We may not have it all together, but together we have it all.

Nanny Comes to Visit!!

2011-05-30T05:50:00.001-07:00

We were so excited that Nanny, Jess's mom, could come and visit for a few days. We had our first visitor from the states and the boys were so excited. We were especially excited for her to see how our big boy Myatt had grown. When we left, he was 8 weeks and at her arrival he was 4 months and had changed a TON!

We had a blast with Nanny and even though the weather was not perfect, we managed to get a lot done in the time she was here.

If you know Nanny you know she loves to cook and wonderful at it. The kids had a wonderful time making TONS of goodies. We got to enjoy the goodies as well as some of our neighbors. A few of the things we made were, homemade cinnamon rolls, homemade dinner rolls, and biscuit's, strawberry pie, molasses and sugar cookies, homemade chicken and dumplings, marshmallow pudding, had shrimp and lobster and many other things. Man I think I just gained 5 pounds writing that. In fact I told her as much as I hated to see her go, my hips would be happy.
We also had lots of time to play cards and domino's. Both boys got to stay up late past there bed times, which made for fussy boys in the mornings, but our time spending with Nanny was worth it.
Friday Carter had kinderstart in the morning and after that we grabbed Drake out of school and headed for a day of sightseeing. Jess took all the boys home so that Nanny and I could hit downtown. After stopping at a few shops and eating, we headed to grab everyone to go see some sights. We drove out to the Marine Institute and they had 5 seals to watch. They were studying them, so we took advantage and spent some time watching them. They are so cute and I can't believe people around here catch them and sell their flippers to eat. Very sad in my opinion.

We headed out to Middle Cove Beach. It was so cold that day so we didn't stay long. We just wanted her to see the beautiful drive and the amazing views at the beach. This is the beach that last time we were here Carter went tumbling. But this time the waves weren't as big, and the boys still had fun skipping rocks. Drake was so excited about his find, a heart shaped rock.

Next stop was Cape Spear Light House. The most Eastern spot in North America. We had a blast running around up here. It was very foggy, but you could still see the sights.

Then after our day of adventure we set out for a yummy dinner at the steak house here. Lots of good food and yummy drinks for all.

Our last night with Nanny we decided that we wanted to grab some lobster and shrimp and have a feast. None of us had ever cooked lobster so after making a stop at the seafood shop and looking online we decided to just go for it. We are so glad we did because let me tell you, it was amazing. Drake ate a little, but Carter really enjoyed it as well.

Drake picked out our lobsters from the tank, but Carter would go NO WHERE near them. We grabbed 3 lobsters and we paid $7.99 a pound. I think our total was like $26 when leaving there. And we had TONS of lobster. We couldn't eat it all and I even may a lobster salad sandwich the next day. And still had to throw some out. I will definitely be taking advantage of the price of lobster around here while we live here.

We enjoyed lots of mommy drinks as the kids call it while she was here.

Carter finally came close to the lobster once they were ready to eat and couldn't move anymore. He enjoyed beating them open for us. After Drake and Carter got done with the mallet we had lobster pieces everywhere.

Our full refrigerator of all the goodies we had.

Our fun time had to come to a close on Sunday. We were so sad to see her go, but we will be seeing her soon in June, as the rest of our family. We are very excited for our visit home in a few weeks. Looking forward to the heat, friends, and our wonderful family.

Three of my favorite things....

2011-05-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

It seems like my boys have been growing up at the speed of light. Just yesterday I got married to my wonderful best friend and found out that I was expecting a new bundle just 3 months later. And now 8 years later we have been blessed with three wonderful, amazing, carefree boys. And when I mean boys, they are ALL BOY!! Still don't know what kind of little guy we will have on our hands with Myatt, but if he follows in Drake and Carter's steps, he won't stop. As the older two live outside. It takes a fight to get them in at night, rain or snow. Thank heavens I like to be outside also. These three keep us on our toes and there is NEVER a dull moment at our home. With the older two they have a few similarities, the love of outdoors and sports, but Drake is our shy guy and takes a while to warm up, where Carter wants to be the next Justin Bieber, the center of attention. I hope Myatt is a good mix of both of them, I guess we will see soon. I thank God for giving us these precious gifts, three of my favorite things.....

Myatt 5 months

2011-05-26T07:09:00.000-07:00

HUMMM..

2011-05-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day...

2011-05-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful mother's day here in St. John's. The weather was SOME WHAT nice so we took advantage of it and headed to Cape Spear after a yummy breakfast made by my wonderful hubby.

Cape Spear is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador is located at the most easterly point of land in North America . It has been restored to its 1839 appearance and shows how a lightkeeper and his family might have lived in the mid-19th century. The Visitor Centre contains exhibits on the history of lighthouses and the tradition of lightkeeping. The site is surrounded by spectacular scenery and wildlife such as whales, seabirds and icebergs in season.

We are hoping to head up there again soon and see whales and icebergs, as a few icebergs are headed our way.

I think this picture is so neat, so I thought I would edit it a bit...

Choir Contest

2011-05-18T16:45:00.000-07:00

Drake sang in a choir contest the other night for the local Rotary Club. The kids did an amazing job and sounded so beautiful. They sang three songs and their last was from the Sound of Music. DO REA ME FA SEW LA TEA DO. I think everyone can remember singing this loved by all song as a child. Drake's school choir, which consisted of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades, brought me to tears with this song. They had different harmonies going, which amazed us all for such young children. We are so proud of all he has done at St. Bon's.

4 Months

2011-05-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? I can't believe our sweet little Myatt has been with us for the last four months. We are extremely blessed with this sweet boy.
* Myatt weighs 18 pounds 5.5 ounces, Height 66, and is in the 90%.
Sleeping isn't great for Myatt. He likes to still wake up every 2 1/2- 3 hours to eat. He is a great nurser, and is very happy after eating. Both of our other boys were fuss bugs with formula so nursing has worked great for Myatt. During tummy time he is pushing up and he is enjoying his bumbo chair. He is doing really great at grabbing toys and watching the boys as they run around. He has started a little cereal which he loves. We still can't tell what color hair he is going to have. Some days it looks very blonde, some days you can see some strawberry in it. I really am thinking we will not be getting a red head. Also at the moment he still takes after his older brother Drake with his baby blue eyes. Myatt doesn't really fuss much. We really have been blessed with a good, laid back baby.

Our First Hockey Game.

2011-04-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

We attended our first hockey game on Easter night. It was so much fun and amazed how quick it went by. It was the National Midget Hockey Championship game. These are players that are trying to get in the NHL, and we were amazed how well these young guys could play. So to say the least it was exciting to watch. Heck one guy had to leave because he had his nose broken and there was blood everywhere. Myatt even got to participate in his first game too. He did awesome and the big boys too. They liked to be in the suite we were in because there was food at all times and tons to drink. Drake has taken a love for hockey, so he sat next to me and every time something happen he said, Mom did you see that, that was a ..... It was great. Carter thought that the guys dressed up like power rangers were so cool, that he has decided he wants to be a power ranger for Halloween. I guess it's better than some things he could choose. I think there will be many more hockey games in our future, which I am excited about. In this same box we are taking the kids to see the Monster Jam on my birthday in May and then we are attending Reba in September. One thing nice about the Mile One Center is you are up close and personal with everything. When we would sit in a box at Reliant, you were so far up, here you are right there!!

Easter at Our Table.

