OSC Fall Festival 2008

Officers Spouse Club hosted the 2008 Fall Festival at Laughlin AFB

and it was a blast. Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Lana (and Mom) thanks for all your hard work!

The graffiti Wall.

Horseshoe tournament was a blast!

Thanks to Arnie for the music!

Pony rides anyone?

How about that great food!
Hard at work ladies!


Hay wagons rides took guest to the pumpkin patch.

Pick out your favorite one!

Sara and Shannon did a great job with Monster fingers!

Pumpkin pick up for the toddlers.

Human bubble was a hit yet again this year!

Some of my favorite gals!

Pictures were available too! Come on Superman give us a smile!

These kiddos are painting their pumpkins.

That is it for this years Fall Fest! Hopefully, the OSC will be able to pull it off again next year!***And a special thanks to J for taking all these great pitures!***

Though there's pain in the offering, Blessed be Your name

Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name

Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name

Blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name

Wright Patterson Air Force Base

I have two wonderful friends who are getting the opportunity of a life time...what is it you ask? Well, only to be stationed at the greatest base the Air Force can offer!! No not Hawaii...Wright Patterson Air Force base in glorious fabulous Ohio!!

So for there benefit I complied a list of great Ohio finds.

Place to visit

Young's Jersey Dairy

6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd

Yellow Springs, OH 45387

http://www.youngsdairy.com/home.html

Bike/ Running trails

http://www.miamivalleytrails.org/

Blue Jacket Outdoor Theater

Main Office Number: 937-376-4358
Box Office: 937-376-4318

http://www.bluejacketdrama.com/

Clifton Mill
75 Water St.
Clifton, OH 45316
937-767-5501
http://www.cliftonmill.com/Christmas.htm

National Museum of the U.S.A.F.

1100 Spaatz StreetWright-Patterson AFB OH 45433

(937) 255-3286

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/

Pump it up

685 Precision Court Miamisburg Ohio 45342

937-866-0680

http://www.pumpitupparty.com/

Gymboree Play and Music

Cincinnati: Governor's Pointe

4700 Duke Drive Suite 105, Mason, OH 45040 US Phone: 513-459-4769

Email: masonoh@gymboreeclasses.com

Kings Island Amusement Park

Kings Island Dr, Mason, OH 45040

http://www.pki.com/index.cfm#actions

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Drive Sandusky, Ohio 44870

General Information (419) 627-2350

http://www.cedarpoint.com/

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens

3400 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45220

http://www.cincinnatizoo.org/index.html

Columbus Zoo

4850 West Powell Road, Powell, Ohio 43065 (614) 645-3550

Toll Free 1-800-MONKEYS

http://www.columbuszoo.org/default.aspx

The Newport Aquarium

One Aquarium Way Newport, KY 41071

Telephone (859) 261-7444

http://www.newportaquarium.com/

Creation Museum
2800 Bullittsburg Church Road Petersburg, KY 41080-9364(888) 582-4253

www.CreationMuseum.org

Kettering Recreation Complex,

Swimming and Ice Skating

3600 Shroyer Road, Kettering, Ohio 45429

ph: 937-296-2400

http://www.ci.kettering.oh.us/newweb/departments/recreation/rec_facilities.php

Ohio Caverns

2210 East State Route 245 West Liberty, Ohio 43357

(937) 465-4017

http://www.ohiocaverns.com/

Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking County, Ohio

Camping, hiking, lodging, and great outdoor fun

http://www.hockinghills.com/

John Bryan State Park
3790 State Route 370
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Phone: (937) 767 - 1274

http://www.johnbryan.org/

Urban KragIndoor Wall Climbing Center

125 Clay StreetDayton, Ohio 45402

937.224.KRAG (5724)

http://www.urbankrag.com/

The Beech Waterpark

2590 Water Park Dr Mason, OH 45040

(513) 398-7946

800-886-SWIM.

http://thebeachwaterpark.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/PWDA.woa/wa/loadPage?pageId=6023

