The Doss Family

Happy Birthday to My Princess!

2012-01-16T06:11:00.000-08:00

After Disney, EJ was sure of one thing.. she wanted a princess party! I was pretty excited about throwing one, it is not everyday you baby turns 4. ( So hard to believe my baby is 4! ) She wanted only girls, and all pink. I can handle that. The only problem was we started a small remodeling project three days before the party and the contractors left Fridya night at 10:33... we had a HUGE mess and big clean up before our 10 am party in the morning. With some help, we got it done... and I will not do that again, it stressed everyone out! We had Greenie the clown as our special guest, she was great. The girls loved her. One thing we kept saying was how quiet it was and well behaved the girls were.. .we have never had all girls in the house...boys are just so different! (Alhtough, Wyatt was a little broken hearted he could not stay and join in the girl fun.)

The princess pictures from Disney World

Party favors, Nini made flowers for everyone with little pink tooties rolls as the stems...princess purses, and fairy wands

sneaking a cake ball before the party began

My awesome helpers.. Nini (her pink princess self), Meema (snow white), and Pimpsy (Fairy god mother)

Princess Emily June and Princess Julie

Making crowns

Ariel made an appearance... EJ was so excited. I am so not a red head!

our guest are arriving!

Beautiful Addy and EJ

GREENIE!

sweet cousins.. Julie and Abby

Wyatt before he left with Papa, he really did not want to leave, but was very upset no one would play with him... his first dose of rejection from girls. It actually killed me to see the tears, I hate to see the first girl who breaks his heart.

My beautiful princess

Hannie and EJ

Beautiful cousins...

Pimpsy doing nails

Meema doing hair

sweet kitty Claire.. she was so excited to see herself!

Make a wish!

Pimpsy granting wishes on Jojo

Sweet Brother and Sister.. we took some pictures before church with all the left over decorations...

EJ practicing her camera skills...

Now Wyatt.. he is getting better, at least our heads are in most of the shots! I have a feeling for his birthday he might be getting a little camera...

The girls came dressed up as their favorite princess.. Mommy and Meema even got into the character. Meema was Snow White and I was Ariel.. one sure thing is I am not ever going to be a red head! ( The poor costumes were worn out and a little rugged...and Meema laughed because she had to call three different places to find a snow white dress in a large!) Regardless, Emily June thought we were the best and the look of amazement was worth it all. Pam and Nini were our Fairy God mothers who did a great job in assisting with nails, while Meema covered the princess hair. Greenie did face painting and a great little magic show, the faces are priceless. (She still has it after all these years! ) So much fun. I love being a mom. I feel so blessed and thankful for such a precious little girl.

Snow Day!

2012-01-15T19:35:00.000-08:00

Great way to start a new year! With Snow, we have not had any rain but record snow! We will take what we get!

Our sad little snow man.. hands got cold. Daddy went and picked up gloves on his way home...

Bleu is not to sure about the snow!

Snow Angels

We had record breaking snow last week.. who would of thought?! Wyatt loved it! He had a great time playing with his buddies and his first real snow ball fight... Ej and I enjoyed hot chocolate and warm soup inside! We were weenies!:) It was fun to watch and so beautiful.

Merry Christmas 2011!

2012-01-15T18:54:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas, we started off Christmas Eve with a visit to see Nonno and her house and sing carols over there.... She seems so surprised to have everyone there.. yet always excited to see the kids. I don't care what state of mind you are in as a mom I think you always have that nurturing spirit. Ej did giver her a baby doll that talks and she loves it.

Papa and Nonno

Aunt Dixie came to town .. Skeet in the holiday spirit

Nini and Wyatt leading the carols... it is very normal with this group to bust out in song at any time!

Nini and her sweet boy.

The twins.. Ross and Brett.. Both have the biggest hearts, I am so proud of them... always good to see them!

See the snow! It was a white Christmas, our first.. So awesome!

After Christmas Eve service, over to Meemas for dinner and our Christmas celebration over there.

Meema's awesome present was Disney this year, she definitely spoiled all of us with the best time and best memories!

Cars spy plane! He was so excited....

EJ's new Belle Dolll.. a huge hit!

Ralph and Meema..always a wonderful, relaxing night... and crab legs for dinner, my favorite:)

Tired, ready for Santa...

Ralph and EJ

Meema's new gun she won.. she is so lucky! Zach is wishing it was his:)

Good night.... ready to see Santa!

Christmas morning at our house... Stockings... our favoite!

Letter and picture to Santa... Homemade smores bars, Santa's new favorite!

Another Cars Spy plane... awesome!

Justin Beiber doll, with the new hair do! Some one was really excited!

Cinnabons... Dad really knows how to tempt me! They were so good.

Papa came down to watch the kids open presents from Santa, then we headed down to his house.

Christmas morning snow!

Next stop, Papas... His house is always so warm and coxy, he went a little overboard with the kids!

bow and arrow! Hopefully his sister will not be his target!

Hunting Walkie talkies...

My boys...

Oh the excitement begins... a target ( thank goodness, no practicing on EJ!)

It gets better.. .he fell to the ground in excitement.. a Big Buck Shooter!

Sissy and her papa, she loves her Papa.

goosed!

My sweet daddy.

After a quick shower, over to The Doss house for 11 am Christmas present opening... it was crazy!

Cousin Randy trying to keep Wyatt organized. I was so frustrated bc they kept going from present ot present and not appreciating what they received. It drove me nuts! I guess as kids it is hard, but they are so spoiled. I just hope they remember the real meaning of Christmas!

Special Nini time.

Papa (pronounced Pawpaw), Polli, and Randi.

Aunt Dixie

Randi knitted these hats, I love speical gifts like these! Camo and hello kitty! s

Randi and Chris

A little tired, all tucked out.. in our princess gear and playing the phone. Christmas was busy this year. Reflecting on teh real meaning of Christmas is always a challenge in the middle of the chaos, but I am so thankful for a God who gave his son for me. Hard for me to understand now that I have kids, but it shows me he is more committed to my Joy and life more than I will ever know. Happy Birthday Jesus!

Brunch with Santa

2011-12-20T07:58:00.000-08:00

The Doss Crew.. I think we take a picture on this couch every year at GT.. maybe that should be a tradition!

Santa

The Santa list...

Skeet and Nini invited us to have lunch on Sunday with a special guest. Santa. It was great, the first time this year the kids have actually talked to Santa and scene him (other than on a float!). I told the kids Santa only brings ONE gift so do not make a long list.. so this year Wyatt wants a remote control car or airplane and EJ wants a princess anything. I am just thankful for another year of great health for our family and even better memories.

DISNEY!

2011-12-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

YAY Disney Day one! Magic Kingdom...

Magical

EJ could not take her eyes off the castle, she was in love...

They did not have a size or weight limit on the rides.. some might of suggested tall people not ride.. They were packed in like sardines and we could nto stop laughing!

I told EJ to pose.. this is what I got!

The talking trash can.. it was hyterical

the famous tea cups.. we had to get a pink one!

Alice...

Daddy doing Dumbo.. he is such a good sport

One lady in line said loudly, "Look at that cute little girl.. and she is holding a nasty snail." She was afraid he would get squished.. my animal lover.

Day 2 Epcot

Belle.. she has very big eyes...

Love Wyatt's face, he did not want to get anywhere near the princesses.. they were for girls.

The princess celebration.. notice she is not the leader behind the princess...

Round 2.. the leader.. she has lots of determination

Wyatt.. everytime a princess would come near him.

Love the way she looks at Snow White.

Doing a few lunges after another huge lunch... he is his daddy's child

Visiting Norway..

The speed track.. one of my favorite rides.. we did it three times so everyone loved it.

holiday music.. made it feel like Christmas!

The clams.. Nemo ride

This was a cute jumping water game until the sign said..."Do not get in the water if you have had diarrhea." Enough to gross me out and yank the kids onto the next ride... So gross to even thing about !

Here comes Mickey.. watch out flying food

Everywhere we went they thought it was our birthday.. we just went along with it!

Daddy's favorite

My belle and prince

Day 3 .. back at Magic Kingdom

Aladdin.. magic carpet ride

Adventure island.. the kids ran wild..old west town where they had guns, make believe jails, towns.

EJ meets a friend everywhere we go.

Parade time!

Day 4 Animal Kingdom...

Can you find Wyatt...f

On the safari.. so great. Saw so many animals.

Yes, they are matching again.

This thing was weird.. she just creeps around and if you look closely has a face. Just strange.

Ej's still claims she is going ot marry Justin Beiber, but she was amused by prince charming.

wicked step sisters.. everyone was in character role the entire time.

Disney's Christmas Party

Dancing with bullseye at the saloon

The before

During

Official princess makeover.. the hair was stiff and full of glitter, she said it was the most beautiful hair she has ever scene.. the poof would make any jersey girl proud! Next stop.. tea at Cinderella's castle

My future nascar driver

Dinner with mickey and friends

Day 6 .. Holly wood studios

NO more pictures! We did have a small wait for the toy story ride, but it was worth it...

Belle, all teh shows were fantastic.. just long enough so the kids would not loose interest.

I told the kids on Friday they would pick out one souvineer .. whatever they wanted so they would not bug me every time we saw something.. This is what EJ wanted.. Jasmine and Wyatt bought a mini monorail.

