We are happy to be here.

2011-06-28T14:02:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful the gospel has been restored to the earth. I love the scriptures and having more than one witness that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. The conferences delivered from the prophet and apostles remind me to hope and I am filled with love for Jesus Christ and gratitude for the love He shows through so many tender mercies. These truths and other true principles enable me to love and forgive and repent.

Choir

2011-06-01T22:40:00.000-05:00

Troy and I just joined the interfaith choir in the area. We will be singing with the 4th of July program. It was fun to get together and make beautiful music. I realized I am rusty. I hope the practice we will be getting will help me snap back to what I think I knew or was able to do.

Communication 101 aid

2011-05-29T17:20:00.000-05:00

One of my facebook friends put this online and we laughed and laughed. I have since shown it to my son (who decides to not communicate nor date). Now he lets us know he is understanding without having to say much. "Manslater" Dad. or Nate, you need the manslater. He is so smart, and now he is aware of the nonverbal and context of communication in a way that may help him when he does decide to date or communicate. I am excited about it.

Gardening

2011-05-29T12:06:00.001-05:00

We have been attempting a potted garden. One of the reasons was that I don't know where in my yard it would be best to plant a garden. Another reason was that I put off making a decision and was running out of time. I am pleased to say that we have things growing, on purpose, in our pots and the younger boys are delighted with this. They check on the plants at least once a day. They water and comment and notice the buds, flowers, sunshine. It has been unplanned fun time. I am enjoying their enthusiasm. It would be nice to get food from them, but this side benefit is delightful.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T13:04:00.002-05:00

Thinking of my mother on this mother's day inspired me to express my love to her and my family. I have been so blessed.
My wonderful husband and fantastic children showered me with excitement, love and generous gifts, accompanied with background music this morning. Each one did something so sweet and personal, it was blissful and heavenly. To see them be so happy to do something for someone else touched me deeply and was a precious gift itself.

On one of the boxes of the generous gifts I received, it said "Achieve flavorful gromet results with the speed and precision of a professional chef. Its easy with a machine renowned for unlocking every ingredients full potential, as well as yours." As I thought about that and opening the box, it occured to me what a huge statement that is. I have a machine that could unlock my potential. My full potential. Pretty big deal. How much would you pay for that? I have received advice in relation to receiving gifts (from my mother) that I will not worry what he actually paid for it. I will enjoy and be excited about this gift. But the metaphor it gave me was stimulating. Something that could enhance our abilities to achieve amazing results if we but open it. I could have put off opening the box. I had other gifts that required scissors to open and I could've gone to open them. But the idea of my potential being realized was itching my brain and I felt compelled to not put it off. It was awesome in the box, more things than I thought were inside. There were not only recipies that could be created, but they were in a super nice collection in a hard cover binder, with amazing pictures. I actually have too many recipe books, I think I am a kind of collector. I love food. I love herbs and spices. But I am inspired to use this new machine and the results it may bring.
Realistically, most of my kids won't appreciate the delicacies it has- although the smoothies are tasty-looking. So while I type about this metaphor for what I have already been blessed wtih in my life, I feel that I should sieze the moment and open up my scriptures, the delicious spirit and bread of life and find my potential through them.

2010-02-14T16:21:00.002-06:00

For Family night, Daddy picked out a puzzle that we could all work on. It has been amazing how much fun we have had with it. So Dad got out a bigger puzzle (1000) and has immersed himself in it. We had a little more time with him being laid off, and with the 2 Snow Days! It is a bit harder for the little ones, so they asked if Dad could find one for them to do. So we have this great Solar system puzzle he put out for them. Luke and Daniel have done it a couple times, and then they started to get competitive and the puzzle pieces ended up all over the place. Daniel got started again and had most of it done and Luke was using a few for skates. We persuaded him to put them with the puzzle and one ended up missing. They started the search and we looked all over for it. Luke was very worried about it and asked 'Did the Holy Ghost take it?'
After finishing the laughing we couldn't restrain, I reminded him that the Holy Ghost is there to help us, not to hide our puzzles. So he seemed to get it 'Oh, He is there to help us? ok'

2010-01-21T09:09:00.004-06:00

I find it funny when people are in the grocery store with an earpiece phone in their ear and they have a full disclosure discussion with the invisible friend/whomever. I haven't put my finger on exactly what is so funny about it, but I was amused for the rest of the grocery store trip on Tuesday night. Am I embarrassed for this person? Am I disturbed she doesn't whisper? Am I sympathetic? Am I uncomforable with tmi? Am I hanging on to personal boundaries that no one can know about, but common courtesy would know? Am I encouraged by her ability to overcome her lost time in that horrible marriage? Am I gratified that she survived through the miracle of prayer? (I didn't stand by her, we just went down similar aisles.) Am I amazed at the liberal scattering of our personal lives to the world? I must be okay with it, I am writing a blog. I think it still amazes me though. So my response is an inward giggle, a smile and musings. . .

