tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37166761061944564682024-02-19T03:01:17.394-08:00Bates Babies at Play!Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.comBlogger247125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-39571287828979476412011-12-04T21:13:00.000-08:002011-12-04T21:29:58.111-08:00Oh, Christmas Tree! Oh, Christmas Tree!!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOZF3a6k2RJkIXRDxfpm0e7qoB_kw-3ELzc5EHG2IAK24D4R5MzpE7MxTf3Z3K08hnrWvgJtE1BPkt7kOTRl1XnS7cpBpCJVL-DfHrTu-v3bax-gWEfiLbe5vbGe4NYFoFTDlcbp4mGOD/s1600/December+2011+028.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508736835914610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOZF3a6k2RJkIXRDxfpm0e7qoB_kw-3ELzc5EHG2IAK24D4R5MzpE7MxTf3Z3K08hnrWvgJtE1BPkt7kOTRl1XnS7cpBpCJVL-DfHrTu-v3bax-gWEfiLbe5vbGe4NYFoFTDlcbp4mGOD/s400/December+2011+028.jpg" /></a> Well, here she is!!! Our lovely Christmas tree!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21DWyymqdqcBjEF1xmXqtfzsiR2GiBh1RkgdnUo8_siwY46czmMxEvPAJQtrUAjwtigQR7h-4Xwp3hNuUhnTvU10BFh4eTkfjqOLa0XrzpAeLedFr_0Hn2dO7ldSHA0HmSqipu278s4xn/s1600/December+2011+023.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508573621571266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21DWyymqdqcBjEF1xmXqtfzsiR2GiBh1RkgdnUo8_siwY46czmMxEvPAJQtrUAjwtigQR7h-4Xwp3hNuUhnTvU10BFh4eTkfjqOLa0XrzpAeLedFr_0Hn2dO7ldSHA0HmSqipu278s4xn/s400/December+2011+023.jpg" /></a> I had many helpers today, as you can see. This year I outsmarted the bunch and bought shatterproof decorations. The broom and dust pan had a remarkably smaller role in assembly this season because of said purchase. <br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUik5UtitDrU6SCHAldRpgnHEc_q5wQyNmGnKeZkXEM_b0s5DKaeAQX90HlxljwH8sZD1qbQiCZdM4IXMKd2_A4huUljC9icw71B_k5dXXnmNmmQaQiHdnEYZ9vE-hMBsIrAipN6g0aAkI/s1600/December+2011+020.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508566404286114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUik5UtitDrU6SCHAldRpgnHEc_q5wQyNmGnKeZkXEM_b0s5DKaeAQX90HlxljwH8sZD1qbQiCZdM4IXMKd2_A4huUljC9icw71B_k5dXXnmNmmQaQiHdnEYZ9vE-hMBsIrAipN6g0aAkI/s400/December+2011+020.jpg" /></a> Annelise was having the time of her life congratulating the boys on ornaments well hung and suggesting the next one's placement. She was so motherly and sweet that I just couldn't bring myself to stop her. Luckily for her, the boy's were strung out on too much warm cider and weren't thinking clearly to stop her themselves. It's safe to say she had a stellar time!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWeQtPBoOvhRvS9SzEO_4wXg-TfwyUTzg1n0WXRsGL2QuIjO8GP91MvPf4HgEyG8Z2drPW0xQJxU4UZDUiMzgQjQnGtq8dBKC8WJ9eW4jwWQxb2G1CzXuLbAmjJRXJJAOyVvwhuQN5ylp/s1600/December+2011+019.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508563313758978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWeQtPBoOvhRvS9SzEO_4wXg-TfwyUTzg1n0WXRsGL2QuIjO8GP91MvPf4HgEyG8Z2drPW0xQJxU4UZDUiMzgQjQnGtq8dBKC8WJ9eW4jwWQxb2G1CzXuLbAmjJRXJJAOyVvwhuQN5ylp/s400/December+2011+019.jpg" /></a> Bodie has really started to enoy things that a year ago wouldn't have interested him at all. Last year he hung a few special ornaments but was really more into the cider. This year, he was practically trying to steal my position and be the ring leader. His crafty side was certainly brought out by preschool and as an artist myself, I am loving it!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyPeOoi1bRuNmnjNk6v1XlAb8gQwfc0iyAl55PEEr10W-UfpAlLWaA75T1-v55FG73bjUWudQNd8JT98rY7YVgfzoKmogPcTskHSqTWv4y5z_xrTjLmQNph-le4hBqk3KTpk3IMOZgmLRs/s1600/December+2011+016.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508559897539810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyPeOoi1bRuNmnjNk6v1XlAb8gQwfc0iyAl55PEEr10W-UfpAlLWaA75T1-v55FG73bjUWudQNd8JT98rY7YVgfzoKmogPcTskHSqTWv4y5z_xrTjLmQNph-le4hBqk3KTpk3IMOZgmLRs/s400/December+2011+016.jpg" /></a> Can you OD on cider? If so, Brayton may have done just that. He spilled no less than 4 cups and drank far more. The floor may never be the same.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIslcIn6qG-cDq-8NtrJGVYBcCo8Tgss-hHZ4xaOMtd41VBBz1gUc4fFxy7L042imzHcJGbl2ysh_RHfkRIWCHFwphdIcCpWJyt2DoxuusCooJNfNrAci4O7zpwLrYiMGT9PmphwEtAgi/s1600/December+2011+017.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682508556757995010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIslcIn6qG-cDq-8NtrJGVYBcCo8Tgss-hHZ4xaOMtd41VBBz1gUc4fFxy7L042imzHcJGbl2ysh_RHfkRIWCHFwphdIcCpWJyt2DoxuusCooJNfNrAci4O7zpwLrYiMGT9PmphwEtAgi/s400/December+2011+017.jpg" /></a> This is how it all started. . . . . Annelise not only dressed up to go get the tree, she had me curl her hair and all. We all had a great time today putting up the tree and decorations. I, for one, am just glad that it's done! This is the earliest for our family yet so I am awfully proud!</div></div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-10537014686891953842011-12-03T06:40:00.000-08:002011-12-03T07:52:03.103-08:00Here's what been happening down on the farm!<div align="center">Well, I have without a doubt fallen behind on blogging. Somewhere between morning and night, it just doesn't get done as often as I should. So, brace yourself for the rediculously large post in an attempt at getting family and friends up to speed!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIr4D_RklVm4_e_cZdhectE-ktKyKx6qDba4qdggoxrJlzFHkUP5VBLUX-Hrgp0x-AaZKbPc3epFEXApfZ2HjCdQY-8PKpNhqiWdr2G05GfRl4PBxlzefHtxt4mrOclU8EKXqmVfFN3my/s1600/September+2011+005.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681917214833567330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIr4D_RklVm4_e_cZdhectE-ktKyKx6qDba4qdggoxrJlzFHkUP5VBLUX-Hrgp0x-AaZKbPc3epFEXApfZ2HjCdQY-8PKpNhqiWdr2G05GfRl4PBxlzefHtxt4mrOclU8EKXqmVfFN3my/s400/September+2011+005.jpg" /></a>The past month has been filled with so many fun activites! We usually head to the pumpkin patches as many times as we can in a season and this year was a first to go with our preschool class. It was such fun to see them interact with new friends and Anna loved staying close to Miss Erin, her teacher.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxL6WMztKBHh5jaG6G1rP6IntbJGe1K4LqHTlN72fKo2J16UPjnHaclFRcAt0O30VD10rhVNeqWsfaBg6lny49RniUvrRvP2fFO3IQxQVt55-uFv0svA6jd-5TZwdClsGjvqVkTmMQBZ8e/s1600/October+2011+003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681916217819985778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxL6WMztKBHh5jaG6G1rP6IntbJGe1K4LqHTlN72fKo2J16UPjnHaclFRcAt0O30VD10rhVNeqWsfaBg6lny49RniUvrRvP2fFO3IQxQVt55-uFv0svA6jd-5TZwdClsGjvqVkTmMQBZ8e/s400/October+2011+003.jpg" /></a>Bodie didn't miss a chance to be with his best friend, Andrew. (above)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3a4hOu8LDeLUtWnt3xh9io8kO6iN4ieO9OK10DcxnGC5-D-zhmA5xwotml-2hJXuCbXvY43ScWZiEhQMUIciKN9-hNGD3jGQ5MB6ZFnedM9xrZg918_49kWfI17mAAoIhC_Y1pdxDZ_Q/s1600/October+2011+004.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681916207378170818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3a4hOu8LDeLUtWnt3xh9io8kO6iN4ieO9OK10DcxnGC5-D-zhmA5xwotml-2hJXuCbXvY43ScWZiEhQMUIciKN9-hNGD3jGQ5MB6ZFnedM9xrZg918_49kWfI17mAAoIhC_Y1pdxDZ_Q/s400/October+2011+004.jpg" /></a> That's a lot of 4 year old's on one hill!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hkFYZEdojp9sAHnsmr4yWb27AYgZQukPeVempnH4Be317OpzQW4wYbQKfxPWpT78qQCV6xTzFLaeOGUxuB7Q_RpVVGXNrjAq0FZfyafC4zTiyN9-cgDMHBo5dL6yElhbwU6wpHbr1RWF/s1600/October+2011+010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681916200693324050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hkFYZEdojp9sAHnsmr4yWb27AYgZQukPeVempnH4Be317OpzQW4wYbQKfxPWpT78qQCV6xTzFLaeOGUxuB7Q_RpVVGXNrjAq0FZfyafC4zTiyN9-cgDMHBo5dL6yElhbwU6wpHbr1RWF/s400/October+2011+010.jpg" /></a> As you can tell, the weather has been great all fall! Mother Nature was so sweet to bring us a nice warm fall and we hope her kind gestures continue throughout the winter but we aren't counting on it. The children were all so excited to leave with a little pumpkin. The owner's of this pumpkin patch lost their home in the floods this year and yet they still were as generous as ever. The Human Spirit really is amazing!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwxJk4G-dD6CIqJmMFD4s5vDFvgDkUH4XDRn-kgNF6hCN1uCNnHDS7wujwabTnDMqKt4xmUBYClgXtJKlAdnVf0kFwM_6nIytrKnqDmkjzPky-u0F5TYPtIcJ-TG9I4H38AmJfcRxeKTW/s1600/October+2011+041.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681915637517748818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwxJk4G-dD6CIqJmMFD4s5vDFvgDkUH4XDRn-kgNF6hCN1uCNnHDS7wujwabTnDMqKt4xmUBYClgXtJKlAdnVf0kFwM_6nIytrKnqDmkjzPky-u0F5TYPtIcJ-TG9I4H38AmJfcRxeKTW/s400/October+2011+041.jpg" /></a> We can now add "Gingerbread Spooky Houses" to our list of fun fall activities as well! However, these were MESSY so I don't know if this task is for anyone who likes a clean home. :)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEPEXufdrhDToXyoRH6-WtmLuzry1zNpfETAPxnRlEb7jJ-Iju1pLWkchY2IC-SksO_0TEdDG3zQ1Pwi_nvfD-PPfgYHpdU4x7upAdHRyv3koEWQbzIC_zguWk5lv5d9uXRaxL6nWI-DuZ/s1600/October+2011+043.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681915634648050738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEPEXufdrhDToXyoRH6-WtmLuzry1zNpfETAPxnRlEb7jJ-Iju1pLWkchY2IC-SksO_0TEdDG3zQ1Pwi_nvfD-PPfgYHpdU4x7upAdHRyv3koEWQbzIC_zguWk5lv5d9uXRaxL6nWI-DuZ/s400/October+2011+043.jpg" /></a>This year, my Dad graciously bought the boy's bunkbeds! They were both ready to get out of the crib and although the fit is tight, it sure is nice for everyone to have their own big bed now. We were so worried about only having two bedrooms when we moved here but the reality is that you make it work. I actually love that they are all together. One of the biggest hopes I have for my children is that they are always the best of friends and I hope this is one of their fondest memories one day. We sure have a lot of fun in the small room!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxKL0Q-21gBuyRstu03yWnioc2cye_eUs0c4prru8s3TTJ4HNzwcZvPOtJDp0Ok3_FYFfh05o5AjhsKJDBGyJpJcUP6ycXmvoBnRV_Cra44CFQFVvhGuJe0JFpAr6AH5GMq5PK0P6Bs3-/s1600/October+2011+059.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681915628752028386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxKL0Q-21gBuyRstu03yWnioc2cye_eUs0c4prru8s3TTJ4HNzwcZvPOtJDp0Ok3_FYFfh05o5AjhsKJDBGyJpJcUP6ycXmvoBnRV_Cra44CFQFVvhGuJe0JFpAr6AH5GMq5PK0P6Bs3-/s400/October+2011+059.jpg" /></a> As you can see, Bodie was more excited than ANYONE! He was also the most hesitant to move to the big bed. Sometimes they just need a gentle push. (Or Grandpa's visit and a new bed!)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5DGJLPDAa7ruMUy3fZOqdHzuYq_XqLIfDFy8a-cPLkUo5Qp4HJpOqub5FiYxQveQUAuX1faVlFxRoCpNhuYYXXXuc0QmkB-xUmgO5jYYQ5T18_BeKi0_3YR7qoPq2QS83TOPzPUzlxrS/s1600/October+2011+066.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681915616971393394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5DGJLPDAa7ruMUy3fZOqdHzuYq_XqLIfDFy8a-cPLkUo5Qp4HJpOqub5FiYxQveQUAuX1faVlFxRoCpNhuYYXXXuc0QmkB-xUmgO5jYYQ5T18_BeKi0_3YR7qoPq2QS83TOPzPUzlxrS/s400/October+2011+066.jpg" /></a> Another new addition is the swingset! Grandpa spoiled the children for Christmas this year and surprised us all with a new swingset for the trio! While Daddy has been working hard, MOMMY, yes MOMMY put almost 100% of this together! It wasn't easy but I am pretty proud of myself if I must say so! There are also cute gables on it now and a chimney. It's been a big hit and we are so happy to have it!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi94dt4OKTJqCYMywfYvcTyurzr5Oug76jH2SseQ9dLnUK_JmbFUJrqB_RAC0bQj1sMWN5Kx8vsspX_bSEcsaMl2M67jVQeV6GMjy6KK3C9XLyprq5UlyGdnKiJczOqn48jmqQjU_nJ5Nxm/s1600/October+2011+077.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681915615552538178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi94dt4OKTJqCYMywfYvcTyurzr5Oug76jH2SseQ9dLnUK_JmbFUJrqB_RAC0bQj1sMWN5Kx8vsspX_bSEcsaMl2M67jVQeV6GMjy6KK3C9XLyprq5UlyGdnKiJczOqn48jmqQjU_nJ5Nxm/s400/October+2011+077.jpg" /></a> Halloween brought costumes. . . . . enough said! Brayton doesn't discriminate between dragons and ladybugs!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctN-xvfqaj_XRfNVEGnXLBcXXRD-hcZMIwjD8fGZNrhyPqL05N4vK9EeWEqHU8XoTjp-7PEzCQq_9xg-w8W41cV5j2QxTgzVII1XVthmor5rc0hVEk1kCVR69t-jXIllyik9a5NGhSQW2/s1600/October+2011+106.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681914918155709682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctN-xvfqaj_XRfNVEGnXLBcXXRD-hcZMIwjD8fGZNrhyPqL05N4vK9EeWEqHU8XoTjp-7PEzCQq_9xg-w8W41cV5j2QxTgzVII1XVthmor5rc0hVEk1kCVR69t-jXIllyik9a5NGhSQW2/s400/October+2011+106.jpg" /></a> Fall brought a lot of motorcycle riding as well.<br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPzUGNz3GWMm86Ad3qrDoAqI_LEwxwE07EoOTYsIg34TLQNlJOZZ6RomNznKQt8sLlJxPerGaL642P9WLFoQSAzhqTtXPFpV9VQ6bVuAgfuSDIyF7BREI2IlqpqMGHlv0MdpVu5ErbOcK/s1600/October+2011+113.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681914911278302754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPzUGNz3GWMm86Ad3qrDoAqI_LEwxwE07EoOTYsIg34TLQNlJOZZ6RomNznKQt8sLlJxPerGaL642P9WLFoQSAzhqTtXPFpV9VQ6bVuAgfuSDIyF7BREI2IlqpqMGHlv0MdpVu5ErbOcK/s400/October+2011+113.jpg" /></a> The children have been learning about the importance of farming this harvest season. So this year, we made turkey, leaf, and pumpkin shaped cookies to take to the farmer's in appreciation of their hard work. At home, we are trying to help the children understand that food doesn't just show up at the store. They are very interested in the whole process and I really love how they are beginning to see what a hard job it really is.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholL1ZppgWdSr9AyD5F486qzUGABCWhrAaXDPNkyYJD4UmeZgKZ9ogGV4EbrUgHg3Yd0dwFebN3ImgwM1q4W4nPUs1r73I1LJU2uaUXWoNeAL9KTN1SYUJLEkcWUgWI2p3DLqgIPZqj6Q_/s1600/October+2011+118.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681914896350653842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholL1ZppgWdSr9AyD5F486qzUGABCWhrAaXDPNkyYJD4UmeZgKZ9ogGV4EbrUgHg3Yd0dwFebN3ImgwM1q4W4nPUs1r73I1LJU2uaUXWoNeAL9KTN1SYUJLEkcWUgWI2p3DLqgIPZqj6Q_/s400/October+2011+118.jpg" /></a> Bodie making his spooky house! He has become quite the artist this year!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLxT8hLhN9BhQyhVqDpB3cBilPEKJHX5GJJvZgjzl-UsZYElGiA5n2puvAZA_uLnDOLL3w1H8hiuqG_87pG6fFnKLpUb3Q4pqwEkb3e0yi3Kko4PekC1VUp3iwKJoJsvNBN_p6welTgRJ/s1600/October+2011+127.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681914893435385330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLxT8hLhN9BhQyhVqDpB3cBilPEKJHX5GJJvZgjzl-UsZYElGiA5n2puvAZA_uLnDOLL3w1H8hiuqG_87pG6fFnKLpUb3Q4pqwEkb3e0yi3Kko4PekC1VUp3iwKJoJsvNBN_p6welTgRJ/s400/October+2011+127.jpg" /></a> Delicious!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9e2iqCL9_cHCy8R73fDa6Zizc8QzHMlvThRpWo247DSHZySOKWZUa50UIQdWq9S4oc7yfqfN2gjAkV6OUfkacoD0LIdJuFsSIGPYtcyWkwxVFrMUhHYBPtYE87np8TBpAm3owk3leXse/s1600/October+2011+130.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681913924025890274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9e2iqCL9_cHCy8R73fDa6Zizc8QzHMlvThRpWo247DSHZySOKWZUa50UIQdWq9S4oc7yfqfN2gjAkV6OUfkacoD0LIdJuFsSIGPYtcyWkwxVFrMUhHYBPtYE87np8TBpAm3owk3leXse/s400/October+2011+130.jpg" /></a><br />What's more adorable than a bunch of small children singing spooky Halloween songs? Nothing, I dare say!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iBVjMg6MKaXF4A1tPDETcXCfdbMKRmUixcb41M15oI6P4vy-8tPIIomWxOEmDPmMt6eCOW8tp5QzTc5Mk_zdLAgcgl9vWUuJrY8SijEOGjqWcxSd2ckeyTpJxNI4CxN60hrccTI9oeM9/s1600/October+2011+156.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681913918532262498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iBVjMg6MKaXF4A1tPDETcXCfdbMKRmUixcb41M15oI6P4vy-8tPIIomWxOEmDPmMt6eCOW8tp5QzTc5Mk_zdLAgcgl9vWUuJrY8SijEOGjqWcxSd2ckeyTpJxNI4CxN60hrccTI9oeM9/s400/October+2011+156.jpg" /></a>Miss Amanda, the teacher's assistant, was a dear and let Bodie paint her face. These teacher's really are amazing with so many small children and every time I help in the classroom, I am so thankful for their work!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5TyUWNbPBE2-xV4U_4S7nWbWaInRWlbMpc5CS26K45GxxmehuB7gqiSJ_mw_qDvmEpzYMbDeHj3XQloG0CyRi-AOKJcEFL3hI21-H8GqPA8VmeznoGSOfREWxavSxA3ABeIBIff6tt-9G/s1600/October+2011+157.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681913909582351810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5TyUWNbPBE2-xV4U_4S7nWbWaInRWlbMpc5CS26K45GxxmehuB7gqiSJ_mw_qDvmEpzYMbDeHj3XQloG0CyRi-AOKJcEFL3hI21-H8GqPA8VmeznoGSOfREWxavSxA3ABeIBIff6tt-9G/s400/October+2011+157.jpg" /></a> Just holding hands. :) Lately, Brayton has said he "needs" Anna a lot. He really loves her and she loves doting on him. It's nice to be reminded of these moments when the times come that they are screaming at each other.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDw39P-MOWTW_qohpLb76TwJ3Q4qlFVH2Br3Sslxz_GsBY7wQ1htt7T10ta0lrt1gxhbSZmvrDWB8rL70xDCOQnnj42bvljIqnm1m3xaJIdFdZ18-sYRXvEubQt59Gs15HNiN6y46zrbq/s1600/October+2011+166.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681913904820462530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDw39P-MOWTW_qohpLb76TwJ3Q4qlFVH2Br3Sslxz_GsBY7wQ1htt7T10ta0lrt1gxhbSZmvrDWB8rL70xDCOQnnj42bvljIqnm1m3xaJIdFdZ18-sYRXvEubQt59Gs15HNiN6y46zrbq/s400/October+2011+166.jpg" /></a> No activity is complete without Daddy near. He makes everything more exciting!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V2d3hDAcWbIc3ZwH3jruVTUYAO0gmdsBQuF9o0rabyCSIUFjUrRToQKj5zbedh6JqecXsSP-37RAfaPNO6rCm3Ycp1g3VhQ1Gf8aSkIvNIxNTX0L7KMbQ8c5ClSUGRuejdwgRTkMiEQI/s1600/October+2011+168.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681913893675255890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V2d3hDAcWbIc3ZwH3jruVTUYAO0gmdsBQuF9o0rabyCSIUFjUrRToQKj5zbedh6JqecXsSP-37RAfaPNO6rCm3Ycp1g3VhQ1Gf8aSkIvNIxNTX0L7KMbQ8c5ClSUGRuejdwgRTkMiEQI/s400/October+2011+168.jpg" /></a> Lining up in the classrooom before the class program.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AUCJwkZGsehn5dxIBZEP9O8wGmH2jH71c6oxRk0iwQp82p-tnJ-O1u8iZ0K3fDu6_pVY-TaYZ9Jqa8yDgC6oVu0XHyBkdOCOB34mCLh7swOBcuK1-2dsaOrBJidwNGTWSbwSTE0_rMi2/s1600/October+2011+180.