A lot of changes have been going on around here. First off Hannah turned 2 1/2 yesterday. She's bright and spunky and we loved on her all day and had some cake to celebrate last night(I mean, why not?). Also yesterday William lost his first tooth. He came up, told me it was really loose, and after I panicked for a couple seconds, he pulled it our himself! He's such a brave kid and it didn't even phase him. We had cake to celebrate this achievement last night too, so I guess you could say it was a pretty successful day! We did have a hiccup this morning when William couldn't find his tooth fairy money right away, but Francis came to the rescue and pointed out the envelope under his pillow. Then there was excitement all around. Robert now wants to start losing teeth. He doesn't like the idea of having to wait. His time will come soon though!
And now for the biggest announcement, Baby Phillips #4 is due July 8th! I will be the first to admit the shock at finding out I was expecting (which happened when I smelled mustard and promptly gagged... a side effect of all my other pregnancies). Francis was also shocked, but he took it in happy stride. We found out right around Halloween, but told no one just then. A couple of days later Robert informed us he'd been praying for a baby for Christmas (he didn't know yet his prayer had been answered). I told him to let me know before he prays that prayer next time. We told the kids after Thanksgiving and they were so thrilled!!! Robert wanted the baby to be here before Christmas but he now understands that babies take time. He's being very patient...they all are. I've had a lot of morning sickeness and actual sickness and the kids and Francis have been wonderful trying to help. The kids kept the secret and we told Francis's parents, my parents and the rest of the family at Christmas. The kids put on a special "play" to announce the arrival of their new sibling and Hannah wore an adorable "promoted to big sister" shirt. The reaction was positive with much laughter and some happy tears. My appointments have been going well and the kids even were able to come and see baby on the sonogram. They watched in awe and talked to the baby. It made me smile. I haven't felt the baby move too much but the doctor thinks my placenta is in the front and muffling the kicks. It feels like I'm feeling the kicks through a water bed and that's what lead the doctor to this conclusion. We'll know for sure at the anatomy ultrasound next month! I had my 16 week check today and everything looked good.
Hannah has been practicing all the things to do with the baby when they come. It's pretty adorable. The boys have been working on a name for this kid and settled on Cutie Pie Phillips for a girl and Handsome Boy Phillips for a boy. We'll have to see how that works out for them. Hannah and Robert have been extra cuddly lately, wanting to cuddle with baby as much as me. William happily dispenses his big brother wisdom as he tells all the things he remembers from when Hannah was born. This kid is going to be born into one "prepared" family. My doctor has been jokingly calling me "the expert" or the "professional" because nothing really seems to phase me. I don't know that either of those title are appropriate, but I'm glad she thinks I'm doing something right!
I suppose that's it for now. I'm sure there is a novel I could write about now, but the human pyramid going on behind me needs to be dealt with before someone gets hurt. Till next time!
Thursday, January 25, 2018
Sunday, January 21, 2018
January 21, 2018
We've been on and off sick over the past couple of weeks, which has made for quite a few days home. On Friday we were finally feeling well enough to go out (we'd only been out for groceries the rest of the week), I asked the kids where they wanted to go. They looked at em wide eyed, "We are going to leave the house today?!?" It's been weird for the family who normally goes out everyday to stay in and that response struck me as particularly unlike us. We ended up going to the Children's Museum and having a lovely time (making sure to wash our hand on the way out so hopefully we won't catch anything new). The sickness (which the doctor said was like the flu but was not in fact the flu) has kept us pretty tired. I spent more than one day wrestling with the state of my house versus the state of my exhaustion. No worries though as I have finally bounced back and put most everything to right.
It's also was very cold here earlier this week. Early Tuesday morning rain and the cold temperatures gave way to freezing rain, sleet and even a little snow. Fearing the worst, school was cancelled even at A&M so Francis was able to stay home with us (he's the only one to have managed to avoid being sick), and cozy up as we weathered the very very cold, but otherwise mild storm. The weather finally gave way Friday and by Saturday the high was in the 70s. It was actually warmer outside than in our house when we got home from church today! Yesterday we went to the boys' skating lessons (they have started them back up again) and then participate in a Pokemon Go community day. It was fun and SO nice to really be outside for the first time in nearly a month. It was so nice out in fact that after dinner, we took our first family walk since before time change. Now that felt amazing. I'm hoping the weather will continue to hold so we can start going out more. We'll just have to see!
