Saying Goodbye

We had to say goodbye to a very special member of our family this week.

When Michael and I began dating in the summer of 1998, I shared with him how much I loved schnauzers. After four months of dating, Michael took me to Canton and we found this little gray bundle of joy. The moment I picked her up, she laid her head on my chest and we instantly bonded. Michael and I didn't have a clue just how much this dog was going to change our lives. She was the beginning of our family.

We loved this girl more than anything.
When Addison arrived several years later, it was difficult for Allie to understand that she had to share us. This was the first night she acknowledged Addison. I was so happy. She accepted both kids, but didn't really want anything to do with them. Ironically, in the last months of her life, she was drawn to Addison more than anyone else.

Allie loved to be outside with us. Michael would chip golf balls and she would run after them. It was always a battle when she brought them back. She didn't ever want to give up the balls.

When she was a puppy she had a hilarious nighttime routine. About 9:00 she would put her tail between her legs, crouch down and run through the house like a crazy dog for several minutes. We called this her crack-baby act. It was so funny.

Allie Belle was my constant companion in bed. She had to lay in the middle of the bed under my arm. She was often cold and would bury herself under the blanket. We spent many hours snuggled together.

She absolutely hated going to the groomer and vet. Although she was beautiful after her trips to the beauty shop, she would pout for a while after returning.

She was our first baby and was treated like royalty.

Allie did not like the rain or snow. She was the best dog when it came to potty training, but all bets were off when any kind of precipitation came out of the sky. You knew she really had to potty when she went outside in the rain or snow.

We got Dottie when Allie was 9 months old. They quickly became known as "the girls". They have spent every day of their lives together ever since.I wasn't the only one who like to snuggle with Allie Belle.

This past January, Michael accidentally ran over Dottie with his truck. Thankfully, he only grazed her hip. Even though Allie was completely blind and deaf, she immediately went to check on Dottie as soon as she returned from the vet. Allie crawled in bed with Dottie and stayed there with her for the duration of the evening. They were true sisters.

This was our last morning with Allie.

We are so thankful for the many years with had with this sweet baby girl.

Our family is hurting right now. We miss our Allie Belle.

We know she lived a great life and is not suffering anymore, but it doesn't stop the hurting in our hearts. She was part of us....our family will never have another Allie.

Allie Belle

July 19, 1998 - May 17, 2011

Star Struck

Brock became a little star struck on Saturday. After an awesome game, we went to Joe Willy's to have a lunch. When we walked in, a man was standing in line in front of us. Michael and Brock went to the restroom to wash Brock's hands and I noticed all the kids were walking up to this man to get his autograph. When Michael returned, I asked him who he was. He smiled and said Marion Barber, running back for the Dallas Cowboys. Brock, who is in awe of any sports figure, became star struck. As a parent and a fan, I can say this this man was extremely friendly to every kid that approached him. He shook each one of their hands, took time to get their names and pose for pictures, eventhough he was trying to eat his lunch. We took our picture of Brock in line and then got Addison to get in one after we all finished lunch. This Cowboy has won over 4 more fans....he is more than an athlete. He was a Christian (notice the shirt) and he was a positive role model for our aspiring athlete.

Overdue

I am so behind with this blogging thing. Those of you who know me, know and understandy why. I will get caught up.....one day!

Opening Day 2011

Sweetness!

Happy Birthday, Brock!

Today we headed over to Cowboys Stadium to celebrate Brock's 7th birthday. He invited 3 friends and off we went to Arlington or Super Bowl City U.S.A. We started the party with a McDonald's tailgate party, except it was a bit chilly so the kids ate in the back of the car. Brock is holding the awesome cupcake that his mommy made for him. Aunt Mittye couldn't make his cake this year, so he had to settle for me. I think I did a good job, but the best baker in the family is obviously Aunt Mittye.

The Super Bowl transformation is underway.

The Legend

Waiting for the tour to start

Brock and Ethan taking it all in.

So the famous star was NOT on the field. They had the Super Bowl turf down, so we didn't get the full Cowboys experience. But it was still cool to be down on the field. We camped out on the 50 yard line for a while.

Yes, the screen is that big. The screen alone cost more than Texas Stadium in Irving. Seriously?

Inside the Cowboys locker room.

My favorite NFL player, Bradie James.

Chillin' in the luxury suite

Back in the locker room

Little Romo & Witten

Now little Austin joins us

The Cotton Bowl Offices

On the field

Michael enjoyed it just as much as Brock.

Michael tried to kick several field goals.

I'm not sure if he ever succeeded.

Brock's turn

Brock LOVED catching passes on the field.

Somehow I didn't get the cheerleaders on here. I'll have to do another post just for them.

Brockman, we love you and we thank God for you every day.

Happy Birthday, Little Man!

Pinewood Derby

Yesterday, Brock competed in his very first Pinewood Derby. Michael had to sought out some advice from Captain Mark on building this speed machine. After several trips to Hobby Town, Hobby Lobby and many hours in the garage, Brock and Michael were ready to race an awesome car. Since it was his first time to compete, we weren't sure how the car would perform. Butterflies were swarming in Brock's belly! The cars made 4 runs, one in each lane. The slowest time was thrown out and the other three times were averaged. After 10 minutes of intense racing.....Brock ranked #1 in his den! He had to come back later in the afternoon to represent his den in the pack finals.

Brock's car is in lane 1. The one with the fire on it...who would have guessed???

Brock receiving receiving is medal.

Back for the finals. So small compared to the rest of the pack :)

Lane 2

Brock and his camping buddy, Graham.

Both medal winners!

At the end of the day, Brock ranked 7th out of 77 cars. Not bad for his first race.

Earlier that morning, he also played one of the BEST basketball games ever. It was a great day for Brock. Since this is his birthday weekend, it couldn't have happened at a better time.

Today we are headed over to Cowboys Stadium with 3 of Brock's friends for his birthday celebration.

Happy Birthday, B-Man!