Marty's Photos and Then Some...

Firehouse Santa

2011-12-17T17:08:00.000-06:00

Santa visited our local fire station today and the boys were able to spend a few minutes with him.

Zac and Zane with Santa!

Cuteness overload, please keep back.

Zane sitting on the back of the fire truck.

Zac not really into posing for a shot.

Looking so big!

Seriously mom, no pictures please!

Cake Smash

2011-11-25T15:15:00.001-06:00

Our boys turned one on November 10th. We let them loose on a cake to practice for theit birthday party and so mommy could get some cake smash photos.

My Sweet Boys!

2011-07-30T18:30:00.000-05:00

We are so blessed to have these two little guys in our lives. They are sweet as can be and have brought us so much joy. Their smiles and little expressions melt our hearts on a daily basis!

Double Trouble!

Zane

Zac

So Proud

2011-07-28T11:04:00.001-05:00

Zac was so proud of himself when he first learned to pull himself into a standing position.

Mr Mischievous

2011-07-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

Zane and his mischievous look!

Watch Us Grow - 8 Months

2011-07-27T10:59:00.000-05:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. These 8 month photos were taken on 7/22/11.

Zane and Zac with the Sock Monkey

Zane giving his monkey a hug.

You can't see me!

Zac loves his monkey!

Such a happy boy!

Watch Us Grow - 7 Months

2011-07-19T12:51:00.000-05:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. These 7 month photos were taken on 6/22/11.

Zac looks like a giant in this picture!

Zane's had enough of picture taking.

The monkey keeps getting smaller.

Sweet Zane.

Zac looks happy to see his monkey.

What do you mean he used to be bigger than me!

Watch Us Grow - 6 Months

2011-07-19T11:54:00.000-05:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. These 6 month photos were taken on 5/20/11.

This is my foot.

Hey mom, how much longer?

Zane

Zac

Look what I caught!

Hug the monkey!

(Kicking myself because I did not get a picture of the two of them together.)

Watch Us Grow - 5 Months

2011-07-19T10:21:00.010-05:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. These 5 month photos were taken on 4/21/11.

This is my Monkey!

Zac holding Zane's hand.

Two Monkeys!

Zane and his monkey.

Enough with the pictures already!

Zac stretching.

Happy boy!

Watch Us Grow - 4 months

2011-03-24T17:44:00.001-05:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. This 4 month photo was taken on 3/19/11 (only a week late).

Zac and Zane with the sock monkey.

Zac and Zane

Zane with his sock monkey. See mom I'm still little!

Zane was very interested in his hands on this day.

Zac with his sock monkey.

Zac with one of his many smiles.

My Boys Today

2011-02-25T15:41:00.002-06:00

I realized I have not been taking pictures of my boys very frequently, so today we took a few. Here are the boys today.

Looking so grown up in their overalls.

Zac and Zane wearing the hats Kayla made them.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T16:04:00.006-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Taylor family!!

Zane surrounded by hearts.

Zane and Zac

Zane and Zac (who is not happy about having his brother lay on top of him.)

Zac covered in hearts

Zac's back after our little "photo shoot"

Watch Us Grow - 3 months

2011-02-11T16:22:00.000-06:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. This 3 month photo was taken on 2/11/11.

I can't believe the boys are three months already. They are so sweet and their smiles just melt our hearts.

So This is My Hand

2011-02-10T17:26:00.000-06:00

The other day Zac broke free from his swaddle sleep sack and was studying his hand.

Open

Snow Fun

2011-02-10T16:42:00.001-06:00

Last Friday, Wendy watched the boys for us and told us to grab their dune buggy and have some fun in the snow. Bob and I had a blast and I'm pretty sure our next major purchase is going to be a dune buggy (or two) of our own.

Our street on Friday morning.

Fresh tracks in the snow.

On our way back from the park we came across Chico pulling Kayla on a sled.

Bob and Justin ready to have some fun.

Watch Us Grow - 2 months

2011-01-13T14:27:00.000-06:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. This 2 month photo was taken on 1/10/11.

Zac on the left and Zane on the right.

Watch Us Grow - 1 month

2011-01-13T14:25:00.001-06:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. This 1 month photo was taken on 12/10/10.

Zane on the left and Zac on the right

Watch Us Grow - Newborn

2011-01-13T14:19:00.005-06:00

Every month we will take a picture with the boys sock monkeys so we can watch them grow. This newborn photo was taken on 11/13/10 when they were 3 days old.

Zane on the left and Zac on the right

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T19:14:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas from the Taylor family!!

Introducing....

2010-12-24T19:04:00.002-06:00

....Zane and Zac!

Zane Alexander

November 10, 2010

7:32 am

5 pounds 11 ounces

19 inches long

Zachary David

November 10, 2010

7:32 am

7 pounds 6 ounces

20.5 inches long

Ally and Peyton

2010-10-06T22:31:00.000-05:00

In July, Bob and I became the proud aunt and uncle of two sweet little kids.

Peyton is a sweet little boy who loves NASCAR and Spongebob.

