Homecooks

Palo Duro Trek

2009-08-13T20:18:00.002-06:00

The last leg of our trip was a night in Palo Duro Canyon. I had never been before. I was amazed at how big and beautiful it was. We spent the night in a cabin there in the canyon. The next day we hiked a bit before coming home.

Here are some pictures...

Red River Adventure

2009-08-12T22:42:00.003-06:00

We jogged up to Red River last week. Camped outside town in the Carson National Forest. It was a great end to the summer. Matt goes to work tomorrow and the kids go in a little over a week.

Here are some pictures...

Send To Phone

Changes

2009-08-01T10:25:00.002-06:00

We have made some changes to our landscape this summer. We were having water issues when we would get a significant rain.

Matt has installed a sprinkler system and planted grass in both the front and back yards. I only have pictures of the front. We plan to replant flowerbeds as well. But here is the progress so far.

Here is the yard the day Matt started:

And today:

Facebook

2009-08-01T09:27:00.002-06:00

So sorry for the lack of posting. Matt and I have been playing with Facebook. It has side tracked us a bit.

And, although I love the simplicity and ease of Facebook, I think it is ugly. Everyone's page looks the same. No individuality about it. And, unless we are friends, you can't see my page.

So, I am going to try to keep up both.

Happy blogging...

Keely

Fun in the Sun!

2009-06-12T15:14:00.000-06:00

Just got back from the pool with the Hagler's, Foxes, and Mulehen's. Summer heat arrived today.

Kids and dogs and ticks, Oh My!

2009-06-09T21:21:00.003-06:00

From Freddy's

The Cook's, Muehlen's and George's got away for a camping trip to the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma. Six adults, six children and three dogs, we were quite a group.

We experienced mountain hiking, bike riding, fishing, swimming, falling, and exhaustion. We saw a field full of fireflies, ate giant burgers at Meer's and a prairie dog community. It was a lot of fun. All of the Cook clan got wet at some point during the weekend. I'm afraid only Chloe can say she did on purpose.

Check out our pictures: (top group Matt took, bottom group Freddy took)

More Birthdays

2009-06-09T21:18:00.003-06:00

We celebrated Gracie and Freddy's birthdays two weeks ago. Josh brought the entertainment. Here are a few pictures:

Precious Babies

2009-05-29T05:52:00.003-06:00

Two very special boys arrived within on week of each other. They are here and doing great!

Holly and Kevin had Owen Teague last Thursday. He is a handsome guy. Micah and I met him last Friday.

Micah was not too into Owen that day, this is all Holly and Kevin saw of him that day:

Last night Scott and Jessica had Jacob. I have not had the pleasure of meeting him yet, but plan to see him soon.

Congratulations to the Fox's and the Smith's. Love you both!

K

No need for an army!

2009-05-20T07:15:00.001-06:00

Just like your dad always said "you've gotta have the right tool for the right job son!" We did on this day, Freddy and De'Ana had water coming in their house every time it rained and had a huge landscaping issue that was funneling water into their house. With a little help from a few friends and (Rick's equipment that did the work of fifty men). In half a day we took out 20+ trees and reshaped the landscape to reroute the water.

This is what we are here for, to help each other. This was about helping one of the family. Thanks to all who came out and gave their, sweat, heart, time and equipment.

Yes 2 chainsaws gladly laid down their lives to make this possible.

Mother's Day at the Wickersham's

2009-05-19T20:52:00.001-06:00

Oh yes, a good time was had by all! Thank you Brian and Lindsay for hosting us all.

Ahh! Muther's Day!

2009-05-17T20:40:00.001-06:00

For all those that are married with children we all realize why the dad is not given the role of mother. Below is an example of what can happen!

Glamour Shots by Freddy

2009-05-15T20:46:00.002-06:00

Matt asked Freddy to take some pictures of the kids for me. It was a surprise. They used the Nature Center as a back drop. He did an amazing job! I think they had a lot fun. Check it out.

Joyce's Journey

2009-04-26T19:49:00.002-06:00

The past nine months has been a courageous journey for Joyce and her family. Her battle with lung cancer has been victorious. She has a clean bill of health from her doctor. God is good!

This Friday was Relay for Life in Azle. It is a huge fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. We joined Joyce in celebration of her life and to raise money to help fund research. Her theme was Mama Mia. So, we sold hand made art work, jewelry, and had art projects to make on site. It was a great night. The kids had a blast. Check out some of the photos Matt shot.

Good Times on Main Street

2009-04-19T19:28:00.007-06:00

What do you call perfect weather on a Sunday? A great day to get out and do something with your family! We went downtown today and joined in the festivities of one of the largest art shows in the country, ate the food, browsed the art, and listened to some great tunes. We saw a great STEELY DAN TRIBUTE, Naked Lunch. A good time was had by all as we listened to the music that brought back good memories of days gone by. Enjoy the photos of our day. Matt

Eggs, chocolate and God!

2009-04-13T12:56:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was Easter. And, even though it started out with rain, it ended a beautiful day.

We planned an early egg hunt with all the children from church. Matt and I dyed 34 eggs with the kids on Saturday. Gracie helped too. It was a new experience for her. (Evidently they don't do that sort of thing in the Rollmann household.) Aunt Robyn sent the kids a great box filled with goodies that included a tie dye egg kit. We made solid, tie dye, painted, and polka dotted eggs. It was a lot of fun.

The Gechter's hosted our Easter Service this year at their party barn. (click to check it out) It was a beautiful place. The rain stopped about 10 am, just when we planned the hunt. The children had a blast.

Brad brought a great lesson Sunday. And, we had a beautiful meal with our extended family. I hope your Easter was just as great, spent with people you love.

Adults only Road Trip!

2009-03-25T21:06:00.000-06:00

It's so good to get out of tome from time to time. As many of you with young children know, it is often very difficult to hit the road. And when you do get to go on a trip, it is rare that you can find yourself without children. So we headed out to Fredericksburg. We stayed here. It was right on main street and we loved not having to drive anywhere.

