the wadas family - thewadasfamily

This year is about simplicity. As such I'm going back to combining my family blog...with my SandyChic blog. The blog is now going to be hosted on blogspot...but I'm going to continue to store our family photos and link back to shutterfly.

 

I'm slowly moving posts (more recent ones...not all) over and the site is still a work in progress...but please check it out :)

 

http://teamwadas.blogspot.com/

Spring Soccer!

We'll be watching Brad's soccer games from now until May! Hoping it warms up a bit between now and then. It was 46 at the fields and VERY windy last weekend.

 

It snowed last night. Granted, it was just a light dusting of 1-2 inches. But it snowed! Brad's school district called a "Snow Day" so all the kids are happy and at home. Ironically - last night Rob and Brad spent a lot of the evening finishing up (aka starting and finishing last minute) Brad's extra credit Science project of a volcano (more on that later). Here are some photos...

Our name (above) in the drive way.

Looking (above) down the street from our house.

Brad & I (above) during our brief venture outdoors to play in the snow.

 

Check out the family photos section of the site for more snow day photos.

 

 

 

 

 

 

It seems as opposite as night and day. Just Saturday afternoon it reached a beautiful 78 degrees. Sunday was a bit cooler...but still stayed in the 70's. Kids were playing outside...wearing flip flops...taking bike rides...playing at the park...I even saw some bold pre-teen girls playing in the pool on Sunday. It's amazing how quickly the weather can change!

 

Saturday & Sunday we took some bike rides. Brad is ALL about bike rides right now - he's getting stronger on his bike and it's a great way to get the whole family away from the monotony of chores, cleaning and errands during the weekend.

Robby (above) riding his bike he got for Christmas.

Brad (above & below) at the park in our neighborhood on Saturday.

Bradley (below) at the park on Sunday.

 

Then..within 24 hours the weather took a dramatic turn going from warm spring weather to cold frigid air! The streets had ice where water once lay. It's been COLD! 

 

 

 

Many, many years ago - for my 6th or 7th birthday (I think) - my mom took me and some friends to Inner Space Caverns. I still remember how interesting it was. To a small kid it was truly an adventure.

Fast forward 20-something years to now. We live only several miles away from Inner Space Cavern now. I've been wanting to take Brad and Rob since we moved back to Texas - but we just never have gotten around to it. So this morning I decided we're going.

Little bit of history about the cave before we get to the photos....

Inner Space Cavern was discovered by a Texas Highway Department core drilling team in the Spring of 1963. While drilling through 40 feet of solid limestone, the bit broke into what is now known as Inner Space Cavern. An adventurous employee of the highway department was lowered into the hole while standing on the drill bit and holding tightly to the stem. He was the first human being to enter the cave.

The view while going down the tram to the cave entrance:

We saw several bats. They're currently hybernating and were very still. They were TINY - about the size of a chicken nugget:

You're not allowed to touch anything but the handrails inside the cave since the oils on your fingers and skin can ruin the inside of the cave. One of the few areas you could touch was this rock...I believe it was called Temptation Rock...as someone touched it and it stopped growing due to the oils in the skin. So now, you can touch it:


So many beautiful areas! It got super humid down there....It was in the upper 70's and you could SEE the humidity. The photo below looks fuzzy...but it was actually the humidity that was causing a light fog.

Due to several large sink holes that date back to the ice age, many bones were found of ice age animals...including mammoth and sabertooth tigers. One of the interesting things is that they had to stop excavating because the humidity is so incredibly high that the bones, if picked up, literally disintegrated. It wasn't dry enough for the animal to fully decompose I guess. So they left the remains of the dig site for current visitors to see...there is even a baby mammoth bone they left by the dig site so it remains undisturbed and intact.




Check out more photos here.

This Christmas Eve we hosted the December BFD to celebrate the holidays and December birthdays. This year there were 23 guests! It was an Italian-ish food theme and everyone brought such yummy items!

Bradley & Rob preparing the marinated veggie kabobs (above).

The spread of food brought by everyone (above and below).

 

Bradley got some wonderfully thoughtful gifts from everyone in the family...

For more photos of the Christmas Eve BFD - Click Here!

YAY! Ben came out to TX for Christmas this year. I'm so excited. He got in on Tuesday and has to leave on Tuesday. Unfortunately, I had to work Wed & Thurs but had Friday off!

 

Wednesday Rob drove out to San Angelo to visit his brother & family while his mother was visiting them. He drove back home that night.

 

Thursday evening we went over to my uncle Hal & aunt Brenda's house for dinner. They invited us over to have fajitas. The boys had fun playing soccer outside and hanging out. Ben is the oldest boy cousin...so many of the younger ones really look up to him. Plus he's a good sport when they all want to tackle him and rough house. :)

 

 

 

Thanksgiving was held at my aunt Betsy's this year again. She generously agreed to host approx 20 people. There was some yummy food and some good company!

Only one more game until the end of the Fall 2010 Academy season. I'm kind of looking forward to it. The best part of the season so far was the tournament last weekend. We actually played with a different team during the tournament since our team didn't want to play. Brad played with a U9 team vs. a U10 team (which he's a part of during the season). It was another team with some good players and others who seem to have never played before this season. Seems to me that it defeats the purpose of being on an Academy team when you have players who have no experience. ( ok...back on track...) The parents were super fun and welcoming to Brad and us to be a temporary part of the team. Brad was a little rock star on goal keeper.

On another note...My mom is coming out in a few days. I'm so excited! I'll be taking a week and a half off of work...then my company is closed for a week. So I'll get 2 and a half weeks off. Two wonderful things: my mom + time off!

The first 9 weeks ended about a week ago. We got Brad's report card yesterday and were so happy to see that he got all A's!

I cannot believe how fast 2010 and gone by. Halloween is tomorrow! Brad is planning on being Ghost Face from the Scream movie. No, he's never seen the movie...but he wanted to be something a little spooky. This is the first year he's been something spooky or gorey. he's growing up too fast!

 

Friday after school we did a little pumpkin decorating. A small pumpkin. B likes doing crafts with me. And I'm sure this won't go on forever, so I take him up at any chance I get :) The goal was to put black polka dots on the pumpkin...but we got a little side tracked and B put a happy face too.

Turned out pretty cute!

 

It's been a while since I've updated this blog. It's actually my home page for our home computers...every time I open a browser, I think "what do I say." Since we returned from San Diego...Rob's been traveling so much. He's been home a few weeks in between. He's back now...YAY!

 

The weather's been beautiful here in Austin. It's soooo nice to turn off the AC and open some windows.

 

The 1 year anniversary of our move to TX is a few days away. It's hard to believe that was a year ago already. So many sleepless nights were had by me worrying if the risk we were taking was the right one. Looking back, it was probably the best thing that could have happened for our family in many different ways.

 

Anyway -- back to Soccer...

This is our view today and tomorrow...

 

Today Brad had a good game. He started off playing midfield until him and a boy he was covering knocked heads and Brad was pulled out for a bit. Brad played defense (like normal) the rest of the 1st half and in to the second. He finished off doing great at offense. This is the first his team's coach played him at offense...and he did awesome. He even had a penalty kick...but missed it. But still did great. We'll see what tomorrow brings.

Brad survived his 1st soccer game of the Fall season on Saturday. It was a HOT, MUGGY day. I have the sunburn to prove it!

 

It was great to see Brad in action again. His coach seems great. We were surprised to find out that Brad was placed in a U10 team vs. a U9 team. And we were happy to see he held his own during the game!

We're just over 2 weeks through school....

 

The night before my surgery we had curriculum night. I had already met Brad's teacher (Mrs Corl) But it was nice to see how she grades, what's expected of them, and snoop through his folders and school work!

Working on his writing...

 

Brad has already made a mess of his desk. Mom was to the rescue and organized it how it was supposed to go. Though, I'm sure it's back to how it was already!

While Bradley was taking out the trash can a couple weeks ago he had a surprise visitor hitching a ride on the trash can. Can you spot him? (Check out where the yellow arrow is pointing)

Well, Ben has officially flown the coup.

 

At the end of August, Mom & Gil drove him up to Sacramento to start school. They moved him in and got him settled in. School seems to be going good - he's meeting people and getting used to his new home.

 

His roommate cut his hair for him with his clippers. Apparently forgot to put the guard on the clippers. Here's the result - Bald Ben (he still looks good for sporting the Mr Clean look):

Brad had a great first week of school. He's eased back in to the flow of waking up early, school, and being busy quite smoothly! His teacher is awesome...sends regular emails with how the kids are doing...what the kids are doing. I love teachers who communicate!

 

Here's a picture of B's class:

...that I have an etsy shop? It's called SandyChic! The name is a play on "Shabby Chic" but with a beachy twist!

I also have a blog that I started several months ago. I've slowly been moving the crafty part of this blog to my SandyChic blog. I share crafting ideas, inexpensive party planning, information about new items in the shop and other fun stuff.

 

Stop by and check it out!

 

I am still in shock that I have a 3rd grader!

 

Last Friday we visited Bradley's teacher for "Meet the Teacher" Night. His teacher's name is Mrs. Corl (pronounced coral). She seemed very nice.

 

Brad's first day was on Tuesday 8/24. He was nervous (but meeting his teacher the Friday before was calming). The school was NUTS...mainly with families wanting to drive their kindergarteners to school to take photos and make sure they're ok. But it was still NUTS!

When I picked up Bradley he said he had a great day and that Mrs Corl is one of his favorite teachers. He has several friends from last year in his class and is already getting comfortable with the new year! So happy for a great start to the school year!

Months ago when we asked Bradley what he wanted to do for his birthday he said he wanted to have a "Big Family Party" for everyone who has a birthday in August. We were a little shocked with a soon to be 8 year old requesting to share in the lime light of his party. But we thought it was a sweet jesture so we started planning. Skip ahead a few months...

 

On Saturday (the day before his bday) we celebrated his birthday along with my uncle Steve's, aunt Brenda's as well as my cousin Staci's birthdays out at the lake. My aunt Meri reserved (an air conditioned) cabin out at the yacht club. We grilled burgers, hot dogs - had about 7 different kinds of salads, sailed, kayaked, swam and enjoyed the great company. It was a bunch of fun. ((Thank you Meri & Steve for reserving the cabin - that made the day so special!))

{The boys playing wiffle ball: Andrew, Aaron, Brad, Rob & Hal}

 

{Granny & Philip chatting}

{Brad, Andrew & Brenda}

{Brenda and Steve}

{Staci & Meri}

{Rob & Bradley Kayaking in Lake Travis}

{Bradley & Catherine swimming in Lake Travis}

{Philip, Catherine & Meri sailing}

{Bradley & Steve}

 

It was quite a fun day. We were exhausted after. Bradley was super exhausted (and such a GOOD boy). He slept in quite a while the next morning...

 

Happy Birthday to our wonderful son! You've brought us so much joy in the 8 years you've been in our lives! We love you!

 

Saturday 8/7 we took a trip to Legoland as a "surprise" to Bradley and an early bday celebration. The "surprise" was blown a week earlier when I accidently showed B my calendar where I put in bold letters "LEGOLAND" on Saturday. oops.

 

I thought I'd be smart and purchase tickets ahead of time at Von's (local grocery store chain). You know, the gift card kiosk that has Disneyland Tickets, Sea World Tickets, etc at a discount? I'm not sure what my problem was that day...but apparently I wasn't paying attention.

 

Fast forward to Saturday 8/7 as I walk up to the Legoland Ticket booth to exchange these tickets for real ones...I notice the tickets say "Child/Senior." That'd be great if we needed those...but we needed ADULT tickets since my mom took care of Brad's ticket (this is a whole story in itself - see next paragraph). So I had to spend another $150 on two adult tickets. UGGGH. I need to find a way to sell these Legoland tickets!

 

My mom had a coupon to purchase 1 adult ticket and get a children's ticket for free. So she purchased her ticket online. Unfortunately for her the ticket never arrived in her inbox like the website said. So the nice lady at the ticket booth explained we'll have to go wait in line for the "Guest Services." Umm....this line was almost as long as the line for Space Mountain at Disneyland. Did I mention we came during the two days out of the year that people come to Legoland just to dress up in StarWars attire. Poor planning on my part!

(Brad patiently waiting to get in the park)

So an hour later...we arrive at the guest services counter where my mom proceeds to REAM the lucky guy at the window. She got her tickets and two passes to go through the Exit of any rides we want to skip the line and get on the rides.

 

While in the park we had a lot of fun. We rode a lot of rides and were able to have fun despite the mass amounts of StarWars fanatics. After, we met Gil (Steph's dad) at Pizza Port for an early bday celebration for Brad...with cupcakes and presents.

 

 

 

Saying goodbye is always the hardest thing to do....

We took our annual trip to San Diego earlier this month. This year we stayed with Rob's dad & his wife Louise (we flip flop every year between my parents and Rob's parents to keep it fair). It was about a 9-10 day trip, jam packed with activities, places to go, people to see, etc.

 

Day 1 - We arrive in San Diego bright and early. John (Rob's dad) met us at the airport and took us back to Little Wave (their home in La Jolla). We settled in and relaxed most of the day

 

Day 2: Rob and John played golf with Rob's BFF Mike. (Rob lost). While the boys were playing golf I drove up to Carlsbad to visit my family. Before heading back down to La Jolla Brad and I had lunch at Sammys (yummm-o). JOhn & Louise took Bradley to a Padre game where he scored a bunch of great stuff and came home exhausted and happy.

 

Day 3: In the morning we took a walk to the beach to play with Max (John & Louise's dog) in the waves. This was our only trip to the beach during our visit. We always have fun watching Max play in the waves...dig for rocks...and fetch the ball in the ocean. Later that day we headed up to Carlsbad to visit with my family and have dinner with them.

Days 4-8: Bradley attended soccer camp at the YMCA throughout the week (during the mornings). He also visited the Scripps Aquarium with his Grammy (my mom), went to the San Diego Natural History Museum with Grandpa & Wzy (Rob's dad & his wife), got a bad sunburn :(, had 2 sleep overs at Grammy & Papas house. Rob and I were out and about most of the week...seeing friends (thanks to Jaymie, Mike & Megan, Steph & Joie) for making time to see us. (Special Note: Steph & Joie - Steph's friends from college - drove down from LA with 6 kids total just to have lunch!) and enjoying a fun dinner out with Ben (my brother) at Stone Brewery. Rob got to play golf again with his friend Mike (who he lost to....again) and got a fun day with his dad on Friday while Steph headed to Cedro's with her mom.

I almost forgot to mention....John & Louise treated us to a wonderful dinner on Friday night to celebrate Bradley's birthday early. It was at a wonderful little Italian restaurant in La Jolla and we were joined by Rob's step sister Shelby.

Saturday was Legoland day. I'll save that story for the next post.....

Sunday we woke up bright and early and headed over to the airport for the flight home. Almost as soon as we arrived, Robby left for his first of many strings of travel for work.

 

It's good to be home!

 

Introducing our little Level 3 Swimmer!

We get little visitors from time to time in our back yard.

 

These little visitors are one of the reasons I'm thankful to live where we live. I love how quiet it is. Taking walks through the trees. The community. And these quiet little visitors.

This is the first 4th of July we've had where fireworks are legal. If you live in an area where they're legal then you know this. If not, where they are legal, there are stands along the road outside of town...white painted stands with "American Fireworks" along the side...

 

The names of these things are so funny...black cat...bohemoth...roman candles...tanks. Sparklers aren't the same. Now they're more like flame throwers shooting off fire than sparkles (yes we got the right kind).

Bradley was introduced to the world of firecrackers by his dear cousin's Aaron & Andrew our aunts and uncles.

 

I was cringing at this. But here is Bradley lighting his first firecracker.

And then they start running.....

 

Like always, I'm behind the camera in these. However, a few were taken of me by my aunts cringing at the sight of Bradley being shown how to light a firecracker. More on that later. For more photos...check out our "Family Photos" tab.

last week Rob & I celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary. A WHOLE DECADE! More on that in another post.

 

A lot is going on...but not a whole lot to talk about. So much on the mind.

 

Summer is also on our mind....

Summer's all about:

 

Not to mention...summer thunderstorms, the smell of rain and hanging out at the pool.

 

 

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there!

 

To our dads - Gil & John:

We hope you guys have a wonderful day! Thank you for all you've given and done for us. We wish we could be in CA to celebrate with you!

 

To Robby:
You are a wonderful dad and husband! Thank you for all you have done for Bradley and our family. I love you so much!

We want to wish Rob's dad & Louise a very Happy Anniversary! We hope your day is filled with happiness & love!

 

Love - Rob, Steph & Brad

The last few weeks have gone by super fast. Bradley finished his last week of school, he came down with strep (and was nice enough to pass that along to me), we had some nasty weather which didn't allow for any fun outdoor activities...but this week has been much better.

It's hot...it's humid...and it's time to hit the pool!

Happy 19th Wedding Anniversary to my uncle Hal & aunt Brenda!

