Thursday, July 29, 2010

Fun at the Ballpark!

Last night was a blast!
The game was not a great game, but the company at hand was perfect!
My dad even surprised us by showing up during the 3rd inning, and sat with us for the duration of the game!

The view from our seats was ideal!
Our friends Chris and Kristin joined us for some fun!
Okay...I have to pause here to say...No, I did not wear the same shirt as I did last Wednesday night at the game. Same color. Different shirt. There. I said it.
I feel much better now.
I was relieved to find out that our husbands did not plan their outfits together.
Nice blue shirts.
Love him...even though he looks like he would rather being doing anything but taking a picture.
I was really excited to take this picture.
My dad's name on his seats!
Nolan Ryan and his wife are at every game.
If you know anything about Rangers baseball, then you know who he is!
Awesome.
Always a great time at the
Ballpark in Arlington!
Can't wait to go back!

On a total random sidenote, check out what's going on in my backyard!
Roses!
Huge begonias!
Tons of sweet potato vines!
We are having to water them EVERY SINGLE DAY, but the payoff is fabulous!

Happy Thursday, my friends!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Dental Update

I know for the most part,
 no one really cares about our dental expenses other than Ryan and I,
but please bear with me here while I chronicle our life.
So...the result of yesterday's ortho consults for Austin and Preston are as follows:

Next week begins the journey down the road of cash flow out the window.
Braces aren't cheap, my friends.
In fact, they're a pretty little penny.
Austin and Preston are scheduled to go in on Tuesday for impressions, x-rays, and to have the little spacers put in to make way for the brackets. The next week will bring with it, the actual braces. Now, along with braces, Austin needs a bite plate and Preston needs an expander to widen his jaws a little...sounds painful, but the end result will be worth it.

Am I really old enough to have children in braces?
Seriously.
They were running around playing tag and calling me "Mommy"
just yesterday...at least it feels like yesterday.
Austin will be in high school in one year. One year, friends. How did this happen so fast?
I was watching Sara's video of sweet little Hudson yesterday...watching him toddle around, playing with blocks, learning to feed himself, singing himself to sleep in his crib, and the sense of loss hit me like a ton of bricks. Now, I'm not saying I don't enjoy the stage we're at because believe me, it does have its perks...major perks...but it's the
realization that those days really are gone.
Done. Over with. Foreva.

Okay, enough of that.
Let's hear it for straight teeth!
Happy hump day!!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Randomness Galore

1. Another laid back day here.
Trysten went back to his mom's this morning, "The Teenager" has been sent back to his dad's...we've experienced a downward slide in the attitude department again...tough love, friends...tough love...Carter and Preston are playing Monopoly, and I am putting laundry away while intermittently reading my third Jennifer Weiner novel this month.
Good times.

2. Preston and Carter both had dental appointments yesterday, and while there, the dentist informed me that Preston needs braces now too. It's not that I didn't already know that, but I wasn't expecting it so soon since Austin is about to get them as well. Austin and Preston are now both going today for their orthodontic consultation. Cha ching. I can hear the money adding up already. People who say kids don't cost a lot of money are crazy. I don't get it...we pay all this freaking money for health insurance, and so little of it actually goes to pay for doctor visits, prescriptions, surgeries, etc....oh,ya. I forgot. We have to cover the cost of all the people that refuse to get insurance or refuse to pay their medical bills. Nice.

3. Yesterday in the car, Trysten and Preston were having a conversation about how many children they want to have when they get married. It went something like this:

T: I only want to have one kid.
P: I want to have 2 boys.
T: No, actually I want to have 2...a boy and a girl.
P: Why do you want a girl?
T: No, actually I want 2 boys so they can play and wrestle each other, but I'm not changing any diapers.
Me: What!? Why aren't you changing any diapers?
T: Because that's mostly the mom's job.
Me: What!? Don't you remember when Dad used to change Carter's diapers all the time?
T: Yes, but I still just think it's mostly the mom's job.
Random change of subject....
P: I don't ever want to get divorced.
T: Alli, do you have to go to court to get divorced?
P: Yes, that's why I don't ever want to do that.
Me: What do you guys think you have to do to not get divorced?
T: You have to not fight a lot, be nice to each other, and help each other do things.
P: You also have to say I love you all the time and kiss a lot like you and Ryan.
Giggles coming the backseat...
P: Oh, and the man has to take his wife on dates.

Out of the mouths of babes!

4. My boys go to their dad's tomorrow for the rest of the week and weekend, so Ryan and I are going to the Ranger game on Wednesday night for the third time in a week. I am loving the games..minus the immense amount of sweating which takes place during the entire 9 inning event. It's so much fun! We are definitely a baseball family right now. Preston starts practice for his team this weekend, with Austin and Carter following right after. I don't know how we're going to do it this year. Austin is playing baseball in a city league, as are Preston and Carter, and he's also playing football for his school. He really wasn't wanting to play both but decided that playing football would give him the chance to meet some kids since he's going into a brand new school and won't know anyone. In addition, Trysten is going to be playing basketball for the first time, so that means 4 kids in 4 sports, school work, family time...CRAZY time!

