Family

Layton went missing!

2012-02-04T20:18:00.000-08:00

The other night I realized Layton was too quiet. I went to my room looking for him. He wasn't there. I checked in the back and front yard. Todd was panicking. I was about to. I had a flood of thoughts but decided to go again to my room. I looked at the bed.

Then, I took another look.

He had fallen asleep with a pillow over his face.

The Fort Worth Stock Show

2012-02-01T20:05:00.000-08:00

Todd's 2nd grade class went to the stock show. I was fortunate enough to go with him, thanks to Aunt Kathy watching Reagan and Layton. He was so excited I was there. We had a great time looking at all the animals and learning lots of interesting facts. Seeing all the kids in their jackets and preparing their animals, brought back lots of memories.

Change Change Change!

2012-01-07T19:14:00.000-08:00

During Christmas break, we made the change.

Take down baby bed.
Put up Reagan's new bed.
Make room for Layton's train table
Bag up 4 bags of toys and 1 bag of clothes
Clean
Organize
Take Layton to buy his new blanket and sheets for his big boy bed.
Pray it all works out.

Layton requested the top bunk. He says, "Top"! He is so proud and has to show everybody comes to the house his "top".

He was so excited!
None of those stickers are left.

Looking cozy

There is still a bunch of work to be done. Reagan officially has her room back!

New Year's Eve

2012-01-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

The kids and I partied it up this New Year's Eve. We ate junk food, played card games, watched movies and tried really hard to stay up to celebrate the new year. Todd was determined to do it this year. By eleven, he was asking how much longer? Here are the results:

First out: Reagan 8:30

2nd Out: Layton 9:35

Lastly: Todd 11:45!!

So Close Todd! Next year!

Christmas Morning!

2011-12-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning arrived!

Mommy got daddy a helicopter!

What is under there?

A choo choo table. He wouldn't stop playing to open his other presents. Adam would ask him to come open up more presents. Layton would just say, "I choo choo".

Reagan and I put together her doll house. She decided where all the furniture was to go. I was not allowed to place anything. She was still in her dress from church late in the afternoon too busy to change.

He got exactly what he asked Santa for: an 18 inch black bike with spikey helmet.

Oh, Christmas Tree!

2011-12-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

We spent the day playing games, eating junk food and opening presents. We let the kids buy for each other this year. They had a great time shopping for that perfect gift.

Hunter, Todd, Michelle, Layton and Adam playing Apples to Apples.

Todd picked out a Dora umbrella. He was so excited for her to open it!

Todd picked out Hungry Hippos for Layton. He loved playing that game at grandma and grandpa's house with his cousins.

Reagan got Todd this basketball hoop for his bedroom door. He loves getting to play ball in the house.

School Christmas Parties

2011-12-21T19:41:00.000-08:00

Layton and I were able to attend Reagan's Christmas party at preschool. All the children wore pajamas so Layton wore his too. I completely forgot the camera so I took a picture of her and Layton afterwards.

Todd had his party while Reagan was at PALS so she didn't get to go. Layton and I attended another fun Christmas party together. I was so delighted with the decorations in Todd's classroom. There were decorations literally from the floor to ceiling. There was beautiful Christmas playing in the background. I loved it! Todd had a great time creating a snowman ninja and a snowflake with a picture of himself inside.

He is being serious here because of his cool ninja.

Let Christmas vacation begin!

Reagan's Winter Dance Recital

2011-12-16T20:07:00.000-08:00

All that time at dance class and all the money spent on leotards,tights, ballet slippers, tap shoes and

tutus are totally worth watching her perform. It was so fun to watch. I started tearing up in the rehearsals.

All Aboard the Polar Express!

2011-12-03T18:54:00.000-08:00

Saturday, we went with the Ellestad family to ride the Polar Express in Grapevine. I kept it a secret but let the kids open up an early Christmas present, new pajamas.

Tickets Please!

Our Conductor had to punch each ticket. Reagan got five punches!

Next up, Santa Claus!

Santa gave every child a bell.
Noisy bells.
Thanks Santa.

The Ellestads

The Killebrews

Santa Letters

2011-12-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I have been a good boy this year. I just turned two years old. I have almost got this potty training thing mastered. Sometimes, I play too hard and forget to stop and go. I really like choo choo trains. Could you please bring me a train for Christmas? I also love candy! I hope your Christmas is filled with love.

Love your friend,

Layton Christopher Killebrew

Dear Santa,

Hello Santa! I have been a good girl this year. I would like for Christmas a parachute and stickers.

Love,

Reagan Joy Killebrew

Dear Santa,

I have been a good boy this year. I hope you had a good day . What I really want for Christmas is a new bike and a new helmet. I need a 18inch black bike. I would like a helmet that has spikes at the top.

Love,

Todd Adam Killebrew

Fort Worth Christmas Parade

2011-11-25T16:47:00.000-08:00

This year we got front row seats to the Fort Worth Parade of Lights. The weather was amazing and the seats were perfect!

Layton, Adam and Todd
Layton slept right up until the parade started.

