Ku'u lei, Ku'u aloha - My child, My love

Sunday dinner an Mom's

2012-02-12T21:04:00.000-08:00

Today was set to be a jam packed day. We headed to have lunch at Mickey D's and then had planned to meet Brittles to go to the new aquarium but Brittles decided that he needed to extra beauty sleep so we just played at McDonald's for a bit.

Then it was off to have Sunday dinner at mom's house. Mom has been doing pretty well and offered to host Sunday dinner which we have not done in some time. It was nice to have Garrett and Hanna there too. I love when we have as many of our family member's together. That is what life's about right?

TJ received his first valentine from Grandma.

Happy Birthday Carrie!

Bunco Anyone?

2012-02-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

I used to hear people talk about Bunco Parties in the past and I always wondered what they were about? I was invited to a parties by my friend Jamie. It was supper fun! We are going to do it once a month, just the girls. It was nice to see old friends and to make some new one's. See you all next month!

The losers had a roll off.

Winner... of the losers.

A visit to Ms. Sherry

2012-02-04T20:39:00.000-08:00

TJ went to see Miss Sherry today to tighten up his twists... boy did he need it. Almost a year of length.

2012 Cowell Properties Idaho Staff Outing

2012-02-01T21:39:00.000-08:00

This year we put off our holiday party because we were going to go sledding but since we did not get any snow this fall we decided to forgo our staff meeting this month and go to dinner. It was once that decision was made that the snow decided to fly... typical.

We headed to Barbacoa and boy was it good and delicious!

Would you like pepper on your salad...
has anyone seen Julie?

Mike, tasting the salt buffet.

Time for the entrees.
They were all very picture worthy!

I don't think I even need to say anything about these pictures... KG is so stinking hilarious!

Couple photos.

Julie and Mike

Angee & KG

Tina, Troy and the kids.

Ricardo and I...
Ricardo's girlfriend had to work and Tex had to go to Hanna BKB game so we went as a date.

Desert
mmmmmmmm

Cotton Candy on fire : )

Fried Ice Cream Pops

Fabulous evening with great friends! It was nice not to have to worry about getting together over the holidays when everyone is so busy. Thanks for another wonderful year! I am blessed with a great staff!

Borah 10th grade Basketball Champions 2012

2012-02-01T21:21:00.000-08:00

Well it's been a long season for our daughter but tonight it all paid off! The 10th grade basketball team took 1st place in their division! Way to go Hanna!

NFC Championships San Fransisco 49ers

2012-01-22T21:18:00.000-08:00

The week before the NFC Championship Tex and I were sitting there watching the game and I said, "why are we not there?" We had been planning on going to California to see Steve, Gail, and the kids and this was a perfect opportunity. When Green Bay lost I was already online looking for tickets.

We headed down Thursday morning. Steve has season tickets to the Sharks and invited Tex or I to go. Tex and I flipped for it and I won. I was a little worried about it being a boys night but Gail assured me it would not be... it so was, but it was fun none the less. I felt a bit like a third wheel until my big brother bought me a shot of Vodka : ) I didn't get a picture of us because I didn't want to be the cheesy sister but I had a super fun time! Thanks Steve : )

Thanks to my nephew Colin for giving me his seat for a night ; )

Friday the kids had school and Steve and Gail headed to work so Tex and I decided to go for a drive from Half Moon Bay down to Santa Cruz. It was super stormy and windy but it was also a super nice drive. I love when we do those drives because Tex always finds the funnest things. This trip would not disappoint. First stop Pigeon Point Light House. I had made a comment that if we ran across any light houses that I would like to stop and we ran across two.

Further south was the second light house located in The Santa Cruz State Park. It was there we ran across a strange motor home that we could not help but take a photo of. We also got out to snap a couple shot of some crazy surfers. We stopped at a cute little corner market for some drinks.

We drove down by The Boardwalk as Tex had not been there. We decided this might be a fun summer trip with the kids. Sheree, here is your sign : )

We were getting a bit hungry and we decided to eat out on the wharf, you could actually drive right out there. We drove to the end and scoped them all out before finding the Fire Fish Grill. Boy oh boy was this a great choice. Tex had crab cakes and I had fresh grilled skewers that were to die for. Of course we could not leave out the clam chowder. It was a great find!

