Team Hall

Girly Getaway!

2012-01-16T12:03:00.000-08:00

Sarah and I made a trip to Austin to visit our dear friend, Lindsay, who moved there last summer. Our first stop was to see my college bff and roommate, Amanda, and her new baby boy, Abel! What a little pumpkin he is looking just like his big bro and his mama!

Big bro, Rhett, was napping most of the time, but I was able to squeeze this cute little bed-head before we left.

Lindsay shipped her husband Jeremy and two cute kids off to her in-laws and we enjoyed a relaxing weekend EATING, talking A LOT, sleeping and just catching up! Friday night we enjoyed some Mexican food at The Oasis.

Saturday we slept late and then headed to see some Austin highlights. We choose our lunch spot based on Jeremy's recommendation and seemed popular since the line was long (like one full hour to get in the door)! With no kids and no schedule, we didn't care! It was worth the wait for some HopDoddy's burgers! Don't judge the size of Lindsay's and my burger! We are both feeding two, ha!

We checked out the food trailers and got a cupcake from Hey Cupcake!

We are not really pedi girls, considering no one had had one in 6 months or so, but we enjoyed thoroughly!

Saturday night we chatted more, pigged out again and chuckled at the Miss America pageant! I had to make them check out the Tebow (I mean, Denver:) score too. Sunday morning we ate breakfast at yummy little cafe close to Lindsay's house and then Sarah and I headed back to Dallas. It was precious time with two precious friends that I cherish so much! We missed our 6 kids and husbands but time with my lady friends was such a blessing!

Thank you to Honey for loving on my babes the first night we were gone! Dave was supposed to go hunting all weekend, but unfortunately got cancelled and he had the babes the second night. I came home to my sweet family and a spic and span house on Sunday, what a guy?!!!

New Years Rockin' Eve...

2012-01-08T05:56:00.001-08:00

New Years Eve seems to be an overrated holiday in our book. We always do something very low key or not much at all. This year we got together with good friends, the Scotts and the Arringtons. We all brought the kids and kept them up way past their bedtime. It was a great way to ring in the New Year!

Cuddling friends- Sean, Kaelin, Anna and Shae

The kids told us they were in a band!

Anna adores these two!

Ashley and Ryan- those nuts!

We made Heather and Jim do the "prom pose."

We are so boring!

Thank to the sweet Scotts for having us for a Rockin' New Years Eve!

Watkins Christmas Finale:(

2012-01-07T13:22:00.001-08:00

We ended our Watkins Christmas extravaganza with a fun night of Baylor football! We had to watch RGIII and the Bears in some bowl action all together at H&P's house!

We continued our tradition of a fish fry over Christmas. Papa worked hard frying' up the fish, hush puppies and fries!

Sweet Georgia!

G loved the fish too!

Sweet cuzzys!

G's favorite is always dessert.

Wouldn't be a gathering at H&P's without a donut tree! The kids planted the seeds the night before (cheerios.)

Woohoo, the donuts grew!!

These next few were New Years Eve when we had to say bye to the Junods. boo:(((!

Prayers before our last lunch together.

H&P and their 5 loves!

These next few bring on a wave emotion all over again. Let's just say there were no pics taken of the adults, especially the women! It is always so hard to say goodbye! We made wonderful memories again with the Junods, but are praying them back to the U.S. as soon as possible. Of course praying God's will for their family, but I'm just certain His will for them is back here soon:)!

These kids love each other so much!

Better close this post or I might fall apart again!

Watkins Christmas- Part 2

2012-01-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

More present pics...

Awesome tent for AL from her cousins.

Time for Christmas dinner!

Honey had a few fun games like Find The Pickle in the Tree...Nick won.

Proud Brooks!

More goodies in the stockings!

Just love being with my family!

Watkins Christmas- Part 1

2012-01-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

We went to Honey and Papa's to celebrate our Watkins Christmas. They only live 25 minutes away, but we spent three nights there. Some might think that is crazy, but it's normal for us! The guys went deer hunting one day, we had our Christmas dinner and presents another day, Baylor played the next day and we had lots of fun times in between all of that!

The cousins always love slumber party and so do the adults!

This is part one:

A little football in the backyard, with the coaches calling plays from their chairs:).

love this of Brooks!

The ladies with our Great Aunt Rosie.

In the afternoon we opened presents from each other and Honey and Papa. This pop gun just might have been Graham's favorite present of the entire holiday!

A real DOHA Barbie from her cousins!

G got trains from his cousins that have been a huge hit with everyone!

Georgia loves her Elmo and I love her!

G's got a love for George!

More to come!

Christmas morning!

2011-12-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning was special with just the four of us at our house. Graham got a soccer ball and goal, tee ball set and tool bench. Anna got a doll house, Barbie camper and a doll. They were super excited and haven't stopped playing with their new goodies.

Look, the reindeer ate their food!

And Santa ate his cookies!

Wish I had pics, but Honey and Papa came over a little later for breakfast. We spent the day watching A&G play tools and dolls and we had several soccer games in the hallway. Christmas mornings are always precious memories and this was nothing short of that.

Christmas Eve at Home...

2011-12-26T12:55:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve in Plano and McKinney with the Halls. We visited sweet Mema in the morning. Here is Anna giving her a new picture collage of our family.

It doesn't take long before we take over Mema's house.

Four generations of Halls.

Mike, Kim and the kids came back to our house for the afternoon and then we went to the Christmas Eve service at church.

cousins

After church, I got to host our first holiday dinner in our house. I loved every minute of preparing and having everyone at our house for this special time together. The little boys got to sit at the adult table.

The girls sat at the kids table in the hallway:).

I think this pic is funny, but typical. Spode Christmas china pitcher with a booster seat in the background.

chocolate pie for dessert, missing a bite.

The cousins opened presents from each other and from Papa. Anna's favorite was this horseback riding Barbie from Papa. (This was the Christmas of Barbie for this girl! All she asked for!)

After everyone left, we got our cookies that the kids had made ready for Santa!!

Don't forget the reindeer food!

It was wonderful spending more time with the Halls and being at home for Christmas.

Christmas in Houston...

2011-12-25T17:19:00.000-08:00

The weekend before Christmas we traveled to Houston to be with the Halls and Chenoweths. We started out Saturday morning with the Hall cousins and Mimi and PawPaw. Aunt Kim made a wonderful breakfast and the kids opened presents from Mimi and PawPaw.

Anna got this Barbie she has had her eye for a long time!

Saturday night all of the Chenoweths and Halls gathered at Mimi and PawPaw's house.

lots of cousins!

Just some of the grandkids, I missed the other table of the older cousins.

Lighting the advent candles.

Wish this was in focus of my sweet boys.

G got tools!

Present chaos with 24 people!

The biggest gummy bear you have ever seen! Thanks Mary:).

Sunday morning we went to Mimi's and PawPaw's church and then to brunch at their club. The Christmas decorations are always incredible!

The Halls met us there, too.

The food is always amazing. Graham's plate was waffles, pizza, fruit and mac n cheese. What more could you want?

Santa was there!

This is how G feels about Santa.

Decorating gingerbread men. He wanted a few sprinkles.

Santa and the Hall kids. (I wasn't going to torture G again.)

Sweet cousins! Mimi got them all these cute outfits!!

Boys gotta stick together.

Thank you Mimi and PawPaw for a wonderful weekend with our wonderful Houston family!

Christmas Preschool Sing-a-long!

2011-12-25T14:31:00.000-08:00

Anna Lou had her first ever singing performance at school for their Christmas Sing-a-long. This girl loves to sing at home and in the car, but I wasn't sure if her shy side might come out.

Anna's biggest fans!

They started with the live nativity and some very enthused shepherds and wisemen:).

Our little star singer!

This girl sang her little heart out! Her music teacher, Honey, loved every minute! And so did her Mama!

All of the kids were pretty darn cute in their santa hats and did so well! Let's just say, Mrs. Jerry (Honey) keeps those little bits in line!

She had the best time and we had the best time watching her!

After the sing-a-long we went back to their classes for snacks. Georgia enjoyed hers!

Graham adores these two boys!

Honey and her peeps.

Visiting Santa...

2011-12-25T13:21:00.000-08:00

We took the kids to see Santa at the Village in Fairview. Loved that place! We checked in online, they gave us a time to show up and then they called my phone when it was almost our turn. I haven't scanned the actual pictures of my two in his lap, but just picture Anna smiling sweetly and Graham screaming his brains out! We saw that poor boys tonsils!

The dads

Moms and big kids.

the crazies.

