tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-139330842012-02-16T20:17:59.656-06:00Kellynoreply@blogger.comBlogger4591100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-74694453513290055882011-12-20T21:18:00.001-06:002011-12-23T09:39:05.905-06:00

To celebrate being out of school and Santa's impending arrival, we had a PJ brunch for friends. It was a family affair with all of the cousins hosting the fun party! Pictures from the invitations:  Some of the food(via pinterst) Hostess Kate-patiently awaiting her friends....patiently Eagle getting his cruz on The chocolate fountain...may it rest in peace.... Hot chocolate station(

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-8353367337864911202011-12-17T16:59:00.003-06:002011-12-17T18:59:25.401-06:00

On the train to the North Pole Here are some clearer pictures taken with my camera... Lauren found her seats Kate and her Superman Best Friends Lauren & Lexi Kate and Thomas The girls and Santa Playing Foot War(followed a long match of thumb war with Mr Westmoreland) Mrs Claus hands out cookies Singing Christmas songs the kids of the bunch(there were 22 of us total!)

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-13037790567351876822011-12-13T20:02:00.001-06:002011-12-13T20:02:09.910-06:00

A Star is Born video

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-11537053364421764842011-12-12T11:56:00.001-06:002011-12-12T11:56:55.005-06:00

Had a fabulous weekend in Dallas with the entire RSP group! Sadly Kate started feeling icky Sat night and by Sunday morning she could keep no food in her tummy. She complained about her throat and had a low grade fever that Tylenol couldn't take away. Our favorite dr checked her out this morning-it's strep throat but we did get medicine(including anti nausea thank goodness). On the road to

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-12370944132628746032011-12-11T18:26:00.001-06:002011-12-11T18:26:17.418-06:00

Her performance is not until Wednesday but she has begged to try on the costume so she can "practice".

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-26900249278772265392011-12-11T14:44:00.005-06:002011-12-12T14:59:00.741-06:00

Lauren had her very first voice recital today. All dressed up in her Christmas finest, she and her partner Gideon started the show with "All I Want for Christmas is a Hippopotomus". It was the hit of the show and Miss L loved all the attention!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-14543547281084238882011-12-09T19:00:00.000-06:002011-12-11T15:23:07.966-06:00

The girls loved spending the afternoon with Jacob-even if it only meant running errands. His mom is frantically packing for their upcoming move and we were able to keep him out of her hair for a little while. We bought popcorn at Popcornopolis and hit up the train nearby...Next time I may actually let them all run and play ( :

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-53430123393497049582011-11-01T18:41:00.002-05:002011-12-17T18:59:44.762-06:00

A trip to Crowe's Nest Farm is always a hit for the Regent's Kindergarten. It is the first field trip of the year and it ties in to their study of animals(life cycle). From ostriches to owls to buffalo to milking cows, the farm has it all. The best part for most of the kids is the hay ride and it was no different for this bunch. Here are a few pics: Lauren and Cheyana Watching the milk The

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-54092783430556812092011-10-22T15:09:00.000-05:002011-12-11T15:23:51.174-06:00

Dan has wanted to take the girls to a "real live" air show for a while. The Air Force base in San Antonio was hosting one and we almost made it...actually we did make it but stayed outside the gates to avoid the crazy crowds. Loved seeing the planes right overhead and hope to do it again next year...

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-18255879183529277412011-10-15T15:57:00.000-05:002011-12-11T15:58:02.680-06:00

Girls were so excited to celebrate LJ's birthday, they wanted to make a video!Girls wish LJ Happy Birthday

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-46177279061059141192011-08-31T15:51:00.001-05:002011-12-12T15:00:25.184-06:00

One of the first things they teach the Kindergartners is the pledge of allegiance. Lauren was so proud to show off(during the second week of school!) that she knew it and could say it with her sister.Video:Girls say pledge

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-4522351277227115302011-08-14T16:20:00.000-05:002011-12-19T16:22:04.067-06:00

Great afternoon at the Scottish Rite theatre seeing Peter Pan! Along with the Chambers & Kaylani families we enjoyed a great kid-friendly show. Lauren could not leave without talking to Tinkerbell...

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-69395318604241696672011-07-15T18:15:00.000-05:002011-12-17T18:16:48.162-06:00

Kate talked all year about having her birthday at the pool...wish granted! We had a great afternoon swimming with all her friends ( : The cupcakes! Happy Birthday sweet Kate! Logan being Logan Sweet Campbell Ella and Halle Reese & Lauren Mark & Thomas(Mark lost another tooth in the midst of the party!) Sweet Massie Anthony, Mark & Jackson

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-74397706155633555462011-07-12T18:05:00.014-05:002011-12-17T18:10:53.376-06:00

We celebrated Kate' s birthday with Queenie and Grandad(in from Idaho), the Woods and the Robinsons. SO love having a party with presents! Girls favorite thing to do is feed babies ( : Queenie and Baby E Opening Presents! Uh-oh! Queenie and Grandad got Kate just what she wanted! Roller Skates! Uncle B and LJ Trying out the new skates Happy Birthday Precious Kate!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-23729787458883726772011-05-17T18:55:00.003-05:002011-12-17T18:59:00.446-06:00

We had a session of family pictures done just as school was letting out. Although we weren't thrilled with the results, we did get some good pictures of the kids.

