The Hodde House

Day 6 - Magic Kingdom

2010-12-30T14:20:00.000-06:00

We visited Magic Kingdom on our last day and this was the most special as Avery was able to eat Breakfast at Cinderella's Castle.

Meeting Cinderella before breakfast, while you only see her before dining it was still very magical for Avery

Going up the winding stairs to the dinning room forBreakfast

Snow White (for the 3rd time)

Princess Aurora

Ariel

Wishing upon a star

Bibbity Bobbity Boo

Belle

She saw a facepainting stand on our 1st night at Downtown Disney and we told her she would be able to get her face painted one day, so being this was our last day it had to be done.

Cutie

Yes, we had to all get Mickey/Minnie ears and take one of "those" pictures

With MeMe and PaPa

PaPa and Karter

Tomorrowland Speedway

Splash Mountain

Papa and Ali in the front

Daddy and Avery in the second row

Aladdin's Magic Carpets

Ali giving Avery a good seat

This was done with a broom (the brissels were tied up) and water - amazing

Until Next Time....

Today's highlight for Avery was eating in Cinderella's Castle and seeing the princess

We had a great time. We hope to go back when Karter gets older where we will have to fight the summer heat and crowds..... ugh!!

Day 5 - Epcot

2010-12-30T14:08:00.000-06:00

Our next stop was Epcot

A group shot with Mickey - minus Papa, we couldn't find him

Avery and MeMe at the fountain

Ali wanted Karter to hang out with her for a while

As we made our way around the world we saw

Alice In Wonderland

and Snow White

We then experienced our 2nd character dining. When I booked the rest reservation it said we would see Belle before being seated and then there would be other princesses that come by your table while you are eating, so we had no idea on who we would see.

Avery and Belle

Princess Aurora (a.k.a. Sleepy Beauty)

I love this picture

Dancing with Snow White

Cinderella

The princesses were loving on Karter

Ariel

Avery's favorite memory from Epcot was the ride Soarin'

Day 4 - Magic Kingdom

2010-12-30T13:35:00.000-06:00

Our 3rd park stop was Magic Kingdom which is the most magical place on earth. Avery had a smile on her face from the time we entered the park until the time we left.

Magic Kingdom's Christmas Tree during the day

Pic with Daisy

Cinderella's Castle - Beautiful

Riding Cinderella's Carousel with MeMe

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Winnie the Pooh

Mad Tea Party - Avery wanted to go fast, but when they got going pretty fast she told them she only wanted to go medium :)

It's a Small World

Tom Sawyer's Island

squeeze

Woody and Jessie

Our 1st character dining we saw

Pooh

Eeyore

Eeyore saying Hi to Karter

Piglet

and Tiger

Picture of the Castle right before they turned the Christmas lights on

and after - absolutely gorgeous

Today Avery enjoyed the whole Magic Kingdom experience,

she couldn't just name one thing.

Day 3 - Animal Kingdom

2010-12-30T12:00:00.000-06:00

Our 2nd park to visit was Animal Kingdom.

Avery had Disney shirts to wear all week, but being it was cold out they were always covered up. This is one of the cute shirts, Mickey giving her a hug. Oh, how I love Target and they love me for visiting so often.

Rhinoceros

Hippos

Mount Everest

Photo with Minnie

and Pocahontas

Jingle Parade, Chip or Dale??

Jingle Parade - Mickey

Jingle Parade - Goofy

Jingle Parade - snowing

Tree of Life

Animal Kingdom's Christmas Tree

Avery's favorite memory from Animal Kingdom was the Lion King show, which was great. Our pictures from the show all turned out blurry, but it is a must see.

Day 2 - Hollywood Studios

2010-12-30T11:45:00.000-06:00

Our first park stop was Hollywood Studios. I found a website that had premade itineraries and we used these as a guide, didn't follow them 100%. The first "rule" we broke is the itinerary stated to arrive at the gate 30 minutes prior to the park opening, that didn't happen on any day. We normally got there an hour after the park opened.

We knew about the FastPass, but weren't 100% on how it worked. The itinerary said, arrive 30 minutes prior to the park opening and as soon as you get there get a FastPass for the Toy Story Mania ride if the wait exceeds 20 minutes. Well, we got to the park an hour after it opened and Mom and Ali went to get FastPasses for Toy Story Mania, when they got there the return time for the FastPass was between 7:00 p.m. and 7:20 p.m., which was fine, however they needed all of our park tickets and they only had there own. So they didn't get FastPasses. The wait for the ride exceeded 1 hour, which is very rare for this time of year, but Hollywood Studios doesn't have many rides and this is rated one of the #1 rides in all the parks. (It is new and the recent movie, which all makes sense.)

So it was time for a Disney Live show, so we went to that

Disney Live!!
Then Avery got authgraphs from Goofy and Pluto

Chicken house in the Hanna Montana - The Movie

Walt Disney's original plane

Getting back to Toy Story Mania ..Story, by the time we went back with all of our park tickets the FastPass line was sold out, so we kept watch of the wait time on an iPhone App (very neat app). The wait went from 60 minutes, to 90 minutes to 120 minutes to closed... Yikes what were we going to do as this was a must in Avery's eyes. Well, it just closed for a little while, technical difficulties I guess. Well, we ate an early dinner and they walked by the ride, it was a 90 minute wait. What to do, if we want to ride, I guess we get in line. There was a lady getting off with her grandkids and I asked her if it was worth the wait and she said absolutely, so we get in line. We were in line for an hour, but it didn't really seem like it as there was plenty to look at while we waited.

Avery and Ali with their 3-D glasses on, yes the ride is 3-D

Our family after riding Toy Story Mania!!

Picture with Woody and Buzz

The lights on the buildings danced to Christmas music

What Avery liked best at Hollywood Studios was the Toy Story Mania!! ride, which ended up being worth the wait.

Day 1 - Downtown Disney

2010-12-30T11:00:00.000-06:00

On the evening of our arrival we went to Downtown Disney where there are lots of shops and fun things to look at.

