Adventures with the Arredondos

Happy Birthday Jackson

2011-09-02T20:02:00.004-05:00

My sweet Jackson turned 13 today. I remember Reyno driving me to the hospital that morning and being so excited to meet our baby boy.
Jackson, I love you more than words can express. You have such a kind heart and you are truly the sweetest person. You are growing up so fast and I have loved watching you grow into a wonderful young man. I love you with all of my heart.
Love,
Mom

Happy Birthday Marisa

2011-03-31T18:50:00.002-05:00

Today my baby girl turns 17!! It's hard to believe she is almost an adult. She is an amazing young women who inspires me everyday. She is beautiful inside and out!! Marisa, I love you more everyday. Thank you for 17 wonderful years!!!! I love you!!!!!

Hanford

2011-03-19T19:11:00.003-05:00

Meet the newest member of our family...

Hanford!!!!!

Two very happy boys!!!!

About a month ago we adopted Hanford from a no kill shelter in Philadelphia. We decided not to change his name since he has had it for four years. This is our first dog and we are all in love with him!!!

Honor Society

2011-03-16T20:51:00.003-05:00

Not surprising to anyone who reads this, but I am a month late with this post. In February both kids were inducted into their schools Honor Society. And with two snow date changes, both events ended up being on the same night, at the same time in two different places!! Reyno went with Jackson and I was with Marisa. It was a crazy night, but very special.

Mom and dad with the newly elected secretary of NHS!

Family picture

The newest members of NHS and NJHS

Reyno and I are beyond proud!!! We are very blessed with two amazing kids!!

Snow, Snow and More Snow!

2011-02-02T20:51:00.004-06:00

I guess this post will be a wrap up of January. Not much happened other than one snow storm after another. I have never seen so much snow in my life. I think it's some kind of record. Not surprising that my first winter back in NY that they would have record breaking snow!!!
The kids have had SIX snow days this past month. They are even sick of it. When I went in their rooms this morning to let them know they had another snow day, they both groaned. Now on top of the snow we have three inches of solid ice!!
I'm not sure we are going to survive this!! How many months til summer????

December Recap

2011-01-28T14:42:00.008-06:00

Yes I do realize that it is the end of January and I am just now posting about December. I thought about just ignoring the whole month, but I know someday I will want to look back and remember what a fun month this was

The month started off with the Army/Navy gala in Philly.

Reyno and I on the trolley headed to the gala

Reyno ready for the long day ahead

The kids on the streets of Philly. We all fell in love with this city.

This is a terrible picture of me, but I was so happy to run into my cousin John that I had to post it. We hadn't seen each other in 17 years!!!

Kids at The Melting Pot after the game. Sadly we lost, but had a fun dinner.

A few weeks later....

Merry Christmas!!!!

After we opened presents and ate brunch, we hopped on a plane and headed for Texas!!

Army was playing in its first bowl game in thirteen years and it just so happened to be in Dallas!!

Shopping with some friends. They all wanted boots from Texas!

Jackson and Marisa spent some time with old friends

And got lots of cuddle time with Madeline!!!!

Group shot of the kids at the game

It was a fast but fun week and in Dallas and I enjoyed seeing family and friends. I was a little ready to be back in my house, unfortunately this is what we came home to...

It hasn't stopped snowing since!!!!!!!!!!!

I hoping to be a better blogger this year. We have many fun things ahead of us that I would like to remember when I'm old!! :)

Look What I Won!!!

2010-11-30T07:37:00.003-06:00

At the beginning of November I entered a blog giveaway here. And on Saturday I received this in the mail...

I never win anything and this is an awesome prize!!!

Thanks Allison!!!!!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-29T03:54:00.005-06:00

This year, Thanksgiving was a little different. We weren't in Texas at my parents house, but we did spend it with family. My sister, Camille and her sweet family came up to visit and spent the weekend with us. And two of my brothers came up from the city for the day.

Here are the kids, my brothers and Liza waiting for the the Semps and Reyno to get back from the airport. I think they were waiting for the food too!!

Turkey!! I was very thankful that I didn't overcook it and that it tasted yummy!!

The dessert table!!!

Hanging out in the kitchen with my sweet family!!

After dinner, we needed to work off some of the thousands of calories we inhaled.

Jules and Mo!!

The whole gang

Everyone relaxing watching the Cowboys!!

Friday we toured WP and and relaxed. We needed to reserve our energy for our trip to NYC!!

We got up early Saturday morning and took the train into the city. We started our day at Ground Zero. It's an incredible site!!

We had street meat for lunch and by that time we were frozen solid. So we went back to the hotel and the Semps continued on their tour of the city.

We met back up at Central Park and tour a carriage ride. It was so cool!!

Mo and Jax!!

Reyno and me!!

We met up with Dom for dinner in Chinatown

On the subway!!

This place was so yummy!!!

The aftermath!!!

Little Italy decorated for Christmas!!!

Sunday morning we got up bright and early for mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral. It is such a beautiful church.

After church we headed back home. It was an amazing weekend and I'm so thankful for my sister and her family for coming to visit and for my brothers being so close to me. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Projects!

2010-11-23T22:32:00.003-06:00

So here are a few things I've been working on...

My mom bought me this the last time we were here. It comes with two stools and I really like it, but I was not loving the way it looked. So I attempted to paint it

I love the way it looks now, but it is by no means perfect. I think I'm eventually going to have to so some major touch ups.

I saw this beautiful coffee filter wreath at http://www.thenester.com/

It wasn't hard just a little time consuming. I love it!!

A few weeks ago I found this at a yard sale for $10. Not sure what I'm going to do with it, but I will be sure to post it when I do!!!

That's all for now. I'm sure now that Christmas is upon us, I will have a few more!!

It's Been A Long Time!

