The Cuter Bowcutt’s

Still posting...

2012-02-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

I hope you're keeping up with me. I have been the worst blogger and I'm still catching up. I'm sure I won't include everything that has happened lately, but I guess I do have a lot to share!

One of our most recent activites lately had been basketball! Last year we got off scott free because no one wanted to play. Hunter had a rough year the year before with a coach that thought only his son should get to carry the team. After talking to Hunter and prodding him that he could do anything he put his mind to, he decided he would try it again! He has done awesome, and really shown how much he has grown up! He has a coach that has really tried to teach them the rules and techniques of the game. They have quite a few "plays" they have been perfecting. Hunter has even gotten control of the ball and really done well with it!

They are always on the move, so it's hard to get a good picture. Here is Hunter shooting his foul shots! Go #20!

This one cracks me up! All the boys look like they have to pee, but it's actually one of their plays. It keeps all the defense team on them and keeps the court open to bring the ball down and right to the basket. Maybe they'll learn to put their hands somewhere else. :)

Hailey also chose to play this year! She has done so well with it. Their team hasn't quite learned all the rules yet. But they are definitely making progress, and it shows every week! She has enjoyed being active lately and its definitely given her a boost of confidence. We love our Hailey!

She really gets in to it!

They do a lot of running back and forth!

I hope Tyghely will make her mind up on an activity to go with. But so far she just enjoys hanging out with Mom and Dad. I think she is just waiting for something unique and special to do! Either way, the kids have been keeping us very busy and we are so impressed with the people they are growing up to be!

Growing up...

2012-02-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

On July 27, 1993 my very first neice was born. Though I was only 13 at the time, I felt elated! I wish I had some pictures of Ashley's younger years. Unfortunatley she grew up mostly in Oregon, where I didn't get to take many picutres. However the last few years she has done quite a bit of growing up! Including graduating from high school this last summer and now getting married. She is such a sweet person, and has probably had to grow up faster than most. But she has handled herself with grace and integrity and I hope she will be very happy in her new life with such a nice young man!

She was sooo beautiful!

The wedding was very nice, and put together so well. I think you can always tell when things haven't been organized very good. Ashley did a phenomenal job!

Okay, I'm a little patial to this one!

Ashley and her little brother Kyle. She has always been the best sister to him. He is so lucky to have her!

The last of "Flat Hailey"

2012-02-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

So for the 3rd and final day of flat Hailey, we decided to make a meal just for her! And what could you make but MINI pizzas???

Complete with Mini pepperoni!

And for dessert...

Chocolate Chip cookies that Hunter and Hailey made together!

It was a fun few days with mini hailey, but I'm glad to see her go on another adventure. She will be taking a trip to New Mexico to see Blue Grandma. I'm sure she will have plenty of things to do there. She might even make something fun! We can't wait to see what memories she can make with Grandma.

2012-02-07T10:48:00.000-08:00

To go along with the last post of Hailey's "flat" person, here are a couple more pictures of her day 2.

Hailey had just got out of the shower, but her flat hailey was getting ready with her.

She spent the day at school with her.

Then they came home and put together Valentine's for school. They turned out really cute!

Here is the finished product, minus a small piece candy that will go on the blank red square.

Playing catch up...

2012-02-06T18:50:00.000-08:00

So since I got back into posting, I realize I have a lot to catch up on. I started downloading all my pictures and organizing them into folders. Of course there are probably way too many so I will start with a few of the most recent.

Hailey has a school project which includes a "Flat Hailey". It's supposed to be a replicate of her. She has to take it with her everywhere for 3 days. So we tried thinking of a few fun things to do.

First she took her to her basketball game.

Then we went to Sam's club and got dog food.

Then we had lunch at Chick-Fil-A.

And finally we got frozen yogurt at Orange Leaf.

All in all, we had a pretty fun day!

Happy Feelings

2012-02-02T19:07:00.000-08:00

Last winter while I was laid off, I really got faithful at working out. This year, not so much. I have found that my mood is directly related to my financial status. I know it sounds stupid, and I'm not poor by any means. But if I am crunching my money, or pulling in the reigns, I feel too lousy to work out. I know that exercise helps my mood. So I decided to get back into it! One of my most favorite things to do is Pilates. It makes me feel strong and alive, and for one reason or another I don't feel like it's a dreaded thing to do. Running...I hate running. It is so boring to me! Forcing myself to get on the eliptical or the treadmill, just is not what I want to do. I don't feel like it challenges my body the way it should. Now I know I need to get some cardio in there, and I am going to try and work on it. But I just cannot express my love for Pilates in a way to make you understand. So I'll leave it at that. Not to mention, I got to reconnect with one of my favorite people!!! It was an all around happy dayand made me feel happy!

