Mike, Traci and boys

October random photos

2012-02-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

Our meeting (plus a few; minus a few). Mike's parents were here as well as Jill's sister Becky, so they are extras.

Carl & Inez came to see us again in October.

Grandma had fun dressed as a clown for Halloween and even went trick-or-treating with the kids.

Maddie decided an open door was all the invitation she needed to escape that evening, so Mike, dressed as a Qatari had to chase her down the street and get her. Quite a sight!

Birthday

2012-02-01T07:43:00.000-08:00

In October the boys celebrated my birthday with a Maggie Moo's ice cream cake!

Raingutter Regatta-September 2011

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Annual Cub Scout Raingutter Regatta was in September while Mom was here.

Jarin's boat

The race is on!

He won a 2nd place trophy for his rank

Justin and one of the Boy Scouts who was helping out, race their boats

The other Scout won, but his boat was a makeshift Sonic cup!

Mom visits & Fort Bend County Parade

2012-01-17T10:51:00.000-08:00

We had a fun time while Mom was here. We went to our local parade and to the Rodeo.

Why are the two police men standing in this photo? Well, a reporter from our local newspaper wanted a photo and I guess since we had the red, white and blue chairs and flags, they figured Mom and the boys were good candidates for a picture.

High school marching bands/drill teams

ROTC

Floats

I'm liking this Hummer

Art car

Shriners

Mike's old truck

2012-01-16T08:59:00.000-08:00

Back in mid-September, we finally got around to having Mike's old truck delivered. This was his grandpa's farm truck so it carries a lot of memories for him. It's an old Fordamatic with the gears on the column.

We found a car hauler who could bring it down from the barn it was stored in in Montana.

The boys were pretty excited to see it.

We had to hook the chain up to Mike's truck, sit Justin in the seat to make sure the wheels stayed straight, and pull it off the hauler, as it's not running.

He did a great job and he is anxious to get it up and running. Isn't this every boy's dream?

In the bed of the truck, they hauled Sylvia I.'s 4 wheeler. Her parents live in the same town in MT and when they found out our plan, they were able to throw the 4 wheeler in and ship it down for Sylvia and Homero to ride.

Hopefully we'll get around to fixing it up and restoring it. This will be a great project for some boys in this household. Personally, I think it looks like something out of "Cars". It's a real classic!

The Making of the Maddiott

2012-01-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

This past summer, Justin worked a bit. He put out flyers for pet sitting in our neighborhood. He took care of 2 birds, 2 dogs (not including his own) and a cat (not including his own). He also sold organic dog cookies to one of the neighbors. He saved up his money and managed to buy the necessary supplies to build Maddie a dog house.

This was a fun weekend project for the boys.

Maddie checking things out

I should post a more current picture, but it now has a coat of red stain, red carpeting (inside), and a sign that says "Welcome to the Maddiott" on the outside.

Jarin even liked it!

First day of school; 2011-2012

2012-01-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

The boys started school the 3rd Monday in August. Jarin started 3rd grade, and Justin started 7th.

We have a Junior High Schooler now!

3rd grade

Maddie wanted to be in the picture too!

August trip to Schlitterbahn/Austin

2012-01-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

Right before school started, we took the kids over to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. We headed up to Round Rock after our day in the water and went to meeting with Russ & Andrea the next day. We were able to grab a quick bite to eat at Pei Wei with them before we headed home. Jarin really ejoyed Benjamin.

Jarin, Benjamin, Trevin & Justin

Andrea and I

Holocast Museum

2012-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

Justin and I spent one morning here. I wish I could've had pictures, but they ban cameras from the place out of respect for those who lost their lives. They have one of the train cars that hauled Jews to the camps in the back. It's very moving to see and hear it all.

Hermann Park Train

2012-01-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

Jarin and I rode the train around the park

HMNS Summer Camp fun

2012-01-12T09:56:00.000-08:00

I finally got the pictures to load, thanks to Picasa!

Here's one of our 2 weeks at the Museum this summer.

Jarin looking scared of the dinosaur in the background.

butterfly garden

watching an imax

weatherman for a day

Audrey the corpse flower. Not to be confused with Lois, who has already bloomed.

A giant pendulum swings, knocking down marble chips as it goes around

learning about science

Blogger problems

2011-12-08T09:05:00.000-08:00

Blogger is not letting me publish any pictures, so you'll have to believe me when I say the month of July was fun with the kids each taking a summer camp class down at the Museum of Natural Science. It was about a 45 minute drive every day (each way), but with the classes staggered, it allowed me to take each kiddo through the exhibits. Jarin and I also rode the train around Hermann Park. Justin and I spent a morning at the Holocast Museum as well. It was very educational for both boys. We also did a family outing in July down to the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. Houston is full of different museums and I think we just scratched the surface of all there is to see in the Museum district.

5 Miles My Way

2011-11-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

On the 4th of July the boys decided to man a water station on our local 5 mile race for Boy Scout service hours. I decided to bike it. I finished in 25 minutes, making my average about 5 mph. Not the best, but I was just happy to finish.:) I plan to do a 5K with my sister on Thanksgiving morning (YMCA's Turkey Dash). The boys will join us, with Jarin doing the 1 mile kids race and Justin doing the 5K with us. We'll be running/walking that one, before we go home to indulge in turkey and the trimmings.

Joel's birthday

2011-11-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Joel's birthday in July up at their house. He wanted a chocolate cake with whipped cream frosting. I found a recipe for a chocolate whipped cream frosting, so I went with that.

Brazos Bend with Tami

2011-11-16T08:07:00.000-08:00

When Tami was here we headed out to Brazos Bend to see the alligators and birds

and Water Moccasins

And Turtles! This smart Momma turtle was digging a nest to lay her eggs in a patch of poison ivy/oak.

A short video clip of the alligator swim

Auntie Tami's visit

2011-11-15T07:36:00.000-08:00

When Mike and Justin were away at summer camp, Tami came for a visit. One night, she and Jarin practiced yoga in the living room.

Trying to get him into a headstand.

And we bought Jarin a hula hoop. He's actually very good at it!

Stretching with Maddie's leash

Auntie Tami with Maddie and Jarin

Grand Canyon side trip

2011-11-14T08:17:00.000-08:00

On the last day of Summer Camp, Justin's Troop took a side trip and drove up to the Grand Canyon.

Mike and Justin

Doing their best Louis and Clarke

More scenes from Summer Camp 2011

2011-11-11T08:24:00.001-08:00

I thought this might be an appropriate picture to post today...Veteran's Day. The other flags in the background are the flags from each state who had a Scout Troop camping there.

