the broadwells and beyond

January sweets...

2009-08-20T06:01:00.000-07:00

Trying to catch sister... here I come!

Gotcha! Right as Estelle fell out of her little playhouse, notice her expression.

Mmmm... bananas!

Solids are fun!!!

Well, except when they get in your eyes!

Our gunslinger...

2009-04-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

She's just so much fun. We picked her cowboy hat up at a super duper gas station in Tyler, Tx on Christmas day. She thinks she's Jessie from "Toy Story II" and we just love it.

2009-04-24T05:53:00.000-07:00

I just adore this photo. Estelle and Brian were having some outdoor fun in our awesome San Antonio winter (which is really more like an extended spring). It's difficult to tell, but she's wearing every pair of new panties she got for Christmas OVER her diaper... kids!

Christmas was a blast!

2009-04-23T05:59:00.001-07:00

We could not have asked for a better Christmas with our family and friends than the one we had. Estelle really understood the idea of a big celebration and is beginning to understand Jesus. Oliver was such a sport and just went along for all of the rides. We were able to begin our trip home at Jackie's house in Frisco for Christmas Eve and morning. Estelle LOVED being with her cousins Jack and Madelyn and decorating cookies for Santa... well, that was the idea though she ate all the cookies she decorated. Christmas Eve was a BLAST for me after the kids went to sleep...which took forever...I loved helping Santa make a magical morning for the kids. All were appreciative of the efforts come Christmas morning. We headed to Shreveport after the morning festivities to be with Bear, Wheezie and Adam. It was fun to get to wish Aaron a wonderful day as we Skyped with him while he was at the hospital. Lots of family and lots of fun... what else could we have asked for?

Thanksgiving pics

2009-01-30T11:51:00.001-08:00

I think Oliver has mine and Mimi's eyes!

Estelle enjoying Daddy's Mississippi Mud Pie birthday cake with the man of honor.

Lots of Broadwell men!

Granny Jean stopped by for a quick visit.

Estelle seemed impervious to the cool, thank goodness the pool is heated. She had a ball and loves the new addition!

Splashing with Daddy, night-time swimming in November.

"Watch me Mama, watch me!"

Oliver a little cranky - he'd had a enough!

Poppa getting his Oliver time in.

Estelle waiting patiently for the water to warm!

Hot tubbing and hot coco with Wheezie.

Estelle's "princess hat" from her first trip to the circus. Thanks Poppa and Mimi.

Waiting for her first circus to begin.

Holidays 2008

2009-01-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

Hello to all! I really do apologize for the HUGE gap in our posts since November last year. With the holidays came busy days and lots of fun. I plan to post pictures of our times home and will probably only comment on pictures that require information. I promise to try to keep a better account of our happenings and look forward to hearing from you all, too.

All of us here wish all of you a most blessed 2009!

The Pattersons came to visit...

2008-12-09T19:37:00.000-08:00

In early November, our dear friends, Brooks and Ginger came to visit. We were thrilled to get the chance to open our home to our friends and getting to show them some of what we like best so far about San Antonio. The kids seemed to enjoy their time with "BeeBee" and "GeeGee" as much as we did.

two cool cats in their hats

2008-11-20T07:57:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so long...

2008-11-20T07:41:00.001-08:00

Hi, all. I apologize it has been such a long while since I have last posted anything about the kids or our happenings. Life has certainly picked up some. We have been fortunate to be visited by family and friends as well as living every day in full throttle. Pictures to follow.

Oliver has been busy cutting two lower teeth and learning to crawl. Estelle is growing more witty and funny everyday and I hope to have video of them both posted soon. We will all be heading to Shreveport this weekend for nice long visit over Thanksgiving week. I anticipate time to post then.... I guess we'll see how that turns out.

Until then, thanks for checking in and please stay tuned. For those of you we'll not get to see, we all wish you a blessed and love-filled Thanksgiving.

Halloween buzz.....

2008-11-04T06:00:00.001-08:00

Mimi, Poppa and Scruffy came in town on Halloween night. They arrived just in time before Estelle decided she had enough of her costume. Oliver had his fill of Halloween, too.

One of Estelle's classmates, Maddie, dressed as a fairy princess.

Our little Bee had a Fall Festival at her preschool where all the kids came dressed in their costumes and paraded around the back play-ground. Well, needless to say, it was ADORABLE. Estelle loved having Brian come to her school and really preferred being in her arms than with her class.