Ally is a very outgoing little girl who loves the camera. She entertained us with her singing and dancing abilities.

Toxemia/preeclampsia Update

2010-09-30T16:03:00.003-05:00

This morning we had our Non Stress Test. This test measures the heart rate while the babies are active and at rest. They did great! We are so grateful for this. Also, my blood pressure went down a few points! Yea! I will be continuing bed rest and praying that these boys can stay put until their lungs are fully developed.

Toxemia

2010-09-29T18:00:00.000-05:00

On Monday I had my routine appointment and ultrasound. The boys are looking good. Baby A weighs in at 3 pounds and Baby B weighs in at 4 pounds 8 ounces. The weight difference concerns me but the doctor reminded me once again that they are two different babies. There are no signs of twin to twin transfusion syndrome. The babies look good and healthy and for this I'm grateful.

I also learned on Monday that I have developed toxemia. This was huge emotional blow to me. I was not expecting this. The doctor says we caught this early and he thinks I will deliver in three weeks. Tomorrow I have a non stress test to see how the boys are handling all of this.

Bob and I are so grateful for our family and friends. Knowing you guys have been lifting our family up in prayer brings tears to my eyes. Whenever I feel fear starting to creep in I read Psalm 139. The Lord has ordained all of their days before one of them came to be. Bob and I are placing our trust in God's perfect timing.

Dallas World Aquarium

2010-09-10T22:41:00.002-05:00

Back in June my dad, sister and I went to the Dallas World Aquarium. I really haven't taken many pictures this year and it took me a while to remember what setting I should be using but I think I took some decent photos. Here are my unedited photos from that day.

It's a, It's a...

2010-08-17T18:03:00.000-05:00

It's a BOY!

Bob and I could not be more excited to be expecting two little boys. We can't wait to meet them in November.

Just a Little Overprotective

2010-06-15T15:35:00.001-05:00

So far the most interesting thing about my pregnancy is how overprotective Bob has become. I would have never guessed that he would have so many questions and concerns regarding the pregnancy. Just a few examples:

Bob built me a fire pit in February and once I found out I was pregnant he banned me from it. Even after my doctor said it was safe he still wouldn't let me near the fire pit. Once he heard it would not hurt the babies from my OB/GYN then I was given the rights back to my fire pit.

In early March we found a snake in the backyard so now I'm not allow to pull weeds in the backyard. Never mind that the snake wasn't poisonous and that I check the area before I pull the weeds since we tend to get a lot of fire ants.

Our neighbors had a crawfish boil and Bob did not want me to eat any of the food that even touched a crawfish.

For my birthday we went to Galveston and Bob would not let me get in the water past my knees. He was afraid the waves would hurt the babies.

Even though he is overprotective I'm glad that he is taking an interest in the pregnancy. I just wonder how overprotective of the babies he's going to be.

And Babies Make FOUR!!!

2010-06-06T14:11:00.000-05:00

Bob and I are expecting TWINS!!

Mia Taylor

2010-01-14T11:18:00.000-06:00

October 13, 2000 - January 14, 2010

Dear Dogs and Cats

2010-01-08T13:30:00.003-06:00

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door….
Dear Dogs and Cats,
The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It Is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.
For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required. The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, and then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough.
Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:
TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT & LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR
PETS: (1) They live here. You don't. (2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it 'fur'-niture.(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people. (4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly. Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they: (1) eat less, (2) don't ask for money all the time, (3) are easier to train,(4) normally come when called, (5) never ask to drive the car, (6) don't hang out with drug-using people; (7) don't smoke or drink, (8) don't want to wear your clothes, (9) don't have to buy the latest fashions, (10) don't need a gazillion dollars for college and (11) if they get pregnant, you can sell their children.

Bob sent this to me the day after I took this picture.

2009

2009-12-31T16:33:00.003-06:00

What a year! As I reflect back on the year all I can think is 2009 was a roller coaster ride. So many highs and so many lows. It was a year of trails and growth. So here are a few highlights (in no particular order):

Married my best friend...:)
Was blessed enough to go to Allaso Ranch three times this year to serve and each time God moved something in me. At the father/son retreat He revealed himself to me in a way I never imagined and oh how I wish I could stay in that moment. It was so amazing that I can't even describe it. It was a gift so unexpected and such a sweet reminder that He is here watching over us.
God used Mia to teach me so many things but most of all to remind me we are only here for a little while, so we need to make the most of our time.
Spent time with family and friends.
Reconnected with some "old" friends and made some new ones.
Bought a house on the lake and just started on the renovations.

All in all I think I am going to remember 2009 as the year the Lord revealed himself to me in a whole new way.

Spoiled?

2009-12-30T21:55:00.000-06:00

Mia is taking spoiled to a 'hole 'nutha level (as my pastor would say). On Monday she refused to eat so Terry came over and held her food bowl for her. She is learning how to get more attention, if that's possible. She is definitely using her sickness to her advantage and we let her get away with just about anything.

