The Davis Family

Crafty Collaborative

2012-01-26T18:40:00.000-07:00

Some ladies from work have created a crafty collaborative - an opportunity to get together and work on craft projects while hanging out together. Of course, there will be food. :)

I'm pretty excited to join the group!

I have a bit of a problem, though... I don't really have a crafty project! I no longer have any of my scrap-booking or stamping-up supplies, and I don't own a sewing machine. I haven't crocheted or done cross-stitch in years, and I don't paint or draw.

My "craft"? I bake. That's harder to do when I don't have a kitchen.

So - I'm on the lookout for fun, easy, crafty projects that I can do in an afternoon. Any ideas?

Christmas Vacation / Kids Visit

2012-01-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas vacation, and loved having the kids here!

A few of our highlights: playing games, watching movies, bowling, mini-golfing, and eating (both at home, and out!). A few pictures of our fun:

A peanut butter milkshake... never as good as Grandpa's, but I still order them! :)

Can you believe how tall Donovan is?!?!

We're looking forward to Spring Break!

Christmas at Our House

2011-12-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. We actually started a day early, enjoying lunch together as part of our gift from Grama Kelly and Grampa Dave.

This morning, we awoke to a present-filled house:

And the chaos commenced!

Josh has perfected fried rice, and really wanted a wok. He was so excited to open it!

Audri loves jewelry!

Donovan wanted a "big candy cane"... Audri gave it to him. :)

Donovan had also asked for a belt buckle and some hair gel - he has a mohawk, but didn't have the gel to fix it.

Josh loved his Batman shirt from Holly!

Josh has wanted a hula-dancer for his car dash for a few years. I finally gave in. :)

Audri thought Beckham gave her the perfect gift. :)

Donovan is pretty sure that he'll be able to attract the ladies now... thanks to Chase. :)

Audri, wearing her gift from up north!

Donovan fixed his hair for us. :)

We spent the afternoon playing games together - we actually played an entire game of Monopoly! After some quiet time (reading and/or napping) I started dinner.

For dinner, I made beef wellington:

And I have a cheesecake ready for dessert. :)

We've had a food-filled day, but we've enjoyed every minute of it!

Merry Christmas!

Gingerbread People

2011-12-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

We love to decorate gingerbread. It's one of our family traditions. :) We've tried houses in the past, but can't ever seem to make the houses stay standing. This year, I found a gingerbread people kit, so we tried that instead!

The kids, hard at work:

Our completed people!

Josh's masterpieces...

I got hungry, and had to eat a foot... :)

After Audri finished her people, she got into the icing...

It got a little messy. :)

We did let the kids eat their people once we had some pictures:

It was a fun-filled night!

Decorating for Christmas

2011-12-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight we decorated for Christmas! Audri hung the ornaments on the tree, while Josh and Donovan prepared the entryway.

I hung the stockings, which are our favorite holiday decoration. :) We love knowing that Gram took time to make them, just for us.

Our finished tree - we love the Christmas lights!

Once we finished the tree, we made sugar cookies!

I don't have cookie cutters, so we each made the shapes we wanted, cutting out our shapes with butter knives. I'm pretty impressed with us!

We had a great time decorating for Christmas, and being together!

Cookie Exchange

2011-12-11T17:17:00.000-07:00

I participated in a cookie exchange yesterday. It's actually brilliant... there are so many yummy treats this time of year, so going to a cookie exchange allows friends to also bake treats and then we can share!

I came home with over 8-dozen cookies! I suppose I should share some... okay, most of them. And probably soon, before I eat them all!

I'm enjoying everything from pumpkin spice cookies to double-layer brownies, chocolate peanut clusters to cake balls, jam thumbprint cookies to chocolate chip bars... I prepared shortbread, and had an extra 4-dozen as well.

It's yummy at my house right now!

Our Office

2011-11-27T17:20:00.000-07:00

Three months ago we decided to turn one of the bedrooms into a home office. Josh had been using one of the rooms as his office for quite some time, but it wasn't set up for both of us to work, and wasn't really a space that we had all of our "office stuff".

For three months, the space has been in varying states of chaos - boxes stacked in the room that were office-related things, piles of paperwork to sort through, books to unpack onto the bookshelves - and this weekend we decided to put it all together.

The view from the doorway... we each chose a wall and set up our desks.

My side! I unpacked all of the books, sorted all of the papers and got everything filed, and even hung my vision board above my workspace.

So - my new commitment, now that I have office space at home... no more working in the living room. If I need to work, I'll go to the office and do what I need to do as efficiently as possible. That allows me to relax, and live, in the living room, instead of working from any space that I set my laptop up in.

It's all part of my plan to create balance... and work less. :) I am excited about our office!

Changes in Plans Provide Blessings

2011-11-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

I am not very flexible. We all know that. It is a lesson I've been learning a lot about this past year. So, when I have a plan and it gets disrupted, I often find myself frustrated and upset.

I was supposed to travel for Thanksgiving this year. Josh didn't want to make the trip, so I was going to travel without him. But, we've had a change in plans. Normally, I would be upset, flustered, frustrated, trying to figure out what to do now that my plan won't work out. However, now, I'm okay... I hadn't planned to fix Thanksgiving dinner at home, but had everything in the pantry that I would need for a traditional Thanksgiving meal but the turkey.

So, we ran to the store to try to get a small turkey, but there were none left. We came home again thinking that maybe we'd have roast chicken instead... and there was a turkey on our doorstep. It was one of those moments, seemingly insignificant, where we felt like we are not alone, and what we need (or want) is provided, just when we need it.

So, we have everything we need... and most importantly, we are together. The turkey is in the oven, we're watching movies, and we are counting our blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Fundraising... And A New Bio Picture

2011-11-14T15:47:00.000-07:00

I've spent the last month or so fund-raising for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (thank you to all those who supported me!). As part of my nomination as one of Treasure Valley's Finest Young Professionals, I was able to participate in a photo shoot and was given a new picture to use in my bio.

Honestly, I wasn't excited about the idea of the photo shoot at first... but was pleasantly surprised with the picture!

I learned a lot this month about fund-raising... it's hard! But, I had a wonderful experience, and was touched by the generosity of so many people as I raised both money and awareness in the fight for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

I'm Going to be Famous!

2011-11-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, not really...

The College is shooting a new television commercial. They decided to use the Boise Campus as the backdrop, and I have spent the last week coordinating their shooting schedule and lining up graduates for the photography and videography shoots. My next two days will be spent with the camera crew during the filming.

This morning, however, I was teaching class, so they weren't scheduled to begin filming until 12noon. The crew came in a bit early and decided that they wanted to film "an engaging classroom environment", and chose to join my class. They filmed for about 10 minutes... and then told me that they gave up trying to follow me with the camera. I tend to move around a lot while I teach. :)

So - the next College commercial will be out around the first of the year, and will include shots from the Boise Campus. And, I'll be in it!

Thunder Mountain Line

2011-10-30T14:00:00.000-06:00

Saturday night was date night, and we decided to do something a bit different! We rode the Thunder Mountain Line and enjoyed a Murder Mystery Dinner!

We arrived at the rail-station at 5:30 and pretty quickly boarded our train. There were probably 15 tables in our car, only half were occupied. Our table could seat four, but was reserved just for us. As we boarded, we met some of the characters from the entertainment group who would enact the murder-mystery.

We enjoyed our salads and bread while the cast meandered through all of the tables and chatted with each guest - in character, of course - leaving clues for us to pick up on so we could solve the murder.

While the cast moved to another rail car, our dinner was served. We had a delicious dinner of pork chops, mashed potatoes, and glazed carrots. Just as we were finishing our food, the cast was back to conclude their scenes. Just as the "murderer" was arrested, we made it to the switch station and were able to de-board for 30 minutes or so.

The switch station was set up with pumpkins everywhere - earlier in the day they railroad has a pumpkin-liner ride - but also had a small museum for us to walk through and allowed us to stretch our legs.

Back aboard the train, dessert was served. The ride back was less eventful, and we comfortably chatted and sipped our wine.

Next time I think we'll try to ride first class - the seating is a tad more comfortable, but more than that, first-class gets to eat their dinner while enjoying the scenery, and the entertainment is enacted on the ride back while it is dark outside and there is nothing to see.

Regardless, we had a wonderful evening! We're already looking forward to our next ride on the Thunder Mountain Line!

Menu Planning

2011-10-23T19:30:00.000-06:00

I know plenty of people who don't menu plan. Some don't because they want to cook whatever "sounds good" when they get hungry. Some don't because they get frustrated or overwhelmed by the idea. I'm sure there are numerous other reasons. I, however, am a planner. And that includes menu planning.

Last week I had taken a couple of days off of work. While I was home, I decided to do my next menu plan (usually done 2 weeks at a time). I pulled out 2 of my recipe books that I haven't used in a few months and sat down to create my menu. Once I completed 3 weeks worth of meals (I got carried away!) and the grocery list that went with the menu plan, I went shopping.

Upon my return from the grocery store, I was feeling particularly energized and ready to be super-organized. So, in addition to separating my larger packages of meat into individually-proportioned bags (labeled by the meal they were to be used for, of course!) I went ahead and sliced or cubed any meat that required it, as per the recipe instructions.

Now, if fajitas are for dinner (2 nights ago) I can simply pull the fajita bag out of the freezer... once the meat is defrosted, I can cook it. Without having to slice it. It's ready to go. That part is fabulous on nights that I'm not home quite as early as I've anticipated. It's all about the little time savers.

Tonight we had steaks in mushroom sauce... and tomorrow night is stove-top meatloaves. While some people may not enjoy menu-planning, I am so glad that I don't have to worry about what is for dinner... I can simply look at my guide, pull out the meat I need, and have a meal the next night in 30 minutes or less.

