The K&C Hacienda

Herrington Summer Update: Lazy, Hazy, Crazy

2010-08-16T10:45:00.005-05:00

Dear Friends,

It's been quite a while since I've written on our family blog, guess it's time to report in on the Herringbones, I'm sure you all are just DYING for an update on us, so here goes...

Kani and I have both changed jobs and are right in the middle of the transition! Kani has moved from Conroe ISD to Klein ISD, likes her new job and office, etc, although she misses her old buds in The Woodlands, particularly her former principal and friend Marlene. Her new digs are only 9 mins drive from our house, which we REALLY like, her home school is exemplary and Klein has an excellent reputation. (Lyle Lovett, C&W star, actor, fellow Aggie, etc, hails from Klein, so, there you go...)

Since April I have been working downtown for Continental in Revenue Mgmt, and really love my job, bosses, and coworkers. We are a diverse but tight group, are considered a 'Tier One' managerial organization, meaning that we are vital for daily operation of Continental, and we make some important decisions daily. I like the responsibility, the 4-day-on, 3-day-off work week, even the commute! Clam-happy am I.

Hannah this summer completed her second missionary tour in Hungary with Bammel CofC. So now she is an old missionary pro. She is also to turn 16 in March, so it's drivers license time around here, and a shiny blue '93 GMC pickup awaits her in the driveway...she can drive it with pride, knowing it has been passed down in the family no less than 4 times...

Chase is a wild banshee, and keeps his Daddy busy 3 of those 7 days a week. He loves Star Wars and E.T. right now. Sword fights are a daily routine at our house. He also enjoys torturing the cats, as much as he is allowed. He is currently obsessing over his birthday party to take place in November.

That's our story for now, looking forward to football season and some cooler weather around here! More later....

FREDDIE DOLCE HERRINGTON EMERICK, BELOVED DASCHUND & FRIEND 6/6/10

2010-06-08T07:09:00.016-05:00

It was just months ago that I first saw the dog we came to call Freddie, trotting down a lonely stretch of central Texas highway, near to Cameron, his tail whipping to-and-fro, ears flopping, tongue dripping, eyes wide with concern and confusion. Where was he going? Who had left him to this fate? Many questions clouded my adled Aggie mind while I watched him walk for what seems like an eternity. In fact, being a daschund, he had only really traveled about 8 feet...

I stopped my truck, scooped him up, drove towards home, stopped at Dollar General, got him some canned Alpo With Beef Chunks, brought him home, fed and watered him. Only later, after Freddie had scarfed down both cans of the stuff, and being enlightened by my beloved betrothed, did I come to realize my benevolent intentions were misguided. Freddie treated us for the rest of the evening to some hair-curling, eye-watering puppy flatulence.

In any case, Freddie was welcomed with open arms by our children, and I was well ready to accept Freddie into our family as a permanent member. But my dear beloved betrothed 'reminded' me of several things. Firstly, we are often gone on trips, many of them spur of the moment, and providing care for a dog would be difficult in our regular absence, and B, my beloved betrothed, a cat person, does not care for smelly, dirty, stinky dogs in her house, etc.

So we found a home for Freddie with the Emericks, our friends in The Woodlands, who renamed him 'Dolce' and provided dog opportunities for him that we simply couldn't. We were promised we could babysit when they went out of town, which is exactly what Hannah was doing when he became so badly injured. The vet said his injury could have occurred anytime, anywhere. Good that he was given comfort so quickly. And the Emericks were quite understanding, telling Hannah that at least he spent his last days with the family who rescued him and gave him love and shelter to begin with.

So, dear friends, that's the story of Freddie. May He Rest In Peace, Amen, and Amen:)

We Saw the Pope and HE Didn't Wave At Us Either

2009-07-02T08:30:00.007-05:00

Ok! We are back from our European trip and are almost fully recovered, have Chase in our possession and are waiting for our girl Hannah to get home on Monday and tell us about her adventures in Hungary. Got home just in time to give our grass emergency attention. Tomball has a water ration on right now, it has been more that 100 degrees in Tomball the last couple weeks and we are praying for rain. While in Europe, the temperature wherever we were never reached higher that 73...too beautiful...

We flew into Rome first, from Newark. Kani arranged this entire trip as I sat back lazily, and she did an excellent job. We stayed at a B&B near to the Asian district and had access to Metro and great restaurants, our neighboring guests were German, Russian, and Danish, and we made quick friends. We stayed three nights in Rome and got a whirlwind tour, although based on brother-in-law Kerry's assessment, not enough time to see any of Renaissance Rome, etc. So we have agreed to go back with Kerry & Maria in tow as our tour guides, asap!!

Next stop was Budapest, Hungary. Kani did a great job booking for us and got us the West End Hilton, a rare chance for us to stay in a 5-star hotel, and we loved it. The W.E. Hilton is attached to a great shopping mall in a cool trendy part of Budapest, and also conveniently near to the Metro, so we had the best of everything. We took Hannah to Castle Hill, the Chain Bridge, govt buildings, saw a cute wedding take place with pigeons released, went to Market Square, and saw 'Carmen' at the Budapest Opera House!! Great fun, and there is still more to see of Budapest in the future, such a great city with so much history, etc. We stayed 3 nights before hooking Hannah up with her mission group, on their way to Mischcoltz to work with an orphanage...

Then Kani and I continued on to Brussels. We stayed in a hotel just adjacent to a gothic church and just a short walk from the Grand Place, a square in the center of the city with beautiful old Renaissance architecture and flowers. This was Kani's favorite place of all. After touring a few days in Brussels, we became itchy to come home, were missing our little boy, and had the unexpected expense of having to buy new glasses for me! So we skipped an extra day to see Waterloo, (I have already toured it), and came home a day early. It's great to be back in the land of iced tea and endless refills!!

Adventures In Babysitting, Canada: Be Sure To Pack Some Mittens

2009-06-09T06:22:00.004-05:00

Not since Hitler's 6th German Army capitulated just outside of Stalingrad in the Russian Winter of '42 has there been such a weather debacle as faced by our innocent little lamb of a 14-year-old daughter, Hannah, on her trip to Calgary, Alberta, just days ago...

Dutifully obedient and eager to please her Dad...(?)....and her Mom, Hannah packed her brand new REI backpack with some capris, tennies, sandals, t-shirts, and, yes, some unmentionables, anticipating fair, sunny weather in Calgary, just as she had enjoyed on a recent trip to same. Unbeknownest to her, and us, and the Lonards, (her hosts), a snowy storm blew in on the day she arrived, like some gail out of a Gordon Lightfoot song, and nearly froze our poor little Hannah to death. Imagine, if you will, the pathetic picture of Hannah sitting on a bench at the airport, waiting for her ride, her lower legs unprotected by her cheery denim capris and turning blue, her shoulders shivering violently from the cold, her bathing suit strapped to her face, like some kind of makeshift mask, to keep icicles from forming on the tip of her sweet little nose....

It really pulls at your heart-strings, doesn't it, dear friends? But there's more pitifulness....on the first day of her 'job' as nanny, Hannah was locked out of the house by the dastardly Lonard boys, eager to test the metal of their new household mistress. Outside the warm house, once again vulnerable to the elements, but this time without her bikini, and, as the Lonard boys stood at the windows of their home, licking icing off forbidden cake in open defiance, Hannah kept her cool and did what she does best. She got on her cell phone, contacted the lady of the house, Erin, and narc'd on the two mischevious little munsters, just as she often tattles on me to her mom. Erin immediately came home and set things right.

Please stay tuned for further updates on Hannah's Canadian adventure, perhaps her next experience will not be so poignant...

Somewhere That's Green

2009-05-18T20:04:00.003-05:00

After ignoring our dear blog for so long, it's time to announce that we have moved to a new house in downtown Tomball! (new for us). Actually, the house is a bit smaller than what we had before, a 60's era simple brick house with porches in front and back, a car port, and a detached garage that I have converted into a family room. We love living in this neighborhood, everyone is so friendly and there are so many conveniences. (Tonight Kani and I went to our favorite Chinese place and the drive was about 2-3 mins.) Our house is in an old neighborhood that branches off of Main Street in downtown Tomball, and we are within walking distance to all it's shops and eateries. The whole atmosphere reminds you of small town America, and this is exactly what we were looking for all along since moving back to Texas from Florida...

Hannah & Chase have a huge fenced back yard to play in and practice flag work(for Hannah's color guard). I love having a room to putz around in (garage) that I have deemed 'The Wolf's Lair.' If I get in trouble with Kani I will just go have time out in my Wolf's Lair... There are lots of cool old houses around us in our neighborhood of differing shapes and sizes, but all tastefully done, and there are even a few eccentrics, which every great town needs.

