A Robinson Christmas

It was a Christmas celebration that didn't end...

After a private Jesus party and a wonderful Christmas in San Antonio, we got home to Houston just in time for a very special Robinson family Christmas. 

Christmas Wonderland

When we pulled up to GiGi and Pappa's for Christmas, we entered into a Christmas wonderland complete with a towering Christmas tree decorated with rotating ornaments, stockings, 6 foot Santa... it was something out of a storybook and Liam's reaction was all worth it. He went straight for the incredible tree that GiGi had been perfecting since October and stared in awe shouting out the biggest "wow!!" It had that wow factor for sure.

Family Christmas Tradition

Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year. It is also the busiest! With all the family and friend and school and work activities, it is hard to find time for just the three of us. Bill and I have been doing our own, family Christmas since we were married in 2005 and it is one of my favorite traditions for the Robinson III. No matter how busy and chaotic it gets, we made a pact that we would always carve out a little space for our little family. A little time to cherish each other as a family unit and exchange presents.

Amegy Housewives

We were called the Housewives of Amegy at the holiday party this year. Funny thing is, if you are an Amegy wife, chances are you are a working wife of Amegy... hahaha!

Santa's Lap

We took these three monkeys to the mall to see Santa...

Celebrating Ashley

Are you tired of reading all of these posts from the past? My New Year's resolution was to go back to earlier times when posts were more timely, but in order to get there.. I must finish out 2010, so I am truly sorry for the delay, Ashley... but Happy Birthday all over again!

The girls gathered after the true November event to celebrate another year of birth at Brio in the City Center. The food was incredible I must say and we had such a great evening.

5th Annual Girl's Christmas Exchange

The annual girl's Christmas exchange is one of my favorite parties of the year. We have so many stories and I cannot believe that we have been doing this for five years. (actually longer, but officially and at my house is 5) It is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with all my best girlfriends and toast with a few too many girlie drinks. This year we had the infamous green apple martinis and of course the hunt for the pickle present! This year's gift was an infinity ring by Stella and Dot in your choice of gold, silver or rose gold. I actually hid the pickle well this year and the winner was... Adriane! I hope that she loves the ring as much as I do!

Sayler is OLD

Okay, so not really... I used to think that 30 sounded so old, but as I stated previously, I cannot wait to turn thirty. Don't get me wrong, I have loved my twenties, but it just seems as though you are not really taken seriously until 30. I feel like thirty gives you some rights. Some rights to not care what others think, some rights on motherhood, some rights on no longer being the "green" one at the office...

Sayler entered into her thirties with grace and beauty. We have such a special friendship and I absolutely love her to pieces! She is just plain fun to be around. Period. She has such a positive attitude on life and our friendship seemed to have happened instantly. Not gonna say love at first sight, cause umm that would be a little weird... but really... we totally bonded. She is a true friend and I am so blessed that she is a part of my life. Happy Birthday sweet Sayler... even if we celebrated almost 2 months ago!

Turkey Day

It has been suggested that Robinson Thanksgivings be changed to a different date; therefore, this Thanksgiving we are calling a simple Turkey Day. Because after all, we did enjoy turkey on this day. It has become a family tradition to turn Thanksgiving into a true event! Let's see, there have been hospital visits, bed rest, pericarditis, crashed ovens.... I mean, it really is quite comical. What do you do when Thanksgiving doesn't turn out the way that you originally planned? I take advantage of the incredible evening light and take pictures!!! Pictures without photoshop edits... and of course, lots and lots of wine consumption!

Supper Club

I always wanted to be a part of a Supper Club... I remember thinking my parents were a part of some really cool group and when I was a "grown-up" I wanted to gain this elite status. I have officially become a grown-up! And I could not be more excited about being a part of such an incredible group of couples. Our very own supper club. I absolutely LOVE this group! We had our first dinner forever ago... that is just how far behind on blogging I am, but it was a blast. We had a babysitter that took over the kids so that the adults could engage in grown-up conversation. It was the perfect setup and I cannot wait until our next dinner. I was enjoying myself so much that I completely forgot to take pictures... yes, you heard me correctly. I got one of Sayler and Greg and an end-of-the-night shot of Meredith and Liam on the motorcycle - none of which capture the evening. I promise to do better next time. Robbin's, Mraz's, Clarke's, Conner's, Riley's and Kerr's.... thanks for being such fabulous friends and we look forward to many more amazing evenings with you!