With all of that in mind, I've been thinking about starting a side business to help people menu plan. I actually have a lady that said she'd pay me to create her menu plan and grocery list, which got me thinking that maybe others would, too! It's still in the thinking/planning part of the process, but it's intriguing!

I love menu planning. Of course, I also love thinking about food. And being organized. Combining those things could be the start of something for me... :)

Vision Board

2011-10-11T21:06:00.000-06:00

I spent the past weekend at a retreat - I was one of three featured speakers, with a topic of "work-life balance". Ultimately, I think I have a decent balance, but there is always room for improvement!

Anyway, one of the things we did at the retreat was build our vision boards - what we'd like our lives to look like, things we'd like to do or have, words/phrases that describe us and who we want to be... so - below is mine.

First, I want to live a life of purpose... a life I choose. I don't want to feel like life happened to me, but rather that I chose it. Secondly, I want to travel with my husband... it doesn't have to be far, but time away to enjoy the country we live in and enjoy time together. Third, I want Josh and I to be healthy... which includes fitness, and a dance class. :) He already said he'd take one...

Fourth, I want to cultivate relationships with supportive girlfriends. Fifth, I want to focus more of my energy on my true passion, which is cooking. When I have a day to do anything I want, I want to be in my kitchen. There has to be something I can do with that. I don't know what yet, but I'm working on it. :)

Sixth, I want us to live in a house. Our apartment has been wonderful, and it's in a fantastic location. But, I'm ready to think about a house again, with a fireplace, an outdoor living space, and a huge kitchen. Lastly, I want to allow myself time to dream, to just be.

There you have it! I'm not ready to specify goals related to each aspect of my board yet.... they will come. For now, I want to ponder on what prompted me to choose each of those pictures and words, and focus on what choices I want to make so that I have chosen to live my best life!

Boise Fall Parade of Homes

2011-10-01T19:19:00.000-06:00

Josh and I spent this afternoon walking through 6 or 7 of the Boise Fall Parade of Homes. No, we're not house-shopping... we just wanted to see what builders are doing, see what ideas we would be inspired by, and have a fun afternoon out of the house. :)

We had so much fun! There were aspects of each house that we liked a lot... my favorite "aha" was a 24"x24" door in the laundry room that opened into the master closet. It was brilliant! I could pass the laundry basket through from the master closet into the laundry room, and vice-versa. So easy!

We are concluding our "date" by sharing a caramel apple and a glass of wine... we have had a great day!

Cooler Weather

2011-09-18T15:20:00.000-06:00

The weather has finally started to cool down, and I love it! Now that we're in the 70-80 degree range, I want to take more walks, plan picnics, and take drives to see the leaves as they turn colors. Cooler weather also means more crock-pot cooking, more soups and stews and hearty dishes. Fruit desserts with cinnamon and spices, the aromas filling the house and wrapping me in cozy memories of home and family.

Today I have been able to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, kneading dough for cinnamon rolls and baking zucchini bread. It smells like fall, and I am in heaven.

Spirit of Boise - Balloon Festival

2011-09-04T13:09:00.000-06:00

This past week was the Spirit of Boise - Balloon Festival. Hot Air Balloons from all over the country come to Boise to participate in the four-day event, where they lift off each morning and play different games (quest, chase, etc...). Friday night they hold Night Glow, where the balloons light up like large lanterns.

So Friday night we walked down to the park (about a mile-and-a-half from our complex) to participate in the festivities!

There were a couple of exhibition inflations prior to nightfall. The Coca-Cola bottle (above) and Mickey Mouse (below) were the fan favorites. Mickey Mouse is apparently the only hot air balloon to have risen from the base of the Grand Canyon.

Once darkness fell, we waited in anticipation for the balloons to light up.

And then they did! They tried to do a "wave" effect with the lighting, calling out the balloon leaders names... it was too slow to really be the wave, but it was still interesting to watch.

Josh was able to catch one of the moments on video!

After 30 seconds it goes dark... we kept recording thinking they would light up again, but they didn't.

We enjoyed the balloons so much Friday night we decided to get up early Saturday morning and drive up to a viewpoint to watch the balloons lift off on the final day of the Festival. One did so right away, and the rest were trying to catch up.

Our view, with over half of the balloons in the air.

It was gorgeous! We had a wonderful time watching the balloons and chatting with other people who were up early to watch the final day of lift-offs. It was a wonderful way to begin our weekend!

Labor Day... a week early?

2011-08-28T18:11:00.002-06:00

I got up this morning anticipating a nice, relaxing day... a little grading, a movie, and a good book. After my morning coffee and the Sunday paper, I headed back to the office to set up my laptop, and Josh suggested moving the desk. Moving the desk turned in to rearranging the office, but before we even got started we decided to move one of the bookshelves into our bedroom. That turned into a plan to rearrange the bedroom... fast forward a few hours, and the bedroom is rearranged, but the office is torn apart and we haven't tackled our walk-in closet.

SO - my relaxing day turned into a "labor" day after all... I called off the work for the afternoon, and scheduled it for next weekend. We can finish when it's really a weekend for laboring.

For now, I'm trying to recapture the relaxation I had in mind...

Annual Hike up Table Rock

2011-08-14T21:22:00.002-06:00

Last year during my "stay-cation" we hiked up Table Rock. This summer we decided we needed to do so again, at least once.

Today was the day.

Once again, I made it to the top! I didn't have moments of thinking I was going to die, or throw up (which I did last year, more than once)... but, I still had to rest a few times on the way up. It's really only about a mile-and-a-half up to the top, but I'm kind of a wimp.

My friend Crystal, who spent the weekend with us and was brave enough to join our hike this morning.

So - I feel a sense of accomplishment... and, no desire to hike this particular hill again until next summer.

Coupons

2011-08-07T10:25:00.002-06:00

Using coupons is a craze, and I recently decided to bite. I have been attempting to save money through coupons for a couple of months now. Some of the things I've discovered:

Cutting out and using coupons requires a significant amount of time.
The food that I purchase more of rarely goes on sale with a coupon - fresh fruits and vegetables and meat are not often on sale with a coupon... which means that in order to try and eat a little healthier, and fresher, coupons are not much help.
I can, however, get great deals on household items and toiletries using coupons.

So, I do use coupons... but I do it my way. I still make my meal plan as usual, and my grocery list... then I go through my coupons and pull out the ones I can use based on my list. Then I head to the store! My last two trips I have saved about 10% of my total bill by using coupons.

I feel proud of 10% - although I'd like it to be more. And then I remember discoveries 1 and 2, and think 10% may be my magic number. :)

Anne of Green Gables

2011-07-25T12:38:00.002-06:00

Josh and I love to go to the theater. Fortunately, Boise Little Theater is an active organization! Over the summer, BLT runs a youth theater program, and this year their play was Anne of Green Gables. Josh and I went Saturday night, and it was incredible! The talent was amazing, but more than that, it reminded me of one of my favorite series... as I reflected on why it was one of my favorite book series, I realized that Anne's innocence, her infatuation with the world and all of its beauty, and her ability to see everything as it could be (otherwise known as over-dramatization) is captivating.

There are times when I would like to be that innocent... to view the world like I've never seen it before, to be so enamored with every experience that I have, every opportunity that is afforded me... to not be so caught up in the race that I forget to enjoy the scenery.

Life doesn't have to be about where I'm headed as much as it can be about how I get there. The destination may be important, but the journey should not be missed.

Vacation Week in Alaska

2011-07-18T21:49:00.006-06:00

I had a wonderful week in Alaska. These are some of my favorite pictures of my cute nieces and nephews!

At Chena Lakes:

Carter, being an ostrich. Hard to say why this was his favorite pose, but we caught him with his head in the sand at least half-a-dozen times!

Playing ball in the yard - Jacob is quite the little athlete!

Trying to catch a photo of the kiddos - obviously they were not all happy with the idea.

I made cookies one morning - Chase got to help!

Bowling with the Hirt family - the boys had to make sure they had a perfect view.

Carter, enjoying a cupcake. I love that he put the entire top in his mouth!

Jacob, being a wonderful big brother and trying to help give Beckham his pacifier.

Chase at the airport in Seattle - we had breakfast, and then let him play until it was time for me to catch my flight. :) He's such a happy little guy!

I had a wonderful week... but was so glad to come home!

Plates of Cookies

2011-07-03T21:05:00.002-06:00

I baked this weekend. 10 dozen sugar cookies, 12 dozen peanut butter cookies, 14 dozen oatmeal raisin cookies, and 16 dozen chocolate chip cookies.

Some of the plates, prepped and ready for delivery! We're hosting a Hero Appreciation Day at work, and the plates of cookies are part of the invitation.

I'm exhausted!

Yard Art and Dessert

2011-06-28T10:17:00.002-06:00

Josh and I went to the Saturday Market over the weekend, and saw this gorgeous piece:

I had to have it. :) The gentleman who created it lives about an hour away, and makes his living from his welded and sculpted metal pieces.

I love the way the light plays off of it!

The kids got to choose where we went for dessert last night, and they chose The Cheesecake Factory. It was a gorgeous night, so we sat on their patio and enjoyed the evening.

Side note - Donovan finished all but 3 bites of his dessert! The rest of us couldn't do it, and brought half (or more) of our portions home. Teenage boy appetites never cease to amaze me!

Commencement, and the Celebration Week

2011-06-11T17:28:00.005-06:00

This was an amazing week. Mom, Dad, and Grandma were in town to celebrate commencement with me. We were able to have a family lunch, where I opened my graduation gift:

An iPad! I'm so excited to learn how to use it!

Grandma wanted to eat at Joe's Crab Shack... dad said he felt like a toddler again as he was being "bibbed" in preparation for his meal.

Then on to Commencement! There were 200+ graduates who participated, so it took a while for them to get to the Master's candidates and call my name.

Waiting in the wings

Preparing to be "hooded" with my Master's hood.

And of course, family pictures once commencement had concluded.

