The Kerstens

Meeting Mrs. Barbara Bush

2012-02-12T15:38:00.005-06:00

Each year, Former First Lady, Mrs. Barbara Bush, hosts a literacy video conference from the George Bush Presidential Library at TAMU. Students from all over Texas and the United States (and even Canada!) tune in to listen to her read, answer questions, and talk about the importance of reading. This year, a teacher from my school was invited as a speaker and several of our students were invited to be participants on the stage, and many others were guests in the auditorium during the event. We were all VERY excited!!!

She is one sharp cookie and read an excerpt from a book about presidential elections. She answered questions from our students on the stage, as well as from students in the video audience!

At the end, she greeted the participating students and thanked them for their attendance. They presented her with flowers!

When the conference was over and the audience was leaving, the invited guests (including me!) got to go backstage and meet Mrs. Bush. She and I chatted for a short bit about libraries and being a librarian.

I was so proud of our students; they did a fantastic job at the event and represented our school, district and city very well! Jessica also did a super job with her keynote speech. It was such an honor to be there with them, and, of course, it was a complete honor to meet Mrs. Bush!

Austin & The Texas Stars!

2012-01-12T15:14:00.001-06:00

We went to Austin to hang out with some of our favorite peeps! While we were in town, we took in a Texas Stars hockey game! The game was REALLY fun, but I also enjoyed using my NEW ZOOM LENS!!!

The Texas Stars are a part of the Dallas Stars organization.
Gotta have a pic of the Zamboni!
...the refs...

...and the goalies!

And, of course, it wouldn't be a hockey game without a fight! The referees ushered the extra players out of the way and just stood back to let them go at it. But first, they had to undress!

Ding! Ding!
Once it started winding down, the refs broke it up and put both boys in time out.

I LOVE my zoom lens!!!

The game went into a sudden death overtime,

but the Stars weren't able to score first, so they lost the game.

It was a fun weekend!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-12T14:50:00.000-06:00

We ushered in the new year in style!

First, was dinner at the Dragers with good friends!

The food was FABULOUS (as usual)!

We shared a few laughs...

Played a bit of poker...

(Duane lost)

Then we headed up to Northgate for a drink!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

WELCOME 2012!!!

Merry Christmas from the Prince Family!

2011-12-27T20:26:00.007-06:00

The Prince family gathered to celebrate Christmas! After a fabulous meal, we lined up to take a few pictures.

Once again, the younger generation were the stars in our show, and they would have it no other way!
The girls were a bit more cooperative as we took pictures.
But, we did snap some good ones of the boys!
And, of course, we had to take advantage of their cooperation to take as many pics as we possibly could!
FINALLY, we slowed the pictures just enough to OPEN PRESENTS (and take more pictures)!

What a Christmas! We shared stories, had lots of laughs, and made some fantastic memories!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T11:32:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas
from Duane & Denise Kersten!

Kersten Christmas 2011

2011-12-22T09:38:00.011-06:00

Recently, we gathered for the annual Spain/Kersten Christmas! After a fabulous meal, we lined up for a few family portraits!

Romney & Boyd with Granny...
Bill, Romney, & Boyd...
Bill, Granny, & Margaret...
Granny & some of her Grands!
Duane & me...
Margaret & Keith were having too much fun!
But eventually settled down enough for a good picture!
Bryan & Eli...
Waiting his 4 minutes before opening presents!
And...GO!
Granny's picture throw...
Showing off his loot...

And Granny's present from Margarte & Keith...a table for her new television!

Presents...Presents...Presents!!!
And Lottery Tickets!
Must capture every moment!
Horsing around...
A favorite gift...
Putting together Granny's table...

Merry Christmas

and God Bless Us All, Everyone!

A Pinterest Addiction

2011-12-17T09:24:00.000-06:00

I have become addicted to Pinterest! Found this breakfast idea and HAD to try it! Very easy & DELICIOUS!
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Half-fry several pieces of bacon. Cut circles out of bread; I used a pint glass. Lightly spray muffin pan with vegetable oil spray. Place bread circles in bottom of tin. Place bacon around the outside edge of muffin tin (between bread & muffin tin wall). Crack open an egg; discard about 1/2 of egg white, and pour the rest of the egg into the bread/bacon basket. Put in oven and bake until bacon is completely cooked and eggs are set, about 10-20 minutes. They turned out really well, if I do say so myself!!!

Pinterest could become a serious problem!!!

Christmas Cooking & Crafting!

2011-12-16T08:38:00.001-06:00

It's December, and that means crafts & cooking! My first craft of the season was applesauce/cinnamon Christmas ornaments. This is what I used...

The recipe is a 1:1 ratio of cinnamon to applesauce. Mix it until it forms a dough.

Flatten out the dough. It is very sticky; I tried rolling it with a rolling pin, but found that using my hands was easier. Needs to be between 1/4" & 1/2" thick.

Use your favorite shaped cookie cutters.

Don't forget to make a hole in the top for the ribbon! You can dry on a cooling rack, but any humidity will slow this process. I heated my oven to 250 degrees and baked them between 1-2 hours, until they were no longer soft. Paint & decorate if you want. They smell WONDERFUL, and will last for years!

Another favorite Christmas pass time is making Christmas goodies, like Crock Pot Candy (YUMMY & EASY)!!
Chocolate covered pretzels & Ritz Bits PB sandwich crackers...

White chocolate ones too!

