The Ash Family

Happy Valentines Day 2012

2012-02-14T08:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Brian surprised Avery with roses and a balloon this morning, she was so tickled and excited to get "red roses" from her Daddy.

Here are a couple of pics of the valentines I made for her class party. Of course, I got the idea off of Pinterest, but I think they turned out pretty cute. All I had to buy was the suckers, and just printed petals and leaves with my printer. I don't remember all of this when I was a kid....

Sweet n Sassy Avery

2012-02-13T08:13:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, Aunt Chrissy took a few of her favorite girls to Sweet n Sassy for a Valentine's Day Makeover! Avery and Reagan had a pizza party, had their hair, makeup, and nails done, and rode in the famous pink limo! Aunt Chrissy is the best. This morning went to school with half of the make-up on and glitter hair...oh well!

Avery also got to spend the majority of the weekend with the Holaks so I could work on school work ALLLLL weekend....it's ok, my days are numbered. I can't wait for the day when I can do whatever I want on the weekend....even if it is cleaning the house and taking care of kiddos!

Here is a small clip that Christine sent me of the Avery and Kaitlyn singing and dancing together. I am so glad these girls got to have a slumber party together!

Halfway!!!!

2012-02-06T20:10:00.004-08:00

I have now surpassed the halfway point with this pregnancy! Yayyyy! On Saturday, I began my 21st week! I feel like this pregnancy is flying by, especially since I have been so busy with grad school. But....I just looked at my ticker, and I have less than 3 months till graduation! Another Yayyy!!! As far as pregnancy goes, I am feeling pretty good, just the usual pregnancy stuff. I am really feeling him move alot these days. Avery has yet to actually feel him move, but I'm sure it is only a matter of time :)

Brian and I worked hard this past weekend clearing out the playroom to begin getting ready for the nursery. Until I pass boards this fall, I still need my office, so Avery's toys had to be re-organized and moved into her room until then. Brady's furniture should be arriving next week sometime, so we had to get on the ball. The next step is painting.

Here are a few ultrasound pics from my 20 week anatomy and dating ultrasound. According to my ultrasound report, he looks healthy, and right on track. His body and head were all measuring about 19 weeks, except for his legs which were measuring 20weeks. I looks like we might have another long-legged baby on our hands!

This was the best face shot I could get. I am debating on coming back for the 3D/4D ones later on....

Tiny Toes

Boy Parts!

My little Belle

2012-02-06T19:48:00.001-08:00

Last week, Avery participated in the "Be a Belle" dance clinic for the Montgomery high school dance team. A few of her buddies from ballet class were going, and I thought she would have a fun time. The clinic consisted of a clinic for a few hours on Saturday morning, and then concluded with a performance at the high school basketball game the following friday night.

Avery and Kailyn

Oh, and did you notice the pearls? She has been wearing them consistently for weeks now. Her teacher at school calls her June Cleaver :)

Both Brian and I were very excited to see that the huge crowd at the basketball game didn't seem to phase her too much. Although she didn't remember all the moves, she at least enjoyed the performance!

These clinics bring back so many of my Strutter memories! On the way to the clinic, I tried to prep her by describing what a dance/drill team was. She initially thought she was just going to her ballet class. I told her that I was on a drill team, but I don't think she believed me, lol. It may be time to bust out the old Strutter photos and videos!

Slumber Party!

2012-01-24T18:54:00.001-08:00

Last Friday night little miss Avery got invited to go to her first real slumber party by one of her friends in dance class. She was so excited, we counted down the days all week. Poor Brian was a little beside himself that his baby girl was going to her first sleepover, so he wrote down his cell number and tucked it in her overnight bag. He specifically told her to call if she wanted him to come pick her up. Her response, "Ok Dad, but I'm not going to call." She sounded so grown up!

All of these pictures are courtesy of my friend Wendy :)

Cheers!

Makeover time!

Look at all those sweet girls! Now Avery wants them to come to her house next! Oh dear!

Best card ever!

2012-01-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

This past week, when I picked up Avery at school she was very excited to show me a surprise! Her teacher told me that she decided she wanted to make me a card, telling her teacher exactly what to write. I thought it was soooo sweet and thoughtful.

I have yet to post about this, but Brady is one of the names we are thinking about. Brayden would have been Avery's name if she was a boy, and Brian really likes it, but I have seen it so often lately! I think Brady is a pretty good compromise. So far, it is Brady Jennings Ash :) Jennings is Brian's dad's middle name. We both like the sound of it.

I love it that she is already thinking about her little brother.....

and speaking about her little brother, I turn 17 weeks today, yikes! My belly is really starting to poke out now, as I had Brian go in the attic to find the maternity jeans. Right now, he is about 5 ounces, and is about the size of a turnip. Brian asked me the other day, remember when you used to send me weekly emails all about the baby when you were pregnant with Avery??? Oh yeah, oops, sorry hun, this time I just have so much going on. Don't worry I will be sure to look up the fruit/veggie our baby is, and let you know :)

I actually had an OB appointment yesterday just to check on the little guy. Everything is right on track, his heart rate was around 145, and so far I have gained about 3.5 lbs. I will schedule my anatomy ultrasound within the next couple of weeks, which I know Avery is going to be so excited about seeing him on screen. I am finally feeling much better these days, despite being busy as ever with school. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel, only 4 months to go!!! Yay!!!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T07:07:00.001-08:00

This Christmas was a little different than most since my grandpa's funeral took place on Christmas Eve, but we still managed to have great family time. I really wasn't my usual photog-self...as this was the only pic I snapped on Christmas morning...oh well.

On Christmas day, we always go to Tillie and Tim's for lunch/dinner and to hang out with family. This year, the girls put on quite the performance with Ashlynn's new karaoke machine.

On New Year's Eve, we celebrated Christmas with my family at my sister's house.

Avery presented me with these adorable paintings...she was so proud! Thank you Aunt Chrissy!

Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

and Happy New Year....Bring on 2012!

As far as celebrating New Years, the Ash family was tucked in by 10:00pm. Yes, we are quite the party animals, ha. Oh well, maybe next year :)

My Sweet Papa

2011-12-26T11:55:00.001-08:00

This past Tuesday, December 20th, 2011, my sweet Papa passed away. Although he was a young 89 years old, his passing was very sudden, and took all of us by surprise. I don't think any of us were really prepared to give him up quite yet. I am very comforted to know that he was never sick, in a hospital, and lead a very active life down to his very last day.