Family time

2012-01-26T07:12:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago we were able to go spend some time at our friends cabin in Island Park. The kids had a great time sledding in the snow since our neck of the woods seems unable to get any. It was a great time! I'm always so amazed at how quiet the woods can be. While we were there our friend took some pictures of our family. We definitley weren't looking our best but it was nice to capture the moment. We played some games, watched movies and enjoyed talking til 1 a.m. with our friend. And we definitley hope to do it again soon!

He took quite a few, but we always have to get a crazy one in there too! That's just how we are.

Missing...

2012-01-24T09:16:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have a time when you are looking back on memories and realize there are things missing in the present? Although there are many good friends I have now, I feel there a few that I have drifted away from, and really miss. One person in particular. I secretly keep up on her blog and try to think about something I have done to offend. There are a few reasons I can think of. But after much thought I realize there is nothing more I can do that I haven't already done. I have apologized and come to the conclusion that this person must just not like who I am. But I cannot change for one person. I can only be who I think is right for me. So I will continue to follow this person and hope that one day she will like me for me and not dislike me for something that someone else has done. Happy thoughts...

Drama Queen

2011-05-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hailey signed up to be in the end of the year PTO play. This year it was titled "Got To Be Seussified". She received one of the leading roles for the third graders. She was Sheila McMonkey McBean, who is the character in the Dr. Seuss book called the Sneetches. They practiced twice a week after school for a month and a half. I have to give her credit, because she was so good about being to every practice. I didn't realize what a big deal the play was until it was time to perform. She was very nervous the first night and forgot one line. But the show went on and no one even noticed. She did awesome! I'm so proud of her for sticking it through. For her it's a big deal. :) So maybe one day she will be my little actress and make millions. And if not, she is still the best actress I know! Great job Hailey! PS, the pictures are off of my phone so they may not be the best.

Getting older...

2011-05-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

This last week was graduation for all the surrounding schools. My oldest niece happened to be one of them. Can I really be old enough to have a niece graduating from High School?? I guess the answer is obvious, but I sure don't feel like it. It feels to me like it was just yesterday that I graduated! Anyhow, Ashley is a beautiful young woman now, and it's sad for me to see her all grown up. But congratulations to her!

Just Deal With It!

2011-05-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was dropping the kids off at school I got thinking. It has been a whole year since Keith has worked. When it first happened I thought how in the world are we going to survive. But in the end I realize you just figure it out. We tightended up on everything! There has hardly been any extras or fun activites. Definitly no movie night, no expensive dinner dates, no shopping sprees, you get my point. And when taxes came in, there were no big purchases, like a new deep freeze and cow that I wanted so badly to get. It was all catching up on bills and staying that way. And today all I could think was how lucky I am that I didn't have more things to worry about. My kids are all healthy, I have a roof over my head, basically everything I need to survive. Sure I would love a new outfit, and maybe some steaks for dinner. But I have had a year to get used to the idea of hotdogs and casseroles. I used to love to go into town for a day of splurging 20 dollars here or there. Now the idea stresses me out! My kids have done well with all the adjustments. Sure Hunter needs baseball cleats and some baseball pants, and Hailey could use the same and then some, Tyghelyn seems to always be happy with what she has, so all in all I'd say we are just fine. I think we sometimes think we have to have more than we need. I'm fine with having the necessities. But now things are turning scary at work for me! I have the next two weeks off because there is nothing to do. Normally we would just work with another crew or stretch out what little work we have so that it lasts till the next job. But anymore things are being cut back and we aren't able to do that. I'm worried for my job and what it will bring this year. I have no ideas or prospects for anything else. I dread the idea of sitting at a desk answering phones, or god forbid flipping burgers! But if that's what it takes I'll do it. So here's hoping that things will start looking up! And if it doesn't, then guess what, we'll just deal with it!

Mother Trucker

2011-04-30T14:34:00.000-07:00

So just to recap...For the last month or so since I went back to work, I have had to face the fact that I am required to get my Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for work. This has been a HUGE challenge for me. I've had to study a book about things like air brakes, tankers, general knowledge, and trailers. Things that I couldn't give two craps about (sorry for the pun)! It has been one of the most challenging things since High School that I have had to put myself through. Needless to say, I had to figure out how to study and absorb useless information again. It makes me feel sorry for Keith having to enroll in college! But after all the reading, I passed the air brakes, tankers, and general section the first try. The part about the trailers took three tries, but I made it through that. Then there was the driving test. I was sick for two weeks over it! Finally Friday night at five o'clock I passed with flying colors!! I'm so glad it's over with and really feel proud for being able to do it!