5. Do you know what a moonflower is? Don't feel bad. I had not a clue until we moved into our new home. The owner left one for us...barely alive...and said we could keep it or throw it away. Throw it away! No way! We have nurtured this little beauty, and it has grown like crazaay. The reason it is called a moonflower is that it only blooms at night with the prettiest white, fragrant flowers:

 We have trained it grow on this trellis.
You know you're getting old when you and husband sit out on the patio at night and say, "Honey! Look! Another bloom just opened!"
Awesome.

6. Is it redneck to drink wine out of this:
I can't help myself. It's a Tervis Tumbler. Have you heard of them?
They are fantastic.
These cups come in every size imaginable, with any and every logo possible, are indestructible, don't sweat, keep liquids hot and cold, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
They are pricey, but well worth the cost. Lucky for us, Ryan's parents gave us an entire set for Christmas a few years ago, and we use them every single day.
So...am I a redneck for drinking wine in one?

Happy happy Tuesday, my friends!!

Monday, July 26, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Another fabulous weekend!
It was definitely all about family time.
We started off with:
A trip to see some Rangers baseball!
We didn't sit in my dad's seats...no...we sat at the VERY.top.of.the.stadium.
No worries, though. Good times were had all around!
Drink that $6.00 Sprite, Carter!
T-Bob and his funnel cake!
You know you're in Texas when...
I know it's hot outside, dude, but seriously...keep your shirt on!
Home run!!
Rally time, Rangers!
Nothing special...just love these boys!
My boys' father was at the game too and caught a ball signed by baseball Hall of Fame outfielder, Rusty Greer. He came up to our seats and gave the ball to Trysten!
After a visit to the gift shop, we checked out the players in the bullpen.
Sweet boys...
"The Teenager" checking out the final inning.

Fast Forward to Sunday!
We packed up the cooler, loaded up the goggles, floats, sunscreen, towels, ipod speakers and the boys, and head to the pool for the day!
Cannot wait until we have our own!
It's a lot of prep work for a day at the pool!
Havin' fun!
Good times!
I hope your weekend was just as great!!

Friday, July 23, 2010

It's Friday!

It's Friday!!
Time for a familypalooza weekend!
The gang is ALL here...well...tomorrow they will be as
Trysten is returning from his mom's in the morning,
and mine walked in the door from their father's an hour or so ago.

It's been a fairly uneventful week here.
Ryan and I enjoyed some quiet time together on Wednesday cooking out, and last night we joined my brother and sister-in-law at the Ranger game.
What an awesome game!
We got to see the newest addition to the Ranger's roster, Clif Lee, pitch
and he did not disappoint.
It was so nice to hang out with Ben and Jennifer child free because we were actually able to speak in complete sentences without any interruptions.
Nice.

I love her!
After the game my brother showed me where our father's name is listed on this:



W. Michael Carter
Season ticket holder since 1979
My dad LOVES baseball, and takes each one of the grandkids to a couple of games each season. Last night happened to be Preston's turn, so throughout the game, he would make his way over to our seats, just a few rows up, and exchange excitement with Ryan over a good play!
We had such a great time, that Ryan bought tickets
for Saturday's game, so we can take our whole crew!
The boys are so excited!

Here's to the start of a fabulous weekend,
my friends!
See you on Monday!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Yes, I do realize it's
Tuesday,
but I couldn't get myself to do much of anything computer related yesterday.
This girl was t.i.r.e.d.
We left the lake house at the crack of dawn yesterday morning, and as soon as my sweet man dropped me off at the casa, he sped off to work like the responsible man he is, while I gathered up all the troops and set up camp again in Prosper.

Back to the weekend...
Uncle David's funeral was beautiful. Lots of stories were shared about his life. Ryan and his father both spoke eloquently at the service, shed tears, and honored the great man that was/is David Clary. I was so proud of my husband and was reminded once again how blessed I am to be part of his family. We were able to visit with family Ryan and I have only been privy to see a handful of times, swapping stories and pictures of the kids. Catching up.

Ryan and I with Carol's cousin, Shirley
Father & Son
Two handsome men!

After the funeral, we joined Ryan's parents at the lake house
for a rare opportunity to spend some precious time together.
We miss them dearly.
The first night, we sat on the patio over looking beautiful Lake Hamilton, drank wine, told stories and laughed till our sides hurt...even shed a few more tears.
After an emotional few days, the bed upstairs in the loft felt especially wonderful that night.
We woke up Saturday to coffee and conversation, catching a little of the British Open at St. Andrews on the television, and decided to rent a boat since
The Buccaneer...miss that boat...bit the dust last season.

