Fall Ball

In the fall, the little league calls baseball "fall ball." I am beginning to really like fall ball. It is not nearly as competitve as spring ball and more of a learning experience for the boys. Marty is coaching Nolan's t-ball and Matthew is playing coach-pitch with a great team. Matthew has played most positions but likes 2nd base and left field best. He is hitting well and we are proud of him. Nolan is doing a great job as well. He listens, hits hard, and pays attention in the outfield.

10 Things I Love About Austin

1. There they are, just as you almost hit the city limits - slowly you start to see them... OBAMA bumper stickers!! They're everywhere and I am reminded yet again how I miss Austin.
2. The Longhorns
3. UT (yes this is different from the Longhorns - the University itself, not the sports)
4. Zilker Park and the Zilker Zephyr
5. Barton Springs
6. City Parks around every corner
7. Town Lake (I think they've renamed it which is probably a good thing)
8. Runners
9. Recycling containers readily available
10. Only 70 miles from San Antonio!

Matthew and Colin's Birthdays

Well I couldn't locate the camera during Matthew's party so I don't have any pics. It went well - we had 13 boys here at the house for pizza, games, a movie, and cake and ice cream. Some came straight from school and others later - they all left around 8. Matthew had a great time and it actually wasn't all that bad... :). Kathy, my mother-in-law came over to help me because Marty had to leave mid-way through to coach Nolan's t-ball game. Thanks Kathy! I can't believe Matthew is 9! I've been looking at baby pictures of him for a project he is working on at school and I just can't believe it.

Colin's party was somewhat of a repeat of Nolan's (Chuck E Cheese). He had a blast because all his classmates and his teacher and her kids came. We had a great time. My baby is 4. He loves Chuck E Cheese and got up to dance with him.

Life in South Texas

I had to publish this photo of Marty returning home from dove hunting. He bagged 10 doves and was given 2 to make 12. He is responsible for cooking and eating them. Last year he did well - grilling them on skewers and serving to family. I would have never believed my husband was a hunter had you told me this 5 years ago. Life is sure different here in Helotes than it was in Austin. I love our life but do miss Austin. I have to visit Austin a few times a year to keep me grounded.

San Antonio is all abuzz with hurricane Ike fear. People are lining up at Sam's and Costco buying cases of bottled water. I say, just fill up your jugs and coolers with tap water. It's all going to be just fine. We are praying for our neighbors along the Texas coast however. It's during these times that we're glad we just rent condos at the beach and don't own any!

Colin's First Day of School

Well, I took the camera like a good mom, got there early, pried Colin off my leg and got ready to take a picture when... waaa-laaa battery dead. Anyway, here is a photo of him afterschool (after I charged the battery) but he was very sleepy and not interested in the camera. He loves school and his teacher Ms. Kari (and so do I). His best friend Gabriel is in his class so that makes it all the better.

Nolan's 6th Birthday

Nolan turned 6 September 3rd. Happy Birthday Nolan! Here are some pictures of his party at Chuck E Cheese. We had the party on his birthday (Wednesday evening). It worked out great as we were the only birthday party there. We are in for another round of baseball starting in a week or so. I do think I'm crazy. Marty got roped in to coaching again so at least we'll have some control of the practice schedule. Nolan is doing great at school - he does seem a little overwhelmed when he gets home though. He is making new friends and singing new songs everyday.

August Rain

We are so excited to have rain in August!!!! The grass is green - can you believe it???