Amphitheater and pool area

Starting fire from lint and flint

Wilderness Survival; Summer camp 2011

2011-11-10T07:33:00.000-08:00

At summer camp this year Justin took a "Wilderness Survival" Merit Badge class. They had to build a shelter and sleep in it for the night.

I'm impressed at the skills of these 4 boys

Just one of the many benefits of being a Boy Scout. I don't worry too much anymore about him.

More scenes from Scout Camp 2011

2011-11-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

Justin helping cook

Several patrols cooking various meals

Summer Camp 2011-Day 1

2011-11-08T10:39:00.001-08:00

About a week after school got out, Mike and Justin left for Boy Scout Summer Camp in Arizona. They took a charter bus. Along the way they saw the fires that were burning in West Texas.

Saguaro cactus

Listening to instructions at camp

Field Day 2011

2011-11-07T08:04:00.001-08:00

I only had one kiddo to take pictures of on Field Day...Jarin! I helped with the "Dress the Scarecrow" station for the first hour, then I was free to move around with Jarin's class. I must say though, that I had the best station of them all. The object was to form lines (relay race style). Four "Scarecrows" were chosen and the clothes layed in a pile before them. Each child had to run down and put something else on the scarecrow until he/she was fully dressed. Then they had to undress the scarecrow back to he/she's original outfit. It was a hilarity of a relay. Here is Jarin in a few clothing items. Just getting started.

These poor girls. It took the two of them just to get the overalls on him and pull them up.

The scarecrow had to adjust his overalls.

Then it was on to the cafeteria for the floor scooters.

Pass the sponge was a good game to cool them off in the hot sun.

And volleyball with the huge soccer ball.

And the parachute. There were a few other booths, but I didn't get pictures of all of them.

A fun day for the kids!

Adena and Nick J's wedding

2011-11-07T07:56:00.000-08:00

On Memorial Day we attended Adena and Nick J's wedding in Cameron. The bridesmaids looked beautiful (Jaycee, Alicia, Sarah and Atrisha). Jr. bridesmaids: Darcie and Joani. Flower girls: Tyleigh and Talia

The wedding was at Randy & Franci D's house in Cameron. The setting was beautiful with the valley below.

Tyleigh and Talia were incredibly cute.

The happy couple.

Scout Graduation

2011-10-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

In May, the Cub Scouts had a little graduation ceremony/picnic where they moved on to the next rank. Jarin went from being a wolf to being a bear. They did a skit with fake wolf teeth and ran to pick up their bear scarves in their teeth.

After the ceremony all the Scouts lined up to fill up their water guns.

The local fire department came and talked about fire safety

They showed the boys all the equipment on the truck

Then they unleashed 500 gallons of water. It was a hot day, so the water was refreshing!

Fishing Derby 2011

2011-10-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

In May, Jarin's Pack held their annual fishing derby. Several Boy Scouts from Justin's troop helped to teach some classes/stations to the younger boys. Justin had one station on Fish Identification.

All the trophies

One of the stations was baiting a line with a cane pole

Getting ready. Choosing the perfect bobber

Fish!!!

Fishing takes concentration

Jarin's Pack

Jarin won a trophy for the most fish caught. It was purely coincidental that where he was fishing was a jackpot for bites.

Easter 2011

2011-09-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

As soon as I got home from Arizona, we had Easter dinner. Joel & Sarah were on their way back from a short vacation in Corpus Christi, so they were able to come by. Justin made this "Easter Cake".

The 4 cousins.

Last night/Morning we left Arizona

2011-09-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

The last evening we were in Arizona we met up with our good friend, Donna. We had a great dinner out and had a great time reminiscing about old times. The picture is grainy as I had forgotten my camera, so this is off of my cell phone.

The morning we left we spotted some javalinas in our hotel a parking lot. We have these in South Texas, but I've never seen one. They are a small variety of wild hogs. A grainy cell phone picture.

Sedona Sunset

2011-09-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

The last night we were in Sedona, we climbed up Bell Rock to watch the sunset. We had no crowds there, just a couple getting married. So, it was a much more pleasant experience.

Unfortunately, I got very sick with a stomach bug that night (possible food poisoning or giardia due to drinking Grand Canyon water, not sure), but I was up all night. Tami felt the effects the next day when we drove back to Phoenix. Somehow we managed to have dinner with our dear friend, Donna.

Next up: Pictures of dinner and morning we left.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

2011-09-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

One of the tourist attractions in Sedona is the "Chapel of the Holy Cross". We decided to have a look since we were there. Here is a discription of it:

Designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright student, Marguerite Brunswig Staude, the chapel was built in 1956 and rises 200 feet from the ground between two large red rock formations. One of the most distinctive features is a 90-foot cross, which can be seen from the ground along State Route 179. A massive stained glass window turns the chapel's interior into a kaleidoscope of color at certain times of the day. No services are held here, but it provides an ideal setting for spiritual reflection and prayer as well as incredible views of the Red Rocks.

The cactus in the landscaping is really amazing.

These smart little birds had built their nest in and amongst the cactus and they were none too happy that we were taking pictures. I think Tami managed to get a close up of the babies.

Next up: Sedona sunset

Mountain Biking Sedona

2011-09-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

On Day 3, we rented mountain bikes and biked the trail around Cathedral and Bell Rock. We packed lunches and enjoyed our trip. Mountain biking was a first for me (we don't have mountains in Texas). It was a fun workout, but I probably went a little slower than most due to the loose shale rock.

Bell Rock

Cathedral Rock

Taking a photo break

The "tamer" part of the trail

Next up: A church in the rock

Day 2-Arizona; Grand Canyon

2011-09-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

We headed out of Sedona in the morning to make a day trip to the Grand Canyon. We stopped at Slide Rock State Park. The weather was beautiful, but probably not warm enough to take in the park. Slide Rock is a natural rock that has water flowing down it. When the weather warms, it's a popular place to slide down the rock, hence the name of the park.

Rocky cliffs

We stopped on top of the pass just past Slide Rock State Park and bought some souvenirs from the Navajos. Then we stopped again just South of Tusayan at another Navajo trading post.

The owner had a microphone so that the Indian would talk. It surprised us at first, but we soon became friends with him.

We stopped at Tusayan and took in the IMAX movie of the Canyon before we ventured into the park. Our first welcome to the park was a pack of mules that crossed the road near where we parked.

“You cannot see the Grand Canyon in one view, as if it were a changeless spectacle from which a curtain might be lifted, but to see it you have to toil from month to month through its labyrinths.”-John Wesley Powell

Doing our famous Louis & Clark pose

We had a hairbrained idea to hike the Bright Angel Trail. Tami says "Why not?"