Getting ready to head out!
This is the storm that Ryan kept telling us was
"moving that way"
...pointing away from Hot Springs.
As much as I hate to admit it...he was right. =)
Love this man!
Not a great pic, but it's all about chronicling the day!
I must interject here. See this bathing suit below?
I forgot to get a pic wearing it at the lake, but I wanted to include it in the post.
See the "S"?
Yep...it stands for Soladay.
Cute.
I originally bought it for our honeymoon since it was the first time I was Mrs. Soladay.
I'm sentimental like that.
Getting back on track...
Ryan grilled the best steaks ever for the 4 of us that night while Carol and I sat out on the deck for some girl talk.
Carol! Move back to Texas soon, so we can do that more often!!
I can just jump on the golf cart and drive "around the corner"to Winding Creek!
Sunday was another laid back day
We decided to eat at a local eatery called Fisherman's Wharf that night out on the lake.
Great food, great views and great company!!
How cute are these 2!
Good times!
Happy Tuesday, my friends!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Randomness

Lots taking place in our neck of the woods...shocker.
The boys are eating us out of house and home. I swear that sometimes I feel as if all I do is pour milk into cereal bowls, spread cream cheese on bagels, cut waffles, open crackers, peel the skin off apples, boil noodles, make PBJs, wipe off the counter and repeat. Like I should park it behind the kitchen island and wait for the next request.
I guess it means we have healthy, growing little boys, and that...I like.

Speaking of our little boys, I was in dire need of getting my nails done yesterday and didn't want to show up for dinner last night with 3 broken nails on one hand, that I somehow thought it would be a good idea to take all 3 boys...Preston, Trysten and Carter...Austin is at his dad's...with me to get my nails done. In a quiet salon where women are pampering themselves AWAY from their children. I apologized as soon as I walked in the door with my entourage. The ironic part of the situation was that I have never seen these 3 as well behave as they were for the 1.5 hours spent in "Style Nails". In fact, as we left the establishment, 2 ladies who had been in the pedicure chairs the entire time said, "We are so impressed with your children. They were great!" Awesome.

We took the little guys to
Joe's Crab Shack
last night since it was such a hit on our vacation.
Good times were had by all, and lots of crab legs were consumed!

Ryan and I are off to Arkansas in the morning to meet his parents for a family member's funeral. Sweet Uncle David lost his battle with cancer. The blessing is he will no longer suffer.
What a great man he was.
Here he is with Aunt Paula at our wedding.
After the funeral, were heading to the family lake house in Hot Springs
for the remainder of the weekend, so I'm signing off until then.
Have a great rest of the week, my friends!

Monday, July 12, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Whataweekend.
Did you know that could be one word? Kinda like Whataburger...oh, for those of you not fortunate enough to live in the south, that's a hamburger joint.
Not a single picture taken over the last 3 days...total rarity for me...but we had some good times. Lots of family time.

Ryan bought a backseat for our golf cart a week ago, and we installed on Friday night. In the garage. In the most humid air ever. With directions accompanied by an illustration that did not match the typed instructions. While I drank wine. It was great. You know you're still newlyweds when you can do something like that and laugh/kiss in between taking the same part off for the third time because you finally figure out the directions and drawing don't match up.
Yes, Sass....we are very susessed. Good times.

Saturday was, for the most part, spent inside due to the monsoon which has lasted for oh...the past 2 weeks here. Ryan hung with the little guys while I spent some one-on-one time with "The Teenager". Speaking of Austin, Ryan and I have both implemented major tough love with him as of late, and it's working. We're seeing monumental changes in his attitude and are hoping it continues. It is great news, my friends. So back to Saturday.
Austin and I ran around together buying him a pair of new baseball cleats, having a smoothie, cruising the PGA Store, grocery shopping, talking. It was really nice. It reminded me of the old days before hormones and insecurities kicked in. Once home, I made the
Pioneer Woman's chicken spaghetti.
Hello, comfort food.  
The boys ate it like it was their final meal and continued to enjoy the leftovers for the remainder of the weekend. I even used the unused portion of cooked chicken to make a little chicken salad on Sunday for lunch.
I was the Pioneer Woman this weekend.
We ended the day by taking the boys on a late night golf cart ride since we finally have enough room for our whole crew. If I remember correctly, we had a random neighbor kid on with us. With so many kids, you lose count after awhile. I mean, what's one more?

Fast forward to Sunday.
Ryan took Austin to the batting cages and to a tryout for a AA baseball team while I stayed with the little ones. A friend down the street and I took the boys to the pool with her 3 girls, with whom the boys have become fast friends. We had their family over for dinner last Monday, and it was kind of a shock for them to see their 3 sweet girls hanging tough with 3 crazy boys! Once Ryan and "The Teenager" came home, we celebrated Austin making the team, had what we call a smorgasbord night....everyone basically picks something different from everyone else to eat...and ended with another golfcart ride. This one, I was not a fan of. Ryan decided to take us out behind the golf course and drive like he was in the driver's seat of a monster truck, taking sharp turns, going in circles, hauling over dips while the boys screamed and cheered him on, and I sat with my eyes covered. He thinks this is acceptable since our cart has a lift kit for "off roading".
Nice.
I had to spank him when we were done.

It was a fabuloso weekend.
Hope yours was too!
Happy Monday!

What I have Learned Through Blogging

1. I love to write.

Although I have taught kids how to write as part of my profession, I myself didn't spend a lot of time writing for my own enjoyment until I started blogging, and I have come to thoroughly enjoy it. It was always my favorite part of school, and majoring in English in college, I had the opportunity to be exposed to lots of great writers. Poe, Bronte, Longfellow, and Austen were some of my favorites. I will never be a great writer, but it is something that I love. We all need something that we love doing.

