This is why..

..we are getting a new vacuum for Christmas. As if it wasn't a necessity before, the thing really made a statement today.I took a picture of it lying down, because it lost the ability to remain standing some years ago.
I guess 7 years was its limit.

"Easy-push"? This is what I call irony, folks. You should have seen me trying to finish vacuuming today once the top of this bad boy busted off.

So, any recommendations on vacuums? If you say, "How about one with a handle?" I swear I'm coming after you."

Now I've just got a month of vacuuming hunched over or on my knees.

Cole's Blessing

We blessed Cole in Utah on October 11. Look at that sweet boy!

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the LDS baby blessing, what we do is this: In one of our meetings, a worthy priesthood holder (often it's the father) stands in a circle, holding the baby, with other worthy men to bestow a blessing on the baby. It's like an official prayer to give the baby a name and to offer blessings from the Lord. We were able to do this with family around in Utah for Cole. I thought about Tessa's blessing, and how that took place in our ward here in Texas and was grateful for such wonderful people in our lives in both states.

Anyway, I wrote down as much that Jake said as I could remember afterward so that I could share it with Cole one day.

We had a luncheon after church. I was oblivious to the setting up and the cleaning up and have to thank my awesome relatives. Tessa had a blast running around with friends and cousins, pausing only to grab a cookie now and then, and I safely lost track of her for a little while. There aren't many times and places where that happens.

It was, in every way, a lovely day.

Typical

2009 Texas State Fair trip

Now here's a family tradition you're going to get stuck viewing every year!
Here's the petting zoo:

A mama goat had barely given birth to some babies. No pictures. Birth is a messy business, you know. Still kinda cool to see.
Feeding the llamas and checking out the ostriches:

I love going through the different fair entries. I don't know what it is about seeing what wins the blue ribbons. There's something very quaint about it. Here I am with Cole by some prize winning bottled goods. Nice pose. I know. I look like the Jam Crusader or something. Preserving preserves everywhere!
It's not an official trip to the state fair without a picture of Big Tex in his new Dickies outfit. Tessa didn't agree.
She was done. So were we after sharing our 10 dollar meal -a big corn dog and a drink. 10 bucks. Seriously. I mean, 20 tickets. Good thing we went to see the dog dancing. There's something about a dog dancing in sequins that makes my cheap self feel as though I'm getting my money's worth at the fair. ;)

When Grampa Came

Jake's dad came in September to meet Cole and go to a Utah State Aggies vs. Texas A & M Aggies game. Check out the stadium. Insane. No one does football like Texas.

Matitos for lunch. Mmmmmmm. Except, this is the place that had jalapenos in the pico. Not cool, Matitos. Tessa and I both experienced the flames. At least I could smear sour cream in her mouth. I was at a disadvantage with the whole no dairy diet.

Striking a pose in the dress Grandpa bought her. She knows how to work it.

We had a wonderful time and were so glad that he could come join us for a few days.

First things first

September pictures.....have I really been THAT lame? -it's the last half of November. Why, yes, I have.

A welcome to the world! It's so nice to have family somewhat close.

Here is Cole and new cuz Chloe. I'm pretty sure he's at least double her size with only a 2mo. gain on her. Look at those little toes!

Pay no attention to the crazed look on my daughter's face. "No, Teach. I wasn't doing anything wrong. Selina and me are pals. Rigggggghhhht, Selina?"

Tessa loves hanging out with Selina.

We were lucky enough to have a visit with Aunt Shannon who was there helping Liz with the new babe. We love that Aunt Shannon.

Three Things

Uno- I've been finding excuses to use paper plates a little more lately. Is that bad? Probably.
Dos- Why, oh, why is my side of the garage the Mecca for dying worms? Nasssssssty. Plus, both times I took the broom to sweep out the dried masses and then got into my car to leave, Bon Jovi's Livin' on a Prayer was on. Coincidence? I think not. ....Actually I think so. But I still thought it was funny.
Tres- Yes, I do have a bunch of pictures I need to upload of the kids. It's just quicker to write about paper plates and crusty worms.