Amusing an old mom

2009-08-13T15:38:00.008-05:00

So, in the car we were listening to an oldie but a goodie from the 80's "Opportunities" from the Pet Shop Boys. Nathan asked why there wasn't anything good on the radio. I said all of the ones I flipped through were good. He then said "These guys don't even sing good." I laughed out loud for a while, and am still giggling inside. I am not sure how to convey the extreme humor in what was said. If you have ever listened to some of my older boys "music", I believe you might glimpse into my mind. Linkin Park, while it has some pretty good songs, pepper most of them with Yelling, rap (even tho this is against the house rules) and anger. Other songs, not coming to mind have a gravelly grunge sound/tenor to them. Look, I am not saying he can't enjoy them, I am not even saying I hate all of it, but the "good quality" of the singing in their selection isn't why they like their music choices. I like being amused by this. I was going to put in a song the boys like, but I don't want to make their grandmother cry. Some of them are intensely angry and unpleasant, but I didn't say it. . .

2009-07-21T20:07:00.003-05:00

I've been reading a few books this (now last) summer, and over the vacation, I was able to finish two, that I felt correlated, leaving me feel very disturbed and disquieted. One of the books was 1984 by George Orwell. I actually have wanted to read this for quite a while because of how "Big Brother" is referred to so often with our media and some movies. I felt that once I personally read the whole idea, the reference would mean more to me, and I could be more specifically critical in op ed pieces and news articles I might come across. When I finished the book, I struggled to be able to sleep. Putting my finger on what exactly I was most disturbed about still has had my mind turning in non ending circles. The second book, The Giver, was recommended by my son who loved the book assigned to him in Jr. High. We read it aloud, because he liked it so well, he wanted to read it again. With every page, I kept asking him when it would get good. Honestly, I have heard this to be a great book by many others. It is recommended reading on many lists. And it was poetic. The correllation that really bothered me was the "Utopia" that both books set up. I think that not enough people read these books.

Family Vacation

2009-07-21T14:46:00.017-05:00

We had the most wonderful family vacation! Usually, we visit family, which we all love, but we decided to use the short time we had to go somewhere cool at night (Troy's requirement). So our dear friend referred us to her friend who has a cabin in Fish Lake in Utah. On our way over, we stopped in Vail
Then we went to Arches National Park, which is Aunt Mindy's favorite park. The arches will not always be there, so we tried to see them specifically.

Then we went to Goblin Valley! I went there when I was younger with my Nelson cousins and, although the details aren't sharp, I remember having a fabulous time and have wanted to go back ever since. And, Goblin valley is a set for a part of Galaxy Quest, my medicine to bring laughter. That was also impressive for my kids.

I need to find a way to do the movie thing for all our pictures. . .
We then headed to Fish Lake to this fabulous, comfortable cabin!

We did many hikes,

We drove a boat

jumping in freezing cold water

Nathan, Emma and Daniel went fishing with their dad

Nathan caught 2 Emma caught 3 and Daniel caught 4 and the largest, which we ate for lunch!
We cooked smores and Luc threw rocks in the lake

what we are learning at my house

2009-03-18T22:56:00.003-05:00

I have more interesting, or at least I think so going on, but I just have to mention this. . .
Taylor is 15. He is a gross (and I love him anyway) boy. He still thinks toots and burps are statements worth often communicating. So a couple of days ago in the car, he lets out a great big burp. I turned back and said "Taylor!!!" (implying yet again that he should excuse himself or try to keep it to himself. It is not a medical condition yet.) Luke thought this was great fun, so he made a sound like a belch and then said "Lucas!"

