The Young McDonalds

:: This Moment ::

2012-02-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

:: inspired by Soule Mama ::

Where Does the Time Go?!

2012-02-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

:: Planning the shower of all baby showers for my cousin Jes ::

50 handmade invitations later, this is going to be some party!

:: Laundry ::

It really does NEVER end does it?!

:: Knitting knitting KNITTING for all these babies my friends are having ::

Can't wait to show you the pictures of my latest projects!

:: Visiting friends and their babies ::

:: Paying the bills ::

:: Funerals ::

They seem like a standard weekend occurrence right now.

:: Cherry pie filling ::

We're finally doing something with those bags of frozen berries

that have been hogging all the room in our freezer!

My Funny Valentine

2012-02-14T10:04:00.001-08:00

He has the best of intentions - it wouldn't be fair for me to get frustrated when he loses track of time working in the basement that he's refinishing, for us.Plus, he always makes up for it.

That, and he's really REALLY ridiculously good looking.

Timberline (Mt. Hood)

2012-02-10T10:23:00.000-08:00

My idea of a mental health day= fire roaring, sipping chai tea, sitting on the couch in my pjs, getting some knitting projects done. . . my hunny had other ideas.
:: Me, Brian and Bradley ::
The threat of rain had us worried, but it was spring conditions up at Timberline!

No wind, soft groomed trails and even a few sun breaks.

:: Photo op with the peak in the background ::

:: Dad, me and Bradley ::

Not too shabby for a Thursday.

Metamorphosis

2012-01-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

Ack.

It's begun.

Today I found a grey hair. On MY head.

Right in the front, near the part, where it CAN'T be missed.

This is not the first time my own scalp has betrayed me, mind you.
The difference is - this morning, for some reason, I didn't pull this one out.

Let the metamorphosis begin continue.

Date Night with Dad

2012-01-23T09:17:00.002-08:00

Portland Trailblazers vs. Sacramento KingsBlazers won 101-89

Thanks for a fun night Dad!!

A Weekend Romp

2012-01-23T09:17:00.001-08:00

Tubbs Romp to Stomp

Mt. Bachelor, Oregon

Stomp Out Breast Cancer!:: TEAM KAREN ::

Jill, Lexy, Jerri, Bethany, Lisa

Mari, Melissa

The shuttle ride - glad we weren't driving in that weather!

Blizzard Conditions on the Mountain!

Let's do this!

Brrrrrrr!

It was cold.

The winds were gusting like crazy.

It was a white-out at times.

But we did it - and we're still smiling! Thanks Bethany and Jill and Mom

for a fun girls weekend that supported a great cause!!

A Day Off

2012-01-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you just have to take a day off in the middle of the week and go sledding.
Yesterday was that day.

At White River Snow Park :: Mt. Hood in the background

Tebow-ing

Mt. Jefferson :: As seen from Timberline Lodge

It was a beautiful day.

Resolved.

2012-01-01T20:21:00.001-08:00

res ● o ● lu ● tion
noun

1. a formal expression of opinion or intention made, usually after voting, by a formal organization, a legislature, a club, or other group. Compare concurrent resolution, joint resolution.
2. a resolve or determination: to make a firm resolution to do something.

3. the act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc.
4. the mental state or quality of being resolved or resolute; firmness of purpose.

In thinking about my "resolutions" for the year ahead. . . I'm not going to lie, I've become very overwhelmed with it all. So, instead of my usual, lengthy list of resolutions for the ENTIRE year - I've come to realize that it will be my daily resolve that is going to get me through.

Not wants, or even needs, just simple tasks to be resolved in doing each day.

I resolve to pray.

I resolve to read.

I resolve to be healthy.

I resolve to be patient.

I resolve to be kind.

Yes, this list too could go on and on, but maybe I'll just tackle a few different purposes each day.

:: Be earnest friends ::

Wishing you all the best for the year ahead!

Best. Christmas. Ever.

2011-12-26T16:16:00.001-08:00

But really - any time spent together with friends and family and gift giving can't be all that bad!:: Christmas Eve ::

:: Last minute Happy Hour at our house with some great friends and their kiddos ::

:: Dinner and presents at our house with the McDonalds :: :: A 9lb. Prime Rib and a 120lb. Mastiff ::

:: Christmas Day ::

:: Sunday morning meeting at the Udings ::

:: then off to Papa's to spend the day with the Montgomery side of the family ::

:: Home made fudge and peppermint bark::
:: Back rubs and cute babies :: :: Papa AJ and 2nd cousin GUS in his fancy outfit ::
:: A beautiful tree ::
:: Getting just what we always wanted ::
:: Happy Holidays, friends!! ::

Signs of the Season

2011-12-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

:: Christmas cards on the mantle ::

:: Presents wrapped with care ::

:: Holiday decorations scattered around the house ::

:: Kendall's choir's holiday program at The Grotto ::

:: Spending time with those you love! ::

'Tis the Season

2011-12-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

On the bus to work . . .

During my lunch break . . .

On the bus ride home . . .

After dinner . . .

Into all hours of the night . . .

I was running behind before I started!
The rest of you crafters and hand-makers know what I'm talking about.

'Tis the Season!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-12-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that it's already been ONE year since we were celebrating mom's 50th birthday in the mountains of Peru!

But another year has flown by - you wouldn't know it by looking at my mom though -

The years look good on her!

Happy Birthday Mom!! <3 We love you!!

What a Weekend!

2011-12-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

You can't tell how much we did this weekend and how much fun we had by the number of pictures we took (or didn't take).

Once again, I'm a picture taking failure.

Friday night: Ducks vs. UCLA @ Nick's house

Saturday: Craig and Laura's baby shower

Sunday: Lunch at the Maloneys

Another fun weekend with friends!

Babysitter's Club

2011-11-22T09:03:00.001-08:00

Here are a few of the little rascals that have come over to play at our house lately:

:: Soren G ::

:: Tabor W ::

:: Miss Maizie W ::

We love it when these little ones want to come over and play at Auntie Mari and Uncle Brian's house!

(We pretend it's us they want to see, but we really know it's "Tooper" they want to play with!)

I'm Thirty. I Should Comb My Hair More.

2011-11-15T11:23:00.001-08:00

Inspired by PINTEREST, as many others have been lately, I decided I should try a little harder to actually comb my hair for work.

It's pretty easy to fall into the "messy bun" routine - EVERYDAY - so this past week I put forth actual effort to coif myself.

MONDAY

::Fancy bun with curly cue detail in front::

Oops - I forgot to take a pic - I will try to re-create a post a pic soon!

TUESDAY

::Braided pigtails, tied in knots, pinned up::

It's a little weird taking pics of myself,

but even weirder asking co-workers to please take pictures of my hair!

Garnished with a rose

WEDNESDAY

::The classic french braid, tucked under::

THURSDAY

::Over-under ponytail, fishtail braid pulled up and tucked in::

CASUAL FRIDAY

::Long, loose waves::

Adding "comb your hair" to the morning routine, does slow things down a bit (I might have been a tad late to work everyday last week). . . but it's surprising (and embarrassing) who notices and how many compliments you get when you actually take the time to do little things, like comb your hair.

PINTEREST - ★

Celebrating with the Franzkes

2011-10-29T10:21:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Breezy's Baby Shower!

Cousin Jessica did such a wonderful job planning the shower for her sister-in-law.

Everyone came together to help out - and you could tell it was all done in love!

The owl theme turned out to be a real HOOT!

Handmade felt owls were perched on each table.

They will be made into a mobile that will hang in Baby Franzke's room!

Don't forget to sign the baby's guest book!

Remember the book I made for cousin Jessica for hers and Zach's wedding?

Well, they loved it so much, she commissioned me to make a baby book for AJ & Breezy!

It turned out great, if I say so myself!

Bethany and I also made this banner for the shower.

This little guy turned out pretty cute!

There was a ONSIE STATION where the guests could get creative . . .

There was plenty to eat and drink!

Don't forget the $Money$ Tree!

And of course, there were Lots and Lots of wonderful presents for Baby Frankze!

Aunt Sherri attended the shower vis SKYPE!

Gotta love technology!

Baby Franzke is already stocking up on his OSU Beaver gear!

Grandma Teresa looking on with a smile!

I had to do something EXTRA special for this little one. . .

My first knit vest!

I think she likes it! Breezy and Jes's expressions are so sweet!

Buttons up one side and on the shoulder.

That was actually the toughest part, sewing on all those darn buttons!

Another amazing handmade gift!

Breezy's mom had us all make a quilt square, then she had her friend put together this beautiful quilt for AJ and Breezy and baby Franzke!

It was huge! I think there were 50+ squares!

A lot of love went into each of those squares.

What a wonderful treasure!

AJ showed up towards the end of the shower to balance all that estrogen out!

Breezy & AJ reading the well wishes written in the baby book.

