everyday brooke and peter

Elkhorn Hotsprings Weekend

2012-01-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

This time last weekend we joined the Harrison Family (see Melynda's blog for her account of the weekend) for our 2nd Annual Winter Ski / Fun Weekend (that's what I am calling it at least). Last year we joined them in Neihart, MT for some downhill skiing at Showdown Ski Resort and XC skiing at Kings Hill Pass. This year we met up in Polaris, MT at Elkhorn Hotsprings. They are an excellent family to "travel" with because they, like us, are independent, fun and just ready to go.

This is the face of winter fun!

We met up with them on Friday at the Patagonia Outlet in Dillon for some shopping and then caravanned through the beautiful Pioneer Mountain Valley to our destination. We stayed in the cabins there at the "resort." I use this term loosely because despite the quaint appeal of the exterior, they are "rustic" in most ways. We didn't seem to mind the sagging, three legged beds, or the archaic wood stove that was either really HOT or OFF. We didn't even mind the drafty outhouse, shared by the culdesac of cabins --- there was SNOW! Sadly, snow has been hard to come by this winter and we are just fortunate we only had to drive 3 hours to find it.

Peter and Henry quickly packed down a sledding course with snow shoes and the kids spent most of the weekend screeching down the hill and asking to be pulled back up the hill. Thank goodness the dads took care of most of the treks back UP hill. I manned the landing at the bottom of the hill and made sure the kids didn't go off course and careen into the outhouse or trees.

I am not sure I have ever seen Mattie have more fun. She LOVED the sledding. She NEVER got too cold, wet or tired. She even did about an hour of sledding at abbot 8pm IN THE DARK with her headlamp on (which is also a favorite possession and great toy for a kid, thank you cousin Gwenna).

We intermingled some walks across the bridge to the hot springs to soak in the mineral pools, a little bit of XC skiing (this consisted of a very slow ski/walk on the road) and for Mattie, some walking around in her snowshoes, rolling in snow, and eating snow. The dogs were also quite happy getting to run and frolic and be free of fences for the weekend.

There is also a very "Montana-esque" lodge/restaurant that served food and a continental breakfast each morning (included with our cabin rental).

The Hoffmann's came down for a bit on Friday night and a bit of sledding on Saturday too.

It was a great weekend that helped us feel like we actually live in Montana for a winter. I wonder where next year's destination will be? Somewhere that can accommodate ANOTHER little kiddo .... that's for sure!

cousin time in the cabin - sleeping bags and a floor - always good entertainment!

morning snuggles with my gal... doesn't get any better (unless it was on a not-so-creepy bed)

Another remodel ....

2012-01-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

demolition begins ... nice hole, eh?

Doesn't this look life fun? Yes, we are again in the midst of another home "improvement" project. By necessity, and I mean necessity because if we didn't do this now our dry wall DOWNSTAIRS would start peeling off and we might fall through the rotting floor in our bathroom.

Not exactly what we planned on spending any $$$ on right now, but hey, we love home ownership! In the end, it will be great to have a nice, clean, fresh look and feel to our main upstairs bathroom!

hole starting to be filled in

As Matine stood in the doorway looking at the hole in the floor and the absence of the toilet, tub and sink, the questions start pouring out of her ....
- where is the potty?
- what are you doing, dad?
- where are my mermaids? (the ones she keeps in the tub)
- where is the floor?
- what is this for?
- why?
- why?
- why?

Peter gave her a quick answer and it was NOT satisfactory to this inquisitive, wordy gal.

She puts her hands on her hips and says, "Dad, what is going on? Let's talk about this! What are we going to do about this?"

dad's little helper, of course ....

Clearly, she knows she can contribute to this project. She made sure she knew where her tape measure was this morning during breakfast.

dad's other little helper - JimPa (the lifesaver, always)

I took Mattie to Sally's house to play with Audrey (and I could watch the recorded episodes of Downton Abbey that I have missed) in the name of "keeping Matine out of Jim Pa and Peter's way." Glad I did, because they got the floor done!

Phase 1 of 20 complete - new tile floor!

I will keep you posted on the next phase: drywall and wainscoting on the walls, and tile in the shower. Jury is still out on what to do with the window in the shower - glass blocks or keep the window?

This is my inspiration (http://www.bhg.com/bathroom/small/decorating-a-small-bath/#page=6), but I will paint another color - something more like a bluish gray I think.

Miss Manners

2012-01-20T07:40:00.001-07:00

While it may not appear that she is concerned about "manners" as she eats naked (a usual occurrence when we are home alone), but don't be fooled. This gal is very concerned about how we treat our guests, who we serve a meal, and minding our p's and q's.

This weekend we had the honor of getting to spend time with the Brunel's. As many of you know, Keely has been one of my best friends since 3rd grade - she's the reason I was in Colorado at that beautiful wedding in October (see those pics on her photographers blog again here). Her mom, dad, she and her new hubby Tom were in town for another mutual friend, Jen Chrisman's (now Jen Campbell) wedding at the Gallatin Gateway Inn.

We had a great time and it was oh so lovely to see she and Rob get married!

And now the manners portion of this story: Mom and Jim had dinner at their house for Pete and Diana (Keely's parents). We had a lovely dinner and Matine was quite well behaved for a two year old, even asking questions occasionally to our guests and eating her food. Earlier in the day, she and Nona had made a red velvet cake and she was very excited to serve it after dinner. As soon as everyone was done eating she asked if we could eat the cake, looked at Nona and says, "we need clean plates and forks for dessert!"

Now, we haven't sat down and read her Emily Post yet, I guess she has just paid attention to us doing that at other dinner parties. We laughed so hard! As she was eating her cake, she kept saying to me, "oh mom, this is so good." She then, just like an adult, points her fork at the cake and shakes her head declaring, "mom, it's so good, we really need to take some of this home."

The next morning, the Brunel's came up to our house to see the place and visit before they went on an excursion with Nona and JimPa. Mattie very nicely led them from room to room, giving them the tour of the house, and after we got to her room, she looks up at me and says, "Mom, you haven't taken their coats!" Sure enough, I had not offered to take their coats yet, and I was reminded of my rudeness!

Oh my! I think for her birthday in May she needs an Emily Post book for children. Come to think of it, maybe we will just skip the kids version and give her the real thing.

Ready for Baby

2012-01-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

I may not be very ready for this next baby (physically or mentally) but I know one little gal who sure thinks SHE is ready!

Today: As I mentioned, Mattie is now COMPLETELY dressing herself these days. Today I sat in front of her a shirt, pants, socks and boots. Within 5 minutes she had ALL her clothes on (right direction and all) AND had gone to the front door and put on her hat, jacket and mittens. I was so happy and impressed and my comment to her today was, "wow, thanks so much Matine for getting dressed by yourself. That is so helpful. I sure appreciate your help. I am going to always need your help." Her reply: "I know. I will need to help you with the baby. I will dress the baby, ok?"

And I am SURE she will.

She turned one of my shirts into a baby sling.

She asked me the other day if what she was eating was healthy for the baby in her belly. She also in that same day told me she needed ice cream because the baby in her belly wanted it .... hmmmm.

Ever since our pig roast BBQ at the Baldner's house this summer where they roasted a whole pig on a spit, While we have a weekly discussion on which animals we eat - she knows we eat "pigs and cows" knows that "pig turns to meat and we eat bacon and pork!" We had a quick talk about this and then she got really quiet and looked at me very serious and asked/stated, "but we don't eat babies, right?" I assured her no. Glad we got that straightened out!

More bizarro

2012-01-12T12:00:00.001-07:00

I LOVE this kid... for so many reasons, but the number 1 reason: she marches to her own drum and I think this will serve her well in this World.

Besides the obvious outfits (pictures shown) she says the most HILARIOUS things!

Her latest thing is her incessant need to know what is going on! She asks, "mom, what are you doing" or "mom, what was that." "Mom, what's going on out there?"

If it takes me more than 2 seconds to give her an answer OR she is not satisfied with the answer she says, "mom, what are they doing, let's talk about it."

Yes, she says, "let's talk about it" on a regular basis. Often, if she wants to hear more of a story or doesn't understand what I am saying about an "adult topic" she will just say, "let's talk about it, tell me." Oh boy!

Lately, she is LOVING me telling her about when she was a baby. She likes hearing us recount our memories of her when she was born, or the songs we sang to her, or how she liked to be held, or what she looked like in her crib. Last night, we were laying down and reading her books before bed and she said, "I don't want a book, let's talk about how much you love me as a baby." My heart was so full!

She is also really practicing her role as "big sister." Babies are getting LOTS of attention and she is really trying to nurture her dolls. She actually scolded me the other day because I was being too loud while her baby napped. Shame on me. I hope she remembers her own pearls of wisdom in about 4 months!

This morning she slept till 6:30 (yay) and then snuggled in bed with me for a while. After about 30 minutes she stretches her arms up, touches my face and says, "mom, are you rested enough? It's time to get up and make some coffee. Let's go." All of this with the "mom" voice that we usually give kids, all chipper and encouraging.

Everything right now is "so silly" or "so funny." She will slap her knee and shake her head like we do to her and say, "you are SO silly!" She also was playing with her noodles at dinner last night, yes, just playing with like play-doh them... no eating. They were magically a "barn" and a pile of "hay" at one point and she kept talking about the little pig that lived inside of them. "Don't eat my pig" and "look, there's a pig in there!" At one point, she very clearly says, "Oh my gosh! Look at that, there's a pig in there!"

There is so much more, I can't even keep up with the journaling or typing when it comes to the things that come out of her mouth, but, I will continue to try... So we all can get a good laugh.

School Bound

2012-01-11T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we have reached and conquered a major milestone! Matine has successfully completed her first 2 days of "preschool" at Montessori Island School with great enthusiasm and success.

It went a little something like this:
- We get the call that her name finally came up on the waiting list and that she can start attending anytime.
- Peter and I go visit the school, with Matine, to check it out, get the paperwork and make sure it's a good fit.
- While we were there for our "visit" before we have even given them a check Matine walks into each classroom, trying to sit down, declares to us and everyone that "this is my school" and "these are my friends." She even ran and got in the single file line with the older kids on the playground when the bell rang. As she stood in line for the class that she wasn't even in she waves at us and says, "by mom and dad, see you later, I have to go back to school!"

So, we wait an entire WEEK (this felt like an eternity to her) until her first day of school (yesterday).
- The night before we pick out and hang up her school outfit (this is required given her intense "preferences" for her ensembles each day... without prior night coordination I was terrified we might have WW3 on our hands in the morning). We packed her backpack with her "indoor shoes" that she will wear while at school, her extra changes of clothes, diapers, and wipes.
- Morning of she awoke well rested, requesting "german pancakes" (of course) and got dressed "all by herself". She has now mastered getting ALL her clothes on, shoes, jacket, and one glove. She is so determined to get everything by herself. Really helpful and cute, I must admit.

Day one of school:
- I take pictures of her at our house all dressed up and we talk about the manners we are going to use, I remind her of her teachers names and tell her to be nice to her friends and share.
- We arrive at school, she SHRIEKS as we pull in the parking lot and exclaims, "this is my school!!!!!!!!"
- As we stand in front of the school I ask her to stop and take her picture and she says, "no pictures mom, I want to go inside!"
- She walks in like she owns the place, heads straight to her room and we find the teacher, Miss Chelsea and see that they have made a cubby for her jacket and belongings. She is very excited to hang up her things.
- As we put on our "inside shoes" she can hardly sit still. She smiles at Miss Chelsea as she greets her and then Sully pops his head out of the classroom and giggles at Matine, she giggles back and she looks at me and says, "bye mom, you have to go to work now."

And that was it. Sully put his hand on her back and led her into the classroom (which they tell me he did all day) and I watched as she sat right down with her friends and started playing at the table. I hear she calls Sully, "her boy" to all the teachers and other friends in class.

When I came back at 12:30 she had eaten her lunch and protested leaving.

She loves it. She was totally wiped out and took a nice long nap when we got home, but was eager and excited to go the next day.

On day Two, she started telling me BEFORE we even parked the car "mom, don't take my picture." I am ALREADY embarrassing my child. I think she might start asking me to drop her off 3 blocks away from school by next week. As we were putting on her shoes and hanging up coats three kids walked by and said, "hi Matine, hi Teen, Hi Matine." And of course, she smiled, waved and said hi back...

Miss Chelsea

On day two I went 30 minutes early to peek in and see what lunch time was like. She was scarfing down her mac and cheese, carrots and oranges and apparently she had eaten FOUR carrots earlier in the day. When she is at home she chews them up and then spits them out in corners....