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-87052204303401261722011-02-28T12:24:00.005-06:002011-04-10T15:09:14.560-05:00

February was a pretty full month-lots of BIRTHdays and fun parties. A few more pics of events: Kate's class went to the Texas History Museum-they are in the midst of studying dinosaurs and it was a great way to see a lot of fossils at once. She LOVED it and is still talking about the big T-Rex. We also took the girls to a musical based on children's books at the Paramount theater. Amanda and

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-62453046473037366662011-02-20T11:41:00.016-06:002011-04-10T15:09:06.366-05:00

Sunday, February 20 was a VERY big day-we welcomed our newest nephew/cousin Eagle to the family! Laura went into labor the night before and kept on for a FEW hours until he was born on Sunday afternoon. Some pics of the happy occasion: The gorgeous mom in labor! Aunt Funny and Queenie-waiting for baby E Welcome to the world precious baby Eagle! Hi Dad! Weighing in at 8lbs 6oz! Big

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-4029757354077864662011-02-14T11:23:00.005-06:002011-04-10T15:08:58.163-05:00

So love Kate's kindergarten class! Check out the pictures from their Valentines Day party-feel so lucky to get to be a part of it all ( : The tables-Ms Chambers did a fabulous job with decor! Anna Grace, Jacob, Halle and Jackson  Logan, Caroline, Thomas and Madison Michael, Massie, Kate and Caleb Working on their craft Getting ready to play BINGO! Happy Valentines Day!!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-49486881715744509022011-02-13T17:37:00.000-06:002011-02-13T17:37:08.412-06:00

We fell in love on Thursday with San Diego. The girls asked us more than once why we couldn't live there(we responded with "we would if it wasn't in California" over and over again). We took the trip on a whim and could not have done more or had a better time. We are just back and I can't wait to show off some of the pictures. Most important thing we did on the trip was introduce the girls to the

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-60115661910836110672011-02-06T16:48:00.009-06:002011-02-13T17:31:29.587-06:00

Loved having the Superbowl party at our house this year. It was a last minute move when Queenie and Grandad's house was without water(due to the freezing temps that plagued Austin all week). It was the Steelers and Green Bay-ultimately a good game but that much more fun because of the company that watched it with us. First things first was counting Kate's 100 things for the 100th day of school

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-55559863925457641402011-02-05T16:27:00.004-06:002011-02-13T17:31:22.504-06:00

Kate's Kindergarten class has been studying the music of Mozart. Coincidentally the Austin Ballet was performing a pseudo-play & ballet of Mozart's life called "Symphony of the Clouds". It was a portrayal of his youth and all of the music he created during that time. Organized by Jacobs mom(who we adore) a group of kindergarten's spent a Sunday afternoon watching the show. Overall they liked

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-40607325913271498332011-02-04T16:06:00.003-06:002011-02-13T17:31:06.818-06:00

Hard to believe but Austin had a snow day! The girls LOVED getting to play in what little there was and were outside as much as possible. Bundled up and ready! Barely enough snow to cover the ground but that didn't bother the girls! Yum!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-77095005247254130432011-01-31T15:45:00.002-06:002011-02-13T17:30:59.581-06:00

We ended the month on a high note-celebrating both Grandad and Aunt Funny with chicken fried steak and chocolate sheet cake. So reminded me of growing up as a Wood and loved that the girls got a taste of it all! The Birthday People Could not wait to eat the biscuits! Birthday girl Always ready to pose Ready to eat chicken fried steak and biscuits! Helping Grandad open his

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-14736139234510387972011-01-30T16:19:00.002-06:002011-02-13T17:30:27.837-06:00

Samantha and I both got new cameras for Christmas. The cameras were so great that both of us needed lessons to use them! We signed up for a local photography class. Not sure how much we actually retained but it was fun nonetheless. Here are some pictures taken during the class: My photography buddy! Rooster for Aunt Funny Only in Austin

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-10990881583993075872011-01-25T15:27:00.002-06:002011-02-13T17:30:14.305-06:00

Was an early morning on January 6th-the first day back after break. Didn't seem to bother Miss Kate: This month was all about Space. They built a space ship inside their classroom, hanging from the ceiling were all the planets(and moons and every child made a mobile of the solar system that were also hung above their heads, AND they all spent one day dressed as an assigned item in the system.