2. I love reading about and learning from other people's lives.

There are some fantastic bloggers out there with extremely creative minds and talents, and without blogland, I would probably never have "known" them. The wealth of information available in this virtual world regarding life, love, family, crafting, decorating, cooking, etc. is unreal.

3. I have made friends in blogland, and I am not ashamed.

Yep. It's true. Not all people online are mass murderers. I have met several, and they are all very normal...kind of. What is normal anyway? Some I have never met in person but communicate weekly with as if we have. Who would've thought?

4. Some people are more comfortable putting it all out there while others are more private.

I myself tend to let it all out. I always have. Just ask my parents. But I have much love for those that prefer to keep somethings more private. With that being said, I don't mean that I divulge everything on my blog. Obviously somethings are kept at home out of respect for my family, but topics that some people might think are embarrassing to say out loud...or type...I will, while laughing at the same time. Private or non private isn't something that needs to judged. It's just what works for one person might not work for another. 

5. People who don't blog think we are weird.

Have you ever had a conversation with a non blogger and mentioned something about a blog, yours or someone else's, and received a strange look in return? Yes. Lots of times. What about the time when Coco and I met at that "wildlife park" with only 15 total animals, and we hugged and said something like, "It's so great to finally meet you!" Peopled looked at us like we were freaks. It's a strange place, this blog world.

So, what have you learned?

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Soladay Family Caliventure: The Finale!

I am combining our last 2 days
in the fabulous golden state of California into 1 post,
so hold on tight, my friends, because
heeerrrrrreeee we go!

This day was spent at Sea World San Diego
We're here!
First stop:
Shamu's show "Believe"
Ever since the tragic death of one of Shamu's trainers just under a year ago, the remaining trainers no longer enter the water with the massive whales.
How crazy is it that they can actually communicate and train these human-like mammals?
Enough with the camera, Mom! Seriously.
After seeing the people in the first few rows get soaked during this show, the boys decided they wanted to sit in the splash zone for every show thereafter.
Moving on to the sea otter show....check out the scenery surrounding Sea World.
Awesome.
Sittin' in the Splash Zone, baby!
Sittin' in the dry zone, baby!
Ya, I never really got the whole banana thing, but look at Mr. Otter!
What a fun job these women have!
The one in the middle is my sister's college boyfriend.
The salt water aquarium was fantastic:
Parana anyone?
Trysten would like this one with melted butter on the side.
Ryan and the boys' favorite exhibit...The shark tank!
We saw countless sizes and types of sharks from tiny:
To VERY large:
Scary.
I had to take a picture of this.
I managed to set off an alarm while doing so.
Nice.
What is it you ask?
You're welcome.
Next up:
It was freezing in this exhibit, but these little guys were in their element!
Polar Bears!
Beluga Whales! Have you ever seen a beluga whale? They are incredible.
Back outside for the dolphin show
This one seemed to be geared more toward little girls with a princess and a love story with butterflies, etc....hence the facial expressions on our boys!
More chances to observe nature
"Lift me up, Ryan!"
Time to go!
Tired boys...
Notice who Trysten is resting his head upon. =)

We decided to stop for dinner before heading home to Ryan's grandmother's house.
Yum!
The next morning we head out to Newport Beach for one final day in California!
I looked in the back seat only to find Carter doing this:
Really?
Lunch is first on the agenda!
Can you tell we like to eat!?
Remember how I said that each of the boys took their turn pouting during the trip?
Well....this day was "The Teenager's" turn.
It was hard NOT to laugh.
 Seriously? He did finally get over himself and join the group. Good times.
Time to get down to business, baby!
Let's eat!
They ate like champs!
Newport Beach!
Greatness.
Carter still goes back and forth with feeling completely comfortable swimming without a life jacket, so we oblige we he feels the need.
We didn't bring his jacket with us, so on with the big orange floaties!
Sweet boy...
The boys began digging the most enormous hole in the sand
Kids all over started helping them!


The hole grew bigger...
 and bigger...
Done!
Love this kid.
Ryan evidently got a hold of the camera while I was dozing.
The only reason I included this picture is so that when I am old, fat, and wrinkly...I can look back and remember that at one time in life,
Mama could wear that little pink and white striped bikini.
Can I get an amen, ladies!
Hello, handsome man!
Towards the end of the day, the boys started running and jumping into the hole...boys....
Silly boy, you make my heart smile...
I love this video.
To be this carefree...

Since it was our last night, we got dressed and went out to dinner with MeMa Dee Dee!
 Love him!
I love the relationship between these 2...
"No more, Alli!"
Good times!

The next morning, we packed up, said our teary goodbyes, and drove to the
John Wayne Airport. The same place where the Soladay Family Caliventure started.
This vacation was better than we expected. Every time we do something like this, we grow as a family, and that's why we go all out. It is not easy being a blended family. You have 2 other families you share your children with, but when we're all together, that's what we focus on. Thank you, Ryan, for working so hard, making it possible for us to take a trip of this magnitude. We have given the boys memories to last a lifetime!