This picture was taken on my wedding day

My Meme and Papa, Christmas 2010

Meme and Papa with all of the grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson

This was taken at my cousin Jennifer's wedding this past October

this past Thanksgiving...I love how he is holding hands with my Meme. This coming February, they would have been married for 60 years. What awesome role models we have!

Thankfully, the entire family had gotten together for a Klodzinski Christmas celebration this past Saturday. Papa was in great spirits, and got to visit and talk to so many family members. I am so glad I have such great memories of him. He was an awesome father and grandfather, and served as such an important role model to so many of us. His Rosary took place on Friday night, with the funeral on Saturday morning. His online obituary is posted HERE. I may be a bit biased, but his funeral was the most beautiful I had ever attended. He had a Catholic mass, where the entire church was decorated with poinsettia's for the Christmas mass that night. At graveside, taps was played in honor of his service in WW2. What a beautiful and special memory I will remember always.

Although this Christmas was certainly very different than any I have ever experienced, at what an amazing and joyful time to enter into Heaven. I know Papa had one grand Christmas celebration with Jesus himself!

I know I already posted this on FB, but thank you for everyone's kind words and prayers for my family. We will all miss my Papa so much!

Santa Breakfast 2011

2011-12-26T11:29:00.001-08:00

Each year, we usually get to meet up with my great friend Tamara, and her sweet boys to have breakfast with Santa, but this Christmas season has been a tad different to say the least. Between clinical hours and being newly pregnant, the time just slipped by us. The day before, Courtney sent me an email asking if Avery and I wanted to go see Santa at the aquarium. Of course we jumped on it, and quickly made reservations. Tillie even got to come along. For a last minute trip, it was really nice, and the girls enjoyed it as always. I have to say, the breakfast buffet they serve is so yummy too!

And look who we ran into when we got there, the Galik/Vannatta crew!

Gender Reveal!

2011-12-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

On Monday, December 12th, we had our appointment with the Center for Medical Genetics for our first trimester screening ultrasound and blood work. This Ultrascreen combines an ultrasound, also known as the nuchal translucency scan, and labs to test for genetic abnormalities such as Downs and trisomy 18. An additional test the company provides is the early gender test, also known as the Jack and Jill test. (We also had this done with Avery, but it was brand new then.) The labwork looks at fetal DNA circulating in my bloodstream to determine the gender of the baby. It is relatively new, and many offices don't offer it quite yet. It has about a 98% accuracy rate.

The day we did the testing that lab technician gave us a number, which we were to call only after 7-10 business days. However, since I am working/getting clinical hours in the office where my OB is, I knew we would get the results super fast. So on Wednesday, Candace, the phone RN, came running down the hall with the results! Instead of having her tell me then, I had her write it down on a sheet of paper, and put in in an envelope so Brian and I could open it that night.

So here is what we saw!!!!!

We were so surprised!!! Poor Brian, I don't think he ever even considered we were having a BOY, since I have been so sick with this pregnancy, which is exactly what is was like with Avery. I think we just both expected another girl. I love surprises, and this was a BIG one :) The next day my OB also texted me saying that they received all of the other ultrasound results and labs, and that they were all normal. What another wonderful blessing.

Now it's time to start getting ready for a little boy! This house needs some BLUE!

Ultrasound pics

2011-12-26T10:40:00.001-08:00

I know I am still backtracking, but I wanted to make sure I post all of the ultrasound pics I have. My blog really serves as more of a virtual scrapbook for my family, so I wanna make sure I don't leave anything out...especially since these ultrasound pictures will definitely fade with time if not scanned. Anyways, I went to my new OB appointment on November 18, 2011. It was pretty convenient since I was already in the office seeing patients with my preceptor. At this point, our families still didn't know, but the suspense was killing me! It is pretty amazing to see the big change in development between 9-10 weeks. Baby Ash #2 looks like a little teddy bear now!

Avery's Christmas program and parade

2011-12-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love all of the fun Christmas activities this season! Cannot believe that next year I will be shuffling 2 kiddos around! Avery's school always puts on the cutest Christmas program...although too bad my pictures turned out horrible! Oh well! It is also really special since we get to see so many of our friends' children as well. During the program, I laughed so hard, I started to cry. I love it when kids perform!

This was also Avery's first time in the Magnolia Christmas parade. It actually turned out pretty fun...I was a little skeptical at first, but the girls had a great time as they hung out with their dance friends.

Here comes their float! I thought it was pretty cute that Avery had no idea what a parade float was, which I realized as we were on our way. She said, "Mom, it is really too cold to get in the water!"

All Aboard!

2011-12-25T10:56:00.001-08:00

On December 4th, our huge crew of friends and all the kiddos made the drive to Palestine, TX to ride the Polar Express. All of the kids loved it. This was our first time to go. We dressed the kids in their Christmas pj's, packed the snacks, video games, and dvd's, and loaded up the vehicles.

My gosh we have a big group!...Hmmm tell me why we left the dads at home again???

The train traveled to the North Pole to pick up, guess who....Santa!

What a great Christmas memory!

Happy Birthday Peyton and Rachel!

2011-12-25T10:41:00.000-08:00

In our family, we have 2 special birthdays in December. December 1st was Peyton's first birthday, and the 5th was Rachel's 28th! For Rachel's we celebrated with the family at BJ's Brewhouse in the Woodlands. That was my first time going there, and it was great. Can't wait to go back when I can have an adult beverage..or two :)

All of these pictures are from Rachel's blog...thanks Ray.

For Peyton's birthday, we celebrated at the Robert's household with a cupcake themed party

Avery loved decorating the cupcakes

Happy 1st Birthday sweet baby girl!

School Pic 2011

2011-12-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

While updating posts, I came across Avery's school pics. Her school always does a great job at school pictures. I think they turned out pretty great. My little girl looks so grown up!

First trip to the Nutcracker!

2011-12-25T09:40:00.000-08:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving, Tillie took all of the girls in the family to see the Nutcracker ballet. This was the first time for both me and the little girls. I was curious to see how well the girls would behave since many adults have a hard time sitting through the ballet, lol. However, all the girls really enjoyed it. They even lasted through a yummy dinner at Carrabbas afterwards. What a fun way to kick off the Christmas season! Since then, Avery has even watched it on TV, which has lead to several performances in our living room.

I love this picture!

Merry Christmas!

I have a surprise for you honey...