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681912864773546722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AUCJwkZGsehn5dxIBZEP9O8wGmH2jH71c6oxRk0iwQp82p-tnJ-O1u8iZ0K3fDu6_pVY-TaYZ9Jqa8yDgC6oVu0XHyBkdOCOB34mCLh7swOBcuK1-2dsaOrBJidwNGTWSbwSTE0_rMi2/s400/October+2011+180.jpg" /></a> It was as sweet as they all look!<br /></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8qZWLm92rGesTZ-phHg9Q21KlQEmgpj0Oxoo8l3gEepVbSAsDv4DaeSEzEOE_TcbJRi1DCUkcCwrpNKxZve7vGBxJVvezMvVvPnvnmj1ODvl7_emxnmQ0Hs3ncuxQc6kQKKMr5WNPVCz/s1600/October+2011+184.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681912850603024002" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8qZWLm92rGesTZ-phHg9Q21KlQEmgpj0Oxoo8l3gEepVbSAsDv4DaeSEzEOE_TcbJRi1DCUkcCwrpNKxZve7vGBxJVvezMvVvPnvnmj1ODvl7_emxnmQ0Hs3ncuxQc6kQKKMr5WNPVCz/s400/October+2011+184.jpg" /></a> Fall brings a lot of baking around here, for some reason! So here we are, risking our lives, eating raw cookie dough!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGiCMwA-emotHQFcUrV8zwWNIsaz9WgsXerQtHnsx95r9vE5Dmn3RJw2PG7xoxh7v-iVeUjuypOMr3n9Lgct8HVOOfHMTLIXLfmnvK4tCr-FWtN6dBmVQdHzI2BphmBxAommEdW2aepic3/s1600/November+2011+032.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681912848410385154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGiCMwA-emotHQFcUrV8zwWNIsaz9WgsXerQtHnsx95r9vE5Dmn3RJw2PG7xoxh7v-iVeUjuypOMr3n9Lgct8HVOOfHMTLIXLfmnvK4tCr-FWtN6dBmVQdHzI2BphmBxAommEdW2aepic3/s400/November+2011+032.jpg" /></a> A new favorite activity is jumping from the highest step and seeing who can get the highest! A good, heart-pounding time!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMkmQN14nv2phJyQnN1aZUB3T8P0kKUulQMp9a4Mtc2a4K0kcRjRgsc51widANyO-Om4-xT8A_qpQcZSgWo-4C2cBiTEVyS1YRbEYSTHtRzvA7Lyg07pRlPf4yurpoBlTb_u_a9yKT40T/s1600/November+2011+042.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681912835371542066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMkmQN14nv2phJyQnN1aZUB3T8P0kKUulQMp9a4Mtc2a4K0kcRjRgsc51widANyO-Om4-xT8A_qpQcZSgWo-4C2cBiTEVyS1YRbEYSTHtRzvA7Lyg07pRlPf4yurpoBlTb_u_a9yKT40T/s400/November+2011+042.jpg" /></a> Annelise and I had a special day together with my cousin Brandy and two of her daughter's when we went to Disney Live, A Princess Story. This past month we have been to Bottineau twice for both Kylie and Logyn's birthday and they have been here once. It's been fun to see everyone so many times in the last month and we all miss them when we aren't together.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgErDWI-BuSqV_2gZ3XXIApXjaG1xEkI33OWss_0XgSrMLPN2X0lUZS3UVgeHXTWGwfZln4yaL9LdX0Bw-NwsJhmXnoq5t-J9y1ZAYRFKky2Jmgh9T9KZ91KgaYSo3VdL3eE1-mEG-k2lZ-/s1600/November+2011+007.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681912829513605442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgErDWI-BuSqV_2gZ3XXIApXjaG1xEkI33OWss_0XgSrMLPN2X0lUZS3UVgeHXTWGwfZln4yaL9LdX0Bw-NwsJhmXnoq5t-J9y1ZAYRFKky2Jmgh9T9KZ91KgaYSo3VdL3eE1-mEG-k2lZ-/s400/November+2011+007.jpg" /></a> In the last month, we have also spent Thanksgiving with great friends and my brother, Wade, has temporarily moved in with us. The children really enjoy having him here and Daddy loves all the extra help around here. We have ice-skated for the first time at Kylie's birthday party and we also went to our first Saturday Matinee with the Simpson clan in Bottinuea. So many things I didn't get pictures of but I hope December brings back out my camera! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>On a little side note, as many of you know, the town of Minot, ND was devestated by flood waters this spring and summer and thousands were left with no home and everything they owned in ruins. We have decided to adopt a family this year for Christmas and with the help of friends, we are hoping to make this a Merry Christmas for them. They are a family who had their home washed away and now live in a small FEMA trailer. They have a 6 year old boy who was born with no immune system and needs constant medical help, and their daughter, 9, will be headed to MN for her second brain surgery in 6 weeks on the 16th. A genuinely kind family that needs help. If you, or anyone you know, is interested in donating to this family, please feel free to leave me a message and I will make sure to contact you asap! So far, we have raised $1175.00 and hope to add to that so they might have a few less worries this month.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We hope that everyone has a happy, healthy holiday season filled with love, peace, and laughter! Love from us!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-14815420369745532992011-10-26T13:54:00.000-07:002011-10-26T14:06:24.971-07:00A Beautiful night on the Missouri River!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVf44oj34EKkivFH1mAKahJ5SxcgvRp1QG3XgQfj02fe0OxfVMB0nTAtkui-8AsPlv2z7rNxeRkSAi2YSJPiYObkSQxDPNOyIakEGX1XuqQBAWtNK3VuZIPr2tr7dUmBtPYEw-fgXyIyL/s1600/October+2011+034.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667907928236039314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVf44oj34EKkivFH1mAKahJ5SxcgvRp1QG3XgQfj02fe0OxfVMB0nTAtkui-8AsPlv2z7rNxeRkSAi2YSJPiYObkSQxDPNOyIakEGX1XuqQBAWtNK3VuZIPr2tr7dUmBtPYEw-fgXyIyL/s400/October+2011+034.jpg" /></a> The current owner of the home we rent, and a dear friend, invited us out for a stroll on the Missouri river a few weeks ago. It was every bit as beautiful as it looks and so was the company!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHeob-QbYVSNFTXO6C5P40jpWbOzXsCCZZu_54nuXA4UWCyW76malTpSHqj8BXom6HHR-B8Qm2-MFz0Y2X9hYXuMFCkm8EWgG5I0Z4JIQaJmyacaFGloN82JKQZAxViFwedFppIyKVTAK/s1600/October+2011+036.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667907921966105970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHeob-QbYVSNFTXO6C5P40jpWbOzXsCCZZu_54nuXA4UWCyW76malTpSHqj8BXom6HHR-B8Qm2-MFz0Y2X9hYXuMFCkm8EWgG5I0Z4JIQaJmyacaFGloN82JKQZAxViFwedFppIyKVTAK/s400/October+2011+036.jpg" /></a> The children all adore Tedi!! She comes from a large family and has three amazing children of her own as well as a very sweet husband. We feel so blessed to have found them and even more fortunate that they let us invade their home.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-RTEVtPvbMyTg04TQRz6HaL2yYeJ8DBv_3YRY7kMWHdVVRt825Yg0Vdag6lNeS4xCZv1WfaoGSjMBy-bakwg1qfG7LdoHb47fkohNKdHM9pctQP2aB8BrJ_eYB49_bS8bvZmsmoExXj7/s1600/October+2011+019.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667907908628532290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-RTEVtPvbMyTg04TQRz6HaL2yYeJ8DBv_3YRY7kMWHdVVRt825Yg0Vdag6lNeS4xCZv1WfaoGSjMBy-bakwg1qfG7LdoHb47fkohNKdHM9pctQP2aB8BrJ_eYB49_bS8bvZmsmoExXj7/s400/October+2011+019.jpg" /></a> The river has changed so much since the flooding this year but it remains as stunning as it was before. The floods left pristine sand bars and cleaned the entire shore leaving soft, velvety sand to play in. It also left devestation but it's nice to be able to appreciate the good that came of the flooding. The silver lining, if you will.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPh8vVs1rabQkMarlUqbdeGpoG6HSDRa5LkAlSPO9YiO6wi7zE-z0cIhdzwITZiBlbfK1yd3nptrKcdqN9OJqgcVaLVpej8jrkPTNfCW7iKQA0-242CB7syOuSZ8HB6OieABBmYATutbF/s1600/October+2011+035.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667907903673123202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPh8vVs1rabQkMarlUqbdeGpoG6HSDRa5LkAlSPO9YiO6wi7zE-z0cIhdzwITZiBlbfK1yd3nptrKcdqN9OJqgcVaLVpej8jrkPTNfCW7iKQA0-242CB7syOuSZ8HB6OieABBmYATutbF/s400/October+2011+035.jpg" /></a></div></div><br /></div><br /><p align="center">It was a great evening for sure and one the children won't soon forget. </p>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-5877064307569985622011-09-27T20:32:00.000-07:002011-09-27T20:43:09.080-07:00Us. . .<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHNHxPPTPVFqqqKJykUZyzlNNnwIR18D6maAbqp7lYsyp6Ezi5wd9y7XC-dBWmpP3aUqzIaMnhYPXI92S9JJBig6UpucUHEK_sfTZnOXQ2wzzX-KjCbKTxdZ6CA1_ai-4IOF4jWxPZ_YT/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+059-1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 295px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657250586360801122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHNHxPPTPVFqqqKJykUZyzlNNnwIR18D6maAbqp7lYsyp6Ezi5wd9y7XC-dBWmpP3aUqzIaMnhYPXI92S9JJBig6UpucUHEK_sfTZnOXQ2wzzX-KjCbKTxdZ6CA1_ai-4IOF4jWxPZ_YT/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+059-1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisW5XO6rFcMmY-mSNUT7JldnL7t5t4JRS17u3r-lrINTaDHhuM1bFzV1mBHIeMkk2ZnDzuFpZ_KxPayTrb34ARLaLXEZB7nJyQ-JFB4haH20cFemgY6SamB2Jib_GPoMEMV-8LEtLDyD63/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+055.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657250577858623330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisW5XO6rFcMmY-mSNUT7JldnL7t5t4JRS17u3r-lrINTaDHhuM1bFzV1mBHIeMkk2ZnDzuFpZ_KxPayTrb34ARLaLXEZB7nJyQ-JFB4haH20cFemgY6SamB2Jib_GPoMEMV-8LEtLDyD63/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+055.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ioeA26E4nZ6eRBmZhTupysXlDeO8f4wZm-yW4PcdN0xfk-w9KHHFp1KevDAnxfL_GfNBCkZQtCI4f68glII7N9v-gkKTboVzifxVt8DsVJ0Vz_eOzt1GlNMApPnzM58iQiLTDMt1P_7v/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+040.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657250567946019458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ioeA26E4nZ6eRBmZhTupysXlDeO8f4wZm-yW4PcdN0xfk-w9KHHFp1KevDAnxfL_GfNBCkZQtCI4f68glII7N9v-gkKTboVzifxVt8DsVJ0Vz_eOzt1GlNMApPnzM58iQiLTDMt1P_7v/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+040.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTwVY3cqNxbznz1U1GNRwOQMk4_r4VTPjxUgVTycsGaVJcCMtBOXtELql0f9PV1eKNu8m8ll2dfmmm7rSjMemnIv79mdzD1FWzDbbkSFJlIZidQzZ8TXLk8kiLhNFzbiQMifVzQfaZO1Q/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+061-02.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 294px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657250561516407250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTwVY3cqNxbznz1U1GNRwOQMk4_r4VTPjxUgVTycsGaVJcCMtBOXtELql0f9PV1eKNu8m8ll2dfmmm7rSjMemnIv79mdzD1FWzDbbkSFJlIZidQzZ8TXLk8kiLhNFzbiQMifVzQfaZO1Q/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+061-02.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6n7QVW9rjihbPC_cjNO27KwdQO83J079SoTgdq8K6awJMNEa8OAyuqwgajDCqOax2ZSxp4NCk1X8ESUn3A-HmNBP_xYhreDQxmpbT3W3E_hIAHR-hqbgn94EthxwNqsg0Esd1E7NFPXx/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+015.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 258px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657250553985164706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6n7QVW9rjihbPC_cjNO27KwdQO83J079SoTgdq8K6awJMNEa8OAyuqwgajDCqOax2ZSxp4NCk1X8ESUn3A-HmNBP_xYhreDQxmpbT3W3E_hIAHR-hqbgn94EthxwNqsg0Esd1E7NFPXx/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+015.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 278px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657249229871171010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGk6SZaEKwh1RKhtyieV6YhFPOTPtJfFMUXSlEhGmtSvy5K4ipzGILxq8Ua1vtFRn66jglUtKIWkoR4BLG2JwfwOsuGQXS4sAkQ_zlL-Q_4n4Nwxujw401g5yHLKsOxM9e8IYgFx0Xw2vf/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+031-2.jpg" /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP9BLlrHPzNRSpkci7vgShAtuPd4aSFp2bLQlmXzIkHYrcleY7Mk3TxEJh280n-nOYYpQLhGr_AsUI_dh9RLXP46WIfxCWwrXYPeGuDYRKAwnBfH9PgmE95Nd0Ycqtr4MqqPiLALDbjr2/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+083.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657249221143410338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP9BLlrHPzNRSpkci7vgShAtuPd4aSFp2bLQlmXzIkHYrcleY7Mk3TxEJh280n-nOYYpQLhGr_AsUI_dh9RLXP46WIfxCWwrXYPeGuDYRKAwnBfH9PgmE95Nd0Ycqtr4MqqPiLALDbjr2/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+083.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ue5tqeoVy00G_0sZl0TLaMADuTaM2ahEkveWGDrfsLQadQB21_FgMB22_QusPdF-ajnFmUJxc2R-XFoCDxmoAo0OnBEdaHDImHdridkDwqoYKM8IV-Ru88YGMdbIQLCgmOisalMXwMkH/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+090.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657249211383159874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ue5tqeoVy00G_0sZl0TLaMADuTaM2ahEkveWGDrfsLQadQB21_FgMB22_QusPdF-ajnFmUJxc2R-XFoCDxmoAo0OnBEdaHDImHdridkDwqoYKM8IV-Ru88YGMdbIQLCgmOisalMXwMkH/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+090.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOWvRoACb2biLENGf1suQJiDmI38vDxzKhV0vmVh4E7L2iGEiUfegeP6iANOFzweCnfS6m9BST1aOkzy8ELfMQxHHTfD5mRoNVYXrfFdvK50COwBWUJ5vjZHAQkpiDFeOFnCwSztNhru3/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657249205752050098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOWvRoACb2biLENGf1suQJiDmI38vDxzKhV0vmVh4E7L2iGEiUfegeP6iANOFzweCnfS6m9BST1aOkzy8ELfMQxHHTfD5mRoNVYXrfFdvK50COwBWUJ5vjZHAQkpiDFeOFnCwSztNhru3/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CpiSf_ctPOK58RKjmndpgqjkoYVEZMp5KHbqWfJknXTZyxsut-7kUSSN6E_-EsRemVpwKakYyh_KndtZCOXjkWrOXHe-BNevB-uY6whUanVNRkir0RRMwR_HPfyBvUp8X3q88bR_0czj/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+096.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657249194024540482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CpiSf_ctPOK58RKjmndpgqjkoYVEZMp5KHbqWfJknXTZyxsut-7kUSSN6E_-EsRemVpwKakYyh_KndtZCOXjkWrOXHe-BNevB-uY6whUanVNRkir0RRMwR_HPfyBvUp8X3q88bR_0czj/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+096.jpg" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-46626492421290735472011-09-27T20:30:00.000-07:002011-09-27T20:32:34.757-07:00Sweetest Girl on Earth!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEF2LvcwTwnCYF4FNPiNHe7UOIZxEw-KtCEIVI5yRPx6NRKgx_rbnVnYSQYUxGhvvPNDwwwYf9b_KJnaCqH3SAreDi7u-osusLSm5qSplat-cL4B8fJwuQWIn0jiRPt3ZG27t3vsjat5a/s1600/September+2011+184.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657248207671932242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEF2LvcwTwnCYF4FNPiNHe7UOIZxEw-KtCEIVI5yRPx6NRKgx_rbnVnYSQYUxGhvvPNDwwwYf9b_KJnaCqH3SAreDi7u-osusLSm5qSplat-cL4B8fJwuQWIn0jiRPt3ZG27t3vsjat5a/s400/September+2011+184.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-4129534524489750092011-09-27T20:08:00.000-07:002011-09-27T20:29:19.101-07:00Pumpkin' Patch Rediculousness!<div align="center">You knew it was coming! I cannot, cannot help myself when it comes to the Harvest times festivities. I am a sucker for them all!!!! I guess it doesn't matter where we live, I manage to find every pumpkin patch known to man and then we frequent it like a bad habit!</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYsTnXx6Fjidp53piZ9c8FxdqF3QwGvKII7zJVtPp6lKlSVta2913BKT5k8pne6BaZd_RQHB1lg7pXnXrmMoH7IXohvJelKVFuLhNk04UtTtPCJvD3onme7dVXeTlT6RYNCz8wU2RF2KzB/s1600/September+2011+106.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657244171939126962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYsTnXx6Fjidp53piZ9c8FxdqF3QwGvKII7zJVtPp6lKlSVta2913BKT5k8pne6BaZd_RQHB1lg7pXnXrmMoH7IXohvJelKVFuLhNk04UtTtPCJvD3onme7dVXeTlT6RYNCz8wU2RF2KzB/s400/September+2011+106.jpg" /></a> Mazes keep is running!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEy4A9FoCQlDxtPqjzbG57LeZqyt0uUbaM5jzxzH8NLGOMpEQR4PXNoWGodyh0PTeVdmwC44P5wZDZd2Oj847hihQrDv72GJaF606V2yK9UVeHYte_wnasYDWtjTztJYXHO1ry-EUraA-/s1600/September+2011+105.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657244160495624306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEy4A9FoCQlDxtPqjzbG57LeZqyt0uUbaM5jzxzH8NLGOMpEQR4PXNoWGodyh0PTeVdmwC44P5wZDZd2Oj847hihQrDv72GJaF606V2yK9UVeHYte_wnasYDWtjTztJYXHO1ry-EUraA-/s400/September+2011+105.jpg" /></a> Bodie being so disapointed that you had to be 6 years old to ride the zip lines. You know, 6 is his favorite number of all time so that will certainly be a magical year when it finally get's here!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRJJcslHVvO1VPY5FGsaZbM5p_mu1HaMjfl7q4fxuIKbdoaYiLcRlYlNkM_zjXhlyyfdpWiXPKEhFtyiVbRbSiO8jK9hYJvKDOVf7SO1gA3ADViNuCG4jmSkdE5ykeXW2gdeH4RIJumwI/s1600/September+2011+108.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657244159330180210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRJJcslHVvO1VPY5FGsaZbM5p_mu1HaMjfl7q4fxuIKbdoaYiLcRlYlNkM_zjXhlyyfdpWiXPKEhFtyiVbRbSiO8jK9hYJvKDOVf7SO1gA3ADViNuCG4jmSkdE5ykeXW2gdeH4RIJumwI/s400/September+2011+108.jpg" /></a> "Come on ride the train. . . .and ride it!" I had to say that!<br /></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8TlqfOgQxSXQzwKewsiiGyWR8y1jOMzuxFpZEGGjjCMRod2XhTaxkKHjohOqrCANIMWyQ1nMe6q_xpK3oB1W_LtROxQVqhRYoVIjKysl3Sx2Sww5LjlAYtxR3SDAU35CjvPms35sDhja/s1600/September+2011+086.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657244149347604946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8TlqfOgQxSXQzwKewsiiGyWR8y1jOMzuxFpZEGGjjCMRod2XhTaxkKHjohOqrCANIMWyQ1nMe6q_xpK3oB1W_LtROxQVqhRYoVIjKysl3Sx2Sww5LjlAYtxR3SDAU35CjvPms35sDhja/s400/September+2011+086.jpg" /></a> The corn box!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDD_fAC0LY8IZGAN8AYKbdmwgc0b3hcPZsBxxcX1e46G4t7Mqtxh99dCHm8JeILmfRNnUNpinKzKBUdTp0ojOkFkQ6Vgy8c-DRlL0TUtlA46LUZGMN_7V7UCqg7dB6hLlm9IR4rMyfwjP/s1600/September+2011+098.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657244133980000610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDD_fAC0LY8IZGAN8AYKbdmwgc0b3hcPZsBxxcX1e46G4t7Mqtxh99dCHm8JeILmfRNnUNpinKzKBUdTp0ojOkFkQ6Vgy8c-DRlL0TUtlA46LUZGMN_7V7UCqg7dB6hLlm9IR4rMyfwjP/s400/September+2011+098.jpg" /></a> This year, the owner's of Papa's Pumpkin Patch were flooded out. Their home was destroyed and a lot of the grounds that host the Patch every year. This was it's temporary location but I thought they did an AMAZING job! The combine and trains all made it to the new spot so the children could see and play on something familiar. It's a family run venue and they make everyone feel like a relative.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8fQ4kHPOm4Vko5X3B4g1Sik8cBmIJTsVEaliawGLuBSTKBZBbgblZuNkH17pohdNyTFzXhPrC1selIIzko-WfwqtcPJzae6ONb-l7IiY-zoCZNqx4UeXs_kxBLw_lnbjbUsZpxgLW4SX/s1600/September+2011+081.