White Christmas

2009-12-28T12:41:00.014-06:00

Christmas Eve
During the Christmas Eve service at church it started to snow. We were singing songs by candle light and they showed a live feed from outside. The live feed showed the three crosses on the lake and all the pretty snow falling. When we walked out of service everybody was stopping by the windows to look at the fresh snow. It was awesome.

When we got home we let the "kids" out to play. We knew Mia would have a blast but we thought Maddox would want nothing to do with the snow. We were wrong. Mia and Maddox had a blast running in the snow.

Mia playing in the snow on Christmas Eve

"Dad, I love the snow!!"

Maddox looking good in his scarf. This was after he ran around like a mad man in the snow.

Christmas Day
A White Christmas. I can't believe we had a white Christmas in the DFW area. We spent the morning out in the snow and enjoyed watching the pups run around. I'm so glad Mia got to enjoy some more time out in the snow. She was born in Michigan so she loves this type of weather...

The backyard.

Maddox staying still long enough for me to take a picture.

The backyard again. This is the view from the deck.

Cooper loved the snow. He refused to come inside.

The back of the house and most of the backyard.

Mia waiting for me at the back gate.

Mia having a blast in the snow.

Our Christmas Card

2009-12-27T20:42:00.000-06:00

Yes it's true

2009-12-27T20:30:00.003-06:00

Bob and I got married on the 16th of this month. We did it locally and spent the day/night at the Gaylord. We had originally planned on eloping in Lake Tahoe in September but everything with Mia happened and those plans were cancelled. There were other dates that we had to change due to circumstances beyond our control. But none of that stuff matters now. We are enjoying "married life" and we are looking foward to the rest of our lives.

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge: "Pets Only"

2009-12-15T18:13:00.003-06:00

So I only had several thousand pictures to chose from but this is one of my favorites of my little girl. At first it was a little hard to go through the pictures in light of the recent news but I'm glad I did. I think I have more pictures of her than some parents have of their kids.

I finally settled on this picture because the focus is on her face and it best depicts her. She loves to swim. Once she gets in the water she will only get out on her terms. Even when we had our family pictures taken she ended up in the water.

Join in the “Pets Only” fun over at I ♥ Faces this week!

Mia Update

2009-12-13T16:58:00.002-06:00

(photo taken by Elizabeth Fowler)

This is a post I do not want to write but I know I need to.

12/6/09 - Mia was sick. She kept throwing up and not wanting to eat. Didn't know if it was from eating too much grass or the chemo or if her cancer had returned. But it was enough to worry me. By Tuesday she was fine so tried not to think about it.

12/10/09 - Mia had her ultrasound done. I didn't go, I couldn't. Bob told me the technician said everything looked good and there was a small mass on her liver but that could be from her surgery. They took a sample to be tested and they would call with the results the next morning.

12/11/09 - Bob spent most of the day trying to get the results. Mia's regular vet said the sample that they took wasn't a good one but from what they could test the cells were not cancerous. Such a relief.

Last afternoon Mia's oncologist called Bob and told him the results were not good. With the type of cancer Mia has the mass in her liver is most likely cancer and she sees no point in continuing with the chemo. She gave Mia a 1-4 month life expectancy. Not what we expected to hear.

12/13/09 - So we have spent the last couple of days trying to process all of this all over again. I feel like I did three months ago when we were first given the diagnosis. It is so hard to process because if you see her she looks and acts fine. She is still sassy and full of spunk. So, I'm extremely sad but also extremely grateful. Her original diagnosis was 19 days to two months and here we are three months later....

Little Man Cade

2009-12-03T21:18:00.001-06:00

I can't believe how big "our" little man is getting. He is such a fun little guy and we are so grateful that his parents trust us with him (and his older siblings).

Hanging out in Bob's truck.

Playing football.

What does my hat say?

Bob flip me upside down.

No more pictures.

Allaso at Night

2009-11-15T21:52:00.002-06:00

The view from the deck last night.

Just One Shot

2009-11-08T21:37:00.002-06:00

This weekend I only took one shot of the mommas. I just love this picture and after I saw the preview I put the camera away.

Hammock Time

2009-11-07T14:10:00.000-06:00

Terry was laying in the hammock the other day and Mia decided she needed some snuggle time. So with a little help from me, Mia enjoyed some hammock time with her Terry.

I just love Mia's smile!

Yup, she came pretty much do whatever she wants.

Background Leaves

2009-11-07T13:56:00.005-06:00

I noticed this area that Terry is sitting in and thought it would a great spot for some pictures. I had her sit and managed to get this one shot before Mad Maddox came and tackled her. The lighting was off but I think this area has some potential.

Yes, he is still wearing his cape from his costume. It makes him feel brave.

Canasta

2009-11-04T16:29:00.001-06:00

Last month I was able to head out to El Paso to surprise my grandmother for her birthday. My favorite thing to do with my grandma is play canasta. It's a fun card game and things can get a little competitive when we play. The first night I was there my dad, grandma, Terry, Patsy, and Joey played into the late hours of the night. I must say it was a little odd not have Peter playing with us but since he is at the Naval Academy I guess he's got a good reason.

