Everything Erwin

Mother Daughter Weekend in San Diego

2011-11-21T19:43:00.001-08:00

Finally...it was time for our much anticipated Mother Daughter trip to San Diego, CA! We were all looking forward to a relaxing weekend, just hanging out, eating great, no schedules to follow, fun, quality time spending weekend. And that is exactly what happened! We started off our trip in San Diego, drove to a very famous restaurant called George's for lunch. We had reservations for rooftop dining..but out of the 6 days a year it rains in San Diego...this was one. We still scored a GREAT table on the patio with a view of the ocean. Had a fabulous lunch and then headed up to Temecula Valley where we were going to spend the next day and a half.

We were exhausted from our trip...but not too tired to go see Old Town Temecula. We visited some shops, did a little exploring, ran in the rain and then finally headed back to our resort. We were exhausted from traveling, so we checked in, changed into our jammies, ordered room service and went to be by 9pm! Granted..it was 11pm Texas time! :)

Our early night resulted in an early morning. We had breakfast at the resort overlooking the beautiful golf course and got ready for our limo tour through the valley and to some vineyards. We visited Leonesse, Weins, and Hart, Robert Renzoni and Wilson Creek. They were all beautiful and unique in their own ways. We had a great time! Finished the day off with pizza in Old Town!

Monday we had another wonderful breakfast at the resort and drove on in to San Diego..for Massage Muffin Monday at the Del. Pampering was much needed and we were all mush afterwards. Took a stroll on the beach, toured the fabulous hotel and sat out on the pier and talked. Since we were in San Diego...we just had to go to a great seafood place. And that we did! Top of the Market - best halibut I have ever had! Beautiful place, right on the water and we had such a great time. Afterwards, we sat by the fire on the pier talking until bedtime.

Tuesday we walked to a cute bagel shop for breakfast, walked on the beach one last time and headed to Seaport Village for a little shopping before catching our flight. We had an incredible trip, made wonderful memories and look forward to the next one! I am so blessed to have such a wonderful mother and sister who are my best friends!! Love you both!!! Now - here come the pics!!

GIRL!!

2011-11-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

We found out for sure today that we will be welcoming a sweet precious baby G I R L in late March!!! We are very excited and can't wait to meet this sweet babe. I know Gage is going to be a great big brother to little Gentry Ann. Ryan is seeing dollar signs...but is beyond excited to have a daddy's girl. I am thrilled to have a daughter. To be able to do fun girly things, talk about everything and try to be half the mother to her that my mom was/is to my sister and me. Gentry is already so loved and we can't wait for her to join us in a few months!!

21 weeks

And I just HAD to put a few pics of my favorite little boy on the planet!!

Fall Happenings

2011-10-31T19:59:00.000-07:00

We have been busy this fall..its been super fun! There are a ton of pictures because I just could not decide which ones to choose! We are loving this cooler weather and fall makes us all happy!

Dallas Arboretum with Friends

Cade, Tatum, Gage and Brenley

Kisses from Bren

18 weeks pregnant

Love these girls

8 year anniversary at The Crescent Club in Dallas

Playing with cousins Will and Andy

Loves playing outstide

Picking up sticks, leaves and acorns with Pop

Trip to Spurger

Picking up pecans

Persimmon Tree

LOVE

In the dried up pond with Cac

Great Granparent love - Nanaw and Grandpa

3 generations

Cutest puppy on the planet!!

Enjoying some candy

The Hiatus is Over..

2011-10-21T14:26:00.000-07:00

So - I have been MIA on the blog for a while now...and a lot has happened since my last post. Just a caution or warning...there are a TON of pictures in this post!!!

Erwin family!

Gage got his first hair cut
(Before)

Not too sure about it..

Doing better!

So handsome and rewarded with Laffy Taffy!

Went to the Arboretum for the Fall pumpkins!

Is going to be a BIG BROTHER!!
I'm due in March!!

Loves playing

Outside in the cool fall weather

So studly!

I vow to be better at bloging...so I am going to do my best!!! :)

Jaccuzzi + Bubble Bath = FUN!!!

2011-08-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

July in a Nutshell

2011-08-10T20:27:00.000-07:00

Well, a lot has happened since my last post. So, I have decided to share some pics of what went on in July. We spent the 4th in Fredericksburg, on the lake and hanging about the property. We also went on our first family vacation to Seaside, Florida with some great friends. And, I turned the big 3-0 this month. So, here are some pics from all the wonderful events!

The 4th in Fred

Seaside 2011

30th Birthday in Shreveport, LA

Party Pics

2011-07-13T19:18:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Gage's 1st Birthday as an 'under the sea theme' and had a wonderful time. Yes, it was hot and the wind was whipping 100 miles per hour, but we still had the best time with our family and friends celebrating the most amazing 1 year old I know. Thanks to EVERYONE who helped make this a success...I really had to rally the troops for this party!!

A few of my favs!

2011-06-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

One Year Pics Sneak Peak!

2011-06-20T20:05:00.000-07:00

One week from today our little guy turns ONE! Can it really be?? Here is a little sneak peek of his photo shoot tonight. I am IN LOVE!!!!

www.itsybitsyposesphotography.blogspot.com

I am obsessed with the black and white one!!!!

Playing Catch Up

2011-06-09T19:42:00.001-07:00

Yes, it has been over a month since my last post and I have so much to catch up on. So, here goes....Gage got 2 black eyes in one week, He is walking everywhere, loves all fruit, pretty much on whole milk now, loves to be outside, is getting way to independent, hates getting his diaper changed, has pooped in the bath 3 times now, loves to chatter saying mama, dada, uh-oh, and nana, had an ear infection, loves to ride in the buggy at the grocery store, points at everything, claps and gives high fives, is a climber on everything, loves to open cabinets ,doors and drawers, loves to ride the John Deer and is pretty much the most amazing kid in the whole world!! Here are some pics of our evening outside tonight.

10 Months

2011-04-28T21:21:00.001-07:00

Can it be...my blond haired, blue eyed, super smiley, crawling all over the place, free-standing, 5 toothed, giggling, silly, funny face making, pacifier loving, sleeping through the night, table food eating, motorboat/raspberry making, squealing, puts everything in my mouth, BABY boy is 10 months old?? It just doesn't seem possible. Words cannot express how deep my love is for this little guy..I love him so much it hurts!

Our Little Easter Bunny

2011-04-26T19:46:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful Easter weekend we had. Relaxing at home, spending time with friends and family and celebrating our risen Lord!

Funny Faces New Tricks and Mr. Moose

2011-04-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Gage has been making these hilarious faces lately...had to capture

Independently STANDING!! My baby is on his way to walking...not sure if I am ready for that yet!

Gage playing with Mr. Moose..which is actually a Hippopotamus. Amanda (SIL) bought Gage this adorable Hippo before he was born. One day we were talking and I told her I came up with a name for him...Mr. Moose! She says, "Oh, that's great..but isn't that a Hippo??" Serious BLOND moment..hahhaha...the name stuck! And Gage LOVES this hippo. He even had to go to bed with him tonight!!

On a Spring Evening...

2011-04-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

We swing

We ride the new John Deer with Dad

We take a ride in the wagon

We play with our puppies

Then we get ready for bath and bed!

On My Big Green Tractor

2011-03-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

You might be a redneck if....

2011-03-21T20:15:00.001-07:00

Spring Fever!

2011-03-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

Big Boy Tub

2011-02-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

Its so hard to believe that in just 7 months how much Gage has changed. We started giving Gage a bath the 3rd day of his life. Ryan and Gage do bath time almost every night and Gage just loves it. It started with a sponged bath in our sink (for some reason I don't have any pics of this) and he has graduated from the sink...

To this

then this

And now this!!

Such a big boy in his bath! My little water bug :)

Oh Gage!

2011-02-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

My handsome boy - Almost 7 Months

2011-01-25T07:03:00.000-08:00

5 Months

2010-12-09T20:37:00.000-08:00

Gage turned 5 months on November 27th. There really are no words to express how wonderful, amazing, life changing, and rewarding the past 5 months have been. Who knew that this little tiny person could impact my life as much as he has. Gage is the seriously the happiest baby, the absolute light of my life, the best part of my day and more of a joy than I could have ever imagined. His smile is beyond lovable, his raspy laugh infectious, his noises adorable, and his sweet disposition endearing. He is truly a gift from God and I thank Him everyday for this little boy and what he brings to my life.