Love these two and can't wait to meet their little one very soon!

Bethany's gift to the parents-to-be was a maternity photo shoot.

Here are a few shots from the session:

GORGEOUS pics of a gorgeous couple by bethany raelene studio!

CONGRATS AJ & BREEZY!

Sauvie Island Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I had a date at the pumpkin patch with this cutie and her mom!

** More pics coming soon! **

A Morning on the White Salmon River

2011-10-09T09:11:00.001-07:00

White Water Rafting in the October?!?

When our friend Nick suggested it, at first we thought he was crazy.

But the more we talked about it, the more fun it sounded!!

Nick did a great job rounding up a group of us, and Saturday morning, we headed up to the White Salmon River. (Just out of Hood River, on the Washington side.)

Our Group: Guide, Brian, Tony and Nick Wright, Bethany Joyce, Bryan Joyce, Greg Flemming

bottom row: Guide's wife, Me, Hippie Guide, Lisa Joyce

Zoller's was an amazing outfit, and they really made sure we had an awesome (but safe) time!

Not your typical "swim wear!"

Hamming it up before we head out!

The descent down to the river!!

Not gonna lie-some, of the excitement turned to apprehension on the way down those steep stairs!

Once we got into the boats and on the water, we went over some last minute safety instructions, practiced some basic moves and got on our way!

Spelunking - we took the boats into one of the small lava tubes that hadn't collapsed.

The White Salmon river runs through what used to be one giant lava tube!

Boat #1: Hippie Guide, Bryan, Lisa and Bethany Joyce and Greg Flemming

Warming up over a nice little rapid!

And by warming up, I mean their rafting moves, NOT their body temperature!

That water was coooolllllldddd!

Bethany giving the (Hawaiian) thumbs up - all the rafters decided to run the falls!!

VIDEO

Boat #1 takes Husum Falls a 10-15 foot waterfall!

(The falls were at about 14 feet the day we ran it!)

Boat #2 peeps got to watch from the bridge!

Boat #1 zoomed right through the falls!

The guide said it was his smoothest run of the year!

HIGH FIVES all around!

The pressure is on!

Boat #2 coming in to the Falls!

Boat #2: Guide, Guide's Wife, Mari & Brian McDonald, Tony and Nick Wright

Game Faces ON!

This could be THE MOST hilarious succession of photographs EVER.

I'm Just Say'n

GET DOWN AND HOLD ON!

No really, that's the command the guide gives right before you go over the falls!

WOOO-HOOOO!

What, going into the falls sideways isn't normal?!

Completely submerged!

Popping back up. . . um, wait, are we missing someone??

Nick?! Where are you going??

Nick got ejected out of the boat, but managed to hold on by A FINGER!

Nick's dad drug him back in to the boat (I think I was laughing too hard to be of any help)!

What a recovery! It was a miracle we all didn't get tipped over!

ALL SMILES!

Enjoying the beautiful scenery and the gorgeous fall day!

What an awesome time on the river!

Mount Hood - seen from the "backside." Not the angle we're used to viewing the mountain at!

A well deserved lunch at Everybody's Brewery in White Salmon.

Delicious food, I highly recommend eating here if you're in the area!

And some dessert to top it all off!

What an awesome way to spend a Saturday morning!

An Anniversary Adventure on the McKenzie River

2011-10-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

**A little back story**

This year, for our anniversary - I planned us a weekend away at a hot springs. It's always something I've wanted to do and I found a NON resorty place where we could tent camp and be outdoorsy and all that fun stuff.

Our actual anniversary was Tuesday, and I had planned our weekend away for that Friday-Sunday. Unfortunately, Brian was still busy with work and we had to bump our trip a week so that he could finish up.

Well - let's just say - moving the trip a week caused our weekend away to go from -PERFECT- to -NOT SO PERFECT.-

We still had fun, but it didn't turn out exactly as I had planned originally.

**Anyway - Back to the trip**

This poor guy new he wasn't coming with us, and he was NOT happy about that!

Trooper stayed at home with his Auntie Bethany, who graciously offered to dog sit for us.

That is one thing that worked out nicely!

Awww, sad puppy watching his parents leave him behind.

We stopped along the way, at Papa Al's in Mill City for a burger. . .

unfortunately NOT as good as it was last time we had it.

This was a total bummer.

Stopping for a hamburger on the way caused us to arrive at Belknap a tad later than we had hoped. Nothing like wheeling your belongings into the woods and setting up a tent as its getting dark!

You heard me right, we had to WHEEL BARROW all our gear 1/2 mile into the wood to our tent site. The (drive in) site I had reserved (the weekend before) wasn't available.

Our new site worked out well though (once we found the source of the DISGUSTING odor that kept us up all night, and we had it removed)!

The tent sites were on the opposite side of the river from the Hot Spring Lodge.

View from across the river.

We spent Saturday morning exploring the grounds of Belknap. . .

Some fun statues around the grounds. . .

And beautiful "secret" gardens that were changing their colors for fall.

After a quick lunch - we headed out into the wilderness to do some hiking.

We explored SAHALIE and KOOSAH Falls. . .

The water was moving so fast and was SO blue!

. . . and we also hiked around Clear Lake.

But not before checking the oil, of course.

(Most expensive bottle of motor oil we ever bought - thanks to Clear Lake Lodge.)

:: Tiny Bridges ::

:: Huge Trees!! ::

Clear Lake lives up to its name!

We got rained on Saturday night, when they said 40% chance, they meant it this time.

We ate breakfast as it drizzled and got packed up. . . .

Everything was a muddy mess by the time we had it all wheeled out to the car!

It wasn't perfect, but it was an adventure and we had fun!

(So what if the pipe carrying the spring water into the soaking pool broke and it was more of a luke warm spring.)

We made the most of it and we left smiling . . . signs of a good time together!

Happy Three Year Anniversary, Babe!

(I'll let you plan the next anniversary trip!)

September 27th

2011-09-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Five years ago - we both knew we had found THE ONE.

Three years ago - we made it official.

I can't believe how fast time passes. It reminds you to hold on to those you love extra tight - to not waste time being angry - to find the blessing in every circumstance - to be content to simply be together.

Happy Anniversary, Love!

USA vs. Canada

2011-09-22T09:19:00.001-07:00

Craig and Laura had a great idea and bought a bunch of tickets for a Thursday night soccer game at Jeld-Wen Field - USA Women vs. Canada!

We were some of lucky ones invited to go!

(Thanks for your sacrifice Corey&Danica!)

Team introductions = quite the production!

Goalkeeper, Hope Solo, was given an award before the game.

(You can be sure it wasn't for her Dancing With the Stars performance!)

We had a blast cheering for the USA women!

USA ended up defeating Canada 3 - 0 in front of a near sell-out crowd of 18,570 fans!

That field was rock'n!

Thanks Craig and Laura for a fun night out in Portland!

2011-09-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the sporadic posts friends,

but we are trying to pack in as much as we can to these last days of sunshine and warmth!

The rains of winter are already threatening -

we've had a few good sprinkles come through these last couple of days -

so we're frantically finishing up these summer projects that have been dragging out before we move on to glorious FALL!

What we're looking forward to in the coming days:

:: Our 3 year anniversary and a trip to the McKenzie River! ::

:: An elk hunt in SE Oregon for Brian and the McDonald Boys ::

:: A trip to Texas to visit my little brother? ::

:: More baby showers for friends and family who are expecting ::

:: Holiday Planning ::

:: lots and lots of knitting ::

:: Switching back to interior projects on the house ::

Here's to making the most of everyday, friends!

Lyle the Tiger

2011-09-14T09:28:00.000-07:00

Not sure where the nickname for my Father-In-Law originated, but it's stuck!

We celebrated his birthday yesterday with a family dinner out on the town and birthday donuts, just what he requested!

Dinner at Ate-Oh-Ate & and donuts from Annie's, of course!

Happy Birthday Lyle!

Convention

2011-08-30T10:16:00.001-07:00

You can find me where all is peaceful calm and still. . .I'm off to church convention and will be back after the Labor Day Holiday.

Here's to a spiritually productive weekend!

Counting Down (already)

2011-08-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Christmas is only F-O-U-R months away!

When you try to make everything handmade for the holidays -

only four months away means - I'm already running behind!

Happy crafting everyone!

It's going to be a Little Lady for the Giblers!

2011-08-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Derra and Bryan Gibler are expecting a little lady to arrive sometime in early September. . .

So, those who don't have - throw baby showers! :)

:: A Ladybug Shower ::

The ladies gathered - and snacked - and chatted. . .

:: Little details ::

Baby Gibler received a lot of cute stuff - she is going to be one stylish lady!

We can't wait to meet her!

Congrats Bryan and Derra!

Not Just Another Week at Cow Camp (2011)

2011-07-31T16:00:00.003-07:00

Once again, my sister writes so beautifully what is on my heart.

