Mackenzie & Co.

Prezzi ideas

2011-09-14T15:59:00.003-05:00

So I have been wanting to share something I made for cousins weddings. I actually gave this to a friend for her wedding too. I have gotten positive feedback and it is simple. My biggest problem was trying to make it be something that each couple would like and go with their decorating decor. Red is a fairly obvious decorating color for LOVE. But what do you do when the bride says she likes blues and turquoise. Well look below...

This is the turquoise fan and I thought it turned out great! I used a paper towel to get the bloches of dark paint. I then used rhinestone stickers and put them on wrapping them wherever I needed. If you find the stickers popping off and out, then snip where it would need to bend and lay it back where it would go.

This was for a cousin that said she would decorate with modern Asian minimalist theme. I am sure I am not stating that correctly. But anyhow, after the letter was painted a bright red I used mod podge to adhere the vellum with the Kanji word for love printed on it. I then found the Asian flower for love which is a red carnation flower. I cut a hole in the letter so the flower would not poke out too far. If the flower pokes out to far, the letter would not stay standing. I used liquid class to adhere them. This was easier to have dry as I just laid the letters down. I also made sure to not have the flowers in a straight line as I was not sure I would be able to get them exactly straight and that would only bug me.

This cousin said she would decorate in earth tones. So I used a dark red paint to cover the letters and used paper to cover the front. I didn't want to exactly copy her sisters above so I choose one rose for one letter. I used liquid glass adhesive and a ribbon to adhere this flower to the "L". I would have used a glue gun but I did not take it with me on my vacay! I did have to put weights in the back so this letter would not fall over.

I think that all of these turned out better than I had planned. These three different types were for three cousins that are sisters. There is one more sister to get married so I will need to make one for her. I really enjoyed making them and think it is a nice touch to have anywhere in the house. Enjoy! Kari!

2011-09-12T19:59:00.001-05:00

So some of you may remember Kenzi's house that she got as a birthday present from Gram Mac in 2008. Unfortunately, the house was falling apart and we feel that with being analyzed to adopt children it would be seen as a hazard and not a cute and safe play area! So as we lovingly remember our time with Kenzi's house we approached Kenzi about having to take it down. I thought there would be crying and whining. "DO I GET TO USE MY HAMMER!?!?!?!?!?!?!"

So on a nice Saturday morning,Shanette came over and we got to work.

Can you believe that pile of wood was once a house? While we will miss the house, it was A LOT of fun tearing it down! Later! Kari

Labor Days Activities

2011-09-11T22:03:00.005-05:00

So on Labor Day we had plans of going to Fort Worth to the Cowgirl Museum and the Museum of Fort Worth. We did not quite make it after Kenzi had a rough morning. So after we got some chores done at home and Kenzi changed her attitude we headed to the park to fly her kite. It was a pretty windy day and great for Kites. We also thought it would be good to get the dogs out. They loved it! Enjoy!

My camera is doing this wierd white wash on my pictures but it has been so hot and we are in a drought that the grass in this picture is pretty much what most yards look like.

I thought this picture was cool because you could see the shadow of the kite and Kenzi.

Kenzi got this kite for her birthday and we finally were able to fly it. She LOVES it!

We are thankful to have cooler weather and I am REALLY excited for winter. Bring on the freezes! Kari

Six Flags...

2011-09-09T22:41:00.011-05:00

So another fun thing we did was go to Six Flags, which used to be Marine World. So they still have a lot of the animal shows. Kenzi said her favorite was the Dolphin show. It was pretty cool! Enjoy!

Kenzi was soooo happy to have ridden the bumper cars! She was happy to be at Six Flags. She was still talking about her trip to Six Flags over Texas that she went to when she turned 5. So I am sure this is just going to add fuel to her memories even more! That is fine by me!

Kenzi riding one of the kids rides ALL by herself.

Since I get really sick, yes pucking and all, on the teacups, Uncle Ken went with Kenzi on them. Of course, he is such a big guy that they thing in the middle you use to turn the cup was rubbing on his legs!
Kenzi eating the cotton candy at the Dolphin show.

Kenzi and her old friend, The Flash!

I kept asking Kenzi if she got the Penguin but she kept telling me that she was not looking for them!

They have a "water ride" for kids and she LOVED it. It was a warm day so she got cooled off really well. After her turn was done, I told her to go hug Gramma, but she was not there so she hugged Grampa instead. He LOVED it. Again it was warm!

A picture from the dolphin show. Do you know they actually give dolphins a time out when they have done something they are not supposed to. No joke! They gave them a time out right in the middle of the show!

The tiger show was fascinating! Tigers cannot climb trees but they jump high and they are great swimmers.

We had a great day at Six Flags and with the family. Thanks Mom, Dad, Ken and Norma! We miss you guys! Kari

Water World ...

2011-09-08T16:08:00.008-05:00

And no Kevin Costner was not there! While visiting my family in California we went to Water World. Kenzi LOVED it and did not want to leave! Enjoy!

Kenzi and her Uncle Ken are under the water fall.

After a very fun day Ken & Norma had some watermelon in their cooler so we ate it and it was yummy! Of course I had to get a picture!

IT was a lot of fun visiting the fam! Thank you Mom, Dad, Ken and Norma!

Kenzi's birthday party

2011-09-06T15:51:00.008-05:00

So Kenzi's birthday party happened months ago. I am just now getting to posting it. I know, I know. We have been busy and so I am going to be playing catch up with the last few months. So here are the pictures from Kenzi's birthday party. If you can guess from last Halloween, Kenzi is obsessed with Perry the Platypus from Phineas and Ferb. She was Perry the Platypus for Halloween and decided she wanted a Phineas and Ferb party. Well, in keeping with the spirit of the show and googling ideas for such a party we found these activities...

"Hey, Where's Parry?" - I made Perry stickers, only because I could not find them to buy! I then hid them in the front yard. And while Perry theme music was playing the children went and looked for them. Though Dr. Doofenshmirtz was trying to through them off!

Phineas and Ferb Bingo - Yep, pretty self explanatory. Though Doffenshmirtz w2as helping me and was accused of cheating by the children!

Busted - So Vanessa and Candace sing a song on an episode talking about how they are going to bust Dr. Doofenshmirtz and Phineas and Ferb. So we blew up balloons and had the children pop them while playing the song. The only problem was it took quite a bit of effort for the kids to pop them, that Dr. Doofenshmirtz and I had to help. Dr Doofenshmirtz was popping two by the end of it and I was laughing so hard I thought I was going to pee my pants!

Phineas and Ferb can ROCK! And the kids did too. They LOVED the inflatable guitars and glasses. They were so cute!

Future rock start, right here folks!

And for those of you that don't know, I love to make cakes for my family! When Kenzi gets the idea for her birthday I am trying to figure out how to make the cake. I am SUPER happy with this! I could not have planned it any better!

Happy Birthday Fluffy! I cannot believe how big you are getting! We love you! And daddy is sorry that he could not make it to the party! Mom

Frist day of School

2011-09-03T13:21:00.009-05:00

Can you believe that my little girl is in 1st grade! I am having a hard time believing it. She loves her teacher and has an easier time getting up this year. Though she still gets cranky, at least she gets up!

We saw Jordan and the family on our way. I think Nikki was just as excited to see Kenzi as Jordan was!

Kenzi hugging her Kindergarten teacher. She LOVES Mrs. C!

So this is the face I got after her first day of school. I think she will be just fine! Enjoy! Kari

Technical difficulties...

2011-08-28T20:41:00.005-05:00

So for some reason when I tried to post Kenzi's first day of school it was not working. So I am only posting this to see if it will work. Keep your fingers crossed! Kari

Coloring Eggs

2011-04-17T21:46:00.006-05:00

So in an effort to have some normalcy with our family amid all of our trials we colored eggs tonight. We will wait for Carter to hide them and have Kenzi find them. Kenzi had a great time decorating them. She was concerned at first with the dye on her hands, but quickly got over it to keep working.

After dumping three in colors and seeing mom hold it to get part of it, Kenzi wanted to try. And we changed her clothes so her Sunday dress would not get stained. It wouldn't matter with this shirt right?!?!?!?!?! :0)

Gramma B. working on a multiple colored egg as well.

The eggs with the color. The one white one she dropped on the floor so it had to stay plain. This is before the qtip colors and stickers.

Here she is concentrating so hard!

Enjoy! Kari

Cabelas Grand Opening

2011-04-17T21:06:00.004-05:00

So Cabela's opened up in Allen, this weekend and we went. Kenzi wanted to try everything. So first she got a picture in a National Guard uniform. Then she tried to pick up a shot gun to which we told her she was not old enough and she was not happy! Then she tried Archery. To which the last two arrows she shot she hit the deer and she exclaimed "Oh it is dead and now we get to eat dinner!" Apparently she listened to the #1 rule of hunting!

Next on the list was fishing. I think as long as it is on the shore she would love fishing! She really does not want to go fishing on a boat again!

Mr. Emery was at Cabelas signing autographs. We know him as "Wild Cat" on Batman Brave and the Bold.

It was really fun watching Kenzi try new things. I am thankful for the daughter I have. She truly amazes me often and I am so blessed for having her in my life! I love you Fluffy!

Eggcellent Family Adventure

2011-04-17T20:36:00.007-05:00

So every year our city has an Easter celebration. It is a great FREE event. Kenzi got a lot of eggs and did lots of fun activities!

We saw quite a few friends there. Here is Tamara and baby Peach.

Here is Keri and her son Rhys. He was giving me so much love that I started to cry! I really do wonder how he knows when I need snuggles!?!?!?!?!?

Here is Kenzi trying to catch bubbles while we were waiting to get a balloon animal.

The obligatory family picture. And out of all the things that she could have gotten from the clown making balloon animals she wanted a sword! I am not surprised in the least... really it is typical Kenzi! Gotta love that girl!

Kenzi and Gramma B. We are so beyond happy and thankful that Gramma B. was able to come and visit us! We would be in big trouble if it weren't for her!

Here is the picture with the Easter Bunny. Kenzi said she didn't want to get the picture until I said then no balloon and we can go home. Then she was more than willing.

Enjoy! Kari

Plan B...