My Reagan

Mommy and Todd

Grandma, Melissa, Lil Charlie and Emylie

Santa and Mrs. Claus

Pirate Ship

Adam's old teacher, Mrs. Renfro

The Singing Tree

2011-11-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

After we stuffed our bellies, watched a movie and opened up gifts we went to Grapevine to see the singing tree. It was chilly outside! The kids had so much fun dancing while the lights moved and music played.

The Singing Tree

Dancing Sawyer

Aunt Michelle and Layton

Reagan and Liam

Thanksgiving ~ Family Craft Exchange

2011-11-24T13:59:00.000-08:00

Aunt Michelle helping Reagan open her gift.

Liam with his new car.

Handing out homemade gifts

More gifts

Lawson and Brooke with their Christmas picture

Turkey Day!

2011-11-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

The kids had a great time playing.

Grandpa

We Love Our Couins
Sawyer, Paisley, Emylie, Reagan

The Feast

Todd had such a great time.

We love Boston

Food, Family and Football

Thanksgiving Week ~ Zoo day

2011-11-23T12:57:00.000-08:00

Katie's family arrived safely on Sunday. We were so excited they were able to come and celebrate Thanksgiving with everyone. On Wednesday, we all met up at the zoo. We got there at 2:00 in the afternoon. We found out that zoo closes at 4:00. That would still give us plenty of time to run around and see all the attractions. Towards the end of our visit, the place was virtually empty. The weather was beautiful. The crowd was minimal.

Melissa, Adam, Layton, Michelle, Paisley, Todd, Chris, Liam, Cindy, William and Lawson

Melissa, Sawyer, Paisley, Reagan, Charlie, Todd and Baylie

Poor Emylie didn't feel well.

Baby Boston

Katie was pushing the cart that all the kids wanted to ride in.
Reagan, Katie, Liam, Todd and Brooke

Waiting with babies.
Liam, Mom, Cindy, Michelle, Brooke, Lawson

A new Thanksgiving tradition.

2011-11-14T18:54:00.000-08:00

This year I came up with the idea for the us to think of a teacher, friend or neighbor we were thankful for. We baked cookies and Todd hand wrote notes to each person. My kids had a great time delivering them.

Donelle came!

2011-11-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to have my BFF Donelle come and visit for a few days. We always have the best times! It was really busy this time but we still had fun. We were able to eat at one of Donelle's (and mine) favorite eateries, La Madeleine. It was so good!

Later that night, we had some of Donelle's Texas friends come and meet us at Chilis for some food and fun! There were so many people that came! She was really loved! Unfortunately, by the time we snapped this picture some of those friends had left. It was a great night! Full of fun and laughs.

These guys were visiting the USA. When we asked them to take a picture for us, they jumped in it!

We are Thankful!

2011-11-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

We did our annual thankful turkeys for Thanksgiving again this year for FHE. It is always a chore to get them all colored, cut and then write down all their ideas.

Mom: friends, food, my parents, church, music, my children, daddy, my siblings and momo and paw paw
Todd: electricity, family, music, toys, church, tv, mom and dad, food.
Reagan: all my friends, daddy and mommy, Santa, Christmas, my brothers, Patty and Jan.
Layton: Max and Ruby, mommy and daddy, playing with Todd and Reagan, choo choo trains and candy.

We put up our Christmas tree EARLY.

2011-11-01T18:34:00.000-07:00

We put up our tree the day after Halloween.

Halloween ~ The aftermath

2011-10-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to my door greeter, Michelle, who handed out candy.

Trunk of Treat

2011-10-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

We had our combined annual "Trunk or Treat" last night.

Our crew. Wizard, Pocahontas, Monster

1st Place for Best Trunk

Pocahontas Reagan

The Little Monster

The Wizard

We were sick. Really sick.

2011-10-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Layton was first.

Then me.

Then Reagan woke up sick Tuesday morning.

Todd was picked up from school Tuesday afternoon.

Adam is now sick.

Adam's flight was delayed on Monday, twice. I was too sick to go to the store to even buy diapers. So, I called Tom. Paw Paw came to the rescue. He asked me to think of anything else I needed. I asked him to pick up diapers, wipes, a package of hot dogs, and a box of Gogurt. That should supply us for a day or two. This is what he dropped off at my house.

2 boxes of Kool-aid

2 boxes of Kool-aid singles

1 blueberry bunt cake

1 box of oatmeal pies

1 dozen sugar cookies

1 package of sweet bread

1 box of Oatmeal pies

1 bag of assorted mini candy bars

1 bag of fun size peanut m&ms

1 bag fun size plain m&ms

4 packages of hot dogs

3 boxes of Gogurt

1 box of diapers

1 package of wipes

Aren't Paw Paws awesome?!

Thanks Paw Paw!

A few good books.

2011-10-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

I try and read to my kids every night. Since Todd is getting older, he is ready for books with more substance. When we finish with "The Best Halloween Ever", I will read "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever". I told Todd that when I was in Junior High I was in the play "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever". They are funny stories about the Herdman kids. They are a wild bunch of kids that run havoc all over town. Each chapter leaves you wanting to know what is going to happen next.