I'm sure this is in the first chapter of the book "What not to do at the Grand Canyon". See that crazy guy out there in the hole in the rock? He's got about 500 feet to his death if he falls. And, did I mention that he's wearing flip flops? Yeah, crazy, huh?

And these are more of his crazy friends...

The Bright Angel Trail follows an earthquake fault. See that little line on the green down below? That's the trail. It traverses all the way down (about 9.5 miles) to the Phantom Ranch, the only lodging inside the Grand Canyon walls. We hiked down to the 1.5 mile rest room, then back. It's about 1100 feet of elevation just down to that point.

Evidence of Mountain goats

I played with my black/white & sepia settings

Mule crossing

Tami decides to cliff jump

These little squirrels were really chirping. One of the hikers who had come up from the Phantom Ranch said one had stolen his bagel and cream cheese. They do bite and if not left alone, can be a little aggressive.

Tami & I

After we hiked down and back, we walked over to the Hermit's Rest overlook via the Rim Trail. These artists were busy painting the canyon.

There's our trail!

And there is the rest area we hiked down to

Beauty on the layers of rock that have carved the canyon over the years

Tami was much braver than I and hopped the gate to get out on the rim for some good pictures.

Almost looks like a pose out of her REI catalog days.

“We have an unknown distance yet to run, an unknown river to explore. What falls there are, we know not; what rocks beset the channel, we know not; what walls ride over the river, we know not. Ah, well! we may conjecture many things.”-John Wesley Powell

The Mighty Colorado River runs through this canyon

Taking in the beautiful sunset

Posing for the self timer

Next up...Mountain biking Sedona

Arizona Vacation

2011-09-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

In April, I met up with my sister, Tami for a short vacation to Arizona. I'd been to Phoenix once, but she had never seen Arizona. Hoping for some pleasant weather and scenery, we met up in Phoenix then drove up to Sedona.

We stopped along the way to check out the saguaro cactus.

Bell Rock in Sedona

Cathedral Rock in Sedona

On the first evening we found a great little pizza place, then asked the waitress where the best place to watch the sunset would be. She referred us to the top of the airport road where the view is just "spectacular."

Well, the view was great. The only problem was that we couldn't see the view because of the throngs of people who were in the way. Just getting in and out of the parking lot was a chore. We left before the sun had fully set just to beat the rush of people trying to get out. We laughed about it later and figured that probably every restaurant in town tells people to check out the view from the top of the airport road.

Here's the sun setting...no room for any others here.

I was able to lift my camera above some heads to capture this picture.

Next up: Grand Canyon

Volunteer Tea

2011-09-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

In April, Jarin's school hosts a Volunteer Tea for all the Volunteers who have helped throughout the year. They bring in each class to sing a song for the Volunteers. He is in the middle, third row, just a little to the Left of the teacher. This year I will be the one responsible for coordinating this as I took over as Volunteer Coordinator.

Astros in the Spring

2011-09-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

Mike managed to get the company tickets for an Astros game in April.

The kids love to play at "Squeeze Play", so we went early to let them play.

The seats are down on the front row to the Left of the Bullpen. That's Hunter Pence out there, who no longer is playing for the Astros.

Tulips from Amsterdam

2011-09-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

Shortly after we came home from California, Mike had to hop a plane to Kazahkstan. He flew through Amsterdam, so he brought home some beautiful tulips for us to enjoy.

The Death Star

2011-09-04T15:02:00.001-07:00

Before we went to LegoLand, Jarin had his eye on the Star Wars Death Star set. He'd been saving his weekly allowance in an effort to buy it. He saw it at the Lego Store in Downtown Disney and was wanting it all the more. The trouble was that it was bulky & heavy. Getting it home would have required more checked luggage and weight, so we told him that when we came home, he could order it. He was so excited the day the big box showed up on our doorstep. The manual to put it together is about 3" thick and many, many pages. We set up the banquet table in the guest room and every day after his homework was done, he'd go up and work on it. This is a picture of it 1/2 completed. I don't have one of it complete, but I'll have to take one. It's huge. He pretty much put the whole thing together by himself with a little help from Justin. Our boys really love Legos!

LegoLand part 2:

2011-09-03T03:53:00.000-07:00

We took in the SeaLife Aquarium while we were at LegoLand.

This is LegoTown USA. There are many recognizable cities and buildings all made out of Legos.

Morning at Legoland California

2011-09-01T07:23:00.000-07:00

We spent Day 4 at Legoland and the SeaLife Aquarium.

This ride is the craziest thing. You get to pick your level. Jarin's wasn't tall enough for the Level 4, so we took turns riding with both boys so we could experience it. If you want to see how bad it really gets, I included a quick video of Mike & Justin at the bottom.

Riding the horses. Justin was bordering on too tall for this ride.

Mike had fun shooting water at the boys...

While they rode the pirate ship and tried to shoot water at him! They were soaked in the end, but with the sun shining, they dried out quickly.

At the Lego Factory. Seeing how Legos are made.

They LOVED these little cars in Car Town. It's a mock up of a real town with streets, lights, stop signs etc. Only kids are allowed to drive.

Photo op

The boys liked this ride too. You hoist yourselves up on the rope, then let go and free fall.

Riding the Storybook Adventure boat ride

Safari ride. I managed to scrunch myself up in one of these small jeeps so that I could get some pictures. Mike had gone to get snacks.

Next up: Afternoon at Legoland

World of Color

2011-08-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

After dinner in Downtown Disney, we headed over to Adventure land to catch the "World of Color Show".

Paradise Pier is lit up beautifully at night

"World of Color" is one of Disney's newer shows, encompassing water, lights, sound/music, theater and Disney Characters. It's similar to a Laser Light show. Only a Disney, over the top (they seem to do everything better) Laser Light show.

And just when you though it couldn't get much better...

Dory and Nemo come on all in water/lights and do a quick clip from the movie.

And then there is the Little Mermaid

and Sebastian the Crab from the Little Mermaid (they play the song, "Under the Sea")

and then Buzz and Woody have a talk in lights/water

and the Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack comes on and (leave it to Disney), they shoot fire out of the water. Even Jack Sparrow shows up in the water, but my camera wasn't fast enough to capture it all.

Lady and the Tramp

It's truly an amazing show, not to be missed!

Next up: Legoland, Carlsbad

Day 3-Afternoon at Disneyland

2011-08-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

After we finished up riding most of the rides in Disneyland, we caught the train back to the entrance of the park.

It goes through various scenic backdrops, like the Grand Canyon and Dinosaur land

After catching a quick show called "Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" (which I highly recommend if you ever go), we headed over to Downtown Disney.