2011-04-10T23:31:00.011-05:00

So after we found out that we were not getting Steeler, Carter being the smart man he is, had a Plan B. First we had to take the rental car back to the Phoenix airport and while doing so was able to see my dear friend Tina and her husband, Mike. I used to work with Tina at WebMD. We also got to see our friend Tamara and meet her family. We had a great time getting to know them and experienced what it would have been like to live in Arizona. While we were at Tamara's sister's house one of the kids got stung by a scorpion... in the HOUSE! Kenzi was actually playing right next to Cole. We were so thankful Kenzi was not stung but highly concerned about Cole. He was OK, after some normal side affects, but definitely a very memorable experience!

After we left Arizona on Sunday morning, (as fast as we could!) we made it to Fort Stockton, Texas that evening. The next morning we stopped so see a few random sights, on our way to San Antonio. First up was the second largest Roadrunner in the world. We did drive by the first largest roadrunner in the world but did not know it was the largest in the WORLD or we probably would have stopped.

Kenzi being the coyote! Funny girl!

The next stop was a Deer Antler tree in Junction Texas. Yep it was a tree made up of deer antlers.

After seeing the tree Kenzi started asking questions of how the antlers got on there and it led into hunting. She asked if she could go hunting and I told her she should talk to her Uncle Mike, as he hunts a lot.

"Would you be OK if I went hunting with Uncle Mike?"

Me: "Absolutely honey, your Uncle Mike is a VERY responsible hunter. Though the number 1 rule of hunting is you eat everything you shoot!"

"Do you shoot deer?"

"Yes"

"Can you shoot fish?"

Me: "Well, honey a hook works better."

Carter: "Really Kenzi, dynamite works the best!"

When we made it to San Antonio we went to the Alamo. There Carter got to play tour guide as he is well versed in history. Fortunately Kenzi was a good listener!

After the Alamo, we had lunch at Buckhorn's Museum. It really could have been called the Mike B Museum as I am sure he would have wanted to move in if he had seen this place. This first picture is a picture of a 78 point buck. I could hear my brother drooling as I took the picture!

Kenzi loved this shooting game! We all did pretty good.

So the deal with this museum is it started out as a bar. The owner of the bar would offer a drink to the hunter for animals horns, antlers, skins or anything the hunter was willing to give up. And then him and his wife would make things out of those items. Or stuff them.

We also went to a short part of the River Walk. We saw a boat almost run over a duck. Though not sure why the duck didn't move out of the way before like the rest of her friends. Here is a mama duck and her ducklings. Kenzi thought they were so cute. I think she wanted to take one home!

So on our way out of San Antonio we found this restaurant called The Cove. It was featured on Diners, Drive in and Dives. It was really good food and a lot of options for those that are vegan and have gluten allergies.

Well, while we wanted plan A to work out, Plan B was fun. We got back home safely and we are getting back into the swing of things. Thank you for the love and support, I can not tell you enough how much our family appreciated it!

Adoption failed...

2011-04-10T22:35:00.005-05:00

As you may notice or even know, we were trying to adopt and unfortunately it fell thru. I am only posting about this to relieve some sorrow that I feel and it seems if I write about it, it helps. First and foremost, we are not angry or have malace in our hearts. Both Carter and I could not imagine making a choice to give up a child! We could in no way understand how that decision could be easy. We knew full and well that there was a possibility the adoption could not happen. With that we prepared as much as we could for that circumstance all the while believing and hoping that we would be able to bring Steeler home. It was a very rough experience. And to be quite honest with you I do not want to explain the details other then, I did hold him, feed him. and change him. I held him for hours and he grabbed my thumb. And while some of you may think that would be the hardest thing in the world... I know Heavenly Father was with me. I enjoyed holding him and marveled at how beautiful he was and how tiny he was! When I found out we were not getting him, it was not anymore painful than if I had not held him at all. Now it was painful! It is really too bad that I cannot get my emotional side to understand the same way my logical side does! Once I had my good cry, I knew that I would be just fine. And I know that because of all of you! You have prayed for us, fasted for us, and have put our names on prayer roles. You have reached out any way possible to show my family love and support. You even came to my home cleaned it, made it smell great, and left us meals. (Thank you soooo much for the crack!!! Omgdnss!) I know with such charity like this that Heavenly Father knows us. He answers our prayers through miracles, like being able to feel charity to the one you felt hurt you. And miracles such as being lifted by those who love and care for us. I asked for a miracle and definitely received one! I love you!

Steeler, you are so loved! You so have the potential to be a great man. We sincerely pray that you are able to reach that potential! Love, Kari, Carter, and Mackenzie!

The rest of March...

2011-04-10T18:57:00.005-05:00

So to finish up March, Kenzi had Spring Break, two birthday parties and St. Patrick's Day. First up is Isabella's birthday party. Kenzi loved it! Apparently there were bumper cars. I was not able to take her so that is what I heard all about when she got home.

The next party was actually on St. Patrick's Day and it was at McDonald's. Which if anybody knows Kenzi, you know she LOVES McDonald's! The girl right next to Kenzi is Autum the birthday girl.

And then there was St. Patrick's Day which in our house has come to mean a mess! We set up a trap and the leprechaun always thinks we have something to hide. He even somehow climbs up our walls! Since this is the second year we have done and last year made such an impression Kenzi tried so hard to stay up to catch him. Unfortunately he escaped without being seen! Maybe next year, Fluffy!

Finding one real coin in a pile of chocolate coins.

Kenzi loving the couch like it is a Bat cave!

Kenzi posing for a picture with the tipped over trap. Notice her shirt. I actually made it. I got the idea from another blog and if you want it just comment and I will find it and send you the link. And from a distance it looks great! We hope that y'all had a fun St. Patrick's day and hopefully one of you caught him. Because we heard that if you catch him you get all of his gold!

The birdhouse had to be apart of the fun!

Enjoy! Kari

Open House

2011-03-13T15:47:00.006-05:00

So Kenzi's school had Open House on Thursday. It was funny in that I had to hang posters for PTA (Be a PTA board member!) and you could feel the anxiousness in the air before they let everyone in. But nonetheless, everyone seemed to have a good time and Kenzi was especially excited.

Here is what was at Kenzi's spot on her table.

This apparently is where the children can sit when it is time to read.

So the next class room we went to was the music room. I asked if Kenzi really hit her head with these tubes to which she said yes. Maybe that is why she runs in circles!!

This instrument looks a little less painful but it is definitely louder.
So there was a snack bar in the cafeteria to which I had Carter take Kenzi as I had to get back to the PTA table. It was a fun night and I was really happy to find how many people I recognized and knew. Later, Kari

Kenzi makes her own lunch!!!

2011-03-09T08:31:00.006-06:00

So now that Kenzi is going to be a big sister She has made some strides towards maturing. One of the steps is that she decided that she would make her lunch. "Becuase big sisters need to know how to make their lunch!" So one miraculous morning, she woke up early eager to do so.

Here she is looking for the jam.

She is getting the frozen Go-Gurt and telling me it is cold.

This is the first time that she has put peanut butter on anything.

Her accomplisment! She was so proud of herself!

When my mom came to visit last she had Kenzi slice olives with a butter knife. I had not really thought about letting her use a knife beofre that but pretty much since then she uses it like a five year old would. Though everyday she gets better. She will be throwing them in no time!

I know this is not a life changing moment. However, I am so very thankful for Kenzi and am just amazed at how fast she is growing. I am even more thankful that she is SO excited to be a big sister! Enjoy! Kari

The rest of February...

2011-03-07T21:08:00.010-06:00

So February seemed to have flown by in a blur! So here is the rest of the month!

Valentine's Day Party! Kenzi was so excited for her party and it is so GREAT that she gets excited that I come too. I really wonder how long that will last! But anywho, here is Kenzi handing out chocolate heart suckers to her classmates.
KEnzi digging to see what she got from her classmates. The children were beyond excited to open up the bags!

One of the parents had the brilliant idea of bringing chicken McNuggets. Every kid had them!

We brought a craft just in case the children had time after the valentines and food. And thank goodness. They were foam planes, which the kids seemed to like. Apparently Mackenzie thought it required some concentration!

And then... I thought maybe it wasn't such a good idea to do planes as the kids are running around the room and throwing the planes. And this is of course after the sugar!

Tuscon Arizona

So the REAL reason for the blur was our family traveled to Tucson Arizona on President's weekend. While we were there we went to the Children's museum. and Kenzi was in Heaven the whole time!
A life sized connect four.

A future "One of Texas' finest!"

Carter and Kenzi getting me ALL wet!

Kenzi going down the fireman's pole. The first time she was not to happy!

So it seemed that everytime I turn a corner in this place, I was saying "Oh I want a magnetic wall in our house! That is a great idea!" This was one of those moments!

Our artist. She is constantly bringing home pictures that she has painted or drawn for us.

The music room. Even Carter was getting into it. That is a flipflop he is using to cover PVC pipe. Pretty cool. Seriously things I had no idea about!

So probably the absolute CUTEST thing was they had a vets office. To which Kenzi jumped right in and made friends and helped sick animals. She even told Carter that his dog had to stay for ten days and have special food becuz it was struggling with his heart moving in his chest. Though the dog was all better when his ten days were up!

So in one of the rooms there was a pile of bean bags that I fell into and had to be pulled out of. But of course we had to have Kenzi take a picture first. Not bad, don't you think? I mean the picture taking!So hopefully this wasn't too long. Though you are probably most wondering about the visit with the birth mom. It went great and we are glad we made the trip. And the best part... She said she was still glad that she picked us! So not much time left until Steeler gets here! Thanks to everyone for the love and support! Later! Kari

100th Day of school

2011-02-27T16:57:00.003-06:00

So earlier this month Mackenzie's kindergarten classes celebrated the 100th day of school. Mackenzie was so excited that in the morning when it was time to get out of bed and get ready for school she exclaimed "But I am already for school! I don't have to get dressed! I get to wear my pajamas!" Once I calmed her down she understood that getting ready for school meant all of the morning routine. She also got to take her unicorn to read to. So all in all, I think it was one of her favorite days! But of course I could not let her go to school looking like she rolled out of bed, hence the bows! Aren't her pj's cute?!?!? Enjoy! Kari

Sarasota & Jungle Gardens

2011-02-02T16:23:00.007-06:00

So Kenzi and I met Carter in Sarasota for a trip to see Gram Mac. She was diagnosed with Astrocytoma. Which is an aggressive malignant brain tumor. We were able to see her before and after the surgery quite a bit. Needless to say that it was a stressful time for all of the family, we did what we could to take some breaks.