Our Family Tree ~ according to Reagan.

2011-10-25T12:30:00.000-07:00

Looks like she forgot someone and that someone tore her tree.

He is ready. We are not.

2011-10-24T12:29:00.000-07:00

Layton decided that he was ready for this big step in life. Adam and I can't believe our baby just won't stay a baby.

just

At my house...

2011-10-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

There is generally a stack of laundry folded and ready to be put away.
If Layton is up and the tv is on we are watching Max and Ruby. He calls it "Ruby". I would rather listen to this than most the other cartoons tv shows my kids would love to watch.
Reagan loves to have her nails painted. I love painting her nails. It makes me feel girly.
Reagan is also good at getting Layton to play dress up with her. She pretends Layton is the dad. They are so adorable.
My kids can play together like a dream. Just as I think to myself how great they are getting along somebody starts crying. They instigator usually apologizes and they are back to playing.
Todd loves to create some kind of made up scene with his toys. He is so creative and imaginative.
I have become obsessed with Todd's Indiana Jones game on his DS. We talk about the game like childhood friends.
At any given time one of my children is walking around without pants.
We love sports.
We love reading books. I love the school book fairs it gives me the opportunity to get more books into the house.
Sometimes Family Home Evening is a bust.
I like to give really long prayers when my kids are being rowdy. I pray it helps.
Dinnertime is hard. I dream of the nights we sit around the table and EVERYONE eats.
I iron my kids clothes for school. I can't help it.
Our bathroom sink has toothpaste on it. I wonder sometimes if they ever get in on their toothbrush.
We eat pizza from CiCi's every other Friday.
My kids eat lots of hot dogs, string cheese, yogurt smoothies, apples and chips.
It can be clean for 5 minutes.
I pray our home is a place of peace and refuge for my children.

Family Home Evening ~ Halloween Style

2011-10-18T17:23:00.000-07:00

I think that the holidays make coming up with fun FHE ideas easier. I found this idea from sugardoodle.net

It was a short and funny lesson just perfect for my young family. After the lesson was over, we had caramel apples. Paw Paw and Mo Mo boo'd our house last night and dropped off a package of caramel and shiny green apples.

My house smells like ginger.

2011-10-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

Layton strikes again.

This month is such a special one.

2011-10-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

This month is such a special one it's birthday time for me and Adam. So, just like last year and the seven years before, Adam and I celebrated our birthday together. I love that we share a birthday! Same day. Same year. I was born just eleven hours before him.

Adam gave me my most favorite birthday present ever, sleeping in. Yep, he got the kids up and even "fixed" Reagan's hair. I walked into the livingroom to this:

At the end of the evening, Adam brought out the cake he bought. He was so sweet and had my name put on it. He also only put 24 candles on the cake. Adam made up the rule that I turn 24 each year since I turned 30.

We celebrated the evening with my most favorite people on earth.

I am so glad I get to grow old with that smile.

The not so scary spider.

2011-10-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

We took our little family to Garden Ridge to buy some new Halloween decor. Our kids are getting older and really look forward to decorating the house and yard . We found a huge and hairy spider to add to our new collection. After school Reagan and I were looking at the huge spider and she said to me, "Mom, this will scare the kids". I suggested some ideas and she went with it. She spent a half hour picking out each bow to place on the spider's legs.

See, not so scary now.

Layton turnes two.

2011-09-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast my time flies. Layton has been no exception to this. Layton woke up to singing and smiles all around. We dropped off Reagan and went to get him a balloon.

We then went and picked up Reagan from school so we could go to ride the train. Layton LOVES trains.

We had lasagna for dinner and then chocolate cake for dessert. He was so excited to eat cake and blow out the candles.

Layton received a scooter for his birthday. It is so adorable to watch him ride.

Layton is such a blessing to our family. He has been so fun to watch and grow. He is by far our best talker at this age. I have been so amazed at the words and phrases he will say. He loves to watch Max and Ruby and Blues Clues. He loves to play with balls. He loves playing with his brother and sister. Todd was one of his first words. He loves him. He loves to talk to daddy on the phone everyday when he is away. He loves his family. We love you Layton so very much!

Layton turns two.

2011-09-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

Layton makes turning the TERRIBLE 2s look easy.

2011-09-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

He threw a nice fit for about 15 minutes. Layton thought that by taking off his diaper it would add a more dramatic affect.

Mom Moments

2011-09-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

It was Monday night. I had finally layed all the kids down. I was trying to get the house picked up, lunches made, folders checked and clothes ready. I was tired and ready to sit down and have a little peace before I needed to go to bed. I was at the kitchen sink when Reagan walked back into the livingroom from out of bed to tell me "something" else of great importance. In her hand was a book. "Mommy will you read me this story?My first instinct was to yell at her to get back to bed. To my surprise a calming feeling instantly came over me. I wrestled with myself for a short time. I decided to read her the book. We sat down on the couch. She quickly asked to sit in my lap. I read her the story. We didn't have any interuptions from her little brother. No phone calls. No pressing matters. Just Reagan and I alone in the quiet livingroom. After I finished the book she gave me a hug and kiss and went to bed and didn't get up again that night. I am grateful I felt impressed to read her that story. I don't remember the book. I do remember how it felt to sit in that quiet livingroom alone with my four year old Reagan.