Great View!

On our way out of town we found a super cute little park that would be so fun to hang out at!

We stopped in Half Moon Bay on the way home for some ice cream.

Colin was so sweet, he had set up some Thomas tracks before we arrived and they were obviously a hit with Tristan!

Carrie served up some yummy hot chocolate!

They got some quality cousin time : )

We got to go to one of Carries soccer games!

Colin and TJ played at the park.

Carrie got her time at goalie in the last quarter and had a great save that I missed, but I heard about it!

AWWWWWWW!

Carri was so sweet to let Tristan play with her ball, he fell asleep with it on the way home. It was so, so cute!

Tech time : )

As we were sitting in the kitchen Gail saw this hawk appear out of the corner of her eye. Both Colin and Tex got some great photo's.

What day is it?
GAME DAY!
Off to Candlestick!

Buying and selling tickets on the side of the freeway.

My little trooper!

Man was I a happy girl!

Me and my love!

The Fam!

Fox Sports booth.

Here we go!

Brad Paisley at 1/2 time.

Rock The Stick Rally Rag

As I am sitting here writing this blog I am actually watching the replay on TV. It was an absolutely amazing experience to share with my boys. The 49ers we so close to pulling it off, so sad, but what an amazing day. We are so blessed!

Martin Luther King Jr Day

2012-01-16T20:37:00.000-08:00

Every year, as well as every day, Tex and I try to teach Tristan all of life's lesson's just as many of our friends and family do. With Tristan we really want him to know of his heritage and his life and how it has impacted us as a family and how he can impact this world. One of those instances is that of human rights and how they impact us around the world. This year was the first year we attended the march with Tristan. It was pretty special.

Ceremonies opened with an Indian chant, it was beautiful.

After the march we stopped at The Falcon Tavern for lunch.

The day ended with lots of play today. After coming home and taking a nap we played soccer outside then ball inside. Texas made dinner and then we all played some more. What a wonderful family day!

Michael Jackson's Immortal by: Cirque Du Soleil

2012-01-03T21:51:00.000-08:00

So about a year ago I received a "pre-sale" email for The Immortal Michael Jackson show by cirque De Soleil coming in January. Knowing Tex does not buy a ticket to anything, I called my friend Dano to see if she would be interested in going. I told her I wanted to go and I thought that a year down the road we were going to wish we had bought these tickets. So it was then and there that we decided to attend. Boy am I glad that we did! This was one of the most spectacular shoes that I have ever seen. I would recommend it to anyone and would see it again in a heart beat. It was simply amazing!

We started the night out with dinner at Barbacoa.

My baby and me.

Dani & Tommy

These were the only shots I could get inside.

Here are a couple of shots out of the program.

Chipwrecked

2012-01-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

Since Monday was a holiday, Sheree, Paige, Lisa, Tristan, Hannah, & Sophie, and I all went to see Chipwrecked. It was pretty cute. I thought the girl chipmunks were super cute! We took the opportunity for a photo opp with Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.

Super Fun!

Really?

2011-12-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

30 years of experience and she parks in a covered space....
PRICELESS!

YOU GOTTA LOVE HER!

They almost missed it . . .

2011-12-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? We got just a dusting of snow before Mema, Lisa, and Zac left for Christmas. It wasn't much but it was enough to play in.

Tristan could hardly wait to get outside: )

On our way to the airport we stopped for lunch at Sizzler, Miss Lisa's request.
It was yummy!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T14:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas was nothing short of amazing this year! After trying to Keep TJ at bay as long as I could, it was finally time to go down stairs to see what Santa had delivered. Tristan played with his toys from Santa until everyone was out of bed a ready to open gifts. As everyone settled in they saw that Santa had delivered stocking for all. As always Tristan began handing out gifts but it was not long before he we more interested in opening them. Handing them out became my job. Such a special day!

Hungry Hippos was the hot game of the year!

Oh, you can't forget Kirby's Tickle Hands : )

Then there was my cotton candy machine.... really...

Oh so good!