Uncle Nick wanted some good old Mexican food, so he treated us all to some of the best, Uncle Julio's!

The Junods are BACK!

2011-12-25T13:05:00.001-08:00

My sis and fam are back in the States! We got to spend a week with them in December and then will celebrate our Watkins Christmas a few days after Christmas when the get back from visiting family in Houston. We spent lots of time just hanging out at Honey and Papa's.

The kids decided the wanted to have lunch in the garage.

Always love being Honey's helpers.

more gingerbread house fun!

We took some pics for Honey and Papa's Christmas card.SSSo

So glad they are back for a visit!

Preschool Party Time!

2011-12-21T17:59:00.000-08:00

I always love a party and so does my Anna! It was great helping with her preschool Christmas party! Cookies, Kool-Aid, crafts and games- what more would you need to celebrate the Reason for the Season!

We crafted these little Rudolphs made of plastic cups, brown paper sacks, fun foam and peppermints.

The ornament has the kids' thumbprint that they painted a few days before. I added the antlers, eyes and nose and they took it home as a favor. I can't get enough of the homemade ornaments with a touch of my babies on them!

The kids also got to turn sweet Mrs. Christi into a Christmas tree!

Such a fun afternoon with some sweet kids!

Santa Story Time...

2011-12-21T09:02:00.000-08:00

Sarah and I took the kids to Santa Story Time last week at A Real Bookstore in Allen.

wide-eyed at the big guy.

Cookies after the stories.

Anna wanted a hug, but Graham DID NOT!

something was funny.

IT'S A....

2011-12-21T08:50:00.000-08:00

BOY!!!!

It's been a few weeks since our appointment and we have already announced it, but I needed to make it published on the blog. We are so excited Baby Hall #3 is a BOY! He looked healthy and perfect and we anxiously await his arrival this spring!

We were a little nervous telling Anna that it was a boy. She was sure it would be a girl and told everyone there was a baby girl in her mommy's tummy.

Our conversation went like this:

Us: "We went to the baby doctor today and got to see inside mommy's tummy. We also got to see if it is a boy or a girl."

A: "It's a girl?"

Us: "No, actually it's a boy!" (in a very excited voice)

A: "And I get to sit in the back!" (referring to the back row in the car.)

Us: "Why, yes you do!"

that was it.

The next day she told everyone we were having a baby boy and that she gets to sit in the back. Okie dokie, I'll take it!

gingerbread playdate...

2011-12-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

We had a few friends over to make mini gingerbread houses. Our houses started with graham crackers, hot glue and a paper plate. Our friends brought the decor and the kids all loved it. I wish I had video because this was one LOUD playdate! During the decorating there were 4 one-year olds crawling around on the ground not too happy that they there were not in on the action. We just laughed and still had a great time!

This is mostly what G did during the decorating.

The kids had a picnic lunch on the living room floor and watched the "Elf on the Shelf" movie. I love these special mamas and their babies!!

The moms had this recipe of broccoli cheese soup:

6 Tablespoons of butter or margarine

6 Tablespoons of flour

1 pint of milk

1 pink of 1/2 and 1/2

2 chicken bouillon cubes

3/4 of jar of cheese whiz

1 pkg frozen chopped broccoli

Make a white sauce of butter and flour, stir until thickened over medium heat.

Dissolve bouillon cubes in little bit of water in microwave.

Add cheese whiz, bouillon water, milk, 1/2 and 1/2 and broccoli to the white sauce.

Cook until smooth, heat until warm.

Anna's first fieldtrip..

2011-12-04T19:04:00.000-08:00

Anna's cute little preschool took a field trip to the Plano Childrens Theater. I got to be one of the drivers for Anna's class and so got to tag along. This was Anna's first experience at a play and she loved it. They all loved it!
The show was Winnie the Pooh Christmas. The kids giggled and giggled at the silly little, low-budget, show(I mean, where are Pooh's ears? ha!) Of course, they all told me their favorite part was Tigger dropping all of the presents and falling down. Pretty great humor!

Fun day with my Anna!

Elf on the Shelf...

2011-12-03T18:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday night after we returned from our Thanksgiving trip, there was a package on our front door! Santa sent a present all the way from the North Pole just for Anna and Graham!
It was the Elf on the Shelf book and our very own elf, which the kids named Charlie! Charlie has been sitting in our house, going from spot to spot each night after visiting with Santa. Anna totally understands Charlie and his powers and he seems to be working around here. The VERY first thing Graham does in the morning is search the house for him and smiles and points saying "Charwie!" Charlie is going to be a fun tradition (and a helpful one for mom and dad) at the Hall House.

Turkey in Ruidoso...

2011-12-03T13:49:00.001-08:00

We had a unique Thanksgiving in Ruidoso, New Mexico with Honey and Papa. We grew up taking lots of trips to the Watkins cabin in Ruidoso and has always been a special place to our family. It was calm, relaxing and the perfect getaway for our family. My Aunt Margaret and Uncle Jim now own the house and have made it amazing! We loaded up in the "Burb", all 6 of us, and headed north west. Everything was perfect except Anna got a little virus with a sore throat and fever and Graham had a cold. We took lots of naps, watched lots of movies, searched the www and enjoyed eachother in this beautiful place. We had a 10 hour drive but really was no big deal and the kids enjoyed movies and plenty of snacks. On our route was Papa's homeplace, good-ol'-dot-on-the-map, Ranger,TX. This is the house Papa grew up in and we visited many times as children. It's still a beautiful house! We got to Ruidoso late Sunday night and put the kids straight to bed. They were excited to wake up to this! We had a lot of fun outdoors in the cool, but not too chilly air.Checking out the very tall trees and throwing sticks in the stream across the street, GREAT ENTERTAINMENT!Honey, the best story teller of them all! archery in the backyard.

Lumberjack Daddy bringing home the firewood.

watercoloring.
Honey graciously shared her phone with these two a lot.

One morning we drove up the mountain to Ski Apache. Anna really wanted to see some snow. She loved it! Graham tolerated the snow, but didnt love it. His lovely drippy nose. Ski Apache's opening day was Thanksgiving Day but decided we would want to wait a few years for the little ones.

On our way back down we stopped at this viewing point. No fear or maybe no height awareness with these two! There were lots of deer in our yard throughout the day. Graham loved watching the "Deeeeeer."

Honey feeding them. Thanksgiving Dinner was perfect with Honey's turkey, dressing, pie and all of the fixins.

Any chance to make a cake.

How 'bout some croquet in the front yard?

We drove out to Inn of the Mountain Gods. It's pretty amazing! They had a thanksgiving buffet, but we opted for Honey's, of course!

Papa and his mini-me checking out the Christmas decor.

Awesome gingerbread house display.

After 6 days of beautiful scenery, good food, lots of relaxing and quality family time, we headed home. What a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Recent Randoms...

2011-11-16T05:53:00.000-08:00

A few recent I-Phone pics...

Anna and her pumpkin from the Pumpkin Extravaganza at school. Allie and Anna with the Lion at the game.
We bring our entertainment to the football games.

It was our turn to bring snacks for Anna's class so we made this turkey. Honey made a similar one a few years ago and there are lots of ideas for this on the internet.

We sure are enjoying having Daddy home on the weekends. Last weekend he got out his old tent and everyone had a little fun in the backyard.

We celebrated our sweet Great Aunt Rosie's 85th Birthday!

Hall...

2011-11-13T18:23:00.000-08:00

...Party of FIVE! Coming May 6th, 2012!! We are so excited for the blessing of Baby Hall #3 coming this spring!

Who Knew? He's Already Two!

2011-11-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

I know every mama says it, but I really cannot believe Graham is two! What a quick two years full of change, growth and development.

Some things about you as you enter your big third year...

You are huge! Weight-31.4lbs (85%), Height-36 1/2in (95%) He grew 3 inches in the last 6 months! He has lost some of that baby chub and looking more like a little boy! Kind of sad for his mama.

Loves trucks, trains, balls, bats, books, dirt and anything outside.

Loves Mama's lap which makes her very happy! Said multiple times a day "Mama, dap please."

Loves and listens to sister most of the time. Anna is into "teaching" G lately with phrases like "A says Ah...Ah, Ah, Ah." "Graham, now it's time for us to go play kitchen in my room." Most of the time he does what she says:) We are working on letting him decide if wants to do something or not.

Tries to do exactly what sister is doing, Pete and Re-Pete around here. And say what she says which comes out funny sometimes.

Pretty good eater most of the time. Loves fruit, cheese, pbj, chicken nuggets covered in ketchup, DESSERT!

Good, consistent sleeper! Sleeps 12 hours at night, 2 hour nap.