Waiting for the bus to pick us up at the hotel to take us to Downtown Disney

Entrance to Downtown Disney Downtown Disney's Christmas Tree

Yes, these are built out of legos. Can you spot Avery?

We ate at Planet Hollywood and the waitress was explaining the menu,

we laughed so hard because Karter was showing so much interest

Cheers!!

Before we left Downtown Disney we made the important purchase of an Autograph book so Avery could get the characters autographs at the parks!!

Walt Disney World

2010-12-28T22:35:00.010-06:00

We wanted to take Avery to Disney World during the off season before she starts school, so this year had to be it. We first talked about going in January or February 2011 since Karter would be going along and we thought it would be easier the closer to one he was. Then we thought that it would be good to go during the Christmas season to see all the added extras they have. This past June we made the decision and booked our trip for December 2010. Now that we are back I think we made the best decision. Although the weather was unseasonably cold, lows in the 30's and never got out of the 50's, Karter was a trooper hanging out in the Baby Bjorn and we didn't have to rent an extra stroller for Avery because being it was cold she didn't poop out on us and if she needed a ride she would get into Karter's stroller.

Now for a post for each of our days.......

Neighborhood Winter Fest

2010-12-28T22:32:00.003-06:00

The first weekend in December our neighborhood had a Winter Fest, even though it was 80 degress outside.

Avery's 1st Camel ride (Ali's too)

2010 picture with Santa

Karter is 9 Months Old

2010-12-19T19:35:00.005-06:00

Our baby boy is going to be a year old in just 3 short months. This past month was very busy. His bottom 2 teeth came out, he survived his first stomach bug, he enjoyed his 1st Thanksgiving (especially the outcome of the football game : -) ), we had to move the crib mattress down, he started crawling and he enjoyed his first trip to Disney World (once I get all the pictures in order I will post about the trip).

At his 9 month check-up he weighted 20 lbs and 15 ozs (60 %) and was 29 inches long (80 %).

Dewberry Farms 2010

2010-11-16T19:28:00.013-06:00

Some of the crew gathered at Dewberry Farms this past Sunday. The weather wasn't too nice, but the kids had a good time and it wasn't crowded at all - which meant no lines!!

All bundled up

jumping on the pillows
Karter trying out the slide with daddy

Avery going down the slide SLOWLY....

These are some really cute kids, don't you think??

Thank goodness we have 11 more years until Avery drives, but looking at her skills on Sunday she needs another 20 years!!

bag swing

riding the ponies

The kiddos, Karter even got to participate in this one.

Silly faces!!

Looking forward to next year, Karter will get to enjoy the activities!!

Karter is 8 Months Old

2010-11-15T23:05:00.004-06:00

Can't believe Karter is 8 months old. He is a happy, smiley and lovable little guy. He loves rolling around on the floor and spitting his food at you when he eats. When he sits he rocks back and forth, so it won't be too long and we will have a crawler. He will turn in circles while sitting to see what Avery is doing, when we call his name or to reach for a toy. He is trying really hard to pull up and he giggles while doing it. He is just a happy little fella!!

Our Halloween Faces

2010-10-31T23:03:00.010-05:00

We celebrated Halloween all week long. It started Monday when Avery went on a trick or treating field trip at school.

Thursday was "wear your costume day" at ballet.

Friday they had a Halloween Party at school.
Our Mickey and Minne

Saturday she was invited to a birthday party and they wore their costumes.

Halloween Day

Mickey!!

Mickey (with Minnie ears) and Minnie

Mickey and Minnie with Great-Grandma

Mickey and Minnie with Great-Grandpa

We hope everyone enjoyed Halloween 2010!!

Avery turns 5 years old

2010-10-19T21:35:00.012-05:00

Avery turned 5 today and the celebrating started on Saturday with her birthday party. Everyone had a fun time climbing, swinging, sliding and playing games.

The roller coaster

climbing
keeping the balls in the air

dancing and being silly with the scarfs

the parachute

blowing out the candles

twinkle toes

she has been waiting on this gift since she was 3 1/2,

J said he would get her one when she turned 5 and

he kept his promise

blowing out her candles on her actual birthday

yummy

Avery has made some good friends at school that turned 5 this past summer, so they are in kindergarten this year. Now that she is 5 she wants to go to kindergarten, which she is totally ready. Thank goodness we have 10 more months because I am not ready for my baby girl to start "real"school. I know August 2011 will be here before we know it!!

Happy 7 Months Karter

2010-10-18T21:19:00.006-05:00

Karter is 7 months old and is a very active little guy. He sits all by himself and rolls around quite a bit. We have talked to Avery many times about leaving her small toys laying around. He gets in his moods when he will talk, laugh and giggle when you talk to him. His bottom left tooth is popping out and he continues to chew on everything which leads to drool everywhere.

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-10-12T22:00:00.006-05:00

Karter sitting in the corn

What is this?
Pinecone Bird Feeder

A one hump camel

Sitting in the pumpkin patch, yes the sun was kind of bright

Enjoying the Fall Weather

2010-10-12T21:56:00.006-05:00

Karter's 1st time swinging.

This one is for you Uncle J

2010-10-12T21:55:00.002-05:00

We Are Here!!

2010-09-22T23:41:00.001-05:00

I haven't been very good about blogging the last few months, so I tried to get up to date this evening, below are lots of new posts.

I will try and be better, however I am not going to make any promises.

Karter "talking"

2010-09-22T23:32:00.002-05:00

Here is a little video from the evening.

Washington County Fair 2010

2010-09-22T23:03:00.021-05:00

We started the Washington County Fair festivities by going to the parade in downtown Brenham the Saturday before the fair.

Waiting at Meme's office for the parade to start

Karter working on his wave

Getting some loot

How pretty is this?

We went to back to Brenham this past weekend for the actual fair.

Friday evening we went and watch the junior hay hauling and greased pig contests followed by an egg toss. Avery really enjoys watching

Watching the greased pig contest

We then made our way to the carnival

Karter enjoying his first fair

Home Depot had a workbench set-up for kids to do little projects.

Avery chose a fire station piggy bank.