My hubby has been working for a long time for this. We've made a lot of changes in our life partially (ok...mostly) so he can have more opportunity in his career growth in GEICO. Rob has craved moving forward with his career goals - but also has wanted to stay with GEICO. They're a great organization and has treated him well. When we moved to Austin his goal (and he communicated this to his leaders) was to move in to a formal leadership role in the Austin area. Luckily his immediate leader has been very supportive and encouraging of this goal since we came out in October. We were hoping over the next year this would happen. We are delighted that this happened several months earlier than expected!

 

Since probably February, Rob's been working towards and been a candidate for a promotion at GEICO. Monday he found out he got the position! He'll be the new Supervisor for all of the N. Austin Adjusters.

 

His hard work and patience has paid off! We are so very proud of him and achieving his goal! 

Do you know what BFD means? You could look it up in urbandictionary.com...and get one definition. Or you can learn Wickes-Speak (my family name) and understand it means Big Family Dinner. Which in our family...the urbandictionary definition or the Wickes Family definition would apply. You see, when we have a BFD, there is usually between 20-25 people. So seating, feeding, cooking, etc for that many people is a BFD {urbandictionary version}.

 

Luckily everyone brings a dish in the theme the host picks. It's actually a lot of fun. We enjoy hosting BFDs - this one in particular since everyone was set to scatter for the summer: Lela & Tom leave for their 3 month working European Honeymoon tomorrow, Betsy leaves for a 3-week trip to India as well tomorrow, the Wickes boys head off to camp, Keith & Micaela will be doing their home from college/summer break/work thing, and the rest of us will once again get caught up in the day to day craziness of our lives.

 

In the meantime, here's a peak in to one of our BFDs

{Above: Meri (my aunt) and Lela (my cousin)}

{Above: Granny chowinig down on some bread with spinach artichoke dip}

{Above: From Left - Hal (my uncle), Staci (cousin), Rob, Meri, Steve (uncle), Lela}

 {Above: Steve, Mike (uncle), Neil (uncle), and the food!}

{Above: From Left - Betsy (aunt), Cory (aunt), Mike, Lela, Staci}

{Above Top: Keith (cousin) & Brad. Above Bottom: Aaron (cousin) tackling his younger brother Andrew (cousin)}

{Above: Celebrating Hal's Birthday}

{Above: Relaxing after dessert}

I love them! I don't necessarily love the hail and potential tornado that can come with a summer storm - but I do love me a summer thunderstorm.

The smell of rain is so calming...

 

Next time I should probably bring in the towels from our trip to the pool before the rain starts coming down!

 

Speaking of summer...This is Bradley's first week of summer. it didn't exactly start out as we had expected. Both Brad & I are sick...STREP! Ugh. Brad bounced back quick. I, on the other hand, have not! It seems to have landed in my chest now.

 

So with all that...we haven't "gotten started" on summer fun. Next week...for sure!

We had a great Memorial Day Weekend...and some special visitors!

 

Rob's brother & family visited us Saturday & Sunday. They live in San Angelo, TX (about 3.5 hrs West of Austin). He's stationed at Goodfellow AFB. It's rare that he's able to travel away from base due to his duties...so it was such a wonderful surprise to hear he was able to have it covered!

The boys (Bradley, Aden & Skyler) had a blast together. I love living close to family. Being able to visit folks on a few days notice so we can get together and hang out. Most important is the cousins being able to hang out and bond.

{Above: Bradley, Aden & Skyler}

 

The boys (big boys and little boys alike) went and hit some golf balls at the club house shortly after they arrived. Elena and I went to the nearby outlet malls. We shared a local BBQ favorite of ours (Pok-E-Jo's) for dinner and then came back and hung out for a bit before we went up to the soccer fields to play some foose ball.

           {Above: Skyler hitting the ball}

           {Above: Look at JJ's form...impressive!}

 

Sunday the big boys (JJ and Rob) went to play golf. The kids played outside, played games and then after lunch we went up to the pool for a bit before they had to make the drive home.

You can't quite see in the picture above...but Aden & Bradley have matching pool outfits on...Here's a better picture:

 

Happy Birthday Mom!

This past Sunday our little guy participated in the Daisy Kids K (the kids run during the Daisy 5K) over by the Outlet Mall near our home. He wasn't as excited as we were about him participating but he was a good sport and let us sign him up. When we picked up his packet the excitement started to grow - seeing that he had his own number, got a free shirt and a few other goodies made him very happy.

The morning of the race, he got up, put his big shirt and shorts on. We put his number on him and he was ready to go.

 

Once there, Brad got all lined up with the rest of the kids for the start of the race. Since this was his first, he wanted Rob to run with him.

On your mark, get set....GO!

The first 3 kids who came in were all around 9-10ish...and they sprinted for the finish line. Then came Bradley and another kid around the corner towards the finish...

Bradley's competitiveness kicked in as he saw this kid was starting to pass him. That apparently lit a fire under him and he passed him and finished 4th!

When I walked up to him after the race, he was VERY proud of himself. In fact, he wants to do these more often!

News 8 was there with some footage of the event: (Click HERE for a jump to the news site)

 

The photographer on site also took some photos. Here's a link to the photos of B: http://www.backprint.com/view_user_event.asp?S=20&PID=bp%1E%7BFz&EVENTID=67932&PWD=&BIB=956

Or a Screen Shot of some of his photos...

For more photos taken during the Daisy 5K - Go to our Family Photos Tab above.

 

Brad has decided that he's done with gymnastics. Here are some fun photos from the last class...

Rob recently got the Droid from Verizon and it has a cool app for taking fun pictures...so I took a few fish eye photos and a kid photo. Fun!

The biggest thing we've missed about Arizona are the friends we have made (and maybe a few restaurants!). We made some good friends in the 5 years we lived in that desert. Some of the closest are the Nevins Family.

We met these good people when Bradley was 3 years old. Bradley and their oldest daughter, Reilly, were in the same preschool class. They became instant friends. They have a younger daughter who is about 3 years younger than Reilly and Brad named Avery. We clicked pretty quickly with Dave & Stephanie (great name, right?) once the kids started playing outside of school. They're almost like family.

Stephanie is a doctor and was able to work in a conference in Austin TX so we could visit. It was a fun visit and it was great seeing the kids get to play again!

Bradley & Reilly working the crane at the Children's Museum in Austin.

 

Avery serving Stephanie & I some broccoli and chocolate milk at the Children's Museum

 

Rob & Dave (kids at heart) building stuff.

 

I had to get this one in...Dave and his fabulous pink sunglasses! (well not his exactly)

 

The kids on the swings near our house.

 

For more pics...check out the family photo tab at the top!

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful mother Alison

 

I also want to thank my wonderful son and husband for a nice Mother's Day. Without these two I wouldn't have the pleasure of becoming a mother.

I've been putting this off for years. What you ask? My knee. Since my surgery in 2001, I've known something still isn't right. At the end of 2001 I was referred to a 2nd opinion Ortho at UCSD Med Ctr to see why my knee is still giving me problems after my Aug 2001 surgery. My original surgeon thought the discomfort and pain was all in my head and preferred I spoke with his PA vs. him. That's not going to work for me. So I sought out the opinion of another dr.

 

Around this same time I found out I was pregnant with Bradley! So I wasn't able to get another MRI or follow through with seeing the UCSD Dr anymore until after I had Bradley.

 

Well after I had Brad I still had problems - my knee felt very unstable, continued pain, etc. But I lost that momentum of fixing my knee and focused on my new little family.

 

Fast forward 9 years...to today. I can't postpone this any longer.

 

About 2 weeks ago I saw 1 surgeon that came recommended. I liked him. Didn't like this diagnosis though. I was expecting one thing - and had prepared myself for that. But ended up with quite a different recommendation. Because this procedure is done rarely he recommended I seek the opinion of a second dr. So I did.

 

This week I saw a second dr. This one specialized in Sports Med. His diagnosis was the same as the first. (made me feel a little better). He agrees with the procedure of this first but would do it a little different.

 

Diagnosis - Unstable Patella, Patella tendonitis, cartlidge degeneration and my knee is not sitting how it should be.

 

Dr #1 Recommendation: Distal Patellar Realignment - Basically cutting the tibia bone moving it over about an inch and screwing it in. The tendons that keep the knee cap in place attach to this bone - it would allow for my knee cap to track properly. Currently it is not tracking right and the tendon is off at about a 20 degree (Q angle) angle. My dr drew me a picture....

 

Dr #2 Recommendation: VMO Advancement. This basically takes your VMO (the teardrop shapped muscle in your quad right above your knee on the inside) and stretches it out on your patella to help alighn your knee cap tracking.

 

Either way - same harsh rehab...same recovery time. I have another appointment with my 1st dr to discuss these two options based on the current state of my leg. We'll see what happens. UGH!

We've been through earthquakes, wild fires, extreme heat...we've witnessed flooding, landslides, crazy dirt devil dust storms...but this was a first for us:

 

Friday evening we had "severe" thunderstorms and a tornado warning. Definitely a first for us and probably not our last.

I have a confession...a few in fact. Let's work our way backwards from today.

 

The last two days I've had some pretty splurge-fest dinners. But I believe I was still under the 1200 calorie per day goal. (if not...then I'm pretty close!)

 

Another confession - I was hoping to get a little help with this. I have heard some good things about Alli - that weight loss supplement. I can't take those adreneline pumping energy weight loss pills. Makes me feel like I'm having a heart attack. So I did my research...and gave it a try. My first and FINAL day taking it was Friday. Turns out I'm allergic to an ingredient in the supplement. The whole left side of my neck and throat started to swell up Friday night. UGH not fun...but it went down once it was out of my system!

 

I've started my walking too...

Above is my lunch walk that I plan on doing at least three times a week...AT LEAST! Monday I did this walk...and I plan on doing it tonight when Rob gets home due to MR AC Guy that's coming during my normal lunch break.

 

Why is it so much easier to gain weight than work it off?? I guess getting older doesn't help either!

I can't stand it anymore. Normally I wouldn't blog about something like this...it's kind of private. But I need some sort of tool to hold me accountable. So this is it.

I've been at an unhealthy weight for a while and am at my limit. I could probably give every excuse in the book for being where I am. But ultimately - I have no excuse. I live in a community with a free gym, there are great walking paths throughout my neighborhood, etc., etc. I know part of my growing problem with my knee is the extra weight on it.

So I'm officially going on a diet. And I need to step up my activity level.

 

• Here's where I'm at: 1XX (The X's represent the last two digits of my weight - which I will NOT disclose!)
• My goal: lose 24 lbs.
• Per Day Calorie Goal: 1200 - in addition I'll be watching my fat content per meal.
• I'm going back to NO SODA! I was so good with this for so long.
• I am thinking about giving myself a "Day of Rest" where I can cheat a little...not too much. But maybe enjoy a yummy mexican food dinner that may put me over my daily caloric or fat limit.

 

We'll see how this works. I'm not sure about what my activity goals are right now. Wednesday evenings (no afterschool activities for B) I need to go to the gym. Thursday's I can walk at the park during soccer practice. Just need to find some other stuff to do and fit in to the schedule.

I'm hoping this new plan helps me lose weight, get & stay healthy and creates some healthy habits I can stick to!

Mommy, "Bradley, come outside and let me show you these special kind of Easter Eggs..."

[Bradley's introduction to cascarones]

Mommy, "Come here sweety...let me show you these eggs." [Rob knew better]

Look at Bradley's face...wanting to get feedback....[insert evil laugh]

 

Bradley had fun opening his Easter basket, playing with the cascarones and even had a bit of a challenge finding all the hidden eggs. Later Easter morning we headed over to Steph's aunt Betsy's house for brunch, more cascarones and water balloons...

 

Bradley was the main target...but he loved every minute!

The aftermath of the cascarones...

Water balloons

 

By the way...for those who don't know...cascarones are confetti filled eggs. Tons of fun!

 

Things are settling down here after all the events leading up to the wedding of my cousin Lela & her new husband Tom. Family has come and gone - and life is getting back to normal.

 

While my family has left to return to California - they are dearly missed. We had a great time seeing them! It had been since Christmas time since we'd seen my mom (aka Grammy), since the Fall sometime since we'd seen my brother Ben & since we moved (October) since we'd seen my step-dad (aka papa). Bradley got his grammy & papa fix (for the time being at least) and is already missing them.

 

Things are always so crazy when mom comes out - I guess this is a no brainer since she has 3 sisters, 2 brothers and a mom out here who all want to see her. I shared her with the rest of the family...though I'm thinking next time I may not be as generous {insert devious laugh here}.

 

Here are some highlights...

 

Grammy & Bradley cuddling before he heads off to school...

Lunch at Kerby Lane Cafe with two of my favorite women in my family...my mom & Granny

Dinner at Freebirds w/ Ben, my family & Meri & Steve. Ben got the Super Monster burrito...it's huge (this burrito is over $12.00! made out of 2 huge flower tortillas and could probably feed a small country... or Ben)

Grammy & Brad sitting on the edge of the doc blowing bubbles at AYC.

Bradley fished on the edge of the dock.

My fabulous brother Ben. We went for a sail on a bigger boat. The wind and water was a little rougher than we'd like to sail in Meri & Steve's 22 foot boat. Bradley had fun inside the cabin "getting his sea legs" as he called it.

Mmmmm. Mexican Food......

 

I miss mi familia already!

Congratulations to my beautiful cousin Lela and her husband Tom. They got married on Saturday at my Aunt Betsy's House. It was a beautiful wedding and we wish them the very best in their life together...

 

The State of CA is in a world of hurt - most people know this. Because of this the State schools were accepting fewer transfer students than in years past. Normally, I wouldn't blink at the thought of that. But this last Winter my "baby" brother applied to a few schools in the State school system to study Economics. So, naturally, this issue has peaked my interest!

 

Now, let me explain something. I'm very protective of those I love. I see nothing wrong with being this way...particularly nothing wrong with being an overprotective mommy. Or when I was younger, an overprotective older sister. Don't mess with momma bear! {One time when Ben was really young...I'm talking like 3-4 years old ... and he was doing the kids run for the Carlsbad 5000...I stood at the starting point with him right up front so no other bigger kids or adults pushed him out of the way or stood in front of him. Again...don't mess with those I love!}

 

Anyhoo...back to the news we've been waiting for...

 

Ben's 1st choice school was Sacramento State. He also liked Long Beach...but had his eye on Sac State. Yesterday after soccer practice I got this text....

 

WOOOO HOOOO!

 

Now the over protective sister doesn't have to go kick any Cal State School admissions folks @$$!

 

Congrats Ben - We are so very proud of you! {{HUGS}}

 

Saturday marked the beginning of Bradley's Spring Break! One full week of no school, sleeping in and playing!

 

We wanted to start it off right for Bradley since Rob & I weren't able to take any substantial time off work to go anywhere on a vacation. Brad's been talking about wanting to "build" something for a while. So I signed up Brad for a Lowe's Build & Grow class. (They are free people - and fun for kids!!) To kick off March Madness the kids built a wooden table top basketball hoop. Lowe's provided the tools (hammer) and the supplies (wood, nails, instructions and safety goggles) and gave Bradley a kids apron. At the end - upon completion - he got a little patch to attach to his apron showing he completed the basketball hoop. It was cute - Brad felt proud of what he accomplished - and I got to stroll the aisles of Lowe's day dreaming of craft ideas!!  { Fun times had by all! }

 

Later that evening Steph's uncle, aunt and cousins came over for dinner. Hal & Brenda (uncle & aunt) have two boys (Aaron & Andrew) who are great with Bradley and the kids love playing sports. We had fajitas and the boys played and played and played.

It was such a beautiful day Saturday...warm and sunny. No allergy problems. Loved it! Tuesday it was back to raining but I'm hopeful today will be another beautiful day so we can go out and play after work today!

Brad was out of school Thursday & Friday due to a bad cough and fever. Thursday it was 101...Friday it was 102. Saturday when he woke up it was 103...so we took him in to the hospital close by us.

For over the last month I've been getting things ready for my cousin, Lela's, Wedding shower. It was a "tea" theme. I tried making as many of the decorations & favors as possible.

...But this time with Daddy!

A few weeks ago we got a special visit a few weeks ago...from Rob's dad!! This was the first time he had been out since our move & we had a ton of fun!!

 

He came in Thurs 2/11. It was a super cold night...In fact that was the week that Dallas got a ton of snow and flights were cancelled going to Dallas {lots of unhappy stranded passengers!!}

 

Rob was able to take off Friday and took his dad golfing at Teravista golf course (our community's course). It was super cold that day. They were the only ones with enough guts to actually go out on the course that day!! The course winds through our neighborhood...the golf cart trails run under the streets in tunnels. They had to hide out in the tunnels in between holes because the wind was so cold...the tunnels were the only place they could hide from it. They did stop by briefly to wave hi as they drove past our house...

 

We were going to go for a walk on the Hike & Bike trail down at Town Lake...but the boys were so cold they chickened out. So we went bowling instead!

Saturday we had two soccer games...John got to see Brad play indoor soccer. Bradley scored & won both games!

After we took off to meet Elena (Rob's brother's wife) and their kids Skyler and Aden in Llano for dinner. Bradley was really hyped up about winning his games:

It was about an hour and a half drive to Llano...about half way there he passed out

We met at Coopers BBQ...which was an experience in itself!!

