Chesser Bunch

Chelse's Senior Prom

2011-02-17T02:28:00.003-06:00

Chelsea took Quaylen who is like a brother to her, to the prom. These are some of my favorite pics whe took. We went to the Depot which is where the prom was held and got watch everyone walk the "RED CARPET". It was so much fun. My Daddy & Mother was there and it was a fun experience for them too. Chelsea is such an amazing young woman...her beauty is not only on the outsied but on the inside.

2011-02-17T02:18:00.002-06:00

It's been 7 years since we lost Alex. In so many way it seems like yesterday. God continues to be faithful like he promise us in Isaiah 40:30 "those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.

We love and miss you Alexander.

April 2011...Busy Busy Busy

2011-02-13T02:30:00.004-06:00

I had fallen an injured by wrist in February...I didn' t do it right the first time so I fell again really injuryng it. I had a hug golf ball size knot on my wrist which was thought to a gangelion cyst...found out after surgery and pathology reports It was a bone tumor. How amazing that my fall help me fin this bone tumor. Will spend a while in cast.

Chelsea was in a Quartet at LTC...they were so awesome they were asked to sing in Church on Sunday which consist of 3000 people. We are so proud of her.

Ruthie and Chelsea went shopping for bridesmaid dress and flower girl dress for their KiKi (my sister's ) wedding. We had fun looking and found all we were looking for.

March 2009

2011-02-13T02:14:00.004-06:00

Ruthie and her baby are insepertable. Ru is going like a week and is so busy. She is playing tee-ball and could careless about the game...she wants spend time with her friend, dance and sing. Did I mention this in all on the field. lol We love her so much.

Cheslea's Drill Team

2009-02-25T11:49:00.004-06:00

The Early Belles were invited to perform at the Alamo Bowl this past December. Unfortunatley, Chelsea didn't get to perform because she hurt her hamstring while doing a split a couple of weeks before the performance. This was a big honor to be asked. If you click on the picture it should enlarge.

For Haircuts Contact: Ruthie PART 2

2009-02-25T11:17:00.005-06:00

How can I be mad as this little sweetie!!! ;o)

I thought we settled the haircutting thing back in September but Ruthie is one that needs refresher course. At the end of January she came to me and said "Mommy is my hair beawtiful." It makes me want to cry just remembering it. I had put the hair and scissors from the September incident in a baggie and hid it, so I thought. She got it and cut her hair all over and then put in the baggie. We were growing it out so she could give it to Locks of Love. I guess we will start over. ;o) Of course she looks cut with the new haircut, but it was a traumatic situation for me. I am the only Mommy that feels this way????

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-01-04T13:09:00.001-06:00

Chelsea doesn't like to sit on Santa's lap anymore...but Ruthie does.

Happy Birthday son!!!

2009-01-04T13:04:00.001-06:00

Alexander James Chesser December 27,1994-May 4, 2003

Missing Grandma!!

2009-01-04T13:00:00.002-06:00

This is the first holiday season without my Grandma. This are pics from 2000 when she visited me and my family.

Halloween 2008

2009-01-04T09:16:00.002-06:00

Who wants to play soccer....let's dance!!!!

2009-01-04T09:08:00.005-06:00

Ruthie's first experience with soccer can be summed up with one word....DANCE! While her teammates were playing soccer she was dancing. After the first practice Rodney and let the competiveness that we hold inside ourselves go. The competing this year was if others were wanting to dance.

Cousin Time!!!!

2009-01-04T09:03:00.004-06:00

This is a picture from the summer when my niece came to visit. Her and Ruthie are almost 4 years apart but they have a great time together. Ruthie loves her Kenzie!!!

Our Sweet Chelsea

2008-10-05T04:04:00.017-06:00

Chelsea in back

Chelsea and Derrick @ Purple Day

Chelsea & Ruthie befor Homecoming game

Tribute to Grandma

2008-10-01T00:22:00.012-06:00

My grandma passed away on September 21, 2008. I had the best grandma in the world. I wanted to give a tribute to her in my blogspot.

My Grandpa John Douglas Bowen married my Grandma, Sibyl
Madona Stevens on November 7, 1941. They had 4 children Doug, Bill, Raymond & Diane. They have 14 grandchildren:

Billie Diane, Debbie, Lisa, Bubba, Sharon, Carl, Teresa,Tammy,Jenny, Tracie Missy, Kenneth Billie & April. They also had 22 great-grand children. My grandparents made evey single one of their grand and great grandchildren feel special. Grandma was a wonderful hard working mother.

Grandpa and Grandpa's wedding picture.

Grandpa & Grandma's children oldest to youngest.

Douglas Wendel Bowen

Willaim Reese Bowen

Raymond Lee Bowen

Diane Louise Bowen (this is Tracie's mom) AKA Precious.

Grandma I love you and will miss you and I can't wait unitl we are united again in Heaven.

For Hair cuts contact: Ruthie Chesser

2008-09-30T23:19:00.005-06:00

Ruthie told me when ask her why did you cut your hair. " I want my hair to as bewtiful as yors Mommy". She didn't realize doesn't cut her own hair. So if you see sporting side pony tails on the right side of her head , that why. I went to my room and shed a few tears about it . But I am dealing with the best I can.

Josh & Cody's week with Aunt Tracie

2008-09-30T22:47:00.009-06:00

Left to Right Josh, Cody, & Barret then in the middle is Chelsea. Barrret is Josh and Cody's friend than came with us.

