The McCranski's Blog

Poop - and other news

2011-03-22T09:48:00.001-07:00

Hi All,
As usual it has been some time since I last posted. So much has happened to the Mccranskis - but I'll keep it "brief" - this morning we had a breakthru of "grand proportions" - wait for it.... (I did for like 10 minutes).....Kellen pooped in the potty (applause is appropriate).
Kellen is wearing "briefs" - they are so cute - little tighty whities. hilarious. You may be asking yourselves "is he potty trained?" NO he is not. But he is trying and he is mostly successful. It really will be life altering once he is potty trained. We will literally save 10s of 20s of dollars at the grocery store.
Last week was spring break. The elder McCrackens were absolutely wonderful in taking Kellen for two days and two whole nights. And Kellen loves every minute with his GMGP McCracken and his cousin affectionately known to him as Mimi. On Wednesday, Brian and I took Kellen to Sea World - it was supposed to be a reward for the aforementioned potty-trained Kellen, but like so many things in life, we gave in and took him as a pre-potty traning reward. Go ahead and say it Markus, I know what you are thinking - we are weak!
On Thursday Kellen woke up to a new surprise because his Nina Lori came to visit us and stayed with us for a couple nights. He was stoked because he loves to be loved. And he gets lots of love from his family! Thursday morning we closed on a new lot where we plan to build a new home - This will be called from here on out The Sandlot. Kellen's first real estate closing was a smooth transaction filled with diet coke and title company cookies - what more could a kid ask for? After that we whisked him off for yet another tour of the Austin Zoo which he loves. This time he did NOT pick up poop off the ground - so we deemed this a succesful zoo trip. Later that night we took Kellen on a play date with his old friend Lexi. The kids had a great time and Brian and I enjoyed BBQ Chicken with our friends Eric and Jennifer. Good times.
Friday we hung out at home and at GMGP McCrackens house again. It was a lazy day which rocked. Brian hung with The Guyz for Basketball and chicken wings - what more could Guyz ask for?
Saturday saw us partying first with the Rivell Family for Baby Jacob's First birthday party and then partying with the church crowd at a church social. More good times as ususal.
Sunday was low key - gearing up for back to school back to cool and potty training hard core.
That's our life people - relish it - or not. But we think it's pretty great - mostly because of all the other really cool people who make our lives fun.
~McCranskis Out!

The Big One

2011-01-28T06:16:00.001-08:00

Just a Funny Friday short story that might make you laugh.

Last night dialogue between Kellen and his parents

Background: Kellen went to bed at 8:00pm. At 9:30 pm he was still up to shenanigans and running out of his room - not wanting to go to bed. He comes out into the living room:

Missy: Why aren't you in bed?
Kellen: (smiles) pulls his pajama bottoms down a bit so Brian and I can see he has done away with his pullup.
Brian: Where's your pullup?
Kellen: I took it off
Missy: you need to go get a new diaper
Kellen: Look! I have a big penis!!
Brian: laughing as quietly as possible
Missy: (chuckling) yes, I see that, but you still need to get a night diaper.
Kellen: heading back to his room all the while pointing out to his dad how big his penis is

Priceless and so darn hard to be mad at him for not being in bed when he's so darn funny.

Have a great day!
~McCranskis Out.

Three Shots

2011-01-12T13:34:00.000-08:00

On August 6, 2010, three shots were fired that took you friend.
The hit we ordered tore lives apart, three bullets straight into your heart.
Three shots, the first to ease your fear, Do you know what's brought us here?
Why we are sitting on this floor? And holding you and crying more?

There now friend, it's taking hold. They warned us that it might feel cold.
Your eyes ask us, "What's going on?" A kiss, and then your fear is gone.
The second shot is in effect, you're letting go but not gone yet.
We're still here friend and will remain, until we're sure you feel no pain.

Your breathing slows, you're so relaxed; we're devastated by this our task.
We're still here friend we have not gone; the third shot's done it won't be long.
The with a gentle sigh you leave, and we are left with only grief.
Our sobs are all that fill the room, we're still here friend we haven't moved.

The minutes pass and still we wait, stroking you and cursing fate.
Our sorrys fall on your deaf ears. Friend, do you know that we're still here?
Sad and weary it's time to go, so much regret fills up our souls.
One last kiss upon your face, so soft and still your vacant gaze.

Our tears are spent there are no more, we pick ourselves up off the floor
We file out heads hung in shame, humbled by life's cruel game.
We're sorry friend, we had to go. But just in case you didn't know,
We felt each shot deep, deep within, and stayed with you till the bitter end.

