tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61266192377225933042024-03-12T22:41:00.460-05:00Life as a FrazierLaura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.comBlogger689125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-92198891174086573992014-03-03T00:01:00.000-06:002014-03-03T00:01:00.553-06:00Happy 5th Birthday Gavin Thomas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy 5th Birthday to the most amazing little boy I know and LOVE, my son. So hard to believe that this guy is FIVE years old today. Mommy is a little behind and has not had professional pictures taken yet, but our amazing photographer will work her magic next week (meanwhile you get me and this cutie!)</div>
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Seems like yesterday we were awaiting the arrival of our bundle of joy, time has flown by so quickly. Five, five, five ~ how are we here?<br />
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Gavin is such a happy little boy, full of life, always on the go, never meets a stranger, loves life to the fullest, has an incredible imagination, dreams big, is often in character, always ask for hugs, a hand holder, expresses his feelings no matter what they are, keeps our house full of laughter and is ALL boy.<br />
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His big eyes tell a story and are truly the window to his soul. The boy is obsessed with E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G Lego right now and his 5th birthday has centered around his love for the little colorful blocks.</div>
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My love for this kid is unexplainable and I am so PROUD that I get to do life with him. Being his Mommy is a new adventure every single day and I am so incredibly grateful that God picked me to be the one. He blesses me daily with his attitude and prospective on life, often encouraging me to slow down and enjoy the little things. <br />
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Gavin Thomas, it has been so much fun celebrating YOU turning FIVE and just spending quality time enjoying everything about YOU. Thank you for making me build Legos with you, it has been a blast watching you create and bring your Star Wars Legos to life.<br />
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Life with you is so much fun and just keeps getting better and better as the days go by. I love you more than all the Legos in the world, YOU will always be my<strong><em> <span style="font-size: large;">"Piece of Resistance"!</span></em></strong>Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-1788079299345995852014-03-02T20:40:00.001-06:002014-03-02T21:06:33.064-06:00Gavin's "LEGO" Birthday Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have just returned from Gavin's weekend birthday celebration to LEGOLAND. We took off early Friday morning and headed to Grapevine to celebrate our little boy turning FIVE!</div>
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Gavin chose to have a family party and a trip this year, I am so thankful for his decision. We stayed at one of our favorite hotels and had a good ole time. Thought it was only fitting that we shared the LEGO version of The Gaylord. It was such a blessing to get away for the weekend and just enjoy each other while we celebrated a special little one. </div>
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We decided to enjoy a cookie cake that we picked up when we got into town, gotta love the Great American Cookie Company. </div>
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That is suppose to be a Star Wars Tie Fighter you see, use your imagination folks. The "5" candle broke when we were taking it out of the package, so Daddy repaired it with toothpaste (love that man!). </div>
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Opening more birthday gifts from us, can you guess what it might be? Daddy got him all the micro fighters that were recently released and a couple of other cool Star Wars sets. It was so fun, we spent time as a family putting 8 different sets together in our hotel room. </div>
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Gavin was so excited to get to LEGOLAND and so were we, he talked about this for a month and it did not disappoint. We went midday on Friday and we basically had the entire place to ourselves, awesome!</div>
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This boy is in his element when he is building, designing and creating. Such a fun place to celebrate his birthday and we are looking forward to taking him to the LEGO Theme Park soon. </div>
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Cute little LEGO City police cars that Emma and Gavin got to take a ride in, so nice that they had the entire city to themselves. <br />
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As hard as it was to not run to The LEGO Movie the day it hit the theatre, I am so glad that we waited and incorporated it into his birthday surprise. This experience was a first for all of us and it was wonderful. </div>
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Look real hard and you will see my <span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>"Piece of Resistance"</em></strong></span> in there! So happy this little boy finally got to see this movie. </div>
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We decided to see The LEGO Movie at a Fork and Screen theater and it was awesome. Big leather reclining chairs, a waitress, great food, a service button, only about 15 people in the entire theater and a fantastic movie. Love, love, love this movie and this boy. </div>
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We also visited an Aquarium and Gavin was in his element. He loves all animals, constantly reads books about them and talks about them nonstop. <br />
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We got to see a baby Octopus on our visit and it was tiny, so cute (first time for all of us). The kids enjoyed all the exhibits and the hands on encounters with the starfish and sea urchins. </div>
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This weekend was all about Gavin and he kept reminding his big sister, "it's about me, Emma". We also spent time at Bass Pro Shop, eating Gavin's favorite food, enjoying ice cream, dinner at Papadeaux's, visit to Starbucks, a big pancake breakfast and much more. We planned on visiting the Dallas World Aquarium today, but the weather got bad in Grapevine and we were afraid to stick around (temperature dropped to 13 degrees quick).<br />
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We had a wonderful weekend embracing all the things that Gavin Thomas loves and it was such a treat to be away and just be together. It was bittersweet when I tucked by baby boy in bed tonight and prayed with him for the last time as a four year old. So hard to believe that when I wake up in the morning my baby will be FIVE years old. We are BLESSED!Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-84247202958591328892014-02-23T18:46:00.001-06:002014-02-23T20:42:59.872-06:00Emma's First Dance Convention <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple weeks back we attended Emma's first Dance convention for the weekend and it was a blast. These girls were beyond excited to get inside and work their little "bee hives" off in intense dance class all day long. They attended a ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical and tap session. They gave them 3 minutes in between each class to take a water break and change their shoes. </div>
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I was a little concerned about their endurance level for the day, but they were all TROOPERS. We had about about 65 girls from our competition team attend and 15 were in Emma's age group (the little ones only attended 1 day of workshops).</div>
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This is the only picture I got inside one of the classes, I was quickly reminded NO CAMERAS allowed (oops)!</div>
