The Illustrious Voisin Family

The House - Our Home

2009-12-31T21:09:00.000-06:00

It's time to sell our beautiful home. Here's our sales pitch:

• 1,902 sq. ft. living
• Mulberry Elementary school system
• Corner lot on cul-de-sac
• Brick veneer
• 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
• Covered front entry
• Newly renovated
• Wood burning fireplace

• Wet bar
• Granite countertops in kitchen & bathrooms
• Stainless steel appliances
• Brick, wood laminate, tile & carpet flooring
• Vaulted ceilings
• Bay windows
• French doors

• Spacious living room & master suite
• Low maintenance landscaped yard
• Privacy fenced yard
• Boat access
• Backyard garden
• ADT home security system
• FANTASTIC neighbors!!

I know, why would we ever want to leave such an amazing home?!

Christmas Eve Eve 2009

2009-12-23T21:26:00.010-06:00

Grammy passed out candy canes to each of her grandchildren and told them of their significance.

Uncle Greg read us the Christmas out of Luke in the New Testament.

Papa Herbert and Mama Vivian remembered Christmases of their childhood when their Christmas gifts consisted of an orange or an apple.

My cutie Ellie!

Huntie's traditional American Girl doll from grammy: Rebecca.

Ellie's FIRST American Girl doll Ariel, no wait Kaitlyn - at least for today.

My Cozy Little Christmas Elves

2009-12-19T20:58:00.000-06:00

A Christmas photo shoot with my kiddos yielded tons of silly fun and laughable posing. I couldn't help but share the entire experience. I think I ended up with maybe 2 usable shots in the end. I love these kids!

Art Day!!

2009-12-19T11:39:00.002-06:00

We had an art day! I bought some little wooden plaques for the kids to paint their own version of Blue Dog. Ellie had an itch to be artsy and Michael and Elle quickly followed suit.

It wasn't long before these amazing art pieces came to life! Large green canvas by Huntie. Praying Mantis and Blue Dog on blue background my Michael. Blue Dog on orange background by Huntie. Two abstract pieces by Ellie.

Happy Good-bye to Mulberry

2009-12-18T16:05:00.000-06:00

Hunter's grammy made a special cake at Hunter's request for her last day of school at Mulberry. It was, as usual, deliciously amazing. The deeply-colored blue frosting was the "icing on the cake." (and Huntie's teeth) You're only able to see a small section of the cake here, as her school class DEVOURED more than half of it in record time. We made quick work of the leftovers.

Crazy Pete

2009-12-11T08:21:00.002-06:00

Huntie was required to write a story using this week's spelling words. She, with her dad to help her along, wrote this hilarious story. I wanted to share it with you all.

Crazy Pete
By. HunterEve Voisin

Crazy Pete had lived on many ranches. He never really liked the berries he had to eat.

He was named crazy Pete because he was always making crazy mistakes. Like once, he ate moss and got gas. The whole barn (including his parents) hated him for that.

Another time, he ate the Farmer’s wife’s green dresses because he thought the flowers on them looked tasty.

Once they tried to put him in the circus, but it turned out he was afraid of arrows and babies, So they sent him to be a mining horse, but it turned out he was afraid of caves too.

So this time, they sent Pete to be a racing horse, but they sent him to the wrong track. His first race, he realized, all of the other horses had four tires and engines. At first, he thought he forgot his glasses, but the realized he didn’t wear glasses, only his mom did. Then he thought they were robot horses because they all had batteries.

When the gun shot, instead of running the race, he ran for his life screaming, “Mommy SAVE ME!”

When he won the race, he got his trophy and asked, “What is this for”? The crowd roared with laughter, so Crazy Pete laughed until it was winter, got sick, and sneezed his brains out, put it back in, and went home to finally see him mommy.

Hurricane Hunter!!

2009-12-10T13:31:00.005-06:00

Huntie made a beautiful gingerbread house out of graham crackers and candy at Activity Days last night. She worked so hard and carefully placed each piece. Then, once she was finished and satisfied with her work, she said, "Here comes Hurricane Hunter!!" as she took her hand and smashed it on the top of the house and crushed it.

LOL, I love it! She is such a free spirit and so funny. The house tasted so yummy. We've be enjoying it all day.

Michael Bichael Bikin' It UP!

2009-11-14T18:31:00.001-06:00

Michael, at the ripe old age of 6, has learned to ride a 2-wheeler!! In just one short lesson, his dad got him zipping around, popping up and down curbs, you name it, with ease and confidence. He is a natural biker and spends every possible moment he can spare practicing his new talent. Just two days after learning to ride, he was going off ramps with the neighborhood boys down the street. AMAZING!

Michael's Veteran's Day Program

2009-11-11T10:42:00.002-06:00

With Sam at the SAM - and Shani and Isaac :) - and other Seattle Adventures

2009-11-09T18:42:00.010-06:00

My first and long-awaited trip to Seattle to meet and love up my new nephew Isaac. He is such a sweet heart and a very lucky baby with Sam and Shannon as his parents. They are doing such a great job. Seattle itself was quite a treat for me - cold weather and beautiful fall colors everywhere!

Our lovely Seattlites Sam and Shanni.

Our first stop - Pike Place. After reading Fish I was super excited to see the Pike's Place Fish market. By the way, they have the most amazing smoked salmon EVER! Seriously.

We ate pizza at the yummiest little Italian cafe and marketplace. Each slice of their pizza had a dollop of fresh and sweet ricotta cheese on top. Wow! Isaac shared his pizza with me. What a sweet boy.

The cheese store. Also Yum!

The French pastry shop - Yum again!

Sam at the SAM - Seattle Art Museum.

Sam and Shani's contra-ban photo in front of Alexander Calder's installation mobile at the SAM. So cool.

We ALL loved sushi at Takishima!

Frozen custard on a freezing dripping cold Seattly night couldn't have been warmer than with Sam and Shani and leetle Isaak.

I got to be that auntie who fed the baby under 1 year ICE CREAM! Ooo, I felt like such a rebel.

Isaac and I have been best buddies ever since.

After church Sunday and checking out Sam and Shannon's beautiful lot for their new home, Shani spent HOURS making a fantabulous Korean meal for me! It was so yummy!! Check out all the dishes she prepared. THANKS SHANI!!

Baby, baby, baby Isaac . . .

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T21:12:00.000-05:00

Our great friends the Noonans joined us this Halloween. Deya is Ellie's bosom buddy and they both went trick-or-treating as Princesses. Go figure.

Ryan and Amanda patiently allowed me to dress them up - Amanda was Padme, thank you Huntie's costume last year; and Ryan went all out with the circus hat.

Kevin and I were quite a pair in our Janice-inspired "Whoopie Cushion wear."

Happy Halloween! We had lots of fun trick-or-treating. Huntie dressed up as Kit Kittredge, the American Girl. Michael was invited to a boy Halloween party and hay ride, so we girls had a night to ourselves!