11-11-11

This year, my birthday fell on a very special day. I truly felt like the luckiest girl in the world. I have the most incredible husband who happens to have blessed me with the greatest gift of all, amazing family, and wonderful friends. This birthday is at the top of the charts for sure...

Trick or Treat

We mastered the art of "Trick or Treating." Run to door. Ring bell. Say peese, I mean, tick teet. Grab candy. Unwrap lollipop for the rode. Jump in wagon. Repeat!

Robbin's Fall Festival

The Robbin's put on one incredible Halloween Party Fall Festival. Let's just call it what it was... a total Fall Festival complete with onsite Taco truck for a made-to-order meal, party tables, bounce house, playground, photography setup, balloon clown, pumpkin patch, craft section, and the list continues. It was the very best Halloween party I have ever attended! We had a blast!

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Wednesday Wink 017... late

This year I was in charge of class gifts, room teacher gifts, and of course my husband's office gifts! For our very special teachers, we created giving trees with tons of gift cards and little notes from the children. I think they turned out really great...

Texas A&M Class of 2032

The Domann Family invited us to join in on their yearly visit to Aggieland for a Texas A&M tailgate tradition. We loaded up the Suburban, bleeding Maroon, and headed back to our Alma mater. As we walked through the tunnel on the way to the game, we were feeling pretty good about how well we “fit in.” I mean, we still look like we could be students there, right? We passed by the Stadium window and quickly realized that even though our hearts still feel 20, maybe the almost 2 year old boys in strollers gave us away?

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Wednesday Wink 016

So I am going to give away a Christmas gift with this wink, but I think it will be totally worth it! But not before having a cup of coffee and first chocolate milk from Starbucks. Grandparents, do not read on if you don't want your surprise spoiled, otherwise... here we go!

Sweet as Pumpkin Pie

Kristen waved her wand and turned a pumpkin into a magical second birthday party. From the bounce house to the incredible party favors, it was amazing. Walking up their pumpkin lined driveway set the tone for the afternoon. The main dining table was covered with sugary sweets from chocolate dipped pretzels to cupcakes in all flavors to one of my all time favorites... candy corn! It quickly became a favorite of the birthday girl herself. There were juice boxes hand wrapped in orange with jack-o-lantern faces and sandwiches cut into pumpkins. There was orange soda pop in glass bottles and a margarita machine for the adults. The children were running from indoor activities to the castle bounce house in the back yard squealing with excitement and grinning from ear to ear through pink cheeks from all the hard play. Two things to remember: bounce house and bubbles!

22 Months

Just because I am behind, it doesn't mean that 21 and 22 months don't deserve separate posts!

Oh my goodness... there are only two more months that I get to hear Liam answer "How old are you?" with a very loud 1! I guess we should start practicing for 2. As I said before, this is one of my favorite ages. They are little sponges and you can see the light bulbs going off. I love that Liam is getting better at communicating which means I understand him more and more. Sometimes the communication... wait, let me back that up... most of the time the communication is "nooooo." It is not a mean no or a yell. It is a sweet, drawn out little no, but a no it is. "Yes" is just not in our vocabulary right now. Bill and I are trying to use yes whenever and wherever possible to help with this distinction; however climbing on the coffee table is no, standing up in the chair is no, pulling Tucker's tail is no, going outside when it is cold and rainy is no, throwing anything but balls is no, eating cookies before dinner is no... I mean, I can understand why he only gets no. We are finding ways to yes, I promise!