Chocolate Pretzel Pecan Turtles, made with Kisses & Rolos. LOVE these, and they are such an easy candy to make! You'll need pretzels (with a good grid), Kiss/Rolo candies, & pecan halves. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper (not necessary, but makes cleanup EASY!), and cover it with pretzels; cover each pretzel with a Kiss or Rolo candy. Bake for 5 minutes, until candy is super soft.
Press a pecan half into each candy and cool completely to set the candy.

Duane's Christmas favorite: Peanut Butter-Chocolate Candy Cookies. You'll need peanut butter cookie dough, and Kiss/Rolo/Reese's Mini PB Cup candies. 1 double roll of peanut butter cookie dough makes approximately 4 dozen cookies. Preheat oven t0 350 degrees.

Lightly spray mini muffin pan with vegetable oil spray. Roll cookie dough into 1 inch sized balls and place in muffin pans. Mush a candy into the dough. (Note: if you are using kisses, put them in tip-down to keep from burning the tip.)

Bake for approximately 10-14 minutes, until cookies are set and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly in muffin tins before using a knife to loosen cookie and turning them out.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Santa's Wonderland!

2011-12-14T21:26:00.000-06:00

Once again, we celebrated Christmas with Noah & The Dragers! Noah liked the gingerbread house kit, but he LOVED the Nerf gun! Priorities, people!!!

Then, Crystal, Noah, and I headed off to Santa's Wonderland. Usually, Duane & Jeremy go with us, but we gave them a reprieve this year. It was a SUPER FUN time! Noah summed it up when he saw it and said, "Oh Mom! It is so beautiful!"

A B/CS Christmas

2011-12-11T08:20:00.001-06:00

This was our year to have the friends over for our annual Christmas party. We always have a great time celebrating the season with great friends, good food, bubbly beverages, a few gifts, and LOTS of laughter!

The Dragers were there!

Shannon seems puzzled by her gift selection, but Shayne is having fun with it!

Stephanie is all smiles, listening to Chris's story!

Hmmm...Which present to choose???

Sorry, Jeremy, you won't get to keep that one very long!

See...

What could it be???

Electric Sex in the Window!!!

Yes, Steph, you HAVE to show the crowd!

Keep digging, there is more there than just tissue paper!

Honey badger don't give a @#$%!

Crystal's turn!

Shannon, it's not THAT bad, is it?

Another try for Jeremy; maybe you'll get to keep this one!

Merry Christmas To All!!!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2011-11-27T19:53:00.002-06:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the Kersten Casa! Now that Thanksgiving is over, it is time to drag out the Christmas decorations and decorate the tree, which is one of my favorite traditions!

Another tradition in our house is that Duane places the star on top of the tree.

Seems that I'm not the only one who enjoys the tree. Jacks grabbed a quick nap under the tree...

Oreo takes time out for a nap as well. And, this new tree skirt lasted all of 1 day. When I got home from school, it was in pieces all over the living room and the remnants were pulled halfway through the dog door. Apparently, Jacks thought the snowman was his first present of the Christmas season.

Of course, decorating the Christmas tree leads to another, less favored Christmas tradition... cleaning up the tree-decorating MESS!

Just A Normal Night At Home

2011-11-25T07:35:00.001-06:00

A typical night in the Kersten Casa stars our four legged kids...

And their lives revolve around who has possession of the stringy toy!

The cat, of course, couldn't care less about the dogs' antics. He simply hides in the bedroom and naps!

Halloween Hauntings

2011-10-30T13:18:00.005-05:00

Halloween is a always a fabulous and fun time, especially since we are usually celebrating our anniversary at the same time! After our anniversary movie outing was over, we headed out to Northgate to see all the ghouls & goblins!

HA!

JACK!

Thing 1 & Thing 2 made an appearance!

Where's Waldo?

There he is!!!

Little Green Army Men at your service!

Ewww... Wish this guy had stayed at the beach!!!

Speechless on this one...

Happy Anniversary!

2011-10-30T13:05:00.005-05:00

Duane and I have been married now for FIVE YEARS!!! The celebration started on Thursday, when we purchased our new living room furniture, but the real celebration was on Saturday night, when we had visits from both in-laws, had dinner at Cafe Eccell (YUMMY!), & went to see The Ides of March.

Our wedding day...

First Anniversary...

Third Anniversary...

The first five years have been fabulous...looking forward to more wonderful years together!

Playtime!!!

2011-10-30T12:54:00.003-05:00

Jacks LOVES stringy toy, and both Jacks & Deuce love having playtime with Duane!!!

Go Brewers!!!

2011-10-30T12:39:00.003-05:00

Jacks & I went to a couple of Duane's softball games. Brewers softball is ALWAYS a good time!!!

Warming up...

Jace gets a hit!

Duane too!

RUN!

SCORE!

Duane coaching 3rd...

Rusty crosses home...

Jace too!

Playing in the field...

Bathtime for Jacks!

2011-09-05T12:33:00.002-05:00

Bathtime is NOT Jacks' favorite activity, but he sure is CUTE!

Duddley's Draft Party

2011-08-29T12:09:00.000-05:00

Fantasy football is almost a religion in our house. Duane plays in several fantasy leagues, and football takes over our televisions during the NFL's season. Drafting the players is quite the event; cheers & jeers (mostly from Duane) are thrown around as each player is selected.

Jace lays out the rules...

Comparing notes & checking on the other leagues...

The commish, hard at work...