Still lets me rock you a little before bed at night unless you are super tired and just reach for the bed.

Does NOT love chaos, loud noise, unfamiliar places, etc!

Does NOT love bounce houses, loud birthday parties, crowded play areas, etc.

Is getting more brave these days, though.

Likes to walk in the grocery store, because that is what your sister does. Does a pretty good job of staying right with me.

Chatty, chatty, chatty! Although most of the talking is done at home or in the car with us. You are a little shy to talk with everyone else. Your teachers didn't know you could talk til the second month of school. But now you talk all of the time with them.

Some of your favorite phrases are "Wet's Go Wions" (let's go lions), "More snacks PEEZ," "Wet's go Wangers" (Rangers), "Mommy, Watch!" (and then throws a ball or swings a golf club), "Awwwight, time to go," "Wook, I'm at football payer!" and many more!

Loves to sing "Jesus Loves Me," "Happy birthday," "Wheels on the bus," and can sing most of the words.

Finally will watch a little tv-Barney, Mickey, Wonder Pets.

Really is an easy-going child. His teachers say he just plays and plays all day and never cries or whines.

The only whining is left for mommy:( But, the fits are few an far between these days and I am thankful for that!

Graham is a little ham at home entertaining us with is awkward dancing and singing! He loves when we laugh at him and does things over and over if we keep laughing!

Maybe it's the red hair and the light blue eyes or maybe some other reason I don't care to know, but everyone remembers you. Everyone at church and school knows your name even if you aren't in their class.

You still look like your Papa and everyone comments about it.

You love going to Daddy's office and watching the big football players, riding on the John Deer just being with Dad!

Graham Haggard,

I could just eat you up with a spoon right now. Since you are communicating well these days it is so fun to watch you learn and talk! I think your cautious personality is a treasure! You are beautiful to us and we are so thankful for a remarkable two years! Please cuddle with your Mama when you are ten! We love you so much!

The Great Grand Prix!

2011-11-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

Parkway Hills had their annual Grand Prix car race this week! This is a long time tradition that is pretty darn cute! It's been going on so long, that let's just say my car was called the "Ash-Mobile." Each child (with lots of help from their parents) makes a cardboard car to race in the Grand Prix. I encouraged Anna that we should make a ladybug car since we had plenty of red and black decor from her first birthday.

She was fired up on Race Day!Honey introducing the adorable racers.Here they come!

The pledge and "My Country Tis of Thee." cute!

Each class raced several different times.

There were a few collisions, poor little guy on the left.Then it was time for the parent race. (pics so blurry because of the lighting!)

Cute daddys Kevin, Duke and Dave

Then time for the blue ribbons for the winners (all of the kids:) So cute when they jumped up when they heard their name!

Home showing me her blue ribbon.

Show me your race face!

Such a fun day for all of us!

HaLlOwEeN!

2011-11-03T16:12:00.001-07:00

Halloween seems to last for days! I love the cute kids, costumes, candy, pumpkins and parties, but by the time it is all over, we are all wiped out! It started Thursday with the kids dressing in costume for school.

Silly Tink and Peter! I got to help with Anna's fall party in her class.

Mrs. Christie and her cute 8! They wore costumes in the morning and then changed clothes for the rest of the day.

We read this great book, "The Pumpkin Gospel."
Kate and Anna, wiht her tink hair.

We played a few games, decorated pumpkin cookies and did a craft.

pumkin face craft

Friday we decorated extra cookies from the party at home.

Friday we also had Graham's 2 year check-up. We got to the dr. and realized he had a fever. Just some type of virus that later came to be hand-foot-mouth over the weekend. yuck! By Sunday, he had developed some lovely blisters on his hands, face and throat. It's nice when your uncle is your pedi and you can text him pictures for a diagnoses. We missed a few birthday parties and a playdate but had to take care of our Peter! Sunday night Daddy was working, but we met Honey and Papa at the Parkway Hills Trunk or Treat for some carnival fun. Graham was a little comatose but went along for the fun.

Anna Lou excited to see her teacher!

Thank goodness for Papa's extra arms. G was a limp noodle!

Hudson and Emmy doing a little web action! So funny!

Anna's buddies Wes and Jax who's daddy is a coach at MHS, too.

Monday night was time for the real deal!

G was feeling a little better but you can still see some of the blisters on his face.

Daddy was being hilarious!

Could not get enough of the candy!

They both loved trick or treating!

And the glorious result of a full night of trick or treating!

It was a fun night for the four of us to spend together! Hallween is fun, but exhausting!

Arboretum Birthday Fun!

2011-10-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

Honey and I took the kids to the Dallas Arboretum last week to see the awesome pumpkins and to have a little birthday celebration for my big 3-1! The weather was perfect and pumpkins were amazing!

Very tricky getting G to smile at the camera!
how 'bout a gourd on your head? Cinderella's carriage, they had a little fairy tale them going on.

She promised this one was on the ground and didn't get picked:)

This "princess" as AL called her was having some photos taken but went along great with their fairytale theme:)!

Sweet Honey with her love bugs.

My little pumpkin head with a pumpkin!

We then headed to none other than chick-fil-a which was part of the bribing during picture taking with Anna. Clearly bribing does not work with Graham yet. After some chick we stopped by Society Bakery! Holy Moly! You must try it if you are in the Dallas area! We sampled a few cupcakes and took the rest home to Daddy. My favorite was banana chocolate chip!

Thank you Honey Bears for such a fun day!!!

Graham's Tailgate!!!

2011-10-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time celebrating Graham's 2nd Birthday with a tailgate before Daddy's game. Unfortunately Daddy and Papa couldn't attend for obvious reasons. Mimi and PawPaw came in town and helped with the kids all afternoon Friday so I could set up the party, and Honey spent all afternoon helping set up and sitting with our tent until it was time for the party. We had a few close friends, family and our wonderful coaching families and had the best time eating, playing and gearing up for the game. Here is some of the food and some decor from home that is in Graham's room. The pictures hang on his wall and are pics of his Daddy, Grandfathers and Great-grandfather all playing football.
cheese ball!

pizza that was supposed to look like a #2 in pepperonis:)

pretty chain link fence background:)

Honey made these adorable strawberries.

favors

couldn't get this pic to turn.

Two girlies with big eyes!

Entertainment that we ordered for the party, ha! Policemen on horseback that was big hit with the kids!

Ashley and I with Ms. Jones! Ms. Jones was our high school cheerleading sponsor and is now assistant principal at MHS.

Mimi taking great care of G during the party!

drinks: water and blue and yellow gatorade so we all could stay hydrated for the big game!

Allie and Darby doing a little cheer for the lions.

Game time!

It was such a fun night and definitely a party we will repeat in a few years! I am sure many more football parties are in Graham's future! And I have to say this was one of the easiest, least stressful parties I have had. It helps when most of the decor comes from your house or your husbands office!

Birthday Festivities...

2011-10-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

The day before Graham's birthday was Thursday, a school day, so we took some birthday treats for his class. Hard to believe this little punkin was turning two the next day!! Sister holding the goodies and G not too sure about that.
After school we grabbed a pic with Honey. We then went to Target for a quick errand and made a stop at the snackbar for smoothies and popcorn.
Friday, Graham actual birthday started with birthday hugs in Anna's bed!

The three of us got dressed and headed to McDonalds for pancakes and playing!

When we got home Anna gave him a present. A big trash truck!Let me show you how it's done, bro! It was so fun watching her wrap the present, hide it in her closet and then giving it to him on his special day. Graham's party was Friday night, but that will be the next post. Fast forward to Saturday night when we celebrated Daddy, Graham and Me all with October birthdays. Mimi and PawPaw where in from Houston and Honey and Papa came over to have dinner with us. Honey made spectacular lasagna and Mimi picked up the salad, bread and cake in town. Couldn't find the candles, so why not use sparklers left over from our wedding:)G got to open lots of goodies from friends and family! Anna helped and was great at letting G be the star of the show!Honey and Papa got G a Batman car or a "Batman Jeep" as G calls it. The next morning playing with new toys. (Great present from the Johnsons!)
The best part is knocking 'em down!

Such a fun weekend with the grandparents celebrating mostly Graham with a little mom and dad on the side. So sad I didn't get pictures of the grandparents with the birthday boy from our family celebration! More to come of his party and an All About Graham At Two-Years-Old post!

MHS Homecoming!