The girls shopped

and the boys went the Na tional Museum of the P acific.

We trespassed on someones land and took communion while gazing at Enchanted Rock

Our time was full of music, fun, food, and Laughter, Thanks for being such good friends.

BTW we were very sad that Freddy and De'Ana could not join us

We want to thank Nana and Paw Paw, Freddy and De'Ana, and Brian and Lindsay for making our get away possible.

Now you see it, now you don't

2009-03-23T21:51:00.003-06:00

Noah decided he was ready for a change, he got one! Looking good Noah!

Birthdays!

2009-03-16T16:27:00.001-06:00

Most of you know that we host dinner night every Wednesday. We are a group of friends gathering once a week to stay in touch, help each other through problems and celebrate victories! Lately there has been lots of celebrations.

Here are a few photos:

New family member

2009-03-14T16:10:00.001-06:00

Well...we have some news. We have a new addition to the family...

Chancho! He is a 9 month old Chihuahua. Matt got him from a kid in his class. Chancho is adjusting well. The kids love him. He made it through his first Wednesday night dinner! That was a welcoming he will never forget.

K

If you are wondering: 1. We got his name from Nacho Libre and 2. No, we don't have Jetta anymore.

You Rock!

2009-03-12T15:31:00.004-06:00

Have I ever mentioned how awesome Mike and Jody are? Well...they are!

They were in Texas for a visit. We all got together at my parents a couple of Saturdays ago. We had a great time. They brought Colton and Avery. She is adorable! What a sweetie. And, inspite of some bad press, Noah and Colton even got along. In fact, the kids had so much fun together, we barely saw them. Holly, Kevin, Hudson, Tatum and Audrey came, along with Caitlin and Shaleen. Brian and Lindsay were there too! It was a full house on a very cold day.

But...the best was the surprise they had for me and Matt:

A Jon Foreman cd signed by Jon Foreman and Drew Shirley of Switchfoot! They have a mutual friend and are going to hook us up with some backstage passes next time we see them in concert! I don't think they realize how much I appreciate this. Too awesome! I owe you BIG!!!!

Had a great time!

K

Oh, the luck

2009-02-21T21:50:00.000-06:00

Scott and Jessica have the magic touch. They have won more concert tickets than anyone I know. We have benefited from their winning streak in the past.

A few weeks ago 89.7, a local radio station, was giving away tickets to see Family Force 5. Jessica called me one night and told me she won. Unfortunately there were only two tickets. I jokingly told her she should win tickets for us too. Several days later I got an ecstatic call from Jessica again telling me that Matt aka Scott won tickets! Amazing!

The day of the concert I received a very sad call from Jessica. She was sick and was not going to make it to the concert. Although we were extremely saddened by Jessica's illness, Noah jumped at the chance to go! (I really was sad Jessica)

To make a long story short, neither Scott or Jessica made it to the concert. They did all the work and didn't even get to see the show. Thanks for the tickets! It was a great show!

In the news

2009-02-20T09:48:00.003-06:00

Just wanted to update you on Matt's project. He was interviewed by the Dallas Morning News and The Fort Worth Star-Telegram. (click on the name) Check them out when you have time.

BA

2009-02-19T20:12:00.002-06:00

Too funny not to pass on!
MC

Surprise!

2009-02-18T21:31:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Jessica's Birthday this Sunday. It was a surprise, and we actually pulled it off. She had no idea.

As part of her present, Matt put together a music video. He had us lip sync to Kountry Gentlemen by Family Force 5. Like crazy people, we agreed. Unfortunately, after watching the video, I realized that I was among the two least cool people I know. Just watch, I think you will agree.

Happy Birthday Jessica!

On unity and playing...

2009-02-17T16:21:00.003-06:00

Once a month we gather at Azle's Central Park to worship with other churches. It is a cool thing to be apart of. Congregations setting aside differences and leaving their buildings to demonstrate unity in the community.

This month it was our turn to host the service. Matt, Noah and my dad played on the stage together, along with many of our good friends. It was a great Sunday. Matt and Noah are doing a great on the guitar. It is exciting to see them play side by side!

I snapped a few photos:

Oh, so you are "those parents"...

2009-02-16T16:07:00.003-06:00

Chloe recently had a project from school. She was to write a report on a habitat of her choice. Mrs. Hunt also wanted her to make a diorama depicting the habitat. Chloe loves the ocean and dolphins, so she decided to report on the ocean.

Remember, Chloe has a science teacher for a father. This can be an advantage or a disadvantage. It depends on your perspective. As Matt guided her research on the web, they ran across an interesting angle. Evidently there is a giant mass of plastic garbage floating in the ocean the size of Texas. There were picture of dolphins tangled in plastic, birds with six pack rings around their neck and dead fish filled with plastic pellets. (please note: we did know there was a trash problem before last month.) They decided they needed to educate others about the trashy dilemma we face. Chloe ditched her dreams of a beautiful aquatic diorama and got Barbie dirty.

The result was "Throw Away Beach". A fun family project. We had a great time making tires, plastic grocery sacks and six pack rings. I thought it was a great idea...until I talked to Lindsay. When I told her about it and showed her the pictures she looked at me with a smirk and said, "Oh, so you are 'those parents'. Using every opportunity to push your political agenda. Poor Chloe. I'm sure her class really likes her after that report." Of course, you'd have to know Lindsay to appreciate that comment. I thought it was hilarious. And I guess with all the changes in our life, we are proud to add "those parents" to the list.

Where is Matt?

2009-02-11T06:22:00.002-06:00

Things are going really well with my project! Amazingly well, I can only give the credit to God. This project has been inspired by God since Day One.

I am fielding more and more calls from the media every day! Catch up
on what I am doing below, Stay tuned more is coming!

Matt

Cellular News

Life Science

University of Michigan

Innovations Report

KMI@TMI

MY Class

Yikes!!