They had a good time. They help with VBS. When went to movies, and bowling

An Adventure

2008-09-29T12:48:00.006-06:00

Ruthie was wanting to go on an adventure so she got Backpack and Map (characters from Dora the Explorer) and put her and I a water bottle each in it. We went up and down our street finding some very interesting things. Here is the list of some of the items:

(1.) toilet paper from our front yard, that keeps falling out of the trees every time it rains. We can thank Chelsea's friends for the great toilet papering job they did. (2.) leaves and yes every single one is special (3.)Rocks, rocks and more rocks.

(4.) wire (5.) pine cones (6.) Sticks of all sizes. (7.) pecan shells (8.) Some things we couldn't figure out what they were.

(9.) Rope (10.) tree bark Last but not least number (11.) a "coke" bottle cap, that's what she thinks anyway. We had lots of fun.

Fun in the Sun

2008-08-22T23:10:00.005-06:00

Chelsea and Ruthie playing in our backyard pool.

Memaw & Kenzie Visit

2008-06-11T09:57:00.003-06:00

My mom and niece came to visit for several days this past week. We had a great time and Ruthie and Kenzie played very well together. I caught them playing nicely in the sandbox and couldn't resist taking a some pictures.

Chelsea has her permit now, so of course she convinced Memaw to let her drive around town. I think Memaw a seen more of Brownwood/Early than she ever cared to. :)

Aggie Softball

2008-05-24T10:39:00.009-06:00

This past weekend Rodney, Ruthie and I went to College Station to watch the Aggie Softball team win Regionals. Chelsea decided she wanted to stay with a friend. She's not as in to the softball thing as we are. Poor Ruthie, she doesn't have a choice. Here are some pics with a daughter of some of our good friends. You may notice we got some sun that day.

Are you smarter than 3 1/2 year old?

2008-05-02T11:40:00.003-06:00

I swear I have the smartest 3 1/2 year old. Yesterday we were leaving the school and there was a little boy who was sitting on the curb. Ruthie waves to him and says, "Bye Alex". He had a haircut like Alex did in a picture. I told her that he wasn't Alex and she asked, "Where is Alex?" I reminded her he is in Heaven with God. She asked,When can I see him again?" I told her when Jesus, God son comes back. That answer seemed to be enough for her. So, fast forward to this morning. I am sitting at the computer and she comes up to me and ask me, "Mommy is God Back?" At first I didn't understand her, I never dreamed that would come out of her mouth. When I had to tell her "No, not yet" she walked off with this sad look on her face. I asked her what was wrong and she said, " I want to see my Alex." I know she doesn't totally understand the concept of Jesus' return and that God is the most important part of His return, but she's learning. I too anticipate Jesus' return to be with God and His Son and so I can see mine as well. I have to admit sometimes my interest is more in seeing my son, but I know God understands that I am human.

Also, I think Ruthie is proof that pictures speak a thousand words, that is the only way she has seen her brother.

Ruthie Flying a Kite

2008-05-01T12:51:00.009-06:00

I don't know if there is a official list of "Top 100 things that are difficult to teach a 3 1/2 year old"but, I think I could start one. Flying a kite would be on that list somewhere. Ruthie was so willing learn but so not wanting to listen. After lots of instruction and even more patience ( on Mommy's part if I do say so myself) we got the kite in the air, sort of. I made the string "Ruthie size". Of course, she didn't want it "Ruthie size" but mommy won that battle. I think the battle score today is Mommy 1- Ruthie 100. Mommy will try again tomorrow. :)

The Biggest Blog Ever!!!!

2008-04-28T06:42:00.029-06:00

Thank you to all the donated to our Relay for Life cause. The Chesser's were able to raise $580.00. Our team raised over $3,000. Every lap Tracie took she said a prayer for each survivor we were walking for those we lost. She also said a prayer of thanksgiving for those who donated.

This is the beginning of the "Survivor Walk". Survivors and their caregivers walk the first lap before anyone else walks a lap. My Mom wanted all of her family to participate in the first lap.

Purple shirts represent survivors. Some of the survivors are not wearing purple shirts due to that each team has a theme and they dress up. Our team was a tropical theme. Above to the left is Tracie's Mom (the extremely colorful one in the middle) and her Dad (in the wonderful red hat and shirt) along with other family members.

All the survivors one by one went to the mic and told how many years since their diagnosis. For Tracie's Mom it has been 17 1/2 years. The young boy in the picture to the left is just beginning his fight. Some survivors had more than one type of cancer. Rodney's mom has had breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

Tracie's mom and cousin Teresa volunteer their services to "Lock of Love". Anyone who has long enough hair can donate. Tracie's mom cut the ponytail and cousin Teresa would give the participant a new hairdo.

Below are pictures taken throughout the night. L to R- Jacie,(Chelsea's best friend) Tracie, Teresa,(Tracie's cousin) Missy,(Tracie's sister) Chelsea, Diane (Tracie's mom)

Cody,(Tracie's nephew with a former teacher who is a survivor. Ruthie doing her Hula dance.
Ruthie & Makenzie(Tracie's niece)

Tracie's Mom & Dad

Jacie, Chelsea, Josh( Tracie's nephew & Taylor (Tracie's little cousin) Ruthie, Valen & Brendan (Cousin's meeting for the first time)

Congratulations Chelsea!

2008-04-24T19:45:00.004-06:00

Chelsea tried out the Heartland Belles, which our high schoold drill team and she made it. I was so confident in her making it that Ruthie and I made her a congratulations card early this afternoon way before tryouts. Good Job Chels!!!

