Raymond Ranch

First Day of School 2011

2011-10-09T06:32:00.001-07:00

While I would like to be in denial that I now have a Kinder, Second and Sixth grader I'm trying to embrace it. They're growing up so quickly. Especially with Madalyn being in middle school - it's challenging for me to embrace the 'letting go' but it's wonderful to see who she is becoming on her own. It's sad that she doesn't sit with us at the football games, but hangs out with her friends in the end zone. I'm trying to just remind myself that means we've done a good job - she's happy, social and only comes to us at half time when she needs money. Ouch. Bristol LOVES school. He's gotten two notes home - one because he can count to 100, the other for good handwriting. Beck's only had one bad behavior note home, so we're taking that as a good sign. It's really nice to have them all in school, and my part-time schedule with BBBS is working out pretty well so far. Fingers crossed!

Halfway BirthRAY Partay 5

2011-07-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

On July 9, 2011 we had the 5th Annual Halfway BirthRAY Partay at the pool in Kyle. It's always fun to get to see everyone and hang out. I love bringing our friends and family together from school, work, sports or wherever we adoopt them. :) Jeff and I worked on the soundtrack and it's a good one if I do say so myself.

Jeff goes Skydiving!

2011-07-10T18:07:00.000-07:00

Madalyn and I attended the Austin Children's Museum and bought Jeff a skydiving lesson for Father's Day. He cashed it in a week later at Skydive San Marcos. He's crazy, but the pictures and the video are classic!

Madalyn is a 6th Grader

2011-05-27T13:43:00.000-07:00

The girls, The Crew - my carpool kids this year, Madalyn, The fam, Jodi Wymore

I'm going to stay in denial for the summer that she's actually going to middle school next year. The 5th grade graduation at CHES was a lot of fun and I loved Jodi Wymore's speech. She asked the kids if they were a little scared, to which they replied 'yes'. She noted that when they leave 8th grade, they'll be a little scared, when they leave high school they'll still be a little scared. How true those words are, and we'll be scared for them. :) I'm so excited for her and all of her accomplishments - A Honor Roll all year, President's Scholar Award, Commended on TAKS, and was voted 'Best All Around Girl' by her classmates. This year was just a great all around experience to cap off the elementary school years. Man, time is just flying by.

Beck is now a 2nd Grader

2011-05-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

It's a little scary, but we're done with another year of school. Beck is going to be a second grader in the fall and we couldn't be prouder of him. He tested into Gifted & Talented next year, is reading way beyond his grade level and is oddly accurate with his state capitols thanks to the iPad app 'Stack the States'. We took pictures of him with my parents that he took for Show&Tell, with his teacher Mr. Mika, and with his first grade girlfriend Zoe. He really matured this year and we are so proud of him. It's really hard to remember that he's only 7, but he's the best.

Madalyn in the Hays Free Press

2011-05-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Madalyn was featured in almost a full page article in the Hays Free Press this week for her back surgery. I'm not sure how long the link will be up, but it's fantastic and the printed version looks even cooler. They have her x-ray underneath it, so it looks really neat. We're saving a copy in her Accomplishments book - a special thanks to Mrs. Shultz for that amazing idea this year.

http://haysfreepress.com/archives/19609

CHES 5th Grade Celebration

2011-05-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

We're having to face the fact that Madalyn is going to middle school. As we gear up for 5th grade graduation, last day of school and the summer CHES celebrated the 5th graders with a party and dance at the school. The girls went shopping on Friday after school, a few of them went with boys (yikes!) and danced with boys at the party. Thankfully, Madalyn only danced with Jeff. But there's always next year to worry about. Madalyn is maturing into a beautiful young lady and we are so proud of her and everything that she's accomplished so far.

Baseball 2011

2011-05-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

Beck played his first season of coach pitch and Bristol played his first season of t-ball this year at HYBSA. Beck's team came in third place for coach pitch, Bristol played in the non-competitive t-ball division which was a lot of fun.

Madalyn - Bridging and Bronze Star

2011-05-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

At the Star Gala on May 15th, Madalyn and Troop 2283 were recognized and awarded their bronze star for the book that they read, made into a play and presented to 1,200 students at Pfluger & Carpenter Hill Elementary Schools. They performed 'The Bully Blockers Club' which helped show the effects of bullying and what you can do to handle the situation if you are being bullied. They did a fantastic job. Troop 2283 was also recognized as all 8 girls bridged from Juniors to Cadettes and will continue Girl Scouts as they enter middle school.

Beck at the Spelling Bee

2011-05-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

Negley hosts a frist grade Spelling Bee each year. They do one within each class first and narrow each class down to 2 students, sending 14 to the final round. Beck won second place in the Spelling Bee in the seventh round. He and one other boy made it through round 6 with Beck spelling 'twelve'. The last round he went out by misspelling 'judge' - he got the d and the g backwards. It was awesome though and we were so proud of him for making it that far!

Talent on Parade

2011-04-17T05:56:00.000-07:00

So 5 weeks after Madalyn's back surgery she was back competing with the Dimensions at Talent on Parade held at the Hays Performing Arts Center. She did a fanstastic job, competed in 5 dances and had so much fun being back with her friends. She also wanted to be back on that stage. Madalyn is one of the most beautiful and resilient people that I know, but the pictures speak for themselves.

Mother Goose play for Beck

2011-04-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

The Negely 1st graders performed a Mother Goose themed play for parents. Mr. Mika's class performed Rock a Bye Baby. Beck did a great job and it's always fun to get to watch him in his natural habitat. He is so funny. Jeff also snapped some pics of his work on the wall by the class. I love the hand - it was inspired by their MLK project.

Jeff turns 41!

2011-04-17T05:46:00.001-07:00

Jeff turned 41 last week and we celebrated by attending the Lady GaGa concert. I'll have to get those pictures from him to post. The concert was amazing, and then on Friday we had burgers and beer with the family and friends. The best thing was that Mom bought Jeff new cookware! Heck yeah!