I wish I would have taken more pictures!! You go out to the pit - they slap some meat on a tray. On the tables they have white bread and parkay butter. Prettttty interesting!! Quite an experience!

It was great seeing Elena, Skyler and Aden. Bradley and the boys had a blast & we can't wait until we see them again!

 

 

 

So since we've moved here it's snowed about 2-3 times. By snow...I mean tiny flakes fall from the sky for about 30 minutes to an hour and then it stops. Nothing sticks.

 

When the weatherman said that there is a chance of snow between 1pm and 3pm today...we thought it was going to be the light dust of snow that doesn't stick. We were wrong!

 

At about 815am I looked out my office window to find snow falling...real snow...not dust. This was the front of our house at around 8:15am:

The golf course was starting to turn white....

 

The snow started to get lighter as the morning moved on. Then around 11:20am I looked out again and it was snowing harder! Here's the front of our house again...

Our roof was starting to look like it was lined in marshmallow it was so fluffy and white...

We could barely see our grass and our plants were getting a nice coating of snow. It was beautiful!

 

 

Bradley's school let out at normal time. As I stood in front of his school I could feel the light dusty snow pick up to something a little more substantial...as Brad and I walked outside there were giant flakes falling from the sky {like the size of a silver dollar.} All the kids were LOVING it. All the teachers were HATING it...yelling at the kids to get out of the wet/snow/mud/grass and on to the sidewalk. The little kids were adorable to see as they walked outside to see snow still on the ground {side note: his school is all indoor}

 

When Bradley and I got home...we put homework and chores aside. Got some scarves on and went outside for a fun snowball fight. {Video of fight to come...it will be posted on our family video page on this site} Brad got me good a few times...I think I may still have snow in my hair from one of the hits! It was a much needed break from "grown up life" of work and home stresses to laugh and play with my wonderful son in the beautiful {but cold} snow.

 

Bradley's PE Teachers promised the school that IF they raised more than $10,000 - that they would allow the teachers to duct tape them to the wall. Well - apparently the donations are still coming in and they've raised about $12,000 now.

 

On Friday at 9am - the teachers got duct taped to the walls. And they were in the news! Meri, Steph's aunt, saw it in the paper <copy of clipping to come> and on Fox News Austin: http://www.myfoxaustin.com/dpp/news/local/21910-Round-Rock-Students-Duct-Tape-Teachers-to-Wall

 

Teravista was the top fundraiser in Central Texas! What an accomplishment!

 

Last Friday was Bradley's Jump Rope for Heart. He exceeded his goal and raised $245! Thank you to everyone that gave!! His school exceeded their goal of $10,000 - actually raised over $11,000. Bradley received a pin today as a "Heart Ambassador" {pictures to come} for raising over $200. He wore his pin very proudly!

 

Thank You's Go to:

Grandpa John & Wzy

Reilly Nevins (and the rest of the Nevins Gang)

Kristi & Andy Dunn

Poppa, Grammy & Ben

Team Taylor (Bill, Audrey, Jordan and Joey - Bill got a matching gift from his company!!)

Hal, Brenda, Aaron, Andrew Wickes

Meri & Steve Shepardson

The Wadas Family (JJ, Elena, Skyler & Aden)

Mike & Betsy Ellison

 

It doesn’t interest me

what you do for a living.

I want to know

what you ache for

and if you dare to dream

of meeting your heart’s longing.

 

It doesn’t interest me

how old you are.

I want to know

if you will risk

looking like a fool

for love

for your dream

for the adventure of being alive.

 

It doesn’t interest me

what planets are

squaring your moon...

I want to know

if you have touched

the centre of your own sorrow

if you have been opened

by life’s betrayals

or have become shrivelled and closed

from fear of further pain.

I want to know

if you can sit with pain

mine or your own

without moving to hide it

or fade it

or fix it.

 

I want to know

if you can be with joy

mine or your own

if you can dance with wildness

and let the ecstasy fill you

to the tips of your fingers and toes

without cautioning us

to be careful

to be realistic

to remember the limitations

of being human.

 

It doesn’t interest me

if the story you are telling me

is true.

I want to know if you can

disappoint another

to be true to yourself.

If you can bear

the accusation of betrayal

and not betray your own soul.

If you can be faithless

and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see Beauty

even when it is not pretty

every day.

 

And if you can source your own life

from its presence.

I want to know

if you can live with failure

yours and mine

and still stand at the edge of the lake

and shout to the silver of the full moon,

“Yes.”

 

It doesn’t interest me

to know where you live

or how much money you have.

I want to know if you can get up

after the night of grief and despair

weary and bruised to the bone

and do what needs to be done

to feed the children.

 

It doesn’t interest me

who you know

or how you came to be here.

I want to know if you will stand

in the centre of the fire

with me

and not shrink back.

 

It doesn’t interest me

where or what or with whom

you have studied.

I want to know

what sustains you

from the inside

when all else falls away.

I want to know

if you can be alone

with yourself

and if you truly like

the company you keep

in the empty moments.

So it's raining again today! AGAIN! I knew it was coming, but I hoped the weatherman would be wrong for once.

 

He wasn't.

This view is from our upstairs office window. That paved path is for golf carts - just before I took this picture there was a golf cart speeding by. Couldn't tell if it was a golfer stuck in the downpour or the staff checking out the course...either way - sucked for him!

 

The clouds did part and the sun shined for about 45 minutes. In this brief snippet of time, I took a quick walk to get some fresh air at lunch. I can tell spring is coming...or trying to at least. I'm starting to see green in places it has been brown for months...

Isn't the moss on the tree beautiful?

Since we moved to Texas, it has rained almost every week. Even my family members have said "we've had weird weather since you've moved out here"

 

BEFORE WE MOVED HERE:

Austin was in a bad drought.

The lake levels were sad and very low. On Aug 5th, just a few months prior to our move, Lake Travis lake levels dropped to it's 3rd lowest level in history. At one point there was only one operating public boat ramp that people could still use (due to the low levels of the water)

There were drought conditions so bad that each house could only have certain days their sprinklers could be set

 

SINCE WE MOVED HERE

It has snowed twice

It has rained at least once just about every week we've been here.

Drought conditions lifted

Several hard freezes

Lake Travis is almost up to it's previous level (My aunt/uncle who sail said their boat dock is being moved back to it's original place before the drought!)

 

Needless to say, we're looking forward to seeing some sunshine and weather above the 50 degrees marker!

 

I was checking out the 10 day weather forecast, since the dad-in-law will be in town this week, and it looks like we'll be getting weather in the low 60's soon....YAY!

How many of you read Judy Blume books when you were a kid. I did...and now my son is...

 

When we moved out here - we found this house on line...and through the help of our real estate agent and family narrowed the search to one house. We never saw this house before we walked in the door in October the day we moved in. Scary huh? Thank god for the internet, google maps and family in the area with digital cameras. We really lucked out with the neighborhood, school district and are pretty happy with the house we're in right now (at least for the next several years).

 

One of the things I'm loving about this neighborhood is the walking paths. They wind through the neighborhood...through the golf course...are quiet and serene.

One of the walking paths by our house that wind through some trees...

 

Here's a pond on the golf course - when I took a short cut on one of the golf car paths.

It was a gloomy day on Wednesday. The bare trees reaching high in the sky - but still beautiful and serene as you walked along the path.

And here's the aftermath of my walk. Yes, my left knee again. Can't ignore it any longer. Going to need to go back to the dr!

Mid-February Bradley will be participating in the Jump Rope for Heart through the American Heart Association. He's wanting to raise as much money as he can...and he even said "it's not for the gifts I get...it's for helping kids who don't have a good heart"

 

Awwww - How can you not give after that cute quote???

 

http://honor.americanheart.org/goto/bradwadas

 

I've missed about 10 days worth of photos already. I probably have photos somewhere (of crafts or other stuff) But I haven't been keeping on top of this project - and it's STILL January. I'm in trouble! From here on out - I'll be good {hopefully!}

Modecokids.com has the cutest FREE tool for kids to feel like they're contributing to the family. It's a chore chart of sorts...but retooled in a way to help kids feel like they are contributing  to the family. Cute idea. You can fill out the form, print your child's chores again and again. Check out the site:

 

http://www.modecokids.com/index.php/2009/10/21/free-printable-chore-chart-for-kids/

 

I just printed one out for Bradley. Very cute!

The earthquake in Haiti is heartbreaking. I could not imagine being a mother, a daughter, a sister, a wife or a friend and not knowing if a loved one is alive, injured or dead. The thought of something so terrible is horrible.

 

We all get caught up in our own lives. Yes...all of us. {I'm talking to you, too} Whether it's being busy driving your child(ren) around town to their various activities, complaining that you'd rather eat out vs. cook something at home or that you "don't have anything to wear." We're all so blessed, so spoiled and so fortunate compared to others in this world. Take a moment and remember what's truly important in your life.

 

And if you can spare a few dollars (maybe not go to Starbucks or out to lunch today) ... give some money to Doctor's without Borders or the Red Cross.

 

So the second quarter officially ended at the beginning of winter break for Bradley. 9 full weeks in TX and things have gotten a lot better for Brad. (We arrived at the beginning of this 9 week period).

 

Yesterday Bradley's school had their 2nd grade awards assembly. Bradley got an award for excellence in math and for perfect attendance. (YAY) I was so proud and Bradley took his awards very seriously.

It's very cute how the kids get the recognition. They don't get certificates that get thrown away, ripped up or misplaced with the junk mail. Each get gets a dog chain type necklace. And for each award or milestone they get a dog tag. So Bradley has 4: Math Award, Perfect Attendance, New Student, and Birthday. The kids love it and it's a great way to look back and see what the children have accomplished.

 

One thing I did love...is at the beginning of the assembly the principle (in the purple dress above) gave a speach about how not everyone is going to win an award. And that's ok. It's ok to be sad....but there just aren't enough awards for everyone to receive one and it will give you the drive to work harder to achieve the goal you want. Apparently some parents were upset their kids weren't getting an award or that all kids aren't recognized in some way. Isn't that what the new student and birthday awards are. At least every kid gets 2 awards. Maybe I'm showing my old school style - but I still believe you have to earn the award to get recognized.

Saturday has become Soccer Day in the Wadas house. Every morning Bradley goes (and will continue to go) to Academy Soccer (which is like a skills clinic). Then in the afternoon we head back to the indoor soccer arena for a soccer game.

 

Last Saturday was B's last day of his first Soccer Academy. Look at the pout on his face:

He was so grumpy. During the game they held during their last Academy class, Bradley called one of the goals as off sides (which they don't recognize at this age group). B got all pissy. And after he got his certificate and medal his mood just deteriorated when I wanted to take his picture. Ugh.

 

After some lunch and a good nap we went to his first indoor soccer game which they won 17-2. Hopefully we get some more competition this season because it got to the point where the ref was making us play by harder rules than the other team.

 

Go Horns!!

 

Colt is hurt...but we have to keep faith!!

that old 90's song came in to my head with that title...I think it's by Soul II Soul or something like that. Anywhoo...we're back to reality this week. 5 days of work. Brad is back at school tomorrow. Everything is back to normal! If only we could get our head's out of the holiday mindframe!!

 

Hope everyone is having a great week!

 

This year...I'm going to take at least 1 photo each day. It's a goal. A fun goal that mirrors what I love - photography. Some days may be of something we're doing, a person, a thing...whatever. But at least 1 photo will be taken each day. Yesterday was my crafting - (You can see on my "cre-ate" page) So technically I took photos yesterday. But for this project I'll post in a spot on the front page. I'm not sure how or where...but you'll see. I think this is a neat idea...and I'm really looking forward to a year from now being able to look back on a photo from each day of the year to remind me of what happened and memories from each day. Should be fun!!

 

In the meantime, I'll share some stuff with you about today. Today Rob, myself, Brad, my aunt and uncle (Brenda & Hal) and their boys Aaron and Andrew went to see UT play Texas A&M Corpus Christi. We all expected UT to blow them out of the water (UT is currently ranked No. 2). But it was a much closer game than expected. Doesn't seem like UT put much in to it. Regardless....we won. And had fun with good company. After we went to their home for dinner and dessert (they got a cake and sang happy bday to Rob). We'll post more pictures from Rob's camera once we download them...in the meantime, here are a few for your viewing pleasure :)

The teams warming up

Aaron & B watching the game in the stands

Andrew and Brad watching the 2nd half.

So when we were kids...."way back when"...weren't there supposed to be flying cars and such in 2010?

 

I'm amazed at where we ended 2009 to be honest. One year ago today, I did not think we'd be in anther house...in another state. Let alone the state of TX! While it has been a crazy...and sometimes bumpy year...we've settled in a great place and are happy.

 

Looking back...

 

BRADLEY

Bradley continued his love of soccer focusing only on that sport in 2009. He played in 3 different seasons, went to soccer camp and a soccer academy to focus on skills. He also began gymnastics which he loves. Rob calls it "cross-training" - really, it has built Brad's confidence and strength. Brad finished a very successful 1st grade year and started 2nd grade at Navarrete. After our move he had a little bit of a rough transition to his new class at TeraVista. All is good now. He's making new friends, enjoying soccer and gymnastics out here and making a mark for himself out here (WHEW)! Brad is really enjoying being close to family.

 

ROBBY

Rob has excelled in his position at GEICO. In fact at the Annual Adjuster's Conference Rob won Adjuster of the Year for his region. At the beginning of the year he played Adult Men's Soccer. He continued to coach Brad's soccer seasons during Winter, Spring and Fall seasons. He will be taking a break from coaching Brad's team during Bradley's upcoming Winter Indoor Soccer season. We'll see how that works out for Rob. {When he's not coaching...he'll stand on the side lines and talk to himself like he's comentating on the game}

 

STEPH

Steph's had a busy year at work with working on Blanchard's largest client. She managed a one of a kind event in February for this client that trained over 2000 managers in one day. Steph & Brad took a 2 week trip to San Diego at the end of June to visit with the grandparents. Bradley went to gymnastics and soccer camp while Steph worked from the office and took off a few days. In November, Stephanie celebrated her 10 year anniversary with Blanchard. Steph is continuing to enjoy doing crafts and has started learning how to sew (trying to at least!!)

 

We hope you all have a wonderful and healthy 2010!!

The 29th of December is a wonderful day. 34 years ago, Robert Matthew Wadas was born. My Robby, my best friend and wonderful husband and of course Bradley's fantastic Daddy!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

 

Update: I just wanted to point out the kickin' soccer uniform from the 80's. Please note the shorts up to his armpits and velcro soccer shoes. Nothing but style! Love ya sweety!

The morning after Christmas we were back at Soccer Zone. I can't believe soccer didn't take a week off. We were all so sleepy this morning...made for a cranky family. Last thing I wanted was to sit on a cold bench on bleachers to make nice with other parents. To top it all off, the coach kicked the ball right in B's face. NOT HAPPY - none of us were. After a few minutes in the bathroom with a cold towel to his face, he was good to go and back on the field.

 

When we moved to TX, we sold our kitchen nook set. It was like a bench banquette set. It was great when B was small. He wouldn't fall out of his seat. But made it really hard when we entertained or had family over. I had been wanting to get rid of that table set for a while. Moving was the perfect excuse. So today...we got our new table/chairs! Woo hoo. Just what I wanted. A small pedestal table, painted wood, simple, country, cottage, etc. Love it! I'm going to look for a rug (durable of course) to go under that table to warm up the room a bit. Just hate to be narrowed in to the round rug catagory. Would a rectangle look ok? {probably not...}

 

Today is Bob's last appearance to ensure Brad's being a good boy before the big man comes to deliver gifts tonight. Bradley's been an amazingly good boy ... not just this month, but this year. I'm so very proud of my boy. He has managed a lot of change lately with very little issues. We are so blessed to have this little guy in our lives. I think Santa will be very happy with Brad's behavior this year.

{Bob's Last Appearance}

 

On another note...Brad lost another tooth today. He pulled it right out since it was bothering him so much. Such a brave little guy. [ICK - hate wiggly teeth] So I guess we are going to have a douple appearance tonight from Santa & The Tooth Fairy. Brad's making out like a bandit!!

{Bradley & His Lost Side Tooth}

 

We hope you all have a very Happy Holidays and a wonderful & healthy 2010!

We already miss her!

I think he may run out of places to sit, hide, hang, etc. He's been seen all over the house lately:

...hiding in the kitchen...

...on shelves....and even window ledges.

 

Bradley is having a blast finding him every morning...and following the rules of the elf!

 

 

When I was younger...around B's age or a little younger we lived in Austin (my mom & I). Every holiday we went to the big Zilker Park Holiday Tree. Austin's had this tradition for decades! Every year it gets a little bigger. So I was really excited this holiday season to share this old tradition of mine with Brad & Rob.

[photo credit: City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept]

 

This year we went with my aunt & uncle: Hal & Brenda and their sons Aaron & Andrew. The whole parking, walking there, etc is a whole story/adventure in itself...{long story short we were told the wrong place to park, walked over 2 and a half miles to the park and then Rob had to turn around and walk back to the car to move it. ended up getting lost and probably walked 10 miles total that evening. So he's not in any of the photos because of this side story}

 

Above is a picture from under the tree...standing still. Now SPIN!