2010-11-16T09:56:00.006-06:00

Is it really November??? I'm not sure where the last month went. Things have been going at rocket speed around our house.
October was a fun and crazy month for us. The beginning of the month started out at the pumpkin patch. This, by far is my most favorite thing to do in New York. We do it every year, no matter where we live, but in NY we get to pick apples!!

This is the view at the orchard. So beautiful!!

The kids and I ready to find our pumpkins.

Family pic in the patch!!

Love this picture!!

Marisa being silly!!

Reyno was a trooper!!

It was such a beautiful day. We got great pumpkins and lots of yummy apples!!!

As some of you may know, the Texas Rangers went all the way to the World Series! But before they got there, they had to play the Yankees for the American League Championship. We were lucky enough to get tickets to game 5 at Yankee stadium. I can't tell you how excited we were to get this opportunity.

As much as I dislike the Yankees and their fans...they have a cool stadium

If you can't tell, Jackson is very happy!!! :)

And so was Reyno!!

Cliff Lee in the Bullpen!!

Josh smiling at us!! My heart was beating very fast!!!

Isn't this an awesome shirt?!?! There was a group of fans that came up from Denton, TX and they had these shirts made. Love it!!

Luckily there were several Rangers fans sitting together. We needed protection from the insane Yankee fans!

We ended up losing the game, but it was such a great day and a memory I will never forget!!

The month ended with Halloween. My favorite holiday!!

Kids carving pumpkins. Actually, Marisa was just posing. After this pic she went back upstairs to get ready for trick or treating. :)

The nerd and Josh Hamilton. Yes, my 16 year old still trick or treats! :)

The front of the house. Gotta love Army housing!!

That's about it. It was fun, fast and full of adventure!!! I hope November slows down a bit!!

I Couldn't Resist!!!!

2010-09-28T21:09:00.003-05:00

So I'm pretty obsessed with making my house smell good. I love Bath & Body Works candles and wallflowers. I have them all over my house. My favorite scents are the warm fall scents. In fact, I use them all year round. The point to all this is that I was invited to a Scentsy party. They are plug in wax warmers. I went to the party just to check it out. I really didn't think I would buy one since I have my wallflowers and candles. But I smell all the scents and look at the catalog and I think it's a cool idea, but still not sold. And then I saw this....

I couldn't resist!!! :)

I actually like it!! I put it in our basement and it smell so good!!!

What can I say... I'm a sucker for the longhorns! :)

What We've Been Up To

2010-09-16T19:27:00.011-05:00

I'm a little late on this, but Marisa and I caught a nasty bug and it's taken me all week to recover.

Last week Jackson finally went back to school. It has been a very long summer. As much as he said he wasn't ready, I think he was.

He is growing up so fast.

This past weekend was Army's first home football game against Hawaii. We attended the AD's tailgate before the game.

I didn't take any pics inside, but it was pretty nice. Maybe I'll get some this weekend.

Reyno and I before the game started. It was a beautiful sunny day.

The USMA parachute team. They are awesome to watch.

Bringing in the game ball.

Mo and Jackson getting ready to cheer on Army!!

The Corp of Cadets

Reyno is back to work. Since he is still on crutches(for the next six week), he can't get around very fast. These are his wheels for games days

It's so fun to ride in!! :)

That's all for now. Somebody is turning 42 tomorrow!!!

Happy Birthday Jackson!!!

2010-09-02T21:20:00.007-05:00

Twelve years ago today, in a big pink hospital in Hawaii, my baby boy was born!! What an amazing day. Jackson, you have brought so much love to our family. You have such a kind heart and you are the sweetest boy I know!! :) I can't believe you are twelve. The years have just flown by. I love you so much!!
Since we haven't been here long and Jackson still hasn't started school, we had a family day.
Reyno and I took him bowling today and then we had dinner at home tonight. I made steak and baked potatoes (by request) and a cookie birthday cake..

I couldn't find the birthday candles, so we improvised.

Today was also Marisa's first day of school.

Every year I always take their pictures in front of a tree. This year it was in front of her car. And then it hit me, this was the first year of her life that I didn't drive her to school on the first day.

Wow, when did all this happen???

I am back from my blogging hiatus. We are almost done with unpacking. Normally we would have been done by now, but one of us (Reyno) had an accident that involved a big TV and the stairs!!! So we are on hold for awhile until one of us (Reyno) gets better.

It's good to be back!!!!!

Checking In

2010-07-27T14:41:00.003-05:00

Well, me made it to New York. We have signed in and just waiting for our house to be ready. Should be some day next week. So in the meantime we are hanging out in the hotel and driving around post. Not much has changed in the last five years. The scenery is beautiful and the weather is nice.
So on to our road trip... I had every intention of blogging after every day on the road. But to be honest, it would have been a very boring post. For example... Day one: Drive, stop for gas and potty break, drive some more, stop for snacks, drive a lot more and stop for the night. It was brutal. I have never done so much driving in all my life. After three long days in the car, we made it to Philadelphia where we met up with Reyno. We spent the night at our dear friends' house. Got up the next day and made it to our final destination. 1650 miles!!!!! I can't believe we made it!!!!
As soon as I download the pictures, I will write about our last two weeks in Texas.

Moving Day

2010-07-09T01:00:00.003-05:00

Today was moving day. The big truck came and it was loaded up with everything we own. Now I'm sitting in an empty room thinking back on the last four years. We've had some great times and some not so great times. We've made great friends who have become like family to us. We have been apart of an amazing church and our kids have accomplished great things. We have lived in a house that has felt like a home.
We are not strangers to moving. In fact this will be our ninth move. It's always hard to leave, but for some reason this is extremely hard. It's hard to explain the connection we all have to this place,but its a strong one.
The kids have been saying goodbye to their friends all week. It's been emotional to say the least. I'm trying to stay strong but most of the time I want to cry with them.
They are so strong and such amazing Army kids.
So now we look forward. And start a new adventure!!!

