled with this calling and over the past few months I now know why I have been called to lead the music...to help me be a better mother. Music is something that is so foreign to me. I love it...but it doesn't really love me. Like I said I am not good with beats and keeping a tune is a whole other issue, but I learn so much through lyrics. As I have been preparing the kids to sing Mother Tell Me the Story during Sacrament for Mother's Day I have been thinking a lot about my own mother and those mothers this last year that have lost a child. This song is a two part song that the children sing a verse and then the mothers...it is absolutely beautiful. The songs is basically about a child asking his/her mother to tell her about Heaven and Jesus and then tell me you love me and then the child can sleep. The mom replies and comforts her words...its a beautiful lullaby. My favorite is Mother tell how you love me and gently speak and then I'll go to sleep to which the mother replies: Sleep, Sleep a love watch I'll keep to protect you through the night. Both of my mothers call me daily to check on my even though I am 28 years old and I feel like they are still protecting me through the night. I have so many mother figures in my life. My own mother has seriously been like most and has been there for me through THICK and THIN! I am eternally en dept to her and her many hours of selfless service she has given for me. Yesterday we were shopping and she bought me this adorable dress that I love and when we went to check out the lady says, "I sure do miss getting to shop with my little girl, she is 5 hours away and we rarely see each other." My thought is lady...its only 5 hours. I am so blessed that she spends just about the same amount of time seeing us as she does in the car just to be with us. The Lord has also blessed me with an amazing Mother-in-Law that has taught me so much and has given me my eternal companion. More importantly I am so grateful that we have this time on Earth together still to spend that time with each other. Those that don't know Joel witnessed a tragic skateboarding accident 2 weeks ago and although I wasn't there that 12 year old boy's mother still weighs on my mind. I have lost 2 dear high school friends this last year and I too think of their moms which are GREAT mothers. I also have a family friend that just lost her 2 month old. All I can say is time is precious and I count my blessings daily. I have been squeezing my kids a little longer and a little tighter, watching them a little closer, and telling them I love them a little more. I hope that although I can't sing real great that they know the importance of this song I have been teaching them lately and know that I will always protect them and watch over them. I hope with the help of music and the examples of the women that are fabulous Mothers I will be a better mother. I know that this is a little early for Mother's Day, but maybe we should all be planning a little better about how to show our mothers our true appreciation for all they do because you will never know when the Lord needs you or your mother to come home early.

Free Give away at Scrabbling Sisters

2010-04-19T07:50:00.001-07:00

Check it out here: http://thriftywifey.blogspot.com/2010/03/scribblin-sisters-review-and-giveaway.html

Basketball Jack...

2010-03-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

Jack is 2 1/2 and LOVES basketball. He loves all sports...but has a small obsession with basketball. If a game is on TV he watches intensely. He thinks in every game the Spurs are always playing. We have a goal inside and outside and if I let him he would play ALL day long. He is so funny because he likes to change it up and have the inside goal hang from different places. Right now he loves for it to hang on our dresser. The dresser 5ft tall and he likes for me to hang it on the highest drawer so he can...Dunk it! His little legs even scissor open when he is in the air like many of the pros. He gets really frustrated if he isn't on a roll with making a goal. He is actually pretty good and is starting to have some form. I have never seen such a little one be so OBSESSED!!! Now, if you know me I am not complaining I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Basketball too. Maybe he will get his namesakes height (6ft. 6 inch) and can one day be great at this sport he is already growing to love. Now, this doesn't mean I am not against football at all. I am pretty sure once he gets those motors skills down more and has other little ones to play with he will love that sport too. I guess I am just in awe with his love already for basketball...it is too funny. I will have to get a video of it up soon.

Delightful Dimples

2010-02-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

Help my Delightful Dimples Fan page on Facebook grow! If you refer my 200th friend the both of you get 20% off a 1 hour session and we are counting to 1,000! So for every 100th increment you get that much off!!! Lets get the fans out and rolling! BTW...Easter is going to sneak up on us...getting ready for those Easter pics!

My Love/Hate Relationship...

2010-02-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

Dear lbs.,

I am writing to let you know that we cannot be friends anymore. Our relationship has been off and on since I met about 15 of you my freshman year in college. I remember very vividly how I would go to the SVC cafeteria and slowly be introduced to each of you through the year. Our relationship is best in the winters and when I had Brooklyn and Jack. I have been really good to all of you since Thanksgiving last year and have given you everything you have wanted. I know you love soda, candy, and the "white" foods. I am letting you know that if you don't just walk away I am going to have to slowly take these loves away from you. Swim suit season is around the corner and me plus the 5-10 of you will not work in that adorable suit. I am giving you a warning to also let you know that I will be exercising very soon again. You nor I will like this in the beginning, but I will be so much happier once you are gone. So, I know this might be a shock to you, but you must go....NOW! Thanks for the comfort though. ;)

Lots of loVe (Not!),
Britni

Bringing in 2010...

2010-01-31T21:42:00.000-08:00

What a great way to bring in 2010...being with close family and friends. We had such a fun time. New Years Eve we went to The Fernandes Home for food, fireworks, and fun times! We got to see Kamarie's ring that Justin gave her. Yes, they are getting married April 23 or 24..can't remember...oops! Congrats you two! The next day we came to our house and had the southern traditional foods...Hoppin John and Cabbage for sure...and other tasty goodies. We spent a lot of time outside...here are some pics:

Brooklyn on the Trampoline.

Jack pointing something out to Reagan.

Yes...I did a flip or...

two..I had to make sure I could still do it. What a way to bring in the New Year.

Man, I love this smile!!

Noah going down the slide head first...

Now trying backwards...

What a cute pic.

Happy New Years Everyone...okay so I know I am a little behind..but it does remind me if I am staying on track with my resolutions though! :)

New Hair Cut

2010-01-31T21:34:00.000-08:00

I got a New look. Many people say I look a lot like my Aunt Donna and Grandmother Betty. I did get a lot of genes from my dads side of the family. It has been really easy to work with too. I wish I had a pic of both of my Aunt and Grandmother near my age...maybe I will try and dig one up.

Spurs Vs Jazz...Our seats...Row 3!

2010-01-31T21:33:00.000-08:00

Bill got 4 tickets to the Spurs game on January 21 against the Jazz...but the great thing was we sat in Section 20 Row 3 Seats 11-14. It was so much fun! Here are the pics to prove how close we were.

Love watching him play!

Yes, Tony Parker is looking at me.

Dick Vitale was there and we got his autograph.

Bill took a picture after the game for us. Thanks again for the tickets...what a night to remember!

Happy 5th Birthday Brooklyn Reese!

2010-01-31T21:32:00.000-08:00

When I woke up this year for your birthday I had a little tear in my eye. I can't believe how fast time has flown by! I got up early to make your favorite breakfast in bed and I kept thinking exactly 5 years ago I had gotten up early to have you in the hospital. I was so nervous and excited. Heavenly Father has blessed your dad and I with one of His finest spirits and we are so grateful He sent you to us. These last 5 years have been 5 great ones and we look forward to many, many, many, more! Happy Birthday little one...yes you are still little...let me just say that for one more year please! Jack and I are going to miss you like crazy when you go off and make new friends at school. Just kidding. Look at your growing face...how precious it is:

1 Day old...

1st birthday party...

2 years old...

3 years old...

4 years old...

5 years old...

WE LOVE YOU UNCONDITIONALLY BROOKLYN BOO!!!!

Brooklyn's Birthday Week...

2010-01-31T21:09:00.000-08:00

We only do big birthday parties on even years...but this year Brooklyn managed to have a birthday week. Due to dates and such it just ended up working out that way. First off her first gift...

She was so excited because we had caught her off guard...

Had to read this gift...its tickets to something...

The reaction when she figured it out it was Spurs tickets for that night...

And of course she had to look cute to her first Spurs game...

The next morning all the family went to Grimaldi's to eat. I am so glad that she choose good pizza instead of Chuckie Cheese. I didn't get pictures of dessert, but we went to Orange Cup. She is such an old soul...we love her so much

New earrings...

Had to get a picture of Jack and his shirt..I am such a Rev Run fan...

Jack got in on the action too thank goodness for soft hearted grandparents all children had gifts...

Brooklyn so excited for her first pair of skinny jeans...she is a crack up I tell you!

Yes..those of you that haven't eaten at Grimaldi's you should...so delicious!

Noah was so good for the birthday lunch.

Brooklyn's birthday breakfast. Breakfast in bed is a tradition that Joel's family does and we love it. The kids do too. Brooklyn's menu consisted of boiled eggs, toast, strawberries, bacon, oatmeal (with a candle in it), and juice. Yummy!!

Stop growing up already Brooklyn! Tear*Tear*

The 5 year old had to get something new for Kindergarten next year...her first lunchbox.

Love you Boogs!

Even though it was Brooklyn's birthday Jack still managed to steal some food and I caught it on camera! HAHA!

For lunch I treated her to McDonald's and believe me when I say TREAT. Due to Joel teaching Health and showing way too much of Super Size Me. We are banned from eating at McD's. So I treated her. We met up with her preschool pals...Camron and Amaya, and Amaya's little brother Gabe at the park.

Jack enjoying the Zip line...love that face.

Tonight we celebrated with cake and ice cream with the Fernandes family, the Bailey's, and Mimi. Papa had a meeting Aunt Emily is still not well. We missed them Grammie and Pops, The Brights, and Heath and Liz.

When I asked her what cake she wanted she said a wedding like cake thats pink with pink flowers. My buttercream icing was not stiff enough and it looked blah...I gave myself an "E" for effort. Good thing because there were lots of fingers in that thing before it got cut..see them on the bottom layer....LOL. Happy Birthday Boogs!!

Delightful Dimples

2010-01-10T12:42:00.001-08:00

Updated DelightfulDimples Check it out. BEWARE...LOTS OF PICTURES!!!! I am hoping to blog about the family later today...Funny stories to come. :)

Joyful Faces from Christmas...

2010-01-02T23:07:00.000-08:00

...they are what made my Christmas perfect!!

The children were nestled all snug in their beds...

2010-01-02T22:54:00.000-08:00

...well...Aunt Emily would likely think differently! This year Emily snuggled between Jack and Brooklyn on a blow up mattress in Jack's room and likely got little sleep. We put the child lock door on the inside so Jack wouldn't sneak out like he always does...and prayed that he would stay there the WHOLE night! Emily was a trooper...thank you!!! Sherree and Bill slept over too and stayed in Brooklyn's room and we had quite a GREAT Christmas. Santa must've thought we were all pretty good this year.

Here are Brooklyn's goodies on the left and Jack's on the right.

And here they come bright and early at 6:15 a.m.! Jack has a door closing problem...he has to close every door before he leaves and left Emily inside the room!

Brooklyn's favorites that Santa left...her very own PINK Ipod! She also got an Easy Bake Oven, Globe, and Tag reader with books

Jack got his train...a race car set...a bike...a motorcycle...and a Handy Manny motorcycle.

Brooklyn checking to see if Santa ate her cookies. She was really worried and left him a note the night before because Jack took a bite out of one of the cookies before he went to bed :)

This picture is hard to tell what is going on...but Joel went to show Brooklyn that Santa's reindeer ate her reindeer food that she left...there were even some sprinkles that made it on the roof.

Sherree lost her diamond our of her wedding ring a few years ago and Bill surprised her with a bigger one this year for Christmas. He wrapped it in several boxes like Grandpap (Sherree's dad) did for Grandmother (Sherree's mom) when he gave her a ring at Christmas. He was so excited and Sherree was even more excited! So sweet!

One of Joel's favorite gifts...and signed Manu Ginobili jersey from Bill. He is already bugging me to frame it! :)

Brooklyn telling Aunt Emily about her loot!

Joel and his 22 that he said is a must for his growing gun collection!

This leads to the exhausting end! How sweet is it that Brooklyn fell asleep (in Jack's bed for some weird reason) after all the playing that morning and Jack had to walk in to give her a kiss! I love them!

We had a lovely morning. We ate cinnamon rolls and sausage balls. I made my grandmothers wassail that we love and it was so nice and relaxing! Oh...you want to know what I got...check out the couch in the picture with all the goods and the blinds behind Brooklyn when checking out the Santa cookies! I must have been a good girl too! Thank you to everyone!

Gilmer Christmas

2010-01-02T22:18:00.000-08:00

The night we arrived Mom of course had plans...but luckily for me it was my favorite family tradition...SUGAR COOKIE decorating with the Isonhood cousins.

Jack already Diggin in!