2011-10-17T13:40:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago (I am WAY behind on blogging!) we had homecoming at MHS! Anna loved wearing her mum like the big girls. Daddy brought it home last year the week of Homecoming because our sweet head coach's mother made them for all of the coach's daughters. I put it in the back of the closet all year and pulled it out for this year's game. She told everyone her daddy gave it to her. We would love for daddy to be the only man that gives her a mum every year, for the rest of her life, ha! Saturday was a fun parade and carnival. We dressed in our Baylor gear since the Bears had a big game that night. Here they are doing the "Heeeeeeey....Sic Em Bears!"
Anna's favorite part of the carnival was the horse ride.

G was too small for the activites but enjoyed snack in the stroller.

(All phone pics)

Anna and her buddy Ty watching the parade.

Graham was glued to my lap because of the firetruck and police car sirens but he loved it too!

So Long, Insecurity

2011-09-25T12:11:00.001-07:00

I know this book has been out a little while, but if you have not had the chance to read So Long, Insecurity, YOU MUST!! I have had the pleasure of doing the group study on this book the past few months with some amazing women! What a priviledge to get to study God's Word using the wonderful words of Beth Moore, along side my fellow coaches wives at MHS! We are not finished with the study and I anxiously await all that it is going to teach me. I am so thankful for these coaches wives and this wonderful book! Even if you can't do the study with a group, get the book and READ IT!

Go Lions! Go Broncos!

2011-09-25T11:54:00.001-07:00

Somehow I missed these pictures and forgot I had them to blog about. Back at the end of the summer, when the Junods were still in town, we all went to cheer on Daddy (or Uncle Dave's) Lions and Papa's Broncos! They scrimmaged eachother to start of the football season. Quick high five from the Coach.
We had a chance to see Papa at halftime and got a few pics. I love this of Papa and his 5 prized possessions!! What a wonderful Papa and Coach he is!!

We are all looking a little sweaty and tired but fun to all be together at our second home, a football field!

We love the Lions! We Love the Broncos! But we really love the COACHES!!

The Lion King...

2011-09-25T11:49:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Daddy had a little extra time off since it was our bye week. Anna and I headed to see the Lion King while Daddy and Graham spent some time together. I don't know who was more excited, me or Anna! She loved the animals especially the baby lions, she told me. It was in 3D but the 3D glasses only stayed on about half the time.
We had a fun little afternoon date and then met Honey, Papa, Daddy and Graham for dinner at the new Rosa's that opened by us!

The Big First Day!

2011-09-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

We had our big first day of school last week! Anna started her first year at pre-school and Graham had his first day at Mother's Day Out! It was a wonderful day for all! Half of these pictures are from my phone so the quality isn't great.

The night before school started Anna had this cute snack bag to enjoy along with a cute poem about not being nervous about school and how much fun they would have. Enjoying her snack with Daddy the night before the big day. Daddy is WAY long gone by the time they wake up in the morning so he was gave her a first day pep-talk the night before. Although she didn't really need it! This girl was SO excited to start school!
The next morning dressed and ready!

Clapping for school!

Before this pic, Anna said, "Mommy, how bout I do this?" hee hee.

Showing her new backpack from Honey and Papa.

Graham takes this basket to MDO.

Finally at school, Anna was ready to go! I didn't get a pic of Graham going to his room because there were a few tears. Little man had about 10 seconds of tears and then was fine. His sweet teachers said he had a wonderful day and never cried again. At naptime, one of his teachers picked him up, he laid his head down on her shoulder , then she laid him on his napmat and he went to sleep. what? Who are these women with super-powers?! He is a good sleeper, but had no idea how it would go at school.

After school we got a quick pic with Honey.

Then we enjoyed some amazing cookies from Tiff's Treats with our friends Hudson and Emerson!

All in all is was a super day! Anna told me numerous times that she was ready to go back to pre-school! Both kids have wonderful teachers who will love on them all day long while they are away from me. We are so thankful for Parkway Hills!!

Teacher treat idea...

2011-09-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is cute, easy, affordable teacher treat idea I would love to share! Buy the Junior Mint movie-style box of candy at the grocery store and attach a tag with a ribbon. I used green cardstock and whatever ribbon I already had. The tag says...Mrs. Christi, You were "MINT" to be my teacher this year! "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11

Love, Anna

I hope this little treat encourages Anna and Graham's teachers! Afterall, God did pick them to my children's teachers this year!

Pre-school Meet the Teacher!

2011-09-05T18:56:00.001-07:00

We cannot believe it is FINALLY time for Anna to start at preschool!
"Honey's School," as she calls it! We went to the preschool orientation last week and got all geared up for a wonderful year at Parkway Hills! Here is Honey speaking to the entire group making all these young mamas feel so good about sending their babies to her! Honey, Kate (Wendi's long time friend and my friend Jill's little girl) and Anna
Mrs. Christi's cute little class talking about praying before we enjoy our snack.

Checking out the new toys.

Adorable Mrs. Christi who Anna already LOVES!

Hudson, Anna and Kate

Our friend Hudson is in one of the four-year old classes. Anna did not want to let go of the balloon in her hand!

Our favorite preschool director, Honey!!

Could not be happier to send Anna to such a wonderful school where she is loved, nurtured, encouraged, stretched and most importantly taught about Jesus!

Anna Lou...the next Mary Lou!!!

2011-09-01T13:47:00.001-07:00

I think we may just have the next Mary Lou living under our roof! Ha!! Anna had her first gymnatics class this week and it was a blast! She was so pumped about going until it was actually time to go. She was a little ball of nerves! Once the class got started she was all about it! Graham and I sat and watched and I loved every minute of it! Cute Miss Danielle was her teacher and Anna loved her! She was awesome with the itty bittys!! They have the option of wearing a leotard, but we must dress the part, right?!

Here she is jumping on the trampoline, her favorite part! I mean, who's arms look pretty darn good, huh? (Don't worry I won't become that stage mom, I promise!)
Forward roll time.

The parents sit along the wall on a bench and I was worried she might want to come over to me, but no, all I got was a few waves and lots of smiles!

beaming it.

Back home with bro who she continues to tell "when you get big, you can go to matchstix!"

So we've signed up for 3 days a week, 3 hours a day.

Ha! Not really! Just one hour a week and definitely one hour she will enjoy each week!!

Go Anna Lou! (The next Mary Lou) See you at the 2020 Olympics!

MIMI comes to visit!

2011-09-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

MIMI came in from Houston to visit for a few days last week! Dave was working, working, working but me and the kids had a great time with MIMI! We had so much fun playing and hanging with her! MIMI blessed us with some great meals, fun times and new shoes for all of us! Even Mommy got some!! Thank you MIMI for a fun few days and looking forward to another visit in September!! MIMI and Anna rode the carousel at the mall, the only pic I got. What a fun MIMI!

THE season begins...

2011-08-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

THE season of all seasons has started around here! That is football season, of course!! Our first real game was Friday night and unfortunately the Lions came up a little short. We love the Coach no matter what!!

Lots of clapping and cheering from this little bit! And you may can see the sweat dripping down her face because it was WARM!

G got off of my lap for a few minutes to eat a snack. He was completely content in my lap for 3 hours straight! It was HOT for his mama, but I was glad he was happy. He was wide-eyed the entire time! You can't see G's cute shirt that Honey got him, but it says D- and a picture of a fence! We love all of the Lions but especially cheer for the DEFENSE in this house!

Sunday morning Daddy ran to get donuts with Anna and we enjoyed them back at home! Daddy is working seven days a week and very long hours but he is making the most with every moment at home. We love Coach Hall and the McKinney Lions!!

First trip to the Theater!

2011-08-20T12:44:00.001-07:00

This was Anna's first trip to the big movie theater, which she continues to call just the "theater." We saw the Winnie the Pooh movie which was good start since it is only one hour. She loved it! Thanks Honey!

River Trip...

2011-08-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Wendi and I met a few friends in New Braunfels for a little girls trip. Our sweet friends, Jenice and Julianne were planned to come and sadly lost their grandfather right before the trip. We were EXTREMELY sad they could not make the trip. And sweet Jenice planned IT ALL!! Tracy and Shannon are two of Wendi's best friends from Houston, but really are my good friends too! We ate great food, relaxed a lot, shopped, floated the river and talked, a lot!Our great little cottage on the Guadalupe. It was a great place to stay and I would highly recommend it to anyone. Except this time the Guadalupe was dried up! We floated the Comal River instead which was perfect!

Getting ready for our tubing adventure!

The tubing was the best part of our entire trip! The river water was beautiful and freezing cold, which felt great with the over 100 temps. We did the 2 hour float and was so easy, smooth and relaxing. Even Tracy, the prego one, loved it!

Two sweet Austin friends drove down to New Braunfels to spend the afternoon with us.