We did lots of spinning. Speaking of spinning...check out our videos page. There's a video in case you want to feel like you were there :)

The boys had fun. Aaron and Andrew swung B around. The boys at kettle corn and funnel cake and surprisingly enough still had room for dinner.

Bradley and I had fun...though we wish Rob could have been with us. Even Hal & Brenda got in to the spirit and did a little spinning....[below]

 

 

 

So this time it wasn't real snow. But it was snow none the less!

 

Every year our community puts on a "Winter Wonderland" event. They serve hot chocolate and coffee for parents (sponsored by a local coffee shop). They bring in man made snow to the community soccer fields (where they have big hills). They created 8 rows for sledding and a play area for snow fights, etc.

 

B had so much fun. We only stayed about 45 minutes because it got really crowded..and B got some snow shoved up one of his pant legs as he was going down one of his last runs. But he had a blast - and was exhausted after!

 

CRASH!!

Bradley's been keeping active in a few sports right now. Gymnastics he takes every Tuesday and is really having fun with it. The class he is in now is more challenging than the one in Arizona. It's ironic how the gym in AZ had more resources, a bigger facility, nicer equipment...but the instruction was horrible and not challenging at all. This gym is smaller, less resources, older equipment but the instruction is more challenging and B is thriving off of it.

 

He's also in indoor soccer. It's actually a skills academy right now - they teach/practice with the kids the first half and the second half they play games to practice what they just did in a real game setting. He's having a lot of fun with it. I took pictures on Saturday but they did not come out too well. The parents sit behind plexiglass (I guess kind of like hockey). And there was a reflection off of the glass so it was throwing my camera off.

 

He's liking it a lot though...so I think we're going to try and get him in the winter league which starts soon.

 

 

Today was the Holiday Lunch for K, 2nd and 4th Graders. Parents & siblilngs were invited to attend lunch with the student in these grades. (The other grades had a similar lunch around Thanksgiving). Rob couldn't go...but I did.

 

Flash backs to elementary school...and buying my lunch! I bought my ticket to the lunch (a whole $2.75). When Brad's class walked by I got in line with Bradley. He took me through the lunch line...where they flopped "turkey" on the styrofome tray, slathered it with gravy, scooped mashed potatoes and greenbeans and lined up the trays for everyone to pick up. I even had a little milk carton! I picked up my plastic wrapped napkin and spork and we headed to his classes table. Let me tell you...the food was not very appetizing looking at it. Take a look for yourself:

 

But the best part...is I got to spend my lunch with one of my favorite people in the world:

We ate...and talked. He named and pointed everyone out in his class. I got to meet one of his friends, Gavin (sitting to the left of him in the picture). I also finally got to see his long term sub (while his teacher is out on maternity leave). It made my day taking a break from work and spending a little quality time with my little man.

 

Off to the book faire after school!

 

...ok, so it was more like 1/2 hour to 45 minutes. But still....it snowed! It was neat to see it snow in Austin. Bradley was so excited. He wanted to wear his snow boots. I had to explain to him that it will not be like the Grand Canyon when we when up last Winter and almost got caught in a snow storm. But the kids did get to play in it for a little bit. It made Bradley's day {even if he wasn't able to wear his snow boots}

Right before Thanksgiving my mom sent a few books to Bradley. Some were about helping out mom & dad and being nice (we hit a rough patch shortly after we moved out here). The other was a box book called "Elf on a Shelf." If you've never heard of it...let me explain.

It's a little box that comes with a book on the story of the elf on a shelf...and it comes with a little elf. You can have an elf that looks anywhere from a brown hair, blue eyed fair skinned elf to a dark skin dark hair elf. Gives it more of a personal touch to the children. The story roughly goes is after the Thanksgiving holiday the elf comes out. He appears in a new place every morning. Each night the elf flies to Santa to report back on if he/she is good/bad and what they want for the holidays. Then the fly back and sit in a different spot in the house. Part of the fun each morning is finding the elf. But one rule is the children cannot touch the elf...or he will lose his magic and can't fly back to Santa to give him his report. We started the morning after Thanksgiving (Black Friday). We've had a lot of fun "finding" the elf. Bradley named his elf "Bob" - he names everything "Bob" We went online and registered his elf and you got to print out a little certificate for the child.

Above is Bob on top of our mirror in the dining room. Keeping a look out for good boys.

 

This morning Bradley found Bob sitting on the window sill in the breakfast nook area half against the blinds and half against the wall - a little hidden by the tied back curtain. It took him a while...but he found him. As I was getting everything ready for B and getting some work done Bradley turned on the TV. I could hear him pausing the TV as he went along. I went downstairs an he was writing down things he wants from TV commercials. He made a list and put it next to Bob so Bob could show Santa.

 

So while B was at school, Bob read (aka mom took & read the note) and Bob left a note for Bradley. it roughly said "Thank you for giving me your wish list. I will be sure to tell Santa all your holiday wishes. Keep being a good little boy and listen to your mommy and daddy. They love you a lot. Your Elf, Bob" I printed it on red paper with a fun "Frosty" font and left the note sitting where his list was. The first thing he noticed was the red note. He read the note and came upstairs and showed me the cool letter Bob left. Bradley put it on the fridge and got his pad of paper and pen out again. He created two more short lists...put them by Bob with a little note "Please add to the list."

 

As I was closing the blinds this evening I accidently knocked Bob off the ledge. It was like a neuclear bomb went off. Because by the rules "you cannot touch him." So Bradley got upset because now we have to use our hands to pick him up and the magic will be lost. So I used Wooden Salad Tossers and propped him back up.

 

For now, Bob has left to go to the North Pole to chat with Santa. He'll be back and Bradley can't wait to see where he lands!

 

Tomorrow could end up being a special day too as it's supposed to snow! (yes...snow in Austin!) Will post pics if the snow is worth photographing (and it's not just the fall on the ground and melt type which I'm inclined to think it may be). At any rate, Brad's excited!

Bradley (and Rob) are really enjoying having grass in the backyard again. Not many sports you could play with a pool, rocks and a putting green in the back yard. Rob and B are always in the backyard with a soccer ball, football or baseball. All American boys...

So much to be thankful for! I have a wonderful husband who is patient, loving and devoted. I have a son who is adorable, smart and caring. I have a close family who I can depend on. I am living closer to family now - which is a good feeling. My mom is one of my best friends. My brother, who I miss dearly, is the best. And my step-dad (DAD) is fantastic. We live in a good neighborhood with a good school. We have a roof over our head, good jobs, food on the table and clothes on our back. Like I said...so much to be thankful for.

We are wishing Steph's aunt Betsy a very very Happy Birthday today! We hope you have a fantastic day!

Today is Rob's dad's birthday - John Wadas! He turns 65!!! We hope he has a fantastic birthday filled with fun and wonderful surprises!

Yesterday Rob and I attended a luncheon in honor of Aaron's (Steph's Cousin) confirmation. We weren't able to go to Mass with them to watch. Below are some pictures from the luncheon - Check out of "Family Photos" Tab on the site for more photos. Congratulations Aaron!

(Above - Aaron & his mom Brenda with the cake she had made.)

 

(Above: Aaron & Granny)

 

(Above: Aaron, Andrew & Bradley...DOGPILE!)

 

(Above: The Wickes Family: Hal, Brenda, Aaron & Andrew)

 

(Above: Us & Aaron)

 

Very busy...Very tiring weekend! But we accomplished a lot! (always a good feeling even if it feels as though you didn't have a weekend!)

 

Saturday morning I started painting our office after multiple occasions priming it. Rob started helping a little later. By Saturday evening we had 3/4 of the room done with the wall paint and still had to do the shelves in a gloss white. Sunday morning we finished the paint and after the luncheon for Aaron's confirmation we did the first coat of white shelf paint and started moving furniture. We still have 1 more coat of white...but for the most part we're done! Below are before and after shots:

 

BEFORE: When we moved in the office had multiple colors: Blue, Yellow, Sage Green, Tan & White (not sure why they wanted it so colorful)

(above is the desk I use for work (and my mac) the built in shelves to the left were the most colorful. Oh - and that's my aunt Meri who "screened" the houses for us)

 

(Above is the book case that is to the left of the built in desk. You can see the green on the wall to the left. The wall directly behind the person taking the picture was a neutral light tan.)

 

AFTER: We painted all the walls (and inside the built in shelves) "Valley Forge Tan" from Benjamin Moore. These pictures were taken before we painted the shelves white - so they're only primed. And the office is still chaos/messy. But you'll get the idea.

(Above is the built in desk (with shelves above) and my mac)

(Above is the built in shelves that are to the left of the desk - these were once the bright yellow and blue. The shelves are only primed. But it already looks so much better.)

 

(Above is the view of the other wall - that used to be sage green. My wardrobe - with all my craft stuff - fits perfectly between the two windows. )

 

Yay for progress!

 

 

 

I'm painting again. Painting...painting...painting. The purple, "Grimmace" bookshelves have been primed AGAIN! Can I tell you how tired I am of the smell of paint...cleaning paint brushes & rollers...the cramping in my hands from holding a paint roller so long. It will be worth it though! And our office will be done. It may not seem like this room would be so important...but since I work from home I'm in that room most of my day. So it will be very refreshing to have a work area that is workable. So I'll be painting most of this weekend.

 

While we've had the ladder in the office...someone has been trying to help. ~CLEO~ She loves heights. She's always trying to get at our eye level or higher. But she's never been a ladder person, until now. Now she climbs on top and looks down as if she was the queen of the house.

 

A very Happy Birthday to Steph's Aunt Cory and her children Keith and Micaela (all born on 11/11)!

 

We hope you have a fantastic day!

(Above: Micaela & Keith - High School Graduation 2009 Picture)

(Below: Cory & Keith & Micaela as babies with Granny)

Remembering and thanking all of those who serve in the US Military. Thank you for all that you do!

 

Robert B Wickes - Stephanie's Grandad (don't have a photo scanned of him in uniform)

 

John W Wadas - Rob's Dad

 

Greg Wadas - Rob's Uncle

 

 

 

 

James Wadas - Rob's Brother (currently serving)

We've been trying to settle in...get rid of the boxes. We're slowly getting there. 

Two very special people in Rob's family share the same birthday!!

 

We hope Elena (Rob's brother's wife) and Audrey (Rob's cousin's wife) have a very special birthday!!

Recently it was announced that 42 Round Rock ISD schools received Gold Performance Acknowledgements...Bradley's school (Teravista Elementary) was one of them!

 

Elementary schools can earn acknowledgments for attendance and commended performance in reading/ELA, writing, math, and science and comparable improvement in reading and math. To earn GPAs for academic areas, a school must have 30 percent or more of its students in each student group scoring at or above the TAKS commended performance level.

 

Teravista was commended on Math, Commended Writing, Commended Science, Comparable Improvement Reading/ELA.

 

YAY!

My mom started wearing this flip flop called the "Fit Flop" - she wore them everywhere. Around the house. Shopping. Even when we went walking. She loved them.

 

When she came out to Chandler a few days before we moved...she brought me a pair. So I wore them all day the day before we moved and the first driving day. By the 2nd day my muscles felt like I had worked out 2 days in a row. They can help tone your legs and tush. Since then I wear them a lot - I LOVE THEM!! Oprah listed them as one of her favorite finds for the summer. I have the one below...The Walkstar I. Did I mention I love them??

Check out their website: www.fitflop.com

Happy Halloween Everyone! We hope you had a fun and safe evening!

It's Birthday time for Skyler (Rob's brother's son). We hope he has a very happy birthday and we hope to see him really soon!

 

{Picture Above is Grandpa John & Skyler}

Yesterday evening Rob and I signed up Bradley for gymnastics. Brad's excited to be getting back involved in some sort of sport. We're still looking for a good soccer league in the Round Rock area for a Winter or Spring season though.

 

Any suggestions...let me know!

We'd l ike to wish Steph's cousin Andrew a very Happy Birthday! Andrew turns the big ONE-THREE!

 

The above picture was taken Summer 2009 during the Wickes' visit to Chandler. {Bradley & Andrew}

Move Day has come and gone.

 

The move was an adventure. Rob was with Cleo...my mom, Bradley & I were in my Explorer. We made great time - 1st stop was a night in Tucson - 2nd stop was a tiny town called Van Horn, TX. I found there really isn't a whole lot between Chandler, AZ and Austin that is worth visiting again. (At least along the 10 freeway).

 

The day we arrived it was warm...warm and HUMID. I believe my uncle said 90% humidity. I don't think I've sweat that much EVER. Gross! We were able to get everything unloaded in a few hours.  The next several days were a whirlwind of unpacking, errands, and visiting family while my mom was still in town. On the last day she was here we met up with some of my aunts and uncles and took a walk on the hike and bike trail along Town Lake. After we met at Whole Foods for a yummy lunch!

 

Rob was back at work on Monday. But we got as much unpacked and put away as possible. Thanks to my mom we got the kitchen done in record time! Here are a few pictures of the out-of-the-box living we had for a few days...

 

I was supposed to go back to work on the 23rd. However, the Tuesday before I cought a cold. Come to find out it was the infamous flu after a trip to the ER on Thursday morning. Ugh! That was the worst I've felt in years. I'm doing better now...but I'm starting to suspect Rob caught it from me despite our efforts to not spread the yuck.

 

Bradley started school last Tuesday. The first day was "good" according to Bradley but he didn't make any friends the first day. But by day 2 he had a few buddies and was having a good old time. His school is in the same community as our home. Only about a mile away. Not as close as our last house/school. But still very close.

 

Brad and Rob have been taking advantage of some of the ammenities of our little neighborhood.  They have already visited the Golf Club to hit some balls. The pools and playgrounds have been scoped out as well. They've even played a little soccer on the communities soccer field.

 

We're enjoying our new life in Texas. Enjoying all the rain mother nature has brought since we've arrived. But we already miss our AZ friends a bunch. Thank you to Alison (Steph's Mom) for making the long trip with us and helping us unpack. Thank you to Gil (Steph's dad) for all the help leading up to our departure. Couldn't have done it without you guys. Miss you tons!

 

Today two very special people celebrate their birthday!

 

Louise Stanger (Rob's dad's wife) or Weezy as Brad calls her...celebrates her birthday today. We hope she is having a very special day!

 

Ethan Brown (Steph's friend's son) is celebrating his 7th birthday today. We hope he had a fun birthday weekend!

 

 

The weather has been so beautiful. Cool in the morning and so nice during the day. Almost to the point an AC is not needed! (yay)

 

Monday we leave. I know I keep saying this...but I can't believe it's already here! 

Someone's ready to go...whether she likes it or not!

So today was the last day of the school quarter. The beginning of their quarter break. It also was Bradley's last day at Navarrete Elementary. 

Mom came out this weekend to help with the kitchen packing. We went to Bradley's last soccer game first. Mom wasn't too happy to sit in the hot sun. Cranky is one word for it! (he he he)

 

We got almost all of the kitchen packed! We have maybe a few more cabinets to go through...but those are mainly above the desk we have in the kitchen. We're feeling pretty good with where we are at with our packing right now.

It's chaos in our house right now. We're going to have to be creative with cooking the next few weeks.  Here is a glimpse in to our world:

 

Just a little over 2 weeks to go. This is Brad's last week before the quarter break. Parent/Teacher conferences are this week.

 

So much to do ... so little time! Cannot wait for this move to be over with!

This will be a short season for Brad. We've been practicing for several weeks - but he'll only be able to play in 3 games this season. One of the other parents has stepped up to fill in for Rob as coach the remainder of the season. We've been with AZSC for so long...and Brad has played with many of these kids for many seasons...it'll be a little sad to say goodbye. This will be the start of many goodbyes.

 

Brad is having a good time playing though (despite the heat). Grammy (steph's mom) comes this Friday to help with packing. She'll get to see Brad's last game for this season before we move. I'm hopeful it's a little cooler for her!

Go "All-Stars"!!!

 

Seriously - I can't believe it's coming up so quick! Some good things have happened....

 

Steph found out "officially" that she can continue to work from home in Austin, TX. (YAY - I still have a job). We also found a house we're finalizing all the paperwork on. It's in a community called Teravista in Round Rock. (YAY - we have a place to live!!) It's the little things that make me happy

 

We're doing a pretty good job packing. (I think) It's kind of hard to tell because so much is in chaos at our house right now. We've packed the closet in the guest bedroom, the craft room (with the exception of a few boxes and a large wardrobe/storage peice, the living room is where all the boxes are going (it seems), my office is packed as much as it can be while I continue to work, we've gone through 10 years of files (yuck) and cleaned out both garages. This weekend we are tackling bringing some of the big peices of furniture down and Bradley's toys.

We've sold our banquette table which used to be in our kitchen nook/breakfast area. We've also sold the fooseball table and a few other odds and ends we don't need. We are downsizing by about 500 sq feet so we're hoping our stuff will fit. We'll make it work no matter what though! (If I could just convince Rob to sell about 1/2 his baseball card collection......)