"Hand Me Downs"

2008-04-24T16:01:00.004-06:00

This is Chelsea and Ruthie wearing the same outfit. Chelsea was over three in this picture and Ruthie was 2 1/2. Look how different the same outfit looks on them.

The Greatest Grandma

2008-04-23T08:49:00.005-06:00

This my Grandma Sibyl Bowen. I am asking for your prayers for her. Right now she is in a nursing home not able to remember much, more and more of her past is diminishing everyday. She has always been such a strength in our family and too see her so weak and feeble is difficult. Pray for my parents who are the ones that deal with the situation on a daily basis.

Relay for Life

2008-04-21T09:38:00.005-06:00

We are participating in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Please pray for our safe travel to Cuero and that we are successful. We have raised over our goal but could always use more to beat cancer. Click on the title above "Relay for Life" and you can make a donation.

"Christopher Robin" comes to visit.

2008-04-20T18:38:00.007-06:00

Rodney sister, Robin came for a visit this weekend. All week long Ruthie wanted to know when "Christopher Robin" (Winnie the Pooh character) was coming. It was so cute because she would say Chris-e-fer Robin. We had a great time, Robin treated Chelsea and I to a pedicure and manicure. We went out to eat Saturday night and to church Sunday morning. Most of all we just go to visit and catch up on our lives.

..."smiled like Alex."

2008-04-19T19:35:00.011-06:00

This weekend Rodney's sister came to visit. We were outside taking pictures. When we were done taking this picture Ruthie said, "Mommy I smiled like Alex." We tell her about her brother all the time, but I guess she is learning just as much from his pictures. Can you tell where she got that idea from? Looks like her Daddy smiles that way too. :)

Happy "Sweet 16" Chelsea!

2008-04-19T12:27:00.010-06:00

I can't beliveve Chelsea is 16!!! If I say so myself she is very beautiful. While we were in Austin for Chelsea's birthday trip I took some what we called glamour pictures. Some of the girls brought fancy dresses and they posed. We had a fan and everything.

These are the girls that went to Austin with us. My mom, sister and nephew and a few others friends met us there.

We survived the trip had a great time.

On April 17th was her actual birthday. I can't believe she is 16. I told her, about her birth, she was causing trouble and still causing it now. She is such a good girl and we love her so much.

Guiena Pig

2008-04-11T09:46:00.021-06:00

I am taking 12 girls and t to Austin this weekend for Chelsea's 16th birthday.

(I know I am crazy) Anyway, one of the things we are going to do Saturday night is some "glamour shots". So guess who was my guinea pig? Anyone who knows Ruthie she is not shy and willing to strut and pose. Here are her shots and will post Chelsea's after the weekend.

Ummm, I am not really sure what to do!!!

Just kidding I know how to be a ham!!!

Yes it is all about me!!!

OK, I am not enjoying

this as much anymore!!!

Don't make me imitate my teenage

sister's attititude,

I said I am through!!!

Chelsea!!!

2008-03-30T17:03:00.011-06:00

After taking a couple of years off from softball Chelsea decided she wanted to play again. She is on the high school JV team and alternated between right & left field. Here are a fews pictures of her last game. She has had a great season and it's been so much fun to watch her.

Yeah, a new picture with Chelsea!

2008-03-23T19:19:00.010-06:00

I finally was able to get a new picture with Chelsea in it. She is so busy and doesn't like to take pictures unless it's with her

friends withsilly poses. Chelsea is in the

middle of softball track and trying to keep her grades up.

My parents and my niece Makenzie

came up this weekend,

we had a great time.

Personality

2008-03-23T16:11:00.009-06:00

Ruthie loves to play dress up, her favorites are princess, cheerleader and whatever she can wear her "tippy toes" aka "princess shoes" with. She is so prissy and is also up for posing with no instruction,

it comes so naturally. :)

Living with an Addict

2008-01-04T18:18:00.002-06:00

Yes, for the past 3 yrs we have been living with an addict. Sadly, Mom , Dad & sister have been the biggest enablers. Last Saturday we had an Intervention. "My name is Tracie Chesser and my 3 yr, Ruthie, is addicted to her PAPPY." (pacifier) Last Saturday, December 29 we decided it was time for detox. She only used it for sleeping but it was time for her to get rid of it for good. We decided cold turkey was the best way. She went to bed about 8:00 and after crying, whining and wanting to go get the pappy I decided I should grow up and focus on Ruthie. :) She cried, whined, and wanted to get the pappy too but finally at 7:00am Sunday morning she fell asleep. I went to bed and at 7:30 guess who was awake ready for the day, it wasn't me that's for sure.

Let's focus on the positive now. Ruthie is 1 week clean of her pappy and has only asked for it once since the first night of detox. She is happy to say she is a big girl. There is no more searching the house inside and out looking for a pappy for bed.

I would like to say all is well but, at bed time she doesn't know what to do with herself , so we lay down with her until she goes to sleep. Anyone out there have any ideas for a new addiction we can introduce to our 3 yr old to calm her a night?:)

Introducing...Belle !!!!!

2008-01-03T21:50:00.001-06:00

Belle is the newest member of our family. Belle is inside and doing well with the crate training. We adopted her from the local pound. I saw a sign that said they didn't adopt out animals to famlies who had children 5 & under. The man said it was fine and continued the process. We have had Belle for a week and I now understand the not

adopting to families with children under five.