Decisions, Decisions...

Research...Research...Research...

Must. Draft. Well.

Having a bit of fun with the "extra" stickers...

Duane is confident in his team, The Cream, and he surely hopes it will rise to the top!

Summer Dart Banquet

2011-08-29T11:58:00.001-05:00

Dart Banquet is a time for celebrating the season and spending time with good friends. This summer's banquet was no exception! The team had a pretty good haul, and Duane won a flash light (which he promptly traded for a fry daddy).

2nd place (again)...

Duane got a special award from Gail because he was able to sub for himself while we were in Las Vegas on vacation!

What a great afternoon!

Bombers Baseball

2011-08-05T11:24:00.000-05:00

Ashley Furniture reserved the party patio for a Bombers baseball game! Duane & I had lots of fun!!! GO BOMBERS!

Cowboy Up!

2011-08-04T11:20:00.001-05:00

We attended a charity event in Houston for an Autism foundation, and the theme was country & western, so Duane had to have a hat. Looks pretty good on him!

The Grand Canyon

2011-07-26T17:03:00.002-05:00

Grand Canyon - free slideshow maker

One of our vacation days was spent venturing into Arizona. We took a day trip to the Hoover Dam/Grand Canyon, and it was SO COMPLETELY WORTH IT!!!

We didn't want to rent a car, and big, bus tours didn't seem like they would be very efficient, so we decided to take the walking tour that was offered by Grand Adventure Tours. Our day started EARLY--6:20am. Yep, we voluntarily got up at daylight during our vacation!!!

Our first stop was Hoover Dam. Alex & Robin (our driver/guide) gave us great stories & details about the dam, like the fact that the concrete in the dam won't be completely cured for another 400+ years. We viewed the dam from the newly-finished bypass bridge, and it was a sight to see for sure! To think they completed the dam with the technology of the 1930s is absolutely mind-boggling!!!

Our next sight-seeing stop was in Seligman, AZ, along Route 66. It was a cute little town that is completely capitalizing on the daydreams of Americana and "the good-old days." It is also the town that inspired the Pixar movie Cars, and it was fun seeing Tow Mater while we were there!

A couple of hours after Seligman, we finally got to the Grand Canyon, and stopped at the Bright Angel Lodge. The canyon is indeed a GRAND sight! It is absolutely beautiful, but I almost didn't get to see it. Our hike started at the Bright Angel Trail and followed the South Rim of the Canyon. I am NOT a fan of heights, and I was SHOCKED to find that there were no rails. Honestly, when we stepped onto the trail, the only thing separating us from the EDGE OF THE WORLD was a line of 4" high rocks; needless to say, I was not comforted by this. The trail was about 4ft wide, and foot traffic was moving both ways, and at one point, we had to turn sideways to pass the oncoming hikers, and this almost did me in! Duane (not a fan of heights himself) was a real trooper and came back to me and pulled me through the precarious spots. He was even brave enough to venture closer to the edge and got some GREAT shots of the Canyon. Fortunately, that was the worst of the terror spots; the majority of the trail was paved (and had those super safe 4" walls to protect the hikers!), and the lookout spots were finished with rails. We picnicked along the trail, and had some of the best views our eyes have ever seen! My anxiety level aside, it was BREATHTAKING (literally--7,000 feet in elevation!) and BEAUTIFUL! I'm glad that Duane talked me out of turning back; that is something I would've regretted forever! And, did I mention that the canyon was absolutely beautiful?

Our journey back was considerably shorter without the sightseeing stops. We passed through the Mohave desert and the Black Canyon right at sunset and arrived back at our hotel at about 9:00pm. It was a long day, filled with new experiences that are truly a treasure!

Viva Las Vegas!!!!!

2011-07-22T18:03:00.005-05:00

Vegas - picture slideshow

Somehow, Duane convinced me that our summer vacation needed to be in Vegas. So, I planned and he practiced, and on Monday, July 18, we took off for Sin City. The first day was fabulous; we played a bit of Let It Ride (I lost & Duane won) at The Mirage, purchased our Cirque du Soleil Mystere tickets, and made a game plan for the rest of the trip. Monday afternoon, we walked around the strip; it is amazing the things they have built there, and that night, we headed for Downtown Vegas for dinner and the laser light show. The Golden Nugget has a GREAT pool. Swimmers can slide through the shark tank before being deposited into the pool, and there are table games poolside! NEAT! AND, our luck changed temporarily (Duane lost & I won). The laser light show was pretty cool too; it was a tribute to Queen, American Soldiers, and the movies of the 80s. There was something for everyone! We saw showgirls, street performers and (of course) Elvis!

The second day was our Grand Canyon excursion. AMAZING!!!

Wednesday was our sleep-in, recuperation day, followed by walking, gambling, sight-seeing, and Mystere. We didn't get much rest or relaxation, but there would be time for that when we were back in Texas! Again, our luck reversed, and Duane was the winner where I was the loser. So, I spent most of my time (after losing my $$$) watching him gamble. We caught the Fire & Ice show at Caesar's show, and since I was losing everything I touched, I gave up on the gambling and did a little shopping!

Mystere was my first experience with Cirque du Soleil, and I must say that what those people do is just NOT natural! People just don't bend that many ways!!! The show was fun & beautiful, and those athletes are absolutely amazing! The elaborate & exotic costumes painted a picture that told a beautiful story. I will be looking at their tour dates and hopefully will see them again!