Spring Baseball 2011

2011-04-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Beck is playing in the coach pitch league this year with the same coach he's had the last 3 years. The Reds are doing really well - halfway through the season we've only had 2 losses. Beck is still pretty hit or miss (literally) because he'll jack it into the outfield or he'll swing out. So frustrating! Bristol started t-ball this year in the non-competitive group. Our coach is great and we're enjoying watching Bristol play. He is so stinkin' cute out there and it so much fun to just sit out there and laugh when the kids run to third base, or just sit down in the outfield because its boring. :)

Arlene & LC's 40th Anniversary Party

2010-12-12T18:28:00.001-08:00

J

Just a few of the pics to highlight a great afternoon with family and friends. I wasn't sure that our house could hold that many people, but I didn't want to leave anyone out. It was a fantastic party and it was so wonderful to see all of our amazing family and friends again. The pictures we scanned and put into the slide show were fantastic. It's mesmerizing to sit and watch all of the moments that have been captured in the last 40 years.
My parents are the two most amazing people I know and have given Cody and I a lot to live up to.

Dance & Flag Football

2010-10-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about having both sons and daughters is that your weekends are filled with a little of 'girly girl' and some of the '110% boy' activities. That was this last weekend for us. We started it with Beck's flag football game and then went over to Madalyn's debut of her character routine as Sharpay Evans to Fabulous. Beck is double sporting it right now with flag football and a couple of weeks of overlap for Fall Ball coach pitch. We really wanting to get him some practice with coach pitch before the Spring and Jeff got volunteered to coach the team. They are incredibly unorganized and about to make me crazy, but we're trying to remember that it's about the boys and not the scatterbrains that don't do what they say they're going to do.
Madalyn really pushed this year for her first solo. She's been dancing for 7 years and this is her third year on team. I'm so proud of her and her desire to get up there and own the stage. She's such an amazing girl and it's fun to be there cheering her on. She debuted it at Firefest without it being finished and was fantastic. I'm sure when it's totally done in the Spring for competition (and on a stage instead of in the grass) it will be even more fun.

Forget Trying to Catch Up

2010-09-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

I've had on my 'to do' list for months now to catch-up my blog to Facebook. From here on out I will be better about because this is an awesome journal for our family's life. All of those things that you'll forget you did in the future because there was just too much to remember or too many things have happened between then and now. Here are a few pictures to hit the high points of the Summer of 2010.

Bingo with Andy Roddick!

2010-02-07T08:24:00.000-08:00

I had the best night ever - we got to play bingo with Andy Roddick. Yes, he lost in the Australian Quarterfinals earlier in the week - and then he was playing Bingo on Saturday night with some of the guys from the Bobby Bones morning show. He is way hot and was technically in a different room than we were, but it was still cool to see him! And to think, I doubted Jessie in her Bingo idea - I officially apologize and Bingo is my new favorite game!!

More Basketball

2010-02-07T08:14:00.001-08:00

We are halfway through the basketball season already and are still having a great time. The kids are doing great and they are all showing progress even in the last month. Bristol's game are still hilarious- they forget to dribble and look like running backs half of the time. They are cute and funny and very fun to watch. Beck's games are getting more competitive since the boys are getting older, they still don't keep score but you know that from listening to the parents. We still don't have any pictures from Madalyn's games because I can't do that and coach and Jeff is busy chasing the boys and yelling when he gets the chance to watch. All of her games this season have been two point games. We won the first one, lost the second and won the third - all by two points. We're about to play the same teams again, so we'll see how it goes!
Thebest part about the league, besides the kids geting exercise and having fun, is seeing all of the parents and getting to meet new parents in the area. I really enjoy getting the know the kids too - they are still so sweet and good. They aren't really damaged yet by all of the craziness that jades you as an adult. No broken hearts, everyone is your best friend and no bills to pay. :) Ah, to be a kid again!

Beck as a Marine

2010-02-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

Beck's class had career week this week and he told the class that he wanted to be a US Marine like his dad. I helped him with his poster which included a Marine in boots and camo, but also included a radio, a pistol and a bomb. Well, it was supposed to be a canteen, but somehow after Beck colored it - it was a bomb. He's wearing one of Jeff's old hats from the Corps days.
The other crazy hat was one that they made to celebrate the 100th day of school. He is more than half-way through Kindergarten. Craziness.

Brenah turns 10!

2010-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

Madalyn and Brenah celebrated her 10th birthday by selling Girl Scout cookies at Cabela's. this is Brenah's first year in the troop and she seems to be really enjoying it. They are both cookie selling fools and working towards lofty goals this year. 1000 boxes apiece - heaven help us.

Basketball Spring 2010

2010-01-24T12:35:00.000-08:00

Bristol with Coach Monica
Me in action
Bristol taking time to wave
Bristol in action
Beck and Brendan strategizing for their game

It's one of my favorite times of year! Basketball season started at the San Marcos Recreation Center. We done it for so many seasons I can't even count at this point, but I love it. I love the kids and being around all of that kid energy. I just keep hoping that it will rub off on me. It's Bristol's first time to play, and I'm coaching his team. Jeff is taking over for Beck's team and I'm hanging on to Madalyn's team. We have some really good girls that I've coached for awhile, and honestly they are my favorite. They don't keep score at the boy's games and the girl's team won by 2. It was very exciting! Madalyn and Beck played at the same time, so we didn't get any pictures of them since we were both coaching - we'ff get more in the next five weeks though for sure. Go Bucks, Heat and Fever!

Beck turns 6!

2010-01-24T12:27:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's a little overwhelming to make each child's birthday extra special when they're so close together. We had a sleepover for Beck's birthday with three of his friends- Brendan, Aidan and Miles. The were awesome: they played air hockey, video games, wrestled each other, and had lots of light sabre fights (I wondered if they were a good idea when I bought those). They played Lego Indiana Jones until 2 am and were still up at 7 for breakfast. We'll definitely be doing it again, but wow - that was way different than any of the sleepovers Madalyn has had!

Madalyn turns 10!

2010-01-12T20:30:00.001-08:00

I woke up and couldn't believe that my baby girl was suddenly ten years old. It seems like yesterday when everyone was up at the hospital lined up against the wall listening for her for to come in to the world. She is such a beautiful, smart, talented, fun and amazing girl. We are so blessed to have her in our lives.

