The Holtom Family

Blondie Bars

2010-07-25T23:00:00.000-06:00

I have being a good girl, well kind of, and keep eating stupid stuff like salad, veggies, and you know everything else that falls into that boring catagory, but when you see yummy, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth things, I just can't help myself. Blondie Bars, doesn't it just sound like something I should have in my possesion? Yes, Yes it does, and you have to admit,

It's looks pretty "Cool."

Blondie Bars
2 1/8 cups (10 1/2 ounces) all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
12 tablespoons butter (1 1/2 sticks), melted and cooled slightly
1 cup (7 ounces) light brown sugar
1/2 (3 1/2 ounces) cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups chocolate chips (use your preference of semisweet, bittersweet, milk, white, peanut butter…the options are endless!)

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Adjust the oven rack to lower-middle position. Line a 9X13-inch baking pan with foil, letting the excess hang over the edges of the pan by about 1 inch so you can grab those edges and pull the brownies from the pan after they have baked. Spray the foil-lined pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Mix the flour, salt, and baking soda together in medium bowl; set aside. Whisk the melted butter and sugars in a large bowl until combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla and mix well. Using a rubber spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips and turn the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.

Bake until the top of the bars is light golden brown, slightly firm to the touch, and edges start pulling away from sides of pan, 24-28 minutes. Cool on a wire rack to room temperature. Remove the bars from the pan by lifting the foil overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into 2-inch squares and serve. Eat, and feel really good about yourself, because come on, there's only so much time to LIVE. You can feel bad about it tomorrow, or not!

"PIE" oneers

2010-07-24T23:57:00.000-06:00

I loved this so much, I had to post this so I would actually do it! Enjoy

STAR-STUDDED MINI PIE

Buy 2 Refrigerated Pie Dough or Make Your Own

One Can Pie Filling (Cherry, of course)

2 T Butter, Melted

1/4 Cup Granulated Sugar
Preheat oven according to pie crust recipe.
Roll out your pie crust so it's just think enough to hold together and cover the muffin hole. Using a cookie cutter, or a cup with about a 3 1/2 inch diameter, cut out circles of dough.
Place each dough circle center in one of the mini-muffin tin wells. The edge should overhand a little. Gently roll the edge down with your fingers and them crimp it so it looks pretty.

Fill each mini pie a little over half full with filling. Don't go crazy and fill them to the top. Catastrophic things happen!
Next, you'll need your cute little stars. My star cutter is about 2'' across and it was the perfect size. If you can't find a cookie cutter you could always print out a stencil and cut the stars with a knife. You'd have to want these pretty bad though to go through that effort.

Dip your stars (both sides) in butter and then dredge in the sugar. Make sure to lick your fingers after the sugar starts piling up and making buttery sugar globs on your hands.

Place a star on top of each little pie. It's okay if it sink down, it will puff up when it bakes.

You can serve them warm or at room temp. And they can definitely be made hours ahead of time.

2 pie crusts should be plenty to do 24 mini-pies. Depending on the recipe or brand of crust you use, you may be able to get closer to 30.

Summertime

2010-07-19T10:57:00.000-06:00

Growing up I spent so much of my time up "North" that I couldn't resist putting a few pics up just for good old times sake...

The only thing here missing are the "fish" so I figured the birds were entertaining too!

Boat Regatta on Island Park Reservoir

Yellowstone Canyon

This blog is crazy

2010-07-08T10:27:00.002-06:00

So, I've been really challenged getting things on this blog. Pics won't download, kids clicking Nick Jr., when I'm posting, yep, tons of fun. Here's another go of a couple of pics... I'll look behind my back so they don't sneak up on me...

Hi Big Blue Eyes

Two Little Princesses Who are Great Friends

Smile Girlies!

Handsome Boy at Field Day

Shoshone Falls Hanging Out

Talking about how this platform was constructed, supported, framed and maintained

Smile even if it's Sunny Outside

Two Little Dancers sweet and nice, two little dancers each dance twice,

mommy gets her camera, and asks for a smile, they are fun and happy all the while.

There is a tiny part of a few happenings around here...more to come soon!

Family Vacation

2010-06-24T15:58:00.000-06:00

Life is Good

2010-06-09T22:39:00.005-06:00

I have so many things that have gone on in the last couple of months, where to start, well we made it through all of the school parties, class parties, teacher appreciation gifts, Dare Graduation which Payton was chosen to conduct for the 5Th grade. Finished a super soccer season with a tough final game, we won! (Almost all of our games as well) Finished Payton's soccer season and wrapped up piano for the summer, attended so many funerals I can't even remember how many we went to...have enjoyed seeing all of the green sneaking up on me and now in full force, HURRAY! Registered Abbie for another year of preschool, she's reading short stories now, so her teacher should love that, hmmm, have loved watching the boy and his friend have all sorts of adventures, shooting, driving, all at the age of 11, and getting ready for good Ol' Pine Basin Camp. Can't be live he's old enough to go, I'm so excited for him. Praying each weekend Marshall will have a victory, no wrecks, good engine, and safety, safety, safety, am looking so forward to walking at nights w/ my kids, getting ready to head South for some sun, and visiting friends from afar. I love having this new felt freedom of NO COMMITMENT too many busy mom things, and can just love my hubbie and kids and schedule what I'd like to do now. Am grateful that we live here and not in Washington to avoid many of the crazy storms they are suddenly having. Life is good, Life is good!