When Wyatt was born, my mom burst into the room, grabbed Wyatt (I was still being stitched up) and said, "When you turn 5 I am taking you to Disney World!" Well, we finally got to go.. and it was simply amazing. Best trip ever. We left on Saturday and stayed a full week.. It took a lot of planning, changing plans, and re-changing plans based on what others said or tips I heard.. but it was all worth it. It sure helps to talk to those who have done it before bc making dinner reservations 6 months ahead of time seems insane with a 3 yr old and 5 year old. We walked and walked.. and ate more.. if that was possible. The meal plan keeps you full! So we are all on sugar detox this week, but it was such fun indulging in whatever you wanted too for 7 straight days! The food was great, the service was awesome and so friendly. We went at the best time, we did not have to wait on rides, or fight crowds too bad. The weather was 75 degrees, with rain one day.. (The kids were so excited about the rain, especially to wear a poncho.. they have never had to do that in Midland!) The hotel was great.. Clean, on the monorail (Wyatt's favorite thing!) walking distance to the park, and you could lay in bed and watch fireworks at night. Can you tell we had a great time?!I had a tentative schedule and the kids did pretty good, a few meltdowns and by Friday they were worn out, but nothing too dramatic. The nice thing about staying a week is there is no rush to see anything and you can take your time and enjoy the moment.

When we arrived we went to a luau and I have never laughed so hard. Anytime there was an opportunity to be called on stage or crowd involvement EJ would make sure she was front and center. She is not my child. Wyatt would hide under teh table determined not to go.. that was me! She is her Daddy's girl.. she loved every minute of the attention... and we had to pull her off kicking and screaming. literally! She can hula and she can dance and has no stage freight!
Full Day One: Magic Kingdom... The look on EJ;s face was priceless. We just started on one side and made our way around (at least 1/2 way around) The rides are amazing. We learned after traumatizing Wyatt on dark, tunnel rides he does not do anything that is dark. After a few dramatic ordeals we just stuck to safe, outside rides. We ate with Winnie the pooh and friends and the character dinners were great bc you did not have to stand in line at the park to meet them. We took full advantage of all the character dinners/lunches

Day 2- Epcot. We had breakfast with the princesses... and enjoyed what Epcot had to offer during the day. The Speed Track was a favorite, Nemo, and the "Land" ride was amazing. We all enjoyed it.

Day 3- Back and Magic Kingdom to cover the rest of the park we missed the first day... and do a few more favorites from day one.

Day 4- Animal Kingdom. Loved Animal Kingdom.. The safari was great, we saw so many animals.. we did a few other rides and saw a great Nemo show. The kids were done by 2 or 3 so we went back and had down time. We did the Very Merry Christmas parade that night and it was so cute. Everything is so well done... they did have a littel dance hall where you could dance with Woody, Jessie and Bullseye.. we burned some calories in there... again, we had to drag EJ out!

Day 5 - EJ;s magical Princess makeover at Cinderellas castle.. then tea with cinderalla. She loved every second of it. It was so much fun to see her face. Wyatt was suppose to do the pirate transformation but after being tramatized on the pirate ride, he wanted nothing to do with them.. so he and Z hit the roller coasters and splash mountain. Z and RW were able to play golf this afternoon and saw everything from turkeys, deer and alligators on teh course. You have to be very careful about picking up your ball!

Day 6- Hollywood studios. There was so much to do here and the kids were worn out from the week.. so Z and I hit the hot spots and then called it a day, headed back to the hotel and went swimming. This is something we would like to do again and see more attractions... but it was great what we did see.

Day 7- up at 4 am home by 11.. now laundry and sugar detox.. yuck! Very blessed to have such healthy, amazing kids. My mom and Ralph were wonderful, generous and so supportive. Great memories.

So my travel tips..
1. Stay on the monorail..Just spend the extra money, it is worth it. I loved our location and hotel.. would stay there again..
2. Rent your stroller from Orlando strollers and they will deliver it to the hotel and pick it up when you leave. Otherwise at the end of the day.. when the kids are the most tired you have to stand in line to turn yours in at the parks.. and if you kids are under 8 get one!
3. Do the meal plans.. so easy. Make all reservations ahead of time.. if not you will be waiting to eat for an hour! Do all the character dining so you do not have to wait in line to meet them adn take pictures at the park. Most lines were 15-30 minutes for each character.
4. Have down time, do not cram everything in...
5. Do no dress up, workout clothes are actually considered dressing up.. especially if they match! Just wear tennis shoes.
6. For the future I understand why people do the ugly, loud matching family shirts.. it is easy to loose your kid. Matching actually helps...
7. Make sure your youngest is at least 40" tall or you cannot go on the majority of the rides... EJ was right there..

SNOW! In Midland?!

2011-12-06T17:40:00.001-08:00

Snow princess!

Snow Prince!

Trying to make a snow man... we could not get the snow to stick!

We had our first snow, a real snow! The kids were so excited. We layered up.. we have no snow clothes so it was real giggy... (socks for mittens and sweatpants.. both of which absorb snow quickly!) They finally got all dressed, and the excitement lasted 20 minutes until their hands were frozen. School was cancelled so we warmed up with hot chocolate and movies... it was a real lazy day. WE had lots of "orange snow cones" Which is fresh snow with OJ.

It starting to feel a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-04T14:13:00.001-08:00

December is here, and we have actually had cold weather! No snow, but cold enough to actually wear a coat. The trees are decorated, lights hung, and the kids celebrated last night with the town's Christmas parade. Skeet had a float this year the kids got to ride on and were super excited... not sure if they were more excited about riding or the candy they had to pass out! This year there were 85 floats adn I have to say some were really impressive. Zach and I watched ( by ourselves!) so we ordered Cancun Grill take out, picked it up and had a dinner date watching the parade. It was rather nice! Oh adn did I mention we went out on Friday night to coterie.. I actually got dressed up and in a dress.. it has been a while!

My sweet Daddy.. who is so good to us.. he lives right down the street and always takes such good care of us...including babysitting!

My handsome husband (No, that is not my jacket.. I wish it was.. thanks Pam!)f

An idea of how our Christmas pictures went this morning....

Riding on the float

Even with a hat we still found a way to wear that princess tiara!

This morning we even took our Christmas card pictures.. before Church..can you believe we even made it to church without any arguments?! The pictures are just super casual in the front yard, my sweet mom came over to take them and out of 154.. we had 1 that everyone was looking at the camera with their eyes open.... really?! So it has to work! A great start to a full month of a true celebration!

Thankful

2011-11-24T20:35:00.001-08:00

I wish we had the spirit of Thankgiving every month. It has been so nice to hear what everyone is thankful for. I woke up this morning with my precious family, healthy, in a warm home and well fed! I am thankful and blessed. I tried to tell the kids Thanksgiving is about being "thankful" and "giving." They are pretty good at staying what they are thankful for, but the giving part is not as easy. Zach had the great idea of doing "Feed a needy Teepee" this year which is a meal on wheels program. It was so easy, yet so nice to do something as a family for someone else. We picked up the meals, there were only 6 stops on our route... the kids were super excited at first.. then the excitement wore off and the smell of food filled the truck.. which means they were hungry... I told EJ, "We are giving food to people who do not have the ability to get out or need extra help and have no one to help them on this holiday... I went into the how they may only get one meal a day and this is it..." Her reply, " I am tired of giving, can we go get donuts?!" Gotta love her, she says exactly what she is thinking. I told her we would after we finished our job... and I was glad she came to help out. Hopefully, our spirit of giving will only get better. I decided after today we were going to do it this summer, such a neat program and I think it is a great thing to do as a family if possible.
After the meals were delivered, we did go get donuts and have breakfast with Nonno. She was in a great mood, we really enjoyed our visit. She is so child like and loves to be around the kids. Her care taker does a great job of keeping her healthy, and so well taken care of... again very thankful.
Our Thanksgiving this year was our annual lunch at the Petroleum Club. As my mom said, " If I cooked, no one would come!" I cannot argue that too much! As I have said before.. she has so many amazing talents and qualities.. cooking is not something she enjoys. It is nice to have wonderful food, no clean up and no leftovers! Thankful! It was a wonderful day.. So thankful for the days I have to slow down and am reminded it is the little things in life I am so grateful for.

Thankful for healthy, beautiful kids.

Thankful for a wonderful husband, father.

Thankful for my precious Mom and her husband Ralph

I am thankful the kids are so loved.

I am thankful we can all be together.

One thing we do at the dinner table every night is go around and say what we are thankful for.. for that day or just in general. Today we did it again and Mom said, " I am thankful Mom (my grandmother) is in heaven and was welcomed the way she was." Again, the power of God amazes me everyday. I saw Him in my grandmother and know He is real. I am most thankful I am His child.

Season of Thanks

2011-11-18T06:00:00.001-08:00

EJ's Thankful Hat...

Handsome Pilgrim.

Beautiful Emmi.. She is such a joy ... I am hoping I can put this next to their prom picture in 10 years. There are only 4 girls in a class of 9 boys so he better be nice!!!!