Gage is sleeping through the night now...(thank you cereal and baby food!!) and eating 5, 5-6oz bottles a day. Rolling all over the place, loves being on his tummy and playing with toys. Laughs and talks all the time...growing up too fast!!! Here are a few pics of my sweet boy!!

New Toy!

2010-11-16T17:24:00.001-08:00

My parents gave Gage an exersaucer and he is having a blast playing in it. He will sit in and look at all the animals, talk to them and even try to eat them! Such a fun toy...thanks Cac and Pop!!

Yummy Sweet Potatoes

2010-11-11T20:41:00.000-08:00

Gage's Baby Dedication

2010-11-09T18:08:00.001-08:00

October 31st, 2010 was Gage's baby dedication at our church, Longbranch Community Baptist, in Midlothian. This was a special day and one that we will cherish and remember for the rest of our lives. We dedicated Gage to the Lord, knowing that he has a purpose and a plan for his life and that our influence as Christian parents will lead and guide him to find salvation and become a follower of Jesus Christ. This more than anything is our constant prayer for Gage. For him to know, love and have an amazing relationship with the Lord!

Our families were able to attend church and be a part of the dedication. We have an amazing family who loves Gage more than anything, and we are so thankful for them. Ryan's Uncle Eddie flew down from North Carolina for this special day, and it meant so much to us. We hadn't seen him in over 2 years and had a wonderful time spending the weekend together and catching up on life.

The dedication was at the end of the service, which was also Gage's lunch time. He was a little fussy up in front of the church. Needless to say - we didn't get a whole lot of pictures at the dedication, but we all know the importance of that day!

With Pastor Herb Pedersen

Gage playing with the program

Not so happy here..
Ryan and Uncle Eddie

Aunt Amanda and Gage

Eddie and the boy

Amanda and Uncle Eddie - love this pic!PawPaw and Gage

Fall Festival, Arboretum and the Lil' Tiger!

2010-11-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

Halloween weekend was full of fun, fall activities. My parents came in town for Gage's baby dedication (next post!) and we had a wonderful time. We had been looking forward to going to the Dallas Arboretum to see the pumpkin displays and photograph Gage. We started the morning out on the front porch with my Fun Fall Festival of Foliage and then moved on to the Arboretum. I had so much fun this year decorating my porch, I just had to get some photos of Gage. Hope you enjoy the pics of our fabulous fall day!!

Discovery - Feet!!

2010-11-06T06:36:00.000-07:00

I like... to eat...
my FEET!!!!!

Cereal!

2010-11-04T10:07:00.001-07:00

At Gage's 4 month appointment last week, the Pediatrician gave us the ok for cereal and baby food! Gage did NOT like the cereal at first, and I was worried. We have been working with him everyday tryingto get him used to a different taste and texture, other than milk. We added bananas to the cereal and he is doing great, eating every bite! Here are a few pics from the first night.

Humm..that looks interesting... What is this you are putting in my mouth??
I'm not sure I like this...

Mom - why are you doing this to me?

I'll show you...Get that outta here! Got milk?

4 Months

2010-11-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

My little boy turned 4 months October, 27th. I really can't believe how fast the months have flown and its been more of a blessing than I could have ever imagined! Gage is getting such a personality these days, smiling and giggling all the time. He really is a happy baby! This month Gage started rolling over. At first he would push up on his tummy and then roll to his back. Then he would swing his hips over, but that shoulder would get him every time. One day, he was on his tummy rolling from back to front! I just can't believe how much he has grown over the past 4 months, and can't wait to see what the next 4 bring!

Gage Ryan - You are the most special little boy in the world. Your smile is the most exciting part of my day. You make my heart happy and I never thought I could love someone as much as I love you. Happy 4 months baby boy!!

Catching Up

2010-11-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Weekend before last was the Floyd (Ryan's mom's side) family reunion. We drove down past Athens to Poynor for the afternoon. We had a great time hanging out with the whole Floyd gang, enjoying great food and wonderful weather.

Gage - the airplane

PawPaw, Ryan and Gage

Paw and his grandson

Aunt Amanda lovin on Gage

Such a tired boy...

After getting back home, we rushed over to spend the evening with our friends at the Grimes home for a Halloween party. All the kiddos were so cute and we had a wonderful time!

The Tiger

Kiddos dressed up

Squished between all that pink :)

Playing before we headed home

I have lots more to post...so stayed tuned. I am going to do one every night until I am caught up!!!

Uptown Living

2010-10-21T19:43:00.001-07:00

Ryan had a softball game in Arlington, so Gage and I headed to Uptown to spend the evening with Aunt Kimmy! We met at her apt and then strolled down McKinney to Rocco's for some delicious pizza. We dined outside and had just a wonderful time. Here are a few pics from our evening.

Say CHEESE!!!!

2010-10-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Go Longhorns!

2010-10-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Tyrone Wells

2010-10-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Last night, Kim and I went to the Tyrone Wells concert at The Prophet Bar. We discovered Tyrone on Pandora and have been really drawn to him and his music. He's from California and writes and sings his own songs. He just put out a new album that is #2 currently on itunes singer/songwriter. We attended his show at House of Blues last summer, but this time the concert was smaller and had a more intimate setting. The name of his current tour is "Songs & Stories." He really talked with the crowd, telling us where these songs came from and giving us background on him, his music and his life. We throughly enjoyed it, bought 2 cd's and a t-shirt! We love you Tyrone, come back to us soon!

Also, Andrew Belle is touring with Tyrone. He has had 3 songs on Grey's Anatomy episodes and was really fantastic!!

Singing my favorite song 'Sea Breeze'

Had to get our picture with him!

Last summer at HOB

3 Months

2010-09-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day. Today is a day I stand in awe. Today I woke to the most beautiful smiling face. Today I am overwhelmed with joy. Today I thank God for the amazing gift of a baby boy. Today I feel more blessed than I could ever imagine. Today I held my little boy as he slept peacefully on my shoulder. Today my precious son is 3 months old. Today I am amazed. Today is a great day.

Back to work

2010-09-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

Wow - I really can't believe how fast 12 weeks can go by. Being home with Gage for the 1st 3 months of his life was so wonderful, rewarding, tiring, and very exciting. We spent our days together just hanging out, shopping, playing with friends, visiting family, traveling and so much more.

Monday was my 1st day back to work, and honestly, it was an extremely tough and emotional day for me. I was (or thought I was) keeping it together pretty good, until I looked back at Gage and noticed he didn't have any shoes on. This tipped me off and the tears came a falling. Ryan was as supportive as possible, but probably thought I was crazy at the same time. I really like my sitter, but leaving Gage everyday has been a struggle. I know it will get easier, and after Monday there haven't been any more tears, but its still hard. I count down the minutes until 5pm and can't wait to pick my boy up, see that smiling face and smother him with kisses.

As I look at Gage now, sleeping so peacefully, I am just so thankful and undeservingly blessed. I know working might not be exactly what I want to do, but the Lord has a plan and I am at peace with the way things are right now. I cherish every moment I have with Gage and love him unconditionally. I leave you with a few pictures of him last week in his Sunday best, headed to church!

Family Photo

2010-09-16T07:10:00.001-07:00

For the media guide at DBU, they needed an Erwin family photo. We really don't have many photos of the three of us..so I thought I would share. I just love my little family!

I know I'm biased but,

2010-09-13T15:52:00.000-07:00

Don't you...

Just love...

This sweet little face?!?!

Labor Day in Fred

2010-09-09T15:59:00.001-07:00

Labor Day was spent in fabulous Fredericksburg at my parent's ranch. This was Gage's first trip to Fred and he loved every minute of it. We had a great time relaxing on the porch, watching the deer in the mornings, eating lots of great food, shopping and just spending family time together. It was a wonderful weekend and here are a few photos to sum it up!

Gage's first time on the tractor with Pop

I'm sure this won't be his last!!

Gage with his Cac and Pop

My little cowboy!

With Aunt Kimmy

Kim and I dressed up stomping grapes

Mamma and her boy

Love that face

Gage even rode in the mule!

Ryan with the 3 amigos - Honey, Bleu Belle and Jeter

Isn't he pretty??

Ryan and the pups

2 Months

2010-09-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been 2 months (August 27th) and our little boy sure is growing up way to fast. We had his check up with the Pediatrician and he weighs 11 pounds and is 24 inches long. He is in the 25th percentile for weight and 75th for height…long and lean!

