tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61652003357950957302012-01-29T05:31:31.408-06:00Life in the Bird House!Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.comBlogger941100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-37651464952753544202011-02-14T22:08:00.001-06:002011-02-14T22:08:45.717-06:00

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-85868333971853916722011-02-14T22:04:00.001-06:002011-02-14T22:04:53.591-06:00

My Stick Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-85559497794028137062010-05-17T20:47:00.003-05:002010-05-17T20:51:00.454-05:00

-Today's the day too! To celebrate, we had a night “not here.”  Neither of us had spent any real time in the Starved Rock area, and I had found out about the Bayley House Suite. See their site for more information about the history of the house, but we had such a wonderful time, we felt compelled to share… Randy & Robin have done a fantastic job with the renovation, decoration, and set up

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-51044931995160541592010-03-28T16:06:00.009-05:002010-03-28T17:47:37.803-05:00

-I know, I know, another long delay in posts. By now, you may already know that Robin and I had a great week's get-a-way in January. We cruised seven days out of Miami with four fantastic stops. CaymenFirst, was Grand Caymen. We did an underwater walk, but didn't want to risk our camera, so we used a disposable, that we haven't developed yet. It was a really neat outing, after which we walked to

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-6241268424437269882009-12-27T09:56:00.003-06:002009-12-27T10:30:49.213-06:00

-Yesterday we had a wonderful visit by Grammy, Kurt, Cherie, Harper, and lil' Vaughn. It was a little after Christmas, Christmas and a great meal. It's always fun to see the kids getting together and playing. They're a great group of cousins.Pictures of the kids from the day. Then the kids took off for Christmas with their father, and Robin and I went out to meet her friends Skye & James. I've

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-5401722967432721312009-12-25T17:09:00.002-06:002009-12-25T17:18:09.397-06:00

-Last post of the Christmas day frenzy of catching up on things. This was the scene this morning in the living room. As you can tell, Santa was good to everyone involved. Even Nuts dove into the pile with his christmas treat in his mouth that made it look like he had a smile on his face. Here are the pictures. Also, a link to the our formal pictures shown down below. This will jump you

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-51952445870779825762009-12-25T16:58:00.002-06:002009-12-25T17:09:23.025-06:00

-This one deserved a post of it's own. Dar, Mom, Robin & I took a little four day get-away for Thanksgiving weekend. It was a great to spend some time away and to just be away for a minute. Trip seemed quick, but was still good. We did make some new friends with our table mates for dinner and another couple we met out on the sun deck each day. Here are some pictures from our camera. Also, a first

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-39441709933941821132009-12-25T14:33:00.007-06:002009-12-25T17:23:03.289-06:00

-Just catching up and sharing some pictures of the munchkins and all they've been doing the last two or three months. In November, Jillian had another gymnastics show and tell event, the parents even got to go out and stretch and do yoga! We also went to Tanners - it was too late for the maze, but we had a ton of fun on the mini-maze and of course we got a car full of goodies. Tanners is a must

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-66699057686712578552009-12-25T14:27:00.003-06:002009-12-25T14:32:58.193-06:00

-Just wanted to share one touching moment. Between this year and last, Jillian and I have formed a new tradition where she helps me create the gift bags for my team at work, including a personalized Merry Christmas from her to each person. She also helps me do the final assembly. It's been quite nice, and this year I snapped this shot.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-2724382537932337472009-12-25T14:18:00.002-06:002009-12-25T14:21:47.093-06:00

-Jillian wanted Aqua Sand... little did I know there were toys for Robin in the box too!! Somewhere, out there, there is a toy developer laughing at all the inside jokes that they made while they developed this. Had to share the fun from Christmas morning. :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-47321336082783221112009-12-24T14:14:00.003-06:002009-12-24T14:27:35.815-06:00

- We last saw Jackson with one tooth missing - perfect for Halloween, right. What could be better, than the other one falling out in November, and him, alone by the tree, singing..... "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth." Sorry Jack - I had to! :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-38173404109142989862009-12-24T13:36:00.007-06:002009-12-24T14:02:38.142-06:00

-It's that magical time of year, where I say, "Shoot (or something like that), we haven't put up any pictures of all the fun school and sport activities that have had us running around crazy the last three months." Some things might be out of order, but I'm going to start with some shots from the Christmas Card photo shoot. Look close, some of you might recognize the "studio." The picture we

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-91060076651302366132009-11-03T18:30:00.005-06:002009-11-03T18:42:31.922-06:00

-Funny thing is neither are his halloween costume!! Two fun pictures to share of Jackson. First, each year the elementry school has a western day, and look at our little cowboy!! Next, we had a miss timed lost tooth - two days too late to be a pumpkin head for Halloween and likly too early to sing "all I want for Christmas is my front tooth!"