William is doing well in school and is always thinking. He's become a bit of a sneaky negotiator, so he keeps me on my toes! We went to chick-fil-a yesterday and one of the workers there is also a volunteer in William's class at church. She excitedly asked is William was there (he was in the playground) and stated confidently that William is one of her favorites because he is always so full of energy and can make anything into a positive. That is a good assessment of him.
Robert is learning so much too. He's beginning to read and not just words I teach him. He's also started adding in his head which I also didn't teach him. He's creative and has come up with elaborate stories.The one yesterday involved a reenactment of a Cowboys football game (a favorite of his) where he is actually playing soccer against the other team (named "the losers") where his team is all superheroes and Pokemon and the other team is evil zombies and monsters. He tells it better I assure you.
Hannah received a large art kit from the Boerger family for Christmas. Everyday at school time she asks for her "Belle Schoolwork" (Belle is on the front) and spends the better part of an hour creating a masterpiece each day. I had no idea it would hold her attention like it does, but its' been a dream come true. She is also loving her baby dolls and is usually carrying one of them or her "grumpy cat" when I see her in the morning. She feeds them and talks to them. Hannah is an excellent mommy when she tries. She is so ready to be a big kid like her brothers. She got a set of Minnie Mouse bedding from Sweetie and Papa for Christmas that she loves to have tucked in perfectly around her at night just like her brothers. She loves what they love, but still has her own opinions. She's a cutie and her brother love her just as much as she loves them.
Till next time!
It's also was very cold here earlier this week. Early Tuesday morning rain and the cold temperatures gave way to freezing rain, sleet and even a little snow. Fearing the worst, school was cancelled even at A&M so Francis was able to stay home with us (he's the only one to have managed to avoid being sick), and cozy up as we weathered the very very cold, but otherwise mild storm. The weather finally gave way Friday and by Saturday the high was in the 70s. It was actually warmer outside than in our house when we got home from church today! Yesterday we went to the boys' skating lessons (they have started them back up again) and then participate in a Pokemon Go community day. It was fun and SO nice to really be outside for the first time in nearly a month. It was so nice out in fact that after dinner, we took our first family walk since before time change. Now that felt amazing. I'm hoping the weather will continue to hold so we can start going out more. We'll just have to see!
William is doing well in school and is always thinking. He's become a bit of a sneaky negotiator, so he keeps me on my toes! We went to chick-fil-a yesterday and one of the workers there is also a volunteer in William's class at church. She excitedly asked is William was there (he was in the playground) and stated confidently that William is one of her favorites because he is always so full of energy and can make anything into a positive. That is a good assessment of him.
Robert is learning so much too. He's beginning to read and not just words I teach him. He's also started adding in his head which I also didn't teach him. He's creative and has come up with elaborate stories.The one yesterday involved a reenactment of a Cowboys football game (a favorite of his) where he is actually playing soccer against the other team (named "the losers") where his team is all superheroes and Pokemon and the other team is evil zombies and monsters. He tells it better I assure you.
Hannah received a large art kit from the Boerger family for Christmas. Everyday at school time she asks for her "Belle Schoolwork" (Belle is on the front) and spends the better part of an hour creating a masterpiece each day. I had no idea it would hold her attention like it does, but its' been a dream come true. She is also loving her baby dolls and is usually carrying one of them or her "grumpy cat" when I see her in the morning. She feeds them and talks to them. Hannah is an excellent mommy when she tries. She is so ready to be a big kid like her brothers. She got a set of Minnie Mouse bedding from Sweetie and Papa for Christmas that she loves to have tucked in perfectly around her at night just like her brothers. She loves what they love, but still has her own opinions. She's a cutie and her brother love her just as much as she loves them.
Till next time!
Monday, January 8, 2018
January 8, 2018
To say life is has been a little nuts around here is like saying a hurricane is a light ocean breeze.
We had Christmas with the Phillips clan the weekend before Christmas. We got to go to the Gaylord and decorate cookies, have a lovely dinner together, open presents and have a delightful time. The kids love their cousin Abby and Hannah particularly loved being her shadow this trip. Hannah got a baby doll and matching baby doll and Hannah size dresses and were able to wear them to church that Sunday. The boys got to play a laser tag type game and Mario cart with Francis, Uncle Chris and Grandad, so it was a very successful weekend.