Baseball Bling and a New Look

2010-07-06T22:29:00.005-05:00

Now that Jackson's team is World Series bound, we moms thought we needed to look good for the games. So like any proud baseball mom, we pulled out the glitter and bedazzler!!!
Marisa and I made these...

Marisa made the black one and I made the red. If you look closely, you can see that I put an H instead of an N. I fixed it, but I was very mad!!! :)

The back

We had these made.

If anything, we will have the best looking parents!!! :)

I've had a blog makeover thanks tohttp://scottandchristicopeland.blogspot.com/. Thanks Christi. I love it!!!!

June in Review

2010-07-05T19:17:00.017-05:00

So here I am trying to play catch up. June has come and gone and to be honest, it was a blur. The month started off with Reyno and Marisa heading east to WP to get our house, check out the schools and to drop off one of the cars. The trip was successful. We got a house and registered both kids in school. Unfortunately they didn't take any pictures.
Jackson and I stayed home for, what else... baseball. We were lucky enough to have a few visitors.

Mom, dad, Camille and Jules came down to keep us company. We had a great time and had breakfast at one of our favorite places... Cracker Barrel.

We all took a trip to Dallas for baby Madeline's baptism. We love being in Dallas because there is so much to do. We went really wild and one night headed to Central Market!! :) We were fascinated with the exotic fruit section.

This was our favorite. I can't remember the name, but the nice produce man cut it open and let us try it. Yummy!!

But the highlight of the trip was the Baptism of this amazing little angel...

I LOVE this picture!!!! She is such a happy baby!!

Corey and Rosemary asked Reyno and I to be her Godparents. We were so honored!!

Proud parents and Godparents and very happy big sister!

All the girls!!!

Camille and I gave her a bracelet and we are putting it on her. I think she was asleep. :)

The rest of the month was spent at the baseball fields.

Jackson and his best friend, Ice

Coach dad handing out trophies.

All Star game. We won!!!!

Our travel team had a players vs parents game to end the regular season.

Jackson is very focused.

I wonder where he gets it... :)

Marisa and I had to get some shopping in. We love going to the bookstore. I love cookbooks and she loves...

This is not a joke. She actually bought that book...for fun!!! :) She is so awesome!!!

We ended the month with a combatives tournament. A very close friend of our family competed and won his weight class. It was very exciting and we are so proud of him!

Jackson and Jason!!

In the octagon. Jackson loved wearing Jason's championship belt!!

We had a very big month. Lots of ups and downs, but with lots of prayers and support, we came out on top.

We have one more exciting adventure before we leave Texas. Jackson's team is going to the Texas World Series!!! We have been very busy blinging shirts! (pics to come).

It's 3:00 am and the packers are coming in the a few hours. I'm not ready, but it's still going to happen because this is what they dropped off at our house..

Sweet Dreams!!!!!!!

Field Day and Last day of School

2010-05-28T22:26:00.005-05:00

Jackson had field day on Wednesday. It was a fun, but hot day. Lots of games and lots of water.
My goal was to take lots of pictures of Jackson and his friends, but I did not take a single one!! I was so busy running one of the events and never even took my camera out. However, I did have pictures taken of us before and after...

Bright and early that morning

Back home, nice and sweaty. Notice that we both have matted down hair. :)

And it is no coincidence that we have burnt orange shirts!! Each class got a certain color and the mom ordering them knew just how much our class loves the longhorn!!! Except for our teacher...she is an Aggie. Sorry Mrs. L :)

Thursday was the last day of school for both kids. Again, my intention was to take tons of pictures. I was busy saying goodbye and trying not to cry. I couldn't even get a picture of Marisa and Jackson together!

It was a hard day. Even though we still have several weeks before we leave, just pulling out of the parking lot brought tears to my eyes. This is going to a hard place to leave.

I forgot to add this picture to the last post.

Marisa with her awards. So proud of my girl. I can't believe she is now a junior!!!!

Gotta get some sleep. We have three games tomorrow!!!

Our Weekend

2010-05-23T22:41:00.002-05:00

This weekend, like most, we were at the baseball fields. This was for our tournament team, so we traveled. Not too far, but far enough that we were surrounded by wheat fields. This place was out in the boonies. I'm talking country baseball. Reyno kept saying it reminded him of the movie, "The Rookie". :) The boys did a great job!! I love to see them get so pumped up for the games. They are working really hard to make to the Texas World Series. It will be so fun for them and the parents. All the moms got together to discuss our tshirts and how we are going to bling the out!!!! I can't wait!!!!!!! :)

In other news... Marisa received two awards at the academic banquet. She received the English II award and the World History award. She was so excited and we were beyond proud!!!!! She has had such a great year!!! :)
One week til school is out!! Lots of finals for both kids. And then the fun starts....MOVING!!!!!!!!

I also wanted to add that every year at this time our church honors the graduating Seniors. This is one of my favorites Masses. I love to see all the kids in their gowns from all the different schools. This year we had two Valedictorians and one Salutatorian in the group. I think I cried the entire time. I am just so proud of them and their amazing parents. I love our church so much and the great sense of family I feel every time I'm in there.

Busy week ahead!!!!!!

Playing Catch Up

2010-05-14T17:54:00.011-05:00

I'm Back!!!!!!! This last month has been a blur!!! So many things are happening and not one of them has been about our move. I guess that will over take us next month. We don't have an out date yet, although we do know it will be in July. Our next thing on the list is to get our house on post! I'm hoping for a big house for all my visitors!!! :)

In other news... The month of May started out with prom. Marisa went with a friend and had a great time

She looked so beautiful!!

We headed to Dallas one weekend for my sweet niece's First Communion. It was so wonderful to see her receive this special sacrament.

Beautiful girl!!! She is wearing the veil that Marisa wore at her First Communion. I love you J!!!!