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Thursday, July 29, 2010

Fun at the Ballpark!

Last night was a blast!
The game was not a great game, but the company at hand was perfect!
My dad even surprised us by showing up during the 3rd inning, and sat with us for the duration of the game!

The view from our seats was ideal!
Our friends Chris and Kristin joined us for some fun!
Okay...I have to pause here to say...No, I did not wear the same shirt as I did last Wednesday night at the game. Same color. Different shirt. There. I said it.
I feel much better now.
I was relieved to find out that our husbands did not plan their outfits together.
Nice blue shirts.
Love him...even though he looks like he would rather being doing anything but taking a picture.
I was really excited to take this picture.
My dad's name on his seats!
Nolan Ryan and his wife are at every game.
If you know anything about Rangers baseball, then you know who he is!
Awesome.
Always a great time at the
Ballpark in Arlington!
Can't wait to go back!

On a total random sidenote, check out what's going on in my backyard!
Roses!
Huge begonias!
Tons of sweet potato vines!
We are having to water them EVERY SINGLE DAY, but the payoff is fabulous!

Happy Thursday, my friends!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Dental Update

I know for the most part,
 no one really cares about our dental expenses other than Ryan and I,
but please bear with me here while I chronicle our life.
So...the result of yesterday's ortho consults for Austin and Preston are as follows:

Next week begins the journey down the road of cash flow out the window.
Braces aren't cheap, my friends.
In fact, they're a pretty little penny.
Austin and Preston are scheduled to go in on Tuesday for impressions, x-rays, and to have the little spacers put in to make way for the brackets. The next week will bring with it, the actual braces. Now, along with braces, Austin needs a bite plate and Preston needs an expander to widen his jaws a little...sounds painful, but the end result will be worth it.

Am I really old enough to have children in braces?
Seriously.
They were running around playing tag and calling me "Mommy"
just yesterday...at least it feels like yesterday.
Austin will be in high school in one year. One year, friends. How did this happen so fast?
I was watching Sara's video of sweet little Hudson yesterday...watching him toddle around, playing with blocks, learning to feed himself, singing himself to sleep in his crib, and the sense of loss hit me like a ton of bricks. Now, I'm not saying I don't enjoy the stage we're at because believe me, it does have its perks...major perks...but it's the
realization that those days really are gone.
Done. Over with. Foreva.

Okay, enough of that.
Let's hear it for straight teeth!
Happy hump day!!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Randomness Galore

1. Another laid back day here.
Trysten went back to his mom's this morning, "The Teenager" has been sent back to his dad's...we've experienced a downward slide in the attitude department again...tough love, friends...tough love...Carter and Preston are playing Monopoly, and I am putting laundry away while intermittently reading my third Jennifer Weiner novel this month.
Good times.

2. Preston and Carter both had dental appointments yesterday, and while there, the dentist informed me that Preston needs braces now too. It's not that I didn't already know that, but I wasn't expecting it so soon since Austin is about to get them as well. Austin and Preston are now both going today for their orthodontic consultation. Cha ching. I can hear the money adding up already. People who say kids don't cost a lot of money are crazy. I don't get it...we pay all this freaking money for health insurance, and so little of it actually goes to pay for doctor visits, prescriptions, surgeries, etc....oh,ya. I forgot. We have to cover the cost of all the people that refuse to get insurance or refuse to pay their medical bills. Nice.

3. Yesterday in the car, Trysten and Preston were having a conversation about how many children they want to have when they get married. It went something like this:

T: I only want to have one kid.
P: I want to have 2 boys.
T: No, actually I want to have 2...a boy and a girl.
P: Why do you want a girl?
T: No, actually I want 2 boys so they can play and wrestle each other, but I'm not changing any diapers.
Me: What!? Why aren't you changing any diapers?
T: Because that's mostly the mom's job.
Me: What!? Don't you remember when Dad used to change Carter's diapers all the time?
T: Yes, but I still just think it's mostly the mom's job.
Random change of subject....
P: I don't ever want to get divorced.
T: Alli, do you have to go to court to get divorced?
P: Yes, that's why I don't ever want to do that.
Me: What do you guys think you have to do to not get divorced?
T: You have to not fight a lot, be nice to each other, and help each other do things.
P: You also have to say I love you all the time and kiss a lot like you and Ryan.
Giggles coming the backseat...
P: Oh, and the man has to take his wife on dates.

Out of the mouths of babes!

4. My boys go to their dad's tomorrow for the rest of the week and weekend, so Ryan and I are going to the Ranger game on Wednesday night for the third time in a week. I am loving the games..minus the immense amount of sweating which takes place during the entire 9 inning event. It's so much fun! We are definitely a baseball family right now. Preston starts practice for his team this weekend, with Austin and Carter following right after. I don't know how we're going to do it this year. Austin is playing baseball in a city league, as are Preston and Carter, and he's also playing football for his school. He really wasn't wanting to play both but decided that playing football would give him the chance to meet some kids since he's going into a brand new school and won't know anyone. In addition, Trysten is going to be playing basketball for the first time, so that means 4 kids in 4 sports, school work, family time...CRAZY time!