We found this great shop called "Ride Makerz". It's similar to "Build-a-Bear", but with a remote control car/truck theme. You pick the car/truck and add wheels, and accessories. The boys had a great time picking out and building their RC cars.

Jarin's is a tricked out truck

Justin chose a pearl blue Mustang

1st half of Day 3

2011-08-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

On the 3rd morning, we went back into Disneyland and we were able to enter an hour earlier than the public being we stayed at a resort hotel.

We ran into the Mad Hatter and had him sign the boys books.

We rode Space Mountain. These were pictures of the pictures.

Finding Nemo ride

Autopia Cars

Jarin insisted on driving as he met the height requirement, but he had a hard time pushing the pedal as it was stiff.

Buzz Lightyear Astro blaster ride

Mike held our place in line for the Matterhorn while I took the boys on Alice in Wonderland and the teacups. Blurry photo (sorry)

Small World ride. We found the churro stand!!

We stopped for lunch in Toon Town and found Goofy there

Evening of Day 2

2011-08-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Our view from our hotel balcony of Adventure Land

The first night in Disney we went to the Fantasmic show and fireworks. We saved seats at about 7:00 for the 9:00 show, meaning, one of us had to hold our places while the other one got food. The lady behind Mike came at about 8:30 and practically sat on top of him. We tried everything to get her to move a little as she was really crowding us, but she wouldn't budge. I took a picture thinking that might scare her off (her husband opted to sit somewhere else as he didn't want to crowd in there), but the picture trick didn't work. I guess I just have a tough time with ignorant people!

Our silly boyz

Captain Hook and Peter Pan (not pictured)

Disneyland does some amazing things with their theatrics. One minute an evil queen is on stage, the next minute, a large dragon appears out of the mist.

The Mark Twain boat appears with the characters on board.

And Mickey shows up in several scenes.

Disneyland Day 2-2nd half of day

2011-08-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

We finished up Adventure Land a little after noon, then headed over to Disneyland and ate lunch.

Indian on Main Street

Pirates of the Caribbean ride. My camera doesn't do so well in dark places.

The boys in front of Big Thunder Railroad

Aladin and Jasmine photo op

In the Tiki Room

This fiddler convinced a group of teen girls to join him in doing "the chicken dance"

We rode the big pirate ship

Even though we've outgrown Winnie the Pooh, we still have some extra time, so went on the ride since the lines were short. I also found a great app if any are going to Disney. It's called "Disney Wait Times". It basically tells you the current wait time of each ride, so while you're waiting for your fast pass to start, you can run and catch one with a short line.

Looking at the Haunted Mansion from the Pirate ship

In Tarzan's Tree house

The boys loved the neat instruments

Spring Break-Day 1 & 1/2 of day 2

2011-08-04T20:30:00.000-07:00

This Spring Break we decided to take the boys back to California. It had been quite a few years since we'd been to Disneyland and Lego Land, so we headed back. This year we sprung for staying at a resort property. We were not disappointed. Like everything with Disney, when they offer top notch service, they deliver it. Our room overlooked Disney Adventure Land. We also were able to go for a fitness walk with an employee 2 hours before the park opened. We walked 2 miles around the park, all the while gauging our route for the day and enjoying the exercise and hearing about the history of Disney.

We missed our flight the first day and had to fly out that evening. What do you do with 6 hours to kill at an airport? Well, for starters, you rent a Smart Cart and wheel up and down the ramps. Who needs roller coasters? The boys had fun collecting the carts that were left in the terminals and making a quarter here or there on them too by returning them.

As Disney resort guests, we were allowed into the parks an hour before the public, so we headed to Adventure Land to do the rides in that park. I love the rock grizzly bear behind the boys in this picture. I didn't take a lot of pictures in Adventure Land as we were focused on trying to get all the rides done in 1/2 a day (which we did, save a couple kiddie rides).

We played the Fast pass game and I do see how both parks could be done in one day (if anyone is going in the near future, I'll be glad to give you the inside scoop on how to get more rides in less time). The boys and I were waiting a few minutes for our Fast Pass start time.

That big coaster that says "Paradise Pier" is called "California Screamin'". It's a crazy fast coaster that does one big loop. A lot of fun.

Duffy the Disney bear

Next up...headed over to Disneyland

Bunny Tales

2011-07-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

So a friend of ours (who also helped us find/get Shadow and Maddie) works for a vet's office as a Vet Tech. Someone brought in this baby bunny that lost it's Mother to a large(r) dog. She tried to help it recover, but in the end it didn't make it. It sure was cute though.

Giving it milk through an eye dropper.

Cub Scout Spring Campout

2011-07-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Jarin's Cub Scout Pack had their Spring campout in March. Mr. C roasted a pig. It was delicious. He's carving it in this photo. We didn't stay at the campground as the weekend it was held, coincided with Special meeting, so it didn't work out this time. Fortunately, it's only about 20 minutes from our house, so we were able to make it for the day/evening.

That evening, Justin's Troop held the "Arrow of Light" for the Webelos who had reached the AOL status. It's really a neat ceremony to watch. The Boy Scouts dress up as indians and call Akela to welcome the boys who are "worthy" to Boy Scouts.

Justin with the AOL crew from his Troop (lantern light isn't good).

School scenes

2011-07-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

In between weekend events, I spent a lot of time up at Justin's Middle School snapping pictures. This was in Justin's art class. Busy working on masks and getting caught up.

Justin with buddies, Anthony, Collin, & Mack

Maddie is 1!

2011-07-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Although we don't know the exact date of her birth, we do think she was born in Feb./March time, so this year we celebrated her 1st birthday. She got a card from her boy and a gift.

Justin even made her a doggy cake out of a recipe he found and we had to sing Happy Birthday to her.

USS Lexington

2011-07-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

Jarin's Cub Scout Pack went to Corpus Christie in February to spend the night on the retired USS Lexington Ship.

The bunks where they slept (Sorry for the poor quality. Looks like the lighting was to blame)

Going down the steep stairs

He loved all the planes & helicopters

Trying to land a fighter jet

How do I steer this thing?

The evening flag ceremony

In the morning the boys woke up and had breakfast (he had hot chocolate)

Merit Badge University

2011-07-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

In February Mike took Jarin to Corpus Christie for a Cub Scout Campout on the Lexington Battleship. Justin had some Merit Badge classes at Texas A&M University in College Station, so he and I went the other direction.

While he was in class, I toured George Bush Sr.'s Presidential Library/Museum.

A wax figure of Bush parachuting, a favorite hobby of his.

Inaguaral gowns of the President's wives

A WW2 fighter plane. A tribute to his military service.

I was impressed that as a child he was a Cub Scout!