Mom, me and sweet baby Madeline. I love that she is looking up at me!! :)

Reyno, Anthony(proud daddy), Corey, Dad and Jackson!

After the mass we went back to Camille's house for a beautiful lunch. It was a great day!!

Marisa and Jackson with Madeline. They could not get enough of her!!! There were lots of hints from the kids that they would love to have a new sibling!!! I just laughed!! :)

May is a month of end of the year events. It's probably the busiest month of the school year.

Jackson has had two band concerts and two academic awards ceremonies.

Getting ready to play.

And it wouldn't be right if I didn't mention baseball. It is the one thing that we do everyday!!!!

He looks so serious. This is the Rec team that Reyno coaches.

Marisa had her sports banquet this past weekend. I didn't take a single picture!!!

We have her academic awards this week and then finals start.

As much as I am ready for the school year to be over, I want it to slow down a little. I know our time here is running out.

This and That

2010-04-27T08:35:00.005-05:00

The last few weeks have been busy and and very exciting. Jackson made the all "A" Honor Roll for the third time this year and is staying very busy with baseball. Starting next week, he will be playing seven days a week!!!
Marisa is very busy with school and getting ready for Prom!!! She was recently inducted into the National Honor Society!!

We are so proud of her. She has worked very hard for this!!! Our dear friend, Stephen came to the ceremony. He brought our sweet God daughter, Sahara. We missed having her twin brother, Sterling and big brother Stephen and mom Bettina.

Last week I got the call that I had been waiting for for nine months!!! My sister was in labor!!!! I jumped in the car and headed to Dallas!! That afternoon, my beautiful niece, Madeline was born!!!

Here is Madeline with her mom and her aunts!!! This baby girl is going to be very loved!!

My amazing sister and the love of her life, Madeline!!

We have many things coming up in the next few weeks. End of the school year awards, baseball and eventually I'm going to have to get ready for the move!!! Can you tell I'm still in denial!!! :)

Opening Day!!

2010-04-08T14:52:00.013-05:00

Monday was opening day for the Texas Rangers!!! We surprised Jackson with tickets to the game. He was beyond thrilled.

Here we are before heading out to the game. I think we were all excited!!!

The Ballpark at Arlington

My guys trying to catch balls at batting practice.

Jackson with one of the Ranger girls!!

The F-16s flying over the ballpark

Former Dallas Cowboy, Roger Staubach, throwing out the first pitch.

Our favorite Ranger, Josh Hamilton!!!!

A walk off win!!!!

After the big win!!! Go Rangers!!!

It was such a fun day. The game was great and we made many wonderful memories!!!

Easter 2010

2010-04-08T14:50:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter from the Arredondos!!!!

Happy Birthday Marisa!!!

2010-03-31T22:11:00.005-05:00

Today my sweet, amazing daughter turned 16! It's hard for me to write those words. I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. I remember going into labor, and how quickly she came. I remember holding her in my arms. She was so little and so sweet. That day changed my life forever. God had blessed me with this child and he entrusted Reyno and I to raise her. I never could have dreamed for a better daughter. She is smart, caring, funny,outgoing and a pure gift!!! I do not feel worthy of such a gift. I thank God everyday for her. I thank him for allowing me to be her mother.
Marisa, you amaze me. Your faith in God is inspiring. Thank you for being you! I cannot wait to see the adult you become. I look forward to your future and I cherish each day that I spend with you!!!

On a lighter note, I am now the mother of a licenced driver!!!! First thing this morning we headed to the DPS. I was so nervous and she was so excited. Reyno was snapping pictures like crazy!!! :)

Wow!! I haven't seen that big of a smile on her face in a while!!

Here she is this afternoon going to hang out with her friend. To say that I was a little nervous is an understatement!! I stood in the driveway watching my baby drive off. I barely kept it together. :) I made her call me as soon as she got there.

It's been a very big day. Happy Sweet 16 Marisa!!!!

Birthday Party Wrap Up

2010-03-29T22:37:00.017-05:00

This past Friday night we celebrated our wonderful daughter's Sweet 16!! This party took months of planning and if it's any indication of how her wedding is going to go, we made need some help!!! :)
In all seriousness, the party was a huge success!!! My sweet sisters, parents and even my brother from L.A. came down to help us celebrate!! Here are just a "few" pictures of the night! :)

A family shot before all the guests arrived!!

My baby girl and me. I am absolutely the luckiest mom in the world!!

Marisa with her Nana and Pop

Here she is with the off duty officer that we had to have at the party! Such a nice man.

Marisa with her cake!! Not sure why we always feel the need to take a picture with a cake, but she sure looks cute! :)

Mo with her sweet friend

more friends!!

The tables and the awesome view of the pond on the golf course.

Gianna, mom, dad and Jackson

Jackson dancing with the big kids!

Sweet sisters...Camille, me and Gianna. We missed you Bud!!

Four of the eight kids... Gianna, Camille, me and Vincent

Marisa dancing with Tio!!! So cute!!

Marisa and her Daddy!!!

Blowing out her candles!! I love this picture!!!

Marisa said she had a wonderful time and was so thankful to us for throwing it for her. That is all I needed to hear!!! We love you Mo!!!

I just had to add this picture. Saturday night was her school's Sadie Hawkins dance. It was Eighties themed. I would have loved to dress up and chaperoned, but I was not invited! :)

I miss the Eighties!!!

Spring Break

2010-03-22T21:19:00.007-05:00

Last week the kids were on spring break. Reyno had to work the first part of the week so Marisa and I focused on the party. We finished the centerpieces, ordered the cake and bought the decorations. Jackson went to a mini baseball camp at one of the local high schools. By Wednesday we were ready for some fun!! Since we only had a couple of day to spare, we booked a room at the Barton Creek Resort in Austin. It was such a beautiful place. Reyno played golf and I got a massage. They had two video game rooms, so Jackson was in heaven. Thursday we hung out at the pool. The weather was great so we spent most of the day outside. My pasty white skin was not ready for the beautiful sunshine and I got fried!!!!
The rest of our time in Austin was spent eating. It's what we do best!! :)

The view from our room. So Beautiful!!