The kids and I stuck around for the week and enjoyed Christmas light looking, a trip to Play street museum, Kid Mania (a large indoor playground) and a trip to the Aquarium with Nana. Thursday morning we moved from the Phillips house to the Noble Casa (where my mother had thankfully fully recovered from the flu). My mother had the candidate draw and William had the honor of drawing the number for my mother. Friday Mom Noble and Aunt Camille joined us, and in a last minute decision, Japapa flew down Saturday from Colorado to join us for the first Christmas ever. We all attended the Saturday evening candle light service (Christmas Eve eve?) including my sisters' families. Christmas eve was spent at my parents enjoying the fire, Christmas movies, board games and good company. We had our our own family Christmas eve service at the house followed by opening presents. The kids particularly loved these ride on bouncing animals and have continued to bounce on them whenever they come across them in the house.
Christmas morning we opened stockings and then my in-law joined all of us for a delightful and delicious Christmas lunch. It was great to have almost my whole family there (missing only Cyndy Chris and Abby). It was a Christmas to remember. While there may not be a whole lot to write about concerning it, I will hold the feelings and love in my heart for all time. Merry Christmas!
We headed home the following day after having a celebratory lunch for Japapa at Uncle Julio's restaurant. Being away 12 days was very very fun but we were ready to get back home. The days until new Years are sort of a blur of unpacking, restocking, cleaning and general house keeping. One exception would be that the kids used their Christmas money from Nana Phillips to go to Grand Station instead of getting a toy. It was something they had been waiting over 2 years to do. They got to enjoy unlimited bowling, laser tag, mini-golf, bumper cars and play some arcade games. We stayed a whole Friday. It was crazy but the kids said it was even better than they imagined. I'm so glad. Hannah and I were finished around 3 but Francis and the boys headed back after dropping us off at the house. We didn't see them again until we had a late dinner. They especially loved the laser tag. In fact they've been playing versions of laser tag at home ever since. I'm so glad it was memorable.
New years eve we went to church and then did a countdown celebration at the Children's Museum. They dropped balloons from the ceiling and everything. We stayed home that evening and did Netflix to do our own countdown with confetti and sparkling grape juice. New Years day was very cold and so we stayed home and enjoyed our last day of vacation.
We started back up school last Tuesday and have been slowly getting back into routine. We start CC back up tomorrow and I think that will be the jump start we need to get going again. Francis's parents, Cyndy, Chris and Abby all came in town on Saturday and we had one fun long day. We went to a free family skating event in the morning at the local ice rink. Even Hannah skated and had a blast. We ate lunch at Lupe Tortilla (which has a play ground for the kids) and then spent the afternoon at Grand Station (my kids got to go there twice in just over a week!) doing their unlimited deal again. It was even more fun the second time around because we had more people to enjoy it with (and more people to shoot at Laser Tag and hit with the bumper cars). I learned that the Phillips are all pretty decent bowlers! We left shortly before the unlimited deal ended at 8 (with the rest of the crew leaving only slightly before us). After 10 hours straight of fun my kids were pooped! But oh so happy. It was the Happiest Day of the New Year thus far.
I'm anticipating many happy memories this year and I hope all of you have all joyous 2018 too. Till next time!
We had Christmas with the Phillips clan the weekend before Christmas. We got to go to the Gaylord and decorate cookies, have a lovely dinner together, open presents and have a delightful time. The kids love their cousin Abby and Hannah particularly loved being her shadow this trip. Hannah got a baby doll and matching baby doll and Hannah size dresses and were able to wear them to church that Sunday. The boys got to play a laser tag type game and Mario cart with Francis, Uncle Chris and Grandad, so it was a very successful weekend.
The kids and I stuck around for the week and enjoyed Christmas light looking, a trip to Play street museum, Kid Mania (a large indoor playground) and a trip to the Aquarium with Nana. Thursday morning we moved from the Phillips house to the Noble Casa (where my mother had thankfully fully recovered from the flu). My mother had the candidate draw and William had the honor of drawing the number for my mother. Friday Mom Noble and Aunt Camille joined us, and in a last minute decision, Japapa flew down Saturday from Colorado to join us for the first Christmas ever. We all attended the Saturday evening candle light service (Christmas Eve eve?) including my sisters' families. Christmas eve was spent at my parents enjoying the fire, Christmas movies, board games and good company. We had our our own family Christmas eve service at the house followed by opening presents. The kids particularly loved these ride on bouncing animals and have continued to bounce on them whenever they come across them in the house.
Christmas morning we opened stockings and then my in-law joined all of us for a delightful and delicious Christmas lunch. It was great to have almost my whole family there (missing only Cyndy Chris and Abby). It was a Christmas to remember. While there may not be a whole lot to write about concerning it, I will hold the feelings and love in my heart for all time. Merry Christmas!