These are the things I have had to explain to Ruthie...

You can't put Belle in a suitcase

You can't carry her around by the neck

You can't dance with her like a human, her legs are just not that strong

You can't hold her under a blanket

And last but not least, you can't feed Belle grapes

Needless to say Belle likes her crate we have set up for her. She handles Ruthie really well, but when I say it's time to go into the crate Belle doesn't hesitate. I know that Ruthie and Belle are

going to become best friends.

I will try to catch that teenager of mine

and get a photo of her and Belle.

Happy Birthday Alex!!!

2008-01-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

December 27th is our precious son and brother's birthday. Alex was about 4 yrs old in this picture. Like all boys he was into superheros. Dad is wearing Alex's Batman costume and Alex is Superman. He was such a fun little boy.

Happy Holidays!!!

2008-01-02T06:11:00.000-06:00

Christmas has come and gone and as I look back we had a very nice one. We always open presents from each other on Christmas Eve, sometimes very early in the day because everyone is excited. The kids always get cool pajamas that they immediately change into. That night we prepare Santa's cookies, milk and a note. Chelsea and Alex's note used to be very long and specific. With Ruthie only being 3 and Chelsea almost 16 this years note was quite short. In the morning the kids are allowed to get up and get their stockings first and they don't have to wake us up first. Chelsea and Alex always like this, whoever woke up first would go get the other and they would ooh and aah over each other's stuff. Chelsea is helping Ruthie learn our family traditions and I enjoying watching them. Then the kids come get Rodney and I and we open from Santa then have a big breakfast and mess with our stuff for the rest of the day.

Chelsea's big gift this year was a digital camera. She is taking a homemaking class at school and has pick up sewing. She made many of her friends purses for Christmas. It only seemed fitting that she get and sewing basket and scissors of her own. Her cool pajamas this year were Spiderman boxers. She loves Spiderman these days.

Ruthie big gift was a basketball goal. (Ruthie size) She is really into the Disney princesses, so she got several of there toys. Her cool pajamas were Spiderman like big sister. She loved them, it makes her feel special to be like sister.

Rodney got a 8ft ladder that he had asked and I got a new flash for my digital camera.

We had a nice Christmas and pray everyone else did too.

Happy Fall Y'all!!!

2007-10-23T12:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Rodney, Ruthie & Tracie

2007-10-22T14:07:00.000-06:00

October is a busy month for birthdays in our family. Rodney and Ruthie share a birthday and mine is a week later. Chelsea and Alex are the odd balls with a April and December birthday. Rodney is 40, Ruthie 3 and I am 39.

Ruthie's Spot

2007-10-22T13:03:00.000-06:00

Lately, the most frequently visited spot in our house for Ruthie is the Time Out Spot, otherwise known as Ruthie's Spot. I know I know, all those who know Ruthie are shocked to hear she misbehaves and has to go to time out. :)

Ruthie's First Day of Preschool!!!

2007-09-05T13:28:00.000-06:00

Wednesday 8:40 am This is Ruthie at the house before leaving for first day of preschool.

Wednesday 9:00 am Ruthie arriving at preschool ready to play with new friends.

Wednesday 9:30am Ruthie getting back in the car after I got a call saying she had thrown up in the trash can. I guess we'll try again next week.

Visit from Forbess's

2007-09-01T08:28:00.000-06:00

We have had pleasure of having some friends into town, they are serving our Lord in Cochabamba, Bolivia as missionaries. They have one daughter Jubliee and one on the way. Ruthie and Jubi (this is what Ruthie calls her) had a great time playing. They have been here in town for two weeks and will be leaving to visit family. God Bless you Jeff, Katie, Jubliee & future little Forbess.

Happy Father's Day Daddy!!!

2007-07-01T01:59:00.003-06:00

This picture was Cheslea and Ruthie's father's day present to Rodney.
Alex is represented in it too. The flowers to the right and left are from his services.
Needless to say Rodney was very pleased with his present.

Oklahoma!!!

2007-07-01T01:41:00.000-06:00

Rodney and I got the pleasure of going to Oklahoma to watch the Softball College World Series. We only got to watch 17 games and almost 40 hours of softball. We had this trip planned for a year before we found out the Fightin Texas Aggies Woman Softball made to the series. This made the trip even sweeter. Even though they played their two games and went home we stayed and enjoyed the rest of a wonderful week of softball.

We ran into some softball celebrity like Jessica Mendoza who plays for the USA Gold Medal team. And as were we leaving the field one night we ran into a cast member from the show The Apprentice. Ok Ok I realize you may be thing we are reality tv junkies, yes we are but only with the quality shows!!! HA HA! Anyway we ran into Angela, the USA Hockey Gold medalist from this past season. We got to talk with her for about 2o minutes, it was so cool. Also remember in March we got Pres. George Sr autograph so we are collecting them left and right. There are so many wonderful pictures we can show you but I won't bore you with those. The one I chose is Rodney and I in the stands watching a game. We sat right next to the tv crew and never had a good picture of us on tv. You could see Rodney's hat or half my head.

We would have never been able to go it My Dad, Mom, Sister and Josh ( my nephew) didn't help with watching Ruthie. She is very active and they didn't complain once. She had the best time ever in Cuero.

Chelsea was in Las Vegas, New Mexico at a wonderful church camp. I am hoping to get some pics of her time at camp on the blog as soon as I can get them from her.