I guess little Miss Social was ready for school and this next phase of her life. I am so happy there were no "transition" problems... at least, there are none on HER end! Momma needs a little counseling after all this, but the kid is fine. Just fine.

And ... guess what?

2012-01-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

I am listening to the funniest conversation between Peter and Matine, typing, and trying not to laugh...

Today is my birthday. And I want blueberries and my friends will be there. And guess what? The kangaroo will come home and that is when its my birthday. The kangaroo will eat my birthday. The kangaroo is going to break my chair.
Peter: Which chair?
My chair.
Peter: How will he break it?
He won't break it.
Peter: How old will be you be?
Guess what, I will be aaaallll the way big (arms up to the sky).
Peter: I want you to be my little girl and not get too big.
But I don't want to. I want to be big! And guess what?
When the kangaroo comes he will eat my birthday and he will jump way high and jump on me. And guess what? When the kangaroo comes he will come to our home. Be outside.
Peter: Have you seen one? What color is a kangaroo?
Black and white and it's tall.
Peter: Have you seen a kangaroo?
Yes, it's hopping outside.
Peter: Right now?
No. Later.
Peter: Who's kangaroos friend?
It's called family and Little.
I will jump on the kangaroo and it will be scary.
Peter: Can they kick and buck?
Yes.
Peter: Where would you ride the kangaroo?
On it's back.
You can't ride on the tail. I can.
You ride on it's back. I will ride on its tail.
Peter: Will it go fast or slow?
Slow. So you can stay on.
Peter: Do you need to poop or pee?
No. No pooping on people....

As I was finishing up typing this little dialogue I hear her in the bathroom negotiating with Peter that brushing her teeth "makes her sick."

I swear this is one of a thousand conversations like this each day. The stuff that comes out of this kids mouth is hilarious!

Christmas Moments

2012-01-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

I will just let the pictures {taken by Clark Cottongim} speak to the magical powers of Christmas 2011.

Budding Naturalist

2012-01-06T19:58:00.001-07:00

We live in a really awesome place. Just when I think I might go crazy with "one more part time job" or "stupidly expensive plane fare to fly out of Bozeman," or "60 mile per hour winds!" I take a breath, look out my window, take a walk in the woods, or hop in the car for the quick 45 minute drive to Yellowstone National PARK and I am slapped in the face with the reality that I live in the most amazing place on the Planet.

Happy gal. Enjoying her New Year in the Park

Our little wildlife expert. Looking like a pro, hanging out the window.

Yes, we go to take our kid into Yellowstone for the day ... just for fun. Just to watch some wildlife. And by wildlife I mean WOLVES, and elk, and bison, and big horn sheep! Seriously. Very cool. Being the little mimic and animal lover she is, she soaked up every little bit of the day. She insisted on wearing her binoculars "noculars" around her neck all day and she kept them pointed at the hills, sky and road. She commented and told us all the things she thinks she was seeing. Most of it was pretty accurate (buffalo, birds, otters, elk), but she did tell us that she saw a "kangaroo" in the Lamar Valley at one point. Heck, maybe she did.

The beautiful Lamar Valley - might be my favorite place on earth

Peter, Nana Joellyn and Mattie... In Soda Butte

Snow fun.

It was a gorgeous day. Temps ranged from the teens to the 30's, sunny, no wind, and no traffic. Not that there is really ever "traffic" in Yellowstone in the winter, but what this means for us: we can stop in the middle of the road and gawk at things without being bothered for a good 10 minutes.

I see the wolves!

Mastering her 60x spotting scope skills!

Mattie loved using her noculars and the scope all day and didn't' stop giving a running commentary of everything we saw. She loved eating lunch out of the back of the car and going for little mini hikes in the snow. She was throwing ice balls over the hill to "feed the buffalo" at one point as well.

Buffalo

After spending most of the day in the Lamar Valley and Soda Butte, watching 2 different wolf packs (they are AMAZING!), we decided to move on and go to Mammoth and walk the thermal features on the terraces. It was great. Mattie is into dragons these days and with all the smoke and sulpher smells from the thermal pools, she was convinced that was where the "dragons lived." I tell you, her logic and imagination both amaze me!

Where the "dragons live"

This of course would be where they laid their eggs!

My heart was full today. There is nothing better than showing your child what the "real world" is like. Next to teaching her to love herself and others, instilling a love of this place in her will be the greatest thing I do as her mom.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2011-12-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

We are ringing in the New Year in Dillon with Pete's sister Amy and Eric (and of course cousins Cash and Jhett). The kids are having more fun than I could ever show you in pictures or words. We occasionally have to break up a fight (usually involving sharing a tractor, hat or ball); but for the most part they disappear to "shoot monsters" "jump on beds" and play with all their Christmas toys. We can't keep clothes on Matine this trip (shocker) so most of the time she is feral in diaper only.

We have a little bit of snow so they get kicked outside as much as possible to sled, throw snowballs, or their declared favorite activity of "falling in the snow."

We went to Elkhorn Hot Springs in the Pioneer Mountains yesterday (a first for most of us) and it was heaven. Snow all around, warm water and happy swimming babies. Jhett and Matine are FISH and couldn't get enough. Cash is still on the fence as to whether he really likes the water or not. We have already planned a trip back to Elk Horn to rent a cabin and soak more. There is a ton of cross country skiing practically out the cabin doors, a cute restaurant, and of course, hot natural spring water! Our kind of place!

Today we will head down to the arena on the La Cense Ranch where they are doing a bulldogging and break-a-way roping contest/benefit (yes, I just asked Eric and Peter what the heck that was). Should entertain the kids for a while! I am sure Matine will love an excuse to wear her chaps, gun and holster in public.

Tonight we will try to stay awake until midnight, eat some appetizers made of elk, and ring in the New Year with our family... We feel very lucky and happy to have had such a great year and look forward to a very eventful 2012!

Our best to you - our friends and creepy stalkers on the world wide web!

Cheers, The Howells

Oh the hair ...

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Just for fun . . .

Because something about these pictures embody the "Matine-ness" that is our daughter.

A little crazy, unique, and out of control.

60's Christmas

2011-12-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

I adore our little town in Livingston. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful. See for yourself ... This was taken on Christmas Eve.

I stole this picture from Melynda's Facebook page and she did NOT take it... artist unknown.

It is filled with equally beautiful and FUN people. Dorel threw a super chic 60's cocktail / holiday party earlier in the month. It was fabulous and oh so much fun to dress up fancy and imagine us all living the hippy / mod life of the 60's. Great night. And as always, fantastic people!

Dorel and Deena

Kevin, Chad, Mike and Henry --- so adorable.

Jim and Henry - showing the 2 sides of the 60's.

Sally and Kathy and Mike Kasic

Lauren and Kyra!

Chantelle and Meriweather

Chad and his extra dirty Martini

The kissing O'Connors

me and Sally

Baby got some sparkles that night!

Chad and Amy

the scene

Jen, Sally and Meriweather ... oh ladies, you just look so chic.

Mary making up some martinis!

Happy Holidays!

Week 23 Belly

2011-12-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

Like I mentioned, we haven't had a moment to rest for a while, but alas, we are now in Dillon at Amy and Eric's for a few days and I am making it my mission to do NOTHING. I have 2 books, the computer, a camera, some card games, and NO problem watching a million movies if I want to.

This kid, just like Mattie, is getting used to the Howell way in utero - go, go, and more go! I spent 4 hours on Monday skiing with Matine. I really should use the term loosely. Skiing with a 2.5 year old means holding her while in a crouched position as she slides down the hill, playing cat and mouse games while skiing backwards, LOTS of lifting her out of the snow, falling in the snow (because "it's fun mom, fall with me!"), and bending over, up and down, putting on skis, carrying gear, and tracking down hats, gloves and helmets. ALL well worth it to see the pure thrill on her face when she is "skiing" but that day alone would wipe most 23 week pregnant mommas out for a good day. Add that to the excitement and NON STOP talking, walking, entertaining with my dad and bro and I am whooped!

So, here I am - Pete has Mattie on the ranch somewhere looking at horses and I am taking photo booth pics of my belly for the adoring blog readers who actually care what my burgeoning body looks like with Baby Howell #2.

I am feeling great. No more tiredness that normal, no weird cravings or pains. I am experiencing the Braxton Hicks contractions ALOT and have been for a week or so. I get them every hour or so and they are quite noticeable. My mother, the nurse and concerned parent, insists I need to slow down and rest more. This baby is a MOVER! She/He is always kicking and turning and moving around. I feel it all day and night and am having a lot of fun picturing the little thing in there just grooving. My eyes are bigger than my belly now ... I feel hungry a lot but I can't get that much in.

Mattie is still convinced she has a baby in her belly and likes to check on the one in mine anytime we have Nona's otoscope or stethoscope out. She gets very serious and will put the heart beat thing up to the belly, the ear pieces in and she quietly listens to the sounds. The other day I asked her what she heard, what the baby was saying? Her reply was: the baby is saying, "whaaa whaaaa." We laughed really hard. I guess she was listening to me when I explained the baby might cry sometimes when it comes out.

She also insists that the baby in my belly is a "boy" and when asked what the baby's name was the other day, she very confidently proclaimed, "Horace." Hmmm... that might be at the bottom of the boy list. For those of you keeping track... the baby in HER belly is a girl. She has no name, just "baby girl."

I feel like I am bigger with this pregnancy than the last, but then I realize how far along we are and I guess it's not all that strange. I am measuring the same and about the same for weight gain as last time. I am pretty much wearing maternity pants most of the time - they are really MUCH more comfortable than my rubber band trick normal pants. It is just going by so fast I am having a hard time mentally catching up with all the changes in my body!

As always, the boobs feel enormous and kind of gross me out. I feel like a cow but know I will be grateful when I have a healthy baby that I can feed on demand.

The Baby got some presents for Christmas... A beautiful hand knit blanket from Nana Jo, a cool travel highchair contraption from Peter and I, and a darling Oklahoma onesie from Clark and Sammi. I also found a super soft all white outfit while shopping the other day that I couldn't resist. It's all sinking in and this baby is going to be here in about 16 weeks... HOLY COW! We are going to start getting the baby room ready next week!

Ski Bunny

2011-12-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

Just like most people can only take the Cottongim's in little doses, so I will give you the Holiday blog posts. It was a full week of fun, family, and Holiday cheer. Dad got here on Tuesday, Clark and Sammi on Wednesday, and we didn't waste single minute of the entire week. We put Clark and Sammi on a plane this morning and I am just now catching my breath (literally). It's been nuts. The good kind of nuts that leaves you smiling and counting your lucky stars.

We started the week with a great night out to dinner at the 2nd Street Bistro. We ordered a million appetizers and many rounds of drinks. They must have seen (heard) us coming and stuck is deep in the "wine cave" of the restaurant where our voices could soar and talk loudly over one another. Bless Matine's heart, she is learning how to be a loud know-it-all from the best!

Nona and Jimpa at dinner (Mattie STILL wearing Grandpa Scotts glasses).

Thursday morning we were determined to find snow. We drove to Red Lodge where they are having a legendary early season. This apparently is the ONLY snow in the state right now and they had just received 16 inches within the last 3 days. We had to see it to believe it.

Clark said Sammi had one final test to determine if this relationship could really work ... Would she like skiing? He says she doesn't have to be great at it, but had to like it. Being the sarcastic ass that he can be, he teases her about not ever being on snow because of her upbringing in the "sands of Baghdad", etc. ...

Clark and his beauty, Sammi.

Sammi passed the test! It was her first ever time on skis and within a few hours she was linking turns, stopping, and skiing all over the bunny hill and beginner lifts. She even managed to smile while doing it. We had a great a time in Red Lodge. The snow was really that good and dad, Clark and I all got some fluffy powder runs in. I am so happy to get a couple of days in before I am too top heavy to ski safely. The baby (and me) enjoyed that powder and skiing a bit too fast .... Yippee!

We stayed at The Yodeler Motel in Red Lodge - great place. They are catering to the active/outdoorsy crowd and have in room steam baths, a ski waxing room, hot tub and discount lift tickets. Clean, nice place with great people behind the counter. I will be leaving a great recommendation for this place on the online judgement sites!

Cottongim Ski Club is BACK!

Me and my pops! Love this man.

The only pics that we took in Red Lodge were with the iPhones. The rest of the week is documented much more thoroughly. More to come...

It's CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

This means many things, but my favorite part is seeing my dad, Brother and Sammi! All arriving in the next 24 hours!