Gage is sleeping about 8 hours at night, most of the time he sleeps all the way through. There is an occasional night where he wakes up around 4am, but it’s nothing the pacifier can’t fix.

He is alert so much more during the day. We have him on a pretty good schedule and he is eating 5 ounces every 4 hours, naps and plays in between. I love that beautiful smile of his and he really interacts more, talking all the time. Those sweet coos and noises light up my day!

Gage loves his bath and being outside. Ryan and Gage have their special bath time every night. It’s so cute and fun to watch them together. Gage also went to the church nursery for the first time and did great..slept the whole time! He is a great traveler, which is good since we are on the go all the time.

Gage – you are a wonderful baby and I never could have imagined how much you have changed your mom and dad’s life in 2 months. Every day I wake up and can’t wait to spend it with you! You are the love of my life and the most precious thing to me. I love you more than words can express little boy!

Battle wounds

My sweet boy!

2010-08-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some sweet pics of Gage over the past two weeks. It is so hard to believe that he is 7 1/2 weeks old. We are having so much fun spending our days together..he just melts my heart!! Love this cutie pie so much!

First Road Trip

2010-08-06T06:27:00.000-07:00

Last week Gage and I took our first road trip, and he did great! He just loves his car seat and slept the entire time. We left Monday morning for Beaumont and stayed there all week. Friday we drove over to Houston to meet Kim and Ryan at the Wetherell's for a fun weekend. We had a wonderful time in Beaumont visiting family, friends and just hanging out...we can't wait to get back!!

Went spent Tuesday in Spurger at my grandparents farm. Nanaw cooked a wonderful meal and we just got to enjoy each other all day. They sure loved getting to meet their great grandson!!

Hanging with his Pop after a long day!!

4 Generations!!

My cousin Cortney had twin boys 6.5 weeks before Gage was born. Will, Andy and Gage are going to have so much fun growing up together!!!! Here we are with our boys!!!

Just thought this was so cute of Gage!

Will, Gage and Andy!!!

The Boys

My other cousin Lindsey and her husband Patrick came to visit Gage too!

Just a playing!

On Saturday Ryan and Andy took the boys for a few hours while we shopped around and got pedicures. It was weird being away from Gage for a few hours, but I definitely enjoyed myself!

Here is Mr. Mom!!!

Ryan, Gage, Whitt and Andy!

Pooped out on the way home from his big trip! Sweet boy!!!

One Month!

2010-07-29T16:25:00.001-07:00

Gage had his 1 month birthday on the 27th. I seriously can't believe that 4 weeks have passed since we brought this little guy into the world. He is such a joy and I love him more and more everyday. My friend Kim started taking her little girl's picture in her rocker every month and I loved the idea so much, I had to steal it! So - here is Gage Ryan on his one month birthday. Happy 1 month sweet boy, you are the most amazing thing in the world and your mommy and daddy love you more than you can ever imagine!!!

Gage Ryan Erwin

2010-07-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

So - Its been 3 weeks today since the birth of our baby boy. We are having so much fun and loving every minute with Gage. He entered the world June 27, 2010 at 5:28am weighing 7lbs 10oz and 19.5 inches long. Gage had his 2 week appointment with the pediatrician and was up to 8.5 lbs and 21.5 inches. Two inches in two weeks...we are thinking he might have his mommy's height!! Here are some pictures of our sweet baby boy.

Lounging around at home

Headed home from the hospital

Sleeping at the hospital

Some adorable pictures his Pop took!!!

40 Weeks - Still no Gage

2010-06-24T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today is June 24, Gage's due date, and he has yet to make his appearance! I am feeling great, but just so ready to meet our little guy!! If he doesn't decide to come tonight, we will go to the dr tomorrow to get checked and she will also do a sonogram to make sure everything is still ok for him in there. If he doesn't decide to come over the weekend, we go back to the dr on Monday to get checked and will be induced on Tuesdsay. So - we will for sure have him in 5 days, but we are hoping and praying for sooner than that!!

We have a great family friend who is a physician in Fredericksburg, and he has always said that babies tend to come on full moons. Saturday night at 11:31 pm is the full moon for this month....keep your fingers crossed, we are going to count our lucky stars!!!!

Here I am - full term at 40 weeks!!

Future Yankee Fan???

2010-06-18T12:12:00.001-07:00

So, if you know Ryan, you obviously know he is a HUGE new York Yankee fan. Ryan came home with these this week for Gage. He ordered them off MLB.com and I thought it was super adorable. #1 because Ryan doesn't shop ever, and #2 because they were so cute and thoughtful. Just shows how excited he is for Gage to join our little family!! Can't wait to see the little guy in these!!!

My parents went to NYC this winter and came back with this shirt, among other Yankee things, for Gage. Ryan says Gage is coming home from the hospital in this shirt..we are still in debate about it. But - Ryan says that if Gage can't come home in it, we are taking it on a hanger to hang in the hospital room. Haha! Its definitely packed in our bag...hanger and all!!! Thanks Cac and Pop!!!!

Nursery Pictures!!

2010-06-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

When we found out for sure we were having a boy, the search for the perfect nursery bedding/decor was on. I knew that I wanted to do vintage and baseball, but could not find exactly the right thing. So - the next step was finding fabrics, and putting them together to make the perfect bedding. My mom, sister and I found the fabrics and I had the bedding custom made. The curtains my mom ended up making..aren't the fabulous!!! And the chair, found at an estate sale for $30, was recovered as well. The navy pieces, my mom found on the side of the road. She sanded, painted, changed the hardware and made them look amazing. Ryan has a million old baseball cards he collected when he was little, so I wanted to do something creative with them. We decided to deco-podge an old shelf, to use as a bookshelf in the nursery. Then, what to do about the 'G'. We got a piece of plywood cut, did the same thing with the baseball cards, screwed in the baseballs, and framed it out. Whew - talk about a labor of love. I just love how the nursery turned out. Hope you like it too!!!

Gage's current home....38 weeks
And is soon to be home in just 11 days!!!!

28 days and counting!!!

2010-05-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

As of today, we will be meeting Gage Ryan in 28 days, give or take a few!!! We had our 36 week appointment yesterday and everything is great with the both of us.

Ryan returned from London safely and had a wonderful time. Here are a couple of pics from his trip.

He came back with this adorable bear for Gage....I got a pencil!! Hahahahahah

35 Weeks!!

2010-05-20T07:49:00.001-07:00

Wow, can it already be 35 weeks..only 5 to go?!?! Gage will be here before we know it, and I can't wait! We have been doing some nesting around the house, and getting prepared for his arrival. His nursery is almost complete, and I will post pics very soon. Just one little project to complete and then his room will be ready for him to come home too!! I am feeling great..just ready to meet this little guy!!! He moves ALL the time...lately the past few days he is moving non-stop! I think he is getting cramped in there and ready to come out and meet us!!!!! Gage is about the size of a honey dew melon this week and packing on the pounds weekly!!!! Sorry I can't post a belly pic, Ryan is currently out of the country with our camera.

He is in northern England for 8 days with the DBU men and women's tennis teams. They left Monday afternoon and will return this Tuesday. They are working in local schools and churches, teaching tennis and sharing the gospel. This is the 4th mission trip Ryan has been on with DBU athletic teams, its just so amazing to me the wonderful opportunities he has been able to expericence.

Funny story - you will get a kick out of this!!

Yesterday Ryan emailed me and was telling me about his trip. He said that the girls LOVE him and his accent and want him to talk all the time. They ate at the middle school cafeteria yesterday and a group of 13 year old girls asked him to sit with them. He said they talked about Twilight, Justin Bieber and they asked him if he wore mascara!!! HAHAHAHAHAHA...I was
CRACKING up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My mom is coming up to stay this weekend and we have lots planned!!! Brunch, shopping, and all sorts of fun stuff!!!

Maternity Pictures!!!

2010-04-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek

2010-04-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak peek of our maternity pictures...more to come!!!

The past few weeks...

2010-04-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

So long Springfield...

As of Friday, March 26, 2010 we are no longer residents of 829 Springfield in Cedar Hill.

So NICE to meet you Swan Lake!!!!

We are now living in Midlothian at our new wonderful home on Swan Lake.

