OakleyLife

Great Wolf Lodge

2012-01-30T19:07:00.000-08:00

We got the chance to go to an event tonight at this fun, indoor, water park. Our friend, Andrea, volunteers her time for Big Brother/Big Sisters of Arlington. Tonight, they were honoring these volunteers by an evening out with your families. Andrea invited us to go and the only thing that would have made this night better would have been for her to come too! We thank you so much, we had a great time and we loved swimming in January.

For some reason, gates wanted her pic taken with this kid. She didn't play with him, talk to him, but he is a doll.

my 2 guys liked it. Alan loved this place. Makes me excited for the summer.

gates was brave. Loved the thrill slides.
Water lover

Old friends

2012-01-30T19:03:00.000-08:00

These girls have been friends since college. Amanda's dad passed away recently and so we wanted to get together and just celebrate his life and let her know we love her. There were some special guys present but they didn't want to be photographs.

2012-01-21T09:44:00.000-08:00

2012-01-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

DECEMBER brought a lot of fun days and nights.

Here is a picture of Gates, Katherine, and Hayley. They are the kids of Anne Marie, and she is not into baby beauty queens. Her little Katherine was Vixen the reindeer in a play. Gates and I went to watch her very good performance. Little cutie.

Christmas morning Skype with the Oakleys
the trains at Northpark. Alan liked watching all of the action.
Preschool Chistmas party.

2012-01-08T21:41:00.000-08:00

Alan turned one on november 29. We had a train party for him the first weekend in December. I hadn't gotten my new camera yet, so my pictures are limited, but here are a few!

this birthday boy LOVES cake!

This was the front of the thank you notes I sent out.
The birthday boy and grandeur in the train.
a picture of the train. It was fun. Even in the rain...

What I photographed before I had bambinos.

2012-01-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

I am trying to learn how topmost pictures to my blog via my iPad. While attempting to learn how, I (Jenny). Discovered I already had a photobucket account. Here are the pictures that were in it. Here are the subjects of my photography before I had kiddos!

Amy, sitting so close to dunc. Maybe she's the one responsible for the next picture... ;)
drunk dunc
Duncan

Kristin, preburke

My dad playing at pf changs

lovely Gods and Goddesses under the influence.

winged raptor

Brandon's surprise 30th birthday party. Mark under the mask. Although everyone was sporting Brandon masks!

Courtnee prekid when she flew... ;)

2012-01-07T19:37:00.000-08:00

New Years 2012... Gonna be a good one!

2011-12-31T22:51:00.000-08:00

Goodbye to 2011.

One of the best years in my memory.

Goodbye, and may you be followed by an equally delightful year.

In January, we had a tiny little fella with us wherever we went. We learned about sharing and including a precious new family member.

We lost Brandon's beloved grandmother in february. This was a sad time, but the way the family came together and celebrated the life of this lovely lady was amazing. She left quite a legacy with her family, I know because I am married to a great one. We have all spent time remembering Margaret, and laughing at different stories.

March = madness.

In April, we had a tremendous trip to Disney world. One of our blessings babysat Alan, and we were able to crash a trip that our dear friends had been planning.

So, the spring brought many things that contributed to a happy year. I went back to work in May. I was much less conflicted this go around. I seemed to enjoy it more, and appreciate it for what it was. An opportunity to do my own thing, and sleep all night!!!

The summer was nice. Nice and hot. We took Alan on his first plane ride to McAllen. He dug it. Gates got to chew gum on the plane, and now tells me that I will get to have gum, when I'm going to work.

By the time fall rolled around, and I got into the habit of writing 2011, I couldn't get over how fast the year was going. I turned 35 (how). And my brother turned 40 (seriously)???? This year was flying warp speed ahead.

This made me realize that life is too short to worry about things I can't control. To be mad at people for things they didn't mean. To get off of antidepressants. To not accept help and love that is surrounding me.

Live life. Be positive. Love your people. Drop grudges. Stay medicated. Be patient ( not that I can). Count blessings. Bad things happen. But so do good things. Let's focus on those, and hopefully 2012 will be an even better year!!!

2011-12-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

My boy is one. Where has the year gone? It has been the fastest of my life. We went to the doctor today. Alan is looking good. There are a few things mama needs to work on. I was so good with Gates about taking the bottle away and putting her down to bed awake. I was good about feeding her. So, I am on a mission to ditch the bottle, let him cry it out, and letting him eat what I feed him.

Alan weighs 25lbs 7 oz

He is 32 1/2 inches long.

And still cute as a bug.

first haircut

2011-09-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

My little fella is blessed with hair! He is also blessed with a hairdressing grandmother. Brandon and I decided that even though Halloween is approaching, we would rather he not look like Mike Meyers, thus a haircut. He got a little snip. He looks pretty cute without hair hanging in his ears. No worries, I have always thought he was cute. Mike Meyers or no.

dentist

2011-09-15T18:23:00.001-07:00

I took my sweet darling to the dentist yesterday. I was so nervous to take her. I was envisioning screaming, or kicking, biting, or gagging. To my pleasure, the gal was perfect. She was still (so unusual), nice, and paying attention.