Our trip was fun & fabulous! Yes, Duane convinced me that we needed to vacation in Vegas, and he was absolutely right!

Cameron Park Zoo

2011-07-22T13:39:00.007-05:00

Crystal, Noah & I headed out to Waco one morning to the Cameron Park Zoo. We hadn't been there before and were really surprised at what a nice little zoo it is! We had a great time seeing all of the animals!

We saw it all: Lions, Tigers, & Bears...OH MY!

This tiger was trying to beat the heat by hanging out in his pool, but it turns out he was just playing with his "prey." He scared us to death the first time he attacked the log from across the pond. He was having a GREAT time attacking the logs in his pool!

Napping in the sun!

LUNCH!

Noah loved watching the elephants!
Rhinos hanging out in the shade.
The wagon was first class transportation all morning!
Nibbling on some trees and not sharing with the roomie!
The aquariums were really nice (and air conditioned)!!!
Howdy, Mr. Gator!
Noah had fun sliding with the river otters!
Skimming some lunch...
Checking out the fish...
Rub my belly, please.

It was a GREAT day!

Duane's 40th

2011-07-22T12:25:00.007-05:00

Duane's birthday started off like this...

Yep, I got up at 5:30 AM to make him breakfast before he went to work!

Later that night, we headed to Casa Rod for dinner (and cake!) with friends & family!

Bryan, Eli, Margaret, Keith, & Granny were all there to see Duane blow out his 40 candles!

The Dragers, Grecos, Robert, Adam, Stephanie, Casey & Jessica were all on hand to celebrate!

No birthday of Duane's would be complete without a bit of celebrating at Duddley's where he had a few of these...

There was LOTS of games and visiting with good friends!

It was a GREAT celebration!!!

Good Friends & Good Times!!!

Happy Birthday, Duane!!!

2011-07-09T14:02:00.000-05:00

Free picture slideshow made with Smilebox

A Fabulous, Fantastic Fourth!

2011-07-05T21:08:00.043-05:00

Once again, Duane & I traveled to Lake Limestone with friends to celebrate the birth of our country. We always have a great time at this gathering, even if it is a lot of work!

Crystal, Noah, Jacks, & I went up Friday to unload and get the lakehouse ready for everyone else. (OKAY...really, we went up a day early so that we would have an extra day of R&R at the lake!) The trip started with a lot of drama...we managed to lock ourselves out of the house and lose Jacks in the first 10 minutes of the trip. Fortunately, these were minor setbacks and were the only drama episodes of the weekend!

The lake is really low. The drought has hit Limestone County pretty hard, but it is still a beautiful view!

After unloading, unpacking, and putting things away, Noah was excited to finally get in the yard and play with Jacks! They had a great time!

When Jacks woke me up at dawn, I was NOT happy with him. Then, I saw the sunrise over the lake. It was breathtaking! I was glad to be able to take a few pictures before heading back to bed!

Once everyone was up, we had almost a full day of playing, napping, and visiting! It was great!

We even had a quick rain storm Saturday evening.

The men & the Grecos arrived Saturday night, and the party was ON! It's not quite the same party as when we were twenty-somethings, but we manage to have a good time anyway!

How many Aggies does it take to replace refrigerator doors?

For this bunch...4!

Had to spend some time playing outside with Jacks. He is really a barrel of energy, unless he gets some exercise! He LOVES that stringy toy!

Ayla was satisfied to stay inside and soak up the air conditioning!
Visiting in the shade with Chuck...

Noah was a big help in the kitchen during the cooking.

But, his favorite activity was playing in the lake!

We spent some time hanging out on the pier, soaking up some sun.

Found some clams & had to check them out.

Casey did some fishing with the shucked clams, but didn't have much luck.

After dinner, we headed back to the pier, hoping to see a few fireworks.

Monday meant more reading, more napping, & the arrival of MORE FRIENDS!

There was a bit of gaming.

And even MORE cooking & more eating (of course)!

It was a fabulous, fantastic Fourth celebration!!!

Happy Birthday, America! May freedom always ring!

Brothers Share

2011-06-25T07:32:00.006-05:00

We ran out of dog food (Oh the HORROR!), and even though there was food in the dish when we went to bed last night, Deuce's behavior this morning conjured up visions of an overly dramatic, tearful Sally Struthers. Since Duane had already said he would grab some food on the way home from work, I decided to feed the dogs a bit of the canned food that we keep on hand. Both launched into their breakfasts with great happiness, and it was this happiness and the aroma (a.k.a. stench) of the Alpo that got Oreo's attention. Bypassing Deuce's plate (Hey, the cat isn't stupid; he knows better than to interfere with Deuce's food!!!), Oreo headed straight to Jacks' plate and politely informed him that brothers share.

Clearly, Jacks is not convinced by Oreo's arguments!

But, he knows that he isn't going to get rid of the cat, so if you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

And, that was Jack's mistake because Oreo proceeded to bully Jacks out of his plate without so much as a growl, hiss, or even a sharp look. It was a perfect passive-aggressive takeover. And once again, we learn who REALLY rules this house!

Jacks just sadly slinked (slunk?) away and could only watch as the cat ate his fill. Fortunately, for Jacks anyway, this didn't take too long and he could finally finish his breakfast in peace.

And now, the plates are trashed, the cat is deep into bath mode, and both dogs are curled up asleep on the floor. All is right in their world again!

Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

2011-06-24T11:26:00.006-05:00

We went to Garrison to spend Father's Day with the greatest Daddy ever! Of course while we were there, we had to survey the farm; Daddy's gardens are always the best!

A walk around the pond with Jacks and his new bestie, Beau...

Stringy toy is fun at home AND at Nanna & Pappy's!
BFFs...

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! Love you!

Blueberries!

2011-06-24T11:15:00.004-05:00

Crystal, Noah, Shannon, and I spent a Friday morning picking blueberries & peaches at King's Orchard in Plantersville. Fun! Fun! Fun!

And my harvest made it possible to make this delicious blueberry-peach cobbler. YUM-O!

Family Fun

2011-06-05T11:00:00.001-05:00

Each June, the Kersten clan gathers for a family reunion. There is always a bit of competition, and Duane is ALWAYS in the middle of it. This year basketball was the game of choice, and I HAD to snap a few pics!

SCORE!
See where Duane gets it???
FOUL!!! Where are the refs for this game?
Just like in the NBA...well, not exactly like the NBA because the goal had been lowered for the little kiddos!!
It was a fun, fun day!
Really!

Day Lilies

2011-06-01T10:55:00.000-05:00

Mother took advantage of my veggie garden success and passed on some day lilies to me. Knowing my thumb-color disability, she potted them and got them all ready for me and gave me strict watering instructions. And voila...they actually bloomed! Maybe my green thumb has just been dormant all of these years!

SUCCESS!

2011-05-15T10:43:00.001-05:00

My thumb has never been anywhere close to a shade of green, but this year, I decided that I was going to grow tomatoes, AND I DID!!! I had LOTS of help and advice from Daddy, who always has FANTASTIC summer gardens. It has been a lot of work, and Duane has been great about helping. It has been worth it! Looking forward to more of these all summer long!

The first one...

Salads, sandwiches, & soups... oh my!

Already making plans for next year!

Still Growing...

2011-05-01T16:57:00.004-05:00

The garden is growing-growing-growing; tomatoes and peppers are popping out all over!!! It is so exciting to someone who has NEVER been able to grow anything! We have had a bit of frustration--two tomatoes that had started turning red had to be tossed because of blossom rot, but we're hoping these are the exception and not the norm! Can't wait to use "our" tomatoes and peppers in the kitchen! YUM-O!!!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T16:50:00.001-05:00

Duane & I had a wonderful (& restful) Easter. Saturday night, we went to the Drager's house for dinner and some great company; Noah & his cousin Jared had a fabulous time entertaining the adults and hunting for eggs. Sunday started at church, and then we enjoyed a quiet day here at home. What a blessed day!

Aggie Baseball

2011-04-24T10:35:00.000-05:00

Duane & I got to go see the Aggies BTHO Okie State, 11-2! The weather was perfect and the baseball was even better. Stilson was on the mound and he pitched a GREAT game! Gig 'Em Ags! WHOOP!

It's Growing!!!

2011-04-11T18:14:00.006-05:00

My mother & father are gardening whizzes. Mother's flower beds & hanging baskets are beautiful, and Daddy's vegetable gardens are second to none. Over the years, I have tried my hand at gardening, only to find that I have a black thumb. I can't even get a cactus to grow. It's sad...really, really sad!

But, this year, after talking with our good friends Jeremy & Crystal, Duane and I decided to give vegetable gardening a serious try. Jeremy's ideas was containers, and the next time Duane & I visited Mother & Daddy, we picked their brain and grabbed a few containers. We planted 6 tomato plants, 3 bell pepper plants, onions, basil, & thyme.

We planted early in March, and I wish I had taken pics because I can't believe how much everything has grown. At first, they looked tiny in the containers; the cages dwarfed the itty-bitty tomato plants, but they aren't small any more!!! In spite of my black thumb, everything seems to be doing very well! (But truthfully, Miracle-Gro should probably get the bulk of the credit!!!)

Our tomato plants are growing-growing-growing!

Lots of pretty, yellow blooms are absolutely covering the tomato plants!

The basil smells YUMMY!

AND, there's even a tiny, tiny bell pepper,

and a tiny tomato!!!

Hopefully, the Miracle-Gro will continue to work!!!

Grow, baby, grow!!!

SAFE!!!

2011-02-26T07:02:00.000-06:00

Duane is playing softball for the Duddley's Draw Brewers again...

Duane is SUPER competitive, and when he plays anything, his common sense seems to take a vacation. On this particular night, Duane started to slide into 2nd base but then decided the slide wasn't necessary. But he changed his mind too late and sort of rolled into 2nd base on his knees. It was funny...once we found out he was okay! Oh, and he was safe.

Dart Night

2011-02-12T06:55:00.000-06:00

Took this of Duane at darts one night. He only consented because he wanted to show his grandmother the Colt .45s cap a friend gave to him. No story...just thought it was a great picture!

SNOW DAY!

2011-02-04T09:41:00.004-06:00

We had a bit of snow in Bryan this morning. School was cancelled, so I was able to spend a quiet day with the animals while Duane went to work.

Oreo made the most of the snow!

Deuce & Jacks did a bit of playing in the snow. Their usual game starts off as a game of fetch, but it quickly deteriorates into a game of keep away. It appears to be much more fun in the snow! Who knew?

Once again, Deuce wouldn't sit or lay in the snow...

After a bit of coaxing, Jacks cooperated so I could get a few pics of him. I'm not proud to say it, but there was a bit of bribery involved!