2009-02-09T16:21:00.004-06:00

It has been a month since my last post. What a terrible blogger I am! I will try to get several posts in to catch you up on the Cook happenings.

Keely

Another Rockin' New Years

2009-01-14T15:52:00.006-06:00

As we look back over 2008, Matt and I have a lot to be thankful for. Many of my thoughts are about great friends, but as we go into 2009, I am very mindful of our kids.

Last Sunday Noah played at church. He is picking up the guitar very quickly. I am so proud of him.
We are in an environment that not only encourages Matt and I to be creative, but it is safe for our children to discover their talents. They are encouraged to share, to try, to grow. We all are encouraged to be ourselves. It is a beautiful thing to witness and to share in.

I am thankful for our close friends, our church and family. I am thankful to all of you who encourage Noah, Chloe and Micah to reach above their heads and discover new things. I am looking forward to what God has in store for us this year. I am anxious to see who and what he puts in our path and where he is leading us. We are awakening to his dream, and it feels great!

K

13 things I love about my teenager

2009-01-08T15:25:00.005-06:00

Noah turned 13 last week. He is officially a teenager.
I am sure everyone expects me to say that the music is too loud, the mood swings are terrible and he never talks to us. Well, WRONG! Let me tell you the thirteen things I love about Noah!

1. He is funny! He has a great sense of humor. He likes to kid around, pull pranks, and laugh!
2. He likes his family. Noah likes to spend time as a family. He always has. He joins in, he is involved.
3. He likes good music. You all know how we are about music. It is great to have this bond with Noah. He has actually stretched my taste in music.
4. He likes to try new things. Noah has also picked up a few new hobbies over the past year; the ripstick, disc golf, the electric guitar, and mountain bike riding. Oh, and singing!
5. He has great friends. Our whole family has made big changes over the past 18-24 months. One big change has been friends. It is hard to loose friends you've had since you were a toddler. Noah has handled it all with great maturity and class. He has some awesome new friends. We love to have them over.
6. He is his own man. Noah does not have to blend into the crowd. He has no problem with thinking for himself, or being different. (Not sure where he gets that ;)
7. He helps. I have seen Noah transition from always asking why he has to do something into a guy who gets up and helps when he is asked. (Most of the time)
8. He has an incredible musical ear. It amazes me how fast he can figure out a song. He can play it on the keyboard or the guitar, he can even sing. What a gift from God!
9. He isn't ashamed of his faith. I'm pretty sure he isn't trying to convert the junior high, but I am sure that he is serious about his faith and he doesn't hide it. Noah lives his faith out loud. Not by beating others over the head, but by love and example.
10. He plays Guitar Hero with me. I love that he isn't too cool to play with his mom. He even lets me pick songs on the set list!
11. I love his hair. I don't care what anyone else says, I love it!
12. He is responsible. Noah has proven himself to us in many ways. I appreciate his willingness to babysit on occasion for us. I love that he lets Micah stay home with him every afternoon while I make the 15 minute round trip to pick up Chloe.
13. He is an awesome son! Noah is an incredible child for many reasons, too many to write. I thank God for giving him to us. I pray we don't mess him up too bad!

A Cook Christmas

2009-01-05T21:53:00.002-06:00

Matt

2009-01-03T10:06:00.004-06:00

This year has been a milestone year for us in many ways. Noah turned 13, Micah turned five, we had our fifteenth wedding anniversary, and we celebrated one year in our new fellowship.

Matt is 36 this year, and even though that number isn't a milestone, I would like to celebrate his life! He is an amazing man! I thank God for putting him in my life and for the history we share.

I am totally ripping this from Amy, but it was a great idea, so why not steal it!

Here are the 36 reasons why I LOVE MATT COOK!

1. He makes me laugh! I think I was first attracted to him because of his humor.
2. He loves music. Or maybe it was the music. We like the same kind of music. I really do think it was one of the first conversations we had.
3. He is always willing to try new things. This past year he has tackled the guitar, disk golf and cell phones in the classroom
4. He is always teaching us new things. Even if I have to Google it to see if he is right, usually he is. His enthusiasm for learning spills over to the kids. Noah was explaining to Amy why when you stick your finger in a coke, the fizz goes down. He sounded just like Matt.
5. He loves our children. He likes them as people and enjoys their company
6. He can fix just about anything. My dad has always been like that. What a blessing to have a husband just as gifted. Put the two of them together and you are covered in my book!
7. He loves God. Matt's faith has always amazed me. He knows God is going to take care of us, and his lives his life with that certainty.
8. He leads our family. He has us on a beautiful path.
9. He is a great friend. He always has a listening ear and hands ready to help.
10. He still wants to date me. Matt is always eager to take me out. After 15 years he still likes to be alone with me.
11. He writes the best notes. Matt loves to hide notes for me. He leaves them in the washer, on the steering wheel, on a coffee mug. I love it! He also leaves them for the kids. He showers us with kind words.
12. He cleans my car. I never ask, he just does it.
13. He is a wonderful provider. Thirteen years ago Matt told me he wanted me to stay home with the kids, I am thankful every day for the ability to be home. It has been a beautiful gift.
14. He takes great pictures. He loves to photograph the kids, the activities, the wildlife. He has recorded our life in an amazing way.
15. He loves Mexican food. We both share this love, and I love to fix it.
16. He has taken "religion" out of our lives. I know that sounds crazy, but he has taken us out of the man made religion and placed us into a Christ seeking, God loving, Jesus movement.
17. He has stretched me. Matt is never satisfied with the status quo. I am not talking about money or situation, I am talking about relationships and spiritual health. He pushes us all to be better, not by force, but by love and example.
18. He is strong. Matt has overcome many things in his life. He did not come from the Cleaver household like I did. He has had struggles. Yet, he never uses them as an excuse or a crutch. He has never blamed his past for his present actions.
19. He likes to rock out. We have discovered that we love to go to concerts. We have been to lots of concerts over the past 18 months. We go with Noah, with friends, just the two of us. It is great!
20.He puts our family first. Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in the busyness of work, friends, school, church. Matt always pulls us back for a time-out.
21. He asks the hard Questions. He asks all kinds of questions, he has gotten us more discounts or things for free. But, he also asks the hard questions, the ones that make people think. The questions that are hard to hear, but make us better in the end.
22. He drives me around. I hate to drive, especially if I have a million stops. Matt is always willing to chauffeur me.
23. He lets me pick the music in the car. May not sound like a big thing, but I love it.
24. He isn't selfish. The longer I spend on this, the more I realize who the selfish one is :{
25. He thinks I'm beautiful. It doesn't matter if anyone else does.
26. He encourages our children. He encourages the them in their art, in their music, in their recreation. They know he thinks they can do it.
27. He opens our home. He may think I do this, but with out his support and willingness, we would not have people in our home all the time. It has been a blessing to be able to open our home to new friends and to maintain old relationships. It is a place for Noah, Chloe and Micah's friends. We have had lots of fun.
28. He takes prayer seriously. Not only has he opened our home to fun and fellowship, it is also a place of prayer. We have spent much time in prayer with friends and family, alone and together, with our children and other kids, with much sorrow and in much rejoicing. He is always willing to stop everything and pray.
29. He cleans up. After a house full, he is always the first to pick up the mess.
30. He lets me be me. I am not perfect, but he doesn't care.
31. He gives me a break. He takes the kids out and lets me have a time-out.
32. He plays the guitar. I love this about Matt. He takes this challenge seriously and hasn't given up. I love having the music in the house. I know Noah and Chloe are playing now because he has introduced all of this to them. He has surrounded us with musicians.
33. He is silly. Matt can be goofy. He likes to have fun. He kids with the kids, he is silly with our friends. He enjoys life.
34. He loves the Office and 24. We don't keep up with much on TV, but we do like the same shows.
35. He loves my family. He has always loved my family.
36. He is my best friend!