Doing the turkey poem

So yesterday as a Mom I have to admit I was failing. I let the attitudes, and defiance get the best of me. All I wanted was for gymnastics to be over so I could come home, have a glass of wine and some soup (thank goodness for crock pot recipes bc I was too tired to cook!) . Then I realize I am in control of my kids and they cannot win! EJ has such a spirit about her that is persistent and her excitement for life sometimes overcomes her obedience. Yesterday we had our "turkey" parties at Hillander. The problem this year is both kids have parties at the same time.. so I am running back and forth and cannot devote my attention to either one. I just snap pictures in hope they remember I was there! At school they have these buckets that they get their "stick" put into if they misbehave... well I noticed we were in the yellow bucket again. For the same thing... "NOT LISTENING!" She is a wanderer.. she goes from room to room. She tells me all the time she wants to be in Mrs. Cremer's class with Wyatt.. so she just gets up and goes. After I went to Wyatt's party, I went back to get EJ.. she was gone. Not that it is particularly alarming.. but after about 5 minutes of looking (feels like 20!) I was a little worried... again she was in someone else's room playing with their class and toys. So I drag the kids out to the car in all my frustration and relief and pretend not to be upset ... heck do you really want the other moms to see you loose your cool?! Too much candy, too much excitement for one afternoon!
So last night I start to reflect.. after my glass of wine which I so enjoyed... I thought about what I am thankful for... and when I walked in I saw the turkey feather hat on EJ's head.. it was a "thankful hat." Each leaf represented something she was thankful for. The first thing I noticed was the middle feather.. "Aunt Sue." I asked Kelly when the hats were made and she said last week.... Last week, every night we prayed for our "Aunt Sue" (Not really our Aunt.. Emily's aunt but I have claimed her since I was 4) Aunt Sue went heaven the same week Grandma did so it was a sad week. I am thankful EJ understands prayers, I am thankful it is not just something we do at night but something she remembers when asked "what are you thankful for." She probably does not remember the few times she met Aunt Sue.. but she remembers praying. I am SO thankful for that.
Wyatt even put on his thankful chart he was thankful for his sister. Hallelujah! There is hope one day they will get along all day without fighting!

Pictures, pictures, pictures!

2011-11-16T19:42:00.001-08:00

I have to admit I love pictures, but taking them of the family is usually a nightmare. For Zach and I our biggest arguements come on picture days... I can remember our engagement pictures... nightmare (yet they turned out great!) and our first official "family" picture... another nightmare. I am honestly surprised the photographer did not get in her car and leave! I wanted too! So you will notice there are not a whole lot of "family" pictures... I try at least one a year and dread it every year. I have learned a few things... do not force outfits... if the kids do not like it... have an alternative! It is not worth the tears, and fits! Second, disappear! Do not be within visual distance of the kids.. they always take better pictures and act better when I am not around. There is no third.. I am hoping for a fun, casual environment this year... So let the picture taking begin with only smiles!

Today I did Mom and Ralph's with their grand kids.. Ralph has two who recently moved here and play so well with my kids. Together taking pictures was a little wild.. but I think we got a few! I did bribe with icecream. I am wondering what I am going to have to bribe with by the time we get around to doing ours!

Home.. a whole new meaning.

2011-11-15T18:17:00.001-08:00

We will miss you GG... so glad you are Home...

Thank you to those of you who prayed and sent sweet notes of support this past weekend. My grandmother was a huge part of my life.. she was an amazing woman. I spent every summer with her and she taught me so much and had a huge influence on who I am today. I have never met a stronger woman... she had no limitations, they just did not apply to her! She was a true icon.

Her obituary is in the paper today and I hate that it is only one column! I want everyone to know all the lines, boundaries and hurdles she faced and defeated in her lifetime. Seriously, how many people do we know started out in a covered wagon and lives to be almost 98 years old?! There was nothing average about her. She qualified for the 1932 Olympics (shouldn't that athletic ability pass on somewhere?! I am hoping my kids might get it!).She once scored 102 in a single basketball game and was the first woman licensed referee in Missouri... just a few little fun facts! She fought for the equalization of womens sports most of her life and then an advocate director for the elderly after she "retired." Never did she take "no" for an answer. She felt females should have the same opportunities as the boys. She graduated from college in a time where it was not common for a female to go to school. I often wonder where all this courage came from and it was her strength and faith within herself. She was just amazing.. she was the best grandmother and mentor anyone could ask for.
Her passing was beautiful. She had been in a sleep induced state the last week of her life and then last Friday as my Mom and Aunt were holding her hand, she opened her eyes wide and mumbled.. "Going Home." My aunt prayed and said, " Momma don't be scared, the angels are coming..." and after 8 short breaths she was Home. She said she saw Jesus in the last few weeks of her life, and her husband of over 50 years and her baby girl (June) who died at birth over 60 years ago... There is great comfort in knowing she is in heaven and being reunited with those she loves.
I just am so thankful Christ died for us, it is a gift that is unimaginable and so gracious. He took my pain, my burdens, so I can live with Him in eternity and be reunited with those we so dearly love on this earth.

Thanks again, I just wanted you to know a little bit about my sweet grandmother! Love always, Vickie

Happy Birthday Zach and Meema!

2011-11-11T00:06:00.001-08:00

Two of my favorite people celebrated birthdays this week. I am so thankful to have a husband who works so hard for our family and is a good father to our children. I am so thankful to have a Mom who has never done anything but support me and show me unconditional love. I am blessed by these two everyday. My two best friends. I love you!

Halloween!

2011-11-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! We had a great halloween weekend celebration... we went to the CC with my Mom Sunday night (She was the best witch and I do not even have a picture!) The kids ran wild and did hay rides and haunted houses... that might not of been such a good idea! EJ had too many quesitons and "couldn't sleep" worring about it. Who would of thought the innocent country club would have a scarey haunted house?! I will rethink that one next time. Last night we meet at our neighbor's/ friends house where there were probably a hundred kids playing, eating hot dogs and then trick er treating. I have never scene so many kids going door to door. it was great. Reminded me of my old childhood memories... I had a new rule this year.. I told the kids they could eat all the candy they wanted on halloween.. but the next day it was all going away. They ate a ton! EJ said her tummy hurt close to the end of the night... go figure! Zach about had a heart attack with all the candy, but it is gone today!

Oh, and I discovered a new favorite candy.. peanut butter snickers! Everything I love wrapped up in one little square!!!

Another Amazing Lady

2011-10-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

This week just as I returned home from seeing my Grandmother, Zach's Grandmother was rushed to the ER with stomach pains. As you can see, eating fried chicken and hush puppies she is feeling much better. I have been amazed with Dommie since I met her.. she is the text book definition of class. Such a neat lady, always has herself put together, has the best attitude and just makes you want to be a better person. I know why God puts these amazing women in our lives.. why else would we have two grandmothers who are defining all odds living in their 90's?! Another blessing counted. Thank you too to all the caregivers who take sure great care of the day to day needs and oversee them. My grandmother always said you had to have at least one girl... she would joke the "boys will get married and leave you....why do you think I have lived so long?" She had two girls and one who looks in on her daily and Dommie has the three and one who lives near her and does the same thing. I am not sure if Emily June will oversee my care like sweet Aunt Judy and Aunt Emily!!!
Again... we are thankful to you Lord for healing.

Close Call weekend and Indian Guides

2011-10-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

May 2011

My grandmother has 9 lives, maybe 10 at this point. She is amazing,strong, faithful, stubborn and a blessing to us all. At the young age of 98 we laugh that she still makes all the decisions in the family and demands attention! Last week she had a flu shot and a terrible reaction..she has pretty much lost all of her strength, her vitals dropped.. hospice gave her 24 hours. I jumped on a plane flew to Shreveport anticipating seeing my grandmother asleep and not responsive. Well, once again she rallied overnight and her vitals were back up, and she was coherent. (This is the 4th time I can remember hospice, nurses and drs have been amazed by her recoveries) It was a special time, she knew I was there.. I just got to hold her hand and feel her for maybe the last time. She is so weak, and I could see in her eyes she was tired. Only God knows our days, but there is a reason she is still here, this weekend she taught me the precious gift of a moment. A moment can be priceless.

INDIAN GUIDES TRADITIONS started with Zach and his dad.. now he is doing with with Wyatt...

Indian names Little feather and Horse feather... tribe Cherokee

The boys

The tent on top of the car, I could not quite image it until I saw a picture.. not exactly my idea of a good night sleep, but they had a good time and were up off the ground.

Rocket launching

As I was flying to Shreveport, Zach had his first Indian Guides campout with Wyatt. They had a ball. It is not really "roughing" it. I think they just drank beer and watched football (most of the dads has 5th wheels with satellite TV!) and let the kids run around wild. All the things moms do not let them do! The boys did rocket launching, pumpking carving, and a lot of hog chasing. There were a lot of wonderful memories created and good Daddy/Son bonding. Zach has been researching tents for a while.. he ended up with this contraption that goes on top of his car and folds out to get off the ground. Not my idea of a good time, but I know Wyatt was thrilled to have the tent.

EJ had a great girls day with Nini on Friday and Saturday. She (and Skeet) watched her and spoiled her while I was in Shreveport. So thankful for grandparents!

My mess in a dress...

2011-10-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

As I am sitting her listening to a conversation between on of EJ's friends.. I thought I need to write this down before I forget.. the little stories that I will laugh at later...

One of her friends said "I don't like you June."
EJ replyed., "My name is Emily June and YOU will like me.. YOU do like me."
His reply, " You are right Emily June I do!"

