And That Makes Three!!

Random Fun!

2010-09-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

The summer came to a close so fast!! Here are just a few things we have been up to...

Yummy Treats!

First football face-painting

Fair ride with dad

Cuz Milley

Little Fisher-Mc chubbs!

Exhausted

First fat lip

We went to this new place in Meridian called Bounce-it is so fun!! Ella was fearless!

Zoo Day!

I just can't get enough of this kid!!

And football season has started...yay! Go Sawtooth! (Travis's team) Ella loves the games-but has mixed feeling about the mascot-its a big black cat. I love the fall weather right now and I can't help but work on some crafts to bring in my fav season! Pics to come! Happy Fall Everyone!

Miss Ella Jo Botkin is ONE!!!

2010-07-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

I am kinda having a hard time with this turning one thing. I am so excited for all of the learning and growing she is doing, but it is hard to let go of certain phases. Mostly I want my sweet little baby to not get any more sassy-er! I like to think of her as one of those fireball candies-not only does the color match- she is gets so fiery on the outside (like having an opinion even without talking-she will let you know) that I can't stand it, but then you get to the sweet core (which consists of endless open-mouthed, gooey kisses and her eyes that light up when she smiles) and it keeps you wanting more!! (I love those things!!) My mom tells me how much she loves how Ella is so spirited and most times I agree- she is not one to be quiet and just sit there. So I guess what I am saying is that I am just taking a dose of my own medicine (also something that my mother tells me) and in the long run I prefer it! I would not change a thing about her!! One day this chick is going to move mountains!! I love her so much and she is the greatest blessing that has been brought to our little family.

Now that I am done with my little rant- on to the party! We had such a good time. We obviously had a pool party over at the Browne's house. Food, friends, family and cake!! Good times!

Thank you everyone for making Ella's day so special!!

Here is the present that Travis and I made for Ella (I put Travis in there because he mostly kept me company in the garage while I worked on it-except when I needed more than one set of hands!! Thanks hun!!)

Before- $20 investment

After- endless hours of fun!! (in a few months!- she is not quite there yet)

I have to point out that my dad added a little electric flare! He put a light in the oven and on the hutch that Ella can flip a switch and he put these cute red led lights on the stove top on the left that she can push on!! It made the piece!!

It was a ton of work and took lots of time, but I really enjoyed having a project to work on and tear down and build back up to make something that will be in our house forever! Till the next project...

And a few pictures of a little jaunt to Idaho City with Grandma Munson's 4-wheeler. So fun!!

Lovin' Life

2010-06-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome Fisher!! This is like 3 weeks old, but here he is!! Jenny's #2!! (More pics to come when I visit them for a few days this week.) Cuuutie Pie!!

These next pics are when we went on a trip with Luke and Bryn to Park City. They were kind enough to invite us to share their sweet hotel room! Let's just say the first night was interesting-but the second night, she slept like a dream!!

It was this German themed hotel-very fancy!! (I can barely pronounce it let alone spell it!) They had this pastry store there that made the best dessert ever!! It was called a chocolate bombe- and let me tell ya-it was the bomb!! I dream of it now!

Brunch at hotel

Ella is a fish!! She loves the water and now blows bubbles!

This was like a maintenance shed, but very 'themed'

An Ella sized chess board-if only we knew how to play!

Our little walk

Travis and Luke on a man-date (ok...so Bryn and I just didn't want the buffet, so we went swimming instead!)

Back at home with Ella's buddy Ty

Little sweetness!!

Ok dad!... I'm ready for football season!

Daddy's helper!!

Fun stuff!

2010-04-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

April is just zooming on by! Luckily, I got some good shots! The weather has been crazy lately-really warm and then cold and rainy. I try to take advantage of the time that we get to spend outside! Sidewalk chalk is the best and so tasty, just ask Ella! (Go Travis for drawing a balloon-it was like the best one I've ever seen!)

Soul patch like daddy!

I just have to say that I love the stage that Ella is in right now! (I keep saying that the older her she gets!) I really loved the newborn stage and now that she can crawl and explore-it makes us both happier. That in-between stage between newborn and crawling was a little struggle for me! Thank goodness it didn't last very long! She has such a brave, free spirit. She also knows EXACTLY what she wants and makes no bones about it-I should have made her middle name Sassy! I hope along the way I can learn to set boundaries without squashing that.

BBQ with the grandmas!

Other than that we are doing great! Bring on the sunshine! (and sunscreen!)

Lots of firsts!...and LOTS of pictures!