Love you Matt, here is to 36 more!

Theme of '08

2008-12-30T11:19:00.002-06:00

If you are in to having a theme for the year, our theme this year would be Music!

This has been the year for music for the Cook house. We have become a very musical group this year. Christmas was good to us with addition of two more guitars and the gear that comes with them. We are now a four guitar family, yeah that's right we have four guitars in the house that get played EVERYDAY!

God is really opening the door for music in our lives. Just pray that He continues to open us up to HIS music, we want to be playing HIS tune!

Chloe and Noah are naturals at music it is amazing to watch them go. This is fun to watch. As soon as Keely learns the drums or keyboards we will paint the expedition to the HOMECOOKS theme and drive it around to our gigs. We will keep you posted.

In the mean time keep rocking to Noah's (AKA Mr. Black) face melting solos!

15 Great Years!

2008-12-18T21:11:00.001-06:00

Today was our 15th wedding anniversary. It has been great! Matt is a wonderful husband. Look what he made me:

ABC!

2008-12-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

What do you call 2,500 students all in one place screaming for one hour, for a 10 second shot? Nothing but crazy! ABC is doing Extreme Makeover a few blocks from our school, and one of our students is the recipient!

Click here for more

Posters were made and we brought 2 schools worth of kids together to yell for the mics and chant "Move that bus!" They ran down the crowd and got them to yell and scream, which is not hard to do! The energy in the crowd was amazing, you could power a small town with their electricity today.

It was cool to see how a film crew works with the boom mics, and robot cameras. It was cool, but would I like to do that everyday-nah I don't think so.

The Episode airs February 15th-or so, it could change

-More info about the family is here.

Matt, Not Hollywood yet!

PS More info will follow on my KMI@TMI project, it did get funded, things are crazy busy for me, I will share later on the project.

Below are some of my students, My kids made the tall ABC sign that is on a yellow pole. It made the shot,

Trimming the tree

2008-12-12T14:03:00.003-06:00

I was beginning to wonder if we would ever get the tree up this Christmas. We have so busy lately. But, finally it is done. The kids did a great job decorating the tree. Noah put the tree together all by himself!

It is always fun to see the kids look through all the ornaments, nutcrackers and snow globes. Micah never can figure out why Chloe and Noah have more than he does.

I think the hardest part of putting the tree up is realizing how quickly the kids have grown. I found a picture Noah made in kindergarten. It has his hand print and a poem about seeing his little hand prints all over the house, and how some day his hands won't be that small. Well, Noah's hands are not small anymore. Not even close. I hope you have time this holiday to sit and remember the good old times, but also to make some good now times.

Merry Christmas from the Cooks!
K

Central Park Service

2008-12-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

The audio caught some wind, and be ready to turn it down! The first 30 seconds are rough but it gets better.

We had a great service today and the weather was perfect. This was an Area wide combined worship service, make sure you listen to the Johnny Cash Song Towards the middle!

Cook Rock Band

2008-12-06T13:44:00.004-06:00

The Cook's are finding their grove!

Chloe is in love with the low tones of the BASS!

This may be a musical Christmas.

Enjoy the view to the future Bassist.

We have a singer!!!!

2008-12-01T16:19:00.004-06:00

We had another momentous Sunday. Noah sang his first song for our group. He did an awesome job. He decided a few weeks that he could do it. I am hoping it is the first of many. We are discovering that Noah has a natural gift in music. It has been exciting to see all the new things he tries.

Up next...electric guitar. More info to follow.

BTW: Noah sang Finish Last by Stellar Kart

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T20:58:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all! We had a great time with family and friends this year! Thanks for coming over today and sharing a meal with us and enjoying some food and fellowship @ the Cook house.

We are so blessed this year. We have learned many things about friends and family. We thank God for all of our blood families, old friends and new friends. We have learned that you don't have to be blood to be close family.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Cooks

Halloween Party

2008-11-22T19:50:00.001-06:00

That is Matt with the long hair and shades...

Hail! Hail! The gang's all here!