We headed home the following day after having a celebratory lunch for Japapa at Uncle Julio's restaurant. Being away 12 days was very very fun but we were ready to get back home. The days until new Years are sort of a blur of unpacking, restocking, cleaning and general house keeping. One exception would be that the kids used their Christmas money from Nana Phillips to go to Grand Station instead of getting a toy. It was something they had been waiting over 2 years to do. They got to enjoy unlimited bowling, laser tag, mini-golf, bumper cars and play some arcade games. We stayed a whole Friday. It was crazy but the kids said it was even better than they imagined. I'm so glad. Hannah and I were finished around 3 but Francis and the boys headed back after dropping us off at the house. We didn't see them again until we had a late dinner. They especially loved the laser tag. In fact they've been playing versions of laser tag at home ever since. I'm so glad it was memorable.
New years eve we went to church and then did a countdown celebration at the Children's Museum. They dropped balloons from the ceiling and everything. We stayed home that evening and did Netflix to do our own countdown with confetti and sparkling grape juice. New Years day was very cold and so we stayed home and enjoyed our last day of vacation.
We started back up school last Tuesday and have been slowly getting back into routine. We start CC back up tomorrow and I think that will be the jump start we need to get going again. Francis's parents, Cyndy, Chris and Abby all came in town on Saturday and we had one fun long day. We went to a free family skating event in the morning at the local ice rink. Even Hannah skated and had a blast. We ate lunch at Lupe Tortilla (which has a play ground for the kids) and then spent the afternoon at Grand Station (my kids got to go there twice in just over a week!) doing their unlimited deal again. It was even more fun the second time around because we had more people to enjoy it with (and more people to shoot at Laser Tag and hit with the bumper cars). I learned that the Phillips are all pretty decent bowlers! We left shortly before the unlimited deal ended at 8 (with the rest of the crew leaving only slightly before us). After 10 hours straight of fun my kids were pooped! But oh so happy. It was the Happiest Day of the New Year thus far.
I'm anticipating many happy memories this year and I hope all of you have all joyous 2018 too. Till next time!
Thursday, December 14, 2017
December 14, 2017
Almost a week without Francis proved to be challenging in more ways than one. The kids were sick for much of the time which meant we missed out on some of the fun in which we would have otherwise partaken. There were some bright spots though!
Last Thursday after I finished writing the kids and I went to the library before dinner so that they could make gifts for each other and me. They have a special event each year where they put out a bunch of supplies and kids and adults can construct gifts. While we were there, someone ran in the room and yelled, "It's snowing!" Of course we had to investigate and sure enough, big bright flakes were falling. Hannah had never seen snow and Robert had only seen it as a baby. All three kids happily ran through the flakes and stuck out their tongues to catch any snow they could. On the drive home, the thickness of the snow falling was noticeable. It was nearly like driving in fog. We got home and had dinner and sure enough...it was STILL snowing. And what's more, it was STICKING on the ground! The kids went out to play in it. At first Hannah thought she didn't need a coat or shoes, but she quickly realized mommy was right and hurried back to be better dressed. When the kids went to bed, there was about an inch of snow on the ground, and I promised them they could play in any snow that was left in the morning. Well, it snowed and snowed. College station gets snow that sticks once every decade, and never snow like this. By my bed time, there was at least 3 inches of snow on the ground and 4 or 5 on objects like the swing set and dog house. I search through the kids rooms in the dark and miraculously found 3 pairs of ski pants to fit all three kids as well as gloves, hats and boots to go with their coats. I set them out for the morning. The kids were up at the crack of dawn on Friday (who can blame them?!) and were excited to put on "snow clothes". We headed out before breakfast and played for over an hour and a half. After breakfast we went out and played more. Finally it was time to head to my friend Robin's house where she hosts an annual gingerbread house making party. Hot chocolate and good company were the perfect end to our morning. The only thing better would have been if Francis could have seen it!
William was up Friday night and Saturday morning with some sort of stomach bug, and thankfully no one else caught it. We couldn't go anywhere on Saturday as a result though. He was fine all day Saturday and so Sunday we went to church and AWANAS. Going into Sunday evening the runnning noses began. After a rough night, I took the kids to the doctor Monday morning and all three kids were diagnosed with sinus infections. No fun. So we've spent the rest of the week avoiding the world and going slightly stir crazy. We've gone to get gas an a couple last minute Christmas presents, but that's about it. the kids and I leave for Dallas in the morning (with Francis to follow later), so I'm praying everyone is healthy enough for travel by then...