My sweet babies!! :)

Another great place to eat. They have the best brisket tacos!!

YUMMY!!!!!

After dinner we went for ice cream at Amy's. The guy working there was so fun and entertaining. He told Marisa that he would throw her ice cream over the counter and if she caught it, it was free!!

Here she is getting ready. I think she was nervous that her ice cream was going to land on the floor!

Success!!!

The trip was great and very much needed.

We were back to our normal routine today. This week is going to be very busy. Stay tuned for a sneak peek of the centerpieces!

Baseball

2010-03-15T09:35:00.008-05:00

Baseball season has officially started. Jackson had his first tournament this weekend. They really played well together. This is a new team and a new division for him. And this is some serious baseball. His rec team has started practicing, but they won't start playing games for another month. So our last few month here will be spent at a baseball field!!! :)

The cutest second baseman I have ever seen!!! :)

Getting ready to go up to bat

Pep talk from his coach.

Look at that stance!!

After the game with Marisa. So sweet!!

Here he is with his very proud mama!!!

Yes, I have become one of those crazy baseball moms. My necklace is a baseball with his name on it!! What's next.... baseball earrings?!?!?! I will keep you posted! :)

Party Planning

2010-03-13T12:17:00.004-06:00

We are full party planning mode at our house. There are just two weeks left until the biggest party of the year... Marisa's Sweet 16!!!!! :) Luckily we are on spring break this week, so I have all hands on deck!
My big project for this week is to finish the centerpieces. My sister has graciously lent us her glass cylinders from her wedding. I'm just not sure what to do with them. Marisa's colors our silver, purple and black. This is one idea we had(thanks Bud)....

We can't have an open flame, so candles are out. If anyone has any ideas, I would love to hear them. Thanks!!!

We are off to shop!!!! Wish us luck!!!

Promotion Ceremony

2010-03-09T21:46:00.007-06:00

The day has finally come!!! Reyno is officially a Lieutenant Colonel!!! The ceremony was awesome. Reyno's boss did a great job and the whole Battalion was there.

Disclaimer... I am an outfit repeater!!! With all the party planning going on, I didn't not have time to shop for a new dress!! :)

Here we are at attention while the orders are being read. (Not my best side! :))

Pinning on the new rank. My hands were shaking and I was so worried that the wind was going to blow my dress up!!

Happy Family!!!!

After the ceremony we went to the conference room for some cake. It was so yummy!!!

The writing is supposed to be gray, but it turned a weird green color.

I am so proud of my hard working soldier!!!!

Rosemary's Baby Shower and a Month of Parties

2010-03-03T22:29:00.008-06:00

This past weekend Marisa and I headed to Dallas for my sisters baby shower. The party was a huge success!!! There were so many people there. We are all so happy for Rosemary and Corey. I can't wait to finally meet baby Madeline. She is going to be one spoiled little girl!!! :)
Here are some pictures from the day..

My mom made some much wonderful food!!

The hostesses with the mom to be. My mom, Camille, Rosemary, me and Mary. We were missing Stephanie and Gianna.

My mom and all her girls!!!!

Me and my sweet little sister!!!

Rosemary and her college friends, Christi and Tiffany.

So March is a busy month for us and this year it's especially busy and very exciting. Marisa and I both have birthdays this month. We are deep in planning for her sweet 16 party. I am a little overwhelmed by the party prep and the fact that my little girl is turning 16!! I can't believe she is going to be driving!!

We are also very excited because this week Reyno is being promoted to LTC (Lieutenant Colonel) We are having a big party to celebrate.

So needless to say, we are in party mode at our house. I am trying to stay calm so that everything goes off smoothly. Wish me luck!!!!

Snow Day

2010-02-24T20:05:00.007-06:00

Yesterday was a very exciting day. We had a snow day!!!! Now I know to most people four inches of snow is not much. But when you live in central Texas, it might as well be a blizzard.

All bundled up!

Our street. The trees looked so pretty covered in snow.

Jackson with Fred, our snowman.

Jackson, me and Fred.

We had such a fun time outside. I think we might even be ready for a New York winter...NOT!!!

Last Game

2010-02-04T08:22:00.004-06:00

Tuesday night was Marisa's last basketball game. It was also senior night. Before the game started, they announce all the seniors and give them roses. To our surprise, they called Marisa out on the court and gave her roses because it was her last game to play with the Lady Celtics. I have to say, I was a little teary eyed.
It was a great game and a great way to end the season!!

Here she is warming up. My camera does not work very well in the gym!

After the game!!! We are so proud of you, Mo!!!

Marisa's Confirmation

2010-01-25T21:13:00.006-06:00

Yesterday Marisa received the sacrament of Confirmation. It was such a beautiful and moving ceremony. We were very blessed to have so many family members come down from Dallas. My sweet sisters, Rosemary and Camille drove down with my parents. My cousin Adam and his girlfriend Liz came and my uncle Kerry and Aunt Linda came up from Austin with my other cousin, Packy. And Frances, my MIL came too.
I didn't take a ton of pictures, but here are some from our day...

Our family

Marisa with uncle Kerry, her sponsor

Marisa and the boys!

Marisa with Nana and Pop

Marisa with Doug, her youth minister. Our church is very blessed to have him and his beautiful family!!

Marisa, Dad and I are so proud of you!! You are an amazing person and your faith in the Lord is a beautiful thing to witness. We love you so much!!!!

Busy Busy Busy!!