Happiness is...

2011-09-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...

Watching Layton run. It is the cutest thing EVER!

Cooler temperatures

Rain

Listening to the Primary Children sing

Baseball season

Football season

Listening to the new song Reagan learned at preschool

Planning Halloween costumes

Getting my computer fixed

Making desserts with pumpkin

Nouns

2011-09-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Todd's teacher had them list two examples of a type of noun. My favorite part was that he listed Michael Jackson. It just cracks me up. I am guessing he is the ONLY 2nd grader who listed Michael Jackson. He found out who Michael Jackson was by playing Plants vs. Zombies. Ever since then, he has liked him. We rented the Wii game and he loved the Thriller song and dance moves.

It looks like I even made the list, under Michael Jackson of course.

Flash Cards

2011-09-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I didn't think of this before. Surprisingly, the marker didn't smear when I stacked them up and went through them with Todd.

Create rectangles in Word

Laminate it.

Cut them out. Write down math facts with your dry erase marker.

Labor Day

2011-09-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

This Labor Day we enjoyed cooler temperatures with a trip to the park. It was actually in the 80's today!

We walked, skated, and rode a bike to the park today.

Just a swing'in

Todd the thinker

Our Family Portrait by Todd

2011-09-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Reagan starts Pre-school

2011-09-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Reagan started pre-school today. She was very excited to go to her new school. We walked in and she went straight to putting things up. She sat in her chair and starting coloring. She told me bye and that was it. Reagan is going to have so much fun! We love The Grace Place!

This is her reaction about having to take a blanket and pillow for "rest" time. No NAP!

Reagan ~ Back to School - PALS ~

2011-08-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Reagan started back to PALS today. She has been so excited to go back to school and see Ms. Patty and Ms. Jan. She loves school! This year we got her a new Dora backpack. She picked out shoes with "sprinkles". She is finally big enough to wear the big girl sizes which means we have better uniform selection. We love you Reagan and hope you enjoy your last year at PALS! This has been such a blessing to her and our family.

dressed and ready to go

close up

Dora backpack

Shoes with sprinkles

So glad I took this picture!

2011-08-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

Layton

2011-08-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

I love this kid.
He is wild.
He is mean.
He is entertaining.
He is loving.
He marches to the beat of his own drum.

Todd's shoes.

2011-08-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

I decided I would buy Todd's shoes online this year to keep me from having to shoe shop with him. We went online. He picked them out. I ordered them a 1/2 size larger than his flip flops thinking that would last him a while. They arrived a week later. We tried them on and to my surprise they were tight. Todd said they fit great. Adam said they were fine. So, we kept them. The morning of the first day back to school finally arrives. Todd is upset because his new shoes are way TOO small. Yep, there is no way he can wear them. We can't even get them to fasten shut. Luckily, I had bought him some slip on shoes. They would have to do. Friday, we went shopping at the actual store. The shoes I ordered online were a 12 1/2. The new shoes he wore out of the store were a 2! Lessons learned: Never buy Todd's shoes on the Internet again and never listen to Todd or Adam regarding the fit of a shoe. My family should have also learned a valuable lesson. Mom is always right.

Todd's first day of school ~ 2nd grade.

2011-08-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Clothes were laid out the night before.

Ready to go! His brand new sneakers did NOT fit. Luckily, he had an extra pair of shoes to put on.

Layton is ready to take Todd to school. He had to wear a backpack too!

Todd got a new backpack this year.

Close up of the handsome Todd.

School Supplies

2011-08-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

Remember when ALL your school supplies fit into your backpack and you brought them on the first day of school. All these school supplies are just for Todd.

Meet the Teacher Night

2011-08-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

This year Todd wrote his own letter to his new teacher.

I loaded up the kids and headed to Reagan's school first. When she saw Ms. Jan she ran up and hugged her. I was so bummed I forgot my camera in the car. We were handed a packet of information for me to fill out and a school supply list. We loaded back into the car and headed to Todd's school. Todd proudly showed us the way to where the second grade classrooms were. On the way we lost Reagan once. Layton ran into the girls bathroom. We ALL finally made our way to Todd's classroom. We quickly dispersed the school supplies and found his desk. Layton managed to climb up on the desk and run around at least three times while I filled out paperwork. Todd is in for a change this year because they change classes for English/Reading or Math. Todd's class will go to the classroom across from his for English and Reading. He is very excited.

Happiness is...

2011-07-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

Baby Reagan

Happiness is ...

Buying Adam's plane ticket to come HOME.
Looking at old pictures of our family.
Fritos and bean dip.
Airconditioning.
Sonic Happy Hour.
Reagan being brave enough to jump into the pool.
Renting movies.
Good music.
Good books.
Checking out as many books as our arms can carry at the library.