2011-12-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

While I am working on lost blog entries, I found a few pictures the day I found out I was preggo, and wanted to include those as well. I took a picture of the test on my calendar, so I could remember the day. I am so glad I did, because, I think I already forgot, ha! I took a test, on Monday, October 25th....I know that feels like forever ago. And actually the weekend before, I had a dream that I was pregnant. I really didn't think I was actually pregnant, but decided to take a test because that Friday was my BFF, Kara's, 30th bday party, and I knew I would be drinking. I actually left it in the bathroom for awhile without checking it, because I really didn't think it would actually be positive, lol.

I was absolutely shocked when it was positive! I quickly pulled out my EDC wheel, to determine my due date...It's nice to work in the same field :). June 16th is my due date. I called my OB's office (which is actually where I am doing my clinical preceptorship...talk about convenience!) and scheduled am OB confirmation visit for November 11th. I then headed to Target to find something babyish to tell my surprise to Brian.

I found a cute little box, with this baby bib for the big reveal. I should have taken a picture of his face when he opened it! I looove surprises! We decided to wait and tell our family on Thanksgiving, since my initial pregnancy appointment wasn't until November 11th, and Thanksgiving was just 2 weeks from then. It was so difficult to keep the secret! Especially since I was nauseous and getting sick pretty frequently just like I had with Avery. We decided to wait and tell Avery then as well.

Thanksgiving surprise!

2011-12-23T12:59:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving, we were very excited to let our of our families in our little secret. On Thanksgiving morning, we told Avery that she was going to be a BIG SISTER!!!! She has been asking for about 6 months now when was God going to put a baby in my tummy? We were so excited to tell her! And yes, that is our Christmas tree ready and decorated behind Avery. I started off the holidays very prepared...but managed to slack way behind....hence all the lost blog postings.

This is the reveal shirt, I bought off of etsy.com. I think it fit perfectly! All of our family figured out the secret pretty quick, and very very surprised. I was about 11 weeks pregnant in these pics.

This picture of the baby is at about 9 weeks. Baby Ash #2 will be due on June 16th, 2012. It is cutting it pretty close to my graduation on May 4th, but that's ok. So far, I have been pretty nauseous with lots of morning sickness, just like I had with Avery, I guess we will see if this is another girl! At least when I start my new career, I won't have to take time off for maternity leave!

We also got lots of great family pics

My sweet P!

After we left my Aunt Donna's and Uncle Daniel's we headed over to Bebe's for more Thanksgiving goodness.

Deer Lease Fun

2011-12-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

Avery absolutely loves going to the deer lease with Brian...although she has never actually been out there when anyone has ever shot anything, so I guess we will see how she does with that. When Brian takes her, it usually works out pretty well for me, because I have a quiet house to myself, and am able to get lots of school work done. Brian has a small .22 gauge that he lets her shoot, which she enjoys. Whenever that get home, I try to have the bath water ready and waiting, because, man can she get dirty!

Look at that dirty face!

Fun playing in the dirt

These two had so much fun in the deer stand. I laughed when Brian told me he let her take cheetos into the stand, I'm sure she scared off any deer that might have come her way.

I absolutely love this picture! Brian told me that while they were in the stand, I big doe came walking out. Unfortunately, at the lease he is on, he couldn't shoot her, but was curious as to what Avery would say. He was shocked when she told him, "Shoot her Daddy! Just shoot that doe!" He was one proud daddy!

Apologies....

2011-12-23T12:08:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I have got to be the worst blogger around! But I promise I am working on a whole bunch of posts that will catch up to the last few months. I promise I have a great excuse, but that is for a whole other post! We have been so busy the last few months, I wrapped up another fall semester and even began my preceptorship, which I will continue until graduation in May. To start off my updating madness, here are a few random pics from around the house.

I'm not sure if you can tell from these pics, but Avery had her first black eye in November. Originally I had thought she fell off the couch, but she later told me she was swinging between the two couches, slipped, fell, and landed on her face. Hmmm, for a little sweet girl, we have already broken an elbow, had a black eye, I wonder what will be next??? I should have taken another picture when it really started bruising, it was all under her eye.

Avery wearing her blanket, "Crusty". Now that I mention it, I don't think I have ever blogged about Crusty....I will definitely need to.

This girl changes her clothes about 10 times a day.....

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-04T17:02:00.001-07:00

I know I am a week behind with this post, but oh well, better late than never....Avery loves her school that she goes to, and loved participating in their yearly storybook parade. It is also nice that so many of my friends' children go their too. It's pretty neat to see them playing together when I go pick her up, and the adults are not around. I hope they remain great friends. :)

Here is Tanner-man as spiderman

Jackson as Jake the pirate

Avery as Barbie fairy secret

The kids then got to walk across the stage and tell everyone who they were.

Tanner-man even showed off some spiderman moves!

On actual halloween, we always get together with family and friends and have a hay-ride around the neighborhood. Tim drives the tractor with a fully decorated trailer of hay. The kids love it.

Shelbey as Avatar girl and Avery as a UT cheerleader

Sweet Peyton and Avery

Peyton the poodle

Ashlynn as Belle

Hope everyone enjoyed their Halloween!

More Pumpkin fun

2011-10-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

So, I'm not quite sure why all of my pictures are loading out of order, but oh well, I guess you can figure them out anyways. On Sunday, Brian took to to the shooting range to do a little target practice. Yes after 6 years of marriage, plus 2 years of dating/engagement, he finally got me out there. It was pretty fun, I couldn't believe how packed the place was too!

The shot closest to the bulls eye was mine :), the two lower holes were Brian's shots... Not so bad for my first shot.

Here I was practicing with the .22

And of course, Avery had to bring all of her gear to Meme's, even though she didn't go to the range with us....maybe next time.

On Friday, our neighbors invited us over for a fun evening of pumpkin carving. All of the kids dressed up in their Halloween costumes too, so Avery was really excited. Out of all of the kiddos, she is by far the youngest, so she thinks she is really big after hanging out with all of them.

Of course Mom did all of the hard carving work ;)

Pumpkin patch and an anniversary

2011-10-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took our annual trip out to the local pumpkin patch...in typical Houston fashion it was a extremely hot, but we tried our best anyways to get in the pumpkin season.

I'm not really sure what these two were up to...

This was my favorite picture :)

And on Saturday, we celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary, I know I should have done an actual post on the day, but oh well. Tillie watched Avery while we enjoyed a quiet dinner.