Children's Museum of Cleveland

10730 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44106

216 791-7114

www.clevelandchildrensmuseum.org/

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

3900 Wildlife WayCleveland, OH 44109216

661-6500

http://www.clemetzoo.com/

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

1100 Rock and Roll Boulevard E 9th St and Lake Erie

Cleveland, OH 44113

216 781-ROCK

www.rockhall.com/

Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park

2501 Great Wolf Drive Mason, OH 45040

1-800-913-WOLF 1 -513-459-8885

http://www.greatwolf.com/locations/mason/

Fort Rapids Water Park

4560 Hilton Corporate Drive • Columbus, OH 43232

http://www.fortrapids.com/

Snow Trail Ski Resort

3100 Possum Run Road, Mansfield, OH 44903

800-OHIO-SKI

419-774-9818

http://www.snowtrails.com/

Mad River Mountain

1000 Snow Valley Rd, Zanesfield, OH 43360

800-231-SNOW (7669)

http://www.skimadriver.com/

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

2600 DeWeese ParkwayDayton, OH 45414

937-275-7431

http://www.boonshoftmuseum.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1


Shopping in the Area

The Greene Town Center

51 Plum Street Beavercreek, Ohio 45440

937-490-4900

http://www.thegreene.com/

Jeffersonville Outlets
8000 Factory Shops Blvd Jeffersonville , Ohio 43128

(740) 948-9090

(800) 746-7644

http://www.primeoutlets.com/cntrdefault.asp?cntrid=1029

The Mall at Fairfeild Commons

2727 Fairfeild Commons Blvd. Beavercreek Ohio

937-427-4300

http://www.mallatfairfieldcommons.com/

The Dayton Mall

2700 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd.
Dayton, OH 45459
937-433-9834http://www.daytonmall.net/

Churches

Dayton Avenue Baptist Church

1121 Dayton Avenue Xenia, OH 45385

(937) 376-8223
www.daytonave.org

Far Hills Community Church-

5800 Clyo Road - Dayton, Ohio 45459

Telephone: 937-434-3232
www.farhills.org

Christian Life Center

3489 Little York Rd - Dayton, OH 45414

(937) 898-8811

www.clcdayton.org

Beavercreek Church of the Nazarene

1850 N. Fairfield Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45432

937.426.3926
www.bcnaz.com

First Baptist Church of Fairborn
1167 Highview Dr.
Fairborn, Ohio 45324
www.fbcfairborn.org

Apex Community Church

5200 Far Hills Avenue Kettering, OH 45429

937.432.9022
www.apexcommunity.net

Patterson Park Church
3655 East Patterson Road
Beavercreek, Ohio 45430
(937) 427-0130
www.pattersonpark.org

FairCreek Church
2400 Faircreek Ridge Drive
Fairborn, OH 45324

937.879.1598
http://web.mac.com/faircreek

Places to eat

Bob Evans Restaurant

2022648 Colonel Glenn Hwy , Fairborn, OH

Phone - (937) 427-0442

Bravo Restaurants

2148 Miamisburg Centerville Rd Dayton, OH

937) 439-1294

Chi-Chi's

2794 Colonel Glenn Hwy , Fairborn, OH

(937) 427-3000

Chili's

2762 N Fairfield Rd , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 429-3979

Colonial Pizza

91 N Main St , Cedarville, OH

Phone - (937) 766-5779

Cracker Barrel

5770 Wilmington Pike , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 432-2431

Don Pablo's

2745 Fairfield Commons Bl , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 320-1777

Donato's Pizza

142 Xenia Towne Sq , Xenia, OH

Phone - (937) 374-3355

Donato's Pizza

21 N Broad St , Fairborn, OH

Phone - (937) 879-7000

Doubledays Grill And Tavern

199 E Alex Bell Rd , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 436-4666

Elsas Mexican Restaurant

3618 Linden Ave , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 252-9635

Elsas South

6318 Far Hills Ave , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 439-3897

Fazoli's

5940 Far Hills Ave , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 438-9228

First Watch Fairborn

2614 Colonel Glenn Hwy , Fairborn, OH

Phone - (937) 431-9150

Giovannis

215 W Main St , Fairborn, OH

Phone - (937) 878-1611

Golden Jersey Inn

6880 Springfield Xenia Rd , Yellow Springs, OH

Phone - (937) 325-0629

J Alexanders

7970 Washington Village D , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 435-4441

Joe'S Crab Shack

6834 Miller Ln , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 454-0449

Longhorn Steakhouse

2710 Towne Dr , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 431-8344

Marion's Pizza

1320 N Fairfield Rd , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 429-3393

Oasis Cafe

13 E Main St , Xenia, OH

Phone - (937) 372-6500

Outback Steakhouse

101 E Alex Bell Rd 124 , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 434-6522

Panera Bread

2751 Fairfield Commons Boulevard Beavercreek, OH

(937) 426-3900

Pizzeria Uno

8361 Old Troy Pike , Dayton, OH

Phone - (937) 236-2884

Red Lobster

2803 N Fairfield Rd , Dayton, OH

(937) 429-1800

Steak N Shake

6380 Wilmington Pike , Dayton, OH

(937) 848-9846

The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, Blessed be the name of the Lord" Job 1:21