2 yr old what is what

2009-02-17T15:33:00.002-06:00

Two year old, Luke just brought in the ziplock of zucchini bread muffins and asked for one " uh aunt one!". As I started to open the bag, he was handing me the last half of the one he had been eating on earlier this afternoon. I said, "Oh, you need to finish this one first". He pushed it away and said "ew gross!" Maybe that isn't funny to anyone else, but I am still laughing inside and out.

My Christmas Inspiration

2008-12-15T11:04:00.007-06:00

Ever since we moved from Idaho, I have missed being a part of or attending The Messiah at Ricks/BYUI. It was a personal highlight of the Christmas season. It deepens the Christmas season and my love for the scriptures. I have found something that is also inspiring here.
Every year at the Arlington Stake Center they have a Natvity display. The rooms all over the church are decorated thematically and display nativity sets. They have over 1000 throughout the building. A couple of rooms are sets from 1 collector each. One lady has her sets organized according to where the set was made, like these from Africa. One is made from banana leaves and the lower one indiginous organic items. They are from all over and many are unique.

They have a look and find sheet for the children to point out different kinds and sizes, helping the children look at each nativity. One set was from a lady in Poland who learned of her collection so she made one for her made of colorful tinfoil candy wrappers.

They have choirs from around the area sing Christmas songs every half hour. Emma got to sing this year with her choir from Pearcy. Taylor sang with West a few years ago.

I feel full of awe at the craftmanship of the different sets, the effort of the displays, and the love and rejoicing that comes from the rememberance of the Savior born for us. This gift and His gift are so powerful to me. I weep every year.

Don't bug me

2008-11-03T17:21:00.002-06:00

Daniel is very allergic to the fire ants here.

Collegiate Inn Improves!

2008-11-03T16:51:00.002-06:00

Just in case you haven't driven by to check out the improvements on the apartments lately.
You can't see the Plumbing redo (which was enormous) and the HVAC system, (also extremely big) but all will enjoy this. The exterior is looking increasingly better. Yay!

Trial slide

2008-11-03T16:48:00.003-06:00

Halloween Trunk or Treat

2008-11-03T14:49:00.002-06:00

At the ward Trunk or Treat, Luke got maybe one candy, a package of skittles, and got to jump into the back of a truck with the MacDonnell's. He had a ton of fun and was completely satisfied with his "loot".

Jacob is of age (last month)

2008-10-31T09:11:00.006-05:00

Jacob's baptism day.
Grandma and Grandpa Timothy and Grandma and Grandpa Andersen were all able to come!

Some of the things in San Francisco

2008-10-29T14:59:00.003-05:00

In or Out

2008-10-29T14:52:00.003-05:00

Every time Troy goes to California, he picks up the latest version of the In and Out burger tee shirt. This was our first order of business to take care of on our trip to San Francisco. (We ate as well.)

Company Congratulations to Troy

2008-10-09T14:34:00.003-05:00

Everyone

We are very pleased to announce that Troy Andersen has received his CMB designation. This is a tremendous accomplishment. There are only around 1,000 people in the MBA that have received this designation. This is great for the Company resume and client visits. Those active in mortgage banking and in the MBAA know how hard it is to achieve. Everyone should take time to congratulate Troy on this accomplishment.

Certified Mortgage Banker

The Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation is the industry standard of professional success. It symbolizes respect, credibility, ethics, and achievement within real estate finance. Earning a CMB instantly places you at the top of our dynamic industry and makes you a part of the elite group that has achieved the highest level of professional success.

You can choose to earn a Commercial or Residential CMB. Complete both programs to earn your Master CMB. Achievement of these designations represents the epitome of dedication and expertise in the real estate finance industry.

Since its inception in 1973, the CMB has been the highest professional designation for the real estate finance industry. The CMB community is made up of outstanding industry professionals and leaders. With such a great community, the designation continues to define excellence within the industry. In October 2007, the CMB community reached a milestone 1,000 designees.

Whether obtaining the designation as a personal achievement in their career, or as a testament to the industry, CMB designees exhibit the dedication that inspires other professionals to strive for excellence. In fact, more than 89% of CMB designees hold the title of vice president or higher, reflecting the level of leadership and commitment designees maintain.