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-5299153468916232462009-10-29T07:54:00.004-05:002009-10-29T08:49:00.240-05:00

-Last Saturday, Blaze and I took our boys on their first hockey retreat! Something he and I have done a few times - meet in St. Louis for a Stars / Blues game. This one was Jackson's second and Brendan's first Stars game. If I can find it, I'll add the picture of them each going to their first ever game in Bloomington. But for now, here's a picture of the highlight of the night - Trevor

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-90794867658978326492009-10-22T19:21:00.001-05:002009-10-22T19:22:20.609-05:00

-They Grow Up So Fast!    

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-38652065500333132082009-10-03T09:46:00.003-05:002009-10-03T09:50:18.259-05:00

-It's been about two weeks now, but we saw the Kenny Chesney show in Indy. When we bought those tickets months ago, we had no idea he would be coming to Bloomington the same week or that he would be announcing a year of "reduced" touring during that show. Glad we went though, we always have fun in Indy, and we saw a lot of great music. Here are some pictures of Zac Brown Band, Miranda Lambert,

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-68774037614462314572009-08-20T15:42:00.011-05:002009-08-20T22:23:17.503-05:00

-There were so many - I have to break them into various albums and be selective! Our summer '09 vacation started in Little Amana, Iowa. Nothing exciting by name, but we stayed in a hotel that has an in-door water park (two slides). The kids loved it, more than four hours of fun and they wanted to go back. Here is a large sampling of the pictures from the water park. The next morning we did a

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-29431084963881639872009-08-16T20:21:00.004-05:002009-08-16T20:31:18.921-05:00

-There will be a ton more pictures from the Iowa trip to come shortly, but Robin thought it would be fun to share a "then and now" segment with the tearful Jillian frightened by the merry-go-round about five years ago: compared to her at the fair this week (with no chaperon!):

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-386326488974581302009-08-11T21:04:00.005-05:002009-08-11T21:08:21.901-05:00

-In prepairing for summer's last roadtrip, I found this in Reader's Digest to be a little disconcerning: One additional funny we received from our friend Helen (most of you will know who she is):Pictures of the family road trip to follow soon.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-47815022706380951492009-08-09T17:36:00.002-05:002009-08-09T17:38:00.105-05:00

-Everyone had a week with Grammy as always this summer. The one new part is that Grammy now has a digital camera! Here are some of the pictures she took on the respective weeks.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-81388265654378270662009-08-02T15:54:00.002-05:002009-08-02T16:27:23.122-05:00

-I don't think I ever posted the pictures from the other times that we have watched Roy. Here are some from this last winter. Roy now has a younger brother, Riley. Four dogs kept us busy, but they were great for us this weekend. I took a ton of pictures, here's a good sample.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-62295603190376370542009-08-02T10:06:00.005-05:002009-08-02T10:34:53.275-05:00

-Friday was the last game for Jordan this year. She's done better, but it was a rough year as the team had to move up in division and was among the youngest / least experienced in their current division.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-17412540908770418672009-08-01T11:48:00.006-05:002009-08-01T12:00:06.607-05:00

-I know there is a ton of them... I'm looking to find one that isn't your every day Kodak or Flicker, but is accessable from State Farm's network since that is part of the audience. Trying out Photobucket today, and so far it's been easy to use. If you haven't been by in a while, check the next entry for all the summer's activities. Since I'm just learning to use it, I'm going to use a link,

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-37559604529107740272009-07-29T21:25:00.007-05:002009-07-29T22:06:39.970-05:00

-Yes, yes, yes… I’ve gotten the emails, text messages, and subtle hints at home that I’m WAY late in updating the blog. It seems the summer just moves too fast to keep up with it all. Along with all the normal summer, a slightly unplanned basement remodel that took all of June have kept me off of the computer, but I’ll put all bring it all up to speed from today back to April in one big entry.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-29841751967453201592009-04-12T16:25:00.007-05:002009-04-12T17:29:35.187-05:00

-We just wanted to take one nice picture (which we did)... But then Peanut felt left out... And gave everyone a good laugh...So we went ahead an included them: Here are some other pictures of the kid in their outfits too.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-84798660891894540182009-04-12T16:07:00.004-05:002009-04-12T17:29:47.610-05:00

