SnottsSpot

Madi misses school....

2011-12-01T08:24:00.001-08:00

Last night Madi went to bed with a bit of a soar throat. We were hopeful that it would subside by morning...but as luck would have it, Madi woke up this morning really not feeling well. She was coughing, crying and complaining her throat hurt, but was insistent about going to school, dance and gym tonight. It was obvious that Madi did not feel well, I think I would safe to say she felt absolutely awful. I finally convinced her she should stay home and rest today. The only way she would agree to stay home is if I would go to her school and talk to her teacher. Madi wanted a new reading book and all her assignments for the day; she was anxious to turn her reading calendar in so she could get a reward, so I agreed. Madi's teacher was able to give me all of her homework and a new reading book. I'm so grateful that Madi loves learning.

Christmas Tree Hunting

2011-11-30T05:31:00.001-08:00

We had another successful Christmas Tree Hunting expedition, despite the weather. The wind was blowing like crazy, something like 35 MPH gusts.

The kids did a little bit of sledding and playing in the snow. We have no snow at home, so this was their first opportunity this year. Madi is now worried that we won't have snow for Christmas.

Madilyn

2011-11-18T19:38:00.001-08:00

My kids crack me up. Last night as Madi and I were cleaning up from dinner, we had an interesting conversation.
Madi: Mom, I don't think we should have turkey for Thanksgiving.
Me: Really, what do you think we should eat instead of turkey.
Madi: I don't know, I just don't think we should have turkey.
Me: Why not?
Madi: We should save the turkeys.
Me: What do you mean?
Madi: We should save the turkeys. If we don't eat one at Thanksgiving that is one less turkey that has to be killed.
Me: OK, well what about chickens, don't you like chicken, chicken nuggets.
Madi: Oh, we can still have chicken. We don't eat too much.
Me: And cows (beef)?
Madi: We can eat cow, they stink anyway and they are dirty.
Me: Ohhhh Madi.

Gideon Justice Howell

2011-11-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

Gabe and Great Granpa Johnson

2011-11-05T07:26:00.000-07:00

Gabe's Birthday

2011-10-30T18:30:00.000-07:00

We spent the afternoon at Blackfoot Reservoir. Gabe loves to fish and that is what he wanted to do on his birthday. While we were waiting for fish to bite, Madi and Gabe chased and cought grasshoppers.

Halloween Carnival

2011-10-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

We are on our way to the Halloween carnival.

2011-10-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

This blog of mine...you know the one that I have filed to update since the first day of the 2011 school year….it’s still here and really I haven’t forgotten about you. I promise.

First Day of School

2011-08-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

School is now underway and Madi couldn't be more excited. She absolutely loves school; loves making new friends; loves her teacher; loves recess; and most importantly loves to learn.

Madi was nervous for school to start this year, she was nervous about not knowing the kids in her class and was worried about who would want to be her friend. Her nerves have been calmed now that she's been there a few days and is friends with some of the same kids from last year, can play with her cousin at recess, and is making new friends each day. On the third day of school, Madi lost another tooth.

Island Park

2011-08-08T23:06:00.000-07:00

The kids went to Island Park to stay with Grandma Katholyn for the week. Grandpa Byron and I joined them on Friday. Unfortunately, Mike had to work all weekend. We picked rounded up firewood, picked wild strawberries, and went to a car show and rendezvous in West, and the girls went to the Playmill and saw High School Musical.

Iron Lake - Day 3

2011-08-04T22:46:00.000-07:00

What to remember:

1) The boys have a great time fishing. They literally fished all day long.

2)The bugs.

Iron Lake

2011-08-03T07:21:00.001-07:00

Description: 8800-foot elevation. 8 campsites among three alpine lakes. Hiking trail from campground leads to more lake fishing, at the Hat Lakes to the south. Carry-down access for non motorized boats to the lakes. The drive in, along Salmon River Mountain Road, offers spectacular views of craggy peaks and deep pine forests. Location: From Salmon, go 5 miles south on US 93, then west 20 miles on Forest Road 021, and 21 miles south on FR 020 (Salmon River Mountain Road). FR 020 is a narrow, rough mountain road requiring slow and careful driving. Not recommended for RVs and trailers.

______________________________________________________________________

You ask about bug spray - we had it, used it, and used it some more. We went through 7 1/2 bottles.

Iron Lake - Day 2

2011-08-03T05:22:00.000-07:00

Things to remember about Day 2 - July 29, 2011

1) How the kids kept sneaking the Oreos.

2) Our secret safety hazard.

3) The mosquitoes.

Iron Lake - Day 1

2011-08-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

We haven't been tent camping in forever, well since at least 2002. There are so many amazing places in Idaho that we want to discover, so we have committed with some friends to explore some of those destinations. This year we ventured to Iron Lake. It was beautiful and a great place for the kids. They played in the water, fished, and went on lots of treasure hunts.

Things to remember about Day 1, July 28, 2011:

1) Madi lost her first tooth.

2) The private conversation Madi had with me about boat safety.

3) The mosquitoes.

Office Barbeque

2011-07-13T05:11:00.000-07:00

Last night we had an office barbecue. It was a lot of fun and Madi and Gabe had a great time making new friends. The kids didn't want to go home last night and they want to go back every night this week, except Sunday.

Of course....the helmet.

But it looks like his fashion trend is catching on.

Madi made friends with Lauren and they danced and danced on the trampoline together.

Madi was disappointed in one thing....barbecue. I told her we were going to an office barbeque adn she was excited. She loves barbeque....ribs and chicken. She told me that next time we are going to a barbeque with hamburgers and hotdogs, I should tell her we are having hamburgers and hotdogs, not barbeque.