Refreshing morning

2008-09-16T11:49:00.004-05:00

It was 51 degrees while I was picking Taylor from Seminary this morning and then taking him and Emma to school. They both were stunned at how cold it was as I paused to breathe in the almost crisp feeling of the air. Not a bad trade off for being awake.
I ended up taking Lucas to the park in Irving. It was so gorgeous out. I wish I would have worn better shoes. If I can figure out how to send my pictures from my phone to the computer, I have one of him singing wheeeeee on the swing. Half of the time we were there, he was chasing birds or the rocks he would throw. He squeezed in chatting with a grandma that was walking on the park path (mostly about his rock)and the park mowers. I walked around with him and enjoyed the beauty of summer,the chance to be outside watching a player at work and not having to be somewhere soon.
I have had moments when I dreaded going to the park. As I think about it, it was because I was either pregnant, pressed for time, or too hot. I am so glad we had this fun today, and that he is taking a nap so I can. . .do stuff like this.

I think I know who taught him, but can't he learn on purpose?

2008-08-22T16:41:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, when our good-thing-he's-cute-not-yet-two-year-old was told 'You should not dump mommy's purse out anymore' said, for as far as I know the first time, "Why?"

It isn't always like this

2008-08-15T18:42:00.002-05:00

Play together. The one that had the most fun was Luke. It is his favorite time to be with all the family at once. Everyone else liked their picture taken.

2008-08-15T18:32:00.000-05:00

When it was pleasant to go outside.

I'm not dead yet.

2008-08-15T18:06:00.007-05:00

I actually met a young couple who haven't seen "Monte Python's Holy Grail". I thought at least everyone 45 and younger had seen this iconic movie. Never gave it consideration anymore. In my past it was proven again and again that everyone watched and knew the lines from this movie. It is practically basic communication. Monte Python
My friend tried to explain "Napoleon Dynamite" as the grandchild of its kind. While I believe it is similar in phrases you say and make you laugh because of the understanding and commonality of language, if you do compare them, the Holy Grail stands out by far because it has actually funny parts and only painfully dumb every once in a while.
Another friend compared in it's classic-ness to ">Princess Bride"
While I must agree, you must see Princess Bride just because it is one of the best movies ever, classic worthy of being called classic, and use of watching a movie, it isn't the same. Not because the Holy Grail is better as far as story, moral or humor. The Princess lines, while in my home are quoted often, are not a common comedy reference in all circles as with the Holy Grail, at least with guys, isn't it. Well, obviously not, because this couple included a guy. Am I dated? Is it a clear demarkation of my era that Monte Python was iconic. Was it in fact a fad? These thoughts coursed through my mind as I was picking my jaw off of the floor after hearing my friends hadn't ever heard of Monte Python.I am sure my perspective is now going through a crisis and I will have to rethink my opinions on movies and classic and comedy in general.

Can he tell the difference?

2008-08-08T12:35:00.004-05:00

First thing this morning, Daniel came in and told me he had to tell me about his dream. 'It was a scary ninja story, I didn't like it. I had a friend with me and we went out and beat up some ninjas (bad guys). Then dad speared me.' I said, why would dad spear you? He said, "It was a dream."
'I went outside again and dad speared me again. It didn't hurt. They got fire on me and pulled off my leg. I lost it. But I could hop on one leg like this. . .It was a nightmare.'

We had a ball

2008-08-06T12:46:00.004-05:00

Troy and I were invited to the Rangers/Yankee(2nd this week, they apparently won in a tight game Monday night) game by our friends Mike and Jana Sweet. They brought some other friends Chris and Amy- I don't think I got their last names, but they were fun. We were in a suite,an air conditioned box, on the 3rd base. There were other people whom we didn't know, but they all knew the host, Jimmy, a finacial investor. They had a buffet of yummy game food and dessert! We had a wonderful time with all the Sweet people and the game was super. Great plays by both teams and then "our team" won!! Because of the hurricane's leftovers, we had a cool breeze and some clouds, so it felt actually pleasant. The darkening sky gave a romantic feel to the massive packed stadium and lights and colors. Well, I thought it was romantic. It would have been awesome if they would have had fireworks. oh well. They did have a marriage proposal on the board at one point, so it must have been romantic to others as well. :) After the game, we walked back to the cars at Troy's office (about a mile down the road) while the traffic stayed constantly packed for a half hour. We waited for the busy roads to clear by the pond at the office. What a great day in Texas. It was almost like a movie!

Emma's '5 cat art' (name to be selected sometime soon)

2008-06-02T21:34:00.004-05:00

Emma is at it again.
I don't know if you can see the different paint invovled, but it is fabulous. Unfortunately, I don't have a big enough scanner to get it all in one scan, but you can appreciate it, and maybe if I get time to play with it, I can put them together. . . I do plan on learning all the neat things that can be done on computers-someday.

