Sunday, February 28, 2010

5 YEARS and COUNTING...
It was a real milestone in our house this weekend. February 26th marked the 5 th wedding anniversary for my mom and my dad and my first weekend away from them. While mom and dad spent time together downtown I headed to the farm with Mawmaws and Mr. Tim. There was so much work to be done. I'm not sure they could have done it without me. I'm not sure mom and dad realized how great I would do without them--I was busy wrangling chickens, feeding a baby lamb and keeping up with the chores. I'm also not sure if they realized how much they would miss me and yet still survive having a wonderful time together. There was so much food involved. They dined at Ouisies and Churrasco's in one weekend and still had time to see a romantic movie. A weekend long date was perfect for a 5 year celebration.

CHUCK-E-CHEESE!...
Our interviews were complete and a reward was in order. The weather outside was too cold for my promised picnic...this had to be the next best thing. A Friday play date with my cousin and our moms. What a way to lead into the weekend! There was lots of pizza and a plate of veggies too. There were balls flying, 100 tokens clanking around in our cups and plenty of games to play. Did I mention the tickets? I bought an Air Head and a microphone with my lot.


I jumped right in ready to take my picture. I escaped from the kiddy play area more than a few times. I really wanted to drive the race car. My days are numbered here. Mom can see that her little boy is on the brink of big boy.


Off to the races...His face says it all.


This was my favorite game. I must have tossed the ball 50 or more times while playing! Wesley and I spent half our time chasing the ball from here to there, but there were a few good shots too.

Yes, those are guns. No, I am not allowed to play with them at home or school or at my friends house. I had to testify that I was a good guy before I was allowed to touch it.

I HEART YOU!...
This year, Valentine's Day in the Taylor house was about spending time together and enjoying the day doing all of our favorite things and relaxing. We made heart shaped cherry chip cupcakes and topped them with cherry icing and sprinkles and cooked out before Uncle Dusty arrived for some play time. I showed him my Monster Jam yearbook and we raced trucks until mom proclaimed it bedtime. I must admit, I was a bit sad. I did not want the day to end.
Uncle Dusty and Dad were making a trip to Austin the next day to show Uncle Dusty around UT. He had orientation with the Honors Program there. I can't wait to visit him. I must have asked mom on 3 different occasions if they were going to see the bats while they were there. Mom promised we would make that trip soon. It is on her list of favorite things (at least for the moment.)

WE'RE FRENCH TOAST PEOPLE TOO...
It was Saturday morning, we were hungry and this was dad's creation. It was Aunt Kay's recipe from his childhood days. YUMMY! We added powered sugar, fresh blueberries and fresh slices of pineapple and we just can't stop. Mom topped hers with banana too...bring it on. We love pancakes, but we are french toast people too. Obviously!

ANOTHER HAPPY BIRTHDAY!...
Mawmaws sure does age gracefully :) We celebrated her birthday on Super Bowl Sunday with a wealth of food and family game day too. Since that day, we have all agreed that Uncle Jeff is not allowed to select Monopoly as the game of choice ever again. It was a heated game with lots of banker activity. I am sure you can guess who the banker was--Uncle Jeff.
We have promised to try to bring family game day back. There was once a trophy you know. Yes, this is a serious game playing family. Amanda, Mr. Tim and Dad had to watch out! They realized the blood bond of crazy behavior around them. I was happy to retreat to the kitchen to help Mawmaws blow out her candles. I hope her every wish comes true.
Happy Birthday! We love you so much!

MONSTER JAM #3!...
The most exciting show of them all! The mystery truck was unveiled--IRON MAN! This was the first time he had been in Texas. Add to that that Ninja Turtle was racing and now I had two of my favorite trucks in one show. It was AMAZING and we ended the show proving that Grave Digger is not the only champion racer. Iron Man beat him! I just can't get enough. I watch races on line with dad, I create my own in the living room building ramps with blocks and using my construction truck and tools to "fix" the ones that break down during the run of the race. I think I am hooked! I am looking forward to next year's shows and hoping that we make it to Nationals.


HARLOM GLOBE TROTTERS...
We had the most amazing seats thanks to Uncle Jeff. It was our first basketball game and certainly one to remember. There were lots and lots of sillies in this game. I am still talking about bowling with Globe.

PANCAKE PEOPLE...
An easy way to earn an instant smile from the one they love so much. I LOVE BACON!

WINGS AND TRUCKS...
It was an hour and a half drive for me and mom before picking up dad and driving to Wings and More (a long, long way away.) Uncle Jeff was there and so was Charles Benns. Charles drives Pit-Bull. It was pretty amazing to see the truck up close and meet the driver too. Dad got the inside scoop on the sponsorships, the cost involved in repair and events. Turns out it cost more than $1,500 per tire and if the tire breaks off (they are tethered) the cost of repair is more than $4,000. I can promise that no fewer than 8 tires pop off during a show. I guess that is why the sponsorships are so important. You have to be in the top 40 to be selected to drive in a city like Houston.
Did you notice my face in the first picture...I was in a bit of a foul mood. You see, it was a school night, a long drive and my dad made some interesting comments before we got out of the car. Here are the facts...I love Ninja Turtle. I have his truck, his shirt and his hat. I was wearing his hat in this picture. Well, as we were getting out of the car dad said, "oh, you may not want to wear that hat. Pit Bull might not like that you support a different truck." I was caught of guard, I ripped the hat off and with it went my smile. It took some artery clogging food and a sprite to put it back in place. Mom explained the situation to Charles and he shared with me that they are actually friends. Charles helped Ninja Turtle get started a few years back. Not that we know that many Monster Jam truck drivers, but Charles is really an impressive guy. Did you notice his really long hair? He donates it to Locks of Love. He also donates to Children's Hospitals particularly one in New Mexico. It was nice to hear how he gives back to the community.