Bon Appetit!

I was bored and hungry the other night, and at a complete loss for ideas for dinner. So, I started thumbing through our cookbooks in search of inspiration. I found a very simple roasted chicken recipe and we decided to try it. Not only was it easy, but it was probably some of the best chicken I have ever tasted. And...for dessert - fresh cherries! I LOVE summer fruit! I will be sad when we are limited to apples and pears in the fall!

Happy Birthday Allan!

Shelly and her sister were great hostesses and were gracious enough to host Allan's birthday party this year, complete with great food on the grill, swimming and sangria!
We had a great turnout, and although we got a little rain, everyone had a blast! I love any excuse to get together with friends, and since the long days of summer are getting fewer, it was wonderful to take a dip in the pool while we still have the opportunity! Happy Birthday!!

Toro Family Reunion 2009

In July, we attended the "2nd annual" Toro family reunion. There are always lots of family members present, and it is always great to catch up with our many cousins, who range from age from 10-35 years old. We always manage to get together at least once a year, with different family members present at each event. We broke out the horseshoe game, which papaw helped us with! He filled us in on all the "rules" of the game. We had wonderful weather, and a great view of the lake. I think my aunts are already in the process of planning next year's event!

Clara Owen 1934-2009

I just wanted to take a quick moment to remember my grandmother, Clara Owen. She passed away on June 30, 2009. My grandparents have always been a huge part of our lives and were a big part of raising us along with our cousins. My grandmother was by far one of the most patient, loving, and sweet people that I have had the pleasure of knowing. Although we will miss her greatly, I am happy to have such fond memories to look back on. From home cooked meals, to making toys out of household items to keep the grandkids from being bored, it seemed that she was always doing her best to ensure everyone's happiness. I think we all appreciate the generosity that she showed to all of us. We plan on making many visits to Tyler over the next couple of months to check on "papaw" so that he has some company. We will continue to keep our family in our thoughts and prayers as we each try to recover from this great loss.

Happy Birthday Lucy!

We were fortunate enough to join in celebrating the first birthday of our beautiful niece. The year flew by and it really does feel like yesterday that she was born. Happy Birthday sweet girl!