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657243568657061106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8fQ4kHPOm4Vko5X3B4g1Sik8cBmIJTsVEaliawGLuBSTKBZBbgblZuNkH17pohdNyTFzXhPrC1selIIzko-WfwqtcPJzae6ONb-l7IiY-zoCZNqx4UeXs_kxBLw_lnbjbUsZpxgLW4SX/s400/September+2011+081.jpg" /></a> Simple fun.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4fW2MD4VMf00se6XJH7tOVrC_DCLhMizjpw-JGZIltHrHAf_x9ZQDI-SLwYLaTVeRKzSATAqbB_WLmNTBjT6b7mA0W_wPAwrUrF5rvKsdx_HqxC2u4PovZ22kbLJ52QsCMbxC_BHMArJ/s1600/September+2011+072.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657243557216489570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4fW2MD4VMf00se6XJH7tOVrC_DCLhMizjpw-JGZIltHrHAf_x9ZQDI-SLwYLaTVeRKzSATAqbB_WLmNTBjT6b7mA0W_wPAwrUrF5rvKsdx_HqxC2u4PovZ22kbLJ52QsCMbxC_BHMArJ/s400/September+2011+072.jpg" /></a> Bodie and his buddy Truett having a great time!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglx3HvaTYyCgkGbJAWO7yknZHPhuzFmCOMs0mfWoTUry8jW1LXYmIt0fu3Nb8UKvdHgyQNf9RHAaDgBzVG9h14VK9dONtVKf-RSZTIytYEIVV05Bmp1VwqwH_OYYgo2C26wb6klG5lOT2-/s1600/September+2011+074.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657243545873872722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglx3HvaTYyCgkGbJAWO7yknZHPhuzFmCOMs0mfWoTUry8jW1LXYmIt0fu3Nb8UKvdHgyQNf9RHAaDgBzVG9h14VK9dONtVKf-RSZTIytYEIVV05Bmp1VwqwH_OYYgo2C26wb6klG5lOT2-/s400/September+2011+074.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKTva9k9I7NmKvUAxlR417Qv2KJ0dtMZ4cXCJdSt5q2-IeMaHempN8BOByz7AX_z3mXyopSg5zq6bkKmk6FsabPK5RPahcaW-fJ9RxHJUTMxJ6zvlcdJqa_GW0v47l529qkK2LOYoXm5m/s1600/September+2011+068.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657243534685702386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKTva9k9I7NmKvUAxlR417Qv2KJ0dtMZ4cXCJdSt5q2-IeMaHempN8BOByz7AX_z3mXyopSg5zq6bkKmk6FsabPK5RPahcaW-fJ9RxHJUTMxJ6zvlcdJqa_GW0v47l529qkK2LOYoXm5m/s400/September+2011+068.jpg" /></a>Annelise doesn't need the action, just a pretty little pumpkin house will do just fine!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7y7XhaoeTGSvGa48kNcqEDLKgCBV_TYXoWL6MtC4OI_e_-OVxNPiqXjAeKbVEFDD81wDixKzi3LSXHEuI9aTvBW0OZSlKZrToytkCtccp3qxsa14m_01YQW6_DMk5o75mVnPWZPL-EqfJ/s1600/September+2011+066.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657243527321170962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7y7XhaoeTGSvGa48kNcqEDLKgCBV_TYXoWL6MtC4OI_e_-OVxNPiqXjAeKbVEFDD81wDixKzi3LSXHEuI9aTvBW0OZSlKZrToytkCtccp3qxsa14m_01YQW6_DMk5o75mVnPWZPL-EqfJ/s400/September+2011+066.jpg" /></a> We have already visited a few times but our first trip we went with Truett and Rocco! They have proven to be a lot of fun and have a great family that we adore. Makes it all even better!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-80250815804798911692011-09-27T19:50:00.000-07:002011-09-27T20:06:44.416-07:00Mariposa<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84dRwGPf643ToabNpy57HiveLZkFNE7HGSY6J8iB8_nJs2ljgCk8sO-6fkWaIsxlyTkjqwJYsPWEn4LbRlZWdXO3hRizUw7ezg-43M3RKrFlx9QJsjzvLZHzYvzq8-Ku_7Rph51FrJues/s1600/September+2011+136.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657238144475930098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84dRwGPf643ToabNpy57HiveLZkFNE7HGSY6J8iB8_nJs2ljgCk8sO-6fkWaIsxlyTkjqwJYsPWEn4LbRlZWdXO3hRizUw7ezg-43M3RKrFlx9QJsjzvLZHzYvzq8-Ku_7Rph51FrJues/s400/September+2011+136.jpg" /></a> There are just some things that my camera cannot catch. There were HUNDREDS of butterflies in these photos. HUNDREDS! It was like we were at a butterfly sanctuary or something. We went outside the other day and were greated by hundreds of Monarch's and little yellow butterflies.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrN1XgnCxiZwcmBZz1M75A9ysi1cGVG-q8nXHhqxDm7EjLwfQDtKFDRDkhRkKi0J-md2dD89IiardIT7ox6875z8LPi-H-gqB80mm6UphWei9d-Zi_yTAIJ-CIWhwd2_wzUJUElWfOHYjl/s1600/September+2011+143.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657238133354647298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrN1XgnCxiZwcmBZz1M75A9ysi1cGVG-q8nXHhqxDm7EjLwfQDtKFDRDkhRkKi0J-md2dD89IiardIT7ox6875z8LPi-H-gqB80mm6UphWei9d-Zi_yTAIJ-CIWhwd2_wzUJUElWfOHYjl/s400/September+2011+143.jpg" /></a>We were also playing with colored bubbles that our friend's, and landlord's, gave the children for their birthday. They are the greatest fun. . . .outside! :) Thankfully, my children were only green and orange for a few hours. They really do wash right off and are such a treat!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLwZKgLdhBriYmPy-cSVoQ3U3cg3lAFOghsbchMvMnWkwGVz_L3lkJGRffSXgbVL-uXtkB5GuN1bNUXWpxojO1eCTq7nlbisMujrfTCpp7FnywnwrJRDK7OBX845Mp4gOnFvGnuYKZlpO/s1600/September+2011+140.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657238125022019730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLwZKgLdhBriYmPy-cSVoQ3U3cg3lAFOghsbchMvMnWkwGVz_L3lkJGRffSXgbVL-uXtkB5GuN1bNUXWpxojO1eCTq7nlbisMujrfTCpp7FnywnwrJRDK7OBX845Mp4gOnFvGnuYKZlpO/s400/September+2011+140.jpg" /></a> It was so thick with Monarch's that they were climbing on the children's fingers. We have recently checked out "Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly" from the Library as well and were thrilled to have just learned about Monarch's.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFn9HUOi3AxUo39jAbXm_3FxCXXRWpMmUZmKlQPT6sFgYkIc3Hy_1HipJOVEWOr5vpz60pyCKcNO9V1QLE8vYz4Zn3K7N8D4LJgWN2Hrc2yuqcMK4XAB0BOLnMMQrRI1X_H38hF9JzUKp2/s1600/September+2011+138.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657238112101585570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFn9HUOi3AxUo39jAbXm_3FxCXXRWpMmUZmKlQPT6sFgYkIc3Hy_1HipJOVEWOr5vpz60pyCKcNO9V1QLE8vYz4Zn3K7N8D4LJgWN2Hrc2yuqcMK4XAB0BOLnMMQrRI1X_H38hF9JzUKp2/s400/September+2011+138.jpg" /></a> It sounds so corny to say but it was so magical. My babies were being surrounded by butterflies and Annelise was in absolute heaven! It was like a gift I could never buy but was so glad to receive. There are moments like this that happen and I don't get a picture or end up writing them down but this one, I wasn't going to miss.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdLKmHzo8EJBmAoHtEWtgfcB0Xoie7kQEL5u0hcuFzWDWTNq6AGrGCK02QcsMaevEYCLnROky_fNtp-56SG6BAcdlc0LavxuN1manp2lQYlZlMxaGQp9u2jxGIvlckYe3HMRoQ6OjQu2z/s1600/September+2011+129.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657238096372007554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdLKmHzo8EJBmAoHtEWtgfcB0Xoie7kQEL5u0hcuFzWDWTNq6AGrGCK02QcsMaevEYCLnROky_fNtp-56SG6BAcdlc0LavxuN1manp2lQYlZlMxaGQp9u2jxGIvlckYe3HMRoQ6OjQu2z/s400/September+2011+129.jpg" /></a> I wish it would have photographed better but it was truly amazing. They all still talk about it daily and there are still quite a few lingering around that remind us of that moment. It was one of those times with your children you hope you never, ever forget. </div><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-13925303725333114982011-09-27T19:35:00.000-07:002011-09-27T19:50:02.691-07:00Big Stuff to a Kiddo!<div align="center">Every year around the children's birthday's we set up the standard Dr. appointments just to make sure we are all A-Ok! When we were in Idaho, I adored, no let me rephrase that, I LOVED our Pediatrician and Dentist. I was certain that I would only be discouraged with anyone else. Well, not so, no so!</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGw7k0emj8twquefR88Ql74W4hBtOZ5GUcqznY1RdQyksf5uk8END95jk87OILqhgwyNx6k75oO5xk0QyPefC8OZfm8MS-RBrEd4JpGR9hgFLzIGwGe1bGAjXRO6y29ObhDdw6P_XF9ES/s1600/September+2011+092.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657234220727831714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGw7k0emj8twquefR88Ql74W4hBtOZ5GUcqznY1RdQyksf5uk8END95jk87OILqhgwyNx6k75oO5xk0QyPefC8OZfm8MS-RBrEd4JpGR9hgFLzIGwGe1bGAjXRO6y29ObhDdw6P_XF9ES/s400/September+2011+092.jpg" /></a> These are the Hygenists at Dr. Goebel's office and they were sweet as the day is long. Our children were so thrilled with them and when the Dentist sang to them they were in seventh heaven!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQAdPl3MPvhw7dDtaL2ie3sWY6xiCkAramlp0jdNawker1pkHrpfC2h-lW8zuJqu6toRUFz6FxcKQrJ5e1CCtwnb3ADty8oKeRqczmnFUn92ZsiU-QVljdNhwFQn6Rxyr4ex_DEVAuNhE/s1600/September+2011+091.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657234211045658274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQAdPl3MPvhw7dDtaL2ie3sWY6xiCkAramlp0jdNawker1pkHrpfC2h-lW8zuJqu6toRUFz6FxcKQrJ5e1CCtwnb3ADty8oKeRqczmnFUn92ZsiU-QVljdNhwFQn6Rxyr4ex_DEVAuNhE/s400/September+2011+091.jpg" /></a> Everyone has fabulous looking teeth and the older two were complimented on their great brushing while Brayton was actually told he could take it down a notch. Not sure if I ever mention how he use to love brushing so much that he did it 3-10 times a day! His teeth look great but the Dentist thought he would have more fun playing than brushing so lightening up wouldn't be a problem. Bodie was the only one who had a tooth under watch for a developing cavity.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbY5c4sjid10qlJ9Vy3MZRsjzbW1Yj6Hegs_3lZq3sKMHtFpoWWfQdtbxdVk60tq6HRYqQZF2JqdJmhnxxbuPpsibeYaYQ14lVF4Qb_v48MPu3skJO1yLFjRhhVwoyxxNmaKY-MzHgMWd/s1600/September+2011+088.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657234199683863282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbY5c4sjid10qlJ9Vy3MZRsjzbW1Yj6Hegs_3lZq3sKMHtFpoWWfQdtbxdVk60tq6HRYqQZF2JqdJmhnxxbuPpsibeYaYQ14lVF4Qb_v48MPu3skJO1yLFjRhhVwoyxxNmaKY-MzHgMWd/s400/September+2011+088.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpe1LrpRQirTjMMG7GydJezkw8ZKv5WVF_QizbcGZrLdDrCiLUB0mFRh6l3f6exeVaOmslAXzoB_LXjI2I2hTtIFqhykrdiKMf-5MExt2wpaTcXR4ofCpnOuGvQFaPe08j4V6akbCYlc-/s1600/September+2011+063.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657234195032236850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpe1LrpRQirTjMMG7GydJezkw8ZKv5WVF_QizbcGZrLdDrCiLUB0mFRh6l3f6exeVaOmslAXzoB_LXjI2I2hTtIFqhykrdiKMf-5MExt2wpaTcXR4ofCpnOuGvQFaPe08j4V6akbCYlc-/s400/September+2011+063.jpg" /></a> At our Pediatrician's office we were excited to see the Dynamic Duo is growing!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PM94EcY8mmzuh-lAyA2rVcrZKFphbIU7yqLV_lNjIfJqbfp6yKRp9yjQiyMlbCtrVzMJUjtgz6rYtsJeh9uSU4l44FY0-m1_gYcv3ZdLawzNi90Lp0uYlafsLvjLTOExUnc3RDDMDZmD/s1600/September+2011+061.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657234189230945202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PM94EcY8mmzuh-lAyA2rVcrZKFphbIU7yqLV_lNjIfJqbfp6yKRp9yjQiyMlbCtrVzMJUjtgz6rYtsJeh9uSU4l44FY0-m1_gYcv3ZdLawzNi90Lp0uYlafsLvjLTOExUnc3RDDMDZmD/s400/September+2011+061.jpg" /></a> Another great find, after many interviews, we have Dr. McDonough.</div><br /><br /><div>Anna tips the scales at a whopping 32 lbs. now and Bodie heads up the rear at 28 lbs. He's a pint sized powerhouse!!! Still on the small scale but certainly healthy and happy!!!</div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-29394752392707470012011-09-27T19:28:00.000-07:002011-09-27T19:34:49.478-07:00Shut the Back Door, We Finally Turned Four!!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVv5vytXLCG52WEZaDffKiDpAVJs4TdABvhWUDCtD3VQysIYmKWAHxoNjhPWJWRYs7L5JVo10C_YrmN0UIH4OujiZc4Y-PInGy_pedPTpU9KeJBd_tONCF-9U4sNJBBzbp2CNhAljpvCn/s1600/August+2011+1577.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657232086720470098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVv5vytXLCG52WEZaDffKiDpAVJs4TdABvhWUDCtD3VQysIYmKWAHxoNjhPWJWRYs7L5JVo10C_YrmN0UIH4OujiZc4Y-PInGy_pedPTpU9KeJBd_tONCF-9U4sNJBBzbp2CNhAljpvCn/s400/August+2011+1577.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Xj-uz1p7lew4S_MW1WV0EHD038o0172t2G4sVv5DRVZIBU9WmMhYVpePyqxBxsFtaK5fcA5PEfz6JzV2pSzvsuU_wylGdnazueIBItpgl0GhgpeCCk6QFRh4-4EuvsBVACeVcPzd1iOU/s1600/August+2011+1576.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657232078374610258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Xj-uz1p7lew4S_MW1WV0EHD038o0172t2G4sVv5DRVZIBU9WmMhYVpePyqxBxsFtaK5fcA5PEfz6JzV2pSzvsuU_wylGdnazueIBItpgl0GhgpeCCk6QFRh4-4EuvsBVACeVcPzd1iOU/s400/August+2011+1576.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrHWMur18jcQV-VNkL39Kv_U8QZ-WtWwt2Sgx9cIiShlUptOMvHp3G2JLkhNOb31qFtBFkqWw1VcYKFKaY4kk6pQ2Q5aswqHNXbrCX4C3p0q7GzX6qzAMdzg6Z_osOKRogDFQX7PtGaVG/s1600/August+2011+1574.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657232071418531506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrHWMur18jcQV-VNkL39Kv_U8QZ-WtWwt2Sgx9cIiShlUptOMvHp3G2JLkhNOb31qFtBFkqWw1VcYKFKaY4kk6pQ2Q5aswqHNXbrCX4C3p0q7GzX6qzAMdzg6Z_osOKRogDFQX7PtGaVG/s400/August+2011+1574.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoLmNY0U_L1vNmUnaoC1rYF45c5b3-5v4mYtwl6Nbeh_Py5ZuqKt-1x75duQDayYTFmZaE_3rfT3C7Or3G_2K11CBNptje7SIberCwuyOyqaERTeUnXjIfWb-mSke2yaPff6rACcPuhzgP/s1600/August+2011+1569.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657232064846333234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoLmNY0U_L1vNmUnaoC1rYF45c5b3-5v4mYtwl6Nbeh_Py5ZuqKt-1x75duQDayYTFmZaE_3rfT3C7Or3G_2K11CBNptje7SIberCwuyOyqaERTeUnXjIfWb-mSke2yaPff6rACcPuhzgP/s400/August+2011+1569.jpg" /></a> The morning Bodie and Annelise turned 4! I was going to do all sorts of "Then and Now" stuff but I am honestly not ready. Four is a kid!!!! No more "toddler" talk. We have kids! Children!! Luckily, children who loved their new computers and have been faithfully playing them since they were opened. It was a great morning and they got to wear crowns at preschool the next day. Crazy hair and all, they turned 4!</div></div></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-69700125753189153162011-09-27T19:02:00.000-07:002011-09-27T19:19:56.287-07:00Preschool. . . .Here We Come!!!!!<div align="center">This year has brought so many fun changes in our house but none more exciting than the start of preschool!!! With the twin's having a late August birthday, they miss the cutoff dates for numerous programs but FINALLY, this year we are preschooler's!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOSavIWcBRl933DKT-yGs-dZN-Iu8dGrsxApBnWvaPfDAaebOuXCqlvKOutR5catcqp1srsqVUA_PafOPJZUjANNNLsgL1YQD81gbrdvfd6ZGyZsk9F5zGL8Lnf_IywPLn1rqqtEE6Ard/s1600/August+2011+1553.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657226104295471138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOSavIWcBRl933DKT-yGs-dZN-Iu8dGrsxApBnWvaPfDAaebOuXCqlvKOutR5catcqp1srsqVUA_PafOPJZUjANNNLsgL1YQD81gbrdvfd6ZGyZsk9F5zGL8Lnf_IywPLn1rqqtEE6Ard/s400/August+2011+1553.jpg" /></a> They have looking forward to school since I enrolled them last February. That's right, I said February! We barely made the class as well and were thrilled that they would be together in the same room on their first year. They both got a jump start on the day and were ready to go right on time! I let them both pick their own clothes and I love that they ended up sort of matching. The only part they were concerned with was leaving Pippa and Polly.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvkoVGf3TfN68RSSu8zbjDu-dbHJn-Kl23gbdK8wKaE6Zi_DueKfDXQhsDkb0URzKJRP8WgFJpgXSe9GKYBQufzi06So6cuc6r4QUpFQo_C1My1UKBo81dtVTUjgPcJx_OcYw4aKl92dv/s1600/August+2011+1555.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657226091164131266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvkoVGf3TfN68RSSu8zbjDu-dbHJn-Kl23gbdK8wKaE6Zi_DueKfDXQhsDkb0URzKJRP8WgFJpgXSe9GKYBQufzi06So6cuc6r4QUpFQo_C1My1UKBo81dtVTUjgPcJx_OcYw4aKl92dv/s400/August+2011+1555.jpg" /></a>I might pass out of "cuteness" overload here with those backpacks! They were full steam ahead and so excited to get to their room.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkFj12HVQDO1UAOq2Ky16CV55XiQA3eKzkHbc8pJk2E5unlv5jHxwvyzF-JEdEdi-W9V8QOZ3btIxFfX6HNLkc6sYxzODz-CeO5iE2OHWbw2-30kO40NLha1MDDtU3fFl1rBHux1QiMzv/s1600/August+2011+1556.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657226084206888578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkFj12HVQDO1UAOq2Ky16CV55XiQA3eKzkHbc8pJk2E5unlv5jHxwvyzF-JEdEdi-W9V8QOZ3btIxFfX6HNLkc6sYxzODz-CeO5iE2OHWbw2-30kO40NLha1MDDtU3fFl1rBHux1QiMzv/s400/August+2011+1556.jpg" /></a> The best part of it all was that there wasn't a tear from either one. It was one of my best "Mommy Moments" ever! It made me feel so great to know that we have raised children so confident and secure that they weren't afraid to go the morning without us. For children that have almost never been babysat, I thought that was great! Maybe it's just me, but I was a really proud Mom!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywJarxrs3WQXc1ikE5XxIh1VoSER6GPgxkImNZ8Zm-n-nuiXqffpQIsvVS9-d7_HQ0U_nwYpKNW_XoJ5U9e71J36qizCYFSGGifu8dJmqk_7vt_OOxisbZPTifynlyaW7Lxcl21OPvGnZ/s1600/August+2011+1558.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657226077667210930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywJarxrs3WQXc1ikE5XxIh1VoSER6GPgxkImNZ8Zm-n-nuiXqffpQIsvVS9-d7_HQ0U_nwYpKNW_XoJ5U9e71J36qizCYFSGGifu8dJmqk_7vt_OOxisbZPTifynlyaW7Lxcl21OPvGnZ/s400/August+2011+1558.jpg" /></a> Brayton loved going, too! So much so that when they were out of sight, he cried all morning without them. :( I never even imagined that he would be so sad. He just missed them so dearly. The hardest part for me was picking them up. I about burst into tears when I saw how well they did, how much they loved it and big it made them seem. Bodie told me "It was more awesome than I ever thought" on the way home and really, it was WAY more awesome than I thought, too.</div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-64183089631480772042011-09-02T17:34:00.000-07:002011-09-02T17:38:18.591-07:00Together<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6j3-Uiyu9NimxKrprSfbQgx9Q2gq91cJnwOX6NL0NZjcQomKzpCqq_MSabXj66_pND820Xeai1Ydlf2Q4WVXwrmL7poyN4sxNFqRoESXLixjA2OGo36mUkognK-jUUVSjojm_NFstHoR/s1600/McKinney+Photoshoot+065-2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647925576229840098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6j3-Uiyu9NimxKrprSfbQgx9Q2gq91cJnwOX6NL0NZjcQomKzpCqq_MSabXj66_pND820Xeai1Ydlf2Q4WVXwrmL7poyN4sxNFqRoESXLixjA2OGo36mUkognK-jUUVSjojm_NFstHoR/s400/McKinney+Photoshoot+065-2.jpg" /></a> Together. No matter where we live, no matter what we are doing, all that matters is that we do it together.
