The Knutson's

Plane Cancelled

2012-01-19T22:44:00.001-08:00

Yes, Seattle is in the middle is "snowmaggedon" and our flight to vitamin D land got cancelled. There is snow on the runway. Can you imagine how many flights would need to get cancelled when it snowed in Montana? A.lot.

So tonight we are watching Jersey Shore, Grey's Anatomy, and Private Practice ( last one-probably through my eyelids ;) ) and enjoying a few more nights with the dogs. They are just napping. (so cute and cuddly!)

Nate hasn't left his chair the last three days. And I don't mean comfy chair. His work chair. :( (it is cold in our basement, but fortunate we arent one of the 200,000 without power) thank goodness we are going on vaca! I will get my husband for a week!

We rescheduled our flight for Sat. Morning. Yahoo!!

More, more snow

2012-01-17T13:10:00.001-08:00

This poured just this morning. More to come tonight.

More snow

2012-01-15T14:31:00.001-08:00

Time to shovel!

Twin dogs

2012-01-15T08:33:00.001-08:00

I saw these two staring out the window after work and they were identical. Nate walked in the door when their heads were turned. They are so cute ;)

Snow

2012-01-15T08:17:00.001-08:00

I am so happy we have snow. It's a nice change from the drizzle.

Mexico will be nice in 5 days. Hopefully the snow will melt before we leave. I will be more happy to leave the rain than the snow.

O'Christmas tree!

2012-01-09T22:23:00.000-08:00

We decided to go into the woods and fetch our tree this year. New tradition for us.

Hopefully getting stuck in this much snow in our truck with city tires doesn't become part of the tradition. 2 hours later we got out! ( with the help of two other men after the two hours of just Nate and me)

Not much snow. Less than a foot.

Sitting on the floor

2011-11-16T21:33:00.001-08:00

We had a naughty dog last week. He decided to tear through the amazon box and then proceeded to open 6 protein shakes. Dark chocolate mind you. He also chose to do it on a night we were given tickets to a play.

Since the shakes were dark chocolate I had to force him to puke. With hydrogen peroxide. Piece of cake. He slurped it right up!

I wasn't sure if Jeter had any so he was up next. I had a feeling he wasn't part of the mess. Sure enough, he was just miserable when I forced him to puke :( Nothing.

No play for us. We had to keep an eye on our dogs and think about new carpet.

Tonight, we sit on the floor watching tv. Our furniture is in the garage because we are getting carpet installed tomorrow. I keep reminiscing about the days when we moved in. This place was bare and we were giddy about making this place our home. It is our home!

I can't wait for the furniture to be back in place. The floor is kind of hard and this does not feel like home! I want my cozy :)

Couples Retreat

2011-11-11T14:23:00.001-08:00

In August we met the Turley's at Flathead lake for some R&R. It was much needed and so so much fun!

Last year we had the siblings with us, but this year it didn't work out for them so we kept it just the four of us. :)

I had the boys do some testing for me for a photo shoot.

I am so thankful they are good friends like Jaime and I!

Beautiful MT sunset

The newlyweds!

Nate and his dogs!

Poor Nate had a case of his trigger headaches while we were there. :(

We LOVE the sun!

This is the only way I get in the photos. So attractive, i know.

There were some more crazy boating photos that aren't WORLD wide web approved.

I'll keep the bikini photos private :) Just know we had a ton of fun!

Naughty dogs!

We went out for a stroll and this is where they thought their bed was. It was too cute not to take a photo before I disciplined :) My heart melts when they cuddle.

Can't wait for next year. We've made it a two year tradition so far. I DON'T want my Turley time to end!

Golf Tournament

2011-11-11T13:52:00.001-08:00

I found pictures from the golf tournament. It was an overcast day, with the sun peeking in for a few minutes every hour. Typical. For some reason there were lots of swings that day...and they weren't practice swings ;)

Jaci and Conrad

{our friends from Wyoming. They miss their homeland too :) }

The sun, Nate and Me!

Thankful

2011-11-11T13:22:00.001-08:00

In the spirit of November and thankfulness I thought I would share one thing we are thankful for-- the free tickets. We enjoy doing activities in the area, mainly sporting events. With them being so costly we can't go to all the ones we want to, but we have generous friends and know a few people with connections.

We are thankful for our connections and generous friends in the Seattle area!

Nate and I golfed with our friends in a tournament. Unfortunately we didn't win the grand prize or any door prizes. (I would have won the longest drive for women, but they didn't have a stick for the women. There was a playful disput with all the women and the guy in charge :) ) Our friends did get their name drawn for Mariner tickets! They invited us even though we didn't finish with a win.

Her company has had season tickets since 1973ish...they are really good seats!

one row up on 3rd base

the media

Ichiro tush

LA Angels

thankful smiles :)

Can't remember if we won or lost. The game was in July :)

We also received tickets to the Sounders game in a suite from Nate's company!

Free food and drink, num!

Soccer isn't bad. A quick 90mins and then you're outta there. If only we didn't sit in traffic for an hour that day. That was the day of the little league championship. We watched it on our phones to pass the time.

I think the Sounders won :)

Hunting Beard

2011-11-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year that the winter, hunting beard starts to grow.

Nate made a deal with two of his friends/co-workers to start growing a beard for the company Christmas party, Dec. 10th. He was jacked and hasn't shaved since that day. He also told my dad {the best, fastest beard grower} he was embarking on the winter beard journey. Dad didn't want to feel left out and decided he was going to grow one too starting that day.

Here are their week 1 beards.

Who's winning? :)

fruit fly trap

2011-10-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it is this area or not, but there are a TON of fruit flys. I googled how to get rid of them with out bombing the house.

Turns out all you need is apple cider vinegar and dish soap (cut the surface tension)

Nate and I bet how many we would get the first night. I said 5 and he said 2 or something.
I counted...5! I win!

Then a few days later this is what it looked like. Gross, I know.

Just the Kids...plus Rick

2011-10-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend was spent at the lake. Ahh, one last boat outing for us. Here are some pics to prove how much fun we are. No captions are necessary :)
{I'll spare you the pics of the speedo Nate made..ha}

First two were from earlier in the day. When mom's were allowed ;) {jk!}

Pumpkin Carving

2011-10-26T21:24:00.001-07:00

We had a few friends over for some Halloween fun! Taco soup, hot cider, Carmel popcorn, and wine ;)

Nate had a buddy wanting to help carve his "fire face" while I (of course) picked an intricate design! Next year I'm just doing a triangle face :)

Night exercise

2011-10-26T21:14:00.001-07:00

My mom sends me "care packages" when she gets sweet state farm goodies. In one of my packages was 100ish mint chocolates and light collars for our doggies.