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The girls at the end of day back at the hotel room getting their goodies from one another. We had the best roommates of all. </div>
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These three have become connected at the hips. Emma loves Rheagan and Addi, I happen to love their Mommy's too. Talk about fun, we had a blast and are still belly laughing about the weekend when we see one another.</div>
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We went to dinner with 5 other families that evening and then headed back to the hotel for the girls company party put on by our Dance Studio in one of the ballrooms. While these girlie's were partying it up, us Mommas got to have some fun too. </div>
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At the end of the night we invited Reese to come and stay the night with us too. We had two adjoining rooms, so our motto was...the more the merrier. These girls jumped on the beds, ate candy, giggled like crazy, watched a movie, ding dong ditched other girls rooms, ran up and down the hallway and screamed like crazy. We put 4 of them in a queen size bed side ways and it worked out perfectly. Hmmm, never thought we would get a noise complaint with a room full of 6 year olds but WE DID! </div>
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These three...this picture says it all, personality galore! So thankful that Emma gets to dance with such amazing little girls. I have learned to keep an extra booster seat in my car because one of these kids is always making their way home with us or Emma is heading home with them.</div>
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Dance convention was a huge success and we are quickly approaching contest season. Emma is on the "Minis" team and they have come so far and worked so extremely hard. Looking forward to the remainder of this dance season and recital in June. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-72081284861670394532014-02-15T19:56:00.000-06:002014-02-23T20:19:26.023-06:00Gavin's Lego Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hard to believe that our baby boy is almost FIVE years old. This year he opted for a simple little family birthday at home and a long weekend getaway to Legoland. </div>
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If you know me, you know I love parties so sometimes it is hard for me to accommodate the themes and ideas my kids have. I realized long ago it is about them, not me and I have allowed them to choose the plan since their 2nd birthdays. </div>
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It was no surprise this year when Gavin said he wanted a "Lego Party", the boy is obsessed with e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g LEGO! His favorite are the Star Wars Legos and he has established quite a collection so far and knows every character by name.</div>
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We asked Gavin who and what he wanted at his party and he did not hesitate to name the guest and the menu. I love our cake place because it is YUMMY and they have great handwriting (ha ha). This little Lego cake put a smile on my Lego-loving boys face.</div>
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No party is complete without cupcakes, right? He was not happy that we used his real Lego's as toppers.</div>
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"I want Lego cookies too Mommy." I do not blame you Son and I will make that happen for you, sweet boy. Did I mention that we have an awesome cookie lady too?</div>
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While it is super hard for me to wrap my mind around the fact that this boy will be FIVE in a couple weeks, he has fully embraced it.</div>
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It was so fun to watch him open all his Star War Lego sets. Gavin is a little embarrassing when it comes to opening gifts. If he loves it he will scream, jump and run circles around the room and make you feel like you have given him the most amazing gift ever. If he does not like it, he is going to tell you and has no filter whatsoever. He likes to say things like, "I did NOT ask for this. What is this? I do not want this!" Talk about crawl under a chair, I want to every single time it happens. I have talked to him over and over again but it happens every time. </div>
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Studying all the mini figurines in the set, he loves them all. Look at that sweet face, he makes me happy, happy, happy.</div>
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My favorite pictures of my kids at every party are them blowing out their candles, LOVE! It was a sweet celebration with Gavin and our immediate family. Looking forward to celebrating the big FIVE with him this weekend. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-59196218865860676222014-02-14T19:24:00.000-06:002014-02-23T19:25:45.641-06:00Valentines 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our Valentines week was jam packed full of activities and we were in survival mode all week long with swim party, dance party, school party and company party. </div>
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We decided to celebrate as a family a couple days before with a simple little family dinner and sharing our love stories with one another. We had pizza, cupcakes, ice cream, chocolate covered strawberries and vitamin water in goblets. My kids are just like me and love any reason to decorate and celebrate.</div>
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Gavin gave his buddies at school these Yoda valentines with glow sticks and Star Wars fruit snacks. I forgot to take a picture of Emma's bookmarks and candy.</div>
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Thankful once again for a boss that values family and allows me to attend all my kiddos stuff. It worked out for me to attend Gavin's party on Thursday and Emma's on Friday. </div>
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This is the only picture I got at Emma's party because I was helping set up, pass things out and clean up. Always fun to see Emma with her classmates, especially Ellie and Maria. These are her 2 best buddies at school. Maria joined swim team this year so her and Emma love to jump in the same lane at the pool too. </div>
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Still blown away that I have managed to attend all of Emma and Gavin's school/MDO events over the past 6 years and balance a career, such a blessing and one I will NEVER take for granted or forget. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-2853103734223295472014-02-10T18:51:00.000-06:002014-02-23T19:03:59.722-06:00100th Day of School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
100 days down and 87 more to go until SUMMER! Daddy and Emma decided to work on the 100 day project together. Curtis went to Wal Mart and found Emma a shirt and decided to buy a Bedazzling box kit for $10.00. About 2 hours into the project he was wishing he had just bought some paint. </div>
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He sat at the kitchen table for 4 hours trying to make this shirt for his baby girl and eventually stopped using the machine and started installing the brackets and jewels by hand (he declared that the machine was JUNK). Talk about hysterical, it was some kind of funny and Emma was cheering him on. Need I say, he will NEVER agree to a project such as this again. </div>
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Emma was so proud to pick out her outfit of the day (it is crazy some mornings ya'll) and sport her 100 day shirt that her Daddy made for her with love. Best part was when she got home that afternoon and about 40 jewels had fallen off and she threw the shirt in the trash. Thank God for an amazing Daddy that is always willing to step up to the plate and for the 100th day of school that promises us that SUMMER is on its way. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-8016023289447724712014-02-09T20:37:00.002-06:002014-02-09T20:52:07.194-06:00Little League Tryouts <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The littlest Frazier had Little League tryouts today and we were so incredibly PROUD of this kiddo. He walked out on that field as a four (almost 5 year old) and he delivered. It was so fun to cheer him on and his big sister was so encouraging too. </div>