It's wonderful to know there are others out there who share our same feelings about these magical places we have come to love.

A 50th Wedding Anniversary

2011-07-31T16:00:00.001-07:00

Married on July 29, 1961

Glen and Roberta Parks - 50 years later!

Happy 50th wedding anniversary to a couple of love birds!

Fourth of July Weekend

2011-07-02T15:08:00.001-07:00

Our Fourth of July weekend consisted of a bunch of work around the house and yard,

and of course, some fun to balance things out!

Friday night we met up with the Stahl family at the Molalla Rodeo.

We sang the Star Spangled Banner at the top of our lungs, we hooted and hollered at the cowboys and the bunking broncs, we ate ridiculously huge elephant ears. . .

We watched a great display of fireworks. . .

and we were reminded again of the constant sacrifice that happens everyday so that we might enjoy the freedom we do in these United States of America.

Happy 4th of July friends!

Catching UP - in no particular order. . .

2011-06-27T08:32:00.001-07:00

First of all, I just want to make it clear that NOTHING (well nothing substantial) would get done around this place if it wasn't for this guy -

I have THE HARDEST WORKING HUBBY around!

XOXO

Current Project : Detached Garage

A little foundation fortification. . .

A little off with the old, on with the new. . .

A little added flair. . .

and lots and LOTS of paint (and sweat and a little blood)!

Finished Garage Pictures * COMING SOON *

*********************************************

What do you do when quite a few whole (empty) wine barrels have come into your possession - much to your delight?!

Why, you have your handy husband chop them up into fun and different sizes, of course!

A full barrel was too large for what I had in mind. . . so handy hubby cut the barrels in half the LONG way to make the perfect planters for me!

He then attached a home-made lattice/ladder inside the half-barrel. . .

I shoveled in some potting soil, planted some honeysuckle and WA-LA!

I'm so excited to have these growing up in front of the (soon to be finished) garage!

*******************************************

Lots of weeding and primping has been going on around the yard - along with lots of me just throwing seeds in the ground and into pots and seeing what happens!

The plants are a bit of a mess, but they're a pretty mess!

I'm going to have a lot of splitting and separating to do next Spring!

:: banana Leaf trees : irises : clover : hostas : columbine : canna : gladiolas : shasta daisy : clematis : lamb's ear : crocosmia ::

:: pampas grass : succulents : hostas : sedum : ferns : lilies : lupine : mini crocosmia ::

:: Trumpet vine getting ready to burst into bloom ::

:: Rows of tomatoes, peppers, artichokes and herbs ::

:: Plenty of figs to go around ::

:: We're so excited, the rhubarb is finally taking off ::

:: Lots and LOTS of lettuce ::

:: Pretty plants in pretty pots ::

: More tomatoes ::

:: The grape starts we stuck in the ground have already sprouted new growth! ::

:: A clematis trailing up the wood duck bird house::

***********************************************

Some time ago, we threw a baby shower for Ben and Mindy Bechdolt. We co-hosted the party with Mike and Deanna Maloney - and of course, I forgot to take pictures at the party!

As with any baby shower, there were plenty of balloons. . . and since Ben had been referring to his unborn child as "Squeaks," I just HAD to make these mousey cupcakes!

Deanna did a great job on the mousey sculptures!

And that just A LITTLE of what we've been up to!

Father's Day BBQ updated

2011-06-23T09:27:00.001-07:00

The problem with hosting is that we always forget to take pictures!!

We had the whole Joyce crew over (and by whole, I mean a large contingent) for a Father's day barbecue and gourmet hamburger bar. It turned out to be a beautiful day for a barbecue!

Obviously, I thought dessert was pretty spectacular, since these are the only photos I took!

Chocolate cake, Brenda's famous cupcakes, homemade buttermilk sorbet and blueberries. . .

Good thing Jill took some pictures. . .

it was a lovely day with family!

Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there!

A Birthday Masquerade!

2011-06-12T22:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome friends, to a birthday masquerade!Please, won't you come in?

Did you you bring your mask?Help yourself to the refreshments, there is plenty to feast on!

Don't be afraid of these mysterious guests, we are all friends here!David & Audrin: Most creative coupleCorey Wilson: Most creative homemade maskMike Maloney : Overall best maskIf the night gets too chilly, we'll stay warm by the fire!

The twinkling lights and colorful banners made the night magical. . .

We hope you enjoyed your evening as much as we did!

Thank you all for masquerading with me!

As always, lovely sentiments from my little sis, here.
I'll add more pics as I round them up from the guests!

Happy Birthday Brother Mark!

2011-06-12T22:33:00.001-07:00

Brother Mark celebrated his birthday on the 8th. At Mark's request, we all met at Tad's Chicken'N Dumplins for a down home feast! Happy Birthday Mark!

Tabor Tot Turns ONE!

2011-06-06T15:58:00.002-07:00

Mama and Daddy Wilson get all the credit for this little guy's genetic makeup -

Isn't he soooo stinking cute?!!?

Especially in that shirt I made him!
Sure, it's a tad big - but hey, at least he'll get to wear it a while!

I got the idea for the monkey shirt here!

Happy Birthday Tabor Monkey!

Better Late Than Never!

2011-06-06T15:58:00.001-07:00

Or as my sister says, you'd better not give it to me for Christmas instead!

The two-month scarf! It's finally done!

Size 2 needles and "lace" yarn make for a loooooong project!

UPDATED Joyce Family Memorial Weekend Camping Trip Exravaganza

2011-05-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

When I sent out an email to the Joyce family seeing what everyone was doing for Memorial Weekend and suggesting we meet up North at the Joyce property for a little family camping trip. . . . I didn't think EVERYONE would want to go?!?!Grandma and Grandpa Joyce own 14 acres (a portion of family land from the Joyce homestead) waaaaay up in Northern Washington, like 5 miles from Canada Northern Washington.

What's better than camping out in the woods with family, right?!?

No Trespassing sounds meaner in a foreign language.

Friday

Well, the trip didn't start off so hot for Brian and I.

Friday, while we should have been heading North and meeting up with everyone else to help set up camp, instead - Brian was working and I was sitting in urgent care waiting to see a Doc!
My cold had grown into a monster and I had such a bad sore throat I could barely speak or eat!

But I knew if I left my family in the woods alone and didn't make it up there with the rest of them, that they would hang me by my toenails as soon as they had the chance!

Friday was a drizzly day. . . but they got camp set up just fine without us.Saturday

So early Saturday morning, Brian, Trooper and I headed North, and as you can see from the picture above, by the time we reached camp Saturday afternoon, the clearing was pretty well packed with campers, so we set up our tent in the meadow.

We played, we worked. . . .We visited and caught up with family that we don't get to see all that often.We were all pretty tuckered out by the end of the day!

Sunday

Morning Meeting and fellowship as a family.

Nap Time

Paintball WarsPaintball came to a SCREECHING end when my sister got popped in the eye, all the way up in the observation tower! You can read her harrowing account of the ordeal here.Nothing like some FOOD to get this family settled down again!

A BIG thank you to my Aunt Brenda and Aunt Diane for making sure we all stayed full!This picture sums up my camping experience while sick - it was for the dogs! :)Monday

A BIG Family Photo and time to break camp and say our goodbyes!

We only had a few minor incidents during the weekend: Uncle Gary got popped in the eye with some wood shrapnel, Aunt Diane got her arm caught in the mix of an altercation with the dogs and of course, Bethany's near blinding. But what's a family gathering without a few wrenches thrown in there?!?

I think we all had fun for the most part, the main thing was that Grandma and Grandpa really enjoyed themselves and loved that we were all able to spend time together on the family property! Our Memorial Weekend was definitely memorable!

Until next time!

Because He's Just So Darn Cute -

2011-05-19T21:47:00.001-07:00

and this time - I'm talking about Trooper. :)

He LOVES his soccer ball!

The Out of Towners

2011-05-19T21:34:00.000-07:00

The Out of Towners are IN TOWN for a visit!

Jon and Chelsea Smith broke away from Colorado and are spending some time with all of us here in Portland. It was so good to see them and to get to hang out for a bit.

We went out for dinner at Por Que No? and we saw this:

We all miss them so much and we REALLY really need to get ourselves over to Denver to see them!

All the girlies

Preview of Coming Attractions!

2011-05-19T21:14:00.001-07:00

:: Flower beds on the verge of bursting into color :: :: Putting the finishing touches on a birthday present LONG overdue :: :: Wine barrels and rain barrels ::

:: Masquerade Masks and birthday banners ::

STAY TUNED!

Another BUSY Weekend

2011-05-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know what my problem is - but I am THE worst at remembering to take pictures right now!

With the weather being a tad nicer these last few days- we've kicked it into high gear - spending time outside, getting projects started/finished and just generally being busy Busy BUSY!