4th of July Parade

2011-07-04T21:32:00.000-07:00

It's been years since I had been to the 4th of July Parade, and have still never watched it. This year I walked in the parade with Madi. She helped pass out fliers and throw candy with Miss Idaho Falls, Kelsie Roper and some of the 2011 contestants. Madi walked pretty much the entire 3 mile route and she had a ball, she even asked if she could be in the parade next year.

Kelsie is one awesome young lady. So talented, sweat, beautiful and simply amazing.

To finish off the day, we went swimming at grandma Valerie's, watched a baseball game (so American) and then watched a bit of the fireworks from the less crowded Community Park. It was a great truly day.

Island Park

2011-06-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend in Island Park.

First Weekend at the Cabin

2011-06-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

The first weekend at the cabin was interesting. I'm not sure if the all the snow made it fun, but it sure made for entertaining trips to the outhouse. We had to climb anywhere from 3 to 5 feet of snow to get there. The Cheetos monster is back.

The fire pit was inaccessible. However the kids were able to use it for as a playground. The weather was nearly 75 degrees, which made playing in the snow so much funner.

Jaden's Birthday Party

2011-05-28T21:18:00.000-07:00

Jaden will be on June 2, but to keep everyone one schedule we had her birthday party yesterday. We are lucky the weather held out and we were able to celebrate outside. It has rained all day and the forecast doesn't seem promising for tomorrow either.

A beautiful day

2011-05-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

We started off at the Spring gymnastics showoff day.

And then we headed straight to the garden....and there we stayed until about 8:30 p.m.

Easter

2011-04-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

This year the kids participated in four easter egg hunts. The first hunt was the community easter egg hunt (a first for us). It lasts all of about 30 seconds, but the kids thought the race was fun. I felt bad for the the ones who didn't get there on time, because it was over before you could blink, so those kids left with nothing. Madi saw one little boy arrive late, and gave him an egg out of her basket, it was sweet, and he left the park with something.

Soccer

2011-04-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

Spring soccor is in full swing and Madi's trying her hand at it again.

Somehow she managed to be number 2 again. I'm not sure how it worked out, but last year she was number 2 and when she played hockey she was number 2, too. When Madi saw that 2 was her number again, she was a little bit disappointed.

Gideon Justin Howell

2011-04-13T17:32:00.000-07:00

Jaden was excited to have all the visitors, but not as excited to get her picture taken.

Jaden

2011-04-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Jaden came to play today. We had fun dressing up, reading books, and playing dolls. I'm sure her mom's in for a long night....Jaden skipped her nap today.

End of Hockey Season

2011-03-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

Today was the final day of Hockey. They spent the hour playing games and having a great time.

The trophy at the end of the season, made it all worth it. Gabe never wants to quit playing hockey.

Spring

2011-03-12T21:52:00.000-08:00

It starting to feel a little bit like Spring...the snow is gone and the sun is shinning. The kids pulled out their bikes and scooter and played for a while this afternoon. It feels good to get outside.

Goggles

2011-03-07T21:44:00.000-08:00

Gabe found the swim goggles and has been wearing them all evening. I'm not sure what he's pretending to be, but he thinks he's pretty cool....so do I.

Spagetti

2011-02-23T21:36:00.000-08:00

Spagetti, she could eat it for lunch and dinner every day.

Hockey Weekend

2011-02-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

Gabe has really enjoyed Hockey this year and he has made so much progress. He has started to glide on his skates, mind you it's only with one foot, but it's a start. Periodically you will see him using both feet. There are certain drills he really likes, and others he surely tries to pass up.

Gabe is certainly one of the smaller kids on the team.

January Already.....

2011-01-13T03:54:00.000-08:00

Wow - it's nearly half way through January of 2011. I'd like to say we've had lots of adventures, but really it's just been real life. Madi started gymnastics in the middle of December and she loves it. She started out with once a week, and was begging to be able to go at least twice a week, so we'll try it out in January and see how it works with everyone's schedules.

Gabe has been busy with hockey. I'm glad he enjoys it more than Madi did two years ago. Hockey season started in October and Gabe went through three pair of hockey skates before the end of November. I was worried we would see him through five or six pair before the end of the season, but thank heavens we haven't....so far anyway.

Gabe has had a few struggles this season with working hard and listening to the coaches during practice. However, we found out that if you take TV (movies, video games, etc.) away for a week, he does much better. The last few practices he has really made some progress.

Tree Hunting

2010-11-29T20:00:00.000-08:00

There hasn't been this much snow Christmas tree hunting before, it certainly made things more adventurous. We came prepared with snow shoes, sleds and cross-country skis, but we really relied on our husbands to find and cut trees this year. The kids had a great time sledding, making snow angels and berrying their heads in the snow.

Snow fun....

2010-11-29T19:46:00.001-08:00

A few snow storms hit town last week and dumped a few bits of snow on us. Roads and schools were closed, but that didn't stop us from having fun. Tuesday we got the four-wheeler out and played. Gabe didn't stay out long, but it was long enough for him to rip it up on the four-wheeler. He laughed, smiled and had a great time. Madi loved riding in the sled behind the four-wheeler. Her cheeks were bright red and we still couldn't get her out of the sled or inside, she could have stayed outside for days. Once we did get her out of the sled she made snow angels which is one of her favorite things to do in the winter.

Swimming

2010-11-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

We went to Boise over the weekend for the 4a State Semi-Finals between Shelley and Bishop Kelley. Unfortunately Shelley lost, but the kids had a great time swimming in the hotel pool. They swam for almost 2 hours.

2010-11-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

A picnic in the park....

2010-11-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

Before we took Madi to school, we went to North Bingham County Park to eat lunch. It was a quick trip, but it was nice to be outside enjoying the beautiful Fall weather.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T08:25:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween. Gabe was a ninja and was excited about it until his birthday party and he opened up a new light saber - then it was all about Star Wars.

Madi was a spider princess.

We did not do much trick-or-treating because the kids had so much candy from the Halloween carnival and Boo at the Zoo. Instead, we visited Slick, the horses and chickens for over an hour.