We are having a great time and look forward to lots of cookouts with family and friends, small group meetings, and just relaxing around our house.

Spam Jam? Thank You, Ma'am...

2009-04-28T12:38:00.006-05:00

Here is a quick rundown of our activities on our Hawaii anniversary get-away. Bear in mind that this was intended all along as a low-key few day escape from our kiddos, and originally we were to go to Bahamas, but figured out that HNL was likely cheaper and no surprises...

THURS: Flew to LAX and stayed the night at Travel Lodge, in the same room where our minister & wife stayed 4 years ago, on our way to HNL for our wedding. (Kind of fun to sleep in the same bed your minister did....) Ate at one of our favorite romantic restaurants.....Denny's......in the Travel Lodge building...

FRI: Flew in Bus First to HNL, ate steak & lobster, slept like babies. Once in HNL, got off bus and went to Chan's chinese buffet near HNL airport. Tummies full, went to Waikiki on city bus, coincidently called 'The BUS.' (we are big spenders). Once in Waikiki, went to beach, and waited for dusk hula show which has always taken place before. Show did not take place, perhaps due to city budget cuts, economy, etc. (Hula beach shows are now just on Tues/Thurs/Sat...) Took some great sunset pics on beach, then went strolling about Waikiki looking at nightlife and shopping...later, we split up, Kani to Intl Marketplace, me to go find her a special gift for next day....

SAT: Picked up rental car, went to breakfast at Pete's Smorgy, then took Kani to Ka-akako State Park, where we had our wedding in '05, and surprised her by wearing my wedding shirt, re-stating my vows to her, and giving her a pearl necklace bought secretly night before. Kani was very happy and I earned big-time points... Then, went on a wonderful driving tour of Oahu beginning in Waikiki and driving counter-clock-wise around island. Just wonderful!! Highly recommend it. Stopped at Dole Plantation but blew off going in. After most of day touring, went back to hotel, freshened up, went to 'Spam Jam,' a street festival(of many)held in Waikiki annually. Watched sweet little girls' troupe put on wonderful hula show. After festival, once again strolled nightlife of Waikiki and went to one of our favorite romantic restaurants........Denny's......where we romantically split the chicken fried steak....

SUN: Went to Chinatown and had dim sum. Kani was very brave and did not squirm when I ate a whole bowl of chicken feet. Kani got to try several dumpling variations, sesame ball filled with bean curd, steamed bun with minced pork inside, and Chinese tea. A feast!! Then , tummies full, went to DiamondHead and climbed up and down in 1 hour. Last time we did this, Kani was 5 1/2 months preggy, and we began our hike from central Waikiki, not base of DiamondHead Volcano... We still can't believe we did that. (No wonder Chase turned out like he has)...Checked out of hotel, went shopping at Aloha Tower stores and Ala Moana Mall, then feast at Bubba Gump's. Then on to airport and a whole other adventure getting home....

Again, this trip was a low-end affair but was much needed and we both agree has been perhaps our best to Hawaii: no wedding or kids or relatives to worry over, etc... Just relaxing....Ahhhhhhhh.........

You're An Errand Boy Sent By Grocery Clerks to Sprinkle Cheese On Our Ravioli

2009-03-28T05:32:00.022-05:00

I'm desperately trying to lose a little weight for my upcoming Aggie reunion...

Observe my diligence: last night we went to Olive Garden, I drank both our wine samples, (it's free), then Kani and I shared the mushrooms portabella and stuffed mushrooms appetizer...mushrooms are not fattening. I ate lots of salad first(it's free), and breadsticks(free too), and when Hannah did not finish her last cheese stick with marinara sauce, I did not want it to go to waste...

Not good enough? ....yes, I know... who am I kidding? But I've always been big. In high school, I was referred to as 'Teddybear.' But imagine trying to protect the quarterback from guys like Northbrook's Ty Allert(NFL) or Angleton's David Stanley(SMU's Benedict Arnold). Being Pooh just doesn't cut it. Was I supposed to 'honey' them to death?

So this is my strategy...last night, after that delicious dinner, we stopped at my barber's on FM 1960. I got a #3 cut...rather short. I will be working some outside this week, so I should get some nice sun. Then if I wear some loose fitting dark clothes and hide my weight, kind of like what Coppola did with Brando when he showed up tubby for Apocolypse Now...

But who am I kidding...

Today is Saturday, and we have a busy weekend planned. So, crepes would be an excellent start to a busy day. And to make them correctly, that is, the way my precious family knows them and loves them, I am REQUIRED to use a nice, rich beer...this time I'm trying Carta Blanca. And of course, must have Nutella to spread on top. But, the other garnish will just be strawberries...strawberries are not fattening.

Obama Pimp-Slaps CNN's Henry For Wearing Ferrells Ice Cream Parlor Tie to Press Conference

2009-03-25T05:09:00.013-05:00

President Obama gave a less than jovial answer to CNN correspondent Ed Henry when he persisted in a line of questioning suggesting that Obama waited several days before expressing outrage at AIG's controversial bonus payouts.

"I like to know what I'm talking about before I speak, ok?" was the President's short retort at the end of a rather tense exchange.

With this caution in mind, The President will also insist on "waiting until after at least a year of personal use" before he will agree to officially endorse Maui KaPow-E, a newer, more potent strain of an old island favorite...

Mommy Corner

2009-03-24T21:25:00.011-05:00

Here's a special little story from Kani about Chase's day...
(Kani, Chase, Hannah, homeward bound from Tomball Junior High...)
Chase: "I can't find Jesus!"
(again)
Chase: "I can't find Jesus!"
Kani: "You can't find Jesus? Well, where do you think He is?"
Chase: (quickly) "At work.."
Kani: "Really? Where does Jesus work?"
Chase : (exasperated) "Mommmm! He works in the Bible!"

Obama Bowls Perfect Game for Special Olympics

2009-03-22T06:32:00.041-05:00

U.S. President and talk show dancer Barack Obama offended about a zillion Special Olympics supporters on Thursday night by cracking on Jay Leno's Tonight Show that his efforts at bowling are "like the Special Olympics." Since Thursday's gaffe, the White House has been in emergency mode, in an effort to squelch this public relations disaster-in-the-making, and have gone so far as to invite Special Olympians to the White House to engage in 'spirited games of dodgeball' with the President.

Also, in a further effort to express his 'true sorrow' over making this embarrassing public error, the President has invited actor Chris Burke, best known for his character Charles 'Corky' Thatcher on the hit TV show Life Goes On, and also a Down Syndrome sufferer, to sit in on key cabinet meetings over the course of Obama's term in office. Although a few eyebrows in Washington have been raised over this rather unprecedented public relations gesture, and a few cabinet members appear to be a little jealous of the 'special' attention Burke is getting, most Democrats seem at ease with the move, Nancy Pelosi stating "I guess it couldn't hurt anything..."

However, certain other constituents are left asking the obvious question on everyone's mind: Why couldn't the President have chosen a Jewish actor with Down Syndrome to sit in on key cabinet meetings over the breadth of his administration? When reached at her California headquarters, Senator Diane Feinstein gave this terse take on the situation: "A&W."

"The rootbeer?" asked a reporter.

"No," she sniffed, "Always Waspy."

Sugarbritches, The Rain Must Fall...

2009-03-20T03:55:00.005-05:00

I am deeply worried about my little girl, who is turning more and more vuluptuous as the days go by. This weekend, she will be 14, which is dangerously close to 15, leading on to 16, a drivers license, and as I've described before, the sudden appearance of pimple-faced monkey boys at our door, suffering from what her Uncle Kerry refers to as 'Dain Bramage.'

When they do come over, I will appear at the door, dressed as Mr Blonde from Reservoir Dogs, and lead them out to the garage to show them my home-made neutering machine that "requires no anesthetic..."

The one thing I'm not worried about is her ability to pull money out of me, Kani, and her grandparents with a magical skill-she should be performing in Vegas.

Incidently, two cookies with icing now cost $5 at the Mall-just ask Hannah.

Super-Chase Involuntarily Baptized In Waters of Highland Mall Coin Fountain

2009-03-19T21:40:00.017-05:00

AUSTIN, 19Mar, 6:30 PM, Year of Our Lord 2009:
Chase , after throwing in at least a dozen pennies safely and unmolested , gets too close to the 'bottom' descending step of the fountains by Dillards, and trips up on Batman sneakers. 70-year-old-birthday-boy Granddaddy Bob cannot react quickly enough. Dad is too many steps away. Result: one completely soaked little boy with a shocked expression of 'Not What I Intended.'