Cabin Fever

2011-02-04T17:52:00.000-08:00

So it hits again... Every year I get to be laid off in the winter. I say "get" to because after working almost twice as many hours as a normal person during the summer months, it's usually such a nice reprieve. This year however has been a little harder. It may just be my frame of mind, but I have been bored bored bored this year. I know, "Find something to do you say!" Well I have done a few things that I have enjoyed. First off I did work longer than usual, which was a really big help! But I made a commitment to myself to make a conscious effort to hit the gym. After all, I pay for the membership year round and don't use it at all in the summer. (Which I have also made a goal to continue going during the work season.) I haven't made any weight loss goals. I know I'm a few extra pounds more than I should be. But most importantly, I wanna feel good about myself. I wouldn't say that I have low self esteem, but I want to be an example for those around me with it. I'm trying to show that there is something you can do about it. There is no point in moping around feeling sorry for yourself. I really dislike self pity.
Anyhow, besides going to the gym, I have really tried to do a few more things for my kids. For Christmas I sewed Hunter some Pittsburgh Steeler drapes. He has a newfound obsession of football. Especially for the Steelers. He hopes to play this coming fall. I think that is one of those steps as a mom where I have to step back and let him do his thing. It mortifies me that he will get hurt. What's a mom to do. He is my special boy, and I get to be a little protective of him.
For the girls I have just tried to spend more one on one time with them. A couple of weeks ago I had some grocery shopping to do. Not the funnest thing, but I had just Hailey come with me. We did the grocery shopping as fast as we could, and then we shared a fun lunch together. One of my favorite things are sweet pork burritos from Cafe Rio. They are GIANT! So Hailey and I shared one. We got to talk about things she's doing and other girl things. It was special for me and I hope she liked it just as much.
Tyghelyn and I shared a day of reading and hanging out last saturday. She earned a reward from school for meeting her reading goal, and got to get a prize out of the treasure box at our local King's. We made caramel corn and watched a movie. I think we had a blast!
I have really tried to be a home body this winter. I usually find a part time job to go along with my unemployment. But this year I really wanted to show to myself that I don't HAVE to go to Idaho Falls everyday. I don't know that I'm a compulsive shopper, but if I do go to town, I spend money. So in the long run, I'm spending a lot less by not having a job. It may not make sense to anyone else, but it does in my little head.
Keith is still without a job, but desperatley looking. I admit I get frustrated, but I see him trying and he is making steps to move forward. We have started the process for him to go to school. I hope he can stick with it and be something important when he grows up.
As for everything else, we have spent a lot of time with our best friends this year. Tyghe also works for HK and gets laid off in the winter. We have watched their little one year old several times. She is so full of energy and is a bullet, shooting from one thing to the next. Her mom says she is a mix of Evel Kanevel, and Dennis the Menace. But we really have fun with them! My patience is soon to be tested again. They are leaving on the 17th of Feb. to go to Hawaii, and we are watching their two girls for 9 days. So we will have 5 kids. Wish us luck!
As it is, I can't wait to get back to work. I love love love my job! I'm looking forward to getting back to work and doing something productive. I never thought I could like going to work so much. I learn something new everyday. I'm good friends with all the guys I work with and we all get along so well. I think that's another part of why my job is so fun. Enough for now, I will post again soon....

Whistling... Thursday???

2010-05-06T07:43:00.000-07:00

I was sitting here coming up with a song for whistling Wednesday, and it hit me. Today is Thursday! OOPS! Well here it is anyway. This week is Shontelle. She isn't real popular and her songs seem to all be love songs. But what the heck... I'm feeling in love this week. :) Maybe I'll try something a little more daring next week. Enjoy...

2010-05-03T15:39:00.000-07:00

After having one of the best days ever on Saturday, I realized what I do when I'm in a good mood... COOK! I love cooking. And for some reason when I'm in a particulary good mood I cook sweets. This really isn't very good for my figure. But I never realized how little I had done this lately. Keith will ask me if we have anything "good" to eat. (meaning sweets) And over the past several months the answer has been "No" a lot. So Saturday I baked several things! Banana bread, one of our favorites. Fresh apple cake, homemade salsa verde, and regular salsa. It was a good day, and now we get to eat sweets for a while!