New family member

2011-10-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

Well, not exactly, but Avery sure thought she got a new pet. Last weekend, she came home from Tim's shop with what she was calling a snail. She carried it around everywhere with her, complete with a bugbarn and fresh grass. I really didn't pay too much attention to it until she told me she wanted me to kiss it. When I actually picked it up, it wasn't a snail at all, but a small, round, piece of metal from the welding machine, ha! As a result, I helped her pick out it's name, "Silver."

Here she is giving Silver a kiss...

And you can you imagine my surprise when I leaned that Silver had crawled out of it's home during Avery's naptime? Wow, this girl has got a good imagination!

RAIN!

2011-10-09T21:07:00.001-07:00

Rain has finally made it to Magnolia!

So thankful for a long, slow, & rainy Sunday.

Our weekend

2011-10-05T17:45:00.001-07:00

Just a few pictures from out weekend...

The girls as Bareback

I think this was Friday morning, isn't this what you wear around the house?

All ready for the deer lease with Daddy!

Her shirt says "Ribbons and bows and camo clothes"

And these were taken at Hudson's 3rd bday party.

I may be a bit biased, but man, we have some cute kids!

Phone post

2011-09-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Lately, I feel like I really don't have anything very interesting to post...I am going to try to keep my camera out on the kitchen counter, so I can capture more pics, I feel like I have really been slacking in that department. These pics were taken with my blackberry, it is much more handy than the mom camera.

I just love sleeping pictures, they always look so sweet. For the last couple of weeks, we have been having trouble with Avery wanting to sleep with us. As a baby, she NEVER slept with us, but recently, I have been letting her "snuggle" with me. I guess I feel guilty about being crazy busy with school, and if Brian is out of town, I have been letting her sleep with me. However, this may have backfired on me :(

Last Friday, I took Avery to her first 3D movie, The Lion King. She has seen the movie a couple of times, so I thought she would love it in 3D. She did pretty good about 1/2 the time, and watched the other 1/2 without the glasses, oh well :)

And here is a super short video, she is trying to show off her muscles.

Happy Birthday Jace and Skeet!

2011-09-13T07:53:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, two of my friends had babies on the same day!

Welcome to the world Skeet Ryland, 8lbs 14oz

and Jace Carter, 7lbs 6oz

Congratulations Smith and Reagan Families!

So long summer!

2011-09-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

For Labor Day, we usually head out to Lake Livingston, but due to the recent drought and fires, we decided to stay close to the house and just hang out by the pool. This summer has been a little different than most, so I am looking forward to the fall season!

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We also took the girls for a zoo day this past Friday. It was perfect weather for it, and no crowds :) We got there pretty early so we could see the elephants have their breakfast and baths.

This child was not the least bit afraid of all these animals, and ran up to pet them right away!

Now lets bring on some fall weather! I am busting out the pumpkins!

Wildfires

2011-09-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of days, our area has been hit with some major and quite devastating wildfires. Due to this horrible heat and drought, wildfires have been spreading throughout Waller, Montgomery, and Grimes counties. However, our family has been incredibly blessed to be on the east of all the fires. I know we have all heard horrible stories of flooding, hurricanes, and fire that have claimed people's homes, but it is different when it is occuring just so close to home. It is quite a surreal view to see so much smoke in the distance on 1488. Brian is pretty sure that his deer lease has experienced some damage, but I am so thankful we have not to had evacuate our home.

Here is a video one of my friends posted in FB.

God bless all of the firefighters who have been battling this thing nonstop. I have never been so proud of my cousin, Ryan :). And my prayers go out to all those who have already lost their homes, or are still in danger of loosing theirs.

7 months & 4 weeks...

2011-09-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

Until graduation...but who's counting?

Anyways, last week, I started back to school...and next week I will begin clinicals twice a week again. This semester I get to see patients at a nearby birthing center and a fertility clinic, so it should be pretty interesting. I am beginning to see the end in sight, but still so much to do. Probably around December I will begin my preceptorship. I have a feeling this fall is going to fly by!

And because I am a nerd, I have to post this picture I took with my phone....isn't it just beautiful? I certainly didn't begin this program with this as a goal in mind, it just sort of happened, and now I don't want to mess it up...

Heartbeat

2011-08-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

One of my friends on facebook posted this video, and I had to share. I thought is was sooo moving and inspirational, so I wanted to post it on my blog. I have been a registered donor since I was in high school.

Are you a donor?

Chain-O 2011

2011-08-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the Holak/Habegger families took a trip to Artesian Lakes, formally known as Chain-o-Lakes. Last weekend, we traveled to Seguin, and now Cleveland, TX....just call us a bunch of world travelers..hehe. As kids, we loved going there each year to swim, fish, and just explore. A couple of years ago, the Klodzinski cousins took a trip, and I blogged about it here. Well, this year the parents wanted in, and it was the first year that we took our kids. Avery had a blast, and didn't even know that the water level was WAY down due to the high temps and lack of rain in Texas. Next year, we are going to have to really keep an eye on Peyton, she will be walking all over the place!

Avery and Reagan

Everyone checking out Aly the gator

Christine's yummy fruit pizza

Aly

Avery has ridden a pony before, but this time we also rode horses of our own. She loved it, and wasn't scared in the least. She must be a natural cowgirl....did you check out her boots?

I love this last pic, it looks like Avery is really serious about catching those perch :)

Hot in Houston

2011-08-26T09:36:00.001-07:00

Man this summer has been HOT! I am normally not the one to complain of hot temperatures, but OK, enough is enough. When it is too hot for us to swim in the pool, it is too HOT. Below is the forcast for the next few days, is that not unreal? Our poor grass is so sad, I have been trying to keep it watered, but it is pretty much a loosing battle. We soooo need some more rain! We got a pretty good shower a few days ago, and I was very thankful, except our power when out too, yuck!

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Lately, I have been letting Avery swim in the evenings, mainly because it is just too hot any earlier. She is definitely a little fish, and loves the water. It is pretty amazing how much better she is doing on her swimming compared to the beginning of the summer. She now swims underwater without her life jacket all around the pool. One day I just told her we weren't going to use the life jacket, and off she went. She is pretty proud of herself too :)

First day of school 2011-2012

2011-08-23T12:34:00.002-07:00

Happy first day of school everyone!