This morning when I did her hair and got her dressed, I dressed up like a dentist.

2011-09-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

I can not believe my sweet guy is already 9 months. He is doing well, tender hearted and kind and CALM!!! He is very much like his dad. He looks like him, I am told.
His size at 9 months old are
Height: 31 and 3/4 inches
Weight 23 pounds.

Big, Tall, and Perfect (if you ask me)

MEET THE TEACHER

2011-08-30T18:48:00.000-07:00

We had meet the teacher at Gates's school. She is going Tuesday and Thursday to The Red Apple School. She really seemed to like both of her teachers, and the classroom itself. She was a champ while Brandon and I went to the orientation, and did not want to leave when we came back. I am hearing some pretty funny things coming out of her mouth re: school. I for one can not wait to see the exciting things that this new adventure holds for my girl.

2011-08-04T17:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I am a copycat. I decided to get on the stick and try and catch up on blogging. Like Jenny.

So, We have been super busy and having loads of fun this summer. The fouth was awesome. Alan had his first plane ride and enjoyed it. Gates is totally into flying and likes to pretend she is wheeling her suitcase to the airport. I wonder why? We had a great time down south with Brandon's family.

Our friends have been full of fun lately. having babies, getting married, getting pregnant, moving into new houses, and getting engaged!! So, we have been having some fun celebrating and look forward to more excitement.

Our baby boy is 8 months old! My time flies. He is a dear. Totally sweet, cute, smart, and perfect. He just started to crawl today! Gates loves to call him. Like a dog.

Gates is great. She is going to start preschool in the fall and we are all pretty excited about this next step. Currently, she is excited about her trip to the circus. Next week. I am excited too!

Pictures to come. As soon as I get a new computer. And camera. :)

2011-06-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

Alan Robinius Oakley is Baptized

2011-06-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

It was Alan's big day to receive the holy sacrament of baptism. He did great. It was a wonderful day with our friends and family and we could most definitely feel God's blessing on us.

At the church. Jenny and Jon Hake are the godparents to Alan.

Godparents and Alan

Gates and her godmother.

Gates and Keelan

Clayton

It got soooo hot in our house. The fellas cooled off in this manner. Seriously, I came inside and these three, their dad, and Jack were wrapped up in these towels. I asked if that trick was something Jack taught them, as he has been living in the middle east...

Hpappy Easter

2011-04-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Woke up and hunted eggs.

In the afternoon we had a hunt at my mom's house.

cousins

Rhylie age 14, Raedyn almost 12

my bro and his family

was obsessed with eggs, or rather what was inside them.

sleeping beauty

dying eggs!

2011-04-24T18:44:00.000-07:00

finished product

The EB left a note. It asked Gates to mind her mom and dad. He has no more importance in his instructions than I do in mine...

Gates Turns 3!

2011-04-17T18:29:00.000-07:00

We had an egg hunt this year for Gates's birthday party. I think it turned out to be a pretty fun party, and most of the kids enjoyed themselves! My DEAR friend, Shannon, was quite possibly the best Easter Bunny in the world. Disney Trained, except she talked.

We got the kids little bunny ears for the egg hunt. Here is Keelan wearing hers.

Darius on the hunt

Charlie and the Easter Bunny

Hudson

Keelan

Clayton

my Godchild, Katherine.

.. and then my camera died. The cake was so cute. Gates had such fun!

Disney World

2011-04-17T17:51:00.000-07:00

Brandon, Gates, and I joined (crashed) the Hake Family for a FANTASTIC Disney vacation. Here is our happy camper on the airplane on the way to Orlando. This was later noted to be her favorite part of Disney World... Keelan and Gates ready to go and meet some princesses!

and there it is! oh my goodness the wonder of this castle.

Thank God this wasn't real. I feel sure we may have seen (or been) some parents chopping their heads off here...

Keelan Loves the Toy Story gang. the girls were in wonderment of these parades.

I seriously had to tell them to slow it down! Man, things have changed.

Gates's other favorite part of Disney (besides the plane ride) was Belle. G loves Belle.

Aladin gave them the creeps.

petting zoo at Animal Kingdom

Brandon and Jon kept disappearing to ride rides... we caught them on film.

one tired gal.

Alan Laughing

2011-04-17T17:47:00.000-07:00

Little fella was getting the biggest kick out of peekaboo!

2011-03-31T06:37:00.000-07:00

It has reached the time for this fun excitement! so serious

and of course, i knew this was coming.

Mom and Gates planting flowers.

Gates doing some "tricks"

2011-03-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

where have we been???