21 Months

These past few months have blended together. I have to say this is my favorite favorite stage thus far in the life of Liam. His little personality is shining through and I am totally head over heals for this little guy. In terms of development, I feel as though we have accomplished so much. I am amazed at the growth.. Sitting at a big boy table to eat lunch, no more bib, using a fork and spoon to eat, drinking from an open cup, throwing away the mess in the trash, helping to clean up toys, helping to stir and cook in mommy's kitchen, coloring with markers, trick or treating for candy, learning what "time out" means and saying "I am sorry," learning to walk in a line at school, saying cheese and smiling for the camera, and recognizing L-I-A-M spells Liam to name a few. He continues to amaze me each day and I feel like the luckiest mom in the entire world. I thought since October was the month for pumpkins, I would post a few patch photos.

Hadley is Two!

Stay with me here... I managed to clear every single photo from my camera cards this weekend and so these posts are going to go fast and furious! I am usually known for getting my photographs out to friends fairly quickly and I have completely fallin down on the job the last few months... I am back! And just in time for the holidays!

I cannot believe that Hadley turned two. Partly because it seems like only yesterday that we were meeting Liam's cousin for the first time in the hospital and partly because it means that Liam's second birthday is quickly approaching. I think that it is awesome that they are so close in age.

Another Sweetie Turns 3

All these sugary birthdays enhance my sweet tooth! These are my kind of birthday parties! Addie has a special connection with the Sugar Shack in Destin, FL. After experiencing first hand this incredible little shop, I have to agree and it made for the perfect theme for her 3rd birthday.

Joy Ride

We have some of the greatest friends. Friends that have been there through it all. Friends that love us and support us. Friends we travel with, laugh with, love with, and experience with. We have been truly blessed with amazing friends. We met them in all aspects of our life. Whether through school, or church, or work, or children; each one of our friends holds a special place in our hearts. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky? I quite literally have someone to call in any situation... for the good, the bad and everything in between. We have some pretty cool friends on top of that. I mean, way cooler than us.... because cool friends drive a Ferrari!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Zoo Boo and Parade

This year we decided to attempt to brave the masses at Zoo Boo to spend a day with the animals and practice "trick-o-treating" before the real deal on Halloween. Honestly, it wasn't all that crowded. Pumpkin painting and Halloween activities was a bit of a loose term, but we still had a wonderful time. I am pretty certain that Noah and Liam didn't know the difference.

The Velveteen Rabbitt

Marianne always comes up with the best activities for kids in Houston. She suggested the outdoor theatre production of the velveteen rabbit and I was excited to check it out. We packed lunch for Liam and Lainey and chose a seat in the back just in case our little wiggle worms need to roam. They really enjoyed the show and all the singing! Liam kept shouting from the back "wabbit" which I thought was adorable, just not so sure the other moms agreed. The best part was that the kids could run free up and down the grassy hill in the back. We had such a great afternoon with the Horton girls, even if two photographers happened to leave their cameras at home and all we got were iphone shots! smile...

A visit to SA

Oh my goodness, could I really be a month behind on blog postings? I used to be so much better at this! With all the new activity around Kate Robinson Photography, new project kick-offs at the office and the normal hustle and bustle of everyday Robinson life; I guess I had to let one aspect get a little behind. Trying to give 110% in every activity is just plain hard. And with the holidays approaching this could get out of control! BUT... it will all get digitally documented. Even if it is a month late...

About a month ago, we made a trip to visit my parents in San Antonio. A fun, relaxing trip to get caught up and share some much needed hugs! We always enjoy GiGi and Pappa visits and this time was no different. Did I ever tell you that one of GiGi's favorite holidays is Halloween? I know, Halloween. right? Maybe that is why I like candy so much. And not the crazy, scary Halloween.. but all that comes with Halloween. Like cooler weather and sweets and pumpkin carving and just the start of the season. Okay, so maybe it is November now and we are still in shorts, but Halloween does officially mark boot season! GiGi bought some age appropriate carving tools and we (ah hem... I) helped Liam to assemble the "pumpkin head" masterpiece.