I know I have a strong personality, and I love her for that... as long as we can channel it in the right directions.. but now days I get a little nervous when people come up to me and say, " Oh, you are Emily June's mom.... we hear about her all the time." I am not sure exactly what to say about that mainly bc I have no idea if it is good or not! At a birthday lunch today for a sweet friend of mine she told me a little story that is cute, but kind of disturbing with it is your child! She started telling me last week when I was walking in she overheard a conversation with a little girl in EJ's class with her mommy. It went something like this,
" Mommy can I be the princess today?"
Her mom, " Sure honey, you are a princess."
"No, I am a King, the whole class is a king, Emily June says there is only one princess and it is her."

As a mom what do you say to this?! We read the God's princess books and I explained that all little girls are Princesses.. His princesses.. So we went though the class picture today pointing to all the little girls and she said she would make sure to tell them they were princesses on Thursday.

I just keep praying.

Fall Fun

2011-10-15T13:03:00.000-07:00

Friday night was a beautiful night and we had a sweet little Pumpkin party. The kids painted themselves, and pumpkins:)

Beautiful princesses!

Saturday one of the local churches put on a fall festival and it was free to the community.. we took full advantage and had a great time. There were four bouncies so they went from one to another to another.. it was great, they wore themselves out!

Football throw in the tire...took a couple of tries, but he eventually nailed it.

This is the same train I had to drive at FP one year for our end of the year party. It is basically like a riding lawn mower with a shell of a train on it... well I could not take my foot off the clutch or it would die.. and the seat is not adjustable.. so my shorts legs and 2 hours later meant serious leg.calf cramps the next day! So, I am glad my children are enjoying this train and even more glad that I do not have to drive it!

My red raider

My Boba Fett

I love Fall! I know not everyone participates in Halloween these days, but some of my fondest memories were my Halloweens growing up. The Elias family always celebrated in fun way, we had carnivals, trick er treating, haunted houses and I looked forward to it every year! Our costumes were not like they are today, they were either home made, or the cheezy plastic ones with the mask that the string always broke. I always voted for creative, home made ones. I unfortunately have not gone that route with the kids, they have come a long way in Halloween costumes! (And thank goodness bc I am not Martha) The fun has started early this year.... I do this every year and by the time the actual Halloween holiday gets here we are tired of it!The kids love Halloween too.. Candy, festivals, dressing up and more candy... who would not love it! EJ has the opportunity to dress up in her usual princess clothes and actually get away with it for a couple of weeks. This year Wyatt is a "storm trooper"( not that he has scene Star Wars,) but wanted to be one.. so bless it heart, his costume is hot.. and the weather is still not cool yet! The joys of living in the dessert.

Air Show

2011-10-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

The sexy B1

WE saw some buddies! Brock and Hudson always get the kids excited.

Inside one of the huge cargo planes.. it is amazing to me the size of these planes, the amount of cargo they carry and they can still get off the ground!

EJ found a Monarch butterfly in the CAF gardens, she loves butterflies... she names them "Marina"

It was a beautiful day at the air show.. It was cool, wet.. everything we have been praying for! It was great, the planes were able to fly and the excitement was there. There is nothing like an air show adrenaline rush, the fighter jets starting up and taking off.... I love it! Wyatt was a little scared of the loud noise, but once he saw his buddies he was "tough." EJ is like me.. loves the thrill of it! They have an amazing show for our little town and we enjoy this weekend every year!

CBS plug

2011-10-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Jane reading to Emily June. I pull out the kids from school to attend CBS, it is the best program in town. Such a neat Bible study for women and I have meet some of my favorite people in this program!

It is amazing when the kids come home and tell me stories I do not even know, they know more memory verses than I do (embarrassing as it is, it is true.) They know who God is, and I just pray everyday they will have their own relationship with Him and Love Him.
I have to say I look forward to my Mondays and Wednesdays... it blesses me to have this in my life.

The Red Dragons

2011-10-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

Coach Chris and Zach.. Coach Chris might look a little frustrated?!

The fun tunnel!

Is he not the cutest Red Dragon you have ever scene?!

Meema always makes games better. We are lucky all the grandparents are in town and get to support the kids.

Wyatt has a new soccer team this year.. the Red Dragons.. much better than the blue devils, since we have to PK kids on the team. Most of the kids have never played, but everyone loves it! I have to admit, watching soccer at this age is difficult for me.. yes, it is personal thing. I never say anything during the game but have such a hard time bc I am a little competitive and my son is scared of the ball. It is a hard thing to overcome! No, I am not one of those crazy moms, but realize I do need to get over this quick! I think one game they got beat 30-0 and Wyatt said, "This is so much fun, did you see how many goals we scored!" I love that he just sees it as pure fun! Zach is the coach and He is amazing with the kids.. I can say coaching is definitely one of his gifts. As the season goes along, they get better and better... thank goodness!

Another Month gone by!

2011-10-08T12:31:00.000-07:00

Happy FALL! I love our big pumpkin.. Papa surprised us with one! I have already had one smashed, I am thinking those rug rats tried to take this one but could not lift it.. really, what is the fun in pumpkin smashing? I wanted to put a sign out that said " Have gun, will shoot pumpkin stealers..." but Z said that would just invite more. makes me so mad! Sweet Wyatt said, "Mom maybe it was because they did not have a pumpkin and we have three so they needed one, and it slipped out of their hands when they were trying to get in the car. We are suppose to share." I love his heart, EJ and were ready to be on the watchout all night to catch them!f

A few seasonal pictures.. I took full advantage of "Orange day" I love theme days. it makes getting dresses so easy and fun in our house.

Growing up.. WAY too fast... so big! Happy Orange Day! f

Just hanging around! Playing in Daddy's gym

A fun ride! and good workout!

Pull that tire.. this is what you do when they have too much energy!

Abs... I need to learn how to do this, why to kids make it look so easy?!

"Yellow" Day.. in our Belle dress

Marissa's BDay party.. she had the Chick Fil A hookup.. Very cute.

dancing with the cow

cow games

I know, this dress is a little "Little house on the prairie!"

Looks like love, but it is really a choke hold then down to the ground.

Children's Fun Run.. always a sweet, fun event for a great cause. Midland Rehab center provides all kids of services and therapy for free to those in need. Great Family Fun Day.

EJ off on the run...

There goes Wyatt!

Wyatt actually surprised me with his hula hoop skills, I could never do it, he can!

Papa made a surprise visit to see the kids run

Line up!

Daddy.. say cheese in the sun!

What have we been up too?! Soccer, Gymnastics, CBS, Birthday parties, Crossfit, Girls weekend, Football, and good old family time. I love Fall.. It is slowly starting to feel like fall. The kids love school, we are blessed with two wonderful teachers. This month flew by, but don't they all?! We have celebrated many birthdays.. still the favorite activity of the kids. Each time we go the ride home is always a discussion of what theirs is going to be like.. it has changed 100 times. This month we had hello kitty parties,dinosaur hunts, Chick fil a.. the cow even showed up, and fireman.. where the kids got to ride around the block in a fire truck. Hard to beat! Wyatt asked his daddy one day, " Why can't you be something cool, like a fireman or policeman!" They are heroes at all ages!
I had a wonderful Girls weekend that I did not realize how much I needed it until I went! My Emily planned the entire thing, we were all told to meet in Houston and get on a flight at 10 am.. We had no idea where we were going. It was so much fun.. she had a limo waiting when we arrived at the airport and took up to a wonderful little get away called Amelia island. I could seriously live there. It was peaceful, beautiful and memorable! The girls made the trip. It was Em's sister in law (My adopted Sister in law), her neighbor (good friend), Em and me. We laughed so much it hurt. We meet the locals, we ate like queens, drank like college students, and did whatever we wanted. No schedule, no kids, no whining. Can you tell I am ready to go back?! This will become a annual event. Girl time is a necessity.. I just forgot how much of one! Zach had the kids and did a great job so I really will not worry so much next time about leaving!

Galen's Wedding

2011-09-04T06:02:00.000-07:00

The porch, Galen did all the decorations, and really outdid her self.. it was beautiful.
The rings
Seeing Galen.. EJ said "You are so beautiful!" She was glowing
Wyatt standing to good! He did not move the entire time!
Galen had sweet, cute little favors everywhere...
My handsome boy.
EJ deciding which bouquet she wanted!
My little flower girl.. aka belle.

Walking out
Picking up her flowers, twirling and throwing them up in the air... it was entertaining.

The best I could do, Wyatt did not want his pic taken.. he was so nervous.
Ali and EJ..

This weekend the kids were asked to be in our old neighbor's wedding. She was such a blessing many times living across the street so we were honored to be in her wedding. I can remember many days where I was struggling with an infant and toddler and needed someone to sit with EJ so I could go get Wyatt or have someone to talk too and she was always there. She finally fell in love with a man who really appreciates her.. it was great to see her so happy! EJ was all into it. She loved every part of her dress. Wyatt was scared to death, big tears before hand.. yet he always pulls through! He did great. EJ did not realize the wedding was not all about her, she decided she rather dance and throw the rest of her rose petals than stand up there and be still. Go figure!

Miss Emily June

2011-08-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

Wyatt is diagonal from EJ, he is really excited to get to "walk her in to class" He is a sweet big brother, despite the bite mark and bruise on his arm from his sweet sister!
Don't worry she pulled her headband off as soon as I left school. I tought it was cute, yes it might be a little much!
Meema stopped by to wish EJ good luck!

My sweet family
Daddy's girl...