2010-01-17T22:30:00.004-06:00

OK, it's been forever since my last post. I have had so much going on and I've been a little overwhelmed.
I want to start off by saying how sad we are that our Longhorns lost the National Championship. We were heartbroken that Colt was hurt. And I'm not going to lie, there were some tears. OK, many tears were shed. I have a very passionate boy who takes these things to heart. I love him for that. :)

Now that Reyno has gone back to work, there is so much going on at Ft. Hood. Lots of award ceremonies and many Changes of Command. So I have been down there so much lately.
Both kids are playing basketball, so that takes up a lot of our evenings. Last Saturday Jackson tried out for a select baseball team. Well he made the team and I am very proud of him, but there is a huge time commitment for the players as well as the parents. Lots of traveling!! All I can say is that I am so thankful that Reyno is home. I could not do it without him.

Camille, Gianna, mom and I along with some sweet friends of Rosemary's, are planning her baby shower. We have waited a long to for this, so we are super excited. I can't share any details now, because we want it to be a surprise for her. I know it's killing her, and I love it!!! :)

We have a very special weekend coming up. Marisa is being confirmed. I am so excited for her!!
That's all for now!! Much more to come!!

Go Longhorns

2010-01-07T18:26:00.008-06:00

The day is finally here. Our Longhorns are playing Alabama for the National Championship. To say that we are excited is an understatement.
Even the kids at Jackson's school got in the spirit...

The kids had a "dress down" day and of course J and his best buddies had to wear their jerseys.

I really wanted to make it fun tonight, so I decorated a little.

Everybody needs Longhorn shaped rice krispie treats!! :)

H.E.B even had burnt orange and white roses!!! I heart H.E.B!!

I think Jackson was very happy to come home to all the decorations.

Me and my little boy.

We are ready to cheer on our Longhorns to victory!!

HOOK 'EM HORNS!!!!!!!!!

Locks of Love

2010-01-02T15:40:00.006-06:00

A little over a year ago, Marisa decided to grow her hair out to donate to Locks of Love. On Thursday we went to see if she finally had the ten inches that they require. She did!!! She was a little nervous to cut it all off!!

Getting ready...

Here we go...

And it's off!!!!

Marisa with Sara Beth and her donation!!

I am a very proud mama!!! I Love you Mo!!!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-30T22:35:00.018-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. We headed to Dallas on Christmas Eve and went straight over to Reyno's brother's house. We spent the day with all his family. The best part of the day was when the snow came. Yes, we had a white Christmas. First ever in my life!!

All the Arredondo cousins

Frances with her kids.

The whole group!

After we left, we went back to my parents house. Isn't the snow beautiful??

Loving the snow!!!

We let the kids open one present on Christmas Eve.

New pajamas!!!!

Opening presents on Christmas morning!!!

Papa and Tio overseeing everything!!

Reyno is thrilled with his new Longhorn Snuggie!!

Very happy kids!!!

All my brothers and sisters and their families come over to my parents house for breakfast.

Here are all the sons-in law!! Reyno, Anthony, Byron and Corey!

Marisa and Zach

All the Weir cousins!!!

After breakfast, we open presents. We always do a "white elephant"gift exchange. We have such a good time. There are 21 of us, so it gets a little loud!

Here are all the white elephant gifts.

Mo and Jackson in front of Nana's tree.

The next morning, Camille, Rosemary and I hit the stores for some bargain shopping.

Me and Camille

Rosemary and I with our much needed caffeine treats!!

After shopping we enjoyed a lovely lunch at PF Chang's!! Yummy!!!

Sweet sisters!! We are missing Gianna...again!!

Our trip was quick, but very wonderful. I love being with our families. There is nothing better in the world!!!
I hope everyone's Christmas was a special as ours !!

Christmas Baking Part 2

2009-12-23T15:32:00.007-06:00

Last night was family night. We watched It's a Wonderful Life ( which I have never seen) and finished our baking.

Jackson decorating is gingerbread Jack.

Reyno and Mo having fun.

We each decorated ourselves as gingerbread people. I am the happy homemaker, Reyno is muscle man, Marisa has her signature flower in her hair and Jackson is representing the Horns. If you can't read it , it say AL 0 Texas 100 and then Horns under that. The boy loves his longhorns!!!

We also made fudge wreaths, gingersnap cookies and oatmeal raisin cookies.

We had a great night. I absolutely love night like these. All of us together having fun!!

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!!!

Mary Madeline

Austin

2009-12-21T23:02:00.008-06:00

Saturday we headed down to Austin for the day. We didn't have any set plans, we just wanted to be around campus and hang out.
Our first stop was to the CO-OP.

I think it's Jackson's favorite place in Austin, other than the stadium. :) We shopped and stocked up on more longhorn gear(like we really needed it)!
As we were driving, we came across this...

I sure do wish we had come early because this might have been our Christmas card picture.

Now the real reason I love going to Austin is to eat. I know that there are TONS of great restaurants in Austin, but when we asked the kids where they wanted to eat, this is what they said...

And when you eat at Double Dave's this is what you eat...

Yummy pepperoni rolls!!! And yes, there where only four of us eating!!! They were so tasting!

And there is only one place for dessert

I didn't take any pictures because I was too busy eating yummy cinnamon ice cream!!

We had a great day just being together. I hope we can get a few more visits to Austin before we have to move!

Mary Madeline

Military Ball

2009-12-19T12:19:00.007-06:00

Last night my baby girl went to her first military ball. Her friend from church invited her to his ROTC Christmas Ball. This was a very big deal for Reyno and I. We really can't believe she is old enough to go to something like this. I have a feeling this won't be her last.

We got her hair done and then headed to her friend's house, where the boys were picking them up. She asked me to stay to help her get dressed. I was so happy to be there with her and was glad to be able to take pictures.

Here is the group shot. Such a nice group of kids.