2011-04-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Even though it was sad that we didn't get to spend Easter with our family, we did have an awesome Easter. The kids dyed eggs as they always do and they enjoyed that. Easter Eve night Carter ran around telling us that he needed to go to bed or the Easter Bunny would hop by our house. So worried that his Easter basket would be empty on Easter morning. After they got there sweet treats and nick knacks they hunted eggs. Since we were suppose to get snow the next morning, Mr. Easter Bunny had put eggs in the house to hunt. The boys enjoyed there hunt, especially when they found the eggs that hand money in them. We cooked an amazing lunch. Jess had a prime rib going, while I had a ham in the oven. We also had homemade Mac and Cheese (Anita' roonies), rice and gravy, rolls, and don't forget Carter's Easter Cake. We had a TON of food and boy was it wonderful. We ate on it a few days. We also listened to our church from home on the Internet. River Pointer Pastor Patrick Kelley was amazing as always. We haven't found a church here yet so the internet had to do, and we knew that Patrick would not disappoint us. We had an amazing Easter as a new family of 5. Having Myatt and his first Easter with us was just the icing on the cake and so special.

Our Sweet Boy Blessings

And it wouldn't be complete without our
sweet Myatt in a Easter Bubble!!

The next great cake baker!

2011-04-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Carter decided that he was going to bake our Easter Cake. I wanted to make Banana Pudding, because the kids and I love it so. But some of the items that I needed for the recipe that I use, could not be found at the three stores I went to. So that idea got scratched and a cake got placed on our menu. At least we tried to get a little festive dying the icing a Easter Spring color. I just supervised Carter, but he did it all. He was so proud of his cake!

Amazing Views...

2011-04-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

It seems like every night we have a new view of the water with each being spectacular in it's own way. These are some of the amazing sunsets we have been seeing lately. I could just sit and stare for hours at the amazement of the colors in the sky and the reflection on the water. Jess and I catch ourselves saying, grab the camera, look at that. We want to capture it while we can because we don't see this at our home in Texas.

Here comes Myatt Cottontail...

2011-04-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

I found an Easter outfit that I had gotten Myatt right after he was born to wear in April. Glad I got it out because I don't think he will be able to fit in it much longer. The hat was WAY TOO SMALL, but I think he still made an adorable bunny. Drake and Carter kept asking him where he hid the eggs. We all got a kick of how adorable he was.

Sweet Myatt is growing up.

2011-04-19T12:20:00.001-07:00

Our Sweet Baby Myatt is growing up in front of our eyes!!!

Middle Cove Beach-St. John's Canada

2011-04-19T09:54:00.000-07:00

Jess had told us that Middle Cove Beach was a beautiful place to visit, so off we went. With everyone in tow we went for a Sunday drive to the beach. Got lost a few times, but thank heavens Jess had a map handy. Once we got there, it was breathtaking. Just amazing to sit there and stare at the water and the monster waves. Everything was so blue. The beach is not like the beach that we grew up with, instead of sand it has a ton of small smooth rocks. Jess said they are so smooth as the tumble through the waves. The boys enjoyed running around and throwing rocks, but on this day it was VERY windy. It is always windy around here, but this was one of those bone chilly windy days so Myatt got to look at the view from the car. Jess and I kept taking turns holding him, while the other went out with the big boys. They were enjoying running out and in with the waves as the tide rolled back and forth. The water was freezing and since it was so cold out that we didn't want them to get wet so they were being very careful. But that one 'last time' before we left, Jess and I were loaded in the car, took Carter by surprise and down he went. Straight into the water. SOAKED from head to toe. He was freezing and so upset. As Jess ran for him, this sweet man grabbed him out of the water, not that he would of been out to sea, but to get him out of the cold. We brought him to the car, undressed him, gave him Myatt's blanket, and blasted the heater the whole way home while the rest of us were pouring with sweat. It will always be one of those memorable days, not only for seeing the amazing views, but also for allowing Carter to take his first dip in the freezing Atlantic Ocean.

A beautiful family walk.

2011-04-18T08:08:00.001-07:00

Baby Myatt was ready to go.

All Smiles for the Camera.

Crazy Carter on his scooter.

Drake's new thing, ROLLERBLADING!!

Boys at the end of the Road.
Conception Bay behind them.

The weather Sunday was beautiful so we took advantage of it and went for a family walk to the water. We only live a mile down the street from the water so off we went. It was Myatt's first time in a stroller without a car seat and he loved it as you can see. He had just woken up from a long nap so I thought that he would be up, but I was wrong. Baby boy was crashed when we returned home. Many times Jess and I told the boys that we needed to turn around as we didn't think they would make it all the way down and back home. But they surprised us and did well. It is one of those things, that once you go down, you must go back up. It took us a while to go back up the hill and I can say my legs were pounding but we had great views, and a decent workout. It is still pretty chilling out, around 30F, but we are looking forward to it heating up a bit and enjoying the patio while the children play outside. We have really enjoyed living out here in St. Philips with the amazing views of Conception Bay.

Happy Anniversary!!!

2011-04-13T06:17:00.000-07:00

9 Years Baby!!

WE MADE IT!!

And I still can't believe these little guys are ours!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Drake!!!

2011-04-12T09:45:00.001-07:00

Happy 8th Birthday Drake

WE LOVE YOU!!

Dede and Skipper get love from their three boys.

Marshall, Kyle, Cole, Drake, Cade, Caleb, Carter, Mason, Corbin, Cannon and Luke

LASER TAG!!

Our oldest baby turned 8!! And not a baby anymore, he has grown into a big and independent boy. He is so helpful with his brothers and a joy to be around every day. He is one of those kids that always helps out and you can always count on him. I tell Jess that I am waiting for the other shoe to drop with him, but it hasn't yet.

Drake is finishing up his 2nd grade year and has done extremely well. His reading has taken off like a rocket this year. We have been amazed by the stuff he picks up and reads. Math is coming around. Not his favorite subject, but does well. He still has the love for the outdoors and wants to be outside any chance he gets. Now that we have moved to Canada I thought that he would be in more because of the cold, but it hasn't happened. Just bundle him up and he will be out all day. Drake still loves baseball and golf, but is picking up hockey here in Canada. He said he even may pay when we get back in Sugar Land at the rink there. He has done wonderfully with the move. I always worried about him since he is our shy and quiet child, but that has not been the case. He has jumped right in and made some great friends, and even talking like his friends. The Texan accent has been pushed to the wayside and he sounds like a little Canadian.

Even though we celebrated his birthday at home before with left with his buddies, we had a little party here with one of his friends. We went to one of the local places here in St. John's, Montana's, and for your birthday they put moose horns on you and sing. He was so embarrassed, as he still gets embarrassed when he is the center of attention, but we had to celebrate.

Happy Birthday Drake, we love you to the moon and back!!!

Drake and his buddy Andrew

Baby Myatt Is getting BIG!!

2011-04-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Someone is getting SO BIG!!!!

Snow White.

2011-03-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

The snow just pounding the boys, but they didn't stop.
Drake watching the road being plowed.