Recent favorites

2008-11-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

I remember how fun it was being little and fitting behind furniture and finding random hiding places. Apparently, Estelle appreciates it as well. Such a fun and silly little girl.

Our new foodie...

2008-11-03T18:25:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago, Oliver began solid foods. I cannot say he was a fan at first, but now he's really getting the hang of it. So far, he's a fan of everything he's tried including bananas, peas, sweet potatoes and prunes.

More from the B'well visit

2008-10-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Oliver with Gene and Su-su

Turkey Creek Ranch in Uvalde, TX, is Gene and Sue's 2000 acre ranch and is really lovely. We were able to meet them out there for lunch and a tour of the land. They were, as always, more then hospitable and we look forward to returning to their beautiful ranch soon.

At the beautiful entry gates, hand-crafted in Mexico.

"Let's go"

I wish we had a good picture of the view these guys are getting.

"Cheese"

Aaron loves flying the kids around, and they love it too!

Aaron and Estelle were each other's dinner entertainment.

Cute!

Wheezie and her girl.

The meeting of Oliver and Aaron. Happy!

Too pretty a picture not to share!

O and his uncles.

Oh what fun with Wheezie, Bear and Uncles Aaron and Adam

2008-10-19T19:05:00.000-07:00

"I'll pull you if you pull me"

"cummon Ehwen"

"Yook, Adum, de mooooon"

"here, see if you can reach it"

Estelle, our green-eyed monster..

tres Kennedy men... lk, bk and OK!

Three good looking Broadwells!

"Look, Adam, it's my Jack-o-Lightern"

"Wheezie, come see my room!"

Last weekend was really big around these parts as we had ALL of the Broadwells came to pay us visit. Oliver was introduced to his godfather, Uncle Aaron, who flew in from Jacksonville, Fl, with lots of love, hugs and kisses for everyone. And Estelle was ecstatic to have Bear, Wheezie, Uncle Aaron and Uncle Adam come to HER house in "tonio"! We were able to capture our annual Christmas card photo on the River Walk without too much trouble which was a surprise with two little kids and a river.

- more pictures to come from uncle Aaron's cameras

How precious this time really is...

2008-10-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

As a parent, you hope you are doing the best you can to provide a secure and loving life for your children. It is hard to know for sure when often days can begin so imperfectly and go down hill by the hour. Some days run on and on and some evenings are full of whines and tears and our patience wears to translucency.

Then, there are times when you really think you are doing something right...

I do not have a photo of this to share with you so I will do my best to paint the picture of these special moments. Over the last few weeks, we have adopted a new night-time routine where, after baths, we all pile in Mommy and Daddy's bed. As I snuggle Oliver in for a "night-cap", Estelle collects Brian, "wammy" and her literary pick for the evening. Before climbing into our bed, she makes sure the doors to the hall and bathroom are closed so as to only let in a whisper of light. Then, she makes her way up and cuddles in between Brian and me. She softly "sssshhhhh" 's us so we do not startle or wake Oliver (ironic, I know!). We talk and giggle softly as life seems to stand still in time. Both of the kids seem to enjoy it as much as we do and in these precious moments, there is no wrong or evil in the world. All is so right and so well and it seems the love in that room could cure any ill. When it is time to put Oliver to bed, Brian ushers Estelle to hers... then off to the books he goes and I continue picking up the house after dinner and a long day of play and disarray.

Difficult days are hard to recall with such sweet endings!

not just the FIRST of October

2008-10-04T08:05:00.001-07:00

With Wednesday came not only the first of October, but Oliver's first solo sitting adventure. At 5 1/2 months, he's a little ahead of Estelle in the "baby tricks" department. He can sit for very long periods before falling with style to the floor. What a big boy!

our Preschool Princess

2008-10-04T07:58:00.001-07:00

Estelle is now a preschooler! We found a wonderful little preschool called the Children's Enrichment Center close to Brian's school. She attends MWF mornings from 8:45-11:45. Estelle LOVES it and her teacher, Ms. Carol. The first day of every month is "spirit day" when everyone wears their t-shirts. We had our first parent/teacher conference day last week and I report with a pride-swollen chest that Estelle received glowing comments. She is growing to be such a big girl and we are in such love!

A couple of my recent favorites

2008-10-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

We are truly having an incredible time with the kids. Yes, the days can seem endless at times but we are LEARNING how to appreciate every moment (well, almost every moment) and make the most of them all. Time is going by so quickly and these stages are so precious. I cannot say the house is spotless...most days it surely is not. Nor can I say all of our clothes are neatly folded and put away. However, I can say that we are blessed beyond our wildest dreams for all that we have, especially our babies!

