Texas High School Football, oh my!

Last weekend Paul's brother Matt came to visit with his buddy Pete. They had a conference in town and stayed with us for a few days. We took them out during their first night here for some cajun food at Doodie's -- (One of Paul's favorites) and discussed what they wanted to see and do while they were here. One of the first things they said was "see a high school football game -Is it like Friday Night Lights" they asked? I was like umm.. well... I don't know? We have lived here for over four years and have never been. So, I figured it was about time and having the boys in town was the perfect excuse!

The next day I got to work and starting asking around. I found out that Allen was playing Plano at Clark Stadium that night -- two big high schools in town --and that would be a good game to see. So, after some investigating online I decided I would swing by Clark Stadium to get tickets around lunch. I contemplated waiting to get them at the gate...but I knew these were two big teams and wanted to secure tix since we had company in town to entertain. Good thing I did because Clark Stadium ticket office had about 40 people in line for tickets at 1pm on Friday afternoon! The chatter in line was that Allen High School was sold out and Plano was close...craziness! So, I stood in line and got our "assigned seat" tickets for that night.

We arrived to the Spring Creek exit and hit bumper to bumper to traffic -- are we at the cowboys stadium? We decided to park at the bank on the corner and walk the 2 miles to the stadium. The place was packed and our 5 assigned seats looked more like three... ugh! We squeezed in and enjoyed some crazy dad's screaming about plays, mom's chanting old cheers (I'm assuming) and little kids dressed in small uniforms and cheer outfits with their faces painted. I'm pretty sure we were the only people not wearing school colors - seriously. When the teams took the field there was giant inflatables, fog machines, balloons, banners (not paper ones!) and this wasn't homecoming! It was pretty nuts...oh, and the band had 500 people! They took up the entire field during half time... and let's not even get into drill team (dancers!)and cheer team! Let's just say it's a sight to see and the texan's take this game of football pretty seriously. I guess I better get on board if I'm going to live here ;-)

Allen HS is ranked #1 5A team in Texas --- they beat Plano 42- 7.

Freedom Run 2011

A few weeks ago Paul and I ran the Freedom 5K in honor of all those who were lost in the events on 9/11. We've done this race the past 3 years since the DAYL puts it on and Paul is very involved with the Young Lawyers Association. However, it was particularly special this year being the 10th anniversary of the attack. The race directors did a fabulous job recognizing those who were lost and making the event extremely special for everyone who came out to support. All the proceeds went to local enforcement in Dallas County and officials surrounded City Hall. (We felt very safe! lol) In addition, it was a great night for a run -- the weather was cooler and no rain this year! Paul and I ran it together in just under 30minutes. The highlight (or lowlight?) of the race was being passed by this supermom with a TRIPLE baby stroller! How embarassing! But, we did have a great time together and enjoyed drinks, food and music with his attorney friends after the race. It was a great way to kick off the weekend!

Jules & Paul getting ready for the race!

aww, love to see the finish!

Kori & Jeff's Wedding Weekend in Mackinac

After 10 years, yes TEN YEARS! (And you thought you dated your guy or gal a long time before tying the knot! lol) Jeff and Kori are officially married!

It all took place at Mackinac Island last weekend at the Harbour View Inn. It was a small intimate ceremony with just friends and family present. Kori was breathtaking and Jeff was awfully handsome in his tux! They both looked so happy, excited and cheerful as they said their vows and exchanged rings. We all couldn't be happier and tried to keep our "about time!" comments to ourselves and take joy in the beautiful day. It was sunny, 70's and awesome!

"What a fabulous place to get married?" I kept saying all weekend to my sister. Mackinac was one of the most beautiful places I've been. So quaint, laid back and peaceful. Everyone enjoyed the weekend biking, being outside, taking in the lake views, and enjoying some fudge of course!

We kicked off the weekend by hosting a ladies luncheon for Kori at Mary's Bistro where she received a few gifts. Then we went to Astors Salon at the Grand for mani/pedi's and cocktails on the deck over looking the lawn. It was such a wonderful afternoon with all the girls! Kori was just glowing all day ;-)

That night my parents hosted the rehearsal dinner at The Gatehouse. However, the highlight of the night was when my brother bet Colin $100 he couldn't stay quiet for 2 hours. Well, Colin took that bet pretty seriously and stayed SILENT for 45mins -- and Jeff finally negotiated at $40 because he felt bad! Poor kid wouldn't say a word!

Then Saturday was Wedding day!!! That morning Jenn, Chad, Connor & Colin took a bike ride around the island with Paul and I. It was about 8miles around so it was a pretty long ride for the boys and they did great -- especially Connor who had two broken arms, still! We took it slow, stopping to take plenty of pictures and take in the views. So pretty!

The wedding was at 4pm in the garden area at Harbour View Inn. Everyone was so excited to see Kori in her dress -- no one had seen it. She was a lovely bride and Jeff is sooooo lucky to call her his wife. And we are so happy to have Kor as part of our family!!! The reception was also at Harbour view with cocktail hour and dinner immediately following. Jeff made a lovely speech thanking us all for our travels and impact on their lives as a couple - touching for Jeff ;-) And after things started to wind down at the wedding we ALL (parents included) went to the bar to finish the night strong. I love weddings!