Good days coming to an end...:(

2010-05-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

As you know summer is so close we can taste it. But for me it is meaning misery is about to begin. Yes, I am again having to work out of town. Last year I thought it would be something new and adventurous. This year however, I am aware of how it's all going down. Work, Work, Work, sleep a little, come home for barely 24 hours, Work Work Work. Well you get the idea. This week has been awful. The stress of how its approaching so fast even put a lovely coldsore on my face. I am really dreading this year and hope it will be the last that i have to work out of town. Otherwise I am completely willing to quit and find something else. I just wanted to let those of you that help our family out so much in the summer, know how grateful we are to you. We know we inconvenience a lot of you and appreciate the time you take to make sure the kids are taken care of and that Keith doesn't starve inspite of himself. LOL Thanks again, and Hope everyone has a lovely summer.

Knowledge is Power...

2010-04-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

In dealing with some personal issues this week, I decided that I needed to direct my attention elsewhere. So I took up my other new hobby, reading! As I was reading some personal accounts of a certain fellow. I discovered something. Knowledge is definitley power. Of course I've always heard this growing up but somehow it never clicked for me, until now. Even if I don't share this knowledge with other people, it makes me feel much more secure in my own self. Knowing that I have the knowledge inside myself to use whenever it is needed. I guess you could say it was an AH HA moment for me today. Now if I could just be sure I won't forget it in an hour that would be even better. :)

Savory Saturday!

2010-04-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

It may be 8:30 at night, but it's still Saturday. So here is the menu this week. Keith chose all the recipes which made life sooo much easier! He found them all in a recipe app on his phone. So if any look appetizing or interesting and you would like to try them, just hit me up and I will email the recipe to you! Bon Apetite!

Sunday- KFC Fried Chicken, and Sweet Potatoe Fries

Monday- Crock Pot Potato Cheese Soup, and Bacon Roll-ups

Tuesday- Seafood Gumbo

Wednesday- 5 Layer Burritos

Thursday- Crock Pot Italian Beef and Potato Casserole

Friday- Leftovers

Saturday- Seafood Kabobs and Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Whistling Wednesday!

2010-04-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm kicking myself for missing last week... But the other day I went to lunch with Keith and this song came on the Jukebox. It has no real meaning, but it is just kind of a feel good song. I never went along with the whole boycotting of the Dixie Chicks. They simply stated their opinions of things and that's okay by me! So for this weeks whistling wednesday I thought it would be fun to hear a couple songs I haven't in a LONG time. Feel free to crank it up and ENJOY!!

Savory Saturday!

2010-04-03T07:35:00.001-07:00

After missing last weeks savory saturday, I firgured I should make this an extra good one. Keith even gave his input on this one! And you'll notice there is chicken 3 times this week!! I got all of my recipes this week from My Kitchen Cafe. The link is on the side of this post.

Sunday- Pork Roast, Mashed potatoes and Gravy, Deviled eggs (which will probably be all sorts of crazy colors from dye)

Monday- Meatball Marinara Sandwiches

Tuesday- BBQ Chicken Pizza

Wednesday- Black Bean Enchiladas, Corn and Bread

Thursday- Basil Pesto Pasta and spring Veggies

Friday- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Saturday- Lefovers

Whistling Wednesday!

2010-03-31T15:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, two posts in one day. I must be crazy! But here goes. As I was adding the last post I was listening to the music player I have installed, and I got thinking... I love music! Especially music that hits you right down to the core or sends shivers up and down your spine. Maybe I'm a mental case, but there are even songs that can make me break down and cry like a baby. So because this is a blog about me I figured I would let you in on all these facts. Wednesdays I will try and post at least one new song. It will be a song that has moved me emotionally in one way or another. Now these may not be for everyone. I have a WIDE range of music that I listen to. Anything from Classical to oldies to the heavy angry metal music that your mother would pull her hair out if she heard it. But it might give you and insight into my style, whatever it may be. I'm still not so sure that I have a style, maybe one day when I grow up. :) Anyhow, today is Pink. She is an odd and outrageous character at times, but other times she can be a sensitive and striking individual. I love her strong voice and the lyrics she uses. If you get a chance you can find her live video of this song on Utube. It's even more awesome to watch her performance. Enjoy!

The Mighty Fisherman!

2010-03-31T14:46:00.001-07:00

For sping break, Keith took Hunter and his week paid vacation and went FISHING! It's something he absolutley loves to do, no matter what the weather is! He went to Ellis (Just past Challis) and fished to his hearts content. His Dad met him there, and Uncle Kevin and his friend Jamie showed up a few days later. He had a great time, other than finding the camper refridgerator in smoke. Gotta love the fact that there is food all over the camper and the mice will find wires to chew on and cause a short!

Isn't he handsome!

Sorry the pic is sideways! But nice fish!

Savory Saturday!