Relay for Life

2007-07-01T01:01:00.001-06:00

My mom and another cancer survivor Debbie got a team together of family and friends and walked all night to raise money for a cure for cancer. If you can not tell our theme was "Rockin& Rollin for a Cure" We dressed up 50" style and won most of the team awards. My mom and my cousin Teresa offered their haircutting services for anyone who would like to donate to Locks of Love, an organization that make wig for those who lost their hair during treatment. As you can tell above many were moved to do this. After the group picture was taken many others came forward too. Some and just lost loved ones to cancer.

I would have to say Josh won the prize for best dressed, being Elvis. Kenzie and Ruthie were the cutest in their poodle skirts but definitely were the first to go home. The rest of us stuck it out and walked all night.

We had a great time and our team also won most laps walked.

Remembering Alex May 4th 2007

2007-07-01T00:04:00.000-06:00

It's been a while for me to post. Since the last time we have gone through May 4th which means one more year without Alex. One more without his smile, getting to watch him pitch in baseball his energy around us, his loving caring personality, and especially one more year without him being with his parents, sisters, cousins and grandparents. Really the only thing I have to say is hug your babies tighter whether they are 2, 12, 15 or 50, and make sure the people you love know it. Sometimes we chose to fight battles that are not important or even our battle to fight. Also remember God is Good!!!! and "Everything will be OK even if it's not!" one of my new favorite things to say.

***************************************

I learned this from a scripture in

Isaiah 43: 2 "When you pass through the waters;

I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers,

they will not sweep over you,

When you walk through the fire,

you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze.

What this scripture is saying to me is that God doesn't promise that we won't go through trials, sometimes these trials seem that nothing good and come out it. What he is saying to ME is"Tracie everything is going to be OK, even if it's not. because I will carry you. Even if you lose your son Tracie, you won't be alone and it will be OK. Excuse me for preaching.

I was recently asked to speak along with a small group of family and friends family gathering after one of Alex's closes friends Katy Jacobs was Baptized into our Lord and Saviour. Her mom Kerri, has chosen a wonderful way to help her children start their new life with Christ. We celebrate their "Zero" birthday. No sins. Family and friends gathered to say wonderful things about Katy, and everyone of them true. I wanted to convey to her that although being a Christian is the most wonderful thing in the world it's not easy. I pray I did this with encourgement and did not discourage. I bascially told her what I believe above about Isaiah 43:2

***********************************

I chose these pictures of Alex because in all his determination shows. He was this way all the time whether he was praying, playing or doing homework and especially if he had done something wrong and was trying to weasel his way out. These were taken at his Kindergarten Fun Day, where each class competed against each with different obstacles. He along with his friends were proud to bring the Kindergarten Fun Day title to Mrs. Curtis's class that year.

I think I have learned from his determination and a pressing through this life without him. I am happy even though I don't have him on this earth. I have a wonderful husband, two wonderful daughters and a loving supportive family and friends. This is all from God because he is GOOD!!!!

Chelsea turns 15!!!!!!

2007-04-22T19:54:00.000-06:00

Can you believe this little girl is 15. Time sure does fly by fast. We celebrated by going out to eat where Chelsea wanted, McDonald's. She is a cheap birthday date. After we ate we went to the mall and she got to spend her birthday money. When we got home we ate some homemade cheesecake that I made. She received happy birthday calls from family and friends I think she had a great birthday.

Gig 'em...Aggies

2007-04-22T18:45:00.000-06:00

In March we went to an A&M softball game. Ruthie is in the Junior Double Play Club, so she got to get the team's autographs after the game. The girl to your right is the catcher and on the left is one of the pitchers. The Aggies won both games Saturday and Sunday against Iowa State. Also while we were there during the game, former President George Bush Sr. showed up, we got his autograph too. COOL Huh!!! I thought it was. I took Ruthie over and asked him if he would sign her softball cap, surely he would do it for such a cute little girl. He said, " She probably doesn't want me to mess up her cap. It was a fun experience or sad that I used my cute little girl to get what I wanted, whichever, doesn't matter I got the autograph.

One of Ruthie's friends was having a birthday party with the Old MacDonald theme so Ruthie went dressed as Aggie farmer. She got to ride a horse, it was a great party. These are pics I got before we left. Notice her hand with the Gig 'em sign and her little eyeball peeking from under her hat?

Growing Up too fast!!!

2007-02-23T10:20:00.000-06:00

Ruthie is growing so fast, before the holidays she weighed 26- 28 lbs and now she weighs 36 lbs. I can hardly hold her for more than five minutes and I have to lift with the legs to pick her up. :) She will come up to me a say "mommy I very hungry", she eats constantly.

She is a little sponge, she absorbs everything around her (of course that would mean she was a 3M Scotch sponge in order to be that good, right Rodney?) She is singing all kinds of songs. Her new favorite one is "What I wanna be when I grow up to be big me." When you ask what she want's to be she say a "cristin" I think she thinks she is going to grow up to be my friend Christin. :) Ruthie and I have been going for walks since the weather has been so nice. She thinks she is a big girl because she doesn't have get in the stroller. But she says, "i not big girl" when I say she doesn't need her pappy (pacifier) or that she needs to poo poo on the potty, which we have taken a break from. If anyone would like to hear some disgusting stories about Ruthie's potty training experience, just email. It's not appropiate to post on the blog. :)

Speaking of growing up too fast Chelsea is going to be 15 in a couple of months. Wow!!! She is busy with track at at school, LTC practices and homelife. Soon we will start practicing for getting her drivers permit. We sometimes let her drive on this backroad we cal Peacock road. She is good but has a way to go.