-Had a nice, quite Easter Sunday to get the pictures together from Texas, so without further adeaux, here they are: Pictures from the Stars GamePictures from the Dallas World AquariumEnjoy!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-84841587456169978062009-03-31T19:03:00.008-05:002009-03-31T19:22:41.341-05:00

-Many more pictures to come, but a quick note to share that we had a wonderful Spring Break trip to Texas. Well over due for Robin and I, and a first for the kids, the trip was highlighted by a fantastic Stars game where Jackson rode the Zamboni and a trip through the Dallas World Aquarium, which I now call the zoo. Here's a couple fun shots, many more to come when I have the time. Happy

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-26541666770440275262009-02-25T18:00:00.005-06:002009-02-26T17:11:46.960-06:00

-Great weekend in Chicago this last weekend. Friday, after dinner with Robin's mom and her Beau, Chuck, it was off to Joe's Bar for a Pat Green Concert. Great setting, it totally reminded me of the Groovy Mule in Denton, TX. Aaahhhh, college days. I don't even think the Mule is still in existence. The line up was..... Opened by Whisky Falls... Then Randy Houser...And finally Pat, click

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-28052002202747005372009-02-22T17:31:00.013-06:002009-02-22T18:06:02.157-06:00

-The girls each had a school performance last week. During the day on Wednesday, Jordan's class presented a play depicting the events surrounding the Boston Tea Party. (The pink highlights, while not historically accurate, were part of her birthday celebration.)Jillian's annual class recital was Thursday evening. It had a neat display of poetry mixed in with the songs, all around a theme of

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-52896537413052074612009-02-22T17:29:00.001-06:002009-02-22T17:30:57.181-06:00

- In a follow up to a previous post, Delta has sent an email stating that a check will be mailed for our currier expenses, and we have received $100 each in travel vouchers. That's a better response than I expected.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-78814066237437371712009-02-17T17:06:00.012-06:002009-02-17T17:43:18.805-06:00

-There haven't been many posts, so I thought I'd summarize January & February here quickly: There's been lots of snow. :o(And with a lot of snow, comes a lot of movie watching... Peanut's buddy Blaze visited... More Movies were watched... And, our little Jillian turned 8! No pictures available, photography is impossible when 6 eight-year-olds are present and over sugared!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-3275405547099518092009-02-14T12:13:00.000-06:002009-02-14T12:14:09.745-06:00

-Any shock value in that headline? No, no announcement here at all. We did take a picture at Dave & Buster's that merged our photos to show with the little tike could have looked like. Disclaimer, this was done in fun, and is by no means an annoucnement or any sort of foreshadowing at all!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-91729030435098501272009-02-06T18:33:00.002-06:002009-02-07T22:03:21.803-06:00

-No, that's not what your doing right now at all! :o)However, I have Kurt to thank for my web time going WAY up over the last month. At Vaughn's birthday party he shared two new websites with me. Like he did with me, I have to share my new addictions with you! The sites are:www.centsports.com & www.centpker.comIf you want to know a ton more, read their FAQs like I did. What I do know is that

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-89190073456628845752009-02-06T18:06:00.003-06:002009-02-06T18:27:30.338-06:00

-Just bragging once more... If you click on the new friends icon at www.coconutsvi.com and let it play out, you'll see us. It takes some time, they have a slide show for visitors all month long. It was just updated this week. :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-70960529550387457982009-01-11T19:33:00.008-06:002009-01-11T20:09:42.377-06:00

-I'm proud of the weekend's accomplishments so I must brag here. Firstly, in the unfinished portion of our basement was an area with about six shelves tall, but they were crumbly particle board and too close together to the most useful. I'd recently got some discounted balsa wood wine racks. It was only a natural fit to remove the old shelving, put up some good shelves, and incorporate everything

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-62925977901162196892009-01-11T19:08:00.008-06:002009-01-11T19:32:41.199-06:00

-Our little nephew and God son turned one year old. He's a cute little crawly bug! Here are a couple shots from the party:

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-43156398665086216142009-01-02T19:07:00.007-06:002009-01-02T22:20:11.949-06:00

-Last post about 2008, and it's a great one! As we didn't have the kids for Christmas week this year, we jetted off for some fun in the sun! After we finally relaxed from our travel (see post below), it was an absolutely amazing week. I'll give my run down, Robin may add more later. Use the links to see day by day pictures. The first afternoon & evening were really spent getting aquatinted with