Choco Peeps

2010-03-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Covered Easter Peeps on a Stick

Supplies for Chocolate Dipped Easter Peeps:

chocolate to melt
Easter Peeps
lollipop sticks
wax paper
plate or tray

To melt your chocolate, place it in a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 1 minute. Stir it, then if needed, microwave for another 20 seconds. Repeat if necessary. This works best with chocolate chips.

Place a lollipop stick into the bottom of the Peep. Dip your Peep into the chocolate and place on a plate lined with wax paper. Let this harden. You can also place them in the fridge for faster results.

Now you’re ready to Hippity-Hop on over to enjoy these Chocolate Covered Easter Peeps!

Pop up Pancakes

2010-03-11T20:15:00.002-07:00

Pop Up Pancake Recipe – makes 24 muffins or fills a 9×13 baking pan

1 cup milk
1 cup flour
6 eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
dash salt
Preheat oven at 400*

I like to blend all the ingredients in my blender. I have tried to whisk it or even use the electric mixer, but it seems to get the most smooth with a blender. Then grease your muffin tins or baking pan. My mom likes to bake these in a jelly roll pan.

Bake them for 15 minutes, or until puffy and golden on top. Use a knife to pry them out, hopefully they were greased well enough and should pop right out.

Now they are ready for toppings. Enjoy, found this had to share!!!

Catching up

2010-02-09T23:35:00.020-07:00

Happy Valentines and lots of other fun times

Cutie Patootie and her heart braid hair

Payton earning his Arrow of Light and advancing into Scouts

Little sisters having fun at the cabin

We're not in Kansas anymore Happy Halloween!

Poor little Payton "Wyatt Earp" was a little under the weather, but it did not stop him from trick or treatin...

Little Abs as the Tiger, Payton (Wyatt Earp) and Lindsey as Dorothy

Trunk or Treatin with the cousins

Looking back a few years racing snowmobiles

Last year driving Semis
This summer driving John Deere Tractors
Happy Birthday 11 Year Old BOY!

Birthday treats- Spudnuts- "Idaho Sundaes" Glazed donuts, ice cream, toppings and cherries on top, washing it all down w/ hot chocolate!!!

The AWESOME John Deere Cake, made by my niece, look at the tiny, tiny potatoes, they looked so real!!!

Crazy boys at the party, they get the whole Pose thing

Abbie, having her moment, and excited to get her big day started.
Breakfast in bed a fun tradition for our kids-

Abbie loving the "pink" one

Miniature Hamsters for her guests

The 20 pound Hamster Cake- this one took about 14 minutes. No cake pan here, just pure creativity, Hamsters????Yes momma, hamsters.

Ready or not, here comes the royal party

Sweet Six Lindsey Love

Lindsey Love, loving the dress, the girls, the pretties

This is the 10 minute version of Princess Carriage. When the kids are arriving in 10 minutes, this is all she wrote sisters! They loved it, it tasted great, and at least you could tell what it was, so anyone needing a carriage cake pan, yep we have you covered.

And Last but not least...our special kitty....

Don't you love the adornment done by our precious 4 year old. You can tell Beavis is thrilled with her makeover.

This is our cat "Beavis." She has become a legend amongst many. Anytime someone comes to our home and sees her waddle by, they get out their camera phones to take pictures. She is a sweet cat, unless you pick her up wrong, then she'll bite you, and is 15 years old. She is very obedient, and is a wonderful loving companion. About the name Beavis, she purred as a kitten just like Beavis's laugh on the MTV cartoon- Nope, Butthead is not my other cats name. It's Betsy-known as the skinny one.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-17T23:54:00.003-07:00

Hope you all enjoy this Christmas Season

Love, The Holtom Family

Fun Pics

2009-10-19T19:54:00.004-06:00

My cute little team

2009-09-23T08:38:00.002-06:00

Here's a photo of my cute little soccer team. They are so fun. GO KILLER BEES!!!

Love this

2009-09-19T22:43:00.002-06:00

A friend posted a great quote on being happy, I found this right after reading her blog. Thanks for the lift!!

Love this...

A Successful Mode of Living

"As with all commandments, gratitude is a description of a successful mode of living. The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us. President J. Reuben Clark, formerly a First Counselor in the First Presidency, said: 'Hold fast to the blessings which God has provided for you. Yours is not the task to gain them, they are here; yours is the part of cherishing them' (Church News, 14 June 1969, 2)" (James E. Faust, "Gratitude As a Saving Principle," Ensign, Dec 1996, 2).

Ready or not, here I come!

2009-08-29T18:13:00.005-06:00

Rocker Girlie
Such a big girl now, stop growing!!!!

Do you think this little chic is ready for school or what???

This is what little one got herself dressed in: Hair extensions, headband, wings, purse w/ brush, and foo foo high heels.