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We have been in the great debate around here as to what this boy was going to get involved in and to be honest, we have tried it ALL. So when it came time to register for baseball we gave Gavin the option of swim team or baseball and he quickly chose baseball. I signed him up and we started buying all the gear, then he started saying he did not want to play baseball (Baskin Robbins might have been involved in the conversation too) . Due to the weather tryouts continued to be pushed back, but today was finally the day. After church we changed this little stinker in the car and started talking it up. </div>
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We showed up to the big boy field in search of Field #13 that was waiting for all the 6U boys (6 and under). We walked out on the field and had no idea what to expect, so we stood in the long line and waited our turn. We were about 30th in line and it took about an hour and a half for us to have our turn. While we waited Daddy threw the ball to Gavin and he rolled around on the field as if he were playing a mixture of football and baseball, the crowd found him quite entertaining.<br />
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The closer we got up in the line, we could see what was going on and these coaches were serious. There were about 8 coaches sitting between 2nd and 3rd base with notepads. There was another coach on the mound pitching and each kid got 3 chances to bat and on the 3rd one they ran to first base. Afterwards they moved to short stop and fielded 3 balls throwing them back, good stuff. </div>
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When it was Gavin's turn, the coach at the plate shouted, "Gavin Frazier, #33, birthday is correct, 4 years old and will be playing as a 5 year old this season." Gavin jumped up to the plate and I will admit I was a bit nervous because we had only practiced with at tee. Up until a week ago I really thought we were playing tee ball and had no idea it was coaches pitch. Goodbye YMCA and hello Little League, we got this. </div>
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When Gavin got up to the plate he looked at the coach that was pitching and pointed his two fingers up to his eyes and then pointed those same two fingers towards the coach (you know, the I'm watching you sign) and the Coach said, "I'm watching you too buddy" while the coaches outfield all laughed hysterically. This kid is something else I tell ya, figure that gesture right there might make him go pretty quick in the draft (ha ha).<br />
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This boy worked hard, was so proud, did not let the balls get by him and his throws were pretty darn good. We need to work on making contact with the ball since the "tee" is out of the question (silly Momma!).<br />
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Today was a super proud Mommy moment for me and I can not wait to cheer for this little boy and his team this season. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-4782256244478680772014-01-28T20:04:00.001-06:002014-01-28T20:04:27.723-06:00Snow Day 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last Friday we had the day off due to inclement weather and these two kiddos were super sad when it did not snow. Today we also had the day off and things turned out a tiny bit different.</div>
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We did get a few snow flurries and my kids were screaming at the top of their lungs. After they unglued their faces from the windows, they ran to their rooms and started getting dressed. I think they thought they were back in Steamboat about to hit the slopes. Seriously, they put on all their ski gear and headed out the door.<br />
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They were able to enjoy an hour of snow flakes falling and some ice on our playset. It was so much fun to see them so excited about something we do not see to often where we live. It was a nice little break from school and extra curricular activities. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-9204700541268348352013-12-31T21:18:00.000-06:002013-12-31T21:28:06.482-06:00Happy New Year 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Goodbye to 2013 and hello 2014! We greet you with open arms and hopeful hearts, beyond excited to see what God has in store for the Frazier Four this year. </div>
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Emma and I set out to plan the perfect party for us that was filled with party hats, tiaras, noise makers and blow horns. She was super excited about all our goodies, she even bought a party hat for her AG doll.</div>
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It was just the FOUR of us, but we had a little bit of everything and everyone was happy (<strike>so healthy</strike>). We had chips, buffalo chicken dip, bean dip, cream cheese jalapenos, hash brown casserole, bagel bites, CFA nuggets, cheese ball, wheat thins, CFA chocolate chip cookies, Hawaiian roll ham and swiss sandwiches cooked in the oven, chocolate fudge and CFA sweet tea! Now that is what you call a food par-tee friends, Y-U-M-M-Y! </div>
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Gavin led us in the sweetest prayer and after we ate my sweet girl said, "Are we going to go around the table and tell what we all want to do better next year?" Geez, I love that child and her heart!</div>
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Oh how I love this little boy in his Mario PJ's ready to have some fun. These little noisemakers were making our smoke alarms go off, sorta crazy. <br />
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We had live entertainment too, a little karaoke and her guitar. Oh she is quite the performer and dreams of being just like Danielle Bradbury some day. </div>
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This victory sword sparkler was so cool, we wish we would have bought more. It sparkled for a long time, perfect for the kids to hold. </div>
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Waiting patiently to get their sparklers lit by Daddy. My heart is so full with these two, they are such fun kids with so much personality.</div>
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Praying that God blesses you and your family this year and always with good health, promotes your finances, provides you job security, helps you find a wonderful church home, strengthens your marriage and relationships with others, allows you to bring someone to know Christ, gives your children the best teachers ever, heals your hurt while teaching you to forgive others, surrounds you with people that make you better, comforts your heart like only HE can do, gives you opportunities to celebrate others successes, allows you to help those in need, creates more time to do what you truly love, helps you dream, takes you to new places and challenges you to step out boldly in 2014.</div>
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<em><strong>As for Me and My House We Will Serve the Lord. </strong></em></div>
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<em><strong>Joshua 24:15</strong> </em></div>
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Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-81680676065982594352013-12-27T18:21:00.002-06:002013-12-27T18:22:59.476-06:00Where have we been?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Geez, it has been a long time since I have posted. I have received lots of questions, emails, calls and text from people concerned, but I am here to tell you that LIFE has just CONSUMED us. </div>