His boat

A&M has a tradition of building bonfires to celebrate their games against their rival, University of Texas (UT). While the original bonfires started as nothing more than a little pile of trash, they have grown to immense size. In 1999, twelve students died, when the pile of burning logs collapsed. It was a terrible tragedy to lose 12 prominent college students. A&M has installed a memorial wall with a poem.

Then you are able to walk out to the original memorial site. It's a large circle, that is the width of the original bonfire. Each pillar is dedicated to one student who perished. Their pictures are included as well as any quotes, memories etc. from their families. It's a very moving experience to see it.

Back in the Engineering hall, this is the crowd that showed up for the day. Scouts, leaders, parents, students etc. The classes are taught by university students. Justin earned his Chemistry and Geocaching merit badges here.

Also while he was in class, I went for a run around campus. It's a nice campus. They also have this small bonfire statue by the football field.

Justin

Aviation Merit Badge-Boy Scouts

2011-07-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

Just a word on Scouting...

When our kids started school, we agreed to let them do one extra curricular activity and one only. Justin chose Scouting and Jarin followed with the same a few years later. I know some parents who try to do more than one activity, but as you can tell with the past few months of posts, we're happy that the boys chose one and one only as Scouting keeps us very busy during the school year. We're very pleased with the Scouting program and what it entails. Our boys have learned so much outside of regular school curriculum. What other program covers so many topics. How many 10 year olds know how to check oil in a car, change a flat tire (car or bike), fly a plane, start a fire with minimal supplies, or build something out of wood? It's really an extension of what they are learning in school, but more like common sense subjects that they will use all throughout life. Both Mike and I volunteer in various capacities with the program because as with school activities, it's been shown that kids do much better with parental support. Sometimes I think we throw ourselves into it a little too much, but I keep reminding myself that in a few short years our kids will be gone off to college and if we don't support them now, we'll wish we did then. Besides, I'd be lying if I didn't say we don't enjoy some of it just a tad as much as they do. Camping, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, activities with friends...It just doesn't get too much better than that!

About this post: Mike's cousin, Mark E. is a pilot. He flies crop dusting planes just South of where we live. Around the holidays, Mike asked him if he'd like to teach the Aviation Merit Badge. He was more than happy to help and I think he enjoyed the chance to share his love of flying. Part of the badge entailed the boys flying the plane by themselves (with Mark's supervision) for 15 minutes each. They all enjoyed their time down there!

Going over the dynamics of flying

Inspecting the engine of the plane

Inspecting the wings of a leer jet and explaining wind dynamics

Mark and Justin check the engine

All the boys who participated with Mark

Mark did a few fly by's with water in his tank to demonstrate what he does

When they were finishing up, they went over to see the ultralights

It was a great day for the boys!

Court of Honor-February; Boy Scouts

2011-07-22T06:44:00.001-07:00

Justin's Troop held their Court of Honor in February. Justin received a few more Merit Badges to add to his sash.

February Blue & Gold Banquet-Cub Scouts

2011-07-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

In February, Jarin's Pack held their annual Blue and Gold Banquet. The award ceremony was held at the church, then followed by dinner and magic at a local restaurant.

Jarin and Corbin

Mike is Cubmaster, so he held the main ceremony

Jarin and I. He is now a Wolf!

The 4 from Jarin's Den (Ethan, Jarin, Joshua and Corbin)

Mike & Jarin

Dessert for the banquet featured a cake bake with prizes going to 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc. The theme was "The Magic of Scouting"

I did my first fondant cake. It wasn't as successful as I'd hoped, but not bad for a 1st.

The 1st place award went to someone with much more fondant experience than I!

The boys enjoyed the magician

Boy in a bubble

2011-07-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

For anyone wanting to raise their kids in a bubble, I think I figured out exactly how that is done.

While Mike and Justin were camping, Jarin and I went up to Katy Mills and shopped around. He wanted to try this new stunt they had. It's basically just a huge ball that zips and floats in the water. They put the child inside and blow it up with hairdryers. Then the kids float around until time is called. The trick is to try to stand up, which proves to be almost impossible.

Boy Scouts Enchanted Rock

2011-07-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

Toward the end of January, Justin's Troop went camping and rock climbing at Enchanted Rock. Mike & Justin towed the Troop trailer.

Justin ready to climb Half Dome

Up he goes

Mike climbing up

Mike going up; Justin repelling down

Pinewood Derby

2011-07-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

January's Cub Scout Pinewood Derby was a success.

Mr. Roy (Jarin's Den leader) was the winner of the Outlaw Race. He took home a shiny hubcap trophy.

His Son, Corbin's Car was an icar. Very original design (sorry it's blurry).

Jarin's car is the last on the Right. It was grey with a picture of his cat and he called it "The Shadow Cruiser".

Justin's car won 2nd place as well (he made it all by himself). Jarin won 1st for his Den and 1st overall.

Jarin's 8th Birthday

2011-07-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

Jarin turned 8 in January. We had Joel & Sarah and kids come down to help us celebrate. We met them at Cici's Pizza and the kids & Dad's played Lazer tag at Lazer Zone before coming back here for a cookie cake. I wish I could take credit for this one, but I actually bought it.

Lots of fun gifts

A fun birthday!

Shadow sweetness

2011-07-12T14:27:00.001-07:00

There's nothing more adorable than a sleeping cat

Little princess in her bed

She loves these little catnip mice

Christmas 2010

2011-07-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

The boys had a good Christmas. They got a multitude of gifts.

Santa came and brought them each a Lego set.

Then we went up to the cousins and had lunch and more gifts.

Books for Jarin

My feeble attempt at Holiday Photos

2011-07-11T07:05:00.000-07:00

It's always a challenge to get two kids to smile. It's even more of a challenge to get two kids to smile while getting a cat and dog to look at the camera. These are our 2010 pictures.

I started out with Jarin as he wanted a picture of himself with Shadow.

Take 2: Shadow is clearly not liking this at all! It looks like Jarin has a choke hold on her and the cat Santa hat isn't working.

Take 3: Add Maddie and Justin. Now Shadow gives her scared look while Jarin hides behind her. Shadow's Santa hat abandoned.

Take 4: Both boys heads look glued together. Jarin's not looking at the camera and Shadow is DONE with photos and ready to bolt.

Take 5: In the end, this was the one I chose. Best of all 4.

Take 6: Maddie is looking at something, not the camera.

Take 7: Shadow is showing her fierce side and clearly growling "NO MORE PICTURES, I'M OUTTA HERE!!"

Jarin reads "Dog Heroes" to Maddie

2011-07-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Reading about Doberman Pinschers

December Birthdays X 2

2011-07-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

In December we celebrated both birthdays of Carl & Sarah. Their birthdays are only a few days apart.