And of course, the loot:

Parents to Lunch Day

2009-10-07T08:27:00.005-05:00

Yeah!! The day I look forward to ALL YEAR long - Parents to Lunch Day!!! Not surprisingly, the ONE day all year the school allows parents to come to lunch with their kids, they are also having a book fair to raise money.

This day, Michael's tooth was loose. He was really hoping it would spontaneously fall out of his mouth with no pulling required. I have to admit, he was getting pretty close to that happening. I've never seen such a loose tooth!

Kevin made Michael a deal that if Michael let him pull his tooth out at lunch, that he would buy him 3 books at the book fair. That deal was not even sweet enough for Michael to allow any matter matter of pulling.

But, Kevin was persuasive enough for Michael to allow me to initiate the pulling. In just one pull, the tooth was out. YIPPY!! Books all around!

This was also Michael's wonderful teacher Mrs. Ledet's birthday. I made her a special cake and cutie cupcakes to share with her class.

Happy Birthday Big Girl Elle!!

2009-09-18T09:20:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday Elle! My baby girl is 3! She is growing up so fast! She's just short of 40 inches tall and speaks to everyone, about everything, all the time - unless she's decided she's "shy" momentarily. She LOVES her dance class. She started tap and ballet class last month and wishes she could go everyday. She also started a once a week Child's Day Out program, that she loves most days. She is certainly proud to carry her own Dora lunch box into school and hang it on her hook labelled "Elle."

Elle is a dedicated dresser-upper starting each day with a carefully picked dress-up gown and shoes - the shoes being the most important element of the outfit. (So much like her daddy, about the shoes, not the dressing up, lol) Her favorite dress is a little unconventional: her Dora night gown. You can see it in the "Huntie Cafe" post.

YEAH! The newest Grandma dollie! My mom made this amazing little doll from her late mother's bathrobe. She's been making one for each of her grandchildren's birthdays this year. Here is Ellie's! So beautiful! She gushes pink and lacy and ruffly and girly, complete with jeweled slippers and crown. PERFECT to represent Elle. And as you can see, Elle approves.

In true Adams fashion, I decorated Ellie's bed with streamers so she would be celebrated the moment she woke up. So fun! I'm pretty sure Michael and Huntie were more excited about it than Elle. Oh well, she'll get the hang of it eventually. LOL.

We had birthday cake at grammy and papa's house on Sunday with daddy before he left for Norway. I made a doll cake, like my mommy used to make for me. SO fun! I really had a blast decorating that cake. I hope Michael likes doll cakes because I will be making them from now on, lol. Nah, I'll leave the rest of the cake making to grammy.

Elle was clearly pleased. *success*

This is what happens when you layer pink strawberry cake batter, then funfetti cake batter, then strawberry cake batter in a glass bowl. Looks SOOOoo cool!! Not to mention yummy.

A New Rule

2009-09-17T08:07:00.001-05:00

The other day, before bed, Michael asked if we could make a new family rule. I said, "Sure, what do you have in mind."

He said, "I don't know, just a rule."

I said, "OK, how about make your bed when you wake up - before you get out of bed."

He said, "nah, not that rule."

So we laughed and he went to bed. The next morning he had done it! What an amazing little person. He is my Captain Moroni, a valiant and obedient spirit.

Happy 34 Kevin!!

2009-09-13T18:31:00.000-05:00

YEAH! Happy Birthday Kev!

We celebrate our favorite councilman, vice president and daddy of the century on his 34th birthday!

Kevin's mom made his all time favorite birthday cake - homemade cherry cheesecake! In fact, she made lots of cakes! No one was left wanting as there was more than enough cake to go around. Especially since I also made my handsome husband a cake out of his favorite cookie: peanut butter chocolate chip oatmeal cookies.

We Love Our Oyster King

2009-09-13T08:05:00.005-05:00

Kevin's grandpa Ernie passed away last week. We all feel his loss, but are joyful in his graduation from this life.

Grandpa Ernie played a significant role in Kevin's life. Kevin remembers spending countless weekends and summers at his grandpa's house playing catch and having adventures.

Grandpa Ernie shared his love for innovation and the oyster industry with Kevin starting at a very early age. Crowned "Louisiana Oyster King" in 1976, when Kevin was not even one-year-old, Ernie brought Kevin into his spotlight.

I met grandpa for the first time when I came to Louisiana July 1997 to meet Kevin's family as his brand new fiancée. We even got to go on a double date with grandpa and Jean Ann!

All the great grandkids loved to be with grandpa. Michael Ernest Voisin was named after his grandpa Mike and his great grandpa Ernie. Grandpa loved having his posterity around him.

He was very proud of Kevin's political career and he and Kevin loved to talk politics in grandpa's office. Grandpa Ernie was a past Police Jury President, a position that was later replaced by Parish President (a.k.a. mayor) when the Police Jury became a Parish Council.

He went with Kevin, his dad Mike and our little Michael when Kevin qualified for running for the Parish Council District 6 seat.

He was with Kevin the night he won his election.

And grandpa, with nana JeanAnn, was there for Kevin the day he was sworn into office.

The local newspaper honored his accomplishments in our community with the following article.

Seafood innovator passed on legacy of public service
Ernest Voisin Jr.

By Naomi King
Staff Writer

Published: Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 9:57 p.m.

HOUMA — When asked his life’s biggest regret, Ernie Voisin Jr. said it was being too young to serve in World War II, a telling statement, his family said.

The Dularge native missed that opportunity for service, but he went on to revolutionize the seafood-processing business and lead the Terrebonne Parish government in the 1980s as it prepared for consolidation with Houma’s city government.

Voisin served on the Terrebonne Police Jury, pushed for countless public projects, established Motivatit Seafood and revolutionized seafood processing.

His son, Mike Voisin, 56, is vice president of Motivatit Seafood, serves on the Louisiana Oyster Task Force and is chairman of the Terrebonne General Medical Center board.

His grandson, Kevin Voisin, 34, is director of sales and marketing at Motivatit and a first-term member of the Terrebonne Parish Council.

Voisin died Thursday following a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 81.

Ernie, who served on the Terrebonne Police Jury from 1980-84, helped build the North Terrebonne sewer-treatment plant on St. Louis Canal Road, expand and develop Terrebonne General Medical Center and worked with state officials to build the downtown Houma twin spans.

Voisin often said he was born at the perfect time, Mike Voisin said.

He was born in 1927, at a time when there weren’t any cars and the Industrial Revolution hadn’t yet arrived in south Louisiana, the son said.

“ ‘In my lifetime we’ve gone from dirt roads to the moon,’ ” Mike remembers his father saying. “He loved that concept.”

Ernie had an adventurous spirit. He left Terrebonne Parish after high school to travel the country, settling in California because of the weather, Mike said. He went to work for Hitco, becoming one of the company’s first 20 employees. The company manufacturers military and aerospace components, among other items.

As the company expanded, Ernie helped turnaround failing plants and became a project manager on the Apollo lunar-landing project and other classified projects, such as nuclear warheads, his family said. In the 1970s, after roughly 30 years in the aerospace industry, Ernie returned to Terrebonne to apply what he’d learned about efficiency and technology to the seafood industry.

