The Boise Schultz Family

Thanksgiving Traditions! 2010

2011-06-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

The traditional Chip with the turkey breast picture....

The traditional starting of a new 1,000 piece puzzle to be finished by Christmas...

The traditional trying to blow out the candle from your seat after dinner...

Started a new tradition last year... lego masterpieces! This year we had D.C. on the brain!

The traditional mom cooking a turkey after STILL having to look up "How to cook a turkey" on the internet.

Traditional "nice" table setting for the feast

We also traditionally watch the Macy's parade. Shortly after it was over... I saw this on the computer screen just after Jack asked to use the computer...

I love our traditions!!!

Still in awe...

2011-03-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

after all these years! That's because more reasons keep popping up! I knew when I married him that he was a passionate person. But I had no idea just how much, and just what he'd make of that passion.

I love when he speaks to audiences. For a minute, I am so wrapped up in his message, that I forget that he is my husband! Then, when I realize I am married to the man captivating the audience, I swell with pride.

My favorite of all his presentations, is when he speaks about the famous Iwo Jima photograph. He explains in detail, each man in that picture. Where they are from, a little about their childhood, and about their lives after the photo was taken. He talks to the children about what it means to be a hero.

Then, he has six boys come up, "swear in", dress in his own uniforms, and portray the men in the picture. One by one, they take their place by the flag as Chip talks about who they are.

You can always hear a pin drop. After the presentation, I always want to stand a little closer to him so people know he is my husband. :)

I love this man. I don't care that he doesn't know where to find the spark plugs or how to change the oil. I love him for who he is today.

He touches people's lives.

He is my hero.

2010 Halloween Festivities

2011-03-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I am a little behind.... but it's better than nothing?

Anyway.... this last Halloween, nobody could decide what to be for Halloween! I told them they had to be creative by coming up with a costume that didn't cost a dime. They did well!

Can you see what Hannah came up with for the church party? Underwear!! Get it? Under... "where"? A funny girl she is! Some people got it and laughed... but she hated explaining it to most people.. who didn't get it.

Taylor and her friend Shelby rummaged through their costume boxes and came up with this...

Aubrey made a cute dalmatian!

Jack got creative too! I love this one..... there aren't many people who can say they are literally - "Jack in the box."
Halloween festivities at school are always fun! I love having Anela with me - it's fun for her too. She got to eat lunch with Hannah and her best friend.

For part of Jackson's party, they square danced. I LOVE the look on his face right here when he had to hold a girl's hand!

I'm pretty sure the kid on the right won...

Anela got to make her own pumpkin. I love that the teachers always include her!

For Halloween night.. Hannah decided the weird looks and having to explain herself all night wasn't worth her underwear costume. And Jackson's box was too awkward and wouldn't be easy to run from house to house. So they also rummaged the costume box for trick or treating. When people asked Jackson what he was, he said, "confused!"

The girls went to a church dance. Aubrey as the always good last minute hippy costume, and Taylor as Wendy from Peter Pan. Funny thing was... there was a boy there dressed as Peter Pan! They even danced together! Taylor had to literally be pushed onto the dance floor to do it - super funny.

The year of creative costumes was one of my favorites! Not only because it didn't cost anything, but the kids really had fun coming up with ideas. Whew.

Even Gunner joined the fun!

Double Ones for Hannah

2011-02-17T12:22:00.000-08:00

Hannah's Birthday in pictures...

She is a special girl, that Hannah Beth!

She is kind and generous...

She is unique.. definitely one of a kind.

She is excellent with little ones and fun to talk to!

She is a sweetheart. She lights up the room, that Hannah Beth!

And we love her so very much.

Our Awesome Fantastic Blackfoot Trip!

2010-12-30T20:22:00.000-08:00

These wonderful people aren't related to me.

But they are related to a favorite family of ours....

The Millington's invited our family to spend the weekend with them where they grew up; Blackfoot, and Ashton, ID. I can't even begin to explain just how wonderful it was.

I am a country girl at heart for sure. I was so happy, the whole time. The pictures (in no particular order) don't do it justice.

Tons and tons of open space for the boys to shoot guns. (I'm not a bad shot myself!)

Hannah loves Larry. :)

Up in the tree house that has been there for years and years. Built by Gayla's dad of course!

Love this lady.

The two most talented on the trampoline was Miss Aubrey...

and Miss Gayla!! Check out the form!!!

Another fun device built by Gayla's dad!

A real working outhouse in the backyard! How cool is that?!?

Lance and Gayla reminiscing...

Homemade cinnamon rolls from Gayla's mom. Simply divine!!

Aubrey had the best hiding place during flashlight tag! That night was the best!

Chip having fun with photography...

Dutch oven cooking!

Wow. Just wow!

Gayla and her mama!

I got to go ATV riding!! (Is that what it's called?!) It was awesome!

This is the front yard of the house Gayla grew up in.

Some of Grampa's old tools... why do I love that so much?!

The barn at their house. Love it!

At the fair in Blackfoot. Oh yes, we did it all!!

To me, I experienced in this weekend what I would consider to be the most wonderful way of life. The feelings, the atmosphere, the openness, the beauty, the simplicity - it's all part of what made this experience like no other for me. But I also believe that had I grown up in it, I wouldn't have the same appreciation. I enjoyed my childhood. I didn't know anything different and have great memories - It was a wonderful childhood! But now that I see places like this, and listen to all the stories about growing up here, it's what I consider to be the most... I don't know - American? Traditional? Whatever it is, I absolutely loved it. And I will always remember how I felt, and how much fun we had. Thank you to the Millington's. I will never forget it! None of us will.

"The Boys of Fall"

2010-12-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

One of the most enjoyable things about being a parent is getting to know your children as they grow older. Their likes and dislikes......discovering their talents and gifts.

Jackson has definitely developed a passion for football!

He absolutely LOVES going to practice. The only complaint I heard from him about practice was on a Monday or a Friday, when their wasn't practice!

He shares a similar passion with his cousin, Ilai. Whenever they get together, their first choice is always to throw the football back and forth! Here they are with their "game faces!"

Jack's nickname on the team was "Missle." Once he was got that ball and busted through the defense, there was no stopping this boy!

He is FAST!

My favorite part of this season was to see a love of football develop in Chip! Who knew? I think Chip was more excited for the practices and games than Jack, if that's possible! Being able to be one of the coaches brought pure joy to him. On Saturday mornings, Chip would yell from his bed, "What day is today?!" And in a sleepy, yet strong voice, we'd hear Jack across the hall yell, "GAME DAY!!"

Chip pulled some strings and got some of the Boise State Broncos to come practice with the team!

What a highlight for these boys!!!

Jack threw a pass to the amazing Austin Pettis and will surely NEVER forget it. Either will I!

Karsten Visit!

2010-10-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

You know that friend... that one friend you had that you could be yourself with and she would only love you more for it? You know... the one who you have never laughed harder with.... or been sillier with? The one you will never lose touch with and will always be in your heart? This is mine. We played Bobby Sox softball together and knew each other in Jr High, but it wasn't until our Jr. year of high school that we realized we were a perfect fit.

We hung out every chance we could. We had wet sock fights and danced at midnight in the street. We sang together, we ate through our triumphs and tribulations together, we answered each other's 3am phone calls.

After high school, we took very different routes. I wanted to soon get married to my high school sweetheart. She wanted to play, and go to school... for 10 loooong years! Our high school years will always be among the best of times. I learned a lot from Karen. I had SO MUCH FUN with Karen. I will cherish those years as long as I live.

I continue to learn from Karen, and love her.

What a wonderful weekend we recently had together. To have our children together, and seeing what we have become over the years was truly priceless. We swam, played downtown, sang around the piano, took fun walks, baked, danced, and just laughed. My favorite part was seeing what a fun mom Karen is. She wrestled with her kids, danced with them, and spit water back in their face when they spit on her first! I loved it!