Nine weeks ago I saw this wonderful message! We were so excited to share our joyous news with friends and family. I was able to make a trip to Ohio and tell my family while Derrick wasted no time and told his mom only a few short hours after I left for work. We felt so blessed as we were starting a new phase of our lives together. But, Along the way. I had a few "foreshadowing" experiences that I didn't recognize at the time, But now understand that it was God preparing my heart for what was to come. After I passed 4-6 week mark, I felt relief because I knew it probably wasn't going to be an ectopic pregnancy. Please understand I work in labor and delivery so I do see a lot of unfortunate events. I was hoping that all these horrible thoughts were because of what I experience daily at work. Then a dear and wonderful friend gave me "The Belly book" as I was filling it out, a thought entered my head...Maybe you shouldn't fill this out yet, what if you miscarry? Who thinks that thought? I think it was planted by the Holy Spirit. Then I start to bleed at 8 weeks 6 days. I felt convicted to send out an email to friends and family calling on their prayers and support because I thought I would probably miscarry.

This is what I wrote:

Hello all, I just wanted to ask all my prayer warriors out there for some help. As you all know I am 9 weeks pregnant tomorrow, meaning that baby beans only 7 weeks. And, I started bleeding yesterday. Being in labor and delivery I know that all bleeding isn't bad, but I still am requesting prayers as this continues. I did go to the base clinic today and was confirmed pregnant. However, I have bled more since then. I have already placed myself on "bed rest" and have not done anything all day. Ultimately, I know God has a perfect will and plan for our lives, I pray that If this baby is to be, that it will come out healthy...preferably in another 31 weeks! Thank you and I love you all!!!

I proceeded to have a horrible night of cramping and bleeding. I knew it was not looking like a good outcome. Eventually, I miscarried officially on Wednesday Oct 8th at 3:07 am. It was still too early to tell the sex of the baby, so all I know is that baby beans is in Heaven. A much safer and glorious place than here on earth.

I sent this second email out later that afternoon.

Friends,I just wanted to send everyone an update, and thank you all for the prayers and support. I have an amazing group of friends and family that I thank God for. After, I sent you all my "prayer request" letter I continue to bleed and then started cramping really bad. I kidda figured out at that point that I would probably miscarry, but I was praying that Gods will be done. I know His plan for our life's is so much more vast than anything we could possible imagine and so I also prayed for peace. I am very gratefully for those prayers because by 300 am I was in incredible pain and passing large clots (sorry hope that's not TMI) :-) As I laid on the couch asking God to wrap His arms around the situation he spoke to my heart and said, "I provide"...Isn't God amazing. I had to almost laugh. He didn't say "I will supply your needs" or anything else more eloquent. Just "I provide" Just like he told Moses, tell them "I am". Knowing the words of God gave me great comfort and I was able to praise God irregardless of my own understanding. I was also reminded of Job. A little recap if you will....

Job 1:6-12 Job Is Put to the Test 6 One day angels came to the Lord. Satan also came with them. 7 The Lord said to Satan, "Where have you come from?" Satan answered, "From traveling all around the earth. I've been going from one end of it to the other." 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you thought about my servant Job? There isn't anyone on earth like him. He is honest. He does what is right. He has respect for me and avoids evil."
9 "You always give Job everything he needs," Satan replied. "That's why he has respect for you. 10 Haven't you guarded him and his family? Haven't you taken care of everything he has? You have blessed everything he does. His flocks and herds are spread all through the land.
11 "But reach out your hand and strike down everything he has. Then I'm sure he will speak evil things against you. In fact, he'll do it right in front of you."
12 The Lord said to Satan, "All right. I am handing everything he has over to you. But do not touch the man himself."