This is Mattie and Grandpa Scott after we picked him up at the airport today. She insisted on wearing her "ballerina dress" and RAN to greet him as soon as she saw him.

She loves wearing his reading glasses and she has already figured out that he will do ANYTHING she asks. Let the spoiling begin!

I think she could wear glasses all the time and look adorable!

Girls Night …

2011-12-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

It was about time for a night out with some gals! I start acting like a caged animal if I don't get time with my friends... it's been too long. A simple dinner and drinks at Ale Works in Bozeman fit the bill.

Alexis, me, Jeannette, Camy and Levia

Polar Express Weekend

2011-12-13T15:43:00.001-07:00

We just got back from one of our FAVORITE Montana Christmas experiences yet. In the center of the State (literally, it's the geographic center of Montana... see picture below) there is a quaint little town called Lewistown and it is home to the Charlie Russell Choo Choo - an older out of commission passenger train that usually is host to dinner trains and beer festivals. In the winter they convert it to a money making Polar Express train full of elves, carols, hot chocolate, Santa, and a billion hyped up kids and parents.

Back in October our resident even organizer, Melynda sent out an email about the train and a possible weekend stay at a hotel in Lewistown - 8 families said "YES" and we all booked our tickets and our stay in the Yogo Inn (with indoor pool). It was a great weekend and the kids and parents all stayed up way too late, swam way too long, and partook in some holiday cheer. It is a MUST for any Montanan with kids 2 and older. It really solidified the whole Christmas thing for Mattie, finally really understanding the whole Santa thing and seeing how other kids love the "really big guy" as much as she hears she is supposed to.

We caravanned up to Lewistown with the Rogers' gang and took our time sightseeing through the smaller towns of Central MT ... Here's our weekend. WARNING: there are a LOT of cute kids here....

A few pit stops for little boys to pee on fenceposts on the side of the road. Way to go William!

I can't pass through Judith Gap, MT without stopping at the Mercantile for a milkshake. I apparently have amnesia and never realized that a 4 oz shake is $4.50. Oops. After all kids had to have their own, we almost spent our entire lot before we even got to our destination! But hey, the Journey IS the destination, right? They are good.

Approaching the TRAIN! The location of the tracks is actually in Ware, MT (about 40 minutes) from Lewistown. The road was washed out this year with high water and we had to detour through all sort of beautiful back farm roads to get there. It was really special and we got our sing-on in the car with Mattie. She has informed us she likes the songs with the Baby Jesus in them more than the others.

Dad and daughter, geared up and ready to board. The kids are told to wear their PJ's and nightgowns, just like the book. It was so cute to see all the kids pile out of their cars in their slippers, hats and PJ's... Some even brought their teddy bears and blankets. Parents are allowed to bring snacks, beer, booze, whatever they need to tide their kids (and selves) over.

Mattie and her BF Audrey

Dorrel and Gray

William, Logan, Chloe, and Ben (behind his sis) along with all the L-town parents

Albert and Mike aboard the Polar Express

Kids were able to kind of run amuck all over the train. It was pretty funny to see. There were a few hot chocolate spills but otherwise they had a great time and we got to visit a bit too.

I think the coolest part was when the train finally stopped (after about 1 mile of travel, maybe?) and we were all of a sudden at "The North Pole!" It was some sheds and shacks lit up with lights and Santa walked out of his workshop and waved at all the kids on all the train cars and then GOT ON the train. He spent the next hour or so walking through each car talking to EVERY SINGLE child, collecting their "wish lists" and giving them each a special present. It was pretty cool.

having fun....

Mattie doesn't understand the concept of ASKING Santa for things yet, she just said "thank you" to him when he gave her a hug and talked about giving him her Mardi Gras beads. When he walked back through the car she wanted to give him a "high five." Her first comment when she saw him walk into our train car was, "mom, he's a big guy!"

Sophia helping her momma with some Peppermint Scnapps in her hot cocoa. I told you the kids had fun.

And you know, it's never really a party until someone takes their clothes off! Audrey got us started!

High-fiving Santa - which made him chuckle and comment on her cuteness.

After we all deboarded the Polar Express it was back to the retro-fabulous Yogo Inn. We got the block of rooms that surrounded the indoor pool. Our 20 plus children and 16 parents hung out, taking turns of making sure kids weren't drowning or jumping off of balconies. I am crossing my fingers that Matine doesn't get some strange disease after we caught her licking the handrails into the pool. Ick.

The kids went crazy. Hopping from hot tub to pool, hot laps around the large carpeted area (yes it is carpeted around the pool... ick, again).

Peter did a great job of swimming with Matine. She learned to kick like an Olympic swimmer with those floaties. It wasn't until she got out of the pool that I realized why she might have been kicking so hard.... The wedgie up her butt perhaps? Pete had put her suit on backwards and she looked like a cute little Brazilian swimsuit model with a thong!

So cute I can't stand it!

And here we are, at the geographic center of Montana! Having the Christmas memories of our lives!

Holiday Cheering

2011-12-07T16:02:00.001-07:00

We love December in Livingston!

Christmas tree adventures (this year I wimped out and bought a lovely little thing from the Boy Scouts), Holiday Stroll, Santa Claus, pretty decorations, matching PJ's, buying presents, and just general merriment and gathering of our favorite people.

This year I kicked it off by doing the Black Friday Shopping with Madeleine at 6am on Friday the 25th! I can't believe it. I swore I would never do such a thing, but let me tell you, I HAD A BLAST! I think it was mainly because I got hours of uninterrupted time with my friend but I also loved the deals and getting most of my shopping done in one day!

That same weekend I was determined to get my decorating done and a tree found (purchased) and lights on so Matine could decorate the rest. She LOVES the Christmas tree and all the pretty decorations. Everytime she sees red, green, lights or sparkles, she yells, "Look Mom, it's Christmas! Isn't it bootiful!" She constantly goes around the house looking at all the Santas or snowmen or little trinkets and says, "this is my favorite, it's berry special." Of course, being 2.5, ALL the ornaments are "mine!"

She is slowly getting the whole Santa coming thing. She knows he comes on "Christmas Eve" and it is many days away. She concluded that Santa "was sick" after I said we will make cookies for him and leave them as a Thank You for coming to visit us. Apparently the only time I bake cookies is when people are sick? Note to self... BAKE MORE!

She has showed amazing restraint and not opened a single present under the tree. One little box had a corner torn off and she showed me she did it before I even had to ask her about it.

We took her to see the local production of "Annie" one weekend. That was hilarious. 4 moms, 7 kids ... it was a bit of a junk show! The kids actually did a great job, considering. Some ants in the pants and some very LOUD, "where's Annie, I want more songs!" in the quiet theater, but we weren't (formally) asked to leave! Victory! Matine was singing, "tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya" over and over for days!

Last Friday was Livingston's Christmas Stroll (check out Melynda's Stroll Post HERE) This is the great Northern Tradition of bundling your children up in so many layers they can hardly move, walking down Mainstreet and visiting all the Shops and Galleries and seeing all your friends who have been hiding since the Winds of Livingston started to blow (in early November). The furniture store has Santa and Mrs Claus and do pictures on Santa's lap, the Title Company has a really creepy Frosty the Snowman (who we skipped entirely this year), the local Arts Center has a fun craft for kids (which the parents had to do because it involved hot glue guns), and the Historic Murray Hotel has carolers from the Highschool and a fun reading of the Polar Express.

The "kids" activity that parents had to do .... hmmm

Making a pinecone ornament with Dad.

Hanging out after seeing Santa

Listening to the Polar Express with 1/2 of Livingston

All of our friends

The stroll was MUCH more exciting than in years past and seems to be growing. This could be because I saw a set of triplets and 3 sets of twins within 20 minutes and 1 block (it's in the water man!). The Murray reading was standing room only and packed to the gills. Most of the downtown shops stayed open late and we even swarmed a restaurant and ate $3 pizzas at 8pm! We literally took the entire restaurant over with 8 families and about 10 kids under 5 years of age! They LOVED us!

Matine ALWAYS thrilled for a date-night with "her Logan." Clearly she was telling him something important here.

The Shoutis', Earls, Lynn's, Ericksons, Rogers', Vandergrift's, Howell's and Drimals

Other than that, we are enjoying our cozy mornings, hot tea, German pancakes, art projects, and occasional walks in the snow before it blows away. I hear that Bridger Bowl will be opening this weekend, so we will hopefully be skiing by next weekend!

Mattie's favorite food and only about 1000 calories per morning.

This weekend we are going on a REAL train ride to the "North Pole" on the Polar Express and staying in a hotel with an indoor pool in Lewistown! We can't wait!

How is YOUR Holiday going?

Gobble Gobble

2011-11-29T13:12:00.001-07:00

Turkey Day was quite a contrast from the Thanksgiving Blizzard of 2010. We had beach-like weather (for Montana) in the upper 50's, sun, and no snow. Kids are now on autopilot and full of their own adventure and entertainment (save for the occasional sharing conflict which requires our attention).

Walks, food, naps, crafts, movies, games, family, friends ... that's what it's all about folks!

Jhett, Joellyn, Cash, and Amy

3 generations of Buell / Howell gals

Nana Jo with 2 of her 3 grand babies.

me and my gal

Vroom vroom

And now, if you are having a hard time getting into the Holiday spirit , just check out these pics of Mattie with the horses. It could melt any cold heart out there!

She is SO darn cute.... Mini Amy.

Room full of great people - Scrabble anyone?

Naps for friend Brett... he made himself right at home.

Mattie and Cash were really into watching the Lion King. Mattie had never seen it. She loved it. It was a bit hard explaining to a 2-year old what was wrong with the "daddy king" lion when he was trampled to death .... Thanks Disney!

Lady Gaga and her pals

2011-11-19T09:42:00.001-07:00

I fell like I might be living with Lady Gaga ... or something equally strange. Here is a SMALL sampling (seriously, I can hardly get the camera before the outfits are changed) of Mattie's latest designs that she sports around the house (and out when she can).

Because every gal loves wearing an apron naked....

Go Pokes!

Just an everyday house outfit... An homage to kermit apparently

One of my fans... the tutu puppy ensemble!!!

Heels, boots and Mary Poppins hat ... ready for the paparazzi!

Playing my little ponies while wearing her bee-hat and undies.

Now, dress up is MUCH more fun when you have friends to dress up too. Audrey spent Friday morning with us, and I could hardly keep up with all the costume changes this duo had up their sleeves.

Because it was cold in the house, apparently.

And then sunny?

17 - 18 Weeks Belly

2011-11-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, we are approximately 17 - 18 weeks along. Yay! Feeling great and still lucky to have a very "uneventful" pregnancy. I think keeping up with Mattie has made this pregnancy go MUCH faster than the first. That is good and bad for me. I feel a bit guilty that I am not doting over every grumble, movement and pound, but I still feel like I am taking as much time as I can to give this little Bun in the Oven some TLC and love. I THINK I felt some movement last night. It was the "fluttering" feeling that I felt with Mattie around 20 weeks.

I am looking (and feeling) fatter this time. Probably because I just am... not complaining, just stating. No cravings or urges. No pain or symptoms. The hardest part is trying to explain to my Jumping Bean toddler that she can't jump endlessly up and down on my belly. This poor kid is going to be born with a bruise on it's forehead from Mattie's elbows and knees. I am assured by other moms of toddlers that all the belly abuse shouldn't affect the unborn's intelligence too much. We will see.

So, here is a picture ... I don't have exactly an 18 week update or pic from last time - this is a 20 week update (link here) from Mattie's pregnancy. Similar I suppose.

17 - 18 weeks .... and my little helper of course, showing off her belly.

More Colorado Wedding

2011-11-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

I didn't get very many pictures of Keely's wedding (having too much fun to stop and click apparently). Here are some - not sure if they were from the professional or what .... But they are beautiful! What a glorious weekend for two amazing people!

Enjoy! And Congrats again Keely and Tom! We love you so much!

These are my boys

2011-11-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

Mattie is getting quite comfortable with travel, flights and being on the go. This last October's trip to Florida was her 5th or 6th flight in her 2+ years on earth. She loves the planes, the experience, and especially, the people!

Flight number 2 of the day - we were on our Minneapolis to Jacksonville leg. Mid-flight she strikes up a conversation with the passengers directly behind us. Turned around and standing in her seat, she asks them with perfect clarity, "what's your name?" The nice couple who looked to be in their early 60's answer her back, asking her what her name is ... they get the usual response "My names Maaaateeen" (finger pointing to her chest), "I'm two" (2 fingers in the air). She asks the couple "how old are you?" They laugh and say something to the effect of "not two!" Mattie proceeds to babble on about the beach, being in an airplane, her daddy, and a million other things that run through her overactive two year old brain.