The kids had a great time feeding the chickens grain.

Chasing the cats.

And Slick is always a treat to pet. He gained 300 pounds over the summer, so he now weighs in at a whopping 2800 pounds. He's huge.

Madi even placed a sweet kiss on this poor old cow.

Happy Birthday Gabe!

2010-10-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

Today my sweet little boy turns 4. He is getting bigger and bigger each day; we keep telling him we are taking his birthday away and is he not allowed to get any bigger. A couple of times I have even told him he could only have water, because anything else we could give him would help Gabe grow. If only we could freeze time. Gabe always makes us smile with his sense of humor. Madi thinks Gabe is funny - especially when he sings and dances. Gabe loves swords, archery, fishing, Star Wars, football and he is excited about hockey. Today was his first day of hockey. When he puts on all of his hockey gear he thinks nothing can hurt him, I hope that's true.

Gabe is tender hearted. Whenever Gabe sees someone sad, hurt or upset, he'll always be the first to put his arm around them and tell him it will be OK. Yesterday, Grandma Katholyn told him that he wasn't allowed to get any bigger. his response, "It's OK grandma, even when I get bigger I can still give you kisses."

Just a Quick Layout to Share...

2010-10-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

Fishing at the Reservoir

2010-10-26T05:54:00.000-07:00

I think we've seen the last of GREAT Fall weather around here and we spent the last of it fishing. We had a blast. The kids love to fish, and Madi especially loves to catch Rainbow Trout.

I love the cookie in her mouth.

The first fish she caught was a Cutthroat, and Madi was so dissappointed. She wouldn't even touch it.

Gabe always is collecting something, this time it was feathers.

She finally caught her Rainbow Trout.

Madi took this picture of herself and it is probably my favorite picture of the day.

Yellowstone

2010-10-13T04:38:00.000-07:00

We went to Island Park and Yellowstone with grandma and grandpa. Yellowstone was surprisingly busy, which was a bit of a let down. We were hoping for relatively few people, but I guess we shouldn't be too surprised, after all it is a National Park.

I think Gabe grew three inches over the weekend or perhaps over night. Half the shirts, including his pajamas, were too short and could have been considered belly shirts (do they have those for boys?)

Gabe loved spending time with Grandpa Byron. I love how both of their pants are rolled at the bottom.

Madi loves to walk, hike or run. Yellowstone was perfect for her since there are so many maintained trails that it is easy to take kids on short or long hikes. Madi was in heaven.

She stopped several times to draw maps in the sand/gravel pathways.

Fishing

2010-09-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

I always seem to miss the experience of fishing with the kids. Mike is great at taking Madi and Gabe fishing, hiking, to the zoo, museum, or to the movies when he has a day off from work. Mike's out of school for the next few weeks because of Spud Harvest, so between homework and football practice he spends all of his time doing activities with the kids. It has worked out great this week since his brother is here from Arkansas.

I love that one pant leg is tucked into Gabe's boot.

Family Fun

2010-09-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Mike's brother and his family are here from Arkansas. We have a week full of fun activities planned. We don't get to see them often, so when we get the opportunity, we live it up and PARTY.

Spud Day

2010-09-19T05:50:00.000-07:00

Madi carefully sorted the candy on the street and only would pick up the candy she liked to put in her treat bag. Too funny. Gabe however picked up everything.

Small town celebrations feel so American. Another Shelley Spud Day has come and gone, and the kids are already looking forward to next year. The kids retrieved more candy than they can consume from the parade, played a few games and each purchased their own special treat.

I have to say, I certainly did not earn mother of the year award that day. I left Madi's goodie bag at Spud Day. The bag contained all of her treats from the parade and those special prizes she won. Needless to say, she was heartbroken. I slightly mended her heart by going back to the super crowded Spud Day and purchasing her a couple of hair accessories.

Tator Tot Trot

2010-09-18T05:52:00.000-07:00

This was Madi's first time running in an organized race. She was excited and nervous. I was impressed at the great job she did. She was so excited to see so many other kids that she knew from church, school and others she plays with.

Madi spent most of the race watching other people. She thought it was cool that someone was riding piggy back.

She wondered why runner 74 was crying (she cried the entire race).

She was excited to see her mom.

And now she's taking to her cousin.

But she did it and had a great time.

Dawn was at the finish and Madi couldn't have been more delighted to see her.

Chadwick Family Reunion

2010-09-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago was the Chadwick Family Reunion. I met a lot of relatives I never knew existed. I think the last Chadwick Reunion was somewhere between 15 and 20 YEARS ago in Star Valley. This years (or should I say decades) reunion was in Island Park on my parents property, part of which used to be my grandpas.

This is Jack and Jill (they live on a hill.... in California).

Jack replied to my mother's first e-mail (during the planning stage) "Who the hell are you"

These guys came from New Jersey and Texas.

Great MEMORIES!

First day of Kindergarten

2010-08-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

Madi's first day of kindergarten was a success. She loved every minute of it.

I can't believe how fast she is growing up - before too long she will be graduating from high school.

The Archery Range

2010-08-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to the archery range with friends first thing in the morning. The cool morning air was refreshing. We didn't stay too long (some of the kids were eager to go do something different), but it was a great way to start the day.

Madi's favorite part about going to the archery range is this bridge. I'm not sure why but she thinks it's the greatest thing ever.

The other kids love it too.

Idaho Falls Air Show

2010-08-01T12:40:00.001-07:00

Gabe was excited to attend the Idaho Falls Air Show, he was ecstatic about the blue planes (Blue Angels). Curtis was there with his helicopter; he flies an Apache for the Idaho National Guard. It was fun to see him in his uniform with the crew. A huge plus for us, the helicopter created a little bit of shade for us to sit under and avoid the craziness of sitting among the sea of people. The show brought back lots of memories for me. Growing up in the Air Force, we attended many shows, celebrations and gatherings. I miss the feelings of military life from time to time. The commodore and support for families of service members truly exemplifies the American spirit.