 

My mom comes out from San Diego a week from today to help us pack our kitchen. Then she'll be back the weekend of Oct 9th to help clean the house, pack up last minute stuff and drive over 14 hours with me to Austin.

 

We are really looking forward to the dust settling and getting to know our new neighborhood!

We started the packing today. UGH!

 

We started with the 3rd car garage. WOW! We had the pleasure of cleaning it out during a thunderstorm!

We also cleaned out the office, went through drawers and boxes of files. Today I worked on my craft room and Rob worked on our 2 car garage. We got a lot done - but we are EXHAUSTED!

We're moving!

 

Rob got a (promotional) transfer to Austin. He reports to work on 10/19. We plan on leaving here on 10/13. Everything's a little crazy right now. We're trying to find a house out in Austin - sight unseen (except for pictures). Steph's aunt Meri is working with our realtor to visit the homes we like. She's been measuring, taking lots of pictures and bringing extra family members to get their point of view. It's been interesting to say the lease. I think we've found the one we like. We'll see if we get it. (Now we just need to get this house sold and out of our hair!)

We're excited, stressed, overwhelmed, happy, etc, etc. We're sad to say goodbye to some of our friends we've made out here. We love Bradley's school and teacher and are a little scared since B will be coming in to a new school midway through the first semester. Ironically, Stephanie moved FROM Austin to California midway through her 2nd grade year.

As we know more...we'll keep everyone updated on our new address, etc. Wish us luck and an easy move!!!

Bradley turned 7 years old on Saturday 8/22. This provided the perfect opportunity to have his party on his actual birthday. This year, based off of the birthday boy's request, we had the party at our house. He changed the theme about 3-4 times...and we finally ended on a Soccer Theme. I think this is like the 3rd time he's had a soccer or sport theme for a birthday party.

We got lots of soccer decorations, brought the fooseball table down from the loft, and had black and white balloons all over the room. I made the invitations and goodie bags.

Grammy & Papa came out to spend the special day with us...which made the day even more special.

Because it was such a hot day we couldn't do many activities outside. We were originally thinking of getting a bounce house - but we were afraid the plastic of the bounce house would burn the poor kids. So we had a balloon toss. We originally were only going to have it one time. But the kids wanted to keep doing it over and over. So we had many. Kids of all ages had a bunch of fun!

Shortly after we got back from San Diego in July, the Wickes clan visited us over a weekend. Hal (Steph's uncle), Brenda (aunt), Aaron & Andrew (cousins) flew out to San Diego for 10 days...within that 10day visit they drove out to visit us.

The boys - Brad, Aaron & Andrew - had so much fun. On Saturday we went to a local water park. We got there a little early so we weren't frying in the sun. It ended up heating up to around 115 degrees that day. We swam in our pool, played/competed on the Wii (which was soooo funny!)

A lot is going on. It's overwhelming at times! So much to catch up on: school, birthdays, etc.

 

Bradley started soccer yesterday. It was kind of bitter sweet. We have had many of the same kids on our team for a long time. We know the parents...some of whom have become friends. We had to let them know Rob could only coach for 1/2 the season. It was very quiet after that. A lot more disappointment than we thought. We feel horrible. If we knew what was happening back when soccer sign ups were happening we would have never signed up for Fall.

 

I guess we just make the best of what we can and move forward. There isn't a lot we can change at this point in time.

 

More to come on birthday's...school...etc. later.

 

 

So you may have seen this...or seen pictures of people who have done this (especially if you are a member of facebook). But I just tried it out for Rob and I. It's called Yearbook Yourself. You upload pictures of yourself and it will add your image to different faces throughout the decades. Click here if you want to try it out for yourself.

 

For your viewing pleasure...(or not)...I will take you through the decades with pictures of ROb & I.

 

1962

1964

1976 (I think my mom had a similar hair style around this timeframe)

1990 (this is just a bad look for both of us)

1994 (Rob is sporting his jerry curls and I look like someone out of the all girl rap group Salt N Pepa)

2000 (Honestly - I think I have a sorority composite picture from 1997 that looks VERY similar to my pic below)

 

And one last one, just for kicks:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!!

 

Today is Stephanie's uncle Steve's birthday! We hope he has a fantastic day ... (and maybe get a little of his beloved sailing in!)

 

We hope you enjoy your day!

 

(The above picture is of Steph's aunt Meri, uncle Steve during their vacation in Bonaire)

 

So this year we're braving it and having the party at our house...We've done Makutu's Island (giant indoor climbing place), we've done Bounce U (indoor bounce houses)...So this year we're bringing it back home. Brad actually thought of the idea. I'm a little nervous to have 10-15 seven-year olds (and under) running around my house.

 

Here's my challenge: Brad wants a Transformers Party.

I don't like the cheesy party supplies with the Transformers you can get at Party City.

I'm trying to do a Transformers Party...INDOORS...with 7 year old boys (and a few girls) without making it cheezy.

 

Any ideas....?

 

We were going to get a bounce house...but there is a strong possibility it could be around 115 degrees outside. I really don't want to singe the poor children's skin by even touching a bounce house in that heat. Our backyard isn't big enough for the large water bouncies.

 

And what do I do with all these kids once they're at our house?

Scavenger hunt maybe (inside) for the "all spark"? I could make a ball (instead of a cube) with dum dums and that could be the all spark. I'm just not sure!

Create your own cupcakes (have cupcakes made and the kids can put their own frosting and topings on them?? My OCD/anti-messy attitude would have to check its self at the door for that one.

 

Any ideas?? HELP! 

 

Yesterday was Brad's first day of 2nd Grade. He woke up bright and early (around 5:30am) to "make sure his stuff is together."

Usually I drive Bradley up and drop him off at student pick up so he can go play with his friends on the playground before the morning bell rings. But this morning...like every 1st day of school I walked him in. I think every parent had that as their plan...at least that's what the parking lot looked like! I walked him to his room to drop his stuff off then out to the playground where he gave me a hug (yes...as a big 2nd grader he still gives his mom hugs on the playground!)

His day was full of work, fun and activities. He had a smile on his face after school as he walked out of his classroom. As a parent...it's a great thing to see!

 

Summer came and gone before we knew it. We had a great long visit in San Diego. Stephanie was able to take off every Monday to hang out with Bradley.

Bradley continued gymnastics throughout the summer to keep him busy. We originally thought that it would be a great "side" activity for Bradley. But we've come to find out he is very, very in to gymnastics. Since he's started gymnastics, we've seen his strength improve in his legs and that 7 year old has a 6 pack!!!!!

(Yes, that is Bradley's backside sticking out of the foam pit)

 

We did quite a bit of swimming to keep cool. It was an amazingly hot summer. Brad's getting better and better with his swimming. By the end of the summer he was comfortable enough to swim to the bottom of the pool to pick up things at the bottom. He's quite the little fish.

The end of Bradley's summer is quickly approaching. We're in his last week of summer break. We've had a good summer together. I've really enjoyed having every Monday off during his break to spend extra time with him.

 

This past Monday we saw Harry Potter and went to lunch. Today we went to his school to see who his teacher is for 2nd grade. I'm very happy - he got the teacher we wanted him to get: Mrs. Starr. {woo hoo!} We meet her on Thursday evening and then he starts 2nd grade bright and early Monday Morning!

 

It's so hard to believe he is starting SECOND grade. I say this every year. Time just flies by way too quick...enjoy every moment!

 

We'll post pictures of his first day {like we always do} Monday evening or Tuesday.

 

On another note...Monsoon season is here!! We love it! Last year and even the year before we didn't get much rain during the monsoon. The last few days have been great. Friday night when my uncle & his family arrived we had a big wind storm {almost toppled over our tree AGAIN}. Every night since we've had bigger and bigger storms. Last night we had a big thunder and lightening storm that kept me up it was so loud and bright. For those of you who have never seen monsoon season lightening out here...it's pretty neat to see. It's not just the kind where it lights up the sky...it's a bolt coming down from the sky! The rain really cools off everything. But it's still been dangerously hot...this weekend peaked to about 115.

 

We're staying cool and getting Brad ready for a great year as a second grader. Happy Summer (or what's left of it!)

The other night we were driving to Wendy's to get a frosty as an after dinner treat for the family. We were quizzing Bradley on different spelling words. One of the words was "church"

 

Bradley spelled it quick and correct. It's never been a spelling word of his before either. Rob asked Bradley "how do you know how to spell church?"

 

Bradley said "Fron the toilet dad. it's on the back of the toilet seat" (he lifts up the toilet seat as a boy to do his business.

 

We laughed so hard. He didn't understand why we were laughing. We, obviously, don't go to church (as in a place of worship) often (if at all). But Bradley goes to church (the bathroom) all the time.

The afternoon of Father's Day (6.21.09) Bradley & I flew to San Diego for 2 weeks. 

A few weeks ago Glidden had a promotion where you could get 1 pint of any color eggshell paint for FREE. (I love free). I got "Creamy Blueberry" - yes a blue. Shocking huh? Below is a sample of the color...it's a little lighter than what the true color is. I'll take pics once the color is up.

 

I think I'm going to paint the wall my desk goes up against in my craft room...as an accent color. We'll see if I can get to it this weekend. I'm already planning on fixing up an old side table we've had for years for our living room.

I have a confession...

 

When I was in 1st grade I had a party. It wasn't a birthday party. It was a Michael Jackson party. Why? Because I LOVED the guy. We even had a game called "Pin the Glove on Michael." That's how much I loved the guy.

 

Fast forward to now...

 

I'm already over the hoopla of Michael Jackson's death. I think the whole thing is sad. Not just his death, but his life. He rocked back in the 80's. The 90's seemed to highlight his strangness (if that's a word). After 2000 he seemed to only really be crazy popular in China and overseas. He was weird. But he didn't exactly grow up with the typical childhood (THAT IS STILL NO EXCUSE). Only Michael would walk around in a suit coat and PJ pants in public. But he was rich and famous...and I guess they can do what they want.

 

I did watch parts of the memorial. I thought it was tacky that they displayed his coffin at the Staples Center. Parts were touching. Honestly, I thought some people (not going to name names) in the Jackson family were putting on a little bit of a show with their "emotions."

 

The thing that REALLY has irritated me is how the City of LA is footing the bill for all of this. CA is all ready up that famous creek without a paddle financially...and now they're footing the bill for a family who has millions of dollars while giving other people in CA who NEED the money IOU's? No wonder California is so screwed up.

 

Michael did make some good music...he was a great performer. I do hope that his children grow up to be well adjusted adults and go on to live happy lives.

 

{The views expressed in this post are not representative of the whole Wadas Family...only that of Stephanie  } 

We'd like to wish Aden (Rob's brother's son) a very HAPPY 7th BIRTHDAY!!! Wish we could celebrate with you!

Today Rob and I celebrate our 9 year wedding anniversary! Unfortunately we're spending it in seperate states. I'm looking forward to celebrating next week when Rob comes out to CA.

 

Happy Anniversary Sweetie!

 

Stephanie and Bradley went to on Father's Day and have left me home alone.  So since I am going to be here for 2 weeks by myself before I go out to for 4th of July, I have decided to try something new.  I have been reading about cleansing your body.  I did some research about the diet and supplements to take and I started my own cleanse on Father's Day.  My diet consists of raw fruit and vegetables.  I have completely cut out meat, processed food and all the other great stuff I like to eat.  The worst is caffeine.  I have cut soda out cold turkey and that is always tough.

 

So I will keep posting here of how my 2 weeks go with this interesting diet that I am on.  I am hoping to first survive the 2 weeks without killing someone or myself J  But I really hope to loose some weight, cleanse my body of any toxins that I may not need, and hopefully train my body to cut portions and eat right.  Wish me good luck.   

This week Rob attended his annual GEICO AD Conference. It's usually held somewhere in Tucson since the regions HQ is down there. This year they added a little something extra...A pinewood derby race. Each supervisor's group did their own car. Boy did they take it seriously! They first met for about 4-5 hours to map out and plan the car. Our neighbor...who is ALSO an AD Adjuster for GEICO and in the same group as Rob hosted this little meeting. It was pretty funny to see the street filled with GEICO cars.

Week 2::Book 2 - READ. Bradley just finished his second book this summer - Lions at Lunchtime. Bradley said his favorite part of the book is when Jack & Annie got under the giraffe and Jack's head was close to the giraffe's rear end. Here's Bradley giving his best Lion growl:

Just because Bradley is not in school does not mean he's not going to keep those brain cells firing! Our goal is for him to read one "chapter book" per week in addition to his daily worksheets.

 

Last week Bradley finished reading Pirates Past Noon (in only 3 days!). He absolutely loves the Magic Treehouse book series.

 

Here's a picture of my pirate:

 

Pools are fun. We love ours...especially during hot Arizona summers. They're great for entertaining, teaching kids to swim and great exercise.

 

The upkeep is a pain and they crank your electric bill rather high (with the already high summer rates.)

 

The most important thing...they are dangerous. Very, very dangerous. Leaving your child alone - for even a few minutes can be catastrophic. DON'T DO IT. Who cares if the phone is ringing...who cares if your door bell rings. If you have to go inside - bring your child with you. Don't leave the responsibility of watching children in the pool even with an older child or young teenager. You are essentially putting the safety of the children in the hands of...well, a child.

 

Where does this come from? A friend of mine has a neighbor (in our community) who had something horrific happen just yesterday. Some kids were swimming in the pool. Kids = young: 4 year olds, 8 year olds and a few pre-teens. The dad/uncle of those kids went inside for a few minutes, got caught up in a conversation (or something). Next thing you know one of the 4 year olds is at the bottom of the pool. One of the older kids outside pulled out the 4 year old and called to the parents. They started CPR and called 911. Last night this poor small child, with their whole life ahead of them, was in serious condition. This morning they are predicting they will suffer from brain damage. The extend is unknown until the brain swelling goes down. The dad is, obviously, guilt ridden. The responsibility and negligance the adults in this house put on the pre-teens is inexcuseable. The images the other children will have in their heads forever is not something any parent would want their child to have. I feel for that whole family. This is something that is so difficult and unimaginably hard to recover from.

 

Makes me not want a pool...at all. 

Bradley's had 3 days of Summer Break so far. Friday was his first day. He LOOOOVED sleeping in and playing all day. Monday I had my 1st Monday of the summer off. I'll be taking every Monday off during Bradley's vacation. I'm looking forward to spending time with Bradley and having fun.

 

We're getting in to our groove with the day's schedule. Bradley has some chores in the morning, he does some pages in his summer workbook (that Grammy got him) and reads for at least 30 minutes every day. Of course his summer will also consist of swimming after I'm off of work, playing with friends and our trip to CA in a few weeks!

 

He's being such a good boy so far. Looks like it's going to be a great summer! 

So today I read a quote that I found very appropriate for life...mine in particular. I'm a planner...and if I don't know what the future holds, have no control of what's to come, or things don't happen the way I prepared for...I tend to stress. So this hit home and helped...

Bradley's class performed a little dance/performance to The Love Shack by the B52's at the school's talent show this week. It was pretty cute. The kids got in to it and had a ton of fun. Below is a picture of the class with their props from their performance. (Video will be posted this weekend)

Last week the 1st grade class went on a FUN field trip. First they went bowling. After bowling and lunch they went to a spray pad and got to run around in the water and play on the playground. In the words of Bradley, "It was AWESOME!"

 

After school I picked up Bradley, gave him a snack and we headed to Target to pick up a few things. He was a little tired so I put in him the cart to eat his snack and tell me about the field trip. It wasn't 2 minutes later that he fell asleep while talking to me and eating his snack in the uncomfortable Target Cart.

 

I'm catching up on entries to our blog from the last few weeks. Sorry for the delay of this post & pics!

 

The 1st grade had career day. They had all kinds of people come visit to talk about their jobs. They saw a police officer, a nurse, and a SWAT team member. How exciting for the boys...a dad of one of the kids talking about being on the SWAT team!

 

Bradley chose a professional baseball player for his career. He had to make a poster (below) and dress like his career. He wore parts of his baseball uniform (Cubs) from last year.

After career day I took Bradley & his friend/neighbor Payton to ice cream. (I think I took Payton off guard with my picture!)

 

 

While working Cleo wanted my cold water...so she stuck her whole head in my cup and drank my water. :)

 

 

Have a great day!

 

~The Crazy Cat Lady

Spring Soccer season is over. YAY. The kids had fun. The team progressed. The parents are pleased. Above is a picture of Bradley and Coach Rob. We'll be back in soccer for the Fall season.

 

 

~The Crazy Cat Lady

Congratulations to Steph's cousin's - Keith and Micaela - for graduating High School! We wish you much success & happiness as you start the next chapter in your lives!

 

Happy birthday to the best mom ever! We wish we could spend the day with you to help you celebrate.

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

 

This Saturday at 8:30am is Bradley's last Spring season soccer game. YAY!! 

Today is Steph's uncle Hal's birthday! We are wishing him a very happy birthday and a great year ahead!