It was quite surreal when we gathered around the piano and sang with my daughters, the same songs that Karen and I would sing together 20 years ago. I really took in the moment.

Karen is a master in the kitchen!! She took random ingredients and made masterpieces! She spoiled us all terribly.

She even plucked my eyebrows... just like the good ol' times!

Love this girl and her wonderful family!

I tried so hard to get these two to take a nice picture together.. they never did cooperate!
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Karen's youngest, Bethany, took a liking to each of the Schultz kids. It was so cute!

I think there were some other "special likings" going on too! Karen's oldest, Cadence, and my youngest, Jackson.

We introduced the fam to Blue Cow frozen yogurt. They approved.

The whole wonderful Karsten family!

Karen's very own S'more pops! The girls had a blast with her!

Here they are.. all together. Who knew?!

Thank you Karsten family! We had such a fantastic time with you all.. can't wait till next time!

Playing at Lucky Peak

2010-09-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

Last month, we made a fun spontaneous decision to go play at Lucky Peak, which is just a hop, skip, and a jump from our home. We had Beth and the kids come along with us. It was super fun. The bummer part was that Taylor had left on her over-night hike the day before. She wasn't there and was sad, but she was having her own incredible adventures. You know, like going potty in a hole she dug herself. :)

Still loving Boise more and more as each season passes.

Music Festival in Boise

2010-09-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me? Hearing AND seeing(barely, but still, he was there!) Bret Michaels perform "Every Rose Has it's Thorns" for FREE??!? You better believe we will be there!!!!

Cole was being creative passing the time...

Shelby trying to get a better view of the Backstreet Boys...

It was so fun!! Took us right back to those highschool days.

BBD 2010 - all ToGetHeR AgAiN!!

2010-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

So much fun was had at our family reunion in July. With ladderball, minute to win it, flip-flop making, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, playing in the lake, amazing waterfalls, campfire songs, roasting starbursts, family picture memory, scooters, delicious food, lots of bandaids, laughing till you pee, so much more! But most importantly, just plain being together.... it was such a wonderful week!

Ok, maybe this one needs explanation! Perhaps the most exciting part of the trip was the BIG BROWN BEAR that decided he needed Aunt Janet's apple chips!! Check out his big paw print! He sat and ate them as we stared in fear! (Ok, only some of us were scared...) Notice what it says on the top of the bag.. we all got a kick out of the fact that this bear could even read!!

I truly hope we can do this every two years. Having everyone together was the best part of it all.

Our Fun 4th.

2010-08-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

I love the 4th of July! Always such a happy, fun holiday. Food, friends, and fireworks.

Me and my friend, Georgia.

And ending it with a movie on the couch isn't bad either.

Table Rock Hike

2010-08-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

That right there is our goal! Make it to the top, eat dinner, hike down.. in one piece. I barely made it... but we were with great friends to take my mind off the "I can't freaking breathe" thing.... and we had a wonderful time!!

The longer we live here.... the more I love it!

Family Day of Volleyball and S'mores

2010-08-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed and happy when we have wonderful days like this one!

There are some mad skills in this family!

End of Another School Year

2010-08-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hannah's Wagon's Ho day at Trail Wind...

Aubrey's last volleyball game...

Taylor's final choir concert at Les Bois...

Jack's chameleon project and Apple Valley days the last week of school...

It was a fantastic school year for all!

She made her own butter at Wagon's Ho!

Chip was the branding man!

Hannah got to team up with her awesome teacher!

Aubrey truly found a new love this year!

An apple for the teacher for Apple Valley days...

Chip loves to give presentations to 5th grade classrooms on World War II. They are always fantastic. He took this gentleman with him this time, who is a WWII veteran. We are losing these heroes very quickly!

Chip takes his uniforms and has the kids re-enact Iwo Jima. He teaches the children all about the six men first. This is always my favorite part!

This chameleon's tongue is made with a straw and bubblegum chewed by Jack!

After 33 years of teaching, Mr Newburn is retiring. I'm so glad Taylor had the opportunity to learn from him and be there for his last year.

Looking forward to a wonderful summer!

IT all STARTED with a Block of WOOD...

2010-07-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

I remember how excited I was when Jack was born! After having three girls and doing all the fun girly activities..... baseball, football, and scouts seemed forever away!

The famous Pinewood Derby seemed like it would never come.

But that's not how life happens... it all happens way too fast.

Finally it was time....... I think Chip was just as excited as Jack was! Chip suggested a really cool car with a fighter jet theme. But Jack had his own idea... red with white flames! This was Jack's car... and he knew exactly what he wanted.

It all started with a block of wood...

First.....the design.

Then shaping it...

Sanding it...

Painting it....

Designing the flames...

Loving it...

Testing it...

THE BIG DAY!

Racing it...

WINNING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!

Easter 2010

2010-07-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Still catching up..... Easter was cold this year, but still very fun, and very nice. It included dying eggs, a nice church service, a hunt in the front yard, and a quiet ham dinner.
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Each child finds a certain number of things - it must have their sticker on it, or they have to leave it there for who's ever it might be! This ensures everyone getting the same fun stuff and the same number of eggs and treats. (My mom was an Easter egg hunt genius!)

We had the privilege of having dessert at one of our favorite Trail Wind teacher's home. Truly a unique, wonderful woman who we love dearly!

Hiking and Rollerblading

2010-06-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

Oh, how we welcome Saturdays with ZERO plans!!!!!

They just don't come often enough....

15 and 13

2010-06-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

I love these two teenagers we have now.
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I love that they have birthdays just days apart.

I love that they get along..

I love that they always have...

And I believe that they always will....

School Days

2010-06-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

I still have so much to catch up on... now working on March!
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But it has been fun remembering the beginning of the year while posting.
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Hannah decided to do her big biography project on Jane Goodall. She had to become Jane, and make a frame to hold up while giving her oral report over and over again to interested students and parents. She did an excellent job!

We love the Missoula Children's Theater who comes to our school for one week. The children audition for a play (this year it was Snow White) on Monday, and perform a big full length, full costume play twice on Saturday! Jackson got the part of a turtle and did a great job!

Hannah was a delight to watch in the Green Show this year. She got to be "Titania" in Shakespeare's "The Midsummer Night's Dream" - she may have found a new love of acting. She surprised us all by doing such a wonderful job!

The Discovery Science Center is a really fun field trip the kids go on in the second grade. It's one of Chip's favorites, too!

... and sometimes the bus ride is the best part of the day!

Thanks, Messina's!!

2010-06-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

How cool are Uncle Tyler and Aunt Kelley for taking Jack to the Monstor Jam when Chip had to work?!?!

Little do they know that the most fun might have been right here at home!!

We love you, Eleni!

Thanks again Tyler and Kelley. :)
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By the way... don't you need a night alone without her again?!

A love of Music!

2010-06-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

When Chip and I were ready to start having a family, I ordered children who would love music. I thank God every day for filling that order very well!!!

Taylor and Aubrey each had a fantastic year in junior high. Aubrey was in choir and played first chair violin in the orchestra! She really loved it. It was the toughest decision she has had to make so far, but she decided to follow in her sister's footsteps by continuing with just choir next year. Having only two electives is SO difficult - she decided to get a year of language out of the way so she can have more options in high school.

Taylor had an excellent year in the Improv choir. She has a beautiful soprano voice and reads music fantastically! She has definitely passed me up and I enjoy learning from her now!

Aubrey got a "superior" rating with her performance at the solo festival! She "rocks" (as you can see here, as I tried getting a "nice" picture of her and ended up with ths one.)

Taylor got the solo at her Spring concert and even got over having to be this close to a boy! Whew.. that was a HUGE deal, ya know!

Hannah is planning on joining the 5th grade choir next year too! And Jackson spends his free time plunking out "taps" and the theme to "Pearl Harbor" on the piano..(all on his own!)