We closed on both houses Friday and at 2pm when we got the keys, my parents with their car and my car loaded up, meet us at the new house to start unpacking!! We were pretty much able to get all of the little things that we didn't want the movers to move Friday, which was a great help. After spending one last night in our wonderful little home, the movers showed up at 8am to get to work. And work we did ALL day!! My mom and dad, Ryan's dad, Kim, Amanda and Celeste were amazing and worked all day getting the house unpacked and put together. Blinds were hung, furniture arranged, closets organized...I mean pretty much everything got done. I am so happy to call this my home now and have something wonderful to bring Gage home too!!

Although I will miss the Springfield house where we lived for 5 years, making so many wonderful memories and beginning a new little life, I am extremely excited about our new home and the many new memories we will make there!!!

A HUGE thanks to our families...we couldn't have done it without you!!!!

Easter
For Easter, Kim and I drove down to Fredericksburg to spend the long weekend with my parents! Ryan had to stay in Dallas to work the 3 baseball games that weekend and we sure missed him. We had a great time relaxing, taking mule rides around the property, chasing cows, shopping, picking fresh strawberries and much much more!!

Fashion Show
Last night Kim and I went to our very first FASHION show. She is a member of the Junior League of Dallas, an organization of women who serve in the Dallas/Ft Worth communities. All the proceeds last night go to 50 non-profit organizations here.

There were 5 designers who premiered pieces from their collection as well as had to create a dress from D Magazines. If anyone has seen Project Runway...it was much like that. I didn't get great pictures, but here are a few!!! It was such a blast...I mean that place was ROCKIN!!!

I spent the night with Kim and we work up early and went to the cutest coffee shop in her neighborhood..The Crooked Tree Coffeehouse. We had a great night and fun morning together!!!

Last Thing...
I am having my maternity pictures done today at the Dallas Arboretum!! Can't wait!!!!

Showering Gage Ryan

2010-03-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, what an amazing shower I had this past weekend!! My mom's sweet friends threw a wonderful shower and I couldn't have asked for anything more. We are truly blessed to have friends and family who love us so much!! Some of my girlfriends from high school and college were able to come to the shower, which was so fun! We got a great mix of practical and fun things for Gage. Who knew that one little bitty person needed so much stuff!!!

Even though it was a short weekend, I was able to spend some great quality time with my parents and grandparents! My cousin Cortney is due 3 weeks ahead of me with twin boys!! In the matter of one month, we are bringing 3 baby boys into this family full of girls!!!

Girlfriends!

Aunt Kimmy kissing Gage

My cousin Cortney 29 weeks with twin boys and Me 26 weeks

Kim's fabulous diaper cake

Kim, Lindsey and Me

Kim, Brenley, Corey, Candace, Adalyn and Me

Opening gifts for baby Gage

My sweet dad..aka 'Pop'

Nanaw and Grandpa..aren't they so cute!?!?!

Erwin Update

2010-03-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

So, the last few weeks have been a whirlwind. I have been meaning to post, but have been super busy with work, and it seems like there is a baseball game every night of the week these days! I am 26 weeks pregnant and feeling great. I had my final iron infusion yesterday (hopefully) making that a total of 12 treatments. Gage is moving so much and I love to feel him..he has even kicked Ryan a few times!! This weekend I am heading home to Beaumont for my first shower and I am super excited. Ryan and I close on our houses one week from today, so next weekend we will be moving into our new home. Now I can finally start setting up the nursery!! YAY!!! Lots of fun things to come, and I will be sure to post about them all. For now, here are a few belly pics, one of our new house, and some other randomness!! Enjoy!!

21 Weeks

My friend Lindsey and I - Lindsey is 25 weeks and I am 22 weeks

Lindsey 26 weeks and Me 23 weeks

25 Weeks

Ryan, Kim and I at the Stars game last Friday

Kim and Bleu Belle at our house for dinner

Our new residence in 1 WEEK!!!!

Gender Day Pics

2010-02-11T19:20:00.000-08:00

After finding out its a B O Y!!!

Can you tell she is excited?!? LOVE it!

Pink or Blue?!?

Should I be scared?!?!

The final product...

Cute Polka dots

It is confirmed....B - O - Y

2010-02-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

Friday morning my parents, Kim, Amanda, Ryan and I headed over to the hospital to find out the sex of Baby E. We had a sonogram at 13 weeks and the sono tech was pretty sure it was a boy, but not 100 percent. So, we get to the Dr's office and they moved our whole group into a room to wait for the doctor. Everyone got to meet Dr. Westerholm and we had a great conversation...I just love her! We went to the sonogram room and the tech got to work. We got to see all the little parts of the baby, hear the heartbeat, see his brain, and finally discover that he is in fact a boy!! We were all so excited!!!

My mom and sister made pink and blue cupcakes that were at HIT at the doctor's office. I am so happy they were all able to do this with Ryan and I....its truly amazing!! I will post pictures once Kim and Amanda send them to me...they are on their cameras.

We have decided on a name. We will be welcoming Gage Ryan Erwin this June!!!!!

Let the fun begin!!!!!

Baby E likes Taco Bell!!

2010-02-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, January 26th I felt baby E move for the FIRST time!!! I had just gotten home from a long day at work, a good 2 mile walk at DBU and running through the drive through at Taco Bell. I make my way over to the couch and turn on the TV for American Idol. Then I begin to devour my Nachos Bell Grande and 2 crunchy tacos from the bell. Yes, I actually ordered the meal which comes with ONE taco, but decided that I needed another..so ordered a second one!! After eating that in record time, I lay back on the couch to take in my much anticipated reality tv. While watching, I felt the smallest of nudging in my lower belly 4 times. I was sitting there saying to myself, 'I know this is not gas...its baby E!!!!' I immediately text Ryan since he was in Grapevine at a flag football game and we were both so excited!!! What an amazing feeling..to really be able to tell your baby is growing! I know that I am definitely growing, but reality definitely set in, and I have been feeling Baby E move everyday and I just LOVE it!

I will be 20 weeks on Thursday...halfway through my pregnancy and I can't believe how fast its going!! My parents are coming up Thursday night to go with us to the gender sonogram on Friday and I can't wait. I took Friday off to do some much needed shopping for the baby!!!

Can't wait to share with you the sex of Baby E!!!!

A lot has happened since October!!!

2010-01-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

I know its been since the beginning of October since my last post...and I really have no excuse as to why I haven't updated before now, so I am not going to make one! But, in the past few months a lot of things have happened and I will give you a quick recap.

After I finally was back home from all my world travels, Ryan and I discovered we were pregnant!! I went to the doctor and was 6 weeks and 4 days pregnant...we couldn't believe it!! We had been praying, hoping and trying for this little miracle for a while and God finally blessed us!! It was wonderful being able to tell our family and friends and share our excitement with the world!! Everything has been great with the pregnancy so far. I was severely anemic, so I have been doing iron infusions once a week for the past 6 weeks. I have 2 more and then I am done!! Yay!! I am now almost 19 weeks pregnant, February 5th is our gender sonogram, and I can't wait!!! Oh yeah...Baby E is due June 24th!!

I haven't been great about taking belly pics..but here are a few.

12 Weeks

14 Weeks

18 1/2 weeks

Another big change in our lives....we put our house up for sale!! We have loved the 5 years we spent in our first little home, but with our growing family we just need a little more space. So everyone keep your fingers crossed we sell quickly and find something we love that will be perfect for our family!!

Final Full Day in Seoul

2009-10-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

DBU vs Chung Ang Univ

The Basketball team and Cheerleaders at Central Christian

Thursday morning began with breakfast at the hotel before traveling to Central Christian Academy. While spending the morning at the academy, both the Basketball team and Cheerleading squad guided elementary age Korean students in a large clinic consisting of 80 boys and 80 girls.

The children at the basketball clinic played many games, led by the Patriot Basketball Team, who also taught them the fundamentals of basketball.

The Lady Patriots taught the Korean students a DBU Patriots Cheer along with many types of cheerleading techniques during the clinic. At the end of the clinic, the girls performed the cheer they learned for the students that were in the basketball clinic. Both the players and cheerleaders were very popular at the clinic, with it ending in a small autograph session for the children!

Lunch was served in the cafeteria at Central Christian Academy where we were served baked chicken and sausage with rice and fruit. It was a good meal that revitalized our taste for American food.

After lunch, the basketball team was set to play their third and final game of the trip at 4:00 PM. We arrived at Chung Ang University early and were met with yet another beautiful Korean college campus.