As a child, I loved the first day of school. I remember picking out my first day outfit and sorting through my school supplies...I know, I know, I am still the same nerd I always was. Anyways, Avery didn't really get the whole back to school hoop-la, probably since she went to the same school this summer while I was in summer school, but she was excited to get new teachers and new gear! And this year, she has to wear a uniform, and is in the same class as Jackson, yay!

She looks so grown up in her uniform. The only breakdown she had was when I actually pulled out the uniform that morning. She did not want to wear it at all, but insisted she wear some of the new clothes she got in San Marcos. Oh dear, I can only imagine what she will be like as a teenager! Once she saw the other kids in her class were wearing the same thing, she seemed fine with it.

Yesterday was also her first day of dance class. She was so excited, especially when she found out Riley, our friends little girl, who also goes to her school, was in her class. It is a ballet, tap, and jazz class that will meet once a week throughout the school year.

Showing off her bun

And since I have been off on a break this week from school, I searched on youtube yesterday cute ways to do little girls hair. I always fix Avery's hair the same way, so I was looking for something a little different. Here is what I came up with, didn't it turn out pretty cute???

Hope all of the kiddos and teachers had a great first start to a new school year!

Trip to Seguin

2011-08-23T12:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we took a weekend trip to Seguin, Texas for a fun visit with full of shopping, visiting, and eating! Brian's dad, Tim, has been staying there during the week for work since February. We have been wanting to take a trip, but this was the first weekend where it actually worked out.

Tim has his travel trailer parked in a space right next to the Guadalupe River, what a great spot!

Friday night we enjoyed a fish fry and karyoke at the park where his travel trailer is parked. Everyone was super nice, and Avery LOVED all the dancing.

The cupid shuffle with mommy :)

I can't think of a better thing to do on a Texas night.

This video is pretty dark, but you can still see Avery bustin-a move.

Someone was exhausted...and sweaty.

Seguin is just a short trip from San Marcos, so Tillie and I shopped till we dropped on Saturday, while the boys and Avery did a little fishing, swimming, and a little more shopping. On Sunday, we walked around Gruene, and even stopped in Gruene hall.

yes, more dancing

This picture would have been pretty good, if not for Avery funny face...

My crazy Texas girl

Belated Birthdays

2011-08-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

While I am still backtracking through the summer, I wanted to include our birthday celebrations. This year, I turned 29, Yikes! One more year, and then the big 3-0. I think my 30th will be pretty fun though, at least I will turn 30 right after I graduate with my master's degree. What a big accomplishment that will be! I can't wait for Avery to see me walk across that stage, that is one of the things I think about that keeps me working toward my goal :)

I think these two girls are going to be trouble one day...

In this picture I had straightened Avery's hair with my chi. She really thought she was hot stuff, and was so excited to show everyone her "long" hair. I might have created a little monster ;)

Crave cupcakes for dessert!

At the beginning of August, we celebrated my parents' birthdays too. Can you tell we like Mexican food in this family? This time we went to Los Cucos.

Aunt Chrissy is trying to feed Avery in this pics so she would eat.

And here is my little diva feeding Peyton, not too sure why she is making that face...

Happy Birthday Mom and Dad!

This time I picked up cupcakes from the Cupcakery in market street. Here is a pic after Avery licked all the pink icing off of hers and offered it to Aunt Chrissy.

Bad Blogger

2011-08-23T10:47:00.001-07:00

Yes, so I realize it has been nearly two whole months since I have blogged....wow, I have been quite the slacker. Some how this entire summer has managed to slip by me. It has been a jam packed and emotional one. My summer semester was so packed with classes as well as clinical. I always find the summer classes a little more difficult since they are trying to cram so much into only 10 weeks.

I am going to do my best to do a quick re-cap of our summer in the next couple of posts. Hmm, lets see where I last left off. At the end of June we took a trip garner state park with our friends the Dixons. I went to nursing school with Tamara, and then we later worked together at St. Joe's together. It was nice to spend some time with them, since we don't get to see each other very much any more.

Sweet Noah and Avery

We had planned on staying 3 nights, but received a call from Brian's brother one morning that he had decided to take Brian's dad, Dennis, to the hospital. We knew he had been sick, but were not really sure what the next step would be. That morning, we packed up and headed back to the Woodlands, where Dennis had been admitted for a broken hip. From the moment we got back home, both of our families helped out tremendously as we shuttled back and forth between the hospital and home. Avery went back and forth between the 2 grandma's, Courtney and Shelbey, so I'm sure she didn't miss us very much :) Dennis had surgery initially on a fractured femur, but passed away from lung cancer in late June. It was a pretty rough few weeks as his condition deteriorated and later as we were planning the funeral.

Dennis Ash

Although, It was one of the hardest times I have been through in awhile, I feel so much closer to Brian and his brother, Scott. The funeral took place on July 3rd in Kingwood. Here is the where his obituary was posted online.

During this time, Avery stayed with both of our parents. I took these pics from my sister's blog, since I was in no mood for taking pictures. Somehow I managed to stay on top of all my school work, while helping Brian, going to clinical, and working sporadically.

I think she is showing off the puzzle she put together here.

The girls first bath together

Poor P

That is sooooo my daughter!

In July, we celebrated Kaitlyn's birthday party at my Aunt Donna and Uncle Daniel's house. Avery had so much fun playing with her cousin. I hope we get to spend even more time with her in the future.

Ryan and his sweet girl

I'm still here!!!

2011-06-24T15:46:00.001-07:00

So I have to apologize for neglecting the blog the last couple of weeks. What a crazy couple of weeks it has been, school is crazy busy of course. A few weeks ago, we celebrated Shelbey's birthday. Avery counted down the days for a week leading up to the party, she loves her Shelbey!

She thinks these two girls hung the moon!

Ash Garden

2011-06-06T17:39:00.000-07:00

This spring, Brian started a garden in our backyard. I have to say, I am pretty impressed, it looks great! Avery loves going to check on the veggies (tomatoes and cumcumbers) every day. Brian is very serious about his "crops" :) At the beginning ouf the spring, I thought Reba was a gonner when she decided to dig up one of Brian's tomato plants not once, but twice! (I think she likes the fertilizer)

Come on over, and we will load you up with a few fresh veggies!

We love the lake!

2011-06-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

The past Memorial Day we spent it at the lake with the family. It was a great trip, filled with lots of sun, rides on the golf cart, and trips to the sand bar.

I love this picture, these two cousins had a blast all weekend :)

Making smores

Hope everyone had a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend. Thank you to all of the brave men and women who have helped to keep our country free!