Saturday morning we had "girls time"... Gram, mom, Audri and I went to the Capital City Market and meandered through the vendors for a couple of hours, followed by lunch on a second-story terrace of a local pub and grill.

It was a gorgeous day... a wonderful week... and a blessing to feel so loved by everyone who was able to come, call, or send well wishes. Thank you for all the love and support!

Reno, and my new hat

2011-06-07T11:17:00.002-06:00

We spent the weekend in Reno. It's a 7-hour drive, which isn't that bad, but we'd never made the trip. We were able to see Lisa, Jeff, and Richard; attend a wedding reception; and win $44 off of our $9 when we played the slots. :)

Lisa and Richard, watching the boards to see if Lisa's name was called as the winner of a new car! It wasn't (unfortunately) but we had a great time at the Peppermill anyway.

We found this hat at a world emporium; it was an eclectic store, and we had so much fun walking through and seeing the randomness. I don't usually wear hats, but this one seemed to be made for me!

I wore it to the reception (it was a casual reception) and felt like a star! :)

It was a whirlwind weekend, but we had fun. We were certainly glad to be home, and sleep in our own beds last night, though!

Saturday Morning = Farmer's Market

2011-05-28T14:08:00.003-06:00

We have a new hobby for Saturday mornings. This morning we went to the Boise Farmer's Market, which is 8-10 blocks of vendors on both sides of the street. There was a pretty good mix of food (and they all had samples!), beverages (from lemonade to wine), plants, wood-working goods, glass goods, and all other kinds of fun goodies. We bought a few things:

Pepper-cured turkey-jerky, salsa-verde, almond-toffee, and a fresh mini-baguette. All locally made, and DELICIOUS!

I had a coupon for running shoes at a store downtown, so after we wandered through the market, we went into the shoe store to see if I could use the coupon. Keep in mind that I do not run... not even a little bit, but I did want a good pair of tennis shoes for our walks around the pond. So - my new stability shoes with cushion and support; apparently I walk on the insides of my feet, so I needed stability shoes to help with my balance.

I bribed the boys to take a walk so I could try out my new shoes... it's a bit chilly and windy today (notice how cold Taylor looks!), but we had a nice walk.

And, in case you're wondering, my new shoes are amazingly comfortable! :)

Donovan's Birthday!

2011-05-14T20:49:00.003-06:00

Today is Donovan's 14th birthday!

After opening his cards, he wanted to go to Joe's Crab Shack for lunch, and then shopping with his birthday money.

Waiting for lunch at Joe's

Audri, learning how to use the crab-cracker

Donovan loves crab. He asks to order it every time we go out to eat.

Group shot!

Donovan purchased a PC game and an X-Box game with his birthday money, and has a bit left over for later.

Happy birthday, Donovan!

Race for the Cure

2011-05-07T20:00:00.003-06:00

Today was the Race for the Cure. I had organized a team for the school (we had 18 people), and Josh and Taylor joined us. :) Here we are prior to the event!

In case you're curious, we did not run. :) We did, however, walk the 5K, and had a great time with the 6,000+ others who participated in the event.

We are proud to support the Susan G. Komen foundation!

Cinco de Mayo!

2011-05-05T22:39:00.003-06:00

I know Cinco de Mayo is not an American holiday. For that matter, it's not really a holiday that Mexico celebrates in quite the same way we do, either. However, it still felt like we had to eat something to celebrate... and the vote was for taco salad!

Taco bowl shells, black beans, corn, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, cheese, refried beans, sour cream, and guacamole. I have a tendency to go overboard...

Yum!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Sunny Sunday Afternoon

2011-05-01T16:32:00.002-06:00

The sun was out today - we've had a lot of rain lately, so a day of sunshine seemed like a treasure! We headed to our favorite trails in the foothills.

The kids had plenty of energy, and hit the hills running.

The adults were a little slower. :) When we got to the top, we found the kids like this. Just hanging out, waiting for us to arrive.

After our short hike, ice cream was definitely in order. We stopped for soft-serve ice cream cones.

It was a wonderful way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon!

Meridian Speedway

2011-05-01T16:01:00.002-06:00

Josh traded some work for some tickets to the Meridian Speedway. Saturday night we headed out for fun at the racetrack!

Josh and Donovan - it won't be long before Donovan passes Josh up! He's getting so tall. :)

Sitting at the track, waiting for the races to begin. It was sunny, but not very warm. We sat, all bundled up, anticipating the excitement!

Watching the cars line up for one of the heats...

And two cars clashed bumpers and got caught... the truck had to go out and separate the cars so the race could continue.

The boys - enjoying the race.

It was a great evening! We're looking forward to a few more nights at the Speedway this summer. :)

Audri's Birthday

2011-05-01T15:50:00.004-06:00

We celebrated Audri's birthday this weekend. She was excited about her presents - cards with cash or gift cards!

She decided she wanted to go the mall with her money...

The outfits she picked out - she got a few other shirts as well. :)

As is tradition, we then let her pick the restaurant for dinner. She wanted to go to Rockies, a 50's style diner with waitresses on roller skates.

Audri was served first with her chili-cheese fries... Donovan looked envious!

Happy birthday, Audri! We love you!

Easter and Anniversary

2011-04-25T20:42:00.004-06:00

Today is our anniversary. Happy 6 years to us! However, since it fell on a Monday, we decided to combine our celebration with Easter.

We found this on the table Easter morning... a basket for the family. It was filled with a few games (Trivial Pursuit and Mad Gab, card versions), a little chocolate, and some gift cards. I personally have no idea how it got there (wink, wink!)

It was gorgeous out, so we took a walk. It was a perfect Easter day!

For dinner, we had deviled eggs, Caesar salad, prime rib, oven-roasted potatoes, and garlic-sourdough bread.

We enjoyed mini-cheesecakes for dessert, topped with fresh-cut strawberries.

Unrelated, but interesting... we have some baby geese that walk by our back patio regularly. Aren't they cute?

Here's to many more Easter's and Anniversaries! I am blessed to be married to a wonderful man; I am more in love with him today than I was the day we got married.

PS - for our anniversary, we got each other new cell phones. I feel like a cool kid again! :)

George Foreman Grill

2011-04-23T10:08:00.002-06:00

We got a George Foreman Grill... thanks mom and dad! We used it last night for the first time... our steaks came out perfect!

After dinner we grilled pineapple for dessert. Some we grilled "plain", and some with a glaze of honey and cinnamon. Delicious!

Tonight we are grilling chicken breasts and asparagus. I'm already excited for dinner, and I haven't even had breakfast yet!

Brother Time!

2011-04-17T17:41:00.005-06:00

This weekend was spent with my brothers!

Michael was in town for the weekend for a competition at Boise State University. Taylor has moved back to Boise and decided to stay with us for a while. It was a fantastic weekend!

Enjoying lunch outside - we finally had some sunshine. It was a bit windy, but we chose to enjoy the outdoor courtyard anyway.

Donovan enjoying lunch - the sunglasses make him look so cool. :)

After lunch, waiting for the competition to begin. Don't they look thrilled?

The micro-mouse that Michael and his teammate, Steven, competed with. It was so impressive!

Their micro-mouse, 55414634, at the beginning of the maze. It was the only mouse able to complete the maze.

Michael receiving his certificate and the team's prize money

My boys, watching the races

Taylor bought me "Monopoly Deal" for my birthday. We love it! After the races, we were able to sneak in a few rounds before dinner.

Waiting for our food to arrive

Their faces say the wait was worth it!

Sunday morning's we head to our favorite local diner for breakfast. The booth that would hold all of us was taken, so we took a smaller booth and a small table right across from us. Taylor and Donovan were voted to sit at the "kids table". :)

Then we headed to play mini-golf! It's a black-light golf course, so the boys wore 3-D glasses while they played.

This hole seriously stumped these three... here they are in conversation, trying to determine their putting strategy.

The dinosaur almost ate Josh's head

Group shot after the golf game - Josh won the game, but we were all still smiling. :)

And after all of the action, Taylor needed a rest. We headed home and hung out for a few hours before Michael and Steven went to the airport and it was time to take Donovan home. Taylor wasn't the only one who looked so relaxed!

It was a wonderful weekend... I love my brothers. It was a blessing to spend some time with both of them!

Happy birthday to me!

2011-04-10T20:25:00.002-06:00

My birthday falls on a Monday this year, and since Josh and I both have to work, we decided to celebrate Sunday instead. Actually, we started celebrating on Saturday, and luckily Taylor made it to town in time to join us!

We enjoyed a fabulous breakfast at our favorite local diner this morning, then headed up to Bogus Basin to enjoy the view. 17 miles up into the foothills, and we were surrounded by snow. :) Hundreds of people were on the slopes today. It was gorgeous!

We had initially planned to enjoy some hot chocolate in the lodge, but weren't craving it once we got there. We enjoyed the fresh air and the scenery anyway. Unfortunately, the camera battery was charging, so we weren't able to take pictures.

My new apron... it says "Domestic Diva". I love it! I didn't want a meal out for dinner - I'd prefer to cook and enjoy a delicious meal that I know I prepared.

My birthday dinner: bacon and cheese stuffed steak, sauteed mushrooms and onions, twice baked potatoes, and an amazing glass of wine. I seriously couldn't wait to dig in!

PS - I am finally learning to do things the way my Grandma does them. I went to the butcher counter and asked for the best cut of steak he could give me. It was thick, tender, and seriously delicious, even without any of my "help". :)

A brief pause after dinner, and then into baking muffins. I have 5-dozen or so chocolate-chip-banana mini-muffins cooling on my counter. I will do my best not to eat them all by myself this evening... I baked them with the intention of sharing. We'll see how that goes...

I love my life, and am so grateful for another year to share with those I love!

Caramel Apples

2011-04-03T20:03:00.002-06:00

We love the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. We treat ourselves a couple of times a year. Today was one of those times! My favorite is the Apple Pie, with lots of cinnamon. Josh loves the Butterfinger. Audri chose Oreo today... and thoroughly enjoyed it!