Tuesday evening Francis got home from Tennessee. There was great rejoicing! Francis took us around to look at Christmas nights that evening and last nigh we had hot chocolate with him and lit the fire. It is so good to have him home. He thinks he got good results from his experiments but he still has to crunch all the numbers. It's one step closer to graduation!
Last Thursday after I finished writing the kids and I went to the library before dinner so that they could make gifts for each other and me. They have a special event each year where they put out a bunch of supplies and kids and adults can construct gifts. While we were there, someone ran in the room and yelled, "It's snowing!" Of course we had to investigate and sure enough, big bright flakes were falling. Hannah had never seen snow and Robert had only seen it as a baby. All three kids happily ran through the flakes and stuck out their tongues to catch any snow they could. On the drive home, the thickness of the snow falling was noticeable. It was nearly like driving in fog. We got home and had dinner and sure enough...it was STILL snowing. And what's more, it was STICKING on the ground! The kids went out to play in it. At first Hannah thought she didn't need a coat or shoes, but she quickly realized mommy was right and hurried back to be better dressed. When the kids went to bed, there was about an inch of snow on the ground, and I promised them they could play in any snow that was left in the morning. Well, it snowed and snowed. College station gets snow that sticks once every decade, and never snow like this. By my bed time, there was at least 3 inches of snow on the ground and 4 or 5 on objects like the swing set and dog house. I search through the kids rooms in the dark and miraculously found 3 pairs of ski pants to fit all three kids as well as gloves, hats and boots to go with their coats. I set them out for the morning. The kids were up at the crack of dawn on Friday (who can blame them?!) and were excited to put on "snow clothes". We headed out before breakfast and played for over an hour and a half. After breakfast we went out and played more. Finally it was time to head to my friend Robin's house where she hosts an annual gingerbread house making party. Hot chocolate and good company were the perfect end to our morning. The only thing better would have been if Francis could have seen it!
William was up Friday night and Saturday morning with some sort of stomach bug, and thankfully no one else caught it. We couldn't go anywhere on Saturday as a result though. He was fine all day Saturday and so Sunday we went to church and AWANAS. Going into Sunday evening the runnning noses began. After a rough night, I took the kids to the doctor Monday morning and all three kids were diagnosed with sinus infections. No fun. So we've spent the rest of the week avoiding the world and going slightly stir crazy. We've gone to get gas an a couple last minute Christmas presents, but that's about it. the kids and I leave for Dallas in the morning (with Francis to follow later), so I'm praying everyone is healthy enough for travel by then...
Tuesday evening Francis got home from Tennessee. There was great rejoicing! Francis took us around to look at Christmas nights that evening and last nigh we had hot chocolate with him and lit the fire. It is so good to have him home. He thinks he got good results from his experiments but he still has to crunch all the numbers. It's one step closer to graduation!
Thursday, December 7, 2017
December 7, 2017
Regular events are winding down and Christmas merriment is in full swing.
Last Friday our church had "O Holy Night" for our kids which consisted of a pancake dinner, reading of the Christmas story, crafts, petting zoo and pictures with Mary and Joseph in front of a manger scene. It was a very special night for our family and I am so glad we started the Christmas season being reminded of what all of it truly means.
Saturday Francis and William went to Spark camp at A&M where William learned about different fields of engineering and participated in different challenges. He had a great time and Francis was adequately impressed. Robert, Hannah and I went to Target, Walmart, Payless, and had lunch at the mall. We also went to the library that same morning for a Christmas event. Needless to say all three of us needed a nap by the afternoon, but we had a ton of fun! That evening I went with the ladies from my Sunday School class to have a progressive dinner at three people's houses. It was so so fun!!! The conversation was good and the food delicious. I got to know some people better and would happily do it again.
Sunday was full of Sunday school and AWANAS, but Hannah and I made a girls trip during Awanas to Target and Toys R Us to try to finish up shopping. She is still at the age where she looks around and never down when she is in the cart, so I was able to finish up shopping for the kids and send her to play on the mechanical train while I checked out. the clerk thought it was hilarious and double bagged everything so Hannah would be none the wiser. It was a great evening.
Grocery shopping al la Monday was uneventful, but Monday evening Audrey B took me out for a belated birthday ice cream and we watched a movie together. She is amazing! Tuesday was our last CC class of the semester. During lunch we had cookies and special treats while each kid got the ornament they had made a couple of weeks prior. Our are proudly hanging on the tree. I'm happy to have survived my first semester tutoring. I'm happy for a little break. Tuesday evening was tutor training though. Happily it included a yummy dinner so I can't complain.