2008-11-21T11:06:00.003-06:00

Chloe and Noah had Fall programs the same week. Noah's Concert was on a Monday and Chloe's musical was on a Thursday. I am afraid Noah had a smaller showing. Monday's typically are extremely busy. But he did a wonderful job. The band sounds great, Noah is learning a lot on the saxophone. All in attendance loved it.

Chloe 's program was on Thursday. She began inviting everyone we knew a week before. She was pretty funny. Fortunately for her, all her guests showed! Thanks to the Smiths, Muehlens, Wickershams and Craigs! It was great for Chloe to have so much support! We love you guys!

New Camera

2008-11-18T16:01:00.004-06:00

We finally got a new camera!!

We have not posted in a while because of problems with our camera. We never used it. So, as a result we never have pictures. Lots of things to report about, just no pictures to show. Freddy and De'Ana have taken a lot of great pictures. We plan to finally get some from them this week. (Halloween, Chloe's play, camping, hiking trips...you'll love it)

So...sorry for the delay. Some great posts to follow!

BTW: Matt's sister had her baby! Congratulations Lynsey and Robby!!!

Welcome Anna Kate

Rock on

2008-11-06T11:40:00.004-06:00

What do you do when Guitar Hero 4; World Tour comes out? You start a family band!

We reserved a copy of the game months ago, but it came out two weeks ago. Game Stop was doing a midnight release. We told Noah...No WAY! But, Matt snuck away in the middle of the night, after we were all asleep, and collected the game. It was like Christmas morning. He had it all set up and ready to go!

Come over and play sometime!

K

More Camping Fun

2008-10-20T20:06:00.000-06:00

Haglers come to Texas

2008-10-17T09:10:00.001-06:00

It was great to see Paul and Lisa. They were here for parents weekend at TCU. We had a great time catching up. Caitlin and her roommate came too. They played Guitar Hero with Noah and Chloe. Found out that Paul is not a big fan of Guitar Hero, the Office or Will Ferrell. Not sure if we are really related. But we still managed to have fun!

Haircuts

2008-10-14T20:29:00.002-06:00

You never know what you might get when you come to the Cooks. Dinner, a giant Pepsi can, or a haircut. For Brad last Wednesday night, it was a haircut. He showed up with a self inflicted "mullhawk" (mullet crossed with a Mohawk--google it). All the men present agreed it must go. Freddy volunteered to be the stylist. Matt jumped at the chance, ready with clippers in hand. All that remains of the "Mullhawk" is the hair on the patio.

Returning the favor

2008-10-12T20:08:00.003-06:00

After a great, relaxing weekend alone last week, we are now Cook Daycare. Our friends have all cashed in the favor chip. At one point on Friday we had eight children. (That is including our three)The Smiths were pretty easy on us. No over night guests with them.

It has been a fun weekend none the less. Memphis spent the weekend. Gracie and Lily are spending the night tonight and Noah even brought in his friend TJ. Got them dirty, hyped up on sugar and sent them home.

We had fun, our friends have some great kids!

An Awesome 36 Hours!

2008-10-05T20:12:00.006-06:00

I've been waiting for this concert since May. If you don't already know, Switchfoot is my favorite. Fortunately, they come through the area fairly frequently. Thursday night they were in Dallas. Matt bought me tickets in August for my birthday. We were on row G! Extremely Close! It was an awesome show, they rocked the house! Another band played after (which will remain nameless) and they just didn't pull it off like Switchfoot. They remain my favorite!

Matt and I decided to make an early weekend of it. We farmed out the kids and stayed in Dallas. We have been so busy lately. Matt has been very involved in getting his cellphone project up and running, and I have been busy with the kids. We felt like we needed some time alone.

We stayed at the Hotel Lumen. It is nestled in Highland Park across from the SMU campus. It was very nice. Friday we set off to IKEA and Sam Moon. Thank you Matt for letting me do some girly stuff. Sam Moon was incredible! Bags and beads as far as the eye could see. It was great.

Thank you Matt for a great 36 hours! You are always my favorite person to hang out with.

A "thank you" shout out to Lindsay, Brian, Scott, Jessica, Freddy, De'Ana, Brad and Amy! Couldn't have done this without you. We appreciate you covering for us on the home front.

Rock star glasses, guitar pics and tattoos

2008-09-21T12:36:00.000-06:00

These are the ingredients for a great slumber party.

We celebrated Chloe's birthday Friday night. A few of her closest friends came to play, bead and have fun. A good time was had by all. It was amazing how well six little girls could get along. Thanks Audrey, Gracie, Rachel, Alexis and Jenna for a great party!

KMI@TMI

2008-09-19T16:36:00.005-06:00

Keller Mobile Initiative-KMI@TMI,
The journey began back this summer, and the Saga continues daily with meetings, conference calls, emails, and late nights working on writing proposals and hammering out the details.

I believe the entire project is inspired and driven by God, I just sent off a few emails, and next thing you know I have a huge project bigger than I ever thought! I keep trusting that He will continue to open doors and make the path level before me.

I am pioneering an idea using hand held mobile computers (I.E. Smart Phones) as a tool in the classroom. They will be used just like we use pencils today, just as common and just as portable. Laptops are too heavy and bulky for kids, lets face it, ever lug one around an airport? Heavy for us, way too much for kids. They are also too expensive vs smart phones.

I am working with UNT, University of Michigan, www.goknow.com, AT&T, and Verizon. We are putting together a joint venture between the corporate world and the educational world.

The project is constantly eveloving daily, soon we will have more soild information to report on. Stay tuned, this is going to be huge.

You can also stay current with my podcast feed found here.
Matt

Just to catch you up...

2008-09-18T13:38:00.007-06:00

In case you were wondering...she did get the skateboard. Chloe is so funny. She picked it all out herself. She has her own sense of style and is not really interested in the opinions of others.

We took her to Zumiez. It is a store where you can pick the deck, the trucks and the wheels separately. I tried to steer her toward things that would "match". Evidently, that is not how you do it. At least, according to Chloe.