She was home sick with the Flu for a week and was very weak for awhile. She is much better but it's hard to get going again after being in bed for a week. She does not enjoying taking pictures so as soon as I can get her to take one I will post it. It is amazing how fast she is maturing in her looks, she is so beautiful.

A new sister in Christ!!!!!

2007-01-24T08:31:00.000-06:00

We are so happy to let everyone know that Chelsea is now our sister in Christ. We are so proud of her, she came to this decision all by herself. Of course Rodney and talked with her and showed her some scripture. We guided without her knowing we were guiding her. Thank you for your prayers.

Before & After!!!

2007-01-18T08:41:00.000-06:00

Chelsea finally got her braces off. She is so beautiful!!!

No school!!

2007-01-17T22:31:00.000-06:00

We didn't have a white Christmas, but Brownwood, Early was white today. We woke up this morning to find out we had snow and no school. Ruthie didn't know how to act, it seemed like our whole neighborhood was one big yard and she didn't know where to go first. Of course Chelsea was glad to be out of school. We went out three times today to play in the snow. Not being experienced with snow it took us until this evening to get the snowman made and our neighbors had to help with it.

Happy 2007!!!!

2007-01-01T22:40:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year everyone!!! We pray that your 2007 is great. Here are some pictures of our family during December. Rodney, Chelsea and Ruthie opened presents from each other Christmas Eve and then Santa came Christmas morning. Chelsea's big present was test messaging and her fingers haven't stopped yet. Ruthie got a Dora sit & spin.

We had family come and visit us. Rodney's Mom and friend Humberto came Christmas Eve and my Mom, Dad, Sister & her family came New Year's weekend. We had nice visit with everyone. We shopped, guys played paintball, opened presents and of course I beat my sister in ping pong.

We have been blessed with a wonderful family.

Happy 2007 and God Bless you!!!

Merry Christmas Cochabamba!!!

2006-12-16T19:24:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!!! Gary, Laura, Nathan, Josh, Julie, Micheala, Eliana, Jeff, Katie, Jubilee, Drew, Jamie, Hannah, Butch, Patricia and Billie. We love you and miss you so much.

These 6 famililes are unselfishly serving our Lord in Cochabamb, Bolivia.

2006-11-27T11:14:00.000-06:00

Chelsea is on the very end to the right.

We hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving!! We had a safe travel and good visiting with family.

Chelsea was a captain on the Early Middle School Drill Team and Ruthie was her mascot, I guess? Here are a couple of pictures of this year. Chelsea was a great captain and was looked up to by her squad. A friend of my over heard someone talking about this girl at Early who was so sweet and was a captain in the middle school drill team. ( this was at the beauty salon) My friend asked her name and they it was Chelsea Chesser. This woman's daughter was in Chelsea's squad and said nothing but great things about Chelsea. I thought this was cool!!!

Happy Fall Y'all!!!

2006-10-12T15:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to Rodney & Ruthie!!!!

2006-10-12T15:09:00.000-06:00

We now officially have a two year old and a 39 year old in our family. Rodney and Ruthie recently celebrated their birthday's. (They are on the same day) My Mom, niece and cousin were visting us so we had a little family party. She got a kitchen and accessories for the kitchen and a rocking chair from her big sister Chelsea. Ruthie really got into her birthday this year. She tore open presents and even helped Rodney blow out the candles. Rodney is umpiring softball so he got a bag that will carry all of his gear. Last year he used Chelsea's old bat bag and it was a little small. I think they both had a great birthday. This weekend Ruthie is having a party with her little friends. I will post pics of that next week.

"Mom close the door!!!!!!"

2006-08-25T08:46:00.000-06:00

Ruthie is able to open doors now, so we have purchased the door knob saftey covers. Well..... it only works if the door is closed!!! I was in Chelsea's room straighting it up and walked out for a second. Ruthie was "WATCHING DORA The Explorer", so I thought. When I came back I found her with this wonderful shade of 1970's shade of blue eyeshadow on, from Chelsea's room. I know Rodney and Chelsea will appreciate the fact that I was the one to leave the door open and not them. Around here since Ruthie has been able to open doors, I feel like all I say is "Rodney close the door, Chelsea close the door". I guess I should practice what I preach and be glad that it wasn't the bathroom door I left open.

Back to School

2006-08-25T08:32:00.000-06:00

Chelsea and her friends had one more sleepover before school started. School started on Aug 15th and Chelsea is in 8th grade. She has been extremely busy with school activities. Not only does she have atheletics as a class during the day, they also practice in the morning at 6:30 or after school for an hour. She also has had drill team practice after school. She hasn't been getting home until 6:00. Needless to say she is exhausted, but having fun. Ruthie misses her big sister when she is gone to school.