2011-03-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

We have been kickin' it family style. Alan is an absolute joy! He brings such enjoyment and love to parenting. He smiles, laughs, EATS, and sleeps. He is a little (OK, big) angel. Gates is growing like crazy and is as exciting and funny as ever. She tells us she loves us, and likes to make people laugh. She digs her little bro, and is quite a helper. She is ultra pumped at this current time about our upcoming Disney trip, and also her 3rd birthday! Although, this morning St. Patty's was the talk of the town! I am still at home, and going back to work in May. So much less scary this time (the thought of going back) Actually, I really don't have any negative feelings about it at all. I will when I get on the plane with some of these clowns, I am sure...

Gates, Darius, and Callie. All very good big sibs!

2 Alan's are better than 1

This is a new fave.. playing Doctor Gates. Grandear was quarantined for awhile..

Super Bowl

2011-02-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

So, the super bowl in Dallas. I mean, Arlington, Texas. Pretty exciting for people around here! I was slightly disappointed not to be working this weekend because I wanted to see all the celebs flooding into DFW. I am sorta into all that Hollywood hoopla. So, I was pretty excited when my friend, Andrea, called and asked if I wanted to go to this Faith Hill Super Bowl thing. We didn't really have any idea what it was. When we got there, we found out they had free food. More importantly, they had free alcohol. I am no lush. I used to be, but not anymore. So, after about a year of no drinking, the free flowing wine was awesome! The really awesome part was when we saw all these hot babes in the VIP area. Tim Tebow (who Brandon assures me is a DB), Jason Witten, Matt Hasselbeck, and more dudes were there and they were so good looking! Somehow (pretty sure it was the wine) Andrea and I sneaked

into the VIP area. We felt pretty cool. In reality, we probably looked like a couple of total nerds! Drunk nerds! It was really fun and exciting.

And then something else super cool happened. We were in a bar and some man bought shots for everyone in the bar! I have (for some reason) ALWAYS wanted to be in a bar where somebody did that! Got to mark that off of my bucket list.

Now, all this fun in one night, I still have to get up at 7 and take care of two babies. I see why you have the party stage prekids, prejob, premarriage... I just could never do this again night after night like I used to back in the day. Glad I had such fun years, but also glad they are behind me! I will stick with bounce houses, and Diet Dr. Pepper. As long as I can have the occasional awesome experience!

snow fun!

2011-02-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

2011-02-04T08:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas!

2011-01-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun, busy Christmas this year! We started off when Brandon's mom, sisters, and grandmother came over and celebrated with us on the 23rd. SuSu got Brandon all the stuff to make homemade pizza and taught him how! Here is Gates (in her new princess dress) cooking with SuSu and Daddy. Alison, Laura and Alan

On Christmas Eve we went over to Carianne and Rodney's house to eat, make gingerbread houses, and have some holiday fun! These two kids LOVED making the houses, and eating the candy!

The completed village!

When we got home we read The Night Before Christmas, got our cookies (oreos) ready for Santa, and went to bed.

It was very hard to get to sleep because of all the anticipation. Gates was sooo concerned with the cookies and where Santa was, and was he bringing treats? She was very excited and pretty darn cute with the whole thing! Alan was pumped up too!

We got up and set the video camera up on a tripod, just in case she went into the living room first before our room. She ended up coming to us first, but we still have the morning on video. It was sooo magical and fun to see her excitement.

Mommy, a new cart!!!!!

She was super excited about every single thing. Even the panties. She just kept saying, "Santa brought me princess panties"

Gates asked for treats. Lots and lots of treats. In her stocking, there was a lot of candy, and so she carried that around, until I hid it a couple of days ago... :)

What's this? Her favorite gift, from her favorite person. Uncle Tucker gave her this book full of starbursts!!

So, after Christmas morning at our house, the 4 of us packed up and went to Granbury. Were Gates had a very special gift and surprise from Grandear. See that door by the toilet? Grandear turned it into a special "little room". She filled it with all sorts of Gatesy's favorite things.

The door opens..

and here we are.... Brandon says its like Anne Frank.

Here is another little pic of the three of us in the special little playroom.

Sunday we went over to MawMaw's house to visit and celebrate again! MawMaw gave Gates this awesome Dora tent, and even got in there and played tent!!! Sadly, I did not take many pics on Sunday...

2011-01-12T10:19:00.001-08:00

Gates and Alan both 6 days old

2010-12-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

Baby Alan Oakley

2010-12-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Bed Rest

2010-11-26T07:06:00.000-08:00

Things are going pretty well on the ol' BR, so far.

I am super duper thankful for my Brandon. He is really being a champ.
I am super duper thankful for my mom. She is really being a caring, loving, mom.
I am super duper thankful for my mother in law, Donna. She is helping us so very much!
And I am super duper thankful that I do not have to sit in my bed too long! I just keep thinking, what if I were only 20 weeks pregnant??? I may very well go insane. I am not one that sits still. I am not one that stays home.

As I lie here, I make little lists of things that need to be done. Doesn't that sound like a charming attribute?? The 3 aforementioned saints have been knocking off the items on the list. Occasionally, I get an eye roll or two (Donna doesn't eye roll). I can't wait to see what they say when I add "put up Christmas tree" to the list.

