Devin's learning to read...

Is it just me, or is learning to read in the South hard for kids? I mean really, we don't pronounce words the way we're supposed to... no wonder it's guesswork most of the time.

Devin's a trooper. He has to read at least one book per week as homework.

Hangin' with the Family

Just a typical Saturday night for us...

"Hello, Auntie Mel!!"
Devin! What did you get me for Easter?

Look boys... aren't my little piggies cute in my sandals?

Hey Briley...thanks for taking care of Con for us!

Connor and Briley playing "Where's the baby?"

Briley loves giving kisses...

Isn't this the most precious thing? Connor leaned in to kiss Briley's cheek...he was so surprised when she kissed him back!!

Somerset Tournament 4-11-09

All of the kids enjoy tournaments. This past tournament was in Somerset, Ky. The drive there isn't impressive, but the tournament was...

5 Team Kenpo competitors made the trip this past weekend. From top to bottom: Brianna, Daniel, Connor, Dakota and Jillian
Of course... there's at least one goof of picture before getting started!

I often get really strange looks when I talk about "weapons" and Connor.
The form really can't be appreciated without seeing it...so, here's Connor's kama form.
While I'm always proud of Connor when he competes, I was especially thrilled for him when he placed for the first time EVER with this weapon form. He walked away with 2nd place.
Great Job, Connor!!!


This is Connor's new open hand form...he's still getting the hang of it, but he won 4th place with this week's performance.

Sparring seems to be a favorite with all of the kids. Here's Connor and his trademark sidekick.

It's always interesting when two of our team members fight one another. Connor and Dakota are very evenly matched, and it's anyone's guess as to how their fights will end up. This time, Connor was the victor, earning him 1st place in Sparring.

Here are Connor and Dakota sporting their trophies... not bad for a day's work, huh? In addition, the boys each received a 5 foot trophy for participating.

Laughter the best medicine...

Ok, I'm not a bad mom...but Connor watched a Jeff Dunham video at a friend's house. I actually didn't believe that he had seen it until he started quoting the video. Now, they just run the dialog to make me laugh. Yes, we were at a local Mexican restaurant when they decided "get started."

Laurel and Hardy.... or Devin and Connor??

"Hey Mom... look, it's Peanut!"

They were either put on this Earth to aggravate one another, or make me die laughing!

A Visit with Grandpa and Jess

We enjoyed a special visit with Grandpa Tom and Jessica this past weekend. We met them for lunch and a movie. Thanks Grandpa for the toys! Devin sends a special 'HI!...You are the best!'

I think the sun was a little bright.
I think this is a great picture of you two!!

Now this is a rare moment... just before I snapped this picture,

Devin had his head on Connor's shoulder.

Family Pictures

Family is so important to us. We never miss an opportunity to get together...and when we're together, no matter where we are, we never miss a photo opportunity.

Angela and Briley

Devin at Breakfast, after the science fair.

"Who me??"

Briley, you're a little mess!!

2009 Science Fair

Connor was lucky enough to be able to participate in the Robertson County Science Fair for the second year in a row. Students who win 1st place at the school level are eligible for the County Fair.

Connor and his 2009 project.

The Trophy Table... this year winners also won a gift card to Wal-Mart and a free pizza.

Oh well, there's always next year!

Here's Connor with the other 4th grade participants... while he didn't win this year, he was very proud to participate.