Step 1

Making progress

The final product

another visit to the carnival

I am not sure what Avery is going to do next year as most of the rides she rode this year she will be too big for next year, but hopefully she will be a good big sister and will ride a few of them with Karter.

Karter is 6 months old

2010-09-22T22:56:00.004-05:00

Wow, I can't believe Karter is half way to his first birthday. Time travels way too fast.

Karter is still a really easy going little boy. He will giggle like crazy when Avery acts silly in front of him. The big smile he has just brightens your day.

He weighs 17 lbs and 15 ozs and is 27 inches long.

He is a drooling fool, so my guess is teeth are on the way.

He rolls over every once in a while, but prefers to sit up. He can pretty well sit up on his own, but we normally leave the boppy pillow behind him just to catch his fall. Our little boy is growing up.

Happy Half Birthday!!

Just Hanging Around the House

2010-09-22T22:48:00.007-05:00

Just random pictures from hanging around the house

The Woodlands Waterpark

2010-09-22T22:43:00.006-05:00

A few of us met up at a neighborhood waterpark in The Woodlands right before school started.

Splash!!

They went down this slide over and over and over again.

The crew

Priceless!!

Crazy Hair Day

2010-09-22T22:37:00.003-05:00

Avery had Crazy Hair Day at school and her daddy's step in, do I need to say more....

Style 1

Style 2 - she stuck with this one

Karter's First Trip to the Pool

2010-09-22T22:02:00.014-05:00

Karter had his first trip to the pool when he was 5 months.

Karter is 5 months

2010-09-22T22:02:00.006-05:00

Karter was 5 months old on August 15th, yes that was a month and a week ago. He is gowing up so fast.

He isn't liking tummy time so he hasn't really started rolling over yet. He loves to put whatever he can get his hands on in his mouth. He has been spending 5 to 10 minutes in the exersaucer each day.

We made the transition to his bed in his room and he is doing great.

Karter's 1st Cereal

2010-09-22T22:01:00.008-05:00

Karter had his first cereal on July 30th at 4 1/2 months and hasn't looked back. We have since made it through the fruits and vegetables.

Karter's 1st Bowl of Cereal

He didn't get too messy

All Gone...

1st bowl of cereal with fruit

Let me have the spoon, so I can make sure I get it all

The Circus 2010

2010-07-23T18:06:00.008-05:00

I took Avery to the circus last Friday. She has come a long way since our first circus attempt in 2008. She was terried of the clowns then and this year got close enough to them to take pictures. During the whole show she pointed out each time she saw one of the clowns she took a picture with.

Karter is 4 months old

2010-07-19T08:16:00.009-05:00

Karter was 4th months old this past Thursday, the 15th. He is becoming such a big boy!! He is still a very happy baby and loves when you talk to him. The past few weeks he has been sitting up alot, with assistance of course. When he is in his carsear or bouncer he pulls his head forward to sit up, too cute.

He is still sleeping in a pack n play in our room. I need to transition him to his bed, however I don't want to mess a good thing up, that being him sleeping through the night. I do plan to work on the transistion this month.

His eating is on the same schedule as last month, eating every 3 hours during the day.

The boy has found his hands and he loves to suck on them.

Karter had his 4 month check-up this morning. He weighs 15 lbs, 5 ozs and is 25 1/4 inches long, which both are in the 60%. Our little boy is growing up.

4th of July

2010-07-19T07:57:00.009-05:00

We had a wonderful and busy 4th of July weekend. We started it off by going to the 4th of July parade in Chappell Hill on Saturday morning. Avery loves going to parades, especially the ones where they throw candy. About 15 minutes into the parade it started raining, so we got a little wet, but Avery enjoyed every minute of it.

Karter smilies alot these days, however getting him to smile while juggling the camera I don't always capture a smile on his face.

On Sunday we went to the 4th of July parade in Round Top. This was our first year to attend and it out does most parades I have attended. There is a ton of candy thrown to the kids, so Avery was in heaven.

We ended the night in Independence to watch fireworks.

Swimming Lessons

2010-06-19T16:29:00.011-05:00

Avery took swimming lessons for the first time this summer. I wanted her to take lessons early in the summer so she could work on what she learned during the rest of the summer. I didn't realize when I signed her up for the lessons it would be my first 2 weeks back at work. It wasn't too bad as Alan took her to all but one lesson.

The past summers Avery liked to play in the water, but didn't like water to be splashed in her face and for that matter really didn't like going under the water. The lessons she took were group lessons, so she didn't get the one-on-one attention, but after 6 lessons she feels way more comfortable in the water. We just have to continue going to the pool a few times a week so she can continue improving and enjoying the water. I would like to find some private lessons for her, but so far haven't had any luck.

1,2,3 - going under

under the water

and I did it
There was a ring sitting on the step that she needed to get.
She stood like this for a while, just holding her breath and thinking about it.

going under to get the ring

She came up the the ring, but I don't have a picture of the ring.

Waiting her turn

Jumping to Daddy

Karter is 3 Months Old

2010-06-19T16:26:00.004-05:00

Karter was 3 months old on June 15th. He is growing like a weed and changing everyday. He is still really easy going and for the most part a happy baby. He has been sleeping through the night for 4 weeks now which is a blessing and eats every 3 hours during the day. He smiles when you talk to him and will giggle if you tickle him in the right spot.

Back to Work

2010-06-19T16:24:00.005-05:00

I am a little late in posting, but it was time for mommy to go back to work. I went back to work the 6th of June, so Karter has being going to "school" for 2 1/2 weeks. He is going to the same place Avery goes and has gone since a baby.

Karter's Baptism

2010-05-27T16:52:00.009-05:00

Karter was welcomed into God's Family this past Sunday, May 23rd by becoming a Child of God. Karter's special day was also Grandma Schulz's 92nd birthday. Now that I think about it we should have taken a picture of them together, but that didn't happen.

All ready for church

Being Baptized. Can you say a proud mommy moment by my face?
Being welcomed into the Lord's Family

Karter's Sponsors - Stephanie, Wade, Kevin and Tina

Our Doctor and Businessman

2010-05-21T07:54:00.006-05:00

Avery enjoys looking at her baby pictures from the hospital and she asked her daddy what he was wearing in the pictures. Alan still had the scrubs from when Karter was born, so Avery tried them on.

