Hood Memorial and Reunion 2010

The Hood family gathered in Bayard, NE to memorialize Elmer Hood, one of the last great men of an amazing generation. Elmer was the longest living brother of our grandfather, Herbert Hood. Even though I didn't know Elmer, I was touched by the loving words of his surviving family members and friends who reminisced of peaceful times on the farm and exhilarating rides on his airplane. He reminded me of my grandfather, who like others in his generation, worked tirelessly and held God fearing values above all things. They valued marriage, children, and were grateful for even the smallest blessing (like heat in the winter and food)! I just kept thinking, we need to remember this generation and what they stood for... and if I can come close to reflecting this in my life, then I will have had purpose and can stand in front of the Lord knowing I did my best. It was a great experience and we had fun meeting so many family members!

Our First Plane Ride with Kyler

We flew to Denver on route to Scottsbluff, NE for the Hood memorial/reunion. This was Kyler's first flight with us (he had already ridden with my mom to Houston). This was also my first experience flying United Airlines (having a grown up in a Continental family). Little did we know that we would have to sit on the plane for 2.5 hours due to a mechanical problem that they couldn't figure out. Once in the air, Kyler slept for the majority of the 2 hour flight. He loves airplanes and was wonderful all around..too bad United wasn't. I am grateful the problem was discovered before take off though but would have appreciated unloading the plane while they troubleshooted for 2.5 hrs!!

Roths Help Unpack

Here is a picture of the Roths hanging out on our back patio after a long day of unpacking. It was also Ray's girlfriend, Vanessa's graduation party. Cake faced Kyler cuddles up to his puppy Shiloh, and Shiloh graciously allows him to do whatever he wants to her (including put a shoe on her head?..uh...random!)!

Kyler Rides His Bike

This is the first time Kyler has had a chance to ride his new bike (from Christmas) because we were cooped up in the apartment for so long while we were searching for a house. The Roths came into town to help us make a dent in our boxes, and boy did they help! Here is Uncle Mike continuing the 'teaching how to ride a bike' tradition in front of our new house. He has taught all of his 8 nieces and nephews and now his great nephew (if he is Kyler's Great Uncle, does that make Kyler his Great Nephew?).

Baby Girl Hood

Here is the ultrasound picture from last month. I finally got it uploaded and cropped. She is getting big and loves to kick! I went to Babies R Us today to register for some girl items and seeing all the bottles and burp rags, I can't believe I am going to do all this again! And in 12 weeks! I am getting a little anxious, as I have zero girl clothes..not even onesies. I need to hit up some sales in the next two months while I can still walk.
Maybe it will be easier the second time around? Of course, we have such wonderful family that will be coming to the rescue. Kyler will be in pre- school two days a week next fall, so that will be helpful, I am sure. I don't think I can wait until fall though, I am ready to sign him up for a summer program!!!