Please do not think I am comparing myself to the hardships of Job! He endured way more than I can even imagine. But, I do feel like I am able to relate at least a little more. God has blessed our family in so many numerous ways it really is uncountable. I am so grateful for God's mercy on our life's. Yet, in all that happened to Job he still praises the name of God, and we choose to do the same. God is good all the time! And, he will provide! Derrick said it very sweetly this afternoon, "Baby Beans went to heaven with grandpa". I almost tear up trying to re-write his words. I love you all, Thank you again for the prayers and support.

I thought I would share with everyone what had happened to our little baby beans. I am at peace knowing that God provides. I know this experience has been so much easier because of the prayers and support of my family and friends. I am so grateful for everyone who took time to pray for us and for all the kind words of encouragement that you all sent our way.

We are so very blessed.

I found a new favorite quote as I was reading, A Step Further, by Joni Eareckson Tada

"God has placed each of us exactly where He pleases on the scale of suffering. But, remember, He reserves the right to move us up or down that scale any time He chooses in order to open up to us new avenues of ministry."

If my suffering opens up new opportunities of ministry then so be it!

And, Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Boo

It is that time of year again!

One of my all time favorite things to do in October is Booing my friends....Wait don't get the wrong idea! I don't drive by a yell BOO at them. That would be totally high school. All I do is ring and run. If you have not starting Booing all your friends here is the 411.

1. Download my cute ghost and copy him along with this letter with directions.

My friends like to add glister for an extra touch of class

You’ve Been BOOed!
The air is cool,

it’s time for fall,

Soon Halloween will come to all

Ghosts and goblins, spooks galore,

Tricky witches at your door.

The spooks are after things to do,

In fact a spook brought this to you !!!

The treats that came with this short note,

Are yours to keep, enjoy them both.

The excitement comes when friends like you,

Will copy it & make it two,
We'll all have smiles upon our faces,

No one will know who BOOed our places!

Just be sure that you don’t tell,

Keep it secret ,hide it well.

Please join the fun, the seasons here.

Just spread these "BOO's" & Halloween cheer.

2. Create a lovely little Boo bag

3. Fill your Boo bad with goodies

4. Pick out your victim..because you are leaving them a chain letter..

5. Sneak up to the house, place your gift someplace safe, tape the ghost to the door

6. Ring and Run

Here are some other sites with Boo ideas

http://www.kraftykid.com/Craft_ideas/Youve_Been_Booed.htm

http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/halloween/l/blhalbooed.htm

http://www.brightideas.com/halloween/family/f_1464_1.jsp

This is a delicate process, you have to use stealth like skills, and you must remain unseen. The fun part is watch all the little Boos appear on your neighbors doors.

This really is a lot of fun to welcome in fall.

How Many of you are there?

I'm am totally copying Bee's blog, but I really loved looking up my name! I thought it would be fun to see about the rest of you all out there.

There are 12 of Me in the US

There are 33 of my wonderful hisband in the US

There are 64,100 people in the U.S. with our last name.
Statistically the 542nd most popular last name.

There are 4 people in the U.S. named Erin Riffle.

There are 5,516 people in the U.S. named Mary Edwards.

There are 1 or fewer people in the U.S. named Chole Yates.

I am sure Chole will be beaming with pure joy once she finds this out!

So go see for yourself...How many of you are there?

http://www.howmanyofme.com/search/

Welcome Packets for Laughlin

Beth Ann and I have been working on welcoming new 86th spouses. I feel like we've not done the greatest of job, but it is a slow work in progress. Here are a few lists of where to eat, where to shop, day trips and weekend trips. hopefully, this will help you adjust to the slower pace of life in Del Rio....

Place to eat in Del Rio

Salas Better Burger
830-775-0051
913 E Ogden St Del Rio, TX 78840
Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri, Sat 10 AM - 10 PM,Wednesday 10:30 AM - 10 PM, Sun Closed
Cost: $5

The Herald
830-774-2845. 321 S. Main St.Del Rio, TX 78840
Mon- Fri 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.Thur- Sat 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.Sun- noon – 7 p.m., Sunday.
Ladies Night drink specials on Fridays. Happy Hour Tuesdays, 2 – 7 p.m., and Saturdays, 7 – 11 p.m.
Cost: $20

Brown Bag
440 South Main St Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 768-4837
Cost: $10

T & B's (Todd and Bullets)
3806 Veterans Blvd,Del Rio, TX 78840
830-775-3005
Cost: $10-20

Don Marcelino's
1110 Veterans Blvd Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 775-6242
Mon- Sat 7:30am – 10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Cost:$10