Thank you Veterans!

End of school celebration!

2011-06-02T08:29:00.001-07:00

For Avery that is, not me....

A couple of weeks ago, Avery's school had a program benefiting their scholarship program, the kids sang songs and then each class auctioned off a piece of artwork made by the class. It was too cute. And Avery actually performed this time, if you remember from the Christmas program, she just had a blank stare the entire time...but not this time! She actually smiled and sang :)

This is the wooden horse Avery's class made...so creative

and her artwork.

This morning, is the last day of the school year, and her last day with her teacher, Mrs. Haley. She really loves her teacher and I know she is going to miss her so much (we both will actually). This has been a busy, busy year, filled with lots of school for both of us, but I feel so lucky to have found such a great, Christian school for Avery.

Avery on the first day

The last day of school....my gosh she has grown!

Oh Deer!

2011-05-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, before I took Avery to school, I let Reba out in the front yard to potty, and look what she found! The tiniest baby deer! After Reba stopped barking at the poor thing, I went out to check on it. I couldn't believe it just ran up to me and Avery. Avery was in heaven, and she did NOT want to leave it to go to school.

I fought the urge to put it into my backyard and by the evening it wasn't in my flowerbed anymore. I was sooo worried about the little thing, but thankfully when Brian got home that night he said he spotted it on the next street over with it's mommy :)

Yay for summer!...boo for school!

2011-05-22T17:36:00.001-07:00

Summer has almost arrived! It is definitely one of our most favorite seasons, Avery loves to spend time in the pool and lake. We just got back from a short weekend trip to the lake. It was very relaxing, even though this was our first trip up there this summer. Next weekend, we have a full weekend planned to celebrate Memorial Day.

And tonight marks my last night of freedom...tomorrow I start clinicals again. I am both excited and nervous. I am anxious to get started, but overwelmed as a think of the next jam-packed year before me. This summer, I will have clinicals twice a week, school on tuesday, and work on Thursday. However, I fully enjoyed my three week break. I was able to spend lots of quality time with both Avery and Brian.

Last week Avery asked me, "Momma, why does Daddy go to work?" I responded by saying "so he can make money." She then said, "So me and you can go to school?" Well, pretty much :)

Just think, this time next year, I might be blogging about a new job and graduation! (Here's to staying positive :) )

Pictures!

2011-05-20T08:15:00.001-07:00

So last week, I finally took Avery in to have her pictures taken. If you know her well, Avery is VERY difficult when it comes to pictures, but within the last few months she has been soooo much better about it. I can't believe I have such a strong-willed child! On the morning I took her, I didn't tell her where we were going so she didn't have time to think about it. I was soooo thrilled when they turned out pretty good. Yay for a photo session that didn't end in tears (mine or Avery's!)

Beach Babe

2011-05-17T13:53:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, since the weather was gorgeous, I decided to take a short trip to the beach with Avery. Brian was fishing a tournament on Toledo Bend (he got 3rd place!) so it was just a mother-daughter trip. I am so glad I took her, this was her first trip to the beach (that she could remember), and she was so excited. We picked shells and just hung out around the beach.

We stayed at The Bisso's beach house in Surside (thank you Gregg and Bev!), it was perfect!

Look out baywatch!

Zoo Day!

2011-05-15T14:03:00.001-07:00

Last wednesday, we took a trip to the Houston Zoo. It turned out to be the perfect day, no crowds, and no heat!

My favorite part!

Alyssa and Brennan

Avery thought this part was pretty cool, but was a little disappointed when she didn't spot any bass :)

And yes, that is a couple of hello kitty bandaids she is sporting, she had a few mosquito bites I had to cover up.

One year down,

2011-05-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

One more to go!

Yayyyy! I am so excited to say I finally finished another semester with ALL A's! Sooo happy and proud. This has been one of the toughest things to get through, but I am so excited to say I am halfway through with graduate school. Ever since I turned in my last final, I have been lining up lots of time with my family. Here are a couple of things that were on my list...

Get a massage and pedicure (check)

Take Avery to see the movie, Rio (check)

3. Get Avery's pictures taken (check)

4. Read a non-medical book. (check) Here is what I read last week, now I can't wait to see the movie!

5. Take a trip to the lake.

6. Take a trip to the beach.

7. Take a nap, or two, or three. (check, check!)

8. Go to the zoo with Alyssa and Brennan (check)

9. Get back to the gym (semi check ;))

So far, it has been a great break. Hopefully, I will feel energized and ready to tackle another semester. I guess we will see about that one, ha!

Happy Nurse's Week!

2011-05-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today begins the start of International Nurse's week. So,

Happy Nurse's Week to all my friends and coworkers!

May 6-12th 2011

I wear my title as nurse proudly, and look forward to being a nurse practitioner. One more year to go!

Easter 2011

2011-05-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

This year, our Easter weekend was jammed pack, but so much fun. We actually had to wake up Avery this year, so she could see what the bunny left her before going to church.

I absolutely love this picture of me and Av, it was taken after church.

Sweet cousins

such a ham

Happy Easter!

Easter Eggstravaganza

2011-04-25T17:03:00.001-07:00

This friday, we had a great group of friends and family over to color easter eggs. Since Easter fell so late this year, I thought it would be a great idea to let the kids swim too. Avery was so excited about her friends coming over to swim. I woke up super early that morning to try and get a bunch of school stuff knocked out so I could enjoy the day with my family.

Peyton loved her first dip in the pool

That Friday morning, Avery told me, "Momma, the easter bunny told me we don't have to kill those eggs." After I thought about it, I said, "Oh, no, today we are going to color the eggs. Dying eggs means to color them." :)

This pic is after the kids got done swimming and were playing in the playroom. Sorry Larry, I couldn't resist...

Two weeks to go...

2011-04-20T18:21:00.000-07:00

Normally at this point at the semester, I am on the home stretch, but NO, not this semester. I only have two weeks to go and can BARELY see the end in sight..ugh! I am so ready to spend some time with my family and relax. I finished up my clinical part, but still have so many assignments to turn in and then finals, yikes. But....I am almost halfway there....then 2 weeks off before the summer semester starts back up again.

Just a random picture on a saturday morning.

Disney on Ice

2011-04-18T18:36:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, a group of my girlfriends and all of the kids loaded up for Disney on Ice. It was a really cute show, and of course the kids had a blast. This was Avery's first "ice show", and she she loved it.