“Seafood has been in the family since we came from France,” Kevin said. “He revolutionized high-pressure processing of seafood. It’s being used in countries all over the world. … It’s really something special, and it was all born out of his mind.”

Ernie bought the plant that still houses the family-owned Motivatit Seafood from A.J. Buquet, said Pete Bourgeois, a friend and fellow police juror.

Bourgeois said he’d visit Voisin in his office weekly to find him drawing his latest design for a new wench or conveyor belt.

“He was what I considered a mechanical genius,” Bourgeois said.

For his innovative high-pressure processing design, Seafood Business Magazine named Ernie 2001’s Seafood Business Person of the Year. He was 1976’s Louisiana Oyster King.

For 38 years, Mike and Ernie worked side by side at Motivatit, spending the work day and nearly every lunch hour together.

Ernie’s work with Terrebonne General Medical Center influenced Mike’s decision to serve on the hospital board.

“He loved Terrebonne Parish, and he loved the people,” Mike said. “He taught me that you give back to a community when it gives to you, and even when it doesn’t.”

Kevin Voisin, his eldest grandson, looked to Ernie when deciding to run for an empty seat on the Parish Council.

It wasn’t Kevin’s first involvement in a Terrebonne campaign. A photograph of a 5-year-old Kevin and his grandfather appeared on campaign fliers used in the elder Voisin’s 1980 bid for office.

“I was holding his hand walking down Last Island,” Kevin said. “It’s been iconic in the family.”

Ernie not only influenced his grandson to serve the public, he also helped him understand the responsibilities that came with the role, Kevin said.

“My grandpa was a great man because he could relate to the ditch digger or the president of the United States,” Kevin said.

In addition to his son and grandson, Ernie is survived by his wife, Jean Ann Mohrmann Voisin, a second son, Steven Anthony Voisin, two step-sons, Dion Allen Frayle and Chad Anthony Frayle, two daughters, Sandra Ann Voisin Fitzgerald and Lorena Helen Voisin; one brother, Charles J.B. Voisin; two sisters, Claire Rose Voisin Champagne and Annie Laura Voisin; 16 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday and from 8 a.m. to funeral time Tuesday at Chauvin Funeral Home. Mass will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Maria Immacolata Catholic Church, with burial in St. Francis Cemetery No. 2.

Rise and Shout the Cougars are out!

2009-09-12T21:59:00.002-05:00

We got invited to a special brunch in the French Quarter with BYU alumni group. So fun! Kevin was serenaded by the jazz band when Huntie told them it was her daddy's birthday.

The weather relfected the sad sad showing New Orleans' Tulane Green Tide football team showed against the Cougars - 54 to 3!! We cheerfully wore rain ponchos to and from the Superdome.

Elle wasn't do keen on rising OR shouting.

BUT, Kevin and Huntie (just like her mommy) are diehard fans. I thought it was pretty poetic to paint my family's faces for the BYU game in New Orleans - a skill I learned as a face painter in the summertime to pay my way through BYU.

Huntie and Cosmo. Oooooo, it's just so magical!

Ok, this is so sad. Look at the Tulane side of the field. So sparce, it was such a weak showing.

Now look at the BYU side. We clearly whooped their hind ends in the fan support department. Looks like we brought our home field advantage with us!

Kevin showed Mike the highest seats in the Superdome - truely the nosebleeds. Look waaaaaay up there . . .

Then he, Huntie and Michael hiked the entire distance to the center top seats of section 610. Whoa!

Look at that view!

Ellie Bellie was so tired and grumpy that she fell asleep during the game.

Huntie and I decided #51 on BYU's team was our favorite player. Can you see why?

Michael kept torpedoing into Uncle Greg, so Uncle Greg gave him a little what for with an upper hand diversion and a lower hand smack to the tummy.

Over and over again, Mike would torpedo into Greg. And over and over again, Greg would distract Mike with his right hand in the air and then slap him in the tummy with his left hand. It seriously took Michael a good 10 tries to firgure this trick out. I think he was enjoying the "game" so much, it took him a while to start dodging the slap. Lol.

It was so funny. Michael loved it.

WOOhOO! The Cougars came to New Orleans and played the Tulane Wave in the Superdome and WE got to see it! Kevin's sweet connections got us 15th row seats on the 40 yard line.

BYU has been looking great this season and just whooped up on Oklahoma, seated #3, last weekend 14 - 13! That win jumped BYU up 11 spots to rank Top 10 at #9. Very nice.

Huntie Cafe

2009-09-06T08:34:00.003-05:00

Huntie woke up before anyone else and created the BEST Huntie Cafe EVER! She set an impeccable table complete with flowers and tablecloth. Elle was the first to discover it and enjoy the cheerful ambiance.

She was quickly joined by the proprietor. I love my Huntie!!

Letters from Grandma

2009-09-05T11:43:00.000-05:00

Of all my kids, Michael enjoys this family tradition most of all - pen pal with grandma. Grandma Adams started this tradition just after our first Family Reunion in 2007. She created beautiful boxes to remind each of the grandkids of our amazing time together and then provided them with cards, envelopes and stamps to write to her. She promised to always write back. She has always kept her promise.

Michael knows whenever he writes grandma a letter he can expect one back in just a couple days. So when he especially misses her, he starts to writing. Thank you grandma! We love this tradition.

Care for a Spot of Tea?

2009-08-29T14:48:00.000-05:00

Huntie has taken her love for the culinary arts to the playroom. Auntie Janice bought Elle a ceramic tea set when she babysat her the other day, so Huntie helped Ellie break it in with a tea party of apple juice and sliced peaches. YUM!

Huntie kept telling Elle, "this is tea Ellie!"

Ellie promptly replied, "NO Huntie! This is apple juice!"

After failing at the make believe at least 5 times, Huntie conceded, "OK Elle, this is apple juice."

LOL! What good sisters! I love to see them take care of each other.

Super Sally is Famous!

2009-08-14T17:03:00.001-05:00

Well to me. Kevin's little sister was in the paper today and I couldn't be prouder.

What do you get when . . .

2009-08-12T12:10:00.004-05:00

. . . you combine

1 sick mommy
1 unsupervised 2-year-old
1 entire bag of Jasmine rice
2 new canisters of Swiss Miss, WITH marshmallows
2 shakers of Valentine sprinkles
1 bottle of water
dash of cheesy pretzel crumbs
1 room-size green long shag rug

stew for 10 minutes, and voila:

I know, I'm the luckiest mom in the world. Seriously, look at the pride in her face.

LOL, well, at least she helped me clean it up and kept the water to only the rice concoction, not the cocoa mix. And thank goodness she couldn't get the new package of powdered milk or graham crackers open. Tender mercies, tender mercies.

First Day of School 2009

2009-08-10T12:21:00.006-05:00

Huntie strode off to the bus in her khakis, as she is now an "upperclassman" and allowed to wear khakis instead of navy AND ride in the back of the bus. She looked so fantastic and ready to conquer a new year in 4th grade.