Keeping ourselves busy.

2011-07-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

In effort to keep ourselves busy, I went to JoAnn's and got a few of their "Camp Crafts" that were 50% off. Reagan loves to paint and put stickers on anything. I made the mistake of taking her with me. That girl can shop! Every isle we went down she would say, "I need this". She picked herself out a birdhouse to paint. She picked out Todd and Layton projects too. We came out of there with plenty of things for Reagan to paint. I am so grateful my kids are still young enough that they will do small craft projects like these and enjoy them.

It took two days even with 100 degree temperatures for that paint to dry.

Paint by number.

Homemade Icecream

2011-07-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

I saw somewhere that July is the National Month of Ice cream. I don't know who made that up but thanks. We have an ice cream maker that we hadn't used ALL summer. I whipped that bad boy out
and made some delicious mint chocolate chip ice cream. Since then, I have made two more batches. The kids love to watch the machine as it turns around and around. It always seems like magic when the liquid turns into ice cream.

When all you have are brothers...

2011-07-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

When all you have are brothers, you enlist the little brother to play dress up with you! I know this will be embarrassing for Layton some day but your sweet big sister sure does appreciate it!

He can shoot a laser and wear heels.

Taking care of Woody.

Sweet friends.

Enjoying the sweet side of summer.

2011-07-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

While we were in Arizona, Donelle and I thought it would be a great idea to cook up some delicious freezer jam and buttermilk syrup. She introduced us to buttermilk syrup. That stuff is crack in a jar. I can just drink it by the spoonful. It was so fun to hang out cook in the kitchen like old times. I love her so much for that.

They had strawberries at her local store for 77 cents.

Letting it sit up.

The buttermilk syrup. Messy but so worth it!

This is my loot I took home.

Eight Years

2011-07-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

It's been eight years now since I said the word, "YES". Happy Anniversary to my loving husband, Adam! I feel like it just keeps getting better and better.

Summer Bucket List

2011-07-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

Climb a tree - CHECK

Hang out with cousins - CHECK

7-11 had a birthday party.

2011-07-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

7-11 had a birthday party and gave us all free slurpees.

It sure made our HOT summer day better.

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

We started the day off right by sleeping in. Followed by a trip to the grocery store to get Layton more medicine. He has an insane head cold. Mucus everywhere. We came home, made lunch and picked up. Todd and Reagan ate Popsicles while Layton slept. He slept for almost four hours! After he woke up we went and got sno-cones. Todd paid for his with his own money. He got a medium. He ate the entire thing. His stomach hurts. I made dinner. After that we went outside and did a few fireworks. The kind you don't actually light. The kids still enjoyed themselves. Immediately following that, we ran to Redbox and picked up a Halloween chipmunk cartoon. Halloween on the 4th of July. That is how cool we are. The kids then ate popcorn by the bucket full. Todd was in charge of the popcorn. I finally stopped him after three bags. He wasn't sure that was enough. I think it was a wonderful day spent entirely with my beautiful kids! I am so grateful to live in this country. Land of the FREE because of the BRAVE.

Happiness is...

2011-06-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

Sleeping in
Staying up late
Tan lines
No schedules
Visiting my BFF in Arizona
Hanging out with cousins and having sleepovers
Finishing projects
Todd's freckles
Adam and I going to watch Pirates of the Caribbean 4
Popsicles

Arizona ~ Todd learned to ride a bike

2011-06-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

While we were all sitting around watching the Mavericks beat the Heat, I decided to go outside and check on the kids. Layton was out there and I really didn't like leaving him out there without an adult. The Quinns had an extra boys bike that they said Todd could have. Todd didn't know how to ride a bike. He is unfortunate to have slacker parents. So, while we were all out there I decided to help Todd learn to ride a bike. He did great! He took off like he had been doing it for awhile.

The kids playing outside with chalk.

I love that SMILE!

There he is! Riding like a pro!

We hauled his new bike from Arizona all the way to Texas. Todd is now obsessed with riding. He doesn't care if it is 100 degrees outside. I love that he is so excited about it. Thank you so much Quinn family for Todd's new bike.

Arizona ~ Swimming Swimming Swimming

2011-06-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

Since the Quinns have a fabulous pool in their backyard, we went swimming everyday but Sunday. The kids loved it so much!

Hunter, Ryan, Layton, Todd, Brooklyn, Nicolas, Trevor, Allison, Kira, Reagan

We love summer!

Reagan, Brooklyn, and Kira

Arizona ~Trevor's baptism

2011-06-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

We left Fort Worth late Thursday evening around seven. We drove all through the night and arrived at the Quinn's home around eight or nine. We got the grand tour of their beautiful new home. The kids quickly reacquainted themselves with everyone. The next day was a very special day. Trevor was baptized. We were so blessed and fortunate enough to be there at his baptism. Thanks Trevor, for being such a great example to Todd! He was so excited to be at your baptism and requested to take a picture with you.