After opening gifts, it was time to head over to Eric's for dinner at 1:30. Funny thing is that, well we thought, the turkey was not ready. Eric was trying to get it to 180 degrees, but after a couple extra hours and a trip to Google we found it should have come out at 160 degrees. Good thing was it was still yummy!

Turns out that Zac had quit an eye for photography. I love this photo he took of Garrett's shoe's while he was sleeping!

What a young man Eric has become! Baby in hand an still cooking in the kitchen. Way to go "Martha" (inside joke).

Patty had a few too many drinks and she thought she could take G at a round of arm wrestling....
NOT!

Time for desert. Eric made this yummy, banana cream.

He and I also took a stab at a couple gluten free pie for old time sake.

After dinner, it was time to open gifts at Eric's families house!

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas like our family.
We are so fortunate!

Thanks Zac for another favorite photo of the candy dish!

Twas the night before Christmas...

2011-12-24T22:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve proved to be a very busy day. I took Miss Lisa and Zac out for a walk along the green belt, then it was off to do a bit more shopping. We saw a beautiful Bald Eagle on our walk, it was amazing!

We stopped by Eric's to help with the banana pudding. This boy is amazing. Baby in one hand cooking utensils in the other.

Lisa, Zac and I helped clean the bowl : )

Everyone started to arrive for Christmas Eve dinner at our house. We have made a recent tradition of getting together for dinner and opening gifts with Agnes, so this year was no exception. Only thing was, everyone from Texas joined us, what a treat!

This was a very special Christmas for our family! First time in 8 years that all of our kids have been together. Wish we could have got professional pictures but these will have to do. Such a special night.

Silly Group Shop
Boy we had a good time!

Tex had been working on some special gifts all summer long. He gave a beautiful heartfelt speech that was priceless. He is such a special guy! That is why I love him so much!

As a few family members started to filter out, we opened presents with Grandma.

Tristan put milk and cookies out for Santa...

Then Santa came : )

Merry Christmas everyone!
Hope your Day was as special as ours!

Texas has arrived!

2011-12-23T21:52:00.000-08:00

As many of you know Tex and I have eagerly been awaiting the holidays as we knew Tex's family was all coming from Texas. Jr & Kirby Arrived first and Mema, Lisa & Zac arrived the following day. We spent the first couple of days just catching up and spending quality time as a family! It was awesome. This night we had pork taco's along with some fruity beverages. Many of us tied one on and the night only got more entertaining. I have not had a better time in quit sometime!

Kirby is a sweet freak and after dinner I drummed up some more cake balls for him and my sweety. After a few more fruity beverages and many "cake ball" jokes, we were off and running!
This was such a fun night! I love my family!

After many fruity beverages we found we were quickly running out of ice. This was because the ice maker was no longer working. Eric, being "20 sheets to the wind" tore apart my ice maker and thawed it out and unjammed it. If I would have been sober this never would have happened. Thanks Eric!

Oh boy, this is going to be a fun week!

GIfts from the Jenson's

2011-12-22T21:47:00.000-08:00

My manager's family bought Tristan a gift for Christmas that he got to open early. It was a Charlie Brown Christmas that was animated with sound. He has had so much fun reading it! They also got Tex and I gifts that we are waiting to open until Christmas. It was so sweet of them! Thanks Guys!

The Big 40 Friends, Family and Fun... What more could a girl ask for?

2011-12-17T21:28:00.000-08:00

The day started off as good as it ended! The girls and I had been planning on running the holiday run since last year. We new it was going to be on my birthday and we planned on doing the short run since we just ran the 1/2 marathon. As you know we went as Ho, Ho, & Ho. The girls were so sweet, they got me cupcakes with candles and all. They were yummy! Thanks girls!

All dressed as "Ho's" with top hats and bells adorned.
We were ready to run!

We ran into the "chimney" family.

We ran into Santa... who says
"what does your shirt say?"
"Ho, Ho, & Ho" we replied.
Santa says "You know why Santa loves his job?
He know were all the Naughty girls live"
and then he gave Christy a little squeeze..

action shot!

Carolers

Here comes my Ho's!