Here they are in action at 7:00pm. (it's not supposed to be dark yet!)
We let them run wild and the lights helped us keep an eye in them.

Yellow lab drawing

2011-09-27T21:14:00.001-07:00

Just finished a drawing for my co-worker. It's been a while since I got my pencils out. I am pleased with it!

( I just got blogger on my phone so I can post with my cellphone photos! Hence the crappy lighting. I'll have to take photos of it with my other camera. It looks so good in person!)

A night on the town

2011-09-25T18:49:00.001-07:00

One of our friends just got a new job. There was a party for him downtown and we decided to make it down early for a relaxing dinner, just the two of us!

We had some time to kill after dinner before the party so we walked down to Pike's. I got the great idea to take a photo! We haven't taken a photo in front of one of the most popular Seattle backgrounds either. 3 years later here is our Seattle photo. Unfortunately from my phone; poor quality, but still a sweet memory!

Turley Weekend

2011-09-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

While we were in Bozeman we did some other fun activities for the Soon-to-be- Turleys

Thursday night- Bozeman bars

Result of poor communication during $1 hour

Friday- Golf Scramble (we took 2nd!) and Rehearsal Dinner

Jaimee was able to trick Cole in to using her golf ball.
I was so excited my camera worked to document!

I've never seen anyone actually fall for the trick golf ball

Thanks for the great laugh, Cole!

Beautiful sunset after Rehearsal Dinner

Last photo before we put the bride to bed for her big day. I loved her coral dress!

Mr. & Mrs. Turley

2011-09-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, a long time ago because I don't know how to blog in an appropriate time frame, our bestest friends got MARRIED! It was a beautiful, hot, sunny day in Bozeman at the Riverside County Club. Beautiful background! Jaimee did a wonderful job planning her and Cole's special day. Lots of booze was drank and tons of fun was had by EVERYONE! So. Much. Fun!

Jaime and Cole became Mr. & Mrs July 23rd, 2011

Jeannine and Jenny getting the Mimosas ready

Bride!

I felt really bad for the boys. Here they are ready to take photos...

Enjoying some Booze...

And this is us. Not even ready! Sorry boys!

Ta-Da!

Here is the break during the night that I forgot to take photos. I should have carried my camera. My dress even had pockets! What was I thinking!

Love birds during first dance

{paparazzi in the bkgd ;)}

Sand ceremony

My cousin Kendra's boy- Myles

So cute!

My family minus Tia :(

Nate and I with the wonderful photographer, Cali

Me giving the Matron of honor speech.

I was so nervous and I cried. Alot.

Bridester and me

Nate's family minus Jake :(

Jaimee and my dad

Look at all the single fellas!

Dancing Cat Dancers!!

little Cat Dancer reunion photo-op!

I am about 99.3% sure that is water on Vince's shirt ;)

{for reals!}

Jaimee's brother and my brother

Best Buddies too!

The dance floor was never empty!

Jaimee and her brother calling it a night :)

3 years!

2011-08-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

August 23rd is our 3 year anniversary! Can you believe I am on here, posting early ;)

Nate and I got our photos taken when we went back to MT by the amazing Cali Sparing. I went to design school with her. She is so talented, energetic, sweet, and I am HUGE fan of her photography!

Nate and I wanted to update the photos in our house so I contacted Cali. We love the mountains in the background. I also wanted photos with our furry kids ;) She captured their personalities so well!

©CaliSparingPhotography

This was to make up for the lack of me wanting to kiss him on the altar

{I wasn't cued by, 'you may kiss the bride' ;) }

©CaliSparingPhotography

This is the place where Nate would be all smooth while we ate Popsicles getting to know each other at work this first summer we met.

©CaliSparingPhotography

The photo we were looking for! Perfect!

and a goofy one. Check out my hair! But I love how much Nate is enjoying it ;)

©CaliSparingPhotography

Check out the rest of her amazing work here. And hire her...she loves to travel!

Happy Anniversary, Nate! I love you!

Before/after shots

2011-08-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for Google maps! I was able to get the before photos of our house when we first moved in. Wow. The blue spruce was huge and covered the house! What a transformation. We love it--- updated and more inviting. Who wants to come over and stare at it with us?!

Front yard transformation

2011-07-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

Here are the long awaited photos of our hard work. Let me tell you; the work is tough but worth it! Especially shoveling, wheeling and raking 15 yards of soil!! If you don't know how much that is, look at the giant pile below. Luckily, we were able to get the driver to dump it in the middle of the yard!

Big Dirt Pile

Smoothing

Seeding

June 11, 2011

Plants

{didn't get any photos of them actually being planted. Mom was rocking it during the day while we were at work}

First Sprouts 6 days later!

June 17, 2011

The next are June 19th, 2011

{Peat moss helps keep the seeds moist. Important for growing grass from seed.}

This transformation wouldn't have gotten done if I didn't have Nate's muscles or my mom's sweet planting skills. Both were a huge help! Thank you mom for coming out and helping us!

Next post...the before & after shots of our front yard...gasp!!

It was a sign

2011-06-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

In case all of you were wondering or even read my post about my naughty dog-- my totally rad, super cute husband found out at 5:28 AM {he couldn't sleep} last Tuesday that he passed his CPA tests!!! YAHOOOOOOO.

Next time I see a photo like this...

{Nate's CPA study DVD's}

I am going to believe it is a sign.

Maybe I should leave a box of feminine products within reach of him?! ;)

Going Camping

2011-06-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a really productive day at work...

I create 4 of these puppies

{pop-up paper thingamagigs}

while sitting in my new chair!

{of course, after my important work was done}

I came across this sweet paper camping set. The creative geniuses at Curiosity Group created a calendar of the month. You bet I signed up for the email notice to print a new one every month! I might even go back a few months for some extra fun! :)

My mom and I found this beauty of a chair at a gently used executive store. She wiped out the slip cover in no time.

Everyone is jealous--

all FOUR of my co-workers ;)

Arcade Fun

2011-06-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

Some nights Nate and I like to cut loose. By "cutting loose" I mean taking our friends and relatives to dinner in Bellevue and maybe popping over to Lucky Strike.