Luckily, said boy is very brave, loves water, and although shivering, patiently allows team of mom, dad, grandmother, grandfather, and big sister to conduct coin fountain rescue drill. Soon, thanks to kind Vietnamese ladies at adjoining nail shop, Dad has towel in hand, Chase is dried off, sports new diaper and cotton windbreaker brought by mom, baptism garments are tossed in Payless Shoes bag, boy gets lots of sympathetic hugs and kisses, and soon all is well again. Dad counts experience as good object lesson for boy...water was only 1 ft. deep, boy will remember next time, and Dad will take him to pool in San Antonio tomorrow to swim for real.

Aggie Mid-Lifers to Invade 30-Something Crowd at Pinecove Camps

2009-03-18T08:31:00.010-05:00

On 5Apr, a grand celebration will take place off of route 71 near La Grange, TX. Former residents of Walton Hall, Texas A&M campus, will gather to celebrate some 25 years of unmitigated success and life conquest. Participants will begin the effort of reliving their glory years at the dormitory by driving to the event without AC.

John Laubacher will try his best to make an appearance, but if difficulty occurs in his family's necessary pilgrimage from MCI, he has requested that Journey, Lionel Richie, and Rick Springfield be played during the entire event in his honor. Participants have yet to agree on whether or not to 'order' this particular gratuity...

Mike Mulcahy will only be allowed one(1) car coat...

Rodney Edge will only be allowed one(1) competitive event, perhaps the egg toss, to give the others a fighting chance and keep things flowing...

There will be a raffle taking place called Which Old Guy Has The Least Hair, the winner of which will receive season tickets to Aggie Football 2009, and based on last season, will be given a $100 bonus for each game actually attended...

Finally, there will be a Most Beautiful 2-year-old Boy Contest, to be judged by Case & Kani Herrington.

PS: In honor of the coming festivities, we have changed the colour of our blog post titles from Metrosexy Blush, Paul Fazio's favorite, to Dullard Maroon, in honor of our outstanding football squad.

'More People Have Read This T-shirt Than Your Blog'

2009-03-16T10:24:00.013-05:00

This family blog is written for the purposes of celebrating our children and their successes, poking light-hearted fun at ourselves, and to ridicule those more fortunate than us. Written from a male point of view, there are no recipes, no meditations, no list of '20 Reasons Why I Celebrate the Sunshine Today.' Words like precious or fabulous are never used, no flowery prints or pastels. Pretty music is not played, not even a holiday-time "Yoo-hoo," ala Amy Grant. The entries written are intended to crudely release the delinquent inner child in the writer, and are meant to be as irreverent as humanly possible. All entries are the genuine opinion of the writer, are original, and are factual. Maybe.

RadioHead Disses Mullet Princess

2009-03-14T08:15:00.032-05:00

A conflict of words has developed between pretty and popular teen bopper superstar Miley Cyrus and the rock group Radiohead, who apparently declined a private audience with her backstage at the Grammys.

In an interview on the 'Johnjay & Rich Interview' radio show, Miley complained bitterly about Radiohead's refusal to take advantage of their once-in-a-lifetime chance to be with true greatness.

An attempt was made by your writer to like, listen to the actual Miley radio interview on, like, Youtube, but like, it was beyond unbearable after, like, 30 seconds...

Radiohead responded with this statement: "When Miley grows up, she'll learn not to have such a sense of entitlement..." (Those Brits really think they're something.)

Miley plans to embark on a hate campaign against Radiohead, which will include NOT inviting them to her annual fundraising gala for Proud of What We've Got , a nonprofit organization committed to supporting the right of young girls to appear in skimpy clothes on the Net, of which Miley is honorary 'Chair-gal.' Incidently, Miley turned to the wisdom of her father for creating the organization's slogan, and after days of deep contemplation at his Kentucky compound, Shake-N-Break came up with the brilliant 'Cuz We Don't Hurt No One.'

Iraqi Journalist Sentenced to 3 Years For Not Yelling "Fore!"

2009-03-12T06:32:00.017-05:00

In the news today, Iraqi journalist Muntadar al-Zaidi has been sentenced to 3 years for hurling his shoes at President Bush during a December 2008 press conference. Zaidi did originally intend to chuck an explosive device, but realized that a cherry bomb attached to a badminton shuttle has too much drag.

The sentence has caused quite an uproar from the very nationalistic Iraqi public. However, Iraqi prosecutors are unrepentant, commenting: "Frankly, it could have been much worse for him. Had he been seated on the first row, and say, a size 12, the Honorable Judge could have given him 15 years, plus a stiff penalty of 5 goats and 10 chickens..."

President Bush, sighted at a Ghengis Grille in Highland Park, gave his reaction to the Iraqi sentence by laughing off the incident, saying "I guess he really put his foot in my mouth."

Thank You God For Your Care

2009-03-10T07:01:00.003-05:00

This past weekend was a busy one for us. First of all, my mother Barbie had orthopedic surgery in Houston and is now home recouping. Yesterday Chase and I paid her and Poppa a visit. She is doing well and has had lots of cards, flowers, plants,
and food brought by friends from school and Church. When we arrived yesterday she and Poppa were out taking a walk. Soon she will return to her school. So we are thankful.

Also, we attempted to go to Temple and celebrate with Granddad Bob, Kani's
father, who turned 70 this past weekend, but an emergency took place-Kani's
Aunt Dean had emergency surgery in Austin, and we all had to rush to her bedside from Temple. A cancer patient, doctors had told her daughter Dianne to 'gather the family' as it might be difficult for her to even survive the surgery. Gladly, she pulled through and we can be with her for some more time. Please keep her in
your prayers at this time, and my mom. Thank God for our moms and aunts and
the medical care they can receive when ill.

Via Con Dios, T.O.

2009-03-05T07:16:00.022-06:00

I knew that today was going to be a great day. FOXsports.com announces that finally the universe can function again, because the Dallas Cowboys have awoken from their long stupor, and booted everyone's favorite charm school graduate, Terrell Owens. Terrell has several exciting ideas for his future: to star in Dallas County Lock-up Bling, a true-to-life reality show co-hosted by Dennis Rodman, or, run his very own dog-fighting ring in the Bahamas, or, start his own signature cologne line, Love Juice.

A few weeks back, another charm-schooler, Jerry Jones, was quick to put the metroplex's fears to rest on the subject of Terrell, with this telling statement to the press:

"You and I both know that the one you're asking about all the time, if I gave you the answer you want to hear, then you would've already had it. So the fact you don't have it ought to tell you something. It really should."

(???) I think that Jerry shouldn't rule out the future possibility of running for Congress.

FOX says that Owens will count about $9 million against the Cowboy's salary cap. To me, that's about 9 million reasons to be rid of him. And this latest move also should help Tony Romo to better concentrate on what HE should be doing. It really should.

I don't want to Koyrasw you, but don't give my nurves giati, I'll give you Shoot.

2009-02-25T00:44:00.014-06:00

A few days ago, I sent an affectionate email to an old Aggie roommate, Louis, who happens to be from Dallas, and is Greek. Here is the actual text that was sent to my dear old roomie:

"Are the women in your family still wearing tu-tus and shaving their razor stuble with bowie knives?"

Now, you may be thinking that such a question, posed in such a way to someone who is short, hairy, dark, and Greek, might cause them to 'take pause.' But I can promise that to anyone with a last name such as Manitzas, Zikos, or Manos, this is like saying

"You are my beloved, dearest to my heart."

Other good things to do with Greeks is to brag on Socrates, Pluto, and Aristotle, mention that 'Wedding' movie, recognize the merits of purchasing watermelons and lambs whole, while wearing sandals without socks, ask them about their 'yiayia,' and to photograph them with donkeys.

At Home With the Cleavers: Beaver, Wally, & Eldridge

2009-02-23T08:38:00.008-06:00

In our home, we have varying viewing tastes. Hannah is a Disney Channel fan. Kani likes to watch games shows where you win an incredible amount of money in a very short time. I am a History Channel buff. So we tend to record and save a lot of shows for later use. Chase has the most: Charlie & Lola, Handy Manny, Little Einsteins, Dora the Explorer, etc. If you go to our 'saved list,' among such entries as High School Musical V, Hitler's Secret Health Club Membership, Hermann Goering's Top 10 Most Flamboyant Nazi Uniforms, you will see many, many little 25 minute shows saved for our Little Emperor.