We did everything to make her day special including Jeff and I waking her up together with a cupcake and singing Happy Birthday to her. (We started doing this years ago and I have no idea why, but she loves it so we keep doing it.) Madalyn had planned her birthday outfit for at least a month and I love her fashionista senses. Well, I love her confidence to pull that off! She went to school where I brought both Dual Language classes cupcakes, so she got sang to two more times. She got her report card and made all A's. Then she and Anna tried out for Showcats and made the team for the performance group at school. We got a Chillabration cake from Dairy Queen, which they are obsessed with for some reason, and headed home. She did her homework and had to ride her bike since the weather was decent. We ate dinner with Mom, Dad, Cody and Marcia then opened gifts. She got a cool HSM book, cash, a look-alike Belle dress for her American Girl doll made by my mom, the Fame DVD, and Taylor Swift tickets that brought on the tears in picture above. We played some Wii, ate the cake, sang again, and then it was off to bed. She was sad for the day to be over, but as happy as can be.

UT Heartbreak.

2010-01-12T20:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture from our fun party to watch the UT National Championship game. Unfortunately, the game wasn't as fun after Colt got knocked out in the first series. It was fairly painful after that, but the amazing food and company almost made it bearable.

American Girl Sleepover

2009-12-30T13:15:00.000-08:00

Madalyn followed up her American Girl present with a sleepover that included all of her friends that have a doll. The sleepover included miniture pizzas for the dolls while the girls had regular pizza and mini-muffins in the morning for breakfast. they watched two of the American Girl movies, roasted marshmallows in the fireplace and ate what was left of the gingerbread house. The girls also did a fashion show with the dolls and stayed up until 3 am. Ah, sleepovers are so much fun.

American Girl Adventure

2009-12-28T15:14:00.000-08:00

Santa sent Madalyn a letter on Christmas morning that he wanted her to go to the American Girl store in Dallas to pick out her doll and have the whole experience instead of just giving her the doll. That didn't go over so well, there were lots of tears, but it ended up being okay. Tara and I took her to the store first thing this morning to get the party started. She picked out one of the 'Just Like You' girls where you pick out the one that looks the most like you (duh) versus one of the character girls from the books. She picked Kylie Claire out pretty quickly and then she chose outfits, hair accessory kit, and a matching shirt with her doll. (Kylie was our other choice for her name, Claire is her great-grandmother's middle name). Santa had a gift card delivered to her by one of the employees and she was ready to go. Here are some pictures of the fashion show that ensued later. Needless to say, she is thrilled and is hosting her first American Girl sleepover tomorrow night.

Burleson Christmas

2009-12-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

We headed to Burleson on Sunday, the 27th and celebrated Christmas with Jeff's family. They had some ice left in the front yard from the snow they received on Christmas Eve. So after a quick snow ball fight, we are and then did gifts. Bristol loved the sweater/hat/penguin set from MeMe Pat and Paw Paw got him, Beck has been a bit obsessed with the Nerf gun set from Aunt Gay Lynn and Madalyn liked her new sequin phone and fuzzy chair for her room. They played a mean game of Canasta and the kids helped Lea decorate the rice krispy house.

Christmas Day

2009-12-28T14:47:00.000-08:00

After a nap from the morning festivities everyone came back over and we added Brandy, Beau and Brenah into the mix. We ate a turducken, ham, and all kinds of stuff. We then did the second round of gifts which was capped off with new bikes from my parents for the kids. They were beyond excited, but the best reaction was Beck's who exclaimed, "Whoever did this, very thanks!" Funny kid, but I agree very thanks!!

Christmas Morning

2009-12-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

Mom, Dad, Cody and Marcia came over for Christmas morning and watched the kids open their presents. It was a very fun morning since Santa redecorated and put up stockings at the fireplace. Most importantly he found us in the new house- a huge worry for the kids although Elfonso (our elf on the shelf) had been updating him daily. We had some drama with Madalyn because Santa left her a letter that she should was going to get to go to the American Girl store to pick out her doll and accessories. Well, that didn't go over so well - note the tears in the top pic. It all worked out eventually, but I have to remember the drama factor with that one. Wow. Beck got Lego Indiana Jones for the PS3 and Bristol got a monster truck track.

Christmas Eve in Uhland

2009-12-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

As is our family tradition, we rented the Uhland Community Center for Christmas Eve and had a big celebration with the Nelson family (my maternal grandmother's side). It was awesome. The food was great, almost everyone was there and it's so much fun to see the new additions. This year Ace and Elliot joined us and we're looking forward to another new addition next year. Santa came to visit and give the kids gifts, we did a White Elephant gift exchange (Larry got a purse hook- classic), and one of the cousins made it very clear that my ham wasn't to her liking. Again, classic. I love the holidays and am so thankful that we all got to spend it together.

Class Parties

2009-12-27T22:15:00.000-08:00

Jeff, Mom and I were able to hang out at the school for most of the day on the 18th to attend the Posada, help with the pinata, class parties and eat lunch with the kids. We also were able to sneak away and get lunch at Los Vega, one of our favorite places to eat in Kyle. It's nice to be around to hang out at the school and absorb some of that great kid energy.

Posada 2009

2009-12-27T21:42:00.001-08:00

Madalyn and Beck both participated in the Posada at Blanco Vista on December 18th. Beck's class sang All I Want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth and Campanitas in Spanish. Madalyn's class performed a play that was all in Spanish and had angels, devils and Sherpas. Madalyn was the narrator and did a great job. Still crazy to hear her standing in front of a group and throwing down on the spanish so well. The Posada is always a lot of fun and this year I volunteered to run the sound system for the PTA. Don't I look thrilled? :)

International Fashion Show

2009-12-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Beck participated in the Kindergarten International Fashion Show at school on the 17th. He represented Sweden, specifically the Santa Lucia which is a Christmas tradition there. Typically its done by the eldest daughter, but I was struggling for a costume and I sold him on the idea with him getting to wear fire on his head. He was immediately in. The funniest thing was how surprised the teacher was that I was actually going to light the candles and let him walk with fire. He did great although one of our friends was ready with his video camera- just in case we could win ten grand.

Madalyn's Choral Debut

2009-12-27T20:14:00.000-08:00

Madalyn joined the Blanco Vista Choir earlier in the year. She's practiced on Mondays after school for several months and really enjoys it. We gathered at the PAC to hear them sing La Campanas NaNa, Wooden Soliders and One Candle with all of the elementary school choirs together. I kept having flashbacks to the Simpsons Christmas special and wondered if any of the kids would start singing Jingle Bells, Batman smells....