Josh and I had ours cut up so we could eat it without as much of a mess, but Audri wanted hers whole. It seemed more fun to eat that way!

Can you see the Oreo crumbs on her nose?

It's a yummy treat. I can only eat a couple of slices at a time, so mine usually lasts 3-4 days. Unless someone else (ahem) gets into it to "help" me. :)

Strangers are just friends we haven't met yet...

2011-03-26T19:26:00.002-06:00

This morning Josh and I went out for breakfast. We headed to a popular local cafe, and as usual, it was packed. We waited for 15-20 minutes, and a large booth finally opened up. It didn't seem like we should take a large booth (really meant to hold 6) for just the two of us, so Josh turned to the couple waiting behind us and invited them to join us for breakfast. :)

We had a great time! They were a wonderful couple, and didn't mind chatting and sharing about their lives as we enjoyed a delicious breakfast and lingered over our coffee. (We only lingered because by that time there wasn't a line - it was kind of an in-between meal time by then).

It was a blessing to share a meal with some unexpected company, and both Josh and I felt grateful; strangers are just friends we haven't met yet, and we met two more today.

Spring Break with Donovan

2011-03-20T17:16:00.004-06:00

This week is the kids' spring break. Donovan wanted to spend part of the week with us! We have been doing a lot of fun things... we went mini-golfing (although it was black-light mini-golf, so I didn't get any pictures), bowling, and the boys competed in go-cart racing.

Donovan selecting his bowling ball... I stick with a 9 or 10 pound ball. Initially Donovan picked 11 pounds, and Josh 14 pounds, but they switched half-way through our game. :)

The surprised face when pins actually fall down!

My highest bowling score... EVER!!! 131. I'm so proud. :)

Lunch - Donovan loves crab, and orders it as often as possible when we go out.

Side note: Donovan's hair reminds me of Taylor's through most of high school. :)

Preparing for the race - all participants have to wear the black head piece. He reminds me of a knight, with the headgear on for protection in this picture.

Josh, ready to roll out

Donovan, hoping to beat dad and have some bragging rights

Josh took the race! He completed the most laps, and had the fastest lap time.

Josh and Donovan, post-race... notice that there isn't much height difference anymore. There isn't much shoe-size difference either; when we rented the shoes at the bowling alley, both Josh and Donovan rented the same size.

Donovan, still a little shaky (in a good way) after the race. Hair sticking up, black smudges on his face, and the smirk of a happy teenager. :)

It's been fun so far - and we're glad that Donovan is sticking around a few more days!

Planning a Garden

2011-03-13T18:54:00.002-06:00

This year we are going to join a group of friends and plant a garden. I've never had one before, and I'm really excited! A friend's parents has offered a parcel of their land, near town, to the group of us if we want to care for it. At this point, I'm in the list-making process... what do I want to grow? So far, the list includes pretty much everything. The next step will be narrowing it down, and researching what will grow well, what I can plant near other things, and then matching it with others' lists so we can all try to grow different things and share with each other.

I'm pretty excited about this opportunity... and looking forward to digging in the dirt! With gloves, of course... I don't want to actually get dirty. :)

Local Theater

2011-02-27T11:46:00.002-07:00

Boise has an active local theater group, putting on 7-8 plays per year. Last year Josh and I went to one, Twelve Angry Men, and loved the experience. It's something that we've talked about doing again, but had not been able to do so. Last night we were able to take in a second show, Leaving Iowa. What a fabulous date night!

Tickets are fairly inexpensive, $12/person, and include the show and a complementary coffee or soda during intermission. We were able to have a "dress-up" date night, and enjoyed the experience of being in the theater.

We also love the Broadway shows that come to Boise, but those are slightly more expensive. For now, we're thrilled to be able to attend shows at the Boise Little Theater, and become "theater people". :)

Macaroni Salad

2011-02-23T20:37:00.002-07:00

I love macaroni salad. Not the kind you buy from the store, but real, home-made macaroni salad. Particularly Grandma's. So for years I've been trying to make it, and for years I've been disappointed in the results. It's always okay, but it's not like Grandma's.

Tonight I came very close. Still not quite perfect - but 95% there. It was sooooo yummy! And it reminded me of home. So, after dinner, while thinking of my grandparents, I couldn't help myself but to have a peanut butter milkshake and think about Saturday night dinners at Grandma and Grandpa's house.

I'm so blessed to have grown up knowing and interacting with my grandparents!

All in a day's work...

2011-02-19T15:08:00.002-07:00

Yesterday I hosted the 2nd "I'm Going to College" experience at Stevens-Henager College... we had 48 6th-graders from one of the elementary schools come up to the campus for the day. They were able to complete a registration form a few weeks ago, so I registered them for four classes throughout the day... three of their choice, and a college planning class that all were required to take. The classes they registered for included management principles, accounting, computer servicing, medical asepsis, microbiology, and Photoshop.

We started the morning in a group, welcoming the students to the campus and passing out registration forms. From there, the students attended their four classes, then reconvened in the opening ceremonies room where we had pizza for all the students, and then they graduated from the program with a certificate of completion and were also provided a t-shirt.

Students in the management principles class, trying to figure out how to build the tallest Tinker-Toy structure.

The completion of the day - commencement!

Once I finished the experience, I picked up my bound copy of my thesis...

And returned to my office to find these flowers! My co-workers wanted to congratulate me for completing my thesis. :) One also made me spinach dip (a personal favorite!)... which I might have already finished. :)

Yesterday was a busy, exhausting, rewarding day!

It's official!

2011-02-12T11:28:00.003-07:00

My thesis has been accepted. I am getting it bound this weekend, as directed, to have it available in the library, but am otherwise finished with my MBA program. YES!!!!!

My reward? New shoes. Seriously. I'm in love with them... I put them on as soon as I got up this morning.

Oh, and Josh and I will probably go to dinner this weekend. :)

$5 Dates

2011-01-30T17:00:00.002-07:00

We love $5 dates... we have them regularly. :) The $5 usually goes to some kind of food or beverage, which we get to share.

Sometimes we'll decide to run errands together and we'll split a Los Betos burrito (if you've never had one, they really are huge, so splitting one is still plenty for both of us!). Sometimes we'll meander around a store (if I pick, it's usually a furniture store, if Josh picks, it's usually Cabela's) and then get a coffee. Actually, there are lots of things we'll do that end up with getting a coffee... Barnes & Noble is a favorite spot, where we'll have coffee and chat over the books we've picked to skim through while we're there, or we'll just go to the coffee shop and drink coffee while we play chess. Sometimes we'll drive through parts of town looking at houses, or we'll drive up to a hilltop overlooking town, and we'll get an ice cream. Sometimes we'll go somewhere and share a dessert (Cheesecake Factory is great for that... it's more like $10 with tip, but still...). And sometimes we'll decide to just walk through the mall, pointing out things we'd like to get for each other, and we'll share a pretzel.

It doesn't seem to matter what we do, we enjoy doing it together. And knowing that we can have a date at least once a week, and only spend $5 or so, is fabulous! It's fun to do things, and share things, with each other.

New Job Title...

2011-01-20T15:53:00.002-07:00

I officially have a new job title. I've been in my new job for over a month, and I finally have a confirmed title of "Training & Project Development". I know, it's kind of vague. I enjoy it because the job itself hasn't been defined yet, and I get to create it. :) It is a little scary though, because there aren't set measures to metric myself against... I can go home at the end of the day, feeling great, knowing I was busy all day, but there won't always be a tangible result to the day... I have to get used to that!

I'm excited to really embrace this new challenge, and all the ups and downs that will go with it!

Christmas with the Kids

2011-01-08T13:58:00.003-07:00

Since it was not our year for Christmas this year, we didn't get to celebrate until this weekend. The kids were spoiled with gift cards, so we spent the day shopping! Donovan chose electronics, and Audri chose clothes...

Donovan's first purchases - a charger kit for his XBox controller, and some candy...

He also bought some XBox games. As soon as we got home, he asked for XBox time so he could try them out. :) I actually had to remind him to take his coat off before he started playing!

Audri in her new favorite outfit - jeans included!

The assortment of shirts she was able to find...

A second modeling pose...

They were pretty excited about their shopping sprees, and got exactly what they wanted!

Michael, Amanda, and Kiddos!

2011-01-05T17:47:00.003-07:00

Michael, Amanda and the kids were here!!! Pics from the quick visit:

Camdon playing on the floor - what a cute chunka-monka! :)

Aunt Jaime hanging out with Camdon... he is a bit of a wiggler!

Kaiya and Michael, playing the piano on my music throw...

Kaiya's turn to try...

We started the day with Mickey Mouse Clubhouse... Kaiya watched the whole episode standing up.

Of course, the patio-door was a draw - there were ducks on the other side!

Michael and Kaiya outside feeding the ducks.

Kaiya wanted to feed them, but couldn't throw the bread very far! She wasn't sure about the ducks getting much closer than this, either.

Tearing bread pieces to throw...

Once Michael and Kaiya came back in, the ducks tried to follow... they got closer to the door than ever before... probably thinking they'd get more bread!

Kaiya hanging out in Josh's chair... it's a big chair, and she's such a little girl!

It gave her plenty of room to play. :)

No visit with Elbert family members is complete without an Olive Garden trip!

Kaiya decided she wanted to sit in the carseat while we were waiting for our food. Silly girl!

After naptime, she wanted to daddy-snuggle time. :)

It was fun to have the Elbert family here for a couple of days! I hope they can come back soon, and hang out a little longer!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T16:40:00.003-07:00

Happy New Year! This year has had its ups and downs, as all years do I suppose. At the beginning of 2010 my resolution was to live a life of gratitude. I may not have done so each day as intended, but overall have found myself finding more things to be grateful for, and spending less time wishing for what could be and more time grateful for what is.