2010-03-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

I guess everything is a first when a baby is going through her first year, but it is amazing to see her grow and develop. We have been busy with this little girl-she is E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E! She went from rolling to crawling to standing in like 3 weeks! She is so brave as she tries to reach and move her feet and-oh- ledges! Lots of bruises and scratches and surprisingly not as many tears as I would have imagined! She' s pretty tough! Her personality is fiery, determined, and she is happy and smiley lots! Lately she had developed this lamb-y noise that she does when super excited and frustrated. So cute!

First ride in a cart (without her car seat-I know-I'm weird)

First Easter egg (yes, I know it's early)

First strawberry-Hello!-One bite at a time dolly!

First sled ride (not by herself!)

First slide-with mom!

I have also been getting in touch with my crafty side- it's been fun to see what happens!

Like these next 3 dresses and shoes!

HeHe!

You would think that since Arlie is 5 months older that Ella would show some respect, but I think that Ella just got done pulling Arlie's hair!

Brynlee-18 months

What a fun bunch!

What!!!??

2010-02-22T07:34:00.000-08:00

My little lady started going mobile this weekend! I can't believe it! She will be 7 months in a week. She just does two or three knee/hand movements in a row and then uses her go-go-gadget arms to reach the rest of the way to grab the treat or toy! Sometimes she even tries to bear crawl! It's hilarious! That little red head personality comes out when she gets frustrated though. I will try to put up a video-I don't know how...

And Arlie's birthday was fun, thanks again! She is so adorable and I can't wait for all of the 3 to run around together (Dax, Arlie and Ella)!

And what did we do before we had kids...?

2010-01-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

I Love this girl so much!!

Brinlee-17 months, Ella-squishing her! (2 days till 6 months!)

The Holidays and A Happy New Year!!

2010-01-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and went this year in the Botkin home. I felt like a single parent half of Nov- thru Dec since Travis had his full-time teaching job plus UPS in the evenings. And I was working my tailfeather off to squeeze in my clients before the holidays. Thank goodness we lived to tell about it! Now Travis is done with UPS for good! YAY! Except for the fact that we will miss the insurance- I am glad that phase is behind us! Now he can be around to enjoy us girls- even if I have to work a little more- it's worth it!!

Christmas Eve

Major bed head Christmas morning!

Thanks Grandmas!

Christmas Day, we decided to head out of town to visit family in Utah. I had taken the whole next week off and Travis was on Christmas break, so we crashed at my sister's for a few days. It was lots of fun! We saw Travis's Grandma and went backcountry skiing with Jenny and Drew and Carly. The two little ones rode behind us in the good ole' chariot. It's awesome- we need to save our pennies and invest in one!

Is there room for me?!

I got to spend the day with my grandma Ruth and my cousin Heidi while Jenny and drew went to a funeral and Travis went up boarding with Charlie at Snowbird. We went to lunch and did some shopping- then Millie and Ella got to know each other. It was so cute to see how Ella interacts. They were rolling over each other and Ella started giggling while they were playing with a puzzle piece! It was priceless! I loved to get to spend some time with Heidi and to see her cute kids!

Ella and Millie

It was a playful head-lock!

Hudson (Heidi's oldest)

Ella's been growing up so fast! She rolls all over town and can sit up on her own (if the mood strikes-and the right toy is involved!) I am so excited to start the new year with my family. Hopefully I can keep all of my new year's goals! Good luck to everyone else who has set some!

Best cuzn's

Oh! I almost forgot! Travis was in an assembly for his school where the kids choose the teachers to dress up as elfs and participate in a competition. Lucky Travis!! Here is the evidence!

He can dance?

Of course he won-he is a Botkin!

Thankful for EVERYTHING!

2009-12-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year! And I love it even more now that I am a new mom. It's like I was living in black and white and now it's in color! Just watching Ella learn and grow and discover new things makes me look at everything new again! I am so thankful for my wonderful husband- he does so much for me and Ella and I love to watch him play with her- and try to clean up a blow-out! It's hilarious-and usually a two person job if he is involved! I am thankful that I can continue to work on the side and not feel like I am giving up time with my daughter. I am thankful for the rest of my family and all of the support they are! Ella is now 4 months and time has flown! I am so thankful that she is a part of my life! Her smile lights up the room and just like her dad, she is very charismatic!

Watch me go!! Or just roll over!

Our Christmas tree!

Our own little after-thanksgiving

Catching up!!

2009-11-04T09:23:00.001-08:00

I have some catching up to do. Ella is now 15 weeks!! I love to hear her giggle! She is getting so big and strong! Those ultrasound pics told the story for how she would be- a mover and shaker! She rolled over for the first time a little over a week ago. I was doing hair and Travis runs in the salon and announced that she did it!! Then we spent the rest of the evening watching her and taking videos! It's amazing how amusing it can be to sit and watch your kid for hours!