The game began quickly with both teams shooting the ball well. At halftime, the Patriots led by a mere three points, but came up just short losing 107-106.

After the game, the final dinner in South Korea was at a Korean style barbeque restaurant, where the group was served pork, rice, kim chi, and many other authentic Korean side dishes.

Friday morning we are scheduled to attend early morning prayer service at a local church at 6:00 AM, then will be traveling back to Dallas. Our flight is scheduled to leave from Seoul, South Korea at 2:00 PM and we will arrive at DFW a little after 4:00 PM (on Friday too, so weird), after a layover in San Francisco.

Day 4 in Korea

2009-10-08T07:20:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I sharing some delicious Sushi at the coolest Sushi restaurant ever. The plates just rotated around the bar area and you just picked your choice until you were full. So hip and fab.

Ryan with a new hat and goggles in the marketplace.

Ryan and I in the marketplace, trying to get some good shopping in.

This is me playing with one of the adorable home school children at the clinic. I think I need to adopt a Korean child, I am in love.

Wednesday morning started at 9:00 AM as the group headed to a local park in the center of Seoul to perform a clinic for the Global Home Schooling Academy. The academy was operated by the Global Mission Church and was comprised of elementary age children. Both the basketball team and cheerleading squad were able to give offer clinics for over three hours.

After the clinic, we traveled across the city for lunch that was provided by the Global Mission Church at a Korean style restaurant. We had the opportunity to experience a traditional meal called “shabu-shabu,” which is a “fondu” style meal including vegetable, dumplings, noodles, and lean beef cooked in a broth on each table. While eating, the group was required to sit on the floor at small tables, with their shoes removed. It was very interesting and fun, but not the most comfortable for some of the bigger guys, or unflexible ones like Ryan.

After lunch, we were invited to tour the Far East Broadcast Company(FEBC), where we experienced a tour of the broadcasting complex and learned about its history. The FBEC is a broadcasting hub that airs Christian radio and sermons throughout the eastern hemisphere including China, Japan, and Russia, mainly illegally and against the permission of the foreign governments.

The afternoon was filled with shopping at one of the largest markets in downtown Seoul. Hundreds of small shops lined the streets, similar to a flea market, where we were able to interact with the local vendors to buy souvenirs. After dinner at a food court in one of the downtown malls, we traveled to “Seoul Station” to minister to the homeless individuals by providing them with a small meal to show the love of God in a special way.

After another long day, we hit the hay at around midnight with a full day of activities planned for our final, full day in Korea. We are having a blast and taking lots of pictures.

A Special Guest Blogger...Mr. Richard Erwin

2009-10-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

The DBU team praying with the Air Force team after the game.

The elemantary school where we hosted the PE clinics.

DBU Asia features Jeremiah 29:11 in English and Korean.

Wow, what a week so far. I think everyone is starting to wear down, from going all day everyday, but we are having a blast. On Tuesday morning, we left the hotel at 6:00 AM and headed to an English speaking, Christian school in Seoul, where we ran PE all morning. The guys lead basketball clinics, while the Cheerleaders taught cheers and chants to the girls. After three periods of classes, we headed down to eat lunch in the school cafeteria, which was interesting to say the least. Remember your own days in the school cafeteria...well that is what we had, plus it was all Korean food, not a good combination.

After lunch we headed to the DBU Asia office, which was really cool to see the DBU image and logo on a buildlng in the heart of Seoul, where almost everything else is in Korean.

We then headed to Osan Air Force Base, where the cheerleaders led a clinic for 35 girls and the guys hung out in the Community Center playing ping pool, pool and video games until the much anticipated game against the United States Air Force. We all crammed in a small military base gym and going in to the game, we had our worries, but the guys played hard and really good, and the DBU Patriots won 101-72. It was a fun game.

After the game, we headed back to the hotel for lights out. We spend a lot of time on the bus because of the heavy traffic around town, but we are having a good time and the student-athletes are having experiences, that they will never forget. Thanks for reading and check back for more posts. See you guys soon.

Ryan

Monday in Korea

2009-10-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

The boys playing Kyung Hee University.

At our authentic Korean lunch...sitting on the floor with no shoes!!!

Ryan with his new Korean buddy..a market store owner.

Jennifer, Emma and I on the street with hand painted, authentic Korean fans.

Monday, October 5th

After a good nights sleep, we started Monday morning at 10:00 AM with shopping at a Korean market in Seoul The teams were able to experience authentic Korean culture here with shops lining the streets, the entire group was able to interact and carry on conversations with storekeepers and many locals from the city of Seoul.

Because of the size of the group, we had to spilt up and eat lunch at different restaurants. Ryan and I got the best experience in my book...authentic Korean food! We had to take our shoes off, sit on the floor and use chopsticks for lunch...it was amazing! This was so great to be able to participate in the real culture, and the food was amazing to boot!!

That afternoon was the very anticipated basketball game against Kyung Hee University, a well respected university in South Korea. We arrived at the university to be amazed by the size and stature of the schools architecture.

After a friendly exchange of cultural gifts and handshakes the game was ready to begin. Unfortunately, we lost, but it was a great experience for the team!

Korean style barbeque was on the menu for dinner. Everybody enjoyed a great feast where loads of meat was cooked for the group “fondue” style on grills that were inset into each table. Side dishes included radish, rice, pasta salad, lettuce wraps, and kim chi (a type of cabbage that is served with almost every dish in Korea). It was a great experience for everyone!! What a great day!!!!

Around the World in 3 Days...Literally!!!

2009-10-04T17:24:00.000-07:00

Ryan at Wonchon Baptist Church, tasting a Korean pastry..he wasn't a fan.

Our 2nd Church Service of the day..largest church in South Korea.

Jennifer and I with an adorable Korean Lady...love the outfit!!

The girls tastin Korean pastries...they were interesting!

Ryan and I on the streets of Seoul, South Korea

So, I have literally flown almost completely around the world in 3 days. I promise to update more about my London trip, but since I am here in Korea, I thouht I would go ahead and blog about this trip....ENJOY!!

Ryan and I left with the Patriot Basketball team and Cheerleading squad to travel to Seoul, South Korea. The group left DBU at 4:30 AM on Friday morning and after a layover in San Francisco, arrived in South Korea at 6:00 PM on Saturday night Korean time, 4::00 AM Dallas time. There is a 14 hour time difference here...we are ahead, and our flight was 12 hours....long day of travel!!
After clearing customs and immigration, the teams had their first taste of American chain food in Korea, McDonald's and KFC. Saturday was a national holiday in South Korea, very similar to the American Thanksgiving holiday, so traffic was pretty heavy and most restaurants and stores were closed.
After checking into the hotel, most of the group was exhausted and retired to bed before midnight.
Sunday started early, as we left the hotel for the first of two church services. The first service was at the Central Christian Academy, home of Wonchon Baptist Church. Dr. Billy Kim, the Billy Graham of Korea, delivered the message and recognized DBU, all in Korean, which was very interesting to say the least.
After breakfast with the congregation, we boarded the bus and headed to Suwon Central Baptist Church, a more traditional service. The church was also all Korean, but they did offer headsets that translated the service into English.
The second service finished around 12:15 and the group was invited to the International Food Festival hosted by the church, where we experienced Bangladesh curry, kim chi, Phillipino egg rolls and many other foods from across East Asia.
After lunch we headed back to the hotel for relaxing or downtown shopping. The evening ended with a meal at TGIFriday's near the hotel. Everyone is having a good time and thankfully no illnesses to report. Just a little jet lag, but nothing too extensive. We are really having a great time across the world in Korea. It is pretty unbelievable that we are actually here!!! More to come tomorrow...

Castles, Cathedrals and the Coast

2009-09-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

London Eye

Canterbury Cathedral

Leed's Castle

Bright and early, we hit the ground running today! We left the b&b at 7:15 am to catch our tour bus for the day. First stop was Leed's castle. This castle was built in 1050 and its first resident was Henry III. It was passed down through a number of others, including Henry VIII!! Close your eyes and picture what you think a Medieval Castle would look like. I am pretty sure you are thinking the giant castle, with a drawbridge and a moat, flags flying from the top that look like crowns...well, you just imagined Leed's Castle!! It was everything I have seen in history, in the movies and imagined in my mind. It was fascinating! It had 24 rooms, wine cellar, library, dining hall, painting rooms, and many others. It was really unbelievable and almost surreal to walk through something that is almost 1000 years old! Leed's was phenomenal!!