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-75781842583777714752009-01-02T18:27:00.003-06:002009-01-02T18:55:49.244-06:00

-I can't put it any more plainly than that. I'm uploading pictures as we speak, and I know everyone wants to hear about the cruise. It was amazing, but first, I must tell the tale of how it nearly didn't happen. We had a Delta air travel plans, that took us from Chicago's midway airport to Miami via Atlanta. I've flown through through Atlanta many a times over the last 18 months, and was

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-64521535615004818222008-12-30T18:34:00.005-06:002008-12-30T19:23:10.578-06:00

-Still catching up a bit on early December. Jillian has taken to Gymnastics. Don't start booking olympic tickets, but it is something she really enjoys and is suited for at this level. This fall has been her second full session of involvement, and it ended with a showcase night. To no one's surprise, she enjoys the spotlight too! :o) Enjoy:

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-42142964832455165132008-12-17T20:31:00.009-06:002008-12-17T22:20:55.142-06:00

-Ok, so many of you have or will receive our Christmas card that essentially says to look here for what we've done all year. Easier said than done, given that we've now nearly reached three months without a new post. Shame on us, but we've been so busy doing, that it's been tough to capture it all, so here goes the fourth quarter wrap up... Starting immediately after the waddle, we kept the

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-82937683595517355072008-09-26T19:28:00.005-05:002008-09-26T19:39:05.184-05:00

-Last weekend was the Waddle. It was great! Given what we spent at the actual event on corvette raffle tickets and other raffles, Nuts raised $255 for Basset's in need. He's very proud. Having experienced it, we'd definitely will do it again, but perhaps plan better. A thousand or more dogs leash free partying in a fenced in area on Saturday, and as many or more parading around Dwight. Here are

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-38754356911264979212008-09-22T20:35:00.003-05:002008-09-22T20:43:37.172-05:00

Sorry for all the delays, fotomat - the site that has all the other pictures on the blog has been non-responsive. Took me a bit to figure out another site and get these a little bit cleaned up. Philly was great. I'll bet we walked 30 miles or more. We saw everything from city hall to Penn's landing on foot - and even parts under the city! Great steaks (see second post), excellent

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-13102804840051804642008-09-22T20:19:00.007-05:002008-09-22T20:35:12.839-05:00

-The most important Philly post... the Cheesesteaks!!! Ok, so two places are the most talked about, they are Geno's and Pat's. After a wonderful walk through the Italian village and some interesting parts of South Philly, we eventually found our destination. Then there was the moment of indecision... Two places, one meal, and way to far to make the walk again. But the problem was

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-19236559229395626512008-08-26T21:02:00.008-05:002008-08-26T21:18:32.172-05:00

-This might be one of my most important posts to date. In one month, a member of our family will embark in a fundraising effort to help his own kind as only he can... ........... Peanut will participate in the 11th Annual Basset Waddle in Dwight Illinois on September 21st. The event is a 10 block fundraiser walk where you may sponsor Mr. Nuts for the walk as a whole or per block completed.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-12621984994893209172008-08-24T16:54:00.003-05:002008-08-24T17:00:25.227-05:00

- Alright, after having some fun with our spring birthdays, I have to acknowledge my own. The Wii has been up and running for a month, so no huge surprise there. I did get wonderful cards from the kids, and Robin's mom spent most of the week with us, so the adults had a great dinner on Wednesday after work. Birthdays are a great time to think back over time, and the last year is definitely been

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-59271425933860325842008-08-24T16:39:00.005-05:002008-08-24T16:53:59.727-05:00

-It really goes without saying, but just because I haven't for a while, I want to call come attention to the Saucier family's blog. Their addition of Taylor has only given Liz more reason to take AMAZING pictures. Check it out to see pictures of the kiddos, their activities, and Chris' 30th (man, he got old! :o) )Secondly, Our very own Maria is now a famous local entrepreneur. Robin & I were at

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-37923180187537411152008-08-13T18:30:00.003-05:002008-08-13T18:37:34.411-05:00

- More to come in another blog soon, but it's been a wild and crazy summer, and I know what it means to look forward to the routine of the school year! I wanted to take one quick post to use the words of the famed Daryl Reaugh to promise that use of the blog will pick up once again real soon. It's now August, and like a guy who has bunged himself up by eating too much cheese, it is time to "

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-44840095238539941262008-06-23T08:50:00.002-05:002008-06-23T09:03:38.870-05:00

This Saturday we headed up north to see the Kenny Chesney Poets & Pirates Tour!! The concert had 5 opening singers before he ever stepped on stage. Tony and I drove up to the O'Hare Westin checked in and then took a shuttle to take the Blue Line EL train. Let me tell you that was an experience (not quite like Adventures in Babysitting, but close enough for me). The train ride itself takes about

Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12959291974212182472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-22593456260093450982008-05-30T07:26:00.006-05:002008-05-30T07:37:13.443-05:00

-All in one day, we have the official last day of school (after two full weeks of movies) and the last of our spring birthdays! Yep, everyone's a year older and no more birthday's til next year!! :o) Ok, maybe one more... maybe. Anyway, here's to no school, fun summer day's and a few shots of last night's birthday boy...