That same weekend we blessed Ella and it was Halloween. So all of my family was here for that. It was great to get everyone together. And we now know that my sister Jenny is expecting her 2nd child! It is so exciting and we are very happy for them!

It just makes you smile!!

5 years and a baby later....

2009-10-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Travis and I just had our 5 year anniversary on the 9th of October! Wow! It has been such a fun ride so far! So many fun memories and trips and now a baby to share it with. I couldn't have imagined my life any different. I love Travis more and more each day and we still learn new things about each other which makes things exciting! Variety is the spice of life!

So hence the anniversary, we decided to go to dinner without Ella- I was a little anxious! But overall it was ok. Good dinner though, and it was nice to just focus in each other for an hour- even though she crept up in my mind a lot.

In other news Travis's football team won district champs!! It was so fun to see the boys get so excited. They will get called to the field during half-time of the Rocky Mountain High School football game. Good job coach Travis and coach Tucker!!

Lots of pics from the coast- it was such a fun trip and it was the perfect weather!

Ella's first swim and hot tub (feet only!)

Otis Cafe-Yummy!!

Ocean play

Crazy Botkin Boys! (and Anson and Eden)

Resting after beach-strolling

Barking seals in the background

Tillamook Cheese Factory

Giving dad a haircut! (ok..-I trimmed hers just a little in back! It was like a mullett!)

Little Cinder-Ella!!

2009-09-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

My sister threw me a Utah meet-the-baby shower this last weekend and it was so much fun! Thanks for all of the support and help! This tutu is one of Ella's presents that Kylee made for her. (those are Travis's new school colors!) And a cherry clip that Jenny made. She is the cutest baby ever!! And a good traveler too. She just slept the whole time- except to eat- and then she went off to dreamland again! Thanks Ella!

Speaking of sleep- we have been really lucky with our little peanut because she is now sleeping through the night!! YAY! She is now 7 weeks old and we love her even more- if that is possible! Enjoy the pics!

I love to smooch on that sweet smile!

Looks like Travis?

Three cuz' ins

Pouty face

Brynlee's 1st birthday!

Grandma Wendy

Beck and Carly

Mommy and me

And more to come....

Meet the new teacher!

2009-08-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

Travis is now the P.E. / Health teacher at Sawtooth Middle School! He also got the job as the Head Heavyweight Football Coach! We are so excited! He is getting really pumped about football and teaching! This is the perfect job for him! So, if you want to go see him- room # 115 or the gym or the field is where you will find him. Now I will be able to cut back my hours and just work in between Ella and mom time! Good luck Coach!!

Speaking of Ella, she is getting so big. She is now 4 weeks old!!! Oh, my goodness, time flies! She is so fun and we enjoy everything about her- she has quite the personality already! She makes all of these funny faces (which we have named) and she has started smiling and rolling on her side already! I can't even believe it! She is very loud too- she makes all of these grunting noises. I will look in her crib to see if she is awake because of her babbling, but she is asleep! Every move she makes sounds like it takes everything out of her!

Now if we can just get rid of this stinky baby acne! She is the cutest little doll!

Meet Ella Jo Botkin!!

2009-08-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

She is finally here! Our little girl was born July 29th at 7:58 am. (someone was watching the clock) She was 7 lbs 13 oz and 21 inches long. It was the most amazing experience! -and a little scary too! I started early labor on Tuesday the 28th and we were in the hospital by 12:30 that night ready to have a baby. (After two other false alarms) Well, it ended up that I wasn't quite ready so they sent me home still pregnant with contractions that were very painful, and an Ambien to help me sleep. Well, that would have been great to have gotten some rest, but 45 min after we got home my water broke! Good one doc! Not only was I groggy, but I kinda went into shock too. Long story-short- I pushed for 15-20 min and presto! The most beautiful baby I have ever seen! And where did that hair come from? All of this thick copper penny hair!

It's been a week since she was brought into this world and I already can't imagine life without her. She is the greatest blessing I ever could have asked for. And Travis is over the moon for her too. It has definitely brought out a soft side to him. Every morning he wakes up and can't wait to hold her and kiss her. He has been such a huge help too! I couldn't have done it without him! He had never changed a diaper before- and now he will even handle the poopy ones! He is such a great daddy! And thank you everyone for the support!

Graduation!! and more!

2009-06-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

Yay!! Travis is a BSU graduate!! I am so proud of him. It's been a long trek. He decided not to get all dressed up and walk the line, so we took advantage of a free Sat and took a birthing class instead. I had a BBQ for him later though- I didn't take the best pictures- with lots of food (thanks to everyone who brought stuff) and friends and family. I did get one shot of all of Travis's grandparents, step- grandparent, parents and step-parents. That was pretty exciting because not everyone lives in Boise. Anyway, now for the job hunt. Hopefully, something opens up this summer. If not, I've got a pretty convenient set up at home to work.