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-80767508646581931272011-01-23T12:04:00.015-06:002011-02-13T17:29:54.860-06:00

Spent Saturday in Houston celebrating Granny's birthday with her and the rest of the family. Lots of Italian food and laughs made for a great afternoon. Love their Granny!! Showing off her new jewels from Granny the artists waiting for lunch Granny and her LJ Lauren loves her Granny The cake! The birthday girl! The family The gorgeous Dobbs girls Finishing the day

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-62513853614978811942011-01-17T12:03:00.004-06:002011-02-13T17:29:46.280-06:00

No one thought it would take her very long and we were right. Lauren is now riding her bike without training wheels-four months later than her sister. So proud of both of them but it has made it even harder to keep them contained!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-86937342105527410392011-01-13T10:07:00.003-06:002011-02-13T17:29:30.952-06:00

We love a good fire at this house. I think it is a genetic thing that passed down from Queenie to me and now the girls. Dan is a great fire starter and the girls love to help too. This winter has had its share of bitterly cold days and everyday since early December there has been a fire in the fireplace. Grandad has been great about sharing the ranch firewood. Dan typically goes out to get it

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-65466725361847535562011-01-01T10:54:00.005-06:002011-01-23T12:30:57.022-06:00

TCU finished their undefeated season by winning the Rose Bowl! We watched the game at Queenie and Grandad's house with Uncle B, Sam and LJ. After eating our black eyed peas and greens, we enjoyed cheering the frogs to victory! Great way to start the year! Our hosts-Grandad wore his purple! Cooking up a storm Loves her Grandad

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-28381437174324759402010-12-26T09:09:00.019-06:002010-12-28T14:02:14.529-06:00

Christmas is pretty much a month long endeavor once the girls hit the age of 3. We have been monitoring the Naughty/Nice list since late November and watched just about every Christmas movie. So it was with great anticipation that we finally made it to the big day! After Christmas Eve services, we joined all of the Austin family at Queenie and Grandad's for a fantastic meal. The prettiest

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-83492826016507653462010-12-23T13:55:00.004-06:002010-12-28T14:02:06.538-06:00

We spent the day before Christmas Eve with the McMahans. Decorating cookies and playing Christmas bingo was the best thing for a winters day and the kids had a great time. A few pics from the day:

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-79956194820940015912010-12-19T09:34:00.009-06:002011-01-23T09:46:38.442-06:00

Had THE best time this weekend as Kate and I jumped aboard the Santa Express Train. We joined kindergarten friends Jacob, Caleb and Logan. It was a two hour ride filled with stories, Santa and Mrs Claus, cookies and hot chocolate. The kids had a lot of fun and it was a great way to get ready for Santa's visit next week! Kate Logan Jacob and Caleb Watching the world go by.... Hot

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-8871105261260496752010-12-12T11:02:00.004-06:002010-12-28T14:41:48.735-06:00

This was such a great week-full of fun Christmas activities! Lauren jumped on the Polar Express in Ms Beccas class-wearing her pajamas to school, drinking hot chocolate and eating pizza for lunch. This year is especially fun since she get to do all of the fun stuff twice(once with her MWF class and again with her T/Th folks). Kate's class had a field trip to a local retirement home. Their class

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-55318221335561684742010-12-05T10:43:00.002-06:002010-12-28T14:01:50.271-06:00

We loved going to the football games this year and were thrilled to be able to drive up to Temple for the State Championship game. Regents was the underdog to Bullard but we prevailed 38-7. Pre-game pep talk:

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-14805976064367068762010-11-29T16:49:00.000-06:002010-11-29T16:49:04.848-06:00

Was so nice not to have to wake up for school on Monday. Kate has the whole week off so I kept Lauren home too. Here are the highlights from a week full of good food and family. Monday: Kate had her first play date with her boyfriend Logan. Logan's mom Heather said they started out a little uncomfortable together but were in lock step by the end. Aunt Funny and I took a Pie Making class at

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-87459772597004808682010-11-20T14:23:00.027-06:002010-11-20T20:42:28.671-06:00

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and both girls have already eaten their share of turkey! We also spent time with Santa(he must come see us now so he can get back to the North Pole and make all the toys of course). Highlights: Tuesday-Every grade at Kate's school has a ministry and for kindergarten, it is the Christmas Box. Each child is asked to fill a shoebox with toiletries and small gifts

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-46054172882822423542010-11-14T12:58:00.006-06:002010-11-20T20:42:19.968-06:00

Highlights of our week: Sunday: Loved getting to spend the morning with Aunt Funny-we participated in Komen Race for the Cure. I recalled why I do not like to do that race anymore: it is always crowded and the signs-I cried through most of the 3.1 miles. Thursday: Kate's class was chosen to recite at Regent's Open House for prospective parents. They did amazing! Friday: Kate got more tubes put

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-755053349227561042010-11-07T13:18:00.002-06:002010-12-01T16:54:42.464-06:00

Highlights of the week: Tuesday: This was the best day of the week for Kate. Her class went on their first field trip. We drove out to Crowe's Nest farm near Manor to see dairy cows(and milk them), gorgeous gardens, hayrides, all varieties of chickens and birds(rescue), and all forms of reptiles/bugs. They spent the last few weeks studying animals and this was a way to take what they learned to

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-46819175564822453522010-11-01T13:31:00.002-05:002010-11-20T20:42:04.347-06:00

Highlights of our week: Monday: We had a great start to Halloween week with the McMahan family. Monday night we dressed and drove over to the Tri Delt house on campus. The girls got to trick or treat up and down the halls and collected a ton of candy. They also took swings at a pinata and decorated their own cookies-lots of sugar and fun. Hook 'em One of the games they got to play Trick

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-90647812181305815122010-10-11T17:37:00.020-05:002010-11-20T20:41:56.103-06:00