This card game is more than a game. It's been a bonding tool between a grandmother and a few of her grandkids. I can remember my times as a little girl going over to grandma and grandpa's house once a week to play cards. It's a game that bonds us to her now and forever.

Terry.

My grandma.

My dad.

(I took these pictures before we started to play. I really need to get a shot of us grandkids playing with grandma.)

Trick or Treat

2009-10-31T22:52:00.002-05:00

Batman (aka Mia)

Robin (aka Maddox)

Batman with her sidekick Robin.

How's Mia Doing?

2009-10-01T15:15:00.000-05:00

Mia has been doing great! If you see her in person you would never know she is sick. The only sign of her illness are the shaved parts on her legs. She has just been herself and that is just priceless.

Mia playing in the backyard.

Trying to pick up her basketball.

Attending Cole's football games.

Family Photo

2009-09-28T15:52:00.002-05:00

Last night my friend Elizabeth took some amazing pictures of Bob and I with the pups. Check it out out http://fowlerfive.blogspot.com/2009/09/bob-and-marty.html.

Spider

2009-09-22T09:30:00.002-05:00

I took these pictures the other day. Not a small feat with no flash and lots of shaking. Shaking was due to the fear of that thing jumping on me. I was balancing on a chair and only a foot away from its web. I'm not sure what kind of spider it is but it sure is ugly.

(You can click on the pictures to get a better view.)

The past week

2009-09-19T15:23:00.002-05:00

9/10/09 - Mia and Maddox were running around chasing squirrels and acting like themselves.

9/11/09 - Friday morning I was laying with Mia and she was not acting like herself. Not responding to her name and not wanting to eat. As I was laying with her she started to moan and that scared me enough to call Bob so he could take her to the vet. When Bob got her to the vet she was in pretty bad shape. Basically it was do emergency surgery or she could die. So Mia had surgery. I was able to make it to the vets office to see her before her surgery. It was awful leaving her there not knowing if she was going to make it.

I left my car at the vets and we decided to go get a drink (Starbucks). Bob said he didn't want to go to our Starbucks because he didn't want them to see so distraught. I told him if he went to ours its far enough away for me to gain my composure and I could order our drinks. So we got to our Starbucks and I went in and order our drinks. I was able to ordered our drinks but once they asked me where Bob was at I lost it. So I told them what was going on and they were so sweet to me. They bought our drinks and told me that they would pray for her.

After Starbucks we drove around for a little bit and then ended up waiting at the house. After and hour had passed I asked Bob if he could call to get an update. Right as he was about to call his phone rang and Mia had made it out of surgery. She had a tumor on her spleen that caused her spleen to rupture. They said we could come see her at 2.

When we saw her she looked so good. She was responsive and was starting to show some attitude. The vet was guarded and said he would feel better once Monday came and she was doing good. They sent her tumor off for testing.

Bob and Terry transferred Mia from the vets office to an overnight doggie hospital so they could keep an eye on her. I was watching Caden and Kristen and got lots of Caden hugs which is just what I needed after the events of this day!

After Daryl got home Bob and I headed to the doggie hospital to see the girl. She was doing great. Standing up and demanding lots of love. We were also able to take her for a potty break. After seeing her I felt so reassured and couldn't wait to pick her up the following morning. I was so grateful on so many different levels.

9/12/09 - At 9:00am Bob and I went to pick up Mia from the overnight doggie hospital. I drove and Bob stayed in the back with the girl. Throughout the day she regained her appetite and she was acting more and more like herself. We loved on her and we were so grateful she was with us.

Mia just home from the doggie hospital.

9/15/09 - Mia had Terry, Bob, and I laughing on this night. Bob was trying to give her kisses and she kept moving her head away every time he moved in. She also started to avoid my camera. We were all in agreement. The Mammas was back!!

Mia and Terry on Tuesday night.

9/16/09 - The vet called with Mia's biopsy results. She has cancer. In fact she has the worst cancer dogs can get. In shock we took her back to the vets office for x-rays and to get some more info on her condition. The news was awful to hear. She could have anywhere from 19-65 days with no chemo or 3-6 months with chemo according to her books. We got a recommendation to a oncologist and tried to get an appointment for the next day. We weren't able to (they told Bob it would take ten days before we could get her in) so Bob called the vet and asked if she could help us. What a long night this was. I was pretty much out on the chemo. I didn't want my girl to suffer and more than she had to. Lots of crying and lots of praying. All I knew was her quality of live was more important than quantity.

9/17/09 - The vet called Bob and told him Mia has an appointment at 3:30 with the oncologist. The appointment went well. They answered all of our questions. We also told the oncologist the hardest part was she looks so great and acts like nothing is wrong. She explained that this is how she will be until the end.

Recent studies on this type of cancer show without treatment pups live an average of 2-3 months and with chemo 6-9 months. She told us these were averages and even with chemo she could still die within a short period. Chemo is not a guarantee. Chemo on pups isn't as harsh as it is on humans. The main side effects are nausea and diarrhea and they would give us drugs to counteract these effects. We also explained we would rather have quality vs quantity and she agreed with us. She said in the rare event that a pup has a bad reaction to the chemo they stop the treatment because they would rather have quality time.