It's been awhile since we've seen you friend, though I swear I hear you now and then
I'm not sure where, and I don't know when, but I'll know you when I see you friend.

For Maximus July 2003 thru August 2010

Happy Anniversary - I Love You

2010-09-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

It's been so long since I last posted a blog. Where to start... Thinking back to Valetines Day... I'm totally drawing a blank. Hold on...

Okay - I pulled up my Social Calendar and it appears the following events have happened. March: My sister Jill came in for a visit from the 6th to the 16th-ish - it must have been good times, but I don't really remember much. Spring Break around the middle of March - Brian also had a week-ish long trip to San Jose around that time.

April: It appears Brian went to Taiwan for a few days and then spent a week in China. Good times. My parents went to Montana and we got to keep their silly little dogs. Good times.

May: Brian went to Vegas for a Bachelor party. Good times, I'm sure, ensued. Kellen completed his first "semester" of schooling. on May 30th Kellen turned 2! Yay! We had a dinosaur birthday party which was a success. Wildness and chaos descended upon our home for an afternoon with water balloon fights and slip n' slide fun for the kiddos. Once again, good times were had.

June: On the 5th, Kellen started swim lessons. We were so excited! He was so excited. Then he proceeded to scream his way thru the first 30 minute session. Good times were most definitely NOT had. Interestingly enough, after the lesson, he decided that he had a great time. Hmmm. This apparently was a busy day, because my calendar shows that my sister came back to town and we attended a wedding in Florence. Texas that is. Many of you reading this blog, also attended the wedding so I'm confident in saying that "good times were had" by many people there - as you witnessed. On or about the 11th - I (missy) successfully applied for a passport. I also had a gathering for Ms. Melvin's bday! It also happened to be my sister's birthday that night. It all works out people - see? And...uou guessed it - good times my friends.

July was not too eventful. My other sis had a bday, Clifton had a bday, LeAnn's kids had a bday. Kellen broke out in hives for 3 days, my sister and her husband celebrated an anniversay. Mara also had a birthday. These items are in no particular order mind you. And, it may not be obvious to you, but since there were so many "celebrations" I'm gonna go out on a limb and say people enjoyed some pretty darn good times with family and friends. Let's see, moving on to August.

August: Two more birthdays came and went and along with those came large portions of italian food. Yum. Brian and I took two whole days off work and played. We saw movies, we shopped, and once again, I became convinced that "vacationing" can be very expensive - even when one doesn't travel anywhere. Inadvertantly, we found ourselves sitting around, staring at each other, and then usually deciding to go eat and then spend some money. This tended to be doubly negative effect on the wallet because not only did we spend money shopping, but why would we eat at home when we could go out and buy food, cuz - hey, who want's to cook on vacation? After our couple of days off, Brian's boss decided he should take a day trip to Tucson to "support" some other guy pitching a job. Sounds good to me. Brian and I had to put Maximus to sleep this month. It was a hard decision, but his quality of life was declining and we felt it was best. Very sad times. And I still cry every time I think about him. On the 24th I had lunch with my good friend Markus. We ate and discussed very worldy, sophisticated topics. But the real reason I think he agreed to eat with me is two-fold: firstly, Tatiana is out of town and he is lonesome; secondly, he wanted his football tickets. Okay, mostly he probably just wanted his tickets. Whatever.

It is now September. Present Day is the 2nd, and you guessed it - more birthdays! Brian's mom and my good friend LeAnn are both wiser today than they were yesterday. Happy birthday y'all.

This has been an incredibly - long and probably very boring blog. But one more thing... Monday is Labor Day. It is also our (the Mccranski's) Wedding Anniversary - Numero 7. Happy Anniversary Brian - I still love you. And I look forward to many more Good Times with you. I have included this little serenade for you (that is if I posted the html right - and that's very long odds...)

Missus McCranski Out.