CH: "I want watch Einsteins."
Me: "Ok, sure."
CH: "NO! I want watch Dora."
Me: "Alright."
CH: "NO, NO, NO, DADDY! I want watch Hanny Manny"
Me: "OK, just make up your mind."
CH: "NOOOO DADDY!! I WANT WATCH MICKEY MOUSE!!"

(I run from the room screaming)

The frightening thing is that he knows so many program names now. And this morning, he was running around the house saying an expletive that I can't repeat here. (starts with the letter b and ends with hole) Have no idea where he heard it.

This is why God made studies for Dads, and little boys get the rest of the house.

Hannah, Get Thee to a Nunnery, Revisited

2009-02-22T07:55:00.044-06:00

Here is part of our weekday morning routine. Before my girls are off to school, I make Hannah go back and change from her tight-fitting Aeropostale shirt at least once, and she usually returns wearing one that has thicker fabric but is otherwise more form-fitting. Then, I quietly retire to my bedroom, apply a fine mist of pureed onion, generously dab on some 'Critter Scent,' which I was once given at a gag-gift party...this after Hannah sits for a quick video I produced called 'Bad, Bad Things You Should Know About Mononucleosis.' Then, still damp from nature's fragrant bounty, I give Hannah a long, gigantic bear hug, off to school she goes.

Now, you're probably thinking my 'little green monster' is coming out, aren't you? You're probably thinking "He's just jealous of those athletic 8th graders, and more specifically, the skill players," ...aren't you? You're probably saying "lineman" to yourself right now, aren't you? You probably think that I never got to handle the ball even once, wasn't even allowed to try out for tight end...

Nothing could be further from the truth.

I did handle the ball once, on sophomore team, when one of the 'important' players fumbled and I fell on it. I can still smell the pigskin, the sweet sweat, the grass stains...it would have been more gratifying, were this precious gem not instantly plucked from my grasp by the ref. Did you know that the pigskin actually has tiny, cute little round bumps on it? I never knew that, because I was never allowed to actually hold a football.(sniff)

Our initial intelligence probes confirm that a certain QB has his eye on our daughter. Great. Here we go. I just hope that these kids with six-packs and firm, marbled buttocks will appreciate who is coming their way. And she's only going to be home for about 4 more years.

P.K. Prerogative

2009-02-20T04:44:00.009-06:00

Yesterday I had an enlightening, enjoyable experience with an old friend. We got together at a local Chick-fila, ate a sandwich together, watched Chase run around and play, and to some extent caught up on some 20 years of life, from our college days to the present. Our meeting was initiated by some rather impulsive words on the part of yours truly, and I didn't know what to expect, I must admit. But I was pleasantly surprised.

My friend appeared at our meeting place, with a maturity and wisdom that greatly impressed me, and spoke at great length of the many responsibilities he has taken on in his life of 45 years. I was quite taken by his depth of character and his effort to build on our friendship. Now, simply by a little lunch and some communication, we have a much greater understanding of each other, which is all most of us want anyway from our friends. Hats off to you, Phil.

P.S. Our church is currently studying relationships, and the necessity to "work towards reconciliation instead of being right." In fact, the Bible instructs to leave your offering at the alter and go reconcile with your brother first, if he has some beef with you, and even if your conscience is otherwise clear. Matt 5:23-24. See also Mark 12:28.

THE GREATEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD!!

2009-02-19T08:44:00.002-06:00

OK--I don't usually post anything on our blog, but I have something to say! I HAVE THE GREASTEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD!! I want the entire world to know this! Casey, I love you with all my heart and can't imagine my life without you. You make me happier than I ever dreamed of being. You truly are my soul mate and I thank God everyday for giving me the privilege and honor of being your wife. Thank you for being exactly who you are and for loving me like you do! I LOVE YOU!! --Kani

If You Do That Again, Chase, We'll Sell You To The Gypsies

2009-02-16T16:13:00.019-06:00

Just back from a fun Valentine's weekend in Dallas. We stayed with our girl friday, Kelly, in her luxurious one-bedroom flat, and had one big slumber party. Hannah & Chase were delighted to see their favorite swimming buddy, and we all had some good R&R. We flew in Friday night, and after gourging on the nearby McDonald's breakfast buffet, (the only McDonald's breakfast buffet that we are aware of in the entirety of McDonald's kingdom), we jumped in Kelly's ride and headed west for the Ft. Worth Zoo.

The Zoo was a blast. We all agree that the most impressive viewing at the zoo was the first one, of a huge, silverback male gorilla housed near to the zoo entrance. His living space has one particular room where he sits literally inches away from your nose, with only glass separating you. Not the least bit shy or unfriendly, this handsome 400-pounder contentedly sits, strolls, or peers back at the dozen sets of eyes looking at him. He is simply breath-taking and amazing to see. (Chase did not care to get too close to this guy, even while being tightly hugged by Dad.)

Kani has bragged on the Ft. Worth Zoo time and time again and she was absolutely right. There were many other fascinating animal exhibits, a frontier 'main street' to stroll, nooks & crannies for 2-year-olds to play in and explore. So we highly recommend this wonderful place.

On Sunday we met Jaime & Becky Galvan & their boys for Mongolian stir-fry after they were out of church service. We had a lovely lunch together, and a lively discussion of the highlights, and woes, of parenting, i.e., Chase biting his Daddy while having a bad moment at McDonalds. Hannah & Brandon, two 13-yr-olds-going-on-20, chatted about their studies and other important matters, while 10-year-old Matthew sat with them, making sure they behaved themselves.

Lots of fun all around, pictures to follow....

Laura, Please Don't Move Back To Michigan!!

2009-02-12T12:11:00.001-06:00

Trafficantes Weren't Home, But We Saw Mickey

2009-02-10T07:52:00.024-06:00

Just returned from Orlando! Kani and I agree that this has been the most fun we've ever had at Disney World, though we wish it could have been for more days. Chase started out last week a very sick boy, we had to take him to the local emergency clinic and to his doctor twice. We were told he had a sinus infection... turns out that he also had pneumonia. So he stayed home from day school all last week to give him time to recoup, and then he was given the ok to travel.

We decided at the last minute against flying to JAX and then going to Daytona, thinking that the long flight to Florida and ensuing long car ride might cause a certain little person to become, in a word, 'un-corked.' So we opted instead to go straight to Orlando and were better off for it.

This was definitely the trip of the free upgrade. We flew in 1st Class on CO, and Chase did great. Avis then gave us an upgraded car, because our first one smelled of smoke. Then we asked for a hotel room with a better view, and the nice desk lady gave us a suite w/ sitting room for no charge! So a rather quickly thrown together, last minute trip to Disney turned out to be rather special, with beautiful weather and no worries all around.

Chase absolutely loved Magic Kingdom and we took many good pictures. His favorite experience was the Main Street Parade, he was totally enthralled, making his Mom 'a little teary.' Hannah was a good big sister, being the resident expert and showing Chase all around.

Hannah also had a blast riding the 'scary' rides with Dad multiple times and trading from her rather sizable collection of Disney pins with other Disney nerds. Interestingly, her trading buddies all seem to be handsome, tall, teenaged males. (?)

As always, we are very thankful to God and feel blessed to have this special time to relax together as a family and recoup from our hectic life. God bless our families!

Off to See Mickey, Goofy, and the Trafficantes

2009-02-06T09:41:00.009-06:00

After a long break, it's now time to log a family update, for everyone who has asked repeatedly for new info at 'The Hacienda.' Sorry for the delay. The first rule of family blogging is to actually write stuff in it, so we stand corrected.

Above you may have observed that we changed our big picture. The kids are enjoying the sunshine in Banff, Alberta. Any idea when we were there...? If you guessed 08/08/2008, you are correct!(plus a few more days). Erin & Jeff Lonard were our kind hosts in Calgary, and welcomed us graciously into their home despite the fact that they were just in from their own trip to Vancouver and were set to celebrate Erin's birthday. We had a wonderful time, it's so great to be with friends of faith who love us. We love them too!

This weekend (6Feb) we will be taking the kids to Florida, it will be Chase's first time to Disney World. We will also go to Daytona Beach and dip our toes in the Atlantic. More on this later....

Of Cubs, Rattlesnakes, and The Pipeliner Inn

2008-06-22T17:40:00.006-05:00

Just returned from a fun weekend in North Texas. Our family converged together in Dallas: Hannah from Temple, Mom and Chase from Denton, Dad from Pinehurst. We all got in the car and went to Dad's 25th High School Reunion, held in Olney, Texas. Hannah and Chase got to swim in the same pool that Dad swam in when he was Hannah's age, eat some BBQ and cake, meet all of Dad's old middle school chums, see the 25 acre spread where Dad lived when he was a boy, and confirm from the accounts of actual live witnesses what Hannah has suspected all along...that Daddy was once upon a time a very naughty boy.