God Bless the Children (More Bolivia Pics)

2006-08-12T22:22:00.000-06:00

It was so fun to see how Nathan, Jubilee, & Micheala had grown. More fun than that was to watch Ruthie and Chelsea play with them. I truly believe the little ones all remembered each other and picked up with their friendships where they left off in January. Chelsea had just as much fun as Ruthie did playing with everyone. I don't think I realized until we saw the kids play together how much encouragment they would be for each other. We got to witness Nathan's first steps. Since getting home Ruthie calls Micheala on her play phone. "kawa, kawa" and when she doesn't answer she says "ah man", like I can't believe she's not answering. :) Jubilee is so smart, she is already potting training and doing very well. Katie is making me look bad. I don't plan on potting training Ruthie until she is 4!! :) Just kiddin 3 1/2. :)

Chesser's go to Cochabamba, Boliva

2006-08-09T21:44:00.000-06:00

Austin Ave. Church of Christ, where we worship, has sent a team of five missionary families to Cochabamba, Bolivia to spread the Gospel. Also Billie Gill, an awesome Christian women has joined for one year. We have had the priviledge to be involved in this process. Two years ago Rodney and I along with the the team and others went to research the city. While we were there we found out what the cost of living is from cars to apartments. This past January the team left for Bolivia after a 6 month internship in Brownwood. Our family was priviledged to get to go visit and encourage the team. Of course we were the ones encouraged. While we were there a place for the Church to worship was found. It is the perfect size. It has a spacious down stairs and additonal space upstairs for class rooms. It also has an area for a kitchen and fellowship. Until the building is ready the Church is meeting in the contact center, which is where the Team's offices will be.

Ruthie in pappy (pacifier) heaven!! !!! :o)

2006-08-03T23:17:00.000-06:00

In the Chesser household a few months before you turn two it is time to start the pappy weaning process. She would usually be doing without it during day only needing it at night. But do to the trip to Bolivia we just got back from, Mommy has made an exception to the rule. She can have as many pappies as she wants at any time of the day until Mommy has recouperated from the Bolivia trip. In this picture she has 5 pappies. Isn't she so cute. I will write more soon about our wonderful trip to Bolivia to visit our missionaries from Austin Ave. Church of Christ.

Chesser Family

2006-07-23T17:59:00.000-06:00

Chesser FamilyHey guyz this is chelsea and i just wanted to say hi !!! And bolivia is sooo fun and im havin a great time here and i love it!!! its fun havin ppl that i love around me!!! im hangin round josh and julie and michaela marcum, laura and gary and nathan bull, trish and butch sandavol, katie and jeff and jubilee forbess, drew and jamie custer and Billie Gill!!! its alot of FUN!!! thanx bye

"Cool Chesser Chicks!!!!"

2006-07-11T00:30:00.000-06:00

These "Cool Chesser Chicks" are not only cool but beautiful. If I do say so myself as their mother.

Chelsea continues to have a busy summer. Right now she is a camp where she is helping under privileged children. She has also been helping serve lunch to the Boys and Girls Club here in Brownwood. She is continuing to grow and learn about service for the Lord.

Ruthie also continues to learn. Right now her favorite phrase is "Moma I need, I need my drink, I need my pappy, I need out my room". Of course she is very convincing with her beautiful blue eyes.

All four of us are about to leave for Bolivia for a mission trip for our congregation. We have 5 missionary families that are in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Our hole family is getting to go visit. we are so excited. Please pray for our safety and that we will be encouraging to our brothers and sisers in Bolivia.

Congratulations!!! Missy

2006-06-13T23:41:00.000-06:00

We started our summer by going to my little sister's gradution from the Police Academy. Missy was chosen to be class president and also recieved a scholarship from a local Rotary Club. She also was one of two students that gave a speech at the ceremony. We also had a party over the weekend for her. We are very proud of her. So if you are ever in the Cuero or Victoria area and a tall,blonde & pretty police officer stops you to give you a ticket it just might be my sister. The above picture is when she got her diploma. I am a very proud big sister.

Chelsea has spent a week her Memaw and Paw Paw and has gone to church camp in New Mexico. She has also spent a lot of time with her friends. While at my parents they let her drive on some back roads so that is newest interest of hers. When we come home from somewhere we stop at the end of the street and let her drive the rest. She does very well.

Ruthie stayed with my sister and my parent for a week. She had so much fun and got really spoiled. That's what grandparents and aunts & uncles are for.

This past weekend we went to Rodney's family reunion. His Mom is doing very well. She gets sick from the Chemo and has lost her hair but she looks great. The doctors are very pleased with how the treatments are going. I am acutally jealous of how good she looks with no hair. Thank you for the prayers on her behalf.

My Mom is a cancer survior. Her and my Dad just participated in and raised money for Relay for Life. They where on a team and atleast one person from each team had to be walking. The event is held at the high school track. This is a all night event and my parents made it the whole night.

Rodney has been umpiring softball this season and really enjoying it. He loves being out there with the kids. I have to pay attention who I sit by when I go watch games, when some complains about a call I want to take knock them out. :) Rodney says I can't do that.

God Bless you and have a great Summer!!!!

Alexander James Chesser Dec. 27 1994 May 4 2003

2006-05-04T13:51:00.000-06:00

Today marks a very sad anniversary for our family. Today is three years since Alex passed away. He was such a smart little boy with love for his God, family and life. He worked at everything did and usually succeeded. We miss him so much. We can't wait to see him again in heaven.

(Alex was 5 in this picture, this is one my favorites because it shows his beautiful smile off.)

Happy Birthday to Chelsea!!!

2006-04-19T08:19:00.000-06:00

Fourteen years ago this week we were blessed with our first child and beautiful little girl. And now we are blessed for her to be a teenager or cursed whichever applies. Chelsea is such a blessing and a good girl. She is making A's and B's in school and it a great example to her friends. Ruthie just loves her.

We had a family birthday party for her and she got an Eye Ball, which something for her IPOD. I don't know much about this stuff. The Eye Ball allows her to use her IPOD like a radio. Her new likes includes Strawberry Shortcake so that is how we decorated.