Side profile, so you can see the awesome tiara toddler hairdo

Auntie Christine, eat your heart out!!!

Here's my room, ok mom, it's ok to go now.

Say Cheese

My sweetheart kindergartner!!! Boy was she ready!

Cutie patootie!

He was really trying to smile, a little nervous for the first new day at a new school, so was his mom, BIG TIME. It's all good though, we made it through the week, love it!

One more thing...

2009-08-08T18:13:00.002-06:00

I know, I know, I can't possibly blog 2 things in a day, well too bad, I just had to share a few more tidbits...

Abbie's thoughts on life: (At El Vaquero Restaurant) Waitress: Is there anything else? Abbie"You know, I just love salsa, it sure adds SPICE to my life!"

Lindsey's thoughts: "Oh Mom, would you like to try my new love technique? It's the best huggie/snuggle in the world."

Payton's thoughts: "Being on the train ride through Idaho Falls really brought a lot of joy into my life. This has been my best day ever!"

Marshall's thoughts: (Last night at his ice-breaker 20 year reunion social) "I don't know anyone here! Did we come to the right place???"

My thoughts: While smiling and chit chatting w/ people I don't know for 3 hours-in my mind I'm thinking..."How can I get to the outlet mall? There's got to be a way to squeeze that one in..."

One more on my thoughts: Kids are w/ grandparents- Note to Self: Travelling 10 hours in the car is a SNAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saying Goodbyes and Hellos

2009-08-08T17:40:00.002-06:00

This month has flown by like nothing I could have imagined. We are saying goodbye to our friendly neighborhood of Taylor and saying hello to new people on the hill. First, I have to say I was hesitant to move to Taylor, because I didn't even know exactly where it was. I had been there many times as a little girl, and simply forgotten. It's a beautiful hidden community just on the outskirts of Idaho Falls, and Shelley. Simple life, quiet, and mostly serene. Very serene if you don't have cows or horses, but always the chance of some type of beautiful wildlife visiting your yard.
Now we are venturing a few miles East, to a new neighborhood and have found a home that seems to fit our needs perfectly. This house even has his and hers garages/closets/sinks and ovens. Yes, the perfect fit for hubby and me! We chose to find a house a little more in our price range so the time came to look, and within a week, we looked and found a new home up on the hill. We acted fast because of the fact that they had many looking at it too. SO...we quickly packed up, and moved our little family again. The kids will be saying hello to new friends, a new school, and new ward. This is bitter sweet for all of us. Taylor really feels like home, and we've made so many wonderful friends, that they all feel like family. I refused to bear my testimony and say goodbye, while the hubby and Payton went willingly, they both sobbed, and shared their appreciation for the kindness and love from all of the ward family. I just couldn't say goodbye since were are only a few miles away. We are excited to meet new families, friends, teachers and all that comes our way. Life is good, full of challenges, and opportunities which are all blessings that we have the chance to enjoy and gain as much as we possibly can from. So, goodbye for now Taylor, and hello to the hillside, and lights of Idaho Falls.

What have we been doing?

2009-07-04T18:46:00.012-06:00

Happy 4th of July!!

Me, trying to be tall next to one of these monster trucks!!

These things can move it!!! They were flying past us going much faster than I thought was safe, and they rock back and forth with that much weight. Yes, giant boulders do fall off, and roll all over the place- that rock you see on the ground, not a rock, A BOULDER.

Climbing to the top of Craters of the Moon, my baby girl 3 year old about whipped her old mommy!!

Little fuzzy, inside EBR1- the nuclear museum lab at the site in the desert. My kids loved this place, switches, levers, gadgets, they thought it was great!

One more of me standing next to a digger at Monsanto Mine in Soda Springs.

Help is anyone out there? Looking up through the cave at Craters of the Moon.

This little girl was amazing inside of these caves, she was a trooper! Notice older sister stayed w/ grandma, brother led the way that went on and on and on!

Sitting in the giant chair outside "Pickles" Restaurant a fun little place in Arco.

The fried pickles there are AWESOME. Located on main street Arco, seriously, you need to try one, they are Yummy!

The kiddies rocking in the Big Rocker!

This is our next princess in training, she loves to dance, she wanted to be in the 4th of July parade today with all of the drill team girls!!

Hubby and the Boy after the Stampede Days Parade in Rigby, showing off his loud, super fast car.

Just having a little quality time with the cousins.

Sweet Love Lindsey graduating from Joy School. Here she comes next year ready for Kindergarten!!! She can hardly wait!!

Have a super summer!! Love the Holtom Family!

Spring has sprung

2009-04-06T14:46:00.003-06:00

2009-04-06T14:45:00.000-06:00

2009-04-06T14:20:00.001-06:00

Green Donuts! Yummy!

2009-03-18T08:26:00.002-06:00

Preschool is always fun, but when you get to add the color green, it's soo much better!!

Watch out girl driver on the loose!