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<br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-74211569925457532962011-08-27T10:45:00.000-07:002011-08-27T10:52:35.865-07:00Pippa and Polly<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKBQbBwABl-ISnjyAlv0v-c9PQDvDlOZq55jC4NrVDYKfUcueVt5Crf9kBgWEoIhK4WE1s-cMD4RjaMTM-8ouFX_oWW0B1641LdjGB_ST2NIfRu4Z_j1eQwBco6UWd17q7uvz0B-SVOGJ/s1600/August+2011+1534.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645594060244736626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKBQbBwABl-ISnjyAlv0v-c9PQDvDlOZq55jC4NrVDYKfUcueVt5Crf9kBgWEoIhK4WE1s-cMD4RjaMTM-8ouFX_oWW0B1641LdjGB_ST2NIfRu4Z_j1eQwBco6UWd17q7uvz0B-SVOGJ/s320/August+2011+1534.jpg" /></a> Meet Pippa and Polly.
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGF5ZKFC6COQ4EPNPJbrfiLnh_VIjzGE0b5yiKV3I4mgPD7mEiXFKhZaXnQD2TT-BnShh4-X5NyTg17pU6hiTalXAQdHVPcUFcsF7VXQD9u9OmLF-CGS6AaxANAU2gIUmoRfj9pKDRNM2/s1600/August+2011+1538.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645593945439574658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGF5ZKFC6COQ4EPNPJbrfiLnh_VIjzGE0b5yiKV3I4mgPD7mEiXFKhZaXnQD2TT-BnShh4-X5NyTg17pU6hiTalXAQdHVPcUFcsF7VXQD9u9OmLF-CGS6AaxANAU2gIUmoRfj9pKDRNM2/s320/August+2011+1538.jpg" /></a> I think it's rather self explanatory who they are.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6sec3a0OOd_CLLtKjTFdivj1VEOShNtX-lLpFBw2JAjQS5obJFv1zJNE__SrJuegjZBaPOIH6Gjpa9FRoaHppER1ZrXwO12X-ID89dBLrstE8niPQW96FCNV17M_rEnrzPKOOAs8qDC8h/s1600/August+2011+1542.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645593938919620770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6sec3a0OOd_CLLtKjTFdivj1VEOShNtX-lLpFBw2JAjQS5obJFv1zJNE__SrJuegjZBaPOIH6Gjpa9FRoaHppER1ZrXwO12X-ID89dBLrstE8niPQW96FCNV17M_rEnrzPKOOAs8qDC8h/s320/August+2011+1542.jpg" /></a> When the two newest best friend's to Bodie, Annelise, and Brayton aren't in a scurry grocery shopping around the house. . . .
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjOlNEM85STk6qKCWy4uRAarDDdCrRJC6Tbqyoo0pMNYkqHwQaP0ukmjnSClCgWxnlH3OupcfDe963n0b2zCgsaEkFz0YqbudcYiNRAkLtxHlbv5fewsAJj63Y5dFG3ltt_Qv5tP7NDeP/s1600/August+2011+1548.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645593928767090290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjOlNEM85STk6qKCWy4uRAarDDdCrRJC6Tbqyoo0pMNYkqHwQaP0ukmjnSClCgWxnlH3OupcfDe963n0b2zCgsaEkFz0YqbudcYiNRAkLtxHlbv5fewsAJj63Y5dFG3ltt_Qv5tP7NDeP/s320/August+2011+1548.jpg" /></a> . . . .you can usually find them up a tree. . . .
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjqGjaNMCZv5Fmm6Y_IMqyZRlgPJ_RlAcwsUECpfGNRE4mzlCHmMmsio7FGlJp1b-8Q2_bK9qDxapK42QZT_AUbkgSNLKyz5ANsCu0Kaa2p7dx2ubQgwARUTeosAuXwpAi5YvizgBGkQw/s1600/August+2011+1545.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645593923987989570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjqGjaNMCZv5Fmm6Y_IMqyZRlgPJ_RlAcwsUECpfGNRE4mzlCHmMmsio7FGlJp1b-8Q2_bK9qDxapK42QZT_AUbkgSNLKyz5ANsCu0Kaa2p7dx2ubQgwARUTeosAuXwpAi5YvizgBGkQw/s320/August+2011+1545.jpg" /></a> . . . .sinning.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibm9l5z3DRgNc06b35AScPQmIICKanz12u1VuIbudtKxsAWmFGbxSJnkdp2tp-PTEl8FMq44saU8XzOGX6nGbqhHZ-Ac5jmfaJQY8eVYCqXQclGxn19zhC6MS2zh-tm4dJd48ZysgfjhC3/s1600/August+2011+1547.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645593918247836914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibm9l5z3DRgNc06b35AScPQmIICKanz12u1VuIbudtKxsAWmFGbxSJnkdp2tp-PTEl8FMq44saU8XzOGX6nGbqhHZ-Ac5jmfaJQY8eVYCqXQclGxn19zhC6MS2zh-tm4dJd48ZysgfjhC3/s320/August+2011+1547.jpg" /></a> Or waiting at the base of the tree, like Polly, waiting for her sister to be done sinning so she can start. </div>
<br /><div>Yeah, that's what's new around here. The kittens. Not the sin. :)
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<br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-54400733460968428542011-08-15T19:35:00.000-07:002011-08-15T19:39:41.469-07:00Mud. Mud. More Mud.<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc3GmxEFZOAUpTuxwNHu689X69xWl7y6KgtqZfVDlPnjsZb-5ke4_4D8qK341jx_VvrFQn967ic_h6h48mCi7jkT7Eq3B30uftmVtpzsvAJYSV3z3c5k3p6v906oxj2gTyLvYSDUI-HCl/s1600/August+2011+1531.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 325px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641277008691318434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc3GmxEFZOAUpTuxwNHu689X69xWl7y6KgtqZfVDlPnjsZb-5ke4_4D8qK341jx_VvrFQn967ic_h6h48mCi7jkT7Eq3B30uftmVtpzsvAJYSV3z3c5k3p6v906oxj2gTyLvYSDUI-HCl/s400/August+2011+1531.jpg" /></a> You are dying laughing, right? I know I did. Seriously could have split my pants when I saw this photo we took today. This boy is just all about mud, motorcycles, and the word "No". Moments like this make every tantrum he throws worth it. He is just delicious to the core and I love that he feels free enough to skip on down to his birthday suit and get busy getting muddy. There is a good chance that we make mud puddles more than a normal person but who's counting? For now, bring on the MUD!!!!!!
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<br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-22507799495229304502011-08-14T20:32:00.000-07:002011-08-14T21:23:15.830-07:00Oh give me a home, where the buffalo roam. . . .<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqs5Td1qNz8xT30798t-YN-OkrBMqur7T65oSJ7uT2zQzEAE1Td_l1ymjpun4PN2thteMczx0uX8_tjjodAWmnrGVG-6w9EI1_vffTZNYULDKJKjahAcidJjxoXetBcoqDP0sT3bOpQa3/s1600/August+2011+142.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640923372762672642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqs5Td1qNz8xT30798t-YN-OkrBMqur7T65oSJ7uT2zQzEAE1Td_l1ymjpun4PN2thteMczx0uX8_tjjodAWmnrGVG-6w9EI1_vffTZNYULDKJKjahAcidJjxoXetBcoqDP0sT3bOpQa3/s400/August+2011+142.jpg" /></a> Give us a small window of opportunity and we will head to Yellowstone. Well, technically, we headed to St. Anthony Sand Dunes and Yellowstone and all with some of our "Besties" as Anna would say. This herd of buffalo was hundreds thick. I mean hundreds! Smart animals planted themselves along the northeast exit of the park closest to Cooke City and furthest from the invasion of summer tourists. I like a smart animal. Few people take that route and the fields are wild with lush grass, water, and most importantly space. They are just amazing animals and it thrills me that my children think they are common to see all the time. It has been their 9th or 10th time through the park in less than a year. Seasoned Yellowstone Pro's!!!
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT4JK24BzmTQkHJbgPg0mbYmfrtWGRpZSJvaDzCm9JaBgvqO3DS08KhXkZOKGZK7dYsstov4yhFG0kdxpZy0_-7POPUVhEdkkzBMQDTIMv5oFd6jYkzWjSyU2T7cw4MbPpCdU-DIHVtLV/s1600/August+2011+134.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640923369069205618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT4JK24BzmTQkHJbgPg0mbYmfrtWGRpZSJvaDzCm9JaBgvqO3DS08KhXkZOKGZK7dYsstov4yhFG0kdxpZy0_-7POPUVhEdkkzBMQDTIMv5oFd6jYkzWjSyU2T7cw4MbPpCdU-DIHVtLV/s400/August+2011+134.jpg" /></a> Some of the stunning rock that the park is named for. What you can't see is the trails from animals on this steep canyon wall. It's hard to believe they can traverse such a hillside. Amazing!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufbeQD9vqjRcNX5NjWUUiR9DNK56GGaVhlVx0jl3Tv_2lBYPvpLd0q3812ekinYqy8QKYAslaklC7j83lhb4wYf44gUwspUod9BWc_S3ubL3a2htZ8YVwcH-3dFYDjsRdGZhfhoT6It7n/s1600/August+2011+132.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640922940226544658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufbeQD9vqjRcNX5NjWUUiR9DNK56GGaVhlVx0jl3Tv_2lBYPvpLd0q3812ekinYqy8QKYAslaklC7j83lhb4wYf44gUwspUod9BWc_S3ubL3a2htZ8YVwcH-3dFYDjsRdGZhfhoT6It7n/s400/August+2011+132.jpg" /></a> The Big Falls. I have no idea how many times I had seen this as a child. Tons. The appreciation was never there like it is when you are an adult. Seeing this amazing fall is just more affirmation to me that our children need to learn about this wonderful country we live in. The USA is home to so many miraculous places and they are all within our reach. That is a blessing!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8W4Rkhw5zUvruMC11Dn_BITUZTqAIWtMAjcRrvIb9fHINOPqj7OYNjCKzjZSomgca0bRM3gyo3oPcCSzWjdZSS94ecCD37q8NDMwv4phn-jzmR13PPK4Vv_bR6Op6JShSJ1sXkGKlh_k/s1600/August+2011+124.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640922933010253666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8W4Rkhw5zUvruMC11Dn_BITUZTqAIWtMAjcRrvIb9fHINOPqj7OYNjCKzjZSomgca0bRM3gyo3oPcCSzWjdZSS94ecCD37q8NDMwv4phn-jzmR13PPK4Vv_bR6Op6JShSJ1sXkGKlh_k/s400/August+2011+124.jpg" /></a> Anna was so funny on this trip. She kept saying "Take a picture of me here!" and we would gladly run over and oblige her. Goofy grins and all!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8BLCT6vB1faXKeZd6I4xBnpedHGwkdicbTWB4mHvsfRf7hj5848ZQ8MrmXRrDFAB5I6kgrWWsyxSSGka5qgVl87RzAWBKJHGqs9GiV7CRQY5KNcAonmyjtcBJZf5jwZZVcXnOKpsBXfOL/s1600/August+2011+111.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640922928614398082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8BLCT6vB1faXKeZd6I4xBnpedHGwkdicbTWB4mHvsfRf7hj5848ZQ8MrmXRrDFAB5I6kgrWWsyxSSGka5qgVl87RzAWBKJHGqs9GiV7CRQY5KNcAonmyjtcBJZf5jwZZVcXnOKpsBXfOL/s400/August+2011+111.jpg" /></a> Old Faithful . Impressive for sure. Not 100% sure the kid's cared at all since it was 20 minutes late going off but they will remember us dragging them there regardless. It really was a wonder.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDxiQAlMM10Py3RKj4jYVmzOaJhK5tmB9GifjuWZkdi31bYlC3TDWoGeY3eV7ymYUwyY8FZfdxFRyfpuECxBCxRnqzBjGEWcGXwW6XtHOv2hYQysbkI7OI6uUVSlWUvdKj2rSwSMFG_aZ/s1600/August+2011+099.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640922926309261042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDxiQAlMM10Py3RKj4jYVmzOaJhK5tmB9GifjuWZkdi31bYlC3TDWoGeY3eV7ymYUwyY8FZfdxFRyfpuECxBCxRnqzBjGEWcGXwW6XtHOv2hYQysbkI7OI6uUVSlWUvdKj2rSwSMFG_aZ/s400/August+2011+099.jpg" /></a> Waiting. Waiting. . . .. The nice thing about Yellowstone is that no matter how long you wait for something, there is breathtaking scenery to keep you busy. The children had their buddies with them so they didn't even notice the time.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPiRz1x-G0CUUC3K2GfUBDmOIkpqH37g-10gVrqoR8B2z27e1wZ_0GwiQB7ABYMOywPeGskiQBaGVmoS4UuLK270gupo_5YPjpn0kCkQq4zgStHyk0Z46n3Chm8kL95yroVT5BcyU9po2/s1600/August+2011+098.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640922917582744930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPiRz1x-G0CUUC3K2GfUBDmOIkpqH37g-10gVrqoR8B2z27e1wZ_0GwiQB7ABYMOywPeGskiQBaGVmoS4UuLK270gupo_5YPjpn0kCkQq4zgStHyk0Z46n3Chm8kL95yroVT5BcyU9po2/s400/August+2011+098.jpg" /></a> When we pulled up, I saw the lodge. For some reason, and I have no exact reason or memory to tell you why, this building was so familiar and comforting. It was like a picture from my childhood. Back when my parent's were married, we were all young and careless, and summer always meant a vacation to the parks. It was a great moment in space for me. I love when memores aren't tainted in any way by the reality that people divorce, brother's and sister's grow up, and family vacations are a lot more work when you are the parent now.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzg1rRbt3-SsZy9Sew6zBw58dmM6-bOtQFfzru4BdkT2fZ1G_4wbC6LpHDosJOO_ce39mvLj-vF343ROufG7u0nAvt1Y78bPpp6pJhky5vhlq4jSpVOZd3rMdlr-QXFKzoiMtF8NdPo27n/s1600/August+2011+090.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921871913302578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzg1rRbt3-SsZy9Sew6zBw58dmM6-bOtQFfzru4BdkT2fZ1G_4wbC6LpHDosJOO_ce39mvLj-vF343ROufG7u0nAvt1Y78bPpp6pJhky5vhlq4jSpVOZd3rMdlr-QXFKzoiMtF8NdPo27n/s400/August+2011+090.jpg" /></a> The paint pots in Yellowstone. Amazingly beautiful. Brayton really loved them which was an odd surprise to me. With his recent fiesty personality, I would have pegged him for a kid ready to get out of there but not at all. He was fascinated by each and every color and all that steam! He is my mystery, challenge, and my biggest lover!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8krMjrmqFhpf47OYabNDV4WjxQ5GpZOhOU5jvlnrRPHv6lZDpj7YyKMQrfsqrtaLRQizsB5oGQywdq8QRTxLX7N-l5Tr5ywnfY5ruWLXDflSA_cT83hyphenhyphenaBx6BfsalGKv9rmO2hhmexCTr/s1600/August+2011+079.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921870338501730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8krMjrmqFhpf47OYabNDV4WjxQ5GpZOhOU5jvlnrRPHv6lZDpj7YyKMQrfsqrtaLRQizsB5oGQywdq8QRTxLX7N-l5Tr5ywnfY5ruWLXDflSA_cT83hyphenhyphenaBx6BfsalGKv9rmO2hhmexCTr/s400/August+2011+079.jpg" /></a> Brayton looking on. If you could see that boy. . .WOW! Dimples to die for and a temper like a volcano! Needless to say, I am actually working on new dicsipline techniques for him since his new thing is screaming like a crazy man when he doesn't get what he wants. Look under the dictionary for "terrible two's" and you will see that little face! Thank goodness he is such a cuddler and so sweet most of the time or I would have thrown in the towel!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiiImeQ2livbJ1MNBEzim4QWs1lLEpFMUWtz3zYpmvVylQtFv34mVhICzqui8JVQioT-d9xRE0_pKonwr5h69oq6jvf-xRPi9pFXNWK1d-qR40B9RN_CUurc24wijWlmqUv0Bb0XBnnr_/s1600/August+2011+097.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921864901516114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiiImeQ2livbJ1MNBEzim4QWs1lLEpFMUWtz3zYpmvVylQtFv34mVhICzqui8JVQioT-d9xRE0_pKonwr5h69oq6jvf-xRPi9pFXNWK1d-qR40B9RN_CUurc24wijWlmqUv0Bb0XBnnr_/s400/August+2011+097.jpg" /></a> Group children photo! A pic with the "Besties" is always a must!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyzIjzeGs-mUItWPggUJaPFTV-s1c84hHzvDie70N-GMLX0H8OXDFOCqj30I8xAtlTeWdj_eIwWhVwIoaBPJ3WwMfeU0rTRy6AVPwjBj_n3W2vIlrjhQfrmPlK44CTK7mj_8EAx0q329x/s1600/August+2011+049.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921855363292498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyzIjzeGs-mUItWPggUJaPFTV-s1c84hHzvDie70N-GMLX0H8OXDFOCqj30I8xAtlTeWdj_eIwWhVwIoaBPJ3WwMfeU0rTRy6AVPwjBj_n3W2vIlrjhQfrmPlK44CTK7mj_8EAx0q329x/s400/August+2011+049.jpg" /></a> We also went to "Bear World". Ok.......we saw a small mob of bears. Big ones, black ones, brown ones, grizzlies, and cubs. They were adorable and amazing. So was the price of admission. Needles to say, we will have to recall it in our memories for quite some time because we can't ever afford to go back. On a lighter, more positive note, they children loved it and they got to see lot's of animals and ride a ton of rides all with their very best friends. Ok, we might go back.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK4pvXP-E6znvGuK4iNBxiBaTULF7kdtGUL1jUpA8YsU5eEYoDRbM77pCgjtSedoCODll1jfjRpxJpfXLFWUrXeyzf2mEaHwHtIvVmt-n6qPmxmhhYsNPG1DodZGVSus8CbGUDPZr-o7d/s1600/August+2011+051.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921849908427666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK4pvXP-E6znvGuK4iNBxiBaTULF7kdtGUL1jUpA8YsU5eEYoDRbM77pCgjtSedoCODll1jfjRpxJpfXLFWUrXeyzf2mEaHwHtIvVmt-n6qPmxmhhYsNPG1DodZGVSus8CbGUDPZr-o7d/s400/August+2011+051.jpg" /></a> Meet Andy. Yes, this dear little fawn has a name. Andy. Oddly enough, we had our own little version of Andy at our house the day we returned. Right here in Wilton under our pine tree bawling for his mommy. I could eat these sweet things up all day long. I love a baby anything and a fawn is way up there on my list of favorite baby animals!!!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJsExh6eCN2G4r7ScPw2sn_ronzNc9L3UzKM5fnftQnNZhPkFfSTy4XO1IuJ99DKCbPfpStPDNm8iFlvCOVsWKm7Xl_DznSEEn7Pop2fXVlSJVLZwmJFiqAllQtPPipN5-nIRypIeeqUd/s1600/August+2011+062.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921332704445266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJsExh6eCN2G4r7ScPw2sn_ronzNc9L3UzKM5fnftQnNZhPkFfSTy4XO1IuJ99DKCbPfpStPDNm8iFlvCOVsWKm7Xl_DznSEEn7Pop2fXVlSJVLZwmJFiqAllQtPPipN5-nIRypIeeqUd/s400/August+2011+062.jpg" /></a> Here we are on the bear twirling ride. We were braver than you think since all the Ames' girls' suffer from motion sickness. Every one of them including our dear, sweet Tiffany. No puker's though so I was thrilled!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10gQNGmXqaqVckiVaA85Uo5CIQAxkvdPlmOG0ZYoJaTYjywmQ2ij3SkKrW-TUzPWPtmDlGmZEhyphenhyphenUBPiHaxt3NABlH8h6EeWcnTFijlG9UoZ638XfcK5-RVFogQR0Bz2M0QRy_U6gacnzm/s1600/August+2011+045.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921327745514370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10gQNGmXqaqVckiVaA85Uo5CIQAxkvdPlmOG0ZYoJaTYjywmQ2ij3SkKrW-TUzPWPtmDlGmZEhyphenhyphenUBPiHaxt3NABlH8h6EeWcnTFijlG9UoZ638XfcK5-RVFogQR0Bz2M0QRy_U6gacnzm/s400/August+2011+045.jpg" /></a> Hogs. . . .Yep, that's all. Hogs.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIMM6Qlchj6moWj2ZW0YOPMkDInYQ0glSjZske5OV3hRh6iM9Y3E6IR6nZEuvrbukPs0oZyygeGjMl3VSNv6btbVCuvCVgYH-tGt6t-C-B9V01fvBAruWI6C8d7AuPDt7Ic9tjE0S6P34/s1600/August+2011+037.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921322136346370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIMM6Qlchj6moWj2ZW0YOPMkDInYQ0glSjZske5OV3hRh6iM9Y3E6IR6nZEuvrbukPs0oZyygeGjMl3VSNv6btbVCuvCVgYH-tGt6t-C-B9V01fvBAruWI6C8d7AuPDt7Ic9tjE0S6P34/s400/August+2011+037.jpg" /></a> At St. Anthony Sand Dunes, Brayton loved curling up with Annie under the trailer. It was hilarious and I am not certain who was dirtier. Boy LOVES that dog!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhai4dORi4tF7CgcnAHZfurckq2e8L8GvzVhOXd4X1E8YEGHVubCSVTIGaXceMlhc0ThPTrajFlKsswELH0W44fYB8wNd1W-p3VcFHIQKMVfP7-vhKhZEN9FfNq1HYlsmI90mBfx1aU6zJ6/s1600/August+2011+025.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921175432298274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhai4dORi4tF7CgcnAHZfurckq2e8L8GvzVhOXd4X1E8YEGHVubCSVTIGaXceMlhc0ThPTrajFlKsswELH0W44fYB8wNd1W-p3VcFHIQKMVfP7-vhKhZEN9FfNq1HYlsmI90mBfx1aU6zJ6/s400/August+2011+025.jpg" /></a>At the falls in Idaho Falls. Beautiful!!!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqmBS9wqbCQzAKuK6yCFlBV81c9S2EAuqyfyS4SZmajY2K_Ie7V8ulDPI16sEP1Oq0Iyj2LJCJ1ZfAvkiDsRQ6Jh4OpnsP4ha52dB4l_7tnoCDto0hrRnMWaqhl4N5L7Fbt2e0KivBiXo/s1600/August+2011+028.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640921171350240690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqmBS9wqbCQzAKuK6yCFlBV81c9S2EAuqyfyS4SZmajY2K_Ie7V8ulDPI16sEP1Oq0Iyj2LJCJ1ZfAvkiDsRQ6Jh4OpnsP4ha52dB4l_7tnoCDto0hrRnMWaqhl4N5L7Fbt2e0KivBiXo/s400/August+2011+028.jpg" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>