We've been busy this summer...

2010-07-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

The summer is racing by and we are as busy as ever working, camping, playing, gardening, and school. Yes, school. Mike has just started back to school. He is working on his masters so he is extremely busy with work, school and being an amazing dad. This picture was taken earlier in June. We went to the cabin for our first weekend camping adventure and there was still snow on the ground. The kids were anxious to stay the night so we had to make due with the snow. We just blazed a trail to the outhouse through the mounds of white stuff. In just a week's time, the snow was gone and we were at it again.

The kids worked hard at picking up much of the slash that was left over from the trees we cut down some time ago.

The kids had their first lesson on being lost in the woods. Mike took them for a morning hike/stump shooting adventure. He sat them down and had a chat on what to do if they were ever to get lost in the forest.

The kids have had a blast running through the sprinkler in the back yard. Madi is excited for swim lessons to start next week.

Gabe was a bit scared of the water, but to our surprise he ran through a time or two.

We went camping in Island Park.

Hiked in Harriman State Park.

And spent some more time at the cabin.

Playing ladderball...

and catching butterflies.

Gabe's Outside Hat

2010-06-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

The other day, I was out weeding in the front flower beds. I heard Gabe and turned around to see what he was up to. This is what I found. Gabe sweeping the sidewalk with a flower pot on his head. He calls it his outside hat, or his rain hat. He cracks me up. So now whenever we are in the front yard, he has the flower pot on his head. I wonder what he is going to do when I fill the pot with flowers.

Happy Birthday Jaden

2010-06-01T19:50:00.003-07:00

Dance Recital

2010-05-22T07:57:00.001-07:00

Last night was Madi's dance recital. She did a great job in all three numbers. Madi was a bit nervous that one of the girls was going to fall off the stage. During dance practice the last few weeks the girls would hug Marcie after each number. Marcie told them they would not be able to give her hugs after each dance at the recital because they would fall off the stage. Nobody fell.....

I love evenings like this.....

2010-05-19T19:38:00.001-07:00

Gathering Eggs

2010-05-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight Madi and I went to a local farm and gathered eggs; we had breakfast for dinner. Madi is always excited to see the animals, especially the horses. We mingled with the horses, but I didn't capture it in photographs. Madi thought the horses were funny because they followed us around and were continually sniffing at us. I love the old barn and can imagine myself playing inside for hours. I've always wanted to live on a farm and think I would literally spend hours inside this old barn, playing, working or whatever, if I had the time.

We searched inside the barn for the secret place that some chickens lay eggs. We found three eggs in their secret hiding place.

'Slick' is one of Madi's favorites. He is 5'10 at the shoulder and weighs 2,550 pounds. That is one enormous animal. Believe it or not he's tame .

We are looking forward to the arrival of a calf later this summer. There is always something new and exciting at the farm.

The chickens were separated inside the coop. The babies were separated from the grown chickens. Madi thought it was fun to have the baby chickens follow her around inside the coop; we just had to be careful not to let them out. Madi likes that they say "cock-a-doodle-doo" all the time; and she was excited to see the many colors and patterns of the different varieties of chickens.

2010-05-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

Soccer

2010-05-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

Madi started soccer a few weeks ago and she loves it. She tries hard, but more often than not, she is more interested in who and what is going on in the crowd - she's a people watcher. The first game was interesting to say the least. Madi was bewildered by the fact that two of her friends were on the other team.

Madi loves to run and I think that is what she likes most about soccer.

All dressed up......

2010-04-28T19:49:00.001-07:00

They clean up well....don't they?

Layouts

2010-04-27T05:38:00.000-07:00

Spring Break

2010-03-23T15:40:00.001-07:00

It's Spring Break - that means it's lots of fun activities for Mike and the kids. Today they went fishing. The kids were so excited to catch fish today. Mike says there was not fighting or complaining and they both listened. Mike sent me these pictures he took on his cell phone.

Bathroom Spruce Up

2010-02-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

We have been working on our bathroom this winter. Mike put in a new floor, surround, toilet, and some new fixtures. If only I could have replaced the old vanity and counter. I would post before and after pictures, but the before was too discusting to share and I did my best to avoid proof of its nastiness - meaning no pictures. The bathroom was a big project -especially when Mike doesn't enjoy home improvement projects. He get's frustrated easily. Our house only has one and a half baths, which ins't a big problem until the toilet down stairs stops working. What timing! The old toilet down stairs was just that, OLD, and ugly, but it worked. We didn't use it much before the work started on the upstairs bathroom. The work started upstairs and the use of the potty downstairs increased. The old toilet got tired, and started running all of the time. We turned the water off during the day, so we could avoid any mishaps that might occur. I picked up a toilet repair kit and brought it home one evening. Of course, it was a Thursday and we had a football game so the toilet had to wait until late that night. We tried to fix it, but like I said, the toilet was old. The new parts did not work with the old tiolet, and when we were taking out the old parts to the old toilet, the pieces were falling apart. Luckily, the upstairs toilet was conveniently waiting in the hallway and so it was easy to be moved downstairs; but wait, we didn't have a new wax ring to set the toilet. It was 11:30 P.M. Good thing Walmart was open and they carry wax rings. Neadless to say Friday morning came really early. The bathroom is finished and so are the home improvement projects for a while.

2010-02-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Check out this awesome giveway.