After talking with the oncologist we talked to one of the nurses and she explained the chemo process to us. Somebody would cuddle with Mia during her treatment and another nurse was administer the drugs. She let us see the treatment area and answered any questions we could think of. Both of were starting to think chemo might be an option for Mia.

We left the office and talked it over. Even though there is no guarantee we felt this is something we should do.

9-18-09 - Mia had her first chemo treatment. As long as she keeps acting like herself we will do this for her. She will have a chemo every 3 weeks for a max of 5 treatments.

9-19-09 - The girl is doing great! Bob and I on the other hand are still processing all of this. There has been lots of tears and prayers over the past week. We have also been so blessed by all of our friends. Thanks for sending us messages! (Now that I can talk/write without crying as much I will be getting back to all of you.) I feel like we are in the grieving process even though she is still here with us. She has been getting lots of love from myself, Bob, Terry, my dad, and lots of other people.

So if we only have a day, a month, 6-9 months or longer we are going to make sure her last days are full of love. We are so grateful for the time we have had and the time we will have. As one of my friends told me "Horribly sad but we know where she is going. No more sickness and there couldn't be a better master then the Master!!!" So true! I wonder if Mia will sass Him like she sasses us?

So if you see tears come to our eyes please be gentle. I know to some people she might just be a dog but to us she is our little girl whom we love very much.

Allaso Ranch

2009-08-26T15:16:00.002-05:00

How do you describe a place that changed your life? I can't put into words the closeness I felt with God during an amazing two weeks. I can't describe the emotions that came flooding out as I stood on the deck with the kids who just accepted Christ on the anniversary of my Grandfather's heaven birthday.

I have sat in front of my computer every night since I got back from camp trying to find the right words. There are no words for the experience but I am forever changed by it.

Goodbye DFW, Hello Allaso Ranch

2009-07-18T23:05:00.000-05:00

Early tomorrow morning I will be heading out to Allaso Ranch. I can't wait. Please be in prayer for the staff, volunteers and all of the children that will be attending. See you in a week!

I just had to include two more pictures of Kevin.

Where did the water go?

Right between the eyes.

Water Fun III

2009-07-18T16:27:00.005-05:00

Water Fun II

2009-07-13T22:14:00.000-05:00

Just had to add one more picture. Next week I'll be the photographer at Allaso Ranch and trying to get a shot of this little guy gave me some much needed practice.

Water Fun

2009-07-13T19:20:00.004-05:00

Sprinkler Fun
Kevin and Charlene enjoyed several nights of playing in the sprinklers. On one of those nights Lea and I joined them for some sprinkler fun. No pictures of Lea and I since Bob doesn't know how to work the new camera. (The sprinkler pictures aren't the best since I was trying to figure out the settings I should use.)

Kevin

Kevin and Charlene

Fountain Fun
Lea and I took the kiddos to The Shops at Highland Village and let Charlene and Kevin run wild. Kevin took to the water very fast and Charlene took her time getting wet.

Kevin and Charlene.

Kevin

Charlene

Pool Fun
The kids had a blast in the little pool but once they were introduced to swimming in the lake it just wouldn't do.

Charlene, James, and Kevin

James

What do you mean..

2009-07-12T17:29:00.000-05:00

...I have to sit still???

Pictures by Candlelight

2009-07-09T14:22:00.003-05:00

Last night Kevin was standing in front of the citronella candle and I managed to get a few shots of him in candlelight.

JCK

2009-07-06T22:53:00.003-05:00

Bob's mom, Kathy, and sister, Lea(h), arrived in Texas last night. And with them were Bob's cousin Chuck and his three kids James, Charlene, and Kevin. It should be a fun and crazy week. I will to try to post all of our fun activities from the week...

Charlene

Kevin

Kevin and James

Fireworks and Fun with the Fowler Kids

2009-07-05T11:03:00.005-05:00

Just a few pics from July 3rd.

Kristen and her new ears.

Touchdown Huskers! (the newest saying Bob taught him)

Jack and Cole doing some X-man thing.

Firework

The Grand Finale

Becca Comes to Visit

2009-07-05T10:09:00.000-05:00

Without realizing it I took a month long hiatus from blogging and photography. I did plan on blogging in June especially since my mom and niece came out to visit.

Bob's dad was also in town the same time as my mom and niece. Becca took to him like a duck takes to water. Wherever Bob Sr. was so was Becca.

See what I mean.

While they were in town we went to Starbucks were they got to experience some pretty intense thunderstorm's that left us with no power for 24 hours. Poor Becca was so scared she had tears running down her face. But after talking to her dad and having her dad tell all of us to take care of her she calmed down.

The goal of the trip was to take Becca to Six Flags to ride some roller coasters. The very first ride we went on was Tony Hawks. Basically it's a tea cup on a roller coaster. Half way though the ride Becca is yelling she wants to get off. Terry calmed her down and by the end of the ride she wanted to do it again. Becca wasn't tall enough to ride all of the roller coaster rides but we did manage to ride enough rides to make me sick..