2010-03-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

It's time once again for Savory Saturday! I have to admit this has really helped me try and think of stuff all through the week. With Keith being on vacation with Hunter this week, it's just me and the girls. We don't eat much, so it's going to be a very simple menu. But you still might be able to use something.

Saturday- We have a birthday party and will be eating dinner there. But I am making a broccoli salad.
3 Cups chopped broccoli, 1/4 red onion, 1/2 c cheddar cheese, 1/2 c bacon crumbles, 1/2 c sunflower seeds. For the sauce: 1c miracle whip, 1/2 c sugar, and 4T red wine vinegar.

Sunday-Leftover Tasty meatloaf and Mashed potatoes

Monday- Spaghetti and home made Meatballs and Garlic Bread

Tuesday- Going to Visit Keith in Salmon, Having Fried Chicken and Fiesta pasta salad

Wednesday- Leftover spaghetti

Thursday- Chicken Fajita Salads ( Cuz they were so yummy at Heather's)

Friday- Pizza

If you need the recipe for the meatballs or chicken fajita salad, I would be happy to help. Just let me know. And Happy Cooking this week!!

Hair it is!

2010-03-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hailey has been begging me to cut her hair for the longest time. After much deliberation, and the fact that I have no money to take her to the salon, I braved it and did it myself. I was scared to death, but after all was said and one it didn't turn out too bad! Here are some before and after pics!

Savory Saturday

2010-03-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, so "someone" has a cute theme for everyday of the week. I thought this was a super cute idea and thought it might help keep me posting more often. So for now I'm kind of adapting this idea. Thanks Heather! And I hope you don't mind. I also thought this might be helpful to a few others of you who actually read this blog. Saturdays will be know as Savory Saturdays. I'm going to try and post a weekly menu. Sometimes it will be the same old stuff and sometimes they will be new and exciting recipes to try. This week I used a lot of my recipes from The sisters cafe website. You can find the link on the side of my page. So here goes...

Sunday- Cranberry Pork Roast, Green Salad, and Steamed Veggies

Monday-Chicken Cream Cheese Soup and Rolls

Tuesday-Pork Burritos and Spanish Rice (Using the leftover pork roast)

Wednesday-Tasty Meatloaf, Baked Potatoes, and Frozen Veggies

Thursday-Hot Dogs and Fiesta Chicken Pasta Salad

Friday-Leftovers

I know I always have a hard time thinking of what to make for dinners, so I was hoping it might give you some inspiration. I can't cook for you, but I can help you think of something to make!

Crafting Fun

2010-03-12T12:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am a bad blogger! :) I have decided it's time for me to update more often. I'm going to start with a small goal and work my way up. I promise to update every two weeks, at least! So here goes. I had a super fun afternoon today! I got to have a play date!!! (Okay, the kids did too.) But sometimes adults just have to have a fun time too. Heather and I got to create some craft blocks. Thanks to her super duper Cricut machine! Never used one, but now I can see what all the fuss is about! Hers turned out way better than mine but it sure was fun. And here is a pic! Thanks Heather for the super fun time!

2010-01-20T20:19:00.000-08:00

Certain times in life bring out changes in people. I do believe that my husband is making great strides to try and make his life as non-disfunctional as possible. (Thank Goodness!) After years of very little contact with his dad, he decided it was time to put things in the past and start anew. He called him up and invited him on a week long fishing trip! I think it's great that he is going to try to get to know the man that helped create him. It took a lot of guts and I am so proud of him!

It's Christmas!

2009-12-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas is definately one of those times where I am either loving it or hating it! Today is a love love love day! We took three hours to decorate our gingerbread houses and train. I must be a really mean mom cuz my kids have never got to do one at our house before. This is due mostly in part to my lack of patience. But I figured what the heck... they are old enuf I can just let them have at it. So I would put the frosting where they told me and they decorated every bit of it. I think they did an awesome creative job! Needless to say, we had a great afternoon. And when we were done, hailey had a bell around her neck that kept driving me crazy. I was informed by miss know it all herself that it simply means I must still believe in Santa if I can hear it ringing. Gotta love the Polar Express movie!

2009-12-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

Every so often I get in one of those moods that you just can't explain. For me it starts out with anger. I'm angry at one person then eventually it's everyone. Then after that phase passes it turns into holing myself up alone somewhere. And it finally turns into love. Don't ask me how. It can be as little as someone calling and asking how I am, or if they can do anything. Even though it's something I have to deal with myself, it means the world to know that someone would care enough to ask. Even if there may be more to my emotions that no one knows about. So thank you! You know who you are... After all that is said and done it turns into something odd. I just want to sit and cry. I say it's odd because I am not a crier. Sometimes it just feels good to want to. Maybe that is my way of releasing all my stress and emotion. Anyway, just thought I would see how it felt to express my emotions in writing. Thanks for listening.