Beck vs. the golf ball

2009-12-27T20:08:00.000-08:00

Beck found two golf balls in the back yard the other day and started a game of seeing how high he could bounce it on the sidewalk. After he hit the upstairs window, I told him to quit which means he needs to do it one more time (of course). And this is what he accomplished. Parenting is so much fun, I'm just glad the teachers didn't call CPS. Look, he can be good. I promise! See him coloring with Bristol? Dare I hope he learned something? Nah....

PTA Breakfast with Santa

2009-12-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

Vanessa picking the iPod shuffle winner
kids with the toys we collected for Brown Santa
craft table
Brenah helped work the event

In the ever-growing list of things we did in the PTA this year was our second annual Breakfast with Santa. It was a lot work, but a lot of fun. I love seeing the kids at school playing and having a having a good time. They ate the pancake and sausage breakfast, made ornaments, wrote letters and saw the big man himself. We had a fantastic new chair for the event this year, and were able to have the same awesome Santa. We raised $440, took 89 pictures and served 170+ brekfast plates all in two hours. Not bad for a morning.

Budafest

2009-12-27T08:43:00.000-08:00

We woke up really early on a Saturday morning and drove two trailers in the Budafest parade for Dance Unlimited. This was the third or fourth year that we've helped with this, and its still one of my Dad's favorite community involvement events that I rope them into. It really is fun and the kids all enjoy it. I tried to give them parade waving lessons so they would all look like princesses or at least pageant queens.

Pics with Santa

2009-12-16T05:59:00.000-08:00

For the last two years, the Blanco Vista PTA has sponsored a Breakfast with Santa event at the school. It was a huge success this year, we had approximately 170 people come for pancakes and sausage and took 90 photos of kids with the big guy. It's one of my favorite events because everyone is happy, we have crafts for the kids and they are genuinely excited to be there. The pictures of the boys are from the Blanco Vista event. Beau, Brandy, Brenah and Jessie all volunteered and help make the day fun- Brenah even won an iPod shuffle in a drawing that we held. Madalyn didn't attend because she was at a sleepover, so we stopped by to see the Santa at Barton Creek Mall on Sunday night (when I took her to see New Moon :). It's just a quick picture with my cell phone, but it's hard to believe another year has passed. She looks awfully big on Santa's lap!

Carolina Thanksgiving

2009-12-08T21:13:00.000-08:00

We got to spend Thanksgiving in South Carolina with Granny Smith this year. It's always great hanging out with the SC family and this was no different. We had plenty of time to slide down the bank, go sight seeing, go to the Jocky Lot, and eat. Heavens did we eat. Here are just a few pictures of our fun!

Random pics the boys took

2009-12-08T21:09:00.000-08:00

The boys were playing with the camera and took pictures of each other and 'Clayface' from the Lego Batman video game. Crazy boys.

Kelly Clarkson Concert

2009-12-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

We are big concert goers, and Madalyn and I added Kelly Clarkson to our list. She hit the Jonas Brothers and Kelly within a few months of each other. Kelly has been a favorite of ours since she won the first season of American Idol. We love that show! Since we have been to so many concerts, let me just say that hands down she is one of the best singers I have ever heard. No back up dancers, no choreography just straight up singing with the band. She was amazing - the best may have been her acapello version of Walking After Midnight. WOW.

Dia de los Muertos

2009-12-08T20:36:00.000-08:00

There are several traditions in the Dual Language program that Madalyn is too old for now. This is one of them, celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed. Madalyn's class did an amazing altar - look how huge this thing was! Beck's class made masks and did a parade and sang traditional songs. Have I mentioned how much I love this program? The cultural components are just fantastic.

Showstopper Convention

2009-12-08T20:23:00.000-08:00

Madalyn attended the Showstopper Convention for the second year in Grapevine a few weeks ago. It ended up being two days after we closed on the new house, so Jeff and the boys stayed in Kyle and Madalyn and I did a road trip on our own. She took hip-hop, ballet, tap, jazz and lyrical from professional dancers. One of the coolest was the Rockette in this picture - she taught them kick line from the Radio City Christmas show.

Crazy Kids

2009-12-08T20:19:00.000-08:00

We've been car pooling with the Blackwells all year and they are an absolute hoot. Here is a random pic I took of the boys on the way home from school.

Jac's Pumpkin Carving Party

2009-12-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

We went to the annual pumpkin carving party and the kids had a great time. Look at all of those pumpkins and all of happy kids!

School Pics

2009-10-19T21:12:00.000-07:00

Enjoy! Madalyn's 4th grade pic and Beck's kickoff kinder pick. :)

AIDS Walk 2009

2009-10-19T21:10:00.000-07:00

Madalyn and I walked the AIDS Walk 2009 5k on Sunday afternoon in amazingly beautiful 75 and sunny weather on Sunday afternoon. It was great to see my clients and to spend quality time with Madalyn . Oh yeah, and exercise too! The Maxwell Locke and Ritter team raised $500 this year, awesome!!

Kyle Music Fest

2009-10-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

What a way to celebrate after the Texas vs. OU win on Saturday - there was a free concert in the park as part of the Kyle festival. We hadn't seen Cory Morrow in years, but it was a GREAT show. We had a wonderful spot thanks to Brandy, and enjoyed the BYOB with fair food. I loved that he closed the show with Big City Stripper (on our wedding CD) and the cover of Its a Great Day to be Alive - yep, Cory, it sure is. Good food, better music and great friends - couldn't ask for much more.

Kyle Parade

2009-10-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

Kyle had its annual music fair and parade on Saturday. Bristol and I rode the Kid Ranch float with his daycare and Madalyn walked with the Girl Scouts. I know its totally hokey, but I still love parades!

Colts Flag Football Team

2009-10-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun pic of Beck's team we took at Game #5. The boys are having way too much fun!

Jeff on FNL!

2009-10-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

We are totally going Hollywood in the Raymond family. Jeff was actually on FNL before Beck was in the commericial, but I got my posts backwards. Jeff had been watching Craigslist for tickets to the Jay-Z concert and started checking the talent link. In true Jeff form he was supposed to be an extra and turned it into a speaking part, almost $800 and he should get an imdb credit. I swear, that man never ceases to amaze me!