Me and Amanda

Ash, Cabell, Wen and Tracy

The last day we spent in San Marcos at the HUGE outlet mall!

Such a fun trip and enourmous thanks to Dave and his Dad, Papa, for loving on my kids for 3 days! We missed you so much Jenice and Julianne and can't wait for next year!

Anna-isms...

2011-08-09T19:45:00.000-07:00

Our Anna Lou says some funny things these days...

While outside in the back yard, "God needs to make some more shade, Mama!" Amen sister, Amen!

"GRAHAM, GRAHAMS, GRAHAMMERS!!" trying to get her little bro's attention.

Dave took both kids to the movie rental store (those do still exist) and on the way home gave one of Dave's football players a ride to his house. When I asked Anna about the boy who they gave a ride to, she said, "Why that boy got a necklace like Fancy Nancy?"

She didn't know I was in the room but said to her brother, "You sure look handsome in that shirt!"

The EASY SKI!

2011-07-24T13:23:00.001-07:00

My parents bought a new lake toy called the Easy Ski. It is for little kids who aren't strong enough or coordinated enough to ski. It inflates, has two places for your feet and a handle bar. The rope is attached to the Easy Ski and an adult holds the other end in the boat. It gives the kids a feel of what skiing is like without all of the pull on their body. It was a hit!

Barrett was a champ! With a little coaxing/trickery from Dad and Dave, Anna took it for a spin. She wasn't too fired up to try it at first but once she got going, she LOVED it!!

Brooks is turnging into a little dare devil and insisted on doing it backwards.
So much fun! Thanks Mom and Dad for the new toy! Hope to get in a few more lake trips before football season!

Ross-Watkins-Prince Party!

2011-07-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Once a summer we get together with the Ross Family and Prince Family, our long-time friends!

Mr. and Mrs. Ross have a beautiful house and backyard and always put on a party! I wish I had a picture of the originals, Mr. and Mrs. Ross, Mom and Dad, and Mr. and Mrs. Prince. A list of the kids...

The Ross kids-Julie and Jeff, The Watkins kids- Wendi and me, The Prince kids- Glen and Jill. Matt and Ashley Franks and their son Roman have been able to come the past two years. Matt grew up with us too! Now everyone is married and 12 babies have come along. And two more will be in the picture next year! We always love our time with them and it gets crazier every year as our families multiply! I'm so thankful to still be in touch with these sweet families!

Townley Times 2011!

2011-07-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

Every summer we spend a few days with all of the Townley girls and the grandkids. My mom and Aunt Terry are the original Townley girls. Aunt Terry, cousin Sharon, and Sharon's three daughters traveled south from Arkansas to Texas for a wonderful Townley Times 2011!

A couple of pics from the day before they came at Honey and Papa's awesome community pool.

The Arkansas girls arrived on Tuesday in time for dinner. 8 at the kids table!

We spent one morning at the pool.

Honey bought this fun cardboard house that they all colored and played in. (This was clearly Graham's side for coloring.)

Anna got to spend the night with the cousins a couple of nights while Graham and I headed home. Here are most of them minus Graham and Whitney.

We always do some cookin'!

Our great Aunt Rosie came over to the chaos for a day.

The whole crew!

Papa set up the backyard bonanza complete with water slide, pool and bounce house!

Brooks making his Honey nervous doing a back flip.

Aunt Rosie with some of her great-great nieces and nephews.

G was missing from this above pic because he was happily outside watering with Papa.

Snowcone run!

Friday morning we took the kids to the Safari Park. It was a little crowded but overall a good few hours of fun. Here they were waiting to ride the animals.

Barrett with his arm around G cracks me up!

These mechanical animals were funny/strange/WEIRD! But they liked it!

G wanted to ride the train and then changed his mind. ha! bless him!

We planned a cousin pic which was definitely challenging.

This one turned out the best, I think.

It was such a fun week with our sweet Townley Family!! Mom and Aunt Terry had a few hours to do some fun sisters things and Sharon, Wendi and I even got a girls night out. But the best part was watching the sweet cousins play and play and play!! Townley Times is always a highlight of our summer!

LAAAAAKKKKEEEEE!

2011-07-07T19:27:00.001-07:00

We spent an awesome week at the lake with Honey and Papa...and all the way from Doha....Aunt Sissy, Uncle Nick, Brooks, Barrett and Georgia!! Our first family gathering of the summer was spent at no place else but THE LAKE!! Our favorite place!

Immediately when Dave pulled up in the boat, the kids were ready for a ride!Al, Georgia, and Aunt Sissy

Nick and Brooks who is the first born of these 5 cousins. Can't believe he is about to be 6!

Many meals on the deck.

How many monkeys can you fit in the tub?

One day we drove to the great town of Athens, hometown of our Honey, to visit our Great Aunt Leta and Uncle Mac.

AL and Georgia

cuzzies.

The little bits thought gathering sticks would be fun.

Uncle Mac always takes each child on a tractor ride.
AL enjoyed it and even got a little bossy telling Uncle Mac where to go.

Honey, Papa, Aunt Leta and Uncle Mac

Attempted Watkins Family pic. ha!

We had some good home cookin' at the Old West Steakhouse and somebody was enjoying her ice cream.

Back to the lake for some fun on the water.

Daddy and Anna Lou on the tube.

Honey and her girls.

Fruit kabobs!

The deck had a hot tub which we thought was kind of pointless in the summer. But make for some great entertainment for the big kids. AL was taking extra safety precautions in this pic.

The babies of the group who actually will be in the same grade when they are older. Although looks like Graham could sit on her and break her now.:)

Barrett actually caught one of the only fish caught that week right after this picture.

Honey and Papa pulled out all of the stops to provide non-stop entertainment for the kids!!

G found the sand, of course.

Next day on the tube this little missy wanted to go by herself. (Probably bc her big bro cuzzies were doing it!)

Loving it!Can you blame her, it's good.

Fun game of screaming and throwing our hands up when we drove under a bridge.

Daddy showing me up, big time!

Every morning the men would wake up early to go fishing. Unfortunately they didn't exactly bring home the dinner. Just wasn't our week for catchin'. But they had fun anyways!

We took turns cooking and here is Uncle Nick showing up my tacos with bacon wrapped filets. yum!

lots of good food!

i think he likes the powdered donuts.

Do you need a spoon? So you can eat her up!

Honey got these cute suits for the girlies.

AL looking a little wet.

woohoo!

Graham was napping but the rest of 'em.

Papa made these cool mini marshmallow guns! They loved them!

Hugs saying goodbye after a blessed week!

Trying to get cuz pic that didnt work out so well.:)

Our ragga-muffins with H&P!

Loved, loved, loved every moment at the lake with my family! We are so happy to have our Doha family home for the summer. We are sad Uncle Nick is now back in Doha, but excited to spend time with my sis and her three while they are in Texas for the summer!! Thank you H&P for serving, hugging, loving, cooking, enteraining and making our week memorable! We love you!

The Fourth...

2011-07-06T13:29:00.000-07:00

It was great Fourth Of July weekend! We took a few pics before church in our red, white and blue.

Monday morning we went to the parade in Downtown Mckinney. It was nice and warm but fun for the kids.

Honey and Papa brought the dinner to us! Can't beat that! We enjoyed a traditional 4th of July dinner of burgers, beans, fixins and homemade ice cream!

Happy 4th! We love the USA!

Galveston or Bust!

2011-07-04T13:21:00.001-07:00

Beware of WAY too many photos!!

We headed south to Galveston for the week with Mimi, PawPaw and the other Halls (Mike, Kim and their four- Aubrey, Lily, Emery and Carter.) Galveston is such a fun place! We went this same time last year but unfortunately it rained almost the entire time. This year the weather was perfect and we had a blast!

Road Trip!!

Graham not quite getting the headphones in the car.

We made it!
The house Mimi found, which we loved!

The first night, decorating cupcakes.

First morning on the beach. It was a little bright!!

Most days we were on the beach all morning and then back again after naps in the afternoon. The girls loved the waves!

G spent much of his time doing this! (Don't mind the seaweed in the background, just part of Galveston. Surprisingly the kids never cared about it!)

This is what most of our evenings looked like.

And back on the beach. Never ending fun!

Movie time.

We cooked most of our meals at home but we did eat out a few times. We were headed to a place Mimi had been but realized it was closed so we drove around til we saw something that would work. We ended up at Joe's Crabshack. Ha! It was perfect because of a patio and a playground!
Mike and KimThe twins who turn 4 this week!AL loves her MIMI!We did get some good seafood.These two were buddies all week. They slept in the same room, both on top bunks!Our house had access to a pool which was a good break from the sand.Kim and AshEveryone put your hands up, except G, hold this stick.G getting tossed by Dad and Uncle Mike.