Michael was mega spiffy in his good ol' navies and new haircut. He's starting first grade today and is more than ready for the challenge.

Elle, as always, is as cheerful as can be in her very own world of discovery. Blossom anyone?

We Love Councle Rob

2009-08-08T16:31:00.000-05:00

Cousin Rob, or as I'm informed by Kevin that in the South all relatives older than our children should be referred to as "uncle," came to visit Louisiana!! Rob compromised with the suggestion of "Councle." Actually he attended a conference in New Orleans, but had the foresight to plan a little visit to our home in Houma. We had so much fun! He was brave enough to try his first raw oyster, then chased it with a world famous Drago's grilled oyster. YUM!

We poked around the French Quarter and were sure to hit Cafe du Monde, the French Market and Jackson Square. You know it's hot outside when even the street performers refuse to perform and sit and wave instead as you pass them on the street.

Cafe du Monde. Notice Rob's "beignet breathe," a.k.a. powdered sugar. Also notice Michael's "beignet wear." I've never seen someone covered in so much powdered sugar after a beignet incident.

The French Market was pleasantly slow, thank you weekday crowd. But Rob still managed to find a super hat. Although, no thanks to the weekday crowd, the merchant was in no mood to bargain. It was, nonetheless, a super hat and had to go home with Rob.

Thanks to the incessant heat, Elle asked to be carried most of the day. She quickly fell in love with Rob who indulged her once I started to wain. I'd like to thank our photographer who happily followed our instructions to get "some" of the cathedral in the background of our photo in Jackson Square. lol.

Kevin took Rob on a swamp tour where he got to know some gators quite intimately.

But maybe not quite as intimately as Kevin.

Elle hugging Coucle Rob per his departure.

Welcome Baby Kylar!!

2009-08-04T17:57:00.000-05:00

We welcomed our new cousin, Kylar Ascua, today at 10:55am weighing 8lbs 6ozs and measuring 20inches long. He is such a sweet and precious baby! Amy did great through her labor and daddy Marcelo and big brother Dyami couldn't be prouder. OOOooo!! He's SO cute!

Happy Birthday to Meeeee!

2009-07-06T21:51:00.005-05:00

Janibop started my birthday out right by taking me to IHOP for my birthday breakfast, complete with a surprise ice cream sundae. YUM!

THEN, later that day, my wonderful Voisin family celebrated with me too!

YUMMY Sarah Cake!

Our T-Baller

2009-06-27T11:04:00.003-05:00

This was Michael's season end with the Rangers 2009. He consistently hit the ball into the outfield this season and we're pretty sure he understands the mitt goes on his LEFT hand, as he is a right-handed thrower. We really had a blast watching him improve over the season.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears . . and the Fairy

2009-06-14T19:22:00.003-05:00

Grandma has been teaching art classes in her home this summer. She taught a special private session for Huntie, Michael and Elle during our visit this week. The topic: puppets. Grandma taught them to carefully sculpt each puppet's head with clay, paint the head, then choose an appropriate color for the body. They had to sew the felt bodies by hand and glue them to their puppet's head.

The kids presented the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Elle was not impressed with the traditional characters from the story and chose to create her own - a fairy. She was quite an impressive fairy with large blue eyes and purple wings fastened directly to the back of her head. lol. Huntie made a very beautiful Goldilocks, complete with home curled golden yarn for hair, and the beloved Baby Bear. Michael made an awesome Papa Bear with bold green eyes. I made Momma Bear - it just seemed right. Dear grandma was their narrator.

Just before the performance, Little Sister decided to try her paw at puppeteering. We caught her sleeping behind the puppet stage with Goldilocks on her paw. How did that get there? Silly dog.

Elle displaying her fairy masterpiece.

And now, on with the show!

BRAVO!!

Emilyopoulos

2009-06-06T22:41:00.000-05:00

I'm on the board of SoLa (Southern Louisiana Center for the Arts) and participated in their first ever Bottles and Brushes event. We brought a bottle of our favorite beverage to share and received an art lessons in the style of Michalopoulos.

Our inspiration, by Michalopoulos:

My two awesome friends, Geneva Shults and Mary Massey, joined me and we had a BALL! Check out our masterpeices!

A Super Michael Mario Kart Birthday

2009-05-30T17:55:00.004-05:00

Happy 6th Birthday Michael Bichael!! We all had so much fun at his Mario Kart Birthday! Just check out his invite! (I'm really proud of this one! I made four different styles with four different Mario Kart characters - Bowzers, and orange, is Michael's favorite)

Voila! Grammy's custom deluxe Mario Kart birthday cake. Michael special ordered a half vanilla with vanilla frosting and half chocolate with chocolate frosting cake from his expert cake-makin' grammy. She used Fruit by the Foot for the track and real remote control Mario Karts on top.

The kids played a Mario Kart Wii tournament, of course. I'm pretty sure everyone ended up winning.

And, ahhhh, the presents. What a happy Michael. Thanks friends!

Mike was happy to let his guests help him tear into his gifts and even help him in the unwrapping. SO fun!

Happy Birthday Michael! We are so proud of you! You are growing up to be such a wonderful boy! We love you!!

SURPRISE Huntie!!

2009-05-23T21:25:00.000-05:00

She was TOTALLY surprised!! Hooray! I guess that's what happens when you throw a nine-year-old her birthday party almost exactly three months late, lol. Poor Huntie. But what a SURPRISE!

Huntie's fellow rockstar girlfriends showed up 30 minutes before Huntie and decorated, setup and even frosted Huntie's birthday cupcakes for her Super Rock Star Makeover Surprise Party. They did SUCH a fantastic job.

My awesomely talented friend Geneva, along with my and cousin Ann's skills, made over all our little rock stars. Geneva was our diva hairstylist to the stars, Ann our hyper-glam makeup artist, and I was our costume makeup artist.

Et voila . . . a rock star photo shoot complete with daddy's electric guitar.

PRESENTS!!! Oh, yes!

ConGRADUATIONs Grammy!

2009-05-23T17:11:00.000-05:00

Thirty four years after her high school graduation, Sarah Elizabeth Theriot Voisin graduates from Nicholls State University Magna Cum Laude with her Bachelor of Arts in Music with a minor in English. WOOHOO!!

(Sarah's the one in the back with the yellow sash)

Happy Un-birthday Michael!

2009-05-15T04:14:00.000-05:00

Michael's 6th birthday falls exactly ONE week after the end of school. So, Mrs. Caillouet permitted him to celebrate a couple weeks early with his class. He choose key lime pies for his treat! Yum!

Fundraiser? We don't need no stinkin' fundraiser!

2009-05-14T19:36:00.009-05:00

Does your kids' school do fundraisers out the wahzoo? Ours too!!

After a few bad fundraiser experiences, our family has sworn off participating in them. Sadly, our kids get to go to the same thrilling pep rallies pumping kids up to sell. The favorite prize is a limo ride to Outback Steakhouse for a certain number of items sold. Since we exclude our kids from the entire system, Kevin promised Hunter and Michael their own personal limo ride as compensation.