The nice couple starts telling her that they have grandkids her age. Mattie is very interested in "their kids" at this point and asks all about them. Like every good grandma, the woman pulls out a picture of "her kids" from her wallet and shows Matine. Mattie takes the picture and examines it closely, studying it, smiling and then saids, "aw, they are cute," and hands her the picture back. The couple and about 12 other passengers have been listening and start to laugh and are now really paying attention to this funny two year old carrying on a very legitimate and adult like conversation (all clearly spoken and comprehensible).

After a few more minutes of questions, talking, and funny kid conversation, Mattie bends down to our seat and takes the kleenex that we have been using to wipe her face and nose. It is no ordinary kleenex. It is one of the cute ones which only my mother finds and gives me. It has a cartoon baby on it reading a book that says, "how to raise parents."

Mattie grabs the kleenex, holds it up to the couple and says, "these are my boys." The little gal just had to show off HER kids to these folks too!

I thought the entire back of the plane was going to die of laughter. I could not believe she did this.

That just about sums up the personality of our kiddo. Funny, smart girl!

Uncle Clark Catch Up

2011-11-05T09:00:00.000-06:00

Yikes, back in September Uncle Clark and two of his buddies, Michael and Jeremy came to visit. Objective: Montana adventure. They white water rafted (burr), fly fished and tried to see as much as they could in 4 days.

Mattie was in HEAVEN! She adores her Uncle and then to have two of his friends (who both have little kids) with him to dote, wrestle, and play with her. Heaven. These boys took over bed time story duty and let me tell you - Where the Wild Things Are has never been read with more enthusiasm - ever! It was a super fun mini-week.

Fishing in Yellowstone National Park - Clark, Jeremy and Michael

Catching a ride in Yellowstone with Dad.

rocks and dirt. heaven.

those cheeks!

She was attached to Clark's hip and loved playing Angry Birds on the iPhone.

Dress Up and Tea Parties

2011-11-04T09:59:00.000-06:00

Little girls... I never in a million years dreamed I would have such "girly" girl. I have to admit, it is a LOT of fun! I am astonished at how much of it is just engrained and part of her DNA...

She loves dress up, make-up, brushing hair, pretty things, clip on earrings (like my grandmother wore), necklaces, pretty shoes, barbies, and pink. She stands on the toilet every day and "puts on my makeup." Yesterday, I left the bathroom while she was still pretending with her makeup and it got really quiet after about 1 minute. I shout back to her and ask her what she was doing - her reply: "Oh, just putting some mascara on my boobies."

Today she can Audrey are playing "princess" and they both have on veils and dress up dresses and women's size 8 heels. Please remember we live in MONTANA and hardly ever have an occasion to dress up. I guess the Sound of Music, the few weddings we have been two and the half a dozen times she has seen me in a dress has really made an impression!

My favorite is how sweet she is with her "pretty" things. She will find mardi gras beads and come running to me and say, "look out bootifull momma." Or lately with her earrings, she will bring them to me to put on her ears and she will say, "they are berry special." She is so careful with her things and just loves treating them gently and with kindness. I love this about her.

She breaks into song all the time, usually when playing with her animals, babies, or dressed up. She must be imagining that she is on stage, holding her baby in a nursery, or something. It's precious.

Here are some girl moments lately.

Belly Pic Time - 15 weeks

2011-11-02T09:00:00.001-06:00

I am trying to do my best and chronicle this Baby's development like I was able Matine's pregnancy. Granted, this is already proving a bit more challenging, but I am determined to try.

This baby is exactly 12 days earlier in terms of conception day, due date, etc. Pretty weird and kind of nice for comparison. Mattie was due on May 5th, 2009 and this little guy/gal is due April 22, 2012. Nearly 3 years apart - heck, they could be born the same day (if God was playing a cruel joke on me).

Babycenter.com tells me that the baby at 15 weeks is approximately the size of an apple - 4 inches from crown to rump. He/She is moving around and kicking, but I won't feel it for another 4 weeks or so. It can move all it's joints and limbs and has legs longer than it's body now.

Here is a picture of what "the belly" (or really the 'Lack of Waist') looks like this week - week 15.

Side note: We must be a morning family because EVERY single belly picture we take is just after we get up ... I think it's the only time we are all three in the same room! Please notice Mattie's awesome morning hair!

PLEASE disregard the down booties and night gown - there is NO glamour in this house! yikes.

And for comparison, this is what I looked like at 15 weeks with Mattie... I was a bit smaller then. I definitely "showed" earlier with this one and I am 4 pounds heavier (that could be because I went into the pregnancy heavier too ... oops).

circa 2008 with Matine

Keely and Tom!

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

What a wedding! Truly one of the most romantic, sweet, beautiful, meaningful and fun weddings I have ever been to. Keely and Tom are two of those people who are honestly, "soul mates." I know, I know... so cheesy and let me tell you, I don't use that term lightly, if ever. You just see them together and you know it is 100% right. My friend since 3rd grade was the most gorgeous bride I have ever seen. She glowed. All the other bridesmaids were a blast, Tom's friends and family was terrific. I could have hung out with all of these people the rest of my life.

It was at a gorgeous place called Devil's Thumb Ranch just outside of Winter Park, CO. Top of the line, classy, beautiful place. Mom, Matine and I made the trip into a girls weekend and we had a BLAST! We started in Denver with 2 nights of City living, shopping and eating. We had no idea what awaited us at this Ranch. We felt very important and fancy. Matine got right into the groove of things, loved calling room service for some toast and fruit, and thought it was VERY fun that she could talk on a telephone while pretending to poop on the potty. She kept talking about how comfortable the beds were and what a good nights sleep she had. Thanks to the saintliness of my mother, I was able to enjoy all the wedding festivities and commitments with Keely and girls, all knowing Mattie and mom were entertaining themselves with hot tubs, petting zoos, game rooms, fancy meals in the lodge and cozy naps in the nice sheets!

On the day of the wedding it took mom, dad and Rosa (yes, they drove in from Tulsa too) to corral Mattie during the ceremony and reception. She was so anxious to see Keely in her "pretty white dress" and "dance" that she could hardly pay attention to anything else. And did she dance. She danced from the first song she could until 9:30... non-stop. Only stopping long enough to request that I bring her water to the dance floor. Seriously, she refused to stop dancing, she told me to bring it to her - she wouldn't walk to the table to drink it. She had every young and old person at the wedding laughing and trying to take a turn with her on the floor. We have SUCH a party girl!

All in all - one of the most memorable weeks of my life. I ADORE time with my mom like that, loved that I could share Mattie with her and my friends, and just enjoyed a nice, fun change of pace and a little bit of much needed indulgence. The only near catastrophe was our attempt to go to Ikea with Mattie after she had no nap... WHAT WERE WE THINKING? We were so excited to go to Ikea without men.... I thought I could leave her at the daycare in the store but alas, she had to be potty trained to stay there. I was almost cursing her non-potty trained bottom the entire, grueling 2 + hours of Ikea Hell. Here's to LOVE and GIRLS WEEKENDS!

Fall Fun and Mary Poppins!

2011-10-31T20:51:00.001-06:00

We have had a fun and busy fall. Beautiful weather, lots of leaves, pumpkins, friends, and of course - DRESS UP! This post is long, but you get to see all of October, including the finale - Mattie as Mary Poppins herself.

It all started with a trip to the wonderful Rocky Creek Farm in Bozeman for pumpkin picking and petting zoo time. Cousin Cash and Jhett (and their driver Amy) were in town, as well as Loni and Marni! Nona and Jim Pa were with us as always and we met up with Sally and girls and it was a party!

On this particular day, Mattie was feeling very free spirited and dressed herself. I couldn't bear tell her she had to change, so alas, what you see is her idea of a pumpkin patch outfit. She loved it and sported the entire ensemble all day. I think I loved it even more.

That might be my favorite picture of all time - yes, that is my daughter and yes, that was just a "Matine" moment caught on camera.

Some of my girls - what would I do without Loni, Mom and Marni?

Sally and Camille

Cash Man!

Amy, Jhett, me, Marni, Loni and Sally

Cousins playing in the hay -they are like night and day!

I love this picture.

Jhett refused to crack a smile on this day. So cute.

The kids - minus Cash.

We then enjoyed a nice dinner at our house where we carved pumpkins, had some homey Shepherds pie, and visited ... the adults did most of the carving while the girls played dress up and ran around the house.

Today, on actual Halloween, Mattie and enjoyed a day of "fall crafts." We decorated our 2nd pumpkin - this time with Halloween stickers, cut outs and glitter glue sticks. We collected some leaves and made a "tree" picture with our real leaves. And Mattie anticipated her dress up "trick or treating" by changing her outfit at least 6 times throughout the day. This child can't decide on WHICH dress up dress she likes best, so she wears them all.

Serious concentration with the glitter glue (notice the sparkly go-go dress)

It was finally time for the finale... Costume time. We have been looking forward to her Mary Poppins debut for months. And again, thanks again to my creative and crafty (and organized) mother, Mattie had a handmade costume that cost mere pennies. We watched scenes from Mary Poppins while getting her dressed and she got really good at saying, "trick or treat thank you" (all one word).

Year three's costume .... Mary Poppins!

Now that you are wooed by her cuteness I will tell you how this all REALLY went down. I was crazy, cranky and impatient from 1pm on... Mattie refused to take a nap and cried in her room for an hour until I laid down with her. She woke up crabby and testing my every move and word. She refused to wear at the hat or jacket (key pieces to the costume). Now, I know this is not her fault - she is 2.5 - I am an adult. I needed to just "let it go" and relax, but it was one of those days where I just couldn't. I wanted to lock myself in a closet and scream at the top of my lungs. A large glass of wine would have helped the situation, but since I am pregnant, that was out (*^%$#).

Sally (my wife), the girls, and ME... terrifying I know.

She (me) ended up pulling herself together, helped and we had a great time with our friends and loved trick or treating. That made it all much better, but I still need a do-over button sometimes. Hopefully she won't remember her scary, cranky clown (that was my costume) mom of Halloween 2011 when she grows up. I was definitely the scariest thing I experienced tonight.

MANY more pictures coming later of tonight... This was all I had on my little aim and shoot.

Happy Halloween.

Hunting in Dillon with the Hoffmanns

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Peter spent a week hunting in the Dillon area with Eric, his dad Ken and uncle John. Ken and John have been looking forward to this trip for about a year - practicing their shots each night together and talking about it quite a bit. Pete put all our wall tents and hunting gear to good use and they all had quite the adventure, Pete getting to hunt for FUN for the first time in a while. They were out for elk, but had better luck with deer. Oh well. I think they had a nice trip and the weather couldn't have been prettier for them.

Fall in the mountains, ahhhhh.

Their cozy home away from home for the week.

A neighboring Moose.

I bet you couldn't tell that these guys were brothers ... or that they love John Deere green.

taking a small break

You can't beat the Montana sunrise.

Second year in a row, Eric "scopes" himself in the face!

Deer down!

My love.

2011-10-29T12:25:00.001-06:00

** I wrote this one month ago and never posted it... thought I should for posterity - even though it's a bit late...

I love our daughter. She never seizes to crack me up. I can totally see why people get addicted to having children - they are a constant escape from being an "adult" and remind us just how fun the simple things are in life. Here goes another list of Mattie these days - no particular order, all important.