What an amazing, wonderful blessing.. to have music in our home every day!

Even if it is Jackson cracking on the high notes in the shower....

A Very Special Day

2010-05-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

A long time ago, two proud mommies, and two proud daddies held their sweet babies on their special blessing day.

Eight years later, the moms and dads were just as proud on their special baptism day.

(But the babies are the only ones that look older of course)

In trying to get the kids to recreate the goose bump giving musical number, Aubrey's personality came right out...

It was a wonderful day. What a blessing to have Gramma and Morgan there! Jack and Eden will always have a special bond sharing these important days in their lives.

Disgusting yet Delicious!

2010-05-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Cub Scouts has definitely been the highlight of 2010 for Jack for sure! For the Blue and Gold pack meeting, all the boys were asked to bake and decorate a cake. Jack was SO excited! We wandered the grocery store trying to come up with ideas... we thought of making a football field, or a flight deck, or a checker board. He threw out several fun ideas, but once he saw the gummy worms, it was all over! And what a relief for mom.... quite easy as a bonus! So with a bit of food coloring, crushed ores and worms, he created what he thought was the perfect cake for a bunch of boys!

Apparently, it was quite delicious too!

January 2010

2010-04-23T17:38:00.000-07:00

Well, if you ask me... January looked pretty much like this......

I was recovering from major surgery that I had December 29th.

I was very well taken care of, that's for sure!! Chip was amazing, and the kids were too! The girls even came home from school on their lunch break to make my lunch and do whatever I needed!

I'm glad they still got out and did some neat things!

Some of their January adventures were:

Tubing with the Makaafi's,

(I love this picture of Beth laughing)

Teaching Gunner new tricks....

The re-dedication of the Capitol Building...

Cub Scouts!!

The Fiesta Bowl ...

(Jack's genuine reaction to an awesome play in a tense moment)

and the highlight of January..... drum roll please.........

GRAMMA!!!!!!!!

We were so very happy that Gramma finally felt well enough to come meet her newest grand daughter, Eleni, and to visit. What a great January!

ChRiStMaS dAy 2009

2010-04-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

Check out what Santa brought Gunner....

Jackson's favorite thing in his stocking was a laser pointer - he kept trying to get it in the pictures - sometimes he was successful!

I really love my apron!! Good thing is, I rarely have to wash it cause I don't use it a whole lot BUT - it sure looks cute hanging in the pantry!!! I keep forgetting to use it on those rare baking occasions - but I really do love it!

Aubrey's funny - she likes to open her gifts with her eyes closed until it's all unwrapped!

Think she likes her new CDs?

My music lover's real reaction!

A "real" football was on Jack's list this year!

Chip was very creative - he framed one of the bells from Santa's real sleigh that he gave our family the first year we lived in Idaho! That was a special Christmas we will never forget, and especially now with this thoughtful gift!

I too had fun thinking of a fun gift for Chip. Ever since I first knew him, he talked about this record album that he grew up with. He knows the songs and talks about them a lot! He has fond memories of listening to this record as a child and has kept it for years! I had it made into a CD for his gift. I done good :)

Oh, how I love Christmas Day!!!!!!!

Christmas Eve 2009

2010-04-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's all the fun little traditions that make it all so GREAT!!!!!!

A nice dinner....

New jams......

Twas the night before Christmas....

Cookies for Santa...

And a slumber party!!!

I can't help but wonder how long it will all last - our youngest is already EIGHT!!! That's why try to enjoy every minute while the magic is still lingering.... just barely.... but still there!

More December Stuff!

2010-04-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Wanted so share some more December fun before the Christmas post and so I can finally move on to 2010!! Some things to share....

Hannah's special Winter Light Luncheon at school...

Sledding trips with good friends....

Taylor and Aubrey's Christmas Concert...

And the annual Epilepsy Christmas Party for Hannah. This year we got to go on a fun limo ride!

Trying to catch up - not easy, I tell ya!

December Snow Days

2010-03-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons why I love Boise - the perfect amount of snow, in my opinion. Enough to have fun in and play, but not too much to where it's miserable and keeps me stuck at home!

I love our seasons!! (But definitely ready for Spring!) :)

Jack is EIGHT!!!

2010-03-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

Really? Was it really this long ago?!
It really is hard to believe.

Our youngest - our baby boy was born eight years ago. Like it says on the couch... no freakin way!

If Jack could dream up the most perfect birthday in the world...... this is exactly how it would happen...

Starts out with the traditional birthday couch in the morning.

It was full of little gifts, and Jack's very favorite treats. This kit with a 2 liter bottle of soda was the COOLest gift from Aunt Kris and Uncle Rob! Jack and Chip launched it in the backyard. Highly recommended.

A great book from Grandma Schultz! Sure hope they bookmarked this page - must have been a good one! :) Jack didn't put the book down for days.

Chip had the perfect plan for Jack's birthday. He took him and his best buddies to the local air force base to talk to a fighter jet pilot and fly one themselves in a flight simulator!

"tough faces!"

Then back home for airplane cake and 8 rowdy boys. Wow - glad Chip had them for the majority of the party - But it was a blast!!!

Ended the day putting the lego airplane kit together from Gramma and Grampa Kossub.

Wow, our last big eighth birthday party - Whew!! Good job Chip - what a lucky boy Jack is!

Boise Christmas Tree Lighting

2010-02-16T07:50:00.000-08:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving has turned into a very fun tradition for us! Boise has a Christmas Tree lighting ceremony downtown every year that we really enjoy going to. Everyone holds a red or green candle, and the sight among the crowd after the sun goes down is amazing!

There's just something wonderful about the people of the city you live in and love coming together and celebrating Christmas together by singing Frosty the Snowman and Silent Night - loud and proud! It really starts off the season right. I love Boise!!!

Thankful for Thanksgiving!

2010-02-09T11:26:00.000-08:00

Aaaaahhhh... Thanksgiving. I LOVE this holiday! Always filled with the Macy's Parade, a 1,000 piece puzzle to be done before Christmas, home videos, and cooking all day. And believe it or not, that part is actually fun for me, since I save all my cooking and baking for one day of the year!

And please allow myself to pat myself on the back for a minute.... it actually all turns out pretty darn delicious! The family really appreciates the meal when the the rest of the year is hamburger helper, grilled cheese, and spaghetti! (from a jar even)

Mashed potatoes that didn't come from a box are a rare treat around here... once a year rare!

I actually love that I don't cook these kinds of meals often... (at all)... we would never enjoy it as much as we do on Thanksgiving! And I am ever so grateful for a wonderful family who all happily agree!

Unexpected Look-a-Likes!

2010-02-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

My sister Kelley was looking at the baby pictures of the kids on our refrigerator and found a pretty striking resemblance of little Eleni in baby Jack!

He thought that was pretty neat.

I think they'll be pretty good buds. Jackson will be a great protector of her, I'm sure!

Buried In Leaves!

2010-02-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

This was the last raking job before winter set in..... the kids definitely took advantage of the leaves first and had a blast!

This is one of my favorites!

Almost to the end of the year now - whew!

Veteran's Day Parade and BSU Game 2009

2010-02-05T11:14:00.000-08:00

I am very behind here, but also have a very good excuse - surgery!! So, slowly I will catch up to 2010..... but for now, here is some of November of 2009!

We love the Veteran's Day parade every year.... it has become a family tradition.

I think my favorite part is when a local high school football team carries this enormous American Flag down the street. It always takes my breath away.

Great friends gave us 4 tickets to the big BSU game - Chip, Taylor, Aubrey, and Jack had a blast while Hannah and I went to the mall and got her ears pierced! :)

GOOD TIMES!!!!!

