First Grade "End of the Year" Party

Tate has officially completed first grade and is both excited and a little sad. He's ready to move on to big second grade but will miss his teacher dearly. We all loved Mrs. Anderson...she was awesome! Tate ended the year by making the A honor roll as well as receiving the leadership award. And no, I didn't ask if that really means the "bossy" award! I was fearful of the answer. :>)

So, here's to first grade in the rear view mirror and Summer Break 2009 - Iowa, Rangers baseball games, hangin' poolside, etc. - in the sights...

Future Cheerleaders in the Making - You Decide.

This one is dedicated to their Kiki!

Kiki, aren't you proud....

Final Baseball Weekend

To close out the spring baseball season, the Storm played in a tournament this weekend. Let's just say it was a learning experience and leave it at that. I was very proud of the team and the progress they made this season. Looking forward to the fall season.

Here are just a few pics from the weekend including one of Peyton getting her drink and chair all set up. Not that she used the chair much....just too busy to sit still.

Quack, Quack, ohh Park!

As some of you know and many experience frequently, summer in Texas can be a time to stay inside with the air conditioner running full blast. But, Saturday we were granted the gift of a beautiful spring day. Therefore, Erik, Peyton and I headed to feed the ducks and play in the park. She was really only interested in chasing the ducks, eating the bread herself and playing at the park - specifically swinging.

A little note to my Dad: P's going to love to go feed the ducks like I did...does that scare you?!?! :>)

YES, that's a snack headed straight into her mouth. Is anyone really surprised? =============>

Hmmm....I think I've got them now. =======>

Step 1: Distract them with bread.

Step 2: Act innocent.

Step 3: Chase!

Skipping to Step 3.... ==================>

Let the fun begin!

Tate's First Grade Video

I can't believe it but we are drawing upon the last week of school here in Flower Mound. I'm so amazed how quickly time is passing by especially when I think about my kiddos and, specifically, that Tate is heading towards second grade. The video below gives you a glimpse of the work (and sense of humor) he has completed through the school year. We are so proud of him and the strides he has made this year.

Here's to our soon to be second grader! We love you Tate.

Peyton on Memorial Day

We spent Memorial Day in Uncle Paul and Aunt Amy's pool. Ok...so maybe Erik and Peyton did. I'm obviously in the family to be the person in charge of the camera.

Here are just a couple of pictures of P, her daddy and cousins Landon and Katy Beth. Anyone asking themselves which side of the family this girl favors? Not thinking it's much of a challenge.


Yes, there's a lot of suncreen used in this family.

Thanks to all of those out there that have put yourselves in harms way to fight for our country. God bless each of you and this country we all so love!

Berry Crawfish Boil 2009

So here we are again and it's spring time... just the perfect time for the annual Berry Crawfish Boil. Well believe it or not we had to do the "non-rain dance" and actually ward of some rather chilly weather. And, yes, it was May in Texas! But, none the less, another successful evening with LOTS of food, fun and fellowship with our family and friends. If you weren't there know that you were missed and we hope to see you next year.

Here are a few pics and video of the occasion prior to all the fun, adult activities. And know that some pictures (i.e the adult ones) are just better left in the imagination, cameras or on facebook. :>)

Here are the kids enjoying some time in the bounce house prior to the rest of the gang arriving. They jumped in this dragon from the time that it arrived till the time it left around 10pm. Needless to say, Peyton was exhausted and a little unruly to get to bed with all the festivities going on. She's like her daddy...never wants to miss a minute of the party.

Enjoy a short video of the kids' time in the bounce house....

Breaking News: Storm defeats Rangers

Tate's team, the Storm, won a big game Monday night. The Storm defeated the Texas Rangers - a team they have played many times over the course of the last few seasons but have never beaten. Tate has played very well all season, but for the first time this season he was named Player of the Game and Big League Hitter by his coach. Tate's batting average has improved tremendously this season and we are so proud because his improvement is a direct result of a lot of hard work and practice. Way to go Storm...let's finish the season strong!

The tooth fairy arrives again...

Here are a couple of pics of Mr. Tate without his front two baby teeth. Bring on those attractive permanent teeth. NOT!

Gobble, gobble, gobble

The great hunter is at it again.... This time he's bringing home a turkey! Not quite sure what we are going to do with it since we still have quite a freezer full of deer meat, but I'm sure he'll figure it out. So, if anyone is in the market for some good ole fashion turkey legs (or deer meat!) give us (ok, maybe me) a call. Oh someone please tell me there's nothing to "mount" when you bring home a turkey.