Yesterday we weren't feeling great, but we did manage to go to the library to return and check out books. It has been raining and cold since Tuesday evening (it just finally stopped I think), so getting out has not been high on the priority list. When Francis got home, we did climb int he car and look at Christmas lights. It was kind of nice to see them sparkle in the rain. Not a bad way to spend an evening.
Speaking of Francis, he left in the wee hours of the morning to conduct some research in Tennessee. He made it this afternoon and will be there until Tuesday. The kids and I stayed home this morning to work on Christmas gifts, and we will be going to the library soon to allow the kids to make any gift they want (it's a special event). I'm looking forward to Tuesday when my husband gets back, but I am hoping to keep us busy until then.
Wish us luck!
Thursday, November 30, 2017
November 30, 2017
Life around here has been, in a word, nuts! We've been busy with school and fun and family time with not room for much else. It's a good nuts, but if the 2 hour accidental nap I took today is any indication, I'm in need of a little rest.
The week before Thanksgiving was chocked full of fun including a field trip to hear Aesop's Fables at the George Bush Library. Turns out my cousins kids were watching via long distance learning and their school was selected to ask the presenter questions. I got to see their sweet faces and the kids were excited too!
We headed up to Dallas the Friday before Thanksgiving. We had the twins second birthday on Saturday and got to see The Star movie with my in-laws that evening. Francis had to head back Sunday evening but the kids and I stayed in Dallas to play with family. The boys loved climbing the trees at Sweetie and Papa's house (William even fell out and was rescued by his leg getting caught...which he thought was "amazing" and I thought was terrifying). All the kids loved driving around the pasture and playing in the playscape. Tuesday my entire family (minus Francis) went to Legoland for the twins actual birthday. The kids had a blast especially since we had more adults than kids to take them on rides and such. Wednesday was my birthday and my sisters, Kevin, Francis (who returned the night before) and the 5 cousins all went with me to the mall for shopping and lunch. I wasn't feeling great, so we had a quiet evening of Pizza and present opening at home (I got some good stuff!). My mother was was feeling even worse than me, and it turns out she had the flu and strep. So come Thursday (Thanksgiving) she was unable to join us. My sisters and I along with Mom Noble and Aunt Camille bravely forged ahead and made a delicious Thanksgiving meal. My dad cooked all the turkeys, so he really should get much of the credit for the meals success! Although my mother's absence was felt it was still a nice day and the weather was perfect.
Friday we made our pilgrimage to San Antonio to be with the Phillips clan. We got to the hotel shortly after my in-laws and settled in quickly. We all ended up happily eating and watching the parade from my in-laws room (Hannah was particularly fond of following Abby around, and Abby didn't mind). I was surprised by a cake and more gifts! So I ended up having 2 birthday parties. How many people get that?? Saturday we all went to Sea World. Cyndy and Chris were kind enough to take Abby and William on some of the bigger rides. Hannah and Nana rode the carousel and Robert loved the Shamu roller coaster. We saw a few shows and Grandad even took one for the team by getting soaked with Abby and William on a river raft ride. We had dinner with Santa to finish off the night. It was an excellent day.
We headed home Sunday where they kids (and Francis) were eager to put up Christmas decorations. As a result, they did most of the decorating this year. The boys have our old tree in their room and Hannah has my tree from College in her room. It looks very festive. I'm working on getting Christmas shopping done and then I will focus on getting it wrapped so I can sit back and soak in the wonder of our Savior's Birth. I'm hoping to be done buying this week and be done wrapping next, but we'll see!
Update on the kids: Hannah has developed her own fashion. She has been wearing her dress up clothing with, on top of or instead of her regular clothing when we leave the house. I just roll with it because she looks so happy and it's kinda cute too. Robert is ever the creative thinker and has developed a love of telling jokes. When he gets the hang of it, I know he's going to be hilarious. William is plugging away reading all the time. We had the 100th day of school yesterday and celebrated with ice cream. William said it was the best day of school ever. Maybe we should have ice cream every day? or not, haha.
That's it for now!
The week before Thanksgiving was chocked full of fun including a field trip to hear Aesop's Fables at the George Bush Library. Turns out my cousins kids were watching via long distance learning and their school was selected to ask the presenter questions. I got to see their sweet faces and the kids were excited too!
