The Hughes'

House Update #6

2012-01-24T14:10:00.000-06:00

This is Dad's floor. We're doing a dark stain concrete around the edges. Once that's dry we'll fill the middle with a lighter stain.

Kitchen

Looking into the Family Room from the Kitchen

Front door in process

Text

House Update #5

2012-01-11T12:39:00.000-06:00

We are officially bricking the house......WOOOO HOOOO!!

Bentley Austin Detring

2011-12-29T07:44:00.000-06:00

Bentley was born Wednesday, 12/28/11. He weighed in at 6lbs, 3oz....19inches long. He was so calm & very alert. I may have to steal him :)

Proud Papa

Aunt Taylor

Great Aunt Roni

1st Bath

Christmas Day

2011-12-27T08:31:00.000-06:00

Check out my loot! Thanks to my obsession with Pinterest, I'm going craft crazy!

Tanner has wanted one of these silly things since she played with Holton's at Grandma Beverly's house this past summer.

Hunter's "big" present this year was an electric guitar. He was so excited. I wish I would have caught it on video.

Dad bought us an Air Hockey Table. Let me tell you, we have had the most fun with this thing. We've had a blast. My arms are sore from playing so much. Guess I'm kinda out of shape.

Tanner mad because she's losing.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-27T08:16:00.000-06:00

I'm bummed because I didn't get very many pictures on Christmas Eve. We got to meet Steve's girlfriend, Angie, who I failed to get a picture of together, so I'm stealing one off her Facebook Page. We also had Stephanie, Taylor & the Wilson's. Can't forget Papa Norm, but he's always included!

Train Ride with Santa & Frosty

2011-12-27T08:06:00.001-06:00

The night before Christmas Eve we boarded the Arkansas Missouri Railroad for a Polar Express type adventure with Santa & Frosty. We were served unlimited rounds of Hot Chocolate & Cookies. I stress the word "unlimited" because Tanner ate 5 cookies.

There was a slight delay & we were stuck out in the cold for about 30 minutes.

Here comes Santa & Frosty.

Tyler caught me on my phone

The kids became a little restless towards the end.

Christmas with Friends

2011-12-27T07:51:00.001-06:00

The Boren Family. Brenner, James, Colter & DeAnna. It's become a yearly tradition to celebrate Christmas with our good friends. I hope to keep the tradition going year after year!

Tanner, Brenner & Hunter

Sweet Colter. I could kiss his little face off.

The Boren's gave Hunter &Tanner a train set. They've been wanting one for the past couple years! Thanks guys!

Look at that sweet Brenner. He's getting so big!

Hunter & Tanner are in love with Lego's right now so they thought the Lego Man was pretty cool. I'm not sure Brenner has the obsession yet.

James reading Brenner his new book! (Please don't look a my cheap shades in background..ha. They're only temporary)

House Update #4

2011-11-28T13:27:00.000-06:00

We're in the process of picking brick & stone for the outside. Can I just say STRESSFUL?!!

I mean, what if I hate the colors once they're on the house??!!

Dad's Living Room & Kitchen Area

This is, obviously, the garage. A little different than most, height wise. We had to build it like this so the exterior looked proportionate to the rest of the house.

Christmas wreath

2011-11-25T19:57:00.001-06:00

And here is my final acorn wreath. Steve really liked my first one so I made him one. This one took me FOREVER!! I used a straw wreath instead of styrofoam. I learned there's a whole lot more surface area.

My Treasures

2011-11-15T20:30:00.000-06:00

Check out this bench I just bought!!

Okay, so here it is after it was refurbished!

Check out this old Singer!

After is was refurbished!

I can't wait to find a forever home for these pieces in our new home.

House Update #3

2011-11-06T18:33:00.000-06:00

The latest & greatest.

These are views of the front

Below are pictures from the back yard

Below is a shot from Dad's Kitchen into his "Man Room" (Living/Game room)

Fun with Acorns

2011-10-30T18:09:00.000-05:00

I began this post on 10/6 thinking it wouldn't take me long to finish the project. I laugh now because I had no idea.

So, here's where I began:
*********************************
We have had a month of constant roof bangs. The end result was a yard covered in Acorns. The kids & I began collecting them for fun. We had so many I started searching for acorn crafts. I found this wreath project & thought it was pretty neat.

It may have actually looked pretty neat keeping it natural without spray paint. Maybe a clear coat of paint???

Where I almost messed up was with the Styrofoam wreath I used. It wasn't until I was done gluing the acorns on that I found out Spray Paint would melt the Styrofoam. I found out there is an H2O spray paint but I couldn't find it anywhere in NW Arkansas. I finally just ordered it off Amazon.

This was a fun project but it did take many hours of gluing & many finger burns.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-29T19:01:00.000-05:00

Today was gorgeous in NW Arkansas!!

Thank goodness, because we had been planning to take the kids to the pumpkin patch.