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I am the Mommy behind this blog that has been ongoing for five and a half years. I am the wife of an amazing man that works hard and loves us well! I am the proud Mommy of Gavin and Emma. I am a hard working assistant principal, a Sunday school teacher, a dance/swim Mom, a boy Mommy and so much more. I love this blog, I love my family and I love OUR story, therefore I am committed to taking the time to document our ongoing journey for my kids to share with their kids someday. <br />
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I always thought as my children got older we would have more time and life would be less chaotic, NOT! We are constantly on the go to practices, church events, doing homework, school functions, birthday parties, play dates, family functions, carpooling, doctors appointments and so much more. We have also dedicated extra time to prepare the littlest Frazier for Kindergarten next year, oh Gavin Thomas how is that already happening? It is all the things I love, but it has left very little time for anything else. <br />
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We have had a rough go this Fall with sickness in our home. Emma battled a parasite for 12 weeks that truly frightened us to the core, she was one very sick little girl (after many test and 3 rounds of treatment she is good to go). Then we had the usual colds, ear infections and viruses. Thank God, we are all very healthy now and I am praying it stays this way.<br />
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I have always managed as a working Mom to keep up with EVERYTHING and give 100%, but that has been a struggle the last 4 months. We are in constant prayer about what God has in store for me as a working Mom and have faith that his plan will unveil in due time.<br />
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It has bothered me tremendously that I have gotten so behind on blogging and I have a running list in my cell phone of all the blog post I plan to post soon.<br />
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Thank you for loving our little family and thank you for missing us. This Mommy is determined to play catch up, get some rest before I head back to work on January 6th, love on my family, create new memories and make big bold plans for THE FRAZIER FOUR in 2014. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-54670107083341651282013-12-25T17:25:00.000-06:002013-12-27T19:53:47.289-06:00Merry Christmas 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry CHRISTmas from our family to yours this Holiday Season. We have been blessed in more ways then we deserve this year and give GOD ALL THE GLORY for his unwavering protection and love for our family over this past year and always. <br />
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Praying your Holidays have been filled with love, hope, peace, joy, family and friends. We have spent this month reflecting and sharing with our sweet children that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this time of year. <br />
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It is such an honor to be their parents and indescribable the amount of joy and laughter they bring into our home on a daily basis. I truly never knew a love like this existed before I became their Mommy. </div>
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So thankful to be part of THE FRAZIER FOUR, this is the family I have always dreamed of having and more.<br />
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Christmas has been a wonderful celebration in our home spent with our loved ones. Celebrating that little baby that was sent so many years ago, so that we could have this amazing life. Happy Birthday Jesus, we love you!Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-79247197549822377532013-12-18T17:18:00.000-06:002013-12-27T19:54:28.053-06:00Visit to Santa 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We made our yearly trip to visit the jolly ole man in the red suit and the kiddos were eager to tell him what they hoped for this Christmas. </div>
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Santa came out to take Emma and Gavin back to his sleigh so they could all visit. When he came out Gavin said "hey buddy, are your Reindeer on the roof?" Santa replied, "No, they are back at the North Pole." Out of no where Gavin shouted, "I knew you were fake!" It was at that point that I thought about running out the door of the photography studio but I couldn't leave my kids behind. Once Gavin finally got in his lap he tugged on his beard and realized he was the real Santa. <br />
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Both kids were reassured by Santa that they were on the NICE list, so they left with smiles on their faces and hope in their little hearts that Christmas morning would be loads of fun. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-38044728171423334792013-09-03T19:04:00.000-05:002013-09-03T19:04:31.176-05:00Gavin PreK 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a much better day than we planned for our little man since he declared on Friday that he was "never, never, never, never going back to school and that he would just go to the military!"</div>
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I love seeing their little fingers wrapped around this sign year after year. This year was bittersweet for us, the last first day to walk one of our children into a preschool. </div>
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Hard to believe that we will have 2 public school children next year. I was sad for a second and then I focused on the fact that I only have 8 more months to pay those ridiculous fees and we would get a huge raise. <br />
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It was quite hysterical to try and get pictures of Gavin Thomas this morning. It took about 33 shots before I finally got one of him looking and smiling in my direction.</div>
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It was worth the wait because this little stinker finally showed me how truly excited he was to start a new school year. <br />
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He walked around for 30 minutes this morning with his backpack on saying he was ready to go to school. </div>
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When we pulled up he shouted, "Mom, do NOT take another picture of me please". Get use to it because I will do this every single year for the next twelve, even if it cost me a pack of Starburst each time. </div>
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I love this boy more than I ever imagined possible. I would not change a single thing about him or the belly laughs he supplies us with daily. </div>
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Like last year, he could have walked himself in and gotten started with his day. He went straight in, said good morning, walked in the office and helped himself to a mint.</div>
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Slow down there little man and let us walk you in, it's our job. Such a great feeling that he is so secure at his school and so loved.<br />
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Hand in hand with his favorite person in the entire world. When I tell you this kid is a Daddy's boy, I mean he worships the ground this man walks on. <br />
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You are looking at the little boy who came home with 2 stars on his shirt screaming, "I had a great day Mom, I was a good boy and I got stars, look Mom it was a great day". It sure was buddy and we are praying you have a great year. We love you so much and are so thankful for your little life. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-54591957962188378302013-09-02T18:53:00.000-05:002013-09-02T19:55:47.512-05:00Cousins at the Bay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday after church we headed out to "The Bay" to spend the day with Nanny Anderson and the rest of the family. It was a wonderful day filled with cousins big and small that came from far away. </div>