Our little Businessman

Happy Friday, hope everyone has a good weekend!!

Karter is 2 Months Old

2010-05-17T12:10:00.007-05:00

Karter had his 2 month check-up this morning. He weighted 11 lbs. and 14 oz and was 23 inches long, these are both in the 50 percentile. Also with the check-up came shots. He got 3, along with an oral medicine, there were tears shed but he is sound asleep now.

He is still a really laid back baby and smiles when you talk to him, he even "talks" back to you every once in a while, more so in the morning. Does this mean he is going to be a morning person?

He sleeps well at night too. He eats between 9 and 10 p.m. and has been getting up any where between 2 and 3:30 a.m. to eat and then again between 6 and 7 a.m. During the day he is staying awake for longer periods of time, sometimes only sleeping a total of 4 hours during the day, but when this happens he sleeps a little more the next day.

Avery has been enjoying her little brother and they interact with each other more and more each day.

Karter 8 Weeks Old

2010-05-11T12:22:00.002-05:00

Karter was 8 weeks old yesterday. He is growing like a weed.

Spring Dance Show Off

2010-05-10T22:26:00.008-05:00

Avery had her Spring Dance Show Off at school today. She participated way more than she did in the Winter Dance Show Off in December.

Just Pictures

2010-05-05T16:56:00.009-05:00

Just posting some pictures from the last few weeks, we haven't been up to too much!!!

Avery riding her bike and enjoying the nice weather

Daddy's Little Caddy

Avery had a bout with sickness a week and half ago. Something viral that caused her to run fever for 5 days. She is showing her booboo as she had to get blood drawn. She is all better now thank goodness. I was a little paranoid with her being sick and Karter being so little.

Karter smiling

Doesn't he look like his daddy? Red hair and all.

Avery likes to hold Karter, however when she does she pays no attention to him.

Tummy Time

Karter is One Month Old

2010-04-15T14:08:00.006-05:00

Today Karter is One Month Old, where does the time go....

What is Karter doing these days.
Eating
Sleep
Making messes in his diaper
Stays awake anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour and a half in-between day time feedings.

Karter is a pretty easy going baby, in that once his tummy is full he is content in the swing or bouncer.

Mommy and Karter go to Target at least once a week because Mommy goes crazy being at home all day long for more than 2 days straight. He has also gone with Mommy to pick up Avery from school some afternoons as well.

Karter's First Real Bath

2010-04-06T13:39:00.003-05:00

Karter had his first "real" bath last night. Yes, he has been bathed prior to last night, but it had been a sponge bath. He was not a fan of sponge baths, but liked lying in his bath tube last night being the water was nice and warm.

Easter Weekend 2010

2010-04-04T22:00:00.012-05:00

Karter made is first trip to Brenham this past weekend at 18 days old. He got his tummy full and then I loaded him in the car, picked Avery up from school and we made our way to Brenham. He rode very well in the car, didn't hear a peep from him, which is totally different than when Avery was an infant, she pretty well cried the whole way to Brenham (those were some fun times).

Being Karter is still a little young, he and I pretty well hung around MeMe and Papa's all weekend. Meme took Avery to the Easter Egg hunt at the church, which Avery had a good time. The pictures are in Mom's camera, which reminds me I need to upload. Meme and Avery dyed eggs on Saturday afternoon.

On Sunday we went to church and then to Grandpa Borchardt's for lunch. After lunch Karter's cousins, on the Hodde side, got to meet him for the first time, which I don't have pictures of.

I wanted to get pictures of Avery and Karter in the Bluebonnets, but it was pretty windy so I only took pictures of Avery and it was across the street from Mom and Dad's. There were more wildflowers than Bluebonnets, but we ran out of time to ride somewhere and take them. I would like to make it back to Brenham before they are bloomed out, but don't know if that is going to happen.

Below are a few pictures that I did take in my camera this weekend. I just realized after uploading the pictures, I didn't get a picture of Avery and her Easter dress. I am slacking....

Dying Eggs with MeMe

Karter chillin'

Wildflower Pictures

Our Easter Bunnies, one not being a Happy one.

Daddy and his kiddos

We are Home

2010-03-25T16:40:00.007-05:00

Actually we have been home for a week now, but I haven't taken the time to upload pictures and write a post.

Karter and I came home last Thursday, after being in the hospital for 3 nights I was ready to be at home, but miss being able to send him to the nursery between night feedings.

We are doing well, just tired, which should be the case with a newborn. Avery for the most part is adjusting well, she likes to give him hugs and kisses. She fights going to bed, I guess because Karter is still up, but we are managing. Mom has been staying with us since we have come home and will be here until Sunday, so next week will be different because we won't have anyone to cook and wash for us. Hopefully we will survive!!!

He came out a screamer

I love this one - 1st Father/Son moment

The kiddos
He is already saying his prayers!!

Karter Alan Hodde

2010-03-16T11:18:00.003-05:00

We welcomed Karter Alan Hodde into our family yesterday, 3/15/2010, as 10:28 a.m. He weighted 7 lbs and 3.2 oz and was 19 inches long. God truly has blessed us with a precious little boy. I will update with more pictures when we get home.

We are still here!!

2010-02-27T09:35:00.002-06:00

Not that I have posted on a regular basis in the past, but we have been MIA for a while. We are still alive and keeping busy. We have been working on the baby's room and getting things together for his arrival, which is not too far away.

Before Avery was born I wanted everything in order and just so, this time around I am not too concerned as if it doesn't get done before it will eventually get done.

I Love the 80's

2010-01-20T18:41:00.002-06:00

Today was 80's day at Avery's school and here is our best attempt as dressing her in the 80's.

Happy New Year - 2010

2010-01-06T20:21:00.003-06:00

I can't believe the year is 2010, seems like we were in high school just a few years ago, however it has been 13 1/2 yikes!!! The good part is I don't feel that old. :)

Wishing everyone well in 2010!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-28T20:42:00.017-06:00

Well, Christmas was here and gone and Avery enjoyed every minute of it; she is already talking about next year....