5. Do you know what a moonflower is? Don't feel bad. I had not a clue until we moved into our new home. The owner left one for us...barely alive...and said we could keep it or throw it away. Throw it away! No way! We have nurtured this little beauty, and it has grown like crazaay. The reason it is called a moonflower is that it only blooms at night with the prettiest white, fragrant flowers:

 We have trained it grow on this trellis.
You know you're getting old when you and husband sit out on the patio at night and say, "Honey! Look! Another bloom just opened!"
Awesome.

6. Is it redneck to drink wine out of this:
I can't help myself. It's a Tervis Tumbler. Have you heard of them?
They are fantastic.
These cups come in every size imaginable, with any and every logo possible, are indestructible, don't sweat, keep liquids hot and cold, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
They are pricey, but well worth the cost. Lucky for us, Ryan's parents gave us an entire set for Christmas a few years ago, and we use them every single day.
So...am I a redneck for drinking wine in one?

Happy happy Tuesday, my friends!!

Monday, July 26, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Another fabulous weekend!
It was definitely all about family time.
We started off with:
A trip to see some Rangers baseball!
We didn't sit in my dad's seats...no...we sat at the VERY.top.of.the.stadium.
No worries, though. Good times were had all around!
Drink that $6.00 Sprite, Carter!
T-Bob and his funnel cake!
You know you're in Texas when...
I know it's hot outside, dude, but seriously...keep your shirt on!
Home run!!
Rally time, Rangers!
Nothing special...just love these boys!
My boys' father was at the game too and caught a ball signed by baseball Hall of Fame outfielder, Rusty Greer. He came up to our seats and gave the ball to Trysten!
After a visit to the gift shop, we checked out the players in the bullpen.
Sweet boys...
"The Teenager" checking out the final inning.

Fast Forward to Sunday!
We packed up the cooler, loaded up the goggles, floats, sunscreen, towels, ipod speakers and the boys, and head to the pool for the day!
Cannot wait until we have our own!
It's a lot of prep work for a day at the pool!
Havin' fun!
Good times!
I hope your weekend was just as great!!

Friday, July 23, 2010

It's Friday!

It's Friday!!
Time for a familypalooza weekend!
The gang is ALL here...well...tomorrow they will be as
Trysten is returning from his mom's in the morning,
and mine walked in the door from their father's an hour or so ago.

It's been a fairly uneventful week here.
Ryan and I enjoyed some quiet time together on Wednesday cooking out, and last night we joined my brother and sister-in-law at the Ranger game.
What an awesome game!
We got to see the newest addition to the Ranger's roster, Clif Lee, pitch
and he did not disappoint.
It was so nice to hang out with Ben and Jennifer child free because we were actually able to speak in complete sentences without any interruptions.
Nice.

I love her!
After the game my brother showed me where our father's name is listed on this:



W. Michael Carter
Season ticket holder since 1979
My dad LOVES baseball, and takes each one of the grandkids to a couple of games each season. Last night happened to be Preston's turn, so throughout the game, he would make his way over to our seats, just a few rows up, and exchange excitement with Ryan over a good play!
We had such a great time, that Ryan bought tickets
for Saturday's game, so we can take our whole crew!
The boys are so excited!

Here's to the start of a fabulous weekend,
my friends!
See you on Monday!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Yes, I do realize it's
Tuesday,
but I couldn't get myself to do much of anything computer related yesterday.
This girl was t.i.r.e.d.
We left the lake house at the crack of dawn yesterday morning, and as soon as my sweet man dropped me off at the casa, he sped off to work like the responsible man he is, while I gathered up all the troops and set up camp again in Prosper.

Back to the weekend...
Uncle David's funeral was beautiful. Lots of stories were shared about his life. Ryan and his father both spoke eloquently at the service, shed tears, and honored the great man that was/is David Clary. I was so proud of my husband and was reminded once again how blessed I am to be part of his family. We were able to visit with family Ryan and I have only been privy to see a handful of times, swapping stories and pictures of the kids. Catching up.

Ryan and I with Carol's cousin, Shirley
Father & Son
Two handsome men!

After the funeral, we joined Ryan's parents at the lake house
for a rare opportunity to spend some precious time together.
We miss them dearly.
The first night, we sat on the patio over looking beautiful Lake Hamilton, drank wine, told stories and laughed till our sides hurt...even shed a few more tears.
After an emotional few days, the bed upstairs in the loft felt especially wonderful that night.
We woke up Saturday to coffee and conversation, catching a little of the British Open at St. Andrews on the television, and decided to rent a boat since
The Buccaneer...miss that boat...bit the dust last season.