Boys watching the snow plow on our driveway.
Jess out in the snow looking for buried hockey sticks.
Our plow guy plowing our driveway.
Me in our driveway. I had been out taking pictures and Jess snapped one of me coming back.Boys TV night

We knew the snow was coming, and that it was going to be a pretty afternoon but it was BEAUTIFUL. Really in my life the only time I have been around snow is the two ski trips that I have been on. So to see the whole transformation was amazing. Drake got a snow day the morning of the snow, which you think would of been perfect but I was already up and dressed and there was no snow in sight. Boy was I wrong. Lunch time came and the snow started blowing. And after a few hours of steady downfall of snow the boys begged to go out and play. Fresh snow, they were so excited. They surely enjoyed the snow till dinner time and again for the next few days. So far it has been exciting, beautiful, and a wonderful new adventure, but I can see how the snow can get old fast.

Jess shoveling before work :)

Drake ice skating

2011-03-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

Drake in his gym day/skating day school uniform

Drake has ice skating at his school twice a week. St. Bon's has their own rink that the kids get to use during the school day. Drake was so excited about skating. They have 'push carts' to use to get around the ice for beginners, but last week he said he didn't use the cart at all. He is getting good and when he gets really good he gets to take his hockey stuff and play hockey during skating time. Jess got to go up and watch him on Friday so we got some pictures of him skating. Jess said that it is amazing how these kids can skate at such a young age. But from what I have heard about kids here is that when you learn to walk, you learn to skate. He also said that Drake was so sweaty when they were done. The get to skate for an hour and he never stopped. I am hoping to get over there this Wednesday to watch him.

Faces of Myatt

2011-03-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would share a few of the sweet faces of Myatt from this morning. This little guy has been a true blessing to our family. I know many of our post from St. John's have been centered around the two big boys, but sweet Myatt is keeping us busy too. He just spends most of his time inside since it has been way to cold for him to play in the snow.

Our Home away from home.

2011-03-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick little video of our home here in Canada....

School Days in Canada

2011-03-11T05:35:00.000-08:00

The boys had there first week of school. Drake is attending St. Bonaventure's and enrolled in 2nd grade. Last week he got to go in and have a sneak peek of the class and he said he was nervous. When your child says they are nervous, it makes mommy nervous. So Monday started with a nervous mom and child, but excited also. Dad met us at the school and all 5 of us went in and took him to class. Mrs. Spurvy his teacher was out sick, but the sub greeted us and said everything was ready for him. She had sat him next to a boy named Andrew, and his daddy works with Jess at the office. Drake and Andrew have become big buds. It seems like we were nervous for no reason. He has fit right in and is always so happy about school when I pick him up. They do a 7 day rotation and in those 7 days, 3 are gym days. On gym days he gets to wear his gym clothes all day. But above is pictures of him in his official dress. Which he whines about the tie, but wears it with a smile. Drake even gets to go ice skating during gym days. So know he owns his own ice skates and helmet. He said it is weird to ice skate, but he is doing so well. Carter keeps begging for ice skates, so I think we will be getting him a pair soon and will head to the local rink. Many people around here skate on the ponds, but it is warmer up so indoor we will go.

Carter is going three days a week to a school here called Early Achievers. The immerse him in letters, numbers, patterns, and flash cards. At first when we went to visit the school he said he didn't want to go back, but after the first day he loved it. He came running out and said that he had a blast and that he was getting super smart. The only downfall of his program is that it is in the afternoon from 1:30-4:30 so I get to do a lot of driving around. We live a little out, so I just can't run back home. We will make it work. Plus on Friday's Jess is doing all the pick ups for me. That makes me a happy mommy. Myatt and I can run home and nap in the quiet house with no extra feet running around.

So far everyone is happy with their school's. Next year Carter will be a Kindergartner at St. Bon's with Drake. Since the cut off here is Dec to be 5, he gets to go since he turns 5 in Oct. He is so excited about that, because he thinks Drake's school is the coolest since they ice skate. I honestly don't know if they do ice skate at Kinder, but he will be in the big school with brother all day, and my running will be cut down to twice a day.

One thing we are still trying to get use to is the changing of shoes. At both schools they have to wear a pair of boots, and then change and leave them in their locker or cubbie and put on other shoes so the floors won't get slick. When they go outside they change again, and again when they come in. So you have to juggle a ton of shoes and throw on the jackets and hats. I totally understand why they do it, but it still makes me totally frustrated. Something I will have to get use to....

What's going on here??

2011-03-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

If your interested to see what the area is looking like around here, check out this link...

A week in St. Johns

2011-03-07T05:45:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I have been gone from Texas a week. As I think about it, I get tears, but we are staring a new adventure in our lives here in St. John's. The kids are LOVING this place and it helps that there are lots of neighbor kids to play with.

The night we landed here it was cold and wet and I wondered where the heck we were. Honestly the home sickness hit and felt like I was so out of sorts. New place, no food, just out of my element. But Jess ran to town and grabbed McDonald's for the family. I was amazed at the price of our meal. $27 dollars for two burgers, fries, 1 happy meal, and then an order of nuggets. WOW! Can you say everything is expensive around here. I will def. be cooking every night. After full tummies we got in our Jammie's and headed to bed. The boys in there new rooms. Drake choose the football room, Carter the skateboard room, and Myatt has the monkey room.

Our first official day here stared with a morning blizzard. I woke up at 3:30 to nurse Myatt and the load snow blower came roaring by. Never had I ever heard that before. Everyone slept well and all the kids wanted to do was play in the snow, but it was way too windy and snow was blowing everywhere. We had to make it to the grocery store that morning since we didn't have food and that afternoon Jess had meetings.. So off we went. I think there were like 5 of us at the local store because of the crazy weather. But we made it, got the pantry stocked, which made for a happy mom. After lunch Jess left for meetings and since I couldn't stand the begging anymore I bundled the boys and let them play in the snow. In and out they went but they had fun and at the end of the day once the wind calmed down the neighbor kids came down and finished the snowman that drake started. So our time here stared out okay.

The weather got beautiful and we really started to enjoy this place. The boys have played their hearts out in the snow, staying hours on end. We got some hockey sticks and a goal since Drake is determined to learn to play hockey. And he stays out playing hockey till it is time to come in for dinner. Drake is also enjoying emailing his friends. That is keeping him busy at night as it takes him a while to type and a few letters have been sent without mommy checking them. I can only imagine what he said. LOL.. Carter is keeping up with the big kids since we really haven't found many friends his age. From what our neighbor says is that there are a ton of kids out here, but I guess they are inside in the heat, but not my two boys. Myatt is doing great and getting big. He is grabbing at toys, and doesn't like to be without his mommy. He is smiling all the time and started laughing at the boys. He is starting to mimic us and say OH and is so cute.. He makes us melt.

Friday night I got to met up with a few expats at a place call the The Gypsy Tea Room. I took a cab from home, and that made me nervous. I have never been in a cab by myself, but the guy was very friendly and reassured me that everyone on the island watches out for each other. That was nice to hear. The food was amazing at the restaurant . It was so nice to get to meet some neat girls around here. Also to pick there brains about things to do around here with the kids. I hope to definitely do it again soon. Plus Jess did great with the kids alone, even if they were still all awake when I got home.

Saturday was our exploring day. We got to drive around and see some beautiful places here. We also went to a local place to grab Drake some ice skates and a helmet since they ice skate during gym class. We grabbed lunch at a place called Boston Pizza and it was so yummy. I guess we are going to have to get used to Pepsi because so far that is what we are finding at a lot of places. I felt like I won the lottery on Sunday when I found a bottle Diet Dp at the local grocery store since they don't carry can Diet Dp. We also went to Signal Hill Saturday. Which is a historic site that celebrates the rich communications and military history of Signal Hill and sits amidst a spectacular view of St. John's and the sea. Signal Hill was the reception point of the first transatlantic wireless signal by Guglielmo Marconi in 1901, as well as the site of harbour defences for St. John's from the 18th century to the Second World War. It had amazing views, and is a place we will visit again.