Daniel sees all

2008-06-02T21:25:00.003-05:00

The other day, Daniel asked his dad something like, "Dad do you make this much money (holding his arms out wide)? And his dad said, "Yeah, I make this much money (holding his arms out). Then Daniel said, "Good, then you can give mom some, she only has this much money (then he holds up his finger and thumb just apart).

2008-04-22T13:39:00.004-05:00

I am presently looking for a frame for Emma's art work. I love this and wanted to share. It looks good every way you turn it.

2008-02-28T13:45:00.000-06:00

Daniel's favorite thing

2008-02-05T16:41:00.001-06:00

We asked Daniel what his favorite thing in the world was.
He answered: Idaho. We asked why and he said "Because I love SNOW!!!" Good thing it was such a great snowfall this year.
Just so you know, he is still cuddly at 4. He plays with my hair and tells me he loves me more than my ______(He says many body parts here, mostly whatever he is looking at, but he tries to say a new one each time as if each one is better than the last), yet still doesn't like kisses (unless it is a contest with the brothers)

Found another one to explain myself

2008-02-05T16:39:00.000-06:00

You Are Pumpkin Pie

You're the perfect combo of uniqueness and quality.

You're able to relate to many types of people with many different tastes.

But you're by no means generic or ordinary.

In fact, you're one of the most original people around.

Those who like you are looking for something (someone!) special.

You tend confuse people when they first meet you. You're not as complicated as you seem.

Even though you have a lot of spice and flavor to you, you're never overpowering.

You are a calm and comforting force in people's lives.

What Kind of Pie Are You?

http://www.blogthings.com/whatsyourpersonalitytypequiz/

2008-01-28T20:09:00.000-06:00

The Giver

You strive to maintain harmony in relationships, and usually succeed.
Articulate and enthusiastic, you are good at making personal connections.
Sometimes you idealize relationships too much - and end up being let down.
You find the most energy and comfort in social situations ... where you shine.

In love, you are very protective and supporting.
However, you do need to "feel special" - and it's quite easy for you to get jealous.

At work, you are a natural leader. You can help people discover their greatest potential.
You would make a good writer, human resources director, or psychologist.

How you see yourself: Trusting, idealistic, and expressive

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Bossy, inappropriate, and loud

2007-12-03T10:49:00.000-06:00

Jacob has been really "thoughtful" for what he would really like for Christmas this year. I wanted to share the love.

DC in the fall?winter

2007-11-21T16:34:00.002-06:00

Troy arranged for me to join him on his 2nd CMB class in Washington DC. in November. I spent a good deal of time figuring out the Metro and squeezing sight seeing in the few days we had. I have learned where some of the horror/thriller and sci-fi get some of their ideas on what is scary etc. I had no personal reference before. It was all interesting and I enjoyed getting to know a little of how to get off where you want to end up. The Smithsonian exhibits that I got to see (Air and Space, Natural History and National Art Museums) were great, but of course I couldn't see it all. Troy and I went on a night time tour of the memorials and the area. The memorials were much more moving in person than I thought they would be. In fact, I had many thoughts as we started the whole business, But I would like to dwell just on the fact that they were very impressive and most felt a bit sacred. I almost didn't go to Korean Memorial but was most impressed and was very moved as we walked around it and saw the faces. I would really like to go back and take the children.

2007-11-21T16:19:00.000-06:00

Taylor had a big birthday this year. He invited a bunch of friends to go play unlimited lazer tag and bowling at Main Event.

2007-11-21T16:01:00.000-06:00

Luke is practically monkey in the climbing area. It is especially fun to climb in the kitchen when there are things left out to play with, eat or throw, but usually all of the above.