Getting ready to head out!
This is the storm that Ryan kept telling us was
"moving that way"
...pointing away from Hot Springs.
As much as I hate to admit it...he was right. =)
Love this man!
Not a great pic, but it's all about chronicling the day!
I must interject here. See this bathing suit below?
I forgot to get a pic wearing it at the lake, but I wanted to include it in the post.
See the "S"?
Yep...it stands for Soladay.
Cute.
I originally bought it for our honeymoon since it was the first time I was Mrs. Soladay.
I'm sentimental like that.
Getting back on track...
Ryan grilled the best steaks ever for the 4 of us that night while Carol and I sat out on the deck for some girl talk.
Carol! Move back to Texas soon, so we can do that more often!!
I can just jump on the golf cart and drive "around the corner"to Winding Creek!
Sunday was another laid back day
We decided to eat at a local eatery called Fisherman's Wharf that night out on the lake.
Great food, great views and great company!!
How cute are these 2!
Good times!
Happy Tuesday, my friends!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Randomness

Lots taking place in our neck of the woods...shocker.
The boys are eating us out of house and home. I swear that sometimes I feel as if all I do is pour milk into cereal bowls, spread cream cheese on bagels, cut waffles, open crackers, peel the skin off apples, boil noodles, make PBJs, wipe off the counter and repeat. Like I should park it behind the kitchen island and wait for the next request.
I guess it means we have healthy, growing little boys, and that...I like.

Speaking of our little boys, I was in dire need of getting my nails done yesterday and didn't want to show up for dinner last night with 3 broken nails on one hand, that I somehow thought it would be a good idea to take all 3 boys...Preston, Trysten and Carter...Austin is at his dad's...with me to get my nails done. In a quiet salon where women are pampering themselves AWAY from their children. I apologized as soon as I walked in the door with my entourage. The ironic part of the situation was that I have never seen these 3 as well behave as they were for the 1.5 hours spent in "Style Nails". In fact, as we left the establishment, 2 ladies who had been in the pedicure chairs the entire time said, "We are so impressed with your children. They were great!" Awesome.

We took the little guys to
Joe's Crab Shack
last night since it was such a hit on our vacation.
Good times were had by all, and lots of crab legs were consumed!

Ryan and I are off to Arkansas in the morning to meet his parents for a family member's funeral. Sweet Uncle David lost his battle with cancer. The blessing is he will no longer suffer.
What a great man he was.
Here he is with Aunt Paula at our wedding.
After the funeral, were heading to the family lake house in Hot Springs
for the remainder of the weekend, so I'm signing off until then.
Have a great rest of the week, my friends!

Monday, July 12, 2010

Weekend Recap!

Whataweekend.
Did you know that could be one word? Kinda like Whataburger...oh, for those of you not fortunate enough to live in the south, that's a hamburger joint.
Not a single picture taken over the last 3 days...total rarity for me...but we had some good times. Lots of family time.

Ryan bought a backseat for our golf cart a week ago, and we installed on Friday night. In the garage. In the most humid air ever. With directions accompanied by an illustration that did not match the typed instructions. While I drank wine. It was great. You know you're still newlyweds when you can do something like that and laugh/kiss in between taking the same part off for the third time because you finally figure out the directions and drawing don't match up.
Yes, Sass....we are very susessed. Good times.

Saturday was, for the most part, spent inside due to the monsoon which has lasted for oh...the past 2 weeks here. Ryan hung with the little guys while I spent some one-on-one time with "The Teenager". Speaking of Austin, Ryan and I have both implemented major tough love with him as of late, and it's working. We're seeing monumental changes in his attitude and are hoping it continues. It is great news, my friends. So back to Saturday.
Austin and I ran around together buying him a pair of new baseball cleats, having a smoothie, cruising the PGA Store, grocery shopping, talking. It was really nice. It reminded me of the old days before hormones and insecurities kicked in. Once home, I made the
Pioneer Woman's chicken spaghetti.
Hello, comfort food.  
The boys ate it like it was their final meal and continued to enjoy the leftovers for the remainder of the weekend. I even used the unused portion of cooked chicken to make a little chicken salad on Sunday for lunch.
I was the Pioneer Woman this weekend.
We ended the day by taking the boys on a late night golf cart ride since we finally have enough room for our whole crew. If I remember correctly, we had a random neighbor kid on with us. With so many kids, you lose count after awhile. I mean, what's one more?

Fast forward to Sunday.
Ryan took Austin to the batting cages and to a tryout for a AA baseball team while I stayed with the little ones. A friend down the street and I took the boys to the pool with her 3 girls, with whom the boys have become fast friends. We had their family over for dinner last Monday, and it was kind of a shock for them to see their 3 sweet girls hanging tough with 3 crazy boys! Once Ryan and "The Teenager" came home, we celebrated Austin making the team, had what we call a smorgasbord night....everyone basically picks something different from everyone else to eat...and ended with another golfcart ride. This one, I was not a fan of. Ryan decided to take us out behind the golf course and drive like he was in the driver's seat of a monster truck, taking sharp turns, going in circles, hauling over dips while the boys screamed and cheered him on, and I sat with my eyes covered. He thinks this is acceptable since our cart has a lift kit for "off roading".
Nice.
I had to spank him when we were done.

It was a fabuloso weekend.
Hope yours was too!
Happy Monday!

What I have Learned Through Blogging

1. I love to write.

Although I have taught kids how to write as part of my profession, I myself didn't spend a lot of time writing for my own enjoyment until I started blogging, and I have come to thoroughly enjoy it. It was always my favorite part of school, and majoring in English in college, I had the opportunity to be exposed to lots of great writers. Poe, Bronte, Longfellow, and Austen were some of my favorites. I will never be a great writer, but it is something that I love. We all need something that we love doing.