Beck's Commercial

2009-10-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Beck got to be in a commercial last week. It's for a banking group called Texas Partners and had a lot to deal with sticks. The theory of one stick is easy to break, but when you bundle them together you can't break them. There was a guy and three boys and they played with sticks, picked up sticks, broke sticks and threw sticks. Just general hanging out in the park playing with sticks for a few hours and getting paid $150 for the college fund. :)

Fall Carnival 2009

2009-10-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

The Blanco Vista Elementary Fall Carnival was on October 10th - its the biggest event that the PTA hosts at the school. Cody and Floyd came and brought their race cars to promote Thunderhill, we broke out the Wheel of Wow and generally had an amazing time. It was a wonderful fundraiser for PTA and it was so much fun watching the kids just be kids.

Ella Turns 4!!

2009-10-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from Ella's 4th birthday. Jessie must have been pyschic when she booked it at the Jumpy Place because it was pouring rain that day - like 10 inches in a day and getting the cake in the building required an umbrella and a group effort. We really had a great time and it was wonderful to have the kids be able to run off some of the energy so they weren't cooped up in the house for hours. I can't believe that Ella is already 4 - craziness.

Texas Exes

2009-10-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Jeff, Jessie and I were able to attend an event at the Alumni Center to the Hispanic students branch of the Texas Exes. We had an amazing time and rocked the Loteria. All of us left with Commemorative jerseys that came in handy for the recent OU game. :)

Glenn & Ace

2009-10-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

My cousin Glenn and his wife added a beutiful baby boy named Gary Wallace Hart to the Nelson side of the family. He is super chill and will go by 'Ace'. Love it!

Andi's Baby Shower

2009-09-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends from E&Y is going to have a baby boy soon! We had a great baby shower at Stacey's house that included a cupcake bar - YUM. Madalyn's cupcake had chocolate filling, pop rocks, and a pixie stick! It's always nice to get back together with all of those girls even though so many of us work at MLR now. The games were fun, Andi got a lot of useful gifts and we got a lot of gossiping done. :) I can't wait to meet Grayson!!

Beck's First Flag Football Game

2009-09-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

Beck's first football season started with a one touchdown win over the other team. The weather was nice, everyone was able to attend and I think that Jeff finally understands why I love coaching the basketball teams as much as I do. Beck did a really great job, had a couple of fabulous tackles and he even pulled their flags once. :) He had one catch on offense and had a good run that set up the next play for a touchdown. This is seriously going to be addictive.

Camp Champions

2009-09-13T20:18:00.001-07:00

This was the second year for Camp Champions with the Girl Scouts. Since the girls bridged from Brownies to Juniors, we got to do more fun stuff this year. Camp Champions is a summer camp located on Lake LBJ in Marble Falls. It's an amazing picturesque place that looks like it came out of the movies (minus Jason in the hockey mask). We played tetherball in the rain, and then moved on to Ga Ga which is Irsaeli Dodgeball and very fun. Then we did the Zip Line which included climbing a rock wall about 35 feet in the air (it seemed MUCH higher) to perch on a very small square and then off a zip line at break-neck speeds. We also got to do high ropes which included a climbing a telephone pole to a cargo net which we shimmed across and then repeled down. Madalyn also did a 'catwalk' which was a telephone pole balance beam 30 feet in the air. The girls did an amazing job and the moms hung in there pretty darn well ourselves. We ended the day with some lake swimming with a cool slide a large blob that you jumped onto and then off into the lake. I don't have any pictures because I was part of the funniest story of the day. Abbie landed on the blob (a very large pillow-shpaed object floating the lake filled with air)and was able to stay on - a very difficult task - and she begged me to 'launch' her if she was able to hang on. Well, she was, so I asked the other girls if I could cut and help her fly- and fly she did. About an extra ten feet in the air into a flip with arms and legs flying everywhere. I came up out of the water and everyone was laughing - Sylvia was doubled over she was laughing so hard. I seriously hadn't seen that many people laughing that hard in I don't even remember when. Abbie said it was 'AWESOME' so I guess I've added a new skill to my repetiore.
Cant wait to go back next year!

UT Football!!

2009-09-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

Jeff, Daddy and I took Madalyn and Beck to their first UT game last weekend. It was my dad's birthday present and we got some cheap tickets through the Girl Scouts. The seats were up in the newly remodeled horseshoe and we had a great view of the Godzilla-tron. We started with some beer and sausage on a stick at Scholz's beirgarten. We got to the stadium in time to see all of the opening stuff for the game and see UT play a really great first half. That being said, they were playing Louisiana Monroe so we weren't terribly worried. One of the highlights of the game was getting to see freshman quarterback Garrett Gilbert get his first series in which ended in him running it in for a touchdown. I'm so glad that we were able to spend that time together and get to share in Madalyn and Beck's first game. What an experience!!
And for those of you keeping track - that's a Texas Pom girl that Beck is with in this picture. I'm trying to figure out how he happens to keep running into the pretty girls for photo ops....

Beck's First Flag Football Practice

2009-09-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

Beck decided that he wanted to try football instead of playing Fall Ball t-ball. Jeff and I were pretty happy with his decision for lots of reasons, but Beck wanted to try something new. He had his first practice last week and it went pretty well. Jeff is helping Mike Blackwell (who I coach basketball with) and lots of our friends are on the team which is awesome. I'm sure there will be more pictures and stories to come - although the one of him sticking his butt at Jeff is pretty classic. :)

Another Beck Quote

2009-09-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

Beck told Jeff the other day, "Daddy, I wish we could bring the Beatles home with us to play Rock Band. I think they'd be pretty good at it." Hum, quite possibly.

Beck's Quotes

2009-08-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've started thinking that Beck is just about the funniest person I know. He is always coming up with something off the cuff and even though it's way better when you hear them say it these were a few of his in the last two days.
At my dad's birthday lunch in Elgin at Southside Meat Market he had two great ones right in a row. First was, "this place is awesome. we get to drink Big Red out of beer bottles" which as we talked about the stuffed trophy animals on the wall was followed by the even better, "you shouldn't kill animals unless you're going to make them into sausage".
Last night when I tucked him and Bristol into bed for the second time I kissed him on the forehead and he asked, "Mama, why do you smell like wine?" Yes, yes indeed. He is a funny one.