She's still on her toast kick ... hardly eating ANYTHING but toast.
I take that back, she asks for "suckers" too ... See's Chocolate suckers to be exact.
She calls the kids that live next door to Nona and Jimpa, "the boys" - and always asks what they are doing.
Ever since her cousin Sam left last week she has asked for him at least 5x/day. She LOVED him. She kept wanting to "hold his hand and dance."
She will randomly walk over to Logan and just squeeze him like she can't contain her love any longer - it is so genuine and sweet.
She likes to open up coolers at parties and walk around handing out beer to everyone. "You want another beer? Ok, I'll be right back."
Last night Jim asked Mattie to bring Peter a water and she says, "No, daddy wants a beer!"
She is VERY into her "ouches" -- she will grab a cloth or napkin and come over to you if she sees a scratch or bruise (new or old) and hold the cloth on it and look at you with the most concerned face and ask, "You have an ouwie... is that better?" "You need a band-aid, ok, I'll be right back."
Most answers to questions we ask her or start with an, "Ok... I will feed the dogs" or "ok, I'll go get my shoes on."
She still has NO clue about colors. Everything is "blue."
Last night she sat naked on her drum set and strummed her guitar for a good 45 minutes - the song selection was a blend of "Tomorrow" from Annie, "ABC's," "So Long Farewell," "I am 16 going on 17," and "Itsy Bitsy Spider." It was QUITE a show! She even told me I needed a microphone - apparently I wasn't loud enough.
She loves to kiss and hug. She never hesitates to give a kiss or a hug - requested or impromptu.
We LOVE our chickens and constantly ask to "hold them." She does this very funny jumping-chase action with them. She flaps her arm like a bird and jumps at them and then laughs hysterically. She will follow them around talking to them ... I am still not real sure what she is saying, it usually involves trying to hand feed them something she thinks they would like.
She has really been enjoying her friends lately - particularly Camille and Audrey O'Connor. They all play in the yard, on the swings, have pretend tea parties (where they eat hamburgers) and play dress up with princess dresses.
She has been napping on our bed, but sleeping at night in her own. She likes for us to lay down with her for a few minutes before she will go to sleep. She sometimes even say, "Goodnight momma, you can go now" when she is ready to actually sleep at night.
She sometimes gets overwhelmed with those she loves and will just walk up to you and squeeze your face with both hands and give you a kiss or say, "I love you!" - she does this to Nona, Mom and Dad alot!
She plays this funny game with JimPa - using her dry humor already- she will see Jim and they start this banter back and forth, claiming ownership over someone - ex. Matine: "This is MY Nona." Jim: "No, she's my Nona..." and it goes back and forth over and over and then moves on to "My Annie," "My Momma." ... etc. She starts doing this game from the car as soon as she sees JimPa coming out the door to greet her. Very funny.
She likes to say, "Tulsa, Oklahoma" and when you ask where either Uncle Clark, Grandpa, Sammi or Aunt Shell live, she will say very proudly, "Tulsa Oklahoma!"
She is a whiz at her animal matching game. There are momma animals and baby animals on separate puzzle pieces. They are all laid on the floor (like memory but right side up) and she has to find the mommas and babies and put the pieces together. She loves to play this and I think she is almost bored now that she has mastered it. She has even figured out the Frog / Tadpole connection ... pretty smart kiddo.
She is the SLOWEST waker. It takes a solid 20 minutes of fussy quietness before she is ready to get after her day. This is after naps and each morning. We usually deal with this by sitting quietly on the couch for a while ... toast is often requested and needed for proper wake-up.
You get really excited about dressing up. You love your "party dress" and my fancy glittery purses. I am not sure where you got this flair for fashion, but it's hilarious and she takes your clothes, shoes and accessories VERY seriously!
You really like playing with the dogs now and they are your buddies. I catch Oliver sneaking in your room to nap with you in the middle of the day and you will chase them around the yard and wrestle with them when they get roudy.
You also can't resist bossing them around when you get the chance - "Oliver, no, sit, no begging" or "Gaucho stay, you can't go with us today." They seem to get your leftovers and extra treats from you too.

Bathtime Talk with Mattie

2011-10-29T09:25:00.002-06:00

Funny Matine in the bath last night. This is 4 minutes long but well worth it... Pretty typical Mattie conversations ....

Florida Part Deux - We invade the Orums

2011-10-28T15:27:00.000-06:00

It was a short 5 hour drive across the beautiful state of Florida to see the Orums. We invaded their fun and bustling house and added one more little girl to their already busy three. Mattie jumped RIGHT in to the life of sisters and loved the doting, hair combing, doll playing, dress up, art work filled days. She sprang out of bed each morning as soon as she would hear the girls rustling about the house and say, "mom, its time to get up and get ready for school." She would "get ready" for school with them each morning, have whatever they had for breakfast, do her hair, and walk them to the school bus. She even practiced (crayon in hand) her spelling homework in the evenings with Zoe. She followed them around all week and I swear grew up 3 years in doing so. Luckily, the Orum girls are the sweetest, kindest and most fun gals you will ever meet and I have no problem with their attitudes rubbing off on Mattie.

We hit Atlantic Beach, had some fun dinners out, went to the Jacksonville Zoo, and went to St Augustine for one day. We tried to just enjoy Matt, Amy, Katie, Zoe and Anna as much as we could. We can't wait to get them up to Montana soon to show them around!

The Jacksonville Zoo was very cool. It has a fun "African Theme" to it with board walks all around and some fun animals that we haven't seen lately. Mattie ate it up and enjoyed walking around with mom and dad just about as much as any of the sights.

The highlight was Stingray Bay - a little exhibit where you could put your hands in the water and actually touch the stingrays and feed them shrimp from your hands. Pretty freaky and lots of fun. The hands on stuff is always more fun for a 2.5 year old!

The next best thing, in my opinion, was feeding the giraffes. They were very cute and have the coolest tongues.

Of course, we heard they had a "petting zoo" part with pygmy goats. Mattie LOVES goats. Every place that ever has them is like heaven. This place had about a dozen and I swear it was like seeing a kid in a candy store. She eyed them all and surveyed the area - narrowed in on one and immediately called it, "her favorite" and just got down on the ground with him and tried hugging and squeezing him. He was very patient and sweet and she sat their talking to it, brushing it and "holding it" until we drug her out and lathered her in hand sanitizer.

My favorite was the bonobos and the the momma with the baby. Watching that ape with her baby was really illustrative of how all animals love their babies just like we do. She loved and coddled that baby just like I would a a new born - it was so sweet and humbling to see.

The rest of the trip was filled with "GIRL TIME!" Those gals played hard and Mattie didn't miss any of it. I am not sure my hair has ever been brushed more than it was on this trip. Between Matine, Zoe and Anna - I think I got about 10 new hairstyles and I sported some pretty crazy barrette / pony tail styles out in public.

Atlantic Beach is gorgeous. We had a pretty nice (windy) day to play in the sand a bit and get in the water for a little while. Matt and Peter body surfed, tried out the surf board for a few minutes and Mattie continued adding seashells to her collection. That child loves Montana, but could very easily become a beach baby. She loves the sand, sun and water!

I just LOVE that stance.

Hot dogs at a little place on the beach - Uncle Matt learned really quickly that the way to Matine's heart was by letting her play with his iPhone.

The Orum girls have running club, dance, soccer, swimming, and all the other school day stuff going on. We joined them at soccer practice where Mattie became one of the older kids, ran all over the fields, and wasn't shy about "tackling" all of their friends on the fields. For some reason she thought it was hilarious to jump on people and knock them over - and would NOT take a hint when the 12 year olds looked at me with terror that she wouldn't get off of them. I think she was getting a little too comfortable with her new life in Florida.

When we got married in October of 2007, we had a dinner night at Ichiban, a Japanese Steak House. We returned with all the original clan - Matt, Amy and kids and Chris and Stephanie and kids. It was fun. Mattie had been told by the girls that they make a "volcano" out of onions and whatever she had imagined in her head was obviously much bigger than the reality turned out to be. Mattie kept begging to see a volcano and hadn't had a nap that entire day. Needless to say, she was exhausted and terrified at all the flames and loud clanging of the knives. Oh well, we will have to try it again.

Breana, Katie, Caroline and Zoe Orum

Chris, Amy, Anna and Stephanie Orum

Mattie doing spelling homework at the kitchen table with Zoe and Amy

hanging with Anna Banana

Katie, Zoe, Anna and Mattie

Mattie got her hair done all week too... So pretty.

We went to St Augustine for the day and happened upon the strangest little Crepe Shop on the planet. This place was covered in doilies, flowers, weird dolls and ABBA. The waitresses wore full "milk maid" outfits, there was a large screen television RIGHT in front of us that played ABBA videos the entire time we were there. It was like the twilight zone and to add to it, Mattie didn't even TOUCH her crepe filled with Nutella and Bananas... Weird.

My favorite grumpy face... She was NOT happy at this moment.

And, we had enough! Great week but this little gal couldn't take any more! She literally put her hand over her eyes while she napped. Drama queen?

She said what?

2011-10-27T15:52:00.000-06:00

The biggest thing you readers are missing out on these days (my fault) are all the hilarious things that come out of our 2.5 year olds' mouth. Here are a few that have made me chuckle.

After waking from a nap... and still laying in bed, "MOOOOMMMM, I am done. Really done." and when I walk in and sit on the bed with her she says, "I slept well. This bed is berry com-for-tuble."

She asks me, "mom, what you doing?" ALL the time. Today I said, doing a little work on the computer. And her reply was, "Good. you are doing a berry good job."

After getting our "new chickens" after the sad demise of 3 of our other 4, she randomly asked me today if we were going to get "new dogs" too...

She is very excited about Halloween this year and when asked what she is going to do when she trick or treats she says, "say, TRICK and TREAT give me candy!"

She is still very interested in everyone's familial relations, especially daddys. She asks everyone we meet and see, "where's your daddy?"

She informed Peter last week that he could "catch the elk but not 'boom' (shoot) them." Instead we told her that he would only "boom" the trees, no elk."

Anytime you ask her something or tell her, let's go, or let's get ready, or a simple request of do this or that, her reply is usually a VERY enthusiastic, "well, OK!"

She loves pretending to be sick and asking for "medicine."

Everything is a baby these days - she coddles it (whatever it is), talks to it, feeds it, rocks it, and takes it all over the house. The most recent babies have been: a rock that weighed about as much as her, 2 crayons wrapped in a piece of paper, a can of coffee, a pumpkin, of course, the usual little plastic animals or actual baby dolls.

She still thinks time-out is a game and will tell me "i need time out?" or very proudly announce (with a smile on her face) to others after a time-out, "I just had time-out!"

Last night at dinner she was told that if she had 2 bites of her potato soup she could have ice cream afterwards. She took her two bites (one she actually dramatically gagged and spit it up on the table) and then she got some ice cream. JimPa was still eating and she lifted her head and very sternly / seriously says to him, "JimPa, you have to finish your soup before you can have ice cream." She told him.

She tells me things are her "favorite" a lot now. That is my "favorite dress" or this is "my favorite color."

JimPa is really trying to confuse her and mess with her by teaching her pig latin... It's hilarious. She tries repeating what he says and sometimes kind of gets it. But the other day he called me, 'ommy-me" and she screams, "NO, that's just Mommy!"

Everytime someone comes to visit, we tell her where they came from and when they need to go she somehow can remember where they came from and say, "you have to back to Missoula?" or "You have to back to Billings?" It's amazing. She really pays attention to what we say and tell her!

There are a million other things I could write about but I have pregnant brain right now and it is blocked. I will try to keep updating as they come to me!

We are not dead, just in Florida ... and other places

2011-10-24T21:05:00.002-06:00

Hi friends and strangers who stalk this unimportant blog.

I apologize for being so "quiet" the last month or so. Many, many things going on here. Mostly good, some even great!

1. I can't hold it in any longer (literally and figuratively) - we are pregnant! Having another baby, due near the end of April! I am showing already and now in week 14, so I feel human again. That first trimester was kicking my butt in terms of energy. I had no idea that you could be abducted by aliens and then be returned to Earth so seamlessly. Seriously. Someone took over my body and I could barely find the energy to take care of Mattie, nevertheless myself and this blog. I am feeling completely normal and great now... great energy, no sickness again with this pregnancy, no real symptoms or cravings, just a thick waste and strong fingernails!

So, as you can expect, we are very excited and ready to welcome another beautiful, healthy baby into the world. Mattie is excited and seems to be very connected to the idea of a "baby in the belly." She tells everyone she has one in her belly and she is even protective of it and will scream and yell, "don't touch my baby!!!!" if you touch her belly or if she gets hurt and it is in her belly region. Pretty funny. She went to the first Dr. appt with me and told the entire waiting room that we were there to see the Baby Doctor and the Doctor was going to make sure our babies were healthy. She tells me that she will help feed, play, and take care of the baby .... we will see!
I know you will all be asking, so NO, we are NOT going to find out the sex. We are really hoping for a fun surprise on or around April 22nd.

2. Ok, after that... well, it's been a typical fall. Pete is hunting and horseshoeing so we have seen him for a couple of days each month (you think I am kidding but I am not). So, it's been BUSY and a bit exhausting. Our house is a mess, the dogs are in desperate need of more walks, and Mattie has spent lots of time with Nona and Jimpa while I try to work as much as I can and keep my head above water. Luckily we have them here and some great friends to help out and laugh/scream with when I feel like I am going to walk off of a cliff!