Happy Birthday, Jacks!

2011-02-03T20:33:00.000-06:00

He was such a precious puppy;

we fell in love with him before we even saw him!

Happy Birthday!

That Crazy Dog!

2011-01-26T19:56:00.003-06:00

Deuce does NOT like baths! And, of course, we have a GREAT time teasing him with taking baths. Tonight, Duane was standing in the bathroom door, calling to Deuce, and as you can tell from the video Deuce was adamant that he was NOT going to take a bath.

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-01T12:27:00.006-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

May your 2011 be happy, healthy, and prosperous!!!

We spent the last night of 2010 at Northgate; it was a great way to celebrate the ending of 2010 and the beginning of 2011.

We played dominoes...

...killed some pigs...

...socialized with good friends...

...spent some time together...

...and even acted a bit goofy!

At midnight, we toasted the New Year...

...and ate some black-eyed peas for luck.

It was a great night with great friends, and we're looking forward to more good times in 2011!

Christmas in East Texas

2010-12-31T21:55:00.001-06:00

Create your own scrapbook design

A Kersten Christmas

2010-12-21T08:26:00.000-06:00

A photo slideshow by Smilebox

Celebrating Christmas with Friends!

2010-12-21T08:21:00.001-06:00

Make a scrapbook

Santa's Wonderland, 2010!

2010-12-09T20:06:00.001-06:00

Duane & I once again drove through Santa's Wonderland

with the Drager Family.

Noah was excited to go see the lights...

The lights were beautiful,

and it was a great way to get in the Christmas spirit!

What a fun way to spend an evening!

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!

2010-12-01T19:42:00.002-06:00

After Thanksgiving, Duane and I decked the halls and decorated our tree!

First the ornaments, & then the garland...

Ready for the star!

Duane placed the star and finished the tree...

DONE!

Jacks was very nervous at first!

But, he got used to it rather quickly and even helped himself to several of the lower ornaments! He eventually slowed down and was cooperative enough to pose for a Christmas picture with Deuce.

Oreo made himself right at home,

sleeping in the colorful glow of the lights!

Not quite finished yet; time for clean up!

Merry Christmas to all!

Merry Christmas from the Kerstens!

2010-12-01T18:34:00.000-06:00

A free greeting by Smilebox

Thanksgiving in East Texas...

2010-11-27T11:31:00.008-06:00

This year, Duane & I went to Garrison for Thanksgiving. It was a busy, fun holiday! Daddy took care of the birds...he fried one & he smoked one! BOTH were delicious!!!

There was a bit of football...

And hunting...

The boys were left to clean it all by themselves, a first for them!

Jacks was SO GLAD to be there; car rides are not his favorite!

But he was mostly glad for a friend to play with!

We took family pictures, another Thanksgiving tradition.

Nanna & Pappy with 'The Grands' & Saydee...

Scott's family...

Laura, Doug, & Kaylee...

Larry's family...

Caitlin & Hunter...

Duane & me with our Jacks...
We're a wild & crazy bunch!
Don't they look happy & cooperative? It helps to mandate pics BEFORE serving dinner!

And, the feast... There was turkey, dressing, casseroles, bread, veggies, & desserts...all delicious!!!

And the last family tradition of the day??? Napping during football, of course!

Hope you had a wonderful, fun-filled, family Thanksgiving too!

Duane's Fun Weekend

2010-11-14T17:28:00.006-06:00

While I was running around with my college peeps, Duane's friend Scott was in town, and they got to tour the new A&M Athletic Complex, including the practice field, locker room, training room & parts of Kyle Field. Of course, I forgot to send the camera with Duane, so these are pics taken by Scott & the rest of their crew... Looks like they had a really good time!

Together Again

2010-11-14T12:39:00.009-06:00

We met more than 20 years ago in Fowler Hall at TAMU. We laughed, cried, partied, and even occasionally studied and went to class. Looking back, those college years were some of the best years ever and it is more than just a bit surprising that we not only survived but graduated and now live productive lives! :)

Our friendships have survived the years & distance, and we get together every now and then (not nearly often enough) for a fun-filled walk down memory lane and to share the events of our current lives. This year we got together for the TAMU vs OU football game. It was a GREAT weekend, and just like old times, we laughed & partied like rock stars!!! The game on Saturday was a BLAST! We sat with alum (instead of standing as students, thank goodness) and yelled as the Aggies beat the HELL outta OU! It was great!

Definitely looking forward to our next gathering! Hopefully it won't be 4 years from now!!!

Together Again: Denise, Kendyl, Jackie, Sandy, Laura, & Jennny.

(Wendy was the only one who was MIA; she was sick. We missed you Wendy!!!)

At the game: Laura, Amanda, Dallas, Mark, Sandy, Charles,

Jenny, Michael,

Duane, Denise, Jackie, & Kendyl

WHOOP!

Jacks & the Vacuum

2010-11-07T21:49:00.002-06:00

I think it is safe to say that Jacks HATES the vacuum cleaner...

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T13:43:00.004-05:00

Saturday night, Duane & I headed to Northgate to socialize with friends and see all of the costumes of the day. All of Northgate was CROWDED! We sat on the back porch and just watched the ghouls, ghosts, & goblins parade by. My favorite was the blind football referee, which Duane pronounced a Big 12 ref.And, I couldn't resist this... Where's Waldo???
There he is! :)

Hope everyone has a fun & safe Halloween!!!!