Back to the bus for a tour down to the English Channel. We were able to get out on the pebble beach in front of Dover Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover. This is the start of the English Channel between Great Britain and France. It was cold, foggy and misty down on the coast...exactly what you would picture!!!

Next stop was Canterbury Cathedral. Before we toured the Cathedral, we had a most popular English meal, fish and chips. It was delish! We made our way toward the 12th century Gothic Cathedral where St. Thomas Abeckett was killed by Henry VIII, and then became a martyr for Christian people. This castle just blew my mind. The hours, months and years it took to construct this immaculate building is just incomprehensible. Seeing the intricate stained glass and carved stone and marble, is more than one can fathom. Words cannot describe...

Leaving the Cathedral, we arrived in Greenwich, which houses the Royal Navy Barracks, Maritime Museum and other interests. We toured the Navy Mess Hall and stood at the Prime Meridian 0 Longitude. How cool to be at zero longitude?!?! After a quick stop in Greenwich, we rode a catamaran under the Tower Bridge and the famous London Bridge. After docking at the London Eye WHARF (ware house at river front..we learned this today!!!) we actually went of the giant ferris wheel called London Eye and were able to see the city of London from a 360, couple of hundred feet high view. It was breathtaking.

We caught the train home and relaxed at the house to unwind from our long day of eventful sightseeing!

Just the Beginning...

2009-09-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Westminster Abbey

Big Ben

Buckingham Palace

Last night was a late night...so I am going to post for yesterday and today!! Lucky you!!

Tuesday September 22nd...

We started off our day with breakfast and coffee outside on the patio. We were able to sit and enjoy the fresh cool air and have a slow relaxing morning. After getting ready for the day, we were excited and anxious to hit the city! We took a bus and then the tube (subway) to downtown London. After picking up our London Passes and figuring out our bearings, we headed down towards Buckingham Palace. On our way, we watched the Queen's Military band march and play down the street. We then walked a little farther and saw the magnificent Buckingham Palace, Queen Elizabeth calls her home. The line to get in to see the palace was extremely long, so we decided to do the palace tour another day. We made our way down to a small outside cafe and had lunch there. Then we toured the Queen's Gallery where pieces from different collections are held..it was really amazing. Lots of art from the great Masters and hand painted china collections. Also, there was a 94 karat diamond pendant on display.....hello?!??!

After touring the gallery, we headed down just a little way to the Buckingham Mews. This is where the carriages, horses and stables are that have carried/carry the past and present King and Queens of London. We saw the carriage Princess Diana was married in, the current carriage the Queen rides in, as well as the famous golden carriage that requires 8 horses to pull!!!

Leaving the Mews, we made our way over to Westminster Abbey. This was a sight to see for sure. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful....and Big Ben....there is just something about seeing these in person that is far more gratifying than any book, postcard or story can tell! We toured Westminster Abbey for almost 2 hours...just learning the history it holds. The Abbey dates back to the 12th century, it is Gothic style architecture and also serves as a burial ground for past Kings, Queens, Archbishops and other poets and historical figures. We saw the original coronation chair that has been used for 38 coronations, and is still used to this day!!

Leaving Westminster, we took the red double decker bus to Trafalgar Square. We did a little shopping, watched a lifesize chess tournament in the middle of the square and enjoyed just being there. Saleri, an Italian restaurant, is where we had dinner before our first Theater experience in London. It was a tiny but adorable little place and the food was outstanding!

After cheesecake and cappuccino's we made our way to Savoy Theater for Dreamboats and Petticoats. It was an enjoyable show, set in the 60's with some of the greatest music from that time period. Its so strange to hear the actor's with their British accents when they talk, but lose the accent then when they sing. After taking 2 tube trains and a bus ride, we finally made it back to the B&B......and crashed!!!

It was a fabulous day, and we had a blast...not sure it can get much better than this!!!!!!

Cheerio From Across the Pond

2009-09-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

At last...we finally made it! Mom, Kim and I have been planning this girls trip to London for a few months now....and we are finally here!!! I decided to use my blog as a journal to document

all the fun things we are doing on our 9 day vacation!!!

Yesterday, the three of us boarded a plane in Houston, and after a long restless 9 hour flight, arrived in London this morning at 7:30am. We caught a taxi to Notting Hill to our quaint shabby chic bed and breakfast, tucked in the most adorable neighborhood. As soon as we arrived, we met our host Holly and she showed us around our place. Since not one of us got a wink of sleep on the plane, we freshened up and took a 3 hour much needed nap.

After waking up, we were ready to see London!! We walked to Kensington area, had cappuccino and people watched for about an hour. We sat outside at an adorable cafe and just took in the sights and sounds. Then we strolled down Portabello Street which has eclectic boutiques, open air markets and all sorts of pubs and cafe's. Kim made the first purchase of the day, a journal from AppleTree Boutique to record our trip. We made our way up and down Portabello and decided we needed food and rest. We stopped and got a pizza and walked back to our B&B, ate outside on the back porch and then took a stroll around the neighborhood park. Mom, in her best Texas accent told a man walking his dogs, "You have beautiful dawwwgs!" He said, "Excuse me?" because he could not understand what she was saying. Kim and I got a kick out of that!!

We are now back at the b&b, getting cleaned up and ready for bed. Tomorrow we are headed in to the city for more adventures...we are so excited! Lots of sightseeing and fabulous times await us!! Till tomorrow......

Cheerio!!!

Sister's Date with Tyrone Wells

2009-06-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

At the HOB

The Man

Sister's with Tyrone

Lovin' the Concert!!!

Silly Sisters

Tyrone Wells played at the House Of Blues a few weeks ago (sorry, this is a late post..you know how I am!!) and Kim and I made a sister's night of it! We went to dinner at Coal Vines in Uptown and headed over to the HOB for the concert. Kim and I discovered Tyrone through Pandora (internet radio) and we just fell in love!! So, naturally when Kim saw him name on the list to perform at HOB....we got tickets!!! The concert was amazing...and he is amazing!! We even got to take a pic with him!!!!

We just love his music and recommend him to everyone. I have one of my favs on my music playlist...Sea Breeze...click on it and enjoy!!

Kim and I had a blast and we can't wait til he's back again!!!!

As I promised!!!

2009-05-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

And here it is....the update from our Memorial Day weekend in Fred!!! Fred seems to be the only thing I blog about, so I will try to get better and post more frequently! Don't hold me too accountable to that :)

Kim and I drove down with Bleu Belle and Jeter (in her car, which was interesting) Friday after work. We finally got to Fred around 9:30pm and were so anxious to see the cabin. Mom, Dad and Honey greeted us, gave a tour, we chatted for a bit and then crashed. Ryan was at the deer lease and drove over Saturday morning to hang the rest of the weekend.

Saturday was a little rainy, so the girls went into town to do some shopping...you know we always have to get that in!! Mom cooked us a big hearty meal for lunch and we just hung out the rest of the afternoon. Dad and Ryan were burning some brush piles and tending to the fires so they wouldn't get out of control. That night we decided to go Dancin' in Luckenbach. Willie Nelson's daughter, Paula Nelson, was performing and she was really great!

Sunday was our work day out on the ranch. Mom had started laying a stone rock path from the side porch on the cabin to the back porch, and wanted to make it wrap all the way around to the front porch. So, we all put on our boots and gloves, loaded up the mule and tractor with rocks and worked the puzzle until it was finished!! It looks so great now!! After our long day of labor, we went into town to grab a bite to eat before the Bankers and Garners (neighbors) came over for a fun evening. We hung out on the porch, had snacks and drinks, played washers and entertained the dogs.

It really was a fabulous weekend...there's just something about Fredericksburg that we can't get enough of!!!!

Memorial Day Weekend in Fred!

2009-05-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

Today after work, Kim and I are heading down to Fredericksburg to spend the long 3 day weekend out on the ranch. Did I mention that I love 3 day weekends and I think we should have them every week????? The cabin is finally done and I am so excited to see the finished product. Its extremely cute, cozy, not very big, but its a place we can call home out there and we LOVE it. My parents have been there all week, moving the furniture in and getting it all set. We have big plans to work on the land, host the Inaugural Memorial Day Washer Tournament, roast marshmallows over the fire pit and so much more!!! I promise to post again with pics from the weekend...and it won't take 3 months!! HA!!