Oh it may be another tradition that has begun-pilgrimage to the Pumpkin Patch just outside of Marble Falls. We chose to go on a weekend-BIG mistake but we still had a ball(the girls especially!). Aunt Funny and Eagle were there too and oh the fun we had! The parking situation was our first clue of the crowds Pumpkin Lauren Pumpkin Kate Pumpkin Aunt Funny & Baby Robinson The line for

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-27808969770675272782010-09-02T18:53:00.002-05:002010-11-20T20:41:47.361-06:00

Lauren has one year to enjoy being the oldest. She is no longer in the shadow of her sister but I think she may miss seeing her during the day. She has the same wonderful teacher that Kate did (Ms Becca) and she is going to class five days a week. First day of school pics:

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-50708057260183563532010-08-30T16:31:00.016-05:002010-11-20T20:41:39.015-06:00

It is a VERY special time for us-Kate is in kindergarten!! She was SO excited to start her new school and hasn't looked back... Ready to go! Pause for the family picture Ready for pick-up(Halle one of her favorite friends sits next to her) Here is day two of school for Kate(this jumper is their "Chapel" uniform, the shorts are for every other day except for Garden day)

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-35044900364007240422010-08-20T16:28:00.021-05:002010-11-20T20:41:30.602-06:00

Idaho is something we look forward to every year and the girls were so happy to get there. The weather was cool and comfortable-a great relief from Austin heat. The girls spent a lot of time outside-chasing butterflies and following Grandad. We did get to experience Bear World and as usual Kate's favorite part was the chickens. BEAR WORLD! Some sights from inside the car.... Yearly

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-62490804507031958712010-07-30T16:25:00.010-05:002010-11-20T20:41:20.466-06:00

We went to Indiana this weekend-Abe Martin State Park to be more specific and enjoyed seeing all of Nana's extended family. The girls LOVED the indoor water park and we enjoyed the LONG hike we were able to take the girls on Saturday morning. Lauren did get pretty sick on the trip(sadly) but I know they are both looking forward to the next reunion. Kate in the water Lauren headed to the

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-62884234808522179882010-07-17T18:43:00.000-05:002010-07-17T18:43:30.533-05:00

Summer is fun with two girls who are able to go anywhere without a stroller, diapers, pacy, in tow-thinking this is the first summer since Kate was born that we don't need extra "equipment"-yay! Most of the summer they will be in a camp or traveling. So far we have done VBS (they LOVED it-still listening to all the songs on a daily basis!), Dallas(they stayed with Nana Bieboo while we went to

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-54519586406595892052010-07-17T17:17:00.051-05:002010-07-17T18:41:51.342-05:00

Imagine if someone had told me six years ago "See that little thing in the warming bed-hooked up to all those tubes and machines-the one that looks like a baby squirrel? In six years she is going to be a beautiful tall girl that will talk a mile a minute. She will be sensitive loving and best friend to her little sister. You will not be able to keep up with her and you will have to tell people

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-72824809806962764642010-07-16T18:43:00.004-05:002010-07-17T19:01:49.267-05:00

Kate invited 29 of her closest friends to Jumpy Gym for her birthday this year. Pure madness along with a lot of giggling and fun! The birthday girl, her sister and mom/dad were on birthday overload for the rest of the week....Here are pictures from the big event: Birthday Girl and her Grandad Up to the big slide Birthday Girl Sister is having fun too! Queenie & Grandad enjoy the nicely placed

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-50585516149442278972010-05-20T16:03:00.003-05:002010-07-17T17:16:56.063-05:00

I can't believe it is already that time of year and for one baby, she will no longer be a preschooler after today. Kate has loved her teacher, Ms Becca this year and Lauren doesn't want to leave Ms Karen's class. We are so happy that we stayed at the preschool and I feel like Kate is prepared to start kindergarten next year(her mom-not so much). Last day of school dresses: Silly sisters ( :

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-51319933551837779102010-04-15T14:48:00.004-05:002010-07-17T17:16:48.712-05:00

Remember Fufu-lots and lots of pictures were taken of him-he was the center of Kate's love.  Sadly, we haven't seen Fufu in quiet a while. Someone else has moved in that might possibly have eaten him.Meet Ella Didn't take long for Ella to join in dress up And just like Fufu, Ella has become the target of their pictures.... Ella came from Lab Rescue but we feel like she has always been

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-88733702711695465912010-03-28T14:43:00.002-05:002010-07-17T17:16:40.273-05:00

Dan and I took a weekend away(to Horseshoe Bay-10 years ago we were married there!). The girls got to spend the weekend with Queenie and Grandad. They also got to spend Saturday with Aunt Funny-she seems to find the most fun things to do in Austin. Giant Cupcakes!Later they went to a kid's fair where everything was fun and exciting. They met the Easter bunny, stuffed some new toys, and rock

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-47345077020241894542010-03-20T14:28:00.004-05:002010-07-17T17:16:32.628-05:00

VERY special night for the girls-they got to go out to the ranch with Queenie and Grandad! From fun foods to new beds to fishing, they had a ball! Checking things out Angel and JW came on the trip too! Picking our beds JW and Angel weren't the only animals they had to bring Settling down for the night with Queenie Sun's up-let's go fishing! After many attempts-no fish were hungry  "Grandad