I made a chocolate cheesecake for Sarah

and Inez bought an angelfood cake and made some icing for the top. Carl sampled a piece of cake earlier in the day before we were able to celebrate with him.

San Antonio at Christmas time

2011-07-08T15:21:00.001-07:00

We went over and spent a night in San Antonio when Mike's parents were here in December. The Riverwalk is beautifully lit up at night with thousands of lights. We took the boat ride and enjoyed the lights.

School Christmas Party

2011-07-08T15:19:00.000-07:00

For Jarin's class party, the kids had pizza and Sprite and opened letters from Santa. They played a few games as well.

Boy Scout Christmas Party

2011-07-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

A local baker donated this beautiful cake for the Boy Scout Christmas Party last year. It's made almost entirely of fondant icing and is edible.

There were multiple flavors in each cake.

Mike presented an something to Mr. Adams for filling in for him...

Mr. Adams wearing the lovely Popcorn Kernal hat

Santa visits a Pack Meeting

2011-06-30T09:02:00.001-07:00

For Jarin's December Pack Meeting, the Pack needed an adult to dress up as Santa and hand out the Pinewood Derby cars as the race takes place in January. Who better to do the job than a Grandpa who just happened to be staying down here for the month. He wore the suit well and we all had a few laughs.

He was pretty well disguised until Jarin went up there to get his car and Carl spoke. Jarin heard his voice and said "Hey, you're my Grandpa!"

Then Mike had the leaders sing "12 Days of Scouting Christmas" which was good for a few more laughs.

Santa and the Mrs. Claus

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-06-29T14:10:00.001-07:00

We were invited up to Joel & Sarah's house for Thanksgiving last year. Mike was in Qatar, so the kids, dog, in-laws and I loaded up and headed to their place. We picked up a bunch of pecans at Brazos Bend the weekend we camped there. Then we had the tough task of shelling them to make...

this pecan pie

Pies

Carl carves the turkey

Trying to get a picture of the two dogs, Maddie and Bridger.

Early November happenings

2011-06-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

The boys have fun dressing Maddie up!

He sure loves his little kitty

Veteran's Day Assembly at Jarin's school

Jarin got to hold one of the flags. This picture really shows how much he's grown this year. He looks so little here.

A good head on of Maddie (despite closed eyes). She loves to go pick up her boys from school.

If there was any doubt about Jarin not loving his little cat, this picture will quell that. He's reading "The Little Kitten" to Shadow, who is listening intently.

He brought this home from school too...

Brazos Bend State Park-October

2011-06-26T17:34:00.001-07:00

Our internet is up and working again thanks to my computer savvy husband (yeah!!).

In October we camped at Brazos Bend State Park about 40 minutes from our house. It's a neat park with all kinds of animals and prides itself that it's the home of the American Alligator.

Our tent in the woods.

Our covered area

Our boys brought their pumpkins so Justin helped Jarin carve his. Jarin's buddy Corbin looks on.

Jarin's pumpkin lit up at night

Mike & Mickey singing campfire songs

The day we left we rode our bikes over to see the alligators.

The boys at the observation tower. They weren't up there for long as there were many wasp's nests at the top. If you look closely, you can see them buzzing overhead.

I love this candid picture of the boys on the bench.

Swampy alligators

Fall fun

2011-06-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

This fall I took on a HUGE project (probably much too huge for me), but I offered to help with Justin's school's yearbook. There were only two of us who joined forces, which meant we spent countless hours and time in classrooms and at various events snapping pictures, uploading them to the website, editing etc. This was my first time doing a yearbook and the program was NOT user friendly adding to our frustration. We managed though (although my blog lagged behind). I took 625 pictures in the span of 9 months! The yearbook turned out fairly well, considering we really didn't know what we were doing. The one bonus, was that I got to know all the teachers and faculty at the school.

This was taken on Halloween. The goblin in the blue sweatshirt belongs to us.

They also had a pumpkin decorating contest. Justin entered this one.

Justin was also in a play called "America's Next Top Model Student". He was a stage manager, so I snapped this during one of the impromptu rehearsals.

On another note, our wireless router cratered this week, so I'm w/o internet/e-mail until Tuesday when the new one comes. I'm hanging out at the coffee shop now, but might not post on a regular basis.

Second Adoption

2011-06-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

Jarin has been wanting a kitty for quite some time. Since we got Maddie, we were hesitant to take on two new pets in less than a week of one another, but we were told that if they grew up together, they'd learn to get along. So, I asked Candace (friend who found Maddie) if there were any at the vet's office she works at. As luck would have it, there were 3 siblings. One in particular, she said, was very sweet and a favorite of all the techs as she was a sweet natured kitty. So, we headed to the vet's office to look at her. After filling out an adoption form we waited several days (seemed like eternity to a little boy), and we finally got "Shadow". Jarin could not be happier with her and often I come in his room at night to find them both sleeping away on his pillow.

These were some formal photographer pictures that the vet had taken of her for her adoption file. She's a long nosed tabby. Very sweet kitty. She's already caught 3 birds and I'm hoping she'll take care of any snakes in the flower beds too.

Raingutter Regatta

2011-06-13T06:39:00.001-07:00

Jarin had Raingutter Regatta in September. Since Mike was gone I got the job of helping him with his boat. We didn't do too much to it (sand it down, paint it, wax it and attach the sail to it). The boys race against another by blowing on the sail in the water in the rain gutters.

They had a bottle launcher set up and Jarin enjoyed playing with that.

Jarin and his buddy, Corbin telling tall tales

Jarin and Corbin racing

He won 2nd place for his boat!

Adoption complete!

2011-06-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a boy who wanted a dog. After owning fish and hermit crabs, this boy really, really wanted a dog. He begged his Mom & Dad for a dog, but much to his dismay, his Mom & Dad said that they would have to give it some thought. The Mom started looking at SPCA and several other adoption agencies for a puppy, but nothing really stood out to her, so they waited and waited. Then the boy's Dad had to travel overseas and he was gone for weeks and months at a time. The boy just grew more and more fond of the idea of owning a dog. Then one Wednesday night after meeting, the house where the boy's family met had another dog running around with their dog. When the boy inquired about the extra dog, he was told it was a stray that was running around the neighborhood and the dog would be taken to the dog pound in the morning. The boy began begging his Mom to take the dog home and spare him from the pound. The Mom was hesitant. After all, the boy's Dad was over in another country and was sleeping, so this couldn't be an immediate decision. The Mom told the boy to e-mail his Dad and see what he said about the dog. In the morning the boy got the e-mail that it would be o.k. to get the dog, provided it was healthy. The girl who found the dog took it to the vet where she works and found out it was healthy and only about 6 months old. After she had it spayed, the boy's family went and picked up the dog for the boy and the boy named her "Maddie". Maddie is now 16 months old. The boy's vet thinks she is a mini pinscher mix (possibly jack russell too?). The family was happy to have a dog at last (especially the boy).