2011 will bring changes as well, and it is my intention to remain grateful throughout the year, regardless of what the external factors and forces of life may include. I am grateful for my family, extended and immediate, particularly for my husband. I am grateful for wonderful friends, and a career I enjoy working in an industry I find rewarding and fulfilling. I am grateful for my Lord, who guides me through it all.

Happy New Year! I hope 2011 brings joy and blessings - and that we are privileged to share in many of them.

Family Weekend

2010-12-22T18:51:00.003-07:00

The kids were here this weekend, and so was Michael! :) Here's what happened:

Audri disappeared into her room to read a book...

Creating some kind of chair/bed for herself.

The boys played XBox games...

And I got a little carried away in the kitchen. :) I made both peanut butter and chocolate crinkle cookies, as well as banana bread, and breadsticks... last night I made some cream-cheese filled pumpkin muffins as well. The people both of us work with are pretty excited about my recent baking spree!

Chase's Visit!

2010-12-18T10:43:00.004-07:00

I was so blessed this past week to spend time with Chase! Well, the whole Henrie family... but Chase certainly captured my heart. :)

Waking up the first morning, and seeing trees, squirrels, sunshine, and grass... every morning after he headed to the big window first thing to see what was happening outside.

He bonked his head at the airport trying to get to me... you can see the two little scrapes and the start of a bruise.

I didn't have a high-chair, so Chase would sit at the table like a big boy and wait for food. His chin almost rested comfortably on the edge of the table. :)

Jen and Chase, watching "Baby Signing Time" and singing about brushing their teeth.

Fun is complete when we slide down the hallway in a box car! He's actually signing for "more!" in the picture - he wanted Wayne to push him again. :)

I was trying to capture the moment...

Chase wasn't as thrilled as I was about the camera being out during his play time.

Chase and Aunt Jaime

Chase was unhappy in this photo - he really needed a nap, but it was just about time to head to the airport, so Jen didn't want to put him down. I'm choosing to believe he was sad that he was leaving Aunt Jaime's house.

Somehow, during the whole week we only captured this photo of Jenna and I. She really did come with Chase! :) So did Wayne, but I didn't get any pictures of him either.

It was a wonderful week with Chase and his parents here. I will miss them!

We had snow....

2010-12-09T19:40:00.002-07:00

But it's gone. I was hoping it'd be here through Christmas. I could still have a white Christmas, but I won't be holding my breath. I'm too busy singing along to the Christmas music to actually hold my breath anyway.

However, white Christmas or not, I am so excited for family to be coming through town over the holidays... it'll make the holidays even if there is no snow on the ground. I can't wait to see the Henrie family on Monday!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-11-27T14:36:00.003-07:00

We are having a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. We started with a potluck dinner at a friends house, 18 of us together, each responsible for a part of the meal, grateful to have a large group to share it with. When I asked the kids what they were thankful for, the response was "a warm house" and "lots of food". True, I am thankful for those things too. I am also thankful for a wonderful family, people who love me and support me, people who always want what is best for me. I am thankful for my sweet, attentive husband, for the love and joy, the challenges and struggles, and the life we are creating together. I am thankful for the love of a Heavenly Father, and the forgiveness and grace I find in Him.

We have continued the weekend with family time... as I sit here this afternoon, our home is decorated for Christmas, there is spiced cider simmering on the stove, and soup in the crock-pot for dinner. We have played games, baked bread and cinnamon roles, watched movies, eaten large amounts of food, and sang along to holiday music. We have chatted, laughed, danced, and watched the snow fall.

With all of that, I can say that it has been a perfect holiday weekend. We are most certainly blessed, and I am so thankful for this time of year.

Good People Everywhere

2010-11-13T19:02:00.003-07:00

There are good people everywhere. And I find them in the most random places. I was really craving a Ginger Ale tonight. I saw a commercial for one, and I couldn't get it out of my head. I finally convinced Josh that we should run to the convenience store (which is really only 2 blocks away, so it's not like we were going that far...). Anyway, we walk through Chevron, and can't find Ginger Ale anywhere on their shelves. We asked the clerk, and he said they didn't carry it; however, he reached under the counter and pulled one out. He said his wife had packed it for his lunch, and he didn't care if he had it or something from the soda fountain. We offered to buy another soda for him, if we took the one from his lunch, but he wouldn't hear of it. He was simply glad to be able to give me something that I wanted. How wonderful!

It was one of the best Ginger Ale's I've ever had. :) Yes, there truly are good people everywhere.

Friends, Family, and Going Blonde...

2010-11-06T17:31:00.004-06:00

Today I had the privilege of spending time with Ms. Eva Jane! :) She was in Boise for a couple of days, and we were able to connect.

I had to cover for the team at work, so was committed to the office, so she came to hang out with me there. It was fabulous to see her! Thanks for coming to visit me, Eva!

After I left work, Josh convinced me to get a hair cut, and then to color my hair. So, shorter, and blonder...

The lady at the hair salon asked what kind of color I wanted, and then flipped through my hair. She said, "well, you're really over 50% gray, so I'm going to go with a gray coverage color." I knew I had a lot of gray, but 50%?!?!?

I even convinced Josh to pose with me. :)

Now for dinner (potato chowder, in bread bowls) and dessert (apple crisp) and then a good book. Josh and Donovan have commandeered the XBox for the night, so I think a nice long bath is in my future. :)

Rainy Days

2010-10-24T18:08:00.002-06:00

This weekend has been pretty rainy. Today we decided to take advantage of it by watching a couple of movies. Josh is more comfortable sitting on the floor for long periods of time (a harder surface). To prepare for movie time, I piled blankets on the floor against the couch so I had something to lean against, and we watched movies while drinking hot cocoa and snuggling. :) It was fantastic! What a fun way to spend a rainy day, just being together. :)

Final Paper for Final Class

2010-10-21T13:38:00.003-06:00

Woo-hoo!!! I just submitted my final paper for my final class... the only thing I have left to do in my MBA program is to finish offering the workshops, tally survey results, and write my results and conclusion chapter. I'll be working on that as of Thanksgiving weekend, as I should have had enough workshop participants by then to calculate results and draw conclusions. :)

I'm almost done!!!

Josh and Jaime

2010-10-06T07:48:00.002-06:00

Pictures of us are hard to come by. Neither of us loves being in front of the camera all that much. However, at our friends' wedding a few weeks ago, the photographer caught us. :) They got their pictures back yesterday, and shared this one with us. I thought I'd share it with you as well!

Josh and Jaime - September 4, 2010

Broadway in Boise

2010-09-26T09:50:00.002-06:00

Every year there are 6 or so Broadway shows in Boise. We hadn't had the opportunity to go to one previously, but a friend of mine had season tickets and was unable to use them for yesterday's show. So, Josh and I got to see The Color Purple! The tickets were amazing - 2nd row, right in the center - and the show was fabulous. It was a little different take than the movie... the vocalists were incredible! It was such a treat to see a show... we're inspired to see more!

This season's shows include Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, and Wicked! We'll see what we can do about getting tickets to some of them... :)

SHC Alumni Barbeque!

2010-09-18T22:08:00.002-06:00

This afternoon we had our first SHC Alumni event... as a member of the alumni committee, we planned a barbeque! We fed over 150 people, and had a great afternoon. :)

Myself with Cassie, our Registrar.

It was fabulous to see so many alumni with their families and hear how they're doing. I love working in higher education!

Teaching a Class

2010-09-12T22:11:00.002-06:00

I have had the opportunity to co-teach a class this month. We're half-way through the month, and I LOVE IT! Its a professional development class; I'm helping students with their career portfolio's (cover letters, resumes, references, master applications) and preparing for interviews. It's interesting to me how my students (most of whom are older than me) are completely unprepared to write a cover letter, and that the idea of transferable skills is so completely foreign that I had to not only define them, but give specific examples and even help people add to their list of transferable skills because they cannot identify them.

I'm enjoying the class, the grading process, and figuring out how to communicate effectively and help these students position themselves to find employment as they graduate from their respective programs. I'm excited to have more opportunities to teach, and hope they become more frequent!

2010-09-05T15:34:00.009-06:00

Yesterday was the wedding. :) I took off work Friday at 12noon so I could handle the prep. By 8pm, I had the salsa, artichoke dip, broccoli salad, and garlic roasted potatoes done. I had the meat cubed and marinating for the kabobs, I had the spice cookies mixed and chilling, as required, the brownies baked and cooling so I could frost them, and the shortbread cookies coming out of the oven.

Then I went to a goodbye-dinner for my friend Cristi. Once I made it home again, I cooked the meat and sliced all of the vegetables for the kabobs.

It took us a while, but Josh and I prepared kabobs until 2 in the morning. 100 of them.

The frig, pre-wedding... I don't think it could have been much fuller.

My space for the food... I had the perfect set-up to set food out, and man the grill. What you can't see is a huge umbrella that provided the table, and me, some shade while grilling the kabobs.

I didn't get pictures when the food first came out... this was towards the end of the afternoon, after most of the platters and bowls were refilled, and people were full but still grazing. The artichoke dip was a huge hit!

The second round of the main course... things were fairly well picked over! :)

Relaxing on Sunday... we were completely worn out from Saturday's festivities! Josh and Donovan wanted to battle it out on the Heroscape board.

Audri and I made so no-bake cookies to go with our afternoon of Disney movies. :)

Good thing we have tomorrow off as well!

Catering a Wedding?

2010-08-29T20:46:00.002-06:00

I'm getting ready to cater a wedding. It's my biggest cooking feat to date... I have catered a baby shower, but that wasn't quite the same. I have toyed with menu plans for weeks, and finally settled on one based on the budget, amenities at the wedding site, and number of people attending.

I'm feeding 50-60 people... the wedding is in our friend's backyard, and I have a small kitchen (with 1 oven, and no microwave) and a barbecue grill at their house. So, here's the menu:

Appetizers - cheese and cracker tray, fresh salsa, and artichoke dip.