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-29922853357545790682010-03-14T14:01:00.001-05:002010-07-17T17:16:23.203-05:00

Lauren invited all of her friend to Austin's Scoops for her birthday. They got to make Ice cream sundaes and play outside-what else could a 4 year old want?!? The Birthday GirlA little time with her boyfriend Trent Tattoos!! Outside to play-yay! The Party People(Kate Reese Lauren & Jeremy) Time for ice cream Happy Birthday to you!! Party girl smile!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-22241736252838032392010-02-25T16:26:00.018-06:002010-07-17T17:15:58.787-05:00

Today we went to lunch at Eastside and ran into Dorsey. She has moved to E Austin and now has 200 burnt orange chickens living along side her and Susan. We were invited to come meet them and the girls were completely enchanted. Dorsey telling the girls about getting up at dawn to feed them(despite it being dark and the dead of winter!!) Going to check out the coopInside the coop-chickens chickens

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-10197274084405265302010-02-20T13:51:00.007-06:002010-07-17T17:15:43.524-05:00

It only happens every couple of years but this was a year that the girls were able to really enjoy it(and we enjoyed seeing their faces!)It begins to come down and the girls run out to catch some Brrrrrrrr SO Proud!!

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-81637784956250152962009-12-11T15:22:00.002-06:002010-02-11T15:29:47.127-06:00

The Benzon girls finally made it to Disney! They had a ball especially because they had their other sister Reese along! Here is the photo book of all the pics: Disney 2009

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-91359571865528565342009-11-30T12:28:00.002-06:002010-02-11T15:40:51.644-06:00

We were really lucky this year. Every November I feel like we are home with the some sickness(usually pneumonia) but we stayed pretty healthy this fall. The girls enjoyed school, gym magic and their weekly "cheer" class. Thanksgiving always brings the "Thanksgiving Performance" and this year held a nice surprise: Kate. She went right up with her class and sang away-so much different than the

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-4695744233551904102009-11-11T15:08:00.001-06:002010-02-11T15:29:35.707-06:00

We have a constant battle in our house called "cleaning up". The girls know that once quiet time is over, it is time to clean up their mess and come downstairs for a snack. Most days, they try to come downstairs without cleaning up only to be turned around by mean mom. A week ago, I was upstairs three times trying to get them to clean up their playroom(which was a disaster area) but the mess

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-9300311093099147852009-10-31T11:35:00.054-05:002010-02-11T15:43:04.784-06:00

October was fun for us this year. Both girls understood the whole trick or treat concept and both wanted to be girly princesses! We also made a trip to the pumpkin patch with the playgroup-so fun to see how much the girls grow in a year! Here are some fun pics from the month: The girls and I took a morning to make/decorate some cookies...a sugar high before the real day of sugar! Halloween

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-10681030963560442332009-10-11T12:52:00.001-05:002010-02-11T15:29:23.545-06:00

Have to share a story about the girls from a few nights ago. It had been one of those days-tantrums, tears, sent to their rooms kind of day. That night, the girls tried to sneak into one another's rooms and it took Dan three times before he was forced to take Lauren's beepee(she was in Kate's bed reading a book). Tears and crying but finally we think we got the message across. Soon we hear

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-38079289395911653162009-09-13T11:47:00.012-05:002009-09-13T12:02:32.780-05:00

September is here and the girls were ready to get back to school. Kate is in the 4 year old class and Lauren is with the 3's. They both have new teachers and all of the classrooms got makeovers. The girls also started taking "Cheer Class" which is a compromise-Kate refused to take ballet and Lauren wanted to be able to perform in a recital. They will also be in a fundamental of soccer class at

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-5085838872968134362009-09-01T10:00:00.001-05:002009-09-13T11:46:09.263-05:00

We had such a great time in Idaho. The weather was amazing-chilly nights(29 degrees) and beautiful days (anywhere from 60-75 degrees). The girls enjoyed hot chocolate and "deconstructed" smores(would rather eat marshmallow, chocolate, cracker on their own). We were in jeans or warm pajamas everyday-heaven after the summer Austin has had!Hanging outside in our pajamas So love their Grandad Queenie

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-86658472877273449312009-09-01T09:30:00.003-05:002009-09-13T11:46:00.046-05:00

Mesa Falls is gorgeous-so much so that Kate remembers it every year and asks to go back. Big Spring is usually on the agenda too and the girls LOVE throwing food to the big fish/birds.Mesa Falls:Family pictures are a must hereGirls LOVED seeing the rainbows Family pic! Great pic except Miss Priss became a little snarly that she was not the only one in the pictureBig Spring:On the driveFeeding the

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-54715413910409216602009-09-01T09:02:00.005-05:002009-09-13T11:45:50.212-05:00

Bear World is our alternative to Yellowstone-quick in-out and the girls love seeing all the animals. Soon they will be old(ie patient) enough for the beauty of the Park but for now, this is perfect. Token tourist pic Loves her Queenie Bears Mr Moose-nice to see him againNew discovery-Kate LOVES chicken coop's...spent most of the time inside this one!?!Kate aka "Chicken Whisperer" Love petting Mr