Look who we ran into at the finish line... Hi Cam, it was not a fruity beverage but thanks for the water!

Finish line goodies. Soup is on!
MMMMM

Walking back to Christy's house we saw one of the old, original hitching post's. Tex loves these so I snapped a photo.

After the run, it was time to head home and get ready to go to lunch. Since Tex does not love Winger's, we don't go there often. I picked this for my birthday lunch. We were joined by mom and Patti, unfortunately, Lisa had to work.

After wing's it was time for desert. We all shared my favorite Asphalt Pie.

MMM it was yummy!

Wow, still going! After Winger's it was off to The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Utah State VS Ohio State

We were running a bit late and caught the flyover from the parking garage.

I love that the BSU fans are tailgating before the game! Way to support our hometown bowl Bronco Nation!

Damn, that is one big Potato!

Big Blue and I

My baby and me : )

We left a bit early to beat the crowd but I was kind of glad. We were rooting for Utah State and we were sitting in the middle of a bunch of Utah State Fans, since Ohio State came back with the upset I was glad to not be in the middle of it. Great game!

On our way out we saw this truck. Super Cute! Helmet, wreath, and & a Utah State Santa in the front seat!

Thanks for a great birthday everybody!

Where The Sidewalk Ends... or does it?

2011-12-15T15:43:00.000-08:00

So, my sister Patti ends up going back to California after the 1/2 marathon to get some dental work done and before coming back to Idaho for her Christmas ski trip to Tamarack she decides to go on a little bike ride with a couple of friends. Not more than a couple miles into the ride my sister "falls" off the curb and decides to "crow hop" back onto the sidewalk. It was not until she realized that her foot was in a cage and not in a clip in the she new she was screwed. After her failed attempt to get her foot off the pedal, she falls over at 12 miles an hour and somehow rolls into the street. Because it was cold and, if you know my sister at all, she had many, many layers of clothes on. When she took off her gloves she saw a very distorted hand. Patti new her ride was now over and they headed back for the house.

Upon arrival Lisa hands her a beer and snaps this photo.

"I am not the nurturing kind" says Lisa

After bandaging her head and properly placing a band aid, they move outside for a photo op.

This is the picture that my sister posts on Facebook and then decides not to answer her phone for 2 hours. B.S. I say!

Following a beer and some pain meds, they move onto the doctor to make sure it is not broken...

One day while Tex and I were at lunch we decide to go get mom's wheelchair to pick Patti up at the airport. Tex enjoyed the ride inside.

Patti's arrival into Boise

Get in the chair Agnes, (Agnes is what we call my mom).

While shopping for a few final Christmas gifts, Patti finds an appropriately titled book for the blog.

After being advised from her doctor not to ski, Patti and I head up for opening day at Tammarack. Are you kidding me? We would not miss this for the world! I love my sissy, and I am very glad she is OK. Super great day on the hill!

Ho, Ho & Ho

2011-12-11T21:35:00.000-08:00

Well, for the second year in a row the girls and I will be running in the annual Christmas run. Last year we ran in it but I had just started running. Not this year, today we met to decorate our costumes. We are going as, you guessed it, Ho, Ho, & Ho! Topped with Elf hats and decked is sleigh bells. Watch out Boise... here we come!

Glitter anyone....

Seasonal Goodies are here!

2011-12-10T21:21:00.000-08:00

Every year I make different types of goodies for my friends, family and my neighbor's. Call me old school but i really enjoy doing this! This year I tried a new recipe, triple chocolate cookie balls. I found this recipe in People Magazine. The cake balls , courtesy of my Aunt Juani are always a hit, candied pecan's courtesy on Mema in Texas, and the new "Christmas Crack" or Christmas Cracker Toffee courtesy of my friend Angee. All super tasty treats!

All boxed up and ready to go!

Happy Holidays!

Vegas Rock & Roll 1/2 Marathon... Race Day!

2011-12-05T21:25:00.000-08:00

Today is race day. After 2 months of training, a week of being nervous, and a week of no fruity beverages in the world of fruity beverages, it was time...

Make up... really?
("are you wearing lip gloss?")

pre-race meal

And we are off...