Back Into The Swing of Things

2009-11-07T14:12:00.000-08:00

Four days home and I already fell like there is a million things to catch up on! Not so much cleaning, but I need to winterize. The summer flew by and the holidays are here already. The one thing I couldn't wait to start on was couponing again! I like nothing better almost than getting stuff for free or cheap. Thanks mom and dad for that life lesson! It takes a lot to squeeze a few pennies out of my you know what. So I will once again post my great deal I got for groceries today. Amber you may want to skip this one since I know how jealous it will make you. Love ya!

3 boxes mashed potatoes, 5 boxes of broth, 2 5lb. bags of potatoes, 4 boxes toaster struedels, 3 cans corn, 2 jars spaghetti sauce, 6 bags of cookie mix, 8 pkgs of yogurt, 6 boxes of cereal, 1 ham, 1 turkey breast, 4 steaks, 1 pkg of hotdogs, and buns, 2 5 lb bags of flour, six cartons of frosting, and six cans of soup... Grant total 106.85 plus I still have 15.00 to spend for free, and I won't have to get groceries again for a month!!

The View From Work

2009-05-31T14:29:00.001-07:00

I have now been working out of town for two weeks and coming home on the weekends. It has been quite a drag not seeing my kids every night. On the other hand I have an awesome view every single day. The mountains are by Jackson Lake, and the black bear is just off the road where I am working. Quite the excitement when we see one. It keeps you on your toes and I am constantly cocked and loaded with my bear spray!!

Coupons on the Brain!!!

2009-04-05T14:19:00.001-07:00

Okay, here it is. I told myself I was not going to use coupons because of too many various reasons to list. After fighting it and fighting it, my big sister had to come and show me all the money she kept saving. So I finally came to the conclusion that I had to be stupid not to save money too. (Not that any of you are stupid for not using coupons!) This week I have to share my good deals because it is all stuff that everyone uses and could stand to save a few bucks on too. My goal... have food storage built up so if our family has another bad winter like this last one, we will still have food to eat! I hate ramen noodles! And by the way, yes that is an entire case of cereal that the other stuff is sitting on! LOL

Total Savings = $131.25

30 Boxes of Post Cereal should have cost 137.70, acutally paid 20.10

2 Bottles of Soft Soap should have cost 2.00, paid 1.20

Snuggle Softner should have paid 4.00 paid 2.00

2 Kraft Salad Dressings should have paid 3.20, paid .35

2 Airwick Freshners should have paid 10.00, paid 2.00

2009-04-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

At last.... I finally got my internet hooked up! And of course it's been months since I've updated. Unfortuantely not much has happend in my time away. Still no work yet, although Keith is no longer laid off!! I did however bite the bullet and get a gym membership. Two months of hard work and no change. I try not to get frustrated and tell myself I'm building muscle faster than I'm burning fat. The least I can be thankful for is that the scale is not increasing the numbers, it just isn't decreasing them either. Oh well, I figure I can be happy any shape or size. Hunter has been making great strides in his scout program. He just earned his bear award. He is such a good boy and loves to excel in all he does. Hailey is reading like a champ and has finally stopped calling me three times a week to come and get her from school. And Tyghelyn is growing so fast. She loves school and was excited to go back after a week for spring break. No more babies in this house. I really enjoyed them as babies, but I am so glad that they are getting independant! I think this is the funnest stage we have had. And the most challenging. I thought they were very oppinionated when they were little, but now they know how to express themselves with words. And they are not afraid to tell anyone how they feel. They will also share info with anyone who asks, and those who don't for that matter. There are no secrets with anyone we know. The kids tell all! Oh well, honesty is always best right? Just figured I would give a quick update and will post again soon.

Collectiong Unenjoyment!!!

2009-01-16T09:26:00.000-08:00

As summer was flying by I was thinking about all the things I would get to accomplish this winter while I was laid off. As it were... I don't think I've accomplished anything. I have obviously kept up on the housework finally. But as far as crafts or extra cirricular activities... they are non exhistant. I find it hard to pull my butt up off the couch for any unnecessary reason. I need to find some motivation to do something productive. Even if that means excersising! I need to just bite the bullet and do it!!! As promised her are a few more pictures that we got taken.

FREAKS!!!

2008-12-07T18:09:00.000-08:00

If you ever thought your family tree didn't really branch out take a look at this. My brother in law took our family pictures and is gifted with photo shopping talents. This is what he made us look like. I found a way to view it larger is to save it on your desktop and then pull it up using a photo viewer. And by the way this is just a teaser... the real pictures are coming... LOL

Have your cake and eat it too!