It was wonderful to be with old classmates, meet their spouses, admire all the beautiful children, and catch up on 25 years of life. Dad was very proud to show off his lovely lady and kids. More later, pictures forthcoming....

Look It Up On Google Please

2008-05-07T09:40:00.028-05:00

We just returned from a fun weekend in central Texas. We went to Temple Friday morning, stayed with Kani's folks, and then on Saturday morning drove to Austin for Hannah's state level History Day competition, held at the Texas Museum of History and UT. Hannah gave a wonderful performance of 'Apartheid in South Africa,' her one act play. She had an intricate black-and-white costume with face paint, and performed in front of a panel of 3 judges, her grandparents, her aunt and uncle, and various audience members. (Mom & Dad were not allowed in the room at Hannah's request because it makes her too nervous), so Mom waited outside the door, Dad and Chase went outside to play with squirrels and acorns. We later watched the show on video.

There were a few small hurdles to jump, such as finding parking, dealing with Austin traffic, and explaining to Hannah's degreed/professional/educator judges what the word 'Apartheid' means.

But all in all, it was a fantastic day, as Hannah gained knowledge and experience from her efforts. She also saw some of her Tomball classmates give group performances and show exhibits. Although none of the Tomball kids went on to Nationals, they performed splendidly and made their hometown proud!

We also had great fun seeing our relatives, enjoyed some great Italian food, and admired Aunt Mia's growing tummy, she and Uncle Kerry are expecting September 4th!

We are extremely proud of our girl, of course. Hannah's performance was completely of her own creation: she wrote the script herself(no help from Mom&Dad), came up with the costume idea, and presented a delicate subject matter convincingly to her audience with grace and poise. WE LOVE YOU HANNAH!!

Chase News Flash

2008-04-15T09:14:00.003-05:00

Big announcement: After several days of being up at odd hours and general crankiness on the part of our favorite boy, we have now found the reason for Chasey's discontent...he has sprouted a new molar, his first. His wise and capable Mom made the discovery yesterday. Kani's dentist brother Kerry likens the sensation to having the tip of an ice pick slowly emerge from your gums. Ouch! No wonder our little guy has been such a bear! But he's our little bear.

Besides getting more new teeth, Chase's latest activities have included going to the park with his Mom, Sissy, and Dad last weekend, going to church, spontaneously singing 'Bob the Builder,' and streaking.

Is It Live, Memorex, Or Chase?

2008-03-31T19:23:00.028-05:00

Chase might have all the features of a boy: the muscles, the natural athleticism, the dashing good looks, the plumbing...but the kid can scream like a banshee.

We were in Applebee's, just yesterday, with grandparents, great grandfather, family friends, church friends, and an entire restaurant full of proper, church-going, innocent Belton citizens, simply trying to enjoy a little family time, their oriental salads, cowboy burgers, some quiet conversation, in good faith, and in relative peace. Chase, sitting at the head of our long table, in his high-chair, decided that something had occurred not to his liking, and he let out a shriek so loud that drinking glasses and windows around the dining room shattered, and several ear drums burst instantly. Well...not really...but I was waiting for Ella Fitzgerald to come out of the shadows and say "THAT'S MY BOY!"

When Chase is not pleased about an impending diaper change, he screams. When someone is having 'Happy Birthday' sung to them, and Chase is not feeling festive, or necessarily 'happy,' he screams. When Communion is being served at church, and things are a bit too quiet to suit him, Chase screams. When we are on the airplane, have leveled off, and folks around us are just about to nod off...Chase screams.

Kani tells Chase, "Look around you...none of these nice people want to hear you scream." And in response, Chase screams. At least he's consistent.

When we were pregnant, and I had zilch experience, I would pace around the bedroom self-righteously, and declare to Kani just what our soon-to-be-born perfect child would and would not do. "He will not do this, he will not do that, like OTHER couples' kids do...I will see to it..." But I forgot about the screaming part.

To Nap or Not to Nap

2008-03-26T10:47:00.022-05:00

Chase won't take naps anymore. After all, we're talking about 25 pounds of muscle, bone, superior genes, voracious intellectual curiosity, inherent good looks, and the iron will of a Spartan. No naps are needed for such a finely tuned physical specimen of baby boy.

However, there are ways to trick him into snoozing, i.e., fill his tummy with something that he really, really loves... say.... crepes covered with Nutella spread, or honey, strawberries, etc. Top it off with some fruit cocktail, and he'll fall asleep right in his high chair. (That's where I've left him at this very moment, snoring, with chocolate spread smeared all over his face like it's his birthday) But actually, it's MY birthday, because I finally get some peace & quiet for a change, while he sleeps off his breakfast buffet...

I married into a musical family. Kani's Dad is a band director, her Mom sings, her brother is musically talented, although I've only seen him play golf & fix teeth so far, Kani is an accomplished oboist, and Hannah wants to be one too, if she can remember to actually take her oboe to school with her for practice and sectionals....

I think Chase will be a percussionist. He has some real drum sticks, among his many other toys, and he loves to beat on things with them...even his dear old Dad. We are trying to teach him not to bite, which he sometimes does to be affectionate, and not to hit, which he sometimes does just because he wants to, although he will often offer some sort of affectionate apology afterwards. If he is in my study with me, and feels he is being ignored, he will beat on my thigh with his drumstick while I work at my desk. After a few licks, it begins to hurt, and I will say "Ouch, ouch, ouch..." to show him that he is causing pain.

But Chase also has a tender side. He will then feel remorse, will crawl up into my lap, give me a sweet hug, and pat my back to 'help me feel better' from the flogging he has just given me. After a while, this becomes a fun game, with lots of frequent and enthusiastic beatings, followed by even more compassionate and tender sympathy for what just happened.

We will probably wait a while before getting him a baseball bat. No boomerangs either.

Deliriously Happy

2008-03-21T07:12:00.008-05:00

Yesterday was just one of those perfect days. We set out in the morning to the zoo, just the four of us, we had our lunches packed and our walking shoes on. The day was gorgeous, perfect temperature, sunny and everything in bloom. Chase had a wonderful experience, his first time to actually get out of the stroller and do some strolling of his own. He did not fuss the entire day, had a little nap around mid-day, (so did Dad), saw lots of animals, birds, fish, boys and girls too!

After the zoo, we cruised through downtown and headed back home. Driving home, Mom and I listened to Hannah entertain Chase all the way home. We were all tired, all red-faced from the sun, Chase was exhausted and delirious, and everything his sister did made him laugh his head off. This drive home was one of those unlikely but lovely moments of complete contentment and happiness, being with my family, holding hands with my wife, watching my children genuinely love and adore each other, and thanking God for making it all possible.

Now I am being called to the living room, (it's Friday morning), today is my sweet daughter's 13th birthday, and it's time to celebrate!! More on that later...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!!

2008-03-13T15:54:00.005-05:00

We just want to say "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" to the greatest dad in the world! Thanks for all you do for us and for mom. We love you lots and hope you have a great day! Love, Hannah and Chasey P.S. You're HOW OLD???

Now it's my turn to brag on my wonderful husband. Thank you, Casey for these years, for these birthdays we've shared together and for the lifetime of memories yet to be made. Thank you for sharing your life with us and helping us grow as a Christian family. Thank you being our spiritual leader, our rock, our encourager, our friend. Thank you for being my soul mate, my lover, my friend! I LOVE YOU so much and thank God every day for bringing you into my life. I can't wait to spend an eternity with you! I hope you have a WONDERFUL day! Happy Birthday my love! Love, Kani

Next He'll Be Wanting the Car Keys.....

2008-03-10T08:38:00.007-05:00

A couple of days ago I was in my study at the computer, just 5 minutes or so after putting Chase down for a nap, the house was quiet, when suddenly from the nursery, I heard a 'plop.' Turns out that Mr. Chasey had scaled his crib and landed on the floor. My, time goes by so quickly.

Now Chase proudly sleeps in his new 'big boy' bed, courtesy of cousins Rick & Holly. He is 15 mons old, needs a 3rd haircut, is saying lots of words(prompted by Mom), knows various hand signs, grudgingly takes one nap in the afternoon, if any, and basically keeps his exhausted dad and mom wondering if they are in fact too old for all of this...

I love the time I get to spend with Chase, it is precious time given to me by God and by my lovely wife, my soulmate. Being married to Kani and together watching Hannah & Chase grow has been the happiest time of my life, well worth the wait. (And I had a pretty good time while waiting too.) Thank you God for immeasurable blessings!