Some of the masterpieces...BTW Nana and Pa...I think the judging was RIGGED! I should've at LEAST won for the MOST cookies decorated. :) Joel, DAD, and Jason all manage to take the big prize...the pride of being winners for a whole year! :)

Tori and Brooklyn

The Nativity - Tori (the Angel), Jason (shepherd), Tinkerbell (sheep), Riley (Joseph), Reagan (Mary), Brooklyn (Wise woman), Jack (shepherd), Zach (guitarist playing Silent Night), Cassie (narrator)

Jack the shepherd who got too bashful in front of all the cameras (more like Pops then just looks I guess) BTW...he did give baby Jesus a cookie during the act, but Joseph stole it and ate it :)

Our beautiful Wise WOman who gave baby Jesus her gift.

Finally...some presents...Jack got an awesome Army Tank! He loves it!

Brooklyn got this really cool microphone set...they loved playing with it...
...and of course Joel had to give it a go too!

Thanks MOM and DAD for helping us have a fabulous Christmas! It was so nice and relaxing. The kids got a John Deer Gator and a Doll House that stays at their house so they can ALWAYS look forward in going there. They have so much fun on it. We love you guys...We sure missed the Bailey's and The OTHER Jones'!

I Am a Child of God...

2010-01-02T21:55:00.000-08:00

I am a Child of God,
And He has sent me here,
Has given me an Earthly home
With parents kind and dear,
Lead me guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way,
Teach me all that I must do,
To live with Him someday!

This is a song we sing often in church. I know that my children look like Joel and I, but they are truly a gift from God. I think about the pure JOY Mary must have felt when she held Jesus in her arms for the first time. It is hard for me to grasp the many things that Heavenly Father and Jesus has done for us, but I feel at this time of year I can relate to Mary and understand her feelings somewhat. I know Mary had much more of a responsibility caring and nurturing the Savior of the world. This humbles me dearly, but these two precious beings I have are His too and I truly hope to rear them in a righteous manner that is pleasing unto Him one day. Thank you Brooklyn and Jack for being our little ones!

Here Comes Santa Clause...

2010-01-02T21:39:00.000-08:00

The weekend before we went to Gilmer we decide to take the kids to see Santa! I thought Jack would be a little nervous, but he did GREAT! They both really enjoyed seeing him.

Seriously...I KNOW I am bias, but how precious are they?

Brooklyn whispering to Santa that she wants an Easy Bake Oven!

Santa is probably trying to figure out what Jack is saying, but he wanted a train!

Then finally we went to Macy's to finish our Christmas lists and put them in the box for Santa. Brooklyn's had a Globe and Ipod on it. Jack's a train of course!

Jack excitedly delivering his letter.

Finally caught up! Let it Snow in Texas!

2009-12-12T21:53:00.000-08:00

The perfect snowflake...I have never seen one so perfect in my life! No its not a decorating sprinkle either! I couldn't believe it..still can't.

Loving it although she was cracking up because she got one in her eye.

Jack wasn't as excited...but tried to please me with his best smile. Look at those flakes on his coat.

Boogs trying to catch them on her tongue.

Okay..so I know I just posted like 4 huge posts...but I have to get caught up...I got things to do and blogging is just getting out of control for me. I feel like I don't journal at all..and this is the least I could do for my kids. Anyways...moving on. Yes, it snowed...and yes in Texas...and yes SOUTH Texas! Okay so it wasn't Angel and snowman making snow in the least bit, but just enough snow to make our day and spread a little cheer!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-12T21:42:00.000-08:00

Well, the Friday before Thanksgiving the Judson Rockets were defeated in the second round of the playoffs by Austin Westlake. It was a great year for the Rockets! However, ending earlier this year meant we were off to Gilmer. I can't remember the last time I was in Gilmer for Thanksgiving...I really think that the years keep flying by though and it really hasn't been that long. We made it to Gilmer on Tuesday at noon. We got up early for once and boogied out as fast as we could to beat traffic. It was a smooth trip up there and back. This trip was so nice because we weren't over scheduled and we relaxed and hung out. We got to spend most of our time with our family. We spent a lot of time outside. Mom and Dad gave the grandkids an early Christmas present since we aren't going to be with them this year for Christmas...a John Deere Gator. They loved it and wanted to spend every waking moment on it. Joel was a tractor hog. My dad is leveling the land just to the left of the house were they are starting the process of building a barn. It will be really cute and I am excited for them...okay mainly dad who is thrilled! Thanksgiving day we went to Nana's for lunch and most the afternoon and then at night we went to Grandaddy's. We just fed our face and relaxed...so nice! :) The next morning though was not so relaxing...lets just say intense yet so FUN. Mom, Steph and I got up at 3:30 left the house by 3:45 and made our way through the crazy people on Black Friday. We loved the rush and the excitement of getting an item even if it wasn't something we had to have (luckily there wasn't any of that on our list...kids aren't that old yet..thank goodness). Mom knew exactly what to do on our first stop...dreaded WAL-MART...so we got our stuff or some of it and then headed for the checkout lines..because if not the line was backed up to the back of the store...we were second in our lane...made it out in 10 minutes and were proud of buys. Next, Toys R US (flop), Home Depot (great), Target (all selfish purchases mostly :)), JcPenny's, Dillards, Sears, Michaels (great deals on cricut cuts...so excited to try those out), Academy, and oh..of course we had to eat at Chick-fil-A! We got home to a bunch of complaining boys that had to watch kids for 3 hours but complained about us being gone 7....4 of those hours they weren't even up yet! Oh, well! Saturday Mom and dad were treated to their Christmas present early (black friday buy thanks to Nick getting up and getting it) a new dishwasher from all of us kiddos!!! Mom was excited...dad complained because he said he already had a dishwasher...Mom...she didn't think it was funny. That night mom and dad watched the kids while Joel and I and Steph and Nick went to the movies and ate at the Butchershop. Can I just say...Blindside...you have to see it!!!! So good. I hope you were able to count your many blessings this Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for my family...all of them...Joel, Brooklyn, and Jack, but also my born in family (Jones Bunch), and my married into family (Call Clan).

Mom and dad getting their new automatic dishwasher..unlike the manually done washing by my mom!

Joel, trying to be a lumberjack!

Jack learning the ropes of running the tractor.

What a handsome kid!

Grandaddy and Dad...always just a like...had to catch it with a picture..they are standing exactly the same...so funny these two!

Princess Countrygirl Brooklyn...she loved wearing our princess outfit while riding the gator. She is stuck in this picture and for traction she is moving a rock that she keeps in the back of the gator and places it behind the tire so she can push off...she is a mess!

I like Big...okay okay..Steph had to get a go at the gator too! Don't hate me Steph!

Brooklyn driving Noah around..I think he only fell out once..okay maybe twice;)

The whole gang move some dirt.

This picture scares the dickens out of me because I see so much of Heath..the crazy driver!!!

Poor Buddy...he really hates us when we come around...Brooklyn was just DYING for him to just ride with her.

Gotta love this wanna-be-country-girl...when Joel asked her, "why are your shoes in the back of the gator and not on your feet?" she replied, "Dad real country girls don't wear shoes!" I have to agree!

2 Less Family Members

2009-12-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

The week before Thanksgiving we found a home for Tuff and Pepper. I can't believe out sad we actually were. I felt like I was giving up on them. We just have utilize our backyard space as living space...we really need it. Along, with that we are going to try and sale the house in the spring and it was going to be way to hard to have the dogs and do that too. We miss them and love them, but know they are in a good home. Thank you Sherree for finding their new family for us! Brooklyn was devastated and we all had a few tears, but we are so happy for them and their new home too.

Tuff, Pepper, Brooklyn, and Joel

Brooklyn and Pepper (she really just wanted to keep Pepper)

Joel, Brooklyn, and Pepper

Randolph Air Show

2009-12-12T20:51:00.000-08:00

Joel and I were able to take Jack to his first air show the second week in November. He loved it! Yes, it was a little noisy at times, but all in all we really loved just getting to be all boy. We went with Stephani, Nick, and Noah, and then Sterling, Rebecca, and Ethan Orgile also came. Our 3 families each of little boys so we as parents really enjoyed the excitement our little ones showed. Stephani and I kept rolling our eyes at Joel because he asked anybody and everybody in a aviation suite some sort of question. At one point Steph and I were just staring at 4 or 5 young good looking aviators and you would think we would've enjoyed it...but is was really creepy for me...HA! Needless to say Joel had to play catch up with us a lot. We can't wait until next year!

Male bonding :)

Man look at the pure joy on that face!

Loving it!

Our little Noah had fun too!

Bye mom! I was excited for him, but had this horrible feeling in my gut that I would loose my mind if he ever really wanted to be an aviator!

Family pic!...minus Brooklyn..she decides to stay with Mimi and Aunt Emily and shop!

Even I was impressed with this plane and yes it was unbelievably loud!!

My two boys having a great time!

Proof that Joel talked to everyone...okay so its just one picture...but I seriously would have run out of memory if I took one every time he stopped to talk! :)

Delightful Dimples

2009-11-04T20:29:00.001-08:00

I am finally posting the url for my photography blog. You can check it out here:
www.delightfuldimples.blogspot.com Schedule me today and we can still get family pictures done in time!

Happy Halloween 2009!

2009-11-04T19:55:00.000-08:00

What a fun Halloween we had this year! I really loved it being Saturday...can we plan that every year? Mom and Dad came into town the festivities started Saturday afternoon. Joel got home and we all carved our pumpkins. Brooklyn and I did the flower/heart pumpkin while Joel and Jack carved their football pumpkin. Bill also carved one...but he really just wanted the goody seeds on the inside! We then went to Universal City's Trunk or Treat with Bill and Sherree. The kids loved it and Jack really got the Trick or Treat part down this year. So funny! Then we tried to visit some close families of ours and then went down our street. Not much success...kinda a dud actually on our street, but we came back and Brooklyn loved passing out our candy...Jack..he just ate it as fast as he could. Thanks everyone for a fun year this year!!! Does everyone else see how grainy these pics are? I am so annoyed...don't know why and its making me have out flashes! LOL

My Beautiful Bee and Booming Boxer!

Say What? They just throw candy in these buckets...I love this!

Everyone loves to hug a friendly gorilla!

The gorilla lets his pail hit the ground every step he took..so funny!!!

Man, She is a Doll Face!

How did he get so handsome?

This gorilla got locked up...yes he got to rattle the cage!

Family Photo opt!

Bailey Family!

Jack wanted us to sit with him and just enjoy his candy..he is so funny!

Our pumpkins!

Had to get a better picture on the football...I was totally impressed!

Boogs passing out the candy!

Pumpkin Patch 2009...I'll let the pictures speak for themselves!

2009-11-04T19:29:00.000-08:00

Mechanic in the Making?

2009-10-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

So the other day I walked in the kitchen and Jack had all 3 of his riding cars turned completely upside down and had my spatula, forks, wooden spoons, and all kinds of kitchen utensils trying to fix the broken cars. I walked around the corner and said, "Jack what are you doing?" he replied, "Fixin it mom!" I unfortunately didn't have my camera out, but he did it again on Monday and was able to catch him without asking questions. So funny...what is even funnier is that no one in our family can fix cars except my dad and Jack has never seen him do so. I have NO idea where it came from...I guess its just in his DNA! What a Hoot!

Can you tell they are related?

2009-10-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

This is my dad like 4 years older than Jack...I can't find one of him exactly Jacks age...and I can't get Jack to smile and look straight on the camera since his new hair cut. We cut his hair on Tuesday and ever since all I see are pictures of my dad since he was little. Due to Jacks environmental surroundings Jack isn't quite as mild as my dad is..but man..he looks so much like him to me. Maybe its the ears now too...because they are directly from him...but anyways...aren't they cute!