Today is Monday and it was Drake's first day of school. It was gym day so he got to wear his gym clothes to school. But we had a tons of stuff to pack. A pair of gym shoes to stay there a pair of snow boots and then the coat. Man I don't know if I will ever get use to all the stuff. I was nervous when leaving him because I felt out of sorts, but he did so well. I could tell he was nervous but walked straight in and got to work. I am praying that he finds a buddy and has a wonderful day. This afternoon we are meeting with a school for Carter. He was made this morning cause he didn't get to go to school like Drake did. Hopefully this school will be the one and they have an opening that works. From what I heard you have to put your name on waiting list around here many years in advance. But we didn't have that sort of time, so we will see what we get...

Made it to Canada!!

2011-03-03T14:23:00.000-08:00

BIG CHANGES COMING OUR WAY!!

2011-02-21T20:06:00.001-08:00

We are packing up and moving to St. Johns Newfoundland in Canada, PLUS our new bundle arrived in December. December the 22nd we were blessed with another sweet boy for our family. Myatt Reed Richards came along at 7 pounds and 12 ounces and 20 inches long. He is the perfect fit for our family. We are truly blessed...

Merry Christmas

2010-12-18T19:29:00.001-08:00

Carter gets his tonsils out.

2010-09-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

Carter had his tonsils taken out August 26th. Many warned us that it would take a 'good' two weeks to have the old Carter bug back to normal and I have to agree. During that two weeks we had some good days, but for the most part he was back to his normal self two weeks later.

Carter wasn't having sore throats or any illness problems, but the way his tonsils were growing and the size of them, the doctor suggested we get them taken out while he was young. The doctor said that the tonsils would end up touching and causing many problems in the long run.

We are so proud of our little Patient Carter. He was so brave and wanted to ride the bed into surgery, but coming out was not so much fun. For a good week he would not let me out of his sight and wanted to hold my hand constantly, even when he slept. But honestly he was such a big brave boy. He far exceeded our expectations.

Farm Fun in July

2010-08-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

We love to go out to the farm and spending family time out there. We always find little things to do. This time it included fishing, BB gun shots, and riding the four wheeler. Every time it is a little something different, but it always end the same with big smiles on my boys faces.

Bay fun at POCO time.

2010-08-01T18:09:00.001-07:00

OUR SWEET SONS!

Saying bye to daddy before he headed out. Carter was not happy for his daddy to leave.

The cousin's in their matching Hydrocarbon shirts in front of the boat.

All 4 boys, best friends and cousins.

Bye Hydrocarbon, GOOD LUCK!

Poco is a fishing tournament that the Jess, his brothers, and a few friends fish in every summer.. We spend lots of time at the bay during that week, first with daddy before he heads out, and then with friends and family while they are gone. This year they didn't place, but had a great time and wonderful fishing weather for the 2 days they stayed out and fished..

While the boys were out, us girls got to entertain the kiddos and keep them happy. We swam a lot and fished. By the time the boys went down at the end of the night they were done. I made sure I wore them out during the day so they would sleep good for me at night. We had a wonderful time at the bay, as we always do.

Paw Paw fishing with Drake and Carter.

Jumping for Joy!

The WILD man at the pool.

Me and MY BOYS!! Nothing better than that!

Sea World June 2010

2010-06-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Our Sweet Boys at the JW Marriott Hotel

The JW Marriott in San Antonio was amazing!!! A beautiful new hotel with lots of fun for the kids and heck the parents too. We arrived there on Thursday, just enough time to swim in the 'main' pool, because the slides and river close at 7. So the kids got to swim which made them very happy and after dinner we headed up to bed because tomorrow was going to be a FUN HOT day at SEA WORLD..

Sea World was our day for Friday. And a long day it was, but oh so fun. It seemed like there were not a lot of people at the park, which made for happy parents. We had bought the quick passes so if the line was to long, we didn't have to wait. Honestly we didn't have to use it much. The lines were never THAT long and the shows didn't seem too packed.

The Shamu show Believe was lovely as always. I was nervous because so many people told me I wouldn't like it because the trainers are not allowed in the water with the animals anymore. But like the previous years I was moved to tears because to me it was amazing. Drake and Marlie went down and sat in the splash zone. Three rows up and when Shamu's tail slapped that water, they were soaked. Carter on the other hand decided to be smart and sit up with us and enjoy popcorn and watch the show 20 rows up.

Another one of our family favorites parts of Sea World is feeding the Dolphins. My kids, and Dad LOVE to feed the dolphins. This year we were good about only buying 3 plates of food. Where as the past we would buy about 6 and return back a few times during the day.

We LOVED all the rides. Even the big people, Jess, Steven, and Stefanie, went and rode a few roller coasters as we watched as they went by. Carter got his first taste of Atlantis and LOVED it. First time they rode back row and last they got to sit front row. He begged and begged to go again, but we were ready to move on. Drake on the other had is like his mother and not crazy at all about heights. So he did NOT want to ride, just wanted to hang out and get drenched by the ride. I think we will have a dare devil for dad, and someone to hang out with mom on the sidelines.

Check out Carter and Dad on the front row.

Saturday was spent all day at the hotel. We got to the pool around 10:30 and did not leave for a minute till 9:30 that night. 11 HOURS at the pool, made for some tired kiddos and tired parents. But we had a blast. The resort is amazing. They have 3 tube slides for the kids, two small slides in the kiddie pool, a lazy river, and then a big pool where they play the movie. We hung out mostly in the kid area for Carter, which was right next to the slides so it made everyone happy. Not that we sat much, because Carter loved the slides and so did we. Drake has hit that age where he kinda would go and do his own thing. He would let us know where he was going and he would come and check in with us, or after a bit we would go over where he was. He is growing up so fast. He makes us so proud because of the big guy he is becoming, but it is sad because my 1st baby is getting SO BIG!! I have to savory all these moments I still have with him. Once it started getting to early evening we moved over to the big pool and found some seats where we could enjoy the movie. The kids swam and ate ice cream while we hung out and vegged in the chairs. We didn't make it through the whole movie, once 9:30 hit, Carter and Drake said they were ready to go to bed.

So off to bed we went and within 5 minutes of there bath, they were out.. Totally tired..Can you tell the Richards are staying here... Drake's 3 gogies, Carters paci's and blanket, and his new friend Dollie the Dolphin from Sea World. What it doesn't show is that mommy brought her own 2 pillows and blanket. :) We had a wonderful time and a perfect vacation was had..

Spring Break Tuesday- Clean Teeth = Special Treat!

2010-03-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

It was that time of the year for teeth cleaning.. Drake is a champ every time he goes, but does get a little nervous when it is time for those xrays. He takes after mommy and is a big gagger. But after that he is golden. Carter by every ones amazement is awesome also. I was so nervous the first time I took him, but nope shouldn't of worried. He was great. So proud of my big guys and they even talked me into Chuck E Cheese. How could I resist when they did so well at the dentist.

Sorry for the poor picture quality. These are from my phone.

