The Roberts Family

Meditating

2012-01-28T00:17:00.000-06:00

Sometimes you just need to go to that place...

even if it is at McDonald's.

VHS Winter Formal

2012-01-25T11:54:00.006-06:00

Jordan was a last minute entry on going to this school dance. All the other girls decided to go and so that changed her mind. This was a formal dance at the Oasis for VHS. These 5 girls went together and Jordan had fun.

This wasnt too exciting for me as she goes to a dance every other weekend. She always has fun and she needs those breaks with the heavy load that she carries.

Megan, Sierra, Patusha, Jordan, & Cassie:

An avid reader, a volley ball player, a SAT pro, one that tries to do it all, and a synchronized swimmer.

That is a mix of girls!

Jackson's First Buck

2012-01-25T11:38:00.004-06:00

Jackson's first buck - shot during the last weekend of the hunting season. We are now looking forward to spring turkey season.

(the we must mean Tom, Uncle Chris and Jackson-as Tom was the one to write this post)

Las Vegas

2012-01-20T23:07:00.012-06:00

My sisters Christmas gift to me:

Surprise trip to Vegas!

I had not seen my sister in almost 6 months and it was just such an extra bonus to get away from the usual schedule and have 5 days to myself.

My room was fabulous. We were at the Palazo. I could have thought of many people that should have been sharing this suite with me.

Nice dinners out

Mirage breakfast buffet

and of course Vegas shopping!

I had a 16 mile run scheduled and this one was certainly the highlight of this marathon. I felt like I was running the marathon that day. So much excitement around and a personal trainer to take care of me. This run goes down as one of my all time favorites. I had a blast. My sister even got in about 10 miles .

This was an incredible 5 days.

Time with my sister, time to myself, eating, shopping, running, getting my hair done by Kelly Cardenas.

It was so great. I really got time to relax and recharge the batteries.

I really think my husband should look into shipping me off once a year like that because I come home recharged and ready to go.

Thank you so much Char!

Larson!

2012-01-18T09:19:00.000-06:00

His 2nd Grade Yearbook Photo

New Years Eve 2011

2012-01-17T08:01:00.000-06:00

Yearly tradition: New Years Eve in San Antonio.

We decided to go to Sea World because they were celebrating New Years at an earlier hour and then we could go and have a dinner outside of the park.

The kids thought this was a special day because we allowed them to play arcade games. We usually do not do that. They love playing the games. Thats just what they need, more stuffed animals.

It was a beautiful day and we really enjoyed the day together.

The 9:00 New Years Eve countdown and fireworks. We loved that the kids got to see fireworks. The boys never make it to midnight. We got to go to dinner and then the view from our hotel room was crazy. From a 180 view, you could look anywhere in the sky and see amazing fireworks for 45 minutes. I have never seen as many displays as this. It was like the Epcot show.

Exactly midnight!

Happy 2012!

Good morning!

Oh no! January 1st. Logan's first time out.

Our new years day was filled with swimming, eating, movies, and so much fun being together!

Back to Austin to start the new year.

Winter Dance

2012-01-06T10:25:00.006-06:00

Jordan and Gemma

Gemma and some friends got to come to our tri-stake winter dance in Kyle, Texas. I love that these girls have been able to remain such good friends despite the 2 hour separation.

This was such a cool venue for this dance. It's called Texas Old Town. It is used as a wedding venue. The outside grounds were beautiful. The cool thing about this night was that the girls were having a great night and the big girls were too. Jenn and I went and had a long dinner together and got to catch up before picking the girls up.

Christmas Morning 2011

2011-12-26T21:45:00.013-06:00

Santa stopped at our house!

Even the kitty knows the Christmas morning rule: no one leaves the stair case until Mom or Dad say so.

Just the 6 of us. Kind of a quiet Christmas but not really with 3 of them being young boys.

No more matching pajamas.

Pat Pat's made with love stockings.

Logan kept all the magic in Christmas for us. Any little decoration would excite him.

Everyone had a very nice Christmas indeed!

Jaden loved her kitty toys.

She has a pretty good vertical jump.

This is the best part for me. Christmas morning is over with and all the presents have been opened. This is the part where I can finally take a break, let the house get trashed, and just enjoy the kids.

The week after Christmas is always my favorite.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T15:59:00.005-06:00

Only if this was theirs to keep...

We got to babysit this cute little thing as he was a big Christmas surprise for Fischer and Reece on Christmas morning.

Christmas Eve was pretty easy for us as we had kids eager to go to bed. The sooner they got to sleep the sooner that Christmas morning would be here.

Santa is Coming Tonight

2011-12-24T18:57:00.002-06:00

Our "CHRISmas"

2011-12-24T05:12:00.008-06:00

We are thankful for the rain but so glad the kids could get out today and burn some of their energy off.

Uncle Chris was leaving for a Toledo Christmas so we had our own celebration tonight.

He had Tina and Tristan with him.

Making Buckeyes was on the agenda for the night.

Sharing a few gifts with each other.

We love Uncle Chris and so glad we could spend this night all together.

Baking With a Little Help From Friends

2011-12-24T04:54:00.010-06:00

I love serving in Young Womens with these girls. Love being surrounded by them and all that they add to my life. During a meeting last week, Tracy said lets have a day where we bake all day, so here it is.

Not sure they had my four kids in mind but it sure did add for some laughs. I know that my kids loved this day. Tracy and Tracey are 2 people you want to be around no matter what age you are.

Jackson's dough man

Larson, you can ice the cookies as long as you dont eat the frosting!

Tracy was the one to catch our little guy with the green tongue.

Homemade carmels by Tracey.

We ended up with cut out cookies, carmels, fudge, toffee bark, and I added in buckeyes.

This was such a great idea. I had a wonderful day with my family and friends, didnt worry about all that still needed to be done, and ended up with a ton of goodies to share!

A very successful baking day.

Austin City Limits

2011-12-21T17:08:00.009-06:00

I love doing first time things in Austin. Here is another for me. I had never been to Trulucks before. Thanks Chris for a wonderful dinner. Really like Trulucks.

First time going to Austin City Limits

We saw Robert Earl Keens. I did not even know who he is but he is really big in Texas. Loved his music. Really enjoyed the concert. The venue is amazing. Totally comfortable in this setting and would love to go back and see a show here.

Also, the first time going inside the W hotel downtown. I felt like I was in Vegas. Pretty amazing hotel.

Tom and I had a great night with Tina and Chris. Dinner was great, being downtown is always fun for me. We saw a really crazy cross dresser. Wish I had a picture of that, or her, or him.

Jordan's Winter Concert

2011-12-20T06:25:00.006-06:00

This has been a great Freshman year for Jordan in Choir.

It started off a little rocky as her schedule put her in the varsity choir so she was not with her friends in Freshman choir. Mr. Ferris, brand new director at VHS did not approve of this. He tried to get her switched out the first day but realized that her schedule would not allow for any other choir. He was not too happy with her and said this didnt mean she would be in varsity next year and that she certainly would not be going to UIL with the choir. This was all a little intimidating and stressful for Jordan. Not to mention the Freshman that did not approve of her varsity ranking either. I told her to hold her head up and take advantage of this and learn as much as she could.

Within 2 weeks they had started auditions for district choir. Jordan had to learn the music all on her own as they did not have a voice coach for her yet. She had a cross country meet the day of her auditions. She had to get approval for a late check in at the audition and we had to hurry from the meet to Marble Falls. It was very stressful once she got there because no one would get her checked in and then when someone did, her name was already being called in the other room.

End result was good! We were there when Mr. Ferris announced her name with 10 other VHS students.

Her success continued has she made it to Regional choir and even was chosen for a solo. Too bad, the choir could not get that piece together and it was cut from the concert. We also learned that day that Jordan missed the Pre Area choir by 2 seats. That is an accomplishment as a Freshman. Mr. Ferris quickly learned to love his little Freshman and is very excited to have her in his Varsity choir. She went on to sing in his Broadway Nights and is currently in the school musical and practicing for Solo and Ensemble. Mr. Ferris has her practicing the UIL music with the choir but he hasnt actually said that she is going yet. We will see! Very proud of Jordan and the hard work that she has put into this years choir.