I was triple booked on Saturday and have NO pictures to show for it.
I am so ashamed, my sister is going to be appalled when she reads this!

Saturday morning I drove into Newberg to help my mom with some house cleaning. She is moving and us kids were summoned to go through all our JUNK/stuff that we had left around her house. Bethany talks about it here on her blog.

Then around noon I raced (at the speed limit) back home to attend a Surprise 80th bday for Louis Wicks! She was definitely surprised, I was a tad concerned - aren't surprise birthday parties at that age a bit of a liability?! :)

Saturday evening Brian and I hosted a "Dinner for Grown-Ups," for a few couples in the field that don't have kids yet (there are fewer and fewer of us). The funny thing was, one of the couples brought their dog to play with Trooper and it WAS LIKE there were two kids running around the whole time! Plus we talked about the dogs the whole time like they WERE kids! HA!

Another great weekend full of family and friends!

Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

Phew! Another busy but FUN weekend!

Max and Amanda came over from Boise for a quick visit,

we were so happy to see them and to be able to spend time together!

Friday night after Brian and I got off work, Max and Amanda met us out our place and the first thing out of Max's mouth was that we had to have dinner at Wong's King Chinese restaurant!

We didn't argue with that!

Wong's King is THE BEST authentic Chinese food restaurant EVER.

Go there - order the orange chicken. Don't ask questions. You WILL NOT be disappointed.

We had taken Max & Amanda here to eat almost TWO years ago and apparently Max has been craving it since.

Saturday

We got up at a decent time, Brian and I made breakfast burritos at home and then we headed out for a day of meandering down town.

The Cinco de Mayo festival was happening down on the waterfront and we had seen on the website that there was going to be real Mexican wrestling - a la Nacho Libre! Of course we had to go check that out!The "real Mexican wrestlers" were more like overweight, white guys in spandex-

but we were entertained nonetheless!

After we had our fill of the Luchalibres, we just HAD to hit up the food carts -

if you haven't heard about the food carts in Portland - they're a pretty big deal.

We stuffed ourselves at the food carts, meandered around downtown, got Max some Stumptown (or as he calls it, Stumpjumer) Coffee, then headed back home to relax - but only for a second!

Because then it was time for dinner!

Sunday
We had to share the goodness of our local donut shop -Annie's Donuts - and Max & Amanda had to agree, that IS maybe THE BEST maple bar ever.

We had a lovely Sunday morning meeting together and then Max and Amanda had to take off to head back home.

We said our goodbyes, and were sad to see them go - but we could mope around long, we had a mother's day lunch to prepare!Smoked Ribs : scalloped potatoes : green salad : fruit salad : beans : biscuits : apple crisp

(Needless to say, we ate a ton this weekend.)We missed you Bethers!

:: Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as much as we did! ::

Easter Weekend

2011-04-24T22:03:00.001-07:00

Saturday we attended the funeral of a faithful woman.

A pillar in the kingdom throughout her life and now, even more so in her death.Sunday we attended a baptism.

Two more faithful lives expressing their desire to be pillars in God's kingdom.

In my sister's words, "the best decision that each of us has ever made. . . to be exactly where we are supposed to be."

I'm so thankful for faithful lives, so thankful for faithful finishes and so thankful to be reminded of my own place and where I need to be.

Bracket Champion?!

2011-04-12T08:38:00.001-07:00

So. . . I won the college basketball bracket pool this year! HA!

Who picked UConn to miraculously win it all?

THIS GIRL!

I wish I had taken a photo of the whole group, but you have to believe me. . . there's quite a group of us in the pool and most of us got together tonight at Flying Pie Pizzeria to celebrate another fun year of college basketball.

I was awarded a trophy and everything!

(I, of course had to make a shirt appropriate for the occasion, and YES, I am wearing a tiara that says "Queen.")

Me and my hunny were the "Bookend" Couple of the Bracket.

I came in first, and he came in dead last.

Good thing he's such a great sport, the guys were really giving him a hard time about that!

Everyone always has a lot of fun - and college basketball is always so unpredictable!

Here's to next year!

(And hopefully a REPEAT for me!)

A Productive Weekend!

2011-04-10T20:31:00.001-07:00

We had a busy weekend!

TroopDawg fearlessly hunted pill bugs that had snuck in on the firewood. . .

(see the spot on the base of the lamp, Troop was LOCKED IN on it!)

While Brian participated in the Portland MS Walk Saturday morning. . .

I was busy hanging out with this cutie!

Brian also got a lot done on THE WALL down in the basement,

it's great to see progress down there!

And speaking of progress, I'm STILL working on my sister's birthday present!

Yes, her birthday WAS in March, but this knitting project is taking much MUCH longer than I thought it would.

Hopefully I'll have pictures soon!

Spring in Oregon

2011-04-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

The reward for Oregon Winter is Oregon Spring. via Posie

"In the Spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt." - Margaret Atwood via SouleMama

Surprise!

2011-04-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

So, about a month before Brian's birthday, I'm sure I asked him to start thinking about what he might want to do on his special day . . . Whether he might want to go out with a group or would want a quiet night with just us. . . if he would want to get out of town or just stay around home. And I'm pretty sure he responded every time with something like,

"I don't know, I don't think I want to do anything this year."

Helpful, right?!

I asked the same thing a couple of weeks before his birthday and then again the week of his birthday, and he definitely gave me the same answer every time. Men.

So of course, while he was busy NOT helping me make plans for his birthday, I had to take matters into my own hands.

Luckily, this group was flexible!

Monday night, we met up at Raccoon Lodge, (great service, good food!) and Brian thought we were just meeting his parents and brother out for dinner.

We surprised him!

I spent the day whipping up this yummy chocolate cake, complete with chocolate covered strawberries and even some cupcakes for those who might not go for the chocolate-y chocolate-ness.

Somehow the good picture of the cake disappeared off my camera, but you get the idea.

It was pretty delicious!

Tabor and Maizie even helped us celebrate!

Happy Birthday Babe!

Even if you are a stinker!

Happy Birthday to My Handsome Hubby!

2011-04-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

My hunny Brian turns 29 years young today.

Here's to (at least) 29 more years, together.

I love you more today than yesterday, and I'll love you even more tomorrow!

Happy Birthday Love!

TO DO

2011-04-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

My "To Do" list(s) - yes plural, are getting OUT. OF. CONTROL.

Plus I think they're stressing Brian out. I don't want to be stressing out my honey, especially since his birthday is Monday.

But, this always seems to happen around this time of year, I think there's just something about the nicer weather and longer days that get the ol' mind whirling and churning!

So, this weekend. I'm starting my JUST DO IT campaign! Oh, that slogan is already being used?

Well then, I guess I'll say let's GIT 'ER DUN! That one's taken too? Oh. hmmmm.

Well, I'll think of an appropriate, original slogan - but in the mean time, this weekend, instead of thinking about, talking about and otherwise ignoring my TO DO list(s). . . . there is going to be some major item crossing off-age. I love that part. No little check marks for me when I finish a task, that task get a big ol' gnarly line through it, DONE!

Ok - enough talking, there's work to do! I'm gonna weed, I'm gonna plant, I'm gonna plan, I'm gonna make and on and on and on!

HOPEFULLY - I'll have pictures to show you next week to prove my progress!

In Loving Memory

2011-03-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

March 28th was the one year mark of my Grammy's passing. Emotions are still very raw, the family is still re-grouping, adjusting to life without a matriarch . . . I was having a hard time putting my feelings into the appropriate words. I was encouraged throughout the day by thoughts from other members of the family and the bond we share through Grammy, we all were missing her and remembering her in our own ways. . . .

Love you Grammy, and we miss you every day.

Yes Please!!

2011-03-29T08:35:00.001-07:00

I don't usually do posts like this - but I just couldn't help myself!

GORGEOUS!

In my quest for SPRING - these plates would look amazing on my dining room table!

*SIGH* Now if only we could do something about that price.

A Weekend Trip to Washington

2011-03-28T08:37:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, we left this cutie with my dad. . .

. . .loaded these two up in the mini-van and we all headed north.

Brian and Grandma and Grandpa and I met my uncle Dave and aunt Diane (sorry no picture) at Cabelas. We all had lunch together, we checked out all the animal displays, then we passed off the grandparents who went home with Dave and Diane while Brian and I headed west.

We crossed this Bridge. . .

and pulled into Bremerton for a couple of days with these crazy kids

and to celebrate Bethany's 25th Birthday!

Josh planned a fun night out!

A group of us went to out to this place, a dueling piano bar. . .

Dinner was decent, company was great, the place had potential- but would we go back? No.

(Don't ask.)

Me and my beautiful sister!

Me and my gorgeous hubby!