Nate's aunt Bonnie and uncle Gregg came out to celebrate her birthday and run a marathon in April. It was a successful weekend for her-- won the marathon for her age group and beat her personal best! She is a beast! We ended the successful day with a little trip to Lucky Strike.

We also took our new friends, Eric and Korrin, a different night.

{This game is the pretty much the only fun game...don't tell Nate ;)}

Dressed Up

2011-06-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we cleaned up after a day in the yard to attend Nate's co-workers wedding. It was a BEAUTIFUL day out! The wedding was a the Museum of Glass in Tacoma. Wonderful view. Awesome glass! Of course I didn't take very many photos. Here are the only ones I snapped.

Mt. Rainier

The happy couple!

Sping Flowers

2011-06-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful morning last Friday so I took the opportunity to take a photo of my front flowers.

And the gross front yard Nate and I have been hackin' at.

{weeds in process of dieing}

{the black stuff is the moss we killed. We aren't a typical Washingtonian, we like GRASS instead of moss for our yards. No joke, our neighbors yard is moss with a few shoots of grass in random places.}

We removed all the stumps and spidering twigs this week. Exhausting! Leveling the soil and planting seed this weekend. My mom is coming out next week to help me landscape along with my laundry list of crafts I would like to do! Hopefully I can keep up with her!

Can't wait to have a nice, updated front yard!

Pics to come, of course ;)

Wine Tasting

2011-05-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

About a year ago I bought a great deal to do wine tasting with the wine maker/owner at Covington Cellars through LivingSocial. We even got to taste straight from the barrel. It was excellent! The tasting room paired their wines with some apps. Of course we waited until the last week the coupon was valid, but it was definitely worth the date night with the hubs!

(sorry the pics are bad and I didn't want to waste more time fixing them ;) )

Four different varieties to drink in the same order as the food.

Left to right.

Dandelion soup (surprisingly really delicious)

fancy meatball

Quail egg and prosciutto (kinda yuck lingering taste-washed it down with wine!)

Bison burger (I think)

For the most part everything was delicious!!

One of the many rows of barrels. Do you know that one barrel costs about $1300!!

He also told us about all the different types of wood and where they are made make certain kind of wine. Seems like some tedious work!

Nice, dark intimate area :)

Final glass of wine!

For $35 we got:

2 glasses of barrel wine

8 samples of wine

8 apps

2 full glasses of our favorite

Talk about a sweet deal. So who wants to come visit?! ;)

Introducing Emersyn Rae Huber

2011-05-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

My friend Jessie (Reynolds) Huber had her baby yesterday!

They waited to find out the sex of the baby...

It's a girl!

Emersyn Rae Huber

6 lbs. 5 oz.

The happy family!

Travis, Jessie & Emersyn

Congratulations Hubers! She is adorable!

Hoping it's a sign

2011-05-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

I told myself I was going to do 1 post a day to catch up on what I have not posted. I unloaded my camera on my computer last week and noticed Valentine's Day was not posted...it's been a loooong time!!

This post is not something from a looong time ago. Actually, just yesterday. I am showing you a few recent photos of my lovely Bridger. Nate and I were gone last weekend and I am thinking he is still mad at us. He has chewed up something everyday since. Except for the one day I stuck him in the little 3ft x 3ft hallway. Needless to say, he was placed there this morning.

The little stinker just HAD to get in the photo.

He does NOT look cute...ok, maybe just a little ;)

The ball and bone were not touched all day.

That is where they were when I left.

You're probably wondering where the title of this post comes from. Well, the discs he chewed up are Nate's CPA study exam DVDs. I am hoping it is a sign he PASSED! We won't find out until next month. Fingers crossed!

Happy 30th Anniversary Mom & Dad

2011-05-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

No couple knows how or vacations like my 'rents do! They just celebrated their 30th May 9th in Jamaica. From the photos my dad sent while they were away I was growing more and more envious every day. They have a great time relaxing and wondering the area. Plus, get a great tan!

Their 25th was spent WITH ME in Italy. Obviously, that was their favorite vacation thus far! {sorry Tia & Vince :p}

Check out what 30 BLISSFUL years look like with the man/woman of your dreams:

May 9th, 1981

This is my cousin Gary who now works for my dad.

Dad claims Gary has always had to be around Uncle Jay ;)

Dad with his parents. I wonder if Grandma still has that dress; I would like to wear it!

Mom looks so angelic and Dad has sweet chops and a stash ;)

Honeymooners

30 years later...lookin' good

Hot Momma!

What great parents I have. I had great role models of what a successful marry entails. I never doubted their love for one another.

One of my favorite memories of my Mom & Dad growing up is my dad eggin' my sister on.....

He would kiss, hold hands, and playfully pinch mom's butt. A teenage Tia would get disgusted and pretend she wasn't part of our family. My mom would have the BIGGEST grin on her face as did my dad while he was chuckling :D

I hope Nate and I can use one of their secrets often; taking only "Mommy and Daddy" trips every year or so. It is definitely important to remember to give each other love & attention after kids and keep the spark alive. :)

Glad to have them back; nine days is a long time to not talk to them on the phone! Love you both!!

Bogged down

2011-04-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know. Nothing has been posted for a LONG time! I am very forgetful and leave my camera at home everyday. Here are some of my favorite photos from the past month I happen to have! {from my phone, pardon the quality :/ }

Vince and Lena land in SEATTLE!

for my sissy :)

Someone said the guy kinda looks like my dad ;)

prepping for the feast

ate some snow

They love sleeping next to each other :)

Tour and Wine Tasting

Sun bathing--first day of sun in months!

Clark Nuber thanking me for taking my husband away

Nate finally got to get in the water for his birthday weekend!!

There is a quick photo update. I'm off to Montana this weekend to throw a bridal shower for Jaimee! Woo Hoo!! More to come later!

Cute Doggies

2011-03-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share two of my favorite recent photos of our doggies.

I said "cheese" and this is what I got...!

you can't train that--they are naturals ;)

Bridger turned 2 on March 13th.

Jeter wanted in the picture but said no to the hat; yes to a treat.

I know no one else thinks they are as cute as Nate and I think {ok, maybe my mom and Joan :) }

They are the best dogs and it is so wonderful coming home after work to two happy dogs at the door waiting for a us. They put a smile on our face everyday and tell us 'Don't worry, be happy' :D

Stay tuned for wrap up on Vince's & Lena's trip to Seattle!

{once I get my life/photos in order}

Busy Busy!

2011-03-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

I have been swamped {in a good way!} with freelance work this week. Luckily, Nate is out of town so I am not sacrificing my time with him.