I made the comment to Mr. Ferris that Jordan has a lot going on but is trying her very best in it all. He looked right at me and said "Yes, she does have a lot going on. She has more going on than a lot of the seniors in there". That was such a nice comment to hear about your daughter when you know that she is giving it her all in everything she does.

Larson Christmas Party

2011-12-19T09:48:00.004-06:00

Here is Larson so excited to be at his holiday party at school. He even wore jeans to school because he wanted to look nice. They had holes in both knees and he had a ragged old sports shirt on but that was dressing nice for his party. I use to be so into these parties. Making things at home and I was queen of the bingo games but after 10 years of doing these school parties, I have to admit that Im just not as into them. I act all excited for Larson and I attend so that he knows Im there with him. I take the one picture to capture the moment but I have to admit I have other things on my mind. Poor Logan! Maybe I will get a new burst of energy for him knowing that each thing I do with him will be the last.

It is fun to be with Larson and see how happy he always is!

Jake Robo the Robot

2011-12-17T13:14:00.000-06:00

Larson in Quest creating a recycle robot

BAAA!

2011-12-16T17:01:00.002-06:00

Logan was a very good little sheep in his school Nativity

Merry Texmas Ya'll

2011-12-10T18:50:00.014-06:00

December is here and we are trying to take some time this year to just do some things that we want to do and not be so scheduled.

We were driving through Marble Falls and along the lake they have a festival of lights. No schedule, on our own time so we were able to stop and enjoy the night.

This was a bonus since Austin isnt doing the Trail of lights for the second year in a row.

This is the first year that we have made it to Burnet, TX for the Main St. Bethlehem. I had always heard about it and wanted to see it. On this day, it had rained all day but was a really nice night. We only had to wait 20 minutes to get in. Some people wait over an hour and even this night it was very crowded inside.

So this is a live portrayal of what the city may have been like on the night that Jesus was born.

It was really neat to go in each of the buildings and see candles or rope being made. Guards were walking around and arresting people. Fresh bread was being baked in stone ovens. There were live animals including camels and donkeys. The Inn was very full and lots of people in it.

The last stop was seeing the little baby in a quite stable.

Logan was the only one that wanted to get in the chariot and he doesnt look too happy here.

Cookies & Hot Chocolate

The Young Women singing, Stand Tall, You Are a Daughter of God

Love this song and a great moment to just be with each of them.

Naomi made from scratch all these ginger bread houses for each girl to decorate.

Jordan's fun creation.

A little more shopping to do but most things taken care of for the Christmas season.

A couple parties scheduled but most of our time with be to do anything that we want to.

Tonight Larson made his own football board game and I just had the pleasure of the first person to play it with him.

Tom and Jackson are hunting with Uncle Chris

Jordan is taking a break from studying and is at Naomis birthday party.

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

2011-12-02T18:10:00.004-06:00

Its fun to still have a little one and watch him being so excited about Christmas.

He loved watching Rudolph with all of us.

He would hide every time the Abominable Snowman would appear.

I did end up sleeping most of the night with him because of that but he really did love it!

After he went to sleep, the big kids and myself laughed so hard at how old and ridiculous the show really is. Poor Rudolph, because he was a little different, he wasnt able to play in any reindeer games. I told the kids, lucky for them that times have changed a little.

It was a fun night- so sweet with our little one and just having a great time laughing with the older ones.

Possible Christmas Card

2011-11-30T13:15:00.002-06:00

We had our family pictures taken by a good friend and she was also doing our card for us. This was the first design she sent us.

Hilarious but I think we will go more traditional!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-28T11:05:00.017-06:00

I got to enjoy a little Thanksgiving pie social at Logan's Moms Day Out. He did a very cute song and he was really into it. I love to still take the time to do these little things with him.

Larson got to go on line and pick 3 Thanksgiving crafts to do.

This was one of them. These were suppose to be the place cards but we didnt have room for the names.

and craft no.2 double bonus for Larson because he loves to cook in the kitchen, if making rice krispie treats counts as cooking.

Of course, you can tell they are turkeys!

Dinner table ready to go

We are missing a kid here. Was sad for Jordan all day as she could not get out of bed. Just too sick. She missed Thanksgiving 2011 all together. Tom and I felt her pain a couple of days later.

The tired hosts

Not sure if Uno or chess gets played in our house more!

Jackson dreaming of his first deer.

Chris and Tina

Loved ending the night hearing Meaghan and her friend Mike play music. Meaghan took piano lessons but self taught the guitar and harmonica. They were great!

As always, lots to be thankful for.

Of course thankful for all the normal stuff: Family, friends, health, The Gospel, but I have things that go deeper with each one of those things. Its things that I think of daily that keep a smile on me on the days that dont go so great, it is those things that help me to make the choice to be happy each one of those days. Those are the things that I am thankful for.

San Antonio Weekend

2011-11-25T23:15:00.020-06:00

This was the first weekend that we could get away since coming back from the summer. We always head to San Antonio. There is allot to do there and weather is usually good through the winter months. Maybe we should start mixing it up a little with Dallas and Houston. For this day, we did Sea World.

The Dolphins are a pretty big deal. We can never get the kids away because they love touching them so much. Logan will ride any ride that they allow him on. This is the little Shamu coaster but he loves it. Yes, there were these festive Christmas creatures walking around on stilts. I have never seen something like this before.

These snowmen are the only kind you will find around here.

I couldnt get a great picture of Santa because of course they want you to buy their picture. He was a very cool cowboy Santa. I loved the cactus wreath.

Cute boot tree!

This is one of my favorite coasters. Steel Eel and it just goes up and down all the way for zero gravity feelings. Jordan doesnt usually ride this one but I wasnt feeling too well today so she rode with Jackson. Jackson likes the front row.

Last time we were here Logan was sooooo excited to ride Atlantis because he met the height requirement. He cries when he cant go on rides. So we got up to the top and started down backwards and he just started yelling help, help!!!. Everyone of us was laughing so hard!. It was so fun for us because all six of us were able to ride together. Logan got off and said he did not like it. So today, he wanted to get back on. He said he was not going to yell for help. We got to the top and went backwards and his face got all concerned and he started to yell, homa, homa. That is his word for home. Then we started down the big hill and he was yelling it even louder. We were laughing once again. He gets off and says he doesnt want to ride again. The very next time we go, he will want to ride again!

All the shows were Christmas!

A very sweet candy cane forest.

Austin had to go and cancel the Trail of Lights again this year. So this was our little Trail of lights for the season

JW Marriott in the hill country

I preferred the hot tub today as the sun really wasnt shinning very much.

This is the coolest pool area. The pools were huge and had a lazy river, and lots of slides.

Logan was happy because he was able to go on some of the slides. I was pretty much on the lounge chair all day. I just wasnt feeling well. Was thankful that we got to have a fun weekend away. Love that we have the week off for Thanksgiving. We all needed a break from school, work and scheduled activities.

Breaking Dawn

2011-11-23T08:40:00.008-06:00

I love having a daughter and I love that she drags me to the midnight premiere of Breaking Dawn. This is an old shirt that I had from the first movie. It says , I have my very own Edward.

Naomi, Jordan, and Jordan

Thanks to these girls and Michelle for getting to the theater at 7:00 to get the best seats in the house. Us late arrivees just cruised in at 10:00 to just sit down in those seats. Thanks so much for doing that for us! You cant see them very well here but the girls got together on Wednesday night and made t shirts for Breaking Dawn.

Here are the big girls:

Tracey, Me, and Michelle.

So much fun being here tonight and loved the movie!!!

This pretty much sums up the HUGE cliffhanger at the end!

2:30am

Dont these girls have seminary and school in a couple of hours?

A perfect night. Cant wait to see it again.

Tom is taking Jordan tomorrow night to see it.

He is pretty much just as excited as she is but we wont tell anyone that.

He is a good Daddy to be on the Twilight train with her!

Broadway Night

2011-11-21T08:47:00.004-06:00

Mr. Ferris is the new Choir director at VHS. It took a couple of weeks to warm up to him but we absolutely love him now. He has big plans for the choir. Broadway Night is a night that they can all audition with a Broadway song and then get to sing their solo. There were sweet desserts and just a nice night. Jordan was in between Regional Choir and Musical auditions so she really did not have time to learn a new song. She sang On My Own from Le Miserables that she sang in her spring recital. I loved hearing her sing that then so we were excited to hear her perform it again!