Lyrics Climax Blues Band - I Love You lyrics

Valentines

2010-02-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

Well - It was a good weekend. Happy Hour with The Melvin and The Mann was awesome. Good times. We closed Chuy's down! Got to do that on a more regular basis ladies.
I have a wicked cold and as as result have lost my voice. In fact, apparently I sound so bad people (realtors) that call me are questioning my profession. I'm sick people! Get over it! I'm not a crack whore by night and realtor by day. Geez.
Anyway, here is my Valentines Story. On Saturday morning (YES, after happy hour and NO I was not hung over) I was sick (with a cold) and was sitting on the couch dozing off. Brian was being a huge help and watching my "Lovie" (Kellen) since I wasn't feeling well. Every so often, Kellen would bounce over to my part of the couch and say, "hi" or "mama" etc. I would weakly manage a "hi" or "hi Lovie", etc. After a while all of a sudden I sensed someone by my face. I opened my eyes and Kellen was thisclose to me. He looked at me and smiled and said, "hi lovie". SO SWEET. I guess these are the moments people with kids (like me) talk about that makes it all worth it. And for whatever reason, these moments count a million times more than the "moments" when they are kicking you, hitting you, pulling your hair, or throwing a tantrum. Just when you think it can't get any better - it does.
~Missus McCranski Out

Hi Friends

2010-02-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile - I know.
Here's a little video of K-man to brighten your day. K is rockin' out to Baby Boy Da Prince's The Way I Live. And of course, the pugs wanted in on the action too. His faux microphone is a beater with cookie dough on it - that's why he stops every now and then for a taste.

Ciao,
McCranski's Out

Christmas Time

2009-12-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile. I've been lazy. Well, that's not completely true - I just had other writing projects (the ditty) taking up my time. It's one week till Christmas and I still have not done my shopping for the kids. Boo. I'm having a hard time getting into the "spirit" of things. Plus, it is extremely hard to participate in any activities that require being in a public place with Kellen these days. The terrible twos are looming my friends and it is going to get UGLY. This past weekend Kellen was carried kicking and screaming and crying out of 3 different places. When the little man doesn't get what he wants he behaves very badly. He cried at Walmart b/c he couldn't have a ball. He refused to sit in his chair at Nanking, so we ordered water, had a sip, and then had to leave. We had to bribe him with lollipops so he would stay in the shopping cart at HEB. Not fun. Good thing you can only surrender a newborn baby because Brian keeps suggesting we drop him off at the nearest fire station.

We gave Stepping Stone notice that we will be removing Kellen from the daycare. Shocker. He went with Brian to meet his new teachers at the new school. It went as well as can be expected with K refusing to leave Brian's side no matter how much coaxing the teacher's tried. K is going to have a hard first day. Brian will be dropping him off, because I am almost certain I will not be able to leave him without crying my eyes out and making things worse (yes Markus, I do cry, though it is rare and usually limited to decisions that have to do with my dogs or my kid or any sappy movie). Moving on...

We attempted to see Santa at Lakeline Mall. As predicted, this was a bust. We went, we stood in line, we bribed Kellen with McDonald's french fries thinking that would distract him from the big man in red. Brian tried to put Kellen on Santa's lap - but Kellen's death grip on Brian's arm prevented that from happening. We tried to bribe him with some little toys which Kellen took and then ran off. Then we left. Maybe next year. At least he didn't embarrass himself by crying like the little boy in front of us did. The more I think about it, I'm pretty sure the little boy was just crying about the ridiculous sweater vest his mom made him wear and didn't want that to be memorialized in a picture frame somewhere. Once there's a picture - it happened - no denying it.

I realize that these blogs my appear to be all about the kid. This is because we have no life outside of the kid. Well, that's actually not true. Brian and I took off work the week of Thanksgiving. We sent Kellen to school every day so we could get some stuff done. We ordered landscaping rocks and landscaped the yard on Monday. We went to see the movie 2012 which was fun, on Tuesday. On Wednesday I think we just hung out at the house. On Thursday we hosted Thanksgiving which I deemed a huge success - many thanks to all those who participated. Friday thru Sunday was a blur. I don't remember what we did, where we went, who we were with, nothing. But I am sure it was fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants fun. On December 12th my parents watched Kellen overnight and Brian and I went to the Bella Christmas dinner at Cool River. We wined, we dined and were home by 10pm. We went to bed immediately and then got up BEFORE the crack of dawn on Sunday and went to S. Austin to feed the homeless. Then we hightailed it out of the breakfast to attend a church business meeting, then church, then out to my parent's house to get K-man. Fun, fun, and more fun. We are living the life people.

Well, that's about all I can think of as far as recent news. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season with your families and friends. Be safe mi amigos.

McCranski's Out.