Well, for Santa to know what she wanted she had to mail a letter to him.

Christmas Eve we rolled, cut, decorated and baked cookies for Santa, he must be a really special guy to have homemade cookies waiting for him.

Christmas Eve, opening presents at Meme and Papa's

A keyboard

A tutu

A puppy dog - I just loved her facial expressions this year

Christmas morning - at home

Santa must have enjoyed the cookies as he only left cookie crumbs and a note

A dollhouse (Avery calls it her Barbie house)

A watch

Hungry Hungry Hippo

Checking out what is in her stocking - of course panties

Last but not least a scooter.

Christmas evening - waiting for Meme and Papa to get home, so she can see what is in her stocking there.

Starting early - scratching a lottery ticket

We hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas and wish you the

Best in 2010!!!

Gingerbread House

2009-12-14T19:24:00.004-06:00

We "built" a gingerbread house this past weekend. Mom and I did most of the work and Avery stopped to "help" every once in a while. I believe our final product is pretty good for a beginner.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2009-12-05T07:09:00.012-06:00

Houston, Texas got some snow yesterday, amazing. It was too funny at work as the snow was coming down pretty good (for Texas) and us adult Texans were glued to the window like it was something we have never seen before.

Making a Snowball

I got one, who is going to be the lucky target?
Daddy, good choice Being Silly

Daddy made a snowman about the time Avery started having a meltdown, so she isn't too happy in the picture, but I wanted her to take her picture with the snowman as this one is way bigger than the ones we would make in Brenham when I was younger.

Stay warm, although I believe today it is going to almost make it to 50 degrees, which is still cool, but from 26 degrees to 50 degress is a pretty good jump. But then again we live in Texas.

It's a Boy!!

2009-11-23T12:09:00.004-06:00

Avery is going to be a big sister to a little boy.

Dewberry Farms - 2nd Annual Trip

2009-11-20T20:39:00.021-06:00

This past Sunday a group friends got our crews together for an afternoon of fun at Dewberry Farms. The clouds around us didn't look too promising, but it ended up being perfect.

Grasyn would work so hard to get on her feet on the "pillows" and as soon as she would get on her feet Avery and Dawson would jump and she would fall down. Avery and Dawson got a kick out of it, but Miss Grasyn wasn't too much a fan as she was determined to stay on her feet.

When Grasyn would fall Dawson and Avery tried to help her get up, but she didn't want their help, she was determined to get up herself and she would.

Avery going down the bumpy slide.

Dawson going down the bumpy slide.
Sisterly/Brotherly Love, holding hands
going down the bumpy slide.

The crew, minus Grasyn

Cheetos were the snack of the day and they did a really good job of sharing.

Who's Ducky is going to win?

I feel sorry for the bus driver if these 4 ever ride

the same school bus.

Until next year...

Disney On Ice

2009-11-20T20:26:00.013-06:00

Last Friday we took Avery to Disney on Ice and she loved it. The highlight was pretty well all the Disney Princesses were there; Belle, Snow White, Cinderilla, Jasmine and Pocahontas. We also saw Nemo, Toy Story and Pinocchio. There were others, but these are the ones that come to mind.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T21:48:00.007-05:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween. Alan decided to dress up and join in the festivities.

Avery was not too sure about her daddy's

costume at first, but she warmed up after a while.

Ariel and a nerd clown.

Playing games at the Fall Festival at the fairgrounds
The nerd clown.

Playing another game.

Please direct questions to Alan. =)

Happy 4th Birthday Avery

2009-10-20T07:26:00.006-05:00

Avery turned 4 yesterday, not real sure where the time goes. She enjoyed cupcake cookies at school and we had a cake at the house for her in the evening. Happy Birthday Avery, mommy and daddy love you very much!!

Zoo Boo

2009-10-18T20:05:00.012-05:00

We went to a birthday party at the zoo today and Avery got to enjoy the Zoo Boo festivities.

Our Ariel

She lost the wig.

Sassy

Couldn't leave this one out.

Avery's 4th Birthday Party

2009-10-18T19:46:00.007-05:00

We celebrated Avery's 4th birthday on Saturday with a party at Bounce City. She had a great time sliding and jumping with her friends. I believe all the kids, including the big kids (aka my husband), slept well last night. Below are a few pictures. Our baby girl will be 4 on Monday, not really sure where the time goes.

Sliding with Daddy

Showing the good sideGetting ready to do the obstacle course

Finishing the obstacle course

Happy Fall Y'all

2009-10-10T17:52:00.013-05:00

Fall officially started a few weeks ago, however in my mind it doesn't start until we have cooler weather, and that we have, at least at the moment. I took Avery to a Pumpkin Patch today and she had fun playing in corn and hay and also painting her very own pumpkin.

Not Feeling Well

2009-10-06T20:22:00.003-05:00

Sunday afternoon Avery started running a fever, so I took her to the doctor yesterday. They did both a strep and flu test and of course the flu test came back positive. Not what I wanted to hear, she was prescribed Tamiflu and pretty well has been fever free all day today. Thanks goodness, if she continues to stay fever free she can return to school on Thursday. All day today she wanted to play outside, but I told her she couldn't since she was sick. I think tomorrow she will be allowed some outside time because she will probably drive me crazy in the house.

She watched the Hannah Montana movie twice today which allowed me get some office work done. I will leave you with a little talent show. Please ignore the mess around her, she had all her toys out.

Hope you are having a good week.

Washington County Fair

2009-09-27T12:41:00.009-05:00

Last weekend we went to Brenham for the Washington County Fair. Growing up I went to the fair every year and so far Avery has made it every year too. The only thing she wants to do when going to the fair is ride rides and that she did. Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and again Saturday evening. We did watch the Junior Hay Hauling and Greased Pig contest Friday afternoon, but other than that we were pretty well at the carnival.