2 seniors and 4 Freshman

Way to go Freshman!

Championship Weekends for Larson

2011-11-18T13:49:00.006-06:00

This was a full on moment for Larson. He zigged and he zagged and he didnt stop running until he was in the endzone. I was so sad that I got there right after it happened. Tom was there to celebrate with him.

I was able to see this one later in the game go in.

Larson is just as much a cheerleader on the sidelines as he is a player on the field. This team was undefeated this season and made it to the finals. unfortunately they lost but it could not have been any closer of a game. There were lots of tears but all good sports they just have their hearts in it so much. Larson waited until we got into the car and his tears exploded. They did the very best that they could have done.

Win or lose, you still get snacks after the game!

So soccer weekend was pretty much like football. Not the outcome that they wanted so badly. The team only allowed 3 goals the entire season. The lowest of all teams. They won the first playoff game and lost by one goal to the only team that beat them in the regular season. Our boys were playing so hard. One boy broke his collar bone on our team.

Our coach told the boys that our trophys look exactly the same as the teams that beat us. The other team were all very good sports and that is a nice way to lose if that is going to be the end result.

Larson loves playing soccer and it is so much fun for us to watch him play and see his little face go so red from the non stop running that is involved.

Coach Bobby at the end of season football party said 4 things about Larson:

1) he notices that all the girls are always calling out Larson, Larson!

2)Larson is one of the nicest boys they know!

3)most coachable kid they have ever coached!

4)Larson never left a practice or game without coming to shake hands and thank his coaches!

Needless, to say we are very proud of you Larson!

Halloween Happenings 2011

2011-11-12T21:43:00.036-06:00

Jordan as Alice in Wonderland

Church hosted an outdoor Halloween dance for our youth. The weather could not have been more perfect and a full moon was included. They had a light show and cool decorations. Of course the one time that they dont need me as a chaperon I would have loved to been there. Jordan said it was the best dance she has been to. I am so thankful for our church dances that gives our kids a good environment to be in and have tons of fun.

Larson really did not have a great idea for his costume so we just went to the store and he became a skeleton.

Logan knew a long time ago (even before the Steiner Ranch fires) that he was going to be a "siretruck" . That means firetruck which equates to fireman and he is going to help people.

Our church trunk or treat and festival was held at a park in Steiner Ranch. Loved the venue and it worked out so well.

The youth did the games for the young kids. They really did a good job and tried to come up with some cool games. This was Logans favorite. Mummies were dressed up and running around this area. Logan got to try and shoot them with a nerf gun.

PUMPKIN BOWLING!!!

This is Jacksons costume. I know, hes just a cool dude. He really did not want to trick or treat or any of that. He is in middle school you know. When Jordan heard this, she would have none of it. She shamed him into not giving up such a major part of his childhood as she stated it. She tried to get him to be Justin Beiber but Jaxs would have none of that.

All 4 at trunk or treat or my Halloween candy supply as I call it.

Going to the Freezes Party. Yes, we got Toms chaps turned around.

Adult party down stairs and high school kids upstairs. There were over 50 kids.

Jim and Michelle as Popeye and Olive Oil

Susie and Ander as Beauty and the Beast. These costumes were amazing. Every part of them were hand made by Anders Mom. Wish I had a better picture to show the detail especially on The Beast.

The Eskelsons

Susie made these adorable mummy cookie pops. They were so cute and tasted great. She made them with a mint oreo cookie.

Jeff and Wendy Worth

You didnt have to look far to find Waldo here at this party. Very cute!

Tracey being the creepiest equestrian rider ever!

Jordan said this was the best party she had ever been too!

Larson was the only one into carving the pumpkin.

After all of this, Halloween is finally here.

Logan definitely ready to go

A very cool kid being a very cool skeleton.

Jordan, Sierra, and Cassie

I told Jordan all along that she was too old to go Tricker or Treating. Well, apparently only middle school is when the kids try to act older. I have found many things revert back with the high school kids. I love that things they do are just cool just because they can if they want to and if they dont then nobody cares.

So everyone was off for Trick or Treat and neighborhood haunted houses.

Father like son

It was warm out and both boys came back a sweaty mess.

Glad Jordan could be with her friends and have a great night.

So now the Roberts house has been filled with more candy than we have ever gotten in the past. Yes, full size candy bars are what they give out. So over the top. I have candy hidden everywhere in the house. They find it and I move it onto the next spot.

Halloween is always a little too busy for my liking but we had a fun week and its a great way to start off the holidays!

VHS Homecoming 2011

2011-11-12T11:08:00.014-06:00

Jordan's first mum.

I knew a little about this Texas tradition just from knowing some older kids. I did a pretty good job on Jordan's for her just being a freshman and she will not even be at school on Friday when they wear them. She had a district meet on that day. So all of this so she could wear it to the big game. I was happy to do it for her.

Jackson's Pop Warner team was in the parade. He really had allot of fun. Tom was chaperoning this group of boys so he was not having as much fun!

Jordan had to choose between choir, student council, drama, and cross country floats. She walked as a Freshman with her cross country team.

Larson and Logan were with me on the parade route. It was so much fun for them but sooooo totally ridiculous at the amounts of candy that each of them gathered.

Onto the game

It wont be long before these two are on the field for this game.

As always, Jordan sang the National Anthem with her choir.

I had never seen so many glow sticks. They were giving handfuls to everyone walking in.

Fireworks are banned so VHS brought in a really cool lazer light show into the stadium. I think I like that as our new tradition. It was very cool!

VHS has their very first Homecoming King and Queen.

At the game, Larson caught one of the Viper T shirts that they shoot out of a canon. You would have thought he won a million dollars. It was so funny!! Everyone around was laughing and thought he was the cutest thing ever.

Homecoming week sure is a busy one but I really love the community feel of that week and all the fun activities.

VHS won the game!

I loved Jordan's comment when we got home.

She said it looked like the boys just came from a flea market.

2011-11-08T12:38:00.013-06:00

Uncle Chris cheering on Jordan!

This was VHS first cross country meet that they have ever had. There were many hours put into making sure it was a success. It was an exciting week as all check list were completed.

Vandegrift has a tough but incredible trail. Parents have put in many hours to get it ready. We spent many a Saturday afternoon moving rocks.

Jordan bringing it in

almost there

to the finish line

she heads straight for water.

Her hair looked so cute today.

Jordan's Fans

Isabel and Jordan have gotten closer because of XC. They are very cute together. Isabel is fast and is on the Varsity team.

Dallas- Larson's soccer Team

2011-11-08T06:26:00.003-06:00

Larson puts his heart into everything that he does.

He puts soccer on the top of his sports list.

Always wants to be in the game. Here he is playing against the twin boys in his Sunday School class. (Jeremy and Justin)

He has tried to get it in the goal almost every way that he can think of. One shot almost went in and it was a header from Larson. It wasnt by accident either. It was fun to watch although would have loved to seen it go in being that close!

Maybe if Larson would stop dancing on the field he could get that goal. Just teasing Larson. You are too cute!

Very fitting food for the monkey that he is!

Larson is good friends with everyone on his team. These boys are all 2nd graders and they also play flag football and basketball together.

Go Dallas, Go Larson. We will be pulling for you and your team in the tournament.

The Scribners Visit Texas

2011-11-06T12:17:00.003-06:00

Troy had a job interview in Victoria, TX. They could fly into San Antonio or Austin. When Michelle heard this, it was very clear that they were flying into Austin!!!!!! That was a great phone call hearing that they were going to be able to visit with us.

We met the Scribners in Cincinnati while Troy finished his residency. I remember meeting Michelle at a Relief Society night. We cant remember who told her this but they told Michelle that we probably would not become close friends. Well, many years later and 9 kids total, we are still very close.

We only had a few hours to be together and this was Michelles idea: She did not want me to make dinner because she wanted us to be able to sit and just talk.

Very thankful for the few hours we got to be together. I have a knack for long distance relationships but in person is always better.

Thanks so much for making the extra effort Troy and Michelle.