Robot Wars

2011-06-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

Grandpa got Todd a really fun gift for his birthday. He got him a Robot Wars kit. Todd and I started folding and glueing. Then, his brothers joined in the on the fun. I love gifts like these. They don't require electricity! Imagine that!

Welcome Summer!

2011-06-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

*New* swim towels

1st day of Summer!

2011-06-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

For the first day of summer I took the kids swimming at Mo Mo and Paw Paw's house. The kids had an amazing time! Their favorite part ~ playing catch with the football.

My Todd

Here Paw Paw!

We got it!

Go Ryan!

Getting sno cones with the money they got from diving for quarters.

Isn't she beautiful?

Last day of school!

2011-06-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

Ms. Patty & Ms. Jan

Teacher's Gifts
Everything you need to make S'mores

Playing dress-up.

2011-06-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

Reagan doesn't normally play in her dress up clothes unless she has a friend over. Emylie has been over for a couple days and they have played dress up non stop. They are two beautiful princesses.

Princesses in waiting.

Cinderella and Belle

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

This year our school kids had to be at school. Todd's class and another first grade class decided to go the park for two and half hours. I packed up or lunches and the kids and head to Todd's school. We stayed there until his teacher decided it was too hot. We went home and put Layton to bed for his much needed nap. After he woke up we headed to the grocery store to get a few things. For FHE I decided to let the kids play in the sprinkler and enjoy watermelon.

Storms and Bites

2011-05-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday was an eventful day. We had Todd's last day of archery. It was located at an archery club near the lake. Reagan played with sticks and climbed on wooden benches. It started raining on us but not bad enough to leave. This was the beginning of the storms that came through that night.

Layton was on the mend from the croup. He hadn't had any fever that day. We left the archery club and headed home. An hour or so the storms came through leaving lots of hail behind.

there was baby hail and golf ball sized hail

The kids weren't able to fall asleep due to the storms. They could sense our worry. Finally, around 8:30, I told Reagan to come and sit in the living room with me. She decided it was the perfect time to work on homework. Awesome. We sat down and started going over the alphabet when I noticed her hand. It was huge. Something had bit her.

I tried calling Care Now but they had no electricity due to the electricity. I finally just decided to give her benedryl and watch it. We woke up the next morning and the swelling wasn't gone and now her hand had red streaks. I took her to the doctor. He gave her strong antibiotics. The next day the swelling was gone and the redness was gone but now she had fever. She had fever almost all day. The next day was Todd's birthday. Between trying to make sure he had a special day and dealing with a really sick Reagan, I was exhausted. By the third day the fever was gone. I can't tell you how worried I was about her. I prayed over her for three days. Thankfully, she is fully recovered and you would never notice that she had a bite there at all.

Happy 7th Birthday Todd!

2011-05-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

Todd turned seven years old today! His alarm was his Aunt Michelle and cousins Ashley and Rylee singing, "Happy Birthday". He was so excited. Before he walked out of his bedroom his other Aunt Michelle gave him his birthday present, a hydro cannon Nerf water gun. He fell to the floor pretending to faint. A couple minutes after that daddy called to tell him, "Happy Birthday". We left the house early so he could get donuts for breakfast. I checked him out of school for lunch. He thought we were headed to Six Flags. We went to Chilis and enjoyed a nice lunch together instead. They staff sang, "Happy Birthday". He really liked that. Later we are scheduled to have sno-cones. Yummy! I hope you have had a wonderful birthday Todd! We love you and think you are really awesome!

My First Project ~ Primary Helpers

2011-05-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

I made a flower with each child's name on it. Now, all we have to do is draw a flower and we will have a helper. It was really easy!

A Party for the Birthday Boy.

2011-05-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

Since Adam won't be here on Todd's birthday we decided to have it early. This year instead of a party we got him ONE gift.

Surprise!

We had been at another birthday party earlier and all the kids(except Reagan) had their hair spray painted.

Make a wish. I hope it comes true!

Todd's First Grade Performance ~ Family Appreciation Night

2011-05-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

Todd's school had their Family Appreciation Night. Each of the grades performed a song. The First Grade Class sang, "Down by the Bay". Everytime I hear that song, I can't get it out of my head. They were so cute!

Ready to Sing!

Waiting for the show to start

"Hi Mom!"

His big brothers came and watched him perform too.
He is way too cool to smile.

Even Aunt Michelle came!

My new toy!

2011-05-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

What's for dinner?

2011-05-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

I am a firm believer that children need to be taught self reliance. That and I want them to be able to take really good care of me when I am old. I thought it was time to put Todd through cooking lessons. We made Taco Salad, which is a family favorite. He was really excited and nervous. I did all the cutting with my ninja knife since that is for the advanced course. Todd did a great job of cooking the meat. He learned how to rinse the meat and what a strainer is. I think one of the most important things he learned is the effort and work that goes into preparing a meal for the family. Before long, I will be asking Todd, "What's for dinner?"

Reagan's First Dance Recital.