Yamboree 2009

2009-10-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous Yamfest we had this year! The highlight is that Heath and Liz were able to fly in. No one was sick...everyone one HAPPY...and at the end EVERYONE exhausted! We got to see so many of our friends and family and spend some great time. Here are a few things we got to do:
~1 Successful Halloween Carnival put on by Steph, Liz, and Mom.
~1 Fun Hayride led by dad with the tractor.
~2 stray cute puppies visited us for the carnival
~2 Exciting parades
~1 Fire truck ride for Liz, Steph, Noah, Brooklyn, and Jack (Thanks Liz for riding with mine) oh..and I should mention this ride was for the start of the parade.
~1 Turkey leg for me!
~1 basket of Yam fries for us all to share
~1 GREAT burger from the Harmony booth
~1 Queens pageant with 7 beautiful princess dresses
~1 Knot on Jacks head when he fell off the chair during a yummy lunch at Haddens Sandwich Shop
~2 almost black eyes for Don Meador (family friend) who tried to kidnap me when I was walking by myself...he grabbed me by the arm...turned me around and I was facing a dark alley...Don good thing my hands were in my pockets :)
~1 dozen rides (estimating)
~1 fallen ice cream cone...don't worry my sister picked it up off the ground at the square and ate it...it didn't go to waste!
~50 + back scratches by Aunt Liz...yes Heath was jealous.
~1/2 a dozen chaotic times of screaming at each other while getting dressed...no..something don't change when you have kids and get married LOL
~1 bruised or killed (idK) Bobcat that was hit by my car
~2 bags of picked yellow peppers thanks to grandaddy (anyone want any? LOL)
~1 Gorilla fell face first into a potted mum while sitting on a bale of hay
~ I can't put a number on how much soda I consumed...its ridiculous when I go home!
~ 4 wonderful pies made by Lori's..and 1 stop there for lunch too...so yummy!
~3 trips to the old Gilmer Wal-Mart!
~1 Rocket Yam completed and won a PARTICIPATION ribbon...no Joel was not happy!
~5 Crazy people in a hot tub at 10 at night (no I was not one of them)
~1 Hilarious barn dance where we all made fun of those that TRIED to dance and couldn't...no I can't dance...but you didnt' see me out there making a fool of myself either! :)
~3 girls getting work done sitting on moms couches while talking with each other..fun times
~1 Hacked Facebook account by me and yes it was Heath's
~ Tons of familiar faces that I haven't seen in years.
~Even more family and friends that I got to hug and share moments with
~And even more priceless memories...THANKS MOM AND DAD for having us!!!

Comal County Fair

2009-10-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

Comal County Fair was the big event for September for our little town of New Braunfels. At the last minute after the parade we took the kids over to the fair grounds because they were half price only that day and to get in a little rides and see the petting zoo (which I am not a fan of...but I did it this day). Janielle and Camberley went with us and we had a fun time. When we got there we saw the show animals and Brooklyn and Camberley loved it...Jack was a little unsure. Then they wanted to ride some rides...ok..can I just tell you...Carnies poke your EYES OUT with their prices. So I told them (since Yamboree was in 2 weeks...VERY similar too) they had 10 bucks to spend between the 2 of them...they gave them 2 rides each! Brooklyn wanted to do this slide where you slide down the thing with a mat. I took my kids up there and Brooklyn freaked! She didn't want to go by herself so I had no other choice then to put Jack on the put and push him down. I felt bad as I did it..but he loved it! He kept his arms out for balance...but stood up at the end and was so proud of himself. Brooklyn and then I took her turn and it was so slow and I think she was a little disappointed (had my big caboose not been on there with her it would've gone faster), but that was her decision. We then went to the petting zoo. The chickens were "sleeping" and so we went to the calves and goats. Jack actually kissed the calf. To top the trip off was with one more ride the carousel. That is always fun because we can do it together...but man I get dizzy towards the end! Thanks Janielle and Camberley for going with us!

Love these smiles!!!

Janielle and Camberley

Jack kissing the calves rear end!

Gymnastics with Noah...

2009-10-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last month Steph and I took the kids to playnastics at our gym here in town and the kids loved it. Brooklyn use to take Gymnastics here at J&R...but since I had Jack we haven't been going. This was Jacks 2nd time and Noah's 1st. They loved it and Steph and I loved it that it wore them out :). Jack is a climber and loved the rings and bars. Brooklyn is really good with the trampoline and she loves swinging on the rope. Noah loved chasing them...but they all loved the parachute at the end...wow...that thing is so calming..sorry no pics...I had to get involved.

Dancing Queen

2009-10-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn started taking dance lessons last month and she loves it. She takes tap and ballet. I seem to always forget that on Mondays she has dance, but she doesn't let me...she looks forward to it. She is very attentive during class and has a lot of fun. Thank you Grammie and Pops for the outfit and lessons! Thank you Bill and Sherree for both pairs of shoes! I hope this gets her the coordination she needs to be an awesome volleyball or basketball player one day! ;)

Todd Trimble April 1979-October 2009

2009-10-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Todd Trimble passed away today. He was killed by a pistol that accidentally went off. He was doing something he loved...hunting. Words cannot expresses the sadness that I feel for the Trimble's, Amie, Chad and his family, and his children. I hope one day his children truly know what a great day they had. He left 3 little ones behind and I want them to know how great their dad was. I remember Todd starting hanging around my group of friends at the end of my 8th grade year. Amie was a friend of mine and Todd was a neighbor and like a big brother to me. I remember endless days at Lake Hawkins beach playing keep away from the girls. I remember one night Todd asked me to "hook him up" with Amie. I believe (I could be wrong) that Amie, Todd, Jessica Bishop, Billy Phillips, and others were all going out to Longview on one of Amie and Todd's first dates. I also think Billy's black mustang was the mode of transport. I was so mad that mom wouldn't let me go, but so excited to hear how well it went over the weekend with the 2 of them. Needless, to say the rest is history and they have made an AMAZING couple ever since and beautiful children. My mom actually trusted him and Chad in letting me ride with them to school and we all know how strict my mom and dad are :) Those are some good ole days...riding in the red truck and listening to those 2 make jokes and listen to the radio. I also remember when you could win a free Dr.Pepper by looking under the tab...Todd won EVERYTIME!!! I would always let him choose mine at the Latch store...but I don't ever remember winning. Todd was nice to EVERYONE. He was a class act! Baseball is something Todd loved and was so good at. I remember cheering them on at numerous games. I loved coming home from college in the beginning when they had Four Corners Store. I would sit in there for hours chatting it up with them. They would talk about how good the fish were in the pasture across from the school, and how they fished late at night so no one would catch them. :) Todd would always give the best genuine hugs...he was always glad to see you...or he was really good at pulling it off. Todd was good at most sports, but I seriously to this day can remember something that happened on the basketball court. He was a guard bringing the ball down the court and he must of slipped and fell a little but kept his dribble while the other team was trying to steal the ball. He had them running in circles around him and he was still dribbling and trying to get his balance back up. Joel got to meet him at the reunion and talked about how much he like the Trimble boys. I was so glad that we got to see him in July and made me reminisce again of being back in the High School and hanging out at the Lake and playing some V-ball. Todd is gone for now, but will always be remembered by many. He was so good and once again so NICE. I am so lucky to have known someone so great as Todd. The whole Trimble family are in our thoughts and prayers. You will dearly be missed Todd. We love you!

Todd and Amie during our Senior week at the Butcher Shop.

Todd playing some pool and having fun during our Senior week again.

Todd and Amie at the athletic banquet. They either had just met or had been dating a year.

Todd winning some maucho award at the athletic banquet. I think I was in 8th grade...so 1994ish?

This July playing volleyball at our beach where we played 15 years ago.

Amie and Todd still a great team! Oh...and you always want these 2 on your team!

Brooklyn's Big Girl Room

2009-09-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn has been begging for me to let her hang up her new Flower light that Nana gave her since March! Well...we finally went to IKEA before the Pflugerville game a few weeks ago and I found the perfect bedding. I wanted GIRLY, but also...yes..I am a LITTLE LAZY...I was dreading having to paint over her RED wall from her little Cowgirl theme. So, I discovered at IKEA the perfect Red with HOT pink bedding for on $30.00!!! I was ecstatic! I wanted to wait until Christmas, but I couldn't hide the bedding since she was with me and saw it. This last Friday night Joel had a bye and they keep the boys at the school for a lock in on those Friday nights, so I knew it was going to be a very late night. I thought that would be the perfect day to redecorate the room. I didn't get started until later in the afternoon due to work so thankfully Bill and Sherree and Emily came out to help and I was so relieved! I think it turned out great and the best part of all...she has stayed in her bed every night since!! YAY!

Before...

These are mainly nursery pictures, but imagine the rocking chair being gone and the changing part of the table and replace with toys out the ears!

She still had this basic setup except she had a big girl bad (Queen actually). Bill made her head board and was real cute with faux leather and leather straps.

After...

Brooklyn's First Day of Preschool and Primary Program

2009-09-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn has had some 1st this week. Our little pre-school we do with church kids started this week and she was SO excited. Joel wrote her a sweet letter and then she asked for a father's blessing and until now I had totally forgotten that, so we will get on it. She had a great day and loves her little class of Amaya, Camron, and Keylan. Our week is this week and she is so excited to show them her room...nothing new to it and they have all seen it before, but that is what she said. Keylan is new and she told me that she was going to be real nice to her and let her join the "Sister Club" with her and Amaya. Poor Camron...we seriously need more boys for him...if any of you know of any LET ME KNOW!

The other first is Primary Program. Last year she sang one song, "Jesus wants me for a Sunbeam," but since she is actually a Sunbeam this year she was in it. Her little part was, "When I pray I am talking to my Heavenly Father." She actually had to say it twice because the microphone accidentally turned off for some reason, and she did it perfectly each time. She sang really well too. Joel and her made this deal that if she was singing good he would give her a thumbs up and if she was slacking it would point down. She mostly had thumbs up. It was funny though because I was asked to give the opening prayer during Sacrament meeting and when I got done I was walking to my seat and she gave me a Thumbs up. I am so glad that my little prayer exceeded her expectations! I love her little smile and her sweet spirit. She is so loving and thoughtful of others. Just tonight for FHE we were playing a game and I had little colored magnets that everyone chose for game pieces and I said, "Here Brooklyn you can have the red I know its your favorite"...Joel just messing with her said, "OH, man I wanted Red!" She insisted on him trading with her..it made Joel feel bad for even saying anything. She is our little sweetheart! I sponge rolled her hair the night before and she loved it. She was so happy when Emily called her Taylor Swift (her idol). She also blushed when my dad would say things like, "I hear Brooklyn talking, but all I see is a Barbie doll." We finished off the day with her favorite Black Beans and Rice, watermelon, fruit salad (which I found out is not her favorite but I thought it was), and banana pudding. Thanks Brooklyn for being our little girl! We love you!

Hectic!

2009-09-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hectic is all I can say about my minimal to NO postings lately. Football is now in FULL swing and we are 1-1. It has rained during both games now, so since we haven't had any rain the whole summer I am thinking we need at least 2 games a week! :) I sure love watching Joel coach his boys. As stressful as it gets sometimes, I love being able to watch him interact with the kids he spends so much time with. Oh, and he looks HOT in red...makes it that much better! :) Brooklyn loves showing off her little cheer outfit every week and yelling at the boys. She loves hanging out with the other coaches kids too and talks about them every day just about. Jack is getting the swing of things. EVERYDAY he asks if there is a game! He looks so cute in his little shoes and runs around the house saying Hut-Hut! I on the other hand am trying to keep things balanced. I am still working and keeping up with the kids during the day. As the summer is coming to an end I am sure going to miss being in the warm sun (and being at Schlitterbahn everyday)...I really hate the cold! I love the long summer nights..it depresses me when the days become shorter. I am getting a little excited about finally turning my oven on though...I hate cooking in the summer...aww tomato soup and cheese sandwiches here I come! So for the next few months my posts for some won't be as exciting...just football, but this little game is what brings home the bacon and keeps us together as a family. Here are a few pics from the Smithson Valley game last week which we lost, but are going to redeem ourselves this week against Pflugerville (fingers VERY crossed :)). Oh, and a little shout out to BYU for beating OU this week. Go Cougars too!

Jack chillin and watching the game.

2009 Judson Rockets!

Brooklyn posing.

Man she is has a sweet face!

My hottie hubby!

Oh, and a little shout out to BYU for beating OU this week. Go Cougars too! This is Joel's favorite picture right now and he wants to order it...hopefully for his office and not for the house :)!

What time is it?...

2009-08-22T11:10:00.001-07:00

No..not summer time (ok I watch WAY too much High School Musical)...its...ok lets start over....ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? Yes, folks its that time again. It is a Hot Hot HOOOTTT football season so far and until October (likely still hot but less hot), then Nov. and Dec. comes along then its usually miserably cold. So, why I do I still go to EVERY game EVERY week (oh..except for the Yamboree..yes I still go home for it) EVERY year? I LOVE IT!!! I love the discipline and team work that the boys show, I love the band playing, I love to watch the cheerleaders build pyramids, I love our new stadium, I love concession stand food, I love the passion for the game the coaches have, I love being apart of something successful (hopefully this year too), I love yelling at the referees when they are terrible, I love Brooklyn in her cheer uniform, I love seeing Jack watch the game, I love watching Joel coach his boys, I love seeing the relationship Joel builds with his receivers, I love that football brings our family closer together (even though Joel is gone more often it still does), I love this family tradition we have of going to the games every week, these are a few reasons why I LOVE THOSE FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS!!!

