The best bumper sticker I have seen in well ...awhile

FIRST DATE FOR VANESSA!

Well...Let's just say Vanessa does not waste any time...with getting on the dating scene...maybe I should say the boys don't waste anytime! As the kiddo approached the house waiting for Vanessa to finish getting ready...Todd gave him the once over. Todd also decided to suspend his 55 questions for this particular boy. He also resisted brandishing the rifle!! Vanessa was nice enough to allow pictures to be taken as she left for her first date. Brett was upset because he could not go with his "Yessa." and planted himself in the photo with his classic goofy face. Notice the blue lips...from pre-k Valentine's party earlier..Anywho.. Taylor, a dashing young Mormon boy from a good family, escorted her to the "Loop" where they watched the movie, "Taken"...they came back to our house afterward to talk with the "boys" (Todd, Adrien, Brett) before heading back to Taylor's house where the Beehives were watching "Mamma Mia" They then to a golf cart ride around the neighborhood annoying the HOA's President! Notice the last picture of them driving off...I felt tears well in my eyes knowing that I have raised such a good young woman, and that she is surely on her way to adulthood. I also reflected on how fast she grew up. Really! I am amazed at her kindness and love for others! I am also grateful for a good husband that helped me raise her. His love for her is just as great as mine, and they have a special bond.


***Disclaimer*** Vanessa wants it noted that Taylor and her are best friends only...

SURPRISE SWEET 16!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SURPRISE SWEET 16!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, this beauty is finally 16! She has waited for this day since...she was 9!She can date now, and has the next month...pretty much filled..we are into April for date requests! We decided to surprise her and her buddy or BFF (I thought that stood for Beef, but apparently it means "best friend forever")...Taylor, who also turned 16! We had their license blown-up...which I am sure any far-sighted police officer can appreciate! It was a great party! Todd was on the grill with one of his young men, Timmy. Brett ran wild in the nearby sandtrap at the golf course with some of his pals. Adrien ate and jumped in the 50 degree something swimming pool with his pals to earn the "polar bear" badge...Vanessa had fun. I love having teenagers. The boy, Taylor, will be Vanessa's first date on Saturday. I love Vanessa and her sassiness. I am pleased that she is so close to the Lord and church. She has been a joy to raise and has taught me more than I could possibly teach her. She is an awesome legacy! We love you, Pookie!

Shows from the 80's Yo Adrien/Whatcha talking about "Willis"

Yes, it is back to wrestling season for Captain Adrien Brown..more pics later from the "champ"...he has been conditioning..(start Rocky music on que...5...4...3..).with uh...Brett! Who needs those bulky, pesky weights when Bretty Stephen is around? I love this pic and Vanessa's budding talent..she took the picture. Yo, Adrien!

Vanessa also took this gem. I generally detest weirdo faces pictures especially by grown-ups...unless I am doing it...but kids are awesome! :)

This exhibit is so "Whacha' talkin' bout Willis"... ebonics for "Willis, I am confused by your choice of words and manner in general."

The Orlando Six

Yes, It is the famous Orlando Six....The uncles...B and Spencer came to visit us last week, and we had the best time. It was great just catching up and laughing..and debating...and our favorite past time--eating. Spencer was pretty amazed at how much everyone has grow-up (thanks Spencer :0) and he made a new buddy or parasite--Brett! Uncle B has always been Nessa's favorite...Adrien is the smart one--he plays both of 'em!

I think this is an awesome pic!

The Coupon Maven...

Yes, I have entered into that sacred realm of coupon cutting. My friend, JB, is the best dang coupon clipper I know! She invited me over to her house to marvel at the plethora of coupon abundance....(for you regular folks: I checked out her stash of coupon crap)Sorry, I am in essay writing mode...you know how it goes...well, anywho..I asked my handsome man (Todd) to accompany me to 3 stores...(kicking and screaming)...he did not like the idea of couponing..until it was cash register time. (his cheap skate gland kicked in..located near his kidney)and....He smiled. You may want to pick an amount on the survey of how much you think I saved on the stash you see pictured above ...:)

It has been one of THOSE days....

Sometimes..you wake up and get ready for school..just minding your own business..you pick up your toys, brush the choppers, and try to sit on the throne for a moment's relaxation...and viola`! At least I can smile about it because I know Mom is putting this on the blog!