Well today is the day our little princess started school. I was not the least bit worried about her going, but did not expect it to be quite so easy! There was no looking back. I did ask Mrs. Hullender when I picked her up how did did and she said, " She has a lot of confidence!" Which in turn means she probably did want she wanted and did not listen!
I have to say she does test the boundaries a little bit.. the week she ate a marble. It scared me to death.. She started choking, I could hear from the kitchen ran in and "gulp" she swallowed it. I called our nurse to see what to do.. she said just "sift threw her poop" otherwise you might have to get an xray if it does not come out. No one tells you all the exciting things you get to do as a mother... like wear gloves, squeeze poop for a week and still we have no marble. So the story continues.... I guess we will end up with an xray. The point is she is always entertaining!

Emotional week.

2011-08-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

CAn you tell he was real upset when I left?!
Star Wars lunch box, camo pants, and a mohawk.. all boy!
Daddy and Wyatt
My babies...

Last week of summer hit me hard. Despite the fact we are in a drought, it is hotter than heck outside and the kids are fighting nonstop.. I was not ready to realize they are about to start school. It means they are growing up and my babies are not babies. I will never get this time back, or the innocence of them being under my wing. I know there are great things to come, but as a Mom I am feeling like my days are flying by and wondering what I am going to do with they are both in school full time!
Zach and I also had a sad morning Saturday. WE attended a funeral of a great man... Jimmy Hicks. I dated his grandson (Jeramy) all thru high school and college and just fell in love with is family. His granddad was the biggest person in his life and we spent most of our time at their house. Countless days and summers in their pool, on trips, soccer games, dinners.. and I look back and realize we did that because it was a house that you just felt so loved in. Jimmy and Ann are those people who truly lived life to the fullest. I often find myself in my little bubble, very comfortable and I realize how much I miss out on in life and how much more there is outside of Midland county! I know when Jimmy passed he had lived his life doing what he wanted and was filled with so much love. Jeramy's mom, Vickie, said something that really stuck out in my mind.. she said, "I am so thankful my dad did not buy me everything I wanted, but gave me everything I needed." I am not an emotional person at all.. in fact Zach looked me before and said, "Do you need a Kleenex?" and I said, " No, I have had time to prepare for this.. I am fine!" Not only did I need a box of Kleenexes, it was an ugly cry.. one of those where you cannot stop. It just reminded me of what a little love and tenderness can do to people. It is so touching how one person could make you feel so special, yet he made everyone feel that way. I hope I can show that to my kids. Every night we pray and I always say, "Help us love like Jesus..." and one day I hope they know exactly what means and feels like.

Today we started School.. well Wyatt started. EJ starts tomorrow. We did hold him back so he is going to do 5 day Preschool this year.. We just felt he was not old enough to go on to Kinder and I am so thankful. I am not ready for real school and already miss the thought of not having him to myself!

Happy Birthday Nonno 88!

2011-08-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

Cake time. Pink cake, pink punch...
Skeet and Nini
Happy Birthday Nonno
Aunt Polli

Happy Birthday Nonno.. nothing like a little bath powder.
Skeet and the kids

Four generations for Dosses Mommy and Daddy...mommy looking a little rough!
Zach and Papa
Once EJ figured out Cousin knew who Justin Beiber was.. she was all over her. Randi did her JB hair impression and have to say looks a little like him whens she did it! She is always so sweet and so gifted with kids.

Thank goodness for party horns to bring a little excitement to any party! At least it was an older Some lady that seems to think she knows Nini, She loves all over her. Nini just smiles.

The Doss family inside with Nonno.
Polli and Wyatt, he is far from the action... distracted by a new phone game! He is really nervous around the older people, and I was too as a child so I do not force it. I remember as a kid going to see my aunt and having to hug everyone, it terrified me!
Girls.. Nonno, Randi, Polli and EJ
Frame it!
Showing Nonno the picture book we made her
All smiles

We celebrated Nonno's 88th birthday yesterday. She did not really know what was going on, but seemed to enjoy herself! She really enjoys watching the kids and cake! Who does not love Nini's cakes?! Randy, Brett and Polli came in to celebrate, always good to see them. Wyatt gets very nervous around the older people, and the house freaks him out.. but EJ makes up for it. She loves all the attention and never meets a stranger. Happy Birthday Nonno! I asked her how old she was and she said "175 dollars"... I said you are worth way more than that!

If you ask EJ where she got her Mexican party dress... she will tell you " A Mexican in San Antonio!" (we actually got it from a Mexican restaurant in San Antonio" ) she loves her Mexican dress!

Baby Crossfitters.. starts with gymnastics

2011-08-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

cheering section
Wyatt getting his award
HArd to see, but a flip from the tumble track
Parallel Bars

Wyatt's class
I love gymnastics!!
High V

Papa and Nini watching EJ
Taa-Daa
Hi Mom! She was very vocal and excited everyone was there to watch her, not too focused!
Running on tumble track
Knees on bar

Giggles the entire time.. flipping around on the bars
Walking in.. all smiles
Roll over to a back flip

We had our first gymnastics "show" this past Friday, it was pretty cute. Wyatt absolutely loves gymnastics and EJ goes along with it. Her attention span is so short that the coaches really have their work cut out for them! Yet, she giggles and smiles the entire time! I give her the personality award, not the listening, disciplined award! Wyatt is a little more serious, he gets the listening award.. but a little nervous in front of people so more timid. Both did great, I can tell it has really helped Wyatt's confidence and coordination.. so we will continue this as long as we can.

Summer Days

2011-07-27T05:58:00.000-07:00

My little make up artist! Thank you to Pam who bought her barbie makeup... thanks Pimpsy!

After seeing this lovely picture of me, I am thinking I need more than a make up artist to grow old gracefully!
Evening baseball... Wyatt is determined to be the next Benny from sandlot

handsome boys

Figuring out how to finally ride her bike! Notice the new haircut?! I love it, it has been SO much easier! Here is a feather we found on a walk.. Papa makes everything more interesting. A rubber band and you have one little Indian Girl.
Papa Chief

We have had a quick July.. I looked up and it is almost over! The kids have been at First Pres this summer every Tu/Thurs and I am really sad that after Thursday we will be done with their program. The best program in town... I remember waiting in line at 5 am to get Wyatt in almost 5 years ago thinking, " Will they really love my baby?" I had no idea what blessings were in store for us... and the lessons I learned there. Sweet Mrs. Goldie took a crazy, new mom and made me feel like the best mom ever. I think everyone needs a Goldie in their life. Next month we open a new chapter with both kids at Hillander... I know they will do well bc of what they have learned at FP. I just feel like they are growing up way to quick.

We have enjoyed the "Cooler" evenings at a mere 100 or 98 if we are lucky. It seems like the only time we have as family time and not die of a heat stroke. Papa usually comes down and visit us once a day, he bought Wyatt a baseball tee.. and surprising Wyatt loves it. (To my surprise he can hit the ball!) Zach has been working with him and doing pretty well. I honestly think gymnastics has helped his coordination more than anything. Well that and Wyatt watching the Sandlot movie and wanting to be like Benny. Emily June finally figured out her Dora bike was there to ride, so she started figuring out how to keep up with her brother. She has a mind of her own, and when she is ready she will do it.. otherwise forget it!

Speaking of my sweet little precious girl.. we have been going through a "phase" this summer. Forget the 2's it is 3's you need to prepare yourself for!!! She might be the most hard headed, stubborn child I know. ( I say that will lots of love!) I am sure one day this energy and determination will be focused towards something positive.. but now it seems we go though drama everyday over something. Usually over getting dressed or something as simple as mommy saying "No" to something. I am amazed at how quickly she can melt down and the crocodile tears, folding of the arms and just exactly how far her little lip can stick out. I am sure she will be an academy award winning singer or actress with her lungs and flare for drama! Until then, I am getting gray hair... and drinking skinny girls. :) I do have to say she can also be the sweetest, most loving and charming child you have met...almost split personalities. Everyday is a new adventure.. that is why I love them so much!

On a sad note... We had to put our beloved tinker down last night. It was rough. I never knew it would be so hard for a dog that drove us crazy for 7 years! I have to say she was a good dog. Zach and I were laughing last night as we thought about when the kids were learning how to walk and Tinker would run over and stand there so they could pull up on her ears. Zach was strong, he took care of it.. knowing I could never do it. It was time, she was in so much pain. After Zach got home he went and talked to the kids about Tinker and how she has gone to see Jesus.. EJ was sweet.. she said" I am glad she is not hurting anymore." and that was it. Wyatt had a few more questions for Zach and said, " How do you know she is with Jesus and will I be with Jesus if I die?" Zach said, " Yes, we will all be with Jesus bc we believe he died on the cross for us and is our Savior..." Then asked Wyatt.." Do you believe in Jesus and that he died for us?" Wyatt said, "Yes! I love Jesus! He is awesome!" So after an awful night, my heart smiled and was filled with Joy.

Wonderful Beach vacation

2011-07-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

Papa and EJ .. the morning we left for Corpus. We stayed at Pam's to break up the drive.
Come one RAIN! Everything was so dry in the hill country we thought we might help out and try to get some rain.. it obviously did not work.
Relaxing on day one.. is one nice place view to wake up too.
EJ doing a rain dance.. praying for rain!