My little 'Jessie'

By far, her favorite part was Barbie and the dancers. My favorite part was when Ken came out in his ascot. I'm gonna try my best to get Brian to be Ken for halloween ;) And a big thanks to Rachael for calling Ticketmaster to get all of the tickets, they were perfect!

Check-up and a Bunny trip

2011-04-11T15:54:00.001-07:00

This past Friday, I finally took Avery in for her 3 year visit with the Pediatrician. As soon as we pulled into the parking lot she said, "Hey, no Mom, I'm not sick!" Once I reassured her, she was fine. They really just did an overall assessment and did a small vision check. No shots, which was nice. Here are her 3 yr old stats:

Height: 3'3" (85th percentile)

Weight: 30lbs 9oz (44th percentile)

She has been sooo talkative the last few months, to the point where Brian asked, "Do you think something is wrong with her?" when he found her in full conversation with her dolls. Lately she is really into pretending she is a cat, I caught her last night lapping up the bath water like a kitten...nice. She is also very into babies. Her teacher at school came up to me and said, "oh, congratulations, Avery told the class your secret. I thought to myself, oh dear, what has she shared!" Then her teacher told me that she told the class that her mommy had a baby girl in her belly. Wow, I don't think she knows what she is asking for!

Now, On the the Bunny trip....

Avery was super excited this year to see the Easter Bunny.

And what's a trip to the mall without a ride on Bambi the deer?

Have a great week!

Texas Bluebonnets 2011

2011-04-08T21:12:00.001-07:00

You know spring has officially arrived in Texas when the blubonnets are in bloom. Well, so far I have tried every year to get some good pics of Avery in the bluebonnets, and this is the first year it did not end in total failure. If you know her well, she is usually sooo hard to take pics of. All the way there she told me, "Mom, I'm not gonna take any pictures today."....little turd. However, she knew Peyton was coming, so I just told her that was fine, I would just take pictures of Peyton. She changed her tune quick!, ha!

I think this one is cute...poor Peyton...

I'm not really sure what she is doing here, but I think she was trying to get our attention while we were taking Peyton's picture :)

Minga Wedding Part Dos

2011-04-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

Now lets get to the real reason we were in Mexico, to celebrate the wedding of Jared and Courtney!

Getting ready...

Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Minga!

Thanks Court and Jared for letting us be such a big part of your special day/week! We love yall!

Minga Wedding Part Uno

2011-04-03T15:01:00.001-07:00

We're baaack! Well, we have been home from Mexico for about a week, and I am finally getting around to blogging about it. It has taken me a week to recover, and I'm still not sure if I am completely back, ha! What a blast we had, it was just what I needed. A great trip with great friends and family.

The happy couple, Jared and Courtney

Me and Brian

Angela and Steve

Larry and Steph

This is pretty much what we did all day long :)

Me and Steph parasailing

Happy Birthday Brian!

2011-03-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

Happy 36th Birthday Brian!

You are such a great father and husband, there is never a dull moment in this house.

Thanks for always filling our home with laughter, can't wait to celebrate in Mexico!

In 7 days

2011-03-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

I will be looking at this!

I can hardly contain myself with excitement. I sooooo need a vacation. I am almost at my breaking point with school, but I am nearing the end of my spring semester....thank goodness!

This girl loves eyeshadow!

2011-03-06T15:09:00.000-08:00

For her birthday, Stephy got her an eyeshadow set, which she LOVES! It has trumped all other birthday gifts

She actually is kinda good at putting in on without a mirror...

I told her that little girls only wore makeup for play when she asked if she could wear it to school, and she responded with, "No, Mommy, it is for ALL the time!"

and the makeup application continues

And the party continues...

2011-03-01T19:16:00.001-08:00

Nana and Peyton

Aunt Chrissy and Reagan

The birthday girl could barely stop jumping so I could get a quick pic...

sweet Adalynn

I could only imagine the conversation Avery and Danica are having :)

Danica

the Galik boys

little man Tate

the favors

Thanks for everyone who helped celebrate Avery's 3rd birthday. We are so blessed to have such great family and friends!

Our little girl is 3!

2011-02-22T07:38:00.001-08:00

February 20th 2008

Avery is one!

Two years

On Sunday, the 20th, Avery turned 3! It is so hard to believe she is 3 already! Her party isn't until next weekend, so we spent the weekend with family. On saturday, we took her to get her ears pierced and a movie. It was a great weekend, we have all been so busy between Brian's work and my school. Here she is before her ears were pierced.

She was such a big girl

I love this pic while the ladies are explaining everything to her...Sweet and Sassy did a great job!

Not even a tear!....except for poor mom, lol.

Afterwards, we headed to a movie, it was pretty cute.

Birthday morning candles....in what else, but a PINK donut

Ready for church

cupcake time!

Nana, Grandpa, Aunt Ray and Peyton came over that evening to help us celebrate.

I love this picture...poor Peyton was hungry. And yes, that is the build-a-bear birthday sticker she is wearing from a couple of days ago.

That's better

Happy Birthday my sweet girl! We can't wait for your Hello Kitty birthday bash next saturday! We love you!

Build-a-Bear

2011-02-19T06:08:00.001-08:00

On Friday, we got to spend the day with Peyton and Aunt Ray! My sister surprised Avery with a trip to Build-a-bear to celebrate her 3rd birthday. I love this painful looking smile :)

Peyton was a doll, as always

She was very serious about washing that bear

Thanks Aunt Ray!

Sweets with my Sweethearts

2011-02-14T16:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

opening her vday gift from Mommy & Daddy

At Avery's school, they had a little breakfast for us to enjoy with our sweethearts.

Hmmm, it may have been a little toooo sweet

On to the Vday partaaay!

a valentine for Parker...

showing off the vday crafts

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On a side note, Brian and I got to spend a fun Valentine's night out with some great friends, 14 of them to be exact! We enjoyed some great food at Kirby's and lots of wine! However, I managed to not get a single picture, oh well...

Happy Birthday Momma D!

2011-02-13T07:41:00.000-08:00

Happy 50th Birthday to my Aunt Donna! Our family surprised my aunt with lunch at Pappasitos this year. It turned out great, and she was sooo surprised. Good job Christine at pulling it off! Growing up my sister and I spent the summers and evening after school with my aunt and uncle, and my parents still live across the street from them. Needless to say, my Aunt Donna is very special to me.