Even though it would be nice for us to have you in Texas, we hope you will be able to stay in California!

Meet Dolphin

2011-11-04T12:38:00.000-05:00

This is dolphin, yet another small stuff animal to carry around. We went to Sea World and the next thing I know he was attached to this. Elephant and Dolphin became friends very fast.

This isn't always the case, sometimes its me carrying Logan, Elephant, Dolphin, and blankey.

Random picture before school. This was the first morning that he wore a jacket. Kind of funny when they don't know how to put their arms in long sleeves.

We may have a little Larson here. I did not help him with this project. I came into the kitchen to find this fine clay creation.

The only day that Austin has seen rain in months was the day we went out on the boat with Uncle Chris.

We needed the rain so badly that it was hard to complain. We had lunch and some hula hoop action instead.

St. Andrews Meet

2011-11-03T12:16:00.001-05:00

Warm ups, start line , and they are off.

This was the first meet that Tom was able to make it to. We got to see her about 4 times on the trail. She crossed at 17:09 and made this her best time yet. I even let her buy the meets t-shirt. Anyone that knows me knows that I despise how many t-shirts these kids have. She earned this one.

Brought back memories for Tom as he did XC in High School

The next weeks meet she came in at 15:50 to better her time once again!

JV girls

the very second that I took this picture the team tent over them blew away and got torn up. I cant believe that I was actually able to get this picture.

She continues to love XC and sets new goals each week.

I think the weekend after this, Jordan and I went out for a run. Some of it was timed miles and she did over 8 miles with no problem whatsoever. It was an amazing morning spending it out running with Jordan.

I have a new running partner!

Didnt Know 2nd Grade Could Be So Stressful

2011-11-02T11:08:00.006-05:00

Larson has a "I have to please everyone personality" , then add in the perfectionist personality that his Mom has sadly passed onto him and you have a stressed out 2nd grader. Luckily I realized this very quickly and have taken major steps in showing him imperfection can be just as acceptable and sometimes even better.

2nd grade is the first year that you have actual letter grades on your report card. He would have some tears while doing some math homework because he just had to have it be right. I found him one morning in the kitchen up earlier than his normal time and he was giving himself another spelling test for the one he was taking that morning at school. I can promise that he had already gone over those words more than enough times.

It took a few weeks before he brought home his graded school work. I pulled out the first one and it was a 100. Good Job Larson! Then pulled out the next one and it was a 100.

Actually every single paper had a 100 on it. Really Larson?? I think you can stop thinking about these grades so much. I got a call from his teacher and there were not enough kind words that she had to say about this kid. She even said that he was the smartest kid that she has ever taught. Im not so sure about that but I do know that he is a great kid. The only concern she had was that he seemed to be a little hard on himself. I told her that we were working on that. She said that her and every other teacher know they can always count on Larson to pair him up with another student that needs help with something. He is so compassionate and cares about how others are doing. Im having to teach him about peoples personal space as he loves to pat on the back and get really close. He is the first to pick up a kid that is down on the sports fields. As cool as that is, I had to let Larson know that he was really stressing about nothing and that he needs to go a little easier on himself.

Here is a picture of Larson after attending my stress free rehab for a couple more weeks. Its really not as bad as this sounds but its just funny to watch Larson. He is by far our easiest kid.

Yes, he made 100's on his continent unit.

He proudly brought home straight A's on his first report card.

We are very proud of Larson!

Texas VS BYU

2011-10-27T18:43:00.009-05:00

Kind of embarrassing but after 7 years I finally made it to my first Texas game.

I love football, I love Texas but our Saturdays consist of our own games with little Roberts people playing in them.

Us with Chris and Tina.

This was a really fun game to go to as they were playing BYU. Yes, I was pulling for Texas all the way but it was neat to be around so many BYU people. I haven't had much of an opportunity to do that.

The game was a ton of fun. Yes, Tom and I heard all the Mormon jokes from Chris' friends. It was even more fun to watch their faces after we told them that we were Mormon.

Hopefully it will not be another 7 years before we get to another game. Thats a perfect night for me!

Steiner Ranch Fire

2011-10-15T17:14:00.007-05:00

(This is what we saw coming into downtown on Monday night- this was part of the Bastrop fire that burned over 1500 structures)

This Sunday started out like any other.

Coming home from church we noticed smoke in the sky. It looked like it was over by our neighborhood. We kept turning corners and I thought maybe it is at the Oasis again. We got a little closer and realized, oh my this is in Steiner Ranch. We could see the fire and we were still able to pull into the first entrance. We pulled over and could not believe how big this was. We didnt want to be in the way so we went on home. I could see smoke and was a little uneasy but we had people coming over for dinner so I just started on that. I kept hearing sirens and seeing smoke. It was really weird outside. I was really getting worried but Tom wanted things to be as normal as possible. The kids were also getting nervous.

We lost power, our company said that they could not get in to Steiner. All roads were closed. Then I started getting text that said to evacuate.

This all got very crazy in a small amount of time.

I didnt pack anything as I was trying to finish our dinner and figure out what was going on.

I went outside and then the cop told us mandatory evacuation. We needed to get out right then.

I think that is when Tom realized what we had to do. The kids each got their blankets and I got the cat. Thats all we took with us. When we got to the end of our road and I saw how much smoke there was, I made Tom turn back to let me get my scrapbooks and computer.

Driving out of Steiner took almost 2 hours. It was unbelievable to just see homes going up in complete flames. Some of the homes just exploded.

It was such a surreal event happening right before our eyes. Just could not believe it.

So we were on our way to Uncle Chris' house for the night.

So the night turned into 2 days. We were glued to the TV and computer the entire time as we were getting updates on the fire and when we could go back home.

72 hour kit has a new meaning for us but we did just fine without them. We kept expecting to be able to go back home and then we would hear that no decision was going to be made until later. Steiner Ranch lost 24 homes completely and another 30 damaged. We felt bad for those that lost everything. Some literally had the back of their house on fire before they realized and they had to leave out the front with nothing with them.

We were thankful to have Uncle Chris' house to stay at. Yes, we had some fun while we were there.

Thank goodness Larson really does not smoke or drink but

I will admit that my family loves to play poker. They get it from their father's side of the family.

I always joked that if there was a fire, I would get the kids and my scrapbooks. Never did I really think that would actually be a day and to think that those are the things that we really did take with us. (well, not the kids, the scrapbooks)

It was so great to come back home and have a home to come back to!

Happy Logan

2011-10-13T14:37:00.000-05:00

Sometimes Happy Meals just make you happy.

Logan Rides the Bus

2011-10-12T09:10:00.000-05:00

This is Logan waiting for the bus! Yes, he is waiting for a school bus to come and take him away from his Mommy! I can not believe that I have put my 3 year old on a bus. It was something that I wouldnt have even considered at the end of last year but things change. As I was driving him far away to his speech class and trying to figure out how to fit the 6 hours a week in, it just came to me that I needed to reconsider the bus. It took me about 2 weeks to decide on it but it was what was best for our family given the heavy schedule that we carry with 4 schools and Logan's speech school also.

Here's the best part: He LOVES the bus as does his brothers. He goes out 30 minutes before just waiting. He got right on and I had to make him kiss me goodbye. He is only 1 of 2 boys that rides. It has AC on board and they have their own little built in car seats. He has toys around him and a personal assistant to meet any of his needs as he goes to school.

Logan has already learned that he has school days that he rides in the car and speech class that he takes the bus. Obviously, the first day of kindergarten will not be very hard for me.

Sam and Logan

2011-10-11T08:12:00.000-05:00

This is Sam. He is Logan's BFF as Larson says. This was Sams 3rd Birthday and he came swimming with us. Logan got a letter book for Sam. Sam is the cutest thing ever and he is obsessed with letters. Yes, this kid reads and spells many words. Maybe some of that will rub off on Logan. Poor Logan, being number 4 has its issues. I would walk around with flashcards in front of Jordan teaching her letters. Now, I just say, Logan will figure them out eventually!

Pop Warner PW White 2011

2011-10-06T21:53:00.019-05:00

Jackson loves game day

sideline practice snaps

something I have learned: center is the first step in getting any play completed.