Day one of the vacation... typical family picture.. but the only one. Cowgirl EJ
The view drinking coffee in the morning.. we had to leave this to go to the beach.. life is rough!:)

Wyatt surfing in... barely see him, but I was so proud he did it the first time.
kisses
Paddling out..
The boys and EJ in the middle..

Wait for me!
The first time Wyatt saw the beach during the day. We went crab hunting the night before, and saw several sand crabs.. He was in awe and ran as fast as he could to get in.
My beach babies
Digging sand "princess" castles
Sea slugs.. these were very entertaining.. you fill up your bucket with a hand full of these with some sand and watch them disappear. It provided lots of entertainment for EJ!

We had a wonderful break from the dessert scenery this past week. We went down to see my best friend growing up (my Emily) and her family and enjoyed every minute of being on the beach and in the water. There is something so peaceful about being on the beach... barefoot and you can care less what you look like in your "grandma" bathing suit as my BFF of 30 years and husband told me on day one.... One thing about vacation, you know no matter how bad you feel there is always someone else who makes you feel better by the life size, stretched tattoo, or gorilla hair, or bigger gut than yours.. how mean is that? And why do I even care?! Anyways, we had a blast. I got rid of the grandma suit on day 2 and loosened up quite a bit. The guys went deep sea fishing.. Emily and Ryan have a great boat.. the kids are going to be completely spoiled after this trip bc a boat in our vocabulary fits behind a car.. this one was 60 feet with three bedrooms, full kitchen, living room and satellite tv. Bragging.. yes, bc it was so much fun and extremely nice of them to take such great care of us. Zach caught a red snapper, Ryan (Em's husband) caught a blue marlin.. Z came back with a new adrenalin rush and new love for deep sea fishing.I always thought it was kind of boring, but the way he describes it, it sounds exciting. I would be throwing up the entire time with my motion sickness, so I took it easy on the beach.
Wyatt is a water kid.. he did not come out the entire time. Whether we were in the ocean, the pool, the boat.. he was in the water. He learned how to surf which was very exciting and he kicked and screamed when we left. EJ likes the water, but also is more like me.. likes to lounge outside, eat snacks.. play in the sand and get in when necessary to cool off. We saw dolphins.. they literally were a foot from the boat, they catch the waves behind the boat and ride along.. might be one of the most favorite things I saw. It was so amazing.. then we saw a fisherman catch a baby shark on the beach.. after I assured Wyatt there were not sharks at the beach! He let all the kids touch him, then released him back into the ocean (yes, right were we were all swimming.. the guy obviously did not have kids or their limbs to worry about!) So, that was big excitement. Almost as exciting as getting stung by a jelly fish! (Those things hurt like heck!) I am sure the story will get bigger and bigger by the time Wyatt tells his friends. All in all it was a great weekend. Great friends, great food, great weather and great memories.

June has flown or dripped by?!

2011-06-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Keeping up with Brother.. hard to do, but she will do it!
oSlow and steady...
Can you tell Pink is her favorite color ?
Character marks... or clumsy going down the stairs at the soccer game.
FINALLY! learning how to ride her bike..
Neighborhood boys.. not exactly the safest way to ride.
Jay and Wyatt
Premier of CARS 2... could hardly stand it for weeks.. and finally the day came.

This week we celebrated Skeet's Birthday... HAPPY BIRTHDAY SKEET!
My homemade pie and the kids blowing out the candles ( ok, so Marie helped a little:))

Our favorite look.. sweaty boy.
Happy Birthday Locker... It makes me sad to see these three so grown up! Party girl... who else will wear a sequin dress to a gym in 110 heat... my princess Emily June. Some battles are not worth fighting.

Sweat has filled the Doss home this month. (We still have had no rain.. (since last September...) and it has been over 100 every day of this month.) I hate to say I feel like a bad mom as well. We start early in the morning, but by 11 we are inside until late afternoon. Which means more TV, movies, and sitting around. I try and be creative, but that means more messes with my children and they can turn what I think should be a fun, hour long project into a huge mess and done in 10 minutes. So is it worth it?! I need to be more creative! I feel "quiet and free time" develop their ability to think for themselves and use their own mind for creatively.. at least that is what I tell myself. Somehow the quiet time usually turns in too WWF at the Doss house. A small hint on the winner... is the same child who will do it while wearing a princess dress and her tiara or a sequin twirl dress. Such class.

We are headed to the Beach next month to see my bff Emily.. cannot wait. Hope to post some "cool" beach pictures! :)

It is one hot summer.

2011-06-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

The old saying it is too hot to do anything.. True. It is too hot to even swim in the afternoons. 110 degrees everyday is miserable. We are praying for rain! The kids and I have been up early, napping in the afternoon and staying up later. It seems to "cool" down at night to a cool 90-95 degrees.. Did I just say cool?! It is even too hot to take pictures. WE have had a good summer though, the first week I worked VBS at FP.. both kids went and it was great fun. Then I pawned Wyatt off on Nini who works the FBC VBS so he was there the next week. He loved it, I was a little worried two weeks in a row, but they put on an incredible program. (EJ was too young) She did do princess camp at Ballet studio.. she enjoyed it, but did not exactly follow the rules the teacher said. It was more like, "Well, how did EJ do today?" Teacher..." Well, not as good as yesterday." and they said that everyday! One thing about her is if you do not set the rules and enforce them early, she will walk all over you. I think this was a very soft spoken teacher who was very sweet, but EJ needs a little bit of fear (and a good spanking sometimes!) She has more personality and is hysterical, but very strong willed. Have no idea where she gets that from. :)
We have had a great month catching up with old friends.. Lala and I see each other but the boys who were inseparable at birth to 3, have not been able to play as much with different schools, schedules.. which is pathetic bc she lives less than a 1/2 mile away. So we have been making up for lost time and fortunately we are blessed with little hunters... they have killed everything in the back yard and hunted anything they could find. Sammy, EJ and Lizzy are not near as disturbing and play well.. usually inside where it is cool! :)
I need to get the camera back out.... we have had a lot of fun avoiding the heat. Hard to believe we are 1/2 thru June and I have no pictures for this month!

Memorial Day

2011-06-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

Sweet Pam and EJ
Outside the CAF
Missing Man formation, they played taps afterwards and it is always so emotional.

I actually made the kids sit and listen to the speech, it was hot.. they were tired of sitting.. but I do feel it is important even at a young age to show some respect and one day remember why they had to sit and listen. Zach was sweating buckets and I made him sit too:)
All my boys.. are they not handsome?!
Devil Dog is the new airplane they are trying to restore and keep flying.. very similar the Fifi campaign..

Daddy's Girl

Thank you to all of those who have served and died for our freedom. A freedom I know I take for granted. I hear of those people who are oppressed, cannot make their own decisions, forced to live in conditions we consider unbearable, forced to worship a certain religion, and I realize the older I get just how blessed we are. I know we do not live in a perfect country, but we live in a free country that so many have fought for. I am so appreciative. I never really understood the importance of Memorial Day and Vets Day until I got older, I use to just think of it as a another school holiday. I know look at my Dad, who served in Vietnam, differently.. he has always been a hero.. but now to more than just me. He is someone I am so proud of, someone I respect even more for the selfless act of fighting for our country. Along with my Peepa (WW2), Zach's granddaddy, friends, cousins, and so many I cannot even begin to thank.
This year we celebrated at teh CAF, it was great. It was hot, but what is not hot in West Texas these days! The kids love the CAF, so it was fun for them to see all the airplanes, they had games, clowns, all sorts of stuff for the family.

Happy Birthday to my first EMILY!

2011-05-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

I love you! Hope you have a great day! So hard to believe we have been friends for almost 30 years. You are more beautiful every year.

Last Day of School

2011-05-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

The two JUNEbugs.. Mrs. Christina's daugher is named "June" as well, which lead us to calling ours "Emily June" I think they are the cutest Junebugs!
Our favorite teacher.. Mrs. Christina!
and Mrs. Allison! So sweet :)
Wyatt's class..

The last days always comes so quick! I guess that is life in general, things seem to fly by.. including another school year. I was really sad this year bc we will no longer be at First Pres... the best Children's Day out program in town.. or anywhere for that matter. Mrs. Goldie is incredible and I will be so sad not to see her sweet face on a weekly basis. We also had another year of wonderful teachers.. Mrs. Christina was incredible.. and Mrs. Allison was just as sweet!

Wyatt had his last day with is class and Mrs. Evans.. We will hold him back so he will repeat Pre K next year ( he is so young, just not old enough to go to Kinder) so I was not as sad with him, knowing we will have another great year next year. EJ will go to Hillander too, so they will be one grade year apart. I am already thinking how hard it is going to be when Wyatt is in college and EJ is a senior then they will both be gone within one year! I told Zach, I will just get an apartment where ever they go to school:)

Another Road Trip!

2011-05-23T12:52:00.000-07:00

Aunt Judy, Grandma, and Mom Cousin Lacy playing with EJ, thank goodness for her extra hands, I was sweating I was so tired of trying to keep them still and behaved!
Lacy, Casey, Aunt Judy and Jordan
EJ on the front porch
Wyatt exploring the back yard... It is so green and beautiful. When Wyatt is 7 he will be able to do the family canoe trips.. just a few more years.

Having tea with Aunt Judy on the back porch
Wyatt with GG
Sisters

The Zoo.. on the way to Shreveport.. great place to stop!

They had an awesome dinosaur exhibit.. they did look real! We did a double take on a few of them!