Becca. This is the only picture I got of her by herself.

Guest Blogger Becca

2009-06-12T11:01:00.000-05:00

I went to dallas to see my. Ant marty because it is her. Birthday. And I miss my dog. Pixie. By. Rebecca

T-R-I-P-L-E

2009-05-28T22:24:00.003-05:00

Cole's triple from Saturday. Way to go Cole!!

Manual Mode

2009-05-28T21:09:00.002-05:00

Picture of the river taken in auto mode.

Same picture while I played around in manual mode. I liked that I was able to make it look like a night shot in the middle of the day.

Since these pictures were taken I have been playing around more and more in manual mode. While practicing I'll take a picture in auto mode and then I'll add my own little take to it.

Here is a picture of the cove in auto mode.

Same picture in manual mode with more color to it.

I'm still trying to figure out what direction I want to take my photography so for now I am content with practicing on still shots and will see were all this goes....

Weekend Pictures

2009-05-08T13:47:00.000-05:00

If I can't see her then she can't see me.

Mia loves the grass.

Maggie - the big lovable pooch.

Oh no! The crazy lady with the camera is back. Run!

Just a random picture I took of a door hinge. I'm trying to figure out how I want to enhance it.

How to ensure a spa day

2009-05-06T10:52:00.001-05:00

First, roll around in the wet grass.

Second, instead of getting a cool drink of water just find a nice puddle and lay down in it. And then be really stubborn and refuse to move for a couple of minutes.

Third, find higher ground to showcase how dirty you are. This will cause your owner to stare at you in disbelief.

And last but not least, sit on the table with a smug smile because you know you have won.

Do this and you will be headed off to the "spa" in no time at all....

No

2009-05-05T22:30:00.000-05:00

This is the face we got when we told Caden "no"

Ladybug

2009-05-04T10:17:00.005-05:00

For my sister....

Hollow Tree

2009-04-15T12:22:00.000-05:00

Check out this tree that I found. When I first saw it I thought it would be cool to take a picture of somebody while looking through the tree. So...

...I had Bob stand on one side of the tree while I balanced on the other side. Not an easy task.

The hollow tree is the one at the edge of the cliff. Not the easiest shot to take but I think it has some potential..

Sunset at Lewisville Lake

2009-03-27T13:01:00.002-05:00

The sunset from a couple of nights ago.

Caden and the Purse

2009-03-21T21:28:00.004-05:00

This little boy refused to go outside and play without his sister's purse. He carried it around the entire time. He would put sticks, cars, balls, and whatever else he could fit in there and carry it around. The only thing he could not fit in it was a soccer ball.

Weird Eyes

2009-03-21T13:43:00.002-05:00

I was playing around with lighting and ISO the other night and Kristen kept making her eyes do weirdest things. I told her I would put this one on the blog for her to see!

Puppy Love

2009-03-19T21:29:00.002-05:00

I have never seen two pups cuddle as much as Mia and Maddox. They are just so cute together!!

Caden and Bob

2009-02-22T14:05:00.003-06:00

These two are such good buddies. It's almost like a little glimpse into the future to when Bob and I get married and have kids of our own. Bob told me the other day that Caden is the only child that he has seen since from infancy to toddlerhood.

Getting ready for lift off!

Slam dunk!

Checking out the sidewalk art.

Bring the chalk back.

Sponge BOB

2009-02-17T21:16:00.005-06:00

Bob loves "our" little man Caden so much that he dressed up as Sponge BOB for his 2nd birthday party. He is such an awesome guy!!!

Bob Sr. with his son Sponge BOB!

A group photo with all of the kids. Wonder what half of the kids are looking at????

This is what they are looking at two two-years-olds both yelling "mine" and competing for the basketball. What was really cute was when I was showing Elizabeth some of the pictures Caden saw this picture and said "mine."

The solution find a second ball and let both of them hold a basketball.

Memory Verse 3

2009-02-05T18:32:00.000-06:00

I totally forgot to post this on February 1st when I turned in my verse on the LPM blog.

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Store – to put something away for use in the future, to put or hold something somewhere for safekeeping

Treasures – something of great value or worth often accumulated or hoarded.

Destroy – to ruin something or make something useless

Heaven – perfect dwelling place

I chose this verse as a reminder not to put value on my earthly possessions. I want to own them I don’t want them to own me. It also serves as a reminder that God is so much bigger than jobs, bank accounts, 401K’s, and so on…

Reminds me of the song lyrics from a Casting Crowns song; “I’ll take a shack on a rock than a castle on the sand.”

New Camera, New Random Pictures

2009-02-03T22:21:00.002-06:00

Well, I finally bit the bullet and bought the Canon 50D. So far I love this camera and can't wait to really try it out this weekend. (You will want to check back in this weekend for some of Caden's 2nd birthday pictures.)

Ice Ice Baby

2009-01-28T14:33:00.003-06:00

I just took these pictures a few minutes ago. I wish I could have captured the trees covered in ice this morning. I was going to try to take a few pictures but after I fell on the ice while checking things out I was not willing to take the risk with my camera.