3. We have been TRAVELING! This is the really fun stuff. In early October my cousin Lacey married a wonderful, wonderful man named Alan in Ft Walton Beach Florida! I was so excited to celebrate their sweet love and of course get some much needed Cottongim Family Crazy Fun ... My dad was extremely sweet and flew all three of us down there so we could join in the excitement. We spent 3 ish days in Ft Walton with Lacey and Crew, dad, uncle Mike, his son Sam, Clark and Sammi, aunt Susie and Uncle Doug. We all packed into a beachfront condo and Mattie got her first real taste of BEACH, sand and perfectly clear water! It was great! I LOVE that area and hope to go back again soon.

4. Since we were clear across the country and didn't know when we'd be back, we extended the trip and then drove to Jacksonville to see the Orums (Pete's BF). We stayed with Matt, Amy and their three beautiful girls Katie, Zoe and Anna for 4 days. We hit the Jacksonville Zoo, the beach, and just imbedded ourselves in their everyday lives and enjoyed seeing a family of 5 in action. Mattie was immediately adopted as a surrogate little sister for a few days and learned all the tricks of the trade. She awoke excitedly every morning to "get ready for school, " walk them to the school bus," and do "homework" each night. It was super fun and SO nice to get away from anything that resembles our lives and have a change of pace. Pete caught up on some sleep, I got a tan, and like a I mentioned, Mattie tried to grow up and be a big kid for the week.

5. We are now in holiday planning season - 4 Halloween parties this weekend, pumpkin patches, costume making, fall projects, and another wedding in Colorado. I will do these as separate posts. Until then, here are some fun FLorida pics to tide you over.

6. Mattie is amazing these days. Completely two and completely hilarious. She is as sweet and kind as ever, but boy does this kid know how to use her vocabulary. I love how verbal she is but I must admit, somedays I need to her to be silent for an entire 5 minutes and that is hard to come by. I will try to be better about doing the little posts and little funny stories from here on out... I promise I will do my best!

Ciao and thanks for hanging in there....

Mattie LOVED the airport / travel / plane portion of our trip as much as anything at the beach. She quickly mastered the TSA / Airport security portion like a pro, made friends with nearly every stranger she could, and was quite a good little airplane passenger.

My favorite story was when she made friends with some grandparent type couple behind us on one of our legs. She immediately asked them their names, told them her name was "Matine" and "I'm two." They talked all about their grandkids, asked her about the beach, and showed her some pictures of their kids. She bent down, grabbed a printed Kleenex that had cartoon characters of babies on it and held it out for them, declaring "these are my boys." I thought the entire plane was about to die of laughter. This was after they listened to her carry on a perfectly clear and succinct conversation with these people about beaches, whales, kids, names, and ages. It was hilarious. Might have been the highlight of my trip and we hadn't even landed. I love that kid.

It was GREAT to hang with the family. There is nothing like a group of Cottongims together... Nothing. Those that actually survive the experience can attest.

So, one of my favorite parts of the trip (well, besides uninterrupted family time with my favorite guy and gal?)... clothing optional, no layering, and very few clothes. Coming from a place where jackets, backpacks, socks and shoes are needed nearly every month of the year... Bathing suits and nudey babies was great! Our nearly nudist baby agreed.

Sand castles was by far the highlight for Matine and the other larger kids of the trip. Peter got REALLY into the building, as did grandpa Scott and Sam... Like I said, the other kids.

Clark, Sammi, Peter, Matine and I went paddle boarding. WAY fun! We took turns "paddling" standing up and sitting down. Super great way to see the water and spend an hour or so. We went further out around the pier where they were fishing for sharks and big fish. We saw a shark while balanced delicately on our feeble board ... As my 2 year old is just chilling and enjoying the views I realized how awful this COULD turn out, but alas, we told her there was a shark in the water and she got excited and wanted to see it. She stayed still and just soaked up all of it the entire hour we were out on the ocean. What a fun kid.

My beauty. I just stared at her the entire trip.

We LOVE Uncle Clark and Sammi. They are fantastic. They stayed 2 extra days in Destin and celebrated Sammi's birthday.

he is putty in her hands ...

Mattie was cousin Sam's shadow (just like when he was in Montana earlier in the summer). She called him "My Sam" and made sure he was accounted for at all times. She also charmed Uncle Clark into holding his fancy camera and tried mimicking the wedding photographers. I think she has a career in film ahead of her.

The ACUFF's. It was a lovely ceremony and great weekend. Meaningful, simple and filled with love... AND, they happily announced that THEY are expecting in MAY! Yay for more cousins! We love you guys and were so happy to celebrate with you.

My gal. Morning walks on the beach and watching dolphins swimming in the Ocean... I will never forget those moments with my family.

Daddy's gal!

We left Sammi and Clark in Destin after we made sure they had suitable transportation for the remainder of the trip. Clark really knows how to wow a gal with a Scooter filled Birthday weekend! Wahoo!

Part Two of our Florida Vacation and time with the Orums coming soon!

Big Fish

2011-09-02T09:58:00.000-06:00

Check out the latest fish caught in MY HUSBAND'S Boat on the Yellowstone? Pretty good stuff. Fall fishing is GOOOOODDDD!

26 Inch Brown Tout

More of the story is here on Peter's BLOG.

Jammin'

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

I know I talk about the Farmers market a lot, but we love it and it occupies a few hours of our week from June through September. Mattie loves it. She gets a snow cone, gets to dance, run around with her friends, and eat junk food for dinner. Why wouldn't a kid love it? Last week she did a surprise strip down on the dance floor. Took off all her clothes, down to her tennis shoes.

This week the Prairie Wind Jammers played - our neighbors are 2 of the 5 members of this group and they are so fun to listen to! Mattie loves her bluegrass!

Studying their technique

So, I have to brag on my family a bit more here... My two dads - aren't they adorable? And yes, they completely get along and hang out ... Amazing. And let me tell you, that little gal you see has them wrapped around her finger ... She adores them both so much.

Best part of the Market? All our friends! Above, Logan with his soccer stuff on (so cool) and William with his "satchel" aka... his purple purse carrying a brush, tape measure and some rocks.

They're Married!

2011-08-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

The day finally came when David Lustig made Tiffany his wife... seven years we have waited for this guy to make it official! We love Tiff, and David too and they are a match made in heaven. We are so happy for them and we loved getting to celebrate with them this weekend. Like other weddings, it was a mini family reunion - we got to see ALL the family and had a delightful time!

Heading to the beautiful meadow in the mountains for the ceremony. Mattie and Cash decided to be a couple for the whole night. They were inseparable. She must like a cowboy.

Getting to hang with her Cousin Gwenna... They are only a couple months apart. It is freaky to see genetics at work with these three - they are so similar!

Bridger String Quartet played music as we arrived and as Tiff walked down the isle. SO beautiful.

Our clan arriving.

I LOVE this family! Seriously, when you marry you marry the family too. I hit the jackpot. I can't imagine picking cooler people to spend time with. And they are all so beautiful (in and out) and have picked some pretty fantastic boyfriends and girlfriends.

Nana Jo and her little Cash-Man.

Gorgeous day, gorgeous setting ....

Handsome Eric and his pink shirt. He and Peter went shopping before the wedding ... Cute huh?


The Groomsmen! All the Lustig boys are SO handsome!	(David, Ben, Jake, Rick, Mystery Friend, Danny and Kurt)

Bucky Leaper (the wiener dog) and the flower girls and 12 bridesmaids!

Pretty Mary and Gwenna - another fabulous cousin!

Tiff was gorgeous. I was speechless, as I know David was too.


The bubbles were a hit and were props for all sorts of fun all evening.

Jhett trying to eat an entire piece of pizza in one bite.

It was a great wedding - casual and pretty. Pizza was served for dinner (Tiff's favorite) and a doughnut cake for the cake (again, her favorite). 10 Foot Tall and 80 Proof (my FAVORITE local band) played live music for hours!

Family Portrait... Only one we've had in a while.

Loni and her love, Justin.

The scene

Mattie loved the doughnut cake.

First Dance

Tiff and David's first Dance was one of the sweetest I had ever seen. David was a big pile of mush and was teary eyed (first we had ever seen). Tiff was so in love and so beautiful. As they danced (and I cried), Mattie and Cash took their first dance and you will see in this video BOTH couples being adorable. Please see the moment when as Cash walks across the dance floor to dance with Mattie....

After the first dance, Mattie and Cash immediately went into couples dance mode and continued to emulate every move they saw on the dance floor. When I tried dancing with Matine at one point, Cash even tapped me on the leg and 'cut in' to dance with her more. They twirled, two stepped, did some spins and hops. It was precious.

This is Mattie's solo performance. This went on for hours.

Cousin Tara and friend Jake

My favorite gals - Lone and Marni Waters ... I wish I had sisters just like them. I guess I kind of do!

Ben and Amy (both siblings of the groom) tearing up the floor!

More bubbly love and of course, Mattie's favorite- her Marni.

The world's BEST sister-in-law! I love Amy!

Girl Friends

2011-08-29T10:44:00.000-06:00

I LOVE MY GIRLFRIENDS! After about 8 friends in 24 hours mentioned how much they wanted (needed) a girls night (drinks without children) I figured I better organize something. I sent a text out and within about 2 minutes I had about 10 responses of "YES! When? See you there!"

We had a gorgeous Montana evening to sit outside on the patio at the Park Place Tavern and margaritas,champagne, laughter and discussion flowed freely. I am always left amazed at the beautiful, strong, interesting mix of ladies that I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by. Seriously, these women are all extraordinary in every possible way. I'd be lost without them. Cheers Ladies! My cheeks (on my face) still hurt.

Megan and Regina

Raluca, Megan, Regina, Aga, Levia and Madeleine

Kyra, me, Debbie, and Janell

Grizzly Encounter

2011-08-29T09:47:00.000-06:00

Many of you think that bears literally live outside our back door and that when we step outside we need to carry a rifle and bear spray, as the bears are ready to pounce on us and eat us for lunch. Not the case. While there are a lot of bears in the area and yes, there are grizzly encounters and the very occasional "attack" it is really rare to actually see them. We get just as excited about seeing them as our friends who come to visit because we can count on our hands the number of times we have seen them in the wild. Which is why even I visit the tourists traps to see them.

We drive past the "Grizzly Encounter" facility nearly every day as we head to Bozeman. I had yet to stop until last week when Sally and the girls were going to meet one of their friends who was passing through town on her way back East. I knew Mattie would love to see the bears so close and it was about time I checked this place out! We were not disappointed and it was great to hear the rescue stories of how these bears got to this nice place. All but one of them had been rescued from bad/abusive captivity situations and now lived a relatively nice life where they get fresh air, no cages, fed regularly and companionship with others of their kind. They do a very nice job of talking and telling you all about brown bears, their habitat, how to behave in the wild so you avoid a bad encounter with them, etc. Very informative.

While there were REAL LIVE bears just feet from them, they preferred to fight over who could hug and hold the wooden bear at the gift shop.... 2 year olds...

Audrey, Sally and Mattie observing Brutus the Bear and Shaena the bear.

Brutus is the same bear you see in all the movies. He is the one in the background digging the hole. Shaena was chilling in the water and playing with the log.

They both took a dip and even did a little playful growling and roaring for us!

Next time anyone visits I will take you here ... It was a fun way to spend an hour or two.

History Lesson

2011-08-28T14:52:00.000-06:00

I know I have been MIA for a couple of weeks. LOTS of summer fun (and pictures) to be had ... stay tuned, I promise I will play catch up one of these days. Until then, I have some fun pictures to share.

Anyone who knows me (or my family) knows how over-the top PROUD and excited we are to talk about our family and family history. It's always been that way and it always will be. I was raised going to our family reunions (multiple) each year, rain or shine. We didn't skip out on them for a cool party with friends, sporting event ... nothing. Family is the most important thing and it was bred into me that the bonds and time you spend with your extended family is just as important as a brother or sister.   Most people are happy if they see their brothers or sister or first cousins once a year. Not the Jarvis - Cottongim Clan. No, multiple generations and 2nd, 3rd and even 4th cousins gather each May and September - no fail.

My great grandmother Lois Ann Brown Jarvis and great grandfather Louis Richard had SEVENTEEN (17) children. My grandmother, Pauline (my dad's mom) was the youngest of the 17. As you can imagine, just that branch of the family tree makes up a small village.   The coolest part of it all is that you could as any of my dad's 52 first cousins who someone is in any picture, or whose car or house is in a picture and they could all tell you. They stayed close and strong all these years, and that is only because they were raised by people who stuck close and strong for a hundred years before that.