Memo's
804 East Losoya Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 774-1583
Mon- Sat 11am 2pm / 5:30pm 9:30pm
Cost: $5
http://www.memosrestaurant.com/

Cripple Creek
Hc 3 Box 8, Del Rio, TX
(830) 775-0153
Cost $10-20

Julio's
3900 Highway 90 East Del Rio, TX 78840
830-774-2240
Drive through hours: 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.; Dine-in hours 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Cost: $10
http://www.julioschips.com/

Jitra's Thia Cuisine
800 E Gibbs St, Del Rio, TX
(830) 775-7553
Cost: $10

Chinto's Super Taco
400 E 6th St, Del Rio, 78840
(830) 774-1592
Cost $5

Meme's Kleen Kitchen
202 E Canal St Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 775-3696
Cost $5

Chilli's
2415 Veterans Blvd. Del Rio, TX 78840
830-774-1171
Cost $10
http://www.chillis.com/

Shops

Buffalo Girls
440 South Main Del Rio, TX 78840
830-768-4837

Love of Farel’s
2400 Veterans Blvd., Ste 4 Del Rio, TX 78840
830-768-2442

The Veranda Box
405 E. Gibbs Del Rio, TX 78840
830-775-9446

Russel’s True Value
506 E Gibbs St Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 775-3502
http://www.truevalue.com/content/home/default.aspx

Milagros
109 W. Broadway Del Rio, Texas 78840
(830) 774 -8558.

Emporium
800 South Main Del Rio, Texas 78840
(830) 774-0962

OSC Thift Store
Laughlin AFB Wed and Fri 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and First Saturday of each month

Home Depot
2454 Veterans Blvd Del Rio, Texas 78840
830-774-0456

Bel Furniture
2209 Veterans Blvd, Del Rio, TX. 78840
830-775-1900

Ashley Furniture
504 East 10th Street, Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 775-1508
Mon - Fri 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Sunday.

WALMART
2410 Dodson Ave Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 774-6534
http://www.walmart.com/

Plaza Del Sol Mall
JC Penny, Rue 21, Bath and Body Works, Rack Room Shoes, Bealls, Ross, GNC
2205 Veterans Blvd Del Rio, TX 78840
(830) 775-0600
http://www.plazadelsolmall.com/

Day Trips

Lake Amistad
Del Rio, Texas
Camping, boating, fishing, hunting
http://www.nps.gov/amis/

Simonole Canyon
Comstock Texas 78837
432/292-4464
Hiking, Pictographs, Camping
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/seminole_canyon/

Fredricksburg
Fredricksburg, Texas 78624
Shopping, Antiques, Camping, Hiking,
http://www.fredericksburg-texas.com/visitor/index.asp

Uvalde Antiques
Opera House Antiques 100 W North St, Uvalde - (830) 278-9380
Market Square Antiques 114 W North St, Uvalde - (830) 486-0399
Antiques On the Square 103 N West St, Uvalde - (830) 278-1294

The Rio Frio
tubing and water hiking
ANDY’S
21488 TX Hwy 127, Concan, TX, 78838
phone: 830-232-5444
http://www.andysonriverroad.com/

Josh's
Corner of Us Hwy 127 & 83 P.O. Box 10 Concan, TX 78838
(830) 232-4243
http://www.frioriveroutfitter.com/

Park Chalk Bluff
1108 Chalk Bluff Road Uvalde, Texas 78801
830-278-5515
Paddle boats, Row Boats, Kayaks, camping
http://www.chalkbluff.com/

Garner State Park
234 RR 1050Concan TX 78838
830/232-6132
Camping, Hiking, canoes, fishing, swimming in the Frio River,miniature golf, paddle boat and kayak rentals, bike riding
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/garner/

Val Verde Winery
100 Qualia Drive Del Rio, Texas 78840
(830) 775-9714
wine tasting, tours
http://www.valverdewinery.com/

Langtry
Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center
(915-291-3340)
U.S. 90 West, 60 miles west of Del Rio
http://www.traveltex.com/pg/Activity.aspx?id=9b9606ef-6971-455a-87eb-206708b853cfhttp://www.texasescapes.com/TOWNS/Texas_ghost_towns/Langtry_Texas/Langtry_Texas.htm

Alamo Village
7 Miles North on HWY 674P.O. Box 528
Brackettville ,Tx 78832
830-563-2580
http://thealamovillage.homestead.com/AlamoVillage.html