My Blood Pressure is high. That is what this is all about. A week ago Monday, when I went in for my regular appointment it was elevated, and she said to take it easy. She told me to call if my face or hands had intense swelling, if I got headaches, or if I was nauseous. Well, my face blew up like a balloon, so I called. I would post a picture of it here, but I am no idiot. It could be used to blackmail me for years to come!!!! Let's just say it was horrifying.

It could be much worse, because when I was in the office Wed, she ran some tests, and told me that if they did not come back favorable, then I was going to go have the baby that day! The tests came back normal, so I was able to remain home! I go back Monday, and will find out the little dude's birthday!

Gatesy's Second Haircut

2010-11-25T18:26:00.000-08:00

2010-11-25T17:09:00.000-08:00

Uncle Peyton and Gates

Uncle Tucker and Gates
Dee Dee brought Gates a big sister gift. She is loving this baby, which she has named Baby Dear, after her favorite book. Although the first time I asked her the baby's name it was Oakley.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

We had some folks come on over for chili and trick-or-treating last night. Halloween has always been my favorite holiday, and I think it might just turn out to be Gates's favorite too!!
Here is a family shot of the ladybug, penguin, and the sweetest little witch! The back of the witch!

Just tell them Large Marge sent you!!!!!!!!!!

Gates and Clayton. aka Witchie and Woody

Daddy and Gatesy. Lots of comments on the penguin, as we went trick-or-treating. My personal favorite... "look mom, that's a biiiiiggggg penguin. and he's marching..."

Alas, the deviled egg. Also a popular costume in route. Even had his picture taken... Egg is Brandon's brother Tucker.

The house across from us goes all out. They do hayrides pulled by their four wheeler. We were going to go, but decided it would probably be a sneeze fest. At least for the ladybug...

FuFu ended up caring the witches hat and shoes, the penguins phone, and looked cute doing it!

Constantly looking at her treats!!!!

G carrying Clayton's treat bag too. She was going pretty fast because of the momentum of the heavy buckets!! :)

When we got home, she really was into passing out candy, unless the kids were dressed in scary stuff. Overall, it was a super fun night. My mom and dad came too. I wish I had a picture of my mom. She came dressed as a very cute little pumpkin, and I can not believe I did not capture a picture of her!

more arboretum pictures

2010-11-01T06:42:00.000-07:00

Forest Park Mini Train

2010-11-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

this is a good picture..... of my dad.

This is just the kind of day I had

2010-10-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

You spend 9 months or even more
planning your skills, honing every chore.
Nobody can prepare you for what is about to take place,
that your life will change at a very uneven pace.

Nobody said parenting is easy.

The spitup and crying can drive you insane,
screaming in the car makes you want to ram into a train.
Blowout diapers make you gag a little bit
and there is just so very much you will learn about shit.

nobody said parenting is easy.

When the tantrums start, you might as well check yourself in,
either enter the nuthouse or start drinking gin.
The constant nos and mine, mine, mines,
make me want to snort about a hundred lines.

nobody said parenting is easy.

Why do I feel so much for this kid?
Why is parenting the best thing I ever did?
How can so much love come out of my heart?
How did I ever manage before she was part?

It may be hard, but exciting as can be.
It may be hard, but has brought out the best in me.
It may be challenging, but the rewards are beyond,
It is my job as a mother, that I have grown quite fond.

Dallas Arboretum

2010-10-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

It's fall at the arboretum! The place is always beautiful, but I especially love it when it is decorated for the fall. On Mondays and Tuesdays they have lots of extra activities for the wee ones. Here is Gates in a pile of pumpkins. Cheeeese. See my gourd?

Brushing a sheep in the petting zoo.

Year round, they have these little playhouses, which Gates LOVES. Hudson was here with us this day, I am not sure how I missed getting him in one single picture. He really loved the houses too!

This kiddo will lie down on any and every bed she sees. gross? kind of, especially in light of all the talk and hype about bed bugs. You know, one of my fave topics, as of late.

The two story playhouse.

Myson's Room

2010-09-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

Well, we have been working on our little dude's bedroom. I am really liking how it is looking. The one thing you will not be seeing in here is anything with his name on it. These maps over the changing table hung in my grandparent's living room forever. Brandon refinished the frames and painted them black. They are silk maps that my grandfather carried during the war, when he was a pilot. I love them, and I know that Soft Hair, would be thrilled to see them hanging in Myson's room. In the corner you will find an alligator on a swing.

The hot-air balloons are staggered above the crib.

Fun with Friends

2010-09-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

We went over to the Fletcher's new house and enjoyed some fun playing in their wonderful backyard. It is so nice to hang out with people with two year-olds. For the most part, they don't get too alarmed when your kid screams, or takes a toy, or even insists that each and every thing in the house is "mine"....

run, gatesy, run........
Keelan and Hudson

Ball

Ball with Daddy

the linear formation

This girl can really catch. seriously, almost every time!!!!

2010-08-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

The potty is back in the bathroom now! Cute little peer, huh?