Spring Break Monday- Horse Party

2010-03-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

My cousin Stefanie had bought a 'horse party' at their church auction. She scheduled it for Monday of spring break and asked us to come and play with them. Carter and I were very excited about going out and see the horses, but Drake on the other hand was nervous. When I told him to grab the bike helmets he started questioning the idea of horse back riding. He asked if Carter could go first and then decide if he wanted to do it. He really thought that I was going to put him in an arena on top of a horse and let him go. Once he found out that someone was going to be walking the horse as they rode, he decided he wanted to do it. The boys sure loved it and asked me if we could talk daddy into getting a horse at the farm. I would sure LOVE that, I have a love of horses, but honestly it is a lot of work to keep up with one. After they road for 30 minutes, that got to learn about to stables and got to feed the horses carrots. We rode on a hay ride around the place and settled back in the party room for lunch. We had a wonderful day. We are sure glad that Stefanie and her girls invited us, we really had a great time.

Spring Break Starts- Sunday Rodeo fun!!

2010-03-20T17:04:00.001-07:00

We played a TON of games~~

Roller coaster
They were in the 1st car.

Some of their big winnings through out the day.

Blue Ice Cream saved the melt down when he did not get to ride the below with Daddy since he was too little..

Daddy and Drake on the Crazy Mouse

Slide Fun with Mommy!

Pig Races.. I think we were the only ones going for the Aggie pig and he WON!

Stroller built for TWO!! or should I say TWO TIRED BOYS!

We had a blast on Sunday for a few hours at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. We got there at 10:00 am when it opened and it was AWESOME!! There were no lines, no crowds, just us and a few others to ride a ton of rides.. Both boys had a few little sad moments, Carter couldn't ride a few 'big' rides that Drake and Daddy got to go on, and Drake didn't win a few games. It is amazing how different my boys are, even though they are cut from the same mold. Drake is my carnival game guy, he could play those games all day long, and Carter he wants to ride every ride he can and then do it again. We tried to play in the middle so everyone was happy for the most part. We had TONS of junk food, watched the pig races, and even ran into a few of our friends.. Everyone in our neighborhood had the same idea for Sunday. Around 2:00 the outside starting getting packed so we took a stroll inside to see the animals. We showed the boys the lambs and explained how both daddy and I raised lambs when we turned 8 up until high school. It is amazing how now we have 2 kids together, but 25 years ago we were in the arena showing lambs against each other in Bay City. MEMORIES!! We had a great day and it ended with two tired boys around 3:30. A blast was certainly had by the Richards Family.

Cowboy Drake

2010-03-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

Drake's Class with Ms. P his teacher

Doing the Chicken Dance

Drake with buddies Jackson and Xavier

Roping that Bull

The Clothespin toss into the boot..
He was the Big Winner!!

They had an obstacle course where the had to rope a horse at the end.

They ended they day with a story by the 'campfire'

Drake had a wonderful day at his Cowboy Ranch in 1st grade. It all started off at lunch, mommy and a few other moms got to cook hot dogs for the students. Drake's favorite meal was a great way to start off lunch. After that they got to have different ranching games. Drake's class started with an obstacle course. You had to wake up to the rooster, grab some eggs, fix a house, haul some hay, put the pigs in the pin and rope a horse. After that they went over to roping a bull. And then they did the clothespin toss. Drake was the big winner, because he got the most clothespins in the boot from a far distance. They did the chicken dance and that was funny. At first the boys wouldn't really participate, but then Ms. P decided to do a boys against girls chicken dance competition. The boys really got in to it and did a wonderful job. Drake said I couldn't show anyone the pictures of him doing the chicken dance, but it was too cute not to share. The day finally wrapped up with a story by the campfire read by his classmate, Kate's, mom. The kids were adorable all geared up in their 'YeeHaw' clothes I was so glad I got to spend the day up at the school with my biggest cowboy!!

Cowboy Carter

2010-03-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

Carter and Mallari

Carter and Jack

Carter and Mason (which is his buddy and so sad they are moving)

Carter and his wonderful teachers, Ms. Wendy and Mr. McCloud

Carter had Cowboy Day at school. What fun it was. He and his friends looked SO CUTE!! Jacks mom, Selena, brought up horses and the kids loved it. The had a hot dog cookout, which Ashley greeted me at the door and said your boy can eat. Yes my kids love food like there mommy!! Carter was so excited about wearing his 'cowboy' clothes to school. We had to go buy him a hat, because he said every cowboy wears a hat. Thankfully without much bribery he posed for a few pictures before we left for school. YEEHAW Cowboy.

More baseball FUN!!!

2010-03-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

One, Two, Three Strikes Your Out!

2010-03-09T05:25:00.000-08:00

Well Lamar Little League has officially started. Our evenings as we use to know it are GONE! With Little League we have something three nights a week, and now that Carter will be starting TBALL, every night will be something, plus Saturdays. But it works for us and we love it.

Saturday was Opening Day for Lamar. It started with an early morning parade for the boys. Carter even rode this year, but he wanted to ride in the truck and wave from there. And then opening ceremonies at the center field. Then we stayed around to watch a game and headed home to get fully dressed for pictures. After pictures we got to jump, they have bounce house out there, and then watched a few other games before heading over to play ours. The boys played great. This year things have changed as we are playing Machine Double A. Faster ball, hard ball, and 3 strikes. They use to get 6 balls and could swing every time, but this time they get 6 balls or 3 strikes, whatever comes first. Each time Drake hit, but it was on that last strike, which made me one nervous mom.

Carter had a blast running around and playing with his buddies. He had tons of ice cream and Icee's. As we left the park he was crying for more ice cream. He was so tired and oh so sticky. They both climbed into the bath when we got home and I was amazed how black the water was we had to refill it. Dirty boys equal a fun day. Glad opening day is over..... Let the games begin.

Oh Beautiful Day!!!

2010-03-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

Today was an AMAZINGLY beautiful day. Not to cool, just perfect, and for that perfect weather I kept Carter up instead of napping and we waited on Drake to get home. Once he got home we quickly did homework, since this is an everyday thing in 1st grade, and headed OUTside. Played a little basketball, ran around on the driveway, grabbed the jeep and skateboard, and headed to the park. The boys are to that age where they enjoy playing together, for the most part. We ran around the park. Drake kept climbing up the rock wall part, and Carter tried and tried.. FINALLY he made it all the way to the top with some coaching from big brother. They were all smiles when little guy finally reached the top.. I LOVE MY BOYS~!!!

Breakfast for Dinner Tonight!!

2010-03-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

This week Jess is in Canada till Thursday so I thought that it would be kids dinner week. Usually I let them choose one meal a week, but this is their whole week of choice. Tonight we started it off with breakfast for dinner. French toast, sausage, and bacon. I actually had to call Jess to get the goods on how to make french toast and tweaked it to what I thought was better. Usually on Sunday when we are not rushing to church or on Saturday when we are actually home and no baseball, we have a yummy breakfast of french toast made by him. So I had no clue what I was doing.. I just knew that it ended in powdered sugar. THEY LOVED IT!!!! Drake had 5 slices, yep he must be growing, because he ate a TON! Carter also was a big eater with 3 slices and 6 pieces of bacon and they both put away a ton of sausage.. Drake said daddy needed to travel more because we never have dinners like this.. I guess it may need to be our thing once a month yummy breakfast. But I can honestly say it made a HUGE mess and they went straight in for a bath. And that bath lasted 45 minutes.. Waterlogged boys and a clean kitchen, now it is time for bed...