No title required

2008-10-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

...just so dang cute!!!

A few random photos

2008-09-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

Estelle and Emma Kate dancing...

and hugging, girls are so cute.

Yes, folks, that is our two-year-old in her baby brothers
exersaucer!

Too silly!

Looks like someone is ready to start solids...

A weekend in Boerne!

Second time was a charm!!!

2008-09-26T05:05:00.001-07:00

Two of my cuties!

One of the shows we caught.

Happy at the Lost Lagoon.

Getting ready to go, Oliver happily napping and Estelle
very happy to be enjoying ice cream.

At the car, just finishing ice cream and STILL HAPPY!

With the wonderful change in weather, we were anxious to give Sea World another try. It was great! We were able to get in a few shows before heading to the water park... and all our adventures were a success. YAY!!! Those season pass purchases weren't in vein after all.

Geaux Tigers!!!

2008-09-07T06:38:00.001-07:00

"Touch Down!" (compliments of Uncle Aaron!!)

It's fun to play at the Y M C A

2008-09-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

Just a few miles from home, a new YMCA opened their pool and splash park. It is a great way to spend Indian summer weekend mornings without having to fight the Sea World crowds. We all love it.

Mimi and Poppa and Scruffy, oh my

2008-09-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate to be visited by Mimi, Poppa and Scruffy over the Labor Day weekend. We had lots of fun playing together and exploring some of the hill country near San Antonio. A great time was had by all.

Scruffy and Estelle are INSEPARABLE when they are together. "Com-on Cruffy" is her mantra when he is around, and he loves it!!!

Estelle enjoying Poppa's LSU cap.

Thanks to Uncle Aaron, Estelle has made a game of finding obscure objects to fashion hats from. And, now that she is tall enough to reach the wash-cloths from the kitchen drawer, they are the new pseudo-hats du jour. As you can tell, even Scruffy was forced to take part.

What a Cutie-pa-tootie...

2008-09-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

I know I am partial because I am his Mama, but look at this baby and tell me he's not a charmer... I dare ya! Wow, we are really having a good time with Oliver. He has begun to notice and get a kick out of Estelle so that has been a real treat, too. We are so blessed.

Just hanging 'round the house

2008-08-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I am increasingly surprised at how busy we stay and how quickly time is passing. This summer has brought so much change in both of the kids. Estelle is speaking so much more clearly and seems to understand just about everything we say...though she selectively chooses when to listen and obey. Oliver is such a sweetie and is getting so big. He has been rolling from front to back and is now pursuing the back to front roll as well. His sleeping and eating stretches are increasing which makes for a really HAPPY MOMMY!

Brian is still adjusting to the transition back to school. He spends a lot of time away from home for school and a lot of time for school at home. He has almost completed his first semester... one down and eight to go!

Backyard play

2008-08-24T07:19:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures from playing out back with the kids.

Bath-time beauties

2008-08-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

There are few things sweeter than freshly bathed babes!

Our Cuties

2008-08-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

This morning Estelle asked me for something she has not requested for MONTHS... she asked if she could hold Oliver. Well, as you can see, it was safer for EVERYONE when he sat beside her! I cannot believe how he's grown and changed since the first photos about four months ago.

the Bryans came to town...

2008-08-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

At the San Antonio Children's Museum

We were excited to have my sister and family visit while on their family vacation. The kids are always a big treat for Estelle. With them came Estelle's birthday gift which she LOVES. As always, we had a great time and will miss them!

Rolly Polly

2008-08-09T09:23:00.001-07:00

Though it is difficult to really tell in these photos, I tried to capture Oliver's roll from his front to back. Estelle thinks it's wrestle mania time when I put him down on his tummy, so I usually am able to get some cute pics.

"TWO" cute

2008-07-22T14:28:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Estelle's second birthday... and the second anniversary of my thirty-second birthday yesterday. All I can say is.... LET HER EAT CAKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Daddy's helpers

2008-07-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

Estelle teaching Daddy a few tricks on his Mac-book.

Helping Daddy play.

Again, Estelle teaching Daddy how to assemble the entertainment center.

Estelle teaching Daddy how to make an Oliver loaf.

Estelle teaching Daddy a little about prosthodontics... he looks less impressed than she does!