Exercise

2010-01-27T09:48:00.000-08:00

15 Really Good Reasons to Exercise: 1. Endorphins - Official definition: natural opiates (produced in the brain, by physical exercise or thinking happy thoughts) which act as natural painkillers. Real World definition: the stuff that explains women who go happily through labor and delivery without painkillers. 2. Stress Release - Who needs stress relief more than moms? 3. Better Sleep - Need I say more? 4. Mommy Time - If you're able to set time aside to exercise on your own, you'll reap the extra benefit of some solitary down time ... a mommy "time out," if you will. 5. Greater Confidence - Whether you've reached your fitness goal or not, taking action gives you a feeling of empowerment, a more positive body image, and the confidence to put yourself "out there." 6. Bonding Opportunities - If you choose to make your fitness routine a group activity, you'll have the chance to forge new friendships and nurture old ones. 7. Better Health - There are a ton of specific health benefits, but overall health is important for moms. After all, we're the one who end up taking care of everyone else when they get sick! 8. Greater immunity - When you're healthy, your immune system is stronger, which helps you stay healthy. 9. Increased Good Cholesterol - Exercise boosts the good stuff! 10. Lower Blood Pressure - Even when the kids are pushing all your buttons, exercise will help you re balance things in your favor. 11. More Energy - It doesn't make immediate sense, but working out does give you more energy. An, if anyone can use more energy, it's moms! 12. Stronger Muscles - Stronger muscles don't just help you carry all those groceries, they also help protect you from injuries. Strong abs, for instance, help protect your back. 13. Stronger Bones - Women in particular should do what they can to strenghen their bones and certain kinds of weight training do just that. 14. Greater Flexibility - Stronger, more supple muscles lead to greater physical flexibility, and the stress-fighting aspects of exercise help make you more mentally limber as well. 15. You're Setting a Good Example - As moms, we do everything we can to provide for and teach our children. Investing time and effort in taking care of yourself by exercising regularly sets a great example for your kids to follow. I don't have enough time. 1. Look for minutes instead of hours - You don't need to block out oodles of time; a few minutes here and there can make a big difference. 2. Multi-task - Do a few crunches while you're catching the evening news, a few counter push-ups while you're waiting for the buzzer on the oven, some squats while you're folding the laundry. 3. Involve the kids - Instead of trying to squeeze exercise in around the kids, make it something you can do with them. Take them for a bike ride, push the stroller along at an accelerated pace, challenge your older kids to a little one-on-one hoops. 4. Tag team with another mom - Ask a friend to swap child care with you for a half hour every other day. 5. Find gyms that offer child care - If a gym is your style, look for ones that offer in-house childcare or children's fitness programs. 6. Target the "Off" hours - Try to find a few minutes during nap time, when the kids are at school, before everyone gets up, or after everyone's settled for the night. Thanks Robyn

2010-01-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

2010-01-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Madi was climbing into her bed last night when she remembered she had not done her chores for the day. (She is working on filling a chore chart to earn a baby bed and high chair) It was bed time so I told her she would have to do them in the morning. She was upset and I thought it was a delay tactic. She finally came up with a plan. "I will wake up by myself in the morning when I hear you in the shower and hear you making breakfast. Then I will do my chores." Great idea. To my surprise....she did. I was getting ready for work down stairs, Mike was in the shower, and I heard little footprints coming down the stairs. When I came out of the bathroom, it was Madi carrying one of her toys down to her playroom. I was shocked...but, I shouldn't have been. Madi remembers EVERYTHING and when she says she is going to do something, she will. What a good kid. She was so excited about getting her chores done this morning, she helped Gabe make his bed (his only chore).

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T08:15:00.000-08:00

Happy new year from our house to yours.

2009-12-26T08:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas stories, Christmas music and Christmas movies are all put away for the year.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T08:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T21:21:00.000-08:00

The kids look forward to getting their Christmas jammies from Grandma Valerie (handmade with love) every year. This year they were excited to get new slippers too. Once we were home for the evening, the kids picked out a present to unwrap. This year it was the gifts they got for each other. They were so excited and grateful. I wish I had a video camera at that very moment. It was so sweet to watch them opening their gifts, showing gratitude, and explaining the reason they chose that special gift for each other. All this with no coaxing. My kids really are the sweetest and most tender hearted kids around.

2009-12-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

We have a superstar and a bank robber. Gabe found the winter clothes and discovered face mask hats and insisted on wearing one. We were just headed out the door to see the trains at my Aunt and Uncle's house, Gabe had to wear the hat, I couldn't convince him otherwise. Madi new Gabe looked goofy so she had to find something to wear too....sunglasses.

Early Morning Conversation w/ Madi

2009-12-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

Madi: Mom I want to tell you something. Mom: Go ahead. Madi: I've got if figured out. Mom: You've got what figured out? Madi: I know where pee comes from. Mom: You do, where. Madi I can't tell you - you just wouldn't get it. Mom: Try me. Madi: No, you won't get it. I know where pee comes from but I don't know where poop comes from. Mom: I bet I will, go ahead. Madi: The chocolate milk. Mom: You're absolutely right, and the water your drink too. Poop comes from the food you eat. Madi: Oh yea. One day she she just might solve all the world's problems.

2009-12-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving we ALWAYS cut down a tree, no exceptions.

The morning always starts early for me. Shopping on Black Friday, I know is crazy, but I like going. I don't usually buy much of anything...it's just tradition I guess. This year my phone rang while I was wondering the isles in Roberts. It was Gabe, he had an announcement. "Mom I went pee in the potty." He was excited, but the excitement didn't turn into much, because that was the only time on Friday that he peed in the potty. Progress......right..... Anyway, Mike took Gabe rabbit hunting that morning. I'm guessing Mike didn't want him dragging his real bow through the snow, because he carried this bow. The mess on his face is M&Ms - the treat of his choosing for peeing in the potty.

Madi found a patch of ice - or maybe Gabe found it first, I don't remember. Madi turned the big patch into her "ice rink" and another small patch of ice was her "practice rink". She want's to be a figure skater or ice dancer. Gabe wasn't necessarily a fan of the ice - he apparently doesn't have very good balance and wasn't pleased when he would slip and fall.