She is doing well, we take her to the park. It has concrete paths. She also takes it to church. There is a lot of concrete there. She is having fun.

Micah and his friend Aaron have become expert frog catchers. One night they caught five. It was so much fun, someone let the frogs go and they started all over again.

Not much more to report. Matt is busy with his cellphone project. It has been exciting so far. Check out his page on that.

Noah is busy turning into a teenager.
Lots of texting and exasperation with us. But, he's a good kid. We (Noah and I) are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Guitar Hero 4. It is supposed to be like Rock Band, but better!

As for me, I am just trying to keep up with them all. That is a full-time job!

K

School Pictures

2008-09-16T09:18:00.002-06:00

The joys of school picture day. Even the teachers must have their photo taken for picture day.

Did you every make a crazy pose? This was my pose today, "The Professor".

A close second was the gangster pose, or the Chuck Norris Double Uzi pose.

MC

She's Eight !??!?!

2008-09-12T07:45:00.004-06:00

I cannot believe that my little girl is eight today. It seems like we just brought her home from the hospital. Time has slipped away.

Chloe has changed a lot over the past eight years. She has replaced her interest in dress up and dolls with school and beading. This year she wants a skateboard for her birthday. So, I guess a skateboard it is. I think Memphis, our 3-year-old friend, will give her lessons. Seriously.

Chloe is a delight; a beautiful, helpful member of the Cook Family. I think she takes care of all of us. She is a natural at mothering and leadership. She likes to help around the house and she takes care of our small visitors. Chloe is a talented artist and a great swimmer.

Matt and I praise God for her. She is a beautiful child.

Happy Birthday Chloe!

K

Simple Things

2008-09-04T13:10:00.002-06:00

I love this picture of Micah. It reminds me to stop and take time for the simple things. My parents cat, Skitscat, had kittens several weeks ago. The kids love to go to the barn and check on them. I usually let them go on alone while I do my "important" stuff.

Fortunately, for me, this time I went with Micah. The morning was beautiful, the kittens are adorable and Micah is so gentle and sweet with them. He truly loves them. He even calls one his little buddy.

God has blessed me with three beautiful, loving children. I pray I never get too busy to catch little moments like this!

K

Late nights and loud music

2008-09-02T15:31:00.007-06:00

Sunday night we went to Granbury with a few of our favorite people to catch Decyfer Down.

Scott really likes them. We went to see them once before with Scott and Jessica, but they ended up doing an acoustical set that night. So this was a chance to see them plugged in. They were great. The guys were hilarious. They were jumping and doing a little head banging. I should have taken video.

We also caught a new band called The Early Republic. They are a little punk. I really liked them.

Thanks to Scott and Jessica for asking us! You are always great to rock out with!

Scott and Jessica

De'Ana and Freddy

Last days of summer

2008-08-18T13:20:00.003-06:00

The last few days of summer are supposed to be jam packed full of last minute fun. Unfortunately, for the Cook children, they have been full of fever and hurling. Everyone is finally better today, but we woke up to rain. In fact, it is going to rain until Thursday. (That's ok, it gives them time to do some much needed clean out I've wanted to get done.)

We head back to school Monday. Noah heads off to Jr. High and Chloe begins second grade. Micah will stay home one more year. He just is not quite ready to be a kindergartner.

It is just hard to believe the summer is behind us. I think this has been the best summer ever. We made it to the beach, Noah went to camp again, Micah had an awesome birthday party, and we've had lots of fun with our friends. Matt has picked up disk golf, mountain biking and the guitar. He is sounding great, by the way. Noah is great on his rip stick. Chloe mastered the bike and has a new love...the skate board. Micah loves his new bike and is awesome on his scooter. Since we didn't have any house projects, we have played a lot!

I will be sad to see this summer go. But, I know that there is much more in store. God has placed us on a beautiful path. I can't wait to see where it leads us next.

K

Update on Joyce

2008-08-13T15:52:00.002-06:00

Matt and I went to see Joyce today. Her spirits are good, her color is good, and the doctor will send her home tomorrow, hopefully.

The results from her lymph nodes showed spreading to one and partial in a blood vessel. She is T1N1. Best case is T1N0. Therefore, she will have to undergo chemotherapy for four months. I don't know all the details, but from my perspective, this is treatable and beatable!

Continue to lift this family up in your prayers. They need positive thoughts and much healing.

K

What Happens @ the Cook's...

2008-08-12T05:48:00.002-06:00

What Happens Here, Stays Here!

2008-08-11T09:27:00.000-06:00

We wear many hats around here!

A time to pray

2008-08-07T12:08:00.003-06:00

I am calling on all of you to come together and pray.

Joyce Smith, Amy Rollmann's mother, was just diagnosed with lung cancer Tuesday. The doctors are extremely optimistic. She will undergo surgery Friday morning to remove the cancer. After that, they will determine if she needs to have additional treatment.

This family is precious and needs your prayer. Please lift up Joyce, Ronnie, Amy, Starla and Brandon in your prayers. As you can imagine they are experiencing stress, fear and sorrow during this time. May God extend them an extra measure of peace and comfort over the next few days and weeks to come.

Thank you for joining me in prayer.

K

Blurb Book for Church

2008-08-04T17:19:00.000-06:00

We have ordered more, if you did not get one see Sheila.

You can also go to Blurb to purchase one.

What a year!

Austin Green

2008-08-03T07:48:00.005-06:00

Telegraph Canyon can be found on iTunes

Keely's cousin Austin is the drummer for an up and coming new band. The need some help getting on on "Austin City Limits."

Vote here to help them out!

New Guitar and cool technology

2008-08-01T04:39:00.000-06:00

me on foneshow

You can listen to how it sounds, ignore my "rookie" sound.

Podcast via your phone, super easy.
MC

Dunkin' iPods!

2008-07-30T05:02:00.002-06:00

Noah mowed all summer and has purchased his own iPod Touch, so we reclaimed the old iPod, only 6 months old to us.