Jackson on the line- offense and defense

Logan brings lots of friends to the games

sometimes Dad has to get something in Jackson's head...

sometimes you get a little banged up....

but we always have your back Jackson.

Logan's view from the top of the stadium.

Luling, TX

2011-10-05T09:36:00.011-05:00

2nd meet and I am learning that they are all different in their own way.

This Saturday morning was an early rise that included Logan this time. We drop Jordan off with the team and set out in the darkness to drive to Luling, TX. Really enjoy the ride through the Texas country with the sun starting to rise. Yes, Logan and I do a breakfast date at McDonalds. I saw some of those old towns that you think of in Western movies. I saw a high school that didnt look like much more than a one room school house. That is amazing that such a simple life still exists.

So we are coming close to Luling and there is a really bad smell in the air. That would be Texas oil. This little town is known for it. There are some big oil companies working here but the thing that is so unique is that almost every business and home has an oil rig of their own that are real and working. They all have their own personality. Here are a few of them that I took pictures of.

Cutest little town and I guess you just get use to the smell and dont notice it.

Varsity and JV team warm ups.

I really do like small town atmosphere but prefer living in a bigger city. I had to take a picture of this Volkswagon. This Volkswagon with its side door open was the source of music for this meet. In comparison to the mega complex of a 5A brand new Houston school that we were at last week. The music was piped out through a state of the art sound system. So there is a huge difference between these first two meets but both very cool in their own ways.

Jordan was in a little shock that the warm up was 2 miles and then they only had a couple of minutes before she had to run her 2 miles. They ran on the road through the schools little neighborhood. She did better than her first meet so that was good. It's still a little crazy to me seeing Jordan out running. Of course, it makes me smile.

And this really makes me smile.

A quick team photo at the coaches meeting and then they are off to finish their required mileage. Logan and I get back in the car and head to Austin!

One of my happiest places is watching our kids in their activities.

VHS PEP RALLY

2011-10-05T09:33:00.000-05:00

First VHS pep rally of the season. (I love pep rallies and its great for the community but I think that 4 points and VHS is going a little overboard with them) It seems like every other week there is another community pep rally. Not that anything is wrong with it, just hard on the schedule.

Jordan started out with the Varsity Choir singing the National Anthem.

Then ran around the track to take off her top layer of clothing....

so she could run in with the cross country team.

Jordan's coaches dancing to the Viper Strike song.

With VHS being a new school, they are trying hard to make their own new traditions. This pep rally went on forever as they were showing, teaching, and practicing all the new dance moves.

The Legacies dance team. These girls are good! They are fun to watch. They get to be in the Macys Day Parade this Thanksgiving.

Jackson giving thought on the night... Actually the first thing he said was that the girls in the cowboy hats were really good. That's how good they really are that Jackson would even notice and then comment on them.

Really love being a part of this community!

Lucky Girl!

2011-10-04T08:10:00.000-05:00

I have never owned running shoes so nice!

These are what I have always called running shoes but coach has taught me that these are called Trainers. So in XC encyclopedia there are spikes and trainers. I still call them running shoes.

Back to School 2011

2011-10-03T07:37:00.000-05:00

Jordan entering High School. This is a big wow for me. I remember my first day like it was not that long ago and here she is (so we do know that was long ago). I feel like the count down is on. 4 years until she moves on. I want to take in all of those 4 years and make them the best.

It has been very exciting getting to learn all about our new high school. I have been able to see both the academic and athletic sides of the school. It is an incredible campus and our kids are so very lucky to have a school like this to go to every day. She may not appreciate the every day but I know she will love it there.

The coolest thing about her going to school the first day- it was just like the last 3 weeks of dropping her off there every morning before the sun comes up for practice. There were not any tears from me as it was just like another day. Jordan didn't have to be nervous as she already knew what she was doing. Joining the XC team gave her a set of friends and lots of upper classmen to show her the way.

Middle School- another first for Jackson. I have to say, like we didnt already know this but a HUGE difference between a girl entering middle school and a boy entering. Jackson was just so laid back about the entire thing. He went to Eagle camp, a small orientation and acted like he had already done this many times before. He didnt seem nervous at all and he just kept saying , "Ive got this". I think that he does have this. He has adjusted to the middle school with complete confidence. He does have to actually study for test now and that was something to get use to. He changes out for PE every day and has not forgotten his clothes yet. Jaxs had to get use to the concept that some times teachers have you come in before or after school. He had to learn a new level of responsibility very quickly. The funniest difference so far between Jordan and Jackson was the first school dance. Jordan planned for weeks ahead and had a pre dance party at our house. I forgot that Jackson was even going to his first dance as they changed the time to start right after school. He liked it but had to leave early for football practice.

Jackson really really likes being at the middle school.

One more funny thing- he will only wear sports clothes to school and thats fine with me. I gave up on nice shirts and plaid shorts a long time ago. The one thing that I did notice was that I had bought him black socks over the summer because that is the new trend. He continued to wear his white socks right up until he got to the middle school. He converted to black very quickly.

Larson-starting 2nd grade.

Larson is the easiest this year as he is at the same school and keeps the same schedule. He is also the easiest because he takes pride in getting himself completely prepared and ready each day by himself. (unfortunately quite literally a few times as I was getting Jordan to early morning seminary)

Larson has big goals set for the year and I know he will work hard towards them.

Logan was excited to finally get to go to school. He did not start for 2 weeks after the other kids. He gets to go to speech class on Mon and Wed. and he goes to St. Lukes preschool on Tues. and Thursdays. Logan is second to wake up in the morning and the 4th to leave. Once Jackson is gone each morning, Logan asks if it is his turn. Yes, Logan it is your turn!

First Cross Country Meet

2011-10-02T06:33:00.000-05:00

When I first looked on a web site for VHS XC, I saw that the first meet was before school even started. That did not surprise me. What did surprise me was that it was in Houston. As a new freshman mom, I wasnt sure if I went, would I be the hovering mother and be the only one there or if I didnt go, would I be the only Mom not there? This was a 3 hour drive to watch my kid run 1 mile. Well, I decided that Larson and I would make a little date out of it. He was eager and loved waking up in the middle of the night to go. Along the way, we stopped for breakfast at McDonalds. It was fun to have one on one with Larson.

The atmosphere at the meet was really cool. Such a nice school complex and lots of teams. Turns out that there was pretty good representation from VHS parents.

Jo, right before her race. Wasnt sure how she would do. Was pretty nervous for her. I think she was probably nervous enough for herself. I could see her at all times even though she got pretty far away. It was an exciting race to watch.

How else to do you entertain yourself at a XC meet?? Larson was running of course!

She did pretty good and we have to say, yes she came in last for VHS but she did not come in last from all the schools. We felt like that was a huge accomplishment and hard work starting to pay off.

Seriously, was so much fun to watch this kid run one stinkin mile (she only ran one Freshman mile for the race but they logged in 5 miles for the morning) and was so proud of her.

This picture looks like I rode my Harley Davidson to Houston.

After the meet, got back in the car and drove home the 3 hours. I was so glad that Lars and I made the trip. It was so worth it.

The Cake Boss Wanna Be

2011-10-01T06:19:00.001-05:00

The Cake Boss has become a favorite TV show at our house. He's amazing!

Last Christmas Jordan asked for a fondant kit and Santa did not get it. So for her birthday, 6 months later, it reappeared on her list. That must mean it is something that she really would like to have. So she got a fondant kit for her birthday. One problem, it did not come with Fondant. It took us another 3 months to get that part of it.

Jordan had one day free before school started and she was going to make a cake. I had to go out and buy ingredients for it. OK, have fun Jo and make your cake.

5 hours later and I'm not joking!

I was so surprised at the cake she made for her first attempt.

I don't think that I gave her enough credit for her cake baking skills.

The boys were so happy that she made the cake. They knew there would be cake eating at the Roberts house!

Good job Jordan, I mean cake boss.

Orange Juice

2011-09-30T06:17:00.000-05:00

This kid loves Orange Juice!

Birthday Boys

2011-09-28T17:50:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday to two of my favorite guys.

One of them has a little more favorite in him than the other but we wont tell him that.

Kiki and Isaac, our new Texas residents!

So neat to have family close by.