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-37731180487722542742008-05-23T07:11:00.006-05:002008-05-23T07:31:49.689-05:00

-Well, effectively so anyway. The last week of 4th, 1st, and KG are not high stress environments. Part of the end of the year at Hoose is a Picnic for each grade. I was very touched when Jillian gave me a special invite to her picnic. I slipped away from work for the chance to push a merry-go-round, swing, and tire swing through the mid-day. What a great break from work!! One other note, CONGRATS

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-38093955943241361832008-05-21T09:31:00.003-05:002008-05-23T07:30:17.030-05:00

Ok, last night we met a friend of ours and her three children at Kobe restaurant for dinner. So picture 3 adults and six kids ages 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, & 10 all at one table!! It was kids eat free night, but in actuality not so much. But that is another story.The kids had a blast!! Between the onion volcano, the flaming smilely face grill, and the baby saki (water) they were thoroughly entertained. It

Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12959291974212182472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-60656216856540771692008-05-19T09:16:00.004-05:002008-05-23T07:30:48.057-05:00

Well another year has past, only this weekend it was my birthday. For all you who are wondering I turned 29 for the eighth time :-)Tony and I took a half day Friday and headed up to the suburbs. We stayed at the Marriott where our reception was and had a fantastic weekend!!! We kept Friday night low key (well actually both nights). Near the hotel there is a new upscale shopping center that we

Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12959291974212182472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-28069496089871215042008-04-24T14:01:00.004-05:002008-05-23T07:29:26.094-05:00

If you haven't been keeping up with this, the newest news is that Tony moved back 10 days ago:-) The kids and I are thrilled to have all of our family together under one roof. Moving his stuff back from VA went relatively smooth and most is in its permanent home.The first of many home improvements to tackle has been completed. We (mostly Tony) remodeled the master closet. It is much more

Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12959291974212182472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-76716647050943237982008-04-08T20:38:00.012-05:002008-04-08T20:51:54.506-05:00

-Just a quick post. Had a GREAT weekend in DC. Chris showed me around. I believe we actually walked the length of the beltway. Got some good pic's, here's a sample. Check the hockey blog for my April Madness Bracket!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-25453628859423108682008-04-07T19:21:00.002-05:002008-04-07T19:27:00.512-05:00

-Peanut has been begging and begging, so finally today, we got his Facebook page set up. No, not mine - Peanut's! It's called Dogbook and a function of Facebook. I had to join, so you can find me there too, but as of now, only Peanut's page has any content. :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-19312744906307071092008-03-22T17:32:00.006-05:002008-03-26T20:57:39.276-05:00

Guess I can claim Texas as home, but the world (and a ten question web quiz) will always see right through it:What American accent do you have? Your Result: North Central "North Central" is what professional linguists call the Minnesota accent. If you saw "Fargo" you probably didn't think the characters sounded very out of the ordinary. Outsiders probably mistake you for a Canadian a lot.The

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-56537127644246243272008-03-22T17:02:00.009-05:002008-03-22T17:24:35.088-05:00

-Big news to share! Last weekend I was again in Bloomington. Pictured below are some shots from the road, my furry co-pilot, & another trip to a hockey game in Bloomington which was attended by Bobby Hull.This trip had greater purpose though. Primarily, the kids REALLY wanted the return of Peanut, so the boys and I headed back to Bloomington to reunite them with their old stomping grounds.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-42104693297954818852008-03-19T11:45:00.002-05:002008-03-22T17:34:40.904-05:00

-this is just fun...http://www.abeautifulrevolution.com/

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-6330002005382342582008-03-17T08:45:00.004-05:002008-03-19T11:45:09.969-05:00

-It's a big day in our household!Happy Anniversary to my parents!Happy 11th Birthday to Bobo!Happy 3rd Anniversary for Peanut and I (it's as close as a birthday that the little run away has)!And, of course, Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-59576434918811922122008-03-09T20:41:00.006-05:002008-03-19T11:46:21.396-05:00