We stopped and took in some Aloha with King Kamehameha on our way to the start line.

Follow the other 44000 people
WTH were we thinking... Christy?

Cheap Trick

And we are off.
Since I was so focused on my time, I have no pictures during the race. I tried so hard to beat the 3 hour mark but I just missed it official time 03:05:44 topping my personal best by 11 minutes.
All in all I was very happy!

Vegas - Day 3

2011-12-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

Day 3 started off with breakfast at the Cabo Wabo Cantina, bad news was... Sammy stood me up. Good news was... breakfast was great and it even included milk for your coffee in a shot glass.

After breakfast we headed to the sports memorabilia store for my "date" with Joe... Joe Montana that is. Tex informed me yesterday that Joe was going to be signing autographs at the memorabilia store and my dear, sweet husband bought me a mini helmet to have autographed. Pretty good coming from a Cowboy die hard. We picked up the helmet and hung out in line for an hour.

My hubby waiting outside.

This is me showing Joe my "game face".
His exact words....
"OH MY GOD"
But the smile on his face says it all : )

He is still laughing...
I was so excited!

As I told Joe it was because of him and my dad that I love football so much!
Thanks Joe and thanks Dad for all of the wonderful memories!

Still crying...

Autograph Authentication

Tex just had to get a picture of me and a show girl.

Tex really wanted to take me out to try on some shoe's. I swear he has a shoe fetish. Super cute and comfy! Tex loved them so much he bought them for me and I wore them out to the show.

The Peep Show that is with Playboy Holly Madison.
He loved that needless to say!

I told you... everyday is getting better and better!
Tomorrow.... RACE DAY!

Vegas - Day 2 Packet Pick Up

2011-12-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

So this race was originally picked out by my friend Christy. Christy wanted to run this race so our plan was to register and have a big party in Vegas.... Well, Christy got married, Sheree went to school, all my "non - running " friends are broke or busy. Thank God that I invited my sister so now we are 2 "specks" INSTEAD OF JUST 1, in a mere 44,000 runners. Yep, 44, 000. CRAZY!

Packet Pick Up

Soul Sista's

Thank Cindy for the Corral Change tip!
Great Idea!

OMG, CHRISTY WTH WERE YOU THINKING?

Dressing room mirror quotation...
Love it!

Brazil, really?
Crazy!

Too damn cold for Patti!

Show girls!

Time to see a show... The Beatles - Love at The Mirage

We stopped on the way out for The Mirage Volcano

We stopped to see a couple of Tristan's personal friends.

Stopped by a heater for Patti to warm up.

Gazed at the Eiffel Towel

Patti, literally stopped on a Vegas street corner to sing Gumby & Pokey the ENTIRE version of the Gumby song. On a Friday night none the less.

We hit the M & M store.

Found Tex some show girls!

And a Stripper... lol

Dy 2 was great and every day is getting better!

Headed for Vegas Baby

2011-12-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

Every time we come to Vegas we try to stay in a different place. This trip we are staying at the West Gate Towers, which is the new development for Planet Hollywood and can I just say I loved it the minute I walked in. We are just off the strip in the miracle mile shopping center. Since I this was supposed to be the trip for my fortieth birthday, Tex and I splurged on a 1 bedroom sweet and it is simply amazing. I am very happy that Patti is here to share this with me but wished more of my friends could have made it.

The Lobby

Our room.
Notice "Vanna" to the left..

Hot tub baby!
Good for Race day recovery: )

A full kitchen... CRAZY!

Our living room... yes, we have a living room!

Tristan would say... "Oh - My - Gosh"!
We miss him!
Thanks Auntie Carrie!

Look what "Vanna" found...
Are you kidding me?
It's a washer and a dryer!

Race day drawer.
My Garmin Forunner 310 was my gift from my dear, sweet, husband.
He let me get it a few weeks ago to train : )
Thanks baby!

Our view !

We were then greeted by room service. A nice surprise from my good friend Sheree for Patti and I. Wine, fruit, and cheese and crackers. Thank you so much my friend!

Off to The Hard Rock for dinner.

And the Sugar Factory for desert, (does this count as carbing up?)
Bad, bad, bad!