I can't believe it's 2 days until Halloween & we still don't, or didn't, have our pumpkins!

House Update #2

2011-10-25T18:47:00.001-05:00

We've started on Dad's level!

Woo Hoo!

P-R-O-G-R-E-S-S!

Under The Sea by Tanner Hughes

2011-10-25T17:53:00.000-05:00

Now, don't get me wrong, I love all the artwork my children do, but this picture Tanner drew & colored in school made me so proud of my little artist.

Mostly it's the fish. I mean....look at the detail on that little guy.

Fall Sports

2011-10-25T07:38:00.001-05:00

Both Hunter & Tanner participated in a sport this Fall.

Hunter went with Baseball again &
Tanner played her first season of Soccer.

GO DRAGONS!

GO BREAKERS!!


Tanner & I were in charge of snacks for their last game so we went beyond the typical Juice Box & "Healthy" Snack :)

Fall Crafts

2011-10-05T11:03:00.000-05:00

I found this cute Pumpkin Craft.

Though a little messy, the kids had a blast & it was super easy.

They were so excited to take their pumpkins to school & show everyone.

Washington Co Fair

2011-09-13T13:01:00.000-05:00

Go Breakers!

2011-09-13T09:53:00.000-05:00

Tanner's team won their first game of the Season! Miss. Tanner scored 1 of the goals.

House Update #1

2011-09-13T09:28:00.000-05:00

We took the dogs out to the lot so they could run around. They were exhausted by the time we left.

Tyler is so silly!

The beginning of our little bridge. This will be part of the driveway in the back of the house.

Concrete blocks are done! Next - The actual house structure goes up.

Snow White & the 7 Dwarfs

2011-09-01T22:25:00.000-05:00

Dad's good friend & golf buddy lost his wife 2 weeks ago to a sudden, massive heart attack. Dad's been spending time with him & going to dinner each week. Tonight he came home with 2 big gift bags & said York (his buddies last name) sent a gift for Tanner. His wife collected porcelain dolls & he wanted Tanner to have this collection.

I sure hope Tanner takes very good care of these!

I'm going to Hobby Lobby tomorrow to find something safer to display these on. I feel so honored that he thought of Tanner. I remember how hard it was getting rid of mom's things after she died. I was so worried about her things being taken care of. In honor of Mrs. Nancy York, I'll make sure we take good care of Snow White & her little guys :)

Soccer

2011-08-23T08:27:00.000-05:00

Monday night was Tanner's 1st night of Soccer practice. She was super excited up until the point where she had to go out onto the field. From there she became, what she said, "too shy".

Hunter got out there to help calm her nerves.

These last pictures are a little blurry. I recorded some short videos that I'll get up on here soon.

Summertime Friends

2011-08-15T10:54:00.000-05:00


These are the neighborhood children Hunter & Tanner have enjoyed spending their summer with....Maddi & Xavier.

Off To School We Go

2011-08-15T10:48:00.001-05:00

Hunter & Tanner were very excited to start school today. I'll give that about a week (ha).

Hunters teacher's name is Mrs. Adrian & Tanner's is Mrs. Phillips. Neither one would let me take a picture with their teacher. Hopefully later in the year I can get one.

Look how Tanner put her arm around Hunter :)...So Sweet

She was running for the door.

The door was as far as Hunter would let us go.

JUNE??? Where did you go??

2011-08-01T13:24:00.000-05:00

I looked in my files & soon realized I didn't take a single picture during June except with my phone. Wow, what in the world happened in June?!!!

Let's take a look back --

Tanner & I attended Hunter's last Assembly of his 2nd Grade Year where he was presented with THREE awards. One of them being the "A Honor Roll"! Yay Hunter!

We confirmed that the Boren's will be welcoming another boy in the Fall.

Congratulations DeAnna, James & Brenner. I can't wait to get my hands on little Colter.

We moved!

Thanks to our friend Tad who came to the rescue after our movers quit on us 20 minutes into the move.

Sadie was excited to show off her Summer Do!

We went to Wal-Mart many times.

We spent many afternoons at the Splash Park.

Such a relief in this 100 degree weather!

Brenner even joined us one day.

We rode around in Tyler's Jeep while he was working.

Hunter hates this picture because his hair was wind blown.

We were lazy & took naps

We took Sunday drives down old dirt roads

We tried out a new place to get our hair cut

We spent 1:1 time together

We got a Bull Dog who came with the name Tina but decided on Tia instead.

Coop wasn't too impressed with Tia.

Well that's our June....in pictures. Next up will probably be the first day of school for Hunter AND Tanner.

July Trip to Dallas

2011-08-01T12:49:00.001-05:00

For all you " Girly Girls" out there, this is the place for you! It's called Charming Charlies. Let's just say after 2 hours I still hadn't seen everything there was to see!!!