We have a tradition for fixing your favorvite meal on your birthday. Chelsea's request was mozzerella sticks, rolls, fried shrimp and potatoes, basically she wanted starch. Rodney and I were sick afterwards. Before we surprised her with her favorite dessert, cheesecake, Rodney asked what could make her birthday better? We just knew she would say having cheesecake, but she said having Alex here would make it better. She is so sweet and so right.

Easter Weekend!!

2006-04-19T07:57:00.000-06:00

We had a busy Easter weekend. Ruthie and I went to Lockhart on Thursday to spend time with Rodney's Mom, who just started her Chemo. So Rodney's mom could have peace and quiet my mom came and got Ruthie for the weekend. I know some of you are thinking if she wanted peace and quiet why did I stay? Ha Ha! very funny. Anyway, Ruthie had a busy and fun weekend spending time with cousin's and being spoiled by MeMaw and PawPaw. I enjoyed spending time with Rodney's Mom and Aunt. Rodney's Mom is doing well, the chemo makes her very tired, weak and dizzy. She will take chemo every 3 weeks, please keep her in your prayers.

Rodney and Chelsea went to Dallas for Leadership Training for Christ. They had a great time with over 1000 other Christians. Chelsea participated in puppets, chorus and several other events.

Sunday evening after everyone got home we had a easter egg hunt in the house. Ruthie is a professional egg hunter after hunting with cousin's in Cuero.

Some more cute picture of Ruthie!!!!

2006-04-10T09:42:00.000-06:00

Ruthie insisted on putting her new A&M overalls on over her pajamas this morning and did a little dance as you see in the picture to the left.

Following in her brothers footsteps!

2006-04-09T22:33:00.000-06:00

The last spring I had Alex he helped me in the yard he was disapointed that the flowers did not have pretty blooms. He said he had money and wanted to buy me flowers with pretty blooms. I told him no because the flowers we had just planted will have pretty bloom soon. I remembered our conversation as the funeral home was bringing the flowers from his service. I thought to myself, my son did give me flowers with pretty blooms that are still growing today. And now Ruthie is helping take care of those flowers with pretty blooms, when she isn't playing, of course. She is just now learning her way around the yard. Her brother would be so proud. This is such a good time of the year to look around and see the beauty God has given us.

What time is? What time is it? It's time to take a Picture!!

2006-04-07T07:24:00.000-06:00

Chelsea and Ruthie cute and pretty as usual, what
else could I do but take a picture. Hope all is well
with everyone. Rodney's Mom, Judy could still could
use our prayers, she start chemo on Tuesday.

Rodney's Mom Update

2006-04-02T16:30:00.000-06:00

Rodney's Mom did well with the surgery. The doctor was pleased that the situation was better than expected. What she thought was many tumors throughout Judy's abdomen was scar tissue. She did have cancer on one of her ovaries, both fallopian tubes and cancer cells in the fluid she was producing. She will be having chemo treatments for 6 months. She has a 50% percent cure rate. This is a blessing considering the intial diagnosis. Thank you for your prays and please keep them coming, she will need them to get through the treatment.

Pray Request

2006-03-28T22:30:00.000-06:00

***We would appreciate if everyone will pray for Rodney's Mom Judy. She will be have surgery on Thursday for ovarian cancer. We will know more on Thursday.

***Our friends the Whitley's 6 yr old little boy Corbin is in Cook's Childrens Hospital with Neumonia. He is a sick little boy but improving daily.

***My friend Christin's grandaddy had a really bad heart attack last week and is recuperating in the hospital. He had five bypasses.

We know God is faithful to us and will get us through these struggles.

As the Teenage World Turns

2006-03-28T18:15:00.000-06:00

Chelsea is very busy and very much so a teenager. She is doing well in school making all A's & B's. She recently tried out for drill team captain and made it. Sixteen girls tried out and only 8 made it. She was very proud of herself and so are we, she worked very hard. Recently Chelsea had her first paid babysitting job for a 6 & 9 year old. She was so excited and did a wonderful job. Chelsea is participated in Leadership Training for Christ in April. She had a great season in basketball and now practicing track. She loves to brag on her muscles in her calves she has developed this year. It is hard to believe she will be in 8th grade next year. Chelsea loves hanging out with her friends and playing with Ruthie. She is such a good big sister to Ruthie. She helps out Rodney and I out tons. Of course it is not always with a smile on her face but she does it. We are very proud of the responsible young lady she has become.

What's New in Ruthie's World

2006-03-28T14:44:00.000-06:00

Ruthie continues to grow and learn new things. About a month ago she crawled out of her baby bed. Chelsea was getting ready for school and we heard knocking from Ruthie's room, I opened the door and there she was. I accidentally knocked her over not expecting her to at the door. Ruthie has learned to sleep in a big bed now. She sings her ABC's, Bible class songs, loves to look at books and to dance. The other morning when Chelsea was getting out of the Suburban for school Ruthie says, "Selsea I uv ooo". Chelsea and I looked at each other like, did she just say what I think she said? She looks forward to Chelsea and Daddy coming home, the back door opens and she takes off running to see who it is. Ruthie broke our keyboard and mouse a while back and now she has a new toy. She sets up her keyboard and mouse by the fireplace and types away. She also loves playing in the playhouse Daddy made out of a cardboard box. Ruthie stays busy and obviously keeps us busy. She is almost 18 months old. She is such a blessing.