Here are our pictures from Meet the Rockets. Whoop! Whoop! Judson Rockets!

Here Papa is playing with the kiddos.

Jack practicing running his routes.

My little cheerleader!

Joel had them practicing!!!

And practicing some more!!!

We managed to squeeze in our family picture. Good thing...I don't know when we will be all together to take another one until December (fingers are tightly crossed)!

Party Like its 1999!

2009-08-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

I am getting old! Yes, I had my 10 year High School reunion. We had a great turn out and had SOOO much fun! We actually want to get together before 20 year. Maybe during the Yamborree? We spent the day at Lake Hawkins beach and then at night Chaffin Smith smoked brisket, the girls brought sides, and the boys brought drinks. It was perfect for our little class of 58 graduates and no costs hardly. I came up with some games and awards.

Most Changed: Chaffin Smith
Least Changed: (Tie) Mark Eitel and Michael Luce
Longest Married: Jenny Waits Thompson
Newest Newlywed: Amber Duball Thompson
Most Kids: Chaffin Smith
Longest Distance Traveled: Amanda Meador

Thanks to all that helped plan! I really couldn't have done it without Jennifer Phillips and Chaffin Smith. I am so glad we were able to catch up and reminisce.

We are Most of us: TR: Jessica Bishop, Kristin Wright Reed, Eddie Romero, Deisha Treadwell Trimble, Chaffin Smith, Christy Balduf; MR: Me, Jenny Waits Thompson, Michael Luce, Jennifer Gordy Phillips, Teresa Smith, Cheyanne Jackson; BR: Mark Eitel, Amber Duball Thompson, Nikki Warren Dean, Gary Ward, and Amie Staruska Trimble (Not pictured and attended: Amanda Meador Peterson, Rachelle McDonald Ezell, Jessica Cook, and Laran Stegall)

Jennifer, Deisha, and Jessica.

Our kids played in the mud while we played volleyball! Yes, it was a great babysitter!

My handsome hubby playing a little v-ball with the gang.

Chaffin also brought his boat and let the kids (and kids at heart) tube. We loved it!

I had to show this picture because I really wished my arm muscles looked like this ALL the time! :)

Almost Caught up...

2009-08-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

We had celebrated Jack's birthday a whole week before so we had to do something the day of! Joel and Brooklyn went to the store and bought him some things that Brooklyn had been dying to get him and picked up a Boston Creme Pie for 1 more round of birthday celebration. I made my kids favorite dinner Black Beans and Rice and we had a nice quite night at the house. The next day I had to keep the kids from the house for 3 hours while Joel and Bill put up our new trampoline! A coach that Joel works with gave him a call and said his neighbor had a sign in his yard for a free trampoline and he called us! Joel and his dad spent Saturday morning and afternoon taking it down and putting it up. My kids were in HEAVEN...and lets just say I LOVE IT TOO!!! Oh man the childhood memories that thing brought back. Brooklyn is still reminding us that we need add a little water one day. I am thinking so too!

Brooklyn excitedly bringing in Jack's presents she helped wrap.

Jack getting ready to unwrap...look at that sweet face!

Jack with his new favorite toys...a Blue motorcycle and a monster truck.

And I think his favorite present...a pack of gum! Yes, my kids are OBSESSED with gum and mints and will eat them ALL the time...their dentist is going to love them!

Look at those faces! They love the trampoline!

Call Family Reunion 2009 (WARNING - LOT OF PICS!)...

2009-08-02T19:08:00.001-07:00

So I guess we really have already gotten together twice this year since we went to Disney World together, but since Joel wasn't there I counted this as a true family reunion! The Brights made the trek from South Carolina and made it to S.A. on the 3rd of July and were able to stay until the 10th. We had so much fun. For FHE Mimi and Papa treated us to Incredible Pizza. The kids LOVED it! It was a really fun atmosphere. The next few days we enjoyed taking family pictures (Thanks Melva for taking them!), Rudy's, swimming at the Fernandes Family pool (THANKS Melva and Jerry!), Aunt Emily treated us to a day at the Children's Museum in S.A. and they LOVED it (you should've seen Jack pushing a shopping cart...OUT OF CONTROL! ), free movies at the theater, lots of playing on Fort Primos, painting on Papa's fence, and ate lots of good food! The kids love being together and miss each other all the time. We wish the Brights lived closer!! Enjoy the fun pictures...there are a lot!!!

The Call cousins on Fort Primos...

Jack sliding down with his letter that Papa wrote him.

Jack and Bowen holding hands...neither could decide whose hand got to be on top..this is how it ended..so funny!

Kate shopping for lobster

Jack and his wild shopping spree!

All the kids posing at the end of day...notice thumb in mouth...they were exhausted!

Lets hope being a pilot isn't in her future...I will be a nervous wreck! She does look cute though!

Brooky, Clair, Bowen, and Jack playing in the kitchen.

Papa just wishin he was as tall as David Robinson...then again Papa wishes he was as tall as me ;)!

All of the kids diggin for fossils...one of Kate's favorite areas.

Jack milking a cow at the children's museum.

Brooklyn pretending to be at the dentist office and the Doc is none other than her dad!

Brooklyn Boo..

Clair Bear...

Kate Kate...

This is one of my favorite pictures from the photoshoot...it just says it all..

Call Cousins...

Mimi and her girls...

Mimi and her boys...

Papa and his boys...

Papa and his girls...

The Original Call Clan...

Our family..

The Brights..

Crazy Faces!!

The Whole Group..

She shoots...she scores!!

Balla...shot calla!

Too sweet for words!

Bowen and Stephen...looks like Stephen is enjoying more than Bowen! :)

Jack and Joel going for a spin...Jack loved it too!

Jack's Patriotic 2nd B-day Party

2009-07-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

This year we celebrated Jack's birthday again on the 4th of July. Although his birthday is on the 10th I have a feeling that he will be sharing his birthday with America because lets face its easier to get the family together that day! This was a particularly fun year because ALL of his cousins could be here...all 4 of them plus his sister! We have never celebrated a birthday with the Brights because they live in South Carolina, so the cousins were all excited (well Brooklyn was anyway)! Since I was last minute this year with his party I decided to go with the patriotic theme. Joel cooked hamburgers and hot dogs and thanks to family members everyone chipped in with delicious side dishes. After we hate the kids swam and then what would be a party without a pinata! I had the hardest time finding the right one. I wanted a flag pinata...but no luck due to being so last minute, but what more American can you get then a baseball...America's great past time! I was in heaven when I found this cake. I was wanting a flag cake, but didn't really want to have a big buttercream icing flag cake and then I found this one! It was right up Jack's alley. In case you didn't know he loves flag's and LOVES fruit...so it was perfect! It is seriously the most yummy cake ever and was super easy. Here is the website I found it on. The only bad thing that I did was I should have coated the bananas in lemon juice so that they wouldn't have browned or at least waited to put them on. Oh..well...you live and learn. :) After a lot of partying we rested and then went to Landa Park Golf Course for the fireworks. This a tradition that we do EVERY year with the Fernandes Family. We Love IT! Joel brings his stereo and we listen to the local radio station play the music to the fireworks, and we sit and visit. This year I got eaten buy ants, but the great part is being the family and remembering how much I LOVE THIS COUNTRY! I know there are a lot of pictures...sorry, but I am seriously going to print a book from my blog one day and I don't think if I make a slide show that it will transfer easily...if anyone knows any tricks to that let me know! So..in the mean time BEWARE of lots of pictures! Happy Birthday little man! I love you!

The birthday boy himself...he loves flags!

Kate, Brooklyn, and Tiger Lily

The whole crew watching the fireworks...they include in no particular order: Dad, Mom, Sherree, Bill, Melva, Jerry, Heather, Bryce, Tiger Lilly, Emily, Stephen, Rosalind, Kate, Clair, Bowen, Me, Joel, Brooklyn, and Jack.

Brooklyn giving Jack hugs for his birthday...oh..man..pinchy bum alert!

All of the cousins: Jack, Noah, Kate, Brooklyn, Clair, and Bowen

I love this picture...he is reading his card..and slurping a sucker...his favorite!

Pinata busted!

Jack wamming the baseball pinata!

Noah...loved the picture!

Papa jumped in the girls pool with all his clothes to cool off!

Jack sliding down the slide

Jack squeezing Clair!

Jack having fun...what a cutie!

The cake!

Brooklyn helping Jack blow out his candles! Too cute!

Swimming Success!

2009-07-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn and Jack took swim lessons this year from Rikki before he went to BYU. She has totally impressed me. She has turned into this little fish. Thanks Rikki! Here is a little Before (or during) and After video!

Before...

After...

Brooklyn re-giving her scripture in May

2009-07-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

The Last 2 Weeks in June...

2009-07-13T19:22:00.001-07:00

...we spent in Gilmer. Joel went to Utah for 2 weeks to help coach at the H.S. football clinics BYU puts on. After he bought his ticket I thought this is a great time for me to be in Gilmer for 2 whole weeks. We spent our time mainly with family. I got to pick peaches, blueberries, blackberries, yellow peppers, tabasco peppers, tomatoes, jalapeno, and helped mom and dad pull up their potatoes. I truly felt like a country girl and I loved it! Grandaddy and I took Brooklyn fishing and she lasted all of 2 minutes when it just got too hot for her. Thanks to Vickie and her family we spent 2 of our days in Tyler sitting by the pool like a bunch of lazy bums. It was so nice though. Brooklyn jumped off the diving board all by herself! She was so cute. Stephani and I had diving contests and Brooklyn started jumping of side ways like she was doing flips with us. I will have to post that video later. Mom and dad were such gracious hosts especially when dad got his ceiling fans put in. HA! The heat will make the best of us a little too grouchy. The best times I had were spending with mom and Nana doing genealogy together. What a fun experience that was! We traced our family a long ways back that is for sure! :) I also spent sometime with Grandaddy and MawMaw taking pictures of their pictures. I know it seems weird, but with my camera I get just a good of a picture by taking a picture of a picture instead of scanning...did you get that? So beware...lots of pictures ahead! Thanks mom and dad again for taking care of us.

My grandfather's pilot license in the 50's.

My grandfather's meal ticket when he was in grade school.

My great great grandparents.

Papa Jones (who Jack is named after) and Granny Jones

My dad as a baby and his twin bother Terry with their oldest sister Donna.

The twins as toddlers.

My great great grandmother.

My dad..don't know the age.

My dad again..does anyone else see Jack in these pictures?

My dad and uncle hanging out. Cute uh?

My grandfather's senior picture from Harmony High School. The same school were his kids and grandkids all graduated from!

My grandfather as a kid

The twins getting ready to play some ball! Too cute!

All my life my dad would tell us pictures about a monkey they owned. I had never seen a picture of it until now. So funny...why own a monkey?

I love this picture of Terry and Perry as mere teenagers!

My dad to this day is scared of bees...this explains it!

My great-great-great grandparents I believe.

My great-great-great grandmother. She was full blooded Cherokee.

Brooklyn enjoying Noah's pool.

Jack loved the slide on this pool. It was amazing he didn't bust his head open as wild as he was on this thing.

I love these 2 cut ups!

This is what happens when mom is in charge and they were only going out to water the plants.

I love this picture. I took it when we were fishing with grandaddy.

Brooklyn jumping off the diving board for the first time!

How handsome is he?

Happy 2nd Birthday Jack!

2009-07-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

July 10, 2007

1 year old

2 years old

I know I just blogged, but I couldn't go to bed without blogging Jack's birthday! There are so many great qualities about Jack, but here are a few of my favorites:

*That smile of his will truly melt your heart!
*I love the way he says motorcycle...it comes out "Taco" for cycle however he is getting much better at saying the real word.
*I love that he just lays down in his crib with his blankie and he never cries or gets up...I am so lucky!
*I love that he is PURE boy!
*I am nervous that he can be a little bully, but am PRAYING that he turns those skills around so that one day he stands up for himself and siblings if needs be.
*I LOVE the he is mesmerized by a basketball! He loves all sports (and as of late REALLY likes golf), but man it makes my heart flutter when he BEGS to shoot hoops!
*His little prayers are very minimal, but oh so sweet.
*He loves gum!
*As I have said before those little back pats when he hugs you seriously is a taste of heaven!

I love you little man and am so glad that you came, even though in a big hurry, into our family. You make us smile daily!

Lets go back to June...