Each week Bradley's teacher nominates a student from the class as the classes "Star Student." Each child in the class writes a letter to that student saying nice things, telling the child why they like them, etc. Last week's Star Student was a little girl named Mackenzie. Now you're probably wondering why I'm typing about a little girl named Mackenzie who we're not even related to...Well this is why. Below is the letter Bradley wrote Mackenzie:

For those who cannot read Bradley's 1st grade handwritting it reads:

"Dear Mackenzie

Do you have a boyfriend? I like you. You are nice. You look cool.

From Bradley"

 

SOOOO CUUUTTE!!

Mackenzie's mom made a photo copy of Bradley's page and gave it to me. You may remember another post I wrote about Mackenzie around Christmas time. Click here if you want to see it. It seems Bradley may have a little, secret crush.

Two things I wanted to share:

 

1. Today in the car Bradley mentioned he knew a new language. He kept saying what I heard as "lesplay." He asked if I knew what he was saying and I told him I've never heard that word before. He told me that he learned a language called "Piglet" and what you do is put the first letter of the word last and then put "lay" after that. What he was saying was "please" in pig latin not piglet. Apparently the teacher read a book that talked about different languages. The author talked about how to say words in spanish, etc. But as a fun little extra added pig latin as a language.
2. When I dropped off Bradley at school I was talking to his teacher about the above story since she always gets a kick out of Bradley's way of thinking and saying things. She told me a story that last week the class took a walk through the 3rd grade "Rain forest." The 3rd grade teacher was talking about the project to the kids and asked "Do any of you know what a carnivore is?" Bradley's hand shot up and says "It's a eat meater!!"

 

 

This weekend was Mother's Day weekend. It was a great weekend!

 

It started on Friday. Bradley's class held a Mother's Day party. It was very cute. Bradley wrote me a letter, recited a poem, made me a handmade flower crown and made me a book about me and my favorite boy. It was very touching. 

Later that afternoon my mom & dad came in to town for the weekend. They brought me some fresh Carlsbad strawberries. YUM. For those of you who know Carlsbad strawberries...you know why I was so happy. For those who don't...imagine the goodness store brought strawberries x 10. 

 

We introduced my step dad to the Wii. He was addicted! He did a little Wii Fit, played some other games. He loved it.

Saturday morning we went to Bradley's soccer game. It was the first time Gil had seen Bradley play. Brad did awesome on goal keeper - diving for the ball, going straight in to people as they went to kick a goal. We all watched in the shade trying not to get a sunburn or heatstroke.

After the game we all went to Oreganos for lunch at one of our favorite places. Very YUMMY!

 

We all went swimming later after dinner. Played a little pool baseball where neighbors on almost all sides of us got the benefit of our wiffle balls due to Bradley's homeruns. (see video page for videos).

 

This morning we had breakfast at a cute place called Joe's Farm Grill.

Today I'm spending a lazy day on the couch. I may make my way up to my craft room if I feel creative. But it's a nice relaxing lazy day - I love it.

Happy Mother's Day everyone!

 

Brads school is having a Bingo night for the kids tonight. Rob is planning on taking Brad so he can play some Bingo with his friends. Whille I was taking Brad and his friend home yesterday, Bradley was talking about how excited he was to play Bingo. According to Bradley, he has "Bingo skills" because he has played "like nine times". So beware folks...Brad has mad Bingo skills!

Bradley brought home two egg projects a few weeks ago. One was a creative one that he and I could do together and the other was the "egg drop". In the egg drop the principle takes up each egg from each child and throws them down one at a time. They see which one survives and which one breaks based on how they were packed.  Brad (mostly dad) devised a contraption made out of a plastic paint can/cylendar stuffed with foam, etc. The day of the egg drop neither rob nor I could come due to work...but Ms Avery told us that B's egg survived!! Rob (I mean Brad) was very proud. Bradley even got a certificate stating his egg survived!

 

We didn't take a picture of the egg drop project - but below is the creative egg project. We had to make something egg-related. So we used parts of an egg crate with golf balls, feathers, felt and a few other things to make little baby chicks hatching from their shells. Brad's classroom currently has eggs in an incubator and they're waiting for them to hatch. So we thought this would be a good idea.

Well, I can officially say I've been to a monster truck show. Not that it was on my list of things I want to do in life...but Bradley loved it. That's what counts. 

Bradley's class celebrated Earth day by helping to clean up their school. They picked up trash around campus and learned other ways to save energy and help the Earth.

 

One of the crafts they did was an Earth Day bracelet. (pictured below). He described what each bead meant:

Red = Love

Clear = Clean Air

White = Clouds

Brown = Dirt

Green = Trees/Plants/Grass

Yellow = Sun

Blue = Water

 

This weekend was busy-busy. Birthday parties, BBQ's, Soccer, projects at the house! Brad helped clean up his bathroom (more of a punishment for the previous night's attitude challenges) and his bedroom. Brad worked hard (and we think learned his lesson). Below is our helper vacuuming his room.

Brad had a good gymnastics class last night. They focused part of their time on the parallel bars. Bradley had a great time and did awesome. Below are two pictures from last night. Bradley's in the darker red shirt & black shorts. There is also a video on our family videos page if you're interested!

Our friend Stephanie invited us to join their kids in making chocolate candy for Easter. Fun Times! Stephanie, who is a Dr., knows the wonderful lady Therese through work who hosted this little event. Most of the kids there were children of other doctors. Bradley, Reilly & Avery loved all the chocolate! Chocolate everything!

 

It's like old times in the Wadas House. Old times when Rob used to travel all the time for work. He doesn't travel all the time for work any longer (at least on a regular basis). But this week he is in McLean, VA at GEICO going through more training. Today, in fact, he's going to a crash center to watch crash tests on various vehicles.

 

I have to admit that I don't have it in me like I used to when he traveled. I used to be able to handle everything and anything while Rob's away & I watched B and worked. It is a little more stressful. Maybe because the times when it is just B and I and Rob traveling are now few and far between. It's usually me traveling now days.

 

All in all, this week's been pretty good. Monday we had Bradley's friend Payton over after school then B went to gymnastics. Tuesday was fairly low key - just finishing up home work. Yesterday was soccer practice - which was interesting. It was extremely windy. I showed up early to set up the cones and the soccer goals. Well...that didn't go so well. The wind was blowing so hard that the soccer goals acted more like sails on a boat. I tried to stake them in to the ground but the ground was so hard the stakes wouldn't go in...they would only bend. So after 30 minutes of quietly cursing out the goal another mom showed up and tried to help. We later determined soccer practice would be held without the goals. One of the other dad's filled in as a sub for Rob. At one point the kids (and coach) were doing yoga poses. The coach had asked "what other stretches do you guys do" and Bradley busts out one of the Wii Fit Yoga poses...and moments later the entire team is doing it. I should have taken a picture.

 

Rob comes home tomorrow (YAY). We have a full weekend of soccer, making chocolate easter treats with his friend Reilly and a birthday party for his friend Adam. Mommy may need nap time! :)

Today is our friend Kristi's birthday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRISTI!!!

 

Kristi & I (Steph) met in college. We were pledge sisters in Kappa and have been friends ever since.

 

Wish we were there to help you celebrate Kristi!

 

(Above is an oldie but goodie of Kristi & I in college at a Sig Ep, Rob's fraternity, party)

 

Last night Martini Ranch hosted a benefit concert for our friend and neighbor, Stephanie. Less than 2 months ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She's undergone 1 surgery...and has 1 to go (tomorrow). She had tons of friends, family and fans show up to show their support. Channel 12 news showed up to film parts for a segment on the event.

 

Should you want to help - or learn more - go to www.drumoutcancer.com

(above: Me & Stephanie at Martini Ranch)

This year my company took us to the Hotel del Coronado for our annual Week of Excellence. It was such a beautiful hotel. I haven't been there since probably elementary school. We were fortunate enough to have a hotel room overlooking the beach. It was so relaxing to hear the waves roll in at any time of day/night. It was nice to see friends and colleagues I rarely get to see. And to top it all off my mom flew home with me to visit for the weekend!!

Seriously!?! 

Check out our family videos page!

Bradley's 2nd class was Monday (3/16). This was his first "Level 1" Class. His last class - he was obviously the oldest. This class, he was probably the youngest. He's at a weird age where he's the youngest if he moves up and the oldest if he stays at Novice. But Bradley held his own with the older boys.

 

The coach/teacher seemed to be having an issue with the rotation of what equipment they'll be using. It seems other classes were using what they were supposed to be on. But they found where could go and got started. Bradley is still taking it very seriously. He loves it.

 

Rob is calling gymnastics good "cross training" for other sports. The important thing is that B is having fun, meeting other kids, and getting some exercise in.

 

During this week's class they practiced jumping on the trampoline. B was pretty good at his toe touches (both spread out and pike). Below is a picture from the 2nd floor observation deck of B bouncing on the tramp.

We want to wish Steph's friend Jaymie a very HAPPY Birthday!! Looking forward to seeing you next week!!!

 

  (Above: Stephanie & Jaymie, Las Vegas )

 

So yesterday was Bradley's 1st Class of gymnastics: Boys - Novice Class. There is a teacher/student ratio of 8:1. He has about 5-6 other kids in his class. They stretched, did some drills/exercises on the mat, and practiced getting up on the bar. Bradley was serious and focused the entire time. He left the class excited and pumped for next time. After class the teacher pulled me aside and told me he's already ready to move up to the Boys - Level 1 class. Bradley's so proud of himself (and we are too!!)

Above are two pictures from yesterday's class. The top one his jumping while doing a 360 spin (not flip). The second one Bradley's attempts at a toe touch (I caught this one as he was coming down). I took a video from my cell (on the video page) of him on the bars flipping over it. It's really poor quality due to how far away they were. But take a look if you're interested!!

On Friday Bradley's friend Reilly invited him to go to "Open Gym" at her Gymnastics center. He loved it! He was a little shy for a while - there were some older kids and he wasn't really familiar with how to use some of the equipment. But he had so much fun that he really didn't want to leave. As we were leaving he said he wanted to come back the next day! He had fun on the bars and the tumbling practice trampoline thing (like my technical terms!)

 

So today Bradley & I went back to the gym to sign him up for a weeknight gymnastics class for boys. He starts his first class tomorrow evening at 5pm. He's so excited!!

 

Will keep you updated how it goes!

Happy Birthday to Steph's uncle Philip!!

 

We hope you have a wonderful day!! We love & miss you!

Today Steph's brother, Ben, celebrates his 21st birthday! Carlsbad beware - stay inside!

 

We love you and hope you have a wonderful day, Ben!!!

 

Today is such a special day. Several wonderful people in our lives were born on March 7th!

 

Sprouts - aka Stephanie Terrazas - is celebrating her birthday today! Happy Birthday Sprouts! We miss you & hope to see you soon!

 

Steph here!

I just got back from the City of Sin. Unfortunately it wasn't for fun. I've been working on a project for a client of mine for the last 6 months. It was a challenging yet highly rewarding project where we had fantastic results and a highly satisfied client.

We did get some fun in though!

Bradley's tribute to President's Day

On Friday 2/13 Bradley had his Valentine's Party at school. I think his teacher, Ms. Avery, had the best party with a full spread of yummy treats and snacks and even a fondue station!!

(Above Picture: Bradley at the Fondue station with his Love Bug hat on.)

 

(Above Picture: Bradley with friends Tyler & Matt)

(Above Picture: Bradley's Class. Bradley is in the second row - second from the left)

Rob went back to soccer today...only a week after dislocating his shoulder at his last game. Lucky for him that all the players showed up so he actually had a chance to sub out and take a break.

 

All week this week it's been warm and sunny. Last night it started raining...and continued in to today. In fact...It was hailing. The best part? Bradley and I stayed in the rain and hail to watch Rob play soccer.

 

 

Bradley & Steph in the Rain at Rob's Game

 

Steph's soaked blanket with hail sitting on it.

 

Superbowl Sunday did not turn out as we envisioned it. Late Sunday morning Rob had his first soccer game of the season. During the 2nd 1/2 he and a player from the opposite team collided causing rob go fall in to the ground on his right shoulder. Rob played for about 10 minutes longer before pulling himself out of the game. After the game I took Rob to Mercy Gilbert Hospital ER. Around 3-4 hrs later Rob came out with a sling. Apparently he partially seperated his shoulder - at least that's what the ER dr says. He has an appt with the Ortho on Wednesday. He's still in pain. Hopefully he'll heal quickly and get better soon!

Friday Rob's dad came in to town for a special visit. It was sort of a last minute trip.

 

Grandpa got to see a game of Bradley's soccer season. It was a great game -we tyed. The other team scored in the last few minutes. Bradley introduced Wii Yahtzee to Grandpa - which started a whole series of games between the three Wadas boys.

 

Sunday we went to the driving range. This was Bradley's first trip to actually hit golf balls at the driving range. I (Steph) hadn't been since I was in my 1st/2nd trimester when I was pregnant with Bradley. I'm sure you can imagine I looked on that range after taking a nearly 7 year break! Bradley really started to get a good swing and get the hang of it. It will be fun to see Bradley starting to play full rounds of golf in the next few years as he gets better. 3 generations of Wadas boys and their competitive spirit may be a bit more than some courses can handle!

 

After lunch we took a trip over to South Mountain for a hike up the Telegraph Path. Along the way we saw some Indian rock carvings.

 

Bradley made it all the way up to the top of the path and walked the full 3 mile hike!

 

John left early Monday morning after walking Bradley to school. It was a fun visit!

This week Bradley was named "Star Student." This is chosen based on excellent behavior and/or outstanding academic performance. This was his week to shine in his class. He has gotten to bring in things to share, a poster about him and the kids in the class are going to each write a letter to him. 

Bradley had a great game - saved some goals while playing goal keeper and almost scored 2 goals himself. His team won 2-0. It was a fun game to watch!!

Friday night we visited a place we enjoy going...it's called San Tan Flat. It's pretty close to our house. It's has an indoor restaurant or outdoor dining. It's western themed with bands playing almost every night. The outdoor dining area has tables and fire pits so you can stay warm (during cooler months) and you can roast marshmallows! We went with some friends of ours who have two little girls (Reilly & Avery) - you probably see them often throughout our pictures. The kids had a lot of fun making SMORES and hanging out!

Yesterday Bradley had his first soccer game of the Winter 09 Season. Bradley started off as Goal Keeper, then Defense in the 2nd quarter and Offense in the 4th. Unfortunately they lost the game due to a goal that was pretty powerful (for a bunch of 6 year olds!). The kids seemed to have fun in their first time playing a game together. 

The above picture is of some homemade wrapping paper Bradley created for a gift he made Rob & I at his school. (A calendar). He put some special messages on his wrapping paper we thought would be cute to share!

• "I like Ginypigs" (Translation: I like guinea pigs. We're not sure where this one came from. )
• "I mis my Grate Granfather and ely" (Translation: I miss my great-grandfather and Ellie. Bradley's Great-grandfather he's referring to is Steph's grandad who died only a few months before Bradley was born. He really wishes he could have met him. Ellie is our kitty from California who didn't make the trip to AZ with us. For those who know Ellie - to know her is to love her.  )
• "Mackensie I like hr" (Translation: Mackensie I like her. Mackensie is a little girl in Bradley's class who, according to her mom, talks a lot about Bradley too. Cute little girl.)

Today is Steph's mom & step-dad's wedding anniversary! Happy Anniversary guys! We hope you have a special day!

Bradley & I want to wish Robby a very Happy 33rd Birthday! He's a wonderful husband and a fantastic dad.

We love you!! XOXO

 

It's amazing how much preparation goes in to the holidays and it's all over in a flash!

 

We had a great time while my mom was out for the week. Bradley's been off this last week during his winter quarter break. He's had a blast hanging out at home with Grammy & Mom. :) Christmas eve Steph's brother (Ben) & step-dad (Gil) drove out. We had our traditional Christmas Eve Chili dinner. This year we tried a spicy Vegetarian chili. (Check out our Recipes We love page for the recipe). We played the usual "Night before Christmas" Game we normally play. Steph won a Chipotle Gift card, B won a Jamba Juice gift card and Rob won a Target Gift card. Bradley also got to open his one present (see picture below). Steph made Gingerbread cookies for Santa. She was supposed to have help from B - but he got distracted with all the family in town. Steph made a special fleur-de-lys gingerbread cooking for herself and decorated it. Then Ben got a hold of the frosting and sprinkles and RUINED IT!

 

Christmas morning Steph, Rob and Alison (Steph's mom) woke up at the crack of dawn expecting Bradley to wake up before the sun rose. We waited...and waited...and waited. I think he woke up last out of everyone! Bradley had so much fun Christmas morning. He saw the elves left him candy in his boots, Santa left a special note for Bradley and all the generous gifts everyone gave him. This age is so fun to watch...experiencing Christmas through the eyes of a 6 year old.

 

Steph & Alison were in the kitchen most of the day on Christmas while the boys played. Rob & Ben (Steph for a short period) played poker. Rob got all in to character - sporting a look similar to what those in the World Series of Poker wear thanks to some safety glasses from Bradley's nerf game and his new UA hat.

 

All of Steph's family left on the 26th. :( It was great seeing everyone. We hope everyone enjoyed their holidays!