Here's a few pics at Cascade with some friends. I didn't even wear a swimsuit because I thought it would be cold, but it turned out to be really nice. (And now I have a farmers tan!) The boys were the only ones who got in the water despite the snow in the mountains still.

My mom threw me a baby shower the beginning of June. My sister and grandma came up from Utah to help too. It was such a great party and I appreciated all of the support! It's good to know how many people are there for you. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get any photos- my sister took some and I haven't got them yet- but our little peanut got lots of really cute clothes and some necessities too! We can't wait till she is in our arms!! Thanks to everyone else who helped- it was great fun!

Travis resumed his job at the golf course for the summer and we went out one night with my parents. This picture is from the 18th tee box. It's a beautiful course with a beautiful view and we had a lot of fun. I didn't golf, of course, with my equator growing it is hard to swing. But I was everyone's cheerleader and made sure everyone had snacks.

Mother's Day Weekend

2009-05-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

Travis and I started a tradition a couple of years ago to take both of our moms out to dinner together for mother's day. I guess it must be my motherly instincts kicking in- but I decided to do a breakfast at my house instead. And we also invited Kylee and Kendra. (My only two sister-in-laws left here in Boise and now Kylee left for the summer! We will miss them!) So... with Travis as my sous-chef (sp?) we took on the task. We made whole wheat crepes, egg-sausage soufflé, waffles, fruit pizza, blueberry muffins, Fresca mimosas and all of the fixings. It was such a success that I think we will have to make this our new tradition! We had so many leftovers that the husbands got a plateful too! We love you moms and appreciate everything you do for us!

This last Monday we had our first bonfire in our makeshift fire pit. I had to burn a bunch of old business papers and we wanted s'mores! Yummy!

And for all of those that don't get to see my progress- here I am at 29 weeks! It's commin' on fast now!!

Spring!!

2009-04-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

Yeah, spring is here! We have loved the sunshine and warm weat

her! Easter came and went and we had lots of food and family to celebrate the holiday. Here is Travis and I in our Easter attire.

As you can see-I have started the body transformation! It's exciting and also scary at the same time. I guess from what I hear, motherhood is all about those conflicting feelings. I feel great so far-no sickness to speak of. Just a growing mid-section and mid-night bathroom breaks!! And my hair is rapidly growing back-faster than Scott's! I have to admit that I have considered shaving it again- it has been very convenient and fast!

This last weekend, Travis and I went with Sara and Spencer Hill up to their cabin in Pine/Featherville for an overnight getaway. It was great! We got there on Friday night and ate a wonderful dinner that Sara made. Then, we got in the hot tub-at least my feet did- and played with the kids. Let me tell ya, those kids are pretty funny and so cute. The youngest one, Carter, didn't know what to think about me- it was the hair- but by the end he warmed up. It is always neat to see your husband playing and helping the little ones! He will be such an awesome dad!

The Hill Family! Thanks guys- we had tons of fun!!

Jenny, Drew, Carly and Ruth came onto town too and after Robie Creek, my parents had a yummy BBQ. All of Drew's family came too! It was good to get to see everyone!! It was a very busy weekend, but we love to spend time with friends and family, so it is worth it!

Quick Update!

2009-03-17T11:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Travis was able to feel our little girl move for the first time! She really is a mover and a shaker! It was so neat to get to share that with him. He is one proud daddy! We are already in love! And can't wait!!

Boise Baldies!!

2009-03-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well, Saturday was the big day! It was a really humbling experience! There were lots of children with cancer at the event that helped with the shaving and people just there for support! Thank you to all of the people that donated!! It was a huge help and I know that it will do a lot of good! Here's how it turned out:

Pre-shave of Scott and I:

And After!!

Let me tell ya- it sure has been a little more breezy now! And I love not having to do it! I just make sure to wear earrings everyday!

Everyone asks how Travis likes it and all I can say is that he makes me feel like the most beautiful person! He is very supportive! Some of my nieces and nephews are still getting used to it though- and my primary kids. Maybe that is why they were so hyper at church yesterday!

Boy or Girl!!!

2009-03-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Well, let me just start by saying if our baby is anything like it was during the ultrasound, we are in for a ride!! Very stubborn and very comfortable tucked in a little ball. It must have been its nap time! After much poking and prodding, we determined that we will have a little ballerina on our hands! Yes, We are having a girl!! And we are so thrilled! It makes the experience of pregnancy more real. It was amazing! My parents and Travis's mom and step dad were present and it was so neat to be able to share it with them. My belly is a little sore today, because she had to really work it, but I kept my mouth shut because I was not leaving without a sex! If I can figure out how to post a picture of it I will, because she is quite the acrobat!! At one point she had her legs straight out in front of her face and it looked like she was kissing her knees!! Olympic diver- I think! HaHa!