HaLLoWeeN 2009

2009-12-04T12:42:00.000-08:00

We tell our kiddos they can trick or treat till age twelve. There's just something about seeing teenagers trick-or-treating that rubs me wrong. Some might think that's weird. That's ok. :)

So, this year was Aubrey's last! She threw a costume together the morning of the 31st. Way to go Aubs. Hannah and I found some black boots in the costume box and she decided she wanted to be a cowgirl, and Jack out of the blue announced one day he wanted to be the Phantom of the Opera!

Taylor went to a church Halloween dance. She and her friends all went as Supergirl! The talented moms made the capes.... not me. :)

I can't believe next year we will only have two trick-or-treaters! That really does make me feel old!

Pumpkin Patch Portraits :) 2009

2009-12-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Idaho Pumpkin patches... the real deal! Took a while to get used to, but can appreciate the song "Jack-o-lantern" now when it talks about a "yellow pumpkin growing on a sturdy vine"! After moving here.... I finally get it!

This year, my sister Ellen and her boyfriend were visiting from CA, so we all met there and had a really great time.

Hannah's 10th Birthday

2009-11-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

Birthdays around here always start out with the famous Birthday Couch! It quickly became quite a wonderful tradition in our home when I kinda accidentally started it 12 years ago - it has been adopted by several families, and I think that is wonderful!

This year, Taylor and Aubrey volunteered on their own to completely plan, and carry out a party for Hannah. They did everything, and I do mean everything! They were very organized too! They had fun decorations in mind, several fun games to play, a funny home video of a two year old Hannah to show her friends, and lots of fun little tid bits throughout the party. It was wonderful! Chip and I literally sat back, took pictures, and watched. It was GREAT!

Tyler and Kelley came by and helped put up the decorations. I think Hannah's favorite part of her day was getting to hold Eleni!

Here is Taylor and Aubrey's plan of events for the party - they managed to stay right on schedule too!

The next day, Hannah got to choose her favorite meal for dinner, and help make it! She chose sour cream chicken enchaladas, ceasar salad, and cream cheese corn - mmmmmmmm!!!!

Hannah is now the age that I was when I met my husband, now is that crazy, or what?!?!?! Hannah is a delight. There is nobody quite like our Hannah Banana - she is unique and we love her just the way she is!

I Love My Dog.............

2009-11-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog Ilove my dog

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog
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Convincing?
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These were all taken within 4-5 days mind you.... never mind the other 36 weeks....

I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog I love my dog.........

Epilepsy Bike Ride - Go Hannah!!

2009-11-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

Look at this cute girl!

Every year, Hannah proudly takes part in the Epilepsy Bike Ride. This is a special day for her - a wonderful time for her and Dad to do something together that means a lot to our family.

Hannah was diagnosed with a seizure disorder (epilepsy) when she was a year old. She has a very unique kind of epilepsy - doctors still haven't come across a case exactly like hers. This is one reason we like to participate in an event such as this, because it raises money for epilepsy research.

We were glad Aunt Kelley and Uncle Tyler could come and support Hannah!

Waiting for them to come back!

Jack was really anxious and wanted to be the first to see them.

Ready to capture the moment...

Seeing them turn the corner is my favorite part of the whole day!

Always a great day for our family!

We are very proud of you, Hannah and love you so very much!!

Perfect Weather Weekend!

2009-10-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Not knowing if we'd have to wait a whole year to see another beautiful 70's weather weekend - we thought we'd enjoy this last one as much as we could!
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Jack ended his football season with a great game on Saturday. It was such a great first football season for the Schultz's! I don't think it will be long before Jack starts going through football withdrawls! His coaches say his is "passionate and self-driven" - he was so much fun to watch!

Unfortunately, the amazing colors all around us right now won't last long. We are trying to take it all in and really enjoy the season!

(that is a football in his free hand!)
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She's getting way too tall... (and perhaps standing next to Chip, she doesn't seem very tall, but you know what I mean!)

Yes, the tree in our backyard is in a "cast" - yes it has chicken wire around it. yes, we have a puppy...

...who doesn't look much like a puppy anymore!

The last five pictures were taken by our little budding photographer, Aubrey! She loves stealing the camera.

Fall is definitely my favorite time of year! I love pulling into our driveway right now, or just walking outside, because the tree in our front yard makes me smile. :)

Gramps and Grammy

2009-10-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

Gramps and Grammy came to see their newest Granddaughter, Eleni. It was a wonderful visit! I sure wish we got more pictures, but here are a few!

Football games... barbecues.... nice talks...... fun games..... it really was wonderful. Oh, and Jackson can now catch just about every ball thrown at him thanks to advice from Gramps. He IS a high school football referee now, ya know! :)

Jack's Hobby

2009-09-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

"Mom, can you please find something that I can take apart with tools?"

I gave him his mini skateboard that he never rides anymore because he has a bigger one now...

"Thanks Mom! That was awesome!! Anything else?"

First Day of School 2009

2009-09-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

I am in denial that my youngest is already in the second grade.. but what is a lot more difficult to swallow is that my oldest is a FRESHMAN!!!!! Wow, wow, wow.

Chip always takes the first day of school off of work and walks the kids to school. So far, they all love it - Chip asked the older girls if it is embarrassing to them - "not at all" was their answer - whew! Sure hope that lasts and lasts!

Jackson 2nd grade

Hannah 4th grade

"Bye Dad!"

Aubrey 7th grade

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Perfectly matching toes was a must for Aubs.

Okay, this got a little embarrassing I think.... "keep the camera in your pocket, dad!!"

Taylor 9th grade

6:30 a.m. seminary class - she LOVES it!!

School has been in for about 5 weeks and and is off to a great start. We are so grateful for awesome schools here. (And I am especially grateful that they are in walking distance! :)

The Schultz's First Football Season - EVER!

2009-09-14T08:40:00.000-07:00

We have discovered how much fun FOOTBALL season is around here! Football is HUGE here in Boise!

This is Jack's first year of flag football - he will play one more year of flag... then onto tackle! (Dang, that scares me!) At his very first game, two ambulances came and went, both with little boys inside with broken bones! *big sigh*

There couldn't have been a more exciting moment during his first game. He was playing defensive end. It was during the last quarter... the game was getting long as it was very hot outside. But suddenly, I looked up to watch the next play and just then, Jackson caught an interception and immediately ran it down the field for a touchdown!!!!!! I had to ask myself if that really just happened! The crowd loved it - it was awesome!!

After the big celebration, Chip and I caught each other's eye from across the field where he was with the boys.... I could be wrong.... but I don't think I was the only one who needed a kleenex! :) Jack was presented the game ball after the game. I don't think it could have been anymore exciting! What a fantastic way to start our first year of football!

Jack with his cousin, Ilai...

too tough to smile!

Chip finds pure joy in coaching his own kids. He is learning the game right along with the boys and having a blast! He has them in perfect sync during warm-ups and cheering for their teammates and the other teams as well. He does well with teaching respect and discipline and the boys think he's pretty great!

Jack is all about football right now... "NOW how many minutes till practice, mom?"

bAbY eLeNi iS hEre!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Kelley gave me permission to treat all the Grammas, Grampas, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, friends, and adore-ers of Eleni with these pictures so they didn't have to wait any longer to see her! Enjoy!

My first peek at Eleni through the window while Kelley was in recovery. I just cried. She's beautiful!

Eleni getting her footprints. This is when I got to hear her voice, you can't tell here, but she did not like it one bit!

Eleni's first visitors... Patrick and Shayla

A wonderful moment for me!

Beautiful, happy, relieved Mama

The Messina Family.... congratulations!!

Welcome sweet baby girl!

More Summer Fun (in no particular order)

2009-08-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

Fun at the Twilight Criterion bike races in downtown Boise...

Fun at Discovery Park with the Makaafi's...

Fun at the river...

Fun on the 4th...

More fun at the river...

Fun at the fountain...

This summer has been GREAT! Of course there have been bumps in the road, more quarrels than I'd like to admit, and struggles here and there... but when I remember all of this fun we've had, I think it's been one of the best summers ever! You have to experience the negative, to really enjoy the positive. So in that sense...... I think it's been perfect!