We decided to take Bull Dog "aka Tia" with us on our trip. Only because no one else would keep her for us.

BAD Bulldog

Yee Haa!

Charlie Robison at Billy Bobs

Lego Land

2011-08-01T12:26:00.000-05:00

Tanner & Holten

They had built the City of Dallas out of Lego's. It was the neatest thing.

We're having a GAAREEEAAAT time :)

4-D Movie

Tanner & Tyler on the Harry Potter Ride

Day in the Park

2011-05-30T16:09:00.000-05:00

Today the kids & I went to the little water park on the Bentonville Square.

Tanner is a mess. She liked standing over the water holes.

I took the kids to Tropical Snow. When we got there I realized that's not the name anymore but that's what I'll forever call it. Mom & I spent MANY MANY summers here. I bet we would go every afternoon during the summer time.

Sunday BBQ

2011-05-30T16:01:00.000-05:00

Sunday we went to a friend's house for a cookout. I love having get togethers!

I can't wait to start having my own.......next summer.

The kids had a blast & were exhausted when we got home last night.

We gave Ranjith the "real man award" here for watchingTyler do all the cooking.

This little boy was so cute.

When he saw the camera pointed at him he totally cheesed it up!

This baby girl was 2 weeks old. So precious.

All the momma's had to get their "baby fix".

Another little cuttie!

Hunter's BaseBall Team Photo

2011-05-30T15:50:00.002-05:00

Tanner's Graduation

2011-05-23T12:24:00.007-05:00

Friday Tanner graduated from Pre-School and they had the cutest ceremony.

This was the stage before all the kids walked down the aisle.
There's my BIG girl!

Here's some short video's I put together.

When they received their certificates they had to tell the audience what they want to be when they grow up. Tanner wants to be a Teacher :)

When it gets to the singing Tanner's hard to see but she's at the top right.

After the first song she starts twisting side to side

Tanner & her BFF, Cheyenne

Tanner's graduation Gift.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

School Project

2011-05-06T09:30:00.009-05:00

Hunter's class is studying the planets right now. Each child had to choose his/her favorite planet & do a project. I LOVE me a project & it's really hard for me to NOT take over the entire thing. I took baby steps this round & Hunter was able to add his own touches :)

I should probably back up to the beginning though. When Hunter brought home the assignment I immediately started drawing out diagrams & chose Saturn as "Hunter's" favorite. As I'm creating Saturn, Hunter tells me he chose Uranus as his project. That was one of many "ah ha" moments that told me to back off. I told Hunter we would just make 2 planets :). I mean, I had put an awful lot of work into Saturn already.

Anyhoo, here's Tyler helping Hunter with the last minute touches.

And the finished project. The pictures do NO justice at all. My camera wouldn't capture the awesomeness Hunter created.

I'm including this picture because it's the only one that you can "kind of" see the Big Dipper. You should be able to see the handle portion in the upper part of the box where there's a shadow. The Big Dipper turned out really cool though.

Did you know that Uranus has 27 Moons??

90% TomBoy, 10% Girly

2011-05-02T20:59:00.008-05:00

2 months ago Tanner began explaining this "thing" she wanted. After a couple weeks I finally figured out what she was talking about. It was a Vanity! I couldn't believe my little Tom Boy actually wanted something so girly!! So, the search began. I looked for months for an inexpensive vanity that would last her, atleast, a couple years.

Finally!

Last week I found this one at target.com.

Tanner soon took to "setting it all up".

Easter

2011-04-25T09:07:00.002-05:00

Easter in NW Arkansas was a VERY WET one this year.

It began raining Friday afternoon & never stopped.

Therefore, all Easter activities were in doors.

And this would be it for the pictures. So unlike me, but it's true.

Earth Day Celebration

2011-04-25T08:55:00.008-05:00

Friday I went with Hunter's Class to the Bentonville Square to celebrate Earth Day.

It was quite the adventure :)

The first half of the day turned out beautiful!

We walked the 1.5-2 miles to the square.

Thank goodness Hunter's class was at the beginning of the line.

We gathered around & had lunch.

The kids got to sing an Earth Day Song.

The kids got bored....

....and even more bored.

Happy 5th Birthday Miss. Tanner

2011-04-13T14:46:00.009-05:00

Tanner turned 5 years old on Monday. Hard to believe, but she is officially old enough to start school in the fall! WOWZERS. My baby girl isn't so much of a baby anymore :(

Tyler took Tanner to Krispy Kreme for breakfast & then off to Pre-K she went.

I took cookies to her class at 9:30 & everyone sang Happy Birthday to her.

A couple of the kids wanted me to take their picture too.

Tanner chose Olive Garden for her Birthday Dinner.

Tanner's Birthday Celebration

2011-04-09T20:16:00.019-05:00

Today we celebrated Tanner's Birthday at Chucky Cheese.