I'm not sure what made this trip so special, I truly had a good time. Even Mike noticed the extra big smile on his face when he was looking back through the pictures. His words "I don't think I've ever smiled so much."

.......

A little bit of Christmas magic.

.......

We don't listen to Christmas music, read Christmas stories, or do anything Christmassy until after Thanksgiving. A day or two before Thanksgiving, Madi was at the pre-school and Ashley was listening to Christmas music. Madi insisted it be turned off. When Ashley asked the reason she didn't listen to Christmas music before Thanksgiving she replied. "If we listened to it before Christmas, than it wouldn't be special."

........

Madi and Gabe have been playing Santa Claus. They take turns being Santa or one of the reindeer. This morning as we were leaving the house, Gabe wanted to play Santa - he was Rudolph. Madi wanted to be Clarisse. She was worried that their game wouldn't work because Rudolph went with Santa's sleigh and Clarisse stayed at the North Pole. I asked her if Clarisse took care of Ms. Claus. Madi look at me like I was an idiot and she said. "I think Ms. Claus takes care of Clarisse." You can't get much past her.

Festival of Trees

2009-12-01T14:21:00.000-08:00

Don't mind the fuzzy picture, but I couldn't resist posting a picture from the Festival of Trees. Madi started dance this year and has loved every minute of it. Dance day is probably her favorite day of the week. Madi's class danced at the Festival of Trees on Friday, November 21, 2009, the same night as the State Championship Football Game. It was a busy night; I rushed home from work, rushed to the Festival and then rushed to the football game. The girls in Madi's class are all so adorable. The girl's costumes had not come in before the Festival so they all had to wear their class uniforms, but I don't think anyone cared. When I picked Madi up after the performance, she said: "I saw Santa, Grandpa Byron, Grandma Katholyn, Uncle Curtis, Aunt Rusty, Jaden and Gabe!", all in one breath.

Best Friends

2009-12-01T14:09:00.000-08:00

Layout

2009-11-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

Just Hanging Around

2009-11-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

Fall in Idaho is limited - it doesn't seem to last long enough. I love sweater weather, the changing leaves, and the beginning of hot chocolate season.

The kids are eager to get outside and play before the weather changes to freezing.

Dance Snack

2009-11-03T16:40:00.000-08:00

Every Tuesday, Madi has dance class. So we hurry home, change clothes, pull up hair, and have a CHEESE snack. She looks forward to dance all week long and is already wishing she was enrolled in more than one class so she could go more often.

A busy weekend

2009-11-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

I guess you could say the weekend activities started late Thursday night with a blowout game. The kids were out late - we didn't get home until 1:00 p.m., surprising the kids were awake the entire time.

Gabe had his own little fan club. He sure is a ladies man.

This little guy is now 3. Gabe's birthday is the day before Halloween. The kids had heard about Boo at the Zoo on the radio all week and so Gabe decided that's what he wanted to do for his birthday. Boo at the Zoo and eat at a pizza restaurant. We went early on Friday to the zoo in order to avoid the crowds. The kids had a great time. Gabe of course was hilarious. He occasionally let out a roar and even screamed at the sight of some kid dressed up like a skeleton. Madi was a bit nervous at times but all in all had a great time.

The pumpkin walk had several of these picture boards. We took the kids to the pumpkin walk just after the carnival. Again, we went early to avoid the crowds. Trick-or-Treating was from 4 to 7 and we were through looking at all of the displays by 3:30.

The Halloween carnival at the school was a fun afternoon activity. Madi loved the games, but again was a bit nervous with all of the people. She's our little worrier.

The spiders in Rusty's hair were a big hit with the kids. When Gabe or Madi found one on the floor they shouted out "SPIDER EMERGENCY", and picked it up to be placed back into her hair. I was surprised Gabe would even touch the things - he's is deathly afraid of spiders, fake or real.

Here's Madi practicing her dance moves on her "stage". She's got it going on.

Sunday I took a few family photos for Jeremy and Carol.

A Hero

2009-10-16T09:57:00.001-07:00

I love that my kids enjoy playing (and fighting) with each other - they are the best of friends. Some time ago Madi looked at Gabe across the dinner table and said "Gabe, you're a hero." So cute. Even cuter was his response - "I am not a hero, I don't have wings YET!" So sweet. I wonder when his wings will appear? Of course a post is never complete without a picture.

Gabe is such a funny kid - one of the first things people comment about when they meet him is his personality. The kids is just so darn funny. One afternoon on our way to the cabin, Gabe came across this predator call in the truck and had to try it out. He blew and blew until Madi just COULDN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE. And since Madi just couldn't taken any more of the noise, he stopped and we put the call away and again there was quiet.

2009-09-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, I went to visit my friend Chenoa and her amazing family in Swan Valley. She let me take pictures of her kids. Chenoa and Mike just finished the two and a half year pain-staking process of adopting Djeulisa and Chrisnaider. They are siblings from Haiti and they sure are cute. I'm excited to see their progress over the next few months and years. Rowan is almost 2; Djeulis is 5; and Chrisnaider is almost 9.

Spud Day

2009-09-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

September 19, 2009,

If you live near Shelley, Idaho and have never been to Spud Day, you are definitely missing out. I think they have the best parade around and who can't resist a free baked potato with all the trimmings. The weather was a little on the hot side, but at least it didn't rain or snow.

The kids loved the parade. Gabe was excited about the big farm equipment and big trucks. Madi liked the cheerleaders and Miss Russet. The 007 demolition car you see in the picture was Madi's version of a 'brand new car'.

Horsey Rides

2009-09-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

"Can I give you a horsey ride?" she asks Gabe. Yep, she volunteers to give her brother horsey rides. These rides crack me up. In reality Gabe wobbles from one side to the other and does some kind of crazy walk along the way.

Oops... a flat tire.