VEGAS BABY!!!!

2009-07-16T13:35:00.000-07:00

If you have seen my husband's blog, he has a list of things he'd like to do before he dies. One of them is "spend a wild weekend in Vegas with my wife."

CHECK!!

Six good friends, on a 12 hour road trip, about to have the time of our lives!

It had been in the works for a very, very long time. The excitement was unbearable!!

Chip and I thought we'd show up with "Go Sarah Go" shirts to get a rise out of everyone - not everyone has the same political views in this group - It was hilarious. I wish I had a picture of them all when we walked out of the house... especially Damon!

Here is our trip in pictures...

Potty stops were always play time too. And thanks to my awesome bladder... we had plenty of them!

My husband is SO talented!!

This sign is just plain funny.

We stayed at the beautiful Venetian Hotel.

The ceilings throughout the hotel were amazing!

Here is the view from our room!

exploring on the strip...

It was very strange finding out about Michael Jackson's death on the road trip via text message from Taylor. This memorial was set up and by the time we left Vegas, the flowers and tributes were overflowing.

One of the highlights for me was Madam Trousseau's Wax Museum. I really loved it!

I chilled with Cameron Diaz for a few...

I gave Tiger Woods some tips...

Evil Knievel let Chip try out his bike...

I thought he enjoyed his picture with Jessica Simpson a little too much...

He even had a talk with the Godfather!

Whoopie and I chatted it up for a bit too.

Rachel and Damon raced down the hall in our hotel one evening. You know.. one of those "it's 2am and we are too tired to be normal" moments.

Never thought I'd want to swim on a Vegas trip, but the pool was AWESOME! (It's the one you can see from our view from the room) It was really fun.

Friday night was simply the BEST!! It was the "main part" of our trip. We went to an awesome "fancy" sort of dinner - I had never been to that kind of restaurant, where they lay the napkin on your lap for you and and escort you to the restroom! So it was a great experience! After that, we saw "Phantom of the Opera"!! I couldn't have enjoyed it more. Actually, I'm lying. I could have enjoyed it a bit more if I didn't have to RUN TO THE BATHROOM in the middle of it!!! Did I mention I have an awesome bladder?

Michelle starting sipping the chocolate sauce that was to be poured over her dessert...

So I did too.

It was like happy sauce. :)

Chip got in trouble for taking this picture in the theater! That's Chip for ya - sacrifice anything for a picture! I believe if we won Publisher's Clearing or something... I would spend my money seeing shows like this. It is my absolute favorite thing to do. And it sure helps that my husband enjoys it just as much as I do, if not more! (Not sure if I'm allowed to share that about him!)

Believe it or not... there was no "wear black, white, and red" sort of plan. We all just DID!!

Gondola rides after the show. Loved it.

The next day, we headed to the Stratosphere! Have you SEEN those rides at the very top?!? I would have bet money that I couldn't be dragged on one.... but Chip is my husband, remember?

While walking through, Chip saw this huge slot machine. We couldn't go to Vegas and not do ONE, right? So, he put a buck in...

and won 12 bucks! It was hilarious. After we came home, our neighbors asked Hannah, "How much money did your mom and dad win in Vegas?" She was so proud and excited..."12 dollars!!" They just paused and said, "that's it? serious?"

Emmett had to make sure Chip was tall enough for the rides.

At the top of the Stratosphere - it was awesome!!

Emmett, Michelle, and Chip rode the Sling Shot. I couldn't have been paid to ride this one!

Before...

During...

and after.

But Chip couldn't have been paid to ride "Insanity"! Heights don't bother me a bit so I thought this was the best one for me.

However, I got a little overconfidant. I didn't realize the spinning would make me SO sick to my stomach - I was miserable for a couple of hours afterward!

I'm a good faker here... cause I really just wanted to barf.

In and Out was a MUST in Vegas since we don't have them here in Boise, but notice I have no food in front of me... I was too sick to eat!!!

So, after that subsided.. we went to race go-karts!!

I am still amazed at the unexpected thrill I got out of this. I found myself flooring it the whole time, and figuring out the best technique during the turns so I could pass everyone! I loved it!

Yep, that's me, on the first place block, baby!

Smoked my girls...

More exploring - I really love the Newyork, Newyork. It's one of my favorites! When you are inside, you feel like you are outside, on the streets of Newyork. It is casual and fun.

We are some lucky ladies... check out our men.

So, being in Vegas, we did some research and went to the BEST buffet there. It was the Bellagio and it didn't dissapoint!

We all did what we were there to do... completely stuff ourselves to the point of disgust.

The water show at the Bellagio is so impressive. I just love, love it.

Here we are, waiting for our car at some crazy time in the morning ... so exhausted, we couldn't even stand up straight!!

Chip and I got a second wind that night and went back out - we walked around till 3:00 or so - I really loved the Wynn. It had a different feeling than any other hotel - everything was red, even the chandaleirs, and there were so many awesome things to see inside!

Here we are, back in our hotel lobby.

We were sad to leave Vegas..... one more night would have been perfect.

So, nine hours into our drive home.... we stopped to make ONE last stop for gas. Can you believe the keys got locked in the car?! We tried and tried, but finally had to call for help! Hilarious. Now it is anyway!

Back at home... with memories to last a lifetime.

We laughed till we cried. We ate like we never have before. We did things we never thought we'd dare to do. We experienced Vegas in a fun, wonderful, and fantastic way.

Thanks Chip, for the vision you had of this amazing weekend!

What next?

A cruise? (that one is on MY list!)

Catching up!

2009-07-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

So many things to blog about! But I gotta catch up - so here are random pictures and activities mostly from the month of May that we wanted to share with everyone!

Uncle Tyler and Aunt Kelley stopped by with a pet.... Taylor called her friends!!!

Aubrey received the Presidents Award at School!

Hannah's End of the Year Luau...

Jack had one too!

A fun overnight camping trip with friends...

Jack's Nature Ranger field trip to the park and zoo....

The end of a great baseball season...

Aubrey's friends - they have to go from "the biggies on campus" - to "sevies"

On Memorial Day we got our picture taken with a true hero!

Then we enjoyed a barbecue and traditionally set up a tent for Dad and the kids to sleep in all weekend. (My time to stretch out in my bed - and not to worry about being woken up by snoring!!!)

Aubrey's Sixth Grade Camp...

Father's and Sons...

End of the year orchestra concert...

A picture of Anela I couldn't pass up to share...

and finally - a new do and contacts for me..... still trying to decide of I like it! :)

I've been in a "blog fog" lately - and there's so much more to post! I haven't even checked out everyone elses - I WILL do better, I WILL do better, I WILL do better...

Fun Family Times

2009-06-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

Visits from California loved ones are always exciting, big news. They are the highlights of the kids year for sure! We just love those days spent with family we haven't seen in a long time. The days always fly by, so we try to make the very most of them!
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Unfortunately, my pictures didn't turn out well, but I'll post what I did get.

Jack was a protective cousin, making sure Beck didn't become Gunner's chew toy!

This was my favorite day - Easter at the Makaafi's house. It was fantastic!

Between the big, bright blue eyes, green candy that looks like a boogar, and the drip of saliva on the chin..... this is a classic.

Uncle Chip trying to steal a kiss...

Such great buddies these two are!

Grandma had fun choosing a new shirt to match each grandchild's personality - they were part of the egg hunt this year. Oh how grateful I am to my mom who told the easter bunny not to worry about anything this year - mom, that was the best!!!

What do you think....who looks like who here?

This day however.....ugh. What the heck kind of weather was this at a baseball game?!? Ridiculous... but made for a great picture!! They were such troopers - smiling even though their cheeks were numb!

We are so glad Kelley will be having a baby in September cause we have a hunch we'll have visitors again! Double the excitement for September!