Autumn Report

2009-11-05T12:00:00.001-08:00

Hi all,
It's my favorite time of year - Fall! Thanksgiving is a few weeks away which = good food. Christmas is a few more weeks away which = more good food AND gifts (seriously what could be better?) Then, we celebrate the new year, and yes, again with the good food! But let's not get ahead of ourselves.
Brian had his birthday and is now 29 years old. We had friends over, hung out at the house and watched some Longhorn football. The boys, as usual, had several debates about who's who in the sports world, the when and where of the upcoming Bachelor trip/party, reminisced about past bachelor parties and some chic named Jazzy Faye - boring. Us girls gabbed about weddings, rings, the infamous and yet to happen girls trip, and of course we made fun of the boys. Good times people. Moving on.
Halloween was fun. Brian and Warren (Missy's dad) spent some quality time pumpkin carving with their Guppy (Kellen) at Stepping Stone one afternoon. Brian and I also enjoyed a little Halloween party on the 30th at Kellen's school. He is the cutest animal - no lie. In fact, I've remarked on Kellen's cuteness several times, always qualifying it with the standard line "but I'm biased." But other people always assure me that he is indeed extremely handsome. In light of these disclosures from "others" I am deeming it to be a matter of fact. Let the record reflect that Kellen is cute. And, just to be clear that this is indeed an unbiased sampling, the "other" are people who are NOT friends or family. On several occasions, complete strangers have remarked "how cute" or "he's adorable" or "awwww." These are but a few of the responses the sight of my littlest dog elicits from others.
On Halloween we had a busy day. Kellen and his BFF Lexi enjoyed a two hour sojourn in the park. They played ball, frolicked on the play scape, rode around in the wagon, had snacks, had drinks -all in all - the perfect play date. His butt was dragging and he was all too happy to succumb to his crib for a nappy when we got home. After a 3 hour siesta K was fresh to assume the role of Superman. We traveled to Tera Vista to partake in Halloween festivities with Brian's family. Good times. Then we headed back home to hand out candy. It was a great day. (On a sad note, the pumpkins that were painstakingly carved by dad and Brian were stolen off our front porch that evening. We are offering a cash reward for their safe return.)
I welcomed my "dirty thirties" on Nov 4th. Brian cooked me a special chicken dinner (winner, winner...) and I even went a little wild and had a Mike's Hard Cranberry-Lemonade. Good stuff. But as you can see the thirties are already taking their toll. I remember back in my twenties I could polish off a couple of Mango Smirnoffs AND a couple of Mike's Lemonades. To think that was just two weeks ago. Ahhh the memories.

But, enough about us.
McCranski's Out.

Dog the Bounty Hunter Meet Max the Skunk Killer

2009-10-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Oh no he didn't! Oh yes he did. Skunk Numero Dos went down in flames at approximately 2:09am Monday, Oct. 5th. The poor dude didn't stand a chance. Dogs went out. I heard the splish, splash, as their feet hit the wet weather creek that is our backyard after it rains. Then, there was no mistaking the sound. Rrrrrrurrrrr, RRRRURRRRRR. Max came into view, with a huge, putrid, nasty ole skunk, shaking that mother like a polaroid picture (all you beyonces and lucy lui's get on the floor...) I digress... where was I. Oh yeah. As the stench hit my nostrils it must have also registered in Max's cuz he dropped the skunk and ran around the yard like a chicken with its head cut off. He dove to the ground, army crawling thru the grass trying to rub the smell off his face. Dirty, Dirty, dog.
So - after Uno (skunk number one for those of you who are slow) bit the dust a few months ago, Brian was familiar with my whispered shouting (don't want to wake the kid) "Brrrrr-ian! - Max got another one." Folks, this ain't our first rodeo. We are almost professionals. Brian went to round up the necessaries (plastic bags, hydrochloric acid, etc.) and I went back to bed. Just kidding. We tried to leave Max outside for the night, but stinky started crying (Max - not Brian) so out we went in our skivvies to give Max a quick bath. Then back to bed with our stinky dog in his cage - in our room - and yes - we lit a candle.
The joys of parenting. Raising my dogs has been way more challenging then raising my little boy Kellen. Maybe Kellen could teach Max how to just eat rocks. In fact, both Max and Gus could take a lesson. At least K only eats things he can PASS. Not socks, or underwear, or tampons. Seriously.
Kellen is now opening doors. And lucky for us we have the doors with the easy pull down handles, so if he wants to open the front door and wander out into traffic - he can! Sweet, right? Note to self and any who enter my home from now on: FLIP THE DEADBOLT BEHIND YOU. (This has been a public service announcement).
For all those who are interested or may know someone who is interested - you may purchase our OU tickets on ebay for another 2 days and 9 hours give or take. Bart would be extremely happy if someone would outbid him. Sucka.
FYI - my husband, the love of my life, whom I couldn't live without (ok I could, because I did, for like 16 years - but you're missing the point cuz, I wouldn't want to) is turning the big 2-9 on the 24th of this month - so get out your checkbooks - I mean, be sure to call and wish him a happy birthday.
Later friends.
Missus McCranski Out.