There are some shops by Gram Mac's house that has this cool fountain which Kenzi loved. Hence the fun pose! Gotta love that girl!

We went to the Jungle Gardens in Sarasota one day. This picture was before we got into the exhibit. Kenzi was all in!

Ms. Attitude is her name and apparently she lives up to it!

"No Daddy it really isn't going to be OK! That thing is LOUD!"

Take it fast mom!

And this is about where Kenzi was completely OUT! The rest of the day she was on edge. She wouldn't even try to feed to Flamingos!

OK, here Kenzi had a great time throwing in food for the Koi fish. She pretty much wanted to stay here and have lunch!

Me feeding the Flamingos while telling Kenzi to calm down after she ran about 15 feet away. Carter and I thought it was very cool. It actually tickled. Come to find out Kenzi was only used to the Flamingos behind the fences!

Kenzi chilling with me while Carter feeds the Flamingos.

Carter had one Flamingo scratching his back! He loved it so much that he wanted to bring a Flamingo home for a pet. Kenzi was NOT OK with that!

Family picture along the trail. We totally look like we are in a Jungle, right?

A bird show that Kenzi still needed to sit in the last row to watch. Though she thought it was fun and laughed at everything. She didn't want to get too close!

I totally would get a bird like this if it were remotely feasible! They are very cool!

Not to withhold information... Gram Mac recovered well from her surgery and now is home. She has a day and a night nurse and will be starting Chemo/radiation shortly. The conversations with her have been great and she is very lucid. So we are hoping that things will trend positively and I want to thank ALL of our family and friends who have kept us in your prayers! We feel your love and so appreciate the strength you are to us! Kari

A Snow day!

2011-01-09T22:26:00.006-06:00

So we got our first snow of the winter season. It is always exciting when we get it. Though it is cold, people seem to get happy until it has been around too long. Which is about day 3! Kenzi was actually bummed that it did not snow on Christmas. She even said that today felt like Christmas. After church we changed our clothes and went outside to which Kenzi did not waste any time hitting me with a snowball.

The self portrait that we took because I always have to get pictures of those involved. Like my hair?
Kenzi making the requisite snow angel. To which she graciously did until I got the camera back to take a picture!

The requisite snowman and this time Kenzi helped. I told her that I would stop working when she stopped working. That is why it is smaller. Plus usually Carter does most of the work and heavy lifting. We missed you honey!

So after we got cold in the snow we came in and had hot chocolate and I put some more of the Christmas decorations away. I found this prezzi that Kenzi got from Gram Mac and asked her if she wanted to do it. She LOVES these things!

The top of the jewelry box done, now there are only four sides left! After dinner with our friends tonight she kept bugging me to continue on it, to which I had to say no. It was her bedtime. She did not like that at all, but what else is new! Anything to stall!

It is suppose to get into the teens tonight and possibly snow some more tomorrow. Kenzi got excited when Carter and I were talking possible snow day for the school. I had to remind her it was a maybe. We will see. Enjoy and talk to y'all later! Kari

Highlights of Christmas

2011-01-05T20:58:00.004-06:00

So I know it is really Happy New Year, but I know y'all want to see Christmas! So Enjoy!

Our annual tradition of a family picture with the tree and our pjs. Unfortunately, you can't see, but Gramma B got to pick this year as she helps to make pjs for Kenzi and she got pants with hockey playing penguins! Pretty perfect right? And they are so comfy!

Kenzi ripping through her first present from Santa.

Dax guarding her prezzi from Santa while watching Georgia go to town on hers!

As previously said, Georgia going to town and not caring what we are doing!

"My Pillow Pet!" "It's so fluffy!"

Two of my most favorite people. If you look really hard at Kenzi's knee you can see the skating penguin!

It turned out to be a very Perry Christmas. Doesn't she look adorable! She received a few Phineas and Ferb shirts.

Carter trying to put together Kenzi's Zhu Zhu pet maze. It was not easy and Carter posted on FB those that package said toys have a special place you know where set aside for them! Though I have to say that this is pretty great from a parental point of view. The Guinea pigs are confined. No feeding or cleaning up after them! Win, win, win!

Thanks for reading! Later! Kari

Daddy Daughter Ball...

2010-12-23T19:21:00.005-06:00

So Allen ISD sponsored a Daddy Daughter Ball and Carter asked Kenzi to escort him. We did Kenzi's hair and got a corsage and boutonniere and they were ready. Carter and Kenzi looking amazing! I have such a beautiful family. Though if you want descriptions, Carter will have to be the one to tell you about it as he was there for it.

Hi everyone. Carter here. Kari had us take these pictures before we went. I think we look pretty good. (OK, this kid looks good, I look OK.) What do you think?

Outside in front of the lights. Pay no attention to the pumpkin in the background.

Kenzi got to wear her tiara out, and she really liked that. The ball was down at the high school cafeteria. Yes, that sounds bad, but the Allen High cafeteria is pretty impressive. The theme was Paris, so there were Eiffel Towers up everywhere. Kenzi and I danced quite a bit. Usually that consisted of me standing in one place and her running around me. About every 10 minutes we would need to stop and get a Rice Crispy treat, then back to the dance floor. This went on for about an hour and a half. Kenzi loved the whole experience, and we had a great time. I will turn it back over the Kari to talk about the rest of the evening.

After the dance, Carter and Kenzi came and got me and we went To Watters Creek for a free Carriage ride. The back story on that is when Carter asked Kenzi to go, Kenzi asked if there was going to be a carriage. To which I said "No you will be in daddy's car." My boss told me about this carriage ride near my work and so Carter and Kenzi got have a carriage ride after all. It was fun!

Kenzi wanted to ride the Goose statue near the creek. She was hitting her goofy point!

Carter and Kenzi in Santa's chair. Santa went back to the North Pole for the night, but I like how nice the setting was so I asked for more pictures.

I LOVE this picture of the two! They have so much fun together!

Enjoy! Kari

WE ARE APPROVED!!!

2010-12-17T13:53:00.003-06:00

So as you may know we have doing paperwork for the better part of a year and a half, including the time of doing IVF. As of the 15th we were informed that we were approved and our profile is on the website. Please go and check out at https://www.itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/22965027/ourMessage.jsf.

We are very pleased to have the our part done. We know that the next step is up to Heavenly Father and His plan for our family. If we are "stuck" with Mackenzie, then we count our lucky stars and blessings that she fought to come to us! And if it be, that we have another child come to live with us, Carter, Mackenzie, and I will be elated and love that child more than you can imagine. When we found out that we were posted on the website, Kenzi asked what was going on. So I went in told her "Well, you know how we are trying to have another child come to live with us and be apart of our family?" "Yes" "Well, we are approved and so know we can adopt a child!" "You mean I get to have a baby?!?!?!" If I haven't mentioned it before, Mackenize so wants to be a big sister!

So hopefully our wish will come true! Later! Kari

Catch up post...

2010-12-12T19:48:00.002-06:00

So as previously stated I would try and catch up so here is an attempt. Back in October we did some yard work and picked our peaches. I have since canned them and they are actually good! Who knew?!?!?!? But here are some pictures that we got. Kenzi loved picking the peaches! She actually helped with that. Usually she says she would help and then ends up playing the whole time. Enjoy! Kari

What I have been working on...

2010-12-12T19:28:00.002-06:00

So, as many of you know, we are trying to adopt. Well the last thing we need to do is put pictures on the website that our profile will be on. So I have been doing some digital scrapbooking. I am loving the templates and when I finally figured out how to use them, they have gone quickly. I don't see switching over completely as I have all of the scrapbook stuff, but it was definitely fun to do. This is just a few of what I have done so far. We are suppose to find out this week if we are approved or not. So when we find out I will let you know and point you to the website. In the meantime, if you just keep your fingers crossed that we get approved and let me know what you think of the pages. Just be kind as I am a beginner! Thanks and have a great week! Later, Kari!

Dry spell over!

2010-12-06T21:29:00.004-06:00

OK, So I seemed to have dropped off the blog universe for a few months. I am very sorry Grammas and Grampas! Since with the exception of a handful of friends I am pretty sure that you are the ones who read this. So since Kenzi has started school as indicated in the August posts, I got a part time job. So I am currently trying to figure out the working part time in addition to my bookkeeping, and keeping the house in order. I know, most normal people don't need to figure it out, they just do it. I know, I have seen them in action. But not me! Nope, I am going to over analyze and over think what the ramifications of my taking a part time job, and how am I going to keep the kitchen clean when I am ready to drop when I get home!?!?! Thank goodness I have gotten used to standing on my feet for hours at a time. Gram Mac, not sure how you do that for way more hours than me? You go girl! Oh and I forgot I am the secretary for the PTA at my daughter's school. So I am busy. So why am I babbling... I have not forgotten my blog. I yearn every week to inform the world of our adventures. And I think I am finally getting my act together so that I can. I will pick up from here. However, if I can I will try and inform you of what you missed. There is no guarantee, but I will definitely try. We have been having fun! Hopefully you have too! Later! Kari

August wrap up...

2010-09-23T21:25:00.003-05:00

So a week after Kenzi started school we had Meet the Teacher night. Kenzi was very excited to show us her room and we had a great conversation with her teacher, Mrs. C.

This is Kenzi showing Carter the "Home Living" area.

Kenzi showing us the calendar board.
Kenzi and her teacher, Mrs. C. Kenzi LOVES her and thinks she is sooo funny!

So far everything is going fine. Of course we have been late twice in 4 weeks and the mornings are rough. That is the problem with being night owls! All of us are! But we are working on it everyday! Enjoy! Kari

Rough Riders Baseball...

2010-08-30T14:07:00.005-05:00

So our friends Liz, Briana, and Jake had tickets for a baseball game. They ended up having 6 tickets so they invited us and Ben. We had a great time. The kids seemed to have fun too!

We had great seats, but I really don't think that there is a bad seat in the house!
Ben getting his groove on!

Briana sweet as can be. She was sitting next to me and kept calling me mom as she thought Liz was sitting next to her.

I think Jake was trying to look serious here. But he is one adorable kid anyway!

Kenzi and I. At first she was not into the game or anything. By the end she was screaming and dancing with everyone else!

Liz and her daughter Briana. What a great looking mommy and daughter duo!

We had so much fun! Thank you Liz for inviting us! Carter didn't go because he had game night with the guys! And Dave was in Cali! Later! Kari

First day of Kindergarten!!!!