Kevin, along with two of his friends, rented a limo to pick the kids up from school and gallivant around town for two hours.

Exhibit A: Huntie just moments after spotting the limo in the school parking lot and seconds away from entering it for the first time ever.

Exhibit B: Total chaos and ecstasy among all children involved. Not sure if it's due more to BEING in the limo or being in the presence of so much free candy (note: blue tongues, etc.) and juice boxes.

Exhibit C: Riding alongside a full school bus in a limo. Coolness factor COMPLETE.

Exhibit D: Limo Surfing. A true phenomenon.

Exhibit E, F, G . . . etc.:

My 1920s Strong-girl

2009-05-14T19:26:00.003-05:00

Does this not look like a 1920s strongman suit? Elle insisted her Dora swimsuit was to be worn bow in the front. I have to admit, this look is much more fantastic than I originally thought it would be.

It didn't take her long to correct her major-wedgie-causing error and turn the suit frontwards.

Huntie is Excellent

2009-05-10T21:17:00.000-05:00

Huntie, Kevin and I did the 5K Run for Excellence in our town. Huntie set a goal of completing the entire race in 45 minutes. The first mile was tough, since Huntie's ambition flew her through the first hundred yards at super speed. She almost burnt out, but she slowed down and paced herself and made it across the finish line at 45 minutes and 35 seconds. YOOHOO!! Huntie's a racey girl! We are so proud of her!

A Groundbreaking Moment

2009-05-09T19:06:00.002-05:00

Councilman Kevin Voisin helped break ground at the site for the new North Terrebonne Library. Notice his super shiny golden shovel. They painted it gold just moments before the shot after they realized they were one shovel short. LOL. You can tell it was actually used before. I think Kevin liked it even better that way.

His Huntie accompanied him and was the outstanding photographer for this shot - awesome, no?

Michael's First Lost Tooth!

2009-05-02T19:19:00.001-05:00

Michael lost his first tooth!! He was ready to pull it out a few days prior to this, but held out for his dad to get back from a business trip to make the ceremonious yank. It was so loose, Kevin gave it one tug and it was out, before Michael even noticed. AWESOME!

The terror you see in his eyes was a reaction he was saving up to use for the actual pulling out affair, but since the tooth was SO loose, he didn't get a chance to use it. So, to not waste a perfectly good look of disgust, I give you the victory shot complete with tiny tooth. LOL.

Relay for Life 2009

2009-04-25T18:33:00.000-05:00

We accidentally got to march with Mulberry Elementary in the Houma 2009 Relay for Life. So cool!

She Spins Me Right Round, Baby Right Round, Like a...

2009-04-25T10:50:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RC2lm8LotqI

AriELLE's Debut

2009-04-17T12:24:00.000-05:00

Louisiana with Our Richters

2009-04-08T20:34:00.000-05:00

"Dear Easter Bunny,
"You can eat these carrots! Please leave a note for Huntie and Julia! And David, Mickle, Anne Marie."

Beside then noticeably chomped carrots left for him, The Easter Bunny wrote back:

"Thanks for the carrots! I love carrots! Love The Easter Bunny."

Adventures with Abear

2009-04-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

Michael got to bring classroom bear Abear home for the weekend and document the fun they had! Michael's first priority: play Nintendo DS with Abear. Next, Monopoly.

At bedtime, Michael helped Abear wash behind his ears and brush his teeth. After some bedtime stories, Michael and Abear went off to sleep.

On Sunday, Abear joined Michael at church! He was so reverent and got to see the prophet of God.

Elle Strikes Again . . .

2009-03-30T21:55:00.001-05:00

Yep, it's butter.

Huntie Meets Louisiana Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu

2009-03-28T08:29:00.000-05:00

Tourists in New Orleans

2009-03-27T22:07:00.005-05:00

Grandparents to Lunch Day for Huntie

2009-03-26T18:04:00.002-05:00

Grandparents to Lunch Day for Michael

2009-03-23T16:57:00.000-05:00

Time Out for Cajun Women

2009-03-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

Several sisters from my ward gallivanted off to Houston to the Time Out for Women conference there. We had such a blast!! The road trip was just as fun as the conference.

We met Sheri Dew, Janice's hero.

Caught up with old friends since moved away - YEAH Brandi!!

And rubbed elbows with celebrities. Jenny Jordan Frogley is so talented!

Knock 'Em Soccer

2009-03-07T14:35:00.005-06:00

It was Voisin cousin day at the soccer fields today.

Michael and Nathaniel are both SHARKS! They won their game 8 to 4 today with Michael making the final goal! Go Michael! Nathaniel is a natural soccer player - even with no practicing under his belt, he knew just what to do!

Huntie, #5, represented the girls as a COUGAR and, although her team didn't win, she showed significant improvement from last week. She's learning so fast!

Dyami, #13, is a Houma TORNADO. The Tornadoes didn't come off victors this week either, but man can those boys hustle. It was such a fun game to watch.

The cousins were fantastic spectators too.

Dyami helped Elle pick flowers and reminded her to stay away from traffic - now that's a man ;). Good work Amy and Marcelo.

Scottie PaTottie's Chuck E Cheese Celebration

2009-03-06T10:00:00.005-06:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Scottie!! Scottie invited us to Chuck E Cheese to celebrate his 3rd birthday. The kids have never had so much weeknight fun! The birthday was on the run all night and I never got a good shot of him. I guess you call that a successful party!

Councilman Kevin's New "Pet" Project

2009-03-05T09:42:00.004-06:00

http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20090305/ARTICLES/903051001/1211?Title=Supporters-hope-to-raise-money-for-Terrebonne-s-animal-shelter

Supporters hope to raise money for Terrebonne’s animal shelter

By Naomi King

HOUMA - Some say the truth is grim at Houma's government-controlled animal shelter.

More pets are killed than adopted, mostly because of limited space to keep the animals.

To help the center on Plant Road improve and grow, a group of residents, pet lovers and shelter workers led by Councilman Kevin Voisin is creating a plan to get the shelter more money for its work and change its organizational structure to be more efficient.

Voisin's proposal involves putting the parish manager directly in charge of the shelter at 131 Plant Road. The shelter is now run under the parish's Solid Waste Division within the Utilities Department, which gives a negative connotation, Voisin said.

The proposal also includes organizational help for Terrebonne Parish residents seeking to set up a nonprofit support group.

Its purpose would be to raise private dollars specifically for use at the shelter.

A total of 7,115 dogs, cats and other animals were taken into the shelter in 2008. Of those 5,629, or 79 percent, were not adopted.

They were "humanely killed," according to shelter officials, who acknowledge that the practice, while not preferred, is an unfortunate necessity.

Those animals were either not adoptable because of aggression, age or illness or the shelter lacked space to adequately take care of them.

Of surviving animals, about 6 percent were adopted, 5 percent returned to owners and 4 percent rescued by nonprofit organizations.

At any given time, the shelter houses 50 to 180 animals. And that's why shelter workers encourage residents to spay and neuter their pets and adopt from the shelter.