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My cousins were in town from Chicago, Atlanta and Austin. It was so wonderful to be with everyone and for all of our kiddos to play and have so much fun. We had a huge Sunday lunch, visited, ate cupcakes, fished, played with the dogs, walked out on the pier and had a blast on the huge water slide. I forgot my camera, but I am hoping to get more pictures from one of my cousins. Nanny Andersons' house sits waterfront on 7 acres on the bay and has been a BEAUTIFUL place of gathering every Sunday for 25+ years. </div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Marc Brown</span></strong></div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-8704091886435616822013-08-26T19:54:00.000-05:002013-08-26T19:54:15.885-05:00first day, FIRST grade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Big day for our sweet Emma Caroline today and we are so thankful that it was a perfect day.</div>
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So hard to believe that the little girl that made me a Mommy headed off to FIRST grade this morning. She was beyond excited and jumped out of bed on her own at 5:45 thrilled about what the day had in store for her. </div>
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I asked her how she felt and this was the face I got, love it. She picked out her outfit, hair bow and shoes last night so we could have plenty of time this morning. The days are gone of me choosing her clothes, she is a diva to the 10th power with a very strong opinion and as picky as they come (her Daddy likes to remind me that I created this!).</div>
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The first day of school and rain made for about an hour drop off/walk in for us, but we enjoyed every second of it with our big FIRST grader. Notice the messenger bag, she had me search high and low for a leopard and pink one.<br />
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As we walked her in we stopped one last time to pray outside of her classroom and tell her how much we loved her. Curtis and I walked away so proud of her courage, confidence and character this morning. We could not stop talking about how easy she has made life for us and what a JOY it is to be her parents. </div>
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Of course she was most excited about getting to school and seeing her best friend, Ellie. So thankful that our paths crossed with this sweet family and that these two have each other again this school year. When they found out they were in class again this year, they squealed out of control. Their little eyes just light up when they see one another. </div>
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So thankful for days like today and so proud of our big girl. I hope her love for learning never stops, she loves every single thing about school. <br />
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Emma Lou, great things are in store for you this year kiddo. No doubt God is going to promote you in every area of your little life, he loves you beyond comprehension and so do we! Thank you for making your first day of school so wonderful for all of us.<br />
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-59885146562192805392013-08-24T20:27:00.000-05:002013-08-26T20:44:56.415-05:00Company Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last night Emma attended her first Company party at the dance studio from 7-10 and this girl had a blast. The night consisted of games, secret sister reveal, pajamas, dinner, snacks, dancing and getting to know all the girls who made the competition team for 2013-2014. These instructors know how to throw a fun party!</div>
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Most of the girls that will be dancing this year are included in this picture, but it was hard to squeeze them all in. Talk about a super sweet set of girls and families, you are looking at them. I can not imagine a better group to have my daughter surrounded by, great role models and peers. Emma has danced with some of these girls since she was 3 years old, but some are new friends and she is so excited about them all. </div>
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The girls were asked to lay flat on their stomachs, arms out and eyes closed. Each of them had a straw placed in their hand that was a different color and size. When Mrs. Rachel yelled, "Go" they all had to get up and run around the room to find the girl who had the matching straw, this would be their big/little sister for the competition season. Emma and Amanda finally found each other and it was the cutest thing ever. Emma can't stop talking about how much she has in common with her BIG SISTER at dance. Amanda is a 5th grader and will be someone that Emma looks up to all year long. Just so happens her Mommy is Gavin's PreK 4 teacher this year, small world. <br />
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Emma is thrilled about dance this year and has a heavy load at the studio on top of swimming with her year around team. She is going to try and balance it all and I am going to continue to pray for our "want to be involved in everything" child. It is going to be hard work for her, but she is up to the challenge.Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-26312293778915160082013-08-23T20:17:00.000-05:002013-08-26T20:17:39.586-05:00Meet the Teacher 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have spent the month of August getting ready to head back to school and talking about new routines, meeting new friends and teachers.</div>
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Always seems to help our kids get back in the swing of things and the first days much easier. The mantle has been decorated with Emma's school colors and all the things that remind us that, "school is cool".</div>
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This evening we got to redeem our golden ticket and meet the teacher. Emma had been looking forward to this for weeks. </div>
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On the way to the school she told me she needed to talk to me about something, but she did not want me to be upset. Of course I gave her my usual, you can talk to me about anything speech. She proceeded to say, "Mom, can you please tell my teacher that I want to go by Caroline this year not Emma?" I asked her if she would be fine with Emma Caroline and she said, "no Mom, just Caroline." </div>
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Once again God has blessed us with an amazing teacher, Mrs. Kohler which just happens to be best friends with Emma's Kindergarten teacher. We were thrilled that Emma got Mrs. Kohler this year and that sweet Ellie, Jackson and Dylan were in her class from last year. Looks like 2013-2014 is going to be another year filled with academic excellence for our girl. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-34041025785411757452013-08-04T19:07:00.000-05:002013-09-02T19:30:18.957-05:00Cousin Camp 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We pulled off another surprise for these kiddos with cousin camp this year. This year we decided to rent a cabin and head to a camp ground. </div>
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After some Mexican food we pulled up to Yogi Bear park, the kids were a little unsure about where we had brought them (they are a little spoiled to Hotels, so am I).</div>
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Did not take us long to hit the campground, get checked into our cabin and make our way to the pools for some fun.<br />
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Nana surprised the kids by renting this golf cart and thank goodness she did. Nana and the kids had a blast decorating it for the parade at night.<br />
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After a long day of fun in the sun, so thankful these four are the best of friends and get along so well. Nana treated us all to ice cream every evening, yummy!<br />