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<br /><p align="center">We were so blessed that our friends could join us on this adventure. It was like vacationing with a little slice of home with you. The Ames family has been one of our treasures and we love any chance we get to see them. Their children are polite, fun, creative, and so pleasant to be around that it makes me wish we were closer again. Knowing that won't happen all too soon, we will just cherish our time together and enjoy all our mini family vacations. I always feel so grateful to spend this quality time with my family. The man of my dreams and three amazing children.</p>
<br /><p></p>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-9738712501759828892011-07-29T06:12:00.000-07:002011-07-29T06:27:21.661-07:00It's the people we meet along the way that make the journey worth the drive.<div align="center">Our trip home this last time was a fast one. A fast one for a few reasons. We had to come home for both of my niece's beautiful weddings (which I will post about, promise!) but we also had to get back home because we are again house hunting. I know. I cringed when I said it, too! However, during our short stay we managed to pack in the time with people we love. The children saw some of their best buddies and I got to see some of mine as well. Along with most all of our family, I would say the 17.5 hour drive was well worth the journey!!!</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqb5A7pnUcXZWodjIZq-KJimFqJlRv6RMru1X9SMO2Azp75Ra5USOeoOXmMGybpY1x0fx17CKGrNepgobPDIKTW9jiai5DMx7eMgUMMIoaNewaJJNckj0VZ8ZEes81B2o6_6F05gainrD/s1600/July+2011+135.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634762053137526930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqb5A7pnUcXZWodjIZq-KJimFqJlRv6RMru1X9SMO2Azp75Ra5USOeoOXmMGybpY1x0fx17CKGrNepgobPDIKTW9jiai5DMx7eMgUMMIoaNewaJJNckj0VZ8ZEes81B2o6_6F05gainrD/s320/July+2011+135.jpg" /></a> We certainly love the Ames and Evans crew! Love that time away makes no difference to the children. They just pick up where they left off.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji39iczDGOssKNp4HqYOVV6fmHz9HZrgIBETvEsQ8KllskR5Z4OS3Nv59se_ZMuYoWC5N8tZMKbpdOv9EvB6PsM9yXh00x5XmA82jLEFtrKMXLJsyrVHJNYp9uyf1xRjGNgY4BbDXcxOJd/s1600/July+2011+136.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634762045007599922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji39iczDGOssKNp4HqYOVV6fmHz9HZrgIBETvEsQ8KllskR5Z4OS3Nv59se_ZMuYoWC5N8tZMKbpdOv9EvB6PsM9yXh00x5XmA82jLEFtrKMXLJsyrVHJNYp9uyf1xRjGNgY4BbDXcxOJd/s320/July+2011+136.jpg" /></a>Some tramp time! Nothing like jumping for hours to tucker you out!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3ZualVYEhz1gKRfVxAhUGSypAb4D0S_VPT4SibOaK6SQmNKR6pp7YmHBvMDfgj4CsLuANIcxFW3CNoZ4LpemdRdspOp6DI6iuwN79MTvs1oM9wxbfrqEK79e6-vIJYJa6QnyhOM5uEwE/s1600/July+2011+266.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634762036723545458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3ZualVYEhz1gKRfVxAhUGSypAb4D0S_VPT4SibOaK6SQmNKR6pp7YmHBvMDfgj4CsLuANIcxFW3CNoZ4LpemdRdspOp6DI6iuwN79MTvs1oM9wxbfrqEK79e6-vIJYJa6QnyhOM5uEwE/s320/July+2011+266.jpg" /></a> April always manages to shower my babies with love, love, and more love. Few grown up's capture their hearts the way she has.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjA8_PT1EJ8auSYVWCfPPhQ3ycNScvuEFVghZ6HfJPmWuOmTPKvfxadxsm2_Zny2tp9KTheL_fhr7emxVHhxwwFfIZ8ps1OLQbGhyhwlg-iXLVr6vmCpdtbgMXWN2lyrpDTd16KEDjMgN/s1600/July+2011+267.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634762027954358146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjA8_PT1EJ8auSYVWCfPPhQ3ycNScvuEFVghZ6HfJPmWuOmTPKvfxadxsm2_Zny2tp9KTheL_fhr7emxVHhxwwFfIZ8ps1OLQbGhyhwlg-iXLVr6vmCpdtbgMXWN2lyrpDTd16KEDjMgN/s320/July+2011+267.jpg" /></a>Then, last but certainly not least, we got to stay with our beloved Miss Stacey! The kid's think of her and Wyatt like family and don't skip a beat getting back to the normal swing of things. This trip it was evident that they are at home when we are home with them. It was sweet as sweet could be. Stacey is so easy going and relaxed about the craziness we bring and we love sleeping under our own roof. It's one of the best parts of coming home.</div><br /><br /><div>Now for wedding, dinner pic. . . . Oh my!<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-43419443230755792992011-07-29T06:08:00.000-07:002011-07-29T06:12:24.923-07:00Dimples Galore!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGy-DEltx_nKIlBSEuQAmClQJSUERzQj8hihriL7s34_euxSL-XsSPsY4b-brjuyxcf5k6zT2l_78baljMEn83LGqmTQRCDRM4Km5XA9mYh0rdQ1S9x2B6tqiVyccyhfW7E0Rl4p44iG-/s1600/5937860561_50f9bac536_z.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634761314273451842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGy-DEltx_nKIlBSEuQAmClQJSUERzQj8hihriL7s34_euxSL-XsSPsY4b-brjuyxcf5k6zT2l_78baljMEn83LGqmTQRCDRM4Km5XA9mYh0rdQ1S9x2B6tqiVyccyhfW7E0Rl4p44iG-/s400/5937860561_50f9bac536_z.jpg" /></a> I love this boy.<br /><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-82187036321665299222011-07-13T05:08:00.000-07:002011-07-13T05:09:42.837-07:00Ok. . . .One More!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlkh4GEsS-1_IR6HA9zhgb2R8SB1YC0L-hnUXC4FOF2lcj4bc8T9IoZDpUTxVTEOhsFYoap4vHfl4o_5HlbCPpRS-V6qbfTf1G80sYufBXtQcys93vzNLTTjkqgpVYtqomgMHtiijHTao/s1600/Mckmama+photos+05101.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628807732247719474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlkh4GEsS-1_IR6HA9zhgb2R8SB1YC0L-hnUXC4FOF2lcj4bc8T9IoZDpUTxVTEOhsFYoap4vHfl4o_5HlbCPpRS-V6qbfTf1G80sYufBXtQcys93vzNLTTjkqgpVYtqomgMHtiijHTao/s400/Mckmama+photos+05101.jpg" /></a>That's it. . . . .. . . . most likely.. . . . .. . or not. . . .. .can't decide. . . .<br /><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-54740526387019099612011-07-08T07:27:00.000-07:002011-07-08T07:56:41.399-07:00Flying High!!!<div align="center">And we mean that literally!!!!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lLLoXccw4h93m2LXi8jYTcJ_2hDGqpq-sobb9MnoTnZwgmz-V0JZ3ShnACd6LFscMDV40uYwFlxmSiYr6G_3K7BRedTSoTPvuWlosz7dfYoS7a-Knz2-aKqZUe7_xBELP8E7VW5VhzE_/s1600/June+2011+071.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626990334069181682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lLLoXccw4h93m2LXi8jYTcJ_2hDGqpq-sobb9MnoTnZwgmz-V0JZ3ShnACd6LFscMDV40uYwFlxmSiYr6G_3K7BRedTSoTPvuWlosz7dfYoS7a-Knz2-aKqZUe7_xBELP8E7VW5VhzE_/s320/June+2011+071.jpg" /></a>We have literally been flying high lately. Here are a few pictures to let you in on why!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNj6hZRtVlXvOKfxoWptiBhPwHC0uUeWVXhPIepWIAKsv4xDwG1zLu7jXDXcQ13JpFVFWJRqp-y1FOyXup_SMRSDh2wCvmGZPi_Nn25PjRnwDFIUC3MmRV-T-DK1S99QuqCHEB-vXRQJTn/s1600/June+2011+959.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989993097516306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNj6hZRtVlXvOKfxoWptiBhPwHC0uUeWVXhPIepWIAKsv4xDwG1zLu7jXDXcQ13JpFVFWJRqp-y1FOyXup_SMRSDh2wCvmGZPi_Nn25PjRnwDFIUC3MmRV-T-DK1S99QuqCHEB-vXRQJTn/s320/June+2011+959.jpg" /></a>We have been doing a lot of motocross lately which we all love! Daddy even won his race and took 2nd in the other giving him the overall win! Go Daddy!!! As a family, we love the sport. It gives us an outlet we all enjoy and we can cheer each other on. Even Annelise, who would rather play with her "girl stuff" and read, has a great time spending the day with family and making new friends.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJlk5-3GsfqcPkwu-t-PLlOxfztg7Tivd2p9Vf2VBNck_pKLzm63GV5O1CKEu-J3nU1rREfUYoyVieqGGg7eXr0BeoGrhlBNRjHu8nvT3FYYThFcejkSEK-XC1q6CuNqwXm07jjbgw72N/s1600/June+2011+924.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989985649446338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJlk5-3GsfqcPkwu-t-PLlOxfztg7Tivd2p9Vf2VBNck_pKLzm63GV5O1CKEu-J3nU1rREfUYoyVieqGGg7eXr0BeoGrhlBNRjHu8nvT3FYYThFcejkSEK-XC1q6CuNqwXm07jjbgw72N/s320/June+2011+924.jpg" /></a> We also love Child Watch while Brayton swims or Mommy goes to the gym. Bodie has recently discovered his love of crafts and is often found at the craft table with other kids!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtx4M3Vo1WhJiEj63F52NWBq_XdN5duqMdFPZYSiywftMZn7WrZykaqqVv4zkdW7WkrOaEWv4rToEpvHitosU9h1qWrm7gNxqZUUFdQJYYeMt18tA9H081f4Bn4y419Vdoct0suKFpbXB/s1600/June+2011+980.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989979831212962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtx4M3Vo1WhJiEj63F52NWBq_XdN5duqMdFPZYSiywftMZn7WrZykaqqVv4zkdW7WkrOaEWv4rToEpvHitosU9h1qWrm7gNxqZUUFdQJYYeMt18tA9H081f4Bn4y419Vdoct0suKFpbXB/s320/June+2011+980.jpg" /></a> We have been love, no LOVING, the mud too!!! Every time I turn around I have three naked babies dancing through the puddles. Some of my favorite memories as a kid were playing in the mud and it's something i rarely discourage. Who doesn't wish we could go back to the day when a good mud pie was the best dessert???<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlMraUst5GK_UTHBi-53XEXv0cgHzm67QCElKupLRkxIf3If2iadJlhhI9LnCqTks51pOrdR8EePF-KsnJ-DzT0sYGBquha8WSXOaa8f1LfJAHyCsHDKohrO9RPJLfxpXDgXWrL-1KZvd/s1600/June+2011+087.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989973559178482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlMraUst5GK_UTHBi-53XEXv0cgHzm67QCElKupLRkxIf3If2iadJlhhI9LnCqTks51pOrdR8EePF-KsnJ-DzT0sYGBquha8WSXOaa8f1LfJAHyCsHDKohrO9RPJLfxpXDgXWrL-1KZvd/s320/June+2011+087.jpg" /></a> Brayton has been learning how to test his skills. This gym at the ""Wild in Wilton" carnival really tested his strength. He was, by far, the youngest man doing the challenge and made it all by himself every time. This is one tough kiddo!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtW63eb9y_z5MllVRr6lJ0XtGpCYzwXSDVxNy4IjlH5D2H03HZ9pT6gEmJJUhf-hEUiDl3NUwdsQz_b_XMhqKZcFX4KN3Zw29ZPpNvaIK6tWuTvY_2Ptr6yHN2UiMLrbqoCClP2pAdsybM/s1600/June+2011+957.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989224281739890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtW63eb9y_z5MllVRr6lJ0XtGpCYzwXSDVxNy4IjlH5D2H03HZ9pT6gEmJJUhf-hEUiDl3NUwdsQz_b_XMhqKZcFX4KN3Zw29ZPpNvaIK6tWuTvY_2Ptr6yHN2UiMLrbqoCClP2pAdsybM/s320/June+2011+957.jpg" /></a> A day at the races riding with Daddy. I love to see how this family is woven together by these little things.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFWwP6g1IBqoA_28uUwl182y142KzKLJ3gTKoQ1k-ieJ1laF-reKmT-hF4HQw7J25V6k5nt2vgygQXv8-WEDvp9NW2PUmSMGh_cZFMf6VlukyoNmngfLdItvviB2CflzGZDzgCvtAXLl3/s1600/June+2011+933.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989210214893426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFWwP6g1IBqoA_28uUwl182y142KzKLJ3gTKoQ1k-ieJ1laF-reKmT-hF4HQw7J25V6k5nt2vgygQXv8-WEDvp9NW2PUmSMGh_cZFMf6VlukyoNmngfLdItvviB2CflzGZDzgCvtAXLl3/s320/June+2011+933.jpg" /></a> Wathcing and learning from Daddy what the races are all about. Bodie is really interested in following in Daddy's footsteps and becoming a racer! There is no doubt he will have lot's and lot's of support!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbg2CiYv7nw7JsHtcyOhQwLzfXcbS1KtUIcSXELYWnYVekr3OZEeFMBt00cu3nNbT74ruO1-ZEkwwfObUmmN7KOKRNz2-SrpqC967t-GWkYu-0k-eEQj0rmB56oMYkN07BUCtMe1zCY5w/s1600/June+2011+902.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989205491922658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbg2CiYv7nw7JsHtcyOhQwLzfXcbS1KtUIcSXELYWnYVekr3OZEeFMBt00cu3nNbT74ruO1-ZEkwwfObUmmN7KOKRNz2-SrpqC967t-GWkYu-0k-eEQj0rmB56oMYkN07BUCtMe1zCY5w/s320/June+2011+902.jpg" /></a> More fun in the mud!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H8dQOG8_wfSpNwQZAcLDGWgEUqZFsIhDeLnnVkT6qJewOx-StwJNaTzTlA4klwADjPspkbegtbmQZR0WfEmQKhycWdMdbjPgfjBj1XMUs5IxqHOB8JAxlA8NCOrzu2axkFcGWySloxET/s1600/June+2011+0371.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989195054940946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H8dQOG8_wfSpNwQZAcLDGWgEUqZFsIhDeLnnVkT6qJewOx-StwJNaTzTlA4klwADjPspkbegtbmQZR0WfEmQKhycWdMdbjPgfjBj1XMUs5IxqHOB8JAxlA8NCOrzu2axkFcGWySloxET/s320/June+2011+0371.jpg" /></a> Sometimes we are just flying high because we are happy. No reason at all for it. Just a song in our heart and smile on our face.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQ1e1W8Yr5qad7mIbWdiBOD4VkkIoKrOT-Z1WiwIo3an5LFUppYIKC2aiaUpL0e7QdthRLTDb1SVbaPIz3NMnkOsnyK8XezktZD8p5NXVXKUSI0iUEvvBwEhSRPsvoQQ1M1S_73aPH0HK/s1600/June+2011+029.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626989190336088674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQ1e1W8Yr5qad7mIbWdiBOD4VkkIoKrOT-Z1WiwIo3an5LFUppYIKC2aiaUpL0e7QdthRLTDb1SVbaPIz3NMnkOsnyK8XezktZD8p5NXVXKUSI0iUEvvBwEhSRPsvoQQ1M1S_73aPH0HK/s320/June+2011+029.jpg" /></a> We have been loving our time at a park near by as well. Learning to test our strength and daring ourselves to do new things. Like being a monkey! It also feels good to have some support when we need it!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGQp0zfmFlGQmh6ZztlIK8dYUBj3m1U0dLMk9JeiZpAl9sgfO9qYE9TUeRtO6lDCVwCHnCcrZEkh_ijL8R13vzLMcgGJvROAUFzaQ6osZo5wWmx7-lLtymYLb4qunusPqJUJC0sfQ_ixc/s1600/June+2011+054.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626988494023995058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGQp0zfmFlGQmh6ZztlIK8dYUBj3m1U0dLMk9JeiZpAl9sgfO9qYE9TUeRtO6lDCVwCHnCcrZEkh_ijL8R13vzLMcgGJvROAUFzaQ6osZo5wWmx7-lLtymYLb4qunusPqJUJC0sfQ_ixc/s320/June+2011+054.jpg" /></a> For this little girl, well, it would be hard to see her UNhappy. She ooooozes happiness most of the time. She is just easy like that. Smiley, lovey, and sweet. She is my simple girly-girl!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpIBnvVnkqOPpg9vC8pKMTi93g8J4qsjbkLbSqc0lFehV_E3HokNRJvvYVfZHn5I9OUGBN6HWE1l-b0VgEGx5zWgON0W5hNI02nAqWXVlsQwlZ1pQ38G4GLoD_v3dtfcsrB6Hc3oAV9Nq/s1600/June+2011+034.