A smoothie (snowcone) from the snackbar.

Mimi got these cute coordinating shirts for the kids and we tried to take a few pics. Ha! 6 kids!

Patient Mimi teaching Go Fish!

snacks.

One night we had shrimp boil.

Picnic on the patio.

girl cuzzies.

A major frisbee game going on here.

Our last night we went to an awesome burger place!

And G's first taste of Dippin' Dots!

The whole group! Thank you MIMI and PawPaw for a WONDERFUL 8 days!!! It was a such a fun week with memories made and we look forward to next year!! What a blessing to spend that much time with people you love and come away feeling anxious for the next time!

Swimming for donuts!

2011-06-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

We have been talking about swim lessons for a while now and finally the big day arrived! There was lots of excitement until the actual morning of. Anna Lou woke up a few times during the night, which is very uncharacteristic. I thought maybe she was thinking about it too much and getting nervous. She was somewhat of a zombie that morning but we got our suite and towel and headed off. Here she is faking a lovely smile before we left. G wasn't participating but was in a chipper mood and you can see the mood AL was in!
The first few days at drop off caused some tears and
"please don't leave me, Mommy!" Which broke Mommy's heart!
The teacher advised us to leave and I knew that would be best. I was encouraged to know the crying would stop almost immediately and she did fine throughout the class. After the first day of class, the zombie Anna Lou returned and the rest of the day was spent on the couch and with zero appetite. During the night she proceeded to "toss her cookies" twice. ewww! I could tell she was so uncomfortable and her stomach was very crampy. My poor little zombie! The next morning she seemed better and by golly, we were going to get our moneys worth for those swim lesssons! ha! I know, mean mom! But she really did seem better so we went. Still a few tears at drop off but there was progress. Day 3 was presented with "if you do not cry at all at swim lessons, you can get a special treat." Which was proceeded by Anna Lou answering "A donut?!" Ok, sure! Still had a little zombie going on, but I figured it was the nerves. Day 3 unfortunately did have a couple of tears again at drop off. I felt so bad thinking that her poor little tummy hurt and mean mommy was making her go swim again! I was soooo about to cave and get the donut that she immediatly asked for when I picked her up, but I reminded her she did cry a little so we would try again tomorrow. We did, however, have some ice cream after lunch for swimming so good. (Not yay me for sticking to my guns, because many times, I don't. But glad I did this time.) Day 4, the last day of the 1st week was today and went AWESOME!!! I could tell before we even left the house it was going to be good. She seemed to be over this tummy bug and had more energy and told me and several times "I am not gonna cry and I am gonna get a donut!" Sweet Ms. Lindsay, her teacher was also greeted with this claim. As soon as we got to Ms. Lindsay's she got in the pool and sat on the step waiting to start. I left again but came back early to get some pics and let her "perform for me." I was so impressed with what Ms. Lindsay had taught them in 4 days. We will be out of town next week, so our second week of lessons will be after that. I am excited to see what the second week brings. Yay Anna Lou for being brave and beginning to learn to swim! So proud of you!!
Her buddy Harper!

That is her little head popping up after grabbing the toy off of the bottom.

Ms. Lindsay stepping back and making AL go a little further.

Working on a little kicking.

Sweet thang got her donut!! Even if it was for lunch since it was noon!

We Love the Kampens!!

2011-06-09T05:35:00.000-07:00

I accidentall hit "Publish" on this post, so if it showed up on your google reader, half done, oops! This is the full thing!

We are very sad that the Kampen Family is moving a little south to Austin next week! It is something they have prayed for a long time because of Jeremy's job but secretly we were praying against it! Ha! JK! Lindsay and I actually met 11 years ago pledging Pi Phi together at BU. We didn't really get to know eachother until we ended up at church together in the same stage of being young marrieds and having babies! I am SO thankful for these past few years of being blessed by HER!! Her sweet children are close to AL and G's ages and so we always are dealing with the same stuff. She is such a dear friend and I will miss seeing her multiple times a week so much!! I know Austin will be a new chapter and a new adventure for the Kampen Family, and will bring new challenges with getting settled there. We are praying for you as you adjust to that weird city. :) Love you guys!! Austin is a lucky place!!

We helped throw them a going away party this weekend.

Me and Linds and cute Kiki! We did it up fancy with pizza and desserts:)
Thanks to the McCords for offering their home and letting the kids destroy their backyard.

Husbands. Sorry Honey, mid-bite.

So sorry that the honoree is blurry!

I think I caught cute Conner Kampen by surprise!

The best pic I could get of these little missys.

We've been soaking up playdates and dinners with Lindsay for the past few weeks.

Great friends!

Love y'all and can't wait to come visit Austin!!!

Cooper and Campbell!

2011-06-09T05:14:00.001-07:00

One day last week we went to play with Cooper and Campbell Johnson! Such cutie pies and growing so fast! It was one of those things I had to wait to tell Anna Lou so she would actually sleep the night before and wouldn't ask me every other minute when we were going to Cooper and Campbell's house. So I told her about 10 minutes before we left. I left my camera at home so these are from my phone. Lou Lou loving her some Baby Campbell!
Campbell thought G needed in on the action.

Gotcha!

He didnt' seem to mind! We might could arange that! Campbell and Graham in about 20 years!

So fun to see my sweet friend Julie and her precious twins!

Lions Spring Game...

2011-06-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

Daddy wrapped up spring football a few weeks ago. It is great living close to the school so we were able to go up to practice a few days a week. They finished up the spring season with the Spring Game at the stadium. It was rather warm in the stands so we took our place in the shade next to the field house. I didn't get a great view of the game but Daddy understood that our red-cheeked babies (and mama) needed to cool off.

We did this a lot!

water break.

The spring season went well and makes us excited for some Friday Night Lights come fall!!

Goodbye MDO...

2011-05-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

Little Darlin's first day of MDO in September. Miss Priss' last day of MDO in May.
Two little peanuts on the first day.

Two big peanuts on the last day! (Bro insisted on being in this pic! I'm glad he did!)

Little Bro gets to go next year to MDO!

The most loving, nurturing, encouraging and just plain amazing two MDO teachers, Ms. Cindy and Ms. Paula! I love them and Anna Lou loves them!!! We will miss them so much!

HERE WE COME PRESCHOOL!

fountain fun...

2011-05-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

Twice already we have been to the Fountain at The Village in Allen.

A good time had by all! Sometimes G likes to observe from the side.
Other times he is all about it!

We met some friends there last week.

I am sure there wll be many more trips there this summer!

30 pounds of precious!

2011-05-14T18:15:00.001-07:00

Our little Graham Haggard weighs 30 pounds, actually 29.5 to be exact! He is 18 months old and growing up too fast for me! He is in the 85% in weight and 76% in height. I think he may catch big sis soon. I see a bright future playing linebacker for Daddy! Graham is a little chatter box saying new words all of the time. He will try almost anything and some come out right! Some of his favorites are Mama, Daddyyyyy, Anna, Okie (oskie our dog), Papa, Mimi, Honey, Uh oh, Oh no, OH MAAAAN, Amen, tank you, peeees (please), mo (more), muk (milk), tuk (truck) and lots of animal noises. He is a climber and trying to run so fast. Got to keep my eye on this boy!

He is still a mama's boy but that's ok! ha! Mama can make everything better every time! He loves his Daddy too! He runs with arms up to greet him when he gets home. Graham loves a routine! He has such a sweet heart and loves to hug and kiss. He definitely has some "all boy" characteristics like throwing everything that resembles a ball and holding anything that resembles a bat like he is up at the plate ready to swing. He loves trucks, animals and anything outside. His little personality is coming out! He can be the sweetest, easy going little thing and then on the floor, red-faced screaming the next minute. This boy can throw a tantrum with the best of 'em! Enough to wear Mama out! But those hugs and kisses and quirky little smile will melt ya!

He still LOVES the nursery at church and the sweet ladies that care for him say he doesn't make a peep. He especially LOVES Ms. Shirley in the nursery! She is an elderly lady that has him every Sunday and also had him on Wednesdays during bible study this year. She comes with open arms to get him when we show up each time. I am always a little nervous that 90 lb Ms. Shirley might fall over with Bubba in her arms:). But she loves him to death and he loves her!! What more could I ask for!?