First Day of School 2009

2009-08-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it. We dropped Beck off at Kindergarten this morning. He was cool as a cucumber, so worries at all. He also had two of his friends saving him a seat at their table, so he already had a great spot with kids he knew. He's been so excited for the last few weeks I think it was a relief just to get him there. Bristol held it all together very well with Jeff's great proclamation that he was 'the King of the Kid Ranch'. So when I ran him in this morning he was triumphant with hand in the air telling Miss Jennifer that he was now the king since Beck was gone. :) Madalyn was our fashionista extraordinaire. Poised and confident she wanted to walk Beck to class too, so we dropped him off first and then took her upstairs to the 4th grade hall. WOW - what a great morning, Jeff and I are so proud of our amazing kiddoes.

Beck Pre-K Graduation

2009-08-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

The thought of Beck going to Kindergarten is something that I've dreamed of for such a long time. From the accountant side that we'll have a whopping $650 less in daycare per month is very helpful, and then from a parenting side because that is when Madalyn really came into her own. They are SO different, but I really think that Beck is going to absolutley thrive when he starts school next week. The class sang their ABCs- regularly, backwards, in Spanish and then with sign language. They counted to 100 and then went over some sight words. They also told us what they wanted to be when they grew up - Beck wants to be a Marine like his dad. *tear* The picture of him in a camo helmet is pretty classic. Then they put on their gowns and were presented with their dipolmas. I just hope I can make it trhough Monday. :)

Jonas Brothers Concert

2009-08-14T05:59:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I got Madalyn tickets to the Jonas Brothers concert last night in San Antonio as her perfect attendance reward for 3rd grade. I think anyone who knows us knows that Madalyn has had a perfect streak since Kindergarten. She'd gotten an ipod shuffle, a Nintendo DS just to name a few of the prizes. Really though, she just had a remarkable year all around, so we surprised her on Monday night with the tickets. She was so excited that she was speechless and started the happy crying that she's famous for. Jeff picked her up from school yesterday and took her to dinner and then to the concert. Unfortunately Jordin Sparks didn't open for them like she usually does, but I think it was offset by the fact that Jeff was able to get her on the Jonas Brothers tour bus. (Yes, he worked his Jeffrey magic again.) They each got a goodie bag which was a cool JB bag, a t-shirt and most importantly a SIGNED concert poster. She absolutely couldn't wait to take it to school today for show and tell. Now as 4th grade starts in a week, how will we top this?

TwiCon 2009

2009-08-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

I think the Klingon was lost.
100 Monkeys Concert

Jackson Rathbone (aka - Jasper)
Me, Brianna & the Mitch Hansen Band
Outside the convention hall
Okay you guys already knew I was a big dork, and here is your pictorial proof. I came to the Twilight Convention in Dallas with my friend, Brianna, from work. We drove down on Saturday and are still in the middle of the conference. I just couldn't help but post some of the pictures I've already taken. I am having a blast, although I think I may be a professional at waiting in line when this is all over. :) Some of the highlights have been meeting several of the stars - I got to take my picture with Kellan Lutz (Emmett), he was very tall, sweet and was even hotter in person if that's possible. I have more in my facebook album, but here are a few highlights so far...

HBP Part 2

2009-07-19T06:15:00.001-07:00

Madalyn - 9 1/2
Beck - 5 1/2
Bristol - 3 1/2
Waiting for cake...

In the treasure box
Lea, Gay Lynn & Pat and The Reeves Family

Madalyn opening presents
Bristol - 2009
Not sure who this is..

Last night we had the annual Halfway BirthRAY Partay at the Kyle Pool last night. There were a lot of new faces this year, and we were glad that so many of people were repeats as well. I hope that everyone had as much fun as we did and that y'all enjoy the pics. It's a highlight every year to get to spend time with all of the people that mean so much to you. The kids always have way too much fun and we were having to drag some of them out of the pool at 10 when the party shut down. Thanks to everyone who made it to the party and for those who missed it, hope to see you next year!

HBP3 Part 1

2009-07-19T05:51:00.000-07:00

Me and Diana
Katie, Sarah and Garrick
Christopher, Beck & Aidan
Taylor & Clint
Rachel & Aimee
Vanessa & Addison
Hernandez Clan
Burly Bunch
Willow & Kayla
Kels & Sam

Jessie's B-day

2009-07-19T05:47:00.001-07:00

We celebrated my friend Jessie's birthday on Saturday night with Italian Margaritas at Carino's and then with Public Enemies at the movies. It's always fun to hang out with the girls and this was a big year to celebrate with Jess, there have been so many exciting changes this year. Oh, and she is officially older than me for two weeks. :)

Few more beach pics

2009-07-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

Pics From the Beach

2009-07-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

When we were in Galveston we had some time to spend on the beach between the competitions. Our friend Lanette (a.k.a. Willow's Mom) is a photographer and took some pictures while we played with the kids. And of course they are amazing - her website is www.magicalmemoriesstudio.com. One of the highlights was definitely burying Beck in the sand and giving him boobs.

Showstopper National Dance Competition

2009-07-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

We went to Galveston this weekend for the Showstopper Nationals dance competition. Like this whole year of dance, was a very interesting experience. I don't feel like a fish out of water anymore, but I still have a lot to learn. The girls did a great job earning a gold trophy for 'Devil in a Blue Dress' and platinum marks for 'Trouble'. They didn't score in the top 10 overall which meant that they weren't part of the live webcast on Sunday. (This also meant we got to come home a day early and pack, so maybe not a bad thing?) They did a great job on the Hercules production on Saturday and were first in their division. This says a lot about the girls because they had a teammate drop out right before we went to Nationals and they had to change choreography on both of the dances.
We're halfway through the summer and tryouts for next year will be in August. Madalyn is already excited to start learning the new dances.

Boys at the Dance Competition

2009-07-13T14:20:00.000-07:00

Trying to keep a 3 and 5 year old entertained for hours and hours of dancing can be tricky. Here you can see the boys entertaining themselves. I think Bristol may be trying to poke his eye out, we're not sure.

332 McGarity, here we come!

2009-07-05T06:51:00.000-07:00

We just finalized the agreement yesterday. What a great Fourth of July present! It's an incredible feeling when everything you've done and worked so hard for the last ten years actually come to fruition. We still have lots of stuff to finalize in the next couple of weeks, move in is July 24th!