This year I decided to go a different route on the "Thank You Goody Bags". Instead of the little plastic junk, I figured I would hand out edible treats.

Check out these cookies. So stinkin cute!! (no, I did not make these) Tyler helping me out :) The Goody Bag

The Celebration

Tanner & her BFF, Cheyanne

The Ticket Booth where she collected 1,700 tickets!

First Baseball Game

2011-04-06T08:41:00.013-05:00

Last night Hunter's team (Red Sox) won their first baseball game. This is Hunter's first year to play ball. I really regret not starting him at a younger age, but he's caught on very fast. Him & Tyler have been practicing a lot.

Tyler giving him a little coaching before the game.

And then look what I found!!!!

Tanner was quite fond too. Poor dog.

Memory Lane: Doll House

2011-03-28T06:47:00.005-05:00

I've been digging through old pictures, so we may be going down memory lane for a few blogs :).

Sunday Tanner was playing with her doll house & I ran across this picture of me playing with mine on Christmas Morning. I'm pretty sure I was 4 years old here. We lived in Pittsburg Kansas at the time. Check out the TV on the green cart....Classic!

Guessing, I'd say we're about 3 months apart in age.

Future Hughes' & Detring Home

2011-03-16T12:46:00.007-05:00

I finally got out to our lot to take pictures.

I can't wait for the day I get to drive out here everyday!

My favorite picture :)

Our current thinking is our address will be on Bridlewood Dr.

Our driveway will be on Quicksilver Lane

I took this from the back of the lot where the driveway will be.

Notice that tree? That tree is at the base of the slope, where the walk-out basement will be.

Here's the corner of Bridlewood (left) & Quicksilver (right)

Another back yard shot

Tanner's Pre-K Photo Shoot

2011-03-07T19:41:00.003-06:00

It's Official Now....

2011-03-07T15:48:00.002-06:00

..we are homeless.

Well that is according to the "Homeless Identification Affidavit" I had to fill out in order to enroll Tanner in School for the fall.

Tanner's Outfit for the Day

2011-02-15T10:23:00.007-06:00

I'm home today with Strep Throat. I couldn't believe it. When the doctor went to do the test I told her, "Oh, it's just a sinus infection." I haven't had strep throat since I was a teenager, even if I had it then. It's been so long I can't even remember.

Anyhoo, Tyler is off today & taking Tanner in for her 6-month Dental Check up. Tanner LOVES her daddy's style. I had ordered this outfit on-line & it came in yesterday. She was so excited to put it on & wear it to her dentist appointment.

Okay, so the shorts don't really go under the skirt. After 5 minutes of trying to convince her of that, here we are. Oh well, she added her own touch & Tyler says Camo goes with everything.....even Camo!

She said her hair needs to stay down & straight because that's how you wear it hunting. haha.

Yes, she is way over due for a haircut.

I LOVE these little flowers that are in the skirt. So stinkin cute!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-10T20:13:00.009-06:00

Hunter came home with a note from school saying he needs to create a Valentine's Box for his school party......and, the boxes would be entered into a contest.

My initial thought is "Awesome! I love a challenge".

After thinking about it for a bit I realize Valentine's Day is all about LOVE, HEARTS, HUGS, KISSES, PINK, RED, etc. How in the world will we decorate a BOY'S Valentine's box???!!!!

So, I just picked the theme & went with it!

It says Hunter.

It was my first time to write cursive in rope.

Tanner, of course, had to make her own box.

The only thing I did to help was glue the paper on the bucket & tie ribbons on the handle.

Record Snow of 2011

2011-02-10T19:57:00.023-06:00

Steve's Car

The snow here is covering the top of those bushes

Tire Tracks

February Came in with a Bang!

2011-02-02T09:03:00.007-06:00

It's been a icy & snowy few days here in NW Arkansas.

Check out these temps!

Cooper has discovered his love for the snow this year.

He's been having a blast tromping through the snow.

AND...

Mr. Ground Hog did NOT see his shadow today!

YEAH!!

Bring on the warm weather already!

First Snow Day of 2011

2011-01-12T12:30:00.011-06:00

Schools were closed on Tuesday so the kids enjoyed a day of sledding.

This year we actually have hills to slide down.

Miss. Tanner about to hit the slopes.

No "punch line" here, just a couple short videos I captured.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Funny Tanner "TanTan" Story

2011-01-10T13:29:00.006-06:00

The Borens' celebrated Christmas with us a couple weeks ago.

Little Brenner is at the age where he's highly influenced by his surroundings. So, you can only imagine what he picked up from Miss. Tanner.

(I think Tanner kinda likes this little guy)

A couple days after our family get-together, Brenner's mommy sent me this message:

Brenner just came running, screaming and growling through the house like a mad man!