"We've got to manage our pet population," Voisin said. "It's been neglected for a long time."

Voisin will bring his ideas to the council at its Budget and Finance Committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the second-floor meeting room in the Government Tower, 8026 Main St.

Shelter visitors, like Beth Hernandez of Houma, said she's in favor of a nonprofit and other changes to give extra support at the shelter.

"They need help," she said.

Hernandez, 31, adopted a cat named Lucky Wednesday after keeping it as a foster pet. Shortly after, Frances Updike, 48, of Houma arrived to look at dogs since hers was lost about a month ago. She also said the nonprofit would benefit the shelter.

The proposal emerged from Voisin's discussions with residents about the shelter while campaigning last fall and his studying of the parish's organizational chart once he'd taken office in January.

"The animal shelter reporting to solid waste and utilities doesn't make sense," Voisin said. "Managing waste and a shelter are not similar. ...

"There's a reason you don't get your brake tags from a dentist. It just doesn't make sense."

Before improvements can be made, he said, a proper foundation must be built.

The shelter falls under the parish Utilities Department because since the 1980s it has received money to operate from solid-waste collection fees, said Tom Bourg, parish utilities director.

Bourg said he has no opinion about the shelter moving out of his department.

"Organization is an issue for the parish president and council to decide," Bourg said. "We'll go with the team and be supportive of a smooth transition."

The shelter has had an account set up since 2005 that's received about $25,000 in donations, manager Valerie Robinson said.

Though this account accept private money, the shelter's nonprofit group would go beyond that to actively recruit support and dollars. The shelter is currently unable to do so by itself.

The group would mimic the local Friends of the Terrebonne Parish Library foundation, which holds fundraisers to buy equipment, computers or whatever resources the library system needs. A similar foundation is set up for the government-run animal shelter in Jefferson Parish.

Karen Molaison, the owner of the Pawsitive Pets Sitting Service, said she's collecting names of people who want to serve on the animal shelter foundation's board.

She became involved after meeting Voisin as he walked door-to-door during his campaign, and she told him about the shelter.

"The main purpose is to look toward what the shelter's wants are rather than needs." Molaison said.

ZOO DAY!

2009-02-24T17:07:00.000-06:00

We went to the zoo with our dear friends and neighbors, the Andertons. You've met Quinn, my part-time daughter, many times already on this blog. Now you get to meet her real mommy Liz, her brother Tyler and cousin Maddy!

We packed in Liz's car for the for the 90-minute drive to the Audubon Zoo. Elle was beyond content with her headphones playing Dora for the duration.

After our first few animal viewings, we headed straight to the petting zoo. Huntie made fast friends with this little goat. This petting zoo was awesome because they supplied buckets full of grooming brushes all over the place so the kids could brush the animals. Everyone is satisfied - genius!

The kids - posing inside the box.

As we walked to the monkey exhibit, Quinn told us how the last time she was at the zoo, some people kept feeding the orangutans Laffy Taffy. So as we approached, the clever monkeys waited with outstretched hands. I understood. I love Laffy Taffy too.

I have a picture of Huntie the about same age as Elle riding this SAME sculpture at the zoo. Ahhh, the circle of life. But I have to admit, this is my first Kodak moment with Michael chasing Elle, like a cowboy lassoing a bull. His cowboy grandpas would be proud.

There is this remarkable oak tree (see background of pic with Michael on a cheetah chasing Elle on an antelope) that sprawls across forever at the zoo every kid loves to climb. And mommies LOVE to take their kids' pictures on it.

"Monkey Hill" is the best. With waterfalls, rope bridge and tree house - really, what more could you ask for to entertain your little monkeys?

Ok, we can't leave the zoo without seeing the snakes - although I'm pretty sure Michael's terrified of that exhibit. Well, I think he's finally grasped the concept that they are safely behind glass and now likes the isolated thrill of seeing them in action on the other side. We haven't reached this milestone in the swamp exhibit where the alligators are just a short drop off the boardwalk and the swamp monster exhibit just looks too real.

The kids ritually sit on the life-sized komodo dragon bronze. Elle especially. Seriously, that girl is afraid of nothing.

I also love how Huntie is sitting directly on the rattlesnake bronze. My girls are so brave. lol.

We had such a great day!

Happy 9th Birthday to Huntie

2009-02-22T22:47:00.007-06:00

I can't believe Huntie is NINE! Every year she gets older, I just can't believe how much she's grown. Maybe it's because she's my oldest and the first to reach these milestones. My Huntie is just such an amazing person. She is a true friend and a tender daughter. I love every minute with her and continually learn from her observations of life.

We celebrated her birthday with Angel Food Cake filled with vanilla ice cream and covered in whipped cream. Huntie is a vanilla girl - straight up. If we could have added 10 more vanilla toppings to that cake, she would have been thrilled. Alas, we stopped at a vanilla cake, with vanilla filling and vanilla icing. We broke up the monotony with fresh fruit. But Huntie was thrilled with the vanillaness of it all. Success!

Of course, you can't have cans of whipped cream at any event without SOMEONE getting creamed. Huntie was the winner here today.

Huntie's menu for our after-church-lunch celebration: ham and cheese sandwiches on white bread with mayo and iceberg lettuce, baked Lays, veggie tray and the pre-cut apple slices from Sam's (We LOVE those!), and of course, vanilla dressed Angel Food Cake (did you know those cakes take 12 egg whites to make?!!).

Uncle Greg, Aunt Jenn, Scottie and Bronson, Aunt Amy, Uncle Marcelo, Dyami and Amy's unborn baby, Aunt Sandy, Uncle Brett, Nathaniel and Roland all joined us. Plus, Janice, our friend Clarence and the Sister Missionaries made an appearance too!

All the little cousins were "Commanders," saving the world in grammy and papa's backyard all afternoon. Huntie was so happy, she had to dance for joy!

A Very Happy Birthday - from her Grandmas

2009-02-22T22:40:00.003-06:00

Huntie's grandmas both pulled through with flying colors this birthday! Grandma Adams created this heirloom doll made from Huntie's Great Grandma Allen's robe and dressed in Huntie's couture baptism dress.

Grammy sponsored Huntie's birthday shopping spree which yielded this fabulous Sunday outfit.

Her little Ellie even got a matching outfit, to be just like her role model. SO cute!

Can't Beat Birthday Breakfast in Bed

2009-02-22T22:38:00.002-06:00

Huntie's always taking care of us. She makes breakfast for the family, complete with name plates and menus. She brings US breakfast in bed on our special days. So, so her birthday today, SHE got breakfast in bed. She was so gracious to share her privilege with Ellie. What lucky sisters.

BIG kisses for Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T08:27:00.000-06:00

We send you BIG kisses for Valentine's Day! We love you all!!

The Banger Sisters

2009-02-07T11:58:00.000-06:00

Emily took Huntie to get a new hairstyle. In fact, Huntie's been waiting months and months to prove she's grown up enough to have bangs. Today is the day! She earned her rite of passage: bangs.