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626988486556578690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpIBnvVnkqOPpg9vC8pKMTi93g8J4qsjbkLbSqc0lFehV_E3HokNRJvvYVfZHn5I9OUGBN6HWE1l-b0VgEGx5zWgON0W5hNI02nAqWXVlsQwlZ1pQ38G4GLoD_v3dtfcsrB6Hc3oAV9Nq/s320/June+2011+034.jpg" /></a> Adventures have made us happy lately, too!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZ9Xcjs5VkD4sdvRcz1tGsK9lLnBipy1b_JlRVUltan5oIvDhJH-CqL1oOjJnI869JwAwrBWlCkbMTxGEakr485hByDS69bGJQ9r6vmOEzPuDTefyuJ_pyBu8t5I2YE18JKOHVpaBGzkL/s1600/June+2011+013.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626988479242819794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZ9Xcjs5VkD4sdvRcz1tGsK9lLnBipy1b_JlRVUltan5oIvDhJH-CqL1oOjJnI869JwAwrBWlCkbMTxGEakr485hByDS69bGJQ9r6vmOEzPuDTefyuJ_pyBu8t5I2YE18JKOHVpaBGzkL/s320/June+2011+013.jpg" /></a> Time with family has also made us happier than a pig in poo! This summer has been great for seeing my cousin Brandy and her family. It has been one of my favorite things about moving here. She makes me laugh and the children all seem to have a genuine love for each other. I love seeing them! We also got to spend time with my Dad this summer. He came for an all too brief visit but it made my summer!!! We all enjoyed his humor and were fully entertained by his stories. No one can tell a better story and I know we all miss him every day!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JNN0TTGEAD1M21sKKagpCS-0_2dnoExzuv7btNFGAPi0ikV0vPRdO38hWFXdk6_LAiccdda2JS-e0Efus9QMb2Iz_yvTuIbvLuzFNtv3aVAQw43tf0KRT31ZfIStrq2tS4hXN3xYJKQ7/s1600/June+2011+068.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626988475455664498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JNN0TTGEAD1M21sKKagpCS-0_2dnoExzuv7btNFGAPi0ikV0vPRdO38hWFXdk6_LAiccdda2JS-e0Efus9QMb2Iz_yvTuIbvLuzFNtv3aVAQw43tf0KRT31ZfIStrq2tS4hXN3xYJKQ7/s320/June+2011+068.jpg" /></a> We have also been happy lending each other a hand. Taking each other on a ride and sharing our favorite things, like dirt biking!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGfImTqYR9UVlojyKu9EiQIsN9CS6qS4r9RUaligwqiIZBeCopWgMjDxKtOxLVmKXLUQeiyEAueD6jabOVMgwNq9HYd8uFeHBWK6gUYQVh-iI7zrQ7YyrVKOroStMeNd_grcP0UPy5PEE/s1600/June+2011+025.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626988466305334994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGfImTqYR9UVlojyKu9EiQIsN9CS6qS4r9RUaligwqiIZBeCopWgMjDxKtOxLVmKXLUQeiyEAueD6jabOVMgwNq9HYd8uFeHBWK6gUYQVh-iI7zrQ7YyrVKOroStMeNd_grcP0UPy5PEE/s320/June+2011+025.jpg" /></a> We are simply having a great summer!!! Not our typical summer of jet skis and the ocean but a new kind of summer. Seems to us that if you choose to be happy, you will be!!! We find that with every day our children grow older, they get more and more fun. More challenging as well but worth every minute!!!! What are you flying high over this summer? If you can't think of anything, you better get going! Life is too short not to be thrilled and excited about something every day!!!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-91529197582364964382011-07-06T09:42:00.000-07:002011-07-06T09:52:32.719-07:00Look Mom. . .No Training Wheels!!!!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeChxrw02wojRusILojt6hxOgXxA9VIGOzOr_GObM-Iyq05XVsJCPo53vPVRtgdqz-XEjdmxayjhlQkWDoOeiW9wokLMjjsZdSc0JpNEKJme40o5Qp_Sog2jxxsobYvtxFlsxzDoTvda0/s1600/July+2011+005.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626281923956115618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeChxrw02wojRusILojt6hxOgXxA9VIGOzOr_GObM-Iyq05XVsJCPo53vPVRtgdqz-XEjdmxayjhlQkWDoOeiW9wokLMjjsZdSc0JpNEKJme40o5Qp_Sog2jxxsobYvtxFlsxzDoTvda0/s320/July+2011+005.jpg" /></a> The request was so simple. "I want my training wheels off, Daddy!"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2w3ki5tQlwrWl3fipaoWLeuSeRLMQPwPVzlpq3VaStt2dX3dqJFeLvmLR1FQ_nfxJ-MphyphenhyphenCpBRwyuzIVMv59-Gc38UezLwlTWurJp1gxY3SWIZAv1dmLuuGoLRV1XAG1ionLKNJEhVak/s1600/July+2011+009.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626281920120796498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2w3ki5tQlwrWl3fipaoWLeuSeRLMQPwPVzlpq3VaStt2dX3dqJFeLvmLR1FQ_nfxJ-MphyphenhyphenCpBRwyuzIVMv59-Gc38UezLwlTWurJp1gxY3SWIZAv1dmLuuGoLRV1XAG1ionLKNJEhVak/s320/July+2011+009.jpg" /></a> So, that is exactly what he did. Little Bodie took off his training wheels with no help at all. Grabbed the wrench and went to work.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlppn2lOqLVB-vz3M-iV6i2RCeqpPrHOhcoT87b8i-GOQCLjKt8R9DArCyffn6DTAf9tlvztIQEj6LQOlpzbmkY4gMtEdA8W1uMVhLNDPGSzm5PrBXjF5muqxNyYzDYKR9O2Bc1RO1hUdl/s1600/July+2011+013.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626281912641590386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlppn2lOqLVB-vz3M-iV6i2RCeqpPrHOhcoT87b8i-GOQCLjKt8R9DArCyffn6DTAf9tlvztIQEj6LQOlpzbmkY4gMtEdA8W1uMVhLNDPGSzm5PrBXjF5muqxNyYzDYKR9O2Bc1RO1hUdl/s320/July+2011+013.jpg" /></a> A few times up and down the long drive. . . . .<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4ClJuvMbSKpb_qBHUjs8D1ylwEyfqGbtjSTce7QeKyUAcFJkWmfk251VrZ9codvKYi1xs_U52EKiQRomUDv3aB8GCxDuXAkE41XUPTAS-dTBP-YaIHXl-6LQ_Facfq0_TD1H4GeGJEmC/s1600/July+2011+021.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626281901016050834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4ClJuvMbSKpb_qBHUjs8D1ylwEyfqGbtjSTce7QeKyUAcFJkWmfk251VrZ9codvKYi1xs_U52EKiQRomUDv3aB8GCxDuXAkE41XUPTAS-dTBP-YaIHXl-6LQ_Facfq0_TD1H4GeGJEmC/s320/July+2011+021.jpg" /></a> . . . .and he was off and riding!!!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6WbFJyJPBaiFT249asVMC8Kw_KC_06KPkgCUpDfvchAsDhL9uZ19Rzb29f9W2fxMdmdgqcnOvdRcpsPhTg6QwGEVmCb92Gia2l5VeE4eHzamCVBqcQ35z1K3wyyN8FiHceSUGN_MuoLv/s1600/July+2011+016.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626281891494221714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6WbFJyJPBaiFT249asVMC8Kw_KC_06KPkgCUpDfvchAsDhL9uZ19Rzb29f9W2fxMdmdgqcnOvdRcpsPhTg6QwGEVmCb92Gia2l5VeE4eHzamCVBqcQ35z1K3wyyN8FiHceSUGN_MuoLv/s320/July+2011+016.jpg" /></a> Now, like a pro, he can get on his bike, ride, and do it all over again as often as he wants with no help at all. Took about 20 minutes for him to get the hang of it and now we officially a "No training wheel" boy!!! Daddy was BEAMING with pride that his 3 year old can ride now! It's probably only a matter of days before he asks to take the training wheels off his dirt bike but we might be ready for it (emotionally) when he does! We are sure proud parent's this week of our little man!!!! Go Bodie!!!!!!!<br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-43714244234147840652011-07-06T09:37:00.000-07:002011-07-06T09:42:05.670-07:00One more Mckmama<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX98Wg44mFqBW1C5EH7heBl1XvXFx9EmUP7WragaYxF22b-nh_zkrdMSxo-bnHM-dhjQrWhye2Q3s4ClpcxGwTVqX8MmH4LHDOhVSc1nmCQrZqeD2RNAhi2c4aqTd3mCwQYYoW6TQAkdlT/s1600/Mckmama+photos+026.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626279931821355586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX98Wg44mFqBW1C5EH7heBl1XvXFx9EmUP7WragaYxF22b-nh_zkrdMSxo-bnHM-dhjQrWhye2Q3s4ClpcxGwTVqX8MmH4LHDOhVSc1nmCQrZqeD2RNAhi2c4aqTd3mCwQYYoW6TQAkdlT/s400/Mckmama+photos+026.jpg" /></a> One of my favorites. . . . Since I rarely make a single picture, it is nice to see a picture that reflects our life with me in it. The busy adventure of our life that seems the most precious when we are enjoying the little things.<br /><br /><div align="center"></div></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-5135262418585684522011-07-06T09:20:00.000-07:002011-07-06T09:35:00.831-07:00Thank you MckMama<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626276603445417314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EJe6V7FjgeWrChfwoFTK2mus8P7J7eYeoFAFzkADK0MwXZMZyxocMm5Ktbiw73LPD6JuvaGiyhotk5t8iIzn8EVvv2cGsd8RG4s6ZSPWgLZbjp3ef_ZX-gN7uZdYeemWqb9McpKEydUI/s320/Mckmama+photos+062.jpg" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFIfyeMyg0yvVRdf7OsluRldmQMKbXsDzsBKkWM9j1efBCvvJ6_SM8L6c6FT3RrwNEehe-XWJ8F7OOPtpxvWHUL7gZD4M1W1sdkwHm3cO06Kk-HjoKufF_V-pSSAhc8tVRZp8GfxZ_eWz/s1600/Mckmama+photos+077.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 231px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626276587313380066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFIfyeMyg0yvVRdf7OsluRldmQMKbXsDzsBKkWM9j1efBCvvJ6_SM8L6c6FT3RrwNEehe-XWJ8F7OOPtpxvWHUL7gZD4M1W1sdkwHm3cO06Kk-HjoKufF_V-pSSAhc8tVRZp8GfxZ_eWz/s320/Mckmama+photos+077.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJPixx7yMS8sJwM4xmNbYBcOQak_8PT2MtcSE57EaJnGhbVLOYiiManrEdI2iDOXICeh93hL9mxgkP3TptZ8z76Z8GCWhQ3eo2a_xaXZ-nfLgza6sx2sAUzH6kZhi4I2yOzMANeLTZAJT/s1600/Mckmama+photos+052.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626276569355324082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJPixx7yMS8sJwM4xmNbYBcOQak_8PT2MtcSE57EaJnGhbVLOYiiManrEdI2iDOXICeh93hL9mxgkP3TptZ8z76Z8GCWhQ3eo2a_xaXZ-nfLgza6sx2sAUzH6kZhi4I2yOzMANeLTZAJT/s320/Mckmama+photos+052.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOH5kceXJyx8Tyx980_Kx5zH2-w2USY0wNAq9wYFP6eaLUpjZ4KSc2u7cfedZRgmXtoeJ0nZE7BcO_9K0RXAI94xXEjgLswGVNR5UOkhH3jXGZr82E2-jdfhyphenhyphenWt6DikLYcxedIfjM8iu8s/s1600/Mckmama+photos+040.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626276566863970210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOH5kceXJyx8Tyx980_Kx5zH2-w2USY0wNAq9wYFP6eaLUpjZ4KSc2u7cfedZRgmXtoeJ0nZE7BcO_9K0RXAI94xXEjgLswGVNR5UOkhH3jXGZr82E2-jdfhyphenhyphenWt6DikLYcxedIfjM8iu8s/s320/Mckmama+photos+040.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlNDfaA_NjiXy1Y4w54PgtaKBixsjs0h4mBiMc_0sKumaRi6yF0o_60a46EIa930GLcXkZs88eaBOUNwo09nGfzuCmBuovPBK4RM37dlXnTErgPpubTt3lXL6H2gCYudblAKtPu5EUQ1e/s1600/Mckmama+photos+029.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626275543308286690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlNDfaA_NjiXy1Y4w54PgtaKBixsjs0h4mBiMc_0sKumaRi6yF0o_60a46EIa930GLcXkZs88eaBOUNwo09nGfzuCmBuovPBK4RM37dlXnTErgPpubTt3lXL6H2gCYudblAKtPu5EUQ1e/s320/Mckmama+photos+029.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFh3tciGc6dHOWkTD6ePpXt7WXoX8Q2mIek1qGZPzTbVFkblLQ9aGBYWqSE_md8H4YfhzX4yZQkYe8u_kt30BxPkMyJFtDo5BSKFPZ4XXbxYKc7WqLYM4kVlGdA6BZHZCvzpUTpRBhLWrJ/s1600/Mckmama+photos+020.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626275535288925986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFh3tciGc6dHOWkTD6ePpXt7WXoX8Q2mIek1qGZPzTbVFkblLQ9aGBYWqSE_md8H4YfhzX4yZQkYe8u_kt30BxPkMyJFtDo5BSKFPZ4XXbxYKc7WqLYM4kVlGdA6BZHZCvzpUTpRBhLWrJ/s320/Mckmama+photos+020.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhGqSEXzaIqHHrRKN8YWlq17JNk6Od4OApYADOHoPvfstXvaZI6TnPkwPnEvLujoMxa4tjHP8TSCq6sYyzskQj4I9G20R994mHT0C9SvWUtEAPWuo8YHuKF-FuDm7-K9Zunl37Sux1LQwu/s1600/Mckmama+photos+015.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626275533653875650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhGqSEXzaIqHHrRKN8YWlq17JNk6Od4OApYADOHoPvfstXvaZI6TnPkwPnEvLujoMxa4tjHP8TSCq6sYyzskQj4I9G20R994mHT0C9SvWUtEAPWuo8YHuKF-FuDm7-K9Zunl37Sux1LQwu/s320/Mckmama+photos+015.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTj4qg77bX-hhM6UaGIFn26wvY3zzXR9ZrUNZrNjDoi4nZ33jlCvtM7DUOT5w7Xyrtpb5Qc8ScuKn7k6FEb_hM77Cl-fMw5DGfU2wUXdinbwCZiuaTY6qtHeXrRIRZ8TT902AO7_6UDNF/s1600/Mckmama+photos+004.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 230px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626275528918122402" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTj4qg77bX-hhM6UaGIFn26wvY3zzXR9ZrUNZrNjDoi4nZ33jlCvtM7DUOT5w7Xyrtpb5Qc8ScuKn7k6FEb_hM77Cl-fMw5DGfU2wUXdinbwCZiuaTY6qtHeXrRIRZ8TT902AO7_6UDNF/s320/Mckmama+photos+004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgei8C8XJuYU1EQf1u3i_yHbqlRgAmk3cvf1mlZvzlTyQdBmwM8xDacKRyYDm_wsWy2jjBIbxZl6pj8GYalSu5k1P1Bci3N5BSuhlobWH_umqhVqXMtubd3Sk2wBaFMZ8M6X77PJJJn0yNS/s1600/Mckmama+photos+002.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626275524941074066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgei8C8XJuYU1EQf1u3i_yHbqlRgAmk3cvf1mlZvzlTyQdBmwM8xDacKRyYDm_wsWy2jjBIbxZl6pj8GYalSu5k1P1Bci3N5BSuhlobWH_umqhVqXMtubd3Sk2wBaFMZ8M6X77PJJJn0yNS/s320/Mckmama+photos+002.jpg" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div><br /><p align="center">The week after we returned from Idaho, we headed straight east to a town near Minneapolis for a photo shoot with Mckmama. Also known as Jennifer McKinney. While the weather did not cooperate with us at all, in fact it rained our entire photo shoot, we still had a great time and she managed to capture some great shots. These are just a few I picked to show everyone. While no one picture came out perfect of all three, every picture seemed to show their personalities and silly nature perfectly. In the end, what I really want to freeze is who they are and not the perfect sitting where we are all upright and tidy. That wouldn't be us at all! So, thank you Jennifer for freezing this age for me beautifully!!! They are indeed perfect!</p>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-9493550017919116382011-07-06T07:39:00.000-07:002011-07-06T09:19:22.842-07:00Big Boy "B"<div align="center">It really is hard to believe that there are no more babies in the house. Hard to believe that we are in full toddler frenzy here but we love every minute! Brayton turning two has been some big stuff around here. Our first party in ND and our first chance to celebrate with new friends and even some family! Here are a few pics from the party.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHC6R8nDN45zMF_2-qUnnJkkZZ0XwagZR6Csiwkilgut-VwSph1vvzu0e5ShRFVbOqlWHzblr8vth3AtgA4IQcPDYTWZNfzcLGdZCzV3XIGn9XkPo2LsaHmTo0Jk4FeeXa0WBIXy5Yqbo/s1600/June+2011+1014.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626253910176863986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHC6R8nDN45zMF_2-qUnnJkkZZ0XwagZR6Csiwkilgut-VwSph1vvzu0e5ShRFVbOqlWHzblr8vth3AtgA4IQcPDYTWZNfzcLGdZCzV3XIGn9XkPo2LsaHmTo0Jk4FeeXa0WBIXy5Yqbo/s320/June+2011+1014.jpg" /></a> Aiden, Bratyon, and his look-a-like pal Alex! Alex has been a fun buddy for Brayton and is only a month older. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vWrq77Z_R9Ap4DnFlLnGjgSfslIU3fpW6E9MJhdUnX6ccl1Z1zzO4TcGAzoIQz2MJIKiS7A4TJhcGinbOLX2lettIcjDvPZBwfkvJVsWbdcOfArkSUx00NAbAVfEi4cBfFifeTUKCCY8/s1600/June+2011+1024.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626253902252321426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vWrq77Z_R9Ap4DnFlLnGjgSfslIU3fpW6E9MJhdUnX6ccl1Z1zzO4TcGAzoIQz2MJIKiS7A4TJhcGinbOLX2lettIcjDvPZBwfkvJVsWbdcOfArkSUx00NAbAVfEi4cBfFifeTUKCCY8/s320/June+2011+1024.jpg" /></a> The children all go a little crazy whent he candy falls! Pinata fun at another birthday party!</div><br /><div align="center"><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Qq3cMj0GkrOtljh1FcvNlKVa9mc4PKgbOvgoxfe15BF2Wy6oLg3AFVbqk83WDsLJe9NC_vXnKeI8otO9tHIY9RuCvY8A9u2MvUYg8xLbm164Gq4fpSOgU58iR1SDsz2M4uzUKbwfRblP/s1600/June+2011+1033.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626250767596610994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Qq3cMj0GkrOtljh1FcvNlKVa9mc4PKgbOvgoxfe15BF2Wy6oLg3AFVbqk83WDsLJe9NC_vXnKeI8otO9tHIY9RuCvY8A9u2MvUYg8xLbm164Gq4fpSOgU58iR1SDsz2M4uzUKbwfRblP/s320/June+2011+1033.jpg" /></a> A full day of BBQ, pinata's, cake, water slides, dirt bikes, friend's, and fun! The day was predicted to have rain and drizzle but ended up being PERFECT for lot's of water and outdoor play. A great handful of new friend's and even some family came on over to celebrate the big day. My cousin Brandy and her family even stayed the whole weekend which made it extra special! The gorgeous prairie sky is a highlight after a quick burst of rain that night! Our Idaho mountains were sure beautiful but we are certainly enjoying the view from here as well.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhND5e-E25mpxNmjiVHaDp8FzYQ4YDFODhZnx4E9rqAIDVfs0tRRAim-s_UiG-O8TtkzrlpIDjqlzsmiauIO1cw5A-pCPSMVv_FTzST85Ao2pcFWb48MboOyAILIXtfGmMh2gb0sk7jC57i/s1600/June+2011+994.