There's A Young Man That I Know, His Age Is 15 Months...

2008-03-04T06:50:00.011-06:00

We are excited! Tonight we get to see Faith Hill perform at 'The Rodeo.' It will be the first time that any of us have seen Reliant Stadium, the first time for Hannah or Chase to go to a big concert. Being the responsible parents that we are, we will have Hannah out late so that she can do her best on the TAKS test on Wednesday.... Hannah will undoubtably do fine, it will be the other pupils that are distracted by her humming 'Breathe' constantly.

Returning to the vicinity of the Astrodome is sure to remind me of the 'old days,' when my dad and I had Oilers season tickets, and would go after church to watch Earl Campbell have epic battles against the Steelers, etc, and to watch neighboring seat holders, in the end zone, get sauced, get into dust-ups, and get dragged out of the stadium by the handcuffs. Memories....

Anyway, tonight's evening out is a two-fold celebration. Little Brother reaching 15months, can't imagine not having him around before, and Big Sister scoring a '1' on oboe recital, the sitting judge commenting to her band director that Hannah has a "beautiful tone far above that of her age group." We are so proud of her as always.

DAWN PATROL. 5March. We had a fun, fun time! Chase saw the horses, bulls, carnival rides, and all the people. He did great, in spite of two shots in each leg earlier in the day at the Dr.'s office. Mommy, Hannah, Katherine enjoyed seeing Faith Hill do her thing. Dad enjoyed being with his precious family.

Just Sing & You'll Be Fed

2008-02-28T06:57:00.036-06:00

We were all saddened at the news of Carolyn DeYoung's passing several days ago, more so since she was a new member at WHCC like us, having attended the 101 Class just one session before us, and we had no time to get to know her personally. It was a pleasure to sing at her funeral with Andy, Drew, and Kani, and I'm sure it was a comfort to Carolyn's family. We know from personal experience that it can be difficult to find singers at short notice, especially on a weekday morning, and often the music simply must be played from recordings. Matt did a splendid job delivering his message, and I have to say that we sounded great in the Chapel(we rocked the funeral). It's easy to sound good when you're singing with a music minister, a music major, and an opera singer. I was even adequate.

In one of my favorite movies, 'The Last Emperor,' there is a telling moment, when Pu Yi, the last emperor of China before takeover by the communists, languishes in a communist prison. He is a disgraced, broken man, having spent his young adulthood as a shiftless emperor-playboy, foolishly giving the Japanese control of Manchuria and indirectly promoting the death of many innocent Chinese people. Pu Yi is really little more than a child in a man's body. He is the epitome of what the Chinese socialists despise, his life having been one of lavish narcissism, waste, lost potential, greed. But instead of killing him, the communists keep him alive as an object lesson, and Pu Yi actually ends up being a spectacular example to the Chinese public, in their socialist eyes of course, of how to 'turn a life around.' After some miserable years of learning to be a simple gardener, and being a walking, breathing propaganda tool for his captors, Pu Yi, the one-time pampered puppet turned captive pawn, bitterly tells his prison commander "You have used me."

Political ideology aside, the prison commander is a wise, thoughtful, fatherly man, and he gently answers, "Yes. But is that so bad? ...to be useful?"

Our Father finds value, 'use' in us that is often the last thing we expect. Often, we become more useful to God only after we are broken, after we have thrown away our self-importance and false pride. It feels good to be useful to God, even in the most modest of ways, like singing at someone's funeral. And it is to WHCC's credit that Kani and I have been made to feel useful, accepted, 'plugged in,' in such an immediate way. That's the way it should be in God's church. It is my prayer that God finds more use of me, and my family, in our future walk.

Riverdancers, Arise & Put Thy Tu-tus On

2008-02-26T23:26:00.012-06:00

I currently live in a place ruled by Zac Somebody, Hannah Montana, and that Girl Who Sang the Superbowl National Anthem. I'm outdated, lost in the past, a dinosaur. My tastes are irrelevant to what's going on today, as I am reminded time and time again, by my thoughtful daughter. She has to help me with my cell phone, with the remote control, with the computer, and certainly with staying current.

My how times have changed. Remember the 'Bay City Rollers?' Remember when 'The Cars' first came out? When I was a kid, my big sister read Tiger Beat, and in those days it was all about 'Leif Garrett.' Remember him?

I know exactly when a song comes on TV that Hannah really likes, because she starts dancing around the room. If she really, really likes the tune, she begins to pirouet around the room uncontrollably. But she can't pirouet to anything that I listen to, and when one of my songs comes on, she often looks as though she's smelling roadkill.

It's my fervent hope that Chase will someday show his Sis a thing or to, that he will be the 'new' wiz kid, and that she will need HIM to help HER 'stay current.' At least that will give me some kind of morbid pleasure, since, apparently, I am to be at the mercy of them both.

Chase Whitacre Matthew, The Sugarland Express

2008-02-26T10:32:00.010-06:00

We have a brilliant son. Just a little while ago, I was sitting in the living room, and our cordless phone rang. I said "hello," ....no response....so I hung up, figuring whoever would call back. In a couple minutes, the phone rang again, I looked at the incoming number, and it was Chase calling me from my own cell phone that he had nicked while I wasn't looking. He was calling me from inside his abode, The Castle Chase.

Some folks want their sons to be doctors, lawyers, dentists, or senators. They look for traits in their sons that may give a glimpse of what the boy's future is to hold.

We think that Chase is going to be a purse snatcher. If it's in your hand, he wants it, he takes it, and then he takes off, having learned already that most things he has taken are almost always immediately taken back, which understandably is not much fun for a little guy who is very curious about EVERYTHING. When he has some kind of contraband in hand and senses adult hands reaching out to retrieve, he high-tails it, to his Castle, much like Tony Romo might escape a sack, and goes inside where we can't reach him. The only thing that will get him out again are goldfish crackers.

Hannah & Chase say "Thanks Poppa!"

2008-02-23T20:55:00.011-06:00

Tonight we had a lovely time, went to Barbie & Whit's house(my parents)in Richmond, ate delicious chicken enchiladas, beans, guacamole, and brownies, caught up on family gossip, and were given a great gift, a 20-inch monitor for our computer in our study. Now we can see our family pictures in style, with great color and definition. Even 'Old Jethro Tull Dude' looks fabulous in his beard and overcoat(see Pictures Galore). Also, this big screen will really save my eyes while working! Thanks Mom & Dad, for a fun evening. We love you, you're the greatest!!

Lead Me To Calgary

2008-02-20T09:00:00.005-06:00

Looks like in spite of poll results we will likely be going to Calgary, Alberta, to see the Lonards, if'n the flights don't fill & the creek don't rise. We will also get to visit Banff, one of my favorite places in the world, show the kids some beautiful mountains, see some bears, see some elk, ride down the river in a big raft, take some cool treks, soak in the hot springs, maybe even do some skiing! And we decided to take Chase...after all, he now has his passport, and he's ready to party. More later....

Hannah, Get Thee To A Nunnery

2008-02-18T22:34:00.014-06:00

ABC News Story: Greene County, Georgia, in a radical move, decides to seperate boys & girls in all grades, on all campuses, in an effort to improve rock-bottom test scores, reduce pregnancies, and increase discipline. Of course, some parents are outraged....

Here's my take: I don't want 7th grade boys looking at my little girl, she's just a baby. After all, she still watches the Disney Channel, constantly. She calls Kani & me "Mommy & Daddy." She cannot make it through the night by herself when it storms outside. Until recently, she held her nose when she jumped into the swimming pool. She still sleeps with her Stitch doll. She proudly wears all of her Disney pins when we are 'On The Property.' She goes to bed early, VOLUNTARILY. She is not allowed to watch 'Raven' or 'Kim Possible.' They're just too smarty-pants.

But Hannah simply will not stop getting more curvy, and she does not always help things. The other day at the History Fair, we had to tell her to "stop jiggling." And I wish she would re-think those hair attachments & heels-I don't want people at church to think that we might be Irish Travelers, trying to get her married off. ALSO, when I try to get the info out of Hannah, she is not so forthcoming...