Surely the best part about living in Idaho are the visitors we often get - Only three short weeks till we get more!

Our New Addition

2009-05-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever taken a trip that completely changed your life?

One month ago... we did.

Remember THIS?

Well, after saving and saving.... finally their work paid off!

It was all planned! The day of our eight hour road trip to Oregon to pick up our puppy was finally here. The excitement of Christmas morning even felt incomparable!

First stop - to buy a collar for Gunner. We all agreed that red would be his color after seeing all the pictures that the wonderful breeder had been sending us the past eight weeks.

Now, there was nothing to stop us.... well.... except for the coolest looking slide at a park in Oregon!

AND some beautiful scenery .....

After that, we just couldn't get there to meet little Gunner fast enough!

Once there, we were taken on a wonderful tour of Thornwood Labradors. Imagine forty-five beautiful English Labradors all extremely excited to see us! It was quite overwhelming!! It was hard for everyone to wait.... but finally the time came. Finally, it was time to meet the puppy who would be coming home with us to stay!

It was love at first sight... for everyone!

The kids didn't want to go to the hotel that night without Gunner, but we all knew we had to. We had fun that night, talking about what it was like to meet him and what it would be like - life with a dog. (I don't think they had a clue what this was really going to be like!)

You can imagine how excited everyone was to wake up and get ready the next morning, the day we actually took Gunner home!

The drive home was great because Gunner was so calm, just trying to figure out what the heck was going on!

Every hour, on the hour, we stopped so Gunner could pee. We have read that he needs plenty of praise when he pees outside..... well, he definitely isn't short of praise around here!

This is a big swarm of praise around him!

Poor Gunner had no privacy - the kids all watched intently till he peed - okay, we all did.

Even when he ate, nobody could take their eyes off of him! During the drive, everyone sat in the official "hold Gunner" chair for 1/2 hour at a time. They could all hardly wait their turn to stare at and snuggle with him!

Introducing Gunner to his new home was really fun for the kids (and chaotic and crazy too)!

Welcome to your new home Gunner! We really think you will love it here with us!

After such a looooooooong day.... what we all really needed, was sleep.

And if you think that really happened.....THINK AGAIN!!!

It has been one month since we welcomed Gunner into our home. It has been wonderful, terrible, difficult, exciting, frustrating, fantastic, and exhausting. After four children, I can honestly say, that these puppy days have been just as overwhelming as those newborn days. But I can also honestly say, that I KNEW it would be this hard, and thank goodness I had been mentally preparing for almost a year now. I would have gone completely insane by now had I not!

So, it's a new world for the Schultz's. But you know, perhaps the most interesting view about this whole experience, is right through Gunner's Eyes!

Notice Anything Different?

2009-05-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Metal Mouth....

Brace Face.....

Tin Grin.....

Yep, we got one of those now!!!

AUBERINO.... AUBS..... AUBREY MAY..... - SHE'S 12!

2009-04-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

The birthday fairy struck again.....

A second child to be old enough to be in YW - the church's youth program. Seems impossible!

We had a fun family get together for the two March b-day girls - The kids always look forward to gatherings with cousins!

We usually let the kids have a "real" party on their 12th. Aubrey thought and thought about what to do...

My husband is brilliant. He came up with a "Downtown Picture Scavenger Hunt"

Brilliant because a) - the girls had a blast and b) - IT WAS FREE!!! Aaahh - I love that word. That, in my opinion, is brilliant!

We drove the girls to downtown Boise - we realized last minute that we couldn't responsibly fit 7 girls and Chip and I in the van - (can you imagine that conversation between the girls' and their moms?!) so thank goodness Aunt Kelley was available - not only was she a driver, but she also took Taylor, Hannah, and Jack to the mall during the pizza part of Aubrey's party. Again, brilliant!!

Once downtown, we gave the girls a map (beautifully hand made by my talented map maker of a husband) and the coolest list of pictures they had to get with Aubrey's camera. Chip and I thought they'd be apprehensive about asking complete strangers to take their picture. Uh.. think again!

Here are just a few:

A picture of all the girls in sunglasses...

A picture with everyone's hand on a big bell... (they had to find the bell somewhere downtown)

Aubrey with a cook...

A picture of all the girls with the capitol in the background...

And the one that made me, Chip and Kelley laugh so hard - They had to get a picture of all of them in front of City Hall. The first people they saw was a sweet senior couple taking a leisurely stroll downtown. Without hesitation, all seven of them ran full speed to ask them to take a picture. So, the nice man did... BUT... the girls weren't happy with it because they did not see the words "City Hall" in the picture. So, they asked him to "get down a little" and take another picture. Well, he didn't just get down a little - he down a lot! After the girls stopped giggling, Aubrey went to get her camera from him, and he asked for help getting up....

When he walked away, he had dirt all the way down his sleeve... we felt so bad, but couldn't help but laugh about that all night!! But at least he got the picture they needed!! He was such a sweet man. The girls are trying not to burst out laughing here...

After downtown, they came home and had fun being 12 year old girls. The conversations of 12 year old girls are quite entertaining, to say the least.

Perhaps the ride home was the best part! Yes, we did squeeze for these few minutes in the car - ssshhhh.... we aren't telling!!!

Aubrey always has us all in stitches - a special girl she is indeed! Sure love you Miss Aubrey May!

Taylor's 14th Birthday Couch

2009-03-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Actually... this is her 12th. I came up with the idea when she was turning three. The birthday couch fairy really looks forward to birthday couch creating...

A new teacher at church paid Taylor a visit - she's simply the best.

And a sweet friend made a clover cake for her.

A day of fun surprises and her favorite things.

I guess it doesn't matter that I don't feel ready to have a 14 year old - I mean nobody asked me how I felt about it first!

Thank goodness she is delightful. We love her to peices.

Let the Season Begin...

2009-03-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

Do ya think Jack was excited for his first baseball practice?

This was a dead give away.

Let's Go To the Hop! (and the Monster Truck Jam)

2009-03-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend we had!

Friday night:

I don't think Chip and I would have gone to the Stake 50's Dance just because. But I wanted to support our good friend who put the whole thing together. And what do ya know, we had SO MUCH FUN!! We had a blast with friends, and Chip even won the costume contest for the guys!

It was hilarious.

Saturday:

Chip and Jackson never miss the Monster Jam!! Jackson wanted so much for me to "experience" this event - I tried to talk them into it being a special boys day together, but it was pretty important to them that I go along....

Thank goodness for earplugs.

It WAS fun - and pretty exciting! But I think this is one of those "if you've seen it once...." type of things for me. The announcer's voice is still ringing in my head - he made me laugh the whole time. The whole rest of the day, Chip and I couldn't help but talk like him...

(Imagine a low, deep, loud, growling voice)

"WHAT SHALL WE HAVE FOR DINNNNNNNERRRRRRRRRRRR?!?!"

"GRIIIIILLLLLLLLLLLLED CHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESE SANDWHICHEZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!!"

Day at Camel's Back

2009-03-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

We have lived here for four and a half years and had never been to Camel's Back Park here in Boise. But I think in the last month, we have been there three times!! This is where we went on their most recent day off of school.

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First, we climbed the famous (or infamous, however you look at it!) hill.

Aubrey was first!

Hiking down the trails on the other side is my favorite part!

Off to the playground - we had never seen one of these - it was really bouncy and fun!

The big open field there is perfect for frisbee, playing fetch with the dog, soccer, etc. All Jackson wanted to do was play soccer with his sisters. After rolling their eyes and dragging their feet - I got the girls out there. Guess who had the best time ever?

Then..... it happened. Check out the next picture - see Taylor's left knee? Take a look at where it's headed.

Right. where. it. counts.

Yeah. That pretty much ended our day at Camel's Back.

Valentine's Day 2009

2009-02-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

Having Valentine's Day on Saturday this year was GREAT! Our day was fantastic.