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626250756609301442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhND5e-E25mpxNmjiVHaDp8FzYQ4YDFODhZnx4E9rqAIDVfs0tRRAim-s_UiG-O8TtkzrlpIDjqlzsmiauIO1cw5A-pCPSMVv_FTzST85Ao2pcFWb48MboOyAILIXtfGmMh2gb0sk7jC57i/s320/June+2011+994.jpg" /></a> The water slide was a major hit! In fact, we didn't take it down for a week. Just moved it around the yard and the kid's play on it almost every day. Well worth it!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmB3-hF1ercEmHakcGutRnvLXlUDwPbw3BI0TE76j4rWHqXrTL9YlzxYOY_V8LZlo0LxlqE-th1TLHNINI7VLvxsL-4iYYpi-Yu1V6nRh9XEJVR44W92XJ6-CGCEQGgECK5Wfjoz6n6e-5/s1600/June+2011+1003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626250749367976530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmB3-hF1ercEmHakcGutRnvLXlUDwPbw3BI0TE76j4rWHqXrTL9YlzxYOY_V8LZlo0LxlqE-th1TLHNINI7VLvxsL-4iYYpi-Yu1V6nRh9XEJVR44W92XJ6-CGCEQGgECK5Wfjoz6n6e-5/s320/June+2011+1003.jpg" /></a> "Cars" was the theme since he is a little obsessed with it right now. He had Lighning McQueen everywhere! Even the pinata! Singing happy birthday is the moment I always realize we are moving to the next age. Not sure why but it kind of chokes me up every time.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNBXE2WDniTatJClssH4MneOnWADHfLFMgJXy4yLMfz-Tu17E-YN49NIyKH5kzAZXEcX2l157NHk_a2ynW8O97-0VB8sMlyFkPn9feqOlHuhKaAvF166I2El0NPFuQV83LaS9zWGTofzl/s1600/June+2011+1010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626250746351245090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNBXE2WDniTatJClssH4MneOnWADHfLFMgJXy4yLMfz-Tu17E-YN49NIyKH5kzAZXEcX2l157NHk_a2ynW8O97-0VB8sMlyFkPn9feqOlHuhKaAvF166I2El0NPFuQV83LaS9zWGTofzl/s320/June+2011+1010.jpg" /></a>Brayton getting jiggy with his cake! Sugar treats are not lost on this boy! He loves a little sugar more than his brother and sister ever did! It was so much fun to see him be celebrated! We were also especially grateful to show our new friend's how much we appreciate their friendship.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>And now we are two! Brayton has had some major big steps this year as well. He can go poo and pee int he potty and we are working on being 100% toilet trained. He talks up a storm and can immitate almost anything we say, including things he shouldn't! Uh-oh! He can do lot's of things himself that include getting his own yogurt, sitting on the potty with no help, getting out all his toys and putting them away, riding a trike, and he also colors a mean picture!! He is a spit fire and a dare devil who loves swimming and his siblings. Never passes on a cuddle and is quickly changing from a Mommy's boy to a Daddy's boy. He can make you laugh all day and also grit your teeth. He is just the best surprise we never knew we could get!</div><br /><div>Happy Birthday to you, Brayton!!!! We all love you and are so proud of you!!!! </div></div></div></div></div></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-38388655875336746552011-06-20T13:06:00.000-07:002011-06-20T13:29:21.516-07:00Bismarck's Record Flooding<div align="center">If you haven't heard, which would be almost impressive at this point, Bismarck (along with numerous other cities and states) is at an all time record flood stage. I tried my best to take pictures of the panic and devestation this small city is up against but they really do it no justice at all. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdN7Pne4-ubDJzrpnd1R0Py4H5DYy5jMJiDfKxYkn_41hl2O3xNPvQw-nlnD3QB22RzZbBK_UtD8uyEqX20XS6aGasGq6_ppmK8VB2GV8LNd0bdtb1mdwBT8Gotrlay68zHRFTCF7mWt62/s1600/June+2011+003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620396364554247314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdN7Pne4-ubDJzrpnd1R0Py4H5DYy5jMJiDfKxYkn_41hl2O3xNPvQw-nlnD3QB22RzZbBK_UtD8uyEqX20XS6aGasGq6_ppmK8VB2GV8LNd0bdtb1mdwBT8Gotrlay68zHRFTCF7mWt62/s320/June+2011+003.jpg" /></a> For reference, this is a small park on the Missouri river. This boat is now completely surrounded by water and if you look, you can see the TOPS of the trees in the water.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-8l9JbBJSu2qdIPhQL7xXMiHlrWHaUPgWFAUdxnwFq50joIoAuCIP3El9iEyhZZ-eGmQtG6L2N5EYODdX4T77hzLuP_yWPcNiz-Xe7QpCbCNs-Dizwn22k6QNK3tFbdZegaE6epeyD3_/s1600/June+2011+006.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620396362227373090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-8l9JbBJSu2qdIPhQL7xXMiHlrWHaUPgWFAUdxnwFq50joIoAuCIP3El9iEyhZZ-eGmQtG6L2N5EYODdX4T77hzLuP_yWPcNiz-Xe7QpCbCNs-Dizwn22k6QNK3tFbdZegaE6epeyD3_/s320/June+2011+006.jpg" /></a> This is what much of the city looks like. Homes with moving trucks moving everything out down to the furnace, sand bags and destroyed grass from all the traffic. No children out playing or riding bikes because they also know the seriousness of the situation and are working along side the adults to save their homes.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherB56BrdlY4422yJOE4cVqTdzbi1NJs2xDYCu2Paq5WCEOkZIXu_u9dCmHmkDCxXm3F037JqBAn-BktLBZH1MK3A0GIX5RjbD8cG-WeQFArKl8DK8DE5SotNo8fCKaMt5pN7R8fkmDmAg/s1600/June+2011+005.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 173px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620396354689712658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherB56BrdlY4422yJOE4cVqTdzbi1NJs2xDYCu2Paq5WCEOkZIXu_u9dCmHmkDCxXm3F037JqBAn-BktLBZH1MK3A0GIX5RjbD8cG-WeQFArKl8DK8DE5SotNo8fCKaMt5pN7R8fkmDmAg/s320/June+2011+005.jpg" /></a> This is what thousands of volunteers are doing at one of the MANY sand bagging locations. They say we already have over 4 million sand bags here and will be at 8 million when the town is secure. That doesn't include the massive amounts of dirt that have been trucked in to build dikes all around the town.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWnTlxIsXyKpTCDkT8SfdNyFb7IHEqW73iIRHwLh3AOaOMbSXI_EDBX8ftS7q6_-L0Yi5Ygw4ylVa5wXo7o8pmKB3N4Sv86hvPlX8KSEDXcobL_xnsxpoxvRmwXC-IVgNF3T9VjZTnPDU4/s1600/June+2011+002.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 235px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620396349626024258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWnTlxIsXyKpTCDkT8SfdNyFb7IHEqW73iIRHwLh3AOaOMbSXI_EDBX8ftS7q6_-L0Yi5Ygw4ylVa5wXo7o8pmKB3N4Sv86hvPlX8KSEDXcobL_xnsxpoxvRmwXC-IVgNF3T9VjZTnPDU4/s320/June+2011+002.jpg" /></a> The rest rooms at a local park. I read that every tree or shrub under water will most likely die as well. That means that this mature shaded park will changed when the water finally decides to leave.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1KbyeWQIeI43LtcY58IFT1C0k5_VtYxnZgrF9UztZrVJxzMAlMUwtLj1N-gmzzeWiY8gz8H6wcz7_5T2FyxyGqPpJSdif2A2uFcO5evearpT1IzQZkDt5DGpWa9n8ibAE72yzShHMM4h/s1600/June+2011+001.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 222px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620396346694378290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1KbyeWQIeI43LtcY58IFT1C0k5_VtYxnZgrF9UztZrVJxzMAlMUwtLj1N-gmzzeWiY8gz8H6wcz7_5T2FyxyGqPpJSdif2A2uFcO5evearpT1IzQZkDt5DGpWa9n8ibAE72yzShHMM4h/s320/June+2011+001.jpg" /></a> This playground hasn't seen a child all summer and was one of the first places to be flooded. Now, this play structure is almost completely covered. Now you can only see about the final foot of it above water. </div><br /><div>There, of course, have been the good things. People helping one another and coming together, the united front of a city that feels under attack, a rush of gratitude for having time to save what they could, and the all too often needed reminder of what is truly important. </div><br /><div>The river beds are forever changed along with the people but it has, once again, shown me the strength of people and the generosity of strangers. North Dakota continues to amaze us even in their darkest hours. Please keep this community and everyone in it in your prayers and thoughts as they wait out the flood. </div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-2717040943562258612011-05-23T10:51:00.000-07:002011-05-23T11:41:24.930-07:00The Motley Crue goes Home Sweet Home<div align="center">Ok, I am a little slow at getting this up here and I think I may have taken it a little far on the number of pictures BUT. . . .Here goes!!! </div><br /><div align="center">First of all, can I just say that I actually look forward to the drive. The 16.5 hour drive, all in one day, is so pleasant for us. The children are kept on their schedule the entire time and we get to see some of the most amazing scenery in the world!! This time was no different! This trip was our most animal filled to date! We saw rabbits, multiple fox, an adult wolf pass in front of our truck, a wolf pup, a turkey, deer by the boat load, elk, antelope, three moose's, and loads of buffalo. The icing on the cake, however, was while driving through Yellowstone we came upon numerous "Buffalo in Road" signs. Obviously, we see buffalo everytime but this time I knew something was different. People had their cameras out (not me though :( )and were driving so slow past the end of a herd. Then, when I came upon it, I realized a buffalo had JUST given birth to her baby!!! I mean seconds before we came upon her. It was so neat to be there and see that miracle of an animal that was almost extinct at one time. Another moment I am so glad to say my children had the chance to see!</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyBzGGwRWZxhE2pLiiG7ildiyU4qLZkuBQVkVhhfDRB10kaQwxw1LQa5cCnjBwtqM5WIUAoYU2FwIt7gl6f4IZcVBckfzLCL2HP5r3Le-eGwJEtJzH-NCzxeUM_iK0JFwcXnF1D5Wkjx5/s1600/May+2011+003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609974081035069362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyBzGGwRWZxhE2pLiiG7ildiyU4qLZkuBQVkVhhfDRB10kaQwxw1LQa5cCnjBwtqM5WIUAoYU2FwIt7gl6f4IZcVBckfzLCL2HP5r3Le-eGwJEtJzH-NCzxeUM_iK0JFwcXnF1D5Wkjx5/s320/May+2011+003.jpg" /></a>We were so fortunate that our renter is a dear friend and that she didn't mind us staying with her at all. She has taken such amazing care of our home and we were so glad to see her making it a home for her and her son. She is also the best gardner I have EVER known, and I know a few, so our yard is also benefitting from her handy work!! Lucky us!!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oWoyYu-2KeJoktHTg1xvk5NpHV18z_64tB5vd7ok8MCuu7sZQ4QL0cmeYoDNAWCw2R_GgBwtuEfqoA5epx7UCXXp6r_XbOsUZTapH7ECeDyQoZDCanl3HAkYcqE7PlPMYuZPnc8GM9pZ/s1600/May+2011+006.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973898097295714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oWoyYu-2KeJoktHTg1xvk5NpHV18z_64tB5vd7ok8MCuu7sZQ4QL0cmeYoDNAWCw2R_GgBwtuEfqoA5epx7UCXXp6r_XbOsUZTapH7ECeDyQoZDCanl3HAkYcqE7PlPMYuZPnc8GM9pZ/s320/May+2011+006.jpg" /></a> The kids all loved playing back at their own home. The twin's remembered so much about our house and weren't at all confused at why we aren't there and someone else is. It was great to have so many friend's and family come by to see us as well. A few of the days we were lucky enough to just let the people roll in and out of the house while we relaxed and played. Honestly, I figured since I drove 16.5 hours, a lot of people could make it to us instead of us hauling to see them and everyone seemed to be alright with that theory. Thankfully, all the people we love and miss were amazing at helping me out and making it easier on this traveling Motley Crue! Thanks to everyone!!!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeFTwRHh0mp1cQJsuvXBIYduR26CRMlu5sLE6oMELKzuzaaQsAmrdrKSrWmGlXdEvx2ci_Mjo3H_aI2vrs22G5er1EBx26RPA89ASE17tHZXhoFUjllXx6HIQpuTCCMNXe-sSNQXZ8MEB/s1600/May+2011+004.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973884343417778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeFTwRHh0mp1cQJsuvXBIYduR26CRMlu5sLE6oMELKzuzaaQsAmrdrKSrWmGlXdEvx2ci_Mjo3H_aI2vrs22G5er1EBx26RPA89ASE17tHZXhoFUjllXx6HIQpuTCCMNXe-sSNQXZ8MEB/s320/May+2011+004.jpg" /></a> One of our most missed toys. . . The swingset!!!!! Thankfully, we had lot's of time with Papop while at home. I must admit, I think I miss my Dad more than anything and it only felt like home the minute he showed up!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymGkYQq7Ci4C7-8zywuj6v7Y5KfInx6NfnFhUDQFEcsPOCoo1YJWMgL4wVNENgvWJ_WzkIzkGJ1dL5SEFTSZ2w10pmBR9RF7ZzcoMSB_kpRt6R7OIvwsA_IdjwlAQiJ6RR4j6gPboSAM4/s1600/May+2011+010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973882285173826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymGkYQq7Ci4C7-8zywuj6v7Y5KfInx6NfnFhUDQFEcsPOCoo1YJWMgL4wVNENgvWJ_WzkIzkGJ1dL5SEFTSZ2w10pmBR9RF7ZzcoMSB_kpRt6R7OIvwsA_IdjwlAQiJ6RR4j6gPboSAM4/s320/May+2011+010.jpg" /></a> Playing at the house with Wyatt's bunny. Phineas. What a cute name for a cute bunny!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehWRfg3VpYcH8jI7_RTnazwDk3KkW5nEc8xt5on2RCHNYOdtD6WWfAUxpgfaQzZzBQ38LByzbskgQYqsLhICkeF7XvSSwfHobe4mFC5P8mlyKWqJUucu8wMBXSMEW6XEdrdAQXFZ2ItLW/s1600/May+2011+017.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973875688522802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehWRfg3VpYcH8jI7_RTnazwDk3KkW5nEc8xt5on2RCHNYOdtD6WWfAUxpgfaQzZzBQ38LByzbskgQYqsLhICkeF7XvSSwfHobe4mFC5P8mlyKWqJUucu8wMBXSMEW6XEdrdAQXFZ2ItLW/s320/May+2011+017.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYYdqF2UKB81pE0mqVVzET9N3rE1QUoetZDg68oYNtlGk0CUObQPIYT5-uiWhS_RORVq-hh3wMHMEUa2tRF5eK3PJqpIrgWBLNI8Tj9Z__5yeiHQmKxeUxUvAoqvlC9JxmU4dnur5SsMs/s1600/May+2011+030.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973870282244258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYYdqF2UKB81pE0mqVVzET9N3rE1QUoetZDg68oYNtlGk0CUObQPIYT5-uiWhS_RORVq-hh3wMHMEUa2tRF5eK3PJqpIrgWBLNI8Tj9Z__5yeiHQmKxeUxUvAoqvlC9JxmU4dnur5SsMs/s320/May+2011+030.jpg" /></a> We speant a lot of time with the Dillon clan. I got to meet Lauren for the first time and must say, I am in love!!! Look at her! Who wouldn't be???<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNpCJRJgG0naIhEnUA5d2WmNHPTsPZ3pb619McS4SfBGMZKCvb4RtdgnM3ES9kGWIwWzJpNrYifITEay807fwGgbAk77UpKU1v31ghuOlRXmygEAu1fdZfceuuKbfxkEyjLcrzfOxW82s/s1600/May+2011+027.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973375199821938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNpCJRJgG0naIhEnUA5d2WmNHPTsPZ3pb619McS4SfBGMZKCvb4RtdgnM3ES9kGWIwWzJpNrYifITEay807fwGgbAk77UpKU1v31ghuOlRXmygEAu1fdZfceuuKbfxkEyjLcrzfOxW82s/s320/May+2011+027.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPparmxg5MQQryWs9X9ET_7EleIMknQSFIJDmhvusI0F7ouZ_L1ZSlNZYXWf5CCZnIMqNO4FFaJLB6_O9jDrWxmoSR7xHk4tRBl3BpGYw3u6ggoYatRzUwmLQxVHF6D0vPclDMC7D90CO9/s1600/May+2011+030.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973366014431874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPparmxg5MQQryWs9X9ET_7EleIMknQSFIJDmhvusI0F7ouZ_L1ZSlNZYXWf5CCZnIMqNO4FFaJLB6_O9jDrWxmoSR7xHk4tRBl3BpGYw3u6ggoYatRzUwmLQxVHF6D0vPclDMC7D90CO9/s320/May+2011+030.jpg" /></a> Ok, I don't know how to get rid of the double picture and am NOT starting over! Sorry!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZN46ALqUeACIWnWF9rdgspGXJPmf3ewDgqssMLZ9slG9HUEQNzIfs6g6I-H8izKvA58qAgKCBcijM41zgUn8WQubPQZpEvCyJC32EkBDWJ-E2tEhJHymdMBHOKRES4bmcXvJ3D-VzYpu/s1600/May+2011+037.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973360452151730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZN46ALqUeACIWnWF9rdgspGXJPmf3ewDgqssMLZ9slG9HUEQNzIfs6g6I-H8izKvA58qAgKCBcijM41zgUn8WQubPQZpEvCyJC32EkBDWJ-E2tEhJHymdMBHOKRES4bmcXvJ3D-VzYpu/s320/May+2011+037.jpg" /></a>The, always awesome, Uncle Kurt. Annelise was born with a natural admiration of Uncle Kurt. She seriously love him more than any of them and talks about him often. She was pretty jazzed to see him! So was I!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSu6mWdFa1xu_OcCcE1MJgHmjlE45MNvusj2dWI4gN-PlxJJ8YJ0DOi2dUsXn84_GBNpu6VexhUs7fSmwq097FWvfVKuwBt11AfKZzx3vKfkzreKJvlyZExytMAM-f8TQGrF2saSWArkNI/s1600/May+2011+032.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973350419953618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSu6mWdFa1xu_OcCcE1MJgHmjlE45MNvusj2dWI4gN-PlxJJ8YJ0DOi2dUsXn84_GBNpu6VexhUs7fSmwq097FWvfVKuwBt11AfKZzx3vKfkzreKJvlyZExytMAM-f8TQGrF2saSWArkNI/s320/May+2011+032.jpg" /></a> Our niece's Chelsea and Natasha with new baby Kamryn. Chelsea looked AMAZING when we saw her and Natasha's baby was so sweet and beautiful that I contemplated taking her home. However, I think Natasha would have disapproved!