Big Girl Room

2010-08-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

We have been busy getting Gates accustomed to her big girl bed and room! She is doing pretty well, but she does enjoy getting out and reading and bringing every single book into her bed...
I am almost done, I just need to get a white lampshade and change the plate on her wall for something that goes a little bit better... But, I am pretty pleased with how it is coming along. See those books and toys in the window seat? They all end up in her bed each time she goes to bed...

This is her new bed. We have a foot board, that looks good. We just bought the wrong frame, so we need to get one to accommodate the foot board...

Such a big girl!

Circus!

2010-08-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today my dad took all of his grandkids, Jackie, Brandon, Mom, and me to the Circus! We had such a fun time! My dad has always loved the circus, as have I, and now Gates.
Here she is just before we left home. looking at the elephants. They understand French, English, and German. The oldest one is 53. They are treated well, despite the protestors outside of the circus...

Yes, Brandon and I are dressed in the same color. Cute, huh?

Looking at the elephants.

beautiful little niece, that is starting high school..........

2010-08-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

The little fairy God Dog brought lots of luck into our house! In this week of potty training, things are going well. Gatesy is getting the hang of things! Thanks so much FGD. And also to Brandon, if he were not home, I would have given up. I feel quite sure!!!! :)

Fairy God Dog

2010-07-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Fourth Fun in the Sun

2010-07-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Padre was a blast. Gates loved the pool and the beach, and was a good little traveler. This slide is a major hit, and she is still asking for the froggy slide.

I love this picture. I have one that looks very similar that was taken about 31 years ago.

at one with the sea

Uncle Peyton and Uncle Tucker

DeeDee and Gates. There were so many new things to look and see!

Thanks Uncle Peyt!

and this is just before our firecracker really exploded!!!!!

Happy Birthday Brandon!!!

2010-07-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

Brandon just celebrated his 33rd birthday with a day full of fishing followed by a fantastic trip to the beach!!! Here are a few shots celebrating the birth of our fave guy! he needed help blowing out these candles!!

and then off to DeeDee and Poppy's house for more birthday fun!

Gates was totally into the airplane, for the first 5 minutes. :)

These guys were enjoying Peopleofwalmart.com

Happy 70th Birthday Dad!!

2010-07-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

So June 27th my dear old dad turned the big 7 0!

70 years ago on this very day
Charles Michael Robinius made his way

Made his way into this very life,
one that has included friends, family, and a wife.

He loves all things Longhorn, golf, and poker,
he's known as mortician, magician, and joker.

He loves his family, ESPECIALLY that Cap.
He watches Jeopardy daily while taking a nap!

He is always joking, if he's in a good mood
Just ask him if he has ever been sued!

This life of his has included much laughter and tears.
Here's to Robo and the next 70 years!!

Mow true to form I did not capture many pics. Thanks to Jenny and Jon and my mom for helping Brandon and me sooo much!! We had such a great turn out of old friends, new friends, and family, and I really know my dad had a great evening.

dad, mom, aunt susan, and mom's bro mike. happy birthday boy. busy Gates.

mom, mallie, alexandra, carlos.

super happy birthday boy.

mom and connee. Connee all the way from Orlando!

Gates Gets a Haircut

2010-06-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

Lucky enough for us we have a fantastic hair stylist right in the family! Donna (DeeDee) came for a visit and had her cape (cake) and scissors in tow. Gates was pretty sure she wanted a cut, and when she heard she got to wear a cape (cake) she was even more excited. She did very well and sat there like a big girl!

I just really like her facial expressions in the next two pictures.

Thanks DeeDee for a beautiful new 'do

splash park

2010-05-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

This is a GREAT splash park in Euless. Gatesy liked it pretty good.

New Ball

2010-05-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

We have finally come across a ball that this little doggie will not steal from Gates.... This is it.

Brandon and Gates!

Uncle Tucker and the Baseball

2010-05-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

So Gates's Uncle Tucker is a baseball player. His team, the Coyotes, were in the playoffs this week so Brandon went to the game last night. The game was over at midnight, so obviously the kid and I were sleeping soundly... Unfortunately, the Coyotes lost the game, which ended their great season. Even though they loss, the man that holds the WC homerun record struck again! He hit a homer for all to see. After the game, Brandon and his parents and Elsy were waiting for Tuck to come back up. He came up, reached into his bag, and gave his homerun ball to Brandon. Can you read it? It says Tucker Oakley #34 Love you Gates!!
Now this made me cry, and I wonder if it made his mom cry, because what a thoughtful young man he really is. playing with the ball

action shot

loves it.

and now it is on display on her shelf in her room! Thanks Uncle Tucker, and Congratulations on a wonderful first college season!!

Kristin and Burke's Wedding

2010-05-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

Where are all my pictures of the bride and groom? I do not know! Here are some shots that I did get, though...

Mark, Brandon, Steve, Jon Shannon and Steve

Andrea, Mallie, Molly, Laura

That is not the sunset, it is the DJ's area!