Brown and Blue

2010-01-05T18:15:00.001-08:00

Is what our boys are made of...

I love to look in my boys eyes and try to see the world through them. It is amazing to talk about how 'they' see the world at 6 and 3 and how I see the world at 33. If only I could go back for one moment and feel so free and innocent, but I would definitely have to come back fast, because I would miss those blue and brown eyes....

Where I have been???

2010-01-04T13:22:00.001-08:00

Playing Photographer....
In 2010 I think new things will be in store for me and my new baby
'Stacey Richards Photography.'
For now enjoy something I put together of two of my most important people.

Happy New Year!!!!

2010-01-01T13:57:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-26T13:02:00.000-08:00

Jingle all the way...

2009-12-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful time going Christmas caroling with friends this holiday season.. I think it got all of us in the wonderful spirit of Christmas and stopping by some houses to put smiles on the peoples faces got those in the Christmas spirit also. We got to see some houses all nicely decorated. It is amazing all the hard work that goes into decorating the homes, but it is so worth it when you see the smile from the children. Our neighborhood does an annual decorating contest in each neighborhood inside our big neighborhood. Last year we got 1st in the Forest (our area), and this year we got honorable mention. We were so excited to be recognized this year again

Christmas is COMING!!

2009-12-18T06:16:00.000-08:00

Omgoodness, I have got to get back to blogging.. SO MUCH HAS BEEN GOING ON!! While I get my thoughts together and start writing all the blogs I need to add, I will leave you with some cute pictures of my boys rockin' around the Christmas tree...

Baby it's cold outside.

2009-12-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update: The House is decorated and we are ready to see if it will snow tomorrow. We have all of our warm clothes ready for the cold. I don't want to say it, but here it goes. I HOPE IT SNOWS!! Now that I said it, it won't happen. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings..

Summer Camp is over~

2009-10-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Sandy went to summer camp for 3 months to work on her hunting skills. We sure did miss her and so glad for her to get back and join the family. She has been spoiled with two nights of sleeping beside my bed. Plus the kids are besides themselves that she is home!

Sneak Peek of Drake Vader and Yoda~

2009-10-30T16:25:00.001-07:00

Halloween fun at preschool..

2009-10-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Just a little sneak peak of our little pirate Carter before Halloween. He had a school dress up party and all the little ones were so precious! The picture above is with his two catty teachers, Ms. Suzie and Ms. Wendy. We love them both. Today after the party I grabbed Carter early from school so he could nap at home. When he got in the car he said "Mommy guess what Ms. Wendy taught me, Trick or treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat" So cute.. He is ready to go knock on those doors on Saturday!!! I can't wait to take some pictures, because as you can see how cute Pirate Carter is wait till you see his big brother Drake Vader!!!

Carter and Mallori Carter and his bud Mason

I AM BACK!!

2009-10-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Well I am getting back to blogging this week and I can't wait to post some of the things we have done in the past two months. We have been so busy with friends and family that is why I took a long needed break from the blogging world. BUT WE ARE BACK!! I can't wait to share our new comings with you all.

POCO BUENO

2009-08-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

We love July in Port Oconner Texas, because that is the time of the big POCO BUENO fishing Tournament. Jess, his brothers, and few of there closest friends have been fishing this tournament the last few years on our boat, Hydrocarbon. Not only is this tournament a time of excitement for all of us, it is a laid back fun with friends and family.

We always start the week long excitement with a family cruise on our boat.

The Girls and our babies..
Sara, Erin, and I heading to dinner at the POCO tent.
Mommy and my sweet boys.

Everyone in the tournament can leave on Thursday night at 11. So after baths, we loaded up the kids so they can watch their daddy and his team leave. Carter had a hard time with this and kept screaming, "daddy come back." Drake on the other hand just wanted daddy to win the big one.

Friday we spent that day at one of the new developments in Port Oconner swimming and enjoying the sun. This place is really neat, it felt like we were at our own little paradise. First there was no one there, which was awesome. And second they have a HUGE pool, splash pad, and a little playground area fenced in around the water. We all had a blast.

When we got back Friday afternoon we had a little time for fishing before it got dark. There wasn't much caught except for Cbug. He caught his first ever fish with the help of mommy. When the fish grabbed his pole, he got scared and about lost his pole. Mommy came to the rescue and we got to reel in his fish. He was so excited.
Friday night ended in Dance Party USA!! Katelyn showed us her awesome moves, while Landon and Carter ran around and dance with her. Drake was Katelyn's official Paparazzi. He couldn't get enough pictures.

Saturday was the day my parents, dede and Skipper, were headed to meet me to take the boys home. But before we had to get new pets for Katelyn and Drake. At one of the local shops in Port Oconner they had Hermit Crabs that were painted and a cage for them. Drake grabbed a pirate hermit crab and named him Gary Dale.
We met my parents in Port Lavaca so they could finish the weekend with my parents and I could partake in some adult time. I hate to see them leave, but they always have so much fun.
Here are the women to go see our fishermen. Reese, Erin, Sara, and I.
Here they come.

The crew. Jake, Chance, Jon, Ramsey, Jake, Joel, Jess, and in the front Jeff. They had a great time and ended up catching, 2 wahoo, 2 white marlin's, and 2 sailfish.

Me and my sweet TIRED fisherman.

Weekend at the Bay..

2009-08-04T17:06:00.000-07:00

We always have so much fun at the bay, so when given a chance to go we are there. This weekend was nice and relaxing since it was just Jess and I with the boys and Jon and Sara with their two boys. We didn't cook, we ate out, and just went with the flow. NO STRESS.. The kids got to spend some time fishing on the pier. Carter had caught a fish the last time he was down there, but totally got nervous and didn't want to have anything to do with it. But this was the first time he caught a fish with his daddy, mommy there there last time. He was so excited to show his catch to daddy and Drake. Drake still loves to fish, he could sit on the pier all day.

Saturday we headed to the beach in Port Oconner. The kids had been begging to go, but it seems like every time we are down there we have other stuff to do. So I promised my boys that we would head there this time.
Drake ran around looking for hermit crabs. He found a ton and moved them to our bay house, boat house.
Carter was just happy with the sand and a few toys.
He loved throwing the mud out to the water. He was totally dirty and I was in his way a few times, so I ended up with tons of mud in my hair.

I tired to get a moment with my boys, but they really didn't have time for mommy. They wanted to run and play.

While we were at the bay, Jess and Drake (Jess really) put together a Lego Star Wars ship. Jess said the totally time was 5 1/2 hours. Why is it the box said 6-9 year olds. RIGHT!!! This ship we got while we were in Disney in November and it was found while cleaning out the top of his closet. He talked daddy into helping him, mommy doesn't dig Lego's.

Before we left I tired to grab some pictures of my boys. I think they turned out pretty precious, but man it just made me realize how fast they are growing up.
And we can't forget the Barges we saw. We got a few honks with many happy smiles from the kiddos.
We had a wonderful weekend. But it will probably be our last time down there for a while. School is about to start and weekends will be filled with Baseball, Aggie games, and everything else under the sun..

Mommy's playing photographer..

2009-07-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

Cute close ups of my sweet precious boys.

Drake 6 years

Carter 2 1/2 years

Underwater Photos..

2009-07-19T18:11:00.001-07:00

Are so much fun!!! We took tons of underwater photo's with my friend Erin's new camera. We got a little addicted and couldn't stop. The camera is really cool.