(Me) Did you have fun at the dance
(H) Yes
(Me) Did you talk to any boys
(H) No
(Me) Did any boys talk to you
(H) No
(Me) Did you dance with anyone
(H) No
(Me) Then why did you go to the dance
(H) I don't know
(Me) Would you like to continue this conversation
(H) No

I know good & well that Tomball boys are not just interested in football, baseball, & FFA. During my junior high years, my family lived in a small North Texas town of only 3,500 people, and every girl 'went' with every boy, at least once, for about two weeks. This phenomenon began in the 6th grade. And when I was a 7th grader, I was a little scamp, a walking hormone, smart-mouthed(imagine that), delinquent, with one foot in church and one in Juvie Hall. I was shy, but there were lots of things I dearly wanted to do with girls, were it not for being so bashful. So I don't want to hear about these little pizza-faced monkey-boys, that Hannah refers to as 'cute,' as also being innocent. To me, they are all conniving little pizza-faced monkey-boys, and they must be destroyed.

I could go on and on, but what's the use. I just happen to have a gorgeous daughter. Guess I'll just have to get used to it.

My "New" Beautiful Daughter!!-- from her Mom

2008-02-16T19:17:00.003-06:00

Well, today we did it! I finally gave in and took Hannah to get highlights in her hair. This is something that she has wanted for months now. She looks beautiful!! I can't believe that she has turned into such an amazing young lady, overnight it seems. With her gorgeous smile, and sweet personality, Christ continues to shine through her beauty. Not a day goes by that we don't thank God for her. From the moment of Hannah's birth, she has blessed all who she has come in contact with...a spirit that we all strive for, yet, few seem to acquire. So, Hannah...thank you for giving me the pleasure of spending the day with you and watching you grow and mature. Thank you for helping me remember the joys of innocence. I LOVE YOU!!--Mom

Missionary Released From Hospital After Becoming Dinner Snack For Crazed Chinese Elephant

2008-02-15T13:20:00.005-06:00

Update on Jeremy McGill. He has now been released from hospital(yesterday) and is recouping with church families in Bangkok(probably Aggies). For those unfamiliar with his story, he was serving as a missionary for ChinaNow in Wuhan, P.R.C., and while on holiday was attacked by an elephant in a wildlife refuge in SW China. Thanks to all who lifted up Jeremy during this tough time for him & family.

Happy Valentine's Day, Even to Patriots

2008-02-14T07:34:00.019-06:00

Time to say some nice things, on this special day. It was only 3 short years ago this past January. I was living in a place called Largo, Florida, enjoying life, traveling all over, walking on the beach in the morning, seeing dolphins, getting ready for the 'next big thing.' I was happy, but I was alone. Boy, did God ever have something in store for me.

After church one Sunday, I went out to lunch with some church members, most of whom I had not yet become aquainted with. Sitting by me was a pretty 4th grader with golden curls, a bubbly personality, and a familiar twang. She and I made fast friends, chatting away as I could see in 'me peripherys' her Mom watching with curiousity. All at the table that day would later say that 'something big was brewing.'

Soon enough, phone numbers were exchanged, a fender-bender first date, ditched at the State Fair, compared & contrasted, and pretty soon, we were standing together on the shores of Honolulu, exchanging vows, and clutching a certificate of adoption.

We believe that all the years before this time were God's preparation of us for what we share now. Neither Kani or I were really 'looking for someone' at the time we met, but God helped us find each other. We are so blessed, we have everything. A wonderful marriage. Two beautiful children. A comfortable home. We love our Church. We travel all over the world in first class. We love & cherish our extended families. Happiness, in our marriage and our faith and our family, is much better than status, there is no comparison. And now we even have a brand new grill, and I can have steak & green bean casserole any time I like.

So to my beautiful Queen, and my pretty Princess, I say HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! (you too Chase)

My Son Eats Like Shamu

2008-02-11T10:46:00.001-06:00

1st Rule of our House: Anything on my plate, also belongs to Chase to be eaten when he sees fit. It's not MY rule, but rather one that has been imposed on me by our Little Emperor, and I'm having to adjust to the harsh reality of this 'new life.' Not easy.

When I make whatever in the kitchen, I try to slyly bring it into the living room so that I can watch Headline News at the same time. Chase, even if he's elsewhere in the house, can somehow SMELL the vapors in the air, and he begins to circle closer and closer , like a shark might hunt its prey. Once he sees that it is in fact food that I have, he comes in for the kill, because he figures "If Dad likes it, then I will too."

What happens next can be frightening to behold. Looking up at me with baleful brown eyes, knocking his little fists together to make the sign "more" that his misguided mother taught him, he becomes a fixture between my legs, little hands reaching up to grasp the plate and sling everything onto the floor, if possible. When I do reach down with a small bite, 5 razor sharp teeth RIP the morsel from my fingers, and off he goes, into the depths, only to return again when I least expect him. I'm most vulnerable when I have both a plate and the cell phone.

You see...he's kind of like those raptors in Jurassic Park. He plans. He remembers.

Queen Elizabeth Saw Us & Didn't Even Wave

2008-02-10T04:28:00.000-06:00

True Story: This past July, Kani & I traveled to Budapest, Hungary, and met up with Rick, Holli & Julie Goodman (& Andrew) for a tour of the city after their annual Hungary mission endeavour with Bammel CofC. It was a wonderful experience, Rick is an outstanding tour guide, has an indepth knowledge of the city & it's history. Holli-Julie-Andrew kept us well entertained with their zaniness.

ANYWAY, on our way back to the states, Kani & I stopped in London to take a quick tour of major points of interest-we actually had to switch from Heathrow to Gatwick, (we wanted Business 1st coming home from LGW) so we made an adventure of trudging across the city on public transport, with our backpacks.

Midway across town, we decide to go visit Buckingham Palace. Up for air from the bowels of the Tube, we find ourselves just a couple blocks from the Buckingham Palace Stables. We happily trudge down the sidewalk perimeter, taking in the atmosphere. Near to the great gates of the stables, suddenly we see the gates quickly open, and out roars a very futuristic looking motorcyle policeman. Robocop motions with his arm for us to stop in our tracks. Someone important is about to come out of that gate! Soon other robocops, Range Rovers, and a big shiny maroon Rolls Royce limo drives out of the gate and down the Avenue. No one appears to be inside the limo other than the driver. Off the motorcade goes, and we say "Cool." to each other and continue on around to the front of Buckingham, the fountains, park, etc.

We mingle for about 30 mins with a thousand other people around the front of the Palace, taking pictures, taking a sit at the fountain, etc. Suddenly, here comes the motorcade again, on its way back to the same gate it came out of, and drives directly past us on its way, no spectacle, very unobtrusive and hardly noticed by the crowd. As the limo goes by, we see a little white haired lady inside with a powder blue suit and matching hat. It's Her Highness! Kani is thrilled & gets a couple snaps of the limo.

It was a neat experience to see a famous person so close up, and it really made Kani's day. I enjoyed it too...the only true royalty that I'd ever been close to before was Andy Rooney on 43rd & 7th Ave.

Supergirl Wins 1st in Region IV Natl History Day Fair

2008-02-09T16:18:00.000-06:00

Great News! Hannah is on her way to Austin in May to compete in the State Level of the National History Fair. Today she placed first in competition, winning in individual performance. Hannah had to demonstrate 'Conflict & Compromise' in a historical topic, and she chose Apartheid in South Africa. Hannah developed two character studies, one a white school teacher, and one a Bantu school girl. She performed both characters simultaneously, wearing costume & painted face. Hannah's performance concept & dialogue were completely of her own creation, in fact, Mom & Dad have yet to see her perform it!(would have made her nervous):)

We are very, very proud of our only daughter, and have decided to keep her after all. We can't wait to go with her in May to State!

Chasey's Reverse Psychology Top 10 List

2008-02-07T09:43:00.001-06:00

#10) "Chase, DON'T come here! Chase!"

#9) "Chase, please put (insert irreplacable item here)in the toilet & bury at sea."

#8) "Chase, I'm on the phone. Please scream louder. Helps me concentrate."

#7) "Chase, here's the sharpies, there's the dining room wall. Go be Picaso."

#6) "Chase, PLEASE take the remote & channel surf during the Superbowl."

#5) "Chase, the tub water. We'd like it on the tile. Can you make it happen?"

#4) "Is that the furthest you can pull the tissue paper off the roll?
Go for it! Pretend you're in Cirque du Soleil."

#3) "Chase, I LOVE being sprayed when I change you! How refreshing!"

#2) "Chase, company's coming, need your toys 'sklewn' everywhere please."

AND THE #1 EXAMPLE of REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY...

"Go play hide and seek with Mommy & Daddy's passports."

Like Sister, Like Son

2008-02-07T08:05:00.000-06:00

Yesterday morning after the girls drove off to school & work, Chase and I hung out in the living room, sitting on the carpet together, munching pieces of yogurt bar, looking at tv. On his knees, Chase placed the top of his head on the carpet, straightened his legs, bending his body into a little arch. Dad gets all excited.