Happy Anniversary!

2010-10-31T13:00:00.005-05:00

4 years ago, Duane & I said, "I do," and life has been getting better and better ever since!

Our 1st Anniversary...
Anniversary #2, celebrated on dart night at Hornback's...
Anniversary #3, after our trip to LA...
And, Anniversary #4, after our trip to New Orleans...

New Orleans 2010

2010-10-19T20:50:00.001-05:00

Our anniversary is coming up, so Duane & I took off for a long weekend in New Orleans. We had a WONDERFUL time! Duane has been several times, usually for bachelor parties, and I went on a bachelorette/wedding weekend a looooong time ago, but this was my first "tourist" trip to The Big Easy, and it wasn't disappointing! Friday was a driving day. We didn't have a lot of time before the day ended, so we just walked from our hotel to Acme Oyster House and enjoyed the best charbroiled oysters ever and delicious gumbo too!!! Then, we headed over to Bourbon Street, with Duane dressed in his Cowboys t-shirt & cap. EVERYONE had a comment, and some even chanted for him as we strolled down Bourbon. Next, Duane headed to the casino while I went to bed; he had a good time, and I had a good sleep! :)

Saturday, we drove to Slidell and went down the Pearl River West for our Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour. The swamp was really, really beautiful! We weren't disappointed at all; we saw trees, plants, birds, bugs, turtles & lots of gators. After a quick lunch of Po Boys & gumbo at Johnny's PoBoys (again, HUGE & delicious!!!) & a walk around Jackson Square, we visited a couple of bars. The Chart Room & Johnny White's Hole in the Wall were fun places to sit & recharge. They didn't feel like tourist bars at all; they felt like Duddley's, with great people (Aggies are everywhere, by the way!) and good times! We had a bit of excitement as we walked & window shopped. STEVEN TYLER (in town for American Idol auditions) brushed past us on Royal Street. Duane & I were both truly starstruck as our mouths gaped open and we watched him walk by. Both knew exactly who he was, but neither of us could get any words out. That was truly exciting!!! Our vampire tour was too fun! New Orleans has quite a sinister & murderous history, and Lord Chaz brought it to life wonderfully! We had a great time as we walked around NO in the dark hearing the ghostly & ghastly tales about coffin girls, Sultans murdered, & Romeo spikes that he had to tell.

Sunday was a slower day. We ate breakfast beignets at Cafe Du Monde (sweet!) and walked to the Aquarium of the Americas. Their facility is beautiful, and we had a great time seeing all of the fish & wildlife they had to offer! After a late lunch at Felix's sefood (more delicious charbroiled oysters & gumbo), we spent most of the afternoon back at Johnny White's for the football game. The Cowboys let Duane down, but I was happy because the Texans won. :) After a late supper, we headed to Harrah's for more gambling fun, but the blackjack tables were not nice to us at all!!

Monday was spent packing and driving. We weren't ready to come home, but Texas was a sight for sore eyes as we crossed the Sabine River on our way home!

We heard GREAT street musicians, ate great food, and made lots of good memories! New Orleans is a fabulous city; we'll definitely be going back!!!

8 Months Old

2010-10-03T16:04:00.002-05:00

Jacks Kersten is 8 months old today!

It's a rough life...

At the Lakehouse

2010-09-27T15:32:00.000-05:00

Duane had a rare Saturday off, and we went to Lake Limestone for the weekend. Jacks, of course, went with us. Allison brought her energetic lab, Sage, and Jacks fell in love. He only has eyes for her, but she stayed true to her throwing dummy, but I don't think Jacks minded a bit!

He was soooooooooooo tired when we got home that he slept for days! I think Sage needs to visit more often!

Darts Banquet & MVP

2010-08-30T15:24:00.001-05:00

Dart league was lots of fun this summer season! Duane threw really well--well enough to be MVP of Beer & Pizza! His MVP trophy was celebrated with some super-special fanfare!

Good Times!

Go 'Stros!

2010-08-20T15:16:00.002-05:00

The Astros have had a season of extreme ups & downs, but that didn't stop Duane & me from going to watch them play the Mets! We sat in the Crawford Boxes, which was a first for both of us! Sadly, no homerun balls were hit into our section.

We didn't win, but we had fun!

Happy Birthday!!!

2010-07-11T14:54:00.001-05:00

We went to Atami to celebrate Duane's Birthday

and Crystal's 1/2 Birthday!

Our chef was GREAT!

Duane got to help with the cooking...

Singing to the Birthday Boy...

Good Food & Great Friends!

Happy 4th From Lake Limestone

2010-07-07T14:31:00.004-05:00

Friends, Food, Festivities,

Fireworks & Fun...

It doesn't get any better than this!!

We went on our annual trip to Lake Limestone for this year's Independence Day. The weather was great, and so was the trip!

Normally, there are several people lighting fuses & running around the pier during our fireworks display; it's all very dramatic, always funny, and often dangerous, but not this year. Casey worked for over an hour to string all of our boxes together to create one steady stream of fireworks. It was (almost) flawless!!! He did a great job!

A few highlights from our fireworks show:

No trip to the lakehouse is complete without the ceremonial bath that the dogs get once we get home. Jacks was NOT happy about this at all!!!

Dinner with Friends!

2010-04-25T19:13:00.003-05:00

Celebrating birthdays with friends at Atami! We don't all get together very often, so it was super fun! But, I must admit that I felt really sorry for our hibachi chef--he did a great job, and our food was fabulous, but we were so busy visiting with each other that we didn't pay him very much attention!!!

