Crazy January Weather

There's a Texan saying - "If you don't like the weather today, just stick around, it's bound to change." This is especially true in the Houston area. A few weekends ago, the temperatures were cool enough to wear our heavy coats. Yet, this weekend, I had to pull out the shorts & short-sleeved shirts.

last weekend at the park...

all bundled up...

warm January day...

Boy & Girl Wilderness

If the weather is nice - no raining, hailing, sleeting, lightening, or thundering - outdoor playtime is where you can generally find the older two monkeys.  Here they are enjoying some neighbors and their trampoline.

Wedding Festivities

Yesterday morning we rose early to travel to a lovely family wedding in Houma. The kids were AWESOME on our drive. We couldn't have been happier. We enjoyed a wonderful spread of Cajun food, our precious time with family, and tons of dancing before heading back home. Thank you for including us in your special day, Michael & Amanda! We wish you a lifetime of happiness.

Cousins Rock

While my girls needed some rest during our visit at Uncle Rick's, the boy & his cousins enjoyed giving the snowboard a try.  There may not have been quite enough snow on the ground, but my Q-man was in total heaven.

Snowbirds

The kids were thrilled with the snowfall during our Kentucky visit.  In years past, Mother Nature has never lined up her plans for snow in conjunction with our visit.  She had perfect timing this year.

The kids could have stayed out in it longer than I allowed, but fingers & toes were starting to numb.  Here they are in all their cuteness.

all smiles...

(well, 2 out of 3 ain't bad)

teaching sister how to make a snowball...

not quite sure about the white stuff...

didn't mind being in Mama's arms...

getting a little help from PawPaw...

Q & his snow dog...

PawPaw & Ri's snowman...

Mama kept warm in her boots...

snow angel...

didn't want to leave...

snow bunny...

loving it, too...

Merry Christmas To All

This Christmas has truly been one of the best. The kids are all at the perfect age & have enjoyed the fun and magic that the season brings.

On Christmas Eve, Q&R went with Mimi & Papa to the children's church service at Christ Church United Methodist.  This service is designed specifically for children and included a live nativity.  The kids always enjoy that special time.

on their way to church...

not a creature was stirring...

except for this little mouse...

her wish came true...

and this little mouse...

"Thank you, Santa!!!"

totally enthralled...

more morning fun at Mimi & Papa's...

Sweet P opening a gift...

(this princess likes her beauty rest, so she wasn't up 

quite as early as her cute "bubba" & "sissy")

Mama's girl...

girl talk...

Twinkle was a lot of fun this last month.  I certainly know he must be tired and ready for some rest.  No rest for The Schmidt's just yet, though.  The kids & I are headed to visit with the Kentucky cousins tomorrow.  Snow is in the forecast - the real deal, not the kind that Twinkle brought to our home.  I think we're ready!

Christmas Help

I'm so very fortunate to have help during the holiday season.  This little elf likes to help Mama unload groceries.  We like to call her the "Texas Tornado".  She can turn a room upside down in mere seconds.