2007-11-14T16:26:00.000-06:00

The walk to the mailbox isn't long. It is just a stretch your legs and break the indoor air. By the way, it is fantabulous outside right now. The crisp air, light breeze, sunshine. Yummy! Daniel, Lucas, and Jacob joined me today with light hearts and sweet enthusiasm for such a little break. Daniel repeated that he was going to carry the mail over and over. Lucas didn't want to stop at the mailbox, he could keep going no matter the calling and chasing. I have decided that I absolutely love the toddler walk. It brings a delighted giggle to my heart. And when he wears those tiny sneakers, I can't think of anything else I would rather see. Because I had not been able to find the key for a while (it had been in Jacob's backpack, I am sure that I accidentally closed his binder on the keys I was using), the mailbox was very full. Daniel was loaded down and dropped the load once, then again when he tripped on the step. I went to help and he assured me that he tripped, that was all. As he righted himself, he exhorted me to "Get Lucas! I can do this! Lucas is going to get away! Get Lucas!" Maybe it loses some of the meaning written down, but I thought is was so great of him. He is embracing this job, loving his brother, and directing me in dire circumstances. I guess I could worry that he will be a bossy child, but I am just loving how he is involved and helpful, and that he loves to do it.

Nathan's creation #3

2007-10-31T10:13:00.000-05:00

Charcoals

Nathan's creation #2

2007-10-31T10:11:00.000-05:00

Pencil

Nathan's creations

2007-10-31T08:09:00.000-05:00

Nathan is enjoying his art set in school. His first works are now scanned in and ready to show off. They look even better in real life. Watercolor:

Dad's night

2007-10-19T11:41:00.000-05:00

Troy got a new barbecue grill for father's day. It is a nice thing without coal and starter. It does need to be cleaned though, as he learned this week grilling some chicken. As the flames incinerated the pieces, the children all pretended they were sad that it was "Dad's night to cook" . We went out to IHOP in the most unanimous restaurant selection we have ever experienced!!!

More changes

2007-10-19T11:30:00.001-05:00

We had some work done on our kitchen lights, counters and backsplash.

Paint it warm

2007-10-18T15:22:00.000-05:00

Thought you would like to see the paint in the front hall, living room and hallway!

Remodel

2007-10-18T14:41:00.000-05:00

After many years, we have accomplished the daunting task of repairing and rennovating our master bath. We are so pleased with the result. I have a few finishing touches, like sink faucets, hand towel holders, towel rack, tissue holder. But really, it feels good to have it done and done well.

The Next Day

2007-10-15T15:08:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Caleb,
Mark this special day.
Angela and gang came over, and while not all the cleanup is finished, I would like to report that we have found nothing of theirs here at all. Nothing seems to be left behind. Congratulations! We must all remember and rejoice! :)

Happy Autumn

2007-10-15T10:07:00.000-05:00

When I took Emma to her bus stop early in the morning the other day, the moisture was still on the grass. The sun was coming up and as it hit the yard, each drop shone like diamonds and sparkled dazzlingly. I am not sure how long that will last. It seems like in the summer that the dew gets burned off too quickly (not that I usually get up that early in the summer). In the fall, I can go out at 11 p.m. and relish the fabulous feel of just right temperature and wake up to crisp, delicious mornings- without a jacket! Fall is great because of all of the senses that are engaged. Yummy!

2007-10-02T10:24:00.000-05:00

Lucas is now a 1 year old (+ a month). The light has switched on and he is everywhere, finding all the neat electronic things we have and discovering water fun-and combining those things often.

He says yea, uh-oh, and momma (mostly when he wants to eat or be held, but I am counting it). Dancing is his thing- he doesn't even need music.

As our charming caboose, he is in his element when we are all sitting in the same room and he can be entertained and entertain everyone with whatever he feels coming on. Climbing, giggling, dancing, teasing, tickling, squealing. Pictures don't tell enough of the story of this wonderful age and interaction.

Labor Day

2007-10-02T10:03:00.000-05:00

Howdy Ya'll!

I wanted to put it all down for you and me for future or far away reference.

We are busy, but only until we have more to do.

We went on a family holiday for Labor Day to Corpus Christi. It was Jacob and Lucas's birthday and Jacob had been talking about going to the beach for months. We invited the Newman cousins down to join in the fun. The Nelson cousins live down there already, so we got to see them and enjoy their hospitality. I had always been told that the beaches in Texas are less than desirable, but the conditions we experienced (other than the drive) were great! It wasn't too hot (which was a gift for us, because it is usually hot), the beach was nice and not crowded, the ocean, just behind the condo, was chest high to the 7 year old for a long way out.

On the way home, we discussed what a good time we had -"other than the high condo price (more than we expected), the rain (for Sunday/Monday), the sunburns, and the insane amount of traffic on the way home, it was one of the best vacation we have had!"
Pictures coming