Peaches

2009-09-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you I canned peaches? Of course I didn't, I'm a bad blogger. Well I canned peaches and I did it by myself. I'll tell you what, if it wasn't for the great flavor and deliciousness of home canned peaches, it wouldn't be worth it. It is so time consuming. Half way through the process, I thought to myself, this is a waste of time. I switched to peach jam, but then I had more peaches. So I did another batch of canned peaches. I would say I'm through, but every time a pass a street vendor selling those delicious peaches; I want to buy them, take them home and can them for a tasty treat this winter.

Island Park

2009-09-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Years ago I remember a trip to Island Park with my grandparents. Curtis and I rode in the truck pulling the trailer with my grandpa. As we approached the Island Park exit, the rest of the family passed us and my brothers and sister held up their root beer cans as they drove by. I think they were trying to make us jealous and envious of their trip in the old standby van. It worked, we were jealous, but not for long. Grandpa pulled the truck to the side of the road immediately. We had just pulled onto highway 20, grandpa told us to wait in the truck as he climbed inside the trailer. He brought back two ice cold pops. To top it off, grandpa stopped at Elk Creek station and Curtis and I got to pick up an extra treat. Whistle pops. Grandpa said we had to share and so we purchased one for everyone. My mother inherited the lot in Island Park YEARS ago. She has dreamed about having a cabin in the woods for as long as I can remember, but this lot has sat and has been lonely for years. Of course, once or twice a year my parents have driven by to check on its existence, but nobody has used it. Well last year, my mother decided it was time.... She borrowed her sister's motor home and we ventured to Island Park for the weekend. She doesn't have her cabin in the woods, but it's close. Three trailers later....she now can spend her summers there. (no joke, my dad has purchased THREE camp trailers; and I failed to mention my dad does not like camping) My sister and grandma were here from Kentucky at the end of August, so to Island Park they went. The kids and I joined them on Saturday morning. The kids were so excited to get to sleep on the bunk beds, they settled for just the mattress. On Saturday night we went to the Playmill Theater to see the Secret Garden. It was an amazing production. 110 degrees inside, but the show was great. I think they don't have air conditioning so the playhouse can sell more refreshments at intermission. Madi loved the production. She was so attentive, but man she likes to ask a lot of questions. Here's a few pictures:

Madi loved the screen door on the trailer, it was easy for her to open and close. I think she did just that about 101 times.

Grandma is not afraid of much and she's willing to try ANYTHING (oh the stories). She's 88 and yes she has complete control of the 4-wheeler. Two years ago she was making a trail on a snow machine.

Gabe's always looking for a good sword fight. He had an ample supply of stakes which made great fighters.

The kids love their aunt Jennifer.

and Rusty TOO...

Who doesn't love baby bubbles.

This picture cracks me up. My little princess and her night in play clothes.

It was fun and I hope Madi and Gabe have fond memories of Island Park with their grandparents.

September

2009-09-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

It's September and I haven't posted about a single thing. It isn't that we aren't doing anything, I just haven't adapted to back to school changes and a busy football schedule. It's work everyday, cook dinner, and put the kids to bed. Of course that is nothing new. What is new? Tuesday nights, Madi has dance; Thursday nights are freshman and JV football games; and Friday nights are Varsity football games. (Yes, WE do go to all the games.) I promise in the coming week there will be plenty of posts.

Back to School

2009-08-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year. The feeling in the air is refreshing, a new start, the beginning of a new adventure. Mike is back in school full swing, including FOOTBALL. (The first big football game is tonight). The scheduling begins. Not only is Mike back to teaching, but he is still working for the Forest Service on the weekends. His days and nights are busy but he still makes time for his family, that's what I love about him. Madi starts pre-school next week and dance begins the following week. She's excited to say the least. For those of you not in school but are looking for a little something to encourage better writing skills and habits...take a look here. There is no cost, so there's nothing to lose only so much to gain.

Clean-up

2009-08-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

We are in the process of cleaning up a couple of trees Mike and Damian cut down a few weeks ago. This is one of the trees. It was a good thing they cut this tree when the did. It would have come down sooner rather than later and could have landed right on top of the cabin. It was rotten in the center up about eight (8) feet. I don't know if the ants caused the decay or if the ants came in after.

We tried to put Gabe to work, but it was hard for him to manage with gloves.

So he plaid hockey with a birdie and badminton racket.

We hauled the logs around in a sled behind the 4-wheeler.

The twigs we started burning, there just isn't a practical way to store it for building fires later.

The small branches were cut up and stacked by the fire pit. They make great coals for cooking.

The small logs were stacked in the wood shed to be used later to heat the cabin.

The large logs we piled to be hauled away later for a friend to use to heat their house.

There's so much more work to be done and I'm not good at hard labor.

Operation Life Saver

2009-08-13T09:49:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago my dad gave me tickets for Operation Life Saver. My dad participates every year and thought it would be fun for the kids to ride the train. So last Friday we went to Blackfoot to catch the 10:00 train. I was worried we were going to be late and possibly miss the train. We rushed to the back of the line at 9:50, boarded the train at 10:30 and left the station at 11:05. Trains don't operate on schedules apparently. The OLS train arrived in Blackfoot on time, but apparently had to wait for two freight trains to pass through, one of which was having problems.

It was cold and the kids were tired of standing in line. Once we boarded the train and got situated, we waited. Madi got board, but I think it was because of the long wait. Gabe had a fun time. Madi looked through the activity book they received after boarding. She answered all of the train safety questions correctly.

I was surprised how much room there was on the train. We were in the last passenger car. Every seat was taken on the train, but it didn't seem the least bit crowded. I think it would be a great way to travel with children. There was something about the train that put kids to sleep. Over half the kids looked a little droopy eyed.