2010-08-24T13:02:00.005-05:00

Well my baby is not a baby anymore. And I have coming to that conclusion in the past oh about 4 years. But today, I can no longer put it off! It is KEnzi's first day of Kindergarten! She was trepadatious all the way until we could see the school and then she got very excited. She even yelled "School BUS" when she saw one!

I have plans of walking her to school everyday that I can. So today Carter and I walked her.

Us needing to make up some time so she would not be late. She loves to ride on Carter's shoulders. It was there that she spotted the school bus!

Kenzi next to the Kinder"garden" wall.

After we hung Kenzi's backpack up she told me "I am going to go color now." (and if you have a problem with that you will have to work that out on your own!) OK so she didn't say that last part but I could tell she was not asking permission she was just informing me!

At her table putting her name tag on.

So they are doing something different with the Kindergarten classes. They are having the children rotate among all the kindergarten teachers for the first week. By Friday of this week we will know who Kenzi's teacher will be. But for now the teacher that is bending down talking to Kenzi is Mrs. C and she will be Kenzi's "homeroom" teacher.

So this is pick up after Kenzi's school day. On the walk home both Carter and I were able to talk to her about her day. I did ask about her backpack that if they knew it was her backpack. Her reply: "Yes they know it is my backpack. They told me it was a boy backpack. I told them 'So I like boy stuff. That is just the way it is!' and they said 'Oh'!" So now that we have gotten that out of the way! :0)

So this was taken when Kenzi finally fell asleep on Sunday night. I have a great flash! But she was so ready to start school! Can you tell?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Well, now that I have most of my day without a shadow I have to figure out what I need to do. Notice the word need in that sentence. I know that I can fill my time, I just want to make sure that I am doing what my Heavenly Father would have me do. So I will keep you posted and have a wonderful school year everybody! Later! Kari

SoF Week 12

2010-08-24T11:33:00.011-05:00

SUNDAY - So since we scrapbooked last week, we still had our stuff out and was able to scrapbook today. Kenzi really seems to like it and wants to do it often!

As part of our Family Home Evening we played Kenzi's Dr. Seuss ABC Stretchy game. She loves to play this game with mommy and daddy as it is funny to watch mommy and daddy try and get in those positions that are required! Here is Kenzi trying to get her ear on a letter. Yep, I said ear!

I understand that I may still be more flexible than some but even I could not get my ear to where it needed to go!
Carter getting an easy one!

TUESDAY - So Tuesdays are gymnastics day and sometimes Kenzi does something new. Today is one of those days. And I have a feeling some of you might sometimes feel a bit like Kenzi looks in this activity. So if you ever feel like you are in the rat race. Just remember, you could be stuck in a wheel! Enjoy!

WEDNESDAY - So everyone here in Allen is gearing up towards the first day of school on Monday. The library was offering a Kindergarten Readiness class so Kenzi and I went. She seemed to have a good time. Though she wanted to sit with me part way through. So I told her I would sit right behind her.

So after the library we went to get in our car for our next activity and it would not start. So we called AAA and they told my battery was bad and jump started my car. I then went home got the tools that I would need and went straight to the parts store. I bought the battery and replaced it. The only trouble that I had was getting the battery out of the area, to which a very nice gentleman helped me out. Of course the whole time Kenzi asked me what I was doing and I got quite a few funny looks from the other customers. Maybe they have never seen a girl work on a car before, but now they can't say never!

So then after the car trouble we went to get swim lessons from Shanette. She is an EMT and a certified swim teacher with Red Cross. She is so awesome with Kenzi and was very thorough. Unfortunately Shanette went to college, but she said that she would be back next summer to continue the lessons. Carter and I think that she will be engaged, married, and possibly pregnant. So we will see! But anywho, Kenzi loved her lesson and did stuff for Shanette that she will not do for me.

THURSDAY - As stated earlier, in preparation of getting ready for school, Kenzi and I practiced on Thursday and Friday morning. We woke up the time we needed to get up and got ready and walked to school. She was totally into it and getting very excited!

Wondering why she can't get in!

FRIDAY - This was a day of randomness. We practiced walking to school. On the way home we stopped at the park and she was very naughty when it was time to go.

...So when we went swimming with our friends she had to sit in a chair and watch. Of course she did not like this, but I told her that if she was not good leaving the park she could not swim!

We then were invited to Ben's birthday party. She had another fit and we had to leave Ben's party before he finished opening presents.

SATURDAY - So today we cleaned up the house a little bit and Kenzi had a make up lesson for Gymnastics. And then we had a Mommy and Me Scrapbook party. Kenzi's friend, Sheridan brought her mom, Stacey. We had a great time talking, scrapbooking, and even enjoyed some cupcakes! The interesting thing is that I gave Kezni the choice of having a End of Summer party with her pool and sprinklers or a Mommy and Me Scrapbook party. And yep, she chose scrapbooking.

Carter and I went on a date tonight and we had Shanette watch Kenzi one more time. We love Shanette very much. We are very happy for her and the wonderful new opportunity she is going to have! We know that Shanette will be extremely successful no matter what she does! Remember who you are girl!

This was a very eventful week and hopefully a fun end to our summer. I know Kenzi will do great in school and learn a lot. Now hopefully I can use my time wisely and not cry too much! Later! Kari.

SoF Week 11

2010-08-14T21:37:00.005-05:00

MONDAY - So I have been wanting to make cookies for the whole summer. It has been VERY hot so I kept putting it off until I could put it off any longer. What is great is that Kenzi likes to help me. She gets very excited to wear one of her many aprons. And she wants to do everything. I do think it is pretty awesome that she knew how to crack and egg at age 4!

Licking the beater. I think this is her favorite part!
Here is our finished stack(s).

OK so maybe this is her favorite part and beater is her second favorite part! :0)

TUESDAY - I have been telling Kenzi when she turned 5 she could scrapbook. Well her birthday came and went and I had not done it with her yet. So I decided one day that we would do it and she was soo excited! She enjoyed most of the process until I told her that we have to journal the people who are in the pictures to which her reply "I know who that is!" Especially when she got a to a picture of the three of us, she argued a little more. But all in all we had a good time. The stuff stayed out so we did some more on sunday.

WEDNESDAY - So as I explained in earlier posts, I was having trouble with Kenzi. I know, hard to believe right? So I asked friends to spend time with us so we could get a break from each other and enjoy our friends. We spent some time with a friend that we are starting to get to know better. I LOVED having adult conversation! And then we met Aunt Keri, Gramma Judy, Sophie and Rhys at McDonald's for lunch and then swimming afterwards. Kenzi is ALWAYS in when water is involved, so she had a great time until she was told it was time to get out of the pool. To which my lovely friend took over for me! Thank you Keri and Stephanie for helping me out that day! I could not have made it without you!

Rhys loving the water. He pretty much splashed the whole time!

Enjoy! Kari

SoF Week 10

2010-08-11T18:54:00.010-05:00

MONDAY - We went swimming twice this week. Kenzi told my friend Sara that she loves her Grammas and swimming just as much as the other. We also went and got Kenzi a new backpack as the one she had had a hole in it. And if you had any question before if she liked Batman... Now there is no need to question. OR if you have ever questioned whether or not she was a girl... No need to question it ether! :0)

TUESDAY - We went to the Dallas Museum of Art with our friends, Shannon, Sam, Jacob, and Aaron. Kenzi was hot and cold all day. But I really enjoyed getting to know our friends better and having a change of scenery. They had children's activities all over the museum.

I asked Kenzi if she could do what the statue was doing to which she told me no because she only has two arms. That is when I said try it.

This is a room made completely out of Cardboard. Kenzi liked it because it felt a lot like a living room. She did not want to leave but there was a long line so we left so other people could enjoy.

This is Kenzi making a puppet of herself. It was hard to get her started but once she did she had a lot of fun. I like the hair we did on the puppet.

Here is Kenzi with our friends, Sam, Aaron, Kenzi, and Jacob.

FRIDAY - So Friday night we attended a surprise couples baby shower for our friends Adam and Tamara. They are expecting their second baby girl. We had a great time and Kenzi had a great time playing upstairs with the other kids. The food was delicious! Congrats Tamara and Adam!

SATURDAY - So Carter has been totally into this Summer of Fun that we are having. In fact he has been to a lot of what we have done. Though he did tell me a couple of posts ago, "You guys a do a lot of fun stuff while I am at work!" Sorry Dig! But Carter had an idea to go Geocaching. If you don't know what that is I can explain, at least I think I can! It has to do with using a GPS to find an object almost anywhere. The one we found was in a greenbelt near Ford. We got the location of the item from a website and found the coordinates with Carter's GPS. Though Carter did most of the work. He was in the trees and crossing a creek. But he found it and Kenzi was excited. Maybe Carter can explain a little better!

Carter in said trees.

Kenzi and I waiting for Carter.

This is Carter's leg covered with burrs. They don't hurt unless you get them your underwear! And they catch on everything, especially hair!

Opening the tube of stuff. Kenzi wanted the egg whistle. We also left a sunglasses holder for the visor of your car. We signed the book stating that we have been "here".

This frog was in the canister. It is part of the fun in that you can take him to another location and it becomes this thing were he travels and you try and find "Frogger". We left as we decided it was fun to do but in the fall when it is colder and we can wear pants!

It was 105 degrees today and we were very hot. But of course we suffer for the family photo of our endeavor!

So Carter also planned to go swimming in our backyard. I needed a nap so Carter and Kenzi swam while I napped. Then we had hot dogs for dinner and Melissa came over to watch Kenzi so Carter and I could go to Stake Conference for church.

So if you have any questions I will direct you to Carter. I am not sure that I explained the geocaching well. But we had a great week! And there is only two more weeks until Kenzi starts Kindergarten! This summer has gone by sooooo fast! Enjoy! Kari

SoF Week 9

2010-08-06T15:43:00.008-05:00

So another short post to make up for the marathon post last week! Enjoy!

TUESDAY - We saw a rainbow today and Kenzi was dying for me to take a picture. So here you go. Also Kenzi went flying in gymnastics. Hopefully the video will load and you can watch it. After Carter viewed it he wanted to try it!

WEDNESDAY - So we have been having trouble lately with Kenzi . She has been crying, whining and not hearkening for a few weeks. Well, one day in particular was rough. That was today. I told her she needed to clean up her toys if she wanted to play Buzz. Well, she wanted none of that! So long story short I took all of her toys out of her room. In the garage they went. Carter and I talked and figured out that Kenzi can earn her toys back. Here are the resulting pictures...