2009-03-16T14:31:00.002-06:00

Better watch out, my five year old likes to ride snowmobiles too. She started driving the Mini Z all by herself. No one was safe, not Payton, not Marshall who couldn't run fast enough to grab the back of her coat, and then slipped and fell on his face. Even the small trees in my yard seemed to shiver with terror. Oh yes, she got a few of them too. Payton came running in "Mom, get out here, Lindsey's in trouble," "Mom, hurry dad can't catch Lindsey," "Mom, Lindsey just hit a tree," "Mom, are you filming this????" Yes, honey, I am!!!

What's been going on?

2009-03-07T09:58:00.006-07:00

Abbers our blondie blue-eyed girl!

Can you say Cheese Please????? Oh, we've got plenty of cheese around here!!!

Blow a little harder sis, you can do it, because mommy sure can't!!

Little birthday pizza, cousins, some pop, running around Blast Off, what else could be better?

Lindsey looking cute as a bug after her singing performance!

Getting ready to be "Down and Derby"

Holding the beloved "Bandit" mobile, dedicated to his Papa Dave who loved Smokey and the Bandit, and owned a car that looked just like it!!! Papa Dave- a.k.a., Burt Reynolds.

Hey Dad, how many hours do you, I mean we have into this car????

Payton and his Grandma Sharron who helped him earn his whittling badge. Yep, he almost lost a finger or two. Had proof at the Blue and Gold that he really did earn the badge....

Here's my boy who just turned 10 years old. He's almost as tall as his mom!!! Yikes!! Getting ready to Climb the Wall. Yes, it is pretty tricky, hang in there!!!

Blast Off- the best birthday idea for boys, where they can run, eat, run, eat, drink more pop, run eat, Laser Tag, eat, run, eat, drink the rest of the pop. What a fun night!!!

Attention Kmart Shoppers...

2009-02-21T09:28:00.003-07:00

Isn't this the sweetest thing- thought I'd share this w/ ya'll. While shopping at Kmart the other day, I was waiting in line to purchase a few items. The cutest little couple w/ a baby was in front of me, they were buying 2 items, one, a womans black nightie, and two, this little duo. Pretty much everything that could have gone wrong did, price check, clearance price check, void register, need manager for override. Ya, the checker actually held up the "thong." All of us in line were trying to erase that memory of him and his new "outfit." Hope they have an awesome time!!!

O Mesquito

2009-02-13T15:45:00.003-07:00

Oh Mesquite! It's a few hours drive, but oh how it can make a difference in temperature. There is actually green grass outside, and my kids have not stopped running around except to grab a drink and and some chips. They won't have to mow after we leave for a week or so, because it will be nice and worn down by the stomping of little feet. It's great to feel the sun actually burning my face!! Someone called this morning and said it was 10 below!! Yuck! We braved a pretty fierce snowstorm, and had to be re-routed because of accidents, but the 4WD was awesome and man was I glad to not be in a mini van. So far I've won $2.50, and since I'm not a big gambler, I think that will be safe to say that's what I'll be returning with. Here's to the pool, that's a little too cool, we'll just sit in the sun and further the aging process!!! Long live 60 degrees !!!!! HURRAH!!!!!

Lighten up!!!

2009-02-07T18:11:00.003-07:00

Ok, so I mentioned how I'm trying to get into exercising and eating better, well I have been really trying and I have been exercising, and it is slowly, slowly coming off. I did go and buy new jeans at Ross and I was ONE size smaller!!!!!!! That was a good moment. I still have much, much to go, but I've been walking, running and lightening up on the cooking. I have been using some fabulous things to really ease up the calories. First, one product I love is Bragg's Amino Acids. It is made from soy, and tastes like soy sauce. You use it instead of OIL, or BUTTER. You add the amino's, and water, and cook on medium/medium low. VERY YUMMY. Also instead of sugar, or sweeteners, I have been using Stevia. This is the only product out there made by plants not some chemical that puts you in the hospital kind of stuff. It is wonderful!! They have a regular powder sweetener, and liquid- but best of all for your herbal teas, I use the vanilla creme' or the chocolate raspberry. Yep, those are fabulous sweeteners, and only need a few drops to make things taste great! (LIKE SUGAR) So, I'm carrying on w/ the crusade, and keeping at it. I have a great support group of friends, that is very important~ so we'll see what is to come (hopefully off!!!)

Forever

2009-01-29T17:44:00.004-07:00

Ya, it's been forever since I've blogged, cleaned my house, ran a marathon (that's actually never happened) oh, what else, ya bought some new shoes. Many things have transpired for me over the last month. Marsh man has been travelling up a storm. I think he leaves the storm here so I can shovel, and heads to sometimes warmer weather. I am so there. Then, my sweet heart father-in-law passed, and we had a sad time /w all of the family. My little nine year old boy, bless his heart stayed there for him until the last minute. He told me that he knew his grandpa was happy now, as we all felt that warmth inside of us. What a legacy he left, and an amazing example of steadfastness, courage, strength and love. We will miss him forever too, but know he's a very busy bee in heaven smiling all day long and loving the work he has already been assigned. He's awesome and he'll be missed. So hope that joy fills your life during the next coming weeks and I'll try to promise that next time won't be forever...