-No, not for me!Due to a crazy week that ended with a wonderful flu, I'm a few days late in this, but I went to Bloomington last weekend and found a Bean that was about to lose a tooth. Below are the before and after pictures (she lost the tooth just after I left) and an action shot from the hockey game we went to for the girls' birthdays.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-12164567252838403132008-03-09T20:40:00.001-05:002008-03-09T20:41:41.849-05:00

Great News - as of last week, Direct TV offers locals to our market. Call 'em, click over to them, leave comcast as soon as you can! :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-83659433331259526352008-02-25T19:06:00.003-06:002008-02-26T08:21:54.499-06:00

-Jordan is now in the double digits! Friday she turned 10. Here's the picture of her and her new baby boy. She liked Jillian's Baby Alive enough that it was what she wanted for her own birthday as well. Next weekend the girls will shop with the rest of their birthday loot!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-84366643168105249442008-02-21T17:22:00.004-06:002008-02-21T17:27:11.002-06:00

-Our birthdays are grouped together, so to make sure everyone has their own day, I have a deadline of needing this posted before tomorrow. Saturday, our little bean turned 7. Her birthday fell on a busy weekend, but she got some excellent time with her buddy Maria, not to mention gifts, cards from grandparents, and an ice cream cake!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-78599475843809386332008-02-14T17:47:00.006-06:002008-02-15T16:21:23.453-06:00

-And a double wammy too!If you know me, you know I have strong opinions about customer service. I’m sure I’ll have additional entries both good and bad, but today I want to share one of each….The Good:For any labeling, signs, etc., I urge you to check out http://www.signspecialist.com/. Not just because they give me a discount for saying so! Soon after we moved, I got some decals for the mail box

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-88077902493934979412008-02-09T14:19:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:23:22.767-06:00

-Hard to follow Robin's succinct blog debut, but somone must! I made a few minor changes, most notable was adding the category view of the archive. Otherwise, not much doing today, it's Hockey Day in Canada, which I think should be an international holiday! :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-27835668622061067242008-02-04T17:28:00.000-06:002008-02-05T09:04:28.235-06:00

-I decided that since our blog has been full of the gloom and doom of our life that it needed some perking up. So, with that in mind I would like to talk about the best day of my life hands down, my WEDDING day. (This is the part where women will perk up and read fervently and men will roll their eyes and think blah blah blah).Ok, so we decided to get married on October 26th for a couple of

Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12959291974212182472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-38832187625092248382008-01-30T18:43:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:02:15.888-06:00

-Yes, I know, the blog got quiet again. With good cause I assure you.You can use the previous post to piece together the time line of what was a difficult month for our family. This entry is a tribute to Robin’s father, who passed away Thursday morning, January 17th.Today (January 30th) would have been his 72nd birthday. While I couldn’t possibly do justice to the words of Dar, Robin, Kurt, &

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-62169108944718210872008-01-09T17:43:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:02:48.764-06:00

-Our petition was denied today. It was just after 3 central (4 eastern) that we got word. Obvioulsy, we need to review where we stand and make new plans accordingly. We really don't know what those plans are at this time.If I may ask so, please hold back your questions and some of your condolences. Right now we both have to work through this as it has hit us both very hard, and honestly, we don't

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-58922055418954935762008-01-06T18:09:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:03:00.212-06:00

-Yesterday, Maria (you know her of the Pastry School & now Birth of a Bakery Blogs) took Jackson & Jillian to a place correctly titled, "Make a Mess." From all reports, the kids had a blast. Here's Maria's "guest blogger" entry and pictures from the event.Make a mess, make a mess, make a mess, here at “Make a mess!” This is the delightful little ditty our creative little Bean and Bubba made up in

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-76314245949255071562008-01-04T14:07:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:03:13.036-06:00

I know many of you are watching here for some results this week. I wish I had more to share, but the best news is that all of the court room activities are complete. Our judge has chosen to issue her ruling in writing, and did not give an indication in the court room of what that ruling will be.I’ve only spoken to Robin briefly at this point, but I under stand that a result should be communicated

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-17938650578532809482008-01-03T17:26:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:03:35.639-06:00

Welcome to the world Vaughn Weller Rush Roessle!Vital Stats: 7 lb 3 oz, 18.5" From what I'm told, it was about 1:00 central that he came out of hiding! Baby & Mom are doing well. Congrat's to Kurt & Cherie, and condolences to Harper for no longer being the only light of their lives! :o)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-42712544498356367252007-12-31T16:13:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:03:48.259-06:00