A bunch of fun couples:

:: Esther & Bradley ::

:: Kyle & Sharman ::

:: Micah & Bruce ::

It was so great to finally meet Bethany's Washington "family."

Love :: Love :: Love

We can't wait to head back up and look forward to spending time in Port Orchard and some of those other cute Victorian towns off the Sound.

Love you Bethers!

Happy Birthday to my Leetle Seester!

2011-03-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

My sister Bethany. . . has an artistic eye. My sister Bethany. . . has a way with words. My sister Bethany. . . has the biggest heart. My sister Bethany. . . knows how to push my buttons. My sister Bethany. . . dresses like she walked out of a fashion magazine. My sister Bethany. . . can't sing. My sister Bethany. . . makes me laugh and knows when I need to cry. My sister Bethany. . . wears her heart on her sleeve. My sister Bethany. . . makes me proud.

The list could go on and on . . .

My sister Bethany. . . makes me want to be the best big sister I can be.

Happy 25th Birthday Little Sis!!

I hope you feel the love from me that I could never express with only words.

And if that quarter life crises hits, you know I'll be right there with you.

And Once Again, Progress.

2011-03-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

A Basement remodel underway. . . again.
A lovely weekend of friends, family and food. . . again.
Biting off more than I can chew on a knitting project. . . again.
Gazing at the sparse flower beds and itching to do some weeding and see some blooms again.

A renewed purpose to be inspiring and allow myself to be inspired. . . again and again.Happy Spring, friends!

Weekending with the Wilsons UPDATED

2011-03-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

We had a fun couple of days in Bend with the Wilsons! Road Trip - boys in the back!

Lisa and Gordon were wonderful hosts!

The girls did a lot of this. . . and this. . . The boys did some of this. . . and we all did a lot of this! A fun weekend with great friends! **UPDATE**

We hit quite the storm on our drive home.

Brian and I set up the sound system for gospel meeting on Sundays,

and we almost didn't make it to the hall in time!

The rain was coming down in sheets, the wind was howling and trees were dropping, literally ALL AROUND US, bringing powerlines down with them!

We were obviously too distracted to snap live photos, these pics are courtesy of KGW.com.

A Whole Lotta Lasagna and Friends. . . not necessarily in that order!

2011-03-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend we crammed 14 family members into our little house

for a lovely sit down Sunday dinner.

Here's a few of us:Brad was in the U.S. briefly, and of course we all wanted to soak up as much time with him as we could before he headed back to Peru!

I wanted to make the dinner extra special -

so we gussied up the tables with the GOODwill china!

We ate our hearts out, Brian really outdid himself on the lasagna -

but we still had a whole pan left over!

Nothing else to do, but to call in reinforcements!

Good thing we know some people!

These little ones don't eat much, but they sure are cute!

SNOW DAZE : and why I wanted at least ONE this winter!

2011-03-01T15:39:00.003-08:00

If you've been around me this winter, you've probably been annoyed by me.

I know my husband is annoyed.

And all of you who have been completely socked in with snow this winter and have had storm after storm hit you, you are probably annoyed with me too,

but I don't care, I'll say it again. . .

I WANT A SNOW DAY!!

Exactly!

A snow day is a free day off. A day for you to stay in your jammies if you want.

You don't have to use a sick day, you don't have to use a vacation day.

You are given THE hall pass of all hall passes and are free to enjoy a day of guiltless, childish pleasure without a schedule and without responsibility!
The last heavy snow Portland saw was in the winter of 2008, the winter after Brian and I were married. If you recall, that is also the winter we lived in a 5th wheel in the driveway of our "new" house. We had snow day after snow day, and while it was great to have all that time off from work to get projects done on our house, it was hard to truly enjoy a snow day when you're living in a small, cramped, cold, uninsulated trailer, having to trek through drifts of snow that surround you to get to the house whenever you needed to use the bathroom or shower.

Now, we have a lovely wood stove we can warm ourselves by, we have a functioning oven to bake delicious warm cookies and to heat our coffee or hot cocoa. . .

WE JUST NEED THE SNOW!

*SIGH* I think I'm running out of time for a snow day to happen this winter, at this late in the game, we haven't even gotten ONE.

So you can bet, that ONE day my office was opened TWO HOURS LATE due to inclimate weather - I MADE THE MOST OF IT!

Trooper had a blast!

He loves the snow just as much as his mama!

Isn't T-Dawg the cutest?!

Knitting In Public

2011-03-01T15:39:00.001-08:00

I got caught!

Knitting in public that is - and because of it, I was awarded a coupon to this local yarn store!

Guess you really do never know who's watching you!

So anyway, I'm back at it - knitting - and this time I'm trying something other than scarves!!

That's called progress people!

I'm knitting Berry Hats for the kiddies!

The pattern I used is very well written and easy to follow for newer knitters like me.

Try it, you'll love it!
Blueberry :: Raspberry :: Strawberry :: Lemon :: Lime

You can make them in any flavor!

Now I just need to get some pictures of the adorable kiddos wearing the FRUITS of my labor!

A Little Bit of LOVE in Your HEARTS

2011-02-07T08:49:00.003-08:00

Not that I'm a huge fan of "Hallmark Holidays," like Valentine's Day -

(however, if a certain someone special feels the need to surprise me with, oh, say something like THIS, I wouldn't say NO) - but I am BIG on crafting, no matter what the occasion.

Even though I'm going to be in Washington DC on Valentine's Day (I'm sure Brian is devastated), there are still some hearts to be found around the house.

Here are some fun heartY themed crafts I've thrown together:

IKEA frames laying around in the basement

scrapbook paper

letter stencils covered in stamp ink

mini vases from the $1 isle at Target

silk flowers from another corner of the basement

You'll find this display of love in the middle of the dining room table.

Then out on the coffee table you'll see this fun creation, which I love!

A twisted pedestal + glass cloche + metal mailbox from Target's $1 isle + scrapbook stickers + an old love note + heart confetti + ribbon + twine + a LOVE tag I made = cuteness!

FUNNY STORY - but I now have more heart-shaped cookie cutters than I know what to do with! Thanks everyone!

The photo album Mari Sorenson put together for me and Brian sends some love out from one of the end tables. I paired it along with my amazing Dictionary of Shakespeare quotes that I found at a used book store. The bookstore owner dated my find back to the 1800s!

I'm also thinking about putting together something like this for the front door - I think it would be cute all Spring long!

Fill your home with hearts :: Fill your hearts with LOVE!

Happy Heart Day Friends!

Rachel and Eric Get Hitched!

2011-02-07T08:49:00.001-08:00

We had a crazy weekend road trip down to beautiful Fresno, California.

Ahh, the I-5 corridor, so. . . . monotonous.

image found here

Me - Brian - and my sister Bethany: 24 + hours in the car (round trip) - driving, knitting, eating, chatting, arguing, snoozing, scrabble on the iphone, staring out the window, etc. . .

all for a single day in Fresno.

But it was all TOTALLY worth it!

Why, because we got to see these lovelies, who (whom?) we miss dearly. . . .

we had an absolute BLAST. . .

. . . and MOST importantly, we witnessed this amazing couple getting hitched!*

Congrats to Rachel and Eric!!

"In Sunshine and in Shade"

*Photo Credit: Ashley Forrette Photography

Heroes

2011-02-03T23:33:00.001-08:00

True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic.

It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost,

but the urge to serve others at whatever cost. . . .

Arthur Ashe

Larry : Today at work, I watched Deputy US Marshal Larry as he was presented the Purple Heart Medal of Honor for courage and valor in the face of death. He is a quiet and soft-spoken man, but I saw, even how years later, the memories of the event for which Larry earned this honor, still washed across his face as the story was told - and, even though the memories pain him, in my heart, I know he'd do it all again. Put himself in the face of danger so that others might live. I am honored to know such a man.

Karen : Today at work, I thought of my friend Karen. Today would have been her birthday. I thought of the many battles she fought in her short life - I remembered the courage and valor she had, even in the face of death. She too was an example of quiet bravery- she still touches so many lives and her wonderful spirit lives on in her family - I was honored to know such a woman. Happy Birthday friend.

What's Up Dawg

2011-01-27T19:57:00.001-08:00

It's true, we absolutely want to kill him when we come home from work and find this:

But, we can't stay mad long, when he has a face like this:

You are just too cute TROOP DAWG!!

Ever More Pressing On

2010-12-31T10:29:00.001-08:00

It appears, for much of my family and for many of my close friends,

that 2010 was a mixed bag sort of year.

I think I'd have to agree with that.

In my little circle, 2010 brought much sorrow.

We lost many loved ones, both through the course of life and through tragedy.

Loss in any form is never easy.

But for as many tears that were shed, I can confidently say,

just as many laughs were had and smiles were shared.

As I get older, the more I feel blessed by the close bond of family and by the wonder of friendships that remain true, no matter how far apart we are.