Uncle Chris and Jo

We did an ice cream cake for the first time ever. Its just like ice cream and cake but just together. Colby was pretty happy about the ice cream cake.

Stunt Camp

2011-09-22T16:10:00.014-05:00

Back in May Jackson presented his Quest project on Stunts. We found out about this stunt camp and was trying to get him in as he was doing his study. We were not able to make it happen but later in the summer we were able to get him in. He still wanted to just because he thought it would be fun. We got two spots, one for Jackson and one for a friend to go with him. Well, this was Larson's lucky day. I was really surprised but Jackson really wanted Larson to go with him. Larson could not believe that he was getting to go!

As I was dropping them off, Logan got to play around a little.

Larson was pretty small to be there. That will not stop him from trying. I dont think that Larson will ever become a stuntman as he is really afraid of heights. On the climbing wall and ropes course he made sure to keep it all low.

Steve Wolf is a major Hollywood Stunt coordinator. He has many major TV and film credits. One of the biggest being Stunt Coordinator for the Spiderman movie. He is from Texas and has this stunt camp on his Ranch.

Jackson was in heaven!

Larson was determined to not let size or age hold him back.

Besides all the fire and explosions, the zip line was one of Jaxs favorites. He tried many times to do it upside down but just couldnt get the flip right.

Larson liking the zip line

I did not stay for the day but there were many stunts with fire and they even made it snow on the set. Wish I had pictures of all of this.

FIRE IN THE HOLE!

Two really dirty and happy brothers at the end of the day.

There is a camp where you can actually be filmed doing stunts in a movie.

That is next on Jacksons list of things to do.

This is an amazing camp and I am so glad the boys got to be a part of it.

A little bit of Hollywood right here in Austin.

Vandegrift XC Team 2011

2011-09-22T15:50:00.003-05:00

This is Jordan's first picture with her cross country team. The beginning of this story goes back June 6th of this year. When making her Freshman schedule for school she was very very determined to find a way that she did not have to take actual PE. Cheer was out of the question since she retired from that a year ago, dance was a consideration, but I had a crazy idea for Jordan. Jordan, do you want to try to be on the cross country team???

She looked at me and pretty much rolled her eyes and said I hate running the timed mile.

How did we get from there to here???

June 6th we hit the road running. We continued through out the entire summer even running in the sand on the beach. A mile was tough each day. Two miles got harder. There were some tears and I had some rather loud words for her sometimes. Slowly but surely she kept on going.

When we arrived back in Austin on July 18th. I had to drop her down town at Town Lake to meet up with her team. This was really hard for me as she just had to get out of the car and go find her team. She had no idea what the next 2 hours would bring for her. I was a really nervous Mom. I had no idea what to expect when I picked her up. There could have been tears and major melt downs and rather loud words for her Mom....... but to my delight and astonishment it was the exact opposite. It was all positive. She loved running downtown. So day one down and things are looking pretty good.

The next 4 weeks brought practice every day. Every day Jordan was more and more excited. What was once something she hated, slowly started to become a part of her.

This was the teams first event. Dusk Till Dawn. It was a fundraiser where they ran the track in turns from 7pm to 7am. She was so excited and loved it!

One of the first things that I had to buy for my high schooler was a pillow pet. Really?? isnt that for elementary age kids?? Apparently not-even some boys had them.

Cant wait to see what this season brings for Jordan!

Uninvited Friends

2011-09-18T05:50:00.000-05:00

The boys were out playing and look what they found. Im not a fan of snakes and I realize that they are just trying to find water but I prefer that they would not look in my yard. My next door neighbor took a 4ft Rattle snake out of her pool the next week. Lots of snakes in Texas!

Its Football Time Again

2011-09-16T17:23:00.009-05:00

August 1st is a date sketched on the calendar for anyone that has a boy playing Pop Warner football. Its a date that you look forward to, starting a new season.

Jackson was very dedicated to training all summer so that he would be in shape and ready to go. He definitely was ready for all the conditioning thats included in the first couple of weeks. Very proud of you Jackson for that. Every single practice was in temperatures over 100 and he seemed to handle it just fine.

Before school starts, its easy for us all to come and enjoy watching him practice.

Jackson gets to spend more time with friends on the team and get use to a different coaching staff. He actually had the head coach for this team last year as one of his coaches and Tom is coaching also. The ever so anticipated weigh ins. Jaxs was right at 100. Even though Jackson is pretty big, there were allot of the boys weighing in at a much heavier weight.

Love this picture of Erik! It is hot hot hot out there and he cools off with a fashion statement.

My favorite picture of Jackson, pre season.

Go Vipers White!

Girls Camp 2011-Oh the Places You Will Go

2011-09-08T10:37:00.000-05:00

2nd day being home Jordan got to leave for her girls camp. This is the one thing that she makes sure that nothing else interferes with on her schedule.

Sis Hansen made these adorable Dr. Suess shirts for the girls.

Bring your ear plugs when you come. Hundreds of young girls singing camp song after camp song. They all seem to love it.

Fun seeing Bishop get down to YMCA.

I always make it out to camp for our Ward night. This year was a little tougher for me because I had to have Logan with me. I still love the atmosphere that is at this camp and I know that Jordan loves this week so much!

This is what we call a Downgrade

2011-09-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

Roberts children we are sorry to inform you, you have been downgraded from the beach life to a slip n slide in your back yard.

You have to do what you have to do with 100 plus temps outside.

Back in Texas

2011-09-06T22:23:00.001-05:00

A nice safe drive home and the car is unpacked!

First thing on the schedule for us is Jordan down at Town Lake by 5:50am to meet her cross country team.

Suddenly vacation is over!

Last Week in HHI

2011-09-03T16:01:00.019-05:00

Larson had his own suitcase packed for the summer with his "beachwear"

This is what we call "Launching Larson"

These include the "HI MOM, THE PENCIL, THE BUTT FLOP, and WALKING ON AIR".

Logan in training

Big waves at the beach makes that beach day a 10.

We were lucky to get a couple of those.

Spending time at the Water Inlet

Lots of fun with the tide changes.

Logan literally rolling in fun

The last day at the beach is one where I take it all in and try to not be sad that its over but happy that it happened.

I love summer. I love the beach. Everyone knows that about me. Cold weather, well it just makes me cold. We have always been so blessed to be able to spend time at the beach in the summer. We get to spend so much time with family and friends. This one seemed to be the best ever. I hardly ever heard the kids say that they were bored. I just had happy kids having tons of fun. I love my blue toes and the sand between them. So thankful for this summer and all that were involved!

Foss Family Photos

2011-08-26T08:12:00.000-05:00

This is remarkable in and out of itself to just have us all together in one place!

The photos were taken at my Mom and Dads house.

It was a perfect setting.

Pat Pat, Papa, and Boydie with their 9 grandchildren and great grandchildren for Boydie.

This is crazy cool.

5 Generations!

The originals

4 Sisters

It must have been funny

It was really hot out and I was really struggling to get all these pictures done. Glad to see I was laughing.

We always kept the parents on their toes!

Jackie's family

4 generation shot

Us with our Boydie

Our attempt at family picture. After many takes we never got it all right. I will edit from these and get a good one.

Jackie and Haylie

Jackie and Sage

Jackie I hope you get these 2 framed!

Ashley's little family

Kathe's family

This is the best!

As they are looking at each other and smiling:

Sage: I really hate taking all of these pictures

Haylie: I know, me too

They never broke pose.

Charlene's family

All Blondes

So apparently, I was having some fun out at the photo shoot. I didn't quite remember it that way. I will say that I will love all of these pictures more than any other possession that I have. So thankful for this week with my family.

Still in NC

2011-08-20T19:40:00.001-05:00

This was a last minute decision to go and get our toes done. Certain people have this done all the time and there was a certain someone that this was her very first pedicure. She loved it!!

Aunt Jackie was the only young girl not there. She had the boys and Haylie at Putt Putt golf.

Thanks Aunt Jackie for doing that and we missed you.

Ashley took the little ones to the park but I guess it was very hot and they ended up...

at a jumpy house. I'm sure that was really fun for them.

Aunt Kathe and Jordan

Papas trains are a hit with the kids. Unfortunately Logan broke one of Papas trains shortly after being there.