Sonora Caverns
1711 PR 4468P.O. Box 1196 Sonora, Texas 76950
325-387-3105
http://www.cavernsofsonora.com/index.php



Weekend trips from Del Rio

Big Bend National Park
(432) 477-2251
http://www.nps.gov/bibe/
Places to stay over night http://www.chisosmountainslodge.com/ or
Marathon at http://www.gagehotel.com/

San Antonio Zoo
3903 North St. Mary's St.San Antonio, Texas 78212
http://www.sazoo-aq.org/

San Antonio Children's Museum
305 E. Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 212-4453
http://www.sakids.org/

Sea World
10500 Sea World Drive San Antonio, TX 78251
(800) 700-7786
http://www.seaworld.com/sanantonio/

Six Flags Fiesta Texas
17000 IH-10 West San Antonio, TX 78257
(210) 697-5050.
http://www.sixflags.com/fiestaTexas/index.aspx

Gruene
Gruene, Texas 78130
http://www.gruenetexas.com/
Black Swan Antiques -(830)625-7122.
Cactus Jacks-. (830)620-9602.
The Gruene Antique House -(830)629-7781.
Hample House (830)620-1325.

Gristmill River Restaurant and Grill
1287 Gruene Rd. New Braunfels, TX 78130
830-625-0684
http://www.gristmillrestaurant.com/

The Riverwalk
711 E River Walk St San Antonio
http://www.sanantonioriverwalk.com/

Schlitterbahn
381 East Austin Street New Braunfels, TX 78130
830.625.2351
http://www.schlitterbahn.com/


Malibu Grand Prix
3330 Cherry Ridge Street San Antonio, TX 78230
210 341 6663
http://www.malibugrandprix.com/

Dave and Busters
440 Crossroads Blvd San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 515-1515
http://www.daveandbusters.com/

Natural Bridge Caverns
26495 Natural Bridge Cavern Road Natural Bridge Caverns, TX 78266
Fax: (210) 651-6144
http://www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd San Antonio, Texas 78266
830-438-7400
http://www.wildliferanchtexas.com/index.html

Carlsbad Caverns National Park
3225 National Parks Highway Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220
(505) 785-2232
http://www.nps.gov/cave/

Fort Concho
Historic site, Bird watching
630 S. Oakes San Angelo, TX 76903
325-481-2646

Jordan Llamas
Llama guided tour, Hiking
1734 Calle Senderra San Angelo, TX 76904
915-651-7346


Don't forget about lodging at Randolph and Lackland while visiting San Antonio. 1-888-AF-LODGEhttp://www.servicesatrandolph.com/cm/templates/combat_support.asp?articleid=26&zoneid=3http://dodlodging.net/vt_lackland.htm

Concerned citizen

Concerned Citizen or Nosey Neighbor? I am not really sure myself, but I wanted to post some pictures about the great happening at Laughlin. Maybe not so great if you are next to this construction work.

Since Laughlin has been privatize though Pinnacle, we have started to see a few changes around here. For one, I have a non military neighbor down the street from me. Still find it kinda odd, especially when He has all his family from Del Rio over.

I drove around yesterday to take some picture of the progress. Here is a house on McKee. I was going to take a picture of the Collins old house but there were too many workers out front. I didn't what them to think I was taking their picture because they were HOT. Because that would be far from the truth! No offense fellas.

As you can see they took off the front of the house and it looks like they will be adding more square feet. From the old plans I looked up a year ago, most houses were supposed to get the car port converted to a garage and the storage shed would be converted to a laundry room. In my humble opinion I think that is a great idea. However, I just heard the other day the plans have changed. Go figure! So, I guess we will just have to wait it out and see what happens.

The old trailer park is also being renovated. I am not sure what they are going, but they did take up all the old concrete slabs and removed a ton of trees. I wish they could have left more trees. I guess it'll make sense after the finish.

Latino Arts/Ohio 2008

While I was home, Mom and I were able to go to an Art exhibit which feature my Aunt's work. These are self portraits. I love what my mom said, "She really is a lot prettier than these painting." I would agree. My aunt is beautiful inside and out!

Being a labor and delivery nurse, I really loved this display. Her is my cousin Daniel, and the pure miracle of birth. I have never seen anything quite like this, but I would not count myself as a scholar of art works either.

I love this one, his sweet little face still floating in amniotic fluid. It is amazing how they all fit.