FRIDAY - Kenzi got to have Kate come over to play. Since Kenzi lost her toys I had a project for them to do. We made butterflies. It was fun! Also Friday night was game night. So Kenzi and I went to the Village at Allen and Kenzi would not hold still for a picture.

See you next week! Later! Kari

SoF Week 8

2010-08-05T15:45:00.019-05:00

MONDAY - Well as explained in another post Kenzi got a butterfly kit for her birthday. We had two butterflies from the batch of five caterpillars. We decided to let them go so they could live out their two weeks in the wide open spaces.

We also went swimming at a friends house. And again, Kenzi does not need much coercion to go swimming.

TUESDAY - So the biggest news today was, Kenzi lost her first tooth! She was eating an apple and when I looked at her she had something in her hand and look a little bewildered. I walked over and noticed it was her tooth and instantly went for excited. I could tell if I was nervous she would be too. So we came into the office and showed Carter. Well he tried to showed excited but was more successful with freaked out. So if we go by growth charts Kenzi is a year early in loosing her incisor teeth. However, I have come to learn that Kenzi has her own agenda whether she knows it or not. So, Carter was concerned that other things would happen faster as well. I really think she is OK and I am sure Carter has come to that conclusion too.

The tooth Fairy, Ralph, left the banner and a Sacaguia coin. Kenzi was very excited about it that she woke up at 5:30 am to see if Ralph came to visit yet. A couple days later we got the movie "The Tooth Fairy" and watched it. She is very proud of herself and prays every prayer for her tooth to grow in.

We also had some friends over to watch a movie and play wii. Kenzi loves having her babysitters over and she loves to play wii. It was a lot of fun! Shanette, Melissa and MaryAnn seemed to enjoy themselves too.

WEDNESDAY - OK so let me see if I can explain this one. My friend Debra had her nephew and family visiting. They have a son, Nathan who is 6. So we decided to go drive some golf carts. We also had Sophie and Rhys with us. They seemed to enjoy themselves too.

Nathan was a pro! I see Nascar in his future!

Kenzi had quite a few accidents. I thought I was going to have to give Tylenol before going to sleep tonight!

Sophie getting some help!

Rhys trying to chill. It was 105 degrees!

THURSDAY - So we had Sophie and Rhys visiting on Thursday again and I figured it would be good to get them out of the house by suggestion from my mom. So we got swim suits and sun block on and headed to the spray park. Rhys seemed to like it until I wouldn't let him get off the blue part. Sophie ran onto the structure and was done and Kenzi ran around like a chikcen without her head. Good times!

FRIDAY - So Friday we went to the bookstore. Kenzi had read ten books and was able to get a book for free. So we hung out in the Children's section a little bit. That was when I found out that when Rhys has crawled away from you and you say his name, he thinks it means to crawl faster away from you some more. It is a good thing our children are so dang cute! When I would finally catch him he would just give me a huge smile! And of course how can I even be the slightest bit upset with that mug?!?!?!?!?!?

SATURDAY - Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints means we celebrate our church history. And in July we recognized July 24th as a significant day due to the Pioneer Men, women, and children that made the trek from the East to what is now known as Utah. So in recognition of that event, our ward had a pancake breakfast and a few activities. The main event was the parade where Kenzi was able to ride her bike. She was VERY happy about that.

There was also a rope pulling contest. It was kinda funny because here she is on the right side and then right before it started she switched to the other side. But she still had fun!

Here is two of my most favorite people. Carter couldn't play tug of war as he was still recovering from his surgery. But he was there to have pancakes and cheer on Kenzi.

Another great week of summer. I really hope I can be OK with Kenzi going to Kindergarten! Though at this rate I am not sure because we are having a lot of fun! Later! Kari

SoF Week 7

2010-08-05T15:44:00.003-05:00

MONDAY - We had Sophie and Rhys to play with today. And Rhys makes this face all the time and I have been trying to get a picture of it for a while. I LOVE this face! He is so stinking cute, don't you think?

THURSDAY - Carter had Umbilical Hernia surgery. I have been doing Project 365 where I take a picture a day on my phone. So I asked Carter if I could take a picture since this would be our day. He said sure and has no memory of it! Can you tell he is out of it?

SATURDAY - Kenzi and I had to go to Target for something and for my picture I took this one. She wanted to give herself bunny ears! Not sure why, maybe she is just a weird kid! I still love her!

It was as slower week this week. But hey that makes up for the last marathon post! Enjoy! Kari

Dallas Cowboys Stadium...

2010-08-05T14:42:00.003-05:00

So as part of our tour they took a picture of us on the field. Carter told me I should wear my Steelers jersey and I totally chickend out. But that would have been funny. I did offer for him to take the pictures to work to which he repectfully declined.

Autumn

Amber actually smiling!

Drew, can you see up his nose too? :0)

SoF Week 6

2010-07-17T17:46:00.017-05:00

SUNDAY - Here is a Kenzi photo shoot. She got a hold of my camera and these are the best of about 25 pictures that she took... Oh and happy 4th of July! A couples of months late, but hope it was a good one!

TUESDAY - Since Kenzi has started Gynmastics and seem to be enjoying it thoroughly, Gram Mac wanted to buy Kenzi a leotard. When we saw this one, we knew it was the winner. I have to say though she looks so grown up to me in the leo as opposed to wearing shorts and a t-shirt.

WEDNESDAY - We went to the Library for the Heard Museum presentation. While we were waiting the Allen Eagle mascot showed up to the library. Unfortunately, the kids I felt were being not good with him. I was really surprised that parents were not correcting them.

Shanette petting the snake and she also petted the bearded dragon. I petted both as well, but Kenzi wanted nothing to do with it!

THURSDAY - It started out with us getting our Butterflies for Kenzi butterfly prezzie that she got from Gram Mac for her birthday. Here Kenzi and I are trying to figure out what we are suppose to do.
Here is our caterpillars.

Then Kenzi and I got in the car and drove two hours south to pick up some hitch hikers. We thought they were pretty cute so we asked them if they wanted to come to our house for a few days! This is how Kenzi travels. Boy have times changed!

When we were on our way back home, I knew that we would hit traffic and remembered seeing the sign for Russell Stover - FREE SAMPLES. So I asked the kids if they wanted to stop. They seemed a little perplexed but were in when they realized they got free chocolate. I asked if they did tours and they said no but the kids had a good time going around the store seeing what they could get. By the way the hitch hikers are Drew, Amber, and Autumn, my nieces and nephew.

They even an ice cream counter and you could gets samples. Kenzi got superman ice cream. I know a big surprise, right?!?!?!?!

FRIDAY - We started the day swimming at my friends community pool. Thanks Sara! The kids seemed to like it.

It doesn't really look like Drew can swim here. Though there were no problems while we were there!

So after swimming we went to tour the New Dallas Cowboys Stadium. It took about two hours for the tour and then we walked around for a while so we did not get home until about 7 pm. The stadium is great and spacious. The next couple of pictures of the kids are of them sitting in the owner's box.

Here in the locker room the kids were able to put on a helmet and pads. That was fun!

Drew

Autumn

Amber

SATURDAY - So saturday we went to watch a movie, Despicable Me. Our family was very excited to see it so we of course brought the neices and nephew. Such a cute movie. If you see Kenzi you should ask her what her favorite part was.After the movie we went swimming at the Natatorium. We took Drew, Amber, and Autumn there last year and they wanted to go back. Kenzi was more than willing to oblige.

Kenzi is such a big kid that she wound up going in the not so lazy river all by herself. Of course Carter and I were always close by just in case.

We also played games in the evening every night. We had such a great time with Drew, Amber, and Autumn. Hopefully y'all had fun too! Woohoo summer! Later! Kari

SoF Week 5

2010-07-17T17:45:00.009-05:00

OK so this is way late but here is the continuation of our Summer of Fun...

SUNDAY - So Sunday was a fun-filled day. We started by going to church at a Spanish Branch. I have never been to a Spanish branch. It was pretty evident very quickly that we were the only gringos in the room. But what was totally awesome was that even though I could understand what I remembered from my high school Spanish class, which was very little. I definitely felt the Holy Spirit testify to me that it was true. Someone was getting confirmed a member of the gospel and I knew it was true. It was an awesome experience!

Then we went to visit Great Goog one more time. It was soo great to see Goog so much while we were there. I am glad that Kenzi is getting to know her Great Gramma!

So after visiting Goog we went back to Gram Mac's house and went swimming and had some lunch with the rest of the family. Somehow they elude the camera and these are the pictures I got. I like this one of Carter. He looks happy!

Of course our little fish is always happy when she is in the water!

We have been trying to get to the beach all week. So we finally made it Sunday evening in time for the Sunset. Kenzi loves the beach and is sitting next to her name in the sand.

Said sunset. Isn't it beautiful?

To cap off the night Kenzi informed us that we needed Ice cream. So we stopped and had some. Yummy! Kenzi liked her vampire teeth!

MONDAY - Well we were suppose to fly out today, however we got a call in the morning that our flight had been cancelled and we were booked on another flight very early the next morning. So to save our family from a lot of hassle we got a hotel right near the airport. We were able to get the shuttle over the mall that is close by and get a little bit of exercise. Kenzi loved the play area. Though really she is not picky. Kenzi also loved the hotel.

TUESDAY - Well we had to be at the airport at 4:30 am. So needless to say we were all tired when we finally got on the plane. So can anyone tell me why we have to be at the airport before the airport really opens? We stood in line for about 30 to 45 minutes waiting to go through securityonly becuase security was not open yet.

THURSDAY - Kenzi and I went to the library to check out some books, music, and even DVDs. While I was looking for something on the computer, Kenzi wanted to use the computer too. So she typed her name in the computer. She was very proud and of course I had to take a picture. I cannot believe how fast she is growing up!

SATURDAY - We celebrated the 4th of July in our living room. We were not too sure that there would be fireworks as it was overcast and rainy so we had a picnic. Kenzi loves to have them and she really doesn't care where. We had a great time!

Dax and Georgia had to stay behind the gate as they are extremely helpful when it comes to getting rid of food. But once we picked up the food we let them out for family fun!