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-18083025096433732882009-08-08T09:52:00.009-05:002009-08-08T09:58:30.894-05:00

August is going to be fun! We started the month in Houston with the Boettchers and the Carrolls-twelve years and six kids later we all still look exactly the same!! The girls had their final week of camp but this time it was with all their friends from school(so they RAN to the car each and every morning to get there).Soon we are headed to the cool of Idaho-it is still unbearably hot in

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-70168581603700036652009-07-31T09:37:00.001-05:002009-08-08T09:52:08.108-05:00

We celebrated Kate's birthday over a couple of days. It started at home on the 12th once we were home from the wedding. The next night we had dinner and presents at Queenie & Grandad's house. Her pool party was at the end of the week and was celebrated with her friend Reese. Here are some pics of the events:Opening presents-lots of good stuff!LOVES her new penguin from Aunt Funny & EagleThere is

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-57050251121301324012009-07-31T09:11:00.000-05:002009-08-08T09:37:24.037-05:00

The wedding was in an airplane hanger in Santa Teresa(just outside EP). The decorations were very festive and the party was full of surprises(a flyover or two!!). More pics:All dressed up and ready to goLauren takes a turn at photographyThe ring bearersThe wedding partyHappy Couple and the folksWho would have thought these folks could clean up so nicely!Cousins and the girlsGorgeous sisters!Loved

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-68406142419635879762009-07-31T08:45:00.000-05:002009-08-08T09:37:41.059-05:00

Barrett and Sam were married on July 11th in EP. In what was a fun filled weekend, the girls walked down the isle like pros and the happy couple celebrated with all their friends and family.Queenie and Grandad hosted the Rehearsal Dinner at our second home in EP, the "G&R"Love the decorAunt Funny loved it a little too muchGirls had to touch each and every pinataLove their Grandad"Party Pic!"Sam

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-15029685636473493022009-07-31T08:31:00.002-05:002009-08-08T09:37:54.093-05:00

This time of year I always think back to how it all began. Kate coming early, three months in the NICU, and the scariest nine months of our lives. Time and her amazing spirit have dulled the reality of all that we went through. Recently, I read some of the updates I sent-details of how many cc's she was able to take that day("up to 5!!"), a breathing "set back", or when she finally hit three

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-63813980821816535942009-07-31T07:52:00.005-05:002009-08-08T08:31:38.737-05:00

July was wild. We had the 4th of July, Barrett's wedding, Kates birthday and camps galore.It has also been a record July as far as heat-all but four days where 100+ . The girls and I spend most afternoons inside counting down the days until we get to Idaho.We spent the night of the 4th at the McMahans. In what has become a great tradition, they cooked out, the kids swam(and made new friends), and

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-66030327450611822242009-06-19T16:56:00.012-05:002009-06-19T17:10:03.861-05:00

Thursday we made the journey down to San Antonio. It was a "girls only"(or as the girls called it "no boys allowed trip") and their friend Reese came with us. They had a ball! One(my sleeper) got a little tired about three hours in and we called it a day(and still did not get to see everything!). Can't wait to take them back-Some pics: The "no boys allowed" brigade Inside the butterfly exhibit(

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-808608712735379392009-06-12T18:45:00.003-05:002009-06-18T19:08:12.798-05:00

The girls finished school, Queenie and Grandad left for Idaho, the bride/groom returned from Jamaica and things settled down into heat and humidity.Some pics of what has been going on(besides pool visits, bike rides, lots of artwork, a little thing called CROCODILE DOCK and lots and lots of A/C!!):"Graduation" at their preschoolKate and her duck Fu-Fu(looks like they are headed to prom??)My ducks

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-90399170805220569172009-06-01T16:38:00.004-05:002009-06-18T18:41:08.580-05:00

May-post wedding is pretty much a blur for me. I can safely say that I have finally recovered from being in bridezilla's wedding...it was awesome-every person involved did amazing. Laura was absolutely stunning and it was a fabulous night.The girls and I practiced walking down the isle for about two weeks. Dan and I were so sure that only one(the youngest) would actually make it all the way there

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-18822188924169670162009-05-31T16:22:00.002-05:002009-06-18T19:07:13.834-05:00

Dan had a somewhat memorable birthday-first time to go to a spa and get a massage and facial-very metro of him. He loved the massage but the facial led to drs bills and a cortisone shot-poor guy!The girls and I made him chocolate cupcakes as a surprise. The pink sprinkles were their special touch.