2009-07-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

Okay..I have been WAY to busy this month to post anything. The first week of June I hired new people and were training them for work and then I planned Joel's 30th surprise birthday party. I can KICK myself I didn't take 1 picture of the celebration! If anyone has any (steph and emily) please let me know. I am really depressed about it. The next day we head to South Padre for a Jones family trip. We had a ton of fun! A beach house+family+sun+tons of food+sea turtle release+putt-putt golf+resting=FUN FUN FUN!!! Here are some of my favorite pics!
Mommy, daughter kisses

Jack and Joel

Sweet Boy

US!

Brooklyn boo posing

Picture Perfect!

The whole gang..doing the family picture thing.

See turtle release...these turtles are 3 hours old!

AWW..Sunrise!

Joel not realizing how much if weigh these days!

Sunrise..waiting on the turtles to be released.

Just love it!

The whole gang...up before 7...had to get a picture of it!

Seriously tired of taking pictures by now, but I am the mom and what mom says goes! :)

Peek-a-Boo!

There are no words to express how incredibly cute this picture is!

Dang...I am lucky!

The parrot was trying to take out Liz's hair pins.

I was in shock when I saw that Jack let the guy put the parrot on his shoulder...I was even more surprised that Jack didn't try to eat him!

Brooklyn loved the parrots!

Mommy and Jack

Feeding the sea turtles and the Sea Turtle Rescue

Grammie and Brooklyn

I found this old building and I thought I was in heaven with my camera...too bad I didn't have any models...the kids seriously would not cooperate!

Pops and his mini me!

My stupid camera kept fogging up and I was too impatient to keep clearing the fog...but here is our fun family!

The Call's at the lighthouse.

Jack enjoying his beach chair.

My little surfer girl getting ready to hit some waves.

How cute is she?

Okay..I have been WAY to busy this month to post anything. The first week of June I hired new people and were training them for work and then I planned Joel's 30th surprise birthday party. I can KICK myself I didn't take 1 picture of the celebration! If anyone has any (steph and emily) please let me know. I am really depressed about it. The next day we head to South Padre for a Jones family trip. We had a ton of fun! A beach house+family+sun+tons of food+sea turtle release+putt-putt golf+resting=FUN FUN FUN!!! Here are some of my favorite pics!

Happy BIG 30 Joel!

2009-06-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

Man I have a great husband! I am so lucky to be loved by him. He is turning 30 today and I know he was a little sad about it, but he still looked so handsome to me this morning! I can't wait for what the next 30 years bring to us. Happy Birthday babe...here are 30 of my favorite pics of him.

Love at Home

2009-06-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

For those of you that aren't Mormon every Monday night we set aside Family Home Evening or FHE. It is a night where we typically have a Opening Song and Prayer, Scripture and lesson (on anything really), an activity, and then of course dessert and closing prayer and song. The church mainly wants family's to set aside one night out of the week just on focusing on the family. Until Joel and I had kids we weren't real great about having it, but since Brooklyn has been old enough to know how FHE works she loves having it. Actually she is a little OCD about FHE and how it suppose to happen...which is GREAT, but way too funny for her age. For example we went to Crocodile Gap (miniature golf) for F.H.E. a few weeks ago. It's starting to get real nice outside in the evening, and Joel and I thought what a great way to be with our family. Well she and Jack loved it, however when we got home and started getting ready for bed she was distraught that we hadn't had scripture/prayer/lesson/dessert/etc. She said, "but mom we didn't even learn anything about Jesus." She was right, but she was prolonging her bedtime as well. Tonight we got busy doing household chores and it started getting late...well she knew it was Monday night and was getting stressed that we didn't have a lesson planned. So, Joel helped her get something together. We used the Friend(children's magazine the church puts out)and found some pictures that depict different situation in which Heavenly Father would be sad or happy if we were to make the same choices. She did very well, and Jack even participated. We then sang Love at Home, and passed around a lion. If you had the lion when we sang the word LOVE out of the song than you had to go around and say something that you loved about each member. I was first and I said these things: Joel - treating us to ice cream when the ice cream truck came around tonight (which also was our dessert), Brooklyn - when she slid down the slide at Schlitterbahn today with her brother so he would be nervous, Jack - when he eats all of his food (which he did tonight). Next was Joel: Brooklyn - when she is a leader and prepares FHE diligently, Jack - when he is excited to see him when he gets home, me - when I kiss him when he gets home from work. Brooklyn said: Jack - when he gives me kisses, Me - when I take pictures of them, Joel - when he lets her feed the dog with him. Jack said (or tried to mumble): when I kiss him; Joel - when he sees a taco (motorcycle) and no it doesn't make sense, Brooklyn - hugs. It was such a sweet night and I thought I would document our night with Love at home. One day I might really need to recollect on it when they are teenagers! ;)

Jack's Mop and recent update...

2009-05-28T06:42:00.001-07:00

BEFORE

AFTER

We finally broke down a few weeks ago and chopped Jack's hair. Yes, we love it long, but thought we should give a little cut for the summer. I think the long hair will be back in the fall, so don't worry! He is quite the little man lately. He makes me laugh so much. Here are a few things that he does:
*Motorcycle sounds like Taco
*Emily sounds like Enya.
*He is really starting to like trains and cars, but Buses are still his favorite!
*He still bites and bit me last night on the cheek when giving me kisses!
*He sounds so sweet when he says his families names: Mimi, Papa, Pops, Grammie, Duckie, he still doesn't say Brooklyn, but calls her Boogs sometimes
*He likes to throw crayons at the gentleman 2 rows behind us in church.
*He is OBSESSED with Brooklyn's bike even though it is 2 times his size. He still manages to get on it and then lets you know when he needs a push because he can't reach the peddles.
*He is still OBSESSED with basketball (oh how it melts my heart) and could literally play ALL day if I let him.
*He calls most balls basketball still. He knows what a football is and carries it around, but sometimes slips and calls it a basketball.
*He loves to eat when its his idea, but if I don't let him snack he eats ALL of his food. Its getting him to wait and hold off until then.
*He know opens the fridge on his own and now I have to lock it!
*He is a little nervous about the slides at Schlitterbahn, but with a little push he loves going down them.
*He puts both fists in his mouth when he is stressed and doesn't know what to do.
*He still sleeps with his blankie. He finds two holes in it that he managed to make and I already sewed up once and places his fingers in them as the other hand is busy away sucking his thumb. Oh, he only does this when he goes to bed.
*He always has a bruise and most of them are always on his face. (No its not from us :O)
*He gets so excited when Joel comes home at night!
*He loves feeding the dogs and is not scared at ALL!
*He has a really good arm on him when throwing, but I am also impressed by his catching abilities too.
*He really likes to color, more so than Brooklyn at this age.
*He likes to sing too, but you can't understand a word he is singing.
*He screams still sometimes.
*He really likes High School Musical 1,2, & 3, but he might as well with as often as Brooklyn watches it.
*He also LOVES to do whatever Brooklyn is doing and mimics her all the time.
*I love the way he says "HEYYY" when something is taken away from him
*Just as I am writing this he pooped his pants and then stuck his hands in it! YUCK..so boy!
*If you cradle him he says "I'm a baby!"
*He also says "I want that" to most anything that looks like food especially candy or sweets.
*There is so much more, but I can't think anymore. I also can't believe he is going to be 2 in 6 weeks, man times flies! But to some it up if you know Joel and have seen my Dad you know what he is like. He is a little Joel trapped in a Little Perry's body! He acts just like Joel and looks so much like my dad!
*I LOVE YOU LITTLE MAN!

American Idol Season 9

2009-05-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

I just love this show! I love that it is clean (okay maybe not during tonight's Black-eyed Pea performance) and we can watch it as a family. Brooklyn loves it! We let her stay up tonight and she was excited to see that Kris finally won (Sorry Adam lovers)! Here are some of the high's and low's for me:

*I loved Kara coming out and battling out with bikini girl and then Kara stripping down to her bikini. The thing that I loved was that Kara looked just as good and she was embarrassed because she knows you don't have to flaunt it all the time! I loved that!

*Okay did any see Cyndi Lauper at the end of her song..it sounded like she was from an Indian tribe and doing some ceremony noises..didn't get that song.

*I loved seeing Danny, Matt, and Anoop again.

*I hated Adam's ridiculous platforms he wore...eww!

*Kiss....ewww!

*I was excited to see Norman back on the show...a little weird, but really funny.

*I am not the comedian Steve Martin fan, but maybe the musician Steve Martin fan. I just LOVED that song and actually about to download it!

*Speaking of downloading I also want the David Cook song...loved it!

*I was pretty sure Paula was going to come out of her top..she was making me neerrvvous!

*Loved me some Lionel and Gokey! Made me want to dance, but not quite yet.

*Queens We are the Champions...classic! I also loved how they (Adam and Kris) just had so much fun with it!

*Okay the last 2 highlights..ready...ROD STEWART!!! I heart him!!!! I just had to get up and dance and was so excited he was singing a little Maggie Mae! Brooklyn danced with me..what a full circle mommy-daughter moment.

*Lastly yes..the announcement of Kris winning...oh and I love that great big hug from his wife at the end...I just shed a tear!

Sun and Water = Summer in Texas!

2009-05-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today we used our season passes for the first time! (Thanks mom for our Birthday present) It was so nice. NO long lines and the weather was perfect! All Brooklyn kept saying on the way home was, "Mom I had so much fun!" I did all most let Noah drown, really he just went under a little, but when I looked up Brooklyn had made a friend with another little girl and was holding hands with her to go up the slide she had already ridden a thousand times. Jack loved going too. Every time he gets nervous he tries to stick his whole fist in his mouth. I am not sure why, but it is funny. Stephani, Nick, Noah, mom, Brooklyn, Jack and I all rode the longest river ride through the west park twice. The kids really loved it and think they are doing something only pick kids do. We all got some sun, and I notice Brooklyn got a little too much on her legs and I got way to much on my back, but hey its summer and bring it sun! We are going to try and go often this summer and just fill our early mornings with some sun and water. So if you can't catch me I am at the pool!

My Gabriella...

2009-05-06T10:32:00.001-07:00

Okay so the beginning is a little slow, if you watch the tv you can see Brooklyn is trying to act just like Gabriella. She does get a little wild with the flips off the couch which just made me laugh so hard. I tried to get her to sing louder and she did towards the end. Sorry this video is so long, but I just had to post it! Oh and it was recorded from my phone so it isn't the greatest. Before the video Brooklyn tried to get Jack to play Troy, but he didn't want much to do with him. Brooklyn got this dress from the librarian at Judson and she wears it all the time! Enjoy...I did!

Off to Gilmer!

2009-04-27T20:24:00.001-07:00

I will be in the sticks of East Texas tomorrow. One of my favorite places to be! You won't be able to get a hold of me because my cell won't work, and I prefer it that way! :) If you are in the area my parents haven't changed their number in 28 years, so you can get a hold of me that way. Later! Oh, sorry such a boring post so I will leave you with this (I am so excited already!):

Noah's Easter Photo Shoot

2009-04-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

After I got back from Disney Steph asked me to take Noah's Easter pictures. He did such a good job and was in a great mood! Enjoy!

Field Trip to the Hydroponic Strawberry Farm

2009-04-22T15:28:00.000-07:00

This isn't a picture of our farm, but looks identical. They grow everything vertical instead of the ground. It was really cool and a lot of fun!

Camron and his goods...

Jack just ate the strawberries. The thing I LOVED is that it was very stroller friendly!

Amaya getting her berries!

Brooklyn being really steady, she did NOT want them to fall on the ground.

She loved it...I am so glad I found this place.

Pretty berries..

3 amigos: Camron, Amaya, and Brooklyn enjoying themselves.

Last, but not least Noah. Bless his heart he was only interested in the scissors.

I really enjoyed this farm. It was only like 4 miles from my house and the staff was friendly. The farm is called Markley Family Farm. It is ran by a young couple. Steph and I were talking how when we got home about how we enjoy supporting new businesses like that. They were a little steep in price, but I figured I was going to pay the same at a kids museum, but only get to reap the rewards with all of the yummies we bought. I loved the educational part too and Brooklyn did as well. If you want directions let me know. Thanks guys for going with me...LOTS O FUN!

Why I have an AWESOME husband...