One of my assignments this week was to redesign a t-shirt. It wasn't a top priority to my client, but I mentioned I would love to do it for them. I drew up a few ideas yesterday; wasn't completely happy with them.

10:30 pm and two glasses of wine ingested, I decided to give it one last hurrah for the night.

Here is the before

{printed on navy. the pink is white ink}

After

{Printed on gray t-shirts}

Nate helped me with the addition of black in certain areas. He is the t-shirt king and very good at telling me things to change with my work to make them better. :)

Can't wait to see them printed!

Snow Comparison

2011-03-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

I send photos of our snow to my dad. I like to think I am funny...

Seattle

Glendive, MT

He says, 'Who wins?'

ME! I don't have to dress in Under Armor, three turtle necks, a wool sweater, down vest, two pairs of wool socks, and boots for work like my mom does.

Enjoy your snow while it is there!

Best $3 Lunch

2011-02-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

This "feast" is only $3 at Trader Joe's. I can only eat half of it at a time so it is an even better deal!!

Yum, Yum...falafel

I am on the hunt for a good, easy recipe to make it.

{here is proof of my food perfectionism. I have to separate the balls to ensure every bit has the same amount.}

Hummus, falafel balls, cilantro-type salad. So delicious!

Purple Inspired dinner

2011-02-25T17:18:00.000-08:00

Since I was home all day during January, I had to do some fancy cooking! I was really craving my favorite Purple dinner. So I looked up a few recipes to make the AWESOME tomato soup. Of course, I created my own recipe from a few different ones.

San Marzano Soup

{yes, you have to eat a chunk of the bread when you leave the grocery store :) }

1 28 oz. can of tomatoes {I read you have to get San Marzano}
1 shallot or onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
4 oz C red wine
4-6oz chicken stock
pinch of salt
fresh ground pepper to taste
8 basil leaves
olive oil

Preparation:

1. Saute onion & garlic in olive oil in pot slowly until translucent and softened substantially.

2. Add tomatoes and the stock & wine. With a wooden spoon, squish the tomatoes down against the wall of the pot. Stir in basil. Bring to a point where the soup is almost boiling and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 - 60minutes to let the soup thicken. {smell the wonderful soup!}

3. Pour into blender. Blend the soup until all the tomatoes are pureed and the soup is has a smooth consistency. {I poured it back into the pot until Nate got home}

Notes:
I would probably use only chicken stock next time. I don't care for the wine taste. Don't cook too long or it will end up like Pizza Hut dippin' sauce. Or add more stock. {We tried to eat it as left overs. Didn't work so well. Maybe we could have added more stock when we reheated}

Chopped Salad

romaine lettuce

avocado

roasted red bell peppers

bacon

garbanzo beans

blue cheese

vinegar and oil

Chop lettuce. Chop roasted red peppers. Chop avocado. Add to bowl. {I eyeball for how much of each ingredient to add.} Mix. Serve

Grilled Cheese

...I think this is self explanatory :)

Dinner served :)

Nate enjoyed it so much! He even said..."this is so good. can you stay home all the time?"

Why, yes! I would love too!!

Snow...Again!

2011-02-25T16:53:00.000-08:00

Look at how much snow we got Wednesday night!! I'm sure y'all in Montana are jealous...hehe! I, like always, love it when we get snow. When Seattle gets snow, it also gets sunshine. SNOW BABY SNOW!

However, I did not like my cold vehicle. We are in the middle of house projects and the garage is full of ceiling tiles. Yes, we are painting our ceiling tiles. Who doesn't like the not-so-obvious speckle in the ceiling tiles you ask? That would be the husband. Anything to make a project last longer than it should ;)

Posting photos soon!

January Update

2011-02-18T14:13:00.000-08:00

Not a whole lot has been happening in our neck of the woods, hence the lack of posts!
January was an up and down month for Nate and I.

The downs- I was unemployed. Ok, so maybe there is only one, but it really put a damper on us all month.

The ups - TheHomeMag - Seattle is finally owned by corporate in Florida! {yay! I will get paid for my work and I won't be the only one in the office!} They hired me... :)...My birthday...I set up a business license for my freelance work {one step closer to becoming a millionaire..I can dream, right ;) }

Here is the only photo from January. My friends made breakfast burritos and we watched some TV together! A wonderful Tuesday night birthday, just the way I like it :)

While I was unemployed I sat at the kitchen table every day, all day researching web tutorials, jobs and finding inspiration. I had a buddy next to me the entire time. He sure knows how to get a smile on my face!

He was taking a nap and wagging his tail :) His tail normally doesn't stop wagging. Very happy dog!

Christmas Bouquets

2011-01-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

I was so proud of my new addition to my decorations this year! I put together some festive poinsettias and wa-la!

bad angle-little lopsided!

Christmas Recap

2011-01-23T14:39:00.000-08:00

I haven't been good about updating the blog lately and I need to show some Christmas photos! We started our trip to Montana the Monday after we landed in Seattle from Texas. We left nice and early because Nate had to do some work in Couer 'd Alene. The dogs and I had some us time. It thought I was going to get bored, but it took me forever to get around town with the snow and me not knowing where I was going. It took probably two hours to find a stinkin' dog park -- I never did find it after asking so many people! The dogs kept me entertained while they fought over the front seat.

Bridger isn't normally the one getting sat on. :)

Both comfortable in the front seat. Don't worry we hit every single red light while we were driving around.

No, they are not harnessed in. {Sometimes I do that with Bridger to keep him still}

Bridger is wearing a Wonder Walker. VERY helpful for the pulling dog. He is much better, but I still like to use it.

After the not productive afternoon I was ready to pick up Nate and head on to MONTANA!!

Made it to Glendive a day later and hit up the Beavercreek Brewery with the McPhersons. Let's just say there were A LOT of giggles ;)

Kelsi got to join us for some giggles too!!

The boys had to get in the shot too!

Bathroom shot with my mom at the Shamrock! :)

Christmas Eve at the Oasis

Then to Grandma's we go!

Girl's White Elephant exchange

my aunties are a little loud for the youngsters

The boy are patiently waiting for their turn

Christmas Day

Vince always gets the fire going

Italian Stallion in his new jacket and hat

Vince's horns to trick the deer. Never heard of them before

Abby came over with her sleeping mask. I taught her how to play "mark-o pollo"

She was able to get everyone to play with her!