It was such a fun week and we were sad to say good bye to the family. But hopefully we will see them soon again! Later! Kari

SoF Week 4

2010-06-30T16:26:00.017-05:00

TUESDAY - We were off to see Gram Mac and the family. So we thought that we would try something different this time with getting to the airport. We started with getting a ride to DART and taking DART to downtown.

We then transferred to the TRE, which was a double-decker train and Kenzi loved it!

From the TRE we took two buses to get to the airport.
We then took two airplanes to get to Tampa.

Here is Kenzi on the Shuttle rail that takes you from you terminal to baggage claim.

And then we took a car to Gram Mac's house.

I thought it was so cool that we were taking so many modes of transportation. I thought it would even be cooler for her to take a boat, but no such luck. And with the exception of the shuttle rail, Kenzi rode everything twice. So fun!

So while we were waiting at the airport we were able to look at an exhibit. It featured jewelry that an artist did. Kenzi thought this one was funny how the head was a whole bunch of flowers. Oh the things that amuse us when we are small!

WEDNESDAY - We took it easy this day and went swimming at Gram Mac's pool. This is where our little girl turned fish! Well a flying fish in this picture!

Every night Kenzi gets a story as part of her bedtime routine. She learned really fast that if Gram Mac read to her she would get anywhere from 2 to 4 stories read to her. And of course Curly Bear and Duke had to get on the bed for story time too!

THURSDAY - We went to Mote Aquarium today. It is a great place to visit if you ever find yourself near Sarasota. We took a boat tour where we saw some dolphins. You can see Manatees too if they are around.

This is Kenzi looking at the aquarium on the boat. They put a net in the water and see what they get. It was great because they let people hold anything that was safe.

There is an island where we got off the boat and were told about the vegetation. Kenzi actually did not want to get off the boat. But after Gram Mac asked her to hold her hand things seemed to be better for her.

There are three small islands that people are not allowed on and so the birds habitat there. We saw a lot of Pelican babies among other birds.

Kenzi deciding to take a rest.

This is a crab that was VERY pregnant. Needless to say we did not hold it because the Marine Biologist said it was pretty mad at us for taking it away from home. It was interesting to see the red pouch that was big and full of babies.

Kenzi liked this one but still would not hold it. This is a Sea Urchin. It was trippy to hold.

"Quick get a picture, she is holding this one!" The Sea Star was the only creature she would hold. She did like the trip even though she would not hold anything.

After the boat ride we went and tried to pet some sting rays, saw a Giant Squid that was sealed and later she informed Aunt Joy and Uncle Len that it was not a zombie and it stayed in its case.

Kenzi's favorite was seeing the Dolphins. These are two dolphins that came from the Medical center for Dolphins, Whales, and Manatees. They will not be released into the wild. Here the trainer is try to get them to swim a certain way. So she was doing it and they were mimicking.

I want to say this one is Harley.

Kenzi also liked the turtles. One of the turtles is blind and kept swimming along the wall. Kenzi thought that was funny. Here she is trying to get a turtle shell on her back.

Here we are waiting for the boat. I got the hat to hopefully help not get sunburned and what do you know, it worked!

FRIDAY - This was the first time we came to see Great Goog. We took her to her favorite restaurant - McDonald's. Of course, Kenzi was all in and felt a connection as soon as she found out that Goog has the same favorite restaurant.

Here is Goog and Kenzi with Great Goog's work. She is known as the craft lady where she lives. So there were quite a few places where we got to see what Goog had done. It really is a nice facility. Everyone we met was so nice.

So with Facebook being so nice to get back in touch with old friends - Carter asked if anyone wanted to get together and a couple did. I have to say, It was SOOO nice to meet his old friends. They are so great and fun! From left to right is Deanna, her husband Rick, Melody's husband Matt, Melody, and of course, Carter. Seriously gang, we will have to do it as often as we can! Love you guys!

SATURDAY - We went to visit Great Goog. We brought a puzzle with us that she could help us do. It was so wonderful to see Goog, Kenzi, Carter, and Gram Mac all work on it. I am pretty sure Kenzi will remember this for a long time! We love you Goog!

The group very proud of the finished project.

We had a wonderful visit with the family. I will post the rest of our trip in next weeks post of SoF Week 5. I hope you enjoyed, we surely enjoyed making the memories! Kari

SoF Week 3

2010-06-21T18:40:00.007-05:00

TUESDAY - We met up with Sophie, Rhys, & Keri and went to the fountain at the The Village, Fairview. Of course I asked Kenzi if she wanted to go and she is ALWAYS in when it comes to water. She had a great time that she did not want to go, but was still good so she could go the next time a water filled opportunity came!

Rhys not liking crawling on the cement so he took this really quick!

FRIDAY - So as far as Friday went we pretty much stuck at home. Though that night Carter took me to dinner and to "Wicked". While we did not bring Kenzi with us she had a wonderful time with Shanette. She never gets disappointed when we say we are going out because she knows that means that Shanette is coming over!

Us on DART to dinner.

We ate at Urban Taco. It was pretty good. Nice atmosphere too!

After the show we looked at some displays they had. And I HAD to sit in this chair. It looked to comfy not to!

Carter and I at the Music Hall, Fair Park. It was a very nice venue!

Me SOOOOOO excited that I got to see "Wicked". It was phenomenal! I highly recommend! The singing was absolutely stunning!

SATURDAY - Kenzi had a birthday party to go to and Carter took us to see Toy Story 3. Loved the movie and Kenzi had a great time at the party. It was at Pump it Up. Which is a building filled with inflatables. As far as I am concerned, during the summer that is the only way to play... INSIDE!

So there was a huge slide! And Kenzi made the attempt a few times to go up by herself and then I offered to go with her. You can see how that turned out!

No go!

This was another slide which was not as steep. She was OK with this one.

Carter: "So Kenzi if you go on the big Slide you can have this quarter!" (Per my suggestion) Kenzi: "no."

Carter: "OK how about I sweeten the deal and you can have a whole dollar!" Kenzi: "No."

Maya, the birthday girl, and Kenzi. Notice the hair is completely out!

Video of the Pump it Up fun!

SUNDAY - HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all the daddies in our lives! I think Carter had a great day. He will have to be the one that confirms that. But anyway, he got breakfast in bed, lunch and his favorite dinner. He also got a GREAT playtime with Kenzi, her bat cave and Carter's father's day prezzie from her - Green Lantern and his jet.

"We love daddy!"

Another great week! Seriously we have such an awesome life! Enjoy!

SoF Week 2

2010-06-14T19:49:00.009-05:00

MONDAY - Meals on Wheels; Concert in the Park - A Blues cover band played and I was surprised at how much I recognized. Does that mean I am getting old? So fun. And thanks Dave for taking the pictures!

TUESDAY - A trip to the Dallas Arboretum with Keri, Sophie, & Rhys. Kenzi had a great time! The "Frog Water" was the hit of the day!

WEDNESDAY - Started the Summer Movie Watcher Series at Cinemark. We saw Night at the Museum II with Ben, Ella, & Carly.

FRIDAY - Swimming at Auburn Springs with Sara and friends. The time has now come for Kenzi to swim and no one is happier than Kenzi herself! And believe it or not, she can swim! I have been having her try without any floatation device and she is doing great. We are still going to have her take lessons but good to know that she is in a great place to get our money's worth!

SATURDAY - Carter surprised Kenzi and I by taking us to Willow Bend where they had costumes and props from the Musical "Wicked". Carter is taking me to see the show on Friday and thought that I would like to see this. I loved it. I thought it was awesome that Carter did this. It was a day that I deemed "do nothing" day. So imagine my surprise when he said he had a surprise! Kenzi took this picture becuz she did not want to be in the picture.

After we looked at the exhibit, we let Kenzi play in the play area. She loves this play area. I wonder why?!?!?!?!?! :0)
The other fun thing we did on Saturday was we got to see Carly and John's new baby girl, Clara. Everyone is so excited! Mommy and baby are doing great! Congrats Carly and John!

Such a fun week! Enjoy, Kari!

Links for a fun Summer

2010-06-07T15:25:00.003-05:00

I told some friends that I would post links to find fun summer stuff so here goes...

http://www.dallaschild.com/

and

http://www.visitdallas.com/visitors/online_toolkit/free_things_to_do/

So enjoy your summer here in Dallas! Kari

Summer of Fun Week 1

2010-06-06T15:57:00.007-05:00

So, this is labeled as the Summer of Fun (SoF). Since Kenzi is starting kindergarten August, I have decided that we are going to end our 100% of the time together with a big bang this summer. Now I know that she is not going to die and that she will come home everyday. But we are still going have a lot of fun! This is week one. We have a lot on our calendar this summer so I figure it would be best to have a post a week. There will be video too as I was able to get one on here with all of the photos. So enjoy!

WEDNESDAY - Storytime at Northpark Center. Author Kate Watson wrote a book about Little Gabby her pet dog.

Kate Watson, Little Gabby, & Kenzi

We were on a manhunt for a play area. Though Northpark does not have a play area for kids, kids usually make their own play area!

Video of said play area!

THURSDAY - Patio Session at AT&T Performing Arts Center. A local artist was playing while Kenzi ran around the whole time in the water feature! Even though there was only about 1/4 water covering the black tile she got wet from head to toe! I am pretty sure she is a fish!

FRIDAY - Storytime with Miss Genie @ Interurban Railway Museum and Lunch with Carter at Los Colinas Mustang Sculpture. This story teller was GREAT! She used voices and made many jokes that Kenzi laughed at!

There was water at the Mustang Sculpture and I told Kenzi she could not get in. Then when I saw this I knew I would not win. Soo...

Next I saw this! She actually got wet up to her knees!

SATURDAY - A visit to the Nasher Sculpture Center. We took DART to get there and while walking the couple of the blocks to get to the Center we stopped at Chase Tower Courtyard and had lunch. It was so nice with the music and beautiful landscaping. We also took the Street car or Trolley back to DART and then home again. Fun, Fun, Fun day!

One of the sculptures that Kenzi wanted to walk through. Carter didn't think she could until someone else said they just did. So off they went!

Kenzi's very first trolley ride. She loved it!

Back home chillin' after dinner. We had such a WONDERFUL day! Look forward to our next family adventure!

See you next week with new fun things! Kari

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T22:16:00.005-05:00

This is a picture of my Grandfather, Emmett. He was a Chaplin's Assistant in the Army in 1946. I want to publicly thank all of the men and women who serve in the military for our country just as my Grandfather had. We have many in our family who have been in many wars. They help to protect our country and serve other countries as well! Thank you!