I can't make the fall reunion again this year (see the sadness on my face) but I wish I could. I hope to be able to take Mattie to these reunions someday and let her develop a sense of pride and honor for her heritage. These are all amazing people with huge hearts and smiles - all interesting in their own way.   Here are a few of the pics I stole from our Family Facebook Page (yes, we even have a facebook page)

My grandpa Keith - dad's dad ... See the resemblance to anyone?

Aunt Jerry and my grandmother (dad's mom) Pauline - they were all beautiful women!

My great grandmother Lois (the mom of 17) taking a break from child rearing to fish apparently....

Aunt Mary, Grandma Lois, Uncle Andy, and my grandmother Pauline- this picture looks straight out of Madmen to me

Uncle Doc - always looks so cool in his pictures.

Mother - Daughter Pose - Great Grandma with her girls. I love how they are so giggly!

Some of the boys of the 17 - this was taken at the funeral of the 3rd oldest, Joe's funeral. He died in a plane crash in Oklahoma.

My grandmother Pauline, holding her 2nd oldest, my Aunt Susie. She was so pretty!


All the kids that were still living when their mom, Lois died (taken at her funeral) .

I have a million more pictures I could post - similar poses and stories... But of my dad and aunts holding us as babies and playing at reunions. Now WE have the kids and have more generations running around the same places. Different hairstyles and clothes but it is fun to see the same smiles and those Jarvis genes going strong!

Where's the Pig?

2011-08-14T22:09:00.000-06:00

We don't miss the Annual Baldner/Rogers Birthday bash each summer. Mike Rogers and Theresa Baldner have birthdays within days of each other and they always throw a fun shindig up at the Baldner's beautiful property just outside of the City Limits. This year: pig roast, beer, lots of kids, potluck sides, and terrific friends.

Mattie overheard people talking about "the pig" and naturally assumed there was a little pink Wilbur running around. She asked about every 15 minutes "Momma, I want to see the pig. I want to hold it?" I don't want to deceive her but also understand that the concept of eating our four legged friends is pretty horrific and difficult to even grasp at 27 months, so I very carefully showed her the BBQ'ed pig and said that is pig meat in the grill. She looked at it with no reaction and then went about playing. She clearly (thank goodness) couldn't make that connection and just kept asking when she could see the pig ... Crisis averted (for now)... we still have a meat eater.

The kids played and frolicked. It was a perfect night. Perfect weather. A great mix of music blaring (a perk to having no neighbors), and as always, I just want to cry to see all our friends - they are so wonderful. I drank a few too many beers and we eventually left around 9:30 - when our party girl FINALLY showed signs of slowing down.

Another wonderful summer memory for the scrapbook!

every party needs a little picnic blanket cribbage game!

the demise of Wilbur

Matine obsessed with Christy's dog ... of course. "I hold it."

Henry and Finn - always adorable.

THE Rob Bankston!

My beautiful friends and their beautiful babies.

Megan and Elias - after a brief move to Boulder, CO - they are BACK for good!

My favorite shots of the night. The girls playing in the flowers.

Having so much fun.

The fire was a HIT! AND, all the kids stayed behind the green hose line like good boys and girls.

Me and Tony chatting - Peter said I looked like I was wearing a maternity dress. So much for trying to be fashionable in a maxi dress! Ugh....

Keely and Tom Sitting in a Tree!

2011-08-12T11:00:00.000-06:00

I cannot wait until October 15th!

One of my OLDEST and BEST friends is getting married in Colorado at Devil's Thumb Ranch. She finally met the man of her dreams, and let me tell you folks, NO ONE deserves a great man more than Keely!

This gal has been one of my best friends since Kindergarten! Oh the things we have seen and done together - grade school pranks, slumber parties, church camp, ski trips, high school pranks and antics, Yearbook, riding bikes around neighborhoods, marriages (mine), travels around the US, lots of laughing and just GOOD STUFF! I have looked up to this girl since I met her ... always envying her perfect hair, great style and amazing beauty (inside and out). Keely has always been waaayyy cooler than I could ever dream of being. You have to make sure your friends are cooler than you ... It just makes good sense.

Keely, thanks for letting me a part of your day and THANK YOU for being my friend for all of these amazing years. I love you so much!

Keely meets Matine

Pool party at Keely's house in Tulsa. 1990 - we are the two in the matching suits - of course. All of the hair in this photo is really quite amazing ...

4th grade with our Teacher Miss Slack - Check out her perfect bangs ... We used to measure them with a ruler every morning, sitting next to each other at our adjacent desks. Mine were not looking so hot on this humid Oklahoma day.

I can't wait to see Keely and Tom get married!

my bro is 29!

2011-08-12T06:00:00.002-06:00

It's a month of birthdays ... big ones, my favorite people. So here goes another shout out and thanks to a person I would be absolutely LOST without. Clarkie, you are the best. You are the funniest, most loyal, hard working, quirkiest, most creative, intelligent, interesting, brave man I know. You embody the phrase "live everyday as if it were your last."

2006 - Ski Trip to Austria

Meeting my Little Brother in 1982!

I look up to you little brother in so many ways, but my favorite thing about you is your enthusiasm for LIFE... all of it. You love the gritty parts, the humor, the scary stuff, the adventure, the love and all of the smells, feelings, tastes and things that living a FULL life brings. Thank you for being just as excited to tell me about a new favorite recipe as you are a concert you saw. You are surrounded by amazing people and friends because YOU are amazing and a friend. You are magnetic and contagious and people adore you because you are real and sincere and WANT to know people, in and out. You are ALWAYS there for me... the first to call me to the table but the first to give me a hug and tell me you love me. Thanks for being on my team since the day I met you. You are my best friend ... always. I hope we have many, many, many more adventures together! Never lose you hunger for all things beautiful!

He loves Montana!

What? Did we really get along THAT well?

How I remember you most.

With his favorite niece this summer.

Bull-Dozer!

2011-08-11T19:00:00.000-06:00

I am quite amused at myself and the strange (yet handy and useful) skills I have developed over the last 10 years. Many of my friends laugh when they hear of some of the antics and situations that I have found myself in, but I am quite proud of my ability to try (at least once) just about anything. I figure I have nothing to lose and only knowledge to gain! Now, I will not claim to be an expert at ANYTHING but "aware" of many things. I am pretty sure this is an inheireted Cottongim trait as well. We are great B.S.'ers simply because we are excited to jump into to just about any situation or sit down and talk to anyone - for better or worse.

The latest "skill" to put away and add to the eclectic resume: Grading a dirt/gravel road using a BULL DOZER! That's right. Did you know you can get 1 Yard (approx 1 ton) of road grade gravel for $4.50? You can also have a bulldozer delivered by a semi for $350/day. In that day you (and mostly the work, skill and precision of Jim Bynum) can grade a road to perfection!

Check it out! Chicks on tractors.... I am sure there is a sleezy calendar that already has a non-PG versions of this....

Thanks Jim for teaching me how to operate this thing and doing most of the hard work! You are a real Gem (pun is always intended)!

celebrate, celebrate

2011-08-10T20:50:00.000-06:00

We had to show Mom a good ol' Montana float night for her birthday! She has only floated the Yellowstone on a whitewater trip, and while that is LOTS of fun, there is nothing like a crisp Montana evening when all is quiet but the birds and a few river-side deer lapping up their last bits of water for the day to make you take a deep breath and say, "I live in the best place on the PLANET!" It was a gorgeous evening and I think a good time was had by all.

Helping Dad row the boat.

I am pretty sure this was here letting us know about a "whale" sighting.

Thanks to Peter for rowing our tails down the River AFTER already putting in a full days work rowing clients down another River. It was worth it to see my mom's smiles and to hear Matine's squeals as she was CERTAIN she saw "whales" in the Yellowstone River. She even convinced herself (after we told her) that some splashes in the River were the "whales" and she immediately says to us (with great certainty), "I need to hold him." Good stuff.

Happy JimPa

Love that fried chicken.

Mi Mama!

Best seat in the House.

Fried chicken, cupcakes, and beer = $20.00. Time with your family on the Yellowstone River = Priceless!

"my nona"

2011-08-08T06:00:00.001-06:00

Today is my sweet Mother's birthday. Wow. It's hard to imagine another year has gone by and I have been lucky enough to spend nearly the ENTIRE year with her just a few blocks away. Having her by down the street and close to our lives has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I can't imagine not being able to share the craziest, most amazing years of my life without her. NO ONE loves our child, me, or my world more than my mom. She has been a steady, consistent, and faithful "fan" of me for as long as I can remember, but I have never needed or WANTED her here more than the last 2 years. From drop in play dates with Matine, sharing dinners, recipes, an extra hand with the smallest to largest home improvements, someone to run errands with, have a beer with, go shopping with, or just to call and tell a funny Matine story... She is always willing, ready and delighted. She's amazing. My mother has an unbelievable way of being the perfect blend of fun, outgoing, friend who you always want around and also a "mom." She knows when to just smile and laugh and when to sit me down and give me that counsel and advice that only a Mother can do. She is Super-Mom.

Circa 1982 - Brooke, Mom and Clark

Everyday I am AMAZED at her talents and enthusiasm for anything that she does. She can decorate on a dime like no-ones business, she can see the most beautiful potential in things that I would never give a second glance to, and she has in less than 2 years made for she and Jim (and our family) the most beautiful, warm and inviting home. She loves that people can just show up, get a beer from the fridge and relax - she is a master at making people feel welcome and love; and let me tell you, half of Livingston adores Kerri! I am so proud to introduce her to my friends and the irony is that they are now HER friends, OUR friends. Our entire community has embraced she and Jim because they are so good at embracing others. I am so proud to have her in my life.

2009 - Thanksgiving

If you haven't seen my mother with her grand-daughter, you should. It is the most beautiful thing to behold. So many days I watch them together and it literally brings me to tears. She ADORES Matine and somehow knows EXACTLY what she wants, needs and desires at any moment. We joke that Matine is always so perfect and happy at "Nona's because she never tells her 'no'" but I know that isn't entirely true. It is taking a Village to raise that little one and I am sure grateful to have her on my team.

2011 - July

My mother seems to have found her true calling as a Grandma and it is contagious and delightful to see. Games, crafts, puppets, movies, bike rides, baking, sewing, swinging, napping, sharing snacks ... They do it ALL together and she always makes it MORE FUN than anyone else. Mattie looks at her with such adoration and I LOVE that she begs to go to her "Nona's house" or asks if "Nona is coming" when we get dressed to go somewhere. They have an amazing bond that I know will be the forever and I can't ever thank my amazing mother enough for taking the time, opening her generous heart, and allowing my child to love her so much. My mom has been many things to me over the years (counselor, nurse, teacher, friend, resource guide, personal seamstress/gardener/shopper, etc) but the greatest thing yet has been getting to share Mattie with her. I have more respect, love and understanding about what it meant to be my mom now that I am a mother. Mom, somehow, you made it look pretty darn effortless. And I know Clark and I weren't always the easiest kids. You always make the time, have the energy, the smile and the love that I need. Always. I love you so much and have no idea what I would do without you. You are the strongest, bravest, most beautiful and interesting friend, mother and woman I know ... I hope I am half the person you are ... someday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KERRI NONA!

2010 - Vancouver Trip

PBR Rodeo welcomes the Bynums

2011-07-28T13:15:00.000-06:00

It has been a very fun week. Jim's kids are here and it is always great to see them. It's their first time to Montana and I know they are extremely grateful to be out of the hot hellishness of Oklahoma for a week. They have enjoyed the cool evening temps, highs in teh 80's, hikes to waterfalls, bike rides around town, and even Yellowstone National Park! Matine is in love with this week's cousin du jour. Last week she was attached at the hip to Sam Cottongim, this week it's Ty, Stacee and David's son. I keep saying it, but I am REALLY not sure what we are going to do about this gal... there is just too much love to go around with her.

Last night we all went to the PBR Rodeo. If you remember last year we did the PBR when Clark and Richie were in town, this year it was just as much fun. Matine, Peter, Sally and I had a little date night at the Bistro before the event, and I could hardly contain her, as she was READY to "see the bulls!" This kid loves a rodeo. Great night was had by all and as usual, the Livingston backdrop was as pretty as a summer night in the mountains could ever be.

My sweet date, reading the menu and deciding on some water and pizza ....

I LOVE my gal.

What a crowd. My family is the best ever.... seriously.

Chris, Katie and Kirk Bynum

Ready for the action!

There's nothing better than 40 hot cowboys in a line.