Uncle Jay

Cousin John

Later that evening...

time for ping pong at dad's shop

This is how much water gets on the floor when Bridger drinks.

Gavin and cousin Dan

The lounge

Bridger thinking my dad is going to give him treats.

Vince, Derek and Drew

Next day...Bozeman!

Joan got these stockings for the boys. They LOVE them!

{even if they are horse treats ;)}

Then we had a delicious turkey dinner! My fav at the Knutsons!

Next day, another graduation party for Jake!

Nate, Casey, Me, & Tara

{that table top is made out of beer bottle tops. Vince's friend made it and sold it to Spectators. It is a mountain with an 'M' and a Bobcat head off to the right. Pretty sweet!}

Joan with sisters Mary and Noreen.

After party! Playing Sequence, my new favorite game!

Joan had an extra one and gave it to us. Nate and I have played almost every night since we came home.

By this time, Nate was sick(cold) and I was starting to get sick. We had to make the journey back to Seattle for me to get some work done. I was sad. Wish I could have stayed in Bozeman a bit longer since I had to work most of the time I was there. :(

We made it back safely before a big storm with full blown colds. We did a lot of celebrating the previous two weeks with our families. It was a blast and we were paying for it ;)

Stayed home New Years and was asleep by 8! Woke up just in time for the fireworks off the Space Needle. Wonderful way to celebrate the New Year!

Bird Hunting

2011-01-17T18:41:00.000-08:00

I was excited to take my "bird dogs" hunting while we were home for Christmas. Since Bridger is an excellent hunter in our backyard {Nate saw him almost catch another squirrel!} I thought he would be awesome at running the bushes for birds.

Yep, I was wrong and my dad was right. The only thing they hunt are the back of our heels. :( They still had a great workout and enjoyed running back and forth from Nate and me.

The pro-hunter

He was telling Scott something was wrong with his shells.

They were "popping" ;)

Jackpot bushes. About 100 birds came out of here!

I didn't have my camera handy when about twenty at a time when over my head. It was amazing. I have never seen so many birds at once while hunting.

My favorite picture!

May become a painting someday ;)

The only time Jeter picks up speed is on snow packed roads. He is a pretty lazy "runner".

The pheasant came back to life! A first for me to see

Checking out their birds

Proud hunters!

The boys went back to my dad's shop to clean the birdies up and I went home to take a nap. Perfect ending to a successful hunting trip!

Jake's Graduation

2011-01-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

Trip to Texas again!! We were wishing for warm weather. The day before we arrived was in the 80's. Of course, the temp had to drop to 50 for our arrival. :( We still had a wonderful time with family, dinner with Jake's friends, packing up his entire room {yes, he left it for us to help him with} and checking out the bar scene at night.

First things first-- Go Cats!! At the Seattle airport. We were so excited to see it. Everyone probably thought we were nuts taking photos of it.

poor grizzles...

Texas A&M Stage

trying to figure out lighting. result- no flash, be really still.

Jake is at the bend wearing Bozeman Hawk colors

Just received his diploma!!

Blurry in the center left. Looking at us :)

Rooftop bar...brrr

Yes, I claimed him. :)

{I'd write Jake's buddies names if I could remember...ekk!}

Brotherly love!

We are so proud of you Jacob!!

The past two summers he has been working with Northrop Grumman in Palmdale, CA.

He starts full time next week as an aerospace engineer!

Good Luck, Jake!

{These are the only photos I had. I didn't have any family photos on my camera. :( Rick and Joan were there too!!}

Why I am in LOVE with my husband!

2011-01-05T12:57:00.000-08:00

1. He always has a surprise up his sleeve for me.

I have an unofficial "bucket list". --- To watch a professional Nutcracker ballet
Dancing in LaDonna's Nutcracker every year helped me learn the story. I love to watch the Nutcracker or listen to the music every Christmas. Sure enough, Nate remembered how badly I wanted to see it since we have lived out here.

I was feeling a little crummy laying on the couch one day and Nate dropped an envelope on me. I opened it, looked at the tickets. SURPRISE!!! Nutcracker tickets!!!

He finds the best deals. Somehow, he managed to find a lady selling her tickets --of course he got a deal from her. Then, when he went to pick them up, she decided to give them to us for FREE!! She won them or was given them and had a change of heart. I started crying immediately once he told me this. We had an angel make one of my 'bucket lists" come true!! It made me really appreciate the show. It was unbelievable!

Check out the trailer. The stage was incredible! The dancers-- amazing!

2. He is so proud our family.
Yep, the two of us and our doggies! He has an incredible love for all of us. My favorite is when we are sitting in the living room watching the dogs play and he says 'I love our family'. It always melts my heart. :)

He loves us so much that we had to take a Christmas photo by the tree all dressed...... at 2 am after the Clark Nuber christmas party. We might have had a few cocktails, so it took us a while to get a good snap. Plus, we had a dog (Jeter) that kept running to his bed. He did not appreciate getting woken up for a photo. {It was actually quite funny!}

Nate really wanted Christmas cards sent this year, but I didn't have time. If I would have sent out Christmas cards this year, this photo would have been on it. {if the lighting was better- it wasn't up to my standards}

{the dogs crossed their paws all on their own. they love each other :) }

Check out the dog bone stockings made by the super talent Shelly Morasko!

3. Love E-mails
He knows how to put a smile on my face when I least expect it. Today I received an email that sure put a smile on my face.

Subject: I love you!!

Body:

How could you not SMILE when you receive this in your inbox from you better half?

How did I get so lucky? I am SO looking forward to many more blissful years with my handsome, caring husband!!

There are many more reasons why I love my husband. I don't want to bore you will ALL of the reasons why ;)

Quarter Zip Crew

2011-01-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

3 fancy sweater wearing men celebrating the New Year's Eve at Beaver Creek Brewery in Wibaux, MT. Proof that guys dig matching fashion too!

Kyle, Scott, Jay (aka dad)

I hope someone had a paddlefish and cookie for me :)

Christmas Party

2010-12-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

A few pics from Clark Nuber's Christmas party. Forgot I had the camera for part of it.

Drinks & Dinner and Penn & Teller show

Jaci & Conrad

Torrential downpour on Saturday. Not fun in a dress or curled hair.

After party

Bobcat Play off game

2010-12-15T13:46:00.000-08:00

We decided we couldn't miss out on the opportunity to see our Bobcats play. Plus, we got to see both set of parents!!! Decent roads, cold snow, family & friends! Loved it all!