1st Sleepover.

2009-07-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

Well I was talked into having our first sleep over. Drake begged me to let Kyle spend the night as we were leaving his house. So I said yes, but I was nervous. Nervous because we have never had a sleep over, nervous because Drake sometimes comes down in the middle of the night. But the boys exceeded my expectations. When Kyle got to our house, we went next door to our neighbors the Guinn's and went swimming. Kim and Chuck had family in so the boys got to play with her nieces and nephew. They all had a blast. Next was dinner, bath, and then off to play the WII. It was nice that all 3 kids (carter included) played upstairs happily and Jess and I got to enjoy some alone time. The boys came down around 9:45 ready to watch TV and time to wind down. I got them up to bed at 10:30 and they were both asleep at 10:45. They woke me up the next morning at 8:00, both excited that they got to have a sleep over. I feel like Drake has aged so much since he got to have his first sleep over. Even Carter enjoyed having kyle over to sleep. We had a wonderful night..

Next are cute pictures of Drake getting stuck in a bucket. He didn't see the bucket behind him and fell in while at the Guinn's. We couldn't stop laughing.

BLOG HOP: Favorite photo

2009-07-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

Mr. Linky is doing a blog hop of favorite pictures. You simply link the post from your blog on your favorite picture and....voila! You are connected to so many wonderful pictures and create new friends and new blog reads.

This is one of my favorite pictures of my boys.. So I thought that I would share.

***This week, on TUESDAY, 7/7/09, the theme is A FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPH. Post up one of your favorite photographs and a caption that tells the audience about it. Here is a sample: http://mcklinky.blogspot.com/2009/07/mcklinky-photo-blog-on-tuesday-sample.html Do not change any part of this snippet of code except for this paragraph only.... replace the text that falls between (and includes) the opening and closing asterisks. Be sure to enter your own link to your own blog hop post as soon as the blog hop starts!***

Happy Birthday AMERICA!

2009-07-06T19:55:00.001-07:00

Carter showing off the cupcakes that Drake, Carter, and I made before we left for the bay. We wanted to make America cupcakes for her birthday. The kids had a blast helping me bake. We had a HUGE mess, but it was worth it to see their smiles while helping mommy cook.

Drake showing off all our pretty flags we have to display at the bay.

Carter decided to jump in the pool after we had cleaned up all the boys for dinner. Mommy was a little bit frustrated, but soon got over it when seeing how much fun he was having.

All the boys waiting for a barge to come by. All 4 of them run to the table climb on and start honking their arms to see who will honk back. Many do and then they all clap and scream THANK YOU!

I had to get a sweet picture of my two in the 'red, white, and blue' Gymboree outfits.
We spent Saturday morning swimming over at Carocal. This is a new 'community based' water front area. Our friends Bianca and Clay are going to build a bay house over in this area. They were in town so Bianca invited us to go swimming. We jumped on the offer.
A great way to cool off during a hot day.

All 4 of the boys, ready and heading to go riding the tube at the bay.

Nanny and PawPaw waving from the Balcony, looking to see the boys on the tube.

Mommy and Carter got to go first. Carter is easy to please. He loves to ride the tube, but he doesn't have to stay long on it.

Now Drake on the other hand could stay ALL DAY LONG. He loves to be on the tube. He will ask 100 times when it is his time to go again. Riding the tube at the bay equals one happy 6 year old.

I can't believe how grown up and handsome Drake looks in this picture.

Pawpaw and Drake enjoyed some snuggle time on the chair.

Nanny had a few helpers while making ice cream. Carter knew if he helped make it, PawPaw would give him some to eat. Drake enjoyed helping, but he is not a sweet eater. Carter on the other hands LOVES SWEETS.

Sara and I tried getting a cute picture of all four boys, this is the best I got. Not too bad. I think they are precious.
Carter and Landon, aren't they sweet.

A family picture from the weekend. Trying to be a little patriotic. All in RED, WHITE, and BLUE.

Carter's fireworks did not start off too well. He came around by the end of the night, but little guy did not enjoy watching the big pretty fireworks.

Drake on the other hand wouldn't miss a beat. He loves FIREWORKS!!!

Carter decided it was okay in the car watching his movie, eating a lollipop, blanket, and glow stick in hand. Anytime you opened the door, he would tell you quickly to shut it.

FINALLY coming around.

The Boys playing with fire.

Daddy and D doing fireworks.

Mommy and her sweet boys.

Sara, Bianca and I with baby boys.

And finally cuddle time for my guys on July 4th. They were exhausted.

Sunday ended our time at the bay on the boat. The boys have to have a ride on Hydrocarbon to make thier time at the bay complete. This always brings a smile to their face.

Is he not the cutest thing with his 'big guy' glasses on. He tells me he can see the fish under water with these. He is already learning from his daddy.

We had a wonderful time celebrating America's Birthday at the Bay. We will be headed down to the bay again in two weeks for our big POCO BUENO offshore fishing tournament.
Wish our team HYDROCARBON good luck!!

Splashway.

2009-07-02T12:15:00.001-07:00

To beat the Houston heat we headed to Splash Way. While we had a blast, I will never go again on a Tuesday. It was 2 for 1 and it was packed. The lifeguards said it was the most packed it had been for the season. The kids still had a blast and it was a great way to spend a hot day. I totally recommend this place. It is perfect for the little kids and the big kids had tons to do also. I had planned on leaving Carter home with the sitter, but at the last minute I started feeling guilty knowing that he would have fun also. I am so glad I changed my mine because I don't know who had more fun, Carter or Drake. We also went with friends and the older boys went with one parent while some of the other moms stayed with the little guys. So it worked out for all the kids. One big plus to this place is that they let you bring in a cooler with snacks and drinks for lunch, but they also have a yummy menu to choose from. So which ever route you go makes everyone happy. We had a great day and already planning another trip back soon.

Lots of new Posts.

2009-06-29T13:28:00.001-07:00

I am finally getting caught up with my blog, we have been so busy lately that I haven't had time to sit down and write. Hopefully now that I am mostly caught up I can stay on top of it. ENJOY!

Bay water fun.

2009-06-26T07:03:00.001-07:00

We spent the weekend in Port O'Conner. Our agenda consisted of really nothing but taking the boys tubing. They have never tubed before and Drake had been begging to get in at the bay. So I ran to Academy and bought a tube. We spent most of Saturday behind the bay boat pulling the kids. Drake finally got brave to go by his self, and then he wouldn't get off. Had a total meltdown when we told him he was done for the day. Carter loved it although he was too young to go by his self and had to ride with mommy. They also got to jump off the boat and swim in the water which the both loved.

Our afternoon ended with taking a cruise on our Offshore fishing boat, Hydrocarbon. The boys each took a turn driving with uncle Ramsey and we all sat outside watching the dolphins jump behind the boat. Carter took his first big boy 'tinkle' off the back of the boat. His daddy was proud. We had a great weekend at the bay.

Golf Camp

2009-06-26T06:57:00.001-07:00

Second week of summer was all about Golf Camp here at the Richards home. We attended the neighborhood golf camp and he had a blast. It was hot, but they got to stay in the shade and I packed him extra gatorade and water to keep him hydrated. He told me he wanted to go back this week again, so I guess the heat never bothered him. He is so cute in his golf gear, check out his golf shoes, PRECIOUS!