2009-04-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

I am one lucky girl! I truly have an a wonderful husband. Friday afternoon we got a call from the Stake Presidents office asking us to meet with him yesterday. For the next 12 hours Joel and I played the guessing game on what in the world he wanted to speak to us about. Well, Joel got called to be the 2nd councilor in the Bishopric. That is not why he is wonderful...the reason I have an awesome husband is because of his worthiness to hold this calling. I knew when I married him that I was venturing on foreign ground (I dated some winners let me tell ya), but I become impressed with him daily by his testimony, his love for others and his Heavenly Father, and his service as well. Oh, and yesterday I came home from doing a grouting job with Stephani to find that he and his dad built me this:

Yes, he built me my own workspace for my crafts and sewing in the garage! I am so excited!!! I gotta work hard now before it gets too hot this summer. I couldn't laugh and think of Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias when she is in her barbershop complaining about her husband and says: Yeah...He's great! The nicest thing he has ever done for me is enclosed my garage so I can support him." I know I will NEVER be able to fully support my family with my crafts, but it will be fun making them.
The last reason I have an awesome husband is this:

Are they not the 2 most beautiful kids ever (I am a little biased)? They surprise me daily! I was telling Brooklyn this morning to hurry because it is kinda a special day for dad and we cannot be late (which we always are). She looks at me surprisingly and says, "Its Sunday mom, night Friday night!" I laughed so hard! Thanks for all you do for us! I am eternally grateful for you! I LOVE YOU!!!!

Look Who's 50!?

2009-04-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

NOW...

Dad, Grandaddy, & Terry

Then..
Dad & Terry (they always stand on the same side when taking pictures!)

Happy Birthday You TWO! Here are 50 things I love about you both!
1. Your bashful gins.
2. You're kind to EVERYONE!
3. You both are always thinking of others.
4. You both are still little kids at heart!
5. You don't like spicy foods.
6. You both let other people think they are talking to your brother when they are NOT!
7. You both love your jobs (maybe too much at times :)
8. You both love your Heavenly Father.
9. You can't live no further than 10 minutes apart from one another.
10. You both are very handy.
11. You both believe in driving your car until it literally dies!
12. You both made it to as many sporting events as your could of your kids.
13. You both made beautiful children (ok this one is for me ;)
14. You both will be Harmony Eagle fans for life!
15. You both built your own house...well with the help of each other and a few friends.
16. You both are talented skiers both water and snow.
17. You both are brilliant when it comes to street smarts.
18. You both stood by Nana day after day while she was sick.
19. You both love kids and are FABULOUS with mine!
20. You both are Gilmerites for LIFE too!
21. You both could spend countless amount of hours on the tractor.
22. You both were talented athletes.
23. You both are extremely hard workers.
24. You both aren't afraid of telling me that I don't know how to drive a stick shift when hauling hay...um I was 10!
25. You both pick on your sister WAY too much!
26. You both are jokesters and sometimes your the only one that gets your joke :)
27. You both let your kids at the mere ages of 5ish help drive the car down 154.
28. You both love your sodas (and I wonder where I get it from...oh wait mom does too..shoot I am screwed!)
29. You both would be so sad if you didn't have the other one to lean on.
30. You both would get together to watch cartoons every morning even though the other was married.
31. I love both of your laughs..I need to get them on video or get them recorded! Oh..they are the same..duh..
32. You both are very handsome.
33. You both are very likeable.
34. You both are very good secret keepers...too good sometimes!
35. You both are just like your dad in so many ways.
36. You both love visiting Grandaddy even though its not as often as you would like.
37. You both love tell stories of your childhood and sometimes get emotional.
38. Speaking of emotions...I love the way dad cries.
39. Terry let our family live with his for a while...man I can't imagine me doing that!
40. You both are loved by your community or communities.
41. You both know that family is what is most important.
42. You both will seriously leave an amazing legacy one day...lets not get there soon though!
43. Seriously did I say kind..yep...it needs to be said again!
44. Oh and SERVICE is what I think of you too!
45. You two are best friends through all of these years!
46. You both are usually punctual unless your family is dragging you down..:)
47. You both have women that your love and treat with respect..what an example!
48. You both LOVE your children!
49. You both Love each other.
50. Once again..you love your Heavenly Father!

Man that was hard to do! Yes there are repeats, but they are so worth repeating! I LOVE YOU BOTH! Thanks for being you!
Happy 50th Birthday Old MEN!

Playing Catch Up..

2009-04-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

Okay so now that I posted pictures I wanted to add my details for the trip:

Day 1 - April 6, 2009
We got up at the CRACK of dawn and made our way to Hollywood Studios. When we got there Brooklyn was DELIGHTED to see her first character Donald Duck. My kids loved the characters! They both got their autograph and had so much fun doing it. We when went to ride a simulation Star Wars ride. Brooklyn leaned over to me and told me that she was never going to ride it again. We then headed over to a 3D play on The Little Mermaid. Jack was scared and Brooklyn didn't want to watch another play after this one. They didn't care for it as much. I thought it was good though and Kate and Clair did too. High School Musical 3 performed a pep rally and Brooklyn loved that. She loves both pep rallies and HSM3 so the combination in her book was fabulous. We had lunch at a 50's restaurant and met Playhouse Disney characters. Jack loved dancing with JoJo the Clown, and Brooklyn loved hugging June from the Little Einstein's. After lunch we tried to make it through a play on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Brooklyn stayed and watched it with the girls while I took Jack out for a nap. I got a little shopping in this day and went and bought my item that I wanted. A Minnie Mouse apron. I don't have aprons and I hate getting t-shirts from places like that because I usually don't wear them again, but I Love my apron. Beauty and the Beast had a play that they performed and yeah, my kids hated it. They lasted, but only because I made them. Brooklyn said she had never seen B & the Beast and now never wants too. OOPS! I went with Kate, Rosalind, and Stephen on the new Aerosmith Rock'N Roller coaster and I LOVED IT! Who wouldn't love a roller coaster with a little Aerosmith blaring in your ear...so fun! That night we went and at an African buffet and it was delicious. The kids were exhausted, and Brooklyn fell asleep right at the dinner table.

Day 2 - April 7, 2009

This morning we were up early again. I got up at 5:45 and we headed over to eat breakfast at Cape May's restaurant. We met Minnie, Goofy, and Donald. The food was so good too. Afterwards we jumped on a boat instead of a bus to take us to Epcot so we could get fast passes for Soarin (FANTASTIC). We met up together and then took the train to Magic Kingdom. My favorite characters I saw were here...the Ugly Stepsisters. They were HILARIOUS! If I had to be a character at WDW that is the one I would want to be..full of funny attitudes! The kids rode the tea cups and they both loved it! They had so much fun! During the tea cups everyone was waiting in line and I decided that this might be a good time to take Brooklyn to the bathroom. I did so and we were in a hurry. I had made these really cute autograph books for all of the kids and I was keeping up with every ones except Bowen's. I laid them on the paper towel holder and I left them there. I had so many distractions I totally forgot. I was so mad, embarrassed, sad, and frustrated with myself! The girls got new books. That was one of their favorite things to get the characters autographs..UGHGHHH!!! Anyways, we went and rode Pirates of the Caribbean, and needless to say Jack will not ride another dark tunnel ride again. Next, was one of the highlights of the trip for me. I got to take Brooklyn to Minnie and Mickey's house and then meet them with her. It was so magical and she loved it! We then raced to Epcot to eat at the Garden Grill with Mickey, Pluto, Chip & Dale. The kids really enjoyed themselves at this lunch too. Brooklyn and I then rode one of my favorite rides Soarin. It is a hang gliding ride that is animated. We both LOVED it. Next, the whole group went on another dark tunnel ride about nature and what the new advances are in technology for growing plants. I found it interesting. Jack didn't like the dark parts of it and hid under Bill's legs. His fear by this point was just funny now. Next, we went and met Crush from Finding Nemo. This was a really cool interactive animation where Crush actually points out people in the audience and makes everyone laugh. It was really cute. We ended our day, by riding the Finding Nemo ride. Once again, Jack didn't go, and Brooklyn was nervous the whole time.

Day 3 - April 8, 2009

This was our last day at the WDW. We took the day by force at Animal Kingdom. We started out by riding a dinosaur ride (similar to the Dumbo ride at MK, but with dinosaurs) and the kids loved it. Then the big kids went with the Mimi, Emily, and Stephen to catch a Bugs Life. Ros, Bill, and I stayed back with the boys and played at Dinoland. They loved sliding and climbing through that place. Next, we went through a tour of the tigers and it was beautiful. They did such a great job on the landscaping. We ate lunch and then headed to the African Safari. This was really cool. My favorite was the 3 week old giraffe. Brooklyn loved saving the baby elephant at the end (it wasn't real either). We then saw a really cool bird show. I was so impressed to see what they had taught these amazing birds. Bowen got sick and Ros and Stephen had to take them to the Doctor. So we went back to the hotel for a little while. The girls swam and when Stephen got back we went back to Animal Kingdom to ride Expedition Everest. It was so fun..we rode it twice!

Day 4 - April 9, 2009

I was so glad to be coming home, but so sad to be leaving my little girl. Brooklyn stayed behind with the Bill, Sherree, and Emily. I was so glad she did though, mad she had so much fun. They said she LOVED the BBQ with M & M, and danced with them all night. They also said she loved eating dinner with Cinderella, 2 female mice, and the Fairy godmother. Jack did so good on the flight. He actually slept the whole way. Steph picked us up and Jack loved seeing Noah again. I went and took Noah's Easter pictures and will post them soon. He did such a good job.

April 12, 2009

Its Easter and everyone is together again. I was so sad to miss dad's 50 birthday party the night before, but I had to be here for when Brooklyn got home. I made my first Easter dinner all by myself. Now, I have to get ready for the week...Yikes! I have been a slacker so I have a lot of catching up to do.

We're Back...

2009-04-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the Happiest Place on Earth! I will give details later when I have more time, but wanted to at least satisfy some of you with some pictures. Enjoy!

Couch & 2 Captain's chairs FOR SALE!

2009-04-01T18:37:00.001-07:00

I have been trying to help Joel's mom and dad sell this beautiful set of furniture. The asking price is $300.00. If you know Sherree, you know that this set is in FABULOUS condition. We rarely used them as they sat in the sitting room and we really only used it for special occasions. If you are interested let me know. They are on Craig's List too.

A new me...

2009-03-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

...well HOPEFULLY! I am working on it. I rededicated myself to the gym this morning. It felt so good! I get stressed about taking my kids to the gym during the winter because I feel like they get sick ALL the time when I go there. So I bought this adorable swimsuit and am hoping to look fabulous in it by summer. Go to my friends Sherry Saville's website and get yours today. I got to try mine on and LOVED it. Well, now I have got to get off this computer and get moving...I just ate a Zebra Cake...yikes!

Jack the Mack

2009-03-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

Jack has been such a little character lately and thought I would share. Last Friday I took him to get a little trim. The boy has more hair than I do and I think we might go with a buzz for the summer. We will see. Joel and I both love his long locks. Anyways, I was at the Barbershop (the same one that he got his first hair cut at and the one Joel has been using for 15+ years. As Vidal started cutting away Jack's OCD starting kicking in. In case you are not aware Jack has inherited Joel's OCDness for cleanliness. So as every cut slid down his little cape he would scream Uh-Oh! Uh-Oh! Uh-Oh! He got louder and louder until the whole shop was giggling and the barber had to quit cutting due to Jack sqirming because he was trying to catch each hair as well. It was so funny.

On Saturday night we had our same ole routine for bed and we were ready to say family prayers. As Joel and I were kneeling and leaning in towards the ottoman Jack just started saying the prayer out loud. Now, you might be asking yourself can Jack talk? Nope he cannot. He grunted each word in his own rhythmic method with a loud and clear AMEN at the end. It too was funny, but oh so tender!

He still loves to eat lately, but his FAVORITE thing to do is BEG for candy out of my candy bowl. I really have got to hide it better and throw away all of the old candy. His is like is momma in that sense. He also still loves to play basketball, but is finally playing attention to trucks and planes. Thank goodness he has his dad's pain tolerance, but bless his heart too. He was standing in a pile of ants on Thursday afternoon and he didn't say a word. He kept licking is popcicle and didn't say a word. I didn't notice until Brooklyn's little friend screamed I think Jack has a ant on him! I looked and he was covered! It made me so sad to see his little bumps on his leg, but he wasn't in the least bit concerned.

Thanks for letting me boast about my little boy. Enjoy the new look...I guess I am in a mood for remodeling EVERYTTHING. I repainted my bathroom and will post pics soon. I love it!

Playing Catch Up..