At the last minute Huntie and I got to bring Elle with us on our girls' date. Elle was so impressed with Huntie's pampering her asked to have her hair washed and cut too. She was such a big girl, just like her Huntie.

Don't we look gorgeous with our BANGS!

I Give You the President of the United States of America . . .

2009-02-05T21:21:00.000-06:00

Newly-elected Councilman Kevin Voisin visited Michael's kindergarten class to read a story (Michael's book of choice: "Farley Farts"). Michael was so thrilled to introduce his dad: The President of the United States of America!

Sunday Morning Editorial

2009-02-01T08:25:00.003-06:00

Let’s begin a timely discussion
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20090201/OPINION/902019966/1030?Title=Let_s_begin_a_timely_discussion
Published: Sunday, February 1, 2009 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Sunday, February 1, 2009 at 12:32 a.m.

When Terrebonne Parish Councilman Kevin Voisin brought up the issue of restricting further use of portable classrooms by the School Board, he was beginning an important conversation.

Some of his colleagues on the Parish Council tried to shoot down Voisin's attempt to regulate the buildings, saying that the matter is the concern of the School Board and that the council lacks the authority to influence board decisions.

We disagree, although we understand the political considerations that make public servants reluctant to step onto one another’s turf.

Because the parish’s Planning Commission and the Parish Council have to sign off on the portables, that arm of local government does have a vested interest in the issue.

Whether Voisin's proposal deserves to become law is a conversation for a later date, but he was certainly within his responsibility as a councilman to broach the topic.

More importantly, though, the issue at the root of the discussion is one that merits close attention by the School Board and the communities it serves.

Portable classrooms are widely used at schools throughout the parish and around the state — a fact that can lead to problems.

If portables become the de facto way the board deals with crowding and population issues, their presence affects the students at the schools, the neighborhoods around them and the larger communities.

We don’t think it would be wise to ban the use of portables. But neither do we accept that the portables are a suitable long-term solution.

As Councilwoman Teri Cavalier, a counselor at Evergreen Junior High, pointed out, use of portables for long periods of time can lead to other issues, such as rodents, poor ventilation and other undesirable effects.

School Board Member Roger Dale DeHart said the board must use the portable buildings because building new classroom space would cost too much and necessitate a tax election.

If a suitable solution to the School Board’s problems lies in spending more money on construction, that is an argument the board must take to the public. Or, it must find more-suitable solutions.

We aren’t offering an opinion on the larger issue, but we are glad that Voisin brought it up. We encourage the School Board to use the council’s meeting as a useful way to begin a discussion it should already be having.

We’re not taking sides in the debate over whether Voisin was treading on School Board turf. And we understand that needless wrangling between public bodies can be a disservice to everyone involved. But this is different.

The council can certainly discuss what it can do with an issue that affects its constituents as well as those of the School Board. Although a ban on portables isn’t an acceptable solution, neither is their continued widespread use. Population shifts must be addressed through additional classroom space or some other long-term solution.

But the Parish Council shouldn’t shy away from the issue because of nebulous concerns over whether it has any authority over approving land-use decisions. And the School Board shouldn’t shy away from it because it will be expensive to fix. Let’s get the conversation started and go from there. If Voisin’s proposal does nothing more than that, it will have been a welcome advancement.

The School Board has plans for building classrooms that have been hampered by costly storms.

But Voisin, who only recently campaigned among his constituents, is merely bringing forth a topic that was brought to him.

The Parish Council and the School Board will ignore it at their peril.

Editorials represent the opinions of the newspaper, not of any individual.

Funny Farm

2009-01-31T20:33:00.000-06:00

Janice and Howard invited our family and a couple other families over to have a "Farm Day." They made burgers and hot dogs and let us pet their cows and horses. We all had a great time!

Councilman Kevin in the News

2009-01-27T20:31:00.002-06:00

Proposed ban on portable classrooms withdrawnBy Naomi King
Staff Writer
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20090127/ARTICLES/901279904
Published: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 3:00 p.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 1:40 p.m.

HOUMA — A Terrebonne Parish councilman’s proposal to restrict future portable classrooms on local school campuses sparked heated opposition Monday from School Board members.

One School Board member said it would force overcrowding at schools and restrict the flexibility officials need to deal with population shifts. And most council members denied the issue was even theirs to address.

The discussion was rooted in a proposal by freshman Councilman Kevin Voisin to have members of the parish’s Planning Commission evaluate whether portable classroom trailers — not the sturdier modular buildings — could be prohibited on public and private-school properties.

Voisin ultimately withdrew the request, saying he would accept “the wisdom of my colleagues,” most of whom said his strategy unacceptably crossed into the School Board’s domain.

Voisin said he’s concerned the temporary buildings, meant for short-term and emergency use, are being used in place of permanent classrooms. He said hundreds of constituents he met on the campaign trail this past year voiced the same concerns.

He questioned the safety of portables and why students, such as those at Mulberry Elementary, are taken out of them during thunderstorms.

School Board member Roger Dale DeHart said prohibiting portables would be “devastating.” Though board members want new permanent classrooms, the endeavor would be too expensive and the board would have to ask taxpayers to foot the bill through more taxes, he added.

Because parish government oversees building regulations, Voisin said, the council has the authority to make policies regarding the portables.

Plans to place portables on school property have to be approved by the parish’s Planning Commission under something called a planned-building group. The commission, whose members are appointed by the council, makes recommendations on building issues that ultimately must win council approval before taking effect.

To Voisin, that means the Parish Council has performed the equivalent of approving a trailer park in a neighborhood where it would not be allowed.

“To say we’re crossing a boundary is to forget we approved every one of these,” Voisin said.

Councilwoman Teri Cavalier, a counselor at Evergreen Junior High, said she agrees that portable classrooms should only be used for temporary purposes because after five to 10 years they begin to deteriorate.

That leads to rodents, poor ventilation, sinking and leveling problems and electrical issues, she said.

Having taught for three years in a portable, Cavalier said, she knows that when children are taken out of portables because of stormy weather “it evokes a lot of emotions and problems.”

She suggested DeHart take Voisin’s concerns back to the School Board.

Other council members, however, disagreed.

Councilman Clayton Voisin said the building codes, which regulate how structures are built and the materials used are sufficient in addressing safety issues.

“I have a big problem with it,” said Councilman Clayton Voisin. “We’d be crossing the line.”

Other council members, like Johnny Pizzolatto, said they do not approve of asking planning officials to even evaluate such a proposal.

“Let’s just disapprove it now,” Pizzolatto said. “They don’t cross the line and tell us what to do.”

Staff Writer Naomi King can be reached at 857-2209 or naomi.king@houmatoday.com.

Councilman Kevin in the News

2009-01-10T08:41:00.002-06:00

Cheers

Welcome to office -- Kevin Voisin became the Terrebonne Parish Council’s newest member this week when he was sworn in to serve out the remainder of Leland Robichaux’s term in office.

Robichaux died of cancer in June.

Voisin is just 33 years old, but he is vice president of marketing for Motivatit Seafood. We hope he will bring a youthful energy to a difficult and often-thankless position that is nonetheless crucial to the future of the parish.