Results of eating a snow cone

Riding the motorcycles

Riding the fish

Riding the ponies

Galveston

2009-08-15T17:02:00.029-05:00

The girls, mom, Ali, Avery and I, went on our annual trip, this year we went to Galveston. On our way to Galveston we stopped at Kemah so Avery could ride some rides and we ate lunch there before heading to Galveston. Avery has never been to the beach, so we decided to go Monday around 6 when it wasn't so hot. She is not much of a beach person; she played in the sand, but didn't really like the water.

On Tuesday we went to Moody Gardens. We started off by going to a 3D IMAX show about Whales and Dolphins. Avery wasn't really interested in wearing the glasses, but she sat pretty still for the show. We then headed to the Rainforest Pyramid, Aquarium Pyramid and also the Discovery Pyramid. We then rode on the Colonel Paddlewheel boat and then headed to the waterpark, Palm Beach. It was a very full day of fun.

On Wednesday we rented the 4 seater bicycle and paddled down the seawall a little ways. That thing is work. We had the bike for an hour and a half, but returned it within 45 minutes. Next time we try that I think we need at least one guy or cooler weather. We then rode the ferry and then went to the Strand for lunch and ice cream before heading back home. We had a really good time and how it is time to start thinking about where we want to go next year.

Warning... Picture Overload

Riding rides at Kemha

The train
The Ferries Wheel -- we must have somewhat
of a dare devil on our hands

The Carousel

Playing in the water fountains at Kemah

The beach

Playing in the sand at the beach

Don't we look cute in our 3D glasses?

The Rainforest Pyramid

The Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Playing in the water at Palm Beach

This is the kind of water Avery likes playing in

The bicycle adventure

The ferry

Enjoying ice cream before heading back home

Music Class

2009-08-03T19:08:00.006-05:00

The past 2 summers we have enrolled Avery into a Kindermusik class and she has really enjoyed going. These are a few pictures from her class.

The Circus - Take Two

2009-08-03T18:54:00.009-05:00

We took Avery to the circus last year and it was a disaster. We didn't realize she had a fear of clowns until she saw one really close up. I know I said we wouldn't attempt to take her again until she was 5. The circus was in town a few weeks ago and some kids in Avery's class were talking about it. Every day she would come home and say she wanted to go to the circus. Well, I got some tickets so her and I went, however this time I bought tickets that were closer to the back and we didn't walk on the floor for the pre-show. We watched the pre-show from our seats. She enjoyed the show and as soon as we left she was asking when she can go back.

Elephant teeth

Posing with the elephant's good side
Miniture horses Enjoying her snowcone

Umbrella

2009-08-03T18:51:00.006-05:00

Avery has been begging for an umbrella, not sure why since it doesn't seem to rain here that often. Well, we got her an umbrella and she had a chance to try it out in the sprinkler.

Avery's First Pet

2009-08-03T18:39:00.006-05:00

Avery had a habit of coming into our bed in the middle of the night to sleep with us. To break this habit we told her if she slept in her bed all night for 7 nights she could get a surprise. The surprise she wanted was candy, wow that request would be easy to fulfill. Well, after sleeping in her bed all night long for 7 nights she got some fish. This was the easiest surprise we could think of that was not too high maintenance. We have had the 4 fish and 1 frog for about a month and so far so good. And she continues to sleep in her bed.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-05T20:32:00.012-05:00

Our neighborhood had a parade Friday afternoon, so Avery and I went and checked it out. After the parade they had a small carnival for the kids. Avery enjoyed a train ride, carousel ride and a balloon hat. On Saturday morning we headed to Brenham stopping in Chappell Hill for the 4th of July parade. It was extremely hot as all of the seats in the shade were taken when we got there, but what do you expect when you get there as the parade is starting. Avery was only concerned about getting candy and that she got a lot of. Saturday evening we went to Independence to watch the fireworks. Avery did enjoy the fireworks, but being we were 100 yards from where they were launching them it was extremely loud. Once they were over Avery said the fireworks were pretty, but she didn't like them because it was too loud.

Waiting for the neighborhood parade to start

The balloon hat which popped before we got to the car.
Collecting candy at the parade in Chappell Hill

Waiting for more candy to be thrown.

The back-side is even patriotic

after the parade

Happy Birthday.....Daddy is another Year Older

2009-07-01T23:12:00.007-05:00

Today is Alan's birthday and I thought it would be cute for Avery and I to make him some special cupcakes.

Is there anything more fitting than golf themed cupcakes?

The ones with brown sugar on them are suppose to look like a bunker,

not too happy with how they turned out, but then again I am not Martha Stewart.

Singing Happy Birthday to Daddy
Make a Wish

Enjoying the cupcakes

Happy Birthday Daddy, We Love You!!!!

Hope you enjoyed your day!!

Enjoying the Summer Heat....

2009-06-29T20:27:00.011-05:00

in some cool places.... Not much exciting going on, but thought I would post some pics from the weekend.

Cheese....

Daddy, stop splashing me...

Okay, my turn. Gotcha!!

Time to drain the water out....

Ahhh, bigger pool

blowing bubbles

look at me swim

so cute

swimming to Ali

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T21:11:00.004-05:00

Wishing all you Daddy's a Happy Father's Day!!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T14:46:00.003-05:00

Wishing all you Moms a Happy Mother's Day

Easter Weekend Pictures

2009-04-18T08:42:00.013-05:00

I know I am a little late at posting, but I just had a chance to load the pictures from my camera. We had a very busy Easter weekend with many Easter Egg Hunts. Avery was not really into hunting eggs, she was more concerned with playing on the playground equipment and jumping on the trampoline, however we still ended up with tons of candy.