Today, the judge surprised us all with a declaration that the trial would conclude today and potentially a ruling received. That sent us all scrambling at times throughout the day. But, if you've followed this closely, you know each time it appears to be over, it is not.A sixth court date will be mid-day Friday, and is designated for closing arguments. Let's hope that means something like a final

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-79785709787541370352007-12-28T16:31:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:04:06.365-06:00

Quick updates to the wacky world of the Internet.First, I'm playing around with keeping a Stars / Sports blog running. Basically, there's very little hockey in Virginia, and I've found myself reading a lot, so I made space to post my thoughts. Guess if there's no one to talk to, I'll just publicly talk to myself!! :o)Check it out by clicking "My Stars Site" on the left side of this page.Also,

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-17427427956554288142007-12-25T11:09:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:04:30.196-06:00

Merry Christmas 2007! Hope that this finds everyone happy & healthy! Here's to a great 2008!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-65136473011075761762007-12-19T18:33:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:05:18.274-06:00

Yes, the blog has been quiet. I apologize to the few who are loyal viewers.Thanksgiving was great. I spent a weekend in Chicago with Robin & her family. She was able to come here for the long holiday.Right after that, her dad gave us a scare, but he’s here with us for another Christmas.December was a return to court, and continues to be. One date remains this year, that much I can be sure of as

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-91447664557725991072007-11-22T10:55:00.001-06:002008-02-09T14:05:32.281-06:00

A follow up to last night. Modano was key in a big 3rd period come back & win. Here's a link to DMN's highlight video of last night's presentation.Not often you see a 20 minute pre-game tribute. It's boiled down to about 3 minutes here:http://www.dallasnews.com/video/dallasnews/sports/index.html?nvid=195212&shu=1

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-63551378562443135122007-11-21T19:09:00.000-06:002008-02-09T14:05:45.864-06:00

Yes, this is the family blog; however, from time to time, we all need our own little entry.In just a few minutes, the Dallas Stars will honor Mike Modano as the greatest American born hockey skater. On November 7th, Modano broke the record for points, and last season he achieved the same mark for goals among Americans. That night he scored two great goals, second of which became the game winner

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-88078621028645411922007-11-03T16:49:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:05:58.878-06:00

Firstly, since the dog is sometimes more loved than I am, let me start by saying HE'S FINE!That said, Peanut has a cut on his paw pad. He's been licking it like, well, it was going out of style. We managed to see a vet today, and while wonderfuly clean, it was never going to heal if he kept at it. So, until Monday he's a pink-footed basset mix, who's milking his bandages for all the milage he can

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-77919563725417770532007-11-01T17:42:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:06:09.551-06:00

Finally, right?It was an amazing weekend in Chicago, and from the feedback I’ve received, everyone had a wonderful time. Personally, it didn’t start out wonderfully, but a bad starter in an airplane, caused an extra, unexpected delay to my Bloomington connecting flight. That made it possible to make the trip in one day as my first flight was delayed many times over due to earlier weather

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-66183931380242219892007-11-01T17:32:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:06:24.523-06:00

Ok, yes, these should have been up before the wedding, but, um, well, I was planning a wedding.....

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-39391369609399618952007-10-15T19:31:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:07:10.141-06:00

Tonight I’m printing programs. Sometime this week I need to solve the mystery of printing vertical business cards to fill the place card holders. Together and via email we’re making a Santa-like RSVP list.Sound like the tasks of the last 11 days before the wedding?! Who knew there was so much work!(No joke, as I type, my iTunes on shuffle mode queues up “Eye of the Tiger.” What’s a guy to do?!)

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-12810022590012146552007-10-10T18:44:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:07:24.007-06:00

The stall tatics of the bad guys are well in play. Thank you to the many well wishes received today before, during, and after. I got the personal pleasure of two solid hours on the stand. We only had 2:30 of court time booked. We now have additional half days December 6th and 11th.To those who Robin or I owed a call Wednesday night, our apologies, it wasn’t a night for long conversations or

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-8713242964204274862007-10-03T20:43:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:07:45.784-06:00

Hello all -Many of you know that Robin & I are apart due to more than just work and relocation issues. Firstly, I want to thank everyone for all of the positive thoughts, prayers, and kind words. I have definitely felt the positive energy that all of the above have created for us.I’m confident that our actions have been just and honest at every step of the way over the last five months and we