Getting ready for the sparkling good-bye

Steve and Brandon
Andrea

The picture I got of the Bride. Looks happy, huh???

I have ALWAYS wanted to attend a wedding where they did this! I wanted to do it myself, but the Fort Worth Club said NO!!

The Tech Grads!

Tech group

again...

You gotta love a bride that comes to party in the hotel bar after it is over!!

Teaparty with Scrabble

2010-04-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

Duncan wanted no part of the tea party. Gates liked having the party with Scrabble and me...

This was where Scrabble was supposed to sit, and where Gates was pouring her tea... she was not the most cooperative guest...

Forest Park Mini Train

2010-04-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

Brandon and I took a cue from some girls and went over to the FPMT last weekend. What a fun time we had! Bright sun.

No Free Rides....

... that means you, Bird!

So much to look at!

My, what a large tree.

just pictures

2010-04-28T10:40:00.000-07:00

mom and dad

Remington and Gates, in Clovis...

just some random pictures

2010-04-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

Mom, Gates, and me at the arboretum...

this picture is from when the fletchers spent the night due to the ice storm... cute, huh? Jenny, Kristin, and Jennifer at Kristin's wedding shower

mom and Gates.

Birthday Party

2010-04-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

Gates is two! I can not even believe it. We had a fun birthday party on Saturday and she had such a fun time. All of her family came to celebrate and most of her little buddies were able to come too!
Here she is in her birthday get up playing ball. she loved opening presents, and is getting pretty good at it!

But, this was by far the best part. The yummy cake!!!

2010-04-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

So on Friday afternoon, when I had lots to do inside my house, I locked myself in the backyard. At least I had the dogs out there with me (I guess) and some sodas... It was almost 3:00 when I discovered the sliding glass door locked behind me. Great. So, I mess around with some stuff and sit down. Here are a few things I learned...
1. I need to hide a key
2. I could write a children's book, and it would be about being nice to your dogs.
3. How to work the most complicated bubbles ever.
4. Coke has less caffine than Diet Coke... weird, huh?
5. my window screen is very difficult to get back on. as a matter of fact, it is still off.
6. I would never last on Survivor.
7. Duncan HATES the dog next door.

Well into hour 2, as I was lounging on our wooden loveseat, I heard a loud knock on the door. My BIL, Peyton was there. I ran around to the front yard and invited Brandon's parents and brother to the backyard for a diet coke.....

Easter Sunday

2010-04-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

She LOVED hunting eggs! Golf Cart Ride. The little ones love riding, the teens love driving! The seniors are scared!

confetti eggs. so fun, I can not forget to get these next year.

Grandear and Gates. windy day.

Charlie

Who does this???

2010-03-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

So, Gates has this new little habit of licking her finger before turning her page while reading. Who does this? Dee Dee, is this something you do? It might be Diana? I can remember my teacher doing it when I was in school, and it is so cute when Gatesy does it. I will try to capture a picture, but my camera is on the fritz....

She also has started another little funny thing. She will lick her finger and then "draw" on her crib. Slightly weird, but kinda cute... smart if she figured it out herself... =)

2010-03-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

this is our play group minus katie and jacob. also, instead of Jenny, we had Jon!! Hudson's second birthday party. These guys sat still about as long as it took to take this picture~~~ Darius, Gates, and Callie! Cake? yummmm

Meggan took all of these, and I took them from her blog. I thank you, Meggan, and love these 2 of Gatesy...

Hudson and Gates bouncing in the bounce house!

2010-03-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

Brandon, Gates, and I were at the zoo and walking around. I said, oh the new reptile building opens March, 6. Then our future little band member started Marching like crazy. It was pretty cute. ;)

Snow....

2010-02-11T10:57:00.000-08:00

First we went outside in the front yard to play in the snow. (no dog poo).... Gatesy is not totally sure what to think of this weather. Too cold, but she does not want her hat and mittens on her hands. And then she wanted to walk to the park..... Maybe later. Deep snow.

At this point I had to go and pick her up.

He likes it a lot.

dress up.

2010-02-11T07:49:00.001-08:00

Riding Mr. Bill!!!

2010-02-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

Like Mother, Like Daughter.

2010-02-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

No, she is not really drinking soda....

making cookies.

2010-02-11T07:42:00.000-08:00

Book Review

2010-01-31T17:25:00.000-08:00

Dear John. Nicholas Sparks. enough said.

Now, the book I am currently reading is not for everyone. If you are easy offended do not read this book. I am enjoying it and needed a funny book to get Dear John out of my mind.
I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell. It is hilarious. Has anyone every heard of this book, or read it? It is really funny. Very offensive, and VERY vulgar, but laugh your ass off funny...