Boys will be Boys

2009-09-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hola All,

It's finally fall! And I'm so glad - but the office is already alarmingly boring. The phone just stops ringing after school starts. It's nice for the first week, then really boring for the next 3 months.

K-man is growing! According the the Pediatrician he is "chunky." I'm not buying it. Some days he is a little "rounder" than others, but, aren't we all? He's a stout young lad. I'm not concerned. And, I happen to think he looks cute with his little baby pot belly. Hopefully when he gets older he'll inherit his father's washboard abs. Hehehe.

Actually, there may be a good reason he is a "chunky" kid. It turns out, our little dude eats rocks. And he has a serious problem. Some kids are on the juice, ours is "on the rocks". It all started this past Friday. We are hanging out at the house and K's off poopin somewhere (yes, he is wearing a diaper, but he hides to take care of business). Next thing we know, K is crying, soooo sad. We go check him out and lo and behold in his diaper is a little rock and a not so little rock. The latter is about the size of a marble but not as smooth. (ooh!) Turns out passing rocks isn't all that easy.

At this point we are sad for him, but not overly concerned. (wait for it...) Until the next morning. Brian changes the diaper and notices nothing. (here it comes...) But, I change his diaper later on and it's full up of "not so fruity" little pebbles. Like the concerned parent I am, I mention to Brian that we should examine all his previous diapers for foreign deposits. Naturally, I have a poor gag reflex, so the diaper duty is left up to Brian. And wouldn't you know it - he found the motherload. We washed the rocks, bleached them, and put them in a little evidence baggie.

Today I confronted the daycare about my son's deviant eating behaviors (Brian begged off to go to Mexico for work - whatever - priorities, priorites). My little baggie of rocks in hand, I explained to them, both in a letter and in person, that this is very concerning to us, mostly because of the obvious choking hazard. The daycare personnel expressed their sincerest apologies along with wide-eyed astonishment at the number of rocks K-man ingested. "We're so sorry, Marissa. We watch him constantly. He always spits them out when we tell him to. All the kids eat rocks." Blah, blah, blah. Whatever.

Here's my thinking (and several people agree with me) Baby Playground + Rocks = Babies Choking on Rocks. Babies Choking on Rocks + Pissed off Parents = Lawsuit. Follow me? After all EVERYONE knows that kids will literally put ANYTHING in their mouths. Doesn't it just make sense to remove the temptation? Seriously.

What a gross story! Hope none of you were eating while you were reading this!

McCranskis Out

MackBrown-TexasFootball.com

2009-09-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

MackBrown-TexasFootball.com: "Days08Hours09Mins32Secs"

Nocturnal Visitor

2009-08-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hola my friends,

Last night we had a not-so-friendly visit from a di-stink-tly unwelcome trespasser. Brian and I were enjoying the movie Appaloosa, courtesy of our new HBO channels when Max whined to go outside. I removed myself from my comfortable, reclining, couch potato position and let Max and the puggies outside to conduct their "business." I walked back to the couch and was just about to sit down when Max starts whoofing and hollering outside. I knew something was amiss. You see, Max never barks unless there are varmints about. I walked back to the door and vaguely saw three shadowy bodies (it was dark) snarling and attacking our fence. (The three figures to which I am referring were Max and his pug cohorts). I said to Brian "Those pugs've got something out there - go see what it is." Brian grabbed the flashlight and ventured forth into the murky abyss that is our backyard around 9:17pm. "What is it?" I shouted from the doorway. I could see the pugs runnig to and fro barking like mad while Max was viciously scrapping with the culprit. Then it hit me. The awful stench coupled with Brian's reponse "It's a skunk! Max has got it!" Right then, Max ran from the dark recesses of the yard into my line of sight and the light with his prize dangling from his frothing mouth. He was thrashing his head vigorously from side to side playing with his new toy. Brian shouted "Max drop it, DROP IT." Finally, he did. I had run into the garage to get a rake so we could pick up the dead skunk. I was thinking of hurling it over the fence into the neighbors garden (he, he, he - surprise!). But instead, Brian made me get some plastic bags so we could throw it into the garbage can (boring). Luckily, before we did so, I was able to capture a picture of the stinking varmint.