I look forward to 2011 with much hope and anticipation,

and want to always remember that it's within my power to make every year, a good one.

May the saddest day of your future be no worse than the happiest day of your past.

- Irish Proverb

Holidaze

2010-12-27T11:33:00.000-08:00

::An Eve at home with the McDonalds::

::The mantle is decorated with care::

::The table is set::

::Fondue is on::

::Fancy teacups are out::

:Gifts were opened::

::Stockings were unstuffed::

Trooper loved all his presents!

::Peruvian sweaters were modeled::

::Games were played into the late hours::

It was a perfect way to spend Christmas Eve!

::Christmas Day with Papa Montgomery::

We woke up Christmas morning and drove over to Papa's house.

He had decorated the tree beautifully, and by the time we arrived, him and my mom were already busy making hot rolls for dinner that evening.

We took a break from cooking to open a few gifts.

We had decided our trip to Peru was going to be our "christmas" this year, so we had more of a stocking exchange.

It was nice NOT to have the focus on gift giving,

instead we enjoyed the simplicity of just being together.

It was nice to see Papa smile!

The gifts we did get were small and meaningful.

AND will be THOUROUGHLY enjoyed!

Chocolate Santas!

We ended the long weekend with a Sunday lunch with Dad and Grandma and Grandpa Joyce. Thanks for the ebelskiver pan and cookbook Dad! We can't wait to try it out!

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas, friends!

A More In-Depth Look at our Trip up into the Mountains

2010-12-21T07:35:00.000-08:00

My sister is an artist.

Not only does she take beautiful pictures, she can paint a picture with words.

Since she tells the story so well, I'll direct you to her blog HERE, so you can read more about our trip up into the mountains to visit the tiny village of San Damian.

Peruvian Adventure - December 2010

2010-12-17T19:51:00.001-08:00

Wednesday 12/1

Our Adventure Begins

We were out the door at 4am this morning, so early.

Little did we know, early mornings were going to be a common theme for us this trip.

My dad so graciously took us to the airport and he would feed and walk Trooper for us after he dropped us off.

Our friend Lexy is going to house/dog sit for us.

We're a little nervous to leave Trooper for so long,

but we know he'll have a lot of fun with Lexy.

The bills are prepaid. . . emergency contact info has been left, we've packed all the essentials (and probably more), passports are in hand. . . I think we're ready to go!

Portland to Denver

Denver to Houston

We were supposed to meet mom and Bethany in Houston and then travel on to Lima all together. Unfortunately, they missed their connection in Houston. We did everything in our power to try to hold the plane, but Continental Airlines just wasn't on our side.

You can read Bethany's frustrating account of their ordeal here and here.

Brian and I arrived in Lima at about 11:50 pm local time - waited about 45 minutes to snake our way through the line at customs. . . we waded through the insane masses of people who were at the airport at that early morning hour. . . and then we spied my brother in the crowd.

There he was, waiting for us. A tall white guy with red hair, yeah, he stood out just a little bit.

But boy, was he a sight for sore eyes!

We loaded our bags into the van, had an hour van ride to his house, he gave us a quick tour, more hugs were exchanged, then off to bed for us!!!

I can't believe we're really here in PERU!

Thursday 12/2

Our first full day in Peru and we sleep in until 2:00 in the afternoon!

Needless to say, we were exhausted from our travels!

We ate lunch for breakfast, pollo a la brasa, from a little grill across the street from my brother's house.

This is a very typical and basic meal, which consists of a whole rotisserie chicken, the best large french fries you've ever had, green salad and INCA Cola.

It was delicious.

Brad thought the best way to start our adventures in Peru was to get in a little overall culture.

Our first adventure out into the city was here:

We were bummed Mom and Bethany didn't make it to Peru yet, they missed a good show!

The dances and the costumes were amazing!

Not to mention the music, it was hard to sit still!

But even after a few glasses of Sangria, the only way we could get Brian on the dance floor was a part of the snake line!

It was a very fun and entertaining time, and the best part of the night was when MOM AND BETHANY finally arrived!!

Friday 12/3

Today we all visited the National Museum.

We learned a little bit about Peruvian history, art and culture. . .

We dreamt about all the places we wanted to visit. . .

We even learned some about the dark side of Peru's history. . .

and after that, we tried a little bit of everything at this amazing restaurant!

And I mean EVERYTHING!

Beef, Chicken, Potatoes, Alpaca, Guinea Pig!

Here's what Bethany had to say about it all . . . we ordered a lot, so much that the waiter laughed at us. :) But I'm glad we did, it was all SO GOOD! Muy delicioso indeed! While we were eating, Brad texted one of his friends, telling her what all we were eating: alpaca (delicious), guinea pig (also delicious but I could only eat one bite because I couldn't get the movie "G-Force" out of my head), steak, trout, chicken. Her response? "You have a Peruvian zoo in your stomach!" Ha! There were also about ten different types of potato dishes, apparently there are about 5,000 different types of potatoes in the world and Peru has 3,000 of them!

They serve potatoes with everything, cooked differently every time too!

INCA Cola!

Stuffed Artichoke!

Tres Leche Ice cream!

We spent the rest of the day trying to walk it all off!

Saturday 12/4

Today Brad attended a wedding with his friend Rocio.

They both looked very nice all dressed up.

While Brad and Rocio were off to the wedding,

Bethany and Mom and I got to relax around the house.

Sunday 12/5

Today we were able to attend meeting (church) in Lima.

It was very special.

We might speak different languages, but we share the same spirit.

Monday 12/6

Lazy Day!!

Poor Brian has an upset stomach, so we're laying low today, which is fine with us!

It's a beautiful day in Lima and we're spending it together in the sun by the pool and BBQing!

Someone maybe got a little TOO much sun! OUCH!

I'm calling this my South American tan.

Tuesday 12/7

A day trip to the ruins of Pachacamac

At a bus stop in the middle of nowhere -

somehow you'll find your way to some of the oldest ruins in Peru.

You drive through many of these shanty towns on your way to Pachacamac.

Welcome to Pachacamac!

These ruins are located 19.26 miles (31 km) out of Lima, in the valley of Lurín.

The ruins found here are Pre-Inca and Inca archaeological construction.
Main pre-Inca adoration and ceremonial center of the inhabitants of the valley of Rímac in which the God Pachacámac was venerated.

At the top of the Temple of the Sun

We had to swing by the little market / tourist trap to check things out before we left Paracas.

We came across Mr. , a local artist who etches intricate designs into dried gourds and other mediums. We bought a cute little red guard with a beautiful humming bird design etched into it and Mr. explained to us how he came to learn this craft that has been a part of his family for many generations.

We asked Mr. if he wouldn't mind signing his piece of art for us.

He thought that was lovely, he was the cutest little man.

Wednesday 12/8 :: Lima - Paracas

You guessed it - another early bus ride.

But this was a niiiiice bus. A double decker, with reclining seats, two movies, a meal and four hours later, we're there! Hello Paracas!

Our Hostel, the Mar Azul (as seen from the mar azul).

After getting settled in the hostel, we hit the boardwalk for a bite to eat at Juan Pablos.

We ate our meal while the town moves around us, "Dogs search for scraps of food under the outdoor dining tables. Local musicians move from one restaurant to the next, playing their songs and holding out their hat."

A quick stop at the monument for San Martin, the saint of Paracas, then off to the Paracas National Reserve!

Our tour van.

How was the reserve you ask? Well, we kinda feel like we got hosed.

It was a desert, next to an ocean. It was nice but we had the feeling the locals were like, how do we make money off this large hunk of sand and dirt next to the ocean? I know - lets call it a National Reserve and charge tourists to drive around in the sand and dirt and look at the ocean! :)

But that's okay, we were in to it.

Mom at Cathedral Rock.

A large earthquake that hit Peru in 2007 destroyed the rock archways that gave this famous rock its name.

Thursday 12/9 :: Paracas - Ica - Huacahina

Today was a busy, but FUN day!

This morning, we started in Las Paracas, with a speedboat tour of the Ballestas islands.

I can sum up this tour for you in three words: Birds - Sea Lions, and LOTS of them.

On the way out to the islands, our boat stopped infront of this massive hill.

Etched into the hillside is what is know as the Paracas Candalabra.

There are three theories behind the existance of this amazing phenomonon:

1) the indigenous people of Paracas carved this design into the rocks which lay under the sand in such a way the shape never fills in but appears to sink into the earth;

2) wind dervishes come over the top of the dune in the same pattern every day and unintentionally shape the candalabra; and

3) the aliens did it.

I'm throwing a shocka for the alien theory.

Pelicans, terns, boobies, sea lions. . .

Yes, that huge black mass on the island are all BIRDS!!

Even Penguins!!

The Humboldt penguin is the only species of penguin in Peru and lives in the desert coasts of Peru and Chile, he spends most of his life at sea, in the Peruvian Humboldt current.