It's a NEW Year!!!

2009-01-07T14:08:00.002-07:00

Hurray, it's a new year, and I'm so ready for it. I love the excitement that many have around here w/ getting in shape. I'm getting all hyped up over it. So far so good, I'm on day three- ya don't laugh, but this is huge for me--- no sugar, no PEPSI the beloved most wonderful thing in the entire world, sorry, lost it there for a moment, and no carbs. Yep, I'm in. Thanks to many of you who have revved me up, cuz I'm ready. As for my Merry Christmas is surely was. My hubbie got me many of the goodies I had been daydreaming about, and have used all of them already. My fav-new electric blanket. He HATES it. He is sweating all the time, and I just smile and turn it up baby! Oh the joy of warmth. Also, decreased the amount of running the kids around. Yippee! Only one trip to singing now. I know, sports is soon on it's way, but wonderfully manageable now. So hope you all had a terrific Christmas, I'm glad it's over, but loved it as well. Happy New Year!!

Merry Christmas to me...

2008-12-09T17:28:00.003-07:00

Oh, I have had many bad thoughts lately. Mostly about wishing I was a young kid again and getting Lots of presents. And usually, I'm pretty good, I only want a couple of things- but there's so many fun things to get right now, it's a little hard for me. For some crazy reason, I have a wish list that is getting bigger and bigger. I keep thinking up things that I would really love...hmmm, I could probably end up with a few more on my list- My daughter sings a song called Merry Christmas to me, and I think I have it stuck in my head and it won't leave causing this predicament. I want a cellular phone, a shiny trombone, a blah, blah, blah, blah- Merry Christmas to me!!! Don't want pajamas, don't want a toy I have to share, oh Santa PROMISE, don't bring me socks or underwear- (ok, maybe from Marshall) Anyways hope that I get a couple of my items, but we might have to drag Christmas out a few months longer.... but that would be fine for me (-:

Lots to be thankful for...

2008-12-01T10:44:00.018-07:00

For some of you that don't know, Marshall's dad is living with cancer, we are so thankful that we had one more Thanksgiving with grandpa!!! Long Live Grandpa Dave

I'm thankful for an eternal companion that I couldn't live without. He makes me happy, makes me smile, makes me crazy, and has a very tender heart. I am thankful Marshall, for all that you do!

Thankful for those big brown eyes who melt your heart with her peaceful spirit and "hugs and kisses store"

I'm thankful for a wonderful family, for amazing food, and to celebrate together. It was a ton of fun!!!!

Thankful for lots of cousins, braces, new great nieces to squish, and building gingerbread houses and making tons of sugary messes!

Thankful for Snow Angels, NAPS, and the return of ginormous fish that have returned to Big

Springs in Island Park.

Thankful for self reflection in the woods, Heidi's makeup, and cutting down trees on ATV's with the family!

Something EVERY girl must have....

2008-11-19T17:15:00.003-07:00

This blog is for those of you who offer ideas, lists, must haves or must do's- Here's to you!

Any of you who have done lunch w/ my kids and I know that these little gadgets are heaven sent. We were all at Winger's and we had six kidlets on the bench, moms on the opposite side, and they played and played and played. Education Bliss at its finest! LEAPFROG my children love you (especially the 3 year old who I can take ANYWHERE) Yes, it's worth it! (I have 3 and share wherever we go- they're great!)

Ok, first off, I am overly enjoying pomegranate anything at this point. Those of you who know me, know that I have a very strong sense of smell. I can pretty much sniff things out anywhere. I try hard not to be detected, but I couldn't help myself with a few of these products. Body Cream, need I say more??? Another major exhilarating smelly thing. My kids have also developed my smelling issue, and we can't go anywhere esp. like Walmart w/o smelling stuff. They get upset if they can't sniff w/ me!!!- Softsoap has a few yummies that I drifted off into smelly land, and then snapped back to reality in Walmart, grabbed the bottle and checked out.

This little doozey is hard to find- We managed at Ace Hardware- It is AMAZING STUFF. For crockpots, any type of stove tops, it takes off what oven cleaners won't... Need I say more- Read the label careful, don't use on painted metal surfaces, not a good idea. This is really liquid gold!!

My cousin convinced me to try diet stuff, since she's a drug rep, and I'm needing some encouragement. I am telling you, this stuff is DELICIOUS, and isn't supposed to last long. Can you believe people are selling it on Ebay????? I couldn't find it yesterday at Walmart, I'm on the hunt, cuz I'm not living w/o it....

Ok Robyn, here's another smelling issue I have, I can't help myself from smelling these. I think she has me beat though w/ at least 100 bottles in her pantry. I only have 4. I love them ALL!!!!

So there you have it, some really yummy, great stuff that you should indulge yourselves with- why not, you only live once... Cheers!

Baby Love

2008-11-18T13:46:00.002-07:00

Abbie is a unique little girl. She always has something to say, cute, or not, and makes me smile. She brought me this drawing that she did of herself. I just love it. I Love You Abbie Love!