The flamingos are for Skeet and Nini!

My favorite part.. the Petting zoo. I love the baby animals. This little longhorn started eating EJS dress, she did not think it was as funny as I did...

Train ride!

Where ever we go Wyatt seems to find the guns and shoot everything in site.
Deer hunting.

I have to say traveling with children is hard! We have the best time, but the long car rides do not bring out the best in us. Mom and I usually have a lot of patience, but today on our way home she was shoving "relaxing" pills down my throat! It was that bad. Always the way home, to leave a bad taste in your mouth.. but overall the weekend was great. Wyatt asked every 5 minuets to stretch his legs and "Are the there yet?" followed by an annoying grunt, yell or sign...Even the movies got old, the phones were dead, so they actually had to look out their windows and enjoy the ride. What happened to when we were little and did nto have all this technology?! You would think they were being torchered without being entertained every minute of the day! Then the fighting began.. it looks like we have a litter of kittens in our house with all the scratching and arguing that went on the back seat. We have to figure out a better way!

We started the trip off great, we got up early.. drove to Ft. Worth (1/2 way to shreveport) and stopped off at the zoo for several hours. that was perfect. They got all their energy out, and forgot about the next 4 1/2 hours in the car.. which they slept most of it :) We arrived in Shreveport Friday night just in time to see Grandma (or GG as the kids call her) before she went to bed. She is 97, and amazing. Her health is slowing giving away, but her mind and sense of humor are there. She is very well taken care of and gets a foot massage and facial every day.. not bad huh?! She loves all the attention too! She loved seeing the kids. EJ was so warm and loving. They played "manicure" and GG was a good sport about letting EJ pretend to paint nails, and give her a manicure. Wyatt freaks out a little with all the older people around. They love children and want to grab and touch... he runs! As long as he had the phone to play car games on he was good. (which means we could all relax and enjoy the time with GG)

My aunt also had a big retirement party.. she has taught for 39 years. She is amazing. I was in awe of all the incredible things people had to say and the amount of support she had at her party. The one thing they all said was she was the one person you can always count on to pray for you. I know we say a lot (sometimes out of habit..) " I will pray for you..." and never think about it again.. She Prays, she never forgets. Mom always tells the story of seeing Aunt Judy grow up every morning reading her Bible, she always she lived her life for Jesus and never wanted to disappoint Him. She is an inspiration to us all. Then they went on about all her jokes and sense of humor.. she is funny too! It was really nice to be there and just see the amount of love and support. One lady got up and said her thank you's then broke out in " Thank you for giving to the Lord.. " it was so moving, and touching.. the tears started pouring at that point.
So, other than the last five hours of the trip, it was just moving and perfect!

Happy Birthday Wyatt!

2011-05-15T18:49:00.001-07:00

Wyatt's real birthday.. He got to pick out the restaurant (Micheal's of course!) , then go to Toys R Us and pick out one toy ( I thought it was a great idea until he picked out legos.. when did they get so expensive?! One airplane was more expensive than a trip on Southwest!) Then home for cake and ice cream.... " I did not have any blue icing!"
Papa's birthday the day after Wyatts..... Love this - look close.. Zach is holding Wyatt's mouth so he will not blow out the candles and out of no where sissy does the job!
I am 5! Let the party begin!
Papa enjoyed himself.. their birthdays are one day apart so it is always a fun filled week full of cake and icecream! (and an extra 5 lbs)Pam was sweet enough to take all the pictures and it was cute going though all 200 of them seeing papa about every 10th shot! They are in love.. she kept saying " I think I have a good shot of him in a better light!" Too cute.
Even Zach enjoyed himself :)
Camo princess. She was not exactly thrilled about wearing this outfit.. she said "Princesses do not wear camo!" This one did.
My future son in law...

Big Jake, Noah, and Clara
My sweet neighbor Leah.. 2 of her 3 boys.. all 3 and under!

Wyatt's very first best buddy.. they were inseparable as babies and so cute!
Best buddy Jay
Nothing like fried chicken, mash potatoes, okra, rolls and gravy on a Friday night!
The dig. It was not as successful as I hoped for.. I ended up throwing all the toys out and the kids had buckets to dig for the "treasures" but Zach got tired of buring the treasures in the hard sand so it was more like a free for all!
This picture just makes me smile. Anna is so happy, running around waving the flag.. how much more American can a Friday night get?!
Again, just full of Joy..and Sammy in his Camo.
Wow, spoiled little boy!
My handsome boy

Yes, would you expect anything different?! Matching outfits. I am wondering how long I can do this for!
Amber, Casey and Mommy...oh and baby Joseph

The cake.. it was a hit. Leslie R made it then I went to Academy and bought the deer hunting kit to stick on top.. all about camo this year.
Make a wish!
Airplanes and boys.

So hard to believe my baby is 5. He is such a blessing. I have really learned so much from him in his short 5 years and he has made me a better person and better mom. I love his morning cuddles, I love his beautiful smile, and excitement for life. I pray everyday he will grow up and love like Jesus, I know if he does he will be just fine.

At 5 he still loves cars, old cars especially.. he loves airplanes (Papa has this whole room covered in airplanes hanging from the ceiling), he loves Loony toons, Tom and Jerry and video games on my phone. Anything outdoors, loves riding his bike, and playing with friends. Favorite color is Blue.. favorite food Chicken and steak and anything with sugar. He has a real sweet tooth that comes naturally :). This year he played soccer the team was the Blue Devils (the moms did not come up with that one!) and did pretty good (at least he looked cute in his uniform) . He is doing gymnastics and is really making improvements in his coordination. He joined the church choir and says he hates it, but still goes and smiles doing it! (Zach said the same thing! ) Oh, and loves to hunt squirrels and birds in the back yard and go to the lease with Papa...

Every day is a new adventure and I love it. (Even though I am exhausted by 8pm)
We had a great birthday party.. Just and old fashioned park party and the kids had a ball. I ordered Bushes Chicken, we had adult drinks and kid drinks and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We have great support, great family and friends.

Sea World!

2011-05-09T11:26:00.001-07:00

That is my big butt on the little horse, the things you do for your children! I might rethink that one next time after seeing how ridiculous I look!
I do not do Ferris wheels very well.. For one, I am afraid of heights, and the rocking is does not help! Especially in 100 degree heat! Again, EJ is fearless I am going to have to get over any fears. Reed and Wyatt

Roller Coasters!
Shamu, now Wyatt wants to be a sea world trainer. I imagine every kid does when they leave.
Buddies.. little Chad and Wyatt

Before the madness began!

Can you tell she is having fun?!

Who is the orange girl? I do not remember her?

Grover!

Sissy and Shamu
Gators!

Sea World was a blast. It was so much fun! We got there when it opened and stayed until it closed (and a little after bc my battery was dead when we go to the car! Apparently, you put your hazards on for preferred parking and I did not turn them off, thankful for Sea world security who helped us and some tired kids out!) I was dreading the water park and hoping to avoid it all together.. but when the temps hit close to 100 and the cloud cover disappeared.. I welcomed it. The shows were great, ride were for all ages and the water park felt so good in the afternoon.. best trip yet... looking forward to many more!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T23:18:00.000-07:00

I love my Mommy!
Best Mother's Day present.. healthy and happy babies!

Me, Alicia (Chad's beautiful wife), and Em
My bestie
Mrs. E and EJ .. this was me 30 years ago doing the same thing..
Meema and the kids...

Happy Mother's Day to me! I had the best Mother's Day, I was surrounded all weekend with my favorite people and lots of love. We headed to San Antonio to do a weekend with the "Elias" gang.. my second family. I am an only child, but growing up I had the best friend anyone could ask for, an brother and sister to pick on me and a second mom to mother me. I have always said that I hope my kids have a friend like I did and do. We do not get to see each other very often, but when we do.. it is like we never left. I love that feeling. This weekend we met in San Antonio and took the kids to Sea World, it was so much fun. To be honest, I was dreading it.. thinking it would be a nightmare but I was so wrong. I guess we finally hit the age where they "get it!" This morning, we woke up had a wonderful brunch then I got to drive home 6 hours with my mom.. traveling always brings us closer.
As a mom, I now get unconditional love. My mom always showed it to me, but until EJ and Wyatt.. I just did not get it. I get it now. I am in love. I have never been happier.

Spring Musical and Tea with EJ

2011-05-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Front and center..
Happy Mother's Day! Tea with EJ
Ms. Pam came to watch Wyatt perform

Papa, Me, and Wyatt (remind me to not wear that shirt again)

Tuesday was a busy day, but fun one. We finally got to hear all the songs Wyatt has been singing around the house the past several months. It was patriotic theme performance so everyone wore red, white and blue.. we even added in camo.. a staple in our wardrobe now. He did great. I told him the night before.. "Wyatt, just do your best and please do not pick your nose." So, I was thrilled that he did both! HE has a good entourage, so there were several people there to support him. I know Skeet secretly hopes he loves to be on stage, but I think he is going to have to put that hope in EJ... Wyatt is too much like me.

Emily June had a tea party for me today at her school in honor of Mother's Day. She is so precious, so hard to believe this is our last year at FP, she has the best teachers and I wish we could take them with us. Although, we are hoping for Mrs. Hullender next year and know that will be another great class. She loves tea parties.. she pretends tea parties everywhere... bathtub, her room, Meemas, outside, anywhere. She made me a brick with her footprint on it precious.. each year is a little different and I am not quite sure what do with all these "treasures" I guess we need to add on a storage closet! I love being a mom. It truly is the greatest gift ever.