As luck would have it, neither Max or the pugs got sprayed too badly from the skunk. But Max was a mite stinky and got a rather vigorous scurb down with shampoo and the hose. The pugs too, were scrubbed down in the shower - just in case. Needless to say, all the dogs slept in their own beds last night.

My littlest dog, Kellen, slept thru all the shenanigans. Lucky.

~McCranski's Out

Record Temps

2009-08-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Is it hot or what?! Holy smokes - I think all the soles are melting off my shoes because at least two pairs of my shoes have the soles peeling off. Time for new shoes.
Not a whole lot going on lately. Kellen's doing well in school. He has learned several animals and the sounds they make. It is the cutest thing - well to us anyway. It's not hard for him to impress us - I know, we are biased. Naturally, we think he is brilliantly smart and have aspirations for him to be a rocket scientist or a successful business man, or, well the list goes on and on. I'm sure to everyone else he is just your average, run of the mill, little toddler. But what do y'all know?
Work is the same both both of us. Boring. It pays the bills.
Brian's guy trip is coming up very soon. They'll be off to Detroit this year to take in Notre Dame v Wolverines game or something like that. Our Longhorn tickets are in the mail! In fact, they are at the post office this very minute waiting for us to pick them up. It's going to be a great Longhorn season folks. Stay tuned.
My mother has gone green. Yesterday, she turned in her "clunker" for a 2009 Prius. It's cool. She's even going to be able to play her iPod in the car - something I can't even do in my Lexus. You know what I'm thinking...I need a new car... Someone better stop me!! I can't help myself, I have a problem. The first step is to admit it, right? That's something.
My good friend from childhood, Jenny, found me on Facebook. Man that is some kind of website. I must admit I am addicted to a game called Farmville. I have this little farm, with little animals, and I harvest my crops, and get money and buy things. It's quite taken over my life. I'm almost over it. Almost. Anyway, I digress - it was really good to hear from Jenny! I haven't talked to her since college days and it looks like she is doing great. I also tracked down another college friend, Christy on this Facebook site. It's really cool to see how people are faring all these years later. My friends, you can't have too many friends.
Well, I guess that's about it. Here's a short video of my little dancing man! I'm smitten with him (no, it is not Brian)
Laters y'all. McCranksi's Out

Mmmm Spaghetti

2009-07-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Poor Guy

2009-07-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Well Kellen's been under the weather for a couple of days. Not eating well, a bit fussy. Not sure what's going on there. I know his little teeth are busting through and his mouth looks so red and sore. Poor dude.

Work is very slow and very boring right now. Middle of the month lull (i hope). I'm ready for a vacation - just a short one. Nothing to exotic, but it would be nice to get away for a weekend. Vegas keeps sending Brian emails offering freebies. Hmmmm. Maybe.

We have a snake that has taken up part-time residence in our yard. I'm not too happy about this for obvious reasons. Last weekend, I was outside, training my moonflower vines to grow up the iron fence out back. So, there I was just humming away, gently winding the vines around the fence when I look down to see the snake, also hanging out under the moonflower vines. I screamed. Jumped up, twisted my ankle (okay, tweaked it) got goose bumps all over, and went hopping through the yard and into the house. (I get shivers just thinking about it). I'm pretty sure he's just your garden vareity snake, but he really needs to find a new place to hang out. Or lay around. Whatever.

I've taken up song writing. It's kind of like writing ditties, but with a tune. No - I'm not that good. But I get a good 45 minutes a day in the car to just sit and do nothing, so I sometimes find myself making up little musical ditties. Now if I can just figure out how to write down the music.

Well, that's all I have for now. Laters.

~M. Mccranski Out

Dog Days

2009-07-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Hola Todos - It's been a while.

July 4th was good times - Just hanging out with friends eatin some shishkabobs. Mmmm. Shishkabobs rock!

Kellen likes to swim. Okay -float. I mean flirt. We went to the pool at our old apartments (yeah that's right - we kept our gate opener) and Kellen was making eyes at this blonde girl the whole time. Smiling, laughing, POINTING. Rude little dude. She was eatin it up, waving at him and talking to him. He's only 13 months and he's got the ladies eating out of the palm of his chubby, little hands. Sick. Finally her boyfriend had to lay on top of her so she would pay attention to him and not Kellen. Needless to say, once the smooching ensued we left.
Kellen is getting mucho grande. He is growing so fast! He has recently learned what a cow says (ooooooh) and makes the cutest attempts at making a fish face when you ask him what a fish says. We are working hard on teaching him different animals and sounds. He has a little stuffed pug dog that he loves to snuggle (go figure) and takes it to bed with him and in the car too.