Papa and Logan had a special date at the train station.

He took Logan to watch the passenger train come in.

such a sweet moment seeing them with their train hats and off to the train station.

So happy to get one trip to Zack's Hot Dogs.

Not sure if Aunt Char almost dropped Tyler or if she was entertaining her with funny faces.

Jackson loves the glass bottles there.

We played Scategories. This was Larsons favorite. The game started with a few but as the night went on everyone got in on it. I loved simply being with everyone and laughing as we played the game.

Mom with her beautiful girl.

Cousins and best friends

It took a few nights but we finally had Papa build a fire down by the river.

It is so beautiful and peaceful here.

We cooked New York Hot Dogs and made smores!

Aunt Jackie and Larson

It was so cool how many fun things we got to do in the one week we were in NC.

I loved being with all of our family!

Haylie's Baptism

2011-08-20T06:50:00.000-05:00

Haylie's Special Day

Proud Mommy, Big brother Sage, and Haylie

Haylie did have a very special day today. It was her baptism and every member of her family was able to be there. Jackie was able to plan this during our family reunion. The baptism was really neat with lots of family participation. Her cousins all sang for her and Jakie and Aunt Kathe were able to give talks. Papa was the one to do the actual baptism. Jordan sang a solo for Haylie. Everyone had a small part, whether it was saying a prayer or playing the piano.

We all gathered at Ashley and Brian's afterwards. Ashley always has such an inviting home and she made a wonderful spread of food.

Hard to believe that this beautiful girl is already 8. Watch out Jackie, before you know it, she will be in High School.

So glad that my family could share this day with Haylie.

Juliana

2011-08-19T08:48:00.000-05:00

Meet Juliana or Jules, Pat Pat and Papa's new baby.

We were raised with Golden Retrievers, in fact it is the only breed of dog our family has had.

Nothing is cuter than a Golden puppy as far as I am concerned.

It was a little crazy throwing a new puppy into the mix when there were so many people and things going on. I am so glad that they picked her up while we were there so we could all play and love on her!

So Cute! Jules would get so tired and head to the cool tile for a nap.

I have always loved Golden's. Got very close to getting one of my own while I was in college. Luckily, my smart sister, Char was able to talk me out of it. Just wasn't the right time in my life.

Then kids came along and I still have not been able to find that right time.

My kids would do anything to have one of these live at our house.

Twins!

Jackson thinks he should use this on his election posters for student council.

Jackson Roberts- puppy lover!

Vote for me, I love puppies.

He thinks that will get enough of the girl votes to win.

It was so much fun being with Jules for the week. They grow fast and the next time we see her she will be a big dog.

Tyler Jean Debruin

2011-08-18T07:10:00.011-05:00

Could not wait to get to meet Tyler and just love on her. Its amazing that just about one year after Zane and Ben were born and shortly taken back to live with their Heavenly Father, Tyler is here in our arms.

My sister, a Grandma. Now that's weird for me but she is loving her new calling in life.

Tyler is the most cuddly baby.

Aunt Buddy loves all the rolls. I cant stop squeezing and loving!

Love seeing my sister with her grand baby.

She was literally manhandled by many different people for the week and she was sooooo good.

We went swimming one afternoon and Tyler just floated in the water so happy for the entire time. She is such a doll.

Baby cereal for the first time!

Tyler is like a little Eskimo to me. Brain said she reminded him of the baby in IceAge. I have to agree with that. I was 12 when Ashley was born and I was very close to her. I remember everything about her. Now she has a little clone! She really does look like Ashley but it is very easy for me to see Brian. Sometimes she looks just like her Dad. All I know is this baby girl is loved by her Mom and Dad so much and all of us. Ashley went through more than anyone I know to be holding this little girl in her arms. So happy for them and I was so sad when I had to kiss her goodbye.

I will be looking at the blog and hearing about how fast you are growing up Tyler.

Cant wait to see you again soon.

My Grandma Boydie

2011-08-12T06:56:00.009-05:00

This summer has been referenced as "the best summer ever" more than once. I would agree with that for many reasons. Right before we started our summer, we found out that Mom and Dad were driving to Canada and bringing Boydie back with them. This was a really big deal as we never thought that Boydie would be back in NC again. This was the cause of the entire family now being together with alternate plans being made for some and change in flights for others. Nothing had me more excited than the entire family being able to be with Boydie. Logan was not in this picture but I'm sure he was off being wild somewhere.

Here is Boydie with her great great grandchild. We had 5 generations at this gathering!

One shot from our family picture day.

I do have to tell the story that my grandma was upset with me here. Just to make it clear, when I say that we are wearing anything as long as it is blue jean and white, that doesn't actually mean that you have to be wearing a real pair of blue jeans. The older people in the family thought that is what was meant. So when Jo and I came out in dresses that made some people a little mad. As far as my Mom goes, don't understand what the issue was as I have never seen her in anything other than blue jeans or a church dress on Sundays. For Boydie, I could see why this was an issue, she always was concerned with looking her best. I had told her a couple of days earlier that she could have worn the white pants she had on. She just didn't hear or understand me. Anyway, it all worked out and how adorable was she with her bling on! So glad that I have this picture of her with my family.

I must have taken a photo every time Boydie had the baby. Tyler was actually a bit too heavy for Boydie and she didnt hold her for very long.

This was one of my favorite pictures of the day. It looked like we were on a movie set. It was very complicated trying to get people in all of the right spots for the pictures. It was very hot and sunny, therefore the sunglasses on Boydie and the umbrella. Then we would be taking pictures and someone would realize Boydie still had on her glasses. Look closely at Logan. He was being bribed with money at this point. Hes not a picture taker as you will see in all of the family photos. There I am, trying to be the ring leader and just make these photos a success. How often do you have every single member of your family together and an entire 5 generations!

I could not have been happier that we all got to once again be with Boydie. It is tough with us living in Texas and now Boydie lives back home in Canada full time. I just didnt know if I would ever be able to get us all up there together. I thought of taking Jackson this past spring so he could work on a Niagra Falls project but then I was just feeling too guilty that the other kids could not go.

I was just so thankful that Mom and Dad went to go and get her and make such a quick trip out of it so that it would fit in with everyones plans.

Boydie, you are part of the "best summer ever".

We love you!

Simple But Fun

2011-08-11T14:50:00.016-05:00

First we had to get the wasp nest out of the horse swing and then it was time for some fun

Haylie looks a little disappointed here waiting her turn.

and then there are some that might be a little too big for this!

Feeding the geese

Dont understand why my little ones think that Grandma Pat is a wrestling partner. Thats how they always end up playing right up until Pat Pat has to get her inhaler to breathe.

Papa is building a garage, aka, hole in the ground or house for trains.

color time with cousin Ashley

Fishing Time

So there is always Foss family drama when we are together but my heart was so happy just having us all together and watching all of these wonderful memories being made for my kids.

Now being back in Austin with a full schedule, I wish we all could just be back at the farm for simple moments like these.

Papa's Tractor

2011-08-11T14:09:00.008-05:00

I can remember when this was one of Jordan and Jackson's favorite things to do. Now it is Larson and Logan's turn.

Logan would ask for the tractor every day. Sometimes Juliana got to go along for the ride.

and sometimes Logan had to be driving by himself.

There certainly is enough room to ride around on the farm. This is where my friends and I would ride our horses. I went to a city High School out of my district. My house was a popular one with the kids, being out in the country.

When we pulled up to a Home Depot they have all their little tractors out front and Logan yells "Papa"!

Who to go to First?

2011-08-08T18:08:00.007-05:00

There was way too much excitement happening at Pat Pat and Papa's house. We didnt know who to go to first.

We had Pat Pat

Grandma Boyd

Baby Tyler

(I put the bow in her hair-not her Mom)

and the newest baby, Juliana

This was going to be a fun week.

Aunt Jackie, Sage, & Haylie Visit

2011-07-30T20:55:00.021-05:00

My sister Jackie came to visit from NC.

Char, Jackie, and I enjoyed one dinner out with our friend San Juan.

Endless hours of fun to be had at the beach. A perfect place to play and spend time with cousins.

Lunch time for Logan was always in his stroller followed by a "walk". The walk always ended with an afternoon nap.