We were invited over to a friends house for breakfast and the kids got to eat outside. I pretty much stayed out there with them while they ate and I have to say it is fun to listen to kids conversations.

Our city has built a Monument to honor all of our local military. On Memorial day they dedicated it. I couldn't help but think of Daddy Paul, Pap, Grampa Emmett, Grampa G, Grampa Richard, Jim II, Elizabeth, just to name a few. I think with this list alone, our families have been in every war there was at least from WWI to date. Again Thank you!

Our friends John, Carly,, Benn, Ella, and soon to be Clara. Gotta love John's hair!

We also have a Walk of Hope memorial for Cancer. This memorial was provided for a friend of my good friend who died of Cancer leaving a husband and an infant. I really hope that someday really soon we can find a cure for this disease that know no race, religion, economy, or sex. I am so thankful and constantly in awe for and of my friend Keri. She has battled Breast cancer at age 28 and now Melanoma. She is such a source of strength to everyone she meets!

Normally, I find Memorial day to be another day to swim and the start of summer. However I found myself be very reflective for those in my life who made me such a better person just by knowing them. Thank you for EVERYTHING! Kari.

Shanette's Graduation

2010-05-31T22:15:00.004-05:00

So as you may know we LOVE our babysitter, Shanette! And she graduate from high school this month. We went to the graduation with Shanette and her family and sat with them of course. This is a picture of KEnzi watching a movie on a DVD player before the festivities started. And what did we do before DVD players?

The girl in the middle with the Yellow sash is Shanette.

There were almost 1200 students graduating! BIG difference from my class of 87 people!

The graduate with her very proud family. Melissa, Shanette, Charles, and Laurel. 4 down and one more to go!

Shanette and Kenzi. Kenzi loves Shanette. She often asks for us to go on a date so Shanette can come over!

Us and Shanette. Carter being snarky I am sure!

Congrats Shanette! Next stop BYU!

Kenzi's last day of school...

2010-05-31T22:04:00.004-05:00

OK so do y'all remember this little girl from last September that started Preschool? I sure don't! Because...

Now she looks like this. I swear this thing ate my little girl! This was her last day going to Preschool.

Kenzi and her teacher Mrs. C. Again I cannot say enough how wonderful she is!

Kenzi and Mrs. G. Another wonderful teacher that Kenzi had! Absolutely amazing!

The M girls & Brady with the teachers. The girls names are Molly, Maddy, and of course Mackenzie.

Mackenzie, Brady, Molly, and Maddy

Now is off to a Summer of Fun and the Kindergarten! :0(

Concert in the park...

2010-05-31T21:52:00.005-05:00

Well I am not sure if I am tired or if really I feel these pictures speak for themselves. They were taken at the Summer Concert in Park series that Allen has every summer. And Kenzi loves to run and go nuts! Enjoy! Kari

Oh and Kenzi rolling down a hill! Oh to be 5 again!

Class picnic

2010-05-31T21:24:00.003-05:00

I know that I am posting a lot, but the end of the school year produces a lot of activities with school! So this activity was a class picnic. We brought our friends, Sophie, Rhys, and Aunt Keri. Kenzi loved playing with her school friends.

Mrs. C, who is one of Kenzi's teachers.

Rhys-o-potamus! What a cutie pie!

Enjoy! Kari

Music Presentation

2010-05-31T20:40:00.003-05:00

So Kenzi has been attending Children's Workshop for the past school year. She and I have loved it everyday! Well, they had a music presentation. It was so cute! Kenzi in true Kenzi form sang a little bit, did some of the movements but was 100% adorable.

Singing "Goin' on a Bear Hunt". Which Kenzi has actually told me that she gets scared singing it. So maybe that is the reason for the partial participation.

Kenzi's entire class. So many cutie patooties!

Kenzi actually doing the movements of "Going on a Bear Hunt". Of course it is the part where they run away from the bear.

So this is the other preschool class that only meets part day. The reason for this picture is, the boy in Green on the far left is, in Kenzi's words "My boyfriend, Caleb". He really is a cute kid and I think I figured out why he is the only one she outright calls her boyfriend is because he plays super heroes at recess with Kenzi. The other boys want to play Star Wars. And of course the girls want to play with dolls and house. So really he was the only option! :0)

Oh I forgot...

2010-05-31T20:24:00.004-05:00

I forgot to tell you the best part about Six Flags! Or at least what I consider to be the best part. Well, remember when I mentioned about the Aquaman ride? Well it pretty much cooled us down as it was in the high 80s low 90s that day. And it really took all day to dry off. Well I think I was about another hour away from drying off when, Welcome to Texas, Spring rain came down in buckets! We were on the Merry-go-round when it started but my mom was not. She ran to the exit of the merry-go-round and when we got off we tried to wait it out but that was not working. So we ran to the closest store. While doing so we ran through about foot deep puddles/lakes. We bought an umbrella and spent about half an hour in the store and the rain was still not letting up. So we got soaked running to the overhang for the entrance and exit of the park. It was packed with school groups. Carter ran to the car and came and got us. Needless to say, we were soaked to the bone. I brought a change of clothes for the kid but not for any of the rest of us. So the kid was dry going home and the rest of us were still really wet when we got home. I absolutely love rain and cold weather and I was laughing most of the time. Kenzi was scared and we had to do a lot of reassuring. All I could say to my mom was "Welcome to Texas"! Kari

Kenzi's new endeavor...

2010-05-31T14:26:00.005-05:00

So much to Carter's disappointment (only because Kenzi does not want to play hockey anymore), Kenzi has decided that she wanted to try gymnastics. So we had her try a class and see how it went to know if we were willing to have her keep going. She actually did really good! She paid attention and followed directions She is doing things like somersaults, beginning of cartwheels, balance beam, rings, trampoline, and bar. Who knew that they could start those things so young! Kenzi is absolutely loving it. Last week she came to put her shoes on after her class and asked "When do I get to do gymnastics again?" We currently have her in once a week so the poor girl has to wait a week. But it is great to know that she is liking it.

Kenzi sliding, not sure what this is useful for but she loved it the same.

Kenzi trying to do a back bend.

Kenzi doing a somersault.

Kenzi learning how to do a cartwheel. Or at least learning the foundation move.

Kenzi walking on the balance beam.

She absolutely loves it and I look forward to it teaching her discipline, balance and stamina. Go Kenzi! Enjoy! Kari

Six Flags

2010-05-30T22:07:00.003-05:00

So Kenzi's birthday present from Gramma B was a trip to Six Flags. At first Kenzi did not quite know what we were talking about but very quickly realized when we pulled into the parking lot. And then it was on! We walked in and the first thing she saw was the Joker to which she was not at all okay talking to him. And was really afraid. So a very nice park personnel said all you have to say if someone comes up to you and wants to talk to you that you are afraid of is "Go play somewhere else, Joker!" To which felt to the freedom to continue walking around the park. Thank you Six Flags staff!

First up was Daffy and Sylvester.

Next we saw Green Lantern! Kenzi was very excited, as was Carter! And Green Lantern liked their shirts. That is why both Carter and Kenzi are doing the Flash pose with Green Lantern.

The first ride we hit.

The big kid ride that Kenzi rode by herself. She even made a friend on the ride.

So we went on the Aquaman ride. It literally is a ride where you climb a little bit, curve around and then drop. and by the end of the ride you feel like you have taken a shower with your clothes on. Though Carter and Kenzi waited on the bridge above the ride and got even more wet. It really was okay, as it was a warm day and it did cool us down!

Carter and Kenzi with Batmobile!

Kenzi's second time on the bouncing boots. My first! Those boots really bounce!

Carter and Kenzi on a ride that Kenzi tried to convince me to go on and I passed. This boat turns while going back and forth. I am sure I would vomit!

Us riding in a car that Kenzi drove. There were times where we felt like we were putting our hands in her life! She LOVED it!

I actually had to pressure KEnzi in sitting in this chair! I think this does a lot towards putting Kenzi into proper size perspective! She doesn't look so big now does she?!?!?!?!?!
We had so much fun! Thank you Gramma B. You ROCK! Love ya, Kari

Fountain fun!

2010-05-30T21:04:00.005-05:00

So their is a restaurant called "Twisted Root" in Richardson that we like to go to. It is a REALLY good burger joint and fried food! They have fried pickle. Yummy! They have a fountain really close by so after we ate we let Kenzi run through the fountain. Fortunately Carter had a towel and a tshirt that she could wear when she was done. Enjoy! Kari

This is often the picture in the back of the car when Gramma B. is around! So cute!

Kenzi soooo excited to run thru water!

A picture that my mom took. I really like it. I think it is one of our better pictures. Love ya, Dig!

Kenzi in Carters shirt. She LOVED being able to wear daddy's Thor shirt so she got to wear it to bed! So exciting! Oh to be a 5 year old!

Gramma makes a dress...

2010-05-30T20:34:00.003-05:00

So to brag on my mom for a little bit... Gramma B. has been sewing my entire life. This comes in very handy when I was in a dance recital once a year from the time I was three until about 16. And I would be in at least 3 to 5 numbers all of which my mom being the resourceful woman she was would not just make my costume but others to help pay for my dancing habit! She has even made my wedding dress which is hermetically sealed for Kenzi if she wants it, a blessing dress for a two month old and numerous (too many to count) dresses made for my nieces! So with that being said you would think she might be tired but not Gramma B!! So for Kenzi's birthday she made Kenzi a Raggedy Ann and Andy dress. To which Kenzi said "Who?" I LOVE it. She looks absolutely adorable. It is by far the longest dress that she has ever had. SOOO CUTE! Awesome job Gramma B! We love you and all that you do for our family! Kari

Kenzi's Birthday party

2010-05-26T00:53:00.005-05:00

So we had a Mickey Mouse party for Kenzi's birthday. She LOVED having her friends over to help her celebrate! We played games, made crafts, beat up a Mickey pinata and had some cupcakes. It was a lot of fun and we so appreciated everyone coming! I still can't believe that my baby is 5! Someone once told me when I was pregnant to enjoy the time because it goes by fast. Well, that person seriously understated the reality of how fast it goes. I am pretty sure that I had her yesterday and now she is 5! I am so thankful for having such a healthy and happy girl ! I love you sugar pie and I hope you have a wonderful year! Love ya, Mommy!