On the 9th of July, he had tubes put into his ears to help them drain. Too many ear infections! Surgery went smoothly - took all of 10 minutes. Brian stayed home with him that day and they had boy time. Just hanging out and playing.

Brian is the same. Working hard trying to get ahead in the game of life. He is probably going to have to travel abroad for work again to either Malaysia or China by the end of this year. Missy does not look forward to him being gone.

I am the same. The summer real estate market has been good. Not as good as past years, but I can't complain. Okay - I could complain, but I won't.

We are ready for some football!!! The tix have been bought and we can't wait to see our Longhorns play. Give em hell, Give em hell, make em eat... I mean Go Horns Go! Please pray that it cools down for the first game. Or three. Otherwise the skin might melt off our bodies. Gross.

That's it for now folks.

McCranski's Out.

So Tired

2009-06-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy few weeks! Kellen turned one on May 30th. He had a birthday/blessing party on May 31st. We hosted it at the house and had good friends, food and fun. That little dog was so worn out by the end of the day! He went to bed a 6pm that night. Brian and I were wiped out. Kids are fun, but they can wear you out.

After the party Missy caught some kind of Summer flu. Yuck. She even had to stay at home from work which she NEVER does. I think she just needed some R&R after the crazy weekend. Not to be outdone, both Brian and Kellen also caught a little bug (compliments of Missy I'm sure). Oh well. What goes around comes around.

Kellen has moved up into the next class at school. Yeah! He is no longer a Minnow - he is now a Sea Turtle. He is motoring along pretty good now too. It was like overnight he just decided to walk. It's fun to watch him totter around.

Brian has been working hard and is studying to become a project manager. His new softball season kicks off tonight at 6:30. Go team!

It's summertime in real estate and Missy's been busy, busy walking properties and trying to grow the business. Time are tough for people in real estate. She also started up a little play date group for the kiddos. Just a small group so far - hoping to grow this group a bit too!

Well - that's a quick update for now! Mccranski's Out.

Ode to Firsts

2009-05-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

Well, it's almost here...Kellen's first birthday. The year went by fast! Here's a little ditty for our precious, little kiddy.

Ode to Firsts by Marissa

A year of firsts
But not of lasts
So much happened
Oh so fast!

First cry, first wail
First little coo
First smile, first giggle
First diaper pooh

First stretch, first yawn
First snuggle up
First step, first squat
First down then up

First tooth, first cut
First belly laugh
First word, first grunt
First talking smack

First swim, first stroll
First point and yell
First night of sleep
First night from hell

First overnight
First day of school
First time to hike
First time to drool

First angry face
First little pout
First tantrum thrown
First time to shout

First swing, first slide
First cry of glee
First falling down
First scraped up knee

First cough, first cold
First fevered night
First doctor’s visit
First parent’s fright

First finger painting
First photo op
First taste of dirt
First taste of rocks

First food, first bite
First messy face
First throwing food
First pug dog chase

First hurt feelings
First feeling sad
First invincible feeling
First getting mad

First church service
First grocery trip
First bluebonnets
First good grip

First ducky tub
First wet dog kiss
First big boy bath
First try and miss

First wagon ride
First baby crib
First bike around
First baby bib

First baby blessing
First birthday feast
First baby’s cake
First meet and greet

A year of firsts
For you and us
A year of trials
A year of musts

You’re our first born
You’re our first son
You’re the first, best thing
We’ve ever done.

~Mccranski's Out

Play Ball

2009-05-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Roar

2009-05-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

11 months

2009-04-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

Holy cow! How time flies. Let's see...

Easter

Brian and Missy served breakfast to the homeless at the South Branch of the Community of Christ. Kellen stayed with his Aunt Dawn and had Easter fun at her house while we were at the breakfast. We rushed home in order to get ready for Sunday Service. Kellen was soooo tired! His Auntie and Mei Ping wore him out! He slept thru the entire service waking up fresh and ready to party at his Grandparent's house. He had a small Easter egg hunt and the McCracken's house. He was more into banging the eggs then finding them.