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-1122784504794430212009-05-17T17:32:00.009-05:002009-05-17T18:10:27.891-05:00

Wednesday my camera went missing for about an hour. Grandad was there putting up the bird feeder(which we LOVE), Lauren was taking a nap and Kate "helped" Grandad watch for birds on the new feeder. Here is what I found on my camera later(the only pictures I deleted were the 50 other pictures of fu-fu...even Kate does not need that many pictures of him)

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-45261917714969336712009-05-17T16:41:00.013-05:002009-05-17T17:06:52.053-05:00

We are back in swim lessons and school is winding down. Random pictures of the girls who spent most of last week "practicing" to be flower girls(wedding pics to come...the girls did great!!).Making yet another batch of the Garden Harvest Bread (huge hit at our house!) Who wants to take us to the Farmer's Market??The socks were my favorite part!!You know it is getting close to the end of school

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-12484989249258908482009-05-02T08:18:00.008-05:002009-05-03T08:48:39.873-05:00

We had a fun month-fast but fun! Here are some more pics:Silly sistersMaking a cake The cake was for Dad(he was on a trip) but it did not make it...eaten up in two days! YUM! On the retreat...DE-lux accommodationsWe were all in one bedroom-luckily we had a small living area to "retreat" too On the way home-worn out girls! Kate and her new "can't live or sleep without animal, "Fu-fu" Day the girls

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-17683531375368247132009-04-30T15:46:00.014-05:002009-04-30T16:10:31.985-05:00

Laura and Eagle will be getting married in about two weeks-we celebrated them at our house mid-month. It was the first time the new house was full of folks and it turned out nice. Was great to have so many good people under one roof-if the party was any indication, the wedding is going to be amazing. The kids had their own party-upstairs with Miss Culley The hostesses and the bride Bride and

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-71148745639510349712009-04-16T17:29:00.006-05:002009-04-16T17:39:56.908-05:00

Apparently the girls are ready for summer! This was the girls "dress up" for the afternoon...Also, my first parent-teacher conference was yesterday. Kate's teacher Ms Debbie was very pleased with Kate's recent behavior(we were having a few issues last month). They tested the kids on all sorts of skills and Kate was able to complete all the tasks without a problem. I did ask if Kate would be ready

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-54953098399037115222009-04-14T17:39:00.008-05:002009-04-14T18:06:01.255-05:00

So funny, Dan and I always think Kate is SO TALL...Lauren's dr is pretty convinced they both are going to be tall. Lauren is in the 95% for height and 75% for weight. Everything checked out great and there are no s-h-o-t-s at the 3 year check so we got out of there pretty easy! Right now, the girls are upstairs "boxing" with Wii...they are hilarious! Lauren has almost a dance-move motion and

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-23323439896582836492009-04-13T16:10:00.007-05:002009-04-13T16:24:28.509-05:00

EB came to Queenie and Grandad's house too! The girls went armed with their easter baskets and hunted away....Aunt Funny and Eagle came armed with cascarones... SO sad we did not get a picture of the girls and Eagle's mom. They LOVE her and had a ball showing her all their "moves". She was so dear to bring them some Easter fun (and the chicks she gave them are the hit of the day!!! MUCH better

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-48868312461915258462009-04-12T08:21:00.012-05:002009-04-12T08:39:56.844-05:00

The girls went on a hunt yesterday-had a ball. This morning both were up early to see if the EB had left any eggs. It POURED down rain here last night but EB comes rain or shine. Tonight we are headed to Queenie and Grandad's for a "traditional" Sunday dinner (and rumor has it there may be a dancing/rap bunny performing c/o Aunt Funny).Pics from the hunts: Holding hands(dan and I are noticing

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-30265611246883761322009-04-10T11:02:00.007-05:002009-04-10T11:42:46.696-05:00

Sometimes I wish the girl's school did not take a holiday...today we all needed one. There are some changes coming to their preschool and we are not sure what the future holds. The girls don't seem to notice(thankfully) and are enjoying some "quality" time with mom today.We decorated Easter cards this morning and then made rice krispy eggs(sort of): Lauren was our marshmallow tester Here she is

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-75242214834566193322009-04-07T13:02:00.006-05:002009-04-07T13:09:21.230-05:00

This is something that happens nearly everyday. We leave the house, come home, they disrobe(leaving every article of clothing they are wearing on the floor), and they put on dresses. Here is today's version:

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-43221924758333098362009-04-07T08:43:00.002-05:002009-04-07T08:45:42.698-05:00

Dan has been so great during all this back trouble. And to top it off, he watched the girls while I did spa/uchi with Laura & Queenie. They sure do love their dad...

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-64677507353337827322009-04-07T08:36:00.007-05:002009-04-21T17:22:44.327-05:00

Saturday was a to celebrate Laura. She did not want the "traditional" bachelorette party so we all "settled" for spa, uchi, and fun instead.Here are a few shots of the bride-to-be: Girls at Uchi

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-66177017570549028152009-03-31T16:34:00.003-05:002009-03-31T17:29:49.268-05:00

I have had a back injury(most around here have heard about enough it) and had the MRI today(results later this week). Queenie and Grandad took the girls to "broccoli and cheese soup"(aka Panera Bread) for lunch. This afternoon it was all dress up, all the time...As I write this post, both girls continue to play on the playscape fully costumed-they told me they were having a party and "mom you

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-91655648665104899752009-03-15T11:56:00.007-05:002009-03-15T12:43:00.683-05:00

I am not sure if it is the age or just their personalities, but Lauren and Kate are bestest of friends. They spend every moment together-playing, dressing up or just watching TV(side-by-side).This morning, Kate dressed Lauren up...the pink dress was already on-that is Lauren's go-to outfit every morning that we do not have preschool. Aunt Sal and Brooke sent a great card that Lauren got to "