Lil' Man

2008-07-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Really, what can I say about this cutie?

Yummy in the tubby...

Picture Find...

2008-07-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

Take a close look and tell me what is wrong with this picture...

Yep, that's right... Brian and Estelle are hanging in the 'crib'.

Playing Dress Up on a budget...

2008-07-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

Brian fashioned this for Estelle, getting the most for our grocery money!!!

When in Rome...Go see Shamu

2008-07-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

What two-year-old wouldn't want to wear sunglasses, a pajama top and swim bottoms to Sea World?

The only happy photo of anyone once we arrived at the park.

We are less than 20 minutes from Sea World and were convinced by some of Brian's classmates to join them Saturday in going. In hindsight, I really should have taken a before and after photo for us to find humor in... one day. All went well until we entered the park... then our two-year-old daughter turned into fist slinging machine... complete with clocking daddy in the ear and pulling mommy's hair. That's what we get for taking a toddler to Sea World on a Saturday in July; I believe the punishment fit the crime. Oliver of course was a trooper!

Talk about BED HEAD!

2008-07-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder what in the world Estelle does in her bed while she is sleeping. I went in to get her and found her like this; and it wasn't until she stood up that I realized what I was encountering. Looks like this most have been a REALLY good nap!

This little piggy took a bath...

2008-07-09T06:39:00.001-07:00

As you can see, it was a big day at the Broadwell house yesterday. Estelle had her first pig-tails! She ran around SOOOOOO excited about them and would not let them go for her bath! It is so much fun having a little girl!

Sunday in the park

2008-07-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

How cute is this twosome???

Estelle let Brian carry her the entire hike.

"...hmmm wonder what this will taste like..."

"...hmmm, wonder what they'd say if I jumped in..."

We have been hearing about the great hiking around San Antonio and have wanted to get out with the kids to check it out. We discovered two things this past Sunday... One, there is a beautiful Botanical Garden downtown that is family friendly and great for leisurely hiking. Two, it is just too d_ _ _ hot to be caring kids around in the afternoon south Texas sun! We will be sticking to shady morning hikes until the fall.

Our neighbors

2008-07-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

As mentioned previously, our small neighborhood is nestled in a very woodsy area... at best I can liken it to Ellerbe Road. On our evening walks, it is not at all unusual to see upwards of 20 or so deer.

Family Fun

2008-07-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Mimi and Oliver

Estelle and Scruffy...both longing to be on the other side of the door!

Estelle's too silly for this hat!

Wheezie and Oliver

Wheezie and Bear with E & O at Mexican retaurant overloooking northern San Antonio.

Mimi, Poppa and Scruffy getting last minute love from E & O!

Since our move on June 1, we have been fortunate enough to be visited both my parents and the Broadwells. It was great fun for Estelle to get to give her grandparents the tour of our new home. Of course they couldn't resist coming to see the kids!! We are certainly blessed beyond measure to have their love and support!

...I just realized that the kids are wearing practically the same thing in both pictures taken weeks apart! That which gets washed and put back on top of the pile gets worn most!!!

The Kids

2008-06-27T13:02:00.001-07:00

Oliver is really growing fast, he's 13.5 lbs and a real charmer.

The Kids

2008-06-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Estelle and her dolly in the mop bucket and loving her house outside!

Hello from San Antone

2008-06-27T12:17:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Please, bare with me as I get the hang of this blogging business. I am sure one day the kids will laugh at my ineptitude at such things. This just really seems like a great way to keep in touch with you all as we spend this time away.

Well, San Antonio is GREAT!! Yes, hot as the dickens, but we really love it. It is so hard to believe that we have lived here nearly a month already. Time sure does fly when you are unpacking and wrangling two children under the age of two! Our new home is perfect for us and the kids really seem comfortable here. Estelle especially loves the ability to go to and from her room whenever she pleases. The house is nestled in a peculiar little development. Surrounded by lots of rural-esque wooded areas, there is no shortage of wild life. Though the days are very warm, the evening shade and breeze is quite pleasant. On our evening walks, it's very common to see deer and other creatures grazing and lying about. It's really neat.

Brian unofficially began his schooling today. He had an all day orientation at the VA hospital where he'll be doing rotations, then Monday is the official start of school at UT for him. It has really been great to have him home as we've started to settle here, but I know he is ready to dive in to this experience. I guess it has really been more like vacation for us since the move - so work begins for me, too, on Monday!!! I am ready.

Hope this finds you blessed and well!