2008-11-09T06:35:00.000-08:00

Keith was trying to butter me up the other night and he made me this cake. It is a chocolate fudge cake with raspberry filling and chocolate icing. I can't even begin to describe how good it tastes! It was in a magazine he printed and it won some kind of award. Now I know why. Anyone interested in the recipe can let me know. But it had to be really easy to make because he did it. And it's super yummy!

I'm Back!!! But I never went anywhere...

2008-11-02T14:48:00.001-08:00

Holy cow!! I promise I didn't fall off the face of the earth completely! But my summer was very eventful. I officially have ALL of my children in school. I don't know what to do with myself. My baby went to kindergarten this year, and she is loving it. She was so excited to learn and meet new people. I really thought she would just like to stay home and be with mom all day but I was sorely diassappointed. Here is a pic of her first day. All grown up.

This summer has been go go go. I have worked ate and slept everyday for the last five months. I don't think much else has happened in between. I still love my job. I moved up to a front end loader operator this year. And wow... it's interesting. But still very challenging. I know, can you imagine me in one of those things. I get some pretty suprising looks from people when I'm driving down the road. I can't believe winter is almost here already. How time flies when you're having fun. This weekend My grandparents were able to visit from New Mexico, as well as my sister and her kids. On Saturday night they put on a play for us. It was called the Dream. And funny!!!

We aren't really sure what the story line was or how it ended, but they sure had fun putting each other in hand cuffs and getting locked in "jail".

Merry Christmas in June???

2008-06-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning I woke up to this scene layed out before me. I immediately thought, "What?! Christmas already?" Then I realized it must have been my imagination. Right up until I went to work and then I realized that it really was only 50 degrees and it really did snow. If you live in Idaho then you know the fraze, if you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes and it will change! This is so true. I can't even begin to tell you how badly I wanted 80 degree weather that day! Brrrrrrrr. But now, four days later, it is 80 degrees, and I couldn't be happier. Yeah! Anyhow, ya'll better get those Christmas lists made, it may snow again next week!

~my Crazy life~

2008-06-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

Life has been a bit chaotic to say the least! But we did recently spend memorial weekend in Coeur D' Alene with Keith's family. We love to visit there, and our goal is to one day move there. Not just for the fishing and hunting, and quietness. But our extended family is just too much fun! Unfortunately when we returned home, life had to go on as usual. So besides cooking dinners, doing laundry, and scrubbing toilets, I have been putting in 50 hour work weeks. Crazy! Wouldn't ya say?!?

Keith decided it was time for a new camera,( okay, at least one that worked) so he bought me a belated birthday, mother's day and early anniversary gift. Yippee! Now I can post so much more! So here is one with me and the kids. Testing it out. LOL It's really retarded. But we will have time for better ones.

MIA

2008-05-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, I feel like I have been missing in action for a while. Then I realize other people have lives too. I guess my only excuse it that I have been working my tail off. It feels good to be out in the fresh air after so long. The days have been too cold for me, but it's the work that I have so much fun doing. I sometimes have to wonder if the snow will ever stop. It was snowing this morning. My kids will be out for summer vacation in less than two weeks. What is up with that? Any how, I am still alive.

Roller Operator

2008-03-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how life works sometimes. Not two hours after the last post I made about wanting to go back to my construction job, my boss called. YEAH!!! I got to work all day tuesday. And let me tell you how out of shape I am! I forget about some of the muscles I have to gain, and the weight I have to lose. But I got a fresh reminder of it. But man did it feel good to get a good workout. And I also realize how much I love my job there. The people I work with may not have the same standards. But I enjoy their company, and the fun we have nonetheless. I realize it's not a job that my body will stand up to the rest of my life, but while I am in my mostly younger years, it great. Anyhow, just an update. Things are going in a good direction.

Where did it go???

2008-03-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have been searching and searching.... I just can't figure out where February went! It was here at one point I'm sure. But I just can't believe it would be gone already. Before I know it Christmas will be here and..... okay I'm jumping way to far ahead. I need to figure out how to get life to slow down some, and just enjoy the simple things. Not counting sleeping time, I have spent and incredible 7 hours at home last week. And that consisted of doing laundry, dirty dishes, and whatever else. There are days when I wonder if the house will just clean itself. But knowing that won't happen, I resign myself to digging in. There are moments when I look back and think about things I could have done differently so that I wouldn't have to work. But I realize all there is to look at is the future, and to learn from the past. I also can't wait to get back on that roller, and pound sand. That sounded really stupid. But that's what I do in the summer...except it's more like pounding dirt, then BIG rocks, then little rocks mixed with sand. At least I will have the weekends, and evenings home. I plan on attending a technical college in the fall and getting my surgical assistant certificate. For some reason something is holding me back and I can't explain it. I know it is what I'm supposed to do but it doesn't feel right, right now. I think I'm more worried about what I will do when I have to stop working, and go to school full time. How will we survive. Good things are happening with Keith's job, and I think I should wait to see how that cookie crumbles before I make any concrete decisions. That should be settled within a month or so. Anyhow, that's how my life is shaping up right now in computer land. If any of it made any sense.