When we were on our way to the resturant, I asked Avery,

me: "What are you going to tell Aunt Donna when you see her?"

Avery: "Can I have one of your balloons?"

me: "no, Happy Birthday"

Avery: "oh. ok."

I love these sweet girls :)

Hope you had a FABULOUS birthday!

My Precious P

2011-02-05T14:55:00.000-08:00

Don't I have the cutest niece EVERRRR?

Snowed in!

2011-02-05T06:53:00.001-08:00

Ok, so maybe it didn't actually snow, or none that I saw...but we have been cooped up in the house for the past couple of days. The temperature her has been in the low 20's since Wednesday night. Yes, that is enough to put the entire city on lock down. What can I say, us we don't handle freezing temperatures in the south very well. Here are a few pictures of my little princess keeping busy.

Stay warm everyone!

We're baaaack

2011-01-29T06:06:00.000-08:00

Well, I think we have finally made it through all the sickness! This time, it hit me pretty hard. I was sick for three weeks, and last week my ear drum ruptured....i know, it usually only happens to kids. After 2 rounds of antibiotics, I am finally beginning to feel like myself again. Avery had been coughing too, so I took her to the pedi last Monday, and she had bronchitis and two ear infections!...poor baby, she really didn't even act like she was sick. Brian, of course, is untouched.

So, this weekend, I hope to get caught up on some school and house work.....blah.

Oh, I forgot to blog about this, but 2 weeks ago, I opened up my mail to find a letter from UT. It looked pretty official, so at first I though oh, no, did I forget to pay something, but I soon opened it to find out that I had received a scholarship!!! Wahoooo! What an awesome, and unexpected blessing. It was from the William Randoulph Hearst Foundation for $2,000.00. Maybe all my craziness about grades was worth it! I should have taken a picture of the letter, but it was during all the sickness :( It will cover the rest of this semester's tuition and most of next semesters'.

I took these pictures last week. I just looove sleeping pictures. I wish I could sleep that good :)

Hope you and your family have survived flu season too!

2011-01-24T18:25:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, Avery is participating in a Trike-a-thon at her school. All of the money raised goes to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. It is a fantastic cause, so check out her page, and donate if you can! Follow the link above this post.

Sick Chicks

2011-01-19T07:14:00.000-08:00

This is what Avery and I have been up to this week. Thankfully, she just has had a runny nose and a small cough in the morning. However, I have been down for the count since Sunday night. I hope the end of this is near....

Happy Saturday!

2011-01-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

Well, this week marked my first week back for the semester. Geez...I am already overwelmed. I just keep telling myself that it is always like this in the beginning, before I can get back into the swing of things. However, next week, I will get to finally start seeing patients. I am both excited and nervous. I will be driving out to good ole Huntsville to see them, but I guess that is better than driving to the med center?!

Enjoy your weekend, (even if it is cold and wet!)

Sassy Diva

2011-01-07T14:28:00.001-08:00

Today I took Avery to Sweet and Sassy, I can't believe we hadn't been there yet! As soon as we walked in she said, "mom, this place is beautiful," she was very serious too. She really needed to have her hair trimmed anyways, the curls were getting a little too crazy.

I have never actually dried her hair with the blowdryer, but the lady asked Avery if she would like it dried straight, and of course Avery said yes.

She then got to walk to cat-walk and pose...hehe

When we were leaving, she said, "Next time, Mommy, we can get my nails done." Ha! That's my girl! I told her, maybe for her birthday. I looove having a little girl :)

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

Dancing our way into 2011! It is gonna be a great year!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

What an amazing Christmas we have had! We are so lucky to have all of our family so close, so very little traveling was involved. Thursday we kicked off the celebrations at Tillie and Tim's house. As always, Avery had a blast with her cousins. We attended Christmas Eve service, then celebrated Christmas at Rachel's house.

Avery and Peyton

It was so much fun to spend Christmas Eve with a new baby.

Of course, Avery wanted me to hold her like a baby.

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Christmas morning 2010

She got LOTS of Hello Kitty gear, and she loved every piece of it

Brian, flying his new helicopter

Avery and her new kitchen from her Meme and Pawpaw

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For Christmas dinner, we headed down the street to Tim and Tillie's for some prime rib, yummy!

Hope you enjoyed your Christmas holiday!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T10:07:00.000-08:00

Wishing your family a very merry Christmas!

Breakfast with Santa and the fishies

2010-12-20T14:21:00.001-08:00

Last year, Tamara and I took the kids to see Santa at the aquarium, so we decided to do it again this year. Avery was a little unsure of Santa this time, but seemed to warm up to Mrs. Clause

I think Avery was kissing Noah in this one....

Noah and Tate with Mr. and Mrs. Clause

The kids got their faces painted, can you guess what Avery wanted???

Hello Kitty!

A Crafty Christmas

2010-12-20T13:52:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite parts about Christmas is all the crafts that go with it. Last week we made little glass ornaments that you bake in the oven. Brian used to make them as a kid, so we had to try them out. Avery's didn't turn out so well, so I had to intervene...

Mommy's ornaments

The finished products

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Then I had to try out the pottery place by our house. The Christmas stuff wouldn't be in before Christmas, so we had to paint a princess instead. She loved it anyhow.

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And I had to add this pic in as well. Here is little teacher Avery, reading the night before Christmas to her stuffed kitty.

What a weekend!

2010-12-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

Wow! This past weekend was crazy! We had 2 company Christmas parties to go to, a 30th birthday party, plus I had to study for all of my finals, whew. We had a great time, despite all of the studying. The following few pictures are from the TOPS Christmas party.

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On Saturday, while I was studying my Aunt Donna and Uncle Daniel offered to take Avery for the day. Of course! I am sooo lucky to have so many family members that want to spend time with her. It is so nice to know that she is having a great time, and I don't feel so guilty for having to study for finals. They took her to the Houston zoo, which Avery loved.

Catch up

2010-12-12T08:02:00.001-08:00

Lazy sunday watching Max and Ruby while Mom is studying for finals.

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These pictures were taken about a month ago at Avery's school. I think they turned out pretty cute, especially since it is usually a battle at picture time.

Avery's Christmas program

2010-12-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, Avery's school put on a Christmas program called, "Christmas is a comin'!" This was Avery's first real performance, so I was looking forward to it. For the past couple of weeks Avery has been practicing all around the house.

It was so cute, and the kids looked adorable.

She didn't really smile that much, but she had all of the moves down!