2009-03-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

I know these are random items, but kept thinking of these funny pictures that I haven't posted yet. I kept telling myself that I will do a post every other day and catch up, but really who am I kidding..that will never happen! So here are a few items to fill you in on a the last couple of weeks or so. The first picture is of Jack. He had a HORRIBLE night sleeping and got into bed with us at about 5:30 a.m. He squirmed and turned over the whole time. Well this particular Saturday morning I had to get up at 6:30 am for youth basketball at church. So, I tired to sneek in the bathroom and get dressed and let him finish sleeping. Well when i got out he got underneath our bed and laid under there asleep and sucking his them. I don't know what got into him...this really made me laugh. The next few are from a few weekends ago when my mom was in town and we decided to bathe all the cousins together. The kids did NOT cooperate at getting a group pic. Jack was too busy trying to hold to Noah, Noah was too busy cheesing for the camera, and Brooklyn wouldn't quit chewing on this stupid disgusting bath toy. So the picture tell is all. Yep Noah was happy in the beginning, and really excited, but REALLY annoyed by the end. Who wouldn't be with my two? :) I just loved this last picture. These three girls are Alayna, Brooklyn, and Amaya. Brooklyn told me the other day they were triplets. They are in the same preschool together and love to play dress up every time they come over. I just had to journal this one for sure!

This is one of my new loves:

Go HERE for their site. Joel took me out to this really good bistro for our anniversary celebration. I had NO idea where we were going and when we showed up I was like YES chocolate for dinner! They had great food. My favorite was their pistachio bread..YUM! I had their shrimp and Joel had trout. We shared a salad and each of us got a DIVINE chocolate dessert. Thanks to SHERREE and BILL...we then had a quite night at the house. We didn't wake up until 10! I was totally rested up and it was so nice. I did miss my kiddos which of course the one night we go out got the beginning stage of strep..so yes...we are now drinking lots of fluids, antibiotics, and tylenol. I kept tell Joel that I felt like I was forgetting something and it was them. I was so glad to see their smiling faces the next morning. I am such a lucky girl to have such a great husband! I love you babe!

Jack enjoying another slide...

2009-03-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

Jack was so funny because he always got turned upside down. It was hilarious...man he such dare devil too. He loved going down the fast slide as well. They make me laugh.

Brooklyn Sliding

2009-03-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

Stephani and Nick have this really fun park and this slide makes Brooklyn go so fast. I know the video cuts out, but hopefully you can still tell. Oh, and mute me..my voice is awful! She loves the slide though! I thought it was too funny and I finally figured out how to post video's so here it is:

Decorating Cents...

2009-03-06T19:14:00.000-08:00

Umm..I really don't have much of it, but my friend Jessica does! For our anniversary I decided that I would help transform our room into a more peaceful and calm place for the 2 of us. This was also an early birthday present to me from Bill and Sherree. They contributed my beautiful new comforter and set. The sheets are polka dotted and I love it! They also gave me new stuff for my bathroom, but you will have to see those later..that is project numero dos. My Nana & Pa gave me some cash for my birthday last night and so I spent it at Sherwin Williams today. My friend Jessica who is a genius with paint (and should make big bucks being an interior designer) helped (mainly did it and taught) me faux paint one wall (and now I am really wanting to do the whole room) and I think it looks fabulous! I got this really cool window pane at Canton in December and its been sitting in my garage ever since. I knew this is what I wanted to do, but ya know that thing called time...just never had it. I finally was picking Jessica's brain about it and she said she would help and I stuck her to it and we got it done. Joel loved it when he got home! Thanks again Jessica! I LOVE it!

Brooklynism

2009-03-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

I was talking on the phone with my cousin Ciara about her newborn baby. Her baby is jaundice and she was asking about Jack when he was a newborn with jaundice (which reminds me of the movie Cocoon because he glowed so much). Anyways, after we got off the phone both of my kids are so nosey and always ask, "Who was that?" I told her it was Ciara and which she takes it one step further by asking, "What did she want?" I laughed inside and said "she just wanted some advice on her sick baby." Brooklyn's reply, "Well Heavenly Father should've checked that out before he sent him down. Did he just forget or something.?" This girl is a real hoot sometimes!

My Growing Weeds...

2009-02-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

Last month I measured my kids and I was SHOCKED to see the differences. I knew Jack was a big kid, and he doesn't really look as tall as he is recorded, but he is a lot bigger than Brooklyn. Compared to other kids I really think they are just average although since Jack LOVES basketball I was really hoping that he would be tall (not to say oh in 15 years he could really care less about basketball, but maybe I want a little b-ball star). Anyways..Just doing a little journaling. I have some cute pics that I will post later.

Brooklyn | Jack
12 months - not recorded :) | 12 months - 29 1/2 inches
18 months - 30 1/2 inches | 18 months - 32 3/4 inches
19 months - 31 1/4 inches | 19 months - 33 1/3 inches
21 months - 32 1/2 inches |
24 months - 33 inches
2 1/2 years - 34 1/4 inches
3 years - 36 1/2 inches
3 1/2 years - 37 1/2 inches
4 years - 39 inches

Initial Tag

2009-02-25T18:43:00.000-08:00

I got Tagged last week and I am just now doing this..sorry Brooke...but here it goes.

Rules: It's harder than it looks! Copy to your own. Use the first letter of your name to answer each of the following questions. They have to be real. . .nothing made up! If the person before you had the same first initial, you must use different answers. You cannot use any word twice and you can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

1. What is your name: Britni
2. A four Letter Word: Bold
3. A boy's Name: Bill
4. A girl's Name: Brooklyn
5. An occupation: Baller? (like shock calla) :)
6. A color: Baby Blue
7. Something you wear: Barette
8. A food: Banana
9. Something found in the bathroom: birth control
10. A place: Brazil
11. A reason for being late: Breakfast
12. Something you shout: Ball! (Jack screams it in my house daily)
13. A movie title: Bambi
14. Something you drink: Bloody Mary (I don't, but people do)
16. An animal: Bear
17. A street name: Brentwood
18. A type of car: Bentley
19. Something scary: Bats
20. Ice cream flavor: Butter Crunch (Bluebell...yum)

I tag anyone that starts with the letter B!

V-Day

2009-02-20T07:47:00.000-08:00

I know I am behind in posting, but hey better late than never. :) For those that don't know our anniversary is also next month, so I take over and am in charge of V-day and Joel has our anniversary. For 7 years it has been like this and not until this year have I really felt the pressure. The thing is that Joel can always out do me because he his second, and I am not much of a romantic or good at planning for things like this. Joel is really good and gets like a little kid in a candy store when it comes to surprises. Don't get me wrong I love give surprises, but the stress...ugh! Anyways, I finally figured out that I am just going to have traditional V-day every year and this what we will do. We will always go to the temple, have dinner, and I will always have a scavenger hunt planned for Joel and the kids. I did all of these things this year and it went well. The kids LOVED the scavenger hunt. Plus it was a little something that didn't break the bank. I lead them to chocolates ($1), gummy life savers ($1), conversational hearts (free..yes I re-gifted..the kids don't know ;), a puzzle for Brooklyn ($3), caps for Jacks gun ($1.50), and love letters to each of them (priceless). The kids really loved searching where the next gift was. Oh, and my gift for Joel..self-portraits. I know CHEESY...and I feel like it makes me look WAY too self-important. Joel has my wedding pic for me on his desk (7 years old) and figured he needed another one. So here are some of those pics...this post if for you mom (she begs me to get out from behind the camera) Thanks Steph for taking the pics!

Brooklyns 4 yr.old pic - Jack's 18 month pics

2009-02-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know I have posted a lot of pics lately and I was waiting for a day that I had a lot of time on the computer to tell about each pic, etc., but hey..lets face it..that is never going to happen. I will post more about our V-day (which was nice) later and some fun stores. Just gotta journal when I can these days!

I love being a Stay-At-HOME-Mom!!

2009-02-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

My phone broke yesterday and it wasn't the best day for it to happen because I had a lot going on with New Beginnings and really need to be able to get a hold of. Anyhow..I was driving home and it was just me and the radio...oh..and my mind! It was so nice! I was thinking about how THANKFUL I was that I didn't have to get up and go to an office or school or any place of work other than my home the next day. I am so thankful that I have a husband that supports me in this. Lets face it..I am a awful housekeeper, I get so sidetracked on other things, I do have to work a little bit, I am TERRIBLE with time and cannot manage it for the life of me, Not the best at keeping finances either, and really do not have a LOT of Suzy homemaker skills. But I am so glad that he sticks with me and even though the workforce would have fired me by now for my lack of abilities, he hasn't! I can't imagine dropping my kids off everyday for someone else to watch and teach. Not to mention missing out on things that I get to see and hear everyday. Sometimes it is so hard on the pocketbook that it makes me want to scream, but I just am so blessed! I couldn't sleep last night and I kept thinking of how grateful I truly am and thought I better document something! (Oh, and I am horrible at documenting) My mom didn't have the same opportunity as I do and many of you do not either. I can't imagine having the extra load of a demanding and stressful job too! I just don't know how you do it. I would never have the energy and would loose my mind. I am so grateful that I was persuaded by my parents to take up this opportunity as well. Last night at NB Brother Smith talked about how he and his wife Mary gave their children round trip tickets (Heaven-Earth-Heaven) because they were born under the covenant. I know that is so true, but we have to really work for that ticket back. I have to make sure that I teach these beautiful spirits how to live as Jesus did. What a job I have! Anyways..I am rambling now. These 2 precious souls and Joel are what I live for!

Brooklyn's Week of celebrating 4 years of Life!

2009-02-01T19:46:00.000-08:00

Traditional breakfast in bed. She was so excited!

Blowing out her first set of candles.

Freida Flapper..Brooklyns first set of dress up clothes.

Had to post this sweet pic of Jack..what a doll face!

Brooklyn at our photo opt area.

Cheering with the REAL Judson Cheerleaders.

This years cake..a megaphone..It had Senior '23 on the side of it...My mom said she would be dead my then...I wanted to beat her. Oh..and yes..not my best cake work...yikes!

Steph made this cute B-day sign for Brooklyn with her new Cricut machine.

Brooklyn was a little stressed out that her dad and I and to take her in for her to blow out her candles due to the wind.

GOOO ROCKETS!

Getting Ready...still excited!

Nervousness setting in.

Why did I do this?

After seeing her picture and her new set of earrings in the mirror she was back to the same happy girl!

Here are the pictures from this week. We started off on Tuesday having her favorite dinner, Black Beans and Rice (which she choose), family, and cupcakes. She opened the families gifts and got a WAY cute cheerleading outfit for next season from Aunt Emily. Mimi & Papa gave her a huge box of clothes for the summer, sandals, TONS of dress up clothes, a coin collection from Papa, and work badge (which was a big hit) from Papa too. Aunt Duckie and Noah came and gave her an adorable dress and jibbitz. Her dad took her on "Operation Birthday" which lead her to Wal-Mart to get a fish. She came home with Alex and Wally and they didn't make it but a whole 45 minutes. We don't know what happened, but Wal-Mart even takes returns on dead fish, so she decided on a beta and now we have Rosalinda Finney Call. I really don't not need any pets..way do I cave..I am not a pet lover! Anyways, yesterday we had her birthday party at Aunt Emily's house. Her 2 favorite Judson Cheerleaders Shelby and Kristina came dressed in their uniforms for a day of cheering! They taught 2 really cute cheers, we played pin the pom pom on the cheerleader, I had a photo shoot for the girls, we had cake, and then of course Brooklyn's favorite present opening. She LOVED it. My mom got her Schlitterbahn season passes and a new swim suit that she is really excited about! Thanks to Bowen and my sister she got 2 games that she has played and loves. Her cousins Kate and Clair gave her a Barbie movie and a jewelry (which she has already watched and worn) She had so much fun! Our big gift for her was to take her and get he ear's pierced. After going to one Clair's and advising us to go to another due to only have 1 licensed piercer on duty we went down the road and got it done. I don't she realized that it would hurt quite like it did (yes Stephani cried), but she has loved them since and is really excited about them. The night got even better with a treated Jamba Juice. What a Birthday week this little girl had!

Happy Birthday 4th Brooklyn Boo!

2009-01-27T11:27:00.000-08:00

Oh, man how I remember this day so very well. It seems like yesterday! I was looking at Brooklyn in her seat as we were driving yesterday and she just looked so BIG. It made me a little sad. She is such a bright and beautiful girl, who enjoys learning more about the gospel and loves to talk about Jesus. Just last night she gave the FHE lesson and she insisted that we do it on Jesus birth. She did a fabulous job of showing us pictures and then including at the end His death and Resurrection. I know I didn't teach her everything and am TREMENDOUSLY grateful for those of you that help Joel and I teach her such important principles. Here are some of her latest funny sayings:

Me: Brooklyn will you hand me my glasses, so I can see.
Her: Sure mom...you mean your spectacles?