Put in an Offer

2009-07-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

I'm trying not to totally FREAK OUT, but we just put in an offer on a house in Plum Creek. It's very odd to have 10 years of extremely hard work pay off in such a big way. Somehow, it all seems worth it but I would have argued that at several points along the way. :)

Weekend in San Antonio

2009-06-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

We lucked out this past weekend and got a free hotel stay in San Antonio with Jeff for the ASSE (American Society of Saftey Engineers)Conference. Sounds like a ton of fun doesn't it? He he, so says the auditor. :) Jeff had to be down there on Saturday morning for them to set up the booth and work a couple of hours on Sunday, so after Madalyn danced at the Showcase on we headed to SAT for some weekend fun. I never cease to be amazed how much fun hotels are for kids. Seriously, I think it was better than some of the stuff we did- which included swimming, eating at Rain Forest Cafe and Casa Rio on the Riverwalk, watching Transformers 2, and hanging out at River Center Mall. The kids loved jumping on the beds and getting to fight over whose turn it was to push the elevator button, use the room key, or get ice. It was a nice chance to get away even it was just for a little bit. Thanks BST!

Dance Unlimited at the Austin Toros Game

2009-06-29T09:38:00.000-07:00

These were some pics that the Austin Toros posted on their website. The girls are so cute! Madalyn is on the bottom left in pink.

Beck Sleeping

2009-06-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

this is totally random and I took it on my cell phone at my parent's house. This was Beck sleeping in the middle of the night. No wonder the poor thing is tired when he wakes up!

Birthday Parties Galore!

2009-06-29T09:05:00.001-07:00

This is what a party foul looks like
Kids at Hernandez kids B-day
Alyssa, Shayna, AJ & Adam Hernandez
Beck and Bristol at Chris' party

Last weekend we had three birthday parties, so we left the house early and didn't make it back until LATE. We celebrated with one of Beck's favorite teammates from the t-ball team, Chris at the park in Kyle. Then we headed up to Round Rock to Adrian and Melissa's house to party with the Hernandez kids in their new backyard pool and slip and slides. The air hockey game won out in the end. I have to remember to get one of these instead of the pool tables I always thought I needed in a game room. We got each of Adrian's kids a Webkinz, LOL! I know that some of you out there will also think that this is the funniest thing ever. Madalyn has been sucked into these things for a couple of years now, so I was glad to pass that joy along to another family. :) In my defense, they are educational and they are still talking to me, so I think we're good. And last but not least, was an evening party at Juli Phillip's Ranch House in Creedmoor. It was adults only, and crazy fun as you can tell by the biggest party foul ever. Juli, Jessie, and myself were on this 24' inflatable slide when we collpased it. Ouch, but pretty freakin' hilarious.

Girl Scout Camp

2009-06-29T09:01:00.000-07:00

Kids in the truck, Yr 2
Beck trying to stay sane
while we waited in this line

Madalyn attended Camp Texlake Girl Scout Camp for the second year in a row this year. The theme of her camp was 'Sport and Splash' which focused on sports and water activities. (Couldn't have guessed that, huh?) She had a great time and already wants to go back next year. We were very proud of her because she earned $175 from selling cookies to go toward camp and she saved $100 of her own money to pay for the difference. She's an industrious girl that one.

Zach Graduated!

2009-06-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Jeff's nephew, Zach, graduated from high school on June 9th. This is extremely hard to believe since Zach and Jake were Madalyn's age when I first met them. Here are a couple of pics from the party weekend. Jeff was in Nashville, so we didn't get to attend the ceremony, but Madalyn did and took pics for us. We worked the weekend trip to be the start of the annual 'all about Maddy week' with Tara. You have to love that he's still enough of a kid to let me push him in the shopping cart. Zach will attend Tarleton State in the fall.

Break-in :(

2009-06-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

Most of you have probably seen this on facebook (yes, I finally signed up for that and it is taking all of my blogging time. that's why it's been more than a month since I posted pics!) our house got broken into on June 2nd. They took mostly electronics, but also our weedeater and my comforter. For whatever reason, that was more unsettling than the other items. We've just gotten the final updated police report and are sending off all of the information to the insurance company. I'm quite certain that we're going to get screwed on this.

Benjamin's Quilt

2009-06-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

My mom made this quilt for one of my cousin's in South Carolina. Mom had previously made her son, Benjamin, a baby blanket last year. She made the quilts using John's shirts, who unexpectedly passed away when Benjamin was only 9 months old. I thought it was a very touching way for them to remember him.

Boxer Puppies

2009-06-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

My parent's boxers (Angel and Demo) had a litter puppies about 7 weeks ago. It's sad that they are now old enough to go to new homes, but here are some cute pics of the kids playing with them. My parents are keeping one of them to continue to have one of Hammer's lineage. For those of you who are newer friends, we had an AMAZING boxer named Hammer back when I was in high school who Cody and I called our hairy little brother. He was awesome and I'm glad my parents are keeping a yet unnamed puppy. :)

Madalyn's Dance Recital

2009-05-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

Raymond Crew

Madalyn

Madalyn & Willow with Mrs. Milan

Madalyn in the Beauty and the Beast Ballet costume

Dance Recital this year was from a totally different perspective. Since Madalyn is on team, she had 2-3 dances in each of the four recitals. The bright side of that was that I got to see half of Buda on Saturday, the down side was being at Evans Auditorium at Texas State for 12 hours. Needless to say, it was a VERY long day. The girls had a lot of fun hanging out together in the dressing rooms, and I got a glimpse of the middle school girls giggling over texting boys (not ready for that yet). The highlight for Madalyn was earning her 5 year dance trophy, which she focused on all year. Since she just did the team dances she got medals and pins, but the trophies all stay at the studio. But this one she earned, and she got to bring home and she was very excited about that. We still can't figure out where that competitiveness comes from :). Its a really great group of girls, and now we're focusing on Nationals in July and trying out for team again in August. *sigh*

Last Day of 3rd Grade

2009-05-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Me and Madalyn & her brilliant Girl Scout Troop

Our Super Star

This was absolutely a banner year for our precious Madalyn. She just blossomed, and matured and met so many goals its hard not get a little nostalgic as it really seems like she has taken huge steps to being an amazing person. All of her hard work has paid off, as you can tell from her medals and certificates. She earned one for being commended in TAKS Reading, one for being commended in TAKS Math, one for Academic Excellence for being commended in both Reading and Math, and the last for perfect attendance. (When Mrs. Milan gave it to her she told Madalyn that she wanted to go for a ride in her new car that she earns for having perfect attendance through 12th grade.) Then she got a certificate for 'A/B Honor Roll' and a certificate for being voted 'Smartest Student' by her classmates.
Even with her scoliosis diagnosis this year, she has kept a positive attitude and achieved some truly great things. Not only all of the stuff above, but she bridged in Girl Scouts, will earn a 5 year dance trophy tomorrow at the Dance Unlimited Recital, got second place in the talent show, earned a spot in ALPHA-H the gifted and talented program, and earned perfect scores on both of the TAKS tests. Her teacher said that its so important for each of the children to taste success. Once they have a little, they will work for more.
We are so proud of her its hard to put it into words. I read a quote recently that said 'children really aren't yours, they're just on loan for 18 years' and I keep thinking our time is half-way gone. :(

HBP3 Update!