Main Course - beef kabobs, chicken kabobs

Side Dishes - roasted garlic potatoes, broccoli salad, rolls

Desserts - scottish shortbread, double frosted brownies, spice cookies with pumpkin dip

Yes, there will be a wedding cake (that I'm not responsible for!), but the bride wanted some other sweet treats for those with a sweet tooth, as well as those who may not prefer cake.

Wish me luck! I'm excited, but a little stressed about the whole affair... I'll be taking most of Friday off to prepare; Saturday is the big day!

The Kids Have Grown!

2010-08-22T22:10:00.004-06:00

The kids have grown! They are both getting so tall. :) They were here this weekend, and we caught them at some of their favorite activities:

Audri, set up on her computer while watching television before breakfast.

Donovan, playing Heroscape with Josh. He's grown 9 inches since October!

We had a good weekend; we mostly spent time around the house, but enjoyed the family time. Today we were able to take a walk, since it finally cooled off to the mid-70's. It won't last - we're supposed to be back up to the mid-90's by Tuesday. When the kids come back for Labor Day, we should be back to cooler temperatures, and will have more fun pictures!

Friends

2010-08-19T20:54:00.002-06:00

I have been so blessed this week to spend time with my dear friend Heather, her husband Justin,m and their daughter, Serenity. Heather and I met in high school, and have stayed in touch over the years; she was in Boise for a training class, and we were able to get together a few nights this week for dinner. It has been fabulous! I won't list the meals I made (although they were yummy!), but I will say how much I loved having her here. It's such a blessing to know there are people I may not see every day or talk to every week, but can still get together with and continue as though we were never apart. Heather is such a sweet, funny, caring woman, and I am grateful to call her my friend.

Unfortunately, our camera is out of commission right now, so I didn't get any pictures. :( Next time... and we will be sure to have a "next time" soon!

Date Night

2010-08-08T09:51:00.002-06:00

I love date night. I used to think it was kind of silly, since it's mostly just Josh and I, and every night is kind of like date night... but it's different, even if we stay home... date night isn't just the every night wind down at the end of the day watching a little TV night, it's the night we set aside to be special... sometimes to reconnect, sometimes to do something silly, sometimes to get out of the house, but always time that is just us, not focused on the stresses of life, not talking about cleaning the kitchen or weekend plans with the kids, not worrying about school or finances or the dirty laundry. Just us.

Last night was date night. :) I cooked us a fantastic dinner: steak in a mushroom sauce, and a side of sauteed vegetables (summer squash, zucchini, potato, onion, carrot, and green pepper). Then we had a pair of movie passes, so we headed to the theater. We were early for the show, so headed down the street and wandered through Cabella's for an hour or so, just planning for the future and mentally adding to both our camping gear and our survival kits, then back to the theater. We sat and held hands, and enjoyed the movie.

Nothing spectacular, but wonderful when we take the time to set aside an evening and focus on each other. I love date night.

Education Abounds...

2010-08-05T11:46:00.002-06:00

Josh has started his MBA program! :) It's fun, because we should have the same classes for the next three months; we're both currently in an International Management class. I love having a partner in crime! :)

I've started putting out a few feelers for doctorate programs in higher education administration... I am not sure how quickly I'll start into that program once I finish my Master's, but want to know my options. Down the road, I'd like to move into the administration realm of higher education... we'll see. I'm not 100% committed to that at the moment, but it would be a natural progression, and matches my skills, abilities, and interests. Stay tuned!

Thesis Project

2010-07-24T20:59:00.001-06:00

I have started the process of developing and writing my thesis. Part of me is overwhelmed - it's so much work! And part of me is overjoyed - the end is in sight! I have submitted my project proposal and my annotated bibliography for my literature review. Next is my statement of methodology... but not tonight.

My project is this: Create and implement a workshop series titled "Do What You Are" that will provide participants with a clear vision for their career passion and then identify and match the resources necessary to assist participants in achieving the career of their dreams.

Our first session of the series happens in three weeks! And, another exciting addition is that I've created a partnership with the Idaho Department of Labor to help offer this event, providing the access to community resources, including higher education matches and training needs that will help a participant leave the workshop with an actionable career plan.

This is so exciting!!!

Breadsticks

2010-07-17T16:21:00.001-06:00

Today I'm making breadsticks. I'm always extra proud of myself when I bake bread, in any form. I'm pretty excited - I have a cream-sauce that I'll serve over ravioli with thin-sliced chicken, and salad and breadsticks seemed the perfect complement. So, in-between writing a paper and cleaning the house, my breadsticks are coming along. :) They are on their first rise cycle now. I can't wait to eat them!

Staycation Review

2010-07-04T16:15:00.007-06:00

Staycation week has been full of fun and relaxation... and of course, food! :) A quick run-down, both for my memory and so my mom knows that I really did take it easy...

Saturday- Josh and I got up and took a walk, then took Donovan to the Pool Party at the Clubhouse of our Complex. I wrote a paper for my online class, had dinner (kabobs!) and then Josh and I had a little date: a private trip to McDonalds for $1 hot fudge sundae! :)

Sunday - I got up and made breakfast, as is our Sunday morning tradition. :) Sausage gravy, fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, and bacon. Should I mention that I was most certainly not "dieting" while on vacation? After breakfast we took Donovan to the Boise Rec Fest, then returned home for dinner. I made grilled stuffed pork tenderloin and some roasted potatoes. Then Josh and I took our evening walk; we have a look around the lake behind our Complex that is about 3 miles, and we love to walk and talk, so we try to take a walk almost every day.

Some of the fish we see in the Boise River on our walk.

Monday - Spring Cleaning! I scrubbed the house, including moving the appliances, cleaning out the frig, and scouring the bathtubs. Whew! All the things I never seem to have the time to do. Then I went to the library and checked out 6 books, then returned home to prepare dinner... homemade lasagna, including the marinara sauce, and fresh-baked french bread. After dinner, I read one of my books while enjoying a luxurious bubble bath. :)

Tuesday - Started with a walk, followed by our adventures at the Boise Depot, Platt Gardens, and the Idaho State Penitentiary.

Josh and I at the Gardens... our self-portraits usually cut off the top of at least one of our heads, but we keep trying! :)

Josh has started taking pictures again - he's a talented photographer! I love this picture, taken near the Penitentiary, and would love to enlarge it in black and white, then frame it in my living room!

Then we took Donovan to see "How to Train a Dragon"; Tuesday is $1 tickets at the theater! For dinner, I made homemade beef pot pie - I think my best to date.

Wednesday - I got up and read a book. Seriously - I didn't get off the couch until noon. :) Once I finished my book, I wrote my final paper for my online class and then baked some banana bread. Josh and I took a walk before dinner, then I made a true Southern meal: chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, and beef gravy. :) After dinner I read another book...

Thursday - I got up and made breakfast - banana pancakes. I've never made them before, so was excited to try. :) Donovan loved them! After breakfast, Josh and I hiked Tablerock, which is a 3.5 mile hike, round-trip... I actually made it!

Josh at the top of the hill

Another self-portrait - proof that I made it to the top!

Friday - Josh and I got up and took a walk, although it was a bit shorter (only a mile!) because I was pretty sore from our hike the day before... then we took Donovan and his friend, Robert, to Lucky Peak for the afternoon. The boys loved playing in the water, and Josh and I enjoyed the quiet time on the beach.

Relaxing on the beach, with my book and my water bottle... and lathered in SPF 90 sunscreen!

Donovan and Robert, showing us a snail they found in the water

While at Lucky Peak, I finished another book. :) By the time we got home, I didn't feel like cooking, so we ordered a pizza and let the boys play. Josh and I played some chess then snuggled to some television.

Saturday - Josh and I got up and took a walk, followed by a couple of hours of gun shopping... ok, really it was gun browsing; Josh thought he might find some great deals around the 4th of July, but nobody was running any great specials. For the afternoon, Chae and the kids made it to Boise! We hoped for lots of time with them, but settled for a few hours. It was pretty windy, so we ended up hanging out at the apartment where the kids played XBox and GI Joes while Chae and I chatted and caught up on life and her trip. :) It was wonderful! For dinner I made homemade spaghetti and meatballs. Once Chae left (she wanted to drive part-way to Seattle so she could get the older boys to their dad's around lunch-time on Sunday) we ran to the video store and rented a movie, which we enjoyed watching while eating banana splits. :)

Unfortunately, I totally forgot to take any pictures while Chae and the kids were here. :( Darn!!!!

Sunday - Josh and I are enjoying the day inside watching "The History of America", a series on the History Channel that started with the Revolutionary War. It's fascinating! And, a nice reprieve for my sunburn. :) I have also started a new book, and have steak marinating for the grill tonight. After dinner, we'll head up the hill to watch the fireworks, and then I have to head to bed to prepare for work tomorrow.

My staycation week is over. :( However, I've had a fabulous week, relaxed, prepared a number of incredibly delicious meals (which has made me very happy - the kitchen time has been fantastic!!!) and read 5, almost 6, books. :) I think I might have to consider staycations more often!

Stay-Cation Week!

2010-06-29T20:16:00.010-06:00

This week I'm on vacation! Since I'm at home, it's my first stay-cation ever. :) So far, we have gone to Boise Rec Fest - an event with lots of outdoor, recreationally-oriented vendors (camping, boating, tourism, etc...), fair-style food, and live music. It was a gorgeous day!

Josh and Donovan at Rec Fest - Donovan chose to get cotton candy as his treat... Josh and I both gave into the Pronto Pups.

The sunny view from our patio - we've been doing lots of walking and playing outside, now that we have such beautiful sunshine.

We decided to check out some of the local tourist spots today... this is us at Platt Gardens, which is at the Boise Depot.

Boise Depot, and the view from the lower garden...