Where's Caden?

2009-01-22T21:57:00.002-06:00

Ya'll know the game!

Oh no, where's Caden?

Bob, do you see Caden?

There he is!

Pics from Saturday with Caden

2009-01-22T21:48:00.000-06:00

Bob and Caden reading.

If only the train would stay in place.

I wanna be like Bob?? Caden and his love of shoes, a boy after my own heart!!

Look both ways

2009-01-22T21:32:00.007-06:00

Look left (his left)

Look right (again his right)

All clear so look out!!

Driving Mr. Monkey!

He is such a smart boy!! EF we just love your little boy!!

Not Me Monay

2009-01-19T00:47:00.005-06:00

It's time again for "Not Me" Monday hosted by MckMama.

I did not get black permanent marker all over Bob's leather couch. (Does anybody know how to get it out?)

I did not put my new contacts on over my old ones. Nope, everybody knows you have to take out the old ones before you can put the new ones in. (It only took me a few minutes to figure out what I did. At first I though I was give the wrong prescription since everything was blurry.)

I did not excited about Caden peeing in the potty. And I did not call Bob so he could make a big deal of it for "our" little man. And since I didn't have any M&M's I did not give him a drop of my drink.

I did not kill the rubber tree. Nope, in my mind it's still alive. (At least it stayed alive for a couple of months.)

I did not stay up late playing Rockband several nights in a row. I have not mastered the easy level but fail miserably at the medium level. (I can't get my pinky to what I want it to do.)

How to slow down a two year old!

2009-01-18T17:59:00.003-06:00

Bob and I had the pleasure of watching our favorite almost two year old. This is what happened when I held the pants open and Bob put Caden in them. Bob and I could not stop laughing!

We had such a great day with Caden! He is at such a fun age right now.

EF - we reinforced the "go big red" and taught him how to say frapaccino and Starbucks.

(Not the best picture since it was taken with my blackberry and I couldn't stop laughing.)

24 Verses in 2009

2009-01-15T22:16:00.002-06:00

My goal for 2009 is to memorize 24 scriptures. How did this come about? It came from the Beth Moore and Living Proof Ministries. (Check out the LPM blog for details.)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

I chose this one for my January 1st scripture. It spoke to me while I was reading the bible and then it was reinforced at church on January 3rd. The words joy, whenever, testing, and finish all jump out at me. Why did these words jump out at me?

Joy - it comes from the lord.
Whenever - not if but when.
Testing - this is how we grow.
Finish - don't look for the short cut but see it to the end.

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:5-7

This is the verse I chose for my January 15th verse. I know most people know verses 6-7 but when I was trying to find a verse I knew I wanted to memorize a verse with the word anxious in it. So when I did a quick search on Bible Gateway, Philippians 4:6 came up as one of the search results. If you click on the link you can click on Philippians 4:5-7 to see the verse in context, which I did. Once I read it I knew this was the verse for me. This time when I was reading the verse I looked up the meaning of the words that jumped out at me.

Gentleness - having a gracious and honorable manner
Evident - easy or clear to see or understand
Anxious - worried or afraid, especially about something that is going to happen or might happen
Present - to give or hand something to somebody
Peace - a state of mental calm and serenity, with no anxiety
Transcends - to go beyond a limit or range

This verse is telling me I should give everything to the Lord and if I am truly doing this with trust then it can be seen to those around me. I know one of the things that frustrates me is when somebody tells me they have handed something over to God but you can tell they are still worried about. I can hear it in my head now. "I trust the Lord but I'm going to hold onto this just in case." I don't want that to be me. If I tell somebody that I have turned something over I want them to be able to see from my actions and my words that I trust the Lord completly and I am not going to second guess him.

Leaves

2008-12-26T23:19:00.004-06:00

Completely forgot to post these pictures of my niece Becca from our trip to El Paso over Thanksgiving break. We spent Sunday playing in the leaves at Album Park.

Getting ready to throw some leaves up in the air.

The leaves falling down. Love the pure joy on her face.

Gathering more leaves.

She was throwing leaves up as fast as she could.

Reaching for the sky.

The cross

2008-12-26T23:13:00.002-06:00

I took this picture when I first got my current camera. I was walking around the FC Grapevine campus when a storm rolled in. It's all in God's timing.

Merry CHRISTmas

2008-12-25T10:05:00.003-06:00

There are no presents to open this year. A choice Bob and I made along with our families. We are all so blessed and all of our needs are met. This year we have tried to put the real meaning of Christmas in the forefront. This year more than any I am so glad He came to save us.

Today I can mourn with hope. I just keep praying for her family. They are the most welcoming bunch of people you will ever meet. I love them all. My heart aches for her parents, her fiance, her sister, her brother, her extended family, and her friends.

Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Instead of making Christmas about presents I am so glad we chose to make it about His presence. I know HE is real. And I am so glad He came to save us.

Why?

2008-12-24T12:51:00.006-06:00

Well I was going to write a nice little post but at 11:16am this morning I received the news. Bella just passed away. No, life is not fair.