2. I love reading about and learning from other people's lives.

There are some fantastic bloggers out there with extremely creative minds and talents, and without blogland, I would probably never have "known" them. The wealth of information available in this virtual world regarding life, love, family, crafting, decorating, cooking, etc. is unreal.

3. I have made friends in blogland, and I am not ashamed.

Yep. It's true. Not all people online are mass murderers. I have met several, and they are all very normal...kind of. What is normal anyway? Some I have never met in person but communicate weekly with as if we have. Who would've thought?

4. Some people are more comfortable putting it all out there while others are more private.

I myself tend to let it all out. I always have. Just ask my parents. But I have much love for those that prefer to keep somethings more private. With that being said, I don't mean that I divulge everything on my blog. Obviously somethings are kept at home out of respect for my family, but topics that some people might think are embarrassing to say out loud...or type...I will, while laughing at the same time. Private or non private isn't something that needs to judged. It's just what works for one person might not work for another. 

5. People who don't blog think we are weird.

Have you ever had a conversation with a non blogger and mentioned something about a blog, yours or someone else's, and received a strange look in return? Yes. Lots of times. What about the time when Coco and I met at that "wildlife park" with only 15 total animals, and we hugged and said something like, "It's so great to finally meet you!" Peopled looked at us like we were freaks. It's a strange place, this blog world.

So, what have you learned?

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Soladay Family Caliventure: The Finale!

I am combining our last 2 days
in the fabulous golden state of California into 1 post,
so hold on tight, my friends, because
heeerrrrrreeee we go!

This day was spent at Sea World San Diego
We're here!
First stop:
Shamu's show "Believe"
Ever since the tragic death of one of Shamu's trainers just under a year ago, the remaining trainers no longer enter the water with the massive whales.
How crazy is it that they can actually communicate and train these human-like mammals?
Enough with the camera, Mom! Seriously.
After seeing the people in the first few rows get soaked during this show, the boys decided they wanted to sit in the splash zone for every show thereafter.
Moving on to the sea otter show....check out the scenery surrounding Sea World.
Awesome.
Sittin' in the Splash Zone, baby!
Sittin' in the dry zone, baby!
Ya, I never really got the whole banana thing, but look at Mr. Otter!
What a fun job these women have!
The one in the middle is my sister's college boyfriend.
The salt water aquarium was fantastic:
Parana anyone?
Trysten would like this one with melted butter on the side.
Ryan and the boys' favorite exhibit...The shark tank!
We saw countless sizes and types of sharks from tiny:
To VERY large:
Scary.
I had to take a picture of this.
I managed to set off an alarm while doing so.
Nice.
What is it you ask?
You're welcome.
Next up:
It was freezing in this exhibit, but these little guys were in their element!
Polar Bears!
Beluga Whales! Have you ever seen a beluga whale? They are incredible.
Back outside for the dolphin show
This one seemed to be geared more toward little girls with a princess and a love story with butterflies, etc....hence the facial expressions on our boys!
More chances to observe nature
"Lift me up, Ryan!"
Time to go!
Tired boys...
Notice who Trysten is resting his head upon. =)

We decided to stop for dinner before heading home to Ryan's grandmother's house.
Yum!
The next morning we head out to Newport Beach for one final day in California!
I looked in the back seat only to find Carter doing this:
Really?
Lunch is first on the agenda!
Can you tell we like to eat!?
Remember how I said that each of the boys took their turn pouting during the trip?
Well....this day was "The Teenager's" turn.
It was hard NOT to laugh.
 Seriously? He did finally get over himself and join the group. Good times.
Time to get down to business, baby!
Let's eat!
They ate like champs!
Newport Beach!
Greatness.
Carter still goes back and forth with feeling completely comfortable swimming without a life jacket, so we oblige we he feels the need.
We didn't bring his jacket with us, so on with the big orange floaties!
Sweet boy...
The boys began digging the most enormous hole in the sand
Kids all over started helping them!


The hole grew bigger...
 and bigger...
Done!
Love this kid.
Ryan evidently got a hold of the camera while I was dozing.
The only reason I included this picture is so that when I am old, fat, and wrinkly...I can look back and remember that at one time in life,
Mama could wear that little pink and white striped bikini.
Can I get an amen, ladies!
Hello, handsome man!
Towards the end of the day, the boys started running and jumping into the hole...boys....
Silly boy, you make my heart smile...
I love this video.
To be this carefree...

Since it was our last night, we got dressed and went out to dinner with MeMa Dee Dee!
 Love him!
I love the relationship between these 2...
"No more, Alli!"
Good times!

The next morning, we packed up, said our teary goodbyes, and drove to the
John Wayne Airport. The same place where the Soladay Family Caliventure started.
This vacation was better than we expected. Every time we do something like this, we grow as a family, and that's why we go all out. It is not easy being a blended family. You have 2 other families you share your children with, but when we're all together, that's what we focus on. Thank you, Ryan, for working so hard, making it possible for us to take a trip of this magnitude. We have given the boys memories to last a lifetime!