Also, I did love Dear John. I am going to see the movie ASAP, but it was a sad one.

talking kids

2010-01-19T14:43:00.000-08:00

OK, some moms I know always talk about all the words their kids know. Now, this is great, but I wonder how many other moms feel such accomplishment when they FINALLY figure out what the kid is trying to get across??? For example, today Gates would not leave the garage. She kept pointing to the car and saying axie. axie. axie. Well, she was eating some m&ms in the car, she was drinking some drink... what could this word be? Finally, I understand that she wants her pacifier. Duh. Anyways, when I figured it out she nodded and said yeah, yeah, axie axie... I felt if I won a race or finished a difficult puzzle.

Hair Pretties

2010-01-19T14:40:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, it is hard to get this kid to sit still and let me "do" her hair. Not this day!!! She wanted everything in her hair.

funny

2010-01-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

I asked Brandon to tell me a story last night. (I know weird, but it helps me go to sleep)... Anyways, he gets so sick of telling me stories, as he can put his head down and fall asleep. So, I begged and he began his story. Here it is...

Goodnight Gorilla.
Goodnight Giraffe.
Goodnight armadillo.
Goodnight Elephant.
Goodnight Dear. G'night.
Goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. (all in different voices)

Goodnight Dear. g'night
goodnight gorilla. zzzzzzzzzzzz

Christmas Morning

2010-01-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

Magic Flute

Rhylie and Gatesy

Christmas Eve

2010-01-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

Our House on Christmas Eve. The day of The Great Texas Blizzard.... Mom and Dad came and took Brandon and Gatesy to Christmas Eve Church... Cute pic of my parents. G money spent the service with Brandon in the nursery... She apparently made it through a short bit of church and after the processional hymn she started clapping. That's a girl!

The Hill Express

2010-01-01T10:39:00.000-08:00

2009-12-29T11:33:00.000-08:00

Today, G and I were at the mall foodcourt eating. She was looking at something and saying HO HO HO.... I look around my friend, and what do I see???? A big biker with a HUGE beard, and mustache, eating behind us... quite funny.

I LOVE CHEERIOS!

2009-12-22T20:48:00.001-08:00

2009-12-22T20:38:00.000-08:00

Cheeeeeese. Where's Gates??

Mallie and Gates

Sunday Night, Brandon's mom and sisters came over for dinner and Christmas. They brought Gates lots of gifts and she LOVED unwrapping them!!!

This is Laura, I have asked her to come dress up as Dora for Gates's bday party. Laura the Explorer.

Gates took each and every gift to Becca for help unwrapping. It was so funny. She would pick it up look at it, and then go to Becca for help.

Aunt Alison and the only sorta picture I got of Susan....

Polar Express

2009-12-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

Sunday, Mom and Dad took B, G, and me to the Polar Express in Grapevine! What a fun thing to do at Christmas! Now, there is a preshow, which Brandon hated. So did my mom. And so did Jenny. Gates actually liked it! She danced in the aisle. Here is a preshow pic of mom and dad with Gates. Dancing in the aisle. I thought I was videoing, but alas, I only have this picture...

In total awe!

Laughing with BoPop

We kept this guy yards away. But, isn't the train cute??

Family Picture. Hopefully Jenny got a better one. ;)

My Darling Little Caveman

2009-12-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

Toddler years are not that neat. Well, there are some fantastic parts. If I do not cut my ears off from the screaming and yelling, then listening to her learning to talk is nice. If I do not gouch my eyes out from the lack of sleep, then watching her dance is pretty cool. If I do not pull out all of my hair, then it is kinda fun when she brushes it. OK, there are fun parts of the toddler years. I have decided (or maybe I heard somewhere) that my toddler is like a caveman. She does not know all the graces of life yet. She does what she must do to survive and goes on instinct alone. This makes me want to teach her everything all at once. Unfortunately, that is not realistic. The reality, I am afraid, is that it is a long, slow, process.

Just to clairfy, I am joking here... (mostly) and I am amazed at my toddler. However, next time you see me, I might be deaf, blind and bald!

2 neat houses

2009-12-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

Also, I wanted to spread the word about 2 really cool Christmas decorations...
The first one is on Norwood, between 183 and Harwood. It is on the corner, and it is griswold out, and the guy built a train and they let your kid ride it. Gates LOVED riding this train, in the Christmas Light Mecca.... The other one is called Noteboom Estates. It is on Hurstview between MidCities and Glade. They have a huge house and estate and it is all decked out. They have Santa there, and you can take your pictures for free... Both really cool, if you live or are ever near the Mid-Cities....

Family Pictures

2009-12-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

Our friend, Jenny, took these pictures for us. We were hoping to use one for a Christmas Card. This was the card..

Hello?????????? I want to read your book...

I love this one b/c we are making the exact same face....

Thanks Jenny! You do good work!

Sunday Funday

2009-12-13T18:26:00.000-08:00

We started the day off by putting out Christmas lights. I must tell you something.. See those pigtails?? Brandon did it! It was his first time trying, and he did a great job!

Then we went to the Ft. Worth Science Museum. This is an amazing place! We got a membership, and I would say it is going to be well worth the money! They have a little grocery store, that Gates was totally digging!