Good food! Great friends! Great times!

Jacks...

2010-04-16T17:58:00.007-05:00

...has pretty much become the center of our universe! (But, honestly, can you blame us???)

Here he is hanging around the house & playing with Oreo & Deuce.

And a few pics from his first visit to "Camp" Nanna and Pappy! He loved playing with Gracie, Saydee, Beau & Bebe! It was a GREAT visit!

He Sings!

2010-03-28T22:22:00.002-05:00

Jacks sings a little song during a break from Sunday evening laundry duty. He gets cuter & cuter every day!

Jacks Kersten

2010-03-20T01:37:00.005-05:00

We have a new puppy! Meet Jacks Kersten. He is one cute-cute-CUTE little Sheltie! We've only had him for a couple of days, but he has already provided HOURS of entertainment! He LOVES playing in the leaves outside, attacking toes, untying shoes, and playing with (aka: bothering) his four-legged siblings. So far, Deuce and Oreo are tolerating him pretty well; I wonder how long that will last!

Look At That Face!

2010-03-10T17:20:00.005-06:00

It is a CUTE-CUTE-CUTE face!! Less than a week until we get our puppy! I'm so excited!!!

A New Puppy!!!

2010-02-21T18:44:00.004-06:00

I didn't think I would be ready for a puppy so soon, but recently I have found myself checking classifieds and puppy stores, looking for a precious Sheltie puppy. I have found one!!! The breeders are the Debos from Round Mountain, TX (just NW of Austin). The dam, Iris, looks A LOT like Copper, and the sire, Mighty Aggie Rebel, is called "Ring," after the Aggie Ring! I am so excited to have found them and am looking forward to meeting them and picking up our puppy during spring break!

BTHO Texas Tech! WHOOP!

2010-01-31T17:48:00.008-06:00

The TAMU men's basketball team took on the Texas Tech Red Raiders last night. It was a GREAT game! Duane & I were there to watch as our Aggies BTHO the Red Raiders!

Getting some last minute advice...

The students were there in full force. As a matter of fact, it was a record setting crowd of 13,648!!! WHOOP!!!

It was a slow start for the Aggies; Tech took the early lead and held on to that lead through most of the first half. With only minutes left in the first half, the Aggies took over and never looked back.

The score at halftime...

Back on the court for the second half...

Our free throw shooting has struggled again this year, but we can successfully shoot them!

Aggies Win!!! WHOOP!

Coach Turgeon has started a new tradition at A&M, and everyone here loves it!!! After the game's end, students have always sung the War Hymn. Now, the basketball team, including Coach Turgeon, goes into the stands and sings with the students. Hard to see in these pics, but they are singing and swaying! Good Bull!

Racing to get in the stands...

BJ Holmes...

Bryan Davis...

Way to go Ags! WHOOP!

Prince Family Christmas

2010-01-26T17:33:00.004-06:00

A few pics from the Prince Family Christmas...

There were presents! (LOTS of presents!)

There was food...DELICIOUS food!!!

There was pictures, pictures, and MORE PICTURES!!! (Years ago, we learned to take pictures BEFORE opening presents! It makes for more cooperative children!) These five are the stars of the show at the Prince household!

Silliness & Giggles...

And just hanging out with family!

After all that merry making, it was finally time for a nap!

Good Times With Great People!!!

Kersten Family Christmas

2010-01-26T17:30:00.003-06:00

The Kersten Family Christmas is always a good time! Shelley hosted us again this year!!! Good food! Good visit! Good time!!!

Santa's Wonderland

2010-01-26T17:24:00.003-06:00

In December, we once again went with the Dragers to Santa's Wonderland! That's two years in a row--it must be a tradition! It was a great evening!!!

Brotherly Love

2009-11-30T17:20:00.000-06:00

Oreo (or P.I.T.A. as we have nicknamed him) is a FUN-FUN-FUN kitty! He absolutely loves and adores Deuce and wants to snuggle with him all of the time, whether Deuce wants to or not!

Bonfire 2009

2009-11-28T19:03:00.009-06:00

This 100th year of Texas Aggie Bonfire was my first Bonfire in more than a decade, and my first Student Bonfire. Duane & I, along with the Dragers (Noah's very 1st Bonfire!!!) and thousands of others were on hand to hear the speakers, yell the yells, and sing the songs. Bonfire would be better back on campus, with full support and participation from the University, and I look forward to the day it returns. But, the students who worked so tirelessly to cut, build, and burn should be commended for their hard work and for doing such a great job keeping this century-old tradition alive. They built one great Bonfire!!! WHOOP!

Waiting for it to light up!

It had rained in the days prior to the burn, and so this was a common sight in the pasture-turned-parking lot!

Red pots, getting ready to light up Bonfire!

This year was a bit different; they lit 12 smaller bonfires, in memory of the 12 who died in the 1999 collapse and in honor of the Texas Aggie 12th Man!

Burn, baby, burn!

WHOOP!!!

3 Years & Counting!

2009-11-15T12:33:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago, Duane & I celebrated our 3rd Anniversary. Since we had just been to Los Angeles, we kept it low key, and only went out to dinner at Eccell Steakhouse (YUM-O!!!). It has been a WONDERFUL 3 years, and we are looking forward to many, many more!

Our wedding day...

Our First Anniversary...
And, Anniversary #3...