2009-05-25T06:10:00.001-07:00

We locked in the date for the 3rd Annual Halfway BirthRAY Partay. It will be at the City of Kyle Pool on Saturday, July 18th from 7 - 10. I will work on the evite and send it soon. Hope to see you there!

Kimberly Hart Graduates from UT!!

2009-05-25T06:05:00.001-07:00

We spent Sunday afternoon celebrating our cousin's graduation from UT. Kimberly got her Bachelor of Science degree in Retail Merchandising and will be going to Los Angeles in the fall to study shoe design. Super cool! Congratulations Kimberly, so glad to have another Longhorn graduate in the family!!

Talent Show!

2009-05-24T21:59:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot to post this! A week late, and out of order, but I had to post it - Madalyn, Anna and Willow won second place at the Talent Show. There were twenty-something acts and they were THRILLED to get second place behind the 5th grade magician who was amazing. Seriously amazing. The girls choreogrphed their own dance to Natasha Bedingfield's Unwritten, one of my facorite songs. They are already planning for next year to see if they can win first. Wonder where that competitiveness comes from...

Girl Scout Campout

2009-05-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

Troop 2283's Shel Silverstein poems theater act
Yes, it was one of those weekends. Lots of things to do and places to be, including Madalyn leaving for a Girl Scout campout right after Field Day on Friday. The moms joined them on Saturday night to stay in the cabin at Zilker Park. The Girl Scout House that they have there is awesome. It's a lot like the Zilker Clubhouse that we've rented a few times for MLR parties. The girls cooked everything on a campfire, planned and shopped for all of their meals and seemed to really learn a lot. This picture is of the show that the girls put on for us. The only down side was the rain that rained out the Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare in the park we were going to attend, but at least we were in a cabin and not tents! Oh, and they had a recipe for 'Tired of Smores' with Thanks a Lot Girl Scout cookies, Reese's peanut butter cup, and toasted marshmallow. They were worth the wait. :)

Last T-ball Game

2009-05-24T21:27:00.000-07:00

The moms with our boys

Beck getting his trophy

Beck on the mound

Beck's last at bat

Braves singing the National Anthem

It was a little bittersweet, but Saturday was Beck's last t-ball game. We had a really great experience with our first time at the sport. Out coaches were great and the parents were a ton of fun. We made some great friends, and so did Beck. He was definitley the entertainment for the team and even got to play pitcher at the last game. Yes, they have a pitcher in t-ball. :) Although everytime he was in the infield we had a heart attack. The Braves finished the season in 4th place overall and capped off the season with a pool party in the coach's neighborhood. T-ball was awesome!

Random Pictures from the Park

2009-05-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

Blanco Vista Field Day

2009-05-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

I took two days off to run the concession stand for PTA at Field Day. It was incredibly nice to be away from my laptop for an extended period of time, and do some good. We raised $815 in that two day period- which was just over our goal. We had a lot of volunteers which I was extremely thankful for, especially my mom who also took off to help on Friday. It was a very hot two days, but the best part was getting to watch the kids just be kids. No TAKS tests, no homework, just fun and the parents and teachers even got in on the action. The parents beat the kids at tug-o-war which is still my favorite Field Day event. The obstacle course was cool as well as the new additions of razor scooter race, so everything gets updated I guess.
And we bought matching Field Day Hero shirts, just to make it fashionable. Since Field Day is still one of my favorite days, I'm sure you'll see me wearing this soon.

BEST NEWS EVER!!

2009-05-06T21:17:00.001-07:00

In one day we got really good news for Madalyn and Beck. Beck tested for the Dual Language program in early April and the principal told us what a great job he did, but it was a HUGE relief to actually get the piece of paper saying that he was admitted. Then to our surprise we also got a letter letting us know that Madalyn had been admitted to the ALPHA-H program, which is the gifted and talented program in the Hays CISD. She had taken three different tests throughout the spring and she tested high enough to get in. I'm not sure if her 100 on the Reading portion of the TAKS test played into this at all or not, but however it happened we are thrilled. Hands down the best Mother's Day gift ever, because either Jeff and I can finally say that we're doing something right in our parenting, or we can at least say that we passed on some great genes! I'll take either one. :)

Brownie to Junior

2009-05-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Madalyn's Brownie Troop bridged from being Brownies to being full blown Junior Girl Scouts. Complete with new green vests, certificates and lots of new patches and pins the girls were very excited. The two hour ceremony was a bit long and the boys were more than ready to go, but we made it through somehow. They are all looking forward to their campout on Memorial Day weekend.

Wheel of Wow

2009-05-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

Madalyn's school was supposed to have their 1st Annual Fiesta yesterday. Cody had worked on creating the 'Wheel of Wow' since Sunday and we stayed up late making the final push to complete it Thursday night. Then they postponed it at noon on Friday because of the swine flu. Boo to that! I just had to show off the handiwork of the first brother/sister project for longer than I can remember.

Talent Show!

2009-05-02T11:33:00.001-07:00

Madalyn and her friends Willow and Anna made the talent show! They created original choreography to the song Unwritten by Natasha Beddingfield. And to sound totally biased, they did an amazing job for three 9 year-olds. I'll make sure to post the video when they perform in the talent show on May 15th.

T-ball Doubleheader

2009-05-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

Kiddoes, Beck and Eric

Beck and Eric are both playing the Hays T-ball league for the first time this year. They recently had a double-header on a Tuesday night with Eric playing first and Beck's game following. They aren't in the same league so they don't ever play each other but both seem be having fun. We had another great turnout for the games and we took this picture of the kids afterwards. (disclaimer-Madalyn just came from dance, we don't let her wear that around usually!)