Casey, Cole {aka clifford, from casey} & Nate

I look like I grew a few inches next to jaimee, i wish!

Helmet Heads were ready to cheer on the Cats!

I didn't get the memo on the sunglasses. Out of practice ;)

The boys "stand out" from the rest of us.

Enjoying the game with the moms! {bright sun}

Beautiful.

Go Cat Dancers!!!

I love how my husband grew up in Bozeman and can still appreciate its beauty.

We wish the turnout was different, but they guys played their hearts out. They had an awesome year and our stadium gets an expansion! Quick trip, but well worth it.

Thanksgiving Feast

2010-12-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

This post is a few weeks behind, but I wanted to share our holiday. Nate and I stayed in Seattle for Thanksgiving because we get two weeks off for Christmas!! yahoo! Also, it happened to be the same week as our snow days. Normally, when we have a vacation we always hop in the car and hit the road. Nate and I were discussing how wonderful it was to actually stay and have a vacation at the house. Quite relaxing!

Our morning Thanksgiving snow. Just like home :)

A few hours later...more snow

Breakfast

its not a holiday if there isn't a heart clogging roll ;)

A few people asked if we were still going to cook a turkey...of course!! It is our favorite meal of the the year.

My plate

Naters plate

Stuffing is new to his plate this year! Still a 'no' on the yams.

Dessert!

Nate is not a fan of pumpkin pie so I made him a pudding pie and I decorated it!

The stinker didn't even see the message in the fridge. I couldn't wait any longer (2hours after dinner) so I asked him to get us pies. About an hour later he decided he would get us pie. Finally, he saw my love note and understood why I kept asking him to get us pie ;)

My pie - straight out of the oven, hence the puffy.

Our Thanksgiving was a wonderful and quit. We hope we can enjoy another holiday at home without hoping in the car!

Chicken Tetrazzini

2010-12-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

Another chicken dinner I made a few weeks ago. I totally revamped this recipe to work with what I had on hand. This is the original recipe.

Ingredients
1 (8 ounce) package spaghetti, broken into pieces
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sherry
1 (4.5 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; drain.
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring, until smooth. Remove from heat, and gradually stir in chicken broth and cream.
Return to heat, and bring to a low boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add sherry, then stir in cooked spaghetti, mushrooms, and chicken. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish, and top with Parmesan cheese.
Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until bubbly and lightly browned.

---Side Notes----
• I didn't have mushrooms so I used broccoli - couple cups
• Milk instead of heavy cream
• Left out the sherry
• Only baked in the oven for 15mins (Nate was starving!) More like a pasta dish than casserole which was fine by me! :)
• Added more pepper and red pepper flakes to our own plates for a little more flavor

LOVED IT!

Delish Chicken Dinner

2010-11-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

I am a huge fan of trying quick and easy recipes. I will share some I find that are worth passing along. A plus with these recipes is that I have almost every ingredient at my house! Don't get me wrong, I love grocery shopping, but not after work. I go when I can spend a lot of time checking things out. Nate absolutely hates shopping with me because I take soooo long. :)

I do change up most recipes to what I have on hand or swap things out to make them healthier.

{I can't take credit for this beautiful photo, but it was pretty similar. I didn't add the parsley :P}

Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts with Shallots

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - pounded thin

salt and pepper to taste

2 shallots, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1/3 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup chicken broth

Directions

Melt 1 tablespoon butter and heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and brown on both sides in the skillet. Cover, and continue cooking 10 minutes, or until chicken juices run clear. Set aside, and keep warm.

Mix shallots and garlic into skillet over medium heat, and cook until tender. Stir in wine, and cook until heated through. Stir in broth, and continue cooking 5 minutes, or until reduced and slightly thickened. Mix in the remaining butter until melted. Serve the sauce over the chicken.

---I added a couple handfuls of mushrooms with the garlic and onions (didn't have shallots at home) to get more veggies

---I added a tablespoon or two of flour to the sauce to thicken it a bit.

---Did not use all the butter they called for. EVOO instead and a tish of butter

Sauteed Green Beans

Ingredients

5 slices bacon

1/2 cup slivered almonds

1 (16 ounce) package frozen cut green beans

1/4 cup butter

Directions

Place bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until browned on one side, then turn over to cook on the other side. Add the almonds to the skillet at this time, and cook, stirring until light golden brown.

Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the bacon drippings. Crumble or chop bacon, and return to the skillet. Melt the butter in with the drippings. Add the green beans; cook and stir until tender, about 8 minutes.

--I used turkey bacon instead of regular. Doesn't produce grease, but flavor is still in pan.

--I did not use the amount of butter it called for. I used EVOO instead (eye ball pour) with about .5tsp of butter

Mashed Cauliflower

Ingredients

Cauliflower

skim milk

spray butter

salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. Chop and steam cauliflower

2. Put cauliflower and 1/4ish Cup milk in food processor and puree

3. Add butter and salt & pepper to taste

---this is my version of mashed cauliflower. Quick, easy, & delish!

Happy Cooking! Enjoy!!!

Snow Day

2010-11-29T17:26:00.000-08:00

Everyone in Montana may think this is odd, but I absolutely love it and take full advantage of ..... a SNOW DAY!!!! Snow days happen in Seattle with 1-2 inches of snow. Midwest folks may find it hilarious, but actually, there are a lot of hills out here and TERRIBLE drivers. Seattle doesn't have many plow trucks - not much use for them.

I woke up nice and early Monday morning and saw the skiff of snow :D

7:00 AM

Noon

The dogs were SOO excited, hence Bridger's tail

They did not want to come in.

Too cute not to post! He was eating the snow.

Meanwhile, Nate was passed out on the chair. He had a tooth implant procedure done and couldn't enjoy the snow with us.

Dogs took a snooze after the running around outside.

9:00 pm

Then, we used a leaf blower to shovel. :D I don't think our shovels made it out here with us.

{----}

It's amazing what the snow did to me. I woke up feeling so refreshed, in a really great mood, motivated, and I took the dogs to the park for an hour or so...in the cold & snow!! My brain must have thought I was back home because I loved every minute the snow was here.

Phil called me Monday night and said not to go in because it would be a mess on the freeway. He had just spend 2+ hours getting his son unstuck on a side road. I wasn't going to argue. More time at home with my pups and Nate! Nate and I feel we can drive in the snow out here. We just don't because out of fear of the other drivers. It really is scary! They just don't think!