Good news was mine was banana bread and I did not like the frosting which is odd for me.

My nerves are now gone! Let's race!

I saw mommy kissing Santa Clause...

2011-11-27T20:53:00.001-08:00

Tonight was four years in the making. For four years I have been trying to get to Idaho Falls to attend the Niederer, Grover, Arnold, & Hendricks Christmas Party. But for four years there was always one thing or another. Each year they have a special visitor that attends the party and this year would not disappoint. There is nothing like great friends and great family! Thanks for having us!

Best Friends

Grandpa Kent telling all of the kids a story after dinner.
While waiting for the special guest.

Santa's Arrival, sorry about the sideways shot. By the time I remembered to switch it it was too late.

Mommy got a kiss from Santa and an old friend.

The Horton's
( less Tex as we had just done a lot of traveling and he also had Hanna in Boise)

The Niederer's

Santa and the boys.

Farewell Santa

Movie time in the theater room... boy do I need one of these!

I love that Trevan is showing Tristan how to load and shoot the Nerf gun, it is so cute and so Trevan! I guess I am going to have to break down and get him one.

Short trip but totally worth the drive!
We love you guys!

BSU 36 Wyoming 14

2011-11-26T13:25:00.000-08:00

Another Bronco game day for the family. BSU vs. Wyoming.
Wyoming started off tough with a pick 6 which they held for almost 2 quarters. Then with a fantastic play ending the half for Boise State we were up 13 - 7. The second half BSU came out to play and put up 23 more points. Final score 36-14.

Buster

Another game during nap time.

So much to be Thankful for!

2011-11-24T22:46:00.000-08:00

This year Mom, Lisa, Tex, Tristan and I headed up to our townhouse at Tamarack to spend Thanksgiving together. All of our family is coming in from Texas for Christmas so this was super low key. We headed up Wednesday after work and woke up Thursday to watch the Thanksgiving parade and start out Thanksgiving Dinner. Dinner was planned around the football games for the day.

Playing with Grandma

A short break to play in the snow.

My helpers : )

More snow!

Turkey is done!

We are Thankful for all of our many blessings!
Hope your day was filled with many of your own!

This is not Tuscany....

2011-11-19T13:59:00.000-08:00

About a year ago Christy invited Sheree and I to partake in a group-on for a bus ride to surrounding vineyards. Funny thing about it was Sheree and I bought the group-on and Christy did not. The good news was that after a couple times of trying to set it up we finally boarded the "short" bus and Sheree and I had a really good time!

Our first stop was the Syringa Winery. Funny thing was this winery was smack in the middle of Garden City, since the only wine tasting I had ever done was in the heart of Tuscany that became the slogan for the day. The wine here was OK but not worth a purchase for my tastes.

Yes friends, the winery is in the garage.

Next stop Williamson Vineyards.
Things are looking up, here I bought a very nice port wine and a couple of stocking staffer's.

Bottoms up...

One of my favorite stops...
St. Chapelle
It was here that I almost became a member of my first wine club but with Sheree's help I held of the urge. I did buy one bottle of wine but only because Sheree reminded me that we could purchase them cheaper in the store.

The party bus.
Was not much of a party when we left Boise but by the time we left the last winery everyone was hitting the stripper pole...
Yes, stripper pole...

Koenig Winery
Worthy of one purchase.

Koenig's Vodka and Brandy

Robison's Winery & Fruit Stand
Worthy of 2 purchases.

The Story of the Apple-Matic

One day a sweet young thing decided to test technology. There before her was a sign which read, "get a fresh, cold APPLE for only 35 cents". It was then a kind stranger offered her some change for her purchase.
The young maiden placed the change in the slot to be left empty handed.
When a stranger said, "are you sure it didn't drop?"
The young maiden reached her hand into the APPLE-MATIC and then she was surprised when she was greeted by a pear.
"A PEAR", she said.
"WHY DID I GET A PEAR OUT OF AN APPLE MACHINE"
Regardless the young maiden ate the pear but not without further dismay and discussion.
All in all it was a tasty pear.

Time to work the pole...

The days purchase.
Plus a couple not pictured stocking stuffer's.

