Shake 'n' Bake

I am sure that you have ALL been watching race coverage since you got up this morning, and that you are ALL impatiently awaiting the start of the Aaron's 499 like we are. I simply cannot WAIT and am just beside myself with antcipation [hopefully you've been able to catch the sarcasm].

It is, however, really fun to think that we were at this race one year ago. On the coverage they've been talking about all morning [eyeroll] they keep talking about the race last year and how it was an unforgettable finish. If you are not in the NASCAR loop, last year at Talladega, there was a huge controversial wreck right at the finish line. It was controversial because the guy that won, Brad Keselowski, only won after wrecking Carl Edwards. The 99 car flipped into the air, and hit the fence on the track. People in the stands had to be taken to the hospital because of debris injuries. And Carl Edwards, got out of his car and RAN acroos the finish line ON FOOT. Totally Ricky Bobby style.

Anyway, thought I'd share some of our pics from the race last year. It really was a lot of fun. Len says I'm spoiled after that race because there will never be another race that exciting.

There's a Spirit, can ne'er be told....

Which is the truth....one can never really explain what it is like to be a part of a University that is so rich in school spirit and time honored traditions. Some call it cultish, some think we're all crazy Aggies, but as one of our sayings goes, 'From the outside looking in, you can't understand it. But from the inside looking out, you can't explain it.'

One of my favorite traditions at A&M is the Aggie Ring. It is a HUGE DEAL to finally receive your Aggie Ring. Some background on the actual ring:

'Everything seen on the ring represents a value that an Aggie should hold. On the top is a large shield, which symbolizes the desire to protect the reputation of the university. The 13 stripes on the shield represent the 13 original states of America. The five stars on the shield refer to the phases of development of any Aggie: mind or intellect; body; spiritual attainment; emotional poise; and integrity of character.

The eagle symbolizes agility and power, and the ability to reach great heights.The large star on the side of the ring symbolizes the Seal of Texas. The five-pointed star is encircled with a wreath of olive and laurel leaves symbolizing achievement and a desire for peace. The live oak leaves symbolize the strength to fight for our country and our state. The leaves are joined at the bottom by an encircling ribbon to show the necessity of joining these two traits to accomplish one's ambition to serve.

An ancient cannon, a saber, and a rifle are on the other side of the ring and symbolize how citizens of Texas fought for their land and are determined to defend it. The saber stands for valor and confidence, while the rifle and cannon stand for a preparedness and defense. The crossed flags of the United States and Texas recognize an Aggie's dual allegiance to both nation and state.

This past weekend, I was so, so proud to welcome my cousin, Brady Rex Black, into the Aggie Ring club. Congratulations, Brady!!

Happy Friday!!

I promise I have an awesome post coming up covering Mr. Brady Black's Aggie Ring celebration. However, for now, I just want to wish everyone a very happy Friday. It's always so exciting to be on the cusp of the weekend!

Easter Pics.....Finally!

This year we spent our first Easter at the lake. We really lucked out and had some AWESOME weather! We got to put the boat in the water Saturday and even go play in the water for a bit!

We also got to spend some cousin time with Dustin, Lynsie, Brynlie and Brooke. We all sat up together Friday night patiently awaiting the news of Bransen Ron's arrival. What a special Good Friday!

Another special treat was to have Tyson, Kayla and Rylan with us for the weekend! The Rylan-ator LOVED the boat AND the water, and we look forward to spending lots of time this summer in the boat and water with that little guy. As always, it was so good to get to hang with Tys and Kayla. It's so fun to get to see them with Rylan!

Shonnah has such good camera skills that she was able to shoot us all AND make in the pic.

Haaaappppy Birthday!!!

My dear friend Amanda has officially made it to her 'upper-twenties'. And, of course, we had to have a little birthday celebration. Here's to your 26th!

Thanks so much Amanda for being such a great friend to us. We love you tons!!

Head Above Water

So I'm pretty behind, but this is from last Thursday. Glass Cactus in Grapevine has some great Texas Country performances on Thursday nights throughout the summer. We went last Thursday to see Brandon Rhyder (new cd Head Above Water...hence the title). I don't know what it is, but something about getting to get dressed up and go watch a live performance is just so much fun. It always brings back so many memories and tends to make me a little nostalgic for those good 'ole days in Aggieland.

Cake Pops

Thought I'd share some pics of these cute little cake pops that Amanda helped me make. Yes, she had a hand in it which is why they are ADORABLE!!

There really is cake inside. You mix it with icing, ball it up, put it on a stick, dip it in colored chocolate, dress 'em up a bit, and voila--cake pops. Oh, and I can't forget the brilliant idea to cover a styrofoam box in wrapping paper, and then stick the cake pops in the box. Totally brings it all together. Thanks Amanda for lending me some of your creative talent. These were a real hit, and no one believed that we made them!