I, as in the One and Only Matt Cook, drove down the rode with it, was lost, and was talking on the phone. I had a glass of water in the console, and yeah I had to choose the biggest, most wide mouth mug I could find.

You guessed it, Kerplunk went the iPod right in my glass! It does not appear to have survived the icy waters of the glass.

I am in debt to Keely, and I will be working it off @ Homecooks.

New Guitar

2008-07-30T03:57:00.000-06:00

I upgraded, has a cedar top, plays like butter in your hands and has a good sound!

New Friends, New Hobbies, New Sports!

2008-07-29T07:24:00.004-06:00

New sports, mountain biking in extreme Texas heat, and Disk Golf. After throwing yesterday my arm is very sore. It was fun, and the best part was the company and it is free to play! Chloe has mastered the bike below are some pics of her first bike ride.

Pirate Bikers and Skaters?

2008-07-25T05:03:00.001-06:00

Top ten cool things about Pirate Biker Skater Punks

10. Color black, all good skaters and Pirate bikers must wear the uni-Black is the official color
9. Ole' Jolly Roger
8. They go fast
7. Look Cook I mean, Cool, Cook-Cool, I get confused
6. Turn heads with the Ole' Jolly Roger on a bike
5. Skid Marks (on the Asphalt)
4. Rock N'Roll
3. Down with "the man"
2. Anti conformity
1. Their are our Pirate Biker Skater Punks

A Remix

2008-07-22T15:52:00.002-06:00

Starting over does not mean throwing everything out.

For some reason I have been thinking about friends a lot this week. Maybe because we have been so busy the past few weeks. We have had lots of parties. Made lots of e-vites, and had to come up with guest lists. I have had to put in list form the people who are in our life. Who are our friends? Sixteen months ago that list was very short.

By God's beautiful design, today is a different story. Today Matt and I are blessed with a collage of new, fascinating friends that spur us on to be better people, to continue on an exciting journey that God is scouting. But, we also have been so fortunate to have some very close, dear friends that have seen us at our lowest and still stick by us. People that are more then friends, they are family. The best part is the blend of the two. My wonderful old friends have open arms and hearts for my great new ones. It is a rockin' remix! I love it! Matt and I are blessed by these relationships.

Thank you new friends for a great new melody, and thank you old ones for a great bass line! Love you all!!!

M&K

New Band

2008-07-20T20:00:00.002-06:00

Today was another first for the Cooks! Matt played during worship today. That is Dad on bass, Freddie and of course Matt! James was our lead vocals today! It was so exciting! The guys did a great job. Praise God for a wonderful morning!

Wall-E

2008-07-14T21:30:00.000-06:00

At First glance this seems to be another kid movie, until you leave the theater and you are hit with many layers and levels of complexity. You realize that the story is Adam and Eve, Noah's Ark, and loving each other. The story is timeless, thought provoking, and very deep. Attached is a link to an interview by the director and here is a quote from Andrew Stanton:

You could blame consumerism as one thing that's happening in this film, but there's a million other things we do that distract us from connecting to the person next to us and from furthering relationships, which is truly the point of living. So I came up with the idea that as WALL•E was picking up trash, it would have all these signs of humanity for him to rifle through, to get him interested in what humans were all about. I loved the idea of WALL•E finding something real. He was fascinated with the idea of living. And what's the point of living? Something real. He was a man made object with something real inside him. And he found something real while surrounded by man made objects. That just was poetic for me.

More

Easter Eggs

Another one bites the dust

2008-07-13T08:26:00.002-06:00

Sheila turns 40!!!

Da' Beach IV!

2008-07-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Da' Beach III!

2008-07-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

This is a test, trying...

2008-07-08T12:09:00.001-06:00

This is a test, trying to blog from my cell phone. listen

Powered by Jott

Micah's Fifth Birthday!

2008-07-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

Micah's Fifth Birthday!

2008-07-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Patrick!

2008-07-05T05:00:00.000-06:00

The Cook Pyramid-We did build it!

2008-07-04T21:03:00.001-06:00

Micah's Fifth Birthday!

2008-07-03T11:50:00.001-06:00

Da' Beach II!

2008-07-03T11:49:00.001-06:00

Da' Beach!

2008-07-03T10:04:00.002-06:00

Well we made the beach finally! After I tried to win a smart board. (like Amy R.) I stood in around for 30 minutes watching people act like a fool and dance and shout trying to win a board. So I left with a bag full of my conference SWAG (stuff we all get, aka Mr. Scott) I finally gave up and we headed for the beach.

It was Micah's day and he voted the beach over a meal of tacos and a cake, I thought that was a good choice. No one ever took me to the beach on my birthday!

We got unloaded into the Condo and within an hour we were on the beach looking for stuff. We went out at low tide and stayed until we could no longer see anymore. We found sand dollars, shells, and one Starfish!

When we were leaving I had to use my old sand farmer ways and navigate the expedition off the beach. We were stuck for a moment and I had to use the "rock" technique and finally broke free from the quick sand of Padre Island.

The water is clear here, not brown and murky! You can see the bottom as you walk along, the weather has been nice so far.

We ended the evening with a 9:30 Jaunt to HEB in our suits, and sand covered feet! We left with groceries and at a meal after 10:00! I never thought I would see Keely in her suit walking around the grocery store. (I was wearing a cover-up, thank you! K) It was sweet!

My only complaint is the only way I can get connected is to sit by the pool! I know that sounds rough!

Pics and video will follow latter.

MC

Bands, Robots and Bulls, Oh My!

2008-07-01T17:56:00.006-06:00

Welcome...it is day three of Cooks in San Antonio. It was a less eventful day for the majority of the Cooks today. After a morning swim, we decided to meet up with Matt so Noah could check out Techno Alley.
...us waiting on Matt while he is "Working" or "Learning"...Whatever! :

I think Matt was having too much fun. After meeting Matt we walked around Hemisphere Park. There were some beautiful waterfalls. It is similar to the Water Gardens, except safer. We even found a huge playground. The kids had fun, but were refaced in a hurry. It was a good excuse to find a slushy.