I said, "Brenner Boren! What are you doing?"

he stopped, looked at me & said,

"I being Tan Tan, momma"

Christmas Day

2010-12-28T08:39:00.009-06:00

Check out what Uncle Steve got for Tanner.

Everyone watch out!!!

Santa brought Sadie a squeaky pig

Joe & Olivia Wilson

Cooper sure was a tired boy by evening.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-27T21:21:00.010-06:00

Norm & the girls came over Christmas Eve.

Stephanie won't EVER give me a good shot.

Taylor
Dad & Norm opening their yearly calendars.

Hunter & Tanner trying out their new roller skates from Papa Norm.

Hunter & Taylor playing Kinect.

The Hughes' Men

Hunter putting food out for Santa's Reindeer.

Santa gifts for Tanner

So Many Christmas Parties This Year....

2010-12-27T20:52:00.014-06:00

......and I LOVED every single one of them!

I only captured 2 of them on film.

Let's begin with the party our friend Jeff had.

For those of you that know my friend Mandy, Jeff is her brother.

Mandy, Roni & Sarah

Cheesing for the camera (ha)
TyTy & I :)

This guy sang & let me just say that when Johnny Dale Roberts makes it famous

I, Roni, met him in person.

He was fantastic!

Room Shot

Carla & Mandy kicking off the White Elephant Gift Exchange Game Tyler got a John Wayne Movie....but not for long...

Believe it or not, but I stole this Snuggie from someone.

It was on Hunter's Christmas Wish List.

Tyler's movie was stolen & he ended up with the famous Shaker Weight.

He had to give a quick demo for the crowd.

One poor soul ended up with this gift.

He was bribing people with a $20 bill thrown in (ha)

Christmas Work Group Party

2010-12-27T19:58:00.020-06:00

My Demand Planning Work Group had a party at Ernie's house this year.

From right to left you have Ernie, Troy (my boss) & Tyler.

I work with these 3 ladies,

L-R...Donna, Susan, Sherry & Sherry's Husband Jack.

We had a White Elephant Gift Exchange.
Here's Susan & her husband

Whatcha got Tyler??!!!!

Awwww, baskets! I can see your excitement!

This is "Deb", Ernie's Wife

Yes, I was posing for the picture :)

Merry Christmas to ME

2010-12-03T22:28:00.006-06:00

This year I bought myself a Christmas Present. For years I've wanted a 4-Wheeler. It started when I was 12. Mom & I went out to her Uncle Jimmy's house in MO. They had a 4-Wheeler & a lot of land. I rode that thing for HOURS!

Miss. Tanner took right to it. She's a little dare devil. It took Hunter a couple weeks of riding VERY SLOW......pretty much as slow as the thing could possibly go without shutting down. But this week he finally let me take him down some trails. He had a blast. Now the kids are fighting over who gets to ride.

I'm SO VERY Thankfull!

2010-11-25T23:40:00.011-06:00

This Thanksgiving we had my Uncle Larry (my dad's brother) & Aunt Debbie here to celebrate.

I love having family around.

Since mom passed, family just seems so much more important to me.

Norm did all the cooking. Tyler helped out too.

Dad, Uncle Larry & Aunt Debbie

Stephanie

(check out that ice on the window!)

My Uncle Larry Detring

Steve

Dinner Time!!

Tanner Stole my Phone

2010-11-21T22:01:00.004-06:00

2010-11-21T21:52:00.010-06:00

Saturday I took the kids to Lowe's for their "Build and Grow Clinic".

The kids got their own aprons & kit to build.

Someone is very impatient.

Tanner's New Dress

2010-11-21T21:50:00.001-06:00

Thank You Grandma Beverly for the cutest outfit!

Happy 8th Birthday Hunter Ray

2010-11-09T19:54:00.003-06:00

It's a proud day for Tyler.

His son is officially old enough (in my opinion) to own his first rifle.

Here's a video of Hunter's first time to shoot.

FALL - Through the eyes of a child

2010-10-24T20:40:00.006-05:00

Sneak Peak of the Hughes' Annual Family Photo Shoot

2010-10-22T13:59:00.004-05:00

It was not an easy day with 1 certain little someone.

The end result:

That's my little Tan Tan :)

Haha! Makes me laugh out loud.

Right Choices Corn Maze

2010-10-18T15:24:00.010-05:00

Saturday we took the kids to the Right Choices Corn Maze in Missouri.

Corn Maze

Tanner stealing the corn.

Here's a view from where we were in the maze.

The Big Red Barn you see way out in the distance??? That's about as far from the entrance as we were.

Mommy & Kids Day Out

2010-10-11T18:27:00.009-05:00

Saturday I was feeling a little too brave. Tyler was working so I decided to take the kids to Silver Dollar City. All in all, it actually wasn't too bad. Well, except for the 2 times I lost Tanner in the play area. That was a bit stressful for Hunter & I, but together we were able to keep up with Miss Thang.