Hunting eggs at the St. Pauls' Easter Egg Hunt

Sliding after hunting Easter Eggs
Coloring an Easter Picture

Hunting Eggs at Robert and Deborah's

Jumping on the trampoline with Maggie

Hmmmm... I wonder what the Easter Bunny brought me

A Mickey Mouse backpack

a swimsuit and lots of other stuff

So thrilled about hunting Esther Eggs at Meme and Papa's

Pop Tarts

2009-04-03T07:34:00.001-05:00

Avery went to the Dentist for the first time about a month ago. She has been very cautious of her teeth since then. I tell her that if she eats a lot of sugar and doesn’t brush her teeth before going to bed and when she wakes up in the morning she will get cavities. I do have a couple of cavities and she will ask to see them and then she proceeds to tell me I don’t brush my teeth very well. =) Doesn’t every adult have at least one cavity? Getting back to my story… Yesterday when I dropped her off at school the options for breakfast were oatmeal, which she likes but it was cold and just didn’t look very good, or pop tarts, as they had run out of milk (another story). There are not many days when we give her the pop tart option, but when she had it yesterday she didn’t want it. That totally surprised me and I asked her why she didn’t want a pop tart and she said because it would break her teeth. =) If everything was this easy life would be great. She needed to eat something for breakfast so I told her we would brush her teeth really well before going to bed. Hopefully when she goes to her next dental appointment she will not have any cavities as she might tell the Dentist it is because mommy made me eat a pop tart, never mind the other sweet stuff she eats every once in a while. Hope everyone has a Happy Friday!!

Spring Weekend

2009-03-29T17:51:00.016-05:00

I can't believe March is almost over, where does the time go? Well, we stay busy for the most part, so I guess that is why it goes by a little faster than we would like. On Saturday Avery enjoyed the neighborhood Easter Egg hunt. It was quite cold, but it didn't seem to bother her. After the hunt, she rode a pony and went to the petting zoo. She could have written a camel, but she told me it was too high to ride.

After the Easter Egg hunt we headed to Brenham to spend some time with Meme and Papa. Avery, Meme and I walked around downtown looking at the decorated Easter Eggs, there were some really cute ones.

Today Avery took pictures in the Bluebonnets. She had some professional pictures taken which I can't wait to see and I snapped a few of my own.

Hope everyone was able to do something outside this weekend as the weather was great!!! It won't be long and it will be 90 degrees.

Golf Course

2009-02-24T20:32:00.009-06:00

Avery had her first trip to the golf course to hit balls with the clubs daddy bought her recently. The clubs are a little big for her right now, so she pretty well stuck to her putter that daddy "custom" fit for her. Her first stop was the driving range where she used her putter to hit balls off of tees. We didn't stay on the range very long because she wanted to hit balls into the hole. Daddy then took us to a chipping area where she could hit balls in the hole. She would put the ball 2 feet from the hole and then hit it and it would go 5 feet past. This didn't last long either. She hit balls around in the sand for a while and then was ready to go. I have a feeling this was her first of many trips to the golf course to hit balls.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T21:31:00.005-06:00

Avery's Valentine breakfast!!

Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!!

Avery enjoying her Valentine's Dance at school

Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T08:37:00.013-06:00

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. Avery enjoyed all of her presents and this was the first year Santa came to her house, the last few years Santa came to PaPa and MeMe's. Being Santa came to Avery's house we had to do lots of running around. We went to the Christmas Eve service with Mom and Dad on Wednesday evening and then went out to Robert and Deborah's for the Hodde Christmas. We then came back to Humble, got home around 12:30 a.m. Santa came to the house and by 9:30 a.m. Christmas morning we were on the road to Brenham again for Borchardt and Schulz Christmas. Thank goodness it isn't too far away.

Putting Reindeer food in the yard, so the Santa knew he had to stop at Avery's house.

Avery is not a morning person, but you would think Christmas morning would be different, not for Avery she saw all the presents Santa had left her and then goes and laying on the couch.

When Avery sat on Santa's lap she told him she wanted a baby doll. Well, a week before Christmas she changed her mind saying she wanted a race car. After seeing the four wheeler she again asked for a race car and we asked if the four wheeler was ok and she said yes. Thank goodness.

Look what else Santa brought.

Enjoying her four wheeler. She needs lots of practice.

Christmas Cookies

2008-12-21T17:05:00.002-06:00

We baked Christmas cookies yesterday, we did this for the first time last year. It went smoother this year, however we still had a huge mess. Avery enjoyed decorating the cookies. She really liked using the pink sprinkles, can you tell?

Our Medalist

2008-12-21T16:49:00.008-06:00

Avery had her last gymnastics class on Wednesday and at the end of the class she was presented a medal. She was not too sure about having all the attention on her when she was getting her medal.

Hula Hooping

Hop Scotch (together, apart)

I am a monkey

Testing her balance

Do I really have to do this.

I got a medal like Michael Phelps

Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2008-12-10T20:16:00.006-06:00

I was in a meeting at work around 4 and all of a sudden everyone outside of the conference room was saying it's snowing outside. We all ran out of our meeting to the window like we have never seen it before. I guess it is because it doesn't happen very often in our area. By the time we got home it was dark, but I did get a few pictures of Avery in it. I am hoping the ground will be white in the morning and I can take a few more. It will probably be 70 degrees Christmas Day.

Look at me, I can catch snow on my tongue.

My slide has snow on it. BRRRRR

Is that snow I am catching?

Happy Turkey Day!!

2008-11-27T07:48:00.002-06:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Beat the hell out of t.u. (fingers and toes crossed)

Miniature Golf

2008-11-09T18:36:00.005-06:00

We took advantage of the beautiful day and took Avery to play miniature golf. She had a great time playing. Alan was disappointed because they didn't have a putter for her size, so next time we know to bring her putter. =) On most of the holes she would place the ball right next to the hole and either tap it in or kick it in with her foot.

Of course Alan wanted to have a competition. We played a match play “tournament” and he won, but I will add it was only by one stroke. I think I played pretty well since he plays way more than I do.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Dewberry Farms

2008-11-04T19:26:00.011-06:00

On Sunday we met up with Kari, Lisa, Loralyn, Stephanie and the kiddos at Dewberry Farms. The kids had a great time running around and going from one thing to another. We had a great time, maybe we can make this an annual trip!! Enjoy the Pictures.

Avery on the Fort

Avery posing as a Farm Lady

It is very hard to have 6 kids 4 and

under to look at the camera and

smile at the same time. Out of the 3

pictures I took, this is the best one.