Oh yeah, I should explain the picture... No I am not some gigantic pig. We were at Animal kingdom and decided to get lunch there instead of the sandwiches we had packed. Dad bought some barbeque stuff, and for some reason the whole tray ended up in my lap and everyone just kept piling stuff on it. Everyone was ready to go but me and I was trying to hurry and finish. Mom thought this would be a great portrait photo. So.... Thanks MOM! I thought is was rather funny. Maybe you just had to be there to appreciate it. LOL

I've Been Tagged!

2008-02-27T12:19:00.000-08:00

Okay Shalae. In answer to all the questions:
What is your husband's name? Keith Richard Bowcutt
How long have you been married? 10 years in July. (Which is the last time I saw Shalae)
How long did you date? 13 months before we were married.
How old is he? He is 31 years old. I'm glad they didn't ask how old I was!
Who eats more sweets? ME!! It's an old habit I picked up from my dad. :)
Who said I love you first? He definately did. I probably would have held off forever. He has to be the first one to say things. I come out looking like a bubbling idiot.
Who is taller? We are pretty close to the same. But I guess he might be a hair taller. Except his hair is gone on top. LOL
Who can sing best? Well neither of us are pros, but we both think we sing pretty well. I'm more on tune and Keith remembers the words better. (Again, I come out sounding like a bubbling idiot)
Who is smarter? Keith is definately book smart! I just have all the common sense. (At least I know how to run the washer)
Who does the laundry? I think I pretty much just answered that in the last question. That is definately NOT Keith's speciality.
Who pays the bills? I'm the one that makes sure they get paid. But we both share the responsibility of making the money to pay them.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? ME
Who mows the lawn. Thankfully we don't have our own to mow right now. But it's usually me. I'm like Shalae, I really don't mind.
Who cooks dinner? 5 nights out of the week, Keith. Two, ME. That's what happens when you work at night.
Who drives? Keith. He claims to be much better at it.
Who is the first to admit they are wrong? I would probably say that is me. He is sually pretty sure of himself.
Who is more stubborn? It depends on what we are being stubborn about.
Who kissed who first? Keith kissed me! Again, I would have put it off forever. (Not because I didn't want to though.)
Who asked who out? That's ones kind of strange. I wouldn't give him my number, so he asked me out a week after I met him. That's when I decided to call him. He He...
Who wears the pants? We both take turns. But he would like to say that he does all the time. And I usually just let him think it. :)

Kid Pics!

2008-02-27T07:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I'm a little slow at this whole thing. I put my kids pics on my profile. It was there, just really small. But here it is!

2008-02-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, if my sister can blog, then so can I!

Let me also start off by introducing my family ( or better yet, my kids) to everyone. Hunter Wylie is 8 years old, and our perfect child. He is the best brother a kid could have, and he loves to help everyone. He is in the second grade and reading at a fourth grade level. He brings home 100% on almost every paper from school. He is a very patient child and obeys everything his mom and dad tell him to. He hardly ever argues, keeps his room cleaned, gets up when he really doesn't want to, etc. etc. etc. Need I say more. He's and angel

Then there is Hailey Danielle! She is 6 going on 30. Very independent, and stubborn. Let's say the complet opposite of her brother. Although she is still too smart for her own good! Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't have asked for a sweeter child. She loves attention. Kisses and hugs before bed is a must! She loves to be read to, and is learning how herself. She is the star student in kindergarten. The teachers can't get enough of her. They all know her by name, and she loves to get hugs from everyone. Drama is her middle and she lives up to every meaning of the word. She enjoys looking beautiful. Including makeup and jewelery. She is a very special girl and we are so glad she's ours!

Now for Tyghelyn. She just turned 5 and is a very good combination of her brother and sister. She is sooooo sweet. She loves hanging out with mom. She started out very shy, but her sister is breaking her out of her shell! She's learning to talk to everyone she meets, and tries to act very grown up. She has no problem telling you when you are doing something wrong. By the way, reading and driving is illegal she told me today. OOPS! (Really is was just the mail from the mailbox to the house.)