2011-05-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

Reagan had her first dance recital at May Fest. It was HOT and crowded. We were supposed to be there by 1:30 we arrived shortly after 2:00. Luckily, everyone was late due to the insane traffic. Grandpa and Paw Paw both came to celebrate the occasion. She is a lucky girl! As soon as we walked up to the stage area Reagan said she wanted to go home and hid behind me. She refused to perform. I asked if she wanted to go or stay and watch her friends dance. She decided to stay and watch her friends dance. While she was watching her class dance she would move her body to the music. I hope someday her nerves won't get the best of her and she will be able to show everyone her love of dance.

Posing before we leave.

Paw Paw took this picture of Reagan and I watching her class dance.

Reagan and Kelsey after the performance. They are just too cute!

Walking back to the car with Grandpa.

A girl and her dog.

2011-05-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

You always hear a story about a boy and his dog but what about a girl and her dog. Reagan loves dogs. Sophie isn't hard to love. She is really too nice to our kids. If I was a dog I would have snapped by now.

Sophie loves her right back.

Our new bedtime routine.

2011-05-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

The weather has been beautiful the past few nights. Todd has begged to go outside right before bed. I thought it might help get rid of some of that extra energy. I would like to think it helped.

I think we have summer on our mind.

We got him!

2011-05-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

~Happy Wednesday~

2011-04-27T10:10:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...

Motrin for fevers.
Oragel for swollen gums.
Holding my baby in my arms while he sleeps.
My favorite pajama pants.
Leftover Easter candy.
Sleep.
Prayers for Layton.
Clean sheets.
Todd's new love of his joke book.
A dear friend inviting us out to eat and it was FREE with her in~store credit.

It's fun to twirl.

2011-04-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

Layton and his cousin Zac.

2011-04-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

Layton and his little cousin Zac are almost a year a part. Layton loves babies. Even though, he is about the same size as most the babies he knows, he still realizes he is older and wants to baby them.

He had to hold him in his lap. You can see how proud he is.

His face says it all!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

The kids woke up to Easter baskets filled with candy and new swim suits. They were really excited to hunt the eggs around the living room.

Todd and Reagan modeled their new suits.

Layton had a great time opening the eggs and finding treats inside.

Ready for church.

Todd is taking an Archery class.

2011-04-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Practice. Practice. Practice.

Getting some help from Coach Ruiz.

Deer head targets.
I love it!

Ready. Aim. Fire!

Loving on some snowcones!

2011-04-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hot weather = Cold snowcones

Easter Pary at Momo and Paw Paw's house.

2011-04-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

Momo invited all the grandkids over for some Easter fun. We dyed eggs, decorated cupcakes and went on an Easter egg hunt. Then, to top all that off there was a buffet of delicous food. The kids had such a great time and loved being there with their cousins.

Reagan with her decorated cupcake.

Todd and Owen dying the Easter eggs.

Layton hunting for eggs.

Reagan and Owen dying eggs.

Todd checking out the car he found inside an Easter egg.

Look Mom! Candy!!

Having a bad hair day?

2011-04-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

Getting your beauty rest will do this to you.

~Happy Thursday~

2011-04-21T06:48:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...

Picking Adam UP from the airport.
Sno-cones.
Easter egg hunts.
No one being sick.
Much needed rain.
Chips and Salsa
Going to the movies.
Learning a new song on the piano.
Not having to make Todd's lunch today because tomorrow is Pizza Friday.
Having a fun filled weekend!

My big brother got married!

2011-04-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

The Bride and Groom

My Parents with the Happy Couple

My brothers hanging out before the ceremony.
I wonder what they are laughing about.

All the siblings (minus a very pregnant Katie) and my kids.

Todd and Reagan dancing with Aunt Melissa at the reception.
They danced the night away!

Congratulations Chris and Tisch! We were so fortunate to have been there on your special day. We wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Reagan's party with friends.

2011-04-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

All the kids waiting for thier own balloon. Thanks Pookie!

Reagan had her first "friend" birthday party. She was so excited. We even had Pookie the Clown come! Pookie made each kid their own balloon character. No surprise, all the girls picked out a princess. I didn't really pick out a theme. Reagan loves the colors pink and purple. She also loves flowers. So, I made cupcakes with pink frosting and placed purple flowers on them. For the boys, I put different bugs on them. Simple! We had pizza for lunch with grape Kool-aid. This was the easiest party EVER! After everyone left, Reagan asked when her next party will be. Thanks to everyone who came! Reagan had the best day!

The cupcakes

Loving on her princess. The princess had to have a pink and purple dress.

Mhari, Emylie, Reagan, Kelsey, Savannah, Jake, Kian, Peter, Christopher, and Jaxon.
Layton was there but wouldn't pose in the picture. Little brothers are like that.

This was her reaction to EVERYTHING she opened. She loved every gift!

Pookie even makes balloons for daddys.
Adam wanted a fishing pole with a shark on the end.

One of my favorite pictures.

2011-04-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

Dancing with Todd at Uncle Chris' wedding

My first baby quilt.

2011-04-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

The front

The back.