More San Antonio & Tower of the Americas

2011-06-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

The Alamo at night

and in the day

This is the "Tower of the America's" in Hemisphere Park. It shares many similarities with the Seattle Space Needle.

The Space Needle is approximately 605 feet tall/the Tower is approximately 750 feet tall.

The Space Needle was built for the 1962 World Fair/The Tower was built for the 1968 World Fair.

Both have revolving restaurants at the top and elevators that will carry you to an observation deck.

Looking down at AT&T Arena where the San Antonio Spurs (basketball team) play.

Looking down at Alamo Plaza

Looking toward the South

Haunted? Or not?

2011-06-09T09:15:00.001-07:00

Mike came home in September looking like this...He decided to buy a traditional Qatari outfit. The photo is a bit blurry as this was taken on my phone.

Mom came down in September. Justin and Mike had a Scout camping trip, so while they headed out camping, Mom, Jarin & I headed over to San Antonio.

This is the inside of the Menger Hotel. It's one of about 4 or 5 San Antonio hotels reported to be haunted. While I've been in there several times, I've never seen anything, despite reports of those who have. Mom used the Women's restroom while we were there and said she heard someone laughing. Not sure if there was anyone in there besides her, but it was strange nonetheless. Whether it's haunted or not remains to be seen, but it sure is beautiful with the old antiques in the lobby. See the article below for more information on the hauntings.

Looking up at the ceiling.

Lobby area

Hallways with older wallpaper

The Menger Hotel

The Menger Hotel is located at 204 Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas. The original two-story, 50 room hotel was built of limestone in 1859. Over the years many additions and changes have taken place with restoration being completed in 1992.

The oldest parts of the hotel report gusts of cold air, unexplained voices, knocking sounds, cigar smoke appears in a non-smoking bar, lights turn on and off, doors open and close, and sightings of ghostly figures.

A former security guard reports seeing a man in western attire and a black hat who walked through walls and the elevator would stop on the 3rd floor no matter what button he pushed. A hotel manager at the Menger insists that Teddy Roosevelt's spirit visits there. Maintenance men report doors that open after being locked, hearing musical noises and marching footsteps coming from unoccupied parts of the hotel. Housekeeping has reported seeing a blonde woman dressed in blue 30s or 40s attire sitting in one of the rooms.

The ghost of Sallie White, a chambermaid who worked at the hotel in 1876 and was shot there by her jealous husband is sometimes seen walking around the hotel wearing a floor-length skirt, a bandana around her neck, and a long strand of beads.

The famous ghost guest is Captain Richard King. He is the founder of the famous King Ranch south of San Antonio. Furnishings in the King Suite are the same from when he stayed there. He died at the hotel and his funeral was even held in the front parlor at the hotel.

Guests have reported seeing shot glasses levitate and relocate themselves, ghosts entering or leaving the elevators, televisions that turn off and on by themselves,

Fall happenings

2011-06-08T14:51:00.001-07:00

Mike & I spent our 15th anniversary in separate countries last year. His bosses felt bad for keeping him overseas, so I received a bouquet from them.

I received a beautiful bouquet with etched roses from Mike as well.

Jarin had "Western Day" at school in September.

Mike's first Kazakhstan and Qatar trip

2011-06-06T14:39:00.001-07:00

At the end of August, Mike left for about two weeks to Kazakhstan. From there he had to fly through Turkey to Qatar and spend another week and a 1/2.

While in Kazakhstan, he had to travel a few hours from the main city Atyrau, out to the job site to work.

Wild camels on the side of the road in Kazakhstan.

His room at the job site in Kazakhstan (very outdated and similar to an old hospital).

Looking out his room in Doha, Qatar

His room at the Ramada Doha.

Driving through town

Qatar is a very wealthy country. These were some of the boats in the marina.

While he was there he got to go to mtg. at Hugh and Carolyn H's, so he was able to see a few familiar faces.

Fall Court of Honor-Boy Scouts

2011-06-05T15:14:00.001-07:00

Justin's fall Court of Honor was held in September. He got quite a few merit badges (some at Summer Camp/some during the spring). Mr. Adams is reading them off to him in this photo.

Mr. Evans handing them out

His sash is growing!

He even managed to get a couple of ribbons from Summer camp for his participation in the Polar Penguin Swim & the 5k.

Mike won a couple awards as well as the top two (which he also received). The Mountain Bike Challenge & the Iron Man Award for the mile swim.

Of a slithery sort

2011-06-03T08:31:00.001-07:00

This is the snake that Mike killed in front of our house. I was driving home from Wed. night meeting and saw it on the road. Not being able to tell what type it was as it was dark, I ran over it. It got aggressive and tried to follow the car, so I turned around and called Mike on my cell phone (he had worked late and missed mtg.) and told him to bring a shovel out. He lopped the head off. In the morning we discovered that it was a bull snake. They are actually a good snake to have around as they eat other snakes, although they tend to mimic rattlesnakes when provoked. I just didn't want this one to end up in my open garage.

Fun with an old friend

2011-06-03T08:27:00.001-07:00

Glenda and I became friends years ago at Manhattan convention. Our boys are close in ages and she was pregnant at the time with her daughter. She lives in Dubai, so we don't often get to see her, but she's fortunate enough to fly home every summer for 3 months. Last summer she was home for a bit so we were able to catch up. It was great to see her again and hopefully we can meet up again this summer.

First Day of school

2011-06-03T08:21:00.001-07:00

Our school year officially ended yesterday, so I'm a bit far behind, but here was a snapshot I took of the boys on the first day of 6th & 2nd grade.

Jarin made these in class and wanted to make them at home. They are simple to put together. They are a graham cracker topped with vanilla frosting (yellow food coloring), chex mix cereal and mini Oreos. A fun after school snack.

A fun day with Jesse

2011-06-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

When Paul & Paula H. moved to Katy last summer, we went up and got Jesse for a day of fun with the boys. Our first stop was Katy Mills (pictures below). We rode the train, the carousel and went to see the fish at Bass Pro Shop. Then we came home and the boys put on a circus.

Jarin was a lion tamer

Justin was ringmaster

And Jesse was the strong man

Then they built a ramp on the driveway to launch their cars

Bass Pro fish tube

At the kids play area in the mall

Carousel ride (blurry)

Train ride

What a fun day!