Layouts

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

Hogle Zoo

2009-08-06T07:25:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we made a last minute and quick trip to Utah. We stopped by Cabelas for a few hours. The kids love to look at the fish, animals, airplane, and Madi likes to push the button to make the man talk. We never seem to buy much, if anything at all. I guess you could call it cheap entertainment. Madi always wants to eat at the Cabelas cafeteria, but never eats the hot dog she orders. I don't blame her, the hot dogs are nasty. Unfortunately she won't order anything else. Luckily, Gabe picks up the slack and will finish it off for her.

We then went to the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point for a few hours. The kids had a great time digging up dinosaur bones and making sand castles at the sand/water table. What stands out in their memory is the cracked dinosaur egg, computer games and the huge shark. Next time we venture there, we will make it a point to see the movie after strolling the museum.

Next, we went to visit Grandma and Grandpa Great Johnson. We were there for a couple hours as well. It was nice to visit. Mike really enjoys hearing his Grandpa tell stories of WWII. He's trying to gather as much information as he can to compile a book of stories. It is proving to be difficult. Grandpa doesn't share war stories with everyone. I can only imagine how difficult some of those memories are to recall.

The next day we spent several hours at Hogle Zoo. We saw the three-day old baby giraffe and many other new arrivals. We rode the zoo train and Madi and I took a spin on the carousel.

It was a fun filled trip and we came back exhausted.

Photo Shoot

2009-08-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Curtis is now in Arizona. It will be three months before we see him again and we will certainly miss him. Friday night we had a photo shoot in the back yard, I wanted to make sure he left with some family pictures in hand.

Layout

2009-08-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Jaden Astrid Howell

2009-07-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

Jaden Astrid Howell was blessed on July 19, 2009. She sure is a cutie.

We are so greatful that Rusty and Jaden will be spending time here in Idaho while Curtis is away. I am really excited to get to know Rusty; and who doesn't like new babies. Madi and Gabe love Rusty and Jaden to pieces and want to visit every day.

Peas

2009-07-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year.......

Our peas have definitely been a success this year. These pictures are from the first of three pickings. The first batch produced 12 quarts of peas, the second was also 12 quarts. The third, which was only 2 days after the second was a whopping 22 quarts.

Madi's job was clean-up.

Each year we've planted a garden we learn new things and are able to plan a little bit better for the next year. Next year we plan on staking our peas better; they need more air. Staking or fencing them next year will hopefully produce a better crop.

Now....it looks like the beans are ready.

Madi's Birthday

2009-07-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

Madi is now 4. Her birthday was on a week night, which made it difficult to plan a party around. Mike took the day off work and took the kids fishing and to the library. Mike told Madi should open presents that night since it was her birthday.

Of course....so then I had to go get them, bring them home and wrap them. Mike and I had already discussed what we were getting her for her birthday so I didn't think it would be a big deal. But when it came to choosing what books to get, I was in trouble. I picked up two I thought would work. When I got home to show Mike, he just laughed and said "she already has that one, and that one Gabe picked out at the library today". Of course, my luck. The book she already had I decided to wrap up anyway, after all she hadn't read it for some time.

I should have known better. As soon as Madi opened the package she shouted out "ALL RIGHT!... that's the same book I got for Christmas" She REMEMBERED. I really thought it would be no big deal; don't all Dr. Seuss books look about the same? Her next comment "oh, that's the one Gabe got from the library". At least she was still excited and happy to get 'whatever anybody wanted to give her'.

The camera was a big hit. She had taken 125 pictures within a half-hour.

Her party was on Friday. She made the dinner choice....spaghetti and meatballs. A Messick favorite. The cake Grandma Valerie made. I threw out the cake making skill a long time ago. Valerie always does an amazing job. The party was a success and I think everyone had a good time.

Playing with the Camera

2009-07-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

Sunday, I had the camera out just before dinner snapping pictures of the kids.

I like the cottonwood trees, especially this one, it's the perfect back drop. Gabe loves the ditch bank that runs along the west side of the yard. He could spend hours in there fighting 'bad guys'. He wasn't interested in stopping to have his picture taken, there were of course 'bad guys' to get.

Ryland wasn't too sure of what I was doing.

He didn't get too far away from his mom.

Claira is always fun to photograph, she does goofy things.

WOW

2009-07-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure where July has gone. I have lots of things to share and hopefully will get to that in the next few days. First, here's a few pictures of my bow. We received them last Wednesday, but I didn't get a chance to shoot it until Sunday. It shoots amazingly fast. The picture above is me and Mike's bows. The next few are close-ups of mine.

If anybody is wondering about the wood choices I posted a month or so ago and how they coinside with the wood selection for my bow - they don't. I obviously changed my mind when I ordered and forgot about my selection when I posted here. The actual wood for my riser is: ZEBRA Comes from west Africa. A fairly hard and heavy wood, makes good risers and limb lams. Very light, straw color with very dark stripes through it. I honestly can't remember what I ordered for my limbs, but either way, I like. it. My next bow will be Paduak and Osage, like I mentioned in the earlier post.

This is the week.....

2009-07-20T09:58:00.001-07:00

Our bows will be finished and on their way to us this weekend. SO EXCITED..........

Card Making

2009-07-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

The girls at work have started a card club. Once a month we get together and make two cards. It has been a lot of fun and motivated me to make a few at home.

The rest of the weekend

2009-07-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we had a barbecue at home, played in Grandma Valerie's' back yard, and had our own little firework show. Gabe was a little afraid of the pops and whistles...so was Madi. They loved the sparklers and fountains (as long as they didn't make noise). Saturday we did yard work at home, played in the sprinklers, ate homemade pizza and then lit more fireworks. Sunday we hung out at my mom and dad's all day.

Camping

2009-07-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

We always spend time at the cabin on or around the 4th of July. This year it was just our little family. We spent Thursday night there, it was quiet but we had a great time.

This is the rest of the facilities....the open-air shower house.