Finally Easter!

2011-04-26T14:38:00.001-07:00

Daddy's girl for sure.
Wyatt took a picture of us... a little off centered but better than nothing!

Natural
Zach with Nonno

Beautiful babies.. do they not look innocent? You would never know Wyatt did a choke hold on EJ right after this shot!

Opening Meema's baskets.. I love baskets with no candy.. it is keeps the peace between Zach and the kids!
The Doss Family

We had a busy Easter weekend... I think too busy. It is my fault for cramming in every activity that I could find. I never learn.. but I did this year! Next year we will focus more on Easter Sunday. We did have a good time, don't get me wrong.
WE started off with early church, great sermon and music was wonderful. I love our pastor. We made a quick trip to Nonno's to say hello and then to the Doss house for lunch. The kids got a quick swim in, then off to the neighborhood cookout and egg hunt. Zach said "NO more egg hunts!" so we just joined in for dinner! Great Day to remember Jesus is Alive!
Emily June did say at dinner on Saturday night, "Jesus lives in my heart. He died on the cross for us." For a moment in the crazy, hectic dinner where my children were acting like wild monkeys, interrupting everyone and refused to eat the food.. I relaxed and my heart smiled. I just said, " At least I have done something right, thank goodness for CBS!" Then back to the "Mine!" no "Mine!" or "Why does she get that and I don't" I never had a brother or sister, I do not understand why they cannot just get along!

More Easter...

2011-04-24T02:49:00.000-07:00

EJ's Class at First Pres... Such a great class.. really going to miss them next year.
My favorite picture.. They are so cute. So natural. I need to black and white this one.
Chicken Egg!
Mommy's creation for snacks this year.
Besties
EJ before school on her Easter party day

Meema went to spend Easter with GG but she made sure she stopped by on her way out... WE love our Meema.This picture needs to be on a card. The annoyed look of "Seriously, another picture in matching outfits!" I love their expression.

Wyatt before his School Easter Egg Party and HuntWyatt at his school party. They did their hunt during school hours so we did not get to see it, but he assured me he got plenty of eggs.. which means plenty of candy :) He just came in from recess, can you tell he sweats like his daddy?
Loving on Aunt Dixie.

Can you see the tip of her tongue it is orange.. bc she tried to eat the orange tablet thinking it was candy... We cannot keep things out of her mouth right now!
The Doss' have a method to their Easter Egg dying... much more organized and colorful than any of ours in the years past. (imagine that!)
Nini and Dixie

Attempt at trying to get a picture all together...
My sweet Dad and his girlfriend Pam... they are so precious and in love right now. Have not scene my Dad this happy in years..maybe decades!
Some of my favorite people:) .
Two of my three favorite boys...
Sweet Daddy. WE went and had brunch with the Easter bunny. It seemed like a great idea... but by the time we got to the hunting eggs part they were tired and worn out from waiting. Bad planning! Cute picture though:)

EJ called to help Mr. Harlin in his magic show, she loves every minute. Wyatt did throw a fit bc he was not asked... We are learning sometimes life is just not fair!

I love this picture, it pretty much sums up our personalities right now!
My handsome boy... that face gets me every time!

The Easter Bunny... EJ kept asking me, "Why is the Easter bunny sad?" I just said it was a bad consume.. good Mom huh? They know it is a costume, I cannot seriously look at them and say that Easter Bunny is real. It was a pathetic costume!

Did I mention I love Easter?! Well, Easter is not even here and I feel we did too much this year. The kids have had a ton of Easter egg hunts, parties, baskets from family.... that I feel they are missing the whole point. I love to have fun and celebrate the holiday, but I will think of better ways next year. I was happy tonight at dinner when something was said about Easter and Emily June said, "Jesus lives in my heart, He died on the cross for us." It truly made me smile, and so thankful for programs like CBS who teach the kids about the real meaning. (They never listen to me, so thankful they listen to their CBS teachers! ) I asked Wyatt what Easter meant and he said, " Candy and egg hunts..." so I still have some work to do!
So thankful for a Father who loves us so much, He sent His son... As a mom, I sometimes have a hard time imagining that kind of love. Real Love. Having His perfect son, sacrificed for me. Seems so undeserving, yet so grateful. So my prayer goes on.. I pray every day we can love like Jesus... He did pay it all for me.

Blue Devils...

2011-04-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

Favorite part of soccer.. the snack and drink afterwards!
Why score a goal when you can hang on it?! It is much more fun!

Coaches ... Funny when the dad grew up together and are now coaching the kids.... Are we really that old?!

Wednesday Fun

2011-04-16T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hanging out..

(notice the socks, he dressed himself.. everything is camo and socks that do not match!)

A few weeks ago Skeet and Nini started taking the kids to church with them on Wednesday nights... This has been the best arrangement. I have struggled with the not having the traditional things in church that I grew up with, but love the music and pastor at our "contemporary"church now... So, this has been a blessing! They eat at First Baptist (where Zach and I met and grew up with the best youth minister ever) then do kids choir.. our church does not do anything on Wednesday nights or kids choir. Here are the kids hanging in tree waiting on their ride Wednesday. It is a great way for them to see their Skeet and Nini too.. did I mention it creates a date night for Zach and I?! Even better. I just hope it does not stop when summer comes!

Beginning of Easter fun

2011-04-16T10:14:00.001-07:00

My handsome boyMommy did not get dressed up for the hunt obviously!

Happy Girl

Where have we been?! It seems between the stomach bug, sinus infections, and fires we have been down and out on and off for a few weeks. The cedar takes a toll on Zach, he is struggling to breathe these days. If it does not rain soon might all be in trouble. (It has not rained since Sept of last year)

Today we started our first round of Easter Egg hunts... I love Easter, such a great time of year and the kids hopefully will learn the real meaning.. meanwhile we love the hunts, activities, learning about Jesus, and my favorite matching outfits! Today we joined the gang at First Methodist at Hill Park for the annual egg hunt... They do such a great job at making sure everyone gets plenty of eggs.... which in turn means plenty of candy. I can see the look on Zach's face as the kids are opening up all the candy... it is like anxiety setting in. He is anti candy so he just cringes as each kid holds up another laffy taffy as if they won a gold medal. It is always a battle, I love the people who put silly bands and toys in there so it keeps the peace! It seems my children have my sweet tooth! Looking forward to a fun week now off to see the Blue Devils play a game against the green dragons... pictures will follow!

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

"Kiss me, I'm Awesome!"
Sweet girl with her headband my neighbor made her, so talented.
Notice her feet... always on her tip toes....

Spring Break has been nice this year, the weather has been beautiful so it has made going to the park and playing outside nice and easy. I did attempt the library yesterday for a "fun" activity... they have story time and do a little craft. I have tried this before and thought since we are a little older it might be easier. Wrong. My kids are not library kids. They cannot sit still and listen to silly songs, they want to be in my lap, looking at books, doing the activity... I always leave sweating and thinking, " Why did I think this was a good idea?!"
What was a good idea is Zach setting up the tent in the backyard. Something so simple can provide hours of entertainment! Wyatt attempted to sleep in it one night... (Zach and I took bets on how long he would last!) Not very long, he came in and said, " I think I will wait to another night, it is so cold out there...." (the temp was 80 degrees!) So, he got up early with Zach to workout and went in the tent and fell asleep until daylight (which at 5:30AM is a couple of hours)

We started off this morning with green eggs, a tradition... and hope to have more green fun today! Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Beginning of Spring Break fun

2011-03-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

I WANT this sweet baby! He is sooo cute.

Baby chicks and ducklings

So cute!
EJ and the bunny, she is my animal lover...
Annabelle, Jay, EJ and Wyatt with the bunny
Buddies...

Thank goodness for good friends and neighbors... I love my neighbors, they make our lives so enjoyable.. Yesterday we celebrated Bella's birthday with play date and cupcakes at the park, today we headed over the the 4H petting zoo and discovered an awesome new park! Every time I go to one of these, I call Zach and tell him I want to move to the country! I love animals, I love the 4H program and it is hard for me not to sneak the baby goat in my shirt and take him home! I know I would push my luck though... right now we have a new cat that Zach is highly allergic too, but we have all gotten attached too.. Columbo is still around, we are debating on sending him to my Mom's, that what a good wife would do. Zach said the only way we could keep him is by keeping the house super clean and only letting him in to eat. That is hard to do, so I started today by scrubbing the baseboards in the bathroom.. I have to say I am embarrassed to say the least.. So each day is a new scrub down project to get the house super clean. (And thank goodness Terri decided to come back and help!)
WE found an awesome park, too bad they are always on the opposite side of town! It was an adventure park, lots of rope climbing, rock wall, and I think Crossfit approved... it required lots of pull ups and body movements to maneuver..Casey and I love things that are free and wear out the kids, so we will be back soon!

Best Friends

2011-03-05T18:27:00.000-08:00

EJ's best friend.. sweet Marissa. We are finally to the age where play dates are easy.. especially with these two. I cannot help to be bias bc Marissa reminds me so much of my Emily, even their looks.. I wish I could figure out how to upload to show us at this age... we were doing the same thing... Playing dress up and "Mommy." Good girlfriends are hard to find! I love these girls, they just make me smile!