P.S. For all those die-hard fans of the chinese calendar- don't count on it!

Change is a commin'

2009-01-30T08:49:00.000-08:00

Well, we had a wonderful New Year's and a smooth grand opening of Poppy Street Salon!! I am so excited! It has been up and running for a month now and I love being at home AND sliding down the hall to my salon! Its great! The best part is that me and my baby get lots of snacks! And boy do I need that! So, thank you to all who helped out! Especially my dad and my husband! Couldn't have done it without them. I do have to say that I was very surprised at myself- I sheet rocked and used a saw and nail gun! I kinda enjoyed it!

Thankfully, throughout this baby making progress I have been feeling really good. Only one up-chuck, but thanks to 3 bowls of coco crisp + a drive to Idaho City right afterwards = brown, chocolate flavored snow!! I am 14 weeks and 3 days and have developed an expanding tummy- that is exciting for me!

I am also taking a HUGE plunge into the world of bald people! I have decided to participate in an organization called St. Baldricks Day. Our job is to raise money and shave our heads and their job is to do cancer research for kids! So .... if anyone wants to say that they contributed to making me bald- now is your payback. My goal is $1000, so visit the website and make a donation! Even if it is $5- You can even be anonymous! But, remember to find me under 'Find a Participant.'

For info or to make a donation: http://www.stbaldricks.org/

And say good-bye to my curly locks!

Pass the word and Thank You for your support!

2008-12-28T09:43:00.001-08:00

So much has happened since our exciting announcement and we're slowly falling behind so I thought I would give a quick update with a lot of pictures to get us caught back up. We had a surprise 50th birthday party at the Melting Pot for Wendy! It went great, and was delicious!

Al brought Wendy in for the big surprise

The delicious fondue spread

Wendy's glory day pictures

Thanks so much to all of Wendy's kids that helped put it together!

Next was our little Thanksgiving outing to Cascade. We had a great time with all of Stacie's family and a delicious Thanksgiving dinner!

The beautiful cabin that we stayed in by the Lake

The start of a big "just for fun" poker tournament

The end of the tournament with Stacie being the big winner!

The whole fam!

Next was our quick trip to Idaho City to get our Christmas tree. We have done it every year since we have been married so it has kind of become a little family tradition. Last year I fell in a creek up to my thigh so I made extra sure that didn't happen this year. We went up with Kendra and Barrett and their kids and had a great time and really picked out a winner!

Bo and Kendra

Eden staying warm

Anson (having a blast!)

Here is the finished product and it was a good one!

We have also been working on a little remodel in our house. Stacie is going to start working out of the home starting in January so with a lot of help from her dad we have been changing one of our bedrooms into a salon. Here are a few before and after pics. Once we have the finished product I'll make sure to get a picture up! Also thanks so much to Jim for his help with the plumbing! We couldn't have done it without him.

Carpet out and wall cut out for door

New door cut in

Cabinets and chair finally in place

The Most Exciting News of Our Lives!!!

2008-12-02T01:15:00.000-08:00

Watch this short little video clip to see what's new in our lives right now! For some reason the first 16 seconds are blank so just skip them and get right to 17 seconds. We're so stoked!

Wow, A lot has happened!

2008-11-25T09:29:00.000-08:00

Well we finally got a new computer yesterday since my laptop crashed a couple of months ago and we haven't been able to do much blogging but so much has happened since our last post so I thought I would take things into my own hands and get work done! :-) Stacie has been really busy as this holiday season has been rapidly approaching. Not only has she been busy with her business but WE BOUGHT A NEW HOUSE!!! And since I'm not a lot of help decorating, she has been taking care of most of that. So we've been in our place for about 3 weeks now and absolutely love it! Haven't taken any pictures yet but thats cause we don't love the paint job. Anyways we're in, and with a lot of help from Stacie's parents we will hopefully have her a salon put in by the end of the year so she can start working out of the house in case we decide to have kids someday :-) I have still been doing the same old thing, going to work at UPS every night at 10:30, and trying to finish up this semester strong. I'll start my student teaching next month though and graduate in May, so I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Stacie's dad bought tickets for the Nevada vs BSU game this last weekend so we took a little guys trip to Reno. It was Big Al, Charlie, Scott, Brad Lau, and myself and we had a blast. Spent a little time at the tables but most of the time at the buffets which we made sure to get our moneys worth! It was a fun game though and we had a great time. This coming weekend for Thanksgiving we're going to Tamarack with all of Stacie's family to celebrate Thanksgiving and just get out of town, so that we'll be nice. We'll be sure to take some pictures and hopefully get a little more on top of our blog updates.

