My Ladybug

Well, it's that time of year again...pictures!!! Every year I'm amazed at how much my kids have changed in a year, but this year I'm just flabbergasted! Riley Jo is still my baby girl and always will be, but she is far from a baby. I do not know what I'm going to do next year when she starts school. I have really enjoyed our time together.

"Learning the Ropes"

Creative Punisment

The other day the boys had a hard time behaving so, being the creative parents that we are, as their punishment Matt gave them each a small screwdriver and told them to go get every little rock out of all of the truck tires. It kept them out of trouble for a little while anyway!!!

Princess & Soldier

This year Riley Jo decided that she wanted to be a princess, complete with wand and fancy hair and makeup, and Tater had a hard time making up his mind, but finally settled on being a soldier. A pretty handsome one, I might add.

We went trick or treating in town with some friends this year. Here's a shot of the whole gang.

Carving Pumpkins

Oh what fun. . .

The end result... 2 scary(?!?) pumpkins.

Matthew's Elk

Well today was opening day of hunting season and Matthew was chompin' at the bit. He's been just like a little boy with these elk out here and this year he had a good reason to go hunting . . . we need the meat!! This is Matthew's very first elk, and he did good. She's about 600-800lbs. Not bad at all. He got a good close up look at the bull of the bunch, and said he is HUGE. Now I hope that he startled them enough that they head back in the hills and stay put for awhile, it really would be a shame to see that bull to die.

Tater was pretty disappointed that he wasn't able to go on the hunt, but he is very proud of his daddy (and the elk) none the less.

New Neighbors

We recently noticed a small herd of elk hanging out just down the creek from us. There are 2 BIG bulls, 2 cows, and 2 calves. They have taken a liking to the green lush alfalfa right off the county road, so they have developed a tolerance for cars driving by and people stopping to look.

It has been nice watching them for awhile, but hunting season opens tomorrow, so they'll probably be on the move soon. I hope that big bull gets to see another year.... he is incredible. It's just breathtaking to watch him.

Pay no attention to the power lines. It's the only shot I could get! (where's Tabor Craig when I need him?!?)