And here is Marisa with her friend, Zach.

She sent me texts throughout the night to keep me updated on all the fun!!

I am not going to lie, I shed a few tears when they pulled out of the driveway. My baby girl is growing up!

Christmas Baking Part 1

2009-12-13T22:16:00.004-06:00

Baking is one of my most favorite things to do. And I especially love to bake during the holidays. This year I wanted to bake some treats for the staff and faculty at the the kids schools. So today I put on my apron and got baking.

Red velvet cake balls

And a fudge wreath. I got this recipe from Rachel Ray a few years ago. So easy and very tasty.

Here are the final products.

Stayed tuned for more baking with Reyno and the kids. I love baking with them!!!

Mary Madeline

Christmas Parade and Program

2009-12-09T08:00:00.007-06:00

Monday night was the town's annual Christmas parade. This year both of our schools did a combined float and the kids got to ride on it. The theme was Christmas in the 40's. Marisa played the grandma and Jackson was one of the kids. They were so cute!

Did I mention that is was freezing and raining?? Great parade weather! :) Once we got the kids settled on the float we decided to head some place warm until the end of the parade.

So we stopped off for a little snack. And this is where I discovered heaven in a cup! It's the caramel apple spice. I have never tasted something this good!!!

We had I nice time chatting while our children drove around town, freezing on the float!!

Last night was Jackson's school Christmas program. He was asked to be one of the narrators. He read so beautifully. We were so proud of him.

And in case you didn't get the memo......

Our Longhorns won the Big 12 Championship!!!!!! (barely)
Can't wait for the big game in January!!!!!

Christmas Decorations and A big Texas Thank You

2009-12-04T19:10:00.010-06:00

I want to start this post off by saying a big Texas thank you to our sweet friends, the Ruth's!! The night Reyno came home from Iraq, we got a call from a man saying he had something to bring us that the Ruth's ordered for us. I was very excited, but I had no idea what it could be.
Well it was just the best gift in the world!!!! And something I have wanted for awhile...

Is this not the greatest thing ever??? The sweet man who delivered it said to make sure we secure it because people like to steal these! I can't wait to put this in my new front yard when we get to New York. I might just keep it up all year!! Thank you Stephen and Bettina!!! We love it so much! And we miss you like crazy!!

We have finally finished decorating. Both kids were home tonight so we got to decorate the tree together.

Our tree is very homemade. I remember growing up looking at all the homemade ornaments on our tree and my mom loving everyone of them. Well now that is how my tree is and I just love it. We were laughing as we were pulling them out. Now that the kids are older, I don't get as many, but they said they would make me some this year.

Happy to be finished!!

This year we added a new one. Marisa wanted a more themed tree. This picture is a little blurry.

The mantle is plain, but I like how it turned out.

I ordered this wreath our first Christmas in Hawaii. Jackson was just three months old and this is the first thing we had with all four of our names on it. I love this so much!

We have a big day of football tomorrow. The Longhorns are going for the Big 12 Championship. It's going to be a great game!!!

Basketball and Band Concert

2009-12-03T21:14:00.005-06:00

Tonight was a busy and fun night. Marisa had a basketball game. Her team is doing so well this season. We had to leave after the third quarter to get Jackson to his school for the Christmas concert. As soon as we left, Marisa's coach put her in the game. And from what I hear, the game got pretty rough. She fouled four times in five minute! That's my girl!!!
Jackson's concert was nice. There is nothing better than listening to 5th graders play Christmas songs. Call me biased, but I thought the trumpet sectioned rocked!!
Here are a couple of pictures...

It is so cold outside!! I think we are getting some snow tomorrow!

Reyno and I have been very busy decorating the house and I think we are just about done. I will post pictures tomorrow!!

Thanksgiving Week Wrap Up

2009-11-30T18:55:00.014-06:00

This Thanksgiving I was especially thankful that all four of us were together.
We headed to Dallas very early on Wednesday morning. I had alot of cooking to do with my mom.

I realize this is not the most flattering picture of me, but this was the highlight of my week!

We even got Marisa cooking!!!

And because one day of being together and eating isn't enough, we went out that night for dinner with most of my family

Me and my amazingly beautiful sisters!! I am so lucky to have each one of them in my life!!

Me and my sweet baby girl!

Gianna, mom, dad and my brothers in law, Corey and Anthony with Reyno( we missed you Byron)

Here are most of the cousins!!

I am sad to say that I did not take a single picture at either Thanksgiving dinner we went to. The only picture that I took was later that night during the Texas/A&M game. In case there was any question, we are a family of LONGHORN fans!!! What a great game it was. Here is the crew that stayed back for the game

I didn't notice til later that my BIL, Corey, had his guns up. We still love you, Corey!!

In fine Weir girl tradition, we braved the mall on Black Friday. We started the day out by having a wonderful mother/daughter lunch at Bistro N. Boy was it yummy!!!!

Me and Mo!!

Mom's and our girls. We can't wait for baby Madeline to be with us next year!! Mom and Gianna were both working that day. We missed them very much!

By Saturday we were ready to head home. We made one last stop at the Cheesecake Factory for lunch. It was so yummy. I tried to get a picture of the cheesecake we ate, but I was not fast enough.

These two did not give me a chance!!!

We had such a great time with both of our families. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.

This week we are getting the house ready for Christmas!!!

Army Football

2009-11-22T21:55:00.009-06:00

This weekend we went up to Dallas for the Army/UNT football game. It was such a fun day. We ran into lots of people we haven't seen in a long time.
We started off with the Army tailgate party.

As we walking around, we ran into Jackson's best buddy from when we lived in Kansas almost four years ago. They were very excited to see each other again!

Here comes the Army football team!!!!

Marisa and Jackson having fun in the stands!!

So happy to be together!!

The football team singing the Alma Mater after winning the game. This is so beautiful to hear!