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-44388329092009053492007-09-17T16:49:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:08:09.221-06:00

...... Not a chance, however, a house without a dog also isn't a home.So, as an animal friendly solution to our current living situation - Robin & the kids have become a foster family (see defination of foster: Temporary, Short Term, and/or "not the mama!") for a very cute Shar-Pei named Fred.They have saved him, at least temporarily, from doggie death row, and he will be a great friend to

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-42269227183732241372007-09-11T19:21:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:08:44.043-06:00

Okay, so I did some playing with the blog tonight. Two of the pictures are .gif files, but not playing, so if you know more about a computer than I do, advice is welcome. Otherwise, if you like the changes, I'll take your honest feedback. If not, no need to share!! :o)As always, more to come as the time & motivation strike the same place at the same time!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-61634457563752716152007-09-09T18:50:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:11:24.906-06:00

Robin and I got a much needed weekend together over Labor Day weekend. Part of that time was spent on some decorating decisions about our new home together, some of which I was able to put into play this weekend.All of our “free” art found a home and is now hanging throughout the house.Also, prior to Saturday, our front door was an open invitation to look right in. That’s no longer the case.

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-49595144324282054722007-09-09T18:46:00.001-05:002008-02-09T14:09:44.621-06:00

Cleaning out my phone a little, I found two forgotten pictures from our ride here. While they shared the back seat most of the ride, Peanut is used to sitting up front, so I eventually gave in to his requests, and he sat by my side as my trusty co-pilot.Bobo on the other hand, was passed out on the cooler most of the trip, which I felt was a priceless picture.Enjoy!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-2700801289409101412007-09-04T19:34:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:10:12.936-06:00

Just checking in, I know it’s been a while since I’ve added anything.The first part of our move was a great success. Mom and I moved a FULL UHaul safely, and nothing was found to be in pieces. We’ve got some great neighbors here, and the dogs have really taken to the house. So, for now, Peanut, Bobo, & I are taking care of the yard, making new friends, and preparing the house to be full as soon

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-24083264243579633752007-07-21T15:39:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:11:44.154-06:00

I'm no photographer, and somehow, I forgot to take a picture of the swing set, but Robin & my week in and around the Charlottesville area did result in a new home contracted for purchase. Follow the link below to see some pictures of the five bedroom home that is actually located in Stuarts Draft, VA.http://www.fotomat.com/home/TBIRD879/1E6Y4QGSIRIEIY.EZPWe're both busy this weekend in catching

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-48123814022081647222007-06-28T19:53:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:11:59.431-06:00

It just doesn't feel like my blog could possibly be complete without a few random shots of my boy, so here you go. This is Peanut. AKA "Nuts," "Mr. Nuts," "ButterCup," and just plain old "son." He's been my little pound puppy since March 2005 when I rescued him. Enjoy these, and know that I have hundreds more!

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-40728421384306453722007-06-25T19:57:00.001-05:002008-03-22T17:35:31.536-05:00

I've heard a few of these ads on the radio, but I have to give Kurt credit for sending out this link. There's literally pages of these things here, and, much like a chip, I bet you can't listen to just one!Enjoy!http://arc.diis.net/cache/page/budlight.html?story=budlight

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-19719418930948739192007-06-17T09:06:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:12:39.638-06:00

So it took me a few days, but here’s the cruise blog.My grandparents included the whole family in the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary aboard the Carnival ship ‘Ecstasy.’ The trip also corresponded with my grandmother’s birthday, Robin & my exams and engagement, and my uncle’s new job, so everyone had something to celebrate.The trip was fantastic. Four days away at sea, and one great

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-80988306098209120282007-06-05T23:09:00.001-05:002008-02-09T14:13:34.885-06:00

May brings two birthdays to our family. Jackson turned five, and his mom made him an ice cream cake that was excellent! If you asked Robin, she turned a year younger last month as well. I'm not quite sure how to make that happen, but she did get her Happy Bunny cake at work. That made the day better!Pictures of both are below. Vacation starts in the morning, so the next entry should be have a ton

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165200335795095730.post-29331881568892280302007-05-31T21:35:00.000-05:002008-02-09T14:13:52.378-06:00

This is my first run at doing anything like this, but Liz is my hero in the blog world, so I'll do my best to make her proud. First up, the two big announcements... If you don't already know, Robin and I have been engaged since mid April, and will be getting married October 26th of this year. Linked to this (if I do it right) is the first of two engagement picture settings. This was the volunteer

Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16250647938642394078noreply@blogger.com0