Me, standing at the lower garden; includes a view of North-East Boise... The Boise Depot was constructed in 1924 and had it's first train come through in April 1925. Platt Garden was completed and named after the general manager of the Depot.

Then we headed to the original Idaho State Penitentiary. Donovan and me, outside the stone wall of the outer structure of the prison, which also housed a dairy, a cannery, and an area for farming.

After a number of years in operation, the state of Idaho built a Women's ward. It was fascinating to walk through it, read the history, see the incredibly small cells, and think about how times have changed. Some of the women who found themselves incarcerated were done for crimes of immorality - one was for "inducing a young girl into a house of prostitution". Another (at least from the histories that were available) was for performing abortion. Some for forgery, and others for manslaughter - many women in the early- to mid-1900's poisoned their husbands!

So far, my stay-cation is fantastic! I have enjoyed the relaxation, and am excited that we've finally started exploring Idaho and enjoying the history that exists here.

Blonde?

2010-06-19T13:44:00.003-06:00

Last night after work, Josh and I decided that I should cut my hair short again. He said the pixie-look is his favorite. :) Once it was cut, we realized how much gray is really there... so, we picked up a bottle of hair dye. Josh really wanted me to go platinum blonde; we settled on a warm, medium-blonde color.

The dye is processing...

And, here we go! It turned out a little strawberry-blondish, but it's short and sassy, and so easy to fix. I think I was ready in 15 minutes this morning! :)

Family Pictures, and Afternoon Fun!

2010-06-11T17:33:00.003-06:00

Today we took family pictures! The website, for your viewing pleasure, is smilesbywire. The user name is Jaime Davis, and the password is LTP0474117200JCP. For parents and grandparents, you will receive a few of these in the mail in a couple of weeks! :)

Once we finished pictures, I went to work. This afternoon was a team-building activity at work, and we were taken to the go-kart track!

Michelle and myself - Michelle is my counterpart in High School Admissions

Getting ready to race!

I came in 6th, out of 10th in my heat... I'm not exactly a speed racer. :) But, it was a good afternoon, and a good day!

McCall

2010-06-06T21:07:00.004-06:00

Today we headed up to McCall to see my friend Jay - I haven't had the chance to see her in five years! It was a wonderful day, filled with lots of smiles, memories, and catching up on each others lives.

The Davis family, in front of one of the subdivision signs for a subdivision that Josh and his dad built in McCall, more than ten years ago!

Jaime and Jay

The Davis family on Jay's front porch... it rained some of the time we were there, but was a beautiful, cool day to be in the mountains!

Thank you, Jay, for the opportunity to head up and see you, and spend the day in McCall!

Donovan's Birthday

2010-05-23T11:41:00.007-06:00

It's hard to believe that we now have a teenager! We celebrated Donovan's birthday last night... we started by dinner at Joe's Crab Shack, where we saw his teenage boy appetite in action - he ate an entire steam pot (1 whole crab, some shrimp, corn on the cob, baby potatoes, and a sausage)! It was quite impressive. :)

Opening presents - cards from grandparents...

One of the presents Josh and I gave him his "man kit", complete with leather travel bag and all the necessities (body wash, deodorant, toothbrush, etc...)

Once we explained that it was because he's becoming a man, and these things will help him, he finally smiled about it. :)

Happy birthday, Donovan!

Commencement

2010-05-13T20:45:00.002-06:00

Today was Commencement for Stevens-Henager College. Some of the graduates were students I helped get into school, and they all thanked me for helping them; one actually brought me a card and a present! Another told me that if I hadn't helped him he wouldn't have gone to college. Ah, that's why I do what I do... regardless of how frustrated I get with my job, I know that I am in a position to positively affect people's lives. That is an incredibly rewarding feeling.

I am so proud of the graduates, who worked so hard, sacrificed so much, and finished what they started.

It's been a really wonderful day.

Mother's Day Weekend

2010-05-09T23:31:00.007-06:00

This was the first Mother's Day in five years that the kids were able to be with us. :) SO - we made the most of it!

Audri really wanted to help me cook. So, after grocery shopping, we made fruit salad, potato salad, pasta salad, guacamole, and then finger steaks and brownies. It was for two different meals; Saturday night was finger steaks, french fries, and fruit salad, followed by . Sunday we grilled hamburgers and had corn on the cob, pasta salad, potato salad, and grilled pineapple.

Audri, learning to bread something for frying; we cut the steaks into strips, coated them in the breading, dipped them in egg, then re-coated in the breading before deep frying.

It was a great experience, and she said she wanted to help more often! She helped with breakfast Sunday morning, and made the biscuits for our biscuits and sausage gravy. :) She's a great sous chef!

Sunday was such a beautiful day, so we went for a walk.

A quick family photo while out on our walk... the kids are getting so tall!!!

We had Brent and Angie over for dessert Sunday evening; I was showing Angie how to create a blog, while holding her son, William.

What a fabulous weekend! :) And one filled with food... that's what we do! :)

Doughnut Holes

2010-05-07T11:35:00.002-06:00

When I got home last night, Taylor wanted to make something for his class this morning... it was the final, but they were also celebrating two birthdays. So, we made doughnut holes! They really are easy, and other than the chilling process (1-2 hours!) they are not that time consuming... we made over 100 doughnut holes, and rolled them in powdered sugar or cinnamon and sugar. So yummy!

Luckily, there were enough left over after Taylor's class that I was able to bring them to work. I'm the hero of the day! :) It's fun to spend an evening baking and creating scrumptious treats for others - thanks for making me smile, bubba! :)

Chicken Fingers and French Fries

2010-05-01T22:11:00.002-06:00

We love our deep fryer. I know, it's really not that healthy. And because of that, we don't actually use it all that often. However, a couple of weeks ago I decided I really wanted some chicken strips, so I made some... and of course, if you're going to deep fry chicken, you should add a potato, too. :)

I mentioned to my friend Angie that I had made chicken fingers and french fries, and she wanted some too! So, tonight we went to Angie's for dinner, and I took the deep fryer. :) We had chicken fingers and french fries, and she made maple scones. Oh my goodness! It was one delicious meal! And a great evening with wonderful friends. I have to admit it felt slightly silly to be making chicken strips and french fries for four adults, though!

Maybe we'll think about eating healthier tomorrow...

Anniversary!

2010-04-25T16:00:00.002-06:00

Today is our 5th wedding anniversary! It's amazing how quickly the time has flown. We've had our ups and downs, and I'm sure we'll continue to do so, but we have been very blessed in the past year. We were able to start celebrating last night with our friends, Brent and Angie, whose anniversary was the 21st... I prepared us a 3 course meal (Italian Wedding Soup, Salad, then Stuffed Steak and Twice Baked Potatoes), and then we all went to the Boise Little Theater to see Twelve Angry Men. After the play, which was incredibly well done, we returned home to enjoy some Strawberry Cheesecake. It was scrumptious! And, a perfect evening with some fabulous friends. :)

Today we've been able to just enjoy one another's company... as the day continues, I can't help but the that I love my husband, and am so grateful for the five years we've been blessed with!

Outdoor Time

2010-04-21T21:43:00.006-06:00

Sunday was gorgeous out... it was about 80 degrees, and so we decided to take the kids to the park! We packed a picnic lunch and headed to Camelsback Park. The kids love Camelsback because of the hill we climb - it's not huge, but by the top I have to catch my breath!

Donovan and Audri at the top...

After our first climb, we decided that we wanted to keep going! So, we headed to another parking lot and parked where a number of trailheads meet, and off we went! Donovan and Josh led the pack.

Everyone got too warm! Taylor and Donovan took off their t-shirts, and Audri stripped down to her tank-top.

Of course, coming down is the hard part... Audri and I were afraid of falling. The boys simply ran down the hill, but Audri and I walked slightly sideways and took it slow.

The view from the bottom of the hill.

It was a beautiful day, and we enjoyed our time outdoors together! We're looking forward to doing it again soon... but Sunday was the only nice day in the past week, and it has to stop raining first!

Audri's Birthday

2010-04-17T21:20:00.008-06:00

Audri is turning 10! We celebrated today by opening presents...

The birthday card from G.G. Elbert, with her $15 McDonald's gift card.

Her new outfit from us...

Followed by some girl time... fixing hair, doing nails, and even a little make-up! :)

Josh's two pretty girls... ready to go to dinner!

Recognize the sash? It needed more than one use... :)

We arrived at Red Robin, and the police were there for a fundraiser. So, Audri posed with the officer for a picture before going in to eat.

Of course, the best thing about eating at Red Robin on your birthday is the song... our server, starting the clapping after bringing Audri her sundae.

Audri with her sundae, trying not to be too embarrassed by the singing. :)

Happy birthday, Audri! We finished off the evening by letting her pick the family movie (she picked Alvin and the Chipmunks, The Squeakqul) and enjoying one another's company. :)

Potato Chowder

2010-04-15T21:12:00.002-06:00

Today was gorgeous outside. However, all week I have been craving potato chowder. So, even though it was 70 degrees outside, I made potato chowder and bread bowls. Unfortunately, I had a slight mishap during the process - after simmering the vegetables until soft, I put them in the blender to puree... one of the buttons was slightly depressed, and I plugged in the blender before I had the lid on.

So, not only did we have a delicious dinner, but I now have a sparkling clean kitchen! :)

Potato Chowder Recipe:
8 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup diced onion
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 cups water
1 cup milk
6 strips bacon, crumbled
Salt
Pepper

1. Boil potatoes for 8-10 minutes. Drain. Set half of the potatoes aside.
2. Place remaining half of potatoes back in pot. Add onion, celery, garlic, water, and milk. Mix well. Simmer on low for 10-15 minutes.
3. Puree for a thick, but not chunky, broth.
4. Add the potatoes that had been set aside, bacon crumbles, and salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy!

Birthday, and Pictures

2010-04-13T12:06:00.006-06:00

My birthday weekend began with the party Saturday night...