We headed up to Dallas the Friday before Thanksgiving. We had the twins second birthday on Saturday and got to see The Star movie with my in-laws that evening. Francis had to head back Sunday evening but the kids and I stayed in Dallas to play with family. The boys loved climbing the trees at Sweetie and Papa's house (William even fell out and was rescued by his leg getting caught...which he thought was "amazing" and I thought was terrifying). All the kids loved driving around the pasture and playing in the playscape. Tuesday my entire family (minus Francis) went to Legoland for the twins actual birthday. The kids had a blast especially since we had more adults than kids to take them on rides and such. Wednesday was my birthday and my sisters, Kevin, Francis (who returned the night before) and the 5 cousins all went with me to the mall for shopping and lunch. I wasn't feeling great, so we had a quiet evening of Pizza and present opening at home (I got some good stuff!). My mother was was feeling even worse than me, and it turns out she had the flu and strep. So come Thursday (Thanksgiving) she was unable to join us. My sisters and I along with Mom Noble and Aunt Camille bravely forged ahead and made a delicious Thanksgiving meal. My dad cooked all the turkeys, so he really should get much of the credit for the meals success! Although my mother's absence was felt it was still a nice day and the weather was perfect.
Friday we made our pilgrimage to San Antonio to be with the Phillips clan. We got to the hotel shortly after my in-laws and settled in quickly. We all ended up happily eating and watching the parade from my in-laws room (Hannah was particularly fond of following Abby around, and Abby didn't mind). I was surprised by a cake and more gifts! So I ended up having 2 birthday parties. How many people get that?? Saturday we all went to Sea World. Cyndy and Chris were kind enough to take Abby and William on some of the bigger rides. Hannah and Nana rode the carousel and Robert loved the Shamu roller coaster. We saw a few shows and Grandad even took one for the team by getting soaked with Abby and William on a river raft ride. We had dinner with Santa to finish off the night. It was an excellent day.
We headed home Sunday where they kids (and Francis) were eager to put up Christmas decorations. As a result, they did most of the decorating this year. The boys have our old tree in their room and Hannah has my tree from College in her room. It looks very festive. I'm working on getting Christmas shopping done and then I will focus on getting it wrapped so I can sit back and soak in the wonder of our Savior's Birth. I'm hoping to be done buying this week and be done wrapping next, but we'll see!
Update on the kids: Hannah has developed her own fashion. She has been wearing her dress up clothing with, on top of or instead of her regular clothing when we leave the house. I just roll with it because she looks so happy and it's kinda cute too. Robert is ever the creative thinker and has developed a love of telling jokes. When he gets the hang of it, I know he's going to be hilarious. William is plugging away reading all the time. We had the 100th day of school yesterday and celebrated with ice cream. William said it was the best day of school ever. Maybe we should have ice cream every day? or not, haha.
That's it for now!
Thursday, November 9, 2017
November 9, 2017
Time is going fast these days. And it's the Holiday season so time around here goes at light speed.
Friday before last The kdis and I drove up to Abilene for HSU Homecoming and my 10 year College Reunion. It was a dinner and I got to spend time with Rebecca (even though she wasn't an '07 graduate). It was a fun time and I'm glad I didn't miss it. Saturday continued Homecoming with a breakfast in Moody, pictures with Rachel, Rebecca and Jonas, and Kids' Posse outside (where Hannah loved riding the horses and the boys loved the bounce houses) all before lunch! We had lunch with my parents, Danielle, Kevin, Rebecca and Jonas. William had the crepe for which he has waited all year. It did not disappoint. They had a piano man and so my kids and Jonas happily danced after they ate. We watched the first half of the Homecoming football game before he had to head home. My kids are actually great at cheering at Football. Robert is particularly enthusiastic, and it adorable.
The next say (Sunday) was Fall Fest at church. The kids got to jump in more bounce houses, play games, eat, and collect candy. Hannah was great at this last skill as she fully believed "take two" meant two handfuls. And when I went to correct her, they would always say, "no she's fine. Isn't she cute." Okay kid, but next year, they won't let you get away with it! Tuesday we had the week off from CC so we went to the Children's Museum in the morning. They happened to have Trick or Treating there (I had no idea) so after the kids played they got to get some fun toys. It was particularly bad weather Tuesday evening, but we ventured out any to Wolfpen Creek Park where they were having an event. We got soaked from the rain and after about 30 minutes lightning struck nearby and they had to cancel the rest of the event. But the kids got a ton of candy and we were even on the news! How do I know we were on the news? The Jehovah's Witness ladies we see every Wednesday at the Library told us so, lol. They said, "I saw two Iron men and an Ariel on the news last night!" FYI they were Charizard, a Transformer and Elsa at Fall Fest two days before. I love that they just pick whatever they want from our dress up clothing!