4 YEARS!!!

2008-10-13T22:13:00.000-07:00

Wow! Travis and I just celebrated our four year anniversary! I can't even believe its been that long! It seems like just yesterday! We spent the night in Mc Call and it was very relaxing! We went and grabbed burgers and stayed in all night and watched the Red Sox game. As boring as that sounds to some people- it was so fun! We also went to some hot springs by Donnelly (?) they were called Gold Forks. It was really neat! I recommend it! I just have to say that I love Travis and am so grateful for our relationship! Things are better than ever! I would post a picture, but our lap top is toast.

More Baby Info

2008-09-04T17:27:00.000-07:00

I forgot the most important info about the new baby!

Her name is Brynlee Mae Spencer and she was 7 lbs. 5oz. and 20 1/2 inches. This is her showing off her flexibility skills!
Silly girl!

We are still here!

2008-09-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Man, we have been so busy! we finished up the summer and Travis is back to school. (technically, he never stopped- summer school!) Anyways, so much has happened!!

First and most important! Kylee and Scott had their baby! Yeah! I am so excited to be a new aunt! She is adorable and healthy! Kylee was such a trooper, as everyone knows her to be. And Scott was very sleep deprived. I think he had been at the hospital for a while (he worked a shift before she went into labor) But all is well and she is very sweet!! This whole situation really bumps up my baby hungry-ness(?)!! HaHa!

I think she might be thinking about christening Scott's shoulder! It's still so cute!

I'm going to rewind a little bit. We finished off our summer with a fun ol' backpacking trip. This is my second outing and I really enjoy it. The only thing is that I always find a way to get hurt, especially when Luke and Bryn go. Bryn couldn't make it his time, but I still managed to pull it off! Anyone that knows me and is wondering if I twisted my ankle--I did! Yes, would you expect anything else? And I got two huge blisters- but all in all I loved it! The weather was perfect and it was nice to be outside of the hussle and bussle of the city!
We started the hike around 10 and finally got our tent set up at midnight!
A little fishing- no luck though!
And a little relaxing!
We hiked to the Trinity Lakes passed Anderson Dam. There were so many little lakes that were nestled in the mountains. We will definitely go again!

In other recent news, Travis just had his first football game with Lewis and Clark last night and they won!! He is such a good coach and the boys really listen to him and look up to him. They needed to shield their eyes for a moment though, while Travis got a 15 yd penalty! All he was doing was defending his poor, skinny kicker! But all that matters is that they won! (in overtime) Yeah!

Lots of Fun!

2008-06-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

These pictures are from Memorial Day. I went down to Utah with my mom and dad to see the fam. We stayed with my sister and I got lots of fun pictures! My little niece is so cute and the smartest little girl in the world! I'm sad they don't live in Boise, maybe someday! It was good to see everyone and to see my grandpa's resting place. The last time I was there it was winter and I couldn't get a look. I love him so much and miss him already!

Carly and I at a tea-party!This is a picture of all of the ladies on the Tingey side (except Melanie and Kylee)

My mom found the kitchen sink she wanted at Ikea and this is how we got it back to my sisters!My grandma's new dog, Gidget, loves Carly!

This is my cousin Heidi and her son Hudson. He is such a sweet boy and so dang cute! I love how you can pinch his rolls all over!
Carly and her bee boots! I wish that the video download was working because when you ask her what is on her boots- she buzzzzs all over town!

A busy week!

2008-05-18T23:02:00.000-07:00

So much has happened this last week! We have been busy! It all started with a round of golf. It was my first time actually hitting all holes and keeping score- lets just say it was really high and Travis was so patient with me. What a great guy! We had fun, but I need more practice! It looks so easy. Speaking of golf, Travis picked up a summer job at Quail Hollow. He's so excited that he will get to golf for free and learn a bunch of new skills! Is he pro?

I promise, that was a practice swing!

Good form!

Tucker and Michelle have had an exciting couple of weeks too! Tucker got the priesthood and he was able to give beck a blessing. Then Beck had his first haircut. It was very tramatic- but cute too! This one is my favorite because he was so distraught he held his hand up to his mouth! He looks very handsome with his new do!
Tucker and Michelle also had the opportunity to go to the temple and to be sealed together! It was such a neat experience to watch and see them become more unified. It really brought the family closer together! We love you guys and we are so happy for all the progress they have made!
This is them right after the sealing- how cute!This next picture is my mom and I, as we prepare to run a race! It was the Famous Idaho Potato to help raise money for YMCA programs. We had a blast and I am so proud of my mom because she was able to run almost the whole time!On Sat night after the bbq over at Michelle's parents house we gabbed the clubs and went out to the range to hit a bucket. We had a great time!

