Blackmans on the Web (log)

Independence Day 2009

Hope everyone had a nice Independence Day. Another scorcher in the heart of Texas. 101 I think.

The 1994 Camry finally gave up the ghost. Power steering started failing and before we knew it we were looking at the possibility of $3500 in repairs. So Sam started scouring Craigslist for a deals. Didn’t take him long to find one! 1992 Mazda Miata with only 89,800 miles. New paint. Excellent interior. 

Needless to say – he can’t stop grinning. And who can blame him. 

10:45pm Update: Great party! Lots of friends who have been important in Alex’s life were there. We are all grateful to have such wonderful friends! Alex was pleased with the turnout and – of course – pleased with the thoughtful gifts.

1:00pm: We’re having a party for Alex today. You can click on the picture to see updated pictures that refresh every 5 minutes were taken throughout the day. You can also go to http://www.ustream.tv/scottblackman to see a live stream starting around 3:30 central time.

Spring Break this week. We convinced the kids to spend part of a day with us (harder than you might think!). We went to the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth to see a photo exhibit called The Art of the American Snapshot 1888-1978. After the museum we went to the Stockyards and had lunch. Alex was able to meet up with a girl who is going to Tarleton next year who happens to also be the niece of his guidance counselor. All in all a nice day.

Amon Carter Museum

Random pictures from the Amon Carter and Stockyards during Spring Break 2008

16 Photos

 

Each year the Frisco ISD School Board recognizes students and athletes who earned the right to participate in the state UIL (University Interscholastic League) competition for their sport. This is the second year Alex was recognized along with his fellow team members at the meeting. This meeting recognized student from the Academic Decathlon, Swimming & Diving and Wrestling.   

School Board Meeting

6 Photos

 

It’s that time of year – the YMCA Camp Grady Spruce Partners Campaign is in full swing. CGS has been an important part of our lives for nearly as long as we’ve lived in Texas.

It wouldn’t be saying too much to say the CGS has had a significant impact on shaping who Alex and Sam are as caring, engaged young people. YMCA Camp Grady Spruce’s mission is to deliver exceptional outdoor programs that inspire, build and strengthen relationships with God, His creation and each other. Visit our Campaign page to learn more. There you’ll find any easy way to donate to the campaign.

Click the image below for a recap of our Turkey Day Extravaganza. Quicktime Time lapse movie version here

Met up with David and his family and Mom and Dad at a nice house in Ft. Myers Beach. Weather was a little rainy, but we have great time. Got to see Meg and her family in Tampa on the way up AND the way down (oh yeah, we drove). Even got to meet a bunch of the Bittls for the first time in 25 years!