Thanks for a great time Christy... sorry you missed it.

Thanks Jaimi & Good Luck

2011-11-14T21:18:00.001-08:00

Many of you have heard of the trainer that has been kicking my but for 2 years. Well, now that she is moving to Washington I thought it was about time I get a picture of her on the blog.

Jaimi, I can't thank you enough for helping me for the last 2 years. You have helped me realize that I can do anything! I will miss seeing you 3 times a week, but I can't wait to see you again and meet that cute little baby that is on the way!

BSU 35 TCU 36

2011-11-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

Today was the day everyone in Bronco Nation new was going to be tough. This game and this game alone would decide many things, the Mountain West Title, A BCS Bowl (or not), and an undefeated season. After a hard fought battle, once again it was not meant to be.

A sad, sad day in Bronco Nation.

What a battle

Christy, Ike, Tex, and I had all planned to tailgate with Kimmie. Funny thing was Mark and Tex were both late so we were there just long enough to have a fruity beverage and for Kimmie to introduce me to jello shots. What a yummy quick buzz. Bad, Bad, idea...

Thanks for the invite Kimmie!

cheers...

That would be 2 jello shots, 1 fruity beverage, and one hot chocolate.

The gangs all here!

It's game time!

Obviously this photo was before the end of the game.

Rough, rough day. But I am and will forever be a proud Bronco Alum!

BLEED BLUE!

Lisa's 50th Birthday Party Circus Circus Reno

2011-11-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Once we ventured out of our room, we headed to the Midway to play some games with Grandma.

Tristan was showing her how to get it done!

While Sue and the girls went to decorate for the party, Mom, Lisa and I went to the spa for hair does and pedicures.

After some primping it was time to get ready for the party!

Lisa picked the Hawaiian Buffet

The Birthday girl.

Patti stealing the chips!

Toasts and sentiments by the family.

Time for birthday cake!

Family photos.

Gifts for the birthday girl.

Love and loss, Lisa found out that one of her friends lost a child in a card.
It was a very touching moment.

The after party...

Off to get "blinkie's"

A little gambling...

What a great night sis!

The 1st night in Reno, Happy Birthday Sis!

2011-11-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

Well, the big weekend is finally here. My big sis is turning 50 and everyone is coming to celebrate. She decided to have her birthday in Reno because after 25 years she had a foundation built there with family friends and love!

Lisa settling into her room!

Off to explore as family arrives!

While Sue and Tex went shopping, Pa Pa, Auntie, TJ and I stopped by the Midway!

Tex and TJ took a mid afternoon nap.

Lisa picked one of my favorite restaurants in Sparks for dinner.
The Cantina Los Tres Hombres
TJ's new bear was excited!

Johnnie got ID'ed : )

Johnnie & Matt

Dad & Sue

Mom & TJ

My Baby & Me

The bear is getting fruity.

Me & My Sis

Cheers

Dad & Sue got Lisa a beautiful, Swarovski, Crystal necklace.

Bottoms up!

Mom gave Lisa her gift in the room after dinner.
A beautiful, restored photo of her, Dad & Mom at 6 weeks old.
It was beautiful!

A few of us went out for fruity beverages after we got back to the hotel.

mmm. my favorite!

This looks worse than it is. The chairs were very slippery and hard to sit up strait in, this is a bad thing even if you have not been drinking : )

Happy 50th Lisa!

Trick or Treat?

2011-10-31T22:42:00.001-07:00

Well, after all of the anticipation Halloween is finally here! My little man was dressed up as... you guessed it.. Bob Marley.

After school I took TJ by to see the Auntie and the Grandma, bad new was Grandma was at the doctor : (

After a long busy day at work, I came home and dressed up to go trick or treating with my little man, then it would be time to scare kids in our yard. Sheree and Paige came over to go through our neighborhood with us. TJ got tired while we were on the second block.

Look at that spooky house....
Oh, it's mine : )

Time to scare a few kids .....

Once our house died down, we drove downtown to Warm Springs and Harrison Boulevard.

We love this house! Every year we drive by it to check out their pumpkins. This year there was 110. That is absolutely crazy!