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-23811230273294622982009-03-15T11:11:00.018-05:002009-03-15T11:53:30.575-05:00

One word describes Lauren's birthday this year: Cinderella...could not have been a more perfect day of fun and celebration. The 3 year old princess loved every single second of the spotlight.Pre-party: Warming up her twirlSistersThe party:Everyone came running when they heard the "special guest" had arrived in her carriage That can't be KATE(!!) getting her face painted by Cinderella...Party was

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-32216205853692011452009-03-15T11:00:00.012-05:002009-03-15T11:11:16.932-05:00

Only days before we began the month, we moved in. Needless to say time has flown by since we have been in and we still have boxes to unpack.February is a month of love-so wedding prep was in full gear. Took a trip to EP to celebrate Sam and Barrett's engagement. We may have gone toVivo once or ten times(on this occasion Laura had found her wedding dress moments before...and we discovered that

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-24012441648845205722009-03-15T10:09:00.006-05:002009-03-15T10:40:21.266-05:00

A very special birthday was celebrated on January 29th. Grandad turned sixty and it happened to fall on the same day we closed on the new house(and moved in). Lucky for everyone, the girls chose to help Queenie make a cake rather than help mom/dad move.Making the cake:Chef Kate Chef Lauren Cooking Queens Licking the frosting-everyone's favorite part Ready to party The birthday boy Lauren and Kate

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-46110995701927841172009-03-09T16:27:00.009-05:002009-03-09T16:37:15.887-05:00

Going to keep these on the blogs because both sites have tons of useful info for the upcoming events! Click on the names and you should be taken to their sites:Eagle & Laura Barrett & Samantha

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-7182433536918825432009-03-03T15:48:00.003-06:002009-03-03T15:49:12.832-06:00

More pictures/life is coming-will try to get caught up by the end of the week ( :

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-41023594363101371152009-03-03T15:37:00.008-06:002009-03-15T10:09:45.258-05:00

Continuing on with what happened while the blog was on vacation.January flew by-we spent most of the month praying the new house would be ready and that the old house stayed in one piece while we rented it. We spent one weekend with Granny and family for her birthday-Jewett was the locale and Kate is still telling me about the wells we saw. Queenie had an unfortunate encouter with a police

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-43799447132607973852009-03-03T15:03:00.012-06:002009-03-03T15:37:06.717-06:00

Is it true-did I really not post ANYTHING since December?? I am terribly sorry-we have had a FEW too many things going on and the blog got put to the bottom of the list. Now that we are finally a little more settled, it should be better.To catch up:Christmas was so fun! The girls both "get" Santa and had a ball this year. The gift Lauren LOVED was a fishing pole from Grandad/Queenie and Kate's

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-53814696805266242732008-12-22T12:08:00.010-06:002008-12-22T12:18:55.688-06:00

The high in Austin is supposed to be 38 today but so far we haven't gotten above 31. Girls are inside because I don't want anyone sick for Santa. Luckily we had "activities" to keep us busy.First a gingerbread house(much of the candy did not make it on the house!!)Then to RRather's Pumpkin Muffins-where the girls added their own special touch at the end...Sprinkle, sprinkle....

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-79004883734850134232008-12-22T08:15:00.010-06:002008-12-22T09:29:46.122-06:00

I think as the girls get more into Santa and Christmas, December becomes more wild(add to that illness, selling a house and building another one). I have not been the best at taking pictures this month but here are some updates/fun pics:Lauren is potty trained!! Did it all by herself-three days and now she even wears panties to sleep...We are still doing a tour of every bathroom we pass but we

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-34956033999534829172008-11-28T17:12:00.011-06:002008-11-29T09:22:33.040-06:00

The developmental changes that happen between 1-3 years old are numerous. Take, for example, our visit with Santa. Last year there were tears-lots and lots of them. Lauren screamed and fought me with every breath as big, fat tears rolled down Kate's cheeks. Last year:This year:Both girls were all smiles the entire time. As it came to be our turn, Lauren walks right up to Santa and says "Hi Santa,

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-61272164640879181032008-11-22T16:54:00.003-06:002008-11-28T17:12:47.107-06:00

For us, the songs began about a week before the performance. Lauren calling out to me "put your turkey wings on mom" and proceeding to sing about Tom Turkey(in typical Lauren fashion, whenever I would try to join in the song she would either scream"no don't sing" or put her hand over my mouth).Despite the early singing, we had no idea what to expect from the girls on the day of the show. Last

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-88824289854008943272008-11-06T16:52:00.003-06:002008-11-06T16:53:46.940-06:00

Do they seem to be moving REALLY quickly or is it just me?

Kellynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13933084.post-29782154772252226492008-11-01T07:54:00.010-05:002008-11-01T09:48:16.430-05:00

Finally a year when the girls aren't sick for Halloween!! They made it to the school party(a first) and then trick or treating last night. Here are pics of the costumes. (and yes Kate really did want to be Dale Earnhardt Junior). Kate before school with some friends...she is a BIT taller than the restReady to go Trick or Treating with Dad and Grandad! Inspecting the candy(Junior is already in

Kellynoreply@blogger.com