Since I was in a great mood or more like "Suzy Homemaker", I baked chocolate chip cookies! I was craving my friend's, Kim, cookies. Luckily, she taught me how to make them. Still not the same, but really delicious! {they sure beat my cookies that included powdered sugar instead of flour, oops!}

This is Bridger's new trick! He stays out of the kitchen while I cook!! I got so tired of tripping on him or him pushing my leg aside so he could get a bread crumb. He does so well. All I say is "out" with my hand pointing and he goes to the carpet. :D

And there ends my perfect snow day!

{Little did I know it was actually going to last all week!!!!!!}

Cats for the Win!!

2010-11-29T16:34:00.000-08:00

Yippee!!! We win! It was a great game and so fun to watch. The nice, warm bar and a mimosa might have had something to do with it :) The bar was super packed this year.

attempt to show one side of bar...

...other side

Dave -{ ~~on the right,~~ duh!} is a griz fan and I made him be a Cat fan for the day :D

Nate wore his blue shirt so we didn't match...again. I just love my gold shirt!

{maybe it wasn't too warm in there, my sweatshirt didn't come off}

As you can see, Nate and I are the only ones who care about photos. :)

3 MSU grads working for Clark Nuber plus me!

We are going to Bozeman this weekend to see the playoff game!!! Super excited to see both families! It has been far too long without family time.

GOOOOOOOOOOOO CAAAATTTTSSSS!!!!!

ESG, Go Cats Go!!!

2010-11-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

It's are favorite holiday in the month of November!!
ok, ok. After Thanksgiving, Tia's birthday (20th) and Joan's birthday (25th).

CAT/GRIZ BABY!!!!!

I know Glendive will be cheering for the Bobcats. Mike Person is Glendive's standout senior Bobcat and is determined to beat those Grizzlies! Billings Gazette wrote an excellent story about him today. click here!

Mike with his proud family!

{from hannah's facebook, Thanks :)}

Here is a YouTube video to pump you up! Staring Mike as well :)

We are so proud of Mike and the rest of the Bobcats. Get us a 'W'!! We will be cheering nice and loud from the Renton bar, "The Spot"

Go Cats Go! Beat the Griz!!

Sad day for the Knutsons

2010-11-03T16:23:00.000-07:00

Today is the day the Knutsons did not want to think about. Bunker went to doggie heaven today :(

Here are some thoughts from the boys missing their childhood dog.

Jake:
A DOG doesn't care if you're fat or thin, rich or poor, smart or dumb, male or female, old or young... they lack the ability to judge which is why they are man's best friend

BUNKER - Thanks for being part of our family and sharing your life with us. We'll never forget you're crazy quarks, crunching chips, horrible swimming, consistent scratching, consideration w/others, and joyful self. WE'LL MISS YA BOY!!

Nate:

Bunker - second best brother I ever had, always up for boating, walking, playing, and showing us how to have a good time. You'll be missed big boy!!!

Jeter and Bunker

Singing with the piano :)

Bridger, Jeter, Bunker

We will miss you Bunker!!

To the Zoo we go!

2010-10-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Nate and I haven't had a lot of quality time lately since he has been studying and working for the Oct. 15th deadline. { I had no idea there was such a thing until this year} Last Sunday he decided to plan a surprise day for me! We went out to a local small breakfast place in Ballard. Then, I thought we were going to go shopping for vehicles but we ended up at the zoo!!

I have been asking Nate to take me there forever! {His work has passes :) } I was so excited! I was like a little kid again! I love watching the chimps and gorillas. I could sit and watch them all day long!

We got to the zoo right when it opened. Good to avoid the crowds, but bad because some animals were still sleeping.

Feeding time for the hippos

The next photos are a series from the lion's den!!

The male came out of the den and scared the female away while she was eating.

Then he smelled us!

My heart was beating so fast! His breath fogged the window. Scary, but so cute!

Old wrinkly butt

Showing us his food

Why would we want a photo of a grizzly?

Poor Grizzles :D

The rest are photos of our favorite animals to watch.

The baby gorilla was putting a show on the entire time!

The old man. Only showed us his back side

the baby put a sack on his head and was swinging around

the baby

eating a stick

old man taking a nap

Then our journey came to an end at the zoo. Nate had to drag me away from the gorillas, but I was VERY thankful he surprised me with a trip to the zoo! Husbands are great! :D

Topsy Turvy

2010-10-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

Nate and I were really liking tomatoes so I thought I would grow my own this summer. Little did I know, they take FOREVER to grow out here! Started in April. Picked in October

What do you think of these beauties?

They barely turned red. I picked these when the plant was already dead. My dad said they would turn red by the window from the sun. I don't think they will be turning red with the lack of sun we have.

Also, I am afraid to eat them. There were a lot of spiders living around the plant.

Maybe better luck next year? Nah, I think the grocery store is still going to get my business. :)

Best Breakfast Ever!

2010-10-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

Look at what this good wife made for her husband!

Homemade hash browns and lean turkey sausages. yumm..

I had to capture his happiness. Unfortunately, he wasn't at the time I snapped the photo.

Love you Nate! :)

Bridger Graduated...Again!

2010-09-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Bridger has not been a very good little puppy. I thought he needed some more training, positive training this time. Surprising, it worked! He listens to commands better and is a little bit calmer.

Old Man

His yummy treat from the dog trainer

I am mean, but look how disciplined he is!

Half a second later Jeter snatched the treat!!! Sneaky old man!

He was tired of waiting.

I retrieved it and gave it to Bridger :)

Baby Cooper

2010-09-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

One of our friends (Nate's co-work/manager :) ) is going to have a baby real soon! During my "me" time I decided to use my handy dandy sewing machine and whip up a few items for him.

"Whip" isn't exactly how it went. If it was my mom, yes, whip would work :) But I did get it done before the baby was born. A success in my book!!

Seattle Seahawk Season Opener

2010-09-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

Football season has started!!!! I am only excited because now I get "me" time to do whatever I want while Nate is into his games :)

When Nate and I were little we both happened to be 49er fans and the season opener was against them! Nate searched for sweet tickets and of course he came out with more than sweet tickets!! He is so awesome at looking for deals. We had club level seats for $32! We purchased the tickets as a set of 4 and sold 2 to some college kids. I feel bad-- they pretty much paid for us to attend the game.

We didn't know who to cheer for and didn't want to get beat up by some Seahawk fans so we went neutral. The Seahawks came out with the W!!!!

The crowd in front of us

and behind us. So many people!!!