 

 

Monday evening the 1st grade classes at Bradley's elementary school performed in the "Celebration of Snowmen" Performance. It was very cute. They all had their handmade (by them) snowmen t-shirts on and sang their Holiday songs. Bradley even had a speaking part!

 

We've uploaded the pictures to the photo page - feel free to check them out. I'm in the process of editing and uploading the video...I should have that done by the end of today. Check back later!

 

Happy Holidays!

We want to wish Stephanie's Aunt Meri a very Happy Birthday!

 

XOXO

We got back yesterday from a fun trip up to the Grand Canyon and Polar Express (Williams, AZ).

 

We drove up to the Grand Canyon on Saturday morning. We made great time and got up there a little after lunch time. It was SO cold and the wind was crazy! We walked around the South Rim of the canyon and explored the area.

Bradley took part in the Jr. Ranger program and got his National Park Service Passport stamped with the Grand Canyon stamp. He wears his badge with pride! We also saw some elk or mule deer - none of us are animal buffs so we couldn't tell which animal they were. They were huge and were eating right next to the road.

 

After our visit to the GC we checked in to our hotel. Not a lot of choices up there but we found a good hotel. On the website it showed they had a "western style" restaurant attached with western shows. Thinking this would be a great idea to take Bradley to we went there for dinner. BIG MISTAKE! No entertainment for the night. The TVs were on with a Spanish TV station/Univision on every one. We got rolls (not even warmed up) fresh from a bag from the store. Prices resembled that of a relatively nice steak house - but the food and service was more like Denny's. To top it off there was some show on the TV station which looked like a stripper competition. A bunch of women in underwear doing cheesy dances for 3 judges - like the American Idol for hispanic strippers. NOT FUN!

 

We woke up to snow! We ate breakfast and headed back up to the Grand Canyon. It is beautiful in the snow. After the quick trip up to the Grand Canyon on Sunday we drove down to Williams, AZ. We met some friends down there for The Polar Express. (www.thetrain.com/polarexpress ) The kids (including parents) had a fun snowball fight.

Before we boarded the train the kids sat on Santa's lap and had their pictures taken. The train ride was fun. It takes about 40 minutes to get to the "North Pole" - on the trip to the pole the kids listen to the story while eating cookies and drinking hot chocolate. Then you arrive and Santa boards the train. He comes around to each child and hands them a bell. On the way back to the train station we sang Christmas songs. The kids were exhausted but had a blast. Anybody with children should take them on this train ride. It's definitely a memory maker!

We drove home the next morning in time to make it to Bradley's Snowman Performance!

 

We're changing our site again! I'm (Steph) on a mission to simplify and organize. And keeping everything on Shutterfly (which I love) is the way to go.

 

We'll be shutting down our former site (on wordpress) at the end of this year. Hope everyone's doing great!

 

 

So we get back from our trip up north.  It is always nice to be the driver while everyone else sleeps.  I always make sure to play my radio really loud and sing as loud as I can to keep everyone else up, but usually does not work since I get bored easily.

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4-27-12 CLF 035.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 036.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 037.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 038.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 039.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 040.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 043.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 044.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 046.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 047.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 048.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 052.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 CLF 053.jpg 2012-04-27

4-27-12 Congress Bridge 001.jpg
4-27-12 Congress Bridge 001.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 Congress Bridge 002.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 Congress Bridge 006.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 Congress Bridge 003.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 Congress Bridge 004.jpg 2012-04-27

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4-27-12 Congress Bridge 005.jpg 2012-04-27

4-28-12 CLF 001.jpg
4-28-12 CLF 001.jpg 2012-04-28

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4-28-12 CLF 020.jpg 2012-04-28

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4-28-12 CLF 021.jpg 2012-04-28

4-14-12 NASCAR 001.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 001.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 002.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 006.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 008.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 009.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 010.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 011.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 013.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 014.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 015.jpg 2012-04-14

4-14-12 NASCAR 032.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 032.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 033.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 034.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 035.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 036.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 037.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 038.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 039.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 016.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 017.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 021.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 022.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 040.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 041.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 042.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 043.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 044.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 045.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 046.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 047.jpg 2012-04-14

4-14-12 NASCAR 023.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 023.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 024.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 025.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 026.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 027.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 028.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 029.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 051.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 052.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 053.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 055.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 056.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 057.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 058.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 030.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 031.jpg 2012-04-14

4-14-12 NASCAR 060.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 060.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 061.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 062.jpg 2012-04-14

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4-14-12 NASCAR 063.jpg 2012-04-14

4-14-12 NASCAR 064.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 064.jpg 2012-04-14

4-14-12 NASCAR 049.jpg
4-14-12 NASCAR 049.jpg 2012-04-15

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 001.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 001.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 002.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 002.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 003.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 003.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 004.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 004.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 005.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 005.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 006.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 006.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 007.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 007.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 008.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 008.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 009.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 009.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 010.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 010.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 011.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 011.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 012.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 012.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 013.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 013.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 014.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 014.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 015.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 015.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 016.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 016.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 017.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 017.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 018.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 018.jpg 2012-01-27

1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 019.jpg
1-27-12 AW Soccer Game 019.jpg 2012-01-27

12-3-11 Brads Stocking 001.JPG
12-3-11 Brads Stocking 001.JPG 2011-12-02

12-3-11 Stephs Stocking 001.JPG
12-3-11 Stephs Stocking 001.JPG 2011-12-02

12-5-11 Xmas Card 001.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 001.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 007.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 007.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 002.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 002.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 006.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 006.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 003.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 003.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 005.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 005.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 004.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 004.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 004.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 004.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 005.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 005.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 003.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 003.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 006.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 006.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 002.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 002.jpg 2011-12-05

12-5-11 Xmas Card 007.JPG
12-5-11 Xmas Card 007.JPG 2011-12-05

12-2011 Bradley - Tree 001.jpg
12-2011 Bradley - Tree 001.jpg 2011-12-05

12-2011 - Christmas Tree 001.jpg
12-2011 - Christmas Tree 001.jpg 2011-12-10

12-2011 - Christmas Tree 003.jpg
12-2011 - Christmas Tree 003.jpg 2011-12-10

12-2011 - Christmas Tree 002.jpg
12-2011 - Christmas Tree 002.jpg 2011-12-10

12-22-11 Hoovers 001.jpg
12-22-11 Hoovers 001.jpg 2011-12-22

12-22-11 Hoovers 002.jpg
12-22-11 Hoovers 002.jpg 2011-12-22

12-22-11 Hoovers 003.jpg
12-22-11 Hoovers 003.jpg 2011-12-22

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12-22-11 Hoovers 004.jpg 2011-12-22

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12-22-11 Hoovers 005.jpg 2011-12-22

12-22-11 Hoovers 006.jpg
12-22-11 Hoovers 006.jpg 2011-12-22

12-23-11 San Antonio 024.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 024.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 023.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 023.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 025.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 026.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 027.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 028.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 029.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 030.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 031.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 032.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 002.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 002.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 003.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 004.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 004.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 005.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 006.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 006.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 007.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 007.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 008.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 008.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 009.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 009.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 010.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 010.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 011.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 011.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 012.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 033.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 033.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 013.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 013.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 014.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 015.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 016.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 017.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 019.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 021.jpg
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12-23-11 San Antonio 022.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 022.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 001.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 001.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 035.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 036.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 037.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 038.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 038.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 039.jpg
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12-23-11 San Antonio 040.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 040.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 041.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 041.jpg 2011-12-23

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12-23-11 San Antonio 043.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 043.jpg 2011-12-23

12-23-11 San Antonio 044.jpg
12-23-11 San Antonio 044.jpg 2011-12-23

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 001.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 001.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 002.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 002.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 003.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 003.jpg 2011-12-25

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12-25-11 Christmas Morning 004.jpg 2011-12-25

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12-25-11 Christmas Morning 005.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 006.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 006.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 007.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 007.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 008.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 008.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 009.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 009.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 010.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 010.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 011.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 011.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 012.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 012.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 013.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 013.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 014.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 014.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 015.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 015.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 016.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 016.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Morning 017.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Morning 017.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 001.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 001.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 002.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 002.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 003.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 003.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 004.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 004.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 005.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 005.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 006.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 006.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 007.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 007.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 008.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 008.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 009.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 009.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 010.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 010.jpg 2011-12-25

12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 011.jpg
12-25-11 Christmas Dinner 011.jpg 2011-12-25

11-20-11 San Diego 001.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 002.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 004.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 003.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 005.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 006.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 007.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 008.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 009.jpg
11-20-11 Walk on the Beach

11-20-11 San Diego 010.jpg


11-20-11 San Diego 000.jpg
11-20-11 Waiting at the Austin Airport to fly to SD

11-20-11 San Diego 000-1.jpg
11-20-11 Waiting at the Austin Airport to fly to SD

11-20-11 San Diego 011.jpg


11-20-11 San Diego 012.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 013.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 014.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 015.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 016.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 017.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 018.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 019.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 020.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 021.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 022.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 023.jpg
11-20-11 playing outside

11-20-11 San Diego 024.jpg
Mom & Gil's new Kitchen: Light Fixtures

11-20-11 San Diego 025.jpg
Mom & Gil's new Kitchen: Tile

11-20-11 San Diego 026.jpg
Mom & Gil's new Kitchen: white cabinet molding

11-20-11 San Diego 027.jpg
Mom & Gil's new Kitchen: cabinet molding

11-20-11 San Diego 028.jpg
Mom & Gil's new Kitchen:new fridge with cabinets on top

11-21-11 San Diego 029.jpg
11-21-11 Fortin Family

11-21-11 San Diego 030.jpg
11-21-11 Fortin Family

11-21-11 San Diego 031.jpg
Rob & Jack

11-21-11 San Diego 032.jpg
Jack

11-21-11 San Diego 033.jpg
11-21-11 Jack

11-21-11 San Diego 034.jpg
11-21-11 Dinner at Sammy's

11-23-11 Disneyland 001.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland

11-23-11 Disneyland 002.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland - Haunted Mansion

11-23-11 Disneyland 003.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland - Haunted Mansion

11-23-11 Disneyland 004.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland - Space Mountain

11-23-11 Disneyland 005.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland - Space Mountain Photo

11-23-11 Disneyland 006.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland

11-23-11 Disneyland 007.jpg
11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Tired People!

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11-23-11 Disneyland Roger Rabbit Ride

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Roger Rabbit Ride

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Roger Rabbit Ride

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Dinner at Rainforest Cafe

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Dinner at Rain Forest Cafe

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11-23-11 Disneyland - Dinner at Rain Forest Cafe

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11-24-11 Disneyland

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Space Mountain

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11-24-11 Disneyland - crazy mob trying to get in to the newly reopened Pirates of the Caribbean

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Crazy mob at Pirates

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11-24-11 Disneyland - submarine ride

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11-24-11 Disneyland - waiting in line at autopia

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Brad driving car @ Autopia Ride

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Rob at Autopia

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Mom and Ben on Autopia

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Brad on Autopia

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Mom and Ben on Autopia

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Mickey Ears - R2D2 Style

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11-24-11 Disneyland - California Screamin' with Kristi

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Kristi and Steph

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Kristi and Steph

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11-24-11 Disneyland - California Adventure

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Action Figure Brad

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Action Figure Brad

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Rob and Brad playing carni games

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11-24-11 Disneyland - California Adventure

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11-24-11 Disneyland - California Adventure

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11-24-11 Disneyland - California Adventure

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11-24-11 Disneyland - After Rapids Ride #3

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11-24-11 Disneyland - After Rapids Ride #3

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Brad getting his badges and saying the pledge

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11-24-11 Disneyland

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11-24-11 Disneyland

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Brad is now in to the pin trading. This was his first official "trade"

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Look at my pins!

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Team Wadas

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11-24-11 Disneyland - mini parade/show

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11-24-11 Disneyland - mini parade/show

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11-24-11 Disneyland - the incredibles

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Wadas Family

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Wadas Family

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11-24-11 Disneyland - on the raft ride over to Tom Sawyer's Island (now pirate's cove or something like that)

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11-24-11 Disneyland - exploring the island

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11-24-11 Disneyland - exploring the island

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11-24-11 Disneyland - feet hurt, so tired

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11-24-11 Disneyland - just walk away :)

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11-24-11 Disneyland - look at the genuine smile there

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11-24-11 Disneyland - on the raft from Tom Sawyer's Island

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11-24-11 Disneyland - smile :)

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11-24-11 Disneyland - OUUUCHHHH!

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Rob and Steph

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Rob and Steph

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11-24-11 Disneyland - On our way to Thanksgiving Dinner

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Waiting to be seated...Steph's look of death

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11-24-11 Disneyland - Thanksgiving appetizers

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11-25-11 San Diego: Breakfast with Grandpa John

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11-25-11 San Diego: Wadas Boys

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11-25-11 San Diego: Wadas Boys

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Play time

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11-25-11 San Diego: Thanksgiving Meal

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11-25-11 San Diego:Thanksgiving Meal

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11-25-11 San Diego: Thanksgiving Meal (smoked Turkey)

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11-25-11 San Diego: Cantalope (random photo)

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11-25-11 San Diego: Hanging out

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11-25-11 San Diego: Shells

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11-25-11 San Diego: Thanksgiving Meal

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11-25-11 San Diego: Thanksgiving Meal

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11-25-11 San Diego: Grammy and Brad's Fort

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10-29-11 Teravista 5K 001.jpg
Rob and Brad walking to the start line (Brad is a goalie and Rob is a ref)

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Finish Line

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Rob and Brad warming up

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The grown ups at the starting line

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The sunrise

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10-29-11 Bradley's race bib

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...and they're off

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The start 5k

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The start 5k

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Robby

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Robby the happy runner

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going....going....

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gone...

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10-29-11 Approaching the finish line

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Here he comes

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He doesn't look as happy as he did when he started

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Approaching the finish

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He finished in about 32 minutes

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He finished!

10-21-11 Country LIving Fair Map 001.jpg
Map of the fair

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Ring Holder

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Twig star

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moulding

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painting

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Berry basket

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W

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Ballard Designs Outlet

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A full day of traveling...Austin, Houston to Charlston

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Driving from Charleston, SC to Stone Mountain, GA

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My view from the passenger's seat

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We made it to Georgia!

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Pit stop in Augusta. Mom loves her maps

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Before the fair began. Waiting in line for the Country Living Fair

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The fair is open!

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First booth we visited - Earth Angels - a collection of several artists. Mom and I picked up some fabric

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Earth Angels booth

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Pumpkins and Gords

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The pumpkin mountain. So pretty with all the fall colors

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The Country Liviing Store. Full of cute things

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These ladies had two little trailers. This one (Bookmobile) was all about books, reading, etc. Reminded me of my cousin Lela

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A little sign on the book mobile

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The fair was right up to the water. These were the canoes stored up. Right next to a vendor selling beautiful hand crafted canoes (reminded me of my uncle Philip)

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Beautiful hand crafted canoe

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Vendors & shopping at The Country Living Fair

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Loved this little shops signs.

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Would love to have one of her signs...but wouldn't fit in my luggage :)

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More shopping among the beautiful background

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Loved this booth. So many cute oilcloth items. I bought a petite yet oh so adorable ring holder at this booth.

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Table decor at the Country Living Cafe

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Yummy snack mom and I shared. Those green beans were fresh and SOOO good.

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After our snack....got our second wind for more booths.

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Pumpkins made out of cloth

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YAY!

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I forgot the artist for this piece. But it was so beautiful and colorful. Loved it.

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Cute chairs (so not practical for my house though)

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Me and the pumpkins

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Me and the pumpkins

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Mom and the pumpkins

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Mom and the pumpkins

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another photo of the pumpkins and gourds. Loved the colors!

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Stone Mountain Park: Brad would have loved this place!

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Stone Mountain Park

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Stone Mountain Park

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Me at Stone Mountain Park

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Me at Stone Mountain Park

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Stone Mountain Park

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Mom at Stone Mountain Park

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Mom at Stone Mountain Park

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Stone Mountain Park

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Stone Mountain Park

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Sky Lift at Stone Mountain Park

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Stone Mountain Park had information about the States that were part of the Confederacy. Very interesting. This was the area that gave info about TX

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Stone Mountain Park had information about the States that were part of the Confederacy. Very interesting. This was the area that gave info about TX

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Stone Mountain Park had information about the States that were part of the Confederacy. Very interesting. This was the area that gave info about TX

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Stone Mountain Park had information about the States that were part of the Confederacy. Very interesting. This was the area that gave info about TX

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Stone Mountain Park - full of beautiful trees...TALL Trees

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Mom getting her ticket for the Sky Lift

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way up the mountain on the Sky Lift

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way up the mountain on the Sky Lift

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Stone Mountain Park - At the Top

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Stone Mountain Park - At the top

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Stone Mountain Park - At the top (Atlanta in the very background)

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Stone Mountain Park (me at the top)

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Stone Mountain Park (mom & I at the top)

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Stone Mountain Park - At the top

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Stone Mountain Park - shadow of our sky lift...on our way down

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way down

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way down

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way down

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way down

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Stone Mountain Park - On our way down

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Welcome to Atlanta

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Atlanta, GA - Olympic Centennial Park

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Atlanta, GA - Olympic Centennial Park

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Atlanta, GA - Olympic Centennial Park

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Atlanta, GA - Me at Olympic Centennial Park

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Atlanta, GA - Olympic Centennial Park

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We saw probably over 100 Waffle Houses on our trip. At one point mom and I made a bet of how many Waffle Houses we would see from Atlanta, GA to Savannah GA. I won :)

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Our car

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Savannah, GA - Cute name for a restaurant

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Trip to Ballard Designs Outlet - YAY - Got two cute things at a great price. This bad boy was originally $50 and I got it for about $14. Though...I had to ship it home.