Kellen is constantly getting germs and colds from his daycare. Sigh. I think we miss one to two days of work every other week staying home with our little sicko. Poor kid! Aside from this he is a really happy little dude. Very mischeivious. No fear of his parents - we tell him "no" and he laughs in our faces and goes for whatever it is he sees. He's growing fast and is bound and determined to try learn to walk. His right foot is a bit pigeon-toed which I think is making the walking task a little difficult to master.

He got his first fish this past weekend, a Crowntail Male Betta. He likes to watch it and Missy's trying to teach him how to purse his lips together to make a fish face. He newest and only words are "duhg" and "guhh". Everything he points to is either a "duhg" or a "guh" with an occasional "doog". I think it's obvious what he thinks of his dogs/pugs, don't you agree?

Brian is the same. But without braces.

Missy is the same. She's never had braces.

That's it for now! McCranski's Out.

It's Spring

2009-03-31T08:31:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

It's spring and I love this time of year when all the trees are turning green and the flowers are starting to peek out. Unfortunately, the blue bonnets seem to be a bit shabby this year - I'm thinking cuz we've not had much rain. But the past week did bring some showers, so maybe a few more bonnets will sprout before the season is over.

I finally got to take about 30 minutes and plant my elephent ears in the backyard. I have so much gardening to do and it's just about impossible with Mr. K - but I will prevail! The deer are very rude in these parts and will munch on just about anything so one must plan a garden carefully and put deer resistant plants in the ground.

Kellen turned 10 monthos old yesterday! He's almost a year old - time sure does fly. He's growing and has turned out to be quite demanding. I keep telling Brian "we've got to quit spoiling this kid!" Folks - we've created a monster. Sigh.

Brian had a quick trip to San Jose for a business meeting. Just an overnighter - sounds like corporate waste to me... But I am not complaining as long as they keep employing him they can "waste away"

Real estate is mostly solid here in Austin. The leasing market is very steady. The sales market is very slow. We are hanging in there in these tough economic times.

My pugs keep getting bites on their little toes. I'm not sure if it's ants or spiders, or chiggers, but their poor little toes have bites. I'll have to watch them closely - those pugs are always finding themselves in shenanigans.

I have played and lost (badly) a few tennis matches. Basically I suk. I suk because I don't practice enough. I don't practice enough because I find it very hard to do much of anything with a 10 month old at home! Excuses, excuses... I've really got to shape up. I've languished in Lazyville to long now.

Onward and Upward. More soon.

McCranski's Out

March 5 Update

2009-03-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Just a few quick updates:

Kellen

Kellen just turned 9 months old - man he's growing fast
He is growing and according to his doc is 45% percentile for height, 30% for weight and 23% for head circumference... that is in comparison to other 9 month old kids...
He weighed in a 19 pounds - very solid
He also has a double ear infection - poor guy!! He's on his antibiotics and we hope the infections will clear up fast

Missy

Not much new here just working and gearing up for the summer real estate market.
On the Mean-Eyed Cats tennis team - lost the last match in a 3 setter. It was REALLY windy and felt good to get out and play - need to do more of that! Playing again this Saturday.

Brian

Working hard pulling lots of late nights and participating in lots of conference calls! We are very happy he has a job - can't complain
He is playing softball again this season and most nights he says his team wins...

That's all for now folks!

McCranski's Out

New Home

2009-02-05T13:08:00.000-08:00

On January 28th we closed on our new home! Finally! It's been a whirlwind but we are finally in our new home!! We are so excited to be back in a house instead of a tiny apartment.

We brought the dogs over and the first thing Max (the boxer) did was run around the yard as fast as he could go. He was stoked at having a yard again. He's been waiting months to run. Watching him was fun and I'm so glad he's happy again. Poor Gus (the pug) - it was all he could do to stay out of harms way - otherwise, I'm sure Max would have trampled him! I also finally got my little pug girl Miakoda back. She's precious and I definitely need her otherwise the testosterone level is way too high!!! Brian disagrees.

Kellen too, finally has his own room - awesome! We can finally get our kid a bedroom set. We really need to set up his room so he has something other than white walls to stare at... onwards and upwards!

There is still some unpacking to do but we are mostly settled in. Time to decorate - yuck... my wallet already feels lighter.

The house is minutes from Brian's work which is really nice. In fact it's minutes from Kellen's daycare which is really nice for us!! Brian drops him off on the way to work and I pick him up on my way home. It works.

We are right around the corner from Missy's sister Dawn which is also great news as she loves to babysit! Yeah! It's going to be fun walking/biking/jogging/dropping by her home whenever we want.

Later y'all~

McCranski's Out