MORE PRE-CHRISTMAS FUN...

I have not updated my pictures from Christmas yet, but as soon as I do I will make my Christmas post. For now, I am posting some more pre-Christmas fun.

Last Monday we went and met my friend Sarah, her husband Matt, and their sun Brody who were in town from California. My friend Janet and her husband Anthony and daughter Maddie were there as well. It was such a fun time catching up and laughing. We haven't seen Sarah and Matt in over a year. It was fun to just hang out and let the kids play. Here is a picture of the three kids sitting on the bench outside. This is my pic, but I am sure someone got a better one. It is so fun seeing these kids grow up.



On Tuesday we had part of my family over for dinner. It was fun. After dinner the kids all made a rice crispy house. It was so much fun to watch them decorate. Maggie just kept eating the candy. She had so much fun.





The rest of the week we just spent wrapping presents and getting ready for our trip out of town. I can't wait to share all about our Christmas with you. Until then....

SILLY ORNAMENT..

You see this silly ornament that now hangs on my tree? I received it as part of a gift I received from a coworker. I had all intentions of "regifting" it, but today it hit me. This silly ornament now has a real purpose.

Today would have marked the 38th birthday for my brother Allen. Many of you remember that almost 5 years ago he was tragically killed in a dirt bike accident. Growing up we have always celebrated Christmas traditionally, but we always got together to celebrate my brother as well. My step mom has always done a good job of celebrating your birthday on your birthday. She did just that with Allen. In the middle of all the hustle and bustle and last minute shopping we always stopped as a family and got together to celebrate Allen.

Today, I am stopping to celebrate Allen. Allen was a huge out doors kind of person. We always played in the creek, rode our bikes, went to the lake, and he loved to fish. I am hanging this crazy fish on my tree as a celebration to him! Allen the fish will forever have a place in my heart.



Happy 38th birthday Allen. We will always love and miss you! Your memory will always be remembered.

CAN YOU FORGIVE ME?

Okay, can you forgive me for my lack of posting? This year has been the craziest year of my life. I am working so hard, that I just have not had the time to post things. It makes me pretty sad, because I'm not documenting the parts of Maggie's life. She has grown so much and just does the funniest things. Maggie and I have had the opportunity to spend the past few days together and it has been so much fun. We have had a busy time since her 2nd birthday. Now, we are at Christmas and the year is almost over. Before I know it she will be 3. Here are some picture post to keep you updated! Have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I promise I will do better in 2011!

Maggie with her cousins at Thanksgiving.


Maggie and her crazy daddy in their mask


Maggie and her cousin Maddy at her other cousins birthday party


Maggie's santa picture


Maggie at mommy's favortie place, Chuy's!!!


Our new Christmas tradition: lunch at Chuy's then the trains at Northpark! Lots of fun.


On Sunday we also had our annual friend gift exchange. We meet at the Saavedra's house and opend up gifts with Jonathan, Michael, and Will. We all went to Babe's for dinner. It was a fun time even with 4 kids. After dinner we hit up Frisco Fire Safety Town for the tour of lights. It was so much fun. The kids loved everything. The fire truck in the last picture was the biggest hit!








We have lots more fun ahead! Again, I wish everyone a very happy holiday!