Avery with a bouquet of flowers we picked

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T12:37:00.006-05:00

Hope everyone has a SPOOKY Day. Happy Halloween!!

Happy Birthday Avery

2008-10-19T09:10:00.012-05:00

We can't believe she is already 3 years old. She is growing up way too fast, but were are enjoying every minute of it.

We celebrated her birthday yesterday and she had a great time playing with her friends. This morning we had to open the majority of her presents so she could play with them. She is loving them all. We just need a bigger house, which will always be the case.

Avery's Princess Cake, she was so proud.

Blowing out her candles, apparently I was trying to help her.

As you can see Aunt Ali and Uncle J teach her very bad things. This one is for you J.

A bracelet from Great Grandpa and Grandma Borchardt. Grandpa gave it to Grandma when they started dating.

Gymnastics

2008-10-09T20:49:00.006-05:00

Avery gets so excited when Wednesday's come around as she gets to go to gymnastics twice. She has gymnastics at school on Wednesday morning and then a class in the evening. When I took gymnastics and dance as a kid, there was only one class going on at a time; however where Avery's class is there is 3 classes going on at one time in the same room. The first couple of weeks she was more interested in what the "big" girls were doing rather than what she was doing. She has gotten a little better as the weeks past. Here are a few pictures from her class.

County Fair

2008-09-28T16:53:00.012-05:00

Since we evacuted to Brenham for IKE Avery was able to enjoy the fair 3 of the 4 days. Her enjoyment of the fair revolved around Riding Rides. She had a blast going from one ride to the next. She rode with her cousin Maggie and Dawson on Friday night. Anytime you mentioned the fair she wanted to go there to ride rides.

Cheesing with Dawson

Smiling pretty with Maggie

Chilled Out Not paying attention to the road weeeeeeee

I'm holding on tight

This was her favorite

Those of you that went to the fair growing up, you are not seeing things. The fish and race cars are the same ones they had when we were little.

We Have the POWER

2008-09-22T10:37:00.002-05:00

I called the house around 6 last night and the phone started ringing, up until this point is was either busy or wouldn't go through, and then the answering machine picked up. I was so excited, but before packing up and heading to the house I had a co-worker go by the house to make sure. After getting confirmation that we did indeed have power, I packed up our stuff and headed back home. The house is a wreck as we just carried everything into the house, but we were able to sleep in our own beds, it was so nice. The next task is getting our refrigerator replenished. I think we will work on that this evening.....

IKE

2008-09-15T08:14:00.002-05:00

Avery and I headed to Brenham on Thursday around noon as I did not want to have to sit in traffic like Alan and I did when Rita came in 2005. The roads were still open and it took us 2 hours to get to Brenham, not bad at all as the normal drive is about and hour and 20 minutes. I have a co-worker that lives 3 streets over from us and their power went out around 10 p.m. on Friday night. We got a generator from Grandpa B on Saturday, so we plug in our freezer at the house. I then got word from my co-worker that their power came back on around 8 p.m. on Saturday, so I immediately thought we had power too as we are only 3 streets apart. Alan went to the house Sunday morning and when he got there he discovered we still did not have power. He stayed at the house for about 5 hours to give the freezer some juice to keep the stuff in it frozen. When he was packing up to head back to Brenham he decided to bring all the freezer stuff back to Brenham with him since we don't know how long we will be without power and how many trips we will have to make back and forth. We will be hanging out in Brenham until our power comes back on. I am hoping that will be today or tomorrow, but who knows.

I hope everyone stayed safe during IKE.

Schlitterbahn Trip

2008-08-23T08:49:00.008-05:00

Mom, Alison, Avery and I took our 2nd Annual trip, that is with Avery, to Schlitterbahn last week. Avery had a really good time and mostly enjoyed playing in the water shoots and going through the "Car Wash".

I will try to be a little better with updating, but nothing interesting has really been happening.

Until next time.......

Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus -- NOT

2008-07-20T20:44:00.007-05:00

I thought it would be a great idea to go to the circus, but Avery did not like it. She was fine until we saw clowns, and this was at the pre-show. After seeing the clowns all she would say is "No see the show". Alan and I kept on trying to distract her, pointing things out for her to see. It worked for a little bit, but not for the whole performance. She was so scard that she was shaking. We actually left at the intermission, we tried really hard to brib her into staying, but it didn't work. I personally was enjoying the circus, I don't think I have been to one since elementary school. I don't think we will try the circus again until she is atleast 5. Hopefully my ideas will be better in the future. Note, the pictures are all before her seeing the clowns.

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-06T21:12:00.008-05:00

We had somewhat of a busy weekend. Avery and I headed to Brenham on Friday morning and went to the 4th of July parade in Chappell Hill.

We then spent time at Meme and Papa's house on Friday afternoon. Avery also enjoyed some watermelon.

On Saturday evening we went out to the lake and Avery had a good time riding in the Barbie Jeep. Thank goodness it will be 13 1/2 years until she can drive herself in a real car. She steps on the gas and looks in the total opposite way.

Happy Birthday Daddy!!

2008-07-01T09:01:00.003-05:00

Alan likes Oatmeal Raisin Cookies so I thought it was a good idea, last night, to make him cookies for this birthday. Well, I mentioned this to Avery before making sure I had all the ingredients. Big mistake, I didn’t have any brown sugar. When I told her we couldn’t make the cookies she starting crying saying, “grocery store, buy some more”. She knew exactly where to go to get more brown sugar. I told her we could make them later in the week, her cry then went up a notch to screaming her head off. So I looked in the pantry and I had marshmallows, so we made Rice Krispies – she was happy then. This morning when she woke up she reminded me that we needed to go to the grocery store so we could make daddy cookies.

Daddy was already gone this morning when Avery woke up, so she didn’t have a chance to sing Happy Birthday to her Daddy, so I got her to do it on camera.

Hope everyone is having a good week.

We are on the Web

2008-06-23T20:02:00.000-05:00

We decided to join the fun in blogging. I will try to keep everyone updated as much as possible, however sometimes it is hard to find a few spare minutes. Avery is enjoying all the summer activities of playing outside, being in the pool and going to music class.