Mattie loved it all... the bulls, the clown, the singing, clapping, cheering .... Needing a closer look.

Hubby

My mom is SO cute... She is really fitting in well in Livingston. I think the mountains suit her just fine!

Montana's own, Flint Rasmussen... the famous rodeo clown.

Our backdrop for the night.... Ahhhhhh

Cheering and catching prizes.

My sweet, beautiful, thoughtful, fun, loyal friend Sally!

Mattie holding on to her prize ... When do we tell her about this kissing cousins thing?

Her new BF, Ty.

More pictures to come of the rest of the Bynum's trip ....

She's Feral.

2011-07-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

This look is priceless... and we get it ALOT!

I want to hold them.

Hope Alaska 2011

2011-07-24T21:34:00.000-06:00

It was no coincidence that my and Micca's trip to Alaska was to a little town called "Hope." I recognized the irony of the name for as long as I have heard our friends talk about this "magical cabin in the most beautiful place ..." but could never fully appreciate it's name until I stepped foot into Hope. My years of dreaming of this place finally arrived! I didn't realize how "hopeful" Hope would make me or how much I needed my best friend and some time away.   Hope was perfect, in so many ways.

I knew it would be painful to leave Mattie, but I also knew she was in great hands - between her favorite woman, Nona (yes, I think she rightfully loves her Nona more than me even), her dad, and what ended up being a good amount of time with her Nana Jo and Aunt Amy - she wasn't lacking for attention or love.   She had a BLAST.   Thank goodness we have a "Village" around us, or I would have to live like the rest of the world ... Juggling time between babysitters, daycare, and NOT going on week-long vacations. Mom and Jim also watered our plants, fed our chickens, looked after the mail, yard, and even the dogs when Pete was gone. Thank you- none of us are sure what we would do without you!

So, the trip - it was refreshing, hard, wonderful, busy, relaxing - all of the things that make life great. We based out of the cabin in Hope, a little town of 150 people (I only saw about 10 actual residents, the rest I assume live in the trees). Matt built this place along a creek, hidden in the tallest most magical forest. It has good "juju." You immediately check reality at the door and step into relaxation mode (this is an understatement). Micca and I stocked up on some food and a bottle of wine for each day we were there and literally kicked our feet up in the Sky Chairs on the porch and started talking.    In between our wine drinking and talking we also hit the road and the trails and tried to see as much of Alaska as we could in our short week.   We needed to do some healing and relaxing, but we also had to see stuff!   Here it goes....

Can you see the glaciers?

We flew in to Anchorage - Micca and I bought our tickets so we could meet in the Seattle Airport and fly in together. When I had arrived (at 5am) to the Bozeman airport, they had CANCELLED me off of my flight from Seattle to Anchorage and put me on a different flight (without Micca) earlier in the day. That was NOT going to happen, and the nice young man with Alaska Airlines worked his magic and we arranged a new flight that Micca and I could BOTH be on. This proved to be the ONLY hiccup on the entire trip (amazing)! We had just as much fun on the plane and in the airports as we did on the trip - but that is why Mic is my best friend. We could be locked in a cellar for a week and we would manage to not kill each other or cease laughing.

We took the beautiful drive from Anchorage to Hope, around the Turnagain Arm and through some pretty amazing mountains, rivers, streams, all along the ocean. We made a few pit-stops in Anchorage to see Peter - yes, he was just arriving in Anchorage on his way back to Livingston after a week long fishing trip on the Good News River - fishing for trout, salmon, steelhead and dolly varden (that post is coming soon). He had a great time and we shared some Moose's Tooth Pizza in Anchorage with him before heading to the Cabin. As soon as we pulled into Hope, and about 2 minutes after Micca said, "I sure hope we see a moose sometime on this trip," We saw a momma moose and her two babies. We saw MEESE! We could check that off the list of things we wanted to see - yes there was a hand written list. A few other items on the list: Sarah Palin, eskimos, "a bunch of eagles" and "bears, but not eating us."

Wow.. this place. Tiny. Cute. You could miss it if the road didn't literally dead end there. We followed the instructions and turned left at the "road across from the cafe and a left at the "intersection" (which ended up being a bush and a mud puddle).
We got acquainted with the place and made our selves comfortable. Hopped on the kiddy bikes and rode through the "town of Hope." This was a few dirt roads, some restaurants, a gallery, a library, a very strange gift shop and some beautiful views. Our first day consisted of breakfast at the Discovery cafe, this bike ride, a few little walks, and some front porch sitting!

We got REAL comfortable in these chairs.

The lovely Discovery Cafe where we met Matt and Jeannette's friend Gina and where we filled up our water jugs and ate breakfasts most morning.

The old school that is now the Library

Open "most days"

Riding through Hope

Where Resurrection Creek meets the Turnagain Arm

Shortly after taking this picture WHILE riding my own bike, I flew over the handle bars and ate dirt.

Day two: Breakfast at Discovery Cafe, anxious about seeing some "Alaska stuff," and a lovely hike to Twin Lakes. Just the drive up Palmer Creek Road was gorgeous. The hike was perfect and a great way to get our legs moving and our minds free!

Surprisingly, still no bear sightings. We did see a big beaver in one of the lakes on our hike. I did get some solitude, BIG vistas, wildflowers and my best friend. We had some delicious halibut and chips at the Seaview Cafe and of course, more wine on the porch and bed around 1 or 2 am? It REALLY IS light ALL day there. Maybe between 3 and 4 am it is "pretty dark" but I can still see exactly where I am going. Our sleep masks weren't cutting it.

Turnagain Arm with the bore tide in.

Micca and I both are not fans of traveling with too much of an agenda. The best surprises lie in the exploring and just going with the flow. We had "rough" plans but weren't afraid to change them if a fork on the road looked interesting, or if the food at a certain place looked good. We stumbled across a lot of beautiful things as we just got in the car and "went."

Day 3: We drove to Girdwood and took a loooong road where some mines used to be. Beautiful. It also led us past the Alyeska Ski Resort and to the Crow Pass trail and Raven Glacier. This might have been my favorite part of the trip. Words can't describe how beautiful this hike was and how many different kinds of terrain we traveled through on the short 6 mile hike. We finished up the day with a long steam "shower" in the sauna. There's nothing like a hot steam in a sauna situated on a beautiful creek in the middle of the woods. Being stark naked in the middle of nowhere never felt so good!

Old mining equipment... not sure HOW they got it all up here.

Can you see the trail meandering? LOTS of switchbacks.

Raven Glacier in the background.

Dinner was delicious at the Double Musky Inn. Wine, crab stuffed mushrooms, halibut .... YUM!

Day 4: We drove to HOMER! This was about a 3-4 hour drive south and West, straight to the ocean to a classic Alaskan Fishing town. Beautiful, idyllic, just what we were looking for. We signed up for some kayaking for the next day, found a very odd place to stay (we stayed at a Fisherman's Lodge which was actually a remodeled room above a fish packing / processing plant). We strolled the Spit and had some beers at the famous Salty Dawg Saloon, got MORE fish and chips and crab cakes (we ate WAY too much fried food on this trip), and of course, drank some more wine and talk, talk, talked. We LOVED Homer and all it's character. It's a breathtaking place and has a fun atmosphere.

Yes, that is fully shingled RV with flower boxes installed. Awesome.

Halibut! I think we ate some of the 4th one that night!

Coolest bar ever.

Another self portrait.

Local Homer brew ... served in a Sobe juice bottle and wrinkled label/sticker of course.

Day 5: Kayaking around Yukon Island in the Kachemak Bay. Gorgeous! A short 20 minute water taxi (called the Beowulf) and we were suiting up to cruise for the day. We saw cool marine life (lots of jelly fish), sea kelp, little critters in the water, some amazing rock formations, "a bunch of eagles" (Micca could cross that off her list), sea otters (also on our list), sea lions (and... on our list), and even a little Alaska rain. It was very relaxing and peaceful. The other couples on the trip were even from MONTANA! Pretty small world. Glad I was behaving myself.

Water taxi to Yukon Island.

Burr... it was ALMOST cold! Love it!

The Beowulf Water Taxi. Dropping us off.

Our rides for the day.

We LOVE ALASKA! Oh, and rubber wellies.

The Homer Spit scene.

We headed back to Hope that night, saw another moose along the way, and cooked ourselves a lovely smoked salmon alfredo dinner and .... more wine.

Day 6: Sad day. The day we had to THINK about leaving. We went to the Dacha in Hope to do our laundry, cleaned the cabin, and then it started to rain a bit. We enjoyed so much just being still and doing more talking, laughing and enjoying this amazing getaway. Micca kept commenting how "sad she felt for Jeannette and Matt" because they had this place and they couldn't be there more often. I completely understand what she means. If I owned this place, I would yearn for it. It is really a special place on this planet. Anyways, we did one final sauna...ahhhh.

The sauna

Hot steamed goodness awaits.

You can picture my naked ass standing there looking at THIS.... Kidding, please don't.

Day 7: Tears and sadness to leave Micca but some happy anticipation to be back home with Peter and Matine. I know Micca was really missing Josh and Cash. I had a layover in the Seattle Airport from 9am to 8:00pm. That is a LONG time to be in an airport. I finished a book, caught up on the phone with old friends, spent WAY too much time in a gift shop (or 7), got a pedicure, and did my own version of a "pub crawl" through all the bars listed on the map at the airport. I think the Alaskan Brewing Co hefeweizen was my favorite beer of the day.

I will never forget this spot.

or this little home.

or this wonderful little space.

Goodbye Hope Cabin, Goodbye Alaska, Goodbye BF, Goodbye week of nothing but goodness.... I WILL see you all again soon!

"You're beautiful too."

2011-07-17T11:50:00.000-06:00

Kids say the darnedest things. They also say the sweetest things and it's nearly impossible to not believe them because they are nothing if not sincere. Always.

After a near nuclear meltdown over which dress she wanted to wear to dinner the other night and a serious dilemma over which TWO purses she was going to carry, Mattie looked darling. A dress with butterflies, hair with barrettes, even a little "makeup" applied as mom put her's on ... She looked darling. I was sweating from all the baby dressing drama, but ready to go. I snapped a little picture and bent down to tell her how beautiful she looked. She came closer, put her arms around me, looked me in the eye and says, "But Momma, you look beautiful too."

How did she get so sweet and so kind?

A Good Day

2011-07-14T21:09:00.000-06:00

An entire week away from Mattie almost killed me. Had I been ANYWHERE else, or WITH anyone else I might have actually withered away. Alas, I have been in beautiful Alaska with my beautiful BF, Micca, so the world did not end. I did however have some SERIOUS snuggling, loving and admiring to do of my perfect 2-year old the last couple of days. Don't fear, Alaska pics will be posted tomorrow, but TODAY was perfection.

It started with breakfast at our house with my dad, my amazing Cottongim family - Mike and cousin Sam, Uncle Doug and cousin Lacey and her fiance Alan. We enjoyed our fresh eggs from our chickens (they literally laid 3 of them minutes before we ate) and homemade bread fresh from the over - yum. Nothing fancy, but there is NOTHING better than FRESH food to me.

We then loaded the car and all went for a lovely hike up Suce Creek. Beautiful weather, wonderful family who I love SO much ... My cup overflows.

How many Cottongims can go ON an excursion IN a Ford Excursion?

Jim Pa and Matine ... "hiking" with sticks.

Everyone in this family has a stick....

After the hike we enjoyed a strawberry shake and corn dog from Mark In and Out and Mattie and I came home for naps. I then got to enjoy my gal ALL day.

She wanted "ponies" in her hair and she didn't want me to stop at one. She kept pulling the rubberbands off my wrist asking for "more hair ponies" until I ran out of hair. With Mattie's hair, it didn't take long to tell her it was full!

Then of course, she wanted to take pictures with "Matine's camera" and this is the world through the eye of Matine behind the lens (not bad I must say).

Mom and Oliver, as captured by Matine (26 months)

She tried taking one of herself

And of course, her favorite animal and friend, Wilbur ... He got his own entire photo session. I liked this one the best ... Her feet and the pig. Something about it is just perfect.

We then played and relaxed a bit and picked some rhubarb from our garden to make a pie. This took hours and the house looked like a bakery explosion, but it was well worth it.

"I mix it." "I have FOUR pieces on my fork." "It needs spices momma." "Taste it momma? Yum." "I think it's ready to cook now."

And here is our masterpiece!

Sign of the season - rhubarb pie!

Notice the pony tails are still ALL over her head. Now they are stuck in place because of the sugar and butter that are now all over her entire body!