G is good eater! I would say he eats an average amount and likes most things. He sure loves the condiments and dipping. I thought I would never be that mom, but hey, I get it now! He has been very interested in our food lately. I've noticed him passing on plain, kid food and wanting whatever Dave and I are eating. And this boy still loves his milk! He thinks juice is ok and water is for the birds. We'll work on that.

G is careful in new situations. He likes to "take it all in" at new place or with new people. After a few minutes, he warms up, but mama's arms or lap is the best place until then. Loud noise and chaos are not his favorite. This makes sweet thang a little nervous. He doesn't care too much about tv. He might stare at Baby Einstein or Praise Baby dvd for a few minutes or occasionally Elmo.

G adores his sister!!! Anna Lou absolutely hung the moon to him! He wants to play with her, follow her, copy her and just be with her. Most of the time she is great with him and wants him to play with her. I hear some funny conversations, mostly AL telling G what he is supposed to do. He wakes up before her most days and after naps. (Working on that! Not sure why my 3 year old sleeps more than my 1 1/2 year old.) He cries and reaches for her door when he sees that it is shut and she is still in bed. I have to do some major distracting or he will run in the hallway, cry and wake her up.

G has been a very healthy little boy. We have had very few illnesses during his 18 months, but then I went out of town and came home. Seems he was waiting for me to come home to get a sinus infection, ear infection and stomach bug all during that past two weeks. Oh well! If that is it, we are so thankful for our overall healthy boy!

Graham Haggard melts my heart! He is such a joy and not sure what life looked like before he joined the Hall clan. Love you little G to the moon and back!!!

boys and girls...

2011-05-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

Desperate for a few minutes to get dinner together, I gave the kids a cut up egg carton to decorate their own caterpillar. G tore his into 20 pieces and tried to get every cap off of every marker. AL sat for 30 minutes and diligently colored each caterpillar "hump" with a different color. (I did the face.)
Although she is 3 and he is 1 1/2, wowzers to the difference between little girls and little boys!

Mama's Day...

2011-05-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

So thankful for the moms in my life that make such an influence on me and my family! We were thankful to spend Sunday evening with Honey and Papa. Honey is the absolute most wonderful, creative, giving, warm and just plain amazing Mom and Honey anyone could ever ask for!!! So glad she is mine!!!

I made brisket tacos, rice and beans and Honey brought dips, chips and dessert. I will post the brisket taco recipe soon because you MUST try it! Gotta love the crock pot! We didn't get any pics before church in our pretty clothes, so these will have to do after an afternoon in the backyard and after the kids baths.

(I mean, let's be honest, this is the real mom wardrobe anyway, right?)G and I sharing some strawberry shortcake. He is now into saying "cheeeeeese" for the camera.
On his 3rd piece of Angel cake.I could go on and on about my own mama, my mom-in-law, my sis, my sis-in-law, my grandmothers, great aunt, mommy friends and many more that I am so grateful for! I have some of the most Godly, strong, selfless, nurturing and loving women that surround me. And there is absolutely nothing greater in this world than being a mommy myself! I really noticed something last month when I was traveling. I saw mommies from all over the world caring for their babies just the same. It does not matter your skin color, culture or country, but all moms have been given the same gift. I watched women in airports and airplanes and busy streets and shopping malls all care for their babies just the same. I also noticed the little children and the eyes they had for their mother. Nothing like it! There is absolutely nothing like being a mother. It has stuck in my head ever since my trip about my job as a mom and what I am here to do, right now on this day. I am to pour into these children, meet their needs and love them to pieces! I am so glad God picked me for Anna Lou and Graham.

Treasures from Doha...

2011-05-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

I had to get a few treasures for my babes back home while I was in Doha. I found a cute purse for Anna Lou at the mall and Wendi got her a matching wallet. Wendi also bought matching pearl bracelets for Anna and Georgia while we were at the Souqs. It was a little big so I couldn't let her wear it to church on Easter like we had planned, but I had it re-strung and now it fits perfect. Anna Lou has hit the girly stage of purses and jewelry. It's hard to see it in these pics, but your can see the pretty bracelet behind the purse.

Little Graham got a Batman doll from his big cousin's Barret and Brooks. woohoo! We need some more boy looking toys around her and he loves it. Well...he mainly just loves me and Dave singing...na na na na na na na BATMAN!

(This is the day I got home and didn't Daddy dress her well!? However, he did put them in TCU shirts for the church egg hunt instead of the bunny shirts I had left. ha!! oh well!)

Easter Weekend...

2011-05-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend was busy and a lot of fun! We started on Saturday with a big egg hunt and cookout at with Dave's family, cousins, extended family, etc.

All of the kids lined up for the hunt.

Papa and Ms. Lorraine helped Anna keep up with the big kids!
Checking out the goods.

Dave and Jerod with G

G smiling big.

We enjoyed a cookout and ice cream.

That night we dyed some eggs for the first.

crazy!

Easter morning we got in our Easter duds and took a few pics before church.

Dave was jumping trying to get them to smile so they started jumping.

My men.

At church, I had to take a pic of Anna putting Graham's nametag on his back. She does this every time and G turns around for her to put it on everytime! Big sis, such a helper!

We met Honey and Papa there.

Our fam

Sweet pic of Papa and Anna Lou

After church we headed back to H&P's where the Easter Bunny had visited.

Aunt Rosie celebrated with us too and brought goodies for the kids.

Then time to hunt!

Mainly what G did, stop and eat.

why not a little game of soccer?

Honey's beautiful table

Only at H&P's can you do this!

We had a such a wonderful weekend! We did try to talk much more about Jesus and the Cross than the candy and the bunny. I am anxious for the days when my kids really begin to understand the meaning Easter. Our service at church was incredible and it was a great celebration of OUR RISEN LORD!!

Funny story- Our neighbor brought Anna a flower in a vase a few weeks ago from her garden. She put it on her dresser and always checked on it. A few days later the flower died and Anna looked up with a sad face and said "Mama! My flower melted!" I then said "no, it didn't melt, it actually died." With a confused look she says "My flower died on the cross?!" Well...hmmm...no! We had been talking about Jesus and the cross and I guess a little of that sunk in but not quite the way I had hoped. We will work on the facts later:)!

Doha Part THREE! (The rest of my vacay!)

2011-04-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

This very long post concludes my vacation in Doha! It truly was a vacation. I got to sleep in, not cook, not clean and do lots of special girly things like shopping, spas and pedis! What a blessing that all was, but the best part was just being a part of the everyday life of their family. I love those kids as they are my own and Nick and Wendi are pretty cool too, ha! And if you follow Wendi's blog, then this will be a repeat. She is such a beautiful writer and I can only try to narrate my wonderful week Qatar like she can. A lot of these pics are out of order but I just can't rearrange anymore!

Don't worry that we do not miss Idol in Doha! It airs a few days later and has Arabic subtitles, but it's the same!

On Georgia's actual birthday, the boys were in school, so the girls took a trip down to the Souqs. This is a good taste of the locals. There are little shops selling handmade things and restaurants along the streets. These boys were in some type of school and wanted their picture taken.

We stopped for lunch at this place Wendi had been before. She knows the ins and outs and this place was awesome! We ate sandwiches/wraps and this yummy cheese grilled and wrapped in bread. We sat outside and listened to a table full of women next to us speak in a few different languages. Doha is quite the melting pot!!

Georgia and one of her many faces. Isn't she a doll baby?!

After the Souqs we headed back to Brooks' school, The American School of Doha. His teacher had invited me to read to Brooks' class. I had to explain the I was Brooks' aunt, which to them meant a bug on the ground. When actually most of them have AUUUNTs (spoken with your best British accent.) hee hee! Brooks is one of two students in his class from the US! What an amazing experience! Wendi found this lady that sold cupcakes out of her house and so we HAD to get some for Georgia's birthday! Reese's and Oreo! Holy moly!

The birthday girl with her kissy face telling us she is ONE!

Nick had a major project at work that night and could not get away, but the rest of us headed to Johnny Rockets for burgers, fries and shakes! Yum! A taste of home!

Since Nick had a late night at work we postponed the cake and presents and let the boys dye Easter eggs instead.

The next day the celebration continued... I love that the Junods are about to invaded by all things girl!! G's first baby doll!

A few sights of Doha...

No place else but...