Moto Mahem

2008-11-08T18:26:00.004-07:00

Boy had his first encounter with moto racing recently. He's really turning into a motohead by his choice, which is good. He got a motie (new to us) and has not stopped riding it. Last Saturday he entered a moto, his first one, had a few moments in the whoops-got a little dirt on himself, a little packed in the face plate, but dusted himself off and got back at it. He enjoyed it most of all, and that was the important part. Today they rode the Dunes in St. Anthony and he loved that as well. Ride on little boy... (Note to Scott, he wants a few lessons)

Dancy Pants

2008-11-07T09:11:00.007-07:00

Here are two little girls who are getting ready to go to dance. Since Halloween was the next day, they went as Fairies w/o all the extra costume- I asked them to smile, they said cheese, and then I said "Let me see your eyes, so hence, Abbie shut her eyes- They are both doing very well in dance and love it. It is so funny to watch Abbie, I usually sit and laugh most of the class, she is a hoot! She likes to SHAKE IT!

Abbie's Third Birthday

2008-11-02T15:19:00.003-07:00

Our little baby girl aka "babe-a" is now three. I can't believe she's already so big. She wanted a pink strawberry cake. I have yet to perfect my baking skills, but I gave it a shot, (I miss Jill's cakes) and had to tube on the frosting with a small ziploc bag. Oh well. She loved it, and she really enjoyed the frosting, she told me it was "Beautiful and lovely mommy." So that's all that really matters right? We were lucky to have Grandpa Dave, Grandma Anne, Rachel,Brian and the boys. It was a fun night for my dolly. Happy Birthday Babe-a

2008-10-29T10:58:00.004-06:00

Heaven is a nest on the beach

2008-10-22T12:05:00.002-06:00

It's Knott that Scarry, I promise...

2008-10-22T11:51:00.003-06:00

Loving the Mining Ride- 1 of Paytie's faves

Auntie Susan and the girls, ready for some fun!

The Vipor, back, down, around and again...

Hold on tight you guys!!!

We love our Snoopy! He's the best!

Five things that I love about Knott's Berry Farm:

1. The nostalgia from being a nine year old and reliving it through my nine year old.

2. The Charlie Brown Gang

3. The look on Payton's face before, during and after the "freaky" rides.

4. Being able to walk onto every ride without waiting in lines.

5. The FOOD- have you ever ordered a Knott's Chicken Dinner? YUMMY-make sure to get berry pie added to that for pure satisfaction!

We had an amazing day, the weather was awesome, there were no crowds, we did walk right up to every ride over and over again, and it was priceless time with Aunt Susan! The kids could have passed on the Knott's Scary Farm theme however, but they have a whole new appreciation for skeletons, and "dead guys." Really honey, it's just a stupid plastic thing they buy at the dollar store, it's ok!! I promise! And, hey mom, why are all of the fake worker dudes heads covered with sacks? Well, you really don't want to know do you? No, that's ok mom, thanks.

Love those babies

2008-10-22T11:34:00.007-06:00

Taadaa~! She was telling me that she felt like such a star there at the beach, having it all to herself. Everyone else in the vicinity was donning a sweatshirt, while my littlest babe's lips were turning blue. Not to worry, we had nice warm fuzzy towels waiting after they took their freezing ice shower to remove partial sand. Thus, pure heaven, perfect day at the beach, aah such tourists!

Back to Business

2008-10-17T16:13:00.006-06:00

Well, I re-read my whining and changed the post to "Cleaning Sucks!" Brief, to the point, there it is. But I did really relate to this cartoon, and my moment for the day was, it's always great to have a special niece call you and ask you for your yummy recipe, she really made my day! Thanks Christine, your'e a sweetheart~

SNOW- Oh NO!! Not already.....

2008-10-09T13:15:00.002-06:00

Guess what? As I'm sitting in sunny California, it's in the 90's, and was in the 100's for our Magical Kingdom day, I just got word last night from the father-in-law that it's supposed to snow in IDEEHO! Oh good, it will be good, no more mowing and watering, we'll watch to see what's to come..... Wish me luck on a few more husband at home days, cuz it's going to end real soon. At least a couple of my friends will get theirs back from farming. So, let me know what happens...

Oh Man, Disneyland

2008-10-08T23:45:00.002-06:00

Well, our week has been really fun, and still a few more days to go. We headed to Knott's Berry Farm, well, Knott's Scarry Farm. It was a Ghost Town literally, so we walked up to all of the rides. That is always a bonus, I think my kids really had fun, there were too many skeletons for Lindsey, but she loved Lucy's Tugboat, and the Camp Snoopy. Abbie is such a daredevil, she hasn't been afraid of anything. Lindsey on the other hand has been afraid of most of the "things." Poor girl, we keep telling her, "Don't worry, this next ride will be better," then it's either faster, or creepier. She's survived, but has probably has some trust issues at this point. Marshall's brother and family met up with us at Disney on Tuesday, and Anaheim had record breaking heat wave 104 degrees, Whew! We bought one of those water/fan thingies and sprayed everyone down, it was great, then we laughed a bunch, screamed like chickens, and chased the kids all over Disney. It was great! We were lucky/in the right place/right time, and won passes to a special give away- there were 35,000 in the park that day, and they handed out 500 passes to stay an hour after the park closed, just the pass holders. Wow, I ran all over the place my legs killed the next day. It was so worth it, and I needed to burn off the days calories and the cokes I drank, so ya, I needed the jog. We were able to get 7 rides in an hour. We got stuck on Indiana Jones, and I thought Payton was going to die. I made the huge mistake of saying- wow, what if we had to stay here all night- he freaked out, when they finally turned it back on, they told us we could go again- we told him to stay and he pushed and punched my nephew to fight his way off the ride. He waited with the attendants, and was very glad to get off the freaky jeep. We ended up being in the park for 12 hours, the kids were troopers, and we had a Magical Experience. Yes, wait in line for Dumbo if you have little ones. It was worth every penny. Cheers!!!