Ryan in Peru

2009-03-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

Ryan has been in Lima, Peru all week with the DBU Lady Patriot Vollyball and Soccer teams. They are doing mission work in orphanages as well as playing games against the Peruvian National Volleyball and Soccer teams. Ryan sent me these pictures today and I just wanted to share them. He says the girls are having a blast and are loving every minute...I am super jealous and would love to be there with him, but someone has to make the money right?? Ha ha! Anyways, the teams and Ryan come back Friday and I am ready for him to be back. There is a daily blog posting on the DBU website of what they have been doing everyday. If you get a minute, check out the site and see how these young Christian women are affecting the lives of the children and people of Peru!!!

http://dbu.edu/athletics/newsSportDetail.asp?newsID=1143

Weekend in Fred

2009-03-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Ryan, Kim, Joel and I headed down to Fredericksburg. We left late after work Thursday night and made the 4 hour drive to the beautiful hill country. My parents cabin is almost done and we had to transport for my mom, the couch and both beds she bought in Dallas for the cabin. Friday we slept in a little, went out to the ranch, rode around on the mule, played washers, took picture on a steer in Luckenbach, went to a winery and just had the best day! Ryan and Joel headed to San Antonio around 5:30pm to watch the DBU basketball team play. Saturday was another wonderful day of hanging out, shopping and all that fun stuff. Saturday night was a treat, my parents, Kim and I and their neighbors went to Rosehill Manor...the most beautiful home turned into a bed and breakfast with the most incredible meal I have had in a long time! It was fabulous!! Coming back Sunday afternoon was very hard...I could stay in Fred forever!!!

Mom's in Town..well, was!!

2009-01-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

This past weekend my mom came up and we had the best weekend! Ryan is out of town and so my mom, sister and I enjoyed a great weekend of shopping, eating and just hanging out. Friday night we started our adventure at West Village and had dinner at the Burger Bar...delish! Saturday we shopped all day for furniture...my parents are finally building a cabin on their land in Fredericksburg...YAY!!! Saturday night was an amazing dinner at Coal Vines, Sunday church and then brunch at Penne Pomodoro, then off to the movies to see Bride Wars. Last night we watch the Golden Globes and mom left for B-town this morning. Kim and I tried to convice her to stay, but she had to get back to Dad and Honey...thanks for a FABULOUS weekend Mom!!

Sorry, I don't have any pictures...Ryan is in Peru right now and took the camera...next time!!

New Years Resolution....

2008-12-31T14:14:00.000-08:00

I know you will all be so happy to know that my New Year's resolution for 2009 is.....TO BLOG MORE!!!! I know what you are thinking....yeah right...its been 4 months since the last post..but I promise, the blogs are about to start coming!!! So get ready, more on the Erwin's life to come...can't you wait?!?!?!

ps..Hope everyone has a safe and very Happy New Year!!!

Mexico Pics....FINALLY

2008-08-25T21:08:00.001-07:00

I know its been about a month now since we have been to Cancun, but I finally had a little time to post some pics. We had an amazing time in beautiful Cancun, Mexico at the Gran Caribe Royale. We just relaxed by the pool and the beautiful beaches...it was fabulous! Logan, Kristal, Brant and Ashley, Ryan and I had an amazing trip....everyone should try to visit!!!!

Viva La MEHICO!!!

2008-07-24T08:21:00.000-07:00

Hola! Today we are CanCun bound with Brant, Ashley, Logan and Krystal! I am so excited for a vacation and spending time out on the beach, by the pool and relaxing for 4 days!!! I will be sure to take lots of pics with my new camera!!!

ADIOS!!!!!!

2008-07-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

Birthday Celebrations!!!

2008-07-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

This year Ryan turned 26 on the 20th and I turned 27 on the 21st! I have to say this was one of my best bday's ever! Thursday my parents came up to watch us play softball and Friday we went and had our bday dinner at PF Changs...delish! Then it was off to Kim's apt for presents and FABULOUS strawberry cake! Saturday Mom, Kim and I shopped around Northpark and saw Mama Mia...LOVED IT!!! Ryan and Dad saw two movies....Batman and Hancock.

Ryan and I have a tradition of going to Bennihana's for our bdays...we just LOVE that place...great sushi and wonderful food! Man, were we stuffed after that meal! This was our 3rd year in a row and it was fabulous!

Sunday we had bday celebration with the Erwin clan at Pappadeaux! And that night we had the big party at Papa's BBQ with about 40 of our friends....it was SO MUCH fun! Afterwards a few of us went to Speed Zone, played putt-putt and rode go-carts.

Monday, Corey and Andy came into town for their trip to The Sudan and we ate at Cheesecake Factory! I seriously have eaten WAY TOO much this weekend and on top of all that...I have to get in a bathing suit this weekend for our trip to Mexico!!

I just wanted to say to everyone..thanks for celebrating with us, you mean the world to Ryan and I. You really made this bday special for both of us and we are so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends in our lives! We love you!

Celebrating the 4th in Fredericksburg

2008-07-10T08:10:00.001-07:00

For the 4th of July, we loaded up the Expedition with 3 adults and 2 pups and headed down to my parents ranch in Fredericksburg, TX! We left Friday morning and got to the ranch around noonish to meet my parents and their pup Scout. We fixed sandwiches and rode around on the mule exploring the property. Mom, Kim and I headed into town to do a little shopping and left the dogs, Dad and Ryan to work out on the land. We ate dinner at Mamacitas and watched fire works with some friends.

Saturday Dad and Ryan headed out to the ranch early to work on clearing more land. They are such hard workers! Mom, Kim and I headed into town and went to some of our favorite shops...we work real hard too!! :) Then we headed out to the ranch to fix the boys lunch and give them a break. That afternoon we went to Woodrose and Becker vinyards, listend to some live music and had a great time! Then we all went swimming at the hotel and got ready to do some boot scootin' in Luckenbock. Dad twirled all his girls around the dancefloor and Ryan just watched....he isn't much of a country dancer. We had a really fun time!!

Sunday we all worked out on the land, clearing out cedar trees, vines from trees and all other kinds of stuff. I know what you are thinking...there is no proof in the pictures that I was working on the land.....but somebody had to be the photographer...right????? :)

We had a great weekend for sure! I LOVE getting to spend time with my family and playing and working on the land is so much fun! Hope everyone had a FABULOUS 4th just like we did!!!

Vacation in Kauai

2008-06-17T13:50:00.001-07:00

So, I am here to talk about our FABULOUS vacation to Kauai. We left Sunday May 25th and flew 8 hours to the beautiful island of Kauai. Ryan, Kim and I flew with some family friends and met my parents in Oahu. From there we took a little flight to Kauai and drove to our condos.

Monday
This day was very relaxing. We basically hung out at the beach all day and got used to the 5 hour time change. We did a little snorkeling, boogie boarding and sun bathing. Mom and Dad went to the open air market and got all the fresh pineapple we could eat...DELISH!!

Tuesday
Woke up with the sound of the waves crashing in at 6:00am...that jet lag was killer. Not to worry, mom had fresh Kona Coffee brewing every morning and we drank coffee and watched the sun rise on our balcony. We headed up the island to the Napali coast, stopping to see a waterfall on the way. We had a great lunch and then went on a 4 mile hike up the rocky Napali Coast. Well, technically I only hiked 2 miles....I got really tired and mom, Gina and I turned around half way while the others make the other 2 mile trek. We went back to snorkel in the cove and saw some amazing fish!

Wednesday
Started the day off with a delicious breakfast of pancakes and then headed off to our kayak/hike to a waterfall excursion. We kayaked 2.5 miles and hiked 1 mile to a beautiful waterfall. It was so fun to stand under the falls and have them pouring on top of you...they were really powerful! then we had lunch and hiked the mile back to our kayaks and headed down the river another 2.5 miles. We had a GREAT time. That night we all experienced a LUAU and those hula dancers really know how to move!!! Mom and Ryan both got up on stage and tried to shake it with them...we were all impressed!

Thursday
Thursday morning we snorkeled and swam around our condo. The baseball team made the Regional Tournament, so Ryan had to leave early and fly back to Dallas. We took him to the airport and did a little island exploring after we said 'Aloha' to him. We discovered this great open air market in Kapaa and did a little shopping. We had dinner at this great Hawaiian BBQ place right on the water...it was beautiful!