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Gavin was such a trooper and joined us on the big water slides this year. I must admit that the big blue and yellow one scared me and my SIL to death, I was airborne for about half the ride (NEVER again!)</div>
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I can not even begin to tell you how much my little boy LOVES his big cousin Hunter, he is completely crazy about him!</div>
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These kiddos had a blast on all of the water slides, in the lazy river, on the golf cart, playing putt putt, at the pancake breakfast, having talent shows, sleeping in the loft, playing on the playground and on the campground. </div>
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So thankful for this weekend, our family and that we continue to the tradition of cousin camp year after year. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-85071498219488351642013-08-02T19:34:00.000-05:002013-09-02T19:39:04.539-05:00Look what's missing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the way to cousin camp today a little girl decided to pull her 5th tooth in the car and Nana was completly disqusted.</div>
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Her tooth had been loose, but her bestie Ellie accidently kicked her at the swimming pool yesterday and made it looser. Emma decided to start yanking on it in the car and eventually go it out, we were laughing hysterically at Nana's reaction. Daddy loves to tell her that she is our little Jack-O-Lantern now. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-19566441563900221782013-08-01T20:15:00.000-05:002013-09-02T20:19:46.409-05:00Kate, Emma and Ellie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Sweet friendships make summer so much fun!</span></strong></div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-63903229765906021372013-07-25T20:50:00.000-05:002013-07-26T08:16:05.079-05:00Church Camp 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have just returned from Church Camp and it was a wonderful time spent with a great group of kiddos and adults falling deeper in love with the Lord. To witness kids on fire about Jesus is an amazing feeling and one that left my heart filled with so much hope. </div>
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Camp was filled with water slides, swimming in the pool, blow up obstacle courses, jump houses, crafts, activities, bible study, hikes, praise/worship, mail call, making homemade ice cream, gaga ball, ping pong, friendships, prayer time, hayrides, county fairs, nature walks, quiet time and a hoe down with a real caller.</div>
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Emma begged to go to camp last year as a 5 year old, but she was not old enough. Our church participates in 4 camps a year and this year we participated in the one that was for kids who have completed Kindergarten - 2nd grade. There was no way my 6 year old was going to camp alone for half the week, so I prayed about it and went along as a cabin counselor. </div>
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Emma was super excited when we arrived at camp and she found out she got to sleep on a top bunk. The initial sight of the cabin made me a little nervous, but I got over it quick. </div>
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Sweet Lauren is one of our Praise Team members at church and she assisted me as a Junior Counselor which was a huge help.</div>
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Each day was jam packed with activities from 8 in the morning until 9 o'clock at night. I was exhausted after chasing little girls around all day. Every bible story was associated with an activity that had great meaning and gave the kids a better understanding, wonderful. </div>
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These are the babies at camp and they were all so precious and sweet. They were so proud of their initial batch of homemade ice cream. These girls looked after each other all week long and provided each other comfort and encouragement on their first camp adventure. </div>
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Proud of that top bunk, can you tell? This girl was such a trooper and I was so proud of her to be a first time camp kid.</div>
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I grew up going to church camp from 3rd grade thru high school and it is still some of the best memories of my entire life. It was so special that I got to be a part of Emma's first time camp experience. I was a little worried when I agreed to go and actually requested NOT to be in the same cabin with her so she could fully experience camp. I actually thought I was going to be in a boy cabin, but it ended up that she was in my cabin, but you would have NEVER known she was my child. She was a trooper, never hung on me, tried to sit in my lap or whined about a single thing. She fully engaged in every activity and was such an independent little thing. </div>
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She was so proud of this pet rock that she made for her brother while we were away at camp. She kept telling everyone he was her best friend and would love it. This little face just screams happiness to me, this girl had fun.</div>
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Good ole pie eating contest and no hands were allowed on the table. It was hilarious to watch these kids participate in this, some of them got on top of the table (ha ha).</div>
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Three of my little cabin mates ready for the Hoe Down. Before every activity we had role call and when they would say, "Cabin 3, are you here?" My sweet girls would yell, "Cabin 3 says HOWDY!" You would have thought they had been doing this for years. </div>
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Emma's 3 favorite things at camp were praise/worship, the hayride and small group bible study with your cabin everyday. <br />
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The hoe down was such a fun time with all of the kids and the 77 year old caller that came to teach all the dances, he was such a sweet little man. I wanted to put him in my pocket and bring him home.<br />
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Yee Haw, look at them go. So many cute dances they learned and so much fun was had the last evening at camp. </div>
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Blair and Emma became the best of buds at camp. So crazy that we learned the Sunday before camp that these two were on the mountain together at ski school in Steamboat last Spring Break. When Blair's parents picked her, her sister and twin brother up from ski school they kept telling their parents that they saw a boy and girl from church and the parents didn't believe them (ha-small world).</div>
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These two are quite the mess together and know how to have a good time. Of course they were dreaming about Leigh-Leigh during the entire hoe down (silly girls).<br />
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This little finger light was a huge ordeal at camp. The director had it on the first day at camp and she passed it on to someone she saw letting their light shine for Jesus. Each child had to continue passing it on and tell the other person why they were getting it. One of the sweet little girls gave it to Emma and she was beyond thrilled, by the time camp was over about 20 kids had worn the little ring. </div>
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The last day of camp we took this group picture of the kids from our church and had a shirt signing. These little troopers knew exactly what to do and walked around with Sharpies signing and getting signed.<br />
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It was an amazing honor to accompany these children to camp, share my love for Jesus with them, teach his word, serve as an example to them through my own actions, listen to their stories and answer their questions about what God has in store for them and their little life. <br />