Almost home!

2011-06-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

On the drive home, we spotted the town with Justin's namesake!

See anything unusual about this playground? Yes, we're back in Texas. The land of extreme heat and snakes!

We spent the night in Fort Worth and the next morning met up with our (oldest) niece & nephew for breakfast. It was great to see them again before they moved back East.

4 cousins--Caleb, Abigail, Justin & Jarin

Heading home

2011-05-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

We left Keystone and headed to Colorado Springs. As you leave the mountains, the valley opens to vast farmlands.

We stopped at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This rock is called "Kissing Camels"

Rotate your computer screen to the Left and you'll see "Sleeping Giant"

That evening we met up with Mike's cousin, Melanie and her family. Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures as it started to dump rain about the time we left, so not good picture taking weather.

Evening-Day 4-Colorado

2011-05-26T07:22:00.001-07:00

On our last night in Keystone, we took the boys back up to the resort so they could climb the rock wall.

They liked the snowboard

We headed back to the condo and Lake Keystone where we rented a kayak and a paddleboat.

Justin had fun feeding the ducks and geese

The boys played basketball too.

Day 4-Afternoon-Colorado

2011-05-25T07:27:00.001-07:00

If you guessed Copper Mountain Ski Resort after that last post, you were correct. We stopped at Copper Mountain for lunch. We played mini golf and rode the chairlift to the top of the ski run to do some hiking.

This has got to be the coolest checkers game ever!

Playing mini golf

Crazy mountain bikers here too!

Copper Mountain

The boys on the chairlift

Being silly

Beautiful Colorado

The boys climbed to the top of the rock pile

Deer

A friendly chipmunk

Coming off the chairlift

We stopped in Frisco to take in the town. They had an old historic museum so we had a look around. Frisco, like many other Colorado towns was an old mining town.

The boys liked the jail

A cool old mine car

Only in Colorado will you find a speed limit sign on a bike trail

Day 4-a.m. Colorado

2011-05-24T12:42:00.001-07:00

On Day 4 we took a shuttle up to the top of Vail Pass and biked the 13 mile path down to the town of Frisco (start of trip is the header of this blog). This bike path has got to be the most scenic trail I've ever seen. It was tough to keep your eyes on the road while taking in the beauty.

It meanders by a stream

Taking a short break

We stopped for lunch here. Any guesses as to where this is? The chairlift probably gives it away.

Day 3-Colorado

2011-05-18T08:12:00.001-07:00

We spent day 3 on a full day rafting trip down the Arkansas River. It was incredibly fun!!

On the way back we stopped (at the recommendation of our guide) at a great little pizza joint called "High Mountain Pies" in Leadville. It looked like a little hole in the wall, but they were so busy we had to wait for a table. The pizzas were great.

The historic mining town of Leadville

AVA our river crew

More beautiful Colorado scenery

Evening-Day 2; Colorado

2011-05-17T10:00:00.001-07:00

In the evening we drove down to Breckenridge for dinner. Breckenridge is a neat old historic mining town with a lot of great shops and restaurants.

Downtown Breckenridge

The downtown park with views of ski hills

Downtown Breck candy store

More beautiful flowers

This has got to be the coolest ATM machine I've seen in a while.

Friendly bears

We stopped to walk a short loop hike on the way back to the condo. The views were beautiful. We spotted this guy in the trees.

Beautiful Colorado

The boys found these cool forts and tee pee's that were built along the trail

looking down at Lake Dillon

Day 2-Colorado; morning and afternoon

2011-05-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

Mike had to take our van down to town in the morning as the brakes were making noise, so while he went to town, the boys and I went for a little hike.

Beautiful Colorado lupine

The boys on a rock

Our condo tucked in the woods

more beautiful flowers

Later on, we headed to Keystone Village.

Keystone play area

It's hard to see the sheer steepness of the trail, but these mountain bikers go up on the gondolas and ride down the cat tracks. Several that we saw came in all skinned up.

The boys found a friendly buffalo

They really enjoyed the trampoline

The rain held off until just after Justin finished his jumping

Colorado-Day 1

2011-05-11T13:26:00.002-07:00

In August, we decided to beat the heat and drive to Colorado. We found a nice condo in Keystone on VRBO.com and rented it for the week. We've been very pleased with VRBO as we've rented from them in the past and have always had good luck. This condo was no exception. It was beautiful.

The dining area and deck

Headed through Eisenhower tunnel

The living room of the condo

Where we drank our coffee in the morning

The boys loved the double bunk beds

The bike path right over the river from the condo

Keystone Lake & Keystone Village

The Snake River

The bridge from our condo over to Keystone Village/Lake

Condo Master bedroom

Trip to the Houston Fire Station

2011-05-10T10:11:00.000-07:00

Justin took a Merit Badge class in July for Boy Scouts that encompassed Fire Safety. As part of the class, the boys rode the Metro rail down to the downtown fire station. I enjoyed being a chaperone for the trip. While we were there the firemen got a call and I caught some of the action on video (see bottom of the post). It made for an interesting afternoon.

LOTS of garage bays!

Firemen locker room

This is how they store their gear. Right next to the truck, so they are dressed and headed out in a very short time.

An extensive weight room

Inside the ambulance

Just as we were to leave to walk back to the Metro rail station, it started to pour down. One of the fireman asked the Chief if he could take us back in the Mobile Command Center unit. He was given the o.k. so we got a ride back to the museum in this big rig. The fire dept. is able to communicate with police, FBI etc. from this decked out motor home.

Meet Lois

2011-05-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

Allow me to introduce you to Lois. Lois is a Titan Arum flower (otherwise known as a "corpse flower". They are extremely rare and bloom very infrequently. When they do bloom, the purple part of the flower folds down and the smell they emit resembles a rotting corpse. This flower was on exhibit for a short time at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, so we decided to go down and have a look & smell. When we got there, the worst of the smell had passed but it still smelled like garbage.

The butterfly garden

Lois in all her glory

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you Mom's out there. So I sent my youngest son to school with some money to spend at the "school store". Look what he picked.

Of all of the 1000's of pencil sharpeners out there, THIS is what he bought (sigh). Boys will be boys!

One of our favorite haunts

2011-05-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

So we found this great little bakery up in Katy, quite by mistake actually. We were on the hunt for an ice cream/yogurt shop when we stumbled across this busy little bakery. One taste and we were hooked. It's called "Ooh, la, la". It specializes in all types of cheesecake and it almost puts Cheesecake Factory to shame with their selection. Justin likes their "frozen hot chocolate". He was having a piece of key lime cheesecake in this photo.