One of the biggest exports and money makers of this area? GUANO! (Bird poop!)

The locals call these the "Million Dollar Birds."

At one point the birds had us surrounded!

After the windy boat tour, we packed up and left our hostel, loaded into the van, and hit the road for the little town of Ica.

We stopped at the coolest little winery, El Catador, to sample Pisco, the liquor of Peru!

Chamo was our HILARIOUS guide who showed us around the winery.

He prided himself in the amount of English he knew, specifically, the amount of common English phrases that various English speakers had taught him over the years.

Mind you, phrases like, "Let's get $!@-faced," and - "it will knock you on your butt," and other various, inappropriate sayings!

He had us rolling!

Brian was NOT a fan of Pisco!

After a tour of the winery, one too many samples and a lot of laughs, it was back in the van and off to Haucachina.

Haucachina - as you can see from the pictures, is absolutely stunning.

It is referred to as the "Oasis of South America" and you can see why.

It is surrounded on all sides by immense sand dunes as far as the eye can see.

These dunes stretch all the way to the ocean.

Legend holds that the lagoon was created when a beautiful native princess was apprehended at her bath by a young hunter. She fled, leaving the pool of water she had been bathing in to become the lagoon. The folds of her mantle, streaming behind her as she ran, became the surrounding sand dunes. And the woman herself is rumored to still live in the oasis as a mermaid.

Well, we didn't see any mermaids, but this place really was magical.

We checked into our rooms and got settled in.

We had arrived at the Oasis just in time for lunch.

THE BEST lunch ever in fact. . .

in case you haven't seen a theme here, the food in Peru is pretty darn good.

After lunch, we had a few hours to rest and relax before heading out for our Dune Buggy and sandboarding excursion!

Sandboarding = lying on a snowboard type apparatus on your stomach and propelling yourself down the side of a HUGE sand dune = AMAZING!

Brad's attempt at trying to stand on the board! Disaster!

But not to worry - No brother's were harmed in the taking of this photo.

We watched the sun set from the dunes and then headed back down to the Oasis for dinner by the lagoon.

I've decided today was one of those days I never want to forget.

Friday 12/10 :: Huacahina - Lima

A lazy morning - a small breakfast - a dip in the pool. . .

Our time at the Oasis was truly revitalizing!

As my sister said, "If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend finding yourself an oasis."

And now, back to Lima for the night!

Saturday 12/11 :: Lima - San Damian

Another early morning!

There are relaxing vacations and there are adventure vacations, guess which one this is?

Our gang, plus Rocio, Alex and Saul all packed into a van full of goodies.

Today, we headed up into the mountain, HIGH up in to the mountains to host a "chocolatada"

- We would serve hot chocolate and hand out gifts to the children of San Damian.

A four hour ride in a 2-wheel drive van on a road that makes rollercoasters look like child's play! That is what I call adventure!

Switchback after switchback on a bolder-riddled dirt road, lined with crosses and shrines remembering the ones that had gone before.

A bit unnerving to say the least.

Even in these high mountain villages, color prevails.

In the plaza in the center of the San Damian, the building were painted with brightly coloredmurals which depicted various scenes of daily life.

We were served warm tea, hot chocolate and they fed us VERY well!

The ONE restaurant in the village had TWO tables which we packed into for each meal.

We ate some of the best fried trout I've ever tasted, and yes that's the head still attached. And NO I didn't eat the head.

Of course, there were plenty of potatoes to fill you up as well.

The electricity is fairly inconsistent in the village, so we spent a dark night huddled together under MANY layers of alpaca blankets with our headlamps ablaze.

Like I said - adventure!

Sunday 12/12 : San Damiam - Lima

Today is my mom Lisa's 50th birthday.

Feliz Cumpleanos Mama!

She spent her birthday high atop the mountains of Peru in the little puebla of San Damian.

It is exactly how she wanted to spend the day.

This is the expression you have when 200 little Peruvian children sing you happy birthday:

Priceless.

The chocolatada was a hit to say the least.

It's amazing, but children of every race, every nation every age and clime -

they are all the same.

You should have seen all the smiles as they opened their little presents and endulged in the goodies they found in thier bags.

After we finished handing out the last presents and the hot chocolate was all drunk up. . .we packed up our van, said our goodbyes and headed back down the mountain.

(The trip down was WORSE than the ride up!)

Monday 12/13

This morning we got to sleep in, it was glorious!

The trek up into the mountains had wiped us all out.

At about noon, we ventured into the city for lunch.

We ate a wonder buffet at Rustica and then spent the afternoon wandering through the district of Barranca, checking out some of the local street fares.

Tuesday 12/14 : Lima

Our last full day in Peru!

It is so hard to believe that these two weeks are already coming to an end!

We spent the day shopping and spending what money we had left.

We headed down to El Centro to pick up some last minute gifts and souveniers.

We met up with Rocio and Alex in the evening, had one last amazing meal - Tacos mixtas and Fresas con leche (pureed strawberries with milk).

We gave "Thank You" gifts (things from Oregon) to Alex and Rocio and said good night. . .

Wednesday 12/15 :: Lima - Home

Actually, we didn't so much go to bed last night, rather we laid down and took a two hour nap.

Then we were up at 1:30 am and packed up to head to the airport.

Goodbyes were said, tears were shed, hugs were exchanged

(along with what money we had left over).

Brian and I and Bethany and my mom boarded the plane

Lima to Panama City

Panama City to Houston

Chaos in Houston - flights were missed, bags were lost. . .

Bethany and Mom actually made their flight this time (but their bags did not).

They flew Houston to LA and LA to Seattle and home.

Brian and I missed our connection in Houston (no thanks to Continental Airlines) - originally we were supposed to fly Houston to Denver, where we had plans to meet up briefly with Jon and Chelsea Smith, but because of the missed connection in Houston, we didn't end up going through Denver and they booked us on a later flight out of Houston straight to Portland.

Brian and I landed in Portland at about 8:30 pm - got our bags, Lexy picked us up from the airport and we headed home!

Honestly - to put into words what this trip meant to us all is extremely difficult, and the pictures really only help a little. . .

It truly was the trip of a lifetime where the only way to understand it was to experience it.

Our eyes were opened up to so many new and different things!

Our time in Peru was an AMAZING, DELICIOUS ADVENTURE and we can't wait to go back and see more of the beautiful country that is Peru!

You can see more pictures from our adventure in Peru via Mari's facebook account or here on my sister's beautiful blog.

Vamos a Peru!

2010-11-30T10:35:00.000-08:00

Wednesday morning, bright and early - Brian and I will be catching a plane to Peru!!

Well. . .we'll be catching a plane to Denver, then another plane to Houston and THEN a plane to Peru! Cripes! The things we go through to get a good deal on a plane ticket!

(The return trip is worse!)

We are going to visit my brother in Lima and will spend TWO weeks taking in the beauties the country as to offer. My mother and sister will also be there at the same time!

It's going to be quite the adventure!

Brad will be showing us around Lima :: we'll take a trip south to visit Las Paracas :: we'll celebrate my mom's 50th birthday Peruvian style :: we'll take a trip into the mountains to serve holiday bread and hot chocolate to the children of a small village :: and maybe, just maybe - if the stars align, Brian and I will make the trek to Machu Picchu!

No matter what we end up doing, we'll have plenty of fun, we'll eat plenty of good food and we'll return home with amazing memories!

See you in two weeks, friends!

Happy Birthday Jill!

2010-11-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

As far as mother-in-laws go, I lucked out, BIG TIME!

Happy Birthday to the best MIL a girl could ask for!

11 1/2 Year High School Reunion

2010-11-29T12:05:00.001-08:00

Hilarity. A few pictures coming soon.

Happy Turkey Day

2010-11-26T08:30:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving was a busy day for me, Brian and Trooper.

But it was a good day.

We left the house sometime between 9am and 10am and headed into Newberg to see my dad and Grandma and Grandpa Joyce.

We helped fix a turkey dinner with all the trimmings and it was delicious, if I do say so myself!

Plus - Trooper and Roxy dawg got to play together all morning! BONUS!

At about 3pm - we left Newberg and headed to Cedar Hills to visit Papa Montgomery and my mom's side of the family.

We were there just in time for dessert!

- pumpkin bars - martha - pumpkin cheesecake -

Delicious!

At about 6pm we headed to our third and final stop of the day, Jill and Lyle's in Hillsboro!

By the time we got home, we were all exhausted,

but the day had reinforced just how much we have to be thankful for.

Brian and I enjoyed a slice of pumpkin pie together in the quietness of our little home and decided next year might be the time to start some traditions of our own. :)

Be thankful, friends.

Fall Days

2010-11-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

:: Apples ::

5 thousand pounds of them, or something crazy like that?!