So hopefully, I am not in trouble for taking pictures. I am pretty sure you are not supposed to at an exhibit.

Here is an article I found online while looking up more info about the exhibit.

Indepth Arts News:
"Latino Arts/OHIO 2008" 2008-08-25 until 2008-09-15 Concourse Gallery Upper Arlington, OH, USA United States of America
The City of Upper Arlington Cultural Arts Division presents Latino Arts/OHIO 2008, a visual, performing and literary arts exhibition on view in the Concourse Gallery August 25 to September 19, 2008. The Concourse Gallery is located at the Municipal Services Center, 3600 Tremont Road, and is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. The exhibition features a fine arts exhibit curated by Egle Gatins and Elena Osterwalder showcasing a variety of artwork created by Ohio Latino artists including the following artists: Alejandro Rivera, Ana Luisa Sanchez, Elsie Sanchez, Hector Castellanos, Juan Granados, Mabi Ponce de Leon, Micaela de Vivero, Rafael Valdiviesa, Wilfredo Calvo-Bono. During the celebratory reception on September 7, commencing at 2 p.m., the audience will experience original scores of music through a concert by the “El Calido Viento” Quartet. In addition to the musical performance Latino Poets Juan Armando Rojas, Mauricio Espinoza and Eduardo Jaramillo will present original poems inspired by the exhibit during the reception.
All present and participating Latino Arts/OHIO 2008 artists will share their experiences, ideas, creativity through a forum discussion to synthesize the arts experience. Viewers will be able to enjoy the exhibit through multiple media including a gallery guide and an exhibition catalog. Join in a conversation with the Latino Arts/OHIO 2008 artists to learn about the creative process through an Artspeak on September 17 at 12 p.m. and panel discussion lead by Rosa Rojas at 7 p.m. Through the Latino Arts/OHIO 2008 the community has the opportunity to experience and appreciate the contribution of Latino artists to modern music, poetry and the fine arts. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. http://www.absolutearts.com/artsnews/2008/08/25/35161.html

Preschool Fun

Beth started preschool this year. Since I was home we decided to surprise her at school.

Here she is showing off her amazing art work. Not entirely sure what she created. It was so cute to see her all dressed up for school! Then she had a major melt down because she wanted to take home another art project she had made that day too, but it was still wet.

As you can see she easily recovered. We went to Waynesville, to a cute little Book Store/Restaurant and this is where she "master" Connect Four. She really thought it was great to fill the whole board up and then let the checkers go falling down!

Maya 3 years old!

Maya's Birthday

Her Momma had her Birthday party out at the lake and I was not only perfect weather but beautiful!

She loved her fair dress that I got her! But honestly, she loved everything especially the crayons and coloring book. (what a brilliant idea!)As Maya opened EVERY gift, my favorite quote of the day came out of Beth's mouth,

"Oh I have that."

Haha, Erin said she didn't have anything that Maya got for her birthday! Aren't kids funny!

The girls had a great time, and even though Maya's birthday present kept falling apart grandpa Jim has already fixed it!

Beth and dirty as ever! She had a great time and so did I. I was so happy to be home for Maya's birthday party! It was the first time I have been to one for her!

Happy Birthday little Maya!!

Little Girls, Little Girls everywhere I look...

Okay so by no way am I comparing myself to Miss. Hannigans, but it is the song that popped into my head as I was uploading these pictures.

So here are some of my favorite little girls that I got to spend time with while I was in Ohio. Julie has a much better picture of this trio titled, Ugly faces! Maybe she'll send it to me!

Right before the injury happened...Who knew jumping on a bed with blankets over your head increases your chance of falling off the bed! Guess we know now!

Maybe this is where the jumping idea came from. Here the girls are trampolining!

I especially like the frog pose in the corner. It was a great idea, but I think the frog was being choked in mid air.

Missy's Graduation Party

I was able to go home to Ohio for a whole two weeks! Amazing good time and I was able to catch so many family functions while I was there.

When I first got home I was able to go to my cousin Missy's graduation party! So, proud of her. She just finished getting her LPN. Way to go Miss!Her sister Kelli, hosted a graduation party. Thanks Kelli it was a great time and wonderful opportunity to catch up with family.

My sister Erin and I

Me and Steph (She's knocked up!!!!!)

Granny Goldie and Kelli

And of course Beth having a great time on this fabulous ride. It was the hot of the party if you were 5 and under!