After that we went to Travis's dads house to hang out with Gram and Bill. They were a lively bunch! We all sat out on the back patio and they told stories and ate ice cream. Yummy!

Wow, it's been a while!

2008-05-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

A month goes by before you know it! So much has happened and I have lots of pictures. Kendra will really like this post because Anson is playing his burping game with us. Sorry mom, boys will be boys!!

Here are more pictures of a bbq we had over at Terry's house. I think it was his birthday. If I remember right he cooked up those yummy salmon burgers! Delicious!!-Urrgh! (that was for Anson). Oh yes, and everyone who was there knows what I mean when I say 'poor squirrel'! (It was caught by the cats while we were outside playing!)

My sister and brother-in-law, Drew, came to Boise to run Robie Creek Race. They brought along my grandma and my niece Carly. This is her new swing which she loves!! She is such a doll and I love her so much! She talks all the time and my favorite thing is to as her what an elephant says and she puts her arm up against her ear and makes the noise! It is the best. It was good to see my grandma too! We love her and her cookies she brings!
Robie Creek came and went and I didn't participate this year, but Travis convinced his old mission companion, and buddy, to run last minute with him. They looked beat and worn-out by the end, but its all worth it, and you really do forget about the pain after the sorness goes away. My brother Scott and my sister Jenny and her husband Drew went also. They all did really good! My job was to stay home and play with the baby! Lucky me!
This was pre-race, trying to do some last minute stretches!

Travis ran so fast, all I could get was his number! You better pace yourself!Here is Drew, I think he got 11th over all!
Everyone finished strong and had fun and didn't get hurt so..yey! This was our month in a nutshell. Tune in next time when I go golfing for my first time- I'll keep score and everything! It might be a long day! I hope Travis is ready! Bye!

Easter weekend and Travis's Birthday!

2008-03-30T21:32:00.000-07:00

We had lots of fun decorating Easter eggs with Scott and Kylee! I love holidays, it makes me feel like a kid again!
HAPPY 26th BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR HUSBAND!! Here he is sporting his new phone. He didn't just get this present handed to him though, I made him work for it! ( and others.) When he came home from work, I started him on a scavenger hunt that took him all over the place! I hope he had fun because I was more excited than he was at first! Then we went to the Cheesecake Factory. It was so yummy! Then to wrap up the whole day we went over to the church so he could play a little b-ball with the boys from our ward in a tournament. I wish that I could say that they won, the good thing is that everyone had fun! (and no one got hurt-thank heavens!) Oh yeah, as far as the Botkin Easter Egg Hunt went- we got hooked up with lots of fun stuff! Thanks toTerry and Cheryl! Good luck to everyone next year! Hopefully it will not be so cold.

My first tag

2008-03-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

1. How long have you and your significant other been together?
* Well, if we are including the little crush we had on each other before Travis left on his mission, that would be since 2001. We dated for a year and have now been married for 3 years and 4 months. (But who is counting!)

2. Who eats more?
* I don't know- unless its nachos, I think he eats more. I do love my food though!

3. Who said I love you first?
* I can't really remember. We tried to convince everyone at the start of our relationship that we were just friends-we knew we weren't-so I think we secretly said I love you a lot.

4. Who is taller?
* It depends on how I wear my hair that day! HaHa! And my shoes. He's a little taller though.

5. Who sings better?
* Travis has a really good voice and he can hit the really low notes- we make up a unique duo!

6.Who does laundry?
* We usually do our own. He's afraid of shrinking my clothes-I hang dry a lot of them- and I don't blame him. He likes his clothes folded a certain way so its easier, for now.

7. Who does dishes?
* We both do.

8.Who sleeps on the right side of the bed?
* He does, it's closer to the door.

9. Who pays the bills?
* We have a lot that get taken out automatically, but if it wasn't for Travis, the bills wouldn't get paid on time. I know what and how much they are, though.

10. Who mows the lawn?
* No lawn, we, however, both did it a lot growing up.

11. Who cooks dinner?
* We take that situation day by day, its hard because we both work and he has school- whoever gets done first! I love to cook, but I feel that right now Travis needs to sharpen his skills a little. He does a good job!

12.Who drives when you are together?
* Travis always does- its better that way.

13. Who is stubborn?
* We both are, but we are learning to compromise.

14.Who is the first to admit they are wrong?
* We both have had a hard time with that! But really, its easier to play rock, paper, scissors.

15.Who's parent's do you see the most?
* Mine, Kim Wood might come in a close second.