Where a kid can be a kid!

2008-10-02T09:34:00.004-06:00

I'm in a hotel room right now blogging! Yes the title is true, we caved and gave into our precious little daughter's birthday wish. Actually, we surprised her because we had to travel on her birthday. We asked her if she wanted to know where we were going for dinner and she wanted to be surprised. Lindsey, when she was only 2 1/2, said the funniest thing- It went like this...

On our way home from church in Marysville, she said " I want to talk to Jesus," (two year old talk of course) or that's what we thought she said. Both Marshall and I were very impressed by our little girl, and I responded, "Oh, you sweetie, you want to talk to Jesus?" "No! I want to chalk to cheesus." Again I said " Oh, you want to talk to Jesus, that's so nice honey." "No, Mommy! I want Chuck E. Cheeses!" Oh, you want Chuck E Cheese, that's great... Isn't advertising a special thing? The other day I told Des. "Man, they torture us parents here in Idaho Falls, they run all the ads for big cities, and our kids beg to go to and we don't have it." Then we decided to end the begging and take her last night. It was the normal thing, delicious pizza (was Marshall's comment-kidding of course) and chocolate cake- Lindsey said "This cake is a little different isn't it mommy?" We had a great time, won lots of tickets, and let them run all over. Today is swimming, exploring in Salt Lake if we have time and then on to Disney Land. I can't wait to go myself. I can't wait to see the expression on the girls' faces when they see the castle. For Payton, anything with trains will be his fav., and for Marshall, we'll just work on crowd control. He's not a true lover of waiting in lines. Does anyone else see phobias creep up on their husbands when they get thrown into crowds? He has interesting quirks that only show up in certain situations. Of course, that's not how he sees it, but it makes me smile, and remember all the silly things that he does that I love. Especially when he travels and I miss his magazine inserts thrown on the floor, his socks in endless places, and his scratchy face kisses that seem to make everything better... So we should have some interesting adventures, we've conquered Chuck E. Cheese, and we're off to Disney Land... Stay tuned for more of who knows what...

Oh, Ya, it's Raining Again!

2008-09-20T22:08:00.008-06:00

I looked at the lyrics at the classic "Supertramp" song after thinking about this blog and the rain today. I remember listening to that song when I was pretty young and singing my lungs out w/ my teenager sisters when we'd be out cruisin'. Yes I was a cruiser at a very young age, mostly asleep in the back seat while my fluffy, feathered-haired sisters would hang out on the "cruise." Eat your heart out Supertramp!! Just for memory lane...

Oh, it's raining again Oh no, my love's at an end. Oh no, it's raining again and you know it's hard to pretend. Oh no, it's raining again Too bad I'm losing a friend. Oh no, it's raining again Oh, will my heart never mend.
Didn't you just love singing those old songs, and now looking back you can't believe you'd sing those out loud, let alone now that you know what the lyrics actually mean!!!!!!!!! Yikes. The eighties/nineties stuff- ya, but the overall favorite of mine was oh course... Grease!! I know, most of my young adult life I really believed I was Sandy, and one day I'd turn that slick talking Rick into "Danny" w/ the letterman jacket and we'd fly in the love bug away forever and ever...
Wake up Bev!
Anyways, this blog was for all you Seattlians, because we enjoyed the parade in the rain. You'd be so proud, no umbrella for me, just a light-weight jacket w/ my hood- I was prepared. Today was Shelley Spud Day- they have a festival devoted to a tater! All the floats had to have something "spuddie" on them. My kids were on a float for singing. Lindsey thought she'd become Hannah Montana, and was all drama- She's so fun. She said it was the best parade she'd ever been in (since it's her first)- Well, Spuds or no spuds, I thought of my rainy weather girls and held them in my thoughts while it poured down, w/ a little thunder and lightnin'. So here's to Spud Day, and to you, rain-lovin girls!!! Cheers!

Can you guess who is loving the songs- Look right in the middle w/ the pink hood over her head- Isn't she sweet, it's soaking wet, but she doesn't give up...

The boy is on the back row w/ the black jacket on, with a smile on his face. "It's Spud Day mom, and it's what farming and this community is all about." That's my boy! "Hopelessly Devoted To You!"

Oh where to start...