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To watch my own daughter be so excited about Jesus, share what he has done in her life, sing with all of her heart to him and to have such a deep understanding of Christ filled me with an indescribable amount of JOY! When we left camp, she started asking me about returning next year and has not stopped talking about how much fun she had, singing all the camp songs and how much she loves Jesus. No doubt in my mind that Emma Caroline will be attending camps for years to come and her little brother will soon join her. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-48452954196840927592013-07-20T21:44:00.000-05:002013-07-25T21:45:24.559-05:00Children's Musuem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday we visited the Children's Museum with our cousins before they head back to Colorado for a while. </div>
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Peyton and Emma are the best of buds and had a blast painting their faces into pink cats.</div>
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The sight of these 4 cousins piled in this car made me a little nervous of what is yet to come (ha ha). I can not even imagine when they are all old enough to be running the roads together, they will keep me on my knees praying!<br />
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Gavin was in his element all day long and had the best time. If the museum offered Kindergarten this boy would be enrolled next year, no matter the cost. All of the hands on activities are right up his little creative alley. </div>
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The museum was pure chaos with so many day cares and field trips, so I was unable to get many pictures but we sure did have a great day. All the kids were sad to say goodbye, but praying we will all be back together soon. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-81113125291287802202013-07-12T16:59:00.000-05:002013-07-27T07:29:54.260-05:00Frio to the Hill Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spent the first part of the week in Garner, traded our river shoes in and headed for the JW Marriott for a little more fun in the sun. </div>
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View from the balcony, by far this has been my favorite resort in Texas and we will definitely be going back for some rest and relaxation someday soon. </div>
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I had been looking forward to arriving at the JW Marriott to finally meet my sweet friend Kim Watson and her precious family. Kim and I met through our blogs and Matilda Jane a couple years ago and instantly connected because of our love for our kids, LV and life. We had plans to meet this summer and it worked out for us to finally connect in the Hill Country. She is as wonderful as I thought she would be from all of our texting/emails/conversations and her family is as cute as can be.</div>
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We enjoyed spending the afternoon with the Watson family and the kids had fun building a pyramid with <a href="http://www.aaronwatson.com/">the Honky Tonk Kid, Aaron Watson</a>. If you look closely you will see that all the cups stacked are filled with water, it took them a while to finally accomplish this. The two little boys by Emma joined us in the pool and the other two are the Watson boys. Not real sure where Princess Jolee Kate was when we took this picture, probably floating around talking to everyone (she is a social butterfly). Jack Jack and Gavin immediately hit it off in the pool and went to wrestling, Kim called this years ago about those two. </div>
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After we got out of the pool one evening we made smores and they were yummy we ate lots of smores on this trip.<br />
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We got to enjoy room service one morning and the kids thought it was the greatest thing ever. They said it was a "royal feast rolled in on a royal table", again they have seen too many fairy tales. </div>
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The kids enjoyed all of the water slides and went down by themselves, in groups of twos, threes and with me. They also enjoyed the lazy river along with Tedra.</div>
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The days were so hot, we kept cool with frozen drinks by the pool and lots of SPF 70.<br />
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This little boy played his heart out and had a ball. He loves the water and is close to being a swimmer, no doubt he will join his sister on swim team next year. </div>
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These three had a blast together while Tedra and I had some great girl time laying out, talking, laughing, dreaming and supervising. All in all our trip to the Frio and Hill Country was a blast, relaxing and gave us lots to laugh and talk about. I love this time away with my two kids and Emma was thrilled to have a friend along on this Texas-cation. We are already looking forward to being river rats again next year. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-39713195908547077492013-07-09T15:52:00.000-05:002013-07-26T18:39:10.162-05:00Garner State Park Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We took our annual summer trip to the Frio River this year and it did not disappoint. The kids love Garner as much as they love any other vacation. Daddy does not get to go with us because we take our family vacation in June and he can not take two vacations back to back, maybe one year we will just let this be our vacation because the kids really want Daddy to go. </div>
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Emma had been looking forward to Garner for months because she got to bring her friend Lauren along this year for some river fun. Garner just seems to be alot more fun when you are surrounded by friends. I brought one of my best friends with me and met one of my other besties there, can't beat that! That cute little boxer is sweet Mona and the kids loved walking the dogs all over the camp grounds, those poor dogs were worn smooth out and I am certain they were happy to see us go.</div>
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Garner life is like no other life and something that both my children fully embrace, God's country. Sweet Emma found a puddle of tadpoles on our hike down to the river one day and enjoyed playing with them. I think she was a little intrigued by how this guy would become a frog in 24 more days. </div>
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I love this little boy, but I also fell in love with this log that was floating down the river. The kids had hours worth of fun playing with it too. </div>
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Floating and playing in the river all day long keeps a smile on this boys face. Big fun to swim a little, float a little, ride a raft a little then get out and fish a little. </div>
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My sweet, wonderful amazing friend Darla who is the ring leader of the DiStefano family and planner of our Garner getaway every year. When I got home I realized I did not take many pictures at all, so maybe she will share hers with me (at Momma Choles).</div>
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This would be sweet little Vincent on his first river trip at 10 weeks old and he was a TROOPER. His Momma was my student as a 6th grader and my favorite student ever, thank God our paths crossed and we are now part of the DiStefano family. </div>
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Lauren did a great job embracing Garner for it to be her first time. Between her and Emma, Gavin had three Momma's on this trip. They were so excited when Gavin pulled this fish in that they caught all by themselves. I heard Gavin scream, "yeah baby" and I turned around to look and they came running with this cute little perch. <br />