Appiee Birt Aye O' wee

I always wondered what it would be like to have a sister. Someone to share clothes with, go shopping with and stay up late whispering secrets about boys with. Sisters share a special bond. "For there is no friend like a sister, in calm or stormy weather, to cheer one on the tedious way, to fetch one if one goes astray, to lift one if one totters down, to strengthen whilst one stands." (Christina G. Rossetti) And while I may not have a biological sister, I have been blessed to gain a sister through marriage. On October 3rd, it was Aunt Nolie's birthday and we celebrated with dinner. Thank you for being an amazing sister to me and your brother and an incredible aunt to Liam who loves you so much! Happy Birthday!

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Next week I will bring you back to your regularly scheduled programming, but as for this Wednesday... I have been working really hard to launch my new website. Kate Robinson Photography started as a dream and I have finally turned it into a reality with the help of some wonderful supporters, family, friends and an amazing designer at Lilly & Louise who created all three of my logos. You may have noticed that http://www.kathrynscamera.com/ has changed to better serve you. Whether you are looking for my personal blog, my website or my soon to launch photography blog you can find it here. As for links directly to Kathryn's Camera (the blog), you can use http://www.kathrynscamera.blogspot.com/. Thank you for going on this journey with me and allowing me to share something that I am truly excited about. I would love to know what you think about all of the changes at Kathryn's Camera and any feedback on our sister website! Be sure to check out both Kathryn's Camera and Kate Robinson Photography on facebook!

I would also like to thank Truly Yours Designs for the amazing new header art... if only I looked that good! More to come on these talented ladies...

Happy Birthday Elise

When we first met little Elise, she was sitting across from Liam at the crayola table and clearly stated that she was going to write her name. We celebrated her birthday at a ladybug themed party at Gymboree about a month or so ago. Let that sink in... This girl is one smart little ladybug! I was just glad Liam knew what color crayon he picked... write his name? I just love watching toddler friends interact together and it is always a wonderful time at the gym. We have an amazing class with the most wonderful moms and I cannot wait to see these friendships grow. We received one of the best party favors to date and I plan to keep this in mind for future events. There was a basket of lady bug themed books such as "The Grouchy Ladybug" and "Ten Little Ladybugs" to choose from as we left the party. Liam wants to read his every evening and practice counting each "waddi gug" on the beautifully painted pages. The perfect gift for toddlers and mommies! I have a soft spot for Elise, and not just because that is my mother's name... maybe she can teach Liam how to spell his name! Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Sweet Meredith Turned One

Lollipop, lollipop... ooh lolly lollipop. This sweet sugary goodness turned one. Adriane created a candyland walkway entry and gave circular bubblewands packaged like lollipops for favors to go with theme. She did a fantastic job transforming their backyard into a sweet celebration. And Meredith.... oh my goodness beautiful Meredith!!! With her long lashes and contagious smile... she was definitely the star of her show and Liam noticed... just sayin! She totally melts my heart. We are very much in love with her parents as well and I am so thankful for their friendship. Truly wonderful friends. We had as much fun or more as the little ones... even though I may have crashed a wine glass trying to capture a photo of these really delicious twins in turquoise! It was a gorgeous afternoon celebrating one amazing little girl's milestone. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Princess Ella Turns 3

Princess Ella turned three and we were there to celebrate her royal highness at a very special prince and princess themed birthday party. The kids jumped in the bounce castle until their cheeks were red and then cooled down with ice cream sundaes complete with every topping you could possibly imagine and cupcakes. A crown pinata burst over waiting toddler's heads and shrills of excitement filled the backyard as they loaded their goody bags with sweets. It was a perfect afternoon spent with an amazing family celebrating one beautiful princess. Ashley created a magical scene out of a storybook. Ella will always hold a special place in my heart being one of the first babies I got to hold (of my girlfriends) and we are so excited that she is going to soon share her thrown with a baby sister! We love you Ella Faith (and of course your mommy and daddy)! Happy Birthday.