"Can you do a summersault?" I say. Chase gives me the puzzled expression he has invented for us in just the last few days. So I clear a space, (a big space) and get ready to give my offspring and heir an object lesson of perfection in form. But what Chase actually gets to witness is a pathetic & sad straining of hundreds of pounds of crashing, ex-football player, glory days long gone, middle-aged girth. I'm actually a little out of breath after this 10 seconds of physcial activity. My shoulder muscles ache from the weight just placed on them.

Chase gives me a look like "...What on Earth was that Dad?" Then little 14-month-old elastic boy quickly performs two perfect summersaults in quick succession, takes his seat on the carpet, gets his juice sippy-cup, looks at me like "That's how you do it Dad..." and resumes watching tv.

Later, I brag to Mom & Sister about how quickly Chase picked up on my demonstration. Sister gives me the same look that brother gave me earlier, and informs me that under her tutelage, Chase has long since mastered this most basic of tumbling moves.

Oh well. Leave the race to the swiftest. I'll stick to badminton.

The People Have Spoken: On to the isles of Spam

2008-02-05T07:15:00.001-06:00

With only 24 minutes left in THE HERRINGTON HACIENDA WHERE IN THE WORLD SHOULD WE GO FOR SPRING BREAK poll, the votes are in, and the clear winner is Hawaii, with 62% of votes. Kiss a moose's puss in Canada took 2nd place with 37%, and maraca shakin' in Brazil a dismal 12%.

Now we can make an educated vacation choice, thanks to viewers like you. If we go to HNL, we can overnight in Los Angeles. Last time we were there, Kani and I brought back pictures of us on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where we came across a guy dressed like Johnny Depp. When we got home, we convinced Hannah that he was actually the 'real Johnny Depp.' We never told her the truth. So perhaps if we see him again, we will have the chance to perpetuate this cruel, deliberate, deceptive manipulation of our only daughter. Tons of fun!!

Super Day for Super Mom

2008-02-03T05:03:00.000-06:00

Today is Super Bowl Sunday and also Kani's Birthday!! We are looking forward to a fun and happy day of church, football and birthday celebration. Hannah and I will serve Kani breakfast in bed, then we will meet Hannah's pal Sydney, and Sydney's parents, who have decided to visit WHCC this morning. We know they will enjoy a wonderful welcome at West Houston, and we look forward to showing off our great church! After lunch with them, we will come back home and host the Yates and perhaps some more church friends for the game. Hannah will attend her own Super Bowl Bash at the Sopers.

It's great to have this special day for Kani, my wonderful life partner. She's the love of my life! And a wonderful mom, always giving of herself for me and our children. God Bless my Beautiful Wife!

Birthday Girl says "Go Giants!"

Shake it up, Shake it up Chase

2008-02-02T03:44:00.000-06:00

Just for your information, Chase's favorite song is 'Emotion in Motion' by Ric Ocasek, formerly of The Cars. In our study room, we have some floor toys for Chase to play with while Dad's on computer, etc, some pots/lids, golf balls in assorted colors, some old tins. Banging & clanging is fun for a few minutes, but then Chasey needs some calm....that's when I turn to my trusted friend, Youtube, and Chase becomes mesmerized by knights, horses, princesses, dragons, waterfalls. 'Emotion' is like a gentle lullaby, and soon Chase is putty in my hands! Recommended by dads everywhere.....

OTHER CHASE FAVORITES:
'Rainy Day'...........The Jayhawks
'Sacrifice'...........Elton John
'It's Raining Again'..Supertramp
'Year of the Cat'.....Al Stewart

Pretty Girl

2008-02-01T03:15:00.000-06:00

Recently I was let in on a little secret about my little girl. Sometimes when Hannah sees that her 'Daddy is in a mood,' she will ask me a question about China, because she knows from experience that when I start to ramble on about this particular favorite subject, it calms the savage beast in me. It's very endearing, and humbling, to see this wise and precocious behavior in my daughter. Hannah is a peacemaker, and a loyal friend(again, learned from her Mom). Anyone who would not befriend Hannah is simply clueless. Kani often reminds me that it was Hannah who made friends with me first, before Kani and I became an item(Hannah and I were both born at Scott&White in Temple!)setting in motion where we are as a family today.

There are many things I could learn from my little girl. She lets events roll off her back. She does not dwell on the past. She does not suffer fools gladly...she offers them kindness and understanding instead. When Hannah enters the room, Chasey's face lights up like a Christmas tree. It's God's providence that Chasey has not 2 but 3 caretakers to help him grow.

On Saturday, Hannah will go to salon with Mom to get highlights done. I know it is a big deal for her, and I will take pictures and post them to show Hannah's 'new look.' In the near future, it will be difficult for anyone not to notice Hannah when she enters a room. When the attention starts, I will have to hold back the beast in me again. (No Northland boys.) But that's only the outside of Hannah. The most beautiful part of her has always been her heart.

Wrecking Crew

2008-01-30T10:29:00.000-06:00

Kani and I have a 14-month-old who I lovingly call my 'one man wrecking crew.' He's our adorable, messy, 100% boy. If he had a motto, it would be "I don't need to be 2 to be terrible." We're stuck on him. We're stuck with him! He whines more and more often, flails arms and legs when I carry him out of church, we have to live around his schedule, he eats with his hands, and he always eats first! (That used to be me.)

Our daughter is our 13-year-old super-girl and lifesaver. She's part nanny, part nurse, part cook, part teacher, part sheriff, part entertainer, part judge and jury. (She got her skills and good looks from her Mom.) God gave us the best big sister a boy could have. We love our children so much because they belong to us, our very blood courses through their veins. Life without them would be unimaginable, the mere thought that anything might ever happen to them, an obscenity. And you have someone in your life who you feel the same about, a daughter, a son, a niece, a nephew, or perhaps a child that you have adopted in your heart.

Our Heavenly Father also had a Son. He lived long ago, but He continues to touch people's hearts with His love today. He wasn't self-absorbed or proud. Instead, He washed the feet of His disciples. He wasn't impetuous or short-sighted. Instead, in an amazing display of self-discipline and devotion, He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. He wasn't vulnerable to prejudice or racially chauvinistic. Instead, He shared a well with a Samaritan woman. He didn't resort to jockularity or gimmicks. Instead, He gave His listeners The Bread of Life. He didn't always gravitate to the most important person in the room. Instead, He dined with Zachias.

His Father adored Him, because He came from the Father. The very blood of God coursed through His veins. His body is our sustenance. His blood is the reparation for the broken shards of our lives.

Oh where Oh where should we go for Spring Break

2008-01-29T04:28:00.000-06:00

We have a profound decision to make. Should we:

A) Go to Calgary, Alberta for spring break.
B) Go to Sao Paulo, Brazil.
or
C) Go to our favorite place, where we done got married up, Hawaii.

You see...it would be great to go to Calgary, and visit Banff, but Kani does not prefer the cold, if it can possibly be avoided. Sao Paulo would be spectacular, but Brazil is now charging $140 a head for visa, just to be ornery. (We want to go on a trip, but we don't want to actually pay for it.) Hawaii is always fun, it has Hannah's vote, we could take Chasey to the zoo, and stay with family friends. So, what to do? Any advice would be appreciated.

Oh the times they are a changin'

2008-01-29T03:48:00.000-06:00

Many recent changes for us indeed. We are really enjoying our new church, feel welcomed and 'put right to work,' and are very blessed to have friends both at Bammel and West Houston.

Hannah loves her new girlfriends at WHCC, and just returned from a great girl's weekend at 1st Colony. She's very much into theatre now, so we have a drama queen both at home and at school. She is constantly coming up with new 'dance routines,' for us to critique of course, and her new passport just arrived! (along w/ little brother's). Her room is a typical pre-adolescent fortress, with her own tv, phone, music, etc. We are glad that she still enjoys our company and we have a lot of fun with her. She's great with brother too.

Speaking of fortresses, Chasey is really into his Little Tikes multi-story gym/slide contraption, so much that we moved it into the house for him. Without socks on, he can climb to the 'upstairs' by pulling himself up with hands and feet on the slide. Daddy sealed off the upstairs port holes so that he won't fall through them... at 13 months he is still learning depth, distance, etc. He is a tough guy, though. We all share a collective gasp when he bonks his head on something, but he usually just shakes it off and keeps going. He loves when daddy spins him around by the ankles, or lets him ride on daddy's shoulders. He is on his second haircut, has 5 teeth now and eats like a racehorse.