:: Warm Vitals ::

:: Cider Pressing ::

There were plenty of helpers!

::Yummy Apple Cider :: fresh from the press :::: Drizzling rain and a roaring bonfire ::

A big THANK YOU to the Sullivan family

for having us all over to their farm for a fun fall evening!

And of course, I forgot my camera, so thanks to Jill for sharing her pictures!

In Loving Memory

2010-11-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

Edwin "Ed" Guy Willis

(September 21, 1972-October 27, 2010)

"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.

Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."

:: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ::

Halloween Festivities

2010-11-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy Halloween Week!

Here's what we were up to:

::Thursday::

Brian was under the weather, so I got to go over to Miss Maizie's house and play with her all night while her mommy and daddy were working.

We had fun, but I'm glad I only have a dog to worry about right now.

These kids are hard work!

::Friday::
The Pieren family hosted a haunted house get-together at their family farm in Helvatia.
They worked really hard on it and you could definitely tell, it was SPOOKY!

Brian and I went as Ghosts!!
It was fun keeping people in suspense - they all were trying to figure out who the mysterious characters under the sheets were!

BOO!!

There were plenty of other SPOOKY characters!

We all had had a great time!

A big thanks to Sarah and Jason and the rest of the crew for all their hard work!

::Saturday::

I had the privilege of attending a luncheon for Miss Audrin Gibler,

hosted by her sisters-in-law and her MIL, Margie.

AND finally got to meet little Ole John!

What a cutie pie!

::Saturday Evening:

Brian and I brought back the He-Man and She-Ra costumes from last year and drove to Hubbard for a Halloween Fiesta at Christina and Dan's!

What a fun night!

And what a busy week!

**SIDE NOTE**

Check out these fun EYEBALLS I made to take to the parties we attended!

Boil your eggs like normal.

Remove the eggs from the water, let them cool a bit so you can handle them.

Crack the shells all up, but leave them intact on the egg.

Put the eggs back in the water with a tablespoon of vinegar and LOTS of red food dye.

Let the eggs soak in the red water for 20-30 minutes.

Remove the eggs and remove the shell fragments.

The red dye will have left veiny looking lines.

Cut the eggs in half the SHORT way, remove the yolks and make your deviled egg filling.

I used a small melon scooper to scoop the filling and plop it into the egg so it was round like an eyeball.

Cut pimento stuff olive in half for your irises and place strategically onto the yellow filling.

Place the EYEBALLS into a fun container and serve!

We got a lot of fun reactions with this dish!

Another Project (pretty much) Crossed Off the List!

2010-10-26T08:40:00.000-07:00

Our new dresser system!! I love it!

A converted bookshelf!

(Maybe someday you'll hear the hilarious story of how I acquired said bookshelf.)

Gone is the gaudy, ugly, brown craigslist dresser that we bought out of necessity. . .

It's amazing, our room seems huge now

without that big bulky dresser taking up all that space!

Now, the trick will be to keep everything nicely folded

and contained in the baskets!

Thanks hunny! Another successful project!

Domestic Dispute

2010-10-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Ducks played the UCLA Bruins last night, in Oregon.

My team got crushed, but that's not important. What's important is that we know how to have fun together!

And yes, I still love my hunny. He was a gracious winner. . . this time at least.

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

2010-10-22T09:10:00.001-07:00

My Grandpa Joyce turns 82 years young today!Happy Birthday Grandpa!

¡Felíz Cumpleaños Hermanito!

2010-10-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

Today is my LITTLE brother's 27 birthday!

He's in Peru. Again. Same as last year.

Sometimes it's hard for me to come to terms with the fact

that my younger siblings are all grown up!

I'm so proud of my brother, for many reasons: for persevering, for running a successful business (or three), for being adventurous, for being thoughtful and spiritual. . .

Congrats to you little bro - for finding yourself in a place that makes you happy!

We will celebrate together soon Ponchito! :)

Abrazos y Besos!

** As usual, to read a much more eloquent bithday salutation to my brother,

visit my sister's blog here (that girl just has a way with words).**

October Days

2010-10-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

We are loving this beautiful fall weather and are enjoying it while we can!

We had a wonderful weekend!

::I picked a beautiful bouquet right from my flower beds::

::Lots of time relaxing with Trooper while I'm getting over the sniffles::

(Horrible picture of poor sick me, but it shows just how snuggley our Trooper is.)

::Lyle brought in a truck load of wood for us::

It was a beautiful day for manual labor,

we worked hard and had a yummy lunch together, enjoying the day.

::We're looking forward to cozy fall nights with the wood stove fired up::

::Brian's woodshed he's building from scratch - it's not quite finished, but it's doing the job::

::Getting projects done before the rain and snow comes::

(hopefully there's snow this year!)

::Lots of playing around in the backyard::

(Which is getting pretty torn up from this guy!)

::I had fun decorating for the neighborhood Trick-or-Treaters::

::We found a fun (new to us) children's book series

about a lovable Rottweiler and started our collection::

::Bethany and Josh came down for the weekend::

It's always nice to spend time with family!

We even talked Bethany into taking some quick family pictures for us!

Hope you all had a pleasant and productive weekend friends!

I Love You More Today Than Yesterday. . .

2010-09-27T08:14:00.001-07:00

. . . and I'll love you even more tomorrow!

(9/27/2008, photo by Jon Smith, edited by Bethany Raelene)

Happy 2nd Anniversary to my Love!

Two wonderful years and counting!

A Baby Party for David and Audrin Gibler

2010-09-25T14:54:00.000-07:00

Baby Gibler is due to arrive any day, so us McDonalds along with the Maloneys,

threw a party for momma and daddy to be, Audrin and David!

The party theme was vintage Dick & Jane and everything turned out so cute!

Since the McDonald and the Maloneys were involved, there was plenty of delicious food! Smoked brisket sandwiches with slaw, yummy fruit. . .

and delicious cupcakes done by Shawna Marshall-Davison at Sweet Thing Bakehouse!

There was plenty of chatting and goofing off!

And we all had fun playing with the kiddos!

Trek - Soren - Maizie

David getting some practice time in with Tabor Wilson!

Soren Gibler hamming it up!

Audrin and David and their loot!

We don't have ANY fun together do we!?!

It was a fun evening with friends and we all can't wait to meet Bubbles! :)

The Young McDonalds

:: This Moment ::

Where Does the Time Go?!

My Funny Valentine

Timberline (Mt. Hood)

Metamorphosis

Date Night with Dad

A Weekend Romp

A Day Off

Resolved.

Best. Christmas. Ever.

Signs of the Season

'Tis the Season

Happy Birthday Mom!

What a Weekend!

Babysitter's Club

I'm Thirty. I Should Comb My Hair More.

Celebrating with the Franzkes

Sauvie Island Pumpkin Patch

A Morning on the White Salmon River

An Anniversary Adventure on the McKenzie River

September 27th

USA vs. Canada

Lyle the Tiger

Convention

Counting Down (already)

It's going to be a Little Lady for the Giblers!

Not Just Another Week at Cow Camp (2011)

A 50th Wedding Anniversary

Fourth of July Weekend

Catching UP - in no particular order. . .

Father's Day BBQ **updated**

A Birthday Masquerade!

Happy Birthday Brother Mark!

Tabor Tot Turns ONE!

Better Late Than Never!

**UPDATED** Joyce Family Memorial Weekend Camping Trip Exravaganza

Because He's Just So Darn Cute -

The Out of Towners

Preview of Coming Attractions!

Another BUSY Weekend

Mother's Day Weekend

Easter Weekend

Bracket Champion?!

A Productive Weekend!

Spring in Oregon

Surprise!

Happy Birthday to My Handsome Hubby!

TO DO

*In Loving Memory*

Yes Please!!

A Weekend Trip to Washington

Happy Birthday to my Leetle Seester!

And Once Again, Progress.

Weekending with the Wilsons **UPDATED**

A Whole Lotta Lasagna and Friends. . . not necessarily in that order!

SNOW DAZE : and why I wanted at least ONE this winter!

Knitting In Public

A Little Bit of LOVE in Your HEARTS

Rachel and Eric Get Hitched!

Heroes

What's Up Dawg

Ever More Pressing On

Holidaze

A More In-Depth Look at our Trip up into the Mountains

Peruvian Adventure - December 2010

Vamos a Peru!

Happy Birthday Jill!

11 1/2 Year High School Reunion

Happy Turkey Day

Fall Days

In Loving Memory

Halloween Festivities

Another Project (pretty much) Crossed Off the List!

Domestic Dispute

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

¡Felíz Cumpleaños Hermanito!

October Days

I Love You More Today Than Yesterday. . .

A Baby Party for David and Audrin Gibler

Father's Day BBQ updated

UPDATED Joyce Family Memorial Weekend Camping Trip Exravaganza

In Loving Memory

Weekending with the Wilsons UPDATED