We think this is some kind of election bill board with all of the candidates faces.
Lots of delivery food. Even McDonalds and Burger King deliver!
We spent a few hours at this spa, which was awesome!
We spent some time at the great malls in Doha, mostly hitting up H&M! Now if they could just get at Target:)!Dinner at Thai Shack which was devine! There is a heavy Asian influence in Doha.
After Thai Shack we noticed a random store next door selling Easter decor and goodies. Not a norm in Doha!
One day we grabbed lunch at this local place which tasted like a really good turkey wrap but had a much more interesting name. And funny that they always throw a french fry in the middle of your sandwhich.
A pic of the little G on the eve of her real birthday.
Barrett being a rainbow. hee hee!
One night I helped Wendi make the real PF Chang's lettuce wraps! Yummy with our left over pad thai!
The last day we spent at the Ritz pool, thanks to Wendi's sweet friend Dede for the invitation. It was beautiful and felt like a true vacation!

Saying goodnight and bye to my sweet nephews, the B's! I left that night at midnight to fly home.

OH SIS! I would travel to the moon and back to be with you and yours! Thank you for my vacation and precious time with The Junods! We cried in the airport like we do everytime! Will we ever not...No, probably not! I am beyond blessed to have you as my mentor, sis and forever best friend! Could you please put a brick on those babies heads til I see them next? See all of you in a 5 weeks! Hallelujah!!!!! I love you!
I cannot begin to explain how special this trip was! It took an army including my parents, mother-in-law and wonderful husband to make it possible! They picked up the slack and loved my babies to death while I was gone. I felt so confident in their care and didn't worry once! I missed them and their daddy, of course, more than I ever thought possible! But I didn't let that keep me from enjoying my time with my precious family in Doha! I love watching the people I love activily following the Lord's will for their life. God is alive and well in Doha! And alive and well in the Junod family! I am anxious for the day they return to the red, white and blue but am trusting His timing and His plan! Thankyou, thank you Junods for everything!

Doha Part TWO!

2011-04-27T18:15:00.001-07:00

A day and half after making my way to Doha, I got to join in the celebration of sweet Baby Georgia Elizabeth! Wendi threw an amazing tea party (at The Ritz, if you will:) for our sweet one year old! Now Wendi is not really a "Ritz" kinda girl but Doha doesn't offer too many options and it was a great choice for our family and a few close friends! You can see more pics and details on Wendi's blog HERE.

The beautiful Junod Family!Aunt Sissy and her girl.

How 'bout some Orange Fanta in your tea cup!

Sweet girl got a tea cup as a gift from mom and dad.

Doha Part ONE!

2011-04-17T09:54:00.001-07:00

I have had a trip planned to visit my sister and her family in Doha, Qatar for a while now. Thanks to Honey, Papa, Mimi and Daddy for making this 10 day trip possible! Dave took the afternoon off from work and we took the kids to their first stop, Honey and Papa's house. Then we headed to the airport. One last family pic before mama heads out.

I shed a couple of tears saying bye to my babies for 10 days, but know they are in the very best hands!

Then I was off to Doha!
Some reading material (the book looks like a romance novel, but it isn't:)
I actually didn't get that much reading done. My flight was overnight and I slept most of my flight, thanks to Tylenol PM.

After a short layover in DC and 17 hours in the air, I made it!
These little munchkins were waiting for me! (I stole all of the pics from Wendi)

my boys!

my girls!

It was 10:30am US time, but 6:30pm Doha time, so it was time for dinner!

Doha has some shopping, so Georgia and I were taking a look.

Back at the house, we had to Skype with Honey and the kids. I was afraid Graham might get confused, want mama and cry, but he did great! Notice the lollipops in their mouths, thank Honey!

I brought lots of goodies from the US for the kids from us and from H&P.

Honey's gifts are always a hit!

Just a glimpse of downtown Doha. This is Nick's office building. They have lots of beautiful architecture and lots of construction always going on. It's a growing city!

More Doha pics to come!

Papa's 60th!!

2011-04-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

My dad turned 60 a few weeks ago so we had mom and dad over for dinner to celebrate. Dad got to eat on the "You are special plate" of course! Hugs and kisses for Papa.

Chocolate layer cake, Papa's fave.

My sister and I came up with this idea a few months ago for Dad's birthday present. We emailed and called lots of family and friends and asked them to write a note, letter, memory, etc about Dad. We also collected tons of pictures of Dad from every stage of life. We were overwhelmed with the response!! Our dad is one LOVED man!!! Wendi spent countless hours on her computer (which is her Mac and makes a beautiful digital book!) putting it together! It was a little after his actual birthday when it came in, but of course Papa didn't mind.

Here are Anna Lou and Graham helping Papa open his present.

The book turned out awesome! So many people wrote so many wonderful words!! And the pictures were amazing! I wish everyone could read it cover to cover!

I have to share this special picture from the book. This is my dad, on the left, and my Uncle Jimmy when Dad was about two. Who looks exactly like Dad???? My little Graham, of course!!

More fun with the Halls...

2011-04-04T13:19:00.001-07:00

Our Hall cousins came in town just two weeks after we were in Houston visiting them. We had fun hanging out at the Mema's house!

A little chick-fil-a lunch with Mema's and her 6 grandbabies. Big cousin Aubrey and Anna Lou The kids helping Papa out on the farm. AL and Uncle Mike

AL doing a little bareback:)

Saddled up.

The kids found this bucket of golf balls and had a little fun.

Riding with Papa. Fun times with cuzzies!

Spring Breakers!

2011-03-20T19:39:00.001-07:00

We spent a few days in Houston for part of our spring break. It was great to see lots of family and do lots of fun things! We drove into MIMI and PawPaw's house and a few hours later got to see Dave's cousin Scott, wife Hannah and baby Maggie! We met Maggie when she was born but now she is 4 months old. It was great to see the sweet Reaves Family! The next day we spent some time with our Hall cousins! Here are the 4 girls at dinner.
After every bite of dessert, Graham would say "MMMM!" Nice shirt mom! Where is the bib?

Emery enjoyed her dessert too:)!

Got to have cousin bath time.

The next day MIMI and the four of us went down to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. We didn't do the rodeo part, but loved the stockshow part! It was kind of last minute that we decided to go and I didn't pack any rodeo wearin' gear. A tulle skirt and a dinosaur shirt had to do! ha!

AL in the petting zoo.

Graham's face lets you know what he thought of the Llama.

We got to see lots of animals, but the babies were our favorite.

As Anna would say, "We saw bunnies, piggies, horsies, chickies, cowsies and more!"

The one day old piglets!

G getting as close as he can.

Then Anna Lou saw the pony rides. And MIMI insisted!

Here she comes! She was so serious! We were cracking up at her very serious face concentrating on her little pony, name Linda Lou. ha!

We were jumping up and down smiling trying to get a smile of her, but she was too busy riding her pony! It was pretty funny!

Then it was time for some fair food!

Someone insisted I take her pic on this chair. ok?

More treats!

Then it was time for the Bumble Bee ride. This is the man telling Dave that G could not be in his lap. Uh oh!

G was thrilled! He actually stopped crying when the ride started moving.

Can't even see his little redhead, but Dave and AL were having fun!

And then the ride stopped and G was ready to get off!!!!

Of course Daddy needed to play one game.

And he won AL this beautiful stuffed heart!

Thank you MIMI for a wonderful day at the Rodeo!!!!
At MIMI's, we spent lots of time outside on their beautiful deck. I took this pic with my phone, but you can see AL keeping her distance playing gently in the fountain and G pretty much in the fountain, soaking wet!

MIMI also babysit and treated us to a wonderful dinner date to Lupe Tortilla, one of our favorite Houston places!

The next day we drove home and that evening went to watch Papa coach a baseball game. I think these two were interferring with the coaches meeting before the game, but Papa didn't mind!

The next morning we went to our friend, Hudson's 4th birthday at the fire station. His mama, Amanda did such a great job! (yes, AL has on the same shirt two days in a row, but I washed it. ha!)

Checking out the firetruck.

I left the party early to head to a baby shower and Dave stayed with the kids. I didn't get any pictures of the cute birthday boy!

It was a fun, busy week! Especially fun spending lots of time with Daddy!!!

DAD! 60!

2011-03-15T06:22:00.000-07:00

Today, March 15th the one and only Bill Watkins/Billy/Wirter/WWW/Dad/Papa/Coach turns 60! I am so blessed to call this man my Dad! Love him!

A Patty's Day Treat...

2011-03-10T09:47:00.000-08:00

I made a little treat for AL's teachers and directors at MDO. She wore her green today since we will be on spring break on the actual St. Patty's Day. You could make something similar for neighbors, friends, etc. I just made my grandmothers recipe of Snicker Doodles and put a little green drizzle on top. Here is AL showing us and not cooperating so much with the camera. ha!

I didn't buy anything! I had some green paper, ribbon and treat bags already. I wrote "I am LUCKY to have you as my teacher!"