The terrible straight lines. They were adults!

We were wearing blue and green so we were kind of going for the Seahawks. Our friends wouldn't have been happy if we cheered for the 9ers :)

Correction

2010-09-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

After talking with Nate this weekend, he made mention to one of my posts. We did not go to an oldie movie-- the Incredibles, we went to Despicable Me. My migraine was not completely gone during my posting. Anyways, it was a great movie and yes, I did fall asleep for a few moments ;)

Since he found an error, I am supposed to teach him how to post now. :)

Thanks for reading my posts, Nate!

Just Nate and I

2010-09-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Nate planned a little date night for just the two of us...no dogs. teehee! We went out for pizza {my fav!} and then watched The Incredibles in 3-D! We were incredibly -ha, no pun intended- early to the movie so we played video games like we were little kids again!

Nate killing it on the pinball machine!

In case you were wondering why I am never in any pictures, the two below will explain.

I was killing Nate in pinball and I wanted him to capture it. --for blog's sake--

Let's just say, 'better luck next time!'

Looking ever so handsome with the glasses!

My Awesome Anniversary Flowers!! I just love the colors!

They made it 3 weeks! I just threw them out yesterday.

Could have made it a few more days, but I was cleaning :)

I love you, Nate!! Thank you for the best 2 years ever!

Never a dull moment ;)

Becky's birthday bash!

2010-09-10T13:59:00.000-07:00

Finally a weekend came that most of our friends were home and we had a wonderful reason to party! Becky's birthday!! woo hoo!! We had an excellent time catching up with everyone and playing games. Badminton anyone? ;)

The birthday girl!

{You can see the tropical plant on the left}

She remembered to bring her 'birthday girl' mug I painted her last year!

I may have put trick candles on there ;)

EVERYONE!

Tall peeps in the back ;)

{check out my flowers :) }

Jeter loves the hat!

Happy Birthday, Becky!! Another successful taco feed to celebrate you!!

Fun in the Sun

2010-09-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

Nate and I finally had a few weekends to enjoy each other's company with our dogs. One weekend in August it was in the 100's. The dogs were panting so we decided to find some water. We drove about 20 mins to a lake. It was packed. So we drove another exit to a river and found a nice little quiet spot for just us. The dogs loved it!

Another weekend we decided to take the boat out. It was quite gloomy. We were 1 of about 10 boats on the lake, but Nate was determined to be on the water. We were glad we stuck it out because it did get nice and hot.

We strapped them in. Jeter wouldn't jump in, but we had no idea what dare devil Bridger would do.

Isn't he so handsome :) He's lovin' being on a boat!

His ears were flapping in the wind!

Family photo with blue sky!

Bridger always thinks the best seat is right on Jeter.

Happy dog!

Yes, I take a lot of photos of my dogs. :) They are just so funny and keep us entertained!

Rain Rain Go Away!

2010-09-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

Seattle rain has come and it looks like it is here to stay. :(

I am sad it is here because now we can't have anymore fun in the sun, but I am happy because I don't have to water my flowers anymore! We are pretty impressed with my flowers this year. They all lived the entire summer!! A first for me! I may have planted them a bit too early because I am sick of watering flowers. Maybe the MT summers are perfect for me with only three months to keep beautiful flowers. I started mine in April this year because I couldn't wait! Next year I will wait :)

Fuchsia...the coolest, but also the messiest!

Awesome tropical plant Nate bought. Just bloomed a few weeks ago!

little caterpillar

So cool!

I love how he actually sits on the steps

Mom's handy work

more mom's work

Mother Nature's handy work. Isn't she so nice!

We pulled them once this summer and they came back faster and larger. We plan on redoin the front yard so we left them. Yes, it is embarrassing. Believe it or not, we kind of match the neighborhood! :)

Echo Lake

2010-09-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Nate and I were lucky enough to make another trip back to MT {YAH!!} to kill three birds with one stone - see brother Vince & Lena AND Jaimee & Cole AND be at the lake!! Triple WOO HOO! ok, make that 5 woo hoo, Jake and his friend from TX made it for a day and Jaimee's brother, Nate & his girlfriend, Kari! (only missing Tia and Jake- she had a friend's wedding in Boise to attend) The trip was a wonderful, relaxing time with great conversation, games, and delicious food! The pictures will explain how much fun was had by all!!

Here are some blog approved pics :) There are alot!

First night camp out! I was really pleased with the timer and smoke cooperation!

MSU-ineers

MSU Cat Dancers!

I find it very interesting how our little brother became VERY good friends without us forcing them. Vince's freshman roommate, randomly chosen, was Nate's best friend from home! Both are civil engineer nerds, too! how weird :)

Rearranging everything to fit our 5 vehicles and 2 boat trailers on the property.

Lena and Kari

The youngins'

sibling love {i swear i have a suit on}

Jake and Petee

Vince and Nate

Lena and Kari

Cole and Nate

Nate and "The Expert Surfer, Cole"

He's awesome! No rope!

Vince picked it up fast

oops! ;)

I look a little timid, but I am mastering it now

Jaimee is a rockstar!

Go Lena!

Do you think this handsome man looks Italian?

Sweet crash photo!

Timer was a success again!

Montana is so beautiful!

And then my camera died. I was very upset. We still had half a day left.

I took the rest from Kari's FB

We never went hungry since there were some mother hens in the group. :) Jaimee cooked tacos the first night which came in very handy the rest of our time there. {wasn't in picture taking mode yet. dang!}

Vince and I cooked up Dad's spaghetti for our dinner night.

about to down another one of Jaimee's delicious concoctions!

Who's more excited? oldies or youngins? :)

Just call him 'Jay Jr.' Stance and all.

Yummo!!

These trips make me homesick...ALOT! I love my family and friends and miss everyone dearly!

Can't wait for my next trip back to MT! Christmas. :( too long!

Happy 2nd Anniversary

2010-08-25T14:24:00.000-07:00

Monday we celebrated our 2nd anniversary!! Can you believe we have been married two years?! I keep thinking it has been three with how busy we have been.

We didn't do anything special for our day-- honeymoon year must be over--but we did exactly what we wanted to do! Dinner, tv, then sleep! We arrived home from MT around 1am and started to unload the boat. We were so exhausted for the rest of the day, but Nate did a great job making me feel extra loved for the day! We reminisced about me not wanting to kiss him at the altar and him messing up his lines. I don't think an anniversary will go by without us talking about our special moments!

Here's a pic to remember our special and favorite day!