Friday
SURF'S UP!!!! All the kiddos, minus Ryan :( took surfing lessons Friday morning. We had such a blast, but it was SO HARD! We definitely caught some good waves, but it was a serious arm workout! I am so glad we did it....not many people can say they have surfed Hawaii!!! After surfing lessons were over, we went to this remote place in the middle of a sugar cane plantation and hiked down to a waterfall where we cliff jumped and did a rope swing. I was SUPER scared at first, and didn't want to do it, but made myself and it was the most exhilarating experience ever!!! That night we went into town and ate at this great Italian restaurant and had the best ice cream afterwards!!

Saturday
Saturday morning we had to leave our condo's at 6am to drive down and catch a catamaran for a 6 hour excursion along the Napali Coast. This was the most incredible, unbelievable, breath taking thing we did all week. Words cannot express how beautiful this coast was! We saw tons of spinner dolphins and sea turtles on the excursion. We saw beaches that were only accessible by boat and places where Jurassic Park and other movies were filmed. We had a great lunch on the boat and snorkeled in a beautiful cove. That night we ate at the Beach House for dinner and I had some of the best Mahi Mahi I have ever tasted. It was macadamia nut crusted and oh so delicious!!!!

Sunday
Sunday we went to Pearl Harbor, which was really neat. We saw an amazing video and took a boat over to the USS Arizona, the ship that is still sunk in the waters. After that we drove along Waikiki Beach and ended up at this amazing hotel, having brunch and watching dolphins play. We took a nap and then headed back to the airport to make the 8 hour journey home.

There was so much more that happened, it would take me days to write about! We had the best time in Kauai and it was a much needed vacation. All I have to say, is that if you can ever make it to Hawaii.....Kauai is the place to go! You will have the time of your life, just like we did. Can we go back!?!?!?!?!?

Bon Voyage!!

2008-05-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

Well I am sad to say that you won't be seeing a post from me for about a week because.....I am heading to HAWAII for 7 whole days!!!!!! My parents, sister, Ryan and I are taking a much needed family vaca. Our good family friends are going with us too...its going to be so relaxing on the beach and hanging out with the fam in paradise!! We are staying in a beachfront condo on the island Kauai. I promise to take lots of pics and report back when we return!! Until then....

Missing Ryan

2008-05-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well, this week I have been a Bachelorette...and now I am ready to have my husband come back home! Ryan has been in Boston all week at NCAA meetings for work and I have been here all by my lonesome...well not exactly...I had the pups to keep me company! Thank goodness for Bleu Belle and Jeter!! I have been keeping myself busy while he has been away. Monday Kim (lil sis) came over after work and we had breakfast for dinner!! Waffles with strawberries and cool whip..delish! We watched our shows, One Tree Hill...which was so great and Greek. Tuesday I went to dinner with Jen, sushi, LOVE IT! And did a little shopping..you know me!! Yesterday I got my hair done and today I am heading out to the Trapp's for a little get together.

The week has gone by pretty fast, and I am so glad tomorrow is Friday and I get to see my Rich..I just love that man so much!

B-town for Mother's Day

2008-05-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

Kim and I headed to Beaumont to celebrate Mother's Day. Ryan couldn't make it because he was traveling to Indiana with the track and tennis teams for the National Tournaments. So, lil sis and I drove the 5 hours to Beaumont the spend the weekend with Mom and Dad. We had such a great time eating my dad's delicious hamburgers out on the back patio and hanging with my grandparents. It was a much needed trip....especially since I hadn't been home since Christmas...I know...its so bad, but I have seen my parents since then! Kim and I took some pics to give my mom for Mother's Day...she loved them. Ryan was not very cooperative...so he isn't in many of the pics. Oh, I just love spending time with my family....I definitely cherish every moment and wish that time would stand still so we could be together always!!!

Fun with the Fam in Fred

2008-05-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

Four wheeler fun
Mom, Kim and I at Torre di Pietra
Kim on the swing my dad made!

A couple weeks ago, Ryan, Kim, Bleu Belle, Jeter and I went to my parents ranch in Fredericksburg. They have bought 40 acres right near Luckenbock and its so much fun! We went to celebrate my mom's bday and work on the land. Well, Ryan and my dad did most of the work while the girls went shopping!! Ha!! We did help pull some dead branches out of trees by the swimming hole...one attacked me and I got a bad bruise on my arm! We had a blast, and the time went by way to fast! Here are just a few pics from the trip!

I'm Baaaaack!!!

2008-05-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hey guys....this is for all of you who are ESPECIALLY sick and tired of seeing Betty Crocker....Rachel and Ashley!! :) Don't you just LOVE my new header!??! My good friend Ashley Williams designed it for me...she's into this digital scrapbooking thing..so fun and has inspired me to start blogging again. Or really....just begin since I have only had 3 posts!!! Haha!! So, I am really going to do it...blog and update you with what is going on in the life of the Erwins since I know you all care so much!!

I am heading to Beaumont this weekend...haven't been home since Christmas...is that not RIDICULOUS?!?! I am super excited and will tell all about it on my next post!!! Until then.......

Betty Crocker...sort of!!!

2008-01-21T16:45:00.000-08:00

Ok...so I know this is way late and I said I would be updating soon....but things are crazy...and the truth is I really forget about the blog. I am going to try to do better..I promise. Back to Betty Crocker....this past holiday, I was such the baker! I made homemade tamales with the Erwin's and Granny's christmas cookies with the Calvert's. Fun times in the kitchen....and let me tell you..tamales and cookies from scratch take A LOT of work..but taste so dang good!! :)

Thanksgiving...way late!!!

2007-12-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Ok...so I'm back!! I know its been a VERY long time since the last post, but things in my life have been nuts!! Work was out of control busy and so has been everything else!! I'm sure you all can relate to that!! :) So, I am going to start with the holidays..way back to Thanksgiving and get everyone caught up on the Erwins!! For Thanksgiving we went to Beaumont and had dinner there with my family...then we headed to San Antonio for the weekend. We went to my parents land in Fredericksburg and hung out with our great family friends from Oklahoma. We had the best time shopping,eating, playing on the tractor and being with the family!! Kim and I ran the Turkey Trot to kick off the holiday the right way. It was only a 5k..but we were proud we accomplished it!! Here are a few pics from that weekend!!

Remembering Guatemala

2007-11-19T12:35:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I recently had the amazing opportunity to travel to Guatemala with DBU the beginning of October. Our baseball team played a 3 game series with the Guatemalan National Baseball team at night and during the days we went to orphanages to play with the kiddos and shared the love of Jesus Christ. This was an unbelievable trip, exhausting, extremely rewarding and definitely something that I will cherish forever. Being able to show these kids that we love them and just giving a moment of our time, meant the world to them. In the short amount of time we were there, I grew to love Guatemala, its culture and especially the people. Words really cannot express how wonderful this trip was and I feel truly blessed to have been able to go. I was just sent this video today and it really touched my heart...so I decided to share it with you all!! ENJOY!!! Oh...make sure you have the volume on!!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=NvnZVvMDVEU

Celebrating 4 Years in Boston

2007-11-16T12:05:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I traveled to Boston, Massachusetts to celebrate 4 years of wonderful marriage. Our 6 day trip was jam packed full of incredible memories and tons of fun! We did just about everything there is to do in Boston and the surrounding areas. The trip started at Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, game 7 of the ALCS. The game was such a blast, and if Ryan wasn't such a huge Yankees fan....I would be a major Red Sox fan! The next day we journeyed on the Freedom Trail which is a 4-5 mile walk all through Boston that takes you by about 20 different historical sites. Long day...but very fun! That night we went to Cheers for dinner. Tuesday we rented a car and drove to Providence, Rhode Island to see the first Baptist church of America, drove around Cape Cod and took the ferry to Martha's Vineyard. The next day we went to Salem, where the Salem Witch Trial of 1692 we held.....it was right around Halloween and the town was very eerie feeling. We drove up through New Hampshire to Maine and all along the coast, walked on the beaches and looked at light houses. Thursday we drove to Lexington and Concord and stood on the first battlefield of the American Revolution...very cool!! That night we ate sushi for dinner...delish!! Friday was our travel day back home...we were sad to leave but happy to come home! Thanks to little sis Kim for watching Bleu the whole week we were gone...you're the best!!

Brand new at this blogging thing...not gonna lie...kinda feels like dear diary!! :)