We did less walking today. Micah wanted to ride the trolley. We took a round trip on the Purple. Micah loved it so much he fell asleep.
Tonight we ate Mexican food on the Riverwalk. We had the Mariachi Band play Happy Birthday for Micah. I know you can imagine how he loved the attention. Not too much...

cool stuff today @ ISTE

2008-07-01T17:10:00.002-06:00

It's a lot of fun being around 13,000 of people like me, I know that sounds scary.

Using cell phones as a way to get technology in kids hands everyday.

Projection cellphones for real.

podcast from your cell
gcast

Real time data collection using cell's
poll everywhere

Coolest thing I saw today
Convert your speech to text for use in blogging and or emails, or whatever.

jott

Coming soon, me ridding a mechanical bull!

Me @ NECC

2008-07-01T17:09:00.001-06:00

Hello

View my page on NECC 2008

Remember the Alamo

2008-06-30T21:25:00.006-06:00

Today while Matt was busy playing with technology, I took the kids sight seeing. We are very close to the river walk, so we can leave the car behind and walk around town. First thing on our list was the Rivercenter Mall of course! After saying hello to Mickey and Hello Kitty we checked in on Matt. His conference is at the convention center right on the river walk. This makes getting around pretty easy for me with the kids.

Next we decided to go street level to check out the Alamo.

They look excited to see it don't you think? (Mom, isn't there a picture of me and Holly in front of the Alamo with the same expressions on our faces?) Actually, they liked it. Micah loved Davey Crockett's rifle and knife. Micah found a new building that had jewelry from the mission and more weapons. Micah kept looking for the dead guys. (I guess Noah and I gave him too much information.)
In this picture Micah is asking "Is this where the dead guys were?"

We are having fun, doing lots of walking and swimming! Tomorrow Noah plans to check out all the high tech vendors with Matt. We might go catch the trolley down to Market Square or ride up to the top of the Tower of the Americas. We'll let you know what we decide!

1/2 of Day One @ ISTE

2008-06-30T12:11:00.003-06:00

Wow! Thats all I can say, wow.

The exhibits hall is five football fields long! Full of very tech you can think of. Tons of free stuff.

Keely and the kids play and walk around while I learn about work stuff! They went swimming today and River Walk right now. Last night we took the kids to the Hard Rock Cafe. Noah loved it.

MC

Off to ISTE

2008-06-29T05:15:00.004-06:00

We are off for a vacation to San Antonio. I will be attending the ISTE convention for using technology in education. Yes, I am a proud Card Carrying ISTE member.

It is the national convention. Every year it comes to Texas I try to go. Tons of free stuff (SWAG), every vendor of anything electronic will be there, not to mention really good classes and networking with others that share my zeal for technology.

The best part is that we all get to go! After the convention we will go see the beach at Corpus for a few days, we come back and then take Noah to Summer camp, where he will be attending White River Youth Camp for the second year in a row.

We will keep you posted as we have connections.

MC

Studio Micah

2008-06-28T21:10:00.002-06:00

Micah likes to sneak the camera when no one is looking. Here are few pics taken from Micah's unique perspective. He has taken enough that Keely made him his own file. Enjoy a few Selections from Studio Micah.

Pool Party 2008

2008-06-26T09:10:00.001-06:00

What Happens @ the Cook's...

2008-06-22T05:11:00.001-06:00

Lilly and Gracie came over the other day while their parental units were @ play.

Amy doesn't like them to get all dirty, shh! Don't tell her!
MC

It went Down in Flames II

2008-06-21T08:06:00.001-06:00

Update:

The burned out mower had filled out it's donor card and donated it's Tranny to the Cook mower. Now the Cook mower has been resurrected from the scrap heap and brought back into full operation!

Rumor has it, some people out their think the donor mower fire may have been set by someone needing lawn mower parts.

I say, "Don't believe the hype, I have never done anything like, say mess with someone's stuff!"

MC

Who are they?

2008-06-20T07:54:00.002-06:00

It was hair cut time, for fans of The Office they have new nicknames, Big Hair Cut Boy and Big Hair Cut Girl!

Dia De Padre!

2008-06-15T07:39:00.001-06:00

Happy Father's Day!
Enjoy!

mandles

Happy Birthday Gracie!

2008-06-06T08:27:00.001-06:00

Memorial Day 08

2008-05-27T07:00:00.002-06:00

Sorry Shawn and Marquelle I didn't break out the camera until after you left!

It went Down in Flames!

2008-05-26T18:16:00.003-06:00

Catch your eye?

Alan had just put the mower up and turned back to see smoke boiling out of the barn. He ran back and get Fireman Brian and Lindsey to come to the rescue. Brain got hosA and hoseB! They quickly got it out, saved the barn, the shop. . . who knows what else!

We thank God that Noah was not on it mowing, 30 minutes before Noah had decide to wait until Monday to mow. Good choice Noah, saved you from fire and work! New lawn mowers are nothing compared to Noah!

Wii Fit comes to the Cook's!

2008-05-24T13:55:00.002-06:00

By far the best video game I have ever seen. I won't replace a work out, but pretty good activity and will stretch you and make you sweet. Great fun has been had by all! This is the first game we have ever gotten the day it came out. We are turning in to Wii fanatics! For more info go here.

Pray for Gabe

2008-05-21T08:20:00.003-06:00

Gabe's Blog

Gabe is headed for a mission to Kenya Africa. Please keep him in your prayers.

Good Clean Fun

2008-05-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

A blue pool and a beautiful day is a recipe for a nice, cool dip. It was a great afternoon with some great friends.

Lauren took an unexpected dive off the end of the step, but Jessica was fast on her feet. The boys had a shoot out. I think they had a blast. Unfortunately, by the end I think their lips were as blue as the water. Thanks to Lindsay for the great pictures.

I think I will wait till June before I go for a dip. But, it looks like a great summer ahead.