Hand Wax

Hunter waiting on Tanner & I to ride the roller coaster.

Forgotten Photos

2010-10-11T17:48:00.008-05:00

I found these pictures from my small camera.

Here's Tanner & her friend Jaylee

These girls had so much fun together

Hunter & Payson

Roni & Ashley

Happy Birthday Olivia Wilson

2010-10-10T22:01:00.022-05:00

Tanner's Critters

2010-10-10T21:57:00.001-05:00

This child DOES NOT take after me. It was all I could do to get close enough to get these pictures....and I used as much zoom as I could.

Tyler is such a good Daddy

2010-10-10T21:55:00.003-05:00

I caught this shot of Tyler looking at Tanner's school work & talking about it with her.

Such a sweet daddy.

Tanner's "Before School" Pic

2010-09-23T09:16:00.002-05:00

Prince Cooper

2010-09-22T20:51:00.001-05:00

The iPhone Curse

2010-09-01T08:12:00.005-05:00

This is Tanner first thing this morning.

Afternoon at the Creek

2010-08-22T21:00:00.004-05:00

Saturday Night Fun

2010-08-21T23:19:00.016-05:00

Saturday night we went to dinner with the kids. Next on our agenda was the Benton County Fair.

Tanner Loves Her Daddy

My First Trip to San Francisco

2010-08-21T23:00:00.024-05:00

Last week I enjoyed a week of San Francisco with my work group. I had an absolute blast & am so thankful I had this opportunity.

First priority was to eat at In & Out Burger.

I must say, it was very good!

We took a tour of the city.

Yummy!

Aimee, Priscilla, Roni, Eileen & Beverly

The Lone Sailor

That's San Francisco behind me

China Town

Alcatraz

On Tuesday we toured Wine Country

Lombard Street ("crookedest road in the world")

My Little Dancing Queen

2010-08-05T12:27:00.003-05:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy 18th Birthday Taylor Detring

2010-08-04T21:46:00.001-05:00

Confession

2010-08-03T06:31:00.020-05:00

Okay so, I have a confession. Let me start from the VERY beginning & explain my actions.

Once upon a time, a long long long time ago, way back in 2002, a son was born. His name was Hunter Hughes. Now Hunter was the first child born to his mommy & daddy. Daddy worked nights & mommy was a very nervous first time mom.......Anyhoo, let me just cut to the chase, Hunter has slept in my bed since the day he was born & now I can't get him out.

So, last week I found this chart....

....out on this website: http://www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts.com/theme_charts.htm.

(Moms, you should check out the site)

I told Hunter if he slept in his own bed for 7 nights I would buy him any toy he wanted. Toys are a huge deal to both of my children because I honestly don't buy them a lot of toys outside of birthdays & holidays.

(And, just for the record, Tanner had her own chart but failed the 2nd night & ripped hers up (ha))

Well friends, he did it!!

( He slipped up 1 night, but that's ok this time 'round)

So this afternoon Hunter & I had a dinner date at the restaurant of his choice.

A boy after his own momma's heart (sniff sniff).......Olive Garden.

But even better than that....I asked him where he wanted to go look for a toy at. You will NEVER guess, in a million years, where he wanted to go.

Ready for this??!!

(Do ya think I might spend a little too much time here??!!! I love this store and apparently I drag my children here too often)

And here is Hunter with his prize :)

How ya like them ears...hehe.

Hunter got himself an "adult" camera

Tyler's TV Debut :)

2010-07-29T15:01:00.000-05:00

http://www.4029tv.com/video/24345448/

Spontaneous

2010-07-20T19:19:00.005-05:00

Today we took the kids to White Water for the day.

This was a totally unplanned trip & it felt good! We have Season Passes to White Water & Silver Dollar City and we've only been ONE time this year.

Tyler & the kids in the Lazy River

There goes Tyler & Tanner

Out here in the Chiggers & Ticks

2010-07-18T22:28:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I know this post is so gross but I can't help it. I'm amazed. Have you ever in your life seen such a disgusting thing???!!!! This just gives me chills. This is the 5th tick, of this size, I've found on Cooper this year. They get so full they just fall off him. I check him every single night, but they've found a spot on him I can't find. Can we say "DISGUSTING"??!!!

Those little back spots are the legs. His head is right in the middle.

Golf Practice

2010-07-18T22:25:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Brenner Boren

2010-07-18T22:15:00.010-05:00

Sunday we celebrated Brenner's 2nd Birthday. The kids had so much fun. It was a scorcher out though. You'll notice everyone's hair is wet from the heat.

The cake was so stinkin cute!

Nana Vic was also celebrating her birthday. This is DeAnna's "mama" from North Carolina.
Birthday Boy

Wedding Shower

2010-07-18T22:00:00.002-05:00

Our friends Joe Wilson & Dawn Muniz are getting married on August 7th. They've been together for 11+ years & have the most beautiful little girl, Olivia.