16. Who kissed who first?
* Travis made the first move- he just couldn't resist me!! (he says he wanted to feel his canteen before his mission though) I'm glad I could help with that!

17.Who proposed?
* He did twice! He woke me up early on the 5th of July and we went on a hot air balloon ride! It was romantic, until the lady that was in the basket with us made the air blow really loud while Travis was giving me the line. I didn't really hear him so he had to start over! It makes me smile to think about! Oh, memories!

18.Who is more sensitive?
* Travis does have a sweet spot that comes out every once and a while, but I have very thin skin! I need a good cry every now and then.

19.Who has more friends?
* If you count all of my clients, I do. Travis is very charismatic and could make friends with a tree. So technically he has more.

20. Who has more siblings?
* Including steps and half he has 7. I have 3 siblings

21. Who wears the pants?
* We make decisions together. We don't really tell each other what to do, we talk about things but we still get to make up our own minds. We have come to an understanding that either we agree or agree to disagree, but it gets nowhere getting mad about each others opinions and trying to change them. We still work on it but we make a pretty good team!

Quick Trip to Portland

2008-03-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

Pictures: Trey, Dad, and I at the get to know the competition dinner, Trey and the rest of the shooters from Idaho, Cheryl, Trey and I after our bowling outing.
I made a quick trip to Portland this last weekend with my dad, Trey and Cheryl for Trey's Regional Elks Hoop Shoot free throw contest. Stacie had to stay home because she had appointments she had made already. We left about 10:00 on Friday morning and drove straight there with only a quick fill up stop. When we got there Trey had a get to know your competition dinner activity which was fun for the kids but the food was pretty weak. Saturday morning we had a breakfast and headed straight over the Concordia University to get the free throws going. Shooters from Idaho, Washington, Oregon and Alaska were there competing, so there was a pretty good crowd. To get to this regional tournament, Trey had won at his school, in the school district, in southwest Idaho, and then at State in Kellog Idaho a few weeks ago. He averaged about 23 out of 25 in his past competitions but unfortunately in Portland, we was off the mark a little bit and finished in 4th place. We're still pretty dang proud of him for making it that far and we had fun on that trip. After the free throw shooting we went downtown and shopped for a little while, then went bowling where I cleaned house. Dad couldn't play because of his hip surgery but he was getting around a lot better. Cheryl tried to make it close but I held my ground. Then we went out, got some pizza and headed back to the hotel to get some sleep. We had to get up and leave realy early though so I could be back early enough to go to Idaho City with Stacie and and the in laws (which made for a very long weekend but I had a ton of fun!)

Our night at Idaho City

2008-03-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

We got some great footage! Travis had rented a cabin in Idaho City, so my brother Scott ( in the video clip) and his wife Kylee, and my sister Jenny and her husband Drew came up with us. We got up there around 2 o'clock and then the girls watched from the car as the boys tried to carry all of our overnight stuff up a really steep hill. I wish we could of got that on tape! (We had to make two trips so the girls waited the first trip to see if the boys could make it.) Well, when the boys finally came back we decided to make it easier and drop our stuff off closer to the trail. From there it was 1/4 mile to the cabin. It was kinda tricky transporting all of that on skis. Good thing the boys were there to help us.
After we got all settled, we went out for the rest of the day and played. We worked up quite an appitite climbing hills and falling a lot.( mostly me! I'm getting good at getting back on my feet quick!) For dinner we roasted some dogs and sat around and chatted. Later on we went on a night ride to take Scott and Kylee back to their car-they didn't spend the night. It was beautiful! It was such a clear sky and there were a million stars!
In the morning we woke up and went out again. Jenny wussed out on the hills and Travis couldn't get enough of the big ones! (He's really good at not falling! Except for this video clip, its a rarity!) Around 11 we decided to head back to Boise. The snow was icy and our butts were getting sore! We had such a great time!

Good Job Coach!!

2008-02-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

Travis just finished coaching an 8th grade basketball team on Monday. It was so fun to get to go watch him. He is really good with the boys and they really admire him. We won't mention the win-lose record, but we will tell you that they had a great time and they learned and improved ALOT! So, Travis now has some more free time to maybe take a nap. He deserves it!

We're finally jumping on the blog bandwagon

2008-02-25T01:53:00.001-08:00

Well here we are, setting up our own blog finally. Every time we see family or go over to my Kim Woods house something about blogs comes up and we are just out of the loop. Everybody else has kids to talk about and stuff but for right now it's just the two of us. It is definitely going to take us a little while to get all of the kinks worked out on this page but I know Stacie will do an awesome job with it! We'll get more pictures up soon and hopefully have a fun story or two, to ad to the page but until then you're stuck with this boring post. But don't worry, there is nowhere to go but up from here and things will definitely get better from here on out!