We were all in the car the other day and I had asked her a question (can't remember what it was now), but she taps at her brain and says "Think, Think head...why aren't you working!

Sunday I was getting ready for church and had my boots laid out. She goes and puts them on and says, hey mom do I look Handicap? I think she said this because they were on the wrong feet.

Some other of her favorite thing to do lately are riding her new bike, roller skating, riding her plasma car, Spelling her name, she loves the word robust, repeating the book Chicka-Chicka-Boom-Boom, she loves her friends and loves "sweeping" over at her Aunt Emily's, Aunt Duckies, and Mimi and Papas, she loves going to Gilmer, she loves playing Mickey Mouse on the computer, thanks to her cousin Clair she loves saying "Awkward!", She recently likes to go Park hoping (go from play ground to play ground), and LOVES to dress up (she painted her fingernails yesterday by herself and did a great job). She is so funny and I know there are lots of other funny things, but I can't think right now. I love her so much...her are some pictures of her from the last four years!

Brooklyn a few weeks ago roller skating telling me that falling is just apart of learning.

Her 3rd birthday.

Her 2 birthday Luau.

Her one year old pictures.

Brooklyn her first day home from the hospital..what a sweet baby!

Bush Letter

2009-01-24T08:32:00.001-08:00

My friend Tara posted this on her site and I wanted to share it with you all. I have read the letter many times, but loved the pictures and their voices with the slide show. They are such sweet girls (even though Jenna stuck her tongue out at reports)! Here it is:

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Tsk...Tsk...Tom Hanks!

2009-01-23T11:47:00.001-08:00

I found this article this morning on Tom Hanks and how Mormons are un-American. He is now backtracking is thoughts. I appreciate the apology, but don't know if I will support him anymore. Dang...I loved him too...BIG..A League of their Own..Forest Gump...who can forget SPLASH! Anyways...just blowing stem about Hollywood...Here is the article: TOM HANKS

Glenn Beck

2009-01-22T07:12:00.000-08:00

Okay so I have found something to watch during my 4:00 time slot since I vowed to never watch Oprah again...its the Glenn Beck show on Fox. I started watching it on Tuesday during the inagurational events. He seriously moved me by his remarks on Bush. I couldn't find the video anywhere I have been looking for days and figured his website was just a few days slow on posting, but it doesn't look like he is going to post the video, but I found his words on another site:

"Mr. President, on the darkest day, you gave us hope when we were hopeless. You were unafraid when we were terrified. You led when nobody else wanted to. Mr. President, you don't have any idea what you meant to me personally and my family right after 9-11. Job well done, good and faithful servant. Thanks."

He pretty much summed it up for me.

Things I've Learned this week...

2009-01-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

*I can actually live with out Dr.Pepper. I did treat myself to one yesterday, but I have been clean since before Christmas! YEAH!
*Jack has a lot of Joel in him. He loves to make others laugh lately. He gets people going and going and continues to do whatever he thought was funny.
*I can re-arrange my living room all by myself! That wasn't the hard part...getting Joel's approval was. I achieved that too!
*Brooklyn really does listen to EVERYTHING I say. There have been situations this week were I am in awe about what she has repeated to others that I said. Luckily, it wasn't anything bad :|!
*I am remembering how much I really hate the cold. I am so excited for Schlitterbahn to re-open.

Christmas etc...

2009-01-05T20:08:00.000-08:00

Okay..so I have been a VERY bad SLACKER! I just took down my Christmas decorations today, and am slowly starting to get back into the swing of things. Just to update everybody. We went to Gilmer for Christmas and had a Fabulous time, thanks to mom and dad! We carried out all of out traditions: cookie decorating, gingerbread decorating, murder mystery, Christmas story reading and others I can't think of. We also started some new ones I hope. We went to the Polar Express train ride in Palestine and it was fantastic. If you have little ones its a must! Thanks mom and dad they loved it and still talk about the ride. We also put on a family nativity at my moms after cookie decorating and it was a lot of fun too. My mom pampered the girls with pedicures and the boys went golfing while the grandkids and grandparents had a party for themselves only. They had lots of fun which included dress up! Brooklyn loved it too. We had a lovely Christmas were so blessed. We came home and spent New Years with the Call's at the Fernandes home and as always had Great food, and lots of laughs. On Sunday Brooklyn went to primary for the first time and is now a Sunbeam and Jack finally got in the nursery. I actually enjoyed myself in Sunday school. I can't believe how fast they are growing up. Brooklyn already told me that she could use the covered trash can as a step stool when washing her hands in the bathroom at church. I told her to get down and she said, "Mom, I am a Sunbeam, I know that I can use this for a stool." Man, kids make life so fun and entertaining. I hope you all had a great Christmas! Here are some pictures of the weeks. Caution...LOTS O PICTURES!

Christmas Preparations

2008-12-19T07:42:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few pics of the last 2 weeks. The kids love helping Joel put up the Christmas lights. They ran around and played chase until he got done and then we had a countdown. Jack fell on his face on the concrete outside the other night while trying to take off his coat. Its a nice little wound! The last picture is at Papa and Mimi's and Papa's wall art. Jack loves looking at it. The first picture is last week when the kids were sick..don't they look pitiful!

Things I've Learned this week...

2008-12-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

~I really do miss cuddling with Joel at night..he might not believe it, but I miss him when he is gone.
~Brooklyn tries to get away with just about anything..which proves Joel to be right about my lack of disciplining.
~My washing machine cannot wash Brooklyn's comforter its too big..it it is extremely heavy when filled with a ton of water.
~I have no self control when it comes to chocolate covered pretzels..I was suppose to give them away, but I am now a bag short!
~Brooklyn loves getting little notes from her dad, she has obsessed about them ever since he left.
~Jack misses his dad too..he walks around looking for him saying,"Dad,Dad" He holds his to hands up asking where he is and says, "football?" So sad, but sweet.
~I really don't mind feeding the dogs. They didn't jump on me once!
~Just when I think our YW don't have problems, I find myself on my knees. Oh, it really stress me out to raise my own kids.
~I cannot make great homemade chicken noodle soup..it always turns out too thick.
~I made 3 flower girl headpieces that turned out really cute! I could've saved my mom some money had I known.
~Jimmy Kimmel is my favorite late night comedian.

Milestones this week:
Jack says Thank you! I was so proud!
Brooklyn helps stamp and seal all of my Christmas cards..she didn't do too bad either.

Grandma Great

2008-12-12T20:03:00.000-08:00

Bill & Brooklyn talking to grandma on Sunday

Brooklyn & Grandma

Today Joel's Grandma Great passed away. She fell early this morning and never recovered. She was always so good to us. She was an amazing seamstress. We have many pieces that we will always treasure and that remind us of her. She had a unique sense of humor and Joel could always make her laugh. The last time we visited was about 1 year 1/2 ago and her and Brooklyn hit it right off. Brooklyn loved to be pushed in Grandma's walker and Grandma didn't mind at all. I remember the first time I met her it was at conference and we spent the weekend at her watching it. She listened the whole time and made sure we were always fed. Joel I am sure as MANY MANY other memories so I will let him share. I am so blessed to have been married into such a wonderful family and am thankful that my kids have such great and loving role models. WE love you Grandma!

Things I've Learned this week...

2008-12-12T19:49:00.000-08:00

I want to start do a Friday things I have learned. Just because I learn so much from a 1 & 3 year old, and everyone else in between. Here are a few things from this week.
~Brooklyn at 3 does a really good job at making it to and hitting the vomit bowl when she is sick. Much better job than I do and I graciously applaud for that!
~When you miss laundry day on Monday (due to being sick) it takes 3 whole days to catch up!
~No matter how hard you slap Jacks hand or loud you yell danger danger..Jack still throws Christmas balls on the ground and breaks them.
~Jack loves Coke..yes he grabbed mine and GULPED it today.
~Jack still wants fruit snacks and candy even though he is sick.
~My kids really do love each other...they just loved cuddling up on the couch with their sippy cups and watching cartoons.
~My Dr.'s office will reschedule you if you are 30 minutes late.
~I get really bugged when I my feet are cold, lips chapped, and hands dry..yuck!
~I was reminded how much I hate throwing up.
Yes..you can tell we were all sick this week, but we are on the mend.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T08:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Turkey Day everyone! I hope everyone enjoys this days as much as I do. I love the fact that I can eat all day! This is may holiday for sure! Here are a couple of things that I am so grateful for!

~ First and foremost I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father. He has been so good to me and I am eternally grateful for his unconditional love.

~ I am truly grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ who set a perfect example for me and died for me.

~ Word can't express how much I love my wonderful Husband! He loves me when I look in the mirror and say what happened. He loves me during my weakest moments. He loves me when I spend too much. He loves me when I am irrational. He loves me when I am mean to him. He love me and sometimes I don't know why he is still around, but I am so grateful he is!

~ I am grateful I have two HEALTHY and BEAUTIFUL kiddos! They are my sunshine when days are gloomy and they are my finest work. I love how they make me smile and I love how they love me too when sometime I am not the nicest!

~ I am thankful for my health. I know so many people that have physical problems and struggle with their health. I am so grateful for the healthy body that has been given to me.

~I am thankful for a mom and dad that loves me and is always there for me. They tell me what I need to hear wether I like it or not and they are always there for me when I fall.

~I am thankful for my siblings (both by marriage and blood). I am so glad that have great relationships with all of you! Thank you for putting up with me

~I am thankful for Bill & Sherree who are always there to lend a hand with the kids or whatever might need to be done and usually at the drop of a hat. They have been so good to me!

~I am thankful for my friends! Sometimes you just need friends! I have the best ones!

~I am so thankful for this great country, although for the next 8 years I am praying on the checks and balances for us! I am so grateful for the freedoms that I have and the men and women that have given of themselves for me to have these freedoms

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL! HOPE YOU REFLECT ON THE THINGS YOU ARE MOST THANKFUL FOR!!

I am on CRACK!

2008-11-25T07:20:00.001-08:00

I found this on People..Had to post it. I went to see Twilight again last night..I know call me crazy, but I loved it once again! I totally understand Laurent in this quote!

New Moon...

2008-11-23T08:22:00.000-08:00

CAN'T Wait for it! I am so excited that they have announced New Moon..go here for for the announcement. I also love the Linkin Park song at the bottom of the page. I LOVED LOVED LOVED Twilight! I give it 2 thumbs up and 5 jalapenos! I am actually going to get the sound track...LOVED it! I loved how beautiful the characters were. I loved the wittiness of it. I loved how beautiful Forks is. I loved the love story! The 2 negatives I have are Jasper and the tweeners! Come on..I dread that stage for Brooklyn...pure CRAZINESS! I new Jasper was new to the vampires story, but deer in headlights the whole time? Bite me...I loved it!

TWILGHT

2008-11-21T16:04:00.001-08:00

OFF to see the movie! Will Report if its a Thumbs UP or Down when we get back! CANT wait!! YIPEEE!

Football's over...

2008-11-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

at least for the next 9 months. The Judson Rockets fell to Stevens High School Friday night 12-14. It was an awful game. The wind came a blowin in at about 7, and it made things difficult for both teams. It was really sad to see a great group of senior boys play their last game ever most likely. At the end of the game Brooklyn asked why everyone was so sad and we Bill told her that it was because football is over. She told him we still have next week, in which he replied no its over for another year. She started to cry! My poor football brainwashed children are sad too. I think Jack actually is glad because the last two days he has sat on the couch watching college and pro football game with his dad and is LOVING it! It is a bitter sweet thing for us because we do miss those football games, but we sure are glad that our daddy will be home a little more often. We know Joel is sad too, because of the premature ending to a season, but we know he is still influencing lives in the classroom and has already sent text messages to his boys about how great they are. I choked up when I read the messages. We love you DADDY and are so proud of YOU! Whoop Whoop Judson Rockets!

Brooklynism

2008-11-12T21:29:00.000-08:00

So..I forgot to post this earlier this week, but thought it was too cute. So I was WAY late for church, had the kids by myself, and was NOT in a good mood. We were almost to church when this conversation came up OUT of the blue!
B: Mom I wish Rocketgirl and Rocketman (Judson's mascots..whom she is OBSESSED with) could come to church with us.
Me: I know I do too.
B: Mom, they just can't though.
Me: Oh, why not?
B: Mom...they are in space during the week and they go to space church, not ours!

Needless, to say it made me smile for a while!