Saturday night the bridesmaids hosted a wedding shower for Dawn.

R.I.P. Baby Frog

2010-07-12T07:43:00.000-05:00

You know if Tanner gets something this small in her hands the outcome won't be good.

100ft Slip & Slide

2010-07-11T17:28:00.006-05:00

4th of July Celebration

2010-07-08T17:41:00.013-05:00

Sunday afternoon we had a cookout. Grannie Gwen, Norm, Taylor & her boyfriend Tanner came out to eat & shoot fireworks.

Goodies enjoying the festivities. Yes, very surprisingly, she IS still alive.

Tanner & I lighting the snakes.
Smoke Bombs

Volleyball

Check out grandma.

It's 90 degrees & she has a blanket around her neck (hehe).

Taylor & Tanner

Grandma enjoying herself a Jelly Fish :)

Weekend in Branson....4 Years After

2010-07-08T10:42:00.040-05:00

We had my parent's timeshare June 27 - July 4th.

A few bittersweet memories about this trip & time of year

Last time we used the Branson Timeshare was 4 years ago.
That was moms last vacation with us.
Little did we know she would leave us 3 weeks later.
This trip to Branson marked mom's 4th year of being gone (6/28).

Here's some pictures of that trip 4 years ago

Mom holding Miss Tanner. Look at my wittle Tan Tan. She was 2.5 months in this picture.

Mom, Stephanie & Hunter.

I didn't see it at the time but you can tell how sick she is here.

Me & my baby girl.
Mom holding my babies.

So, fast forward to now.

Saturday night we ate at the Outback Steak & Oyster Bar.

Top the night off with Andy's Frozen Custard....YUMMMMMYYYYEEEEE!

Swimming at the condo.

Get Ready......Set.......

GO!!!

Tanner refuses to give me a serious smile these days.

So, I'll take one of my boys who like to cheese it up. Perhaps Tyler, more so.

DeAnna & Brenner met us at White Water on Thursday.

Here we have the family shot that I DID NOT want to take. I hate wearing a bathing suit and especially don't want my picture in one. So, thanks Dee for photo shopping most of the imperfections...ha

Dee & Brenner in the kiddie pool area.

Not the most flattering picture but it makes me laugh. Me & Tan Tan were worn out after 4 hours.

Friday we all headed over to Silver Dollar City.

Tanner likes helping Brenner. I think she likes being "bigger" than someone else.

DeAnna rode the rides with the kids.

The ones that go around in circles make me sick.

This little guy had been up since 6:30 in the A.M. Needless to say he was tuckered out pretty early. But he was a trooper & held his own longer than I thought he would. Or, I should say, longer than I could have.

Brenner thought it was funny to splash Tanner in the face.

I've come to the conclusion that the smell of the outdoors makes the male species have to pee.

No worries here, we were the only people at this park (ha).

Video Clips from Branson

2010-07-07T07:19:00.005-05:00

Hopefully I'm able to post 4th of July Pictures today. Here are some short videos of Tanner swimming at our Condo & both kids driving go carts.

My Poor Baby Girl :(

2010-06-27T20:25:00.003-05:00

I'm starting to wonder if I should take Tanner to see a doctor.

Here's the small burn on her left leg.

Her poor little arm :(

House Sitting

2010-06-25T08:09:00.009-05:00

My friend Lorie asked us to house sit while she's away on vacation.

For me, it's more like a vacation.......

I'm closer to work & don't have an hour drive in the morning & afternoon....and
Dad & I were in need of a break from each other.

She has a big fenced in yard with a pool. We even brought our furry babies.

Yesterday we were inside waiting on the storm to pass. The kids were playing on Lorie's treadmill. I NOW realize why that's not a good idea. Tanner fell & got pinned behind the belt. Her poor little arm & leg got burned.

We put ice on her arm & leg to stop the swelling.

Storm passed & the pool made it all better :)

Can you tell that a swimming pool is high on my priority list for my next home?!!!

Camp Out With Daddy

2010-06-15T23:19:00.007-05:00

Tonight the kids are camping out with daddy.....in the yard.

Awww, I've gotten through on how important brushing your teeth is.

Smores

First of Many.....I'm sure!

2010-06-15T22:46:00.005-05:00

Let's start from the VERY beginning of my paranoia of home fires. When I was 13 I caught our kitchen on fire. Though the house didn't burn down, there was extensive damage. I'm sooooo scared of my home burning down & losing all my memories....aka-my massive collection of photos. So, I haven't lit a candle in my home since Hunter was 2 years old. The reason?? Because he would mess with them & get me all paranoid. I've always bought those diffuser things.