Baseball camp

2009-06-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

Our first week of summer started with Drake in Baseball Camp. Man was it cute and he was so grown up. He had a blast and said that he was looking forward to his next week at Golf Camp.

Beach Fun

2009-06-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

We decided to pack up the kiddos and spend the day at the Beach. The beach in Matagorda, Texas, back where we come from. Jess and I both grew up in Bay City, about 20 minutes from Matagorda beach. So we have spent many afternoons down there growing up. We had heard rumors that the beach had been cleaned up and a great place to take the kids and it was true. Everyone had a blast and you couldn't keep my kids out of the water. We even took Sandy down there and she had a blast running around and splashing in the water. Carter and I worked hard on a sand castle, and Drake and dad played football and boogie boarded. Sara and Jon brought there boys down, so the kids played together.

After the beach fun ended, the boys got a fresh water bath on the end of the truck and we headed to River bend. YUMMMY!!! Love the food and if you head that way you have to stop and eat the Fried Pickles. We taught the boys how to play shuffle board which the enjoyed. After a wonderful meal of fried shrimp and hamburgers we headed home. Both boys fell asleep on the way home. They were exhausted from the wonderful day that was spent at the beach.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

Daddy we LOVE YOU!!

Kindergarten Graduation- YEAH DRAKE!

2009-06-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

Me and my big guy.

Morning of Graduation.

Hugs from little brother.

Drake getting the FUN DIP award, for the funniest kid to be around.

The Proud Family.

Drake with Mrs. Gazaway his Kindergarten teacher.

Last walk down the Campbell hall,
next year we will be heading to
Dickenson to be a Dickenson dolphin.

Drake we are SO PROUD OF YOU!!

He is on his way to 1st grade. What a wonderful and bittersweet year we have had. The stuff he has learned and the boy he has become has totally blown us away. He has started to read, knows his sight words, and can do simple addition and subtraction. He has learned so many things this year that I know his little brain is exploding with a wealth of information. Drake we are so proud of you, thanks for being an amazing son.

Splash Pad with young friends.

2009-06-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

Carter had a blast splashing the day away with some of his best friends while Drake was at his last full day of school.

Last Full day of Kindergarten.

2009-06-03T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today was our last FULL day of Kindergarten. Drake had free dress this week since we donated our old school uniforms. Tomorrow is the last day of school, which really is only an hour or so for Kindergarten Graduation. They are suppose to be in Campbell Cougar spirit dress then, so I thought that I would snap a few pictures today.

Woodland Texas Fun.

2009-05-31T17:04:00.000-07:00

We loaded up the kids and headed over to the Woodlands for the day. Jess had eaten there that week with a coworker and said we needed to take the boys, they would have a ball. Did they ever. We ate lunch at the Tommy Bahama store, which by the way had an awesome salad with chicken and apples. After lunch the boys and I walked over to the splash area outside of the store so daddy could shop. The kids had a blast running around and playing in the water and daddy and mommy took turns going into different shops. The Woodlands is beautiful and if it wasn't so far away from Jess's office, I may consider moving.

After we got home we headed to our friends the Oneal's and had a fun afternoon and evening with friends swimming. Drake is a wonderful swimmer, we don't have to worry much about him, but we did learn while we were there that Carter LOVES the water and diving in. We knew he loves to be in the water but his new thing is to jump in the water without us. We will definitely be keeping an eye on him this summer.

The Boys also got to meet Baby Charlie while at the Oneal's. Our friends Jennifer and Jason Ford had there third little boy and he is adorable. At first Carter didn't like him much, but I let him get in my lap and hold him and he was sold.

Welcome to our home- Boy's Bedrooms.

2009-05-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

This week at Kelly's Korner, show us where you live, is Children's Rooms.
These are two of my FAVORITE rooms in our house. I had a lady come in and paint in my children's room, I could sit in these rooms for hours and just stare.
Drake's room is a fishing room. The boat on the wall is our family offshore fishing boat, HYDROCARBON. My big guy loves to fish and when we bought this house I asked him what he wanted his room to be done in. At the old house it was a cowboy room, this time he wanted a fishing room. The little hippos on Drake's bed, or as he calls it his googee's, have been with him since he was a baby, and even at 6 he still sleeps with them every night.

Carter's room is just SWEET and little baby. I love this room and I never want him to grow up. Heck I think I may move him into Drake's bunk beds so that I can leave his room as a nursery. He is 2 and such a good baby bed sleeper, I hope I just didn't jinx that. Both of my boys bedding's came from Pottery Barn kids. I love that place.

Elmo soap is so much fun!

2009-05-28T18:15:00.001-07:00

The kids love to play with ELMO soap. The only problem is they each grab a bottle and finish it that night. They love to make a mess and play with ELMO soap. If your child every needs something to do, throw them in the bath or shower with a bottle of ELMO soap. They will have a blast, I PROMISE!

A Memorial weekend was had by all.

2009-05-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

We always go down to the Bay for Memorial Day weekend. The whole family is there and tons of fun is had by all. We swim, boat, run, play, eat, and just spend time together as a family. This is one weekend I do not ever want to give up. So many fun memories are had by all. And you know this mom, I always have a camera in hand so I took TONS of pictures but I love them all. Shows the fun we truly had this weekend..

Riding the small 4 wheeler at the bay

A boy and his dog, so precious

Mommies BOYS

Night Fishing

D Fishing

Carter trying to figure out how to fish.

Carter going to check on Drake

The Boys ready to go swimming

Do I have to wear this hat?

Carter going down our water slide. He loved it and didn't want to stop.

And Drake being a dare devil, giving the slide a BIG JUMP.

The race is on.

Loves to be on the pier, doing anything.

Three boys playing in the pool. The boys (all 4) loved to swim in the pool on the deck. We spent many of hours on the deck running around and swimming.

SNOW CONES

Mommies and BOYS

They were both concerned about Trent's splinter in his foot. DR. Carter.

Drake on the tower of our boat, HYDROCARBON.

Sara brought a lawnmower bubbly blower, Carter loved it.

Drake even enjoyed some bubbles.

HONK THE BARGE!

Trent and Drake watching TV on Hydrocarbon.

Jess was out fishing offshore, so Sara and I took the oldest boys fishing during nap time. Drake caught two fish and mommy had to somehow get them off the hook. Pliers came in handy. I was so proud that some how I got them off and didn't scream too much. I LOVE to fish, but not enjoy taking them off the line.

Our 2nd fish.

Pool buddies.

Mommy get soaked by Drake Man.

More snow cones.

This sand castle was made to honor the men of the arm forces.. AMAZING!!! This totally took my breath away. Drake wasn't too excited to see a sand castle, but when we pulled up he told me that he was so glad he came. He thought it was too cool and couldn't believe that it was made out of sand.

My Big Guy.

We deflated the pool at the end of the day, but the boys had fun riding their bikes through the water and sliding on the deflated pool.

We got to end the day with not ONE but TWO rainbows. I went outside to take a picture and the guy next door said that this was the most beautiful rainbow he has ever seen. I have to agree with him.

And then two munchies in the bed that end our day. I LOVE THESE BOYS!

Dance Party USA

2009-05-18T18:58:00.001-07:00

We had a little dance party tonight with my boys. Drake was dancing, but at the end he grabbed his camera too and we had fun recording Carter.

And then this one turns him into my little table dancer

Slippen Slide Saturday

2009-05-17T11:15:00.000-07:00