Friday was another crazy busy day. We had play group in the morning, a short break that included school, then Jude's birthday party in the afternoon and parent's night out that evening. Francis and I got to see Thor on opening night! If that wasn't enough action, when we got home, the Burgess family came in town to spend the night. All the kids were up past 10 and the adults up well past midnight. Such a fun day!
Saturday was a reunion of Francis's college friends: the Burgess Family, us and the Browers (most of them). We had breakfast and played at Dave and Tracy's. The Burgesses, Audrey Brower and we had lunch at Blue Baker. Then we let all 7 Burgess-Phillips kids play in the afternoon before seeing off our friends over Bahama Bucks. You can bet our kids slept well that night!
This week has been moving along too! Yesterday the kids and I went to the Texas Renaissance Festival. It was so fun! We got to see Jousting (and learn about the 100 years war as the characters included King Henry the VIII and Joan of Arc). We learned about blacksmithing. We learned about falconry. We also learned about whips and how they break the sound barrier. We saw shows, played game and ate yummy food. We also walked through a beautiful garden that looked like jungle. I carried Hannah all day but the boys walked and I was super proud of them. We made it back to the car just in time for it to start raining so it was a win all around! I'm so glad we had the opportunity to go.
Well, that's all I've got time for just now. Until next time!
Friday before last The kdis and I drove up to Abilene for HSU Homecoming and my 10 year College Reunion. It was a dinner and I got to spend time with Rebecca (even though she wasn't an '07 graduate). It was a fun time and I'm glad I didn't miss it. Saturday continued Homecoming with a breakfast in Moody, pictures with Rachel, Rebecca and Jonas, and Kids' Posse outside (where Hannah loved riding the horses and the boys loved the bounce houses) all before lunch! We had lunch with my parents, Danielle, Kevin, Rebecca and Jonas. William had the crepe for which he has waited all year. It did not disappoint. They had a piano man and so my kids and Jonas happily danced after they ate. We watched the first half of the Homecoming football game before he had to head home. My kids are actually great at cheering at Football. Robert is particularly enthusiastic, and it adorable.
The next say (Sunday) was Fall Fest at church. The kids got to jump in more bounce houses, play games, eat, and collect candy. Hannah was great at this last skill as she fully believed "take two" meant two handfuls. And when I went to correct her, they would always say, "no she's fine. Isn't she cute." Okay kid, but next year, they won't let you get away with it! Tuesday we had the week off from CC so we went to the Children's Museum in the morning. They happened to have Trick or Treating there (I had no idea) so after the kids played they got to get some fun toys. It was particularly bad weather Tuesday evening, but we ventured out any to Wolfpen Creek Park where they were having an event. We got soaked from the rain and after about 30 minutes lightning struck nearby and they had to cancel the rest of the event. But the kids got a ton of candy and we were even on the news! How do I know we were on the news? The Jehovah's Witness ladies we see every Wednesday at the Library told us so, lol. They said, "I saw two Iron men and an Ariel on the news last night!" FYI they were Charizard, a Transformer and Elsa at Fall Fest two days before. I love that they just pick whatever they want from our dress up clothing!
Friday was another crazy busy day. We had play group in the morning, a short break that included school, then Jude's birthday party in the afternoon and parent's night out that evening. Francis and I got to see Thor on opening night! If that wasn't enough action, when we got home, the Burgess family came in town to spend the night. All the kids were up past 10 and the adults up well past midnight. Such a fun day!
Saturday was a reunion of Francis's college friends: the Burgess Family, us and the Browers (most of them). We had breakfast and played at Dave and Tracy's. The Burgesses, Audrey Brower and we had lunch at Blue Baker. Then we let all 7 Burgess-Phillips kids play in the afternoon before seeing off our friends over Bahama Bucks. You can bet our kids slept well that night!
This week has been moving along too! Yesterday the kids and I went to the Texas Renaissance Festival. It was so fun! We got to see Jousting (and learn about the 100 years war as the characters included King Henry the VIII and Joan of Arc). We learned about blacksmithing. We learned about falconry. We also learned about whips and how they break the sound barrier. We saw shows, played game and ate yummy food. We also walked through a beautiful garden that looked like jungle. I carried Hannah all day but the boys walked and I was super proud of them. We made it back to the car just in time for it to start raining so it was a win all around! I'm so glad we had the opportunity to go.
Well, that's all I've got time for just now. Until next time!
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