Memorial Day Weekend in Corpus Christi

Ella walking into the water for the 1st time this season.  We were worried at first since our last trip to the coast she refused to get into the water.  My how things change.  In her words... "I'm never going to the pool or the hot tub again, I love the ocean!" 

 Avery and daddy got to work on a drip castle.  Look how grown up Avery is getting. 

 Avery could hardly sleep the 1st night because he didn't want to miss getting up for the sunrise.  He was up at 6:30 by my side saying "Mom, come on, let's go!"  I'm so glad he did too.  We had an awesome time Saturday morning watching the sunrise, just the two of us. 

 Ella taking a break on daddy's lap.  We had an awesome day on the beach!  Ella loved to bounce with the waves in the deep and Avery was taking the waves head on, no fear!

Daddy's hidden talent - sand sculpting! 

 One of many poses she made while smashing the sand sculpture daddy made. 

Good bye Corpus.. till next time.  (Avery asked if we could move here so I guess that means it was a good trip!)  It's official, we have 2 beach bums on our hands and couldn't be happier!

Army Party!!

Avery's idea for his 7th birthday was to have an Army Party in the backyard.  At first we didn't know what to think about his request.  Lately all he wants to do is play Nerf guns or super soaker wars with his neighborhood friends in the backyard so we tried to convince him to invite a few friends for laser tag, gametown pizza or inflatable world.  Nope, he said Army or nothing... so we took a deep breath and said alright, time to get creative!


In the matter of 2 weeks we were able to put together a party for the boys that they will remember for a long time.  To hear the kids say "this is the best party ever" and see Avery's huge smile throughout the day is all we needed. 

Wade was the best basic training instructor ever!  He had those kids doing all kinds of exercises including a timed obstacle course that was a huge hit!

 Here's an early pic at the start of the party.  The hay bales were perfect for the obstacle course.

Our recruit!

 Dad, Evan and Ella against 12 kids... with Nancy's help the kids were victorious!

Avery with his long time friend Brandon and his brother, Tanner

On his actual birthday which was a Wednesday, we celebrated with a cookie cake and pizza with Aunt Stephers and Uncle Andy.  Grandma and grandpa were also with us via Skype.

Ella's 1st "Friend" Birthday Party

Avery and I took Ella to her 1st birthday party for a friend at ArtWorx in San Antonio.  She was so excited to carry Katie's present into the party and although cautious at first, she spread her wings and had a great time. 
 
I just love it when they hold hands. 

 Ella stayed close to her brother and followed his every move.

Once they showed the kids what to do at each station and let them loose, the creative wheels started turning. 

I love how hard she was concentrating on her work.  (Just like Avery used to do, she sticks out her tongue when she's working hard.)  Thanks for such a great time Jenkins family!

Pool is Open

Oh my, last week it was Spring and this week Summer is here! That's ok, the neighborhood pool is open as of April 1st so you know where to find us every weekend when we're home. The kids got some practice a few weeks ago swimming in Aunt Shelly's hot tub. No need to turn on the heat anymore, Mother Nature has it covered. Have a wonderful Easter weekend everyone!

Champion Award

Avery received an award for perfect attendance for the 3rd 9 weeks of his 1st grade year and also the Champion Award from his teacher Mrs. Morris.  The Champion Award is given to 1 boy and 1 girl each nine weeks who displays all the qualities of being a "champion" such as a good leader, respectful and helpful to others, etc.  We couldn't be more proud of this young man.  It was a rocky start for everyone when Avery was moved into Mrs. Morris's class after the first few weeks of school due to overcrowding.  It goes to show that everyone did a lot of growing over the past few months and I am not surprised that Avery was able to win her over with his charm.  Her statement about seeing him as a 30 year old questioning things in a 6 year old body couldn't be more true. 

Yay Avery!