One tired Rasta Man

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2011 Chili Feed & Bolloon Fest

2011-10-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

Another year has come and gone. The chili feed was once again a huge success! Having Keri, with Balloons with a Twist was awesome too. Only a couple of Tristan's class mates showed up, Carter and Abigail, but with Ally, Mya, Flower, River, Bug, & Paige the party was a hit! My favorite this year, definitely the meringue bones. Super cute and super easy!

Thanks again Kari for the cake : )

This years village.

Thank you Sue for the beautiful piece from Europe, it fit in beautifully!

Keri, made TJ a giant penguin!
She was definitely a hit with the kids and the adults!
Thanks Keri!

Mommy's turn

Thanks Jensen Family for my surprise from Disneyland!

Time for birthday cake!

Time for the adults to get painted and balloons.

Work those wings Kimmie!

Time for presents.

Thank you everyone for making our special day a success again!
We love sharing time with all of you!

The Eve of the Chili Feed

2011-10-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

Well, Tex requested the kitchen to himself so TJ and I headed over to the Whillhite's for pizza and pumpkin carving. When I left this is my hubby at his prime in the kitchen. One pot down, four to go...

The kids were not too interested in carving when we arrived.

It did not take them long to want to dive in but it was a bit short lived.

Johnnie cracked out the power tools but those were short lived too.

After everyone else was done, Sheree and I finished up the leg work.
We were in it for the long haul.

The finished product.

Sheree's

Johnnie's

Tristan Jacoby's
"Old School"

Paige's

Lynnette's

After we cleaned up Sheree, Johnie, and Paige wanted to give TJ his birthday present. It was a Thomas the Train pillow pet which he has not let out of his sight since he got home. I would say it is a hit! Thanks for another great night guys!

Here is my baby when we got home, four pots of chili down and one to go.

See everyone tomorrow!

Let the caos begin...

2011-10-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

As the annual chili feed approaches at our house it is always quit funny to watch Tex go to work! The kitchen becomes his workplace and becomes a storage space for all of his supplies. This year I have added a few items to the list so Tristan and I were busy at work as well. Can't wait to see all of you!

TJ and I are taking on some "bones".

My little devil.

The fruits of our labor

The finished product, boy are they good!

Tristan Jacoby is 4 years old!

2011-10-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today was a very busy day! Work, Staff meeting, cupcakes to TJ's School, and more work.

After work we took Tristan to his favorite restaurant... He had a great time!

We came home and had cake and ice cream and opened our presents. Tonight was just Tex, Tj and I. We don't do that very often it was very nice! Very special quit day in the Horton's house hold : )

Tristan has been very into taking pictures so we got him his own camera, he took pictures the rest of the night. It was hilarious!

Thanks for changing our lives little man!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

BSU 37 Air Force 26

2011-10-22T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today was a brand new day in Boise with a well respected Air Force team in town to play on the Blue. This was set to be a great game! Turned out to be one of the closest games we have had this season.

We were graced with an F15 flyover!
AWESOME!

What day is it?
GAME DAY!

What is it having all of these games during nap time?
He slept through the 2nd quarter, the half, and the 3rd quarter.
Those were the days huh?

Dr Dudley's little one was out too...
funny.

Saw these guys after the game.
Love it!

Apparently daddy had a long day, Buddie too : )

Thunder Mountain Pumpkin Liner

2011-10-16T18:25:00.000-07:00

ALL ABOARD!

The Thunder Mountain Line in Horseshoe Bend offers all kinds of special events on their train but this time of year it is all about the Pumpkin Liner. And when you have a little boy that is infatuated with trains how could you not take him.

We were joined by friends Sheree, Paige, John-Michael, Kimmie, & Mark, along with Daddy, Sissy, and myself. The weather left a little to be desired but it did not ruin the excitement of the day. Fun was had by all... and we scored some great pumpkins too!

This picture is courtesy of Tristan, he is all about taking pictures all of the sudden.

The General Store

The Pumpkin Patch

You have to be able to carry your pumpkin to take it on the train. This one was a little big for TJ so he had to get a smaller one.

The fruit snack toss...

Another great day with great friends and great family!
That is what life is all about!