The Plan: Mom and Dad go out for breakfast - then Mom and Dad take each child out on a separate date to the place of their choice for an hour and a half (not exceeding $5!!) It turned out even better than we thought it would be - one on one time for the kids with Mom and Dad is rare. It was great for everyone.

Jack was first. He chose - without hesitation - hiking up the famous hill at Camel's Back Park. I'm glad we did that first, because that was really hard!! But it was amazing!

See that hill behind us? Yep - that's it!

Hannah had to settle for her second choice since her first choice was the Labor and Delivery Unit at the hospital!! Newborn babies are her favorite. But her other great love is animals. So off to Zamzows and Pet Co we went! The two stores are on opposite ends of a huge parking lot, so walking to and from was half the fun! She visited with all the dogs that came in to the store, looked at all the small animals, and loved "imaginary shopping" for Gunnar - the puppy we hope to get this summer.

Dad and Hannah had fun with her shadow!

Aubrey is a girl after my own heart. Dark chocolate is her favorite! She had a tough time deciding what to do, so she went with our suggestion. We picked out the most delicious looking peice of dark chocolate at Rocky Mountain Chocolate factory, and then walked down to Idaho Ice World and watched a hockey game. That was fun!

Like Jack and Hannah, Taylor had no difficulties choosing where she wanted to go - her friends have been talking about a brand new store at the mall - "Forever 21" - so we went to see what all the hype was about. Chip was having too much fun embarassing Taylor, so I told her I would blog these next few photos of him to embarrass him back!

Taylor with her brand new torquoise nail polish!

It really was a good day - didn't think of the idea till the day before, but it ended up being the best idea ever! Good thinkin, Chip!

Twenty Valentine's Days as a couple - we've had our ups and downs... but it's never been better than now - I am SO lucky!

I've been tagged!

2009-02-10T13:08:00.000-08:00

Well, my friend Kris tagged me - and I'm afraid I'll get in trouble if I don't follow through! I was supposed to go to my FOURTH folder and post my FOURTH photo - here it is!!
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If you have never been to Red Fish Lake in Stanley Idaho - wait no longer - it's beautiful and wonderful and peaceful, and all of those good things. It's my favorite place ever. When I am in the dentist chair, I close my eyes, and I am there!

Consider yourself tagged.... cause this was fun! (everybody do it, but specifically I tag my sisters {in law too!} and my mom!)

Missoula Children's Theater

2009-02-10T12:09:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my friend Summer Larson, who shares her passion with the community, Trail Wind Elementary has had the unique opportunity to have The Missoula Children's Theater come to our school. This was the second year. To say this is a huge feat is really quite an understatement! This year's production was Pinocchio.

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Auditions are held Monday - children who get a part practice every day after school. The main characters are there from 3:30 till 8:00 every day! They are then completely ready to put on a huge musical production on Saturday - two shows!! They have memorized songs, dances, and an entire script of dialogue in 5 days. Simply amazing!

Aubrey was happy to get the part of "Scaramouch" - a puppet made by Gepeto. And Jack (of all things) got to be a Toy Soldier, made by Gepeto also. They were both thrilled.

Children also have an opportunity to be in the "Green Show" if they didn't get a part in Pinocchio. (Again, this is all thanks to Summer!) I had the wonderful opportunity to help choreograph this show - it was really fun! Hannah was in the Green Show and loved it.

Yes, it is an absolutely crazy week. Homework and dinner is a nightmare. BUT - it IS only a week, and it ends up being totally worth it. It is an experience that is rare, one that is fantastic for the children, and one they won't soon forget.

Thank you for making this happen, Summer!!

ChRisTmAs 2008

2009-02-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

We couldn't wait for Santa to come this year simply because we finally had a chimney for him to come down! And boy did he ever - he left his muddy hand prints on the tiles of the fireplace and he left the cover off! We couldn't believe it! We had no idea Santa had such huge hands!

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What I have loved the most about the last few Christmases here in Boise, has been taking our time - A LOT of time to open gifts, and enjoy each one thoroughly until going on to the next. We get up slowly, marvel and awe over what we see, read the answers to the kids questions for Santa, get super excited, rummage through our stockings, and have traditional cinnamon rolls before we open any gifts. Oh, and all hair has to be at least brushed, or I go crazy. :) A good hour (at least) goes by till we start - then we open a gift every hour or so - sometimes even more just to make our day last and last. This year, the kids even watched a new movie while mom and dad napped for an hour and a half, and we still had gifts to open! Then, we always save the gift from Santa until after dinner. We finish gift opening around 8:00. It's the best! We all have that to really look forward to, all day long. Christmas Day this way has become the only way for us - can't imagine it any other way - we LOVE it!

It was a wonderful Christmas indeed.

Twas the Night Before Christmas...

2009-01-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

This year on Christmas Eve, we put away the boxes, and most importantly, the craziness of moving!
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We made cookies for Santa - two kids to a batch. Yes, that's a cake mix box on the table - don't knock 'em till you've tried 'em! They are delicious! To me, any recipe with more than 4 ingredients creates too much stress. These were perfect! An egg for each child - add some oil - stir. Seriously - no fuss. My kind of baking. Besides, we still had loads of fun in the process! I am still trying to forgive Aunt Kelley though - ever since she made "real" chocolate chip cookies with the kids, they tease me and nag me to do it again. Thanks, Kells.

Anyway... after baking Cake Mix Cookies,

Chip surprised the kids by telling them to bundle up - I think playing in the snow with dad is their favorite winter activity. Thank goodness, cause their memories of mom in the winter will have to be of me with a camera in my hands - through the closed window! I always get away with saying no when I tell them I will make hot chocolate and cup-o-noodle soup! My little trick...

(just for fun - that's Taylor's school right behind our fence! When she's running a little behind, she hops on over, and she's at school!)

Opening jammies after a traditional ham dinner has become a fun tradition for us - posing with them and taking their picture has become a fun tradition for dad. :)
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Of course the sprinkling of the reindeer food is a must!

One Christmas Eve, about 9-ish years ago, Taylor decided to ask Santa a question and put it by his cookies. She figured this was a good way to get an answer straight from Santa himself! I believe her burning question was, "How many elves are there?" Santa's answer was "more than the stars in the sky!" She was dumbfounded. This started the tradition of asking Santa questions and putting them by the cookie plate. We have a priceless collection from over the years! I'm sure it is getting tougher and tougher to answer the questions as they get more creative every year! Next year we'll have to limit the questions to one per child - that poor Santa!

We always end the night by reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas" - page by page. This was the first year we could all read well enough to make it actually flow! It was kind of monumental for Chip and me - it was a moment that made us realize how time truly does fly.

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Christmas Day post next... then finally done with 2008!

A Party We'll Never Forget!

2009-01-23T10:01:00.001-08:00

Although I know the Christmasy feeling is gone... I promised myself I would make these next few posts so we wouldn't only remember how crazy, chaotic, and even difficult our Christmas season of 2008 was. So, these next few posts will highlight the times that brought happiness and good feelings - those are the feelings we want to remember the most!

A big highlight this year was one very special Sunday. Hannah got a personal invitation from the Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho to go to a Christmas Party just for kids with epilepsy, and their families. Chip and I found out there was going to be a really cool surprise there. We were so excited and decided not to tell the kids.

On the way there, we told the kids there would be a surprise, and that we wouldn't tell them until it was time. All the kids thought the surprise was going to be Santa Clause -

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Yeah, he was cool and all, but nothing compared to what the real surprise was!

So while we waited, we participated in all of the fun activities there were for the kids, including

Balloon animals...

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Face (or hand) painting...

and gingerbread house building...