Terrebonne faces difficult issues such as coastal erosion, protecting ourselves from flooding and planning for future growth.

“The greatest asset of Terrebonne Parish is its people,” Voisin said. “We have known for a long time we’ve got what we need. We’ve just got to put it in action.”

Voisin’s district includes southwest Terrebonne Parish, Donner, Gibson, parts of Schriever, Bayou Black and neighborhoods between La. 311 and Bayou Black Drive.

http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20090110/OPINION/901090234

Councilman Kevin Sworn In

2009-01-05T20:43:00.004-06:00

http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20090106/ARTICLES/901069930

The article begins, "HOUMA — With family by his side, the Terrebonne Parish Council’s newest member, Kevin Voisin of Houma, took the oath of office Monday." What a perfect start! Kevin was sworn in to office today by Terrebonne Clerk of Court Bobby Boudreaux at Houma's Government Tower.

Truly Kevin was surrounded by family and those who love him. Not were his loving wife and children there, but also his mother and father-in-law all the way from Texas, his grandpa Ernie, grandma JeanAnn, Papa Herbert, his mom and dad, sister Amy, nephew Dyami, sister Sally and brother-in-law Jason, nephew Chris, good friend and mentor Peter Bourgeois and his wife Betty, our ward friends the McElroys and our sister missionaries. That is in addition to many members of the council and several people from the community.

It was an inspiring time. Kevin's dad gave the invocation. Kevin shared his feelings in a short speech, as did several members of the council. Then the audience was invited to speak. Kevin's mom tearfully shared how proud she was of Kevin and how she knew he would do great things for the parish. Emily stood and echoed her mother-in-laws remarks and added her feelings about how Kevin is the right man for the job, but also that the council will play a great role in molding him into an even more effective leader. She talked about how the council will become a second family of sorts to Kevin and their family and the important things the Kevin will accomplish will be because of that council family.

Kevin's nephew Dyami boldly stood to say he was proud of his uncle. Then Huntie followed suit concluding the meeting with, "My dad ROCKS!"

At the end of the event, the local TV station interviewed Kevin too.

Run, Run as Fast as You Can . . .

2009-01-05T18:29:00.004-06:00

For Family Home Evening treat we decorated gingerbread people. The funnest part was eating all the decor, of course. Grandma was on icing duty, daddy and grandpa were decorating assistants. I was the photographer. YUM!

The best gingerbread cookie recipe ever, from Southern Living:

Gingerbread Men
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
2/3 cup molasses
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
6 1/2 to 7 cups all-purpose flour
2 Tablespoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup red hot candies
White frosting

- Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add brown sugar, beating well. Add eggs, molasses, and lemon juice; beat well.
- Combine 2 cups flour, baking powder, and next 6 ingredients; stir well. Add to butter mixture, beating at low speed until blended. Gradually add enough remaining flour to make stiff dough, mixing well. Shape dough into 2 balls. Cover and chill at least 1 hour.
- Roll 1 portion of dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a large greased cookie sheet. (place damp towel under cookie sheet, if necessary, to prevent cookie sheet from moving.) Cut gingerbread men with a 5 1/2-inch cookie cutter. Remove excess dough, using the tip of a knife. Add excess dough to remaining half of dough; wrap in wax paper, and chill until needed.
- Press raisins and cinnamon candies in each gingerbread man for eyes, nose, mouth, and buttons.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 to 14 minutes or until golden. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet. Remove to wire racks and cool completely. Repeat procedure with remaining dough. Decorate gingerbread men with White Frosting.

White Frosting
1 (16-oz) package of powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 cup shortening
1/3 cup half-and-half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- Mix all ingredients together

Spoteria!

2009-01-05T15:20:00.000-06:00

Or, maybe Pictureka!

Pictureka is the BEST game ever! It's so perfect for our family with children of different ages. All of us enjoy playing it. Grandpa even had such a good time that he played with Huntie, Michael and neighbors Maddy and Quinn for hours. He "spotted" a picture on the board and accidentally shouted "spoteria" instead of "pictureka." Thus this blog title and a fresh new ongoing inside joke. Thanks daddy.

Michael pretty much kicks all of our trash at this game. How does he find those pictures SO dang fast!?

The Dora Trike

2009-01-05T11:11:00.002-06:00

Grandpa helped Ellie assemble her Dora tricycle. They did such a great job together. In fact, we all helped a little. Grandma stuck the stickers, mommy collected all the tools and grandpa and Ellie put it all together.

Success!

FIRST snow day EVER!!

2008-12-29T19:38:00.001-06:00

After driving an entire day through snow covered Arizona en route to Provo, Huntie, Michael and Elle's famished appetite for snow was FINALLY satisfied in Great Grandma Adams' white backyard.

Man, the crusty tops of the snow made PREFECT snow disks. Or "icebergs," as Huntie referred to them.

What the . . .

Huntie helped Michael put his snow boot back on - many times. I can't understand how they kept coming off. Maybe it was because Mike's dear great grandma loaned him and Huntie HER snow boots to weather their first play in the snow. She's so awesome.

SNOWBALL FIIIIIGGGHHHHTTT!!

Yum, remember doing that? She loved it.

These kids played in the snow almost every day we were in Utah. They never got enough. I'm so proud. :).

9 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed!

2008-12-24T22:30:00.003-06:00

Well, 10, if you count grammy.

Grammy bought all her little monkeys, including 9-year-old Agustina in Argentia, little monkeys and sweaters to match. All monkeys present jumped on grammy's bed in celebration! Chris 9, Dyami 9, Huntie 8, Michael 5, Nathaniel 5, Roland 3, Scottie 2, Ellie 2, Bronson 3 months, grammy - no comment.

Roland and Nathaniel are so handsome! What cute brothers!

Baby Bronson was so patient through this whole process. He's such a sweetheart.

Huntie Bear, ever the showgirl. She'll be such a great celebrity one day. She's always ready with a pose.

Chris and Dyami were inseparable little monkeys.

Ahh, my 3 little monkeys. :X

T'was the Night Before Christmas . . .

2008-12-24T22:11:00.005-06:00

... and at Grammy's house,
All the cousins were stirring -
their presents to pounce.

But just before gifts,
the true meaning we thought
was much more important
this night to be taught.

So Christmas Eve celebrating
started quite sweet
with a Navitity Scene
of our little ones sweet.

Then on to the wrapping
the ribbons and bags
the little kids carfeully
read each gift's tag

From grammy and papa,
aunts, uncles and more,
We even saw thoughtful things
not from the store.

Our granny and papa Chuck
made the long trek
to share this dear holiday
with grandkids up to their necks.

The night ended well
with love all around,
this Voisin Christmas Eve
and its memory abound.

Boy Language

2008-12-22T17:55:00.002-06:00

Michael approached the dinner table this evening quietly singing a song of his own creation to himself.

Huntie: "WHAT are you singing?"

As matter-of-factly as possible, and without hesitation, Michael's response: "Boy language."