Even the best constructed sand castles come down with the tides.

Sage & Jackson

Aunt Jackie was total fun for Logan in the pool

Jordan built a castle for Logan

He sat and decorated with shells

This was a message to Tom but my phone was dead so I couldnt send it.

Time for sand ball wars.

Sage and Jackson VS Haylie and Larson.

They each made forts for protection and lots of sand balls. Then they had fun having their sand ball fight.

Logan's fun was tearing down the forts of sand.

4th of July was very low key for us this year. We spent the day at the beach and then came back to Chars house. We only had sparklers. If we had of gone to see the big fireworks, we would have been hours in traffic to get home and we were leaving for NC the next morning.

Very thankful for the time we had together. So sweet seeing these kids together

Back to Hilton Head

2011-07-25T07:41:00.010-05:00

This is Singleton Beach. It is a public beach and it is a long sandy walk to get out to the beach but it is one of our favorites. It has a waterway that goes back into outlets with crabs and lots of rocks. This is where the kids like to hang out. Just gives them another place to go exploring.

This is a very big star fish that is alive and doing well. We see little ones all the time but I have never seen one this big on the beach.

on the back side of the water way there are sand dunes. These are protective ones just where the water goes in and out constantly with the tides. A great place to play.

Bird Chasing is also a sporting event out here.

So happy spending our days at the beach!

Magic Kingdom

2011-07-22T19:30:00.001-05:00

We are ready for a very fun filled day

First ride of the day Thunder Mountain.

This is the face of total excitement when he saw the train come around.

He could not wait to ride it!

I did not anticipate that this would be the ride that he talked about all day and wanted to ride. He called it the choo choo train.

This is Larson's trio attempt for the day. He wanted to conquer all 3 mountains

One happy face that he accomplished them all. Not that he is a big fan of them. Big rides are not his thing yet but he just cant stand that he would be left out of something.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Logan did not like this one very much but he loved the people mover. Who doesn't love the people mover???

This ride has replaced Dumbo for us. Dumbo has too long of a line and this is the exact same ride just with flying carpets instead of elephants and short lines.

Logan was not happy with not riding the elephants but we did get his picture with one and he seemed OK with that.

He couldnt make it through the day without a little rest time.

Buzz

A dance party. Logan got his nervous face on but liked being there.

We missed Daddy!

Another great day at the Magic Kingdom

I have always loved this place and always will. So glad that I can see my kids having so much fun here.

Disney Resort

2011-07-16T19:05:00.000-05:00

The Kanes were off to Atlanta for a volleyball tournament. Char, the kids and I moved over to this resort. Water and wet would be the key word for this weekend. When we checked in, it was pouring and we were very wet. This place was beautiful and we made the most of it.

All the buildings around this lake were part of the resort. Each one had a different type of pool. When it wasnt pouring we would walk around and check each one out. Here, Logan found a little kiddie sprinkler park. The bigger kids were next door at a lazy river.

From our room you could see Mount Everest and Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios.

The kids thought that was cool.

Thanks Aunt Char for inviting us.

Animal Kingdom

2011-07-15T08:47:00.000-05:00

This picture was taken at the end of the day and yes, we were all 100% wet getting to the car but at least we didnt have the rain the entire day. This is what we had:

All the above people got into Animal Kingdom free as guest of a Disney Cast member. How awesome is that? My sister Kathe is good friends with them.

Lion King show. Have seen it probably 10 times and would see it 10 more times! I knew right where to seat Larson thinking that he would get picked to be in the show. He did and I was really excited ...... right up to the part when I realized he wanted to do it but was probably just a little too cool to be doing something like that. Oh no, our Larson is growing up. I hope he doesnt lose his zest and flair for life!

Little guys have to stay back. This left Logan crying hysterically and Larson counting his blessings that he was just too short to ride.

Mount Everest:

This is the ride that made the decision which park we would go to. The last time we came to Animal Kingdom they did not have it.

A great roller coaster. Totally loved just wish my body would love it as much. The kids, Aunt Char, and Aunt Kathe ran to get back on it but I opted out as I did not want to start feeling bad.

Logan and Mom just got off of the Kahli Water Rapids. Guess what?? We were the ones to go under the waterfall. Nothing like having your clothes on and completely soaked. Logan looooved it! He really wanted to ride again.

This picture represents all my luggage that I brought on my trip. I must really learn the art of packing less!

The Safari.

Such a cool ride and you get a different experience each time you ride.

Sean with his girlfriend Ashly joined us in the afternoon.

The Dinosaur ride: I went on it about 4 times too many but Jackson loved it.

This is the part where we terrorized Logan. This is one of those 4d movies where things squirt you and bugs run under your seats. He was really ready to get out of there.

So we ended our day by trying to wait out some rain. That wasn't going to happen so we all made a dash for the car. Its not that we were trying not to get wet, that was already accomplished for us, just the sooner we got to the hotel, the sooner we could get into dry clothes.

We had such a fun day. So glad that Aunt Kathe and Char could be with us. We wished that Aunt Jackie could be with us and Daddy.

Mount Everest: CHECK

A Week with the Kanes

2011-07-13T20:05:00.000-05:00

So this isnt the Kanes house but their new home is just about this big and certainly beautiful. I have this picture here because I turn at the Orlando temple to get to their home. From every back window of the house you see the temple and at night it lights the sky. For me this was such a comforting feeling. I have never lived close to a temple much less look at it every day.

So this post really isnt about the Orlando temple but about being so happy to be able to come and spend time with one of my favorite families. Yes, the house is like a Frontgate home on a lake but they make it a very peaceful loving home and I love being a part of that.

Allot of time is spent outside as they have an incredible pool. What a great way to spend the day.

William would have to put up with Logan and share all his pool figurines.

Thanks so much for letting us stay with you. I always love being around all of you! The kids had a great time and loved being with your kids. As Colby always said, why cant we all just live in one big house. Well, Caroline you almost have that house but I promise I wont ever ask to move in. Just hope the invitation is always there to come and visit.

Blizzard Beach

2011-07-09T05:55:00.000-05:00

I think the last time that I went to blizzard beach was with Tom about 20 years ago.

This time with my sister, Caroline and 7 kids

We started slow in the little kiddie area for Logan.

Jackson, Julia, and Katie went to go and do the Summit Plummet. The tallest and fastest water slide. Jackson had watched this on tv so many times and was so excited to check it off of his list.

The park also has the most amazing family raft ride. We did it at least 10 times through out the day. It is so long and fast and the kids loved it. Logan was scream laughing the entire time. Best water ride!

Then made our way to the middle sized slides. Logan had to be put on a tube by himself. Aunt Char had him and said he was screaming and did not want to get on. She gave him a push and away he went. At the bottom he was screaming once again but this time to go again! go Again! No more being scared for Logan. He would go on any water ride that he was able to. What is so cool about this park is that he could go on all of them but 2. He seriously was on huge full size water slides. We flipped on a double tube at the bottom and he still came up laughing and wanting to do it again. Today was a day where all of us could be off doing the same things together no matter what the age.

Zip lines!

crossing the ice bergs. Looks much much easier than what it really was.

We loved having Julia with us today after Caroline and the others went home. She lost that shyness with us and let her personality really come out. Jordan loved having a little sister for the day.

We did get rained out the last hour of the day but that is typical in Orlando.

This was an incredibly fun day. We really missed Daddy today and all agreed that we would be hitting Blizzard Beach next summer with Dad!

Girls Night Out at Epcot

2011-07-07T05:35:00.000-05:00

Only one place that you can be in so many countries at one time...

EPCOT

Caroline and Kristin treated me out to a girls night. What a great place to be. I dont normally have GNO at places like this.

China

We started off by riding Fast Track. I liked it allot. My first time. Felt bad that I was out doing stuff like this while leaving the kids behind.

Mexico

Hard to explain how cool it was just being with the girls and having a very casual dinner, walking around the countries, enjoying the beautiful night and each other.

I can remember the EPCOT fireworks from way back when I was a little girl. They are one of the best displays. Unique with the countries lighting up all around.

Thanks Kristin and Caroline!!!

Didnt want the night to end but...

we are girls with things to do and places to be.