2008-09-15T07:42:00.009-06:00

Well, the animal craziness has dwindled a bit. We are just doing fine w/ that electric fence. I put some feed over the "crappy wire" and it got my arm a bit. I was like "Oh, I just laid my arm on the wire." It was nothing! I'm back to my crazy over scheduled life again. It's good, my kids are loving it- Football starts this week, then I'll add another post and see if I'm loving it. School is going great for Payton and Lindsey and Abbie who gets to join in on my week for preschool. I love my ward and my friends have been great. They love to do lunch which is very fine with me. I love that! And guess what, I'm still in activity days for the girls. I think I'm going on 7 years now. Each ward, same calling (-: I'm still learning I guess. I love that age group though... They are fun to be with, fun to laugh with and progress with. So it's really a great thing. Here are my girly girls that keep growing like the weeds in my yard.

Two sisters that are cute and sweet, two little girls with pink toe-nailed feet.
Love to laugh and sing and play, only to fight over toys every other day
Are moms little helpers each busy day, I sure love them in every single way!

This is my nine year old boy who worked in the

field all day. From 8:00 am to 9:30 pm who drove the SEMI all by himself that picked up the hay. When mommy went to check on him, he said he'd be okay. But mommy's heart was not so well she'd thought she'd have to stay IN THE HOSPITAL!!!!!!!
Yes it's true, he thinks he old enough to drive. See all you city folk what us mom's in the country have to deal with. Don't worry mom, it's only a semi, I can handle it. I'm doing just fine. Ya, until he tries to drive my car to his friends house... He seems to wiser than his years, like 40!! My little man boy, is what I call him, he came that way and hasn't changed since the day he was born. Oh how I love that boy! Here he is ready for 4th grade, and off to school at 7:10 am to catch that country bus that HE LOVES!! Trust me he's upset w/ mom if we have to drive to school, cuz that's no fun!!

Cows are not fun!

2008-08-31T21:19:00.000-06:00

Today has been an interesting Sunday. Instead of getting to church on time, we had to chase cows again. To get the full effect of living in the country, one must do a few things: First, one must purchase country type animals. This does not include your average mutt, but a little more rural savvy would lend to "cows," "horses," you get the picture. Second, learn how to install fence. Not the nice, hide your crap fence, but just plain old metal wire to keep those rural pets retained. Third, be prepared to chase those pets at all hours of the day/night when they jump the crappy wire fence and love it out on the open road where motorists put their fists out the windows and shake their hands in not so friendly gestures. This is truly a great experience on Sunday. So, to fully appreciate the greatness of country living- you also need to chase the cows in the pasture, slipping on wonderfulness, and remember that those really weren't your cute flip flops, because they are not now. So Sunday is a great day for prayer, and praying that the Lord will answer your prayers and steer those cows in the right direction before they get shot. I hope all of you know how wonderful it is in the country, and you are welcome to visit anytime. We always have a fun agenda planned in advance. Love for now you city folk, come visit!!!!

Family Fun

2008-08-26T18:22:00.000-06:00

This is the big pic with all of Marshall's family. We had a great time seeing everyone finally, since we have them scattered in: Hemet, California; Nevada City, California; Idaho Falls, Clermont, Florida; and Annandale, Virginia. (All four corners) And it was really great to see the cousins!

We were happy to have Marshall's siblings and all cousins come this summer for a big Holtom reunion. We are hanging in there with Marshall's dad who's dealing w/ cancer, so we decided we needed some really cool pics. Since Grandpa Dave loves tractors, and loves John Deere's, we have a distant cousin in the ward who happen to own a combine, and tractor!! They were so generous to let us have them for a night and photoshoot away. It was great fun trying to chase kids around, and get everyone to smile, and Lindsey my dear, who needed to use the bathroom. NO luck in a stubble field, thus her "pee-pee" dance is in included in a few of the shots

(-: Oh-well, we did get some really good pics however...

Here I am, what I always do best... Chasing my little girl around. At least I wasn't the only parent running that night. There were 5 others under the age of five that didn't love getting their pics taken either.

Payton and his horse Dante

2008-07-28T17:48:00.000-06:00

The Grandpas

2008-07-28T17:46:00.000-06:00

Oh how we love the Grandpas! Dave Holtom on the right, and Parke Josephson on the left. Payton is perfect mix of both. He loves to be busy, enjoy anything that includes country living, and spending as much time as he can with his grandparents.

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-28T17:42:00.000-06:00

Hey all- We had a nice 4th of July- spent time w/ the Holtom clan, had a great BBQ, and then of course had to light fireworks. The kids collected enough candy from the parade, and loved
lighting everything they could. Abbie really loved the fireworks this year... Yikes, she get a little more and more like me everyday! Watch out Smokey Bear~~

The Boys

2008-07-28T17:39:00.000-06:00

Yeeha! Payton and Grandpa Dave loving being cowboys. Our boy Payton has turned out to be quite a farmer, cowboy and water boy. He begs to flood irrigate our yard, and wears his knee length rubber boots everywhere he can, and don't forget the cowboy hat. I think he would be just fine to live w/ a few of the cousins who actually ride horses now and then...