When I was picked up, I had to put on my sash and crown. Josh and Taylor escorted me out to the car. :)

Trying to listen to the music playing from a card...

Me, with my friend Tiffany. She was one of the co-planners for the surprise! :)

A group picture from Saturday night... we were missing a few people when we finally thought to take a group shot! We're a bunch of gorgeous women!

Sunday morning - Taylor had decorated for me... happy birthday streamers down the walls, happy birthday posters made for me... he was so sweet!

Dinner at Texas Roadhouse

I had our waiter take a group shot for us. :)

It was a perfect birthday weekend!

Surprise!

2010-04-10T23:11:00.002-06:00

A couple of my girlfriends wanted to take me out for my birthday... our plan (so I thought) was to have a glass of wine and an appetizer downtown. They picked me up, made me put on a tiara and a sash that read "birthday girl", and then we took pictures. It was prom-ish. :) I then kissed Josh goodbye and off we went.

We arrived downtown, and as we walked into the restaurant, I was greeted with "surprise" and "happy birthday" from over a dozen co-workers and friends who wanted to help me ring in my 30th birthday! We were able to sit and enjoy a few hours of chatting, wine, and appetizers. I'm still surprised that they were able to pull it off, and so grateful for how many were there to help me celebrate. I feel so blessed!

PS - there were a few cameras, so as soon as I see pictures I will post them! :)

PPS - my birthday weekend is turning out to be FANTASTIC!!!!!!!

Decorating Easter Eggs

2010-04-03T20:25:00.012-06:00

Our family activity this weekend was, of course, decorating Easter eggs!

Getting started

A friend stopped by, just in time to take group shot for us!

The kids, obviously loving the experience.

Donovan's favorite egg

Audri's favorite egg

Taylor's favorite egg... he drew Mt. McKinley on it!

A close-up of Taylor's egg

My favorite egg. You can't really see it, but it's pink pin-striped. :)

Our completed project; 36 eggs, brightly and creatively decorated!

Saturdays are made for walks...

2010-04-03T20:06:00.006-06:00

Today was a bit chilly, but at one point in the afternoon was just warm enough, with the sun shining, that we decided to go for a walk.

Donovan and Audri, playing tag

Josh and I... self-portrait. :)

The boys

The girls

Movie Day

2010-03-28T10:02:00.002-06:00

Today is a perfect movie day. I have been recording Hallmark movies for the last week or so, and have 4 or 5 on the DVR. So, while I'm doing laundry and baking banana bread, I think I'll be watching them! I'm half-way through one, and have a fresh pot of coffee waiting for me. I think I'll refill my cup, start another load of laundry, and enjoy the day of Hallmark movies!

Bread

2010-03-21T15:23:00.002-06:00

I love bread. Unfortunately, my previous attempts to bake bread have not proven as successful as they could have been; yeast and I always have a fight, and it usually wins. I decided to be sneaky, and bought a bread machine. I'm in love with my new bread machine!

Last weekend I made the dough for bread bowls, followed by a sweet bread with honey and cinnamon. We just finished the last of the sweet bread this morning (it made a pretty delicious toast for breakfast!) so I'm now making honey oat bread.

My house smells fabulous, and I didn't have to fight with the yeast or sweat it out through the kneading process! The boys seem to enjoy it, too... although I might have heard a complaint or two about potentially expanding waistlines...

Sisters...

2010-03-12T19:59:00.002-07:00

Tonight we had dinner at The Olive Garden... which made me think of Holly since it's her favorite restaurant. That made me think of all my special memories with my sisters - I love them both so much! I wish we all lived closer so we could spend time together, maybe even sister time at The Olive Garden! :)

In honor of my two beautiful, wonderful sisters:

Jenna - I love how logical, empathetic, and devoted you are.

Holly - I love how intelligent, creative, and loving you are.

Most of all, I am so glad you're my sisters! I wish I could be more like each of you... I am proud of both of you, and honored that each of you are a part of my life, sharing with me and being my best friends.

Boys and Guns

2010-03-07T17:30:00.004-07:00

Josh, Donovan and Taylor went out shooting at a friend's yesterday. They were too busy with their guns to get many pictures, but here are a couple...

Josh with his newest - a pistol-grip shotgun...

Donovan as he shoots for the first time... Taylor and some friends are gathered around to watch. Of course, they're all waiting their turns to shoot!

The boys had fun doing their "boy" things... and Donovan is already looking forward to his next trip out to use the guns!

Phoenix and Family

2010-03-01T20:32:00.007-07:00

I had a wonderful time last week in Phoenix and California with family! Some pictures from my adventures...

Chae and I after our coffee date

Gram and I

Me, outside the General Patton Memorial Museum and West Coast Vietnam Memorial Wall

The view from the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tram... a 2.5 mile ride up into the mountains; from 75 degrees to snow within 15 minutes!

Me, at the top of the mountain

Doug's piano, on loan from a friend...

And me playing that piano... I loved being able to sit down for a few minutes and play! One of these days I'll live with a piano again...

The trip was short, but wonderful. I enjoyed the family time and the few quiet moments shared with those I love. I love my family!

The Bathroom

2010-02-21T19:47:00.007-07:00

Thanks to mom and dad's generosity, we were finally able to buy a matching bathroom set! We purchased new towels, shower curtain, and bathroom accessories. Here they are:

We love the look of the brown, and my favorite color is blue. The combination of blue and brown is nice. Our bathroom now feels so luxurious!

A close-up of the accessories... these are the two jars for holding cotton balls and q-tips. We also got a kleenex sleeve, toothbrush holder, lotion holder, and matching shower curtain hooks.

A view of the entire bathroom, thanks to the mirror. :) I think I need to go enjoy this new bathroom while taking a bath... :)

Josh is a Graduate!

2010-02-11T08:15:00.004-07:00

Josh has finished his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science... he did it in two years, while working part-time for the IT department, and maintained a 3.9 GPA. I am so proud of him! :)

I'm not the only one... he received his graduation present from my dad (THANK YOU, DAD!) and used it to buy a shotgun.

Taylor is proudly displaying Josh's new Mossberg 12-gauge tactical shotgun...

The boys immediately changed the handle to the pistol grip.

Josh has worked hard, and is THRILLED to be done. GREAT JOB, JOSH!!! :)
Now we're looking forward to the next phase of our lives...

Cookies and Movies

2010-01-31T17:46:00.002-07:00

The kids were here this weekend, and poor Audri was sick. Since we were sticking pretty close to home because of her cough and fever, we decided to watch the Star Wars movies... I can honestly say I had never watched them all before, just bits and pieces of a couple of them. Of course, I'm not good at simply watching a movie, so I got motivated to bake while they were on!

As of movie number 5, which we've just started, I've baked 4 dozen oatmeal raisin cookies, 6 dozen oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and prepared 3 dozen no-bake chocolate cookies. I have snickerdoodle dough chilling, and am considering peanut butter cookies as well. Those may not happen... I'm just about out of flour, but could make a small batch... :)

The kids are thrilled, as I've let them sample cookies most of the day. We're all enjoying a lazy day indoors!

Highlights...

2010-01-24T14:58:00.005-07:00

I highlighted my hair! Ok - actually, I paid someone at a salon to highlight my hair...

Ta - da!!!

Side shot...

It's got some warm copper and golden blonde highlights all throughout. It brigthened up my face, and suprisingly, my outlook! :) It's certainly not the cheapest way to get an attitude adjustment, but I LOVE IT! :)

Chocolate Cake

2010-01-17T20:42:00.003-07:00

For Christmas I received a pan that has 12 mini-bundt cake molds... I hadn't had a chance to try it out yet, so last night when Josh asked if I had the ingredients to make a chocolate cake, I decided it would be the perfect time to try my new pan! I whipped up the cake, poured it into the bundt cake molds, and baked them for 30 minutes. After they cooled, I poured some chocolate cream cheese frosting over each one, and everyone had an individual sized bundt cake! They were so yummy... and so easy! I think I may have to start experimenting with cake recipes, just so I have a "reason" to use my fun new pan! :)

Taylor is here!

2010-01-08T20:54:00.002-07:00

Taylor is here, and I LOVE IT! It's made it easy for me to find things to be grateful for each day... I'm grateful he's here, grateful he's my brother, and grateful that he wants to eat everything I cook! I am having a blast... luckily, so is Josh. It's like one of our best friends just moved in, and we're enjoying the time together. Within a week or so, Taylor will meet people and have other things to do besides hang out with us, but for now it's fabulous that he's all ours. :)

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-02T19:19:00.002-07:00

This year as I sat down to write New Year's Resolutions, I realized that I've never been good at following them through for an entire year. I have written some wonderful goals, and even broken some down into smaller, achievable steps... however, by year's end, I don't think I can say that I've consistently worked on any of them, ever, for an entire year. So, this year my resolution is simple, and something I can live by every day. It is simply this:

Live a life of gratitude.

I have many things to be grateful for, and yet it is so easy to dwell on the negative. I am choosing this year to be grateful. I'm sure that it'll affect many areas of life, and will help me make some other positive changes as well... but that isn't the point. I want to sip my apple cider on December 31st, 2010, reflecting on the year, and knowing that I was able to find something to be grateful for each and every day.

Gingerbread Houses

2009-12-24T19:16:00.006-07:00

We had decided to have a competition with gingerbread houses.... girls versus boys, who could make the better house.

Josh and Donovan, putting the walls up...

Audri working the icing bag...

As we started decorating...

...something awful happened. Neither of our houses would stay upright! The walls kept caving in on the "girls" house, and the roof kept slipping off the "boys" house.

We admitted defeat, and decided to just eat the gingerbread instead!

Donovan enjoying the roof of his house...

Audri eating the wall of her house.

It was a great idea, but our execution left a little to be desired. We had fun, though, and are continuing to enjoy our project! :)