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I wish I had a picture of the kids reaction when they found out what the surprise was! Look what we got to do!!!
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A helicopter flight over Boise!!!
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Four people rode in the back, and one in the front with the pilot, which was supposed to be an adult, but Chip did what he does best, and somehow weaseled Taylor up there! She didn't want to, but later said she had the best spot - she got to wear head phones and talk to the pilot the whole time!

Since there are six of us and only five could go at at time, I stayed on the ground and videoed, which was perfectly fine with me! But when everyone came back, Chip said I absolutely have to experience it for myself, so he found a family of four, and once again, did some good weaseling and I went with them!

And I'm super glad he did! Who knew how awesome that could be?! Besides the feeling of hovering that isn't like an airplane at all, the sights were the best part! We flew right over the State Capitol Building...

Chip's work - the Qwest Building downtown,
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and the best one - not only did we see the "smurf turf" at Boise State, but the football team was actually practicing when we flew over! That was probably about the time that Jack stopped trembling in fear over the "take off'." It was SO cool!!!

I don't know if we will ever have this kind of opportunity again. It was amazing.
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It was so great to see Taylor, Aubrey, and Jack treat Hannah the way they did - they focused on her that day, knowing we were there because of her.
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In a conversation later that day, Hannah told Chip, "But dad, nobody there looked like they had epilepsy!" That made us wonder if she thinks she looks different to other people! She also said, "I had no idea other people had epilepsy!" It never occurred to me that she might think she is the only one. We talked a lot that day.
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I am so grateful to the Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho. I think Hannah feels very comforted in a way she might not have before.
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Hannah is amazing. She has routine blood tests next week. When I told her she said, "Yes! I LOVE the band aids they have there!"

Lucky Aunt

2009-01-13T12:17:00.000-08:00

Just about every day, Anela chooses a puzzle to do together before nap time. Today was better than most though, because we did ALL the puzzles in the house! It was a fun, wonderful, and special hour and a half with an apple and peanut butter break in the middle.

She was so proud of herself when we completed the last one.

I said "Let's take a picture!" To which she said, "Yeah! Put it on the pooter!" So here I am, putting it on the pooter. :)

I'm such a lucky Auntie!! Love you Nellie!

PERFECT(ly annoying)

2009-01-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am still way behind. But before I get on with my next scheduled post... I just thought I'd share this peice of paper that was hanging around after Chip hung the stockings this year...
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Actually, this is one of the three peices of paper he used.

I just know that Santa did a double take..... surely he had never seen stockings spaced as perfectly as ours were!

TELL me my husband isn't the only one.... okay, who am I kidding... I know he is.

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We all have to live with annoying traits. Over the years, I have learned how to be thankful for this one. I mean it could be a lot worse! As annoying as it may be, I must say I am thankful for my perfectly measured and placed pictures on our walls too. Only one nail hole... I usually make six - at least.
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I love my husband -

TONS!

Our Baby is Seven?

2009-01-06T11:41:00.000-08:00

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When we started moving into our new home the first week of December, our number one goal was to have it feel as much like a home as possible for the kids for Christmas. But we didn't want Jackson's birthday to be lost in the middle of it - so our new number one goal was to have the first night in our new home be December 11th, so Jackson could wake up to a birthday couch, and have things be as normal as possible! Well, not so sure things were "normal", but Jack did get his birthday couch, and it didn't disappoint!
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I will never forget December of 2001 - and all the emotions that came along with it. Our country was trying to heal from 9/11 that was still so fresh to everyone. I was 64 months pregnant (or so it felt) with number four. We had 3 girls who we thoroughly enjoyed, and although we thought another girl would have been wonderful, perhaps deep inside, we secretly hoped for a baby boy to join our family.

So clearly in my mind, I can see my doctor, who right after delivering Jackson, spread open his legs and put his "boy parts" in front of Chip's face as if to say, "You have a son, You finally have a son!"

I remember thinking even through the pain and discomfort, how truly special it was to be so pregnant at Christmastime, a time we talk and think about Mary so much. I remember holding our baby boy and thinking of Mary as she held her baby boy too. I remember crying... a lot.

I remember that even though other emotions got in the way, the strongest was love. Love for our Jackson Lane who seven years ago, made our family feel whole. Not just because he was a boy, just because he was Jackson.

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Jackson was, and still is, the best Christmas present we have ever received.

We love you "Jackman"!

SHOWTIME COMPANY

2008-12-31T11:14:00.001-08:00

For 4 years now, I have had the privilege of being a part of SHOWTIME COMPANY, and work with my dear friend Gayla. She started a children's singing/dancing/performing group for children 4th - 6th grade (there was a special exception for Hannah this year) and I get to help with the choreography. It has been SO much fun - such a positive part of my life here in Idaho.

Showtime gets to be a part of the Boise Christmas parade, and then that same day, perform at the very popular "Festival of Trees" - it is such a wonderful experience! We have performed at many different places, including retirement homes, the State Capitol, and local elementary schools. Together, Gayla and I have put together 9 shows! Every year, we do a Christmas show, and a Spring show. It is just so much fun. I have been tempted to not do Showtime from time to time so try and eliminate something from our schedule, but I never regret another season. I now believe as long as there is Showtime Company, I will always be a part of it.

The best part about Showtime, is getting together with Gayla often to choreograph. The first half of the time is spent talking, laughing, etc., and then we finally get to work. The relationship that we have built over time is the best part of it all. In addition, I also have the chance to hear her sing often while we practice - she'll never know what a treat that is for me!

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Thank you Gayla, for giving me this wonderful opportunity to be a part of this incredible group, but most of all, to be your friend!

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Busiest Christmas Season EVER!

2008-12-23T11:26:00.000-08:00

Five words of advice for you......

DON'T EVER MOVE IN DECEMBER!!!

Well, not if you can help it anyway. We didn't have much of a choice. Trying to make it an enjoyable Christmas season for the family, making our home look and feel nice for Christmas, and checking off the "to do" list before Christmas while trying to be a nice mom has been a challenge - perhaps more difficult than I ever thought it would.

Even though that "to do" list is still long... I just couldn't let another day go by without checking in on the blog. I haven't looked at other blogs in weeks. I can't wait to catch up once I can take a deep breath and get back to normal.

We do have so much to be thankful for. Our home, each other, our white world around us - it's so beautiful!

I have so much to catch up on - lots of posts to make! But here are some random pictures for fun, including a picture of our new home!
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Merry Christmas to all of you!

Our Thanksgiving Traditions

2008-12-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

I love our Thanksgiving traditions. Some we grew up with, and some we made on our own since moving to Idaho.

The Macy's Day Thanksgiving Parade

(I love that this was Jackson's natural reaction to when Santa finally came at the end of the parade)

Starting a 1000 piece puzzle (to be done by Christmas)

Chess

Home videos... and even sillier ones, like seeing who can blow the candle out at the end of the meal in the least amount of tries!

Then of course the baking, cooking, basting, mixing, pouring, stirring, etc., etc.

I was told it was our most delicious turkey yet... I'm gettin' better every year! (I wonder when I'll be able to do it without googling "the simplest way to cook a turkey") :)

(enter your own caption for above photo)

Aunt Kelley and Uncle Tyler came over that evening for pie. Tyler, I publicly apologize, again, for making you gag. I really thought it would have been different than normal cheesecake!!

I am so thankful for so many things. I have an endless list. But on this day, I am truly grateful for a husband who does all of the Thanksgiving dishes. All 12 batches of them -

HUGE blessing. Huge.

Once in a Blue Moon...

2008-11-25T11:55:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, every family needs a Saturday that has absolutely NO plans, whatsoever. Saturdays like that are my absolute favorite. They are quite rare! So when they come along, they have to be documented!

The following activities made up for this rare Saturday...

Leaf raking...

Car washing...

BSU game watching/pizza on a sheet eating...

Then story reading buried in a batch of laundry straight from the dryer...

I don't think it will happen again for a while, so I had to blog it so I can at least enjoy reading about this rare occasion, whenever I please!