Well, last week I brought home one of "our" (P&G) new candles to try out. I put in the back half bath, figuring it was safe since it was in the back of the house. The kids & I went outside to play. Tanner ran inside to use the restroom. Minutes later she comes running out saying "MOMMY... FIRE". I immediately knew what happened. I ran in & the fire was contained in the trash can....THANK YOU GOD! I grabbed the Fire Extinguisher, which I might add expired 10 years ago (mom bought it after I burned the kitchen down), & got the fire out.

I DID NOT get on to Tanner. I'm soooooo thankful she came to me verses being too scared to tell me what she did. Sometimes you just have to step back & realize what's "really" important.

Swimming & Fishing

2010-06-13T09:41:00.006-05:00

Friday night Tyler, the kids & I had dinner at Fish City Grill. Then we headed over to our friends Mandy & Chad's home.

This is their little....I mean BIG, boy Cayden. He's only 9 months. He's going to be a big 'ol boy. Well, I guess he already is.

The kids swam in the pool.

Saturday we took the kids fishing. This is one thing I LOVE about being back in Bentonville. The walking trails & fishing holes that are so kid friendly.

Hunting crawfish

Floating the Buffalo

2010-06-10T12:56:00.013-05:00

This week my work group went to Ponca AR for a couple nights. We stayed in this UUUUUUUU-MAAAAZING lodge. It was gorgeous. My pictures don't even get you close to the true feel. It sleeps at least 20. So, if you're ever looking for a get away with a group, I HIGHLY recommend this place!

http://www.cedarcrestlodge.net

We drove up on Monday, floated the Buffalo Tuesday & came home Wednesday afternoon.

Bridge between Lodge & Outdoor FireplaceS. Yes, plural.

This creek ran under the bridge

Kitchen

Back Patio

Group Shot

Goodbye 1st Grade & Springdale Arkansas

2010-06-06T14:55:00.004-05:00

Hunter's last day of school is tomorrow & he is so exited for a break. I have to admit, I'm ready too. My morning routine will be a little less rushed & hectic now. The 45 minute drive to work every morning starts to wear on ya!

I decided to enroll Hunter in Bentonville Schools next year. Dad said he could take Hunter to school on the mornings Tyler has to work. I had planned on leaving Hunter in Springdale until we get our new house, but there's no telling when dad's house is going to sell. Then if we end up building that's another 6 months or more, so I think it's best to get Hunter in a different school district now.

A teacher once told me that it's best not to give a teacher a gift during the school year. This can create a situation where that teacher feels obligated to give your child special treatment throughout the year. This "rule" just kills me at Christmas because I LOVE giving gifts during the Holidays. Anyhoo, I patiently wait until the last day of school and Hunter & I will make his teacher a "Thank You" gift. I think hand made gifts have so much more meaning, especially to a teacher. Hunter is so excited to take this to Mrs Fox tomorrow.

I can't figure out how to get the glare of the flash out. If anyone knows how PLEASE let me know.

So this is what you do when you're retired

2010-06-06T14:53:00.003-05:00

Dad's got his TV Guide out highlighting everything he wants to watch this week (haha).

Country Life

2010-06-06T14:39:00.010-05:00

The kids are having a blast living in the country. They're learning & seeing so many new things.

This is the first turtle they've ever held...or even found.

Patiently waiting for the turtle to come out of its shell.

No, we didn't get another dog. That's "Tripod", or what we call him when he comes around. He has a home somewhere near but he likes to come over & visit.
Hence, the name Tripod. Poor little guy, I wonder what happened to his leg :(

I told her to keep her fingers out of the turtle's mouth.

And check out who FINALLY learned to ride a bike. Yes, I realize we're a little behind on this accomplishment, but I'm still proud of my little man.

Striking a pose in her new shades.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T21:43:00.003-05:00

Our day started out with a wonderful surprise. Tyler went into work & they told him he could have the day off!! Wowzers, that NEVER happens!

We spent the day at our friend Lorie's house. The kids love going to Miss Lorie's pool.

Miss Calie

River Swimming

2010-05-31T21:40:00.003-05:00

Sunday afternoon we met Tyler & Hunter out at Roaring River. We swam & had a picnic. That creek water was sooooo cold. When Tanner got out of the water her legs were bright red from the cold.

Cub Scout Camping

2010-05-31T21:35:00.009-05:00

Hunter's Cub Scout Troop spent the weekend at Roaring River Friday through Sunday. Hunter & Tyler were able to spend some MUCH needed Father & Son time together.

My Saturday Project

2010-05-31T21:02:00.002-05:00

This weekend I decided it was time to redo one of the flower beds in dad's yard. It was so over grown & dated. I think it looks sooooo much better.

We're going on day 3 & dad's still not speaking to me. He told me it looks like it did before he fixed it all (ha) & then peeled out of the driveway. Later Saturday night he had some choice words for me as well. Living together isn't as easy as I thought it was going to be. I just pray this house sells soon so we can get out from underneath each other.

Taylor's Video

2010-05-26T14:30:00.003-05:00