Henson Family Reunion

Our Roots run deep in the heart of Texas

You would think that I would take more postable pictures, but I didn't. So, i posted the best picture I had from the reuino. This is my sister inlaw and her family. I love them dearly and didn't they take an amazing picture!!

We were able to spend two days with our "Henson" while it was flooding in Del Rio. I have to admit it was hard to leave knowing there was standing water in the storage unit! But, all ended well and we had a great time with fmaily and our many many stops to half Price books. Did you know there are five in the San Anotnio area. And, of course we went to every store! We visited two on the way to the reunion and the other three on the way home! What a successful trip!

Sewing Sewing Sewing

In have recently been inspired to sew. My latest project was this room redo.

Most of my inspiration came from The Nester. She is amazing and if she can do it, then I was willing to try too. I think it came out OK. I made the comforter, bed skirt, pillow cases and curtain panel. I also confess to using Velcro. And would like to proclaim that I didn't have to use the hot glue gun once! (I was tempted!)I would like to make a few more pillows, but I am not sure which material to use. or maybe I should buy some different coordinating fabrics. All input is welcome!

Please let me know what you think.

Can she bake a Cherry pie charming Billy?

Okay, so I didn't bake cherry pie. And, my husbands name is not Billy. But, I found this adorable idea from a friend of mine.

Bake a pie in a jar. The idea that you can freeze the little jars and then have a sample of pie whenever the mood strikes.

They suggested to use 4 oz jars from Fred Meyer. Well, no Fred Meyer around here and I don't know the Roloffs well enough to have them ship me some. My options were Walmart and HEB. Yes, (Here Everythings Better) well everything except their stock of 4 oz canning jars! What is this world coming too. Don't they know some people still can! It settled for 8 oz jars that I filled to only 4 oz. It worked and I don't feel the need to write a letter.

Here are the results! It was delicious. But you don't have to take my word for it!

Here is the link with great pie in a jar ideas!

http://sycamorestirrings.blogspot.com/2008/08/pie-in-jar.html

Shine a little light

Rumor has it, we are to get ceiling fans installed on base soon. I know HGTV is probably shuttering at the thought of adding a ceiling fan anywhere. But, Del Rio is HOT and trust me a ceiling fan will be welcomed by most. It would have been nice to know this before I changed out almost every light fixture in my house.

Here are some pictures from my dear friends house. I wanted to post some more ideas of how to change out light fixtures for your base house.

This is her dinning room light. Also, note the amazing paint choice! Nice clam buttery tint.

This is the entry way light. It makes me laugh to think we have "dinning rooms" and an "entry". If you have the privilege of visiting a base house you know this is far from the truth.

Nonetheless, these are little ideas to make your base house feel like home.

Thanks Bee for the pics!

Summer In Fort Worth

I went to see my family this past week and we had a great time! Beth and I at Leddy's.
Squirt and I in the pool.
My sister Erin in the parking lot of Joe T. Garcia's, it makes my mouth water just thinking about fajitas!
Grace, Beth and Elaine swan not stop.
Bath standing still for a picture.
Matching swim suits! Too cute!
Elaine was the make up Artist for Beth. We had nightly makeovers.

We did a lot of this too.

We spent a lot of time doing this!

Missing from this post is Gran and Pap! Where were you guys? Gran you must send me copies of the pictures you have.

It's a Bugs Life

Note to Crissi....There is a Caterpillar in this post!

On our walk to Panthers cave, while sitting in the shade and drinking our cool refreshing water, I noticed that we had company. Mr Lizard had stopped in to say "hello"!

While weeding the parsley I found a very hungry caterpillar.

Then on our walk the other day the dogs found that the tortoise does not beat the hire if the tortoise stops to take a nap.
In all actuality the tortoise probably wouldn't have been shell shocked if Gertie had not picked him up and flung him about 4 feet in the air before he came crashing down and forever scared to come out of his shell. The next day he was gone so I imagine after we left he finished the race.

Baby Girl burp cloths

I think my burp cloths are catching on! I have two gals that are making burp cloths as we speak...(blog)! And, trust me I can't take credit for it...Like the song says, "I gotta give credit where credit is due I thank" Laura for the idea and for showing me her great master piece last year. It has been a ton of fun making these little burpy cloths! When the other gals finish their burp cloths I hope to post them too. Once I figure out who these will go to, I'd loved to get them monogrammed! Wouldn't that be too cute!

Literally, I'll keep you posted!