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMkTdODi8JgmAaBTv3fGZrdzSnzevgFSRndhUrSGJHLyApZ4rUuTxLUeJ9cDFn_CO7ssu4GluAfi9VFaT3EeXh29Dl5I1Ghv402nFHZOESLkolzODyH3a21NgNTCzKbwz114_J37CzHV_/s1600/May+2011+034.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609973349601082530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMkTdODi8JgmAaBTv3fGZrdzSnzevgFSRndhUrSGJHLyApZ4rUuTxLUeJ9cDFn_CO7ssu4GluAfi9VFaT3EeXh29Dl5I1Ghv402nFHZOESLkolzODyH3a21NgNTCzKbwz114_J37CzHV_/s320/May+2011+034.jpg" /></a> Kid's playing. . . .we did a lot of this!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRe7vqbxrjFKelEfysG_v1V7Cbpeh2q4wGJD1fkUWI3rMQAgGIpWzpkG4zeHt9OgIg6Ov2Q3PGTywjrs2LbTJdXyMfm9eLQ_LQoh2gnqeCsXMnZMPzaXzBKdwIcB3ocCmiVZWk7SHx0W9/s1600/May+2011+046.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972807972632786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRe7vqbxrjFKelEfysG_v1V7Cbpeh2q4wGJD1fkUWI3rMQAgGIpWzpkG4zeHt9OgIg6Ov2Q3PGTywjrs2LbTJdXyMfm9eLQ_LQoh2gnqeCsXMnZMPzaXzBKdwIcB3ocCmiVZWk7SHx0W9/s320/May+2011+046.jpg" /></a>Playing with Phineas. We did a lot of this too!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbjzLMFdW_gXIJho40zY6yhp7eQtvjkNY0bA-xu3mZvoSBWeRjug5r01lnEt3WY-Xim3c0yyh3yJga9bx9aUt-ZDhoM5we3EQVQEBnlAhHO4-PxwoPZZ254fUQnpeVVbSn3g4krnBWMOE/s1600/May+2011+050.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972796822234594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbjzLMFdW_gXIJho40zY6yhp7eQtvjkNY0bA-xu3mZvoSBWeRjug5r01lnEt3WY-Xim3c0yyh3yJga9bx9aUt-ZDhoM5we3EQVQEBnlAhHO4-PxwoPZZ254fUQnpeVVbSn3g4krnBWMOE/s320/May+2011+050.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxc7t51X5i8m44uLPriEeaUZhCB8Pd59LlOry_4PWTDvwfAX75fAcHZ5pRwdD9JOzZNVmuuSVOOlIgGLhgfeZby2u5lLR3lwVcYz4o2h1-4lT2J5kKNfQSOLWe42reZCBF3Gz3DMFfsDn/s1600/May+2011+071.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972795330558834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxc7t51X5i8m44uLPriEeaUZhCB8Pd59LlOry_4PWTDvwfAX75fAcHZ5pRwdD9JOzZNVmuuSVOOlIgGLhgfeZby2u5lLR3lwVcYz4o2h1-4lT2J5kKNfQSOLWe42reZCBF3Gz3DMFfsDn/s320/May+2011+071.jpg" /></a> A trip to the zoo where we met numerous friend's and family. I have to say, this was a great day and a fun way to see a lot of people and have a great time being somewhere we love. Uncle Wade was a big kid and lot's of fun! What uncle do you know that will go down that slide a hundred times. We stayed for most the day and had a beautiful afternoon.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjOr055opVKp4Av3agId6h845XbBi2tOnAkJ7Nf7en_a72HC7Bisv23Fr2QeK7zfnZnTfDVuBffdmLYKfmCj5KQOIACh8QiqMt_NM4ISX9b8Z_HrM85ivr1kbMOF4szR9dv9p_ZiZLIHz/s1600/May+2011+074.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972785987302290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjOr055opVKp4Av3agId6h845XbBi2tOnAkJ7Nf7en_a72HC7Bisv23Fr2QeK7zfnZnTfDVuBffdmLYKfmCj5KQOIACh8QiqMt_NM4ISX9b8Z_HrM85ivr1kbMOF4szR9dv9p_ZiZLIHz/s320/May+2011+074.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZvE-gymeXqDIc5p7ZT59cwjyNe8IKhDhVRm8uwy9Sa35d27Byy14vCjnTwAkAeMknrIrqw0XGKL9pwR8o8UZo5WqZDFW0x8uNqz4aK8u1dO2GJPgTvwcI1oswpucP-k1zWhbsKBgnTrT/s1600/May+2011+080.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972782965913330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZvE-gymeXqDIc5p7ZT59cwjyNe8IKhDhVRm8uwy9Sa35d27Byy14vCjnTwAkAeMknrIrqw0XGKL9pwR8o8UZo5WqZDFW0x8uNqz4aK8u1dO2GJPgTvwcI1oswpucP-k1zWhbsKBgnTrT/s320/May+2011+080.jpg" /></a>Part of the Zoo Posse!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmwXE5lw1Qv-3UTPSzfYYgKdxVM93dRrbG71U4aDorVGmGZ-x-tAAYAw-5Fjx8qnnQ5DADRxIJZbMQaNhMUebcJ2AsGIqdKjT5feQVzwKcPc28VVyXkosxO3blTVFKNTqnkRRPJJnRot9/s1600/May+2011+094.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972261422258946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmwXE5lw1Qv-3UTPSzfYYgKdxVM93dRrbG71U4aDorVGmGZ-x-tAAYAw-5Fjx8qnnQ5DADRxIJZbMQaNhMUebcJ2AsGIqdKjT5feQVzwKcPc28VVyXkosxO3blTVFKNTqnkRRPJJnRot9/s320/May+2011+094.jpg" /></a> Our favorite part!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelqW64Qigx4ZhyphenhyphenohqZXru9hUOeowK-uS6NzuF5zUYnyIkvdYJaF93ZSCQwVfIjiWM6pq-MqR0IfvRi7LZh-K1FrDZavrbM3FzReuwhlvt0gHp9LheLYBOgvRsYg3iYxSINClANCwJ3sy4/s1600/May+2011+088.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972253816824418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelqW64Qigx4ZhyphenhyphenohqZXru9hUOeowK-uS6NzuF5zUYnyIkvdYJaF93ZSCQwVfIjiWM6pq-MqR0IfvRi7LZh-K1FrDZavrbM3FzReuwhlvt0gHp9LheLYBOgvRsYg3iYxSINClANCwJ3sy4/s320/May+2011+088.jpg" /></a> The kid's also got to hang out with their Best Friends! Anna cried when we left, which in turn broke my heart into a million small bits! She just loves this awesome group of kid's so much! So do we. When you find well behaved, well mannered, outgoing, kind, and loving children whose parent's you also love. . . WIN, WIN!!!!!! We miss them lot's!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfX2eRDQhuQpkUVLOvIDzXBfiV7gSc9sM4OfoqZ7vDLjzUff8r2U7eg8o8kZ0kH7TavhVW-mAL-sPrTN-W5t9Oaw5PQVtdy8k8JTLTtB1Am8AQpyZeqHnPlQW71Sh1sT003TFpMUTmekrH/s1600/May+2011+096.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972249696409842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfX2eRDQhuQpkUVLOvIDzXBfiV7gSc9sM4OfoqZ7vDLjzUff8r2U7eg8o8kZ0kH7TavhVW-mAL-sPrTN-W5t9Oaw5PQVtdy8k8JTLTtB1Am8AQpyZeqHnPlQW71Sh1sT003TFpMUTmekrH/s320/May+2011+096.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3VyqFRHGCj0WFSplTyeTUVAlNQGDApstIQ6-LxpRs3Rg1UjCJh69AMzQ3WDSOGyIS9_7by3dp38F1A_qpFjrtMrF4DaC-uTgJE37ESa8xTYVDP4lp5m-yHgZMXtpPC1FxCRJ7rRzbWpZ/s1600/May+2011+100.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972246347544882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3VyqFRHGCj0WFSplTyeTUVAlNQGDApstIQ6-LxpRs3Rg1UjCJh69AMzQ3WDSOGyIS9_7by3dp38F1A_qpFjrtMrF4DaC-uTgJE37ESa8xTYVDP4lp5m-yHgZMXtpPC1FxCRJ7rRzbWpZ/s320/May+2011+100.jpg" /></a> The main reason we came home! My niece, Natalie is pregnant (5 months, I know. . I can't even tell either!) and had an amazing shower! That cake was all edible and AMAZING!!!! Andy Kingston made it and we were all in AWE! The shower was BEAUTIFUL and there is no doubt this baby is ooober loved already. At the end of summer we will all be excited to welcome baby Tenley!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4HMI2KPtX_Ayg_nQjPvum5qRlkoV-IWLjoIZo8YhiO17DkYc6vOKJ7t7L5mHJyxNiUfElUkbEP5jjy9rH9PE_stjkvUnFL87RI1daTe7G1FqX00kV5c-xwKZ40SFQ4tqFACJx-7faryt/s1600/May+2011+106.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609972240614761362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4HMI2KPtX_Ayg_nQjPvum5qRlkoV-IWLjoIZo8YhiO17DkYc6vOKJ7t7L5mHJyxNiUfElUkbEP5jjy9rH9PE_stjkvUnFL87RI1daTe7G1FqX00kV5c-xwKZ40SFQ4tqFACJx-7faryt/s320/May+2011+106.jpg" /></a>The Wheeler girl's are some more of our dear buddies that we miss!!!<br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2OFnieRMY5qyzniLeXVUu0PipPnD5ORrtzGO_CKvTFB5nnmjSM-XR6jEs7OhamRVjiTULt4VehhQRHHs0yJKRSlj8xZ7AnucrIgERBOcl0OQWgEkYnPlYMImZQgHp-lr0fe3cs_FyRQ_X/s1600/May+2011+128.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609971496258000498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2OFnieRMY5qyzniLeXVUu0PipPnD5ORrtzGO_CKvTFB5nnmjSM-XR6jEs7OhamRVjiTULt4VehhQRHHs0yJKRSlj8xZ7AnucrIgERBOcl0OQWgEkYnPlYMImZQgHp-lr0fe3cs_FyRQ_X/s320/May+2011+128.jpg" /></a> Annelise also has a special bond with Aunt Angela. Perhaps, it's the love of jewlery that bonds these two but Anna always manages to spend some quality time with her and the bunny Bella.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqXVlHFuanSIdb0sZSZfwY-at7TqhHKtevqjPOHChDgugQFxp25pzMti_J5jGE4kftPEyAxYX8tubnRtTNZkNhgDO3dfKlqtqjxi0LWOKZoUiHenBVRLp1bharc7MWNeP1QZKcvoaCUor/s1600/May+2011+131.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609971490987657602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqXVlHFuanSIdb0sZSZfwY-at7TqhHKtevqjPOHChDgugQFxp25pzMti_J5jGE4kftPEyAxYX8tubnRtTNZkNhgDO3dfKlqtqjxi0LWOKZoUiHenBVRLp1bharc7MWNeP1QZKcvoaCUor/s320/May+2011+131.jpg" /></a> Dinner at Uncle Boyd's and Aunt Donna's proved to be another wonderful fiest! They can cook!! Brayton was holding Kamryn only I'm not sure he knew what to do with her!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLU6ee_njjMfPhSgSdAcq1u5tpAr27UhVfAY-b2Um_hnQpom7WecrpPgDCCfeP4YVZw4JpfPp7cta1kie2PFtE9DFHcTx_ajThM7LkQe9W_KyrIE2OqUH9U4Gy1IZVo7K9bxnHu-2GwqZp/s1600/May+2011+137.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609971489541304994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLU6ee_njjMfPhSgSdAcq1u5tpAr27UhVfAY-b2Um_hnQpom7WecrpPgDCCfeP4YVZw4JpfPp7cta1kie2PFtE9DFHcTx_ajThM7LkQe9W_KyrIE2OqUH9U4Gy1IZVo7K9bxnHu-2GwqZp/s320/May+2011+137.jpg" /></a> Another Moose on the way home in Yellowstone. Such beautiful animals.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWgzZXGL1JVeaRFL41tM3GKjy71d6zDBRF-mtULnfMojrW4H-ZFNSi1hpXrtgUFt_xX4xxZUTzUMW8d6fxKmYcfd46SUy_gDC2HExHiVVKLQfACmuQ2e24Ww_ZkDlHCVe8WPW6oCDorzh/s1600/May+2011+139.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609971478458293378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWgzZXGL1JVeaRFL41tM3GKjy71d6zDBRF-mtULnfMojrW4H-ZFNSi1hpXrtgUFt_xX4xxZUTzUMW8d6fxKmYcfd46SUy_gDC2HExHiVVKLQfACmuQ2e24Ww_ZkDlHCVe8WPW6oCDorzh/s320/May+2011+139.jpg" /></a>A lot of people ask what I do about the bathroom on the road. Well, sorry if this is TMI, however, here is what we do. We take our perfectly potty trained children and make them go in a diaper instead of draggin us all in a dirty gas station bathroom. Once Brayton is old enough to not touch everything, we will revisit this plan but in the mean time, here is what we do! How lucky to be able to do your business with the backdrop of Yellowstone!!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRAuMP9Rtlahh7e0WnOKL_6TSqHaa_6Lbuvsi100QgpWrPKQQiA-f5SPAIZLAAhTPJcJacl75YQ_VR3_s2NUv1ZOwGakNbScBtla-Ug50Lq2-qbGz5EBNWSdYCK9Zkmx_qU9tkqW6WZg9/s1600/May+2011+142.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609971473165213266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRAuMP9Rtlahh7e0WnOKL_6TSqHaa_6Lbuvsi100QgpWrPKQQiA-f5SPAIZLAAhTPJcJacl75YQ_VR3_s2NUv1ZOwGakNbScBtla-Ug50Lq2-qbGz5EBNWSdYCK9Zkmx_qU9tkqW6WZg9/s320/May+2011+142.jpg" /></a> So, that's it in a nutshell! Thank you to all the people who came over, went out with us on Friday night (GOOD TIMES!!!!!), hosted dinner for our family, let us stay with them, loved on us, showered the children with affection, and made me grateful for everyone we miss daily! We cannot wait to come home again in July and celebrate the wedding's of Nick and Nat!!! We sure felt loved and missed ourselves! Home was certainly sweet!!!!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3716676106194456468.post-9151400180549327742011-05-22T06:46:00.000-07:002011-05-22T07:08:15.472-07:00Mine is a Dandelion Life!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhjJwuV1CkQKhfVYAHIfoQZuGpzik6cuQgPDwXnMBPm1tygHYNILy-wd5rTVMAiwJsWnObJp81WagRiYxx8rg47bq2Va7FzF1rH5kPCfjBExbfc6fe0Hq9trKlfP2R9ThOcyGfuLyeTFg/s1600/May+2011+189.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609536967922947282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhjJwuV1CkQKhfVYAHIfoQZuGpzik6cuQgPDwXnMBPm1tygHYNILy-wd5rTVMAiwJsWnObJp81WagRiYxx8rg47bq2Va7FzF1rH5kPCfjBExbfc6fe0Hq9trKlfP2R9ThOcyGfuLyeTFg/s320/May+2011+189.jpg" /></a> Some of my favorite things have come in the form of weeds. </div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VBkQz20YJdpRLbWpqlLSaGhl8NFF2uP-rzYAKhQj7OxUgdPJw_Cs28vuygoI7T_Q0D3HofRd6g6qhzHvwKul29kpYNdbcJrDe06bWbGGLqnLQDitz0oxXEz4mlOtBhSigqZWF3jp-WNB/s1600/May+2011+158.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609536956702504226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VBkQz20YJdpRLbWpqlLSaGhl8NFF2uP-rzYAKhQj7OxUgdPJw_Cs28vuygoI7T_Q0D3HofRd6g6qhzHvwKul29kpYNdbcJrDe06bWbGGLqnLQDitz0oxXEz4mlOtBhSigqZWF3jp-WNB/s320/May+2011+158.jpg" /></a> I supose you could say that needing to do IVF to have our first two children was a sort of weed in our life.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5riPPiQiH6xonl-Y5PXX8FMmvl7kjwo2kGd5QU0TtmqlHXmYqEfO7G3zKmyEUk4F3M_d4z4tb5rZvTfyyZkOY0VLgfFgNl5y-3KmTXtGiG7GqIe78p9JWwIeezDThko9DX36vWwUnSo9b/s1600/May+2011+160.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609536955428600626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5riPPiQiH6xonl-Y5PXX8FMmvl7kjwo2kGd5QU0TtmqlHXmYqEfO7G3zKmyEUk4F3M_d4z4tb5rZvTfyyZkOY0VLgfFgNl5y-3KmTXtGiG7GqIe78p9JWwIeezDThko9DX36vWwUnSo9b/s320/May+2011+160.jpg" /></a> Maybe having to move the plains of North Dakota was another patch of dandelions in our life.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0K_q6G8FX5FCejeGfKP51fevzvfsv5hBosKfEaIsiJLtNfPMgrXu-4RktdYsZKFPQLrf9SyhCvipZul3jLFvHRPqQ65Hj58MiZX8Krs8d1yiadpRDYmeTrkPde3LUF-DaLYX4zxoSTPn/s1600/May+2011+162.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609536941327941922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0K_q6G8FX5FCejeGfKP51fevzvfsv5hBosKfEaIsiJLtNfPMgrXu-4RktdYsZKFPQLrf9SyhCvipZul3jLFvHRPqQ65Hj58MiZX8Krs8d1yiadpRDYmeTrkPde3LUF-DaLYX4zxoSTPn/s320/May+2011+162.jpg" /></a> So it all may seem.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgXU6RNSBiyOwSFgKt9LkCVEoVZ7fvq6KBRuKjVJdn9skRB3anxEpFIIDoaKBNVHob_EDK6NPbxmG3YKe_jIBuQ5BcEIYcZaYUJi2jsTnkRBa86RWqskwsdO3TBcQZcjOGCXLJ_E_suap/s1600/May+2011+185.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609536936562106386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgXU6RNSBiyOwSFgKt9LkCVEoVZ7fvq6KBRuKjVJdn9skRB3anxEpFIIDoaKBNVHob_EDK6NPbxmG3YKe_jIBuQ5BcEIYcZaYUJi2jsTnkRBa86RWqskwsdO3TBcQZcjOGCXLJ_E_suap/s320/May+2011+185.jpg" /></a> Yesterday, it rained all morning. After the rain, we headed outside to pick "flowers". I was showered with dandelion bouquets of every shape and size. What I find truly interesting is that earlier that morning, while Bodie and I were drinking our morning coffee together, we both noted that there wasn't a single dandelion in sight at this house. See, our house back in Idaho usually has an issue in the early spring with dandelions and since we had just been there, it was still fresh in our mind. Oddly enough, by early afternoon, we had more dandelions than you can shake a stick at. It makes me laugh just to think of the irony.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So it got me thinking. Weed? Or flower? The way you view a dandelion may not change your life but I can say, it is changing mine. See, when we had everything we ever wanted (so it seemed) all we truly wanted was a child. All the success and money in the bank didn't compare to what we knew we were missing. So many people expressed their sadness for us when we had to go the IVF route. We were never sad about it. Not even for a second. The result was Annelise and Bodie! I had always, always dreamed of having twins. It was a desire that I have had since I was very little. So from that dandelion in my life, sprang my most beautiful flowers! As a result, we were lucky enough to even have a miracle baby, Brayton!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Obviously, moving to North Dakota might be thought of as a weed as well. However, the pace of life here and the way people treat their neighbor has been a humbling and amazing gift to us. We were blessed to be welcomed with open arms of strangers, kindness from every corner, and granted a kind of unity in this family that might never have come otherwise. It's just so amazing to me how God really gives you what you need when you least expect it. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So next time you see a dandelion just try to see the flower. I know I haven't even posted pics from our trip back home yet or our trip to Minnesota that we just got home from but the sun is shining and we have some flowers to pick. I hope all your weeds become bouquets of the sweetest smelling flowers! </div></div></div><br /></div>Holtan-Bates familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09916191214217933053noreply@blogger.com0