Here we are after the game with our very sweet friends, David and Shelley Eisenlohr!

It was so exciting to be at the game and around all the cadets and the great traditions of West Point. I think I am finally getting excited about moving back there this summer.

Life

2009-11-19T20:33:00.002-06:00

Things have been pretty busy around here. Baseball season is finally over and basketball has officially started. We are days away from block leave starting and couldn't be happier.
We have a super fun weekend planned. Can't wait to share all the details!
Have a great weekend!!

Happy Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T21:26:00.011-06:00

Today I want to thank all the men and women who are serving and who have served our great country. I am so grateful for their sacrifice and thankful for the freedom they provide.
I am honored to have so many veterans in my family. I love you all!!!

Dad and Uncle Kerry

My BIL, Anthony

Stephen Ruth

My BIL's Rafael and Chris

And my favorite veteran, Reyno!!

Mary Madeline

Homecoming Mum

2009-11-07T08:21:00.005-06:00

Last night was homecoming at our high school. Many, many years ago when I was in school, mums were a big part of the celebration. As I'm finding out, It seems to be a Texas thing.
I wanted Marisa to be apart of this great Texas tradition so I decided to make one for her.
For the record, the last time I made one of these was for my little brother's homecoming date back in the mid 90's.
So I set out for Hobby Lobby and got everything I needed to create my masterpiece. This is what I came home with...

After several hours and many attempts to make it the perfect homecoming mum, this is how it turned out.

I still made a few more changes and I think she really liked it!!

Here she is with Jackson before we left for the game. We had a fun night and I can't wait to do it again next year!!!

Mary Madeline

Please Pray

2009-11-05T18:20:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that Reyno is OK. He was at Ft. Hood this morning, but was gone by the time the shootings occurred. Please pray for all the soldiers and their families who were effected by this horrible tragedy. It has been a very overwhelming day, and I am so grateful to God for Reyno's safety.

Mary Madeline

Oh Happy Day

2009-11-02T16:48:00.007-06:00

The day has finally come! My sweet husband is home after a very long year!!! We are thrilled to be all together again!!
Here are a few pictures from our great day...

This was an incredible sight. It was amazing to go outside and see this.

The plane touching down!!!

Reyno and the kids. A great moment!

This is Reyno's mom, Frances!!

All of us together again!!!!! It's a very happy day!!

Mary Madeline

Getting Ready

2009-11-01T21:18:00.003-06:00

We are anxiously awaiting and getting ready for our big day tomorrow!!

Stay tuned for our long awaited reunion!

Mary Madeline

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-31T22:25:00.008-05:00

Trick or treat!!!

Here is Little Red Riding Hood and James Bond!!

He was so excited to carry a gun!

Hope everyone had a great night!!!

Mary Madeline

Halloween Prep

2009-10-29T21:29:00.000-05:00

As much as I would like to think that I am crafty, It just isn't true. However, I did put together a super cute costume for Mo today. I'm still working on Jackson's. Pictures to come!
I saw this really cute idea in one of my Halloween magazines and I love how it turned out.

I painted the pumpkin with chalkboard paint. The picture didn't turn out great, but it is so cute in person. I think I'm going to paint more next year!
And I got this cute idea from my sister, Gianna...

I bought a white plastic pumpkin from Michael's and just painted the circles on them. I love this one, too!!

I love Halloween so much!!!!!

Mary Madeline

One Week...I Think

2009-10-27T20:15:00.000-05:00

We are at the one week mark, or at least that's what I telling myself. It's not official, but this time next week we should be a family of four again. I can't tell you how ready I am for Reyno to be home. It has been a very long year and I have missed him very much. The kids are so excited, too!! We have MANY things to do this week to prepare for his arrival. Even though he says we don't need to do anything, I don't think he would be to happy to come home to a dirty house. :)
I love you Reyno and I can't wait to see you!!!

Mary Madeline

Fun-Filled Weekend

2009-10-25T19:24:00.000-05:00

We have had a crazy, busy weekend. Jackson had two baseball games yesterday and a birthday sleepover last night. Marisa went to her friends and I was home alone!! So instead of cleaning my house in preparation of my husband's arrival next week, I got a bowl of ice cream and watched The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders...Making the Team. I ask you, is there a better show on T.V?? I think NOT!!!
Today we headed to the Fall Festival. The weather was perfect and the kids had fun. Our class basket made $950!!!! I was so proud! We didn't stay long because I needed to get things ready for tonight. I, along with two other parents help make dinner for Marisa's youth group. They are an amazing group of high school kids. I am so grateful that Marisa is apart of such a wonderful group. The leaders are so dedicated and truly love what they do. They are such a blessing.
Needless to say, I am exhausted!! Hope everyone had as great a weekend as I did!!

Mary Madeline

Getting Crafty

2009-10-23T16:05:00.000-05:00

Every year our school has a fall festival. And every class has to make a themed basket for the live auction. This year our class decided to do a gift card "basket". We wanted to do something different and creative and this is what we came up with...

I love how it turned out! I hope it makes lots of money for the school.

We have a very busy weekend ahead. Lots of birthday parties,baseball and of course the Fall Festival!!!
Have a great weekend!!!!

Mary Madeline

2009-10-21T18:18:00.000-05:00

Well it's official, I'm a blogger!!!
After much procrastination, I am finally starting our family blog. I have wanted to do this for a while, but could never just sit down and do it. After a little encouragement from my sweet sister, I am ready to start.
My husband, Reyno, is finishing up his second tour in Iraq. In fact, he will be coming home in two weeks after a very long year. We have two wonderful kids. Marisa and Jackson. They truly are the loves of our lives.
My hope for this blog is to keep track of our crazy, busy lives and to be able to look back on this when we are old and the kids have left and laugh about this fun time in our lives.
Welcome to Adventures with the Arredondos!!!!