Playing Musical chairs. Briana won!

The kids attempting to play "Simon Says". That lasted about five minutes before I was done torturing myself and I switched gears to the pinata!

Kenzi opening presents from her friends!

We handed out favor bags. We helped Travis get his blower to work again by rewinding it

The previously stated pinata. I am not sure if you can tell but it is Mickey's head. I did make it with help from an awesome friend, LeighAnn! It was a lot of work, but I have to say, SOOOOOO worth it! It was so much fun watching the kids have a good time with it!

Aunt Liz helping to get ALL of the candy out. I believe I put 9 pounds in it! Thankfully the kids took the candy home! :0)

Carter controlling the pinata. Everyone got to hit it twice and luckily Kenzi was able to finish it off!

The kids playing Red light, Green Light. It was fun to watch them run around!

All of the Mouseketeers! They are so stinkin' cute!

Butterfly Exhibit

2010-05-26T00:34:00.004-05:00

So Kenzi's class took a field trip to a Butterfly Exhibit at the Collin Creek Mall. I have never been in an exhibit where the butterflies could land on you and I have to say it was pretty cool. Kenzi was okay with it but was fine with leaving when I asked if she was done. But I think I got some pretty fun pictures! Enjoy! Kari

Kenzi got a couple of butterflies in her hair as many of us did. I had anywhere from 2 to 4 butterflies in my hair the whole time. Apparently, they like red hair!

Kenzi's classmate, Molly, having a butterfly in her hair!

This butterfly was on my foot for a good ten minutes. I finally had Kenzi get it off my foot with a qtip and we put it on a plant where it might be able to eat.

One of Mackenzie's wonderful teachers, Mrs. C. She is so awesome and I am so thankful that Kenzi has such wonderful teachers!

Kenzi excited to get a butterfly on her qtip. The Qtip has gatorade on it. Apparently they like that too!

Kenzi's class with the butterfly man. He spoke with the kids about the butterflies before they went into the exhibit! I learned alot by listening and was amazed at how well the teachers prepared the children as they knew a lot of the answers to his questions!

Tiara Party

2010-05-11T18:20:00.005-05:00

So for Kenzi's bday, Gram Mac sent a box. Which Kenzi LOVES getting boxes! But I digress, in the box was a Tiara kit that included 6 Tiaras and all the fun sticker jewels and sparkles to go with it. So Kenzi wanted to have a Tiara party with her girlfriends. Well... It was a huge hit! Every child who did it knew their numbers. The stay focused the whole time. And they wore them the whole time they were here! It was so fun! Way to go Gram Mac!

Kenzi working hard!

Ella totally in her happy place!

The two Princesses!

Kate very focused. She actually did two more. One for her mom and Ella's mom.

Sadie totally amazing both my mom and I since she totally knew her numbers and she is 3!

All four girls wearing the tiaras! Aren't they adorable!

Ella's mommy, Carly, being a great sport! Aren't they cute!

Kate and Sadie's mommy, Brook! They were so proud to give their mommy a tiara!

The girls had so much fun! Thanks again Gram Mac! It was such a success! Later! Kari

Mother's day...

2010-05-11T17:37:00.004-05:00

First and foremost I want to wish all of the "Mommies" in our lives a Wonderful Mother's Day! I know I am few days late, but the sentiment is still there. We had a very special mother's day! First I was woken up to Carter, Kenzi and breakfast. I then woke my mom up and asked her to come to my bed so we could have breakfast together. We then got our prezzis which we both loved. We then went to church where Both Kenzi and Carter sang in Church with the children's group and the men's group. We then came home to which Carter made lunch. Then we all took naps! Then Mom and I made dinner. We made a whole Red Snapper which I had to take the scales off and found that I really don't like that process. Carter had to finish it. But the dinner tasted GREAT! Thank you dig for such a wonderful day! You and Kenzi are awesome! Love ya! Vel!

Kenzi and Gramma playing chase in the front yard. Gramma did get a hold of her!

Double Rainbow

2010-05-04T20:09:00.003-05:00

So last night we had Family Home Evening with our friends Keri & Neal. When we were leaving it was raining and had been for a few hours. So when we came out we saw a Double rainbow. Kenzi was so excited that her and Sophie ran around like crazy. It was pretty cool! Enjoy! Kari

Aliya's brithday party

2010-05-03T16:24:00.008-05:00

So Kenzi has been invited to a few birthday parties from kids at school. We were only able to make this party which was at "Going Bonkers". And I have to say that company name is pretty accurate! She had a great time and of course wants to do it for her birthday. Not quite yet, sweetie pie! Enjoy! Kari

Kenzi did not know how to get out at one point so I went in to get her. The facility is for children aged 4 to 104, so there was not a problem of getting in there. McDonald's should take note!

This is the view from inside this thing!

The group of friends that came to Aliya's party.

I wanted to get a picture of the birthday girl with Kenzi for Kenzi's scrapbook night. So her is a picture of me trying to get the girls to look at me for a moment...

Her is the second picture I got while falling down...

And finally a picture of both of them looking at me while I am sitting on the floor! Good times! Good times!

Easter Dress

2010-05-03T16:24:00.004-05:00

So another day late and dollar short, here are Easter pictures. Since we had General Conference ( a meeting that happens twice a year which allows us to have church at home watching it on television) on Easter Sunday we dressed our Easter best on the following Sunday. Here are two of my favorite people looking amazing! Enjoy! Kari

Dallas Blooms @ Dallas Arboretum

2010-05-03T16:23:00.004-05:00

So as you may know we are members of the Dallas Arboretum. And it really is a great place that me and my mommy friends like to go. So we try to go often. We were able to go during Dallas Blooms. I love Tulips and it was so beautiful to see them in Full Bloom. Plus the kids make for great pictures! Enjoy! Kari

They have Mommy and Me Mondays where they have a petting zoo and face painting. Kenzi was more than happy to pet the animals!

The one group picture we tried to get and I think this is the best shot I got.

Aunt Keri making some flowers talk. Of course I can't remember which ones right at this moment! Nice!

Adorable Rhys-o-potamus!

Easter morning...

2010-04-04T15:42:00.008-05:00

Kenzi LOVED getting up Easter morning to search for eggs. She also got a new basket. It's PURPLE! She is at such a fun age! I love that she gets excited about the holidays and it is like I am a kid again just watching her! Enjoy! Kari

"Here is an egg right here!"

"What does this say daddy?"

The Easter bunny was kind!

Freebirds!

2010-04-04T15:42:00.005-05:00

So we were treated to a free dinner at Freebirds! It was soo good and we will definitely be back. The reason we got a free dinner was because Kenzi and I drive Meals on Wheels. This Freebirds is working with the city Outreach and Humane Society. So the night before they opened they held and event in the volunteers honor. We had a great time! Kari

Egg - Celebration

2010-04-04T15:41:00.003-05:00

So the City had an Easter celebration. we went for the first time this year and I have to say it was a very well attended event. Kenzi got A LOT of eggs and snacks.

Kenzi trying to play a game with some assistance from Carter.

Kenzi just got out of the bounce house. She of course wanted to go again and

again!
Who are those two good lookin' people?!?!?!?

Give me a kiss honey!

I am soo glad that Kenzi is over her fear of furry over sized characters. We had to walk her to the bunny, but then she took the picture! Yippee!

Happy Easter!

First day of Spring...

2010-04-04T15:16:00.010-05:00

So on the first day of Spring, I am not sure about y'all, but we had SNOW. It was so bizarre and SOOO fun! We had to go to church the next morning but afterwards we ran, ok I pushed everyone out of the way and we changed and then played! It was soo much fun!

I love this picture. Kenzi was chasing me!

Kenzi getting tackled by Carter!

Family picture with the snow.

Family portrait with our snow man that lasted a couple of days but he feel apart before the end of the day. We put it right there so the snowman would help to water Po.

We walked over to the park with the dogs. The snow was very wet, so we were wet and cold by the time we were done, to which we just lit a fire and had hot chocolate!

The dogs were really ok with it until Carter took them down the slide.

Georgia got down first much to her relief, and Dax was waiting!

Kenzi gives a puppet show...

2010-04-04T15:16:00.004-05:00

So I am a little back logged, but feel confident that I can catch up! Kenzi and I go to the library probably a couple of times per month. We return what books we rented and get new books. This time Kenzi wanted to give me a puppet show. I am not sure exactly what was going on but she was having a great time. And Kenzi has gotten Halloween books ever since Halloween last year! Enjoy! Kari.

Paper boxes...

2010-03-22T14:51:00.004-05:00

OK, so I got this idea from Keri's step mother-in-law, Becky. I was able to make these out of scrapbook paper. However, the reason these are on the blog is because, I do not know what to put in them. I made them for Teacher Appreciation Day. They are for Kenzi's teachers, however, I do not know what to put in them. They obviously cannot hold too much weight. And I also don't know what to get a teacher for teacher appreciation day. Help!

St, Patrick's Day...

2010-03-18T17:40:00.004-05:00

So awhile ago I got an idea from a friend and wanted to have fun with Kenzi. We decided to make a Leprechaun trap. Kenzi kept telling me that she could catch it with her hands until I asked her what about when she is asleep. Then she thought the trap was good idea. So on March 16th we put out our trap. And this is pretty much what we found the next morning...

The sign that encourages the Leprechaun to go into the trap as they like to do things they are not suppose to!

Our family was so surprised to find that Leprechaun can walk up walls like Spiderman!

And look at all the gold he dropped when he knocked over the trap! There was even a real Gold Susan B. Anthony coin in there! The other ones are chocolate, which Kenzi is just fine with!

Leprechauns are strong as he tipped over our couch and then walked on the back of it!

Though he likes to make a huge mess, a lot of Kenzi's DVDs were on the floor along with Carters PS games!

Apparently he worked hard as he decided to use Kenzi's blanket and took a nap in the Lovesac!

We left the house this way as Kenzi was so floored by what happened she had to show Ben & Ella. She did ask if the Leprechaun went to their house and I told her that he only goes to houses that have traps because we must have something to hide! It was so fun! We did get video on our iPhones that I will try and load too but this will tie you over for awhile! Enjoy! Kari

Working on our yard...

2010-03-18T17:39:00.003-05:00

As stated earlier, we worked on getting our backyard a little more usable. To get Kenzi involved we had her wash her dishes as she was happy to do so! And she was pretty good at it! I see potential in her future!!!! :0)