I first saw this style of quilt at a baby shower. My super talented friend, Amanda, had made one. I saw it again on this website http://www.dana-made-it.com/2008/07/tutorial-faux-chenille-blanket.html If you have a sewing machine and can at least sew a line, you can make this quilt. I am really happy with the way it turned out and can't wait for baby Boston to get here to use it.

A close up of the "chenille" look.

Iron Chef America

2011-04-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

We went on another date night with our great friends Josh and Lisa. They took us to The Lonsome Dove restaurant at the Stockyards. To my surprise the chef and owner participated in Iron Chef America. Not only did he participate, he beat Chef Morimoto. That guy never looses. The food was definately five star! I ordered a fancy steak from a cow that is comparable to the Kobi beef from Japan. This beef came from Austrailia. Hands down, the best meal of all. Everyone at the table agreed.

The Appitizers
Don't ask what it is, just eat it.

After we left the restaurant with our bellies full, we headed down the road to the rodeo. The weather was perfect that night too. We were able to walk down in the stockyards and see all the sights. FY I ~ The Rodeo will be held every Friday night for awhile if you interested in some family fun or date night ideas. We can't wait to take Todd and Reagan.

Me and My man snuggled up to watch the Rodeo

Before the Rodeo began.

Who Am I?

2011-04-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have blue eyes. I have brown hair. My dog is named Sophie. I like to play baseball and jump on my trampoline. Who am I?

Family Rule # 20

2011-04-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Family Rule # 20 ~ Work

Your are never too early to start.

Multitasker. He is just that good.

Work it!

Not exatly what I had in mind but it works.

~Happy Wednesday~

2011-04-06T16:59:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...

Celebrating birthdays with the ones I love.
Craft night.
Listening to Reagan sing At Last I See the Light from Tangled.
Kindness of strangers.
All the clothes folded and PUT AWAY!
Beautiful weather.
Watching Reagan take off on her new roller blades.
Todd's enthusiasm for his new archery class.
Talking to Adam and discussing each other's day.
Planning fun surprises.

Happy Birthday, Reagan!

2011-04-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

Family + Cake + Presents = One Lucky Girl

Reagan and her brothers

Singing Happy Birthday

Blowing out the candle.
She was fast!

Pink cake with strawberries

Todd picked out a toy dog for Reagan.
She slept with it last night.
Layton tries to ride it.

Tangled!

Hunter and Ryan got her a Tinkerbell card that lights up and sings.
They also got her a Tinkerbell craft. She loved them both!

Thank you Michelle for snapping pictures for me! You're the best!

The girl can't help it!

2011-04-05T08:16:00.000-07:00

Reagan can't help being absolutely adorable, spunky, fashionable, and beautiful. She really can't. Reagan turned four today. I can't believe how big she is. We started the day off with a donut. Her request: pink with sprinkles. Then we had to go to Walgreens to pick up her invitations to her birthday party next week. The sweet ladies in the photo center gave her and Layton balloons in honor of her birthday.

She wouldn't hold her balloon down so it would be in the picture.
It was purple.

Reagan then hand delivered all her invites. She was so excited. She rang the door bell at least six times before they answered. I was absolutely not allowed to go up to the door with her. She had to do it by herself. She can't help being super independent either.

I took her out to lunch for her birthday at Chilis. The hostess commented on her birthday ribbon and asked her if it was her birthday. She told the waitress. Someone told the manager. The manager gave her a free kids meal and a free molten cake. See, she can't help being so darn cute. Then, some sweet couple came up and asked her if today was her birthday and gave her $20.00.

I took her to Wal*Mart to let her pick out something with her money. Reagan really can't help being so adventurous. She picked out roller blades.

Zoo Day

2011-03-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, we went to the zoo. William, Brooke and their boys Liam and Lawson, Melissa, and three kids, Baylie, Emylie and Charlie and my parents all went to the zoo. We got there right before it got too hot. The kids had so much fun looking at all the animals and playing at Texas Wild.

All the kids

Baumann kids

Todd's favorite animal to see that day.

Reagan feeding a bird.

Layton's favorite animal. When he saw the lion he started growling.

Reagan's favorite animal of the day. She had the map ready and pointed to them several times.

Byrd boys

Layton

Baylie, Lawson, Todd and Ryan

~ Happy Wednesday ~

2011-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...

The sound of the dishwasher running. It reminds me that I have accomplished at least that much for today.
Reagan in braids. So sweet.
We had open house at both kids' schools yesterday. Both kids enjoyed showing off their school. Reagan even knew where her library was. Smart girl!
Having a rainy day to stay inside and watch Tangled.
Buying the kids new books and seeing the delight it brings them.
Having to tell Todd to quit reading in bed and go to sleep.
Dinners that EVERYONE likes.
Having my Visiting Teachers come and spoil me.
Conference weekend!
Listening to Layton sing in the car because he is really tired.

My last meal.

2011-03-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

If this be my last meal here on earth...so be it.

I love Papasitos that much.

If I could set next to this smiling face that would be even better.