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Savannah, GA - Kayak Kafe - Mom and her Fried Chicken Tacos

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Savannah, GA - beautiful old buildings

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Savannah, GA - fountain in front of the old Cotton Exchange

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Savannah, GA - Old Cotton Exchange

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Savannah, GA - Old Cotton Exchange

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Savannah, GA - Near River St

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Savannah, GA - Mom on bridge near River st.

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Savannah, GA - I loved the huge old trees with the moss growing on them.

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Savannah, GA - I loved the huge old trees with the moss growing on them.

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Savannah, GA - beautiful old brick with moss growing on it.

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Savannah, GA - these stairs were crazy. Probably like 2 feet rise on each step. It took us a while to get down these crazy steps. YOu can see how steep they are!

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Savannah, GA - River St

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Savannah, GA - beautiful boats

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Savannah, GA - Beautiful Boats

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Savannah, GA - Beautiful boat with my beautiful mom

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Savannah, GA - me and the Peacemaker

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Savannah, GA - Beautiful Boats

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Savannah, GA - Mom and her maps (again)

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Savannah, GA - Mom and I at Kayak Kafe

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Savannah, GA - Lulu's Chocolate Bar (ice cream cones and cappuccino brownie)

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park (Revolutionary War)

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park (Revolutionary War)

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park (Revolutionary War) - Many of the stones had stories of people who took part in the war. This stone hit me...this boy was 13 years old. Had so much done to him and grew up to be a great man.

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Savannah, GA - Savannah Battleground Park (Revolutionary War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Me and the Fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - me and the fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Mom and the fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Mom and the fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Mom and the fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War) - Me and the fountain

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - Forsyth Park (Civil War)

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Savannah, GA - beautiful building details

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Savannah, GA - beautiful building details

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Savannah, GA - beautiful building details

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Savannah, GA - I loved all the little squares. Each were a unique park in its own with its own history. Each of them had statues, fountains, areas to sit and relax. So beautiful

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Savannah, GA - We took a trip to Paula Deen's store. While in the South - you mind as well check out what all the fuss is about :)

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Savannah, GA - Paula Deen's Store

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Savannah, GA - We ate at Paula Deen's restaurant for lunch one day. It was SO filling.

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Savannah, GA - Paula Deen's Restaurant lunch. So filling. Probably, some of the tastiest lima beans I've ever eaten though

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Savannah, GA - Paula Deen Store

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Savannah, GA - Mom and I at One of the town's squares

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Savannah, GA - Mom and her cute Marilyn pose

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Savannah, GA - I refused to pose...but did get a good laugh out of it

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Savannah, GA - DOILY CENTRAL. So many places sold doilies.

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Savannah, GA - Paula Deen Restaurant Lunch

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Savannah, GA - Paula Deen Restaurant Lunch (yummmmmy biscuits)

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Savannah, GA - another beautiful fountain in a square

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Savannah, GA - sunlight coming through the cover of old pretty trees in one of the squares

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Savannah, GA - sunlight coming through the cover of old pretty trees in one of the squares

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Savannah, GA - Oldest Episcopal Church

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Tybee Island, GA - Lighthouse (the pink you see floating off the light house is for Breast Cancer Awareness Month - while I fully support the cause...it kind of ruined the shot)

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Tybee Island, GA - Lighthouse

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Tybee Island, GA - Lighthouse flag

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Tybee Island, GA - Lighthouse

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Tybee Island, GA - YMCA - This YMCA was very nice (from the outside). Took the photo for my mom.

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Tybee Island, GA - I wanted to take this sign with me. So cute for a lifeguard sign

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Tybee Island, GA - Drift Wood on the beach

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Tybee Island, GA - Beach

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Tybee Island, GA - My little sausage toes got to feel the Atlantic Ocean. First time for me to feel the water of the Atlantic Ocean

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Tybee Island, GA - Pier

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Tybee Island, GA - Beach

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Tybee Island, GA - Mom and I at the beach

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Tybee Island, GA - Mom and I at the beach

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Tybee Island, GA - the beach fences. LOVED THEM!

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Tybee Island - Lighthouse

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Tybee Island, GA - the beach fences.

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Tybee Island, GA - the beach fences.

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Tybee Island, GA - Leaving the Island

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Tybee Island GA - Leaving the Island

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Tybee Island, GA - Beach Fences

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Tybee Island, GA - leaving the island...drawbridge letting in sail boats and fishing boats

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Tybee Island, GA - leaving the island...drawbridge letting in sail boats and fishing boats

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Savannah, GA - horse drawn carriages were popular for tours. Felt bad for the poor horses carrying large amounts of large people

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Savannah, GA - leaving Savannah

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Hilton Head, SC - Harbor

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Hilton Head, SC - Harbor

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Hilton Head, SC - beautiful sail boat

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Hilton Head, SC - Sail Boat

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Hilton Head, SC - Beautiful Golf Courses

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Hilton Head, SC - View from the car on our way in to Hilton Head

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Hilton Head, SC - View from the car on our way in to Hilton Head

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Hilton Head, SC - View from the car on our way in to Hilton Head

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Hilton Head, SC - Such a beautiful beach!

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Hilton Head, SC - Such a beautiful beach!

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Hilton Head, SC - Me on the beach

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Hilton Head, SC - Me on the beach

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Charleston, SC - Market

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Charleston, SC - Henry's Bar & Restaurant. Took this photo for my uncle Hal.

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Charleston, SC - Streets outside the Market

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Charleston, SC - Big Episcopal Church. Beautiful!

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Charleston, SC - There were cemeteries all over the place. Old cemeteries. Some dating back to the 1700's

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Charleston, SC - This little grave was in one of the cemeteries... Little Lily

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Charleston, SC - Another beautiful church

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Charleston, SC - Loved the plants in this fountain.

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Charleston, SC - Mom and I had our last dinner together at the famous Poogan's Porch

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Charleston, SC - While I got a kick out of some of the delicacies such as "Fried Alligator Salad" - I didn't order any

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Charleston, SC - Poogan's Porch had the yummiest biscuits

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Charleston, SC - Poogan's Porch

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Charleston, SC - Poogan's Porch appetizer. Rich gouda mac and cheese with ham

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5-9-05 granny and lacy family.jpg
2011-03-17

4-1995 granny aaron hal at cows.jpg
2011-03-17

3-1988 baby ben and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

4-4-04 b rob gg stef.jpg
2011-03-17

2-14-03 bradley and gg.jpg
2011-03-17

5-9-04 granny smiling.jpg
2011-03-17

3 generations 8-2002.jpg
2011-03-17

mom granny meri cory april 200
2001-01-14

meri mom and granny april 2005
2001-01-14

Philip Granny and Mom enchante
2001-01-17

Corys House april 2005.JPG
2001-01-19

4 generations 2002.JPG
2002-09-07

4 generations 1 2002.JPG
2002-09-16

granny and andrew Feb 2003.JPG
2003-02-15

Granny and Alison on Alaska Cr
2003-08-07

Meri Alison and Granny at gran
2003-12-13

meri keith cory granny alison.
2003-12-13

granny and leela at graduation
2003-12-13

granny and family at the yaugh
2004-07-27

staci and micaela.JPG
2004-07-28

family at wickes reunion on co
2004-08-06

granny at dinner table at wick
2005-03-15

meri and granny laughing 2005.
2005-03-31

coloryoungb.JPG
2005-06-29

Young Virgie on boat.JPG
2005-06-30

young virgie on deck.JPG
2005-06-30

andrew and granny 6-2000.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and philip 50th wedding
2011-03-17

granny and grandad wedding.jpg
2011-03-17

5-9-05 granny and lacy family.
2011-03-17

granny and meri waiting for fr
2011-03-17

granny with daughter camping o
2011-03-17

Granny Sailing.jpg
2011-03-17

granny grannys mom alison and
2011-03-17

1999 granny and grandad cuttin
2011-03-17

june 1995 granny alison steph
2011-03-17

1986 meri granny cory.jpg
2011-03-17

90s granny grandad steph and b
2011-03-17

8-8-04 wickes family.jpg
2011-03-17

granny steph grandad in pt lud
2011-03-17

1970 meri alison betsy granny
2011-03-17

granny holding baby 97.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and andrew vermont 2001
2011-03-17

Dec 1985 granny smiling.jpg
2011-03-17

90s betsy granny and grandad.j
2011-03-17

1990s granny and grandad with
2011-03-17

45th anniversary granny andrew
2011-03-17

1953 alison and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

1994 granny and steph in WA.jp
2011-03-17

granny at grandads surprise bd
2011-03-17

granny alsion and grandad.jpg
2011-03-17

80s hal and granny after hal a
2011-03-17

granny and grandad jan 97 buch
2011-03-17

90s granny and the twins in pt
2011-03-17

Granny and young meri.jpg
2011-03-17

70s or 80s granny and grandad.
2011-03-17

gil granny alison grandad and
2011-03-17

granny and grandad 50th weddin
2011-03-17

granny and grandad christmas t
2011-03-17

granny and philip at the locks
2011-03-17

1990s granny and ben cooking.j
2011-03-17

9-1976 granny and baby stephie
2011-03-17

granny and meri buchart garden
2011-03-17

christmas time with granny.jpg
2011-03-17

4-1995 granny aaron hal at cow
2011-03-17

1988 granny and baby ben.jpg
2011-03-17

1994 granny staci aaron and le
2011-03-17

granny reading to baby keith a
2011-03-17

granny and grandad pt ludlow w
2011-03-17

alison and granny at meris.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and alison 1980s.jpg
2011-03-17

1989 at bens baptism.jpg
2011-03-17

cory granny and the twins.jpg
2011-03-17

12-1993 Granny keith micaela.j
2011-03-17

family on mountain wickes reun
2011-03-17

wickes family at 50th wedding
2011-03-17

granny and toddler stephanie.j
2011-03-17

granny hiking in wa mtns near
2011-03-17

granny grandad and mom at wedd
2011-03-17

12-11-03 everyone but hal.jpg
2011-03-17

9-1979 Granny.jpg
2011-03-17

St Thomas Granny michaela keit
2011-03-17

45th anniversary family pic.jp
2011-03-17

9-1993 steph and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and grandad and hal and
2011-03-17

granny sailing on meris small
2011-03-17

Easter 1980s.jpg
2011-03-17

grandads birthday - granny sit
2011-03-17

5-1954 grandad and alison.jpg
2011-03-17

80s betsy and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

8-8-04 wickes family at hidden
2011-03-17

granny ben and steph.jpg
2011-03-17

1994 hal aaron and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and infant stephanie 1.
2011-03-17

granny and meri 1980.jpg
2011-03-17

Granny alison stef easter 1980
2011-03-17

granny grandad meri the locks
2011-03-17

granny and steph aerospace mus
2011-03-17

wickeschildrengrannybw.jpg
2011-03-17

1980s betsy hal meri steph cor
2011-03-17

granny and meri at stagecoach
2011-03-17

1990s granny and the twins.jpg
2011-03-17

5-18-98 granny and flowers.jpg
2011-03-17

80s meri granny steph alison.j
2011-03-17

60s or 70s granny and grandad.
2011-03-17

granny and old man in garden.j
2011-03-17

Granny Easter 1962 All the Kid
2011-03-17

granny and grandad vermont 200
2011-03-17

50s or 60s granny grandad and
2011-03-17

3-1988 baby ben and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

12-30-05 granny and alison get
2011-03-17

granny grandad and leela at me
2011-03-17

Granny Camping.jpg
2011-03-17

2-14-03 bradley and gg.jpg
2011-03-17

granny under a tree wickes reu
2011-03-17

Granny and Aaron 1994.jpg
2011-03-17

family picture at brenda and h
2011-03-17

1977 granny grandad alison ste
2011-03-17

granny and andrew in pt ludlow
2011-03-17

granny and meri hiking up to m
2011-03-17

granny and andrew at confirmat
2011-03-17

4-4-04 b rob gg stef.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and grandad cutting cak
2011-03-17

1990s granny grandad and ben o
2011-03-17

granny grandad 50th wedding an
2011-03-17

granny and leela in san antoni
2011-03-17

8-8-04 leela granny and cory.j
2011-03-17

granny in canoe oct 1978.jpg
2011-03-17

5-9-04 granny smiling.jpg
2011-03-17

1953 grannys mom and alison.jp
2011-03-17

Granny Ben Stef Jan 1995.jpg
2011-03-17

Granny 1998.JPG
2011-03-17

meri granny hal and andrew.jpg
2011-03-17

1990s granny at carlsbad house
2011-03-17

aaron granny andrew 12-02.jpg
2011-03-17

granny paper doll in europe.jp
2011-03-17

9-1976 granny and infant steph
2011-03-17

5-1965 cory alison betsy phili
2011-03-17

1980s granny and grandad in re
2011-03-17

12-1994 granny and grandad.jpg
2011-03-17

granny and kids aug 1961.jpg
2011-03-17

Granny - AYC 5-2002.jpg
2011-03-17

1999 granny and grandad renewi
2011-03-17

granny and grandad 45th annive
2011-03-17

granny and grandad pt ludlow w
2011-03-17

1999 granny and steph at anniv
2011-03-17

hal brenda grandad and granny.
2011-03-17

granny and grandad at carlsbad
2011-03-17

cory and granny.jpg
2011-03-17

1977 granny baby steph and ali
2011-03-17

granny and kids christmas 1960
2011-03-17

Granny and scruffy grandad.jpg
2011-03-17

12-30-05 granny and grandad at
2011-03-17

80s family pic out at betsys.j
2011-03-17

Granny and Bradley August 2002
2011-03-17

1980s granny and leela in airp
2011-03-17

3 generations 8-2002.jpg
2011-03-17

grandad and infant stephanie.j
2011-03-17

5-2002 Steph ALison Granny Mar
2011-03-17

granny aaron and hal at aaron
2011-03-17

12-1999 granny and ben at 50th
2011-03-17

2-4-11 Snow Day 001.jpg


2-4-11 Snow Day 002.jpg


2-4-11 Snow Day 003.jpg
WADAS - in snow

2-4-11 Snow Day 004.jpg
WADAS - in snow

2-4-11 Snow Day 005.jpg
Looking down the street Friday morning

2-4-11 Snow Day 006.jpg
Rob taking the trash out - look how happy he is!

2-4-11 Snow Day 007.jpg
Not a lot of snow (probably will melt by noon) -but it's still fun!

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So bright out!

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Snow day with mom & B

2-4-11 Snow Day 011.jpg
Brad

2-4-11 Snow Day 012.jpg
Running in the snow

2-4-11 Snow Day 013.jpg
Yay for Snow! No School!

2-4-11 Snow Day 008.jpg
Cheese

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 002.jpg
Tiny Little bat - about the size of a chicken nugget

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 003.jpg
Tiny Little bat - about the size of a chicken nugget

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 004.jpg
Tiny Little bat - about the size of a chicken nugget

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 005.jpg
The blue light in the background means that they've found over 100 more feet of cave past the light. This particular area goes on for a mile or so.

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 006.jpg
1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 006.jpg 2011-01-22

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 007.jpg
Soda straws - if you break one of these off it's hollow in the middle - so you could use it as a straw.

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 008.jpg
1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 008.jpg 2011-01-22

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 009.jpg
1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 009.jpg 2011-01-22

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the rock of temptation - the only place you could touch. (Due to someone years ago touching it. Due to the oils in the skin, the rock stopped growing)

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Another little bat. Normally they're brown. But when they hibernate, they can turn white. This is due to the water dripping on to them...it can crystallize on their fur and make it look white

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 012.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 013.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 014.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 015.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 016.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 017.jpg 2011-01-22

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Many Many MANY years ago, TX used to be under the GUlf of Mexico. That worm looking thing is where shrimp used to live and hide from other creatures wanting to eat them

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 019.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 020.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 021.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 023.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 024.jpg 2011-01-22

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Those two brown columns in the middle took about over a million years to create. Apparently they grow about an inch every 100 years.

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 026.jpg 2011-01-22

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That fog is the humidity in the air

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 028.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 029.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 030.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 032.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 034.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 037.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 041.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 042.jpg 2011-01-22

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Old dig site. They don't dig up the bones anymore due to the humidity. It's caused the bones to deteriorate to the point that if you picked one up it would fall apart in your hand. There is a small baby mammoth leg bone just above this dig site they left

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 044.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 045.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 046.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 047.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 048.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 049.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 050.jpg 2011-01-22

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1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 051.jpg 2011-01-22

1-22-11 Inner Space Caverns 001.jpg
In the tram, down the hill, in to the entrance of the cave.