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featuring Lilly & Louise

As the end of October nears and pumpkin patch photo sessions are wrapping up, it is time to start thinking about the holiday season. Start thinking about your yearly family photoshoot with perfectly coordinated outfits to show off to all of your friends. Yes, little brother might have been pinching sister from the back and the mom monster may have come out a couple of times... but you got the perfect pose! Or maybe you have chosen the best from your favorite vacation spot in the mountains or barefoot on the beach to share. In any case, your family photo deserves to stand out above the rest. Leslie, the creative designer behind Lilly & Louise has revealed this years 2011 Holiday Card Collection and it is truly spectacular. From whimsical to classic to modern, Lilly & Louise has created a custom designed card specifically with you in mind. Imagine your friends and family receiving this year's photo complimented by one of these incredible designs:

20 Months

I win the horrible mom award for month 20. Yes, I am aware that in three days Liam will be 21 months. I am aware that I am so completely behind on blogging. You should see my blog que. But in any case this is my adorable 20 month old.

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I have tried everything to get Liam to eat his vegetables. I clearly was not preparing them in a way that he found appealing. Not dicing, not hidden in pasta or smothered in cheese. It only took a technique out of Haley Maglieri's cookbook. Egged, breaded and baked zucchini wheels are a staple in the Robinson house today.

Happy Birthday Amelia

We picked the perfect group for our small birthday dinners. Not only because we are all good friends and enjoy spending an evening together over food and wine, but because our birthdays seem to be perfectly spaced throughout the year. Other than Ashley and I who messed up the system with back to back birthdays... the timing works out pretty wonderful. And yes, I am so behind on blogging that I am posting last months activities in this month, but I am working on it! promise. September is Amelia's month and we met up at City Center for dinner at Flora and Muse. (M'Lee was there... should have brought out camera earlier and we missed Jackie and Sue Ellen!)

Visiting Haley and Mike

On the final day of our Colorado trip, we headed back to Denver to spend time with the Maglieris! It was almost the exact weekend that we were celebrating their wedding last year. Perfect timing! Happy Anniversary!

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Need a Christmas or birthday idea for your 20month - well, adult? I cannot say enough good things about the Platinum Toy Award winning PlasmaCar. It truly is the perfect gift for all ages.

Colorado Vacation

Way back in September, we took time to slow down and breathe in some cooler, fresher air in mountains of Colorado. From the moment we stepped off the plane and felt the crisp breeze through our hair, we all three felt alive. It was that burst of frisky energy that comes with the season's first cool front. That weather that perks you up and makes your cheeks pink. Beautiful. Perfect weather.

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This week is the bookfair at Liam's school. Some of my favorite school memories were when my mom would meet me at the fair and I would spend an hour going through each book and choosing my favorites like Judy Bloom or the ones with the stickers in the back. Liam also has a love for books and our little shelf is overflowing with Eric Carle and Dr. Suess. Of course he loves "The Very Hungary Caterpillar" (thus his first birthday theme) and we finish the night with prayers and "Goodnight Moon," but we recently discovered a new favorite from our best friend Noah. A book that we must have read fifty times already and I find myself singing "I love my white shoes" all morning on my way to work. If you are not already familiar with "Pete the Cat," we highly recommend you introduce yourself.

Goat Brushing with Nolie

Ever since we received a family membership to the zoo from the Blairs, we have tried to make as many trips as possible, because there is so much to do and see for toddlers. Besides the fact that he loves it! Best present ever Caroline!

Two Chicks to Love

A few Fridays back, Marianne and I took these little friends to the Children's Museum.

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Playlists are important. Especially when it comes to running, walking or jogging. My "work-out" playlist looks vastly different than my regular playlist. I need something that will keep a pace, and typically angry girl music fits the bill. Here are a few from my current playlist if you promise not to laugh! What are some of your favorites?

Robinson Family Vacation 3

The annual Robinson Family vacation to Galveston has changed...

Robbins Playdate

I am officially giving up my membership to Gymboree and enrolling in Sayler's Playland.