This past August I was just reunited with Nena and her family. I was the twins birthday surprise. I went over to Bella's family house where they were decorating the house for the party the next day. Bella was the first one I saw. I'll never forget the smile and the hug I received when she first saw me.

I can remember numerous memories of us when we were younger. Lots of good time hanging out at Nena's house. Mempries that will hold a very special place in my heart.

She was the sweetest, most gracious person I have ever come across. I can't believe she is gone. It's not fair. She was diagnosed with Lupus several years ago. She never complained. Just as gracious as you could be. So sweet, so welcoming, so friendly, so pretty inside and out, so everything.

I just don't understand. 25 is just too young. Why? Why? Why? It's just not fair.

As I write this her family is still at the hospital. I have spent several Christmas' with this family and my heart just aches right now. There are presents for her to open. Her wedding was in May. It's just not fair.

I can see her right now dancing around heaven. Dancing with Our Father God. My faith is strong but my heart is breaking.

Mia

2008-12-22T19:18:00.004-06:00

Mia wants nothing to do with the camera. The second I pull it out she gets up and walks away.

Maddox

2008-12-22T19:17:00.002-06:00

I love this picture he is looking at Bob and it's almost like he is saying "please help me!" (Notice how he crosses his little paws.)

Are you done yet?

Blue Tree

2008-12-22T19:09:00.003-06:00

I took this picture the other night when it was foggy. Every year the owner does this in memory of her husband.

Kiss-mas

2008-12-16T21:09:00.006-06:00

While we were in El Paso my little cousin was looking for somebody to play cars with him. He would look at you with those big brown eyes that just spoke volumes.

These eyes. Who can resist them?

Here he is explaining to Bob that they are going to play kiss-mas shopping.

"Oh no! There's no where to park." Branden said this to Bob after he lined up all of the cars into a parking lot. Too cute.

Bob showing Branden and Lauren how to "find" a parking spot.

Not Me Monday

2008-12-15T19:21:00.008-06:00

I know it has been awhile since I have done a "Not Me! Monday" but here are some of the things I have not done..

While watching the African Children's Choir I did not get teary eyed by the joy and love expressed on their faces. Nope, Not Me!

I did not go to Wal-Mart with Bob looking for new bulb for my tail light and think a spark plug was the light bulb.....after all, it did say "Auto lite!" Nope, Not Me!

I did not refuse to play Rockband at Nicci's party. I did not let my lack of hand eye coordination stop me from trying to play the drums or guitar. Nope, Not Me!

I do not have a hard time singing and clapping at the same time. No, I do not need to keep an eye on the person next to me in order to keep a beat. Nope, Not Me!

More Pictures of M and J

2008-12-13T15:19:00.003-06:00

For EF

2008-12-13T13:29:00.003-06:00

This is how I set it up.

Pictures with M and J!

2008-12-13T13:16:00.007-06:00

I took these pictures on Wednesday night and learned something. If you want the kids that know you to cooperate put them in charge. Once I set up the backdrop I let the boys "pose" themselves I was able to get a few good shots. M really got into it and became quite the little model.

Candy Canes

2008-12-11T07:53:00.002-06:00

Last night I was playing around with my shutter speed and moved the camera up and down to create candy canes from the Christmas lights.

Pictures from Thanksgiving

2008-12-07T13:56:00.011-06:00

Emma with Alice

Teresa and Rick

Teresa and Christina

Teresa and Christina (Love this picture)

Branden

My great aunt Chris, great uncle Hector, and my grandmother.

Uncle Juan and aunt Emma

Quotes

2008-11-26T06:51:00.005-06:00

"Are we at wally world or are we in heaven?" - Bob

"Girlfriend you gotta take care of yourself" - My Dad

"If they think that kid is cute wait till they see Caden they will have a stroke" - Bob

"I don't even know what that word means" - Becca (Bob was yelling sway sway)

Small Fryday Contest...

2008-11-22T20:20:00.005-06:00

MckMama is having a Small Fryday Contest over on her blog. You can win a new header for your blog and some camera equipment. She is an awesome photographer and writer. If you have a few hours (or days) then head over to her blog for some delightful stories and pictures.

This is a picture of her daughter, her third child out of four.

Feet

2008-11-08T13:48:00.005-06:00

My friend Elizabeth sent me a link on a "how to" video for taking a certian picture involving feet. Here are the pictures with my own take on it thanks to Bob, Caden, and Molly.

Bob and Caden's feet. I LOVE this picture.

Caden and Molly's feet. (Next time I need to take a black back drop with me.)

Caden's feet.

Caden was really good at crossing his feet. All I do was ask and he complied. Bob said he is either really smart or he is very use to having his picture taken.

Fall Colors - Texas Style

2008-11-04T18:03:00.005-06:00

This is the extent of fall colors that we get in the great State of Texas.

Blue Sky

2008-11-04T17:57:00.002-06:00

Romans 13:1

2008-11-04T07:26:00.004-06:00

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

(This verse is from my quiet time this morning. Reminds me regardless of who wins God is in complete control.)