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Lauren was sure brave to stand by Gavin while he was cane pole fishing, it was a sight to see. You would have thought the boy was fly fishing the way he cocked that cane pole out and swung it forward into the water. It was a bit scary and he was destined to hook someone, himself in fact. </div>
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Him in action to prove his fly fishing action and he was not slowing down a bit. He would let his cork bob up and down about 2 times and then he was slinging it again, quite surprised a fish ever had time to get on that hook but he caught a few. We might have to take a summer trip to Steamboat soon, so this boy can do some fly fishing in the river. <br />
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No trip to Garner is complete without a trip to the pavilion for the dance and a little bit of two stepping. August danced with the girls and had a smile on his face the entire time. <br />
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Oh the Garner dance was something that Emma and Lauren seriously lost their minds about and acted like giddy teenagers. It was cute for about the first 30 minutes then they were out of control laughing, making up songs, reapplying lip gloss and talking about kissing Leighton and August (Darla's college boys). Seriously, they were screaming, laughing and whispering like they were 15. I was in shock and kept asking how they even knew to act like that. These two girls had the biggest crushes on the big boys and they were very open about it!</div>
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All day long they kept talking about going to the "ball" that night and acted out the dance floor scene with Gavin, where he would bow down to one knee, extend his arm and say, "may I have this dance?" Clearly these kiddos have watched far too many fairy tales. They were not disappointed when we arrived to the pavilion and they were dancing under a huge tree on a concrete dance floor opposed to a crystal ball (ha). Poor Gavin passed out before we arrived, so Tedra held him the entire time. </div>
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I think it is pretty safe to say they love each other, love to two step, love Garner and love Leighton and August.</div>
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The big boys were really so sweet to them and treated them like little ladies on the dance floor. They both danced with Daniel too, but I caught them talking about him being too skinny. Those girls cracked us up all night, we were laughing till we were cried. </div>
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Cabin sweet cabin. We loved where we stayed and will go back there for sure next year. The owners were wonderful and the cabin was so super clean and cozy. We had lots of belly laughs inside this little place. </div>
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We ended up pushing a full size and twin bed together for me and all 3 of the kiddos to sleep on. The two window units running on high made for a good nights sleep for all of us. Tedra was scared to death she was going to be carried away by scorpions, hilarious. I came home wanting a window unit but our HOA won't allow it, darn!</div>
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What else does a librarian do on the river all day? Soak up the sun and READ, love this girl more than life and our time together is precious. </div>
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Excuse the roughness from being outside on the river for 48 hours with no shower, but I loved this picture of me, my boy, the log and Garner. We love, love, love Garner! </div>
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Peace, Love & Dance ~ Garner State Park! Oh and super silly girls too. </div>
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Poor Gavin was passed out when we went to take the traditional Garner picture, so here are my "Garner Girls". </div>
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We had a wonderful time in Garner and spent our days in the Frio, roasting smores, eating PawPaw David's fried chicken, visiting the dance, going to Josh's, shopping at the Dry Fifty, eating at Momma Chole's, sitting around talking, listening to old country music on the jambox, walking the dogs and just enjoying each other.<br />
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My kids are already talking about next years trip to Garner and all the fun they are going to have. So blessed and thankful that the DiStefano's include us in their 20+ year tradition in the Hill Country. Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6126619237722593304.post-23996484203540536192013-07-05T13:50:00.000-05:002013-07-05T13:50:23.547-05:00July 4th + Cousins = Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday we spent the 4th with our family and had a fun filled day. This happens to be one of my favorite get togethers because it is the only time of year when almost all the family is together (only missing Uncle Larry, Aunt Holly and cousin Wyman yesterday). There were about 60 of us together celebrating and it was a blast.</div>
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I love to see how much braver the kiddos get in the water year after year and yesterday did not disappoint. It was somewhat difficult to keep up with all of them swimming, jumping and sliding. Emma loves the slide, along with all the rest of them. <br />
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Gavin supplied the bubble fun for a while until his bubble gun got dropped in the pool. I loved hearing sweet Maddox saying "bubbles, bubbles, bubbles".</div>
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Emma and Hudson got super brave this year and were jumping from the rock bridge, these two were not afraid at all (hard part was climbing up there because there were no steps). The bridge is about 12 feet over the water and provided hours of fun for all the kids.<br />
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Sweet Maddox gets the prize for being the youngest one to go down the slide. Ummm, you look just like your Daddy boy!</div>
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No gathering would be complete on the 4th without some good ole smores, yummy! <br />
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Sweet Peyton was so excited about doing smores. She kept telling me, "Princess Laura, I remember when you brought smores last year, I can not wait to do smores, I love smores." Yes, she calls me Princess Laura and I love it. </div>
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Bubbles, bubbles and more bubbles. </div>
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We also celebrated Mr. Preston's 1st Birthday which is a few weeks away since they will be in Colorado. Happy Birthday Preston Sterling Carnes, you are such a wonderful little blessing to our family.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJXTX5A7sRs/UdcOGrButMI/AAAAAAAAJlY/OWyrnrqnX5I/s1600/cousins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJXTX5A7sRs/UdcOGrButMI/AAAAAAAAJlY/OWyrnrqnX5I/s400/cousins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our attempt at getting a picture of all 15 of the Carnes cousins, there were a few that got away (ha ha, can you blame them?). I sure wish I could have gotten more pictures, but it was a day spent chasing and watching lots of kiddos. </div>
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We spent our day eating BBQ, singing Happy Birthday, swimming, laughing, playing, shooting water guns, watching fireworks, doing sparklers, roasting smores, listening to music, saying the pledge, jumping, sliding and catching up. We are headed back to the Carnes tomorrow for another BIG family day spent poolside. It is truly a blessing that our kids get to do life with so many cousins and the promise of fun family get togethers. Feeling extremely thankful, blessed and tired today. </div>
Laura Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811840929849778385noreply@blogger.com2