Driving the ambulance

They have a 3D show. I was shocked that she actually liked it and watched it!! We sat near the exit just in case...

Riding a faux horse. B was really trying to herd those cows... so serious...

Decorating the Christmas Tree

2009-12-07T12:05:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we decorated our Christmas Tree. Gates opened up the box and saw all the pretty baubles! ohhhhhh!She got the hang of hanging them on the tree, although she now wants to unhang them...

Finished product...

Brandon's Family Christmas

2009-12-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

Gates feeding her new baby some water. The girls (most of them) in Brandon's family.

Boys in his family

2009-12-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

after 3 days of being inside my house with my darling, sick, kiddo, I feel like that picture of my mom yielding the butcher knife.... ;)

2009-12-02T09:58:00.001-08:00

The flu is here. Gates had a seasonal flu shot. She did not have the H1N1 flu shot. I feel like that is the strand visiting our house. I feel terrible for not being more proactive and finding the H1N1 shot. I urge you mothers to go and find it. Get them both. It is so pitiful to see your little baby so sick. Trust me on this, too, you do not want your baby to have to get a chest x-ray. Getting shots does not hold a candle to this business! It was terrible for everyone involved. Gates is feeling so much better today, and the motrin is keeping her fever down. Please keep a speedy recovery and as my MIL put it a "strong resistance" for Brandon, Grandear, and me in your prayers!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-29T18:13:00.000-08:00

Isn't she the picture of peace? This is the real Carol. ;)

Cute (busy) dancing turkey.

Charlie!

Raedyn, Gates, Charlie

Rhylie, Charlie, Raedyn, and Gates.

We just could not get the self-timer right!

2009-11-29T18:10:00.000-08:00

FUN TIMES

2009-11-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

Our friend Tara came to visit from DC. Gates loved her!

At Jacob's birthday party. Gates was pretty good at the rings. We might have a super tall gymnast on our hands! ;)

Callie, Gates, and Keelan were loving the trampoline with Brandon!

What's better than a cupcake? AN ELMO CUPCAKE

We got them all seated at the same time on this little ledge, with two smiling! Pretty big accomplishment if I do say so...

BIG FAT PIG

2009-11-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

Bathtime!

2009-11-16T10:37:00.000-08:00

Dancing Queen

2009-11-05T07:03:00.000-08:00

This kid LOVES to dance! This was right after bathtime, and she (as you can see) really likes this song...

carving pumpkin and trick or treat

2009-10-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

Before the trick or treating, we carved our pumpkin!!! Gates HATED the insides of the pumpkin.

Gates was a Texas Tech cheerleader.

I am hoping for some better pics from the women with the B.A. cameras.

Brandon and Gatesy trick-or-treating

cheerleader

Happy Anniversary!

2009-10-31T20:36:00.000-07:00

We went for 2 nights to Ft. Lauderdale for our 5th anniversary. Just a relaxing fun time to spend together!

mallie and brandon That's right, it is a man in a speedo thong. yuck!

pretty beach

Trip to Lubbock

2009-10-31T20:28:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we had our annual trip up to Lubbock. We had a big turn out this year, and as always it is a very nice weekend and fun to catch up with everyone!

Ryan and Mason. Katie, Mallie, Jennifer, Jenny

Mark and Steve

Katie and Jason

The coolest bus ever. double kegarator on the inside and the spout is on the outside!

Mallie and Missy

Jenny, Jennifer, Katie

Patch number 2

2009-10-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

A week or so ago, we met the Fletchers at the pumpkin patch in Colleyville... What's that? another pumpkin patch? Yes! That is what you do with kids in the month of October!!! They love them. Gates was diggin' the Hay Maze!

Hudson and Gates running all over.

ahhhh

Thanks Trent for helping a girl out! She loves to drive tractors!

Hudson was a little worried about his daddy pushing Gates.

It is like the prince climbing up the tower to help the princess... ;)

And I am noticing that there are no pictures of Brandon here. He was there, and he was having a fun time!!! I will catch him in patch action soon!!!

Pumpkin Patch #1

2009-10-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

These are from a couple of weeks ago. Cute huh? Gates and Hudson sitting in the pumpkins.

2009-10-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, here is the situation. Let me paint a picture for you, and at the end tell me if you would be shocked...
Brandon, his mom, Gates and myself went to lunch today at Fuddrucker's. We got there at 11:00. We go there because it is kid friendly. We are enjoying our lunch and chitchatting. Gates (who is 18 months old) let out some squeals. Now, I will admit it is annoying and loud, but she is a baby and cannot talk... So this man and his two teenager sons sat down at a table next to us. At one point the man looked at us and said "shit" Brandon said, "What's that Buddy".... He continued the entire meal acting annoyed. Lots of kids were there. So we were leaving, and I just went over and gently (although I was mad and it wasn't all that kind) said, "I am so sorry for the noise, I guess you have never had kids." His response... are you ready?? "I have kids, and I also have a belt, you have to discipline your kids!!!!
I have never been so shocked!!!