tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67797924465670852632024-03-13T10:03:46.134-07:00Campbell Clan ChronicleHolli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-81272278274589648432012-08-03T10:00:00.002-07:002012-08-03T10:00:34.793-07:00Caden's Capers - Week 2Mommy's been kinda busy with some work things this week, so she hasn't had a lot of time to read my mind. Hopefully this weekend, she'll get a few mintues. She told me that she loves to read my mind and put down all my thoughts, so I know she'll do it. Until then, here's a little update from the end of last week.<br />
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<strong>Thursday, July 26, 2012</strong><br />
Since I already told you a lot about this day, I just thought I'd just say that I loved meeting my Uncle Phillip and Aunt Ellen. They told me they are going to teach me how to play hockey someday, but I need to grow a little first. From what Mommy and Daddy said about the dinner Aunt Ellen cooked, I know that if I get to eat her cooking a lot, the growing part won't be a problem. <br />
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<strong>Friday, July 27, 2012</strong><br />
Today I got to spend a lot of time with Daddy, as Mommy had to help the 4-H kids with their Interview Judging Day. Some day, I'll get to be in 4-H and find out what this was all about. Until then, I know that Mommy really seems to like those 4-H kids, so they must be good people. I know she wouldn't leave me for just anyone, so they must be really special.<br />
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<strong>Saturday, July 28, 2012</strong><br />
More time with Daddy today, as Mommy and the 4-H people went to put all the projects on display. The 4-H members did a really good job! They got lots of pretty colored ribbons, and 8 of the projects will get to compete at the State Fair. I hope I get to have a project go to the State Fair someday. Wouldn't that be cool?<br />
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<strong>Sunday, July 29, 2012</strong><br />
Today was just a lazy day around the house. Daddy had to make sure he had his mind and his clothes ready to go back to work tomorrow. I know Mommy will miss him, and having his help, but she and I will do just fine toghether. I don't even care if she takes a shower or not - I just want her to love me and feed me and change my diaper. That's all that really matters in life, right?<br />
<br />Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-75598200498322360312012-07-26T12:46:00.001-07:002012-07-26T12:46:59.035-07:00Caden's Capers - Week 1<br />
Well, today marks 1 week since I have been at my new home - my forever home. I really like it here. This week has been a little busy, but mostly just a lot of time spent with my Mommy & Daddy.<br />
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<strong>Thursday, July 19, 2012 - Gotcha Day!</strong><br />
Last Thursday was my Gotcha Day - you can read more about that in the post that my Mommy wrote last week.<br />
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<strong>Friday, July 20, 2012 - Just Chill</strong><br />
On Friday, Mommy and I just stayed home, but Daddy had to go in to his work for a little while to make sure I got added to something called insurance. Mommy & Daddy's friend, Mary came over and helped while Daddy was gone. But, since we are doing this thing called cocooning, Mary only got to meet me. She didn't get to hold me yet. Mommy & Daddy say cocooning is to help me learn to know them and know that they will always take care of me. We are trying to stay home a lot, we don't get to watch the TV (at least not with the sound on - Daddy has found the closed captioning) and our visitors are limited. This helps me to learn Mommy & Daddy's voices, and know that they will be there to meet all of my needs. <br />
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<strong>Saturday, July 21, 2012</strong> - <strong>A little field trip</strong><br />
Today, we went for a little outing - at least that's what Mommy & Daddy said. I slept the whole time, so I don't even remember. We went to my favorite store, Babies 'R' Us to pick up a few things. I guess I'm a messy eater, so Mommy wanted to get some more burp clothes. And she also wanted to find a carrier for me, since I like to sleep close to her. I know this will help her when Daddy goes back to work in a week. She tried the Baby Bjorn - it was really bad. It had no back support for her, and my legs just hung there. She's going to take that thing back!<br />
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<strong>Sunday, July 22, 2012 - Nesting</strong><br />
Mommy was a crazy cleaning woman today. I had to hang out with Daddy most of the day - which was just fine with me - because she wanted to clean everything! I guess she just wants to make me feel welcome, and also make sure I don't get sick. That crazy dog Susie sure does have a lot of hair. But I like her anyway - she likes to lick my bare feet - that tickles! In the afternoon, Mommy & Daddy's friend Debbie came over to bring them some dinner. I guess sometimes when there's a new baby in the house, it is hard for Mommy and Daddy to find time to make food for themselves. I'm just glad that they make sure I have food, because I sure do like to eat.<br />
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<strong>Monday, July 23, 2012 - A BIG DAY!</strong><br />
Today was a big day for me. We took a car trip to a lot of places. First, Mommy and Daddy had to get some pieces of papers signed by a special person so it made their signatures legal. Then, since we were at Mommy's work to do this, we had to go meet Mommy's office assistant. After we left there, we headed to the day care center to make sure they still had a spot for me when Mommy goes back to work, and also give them some money. They were so nice - they didn't make Mommy and Daddy give them any money, because of our special situation, and they also remembered us from when Mommy and Daddy had made arrangements for my big brother Luke to go there too. They were so understanding and happy for our family. Then, we went back to my favorite store - but I didn't get to go in this time. Daddy just ran in to take that silly carrier back. After that, we found an even better store to buy a new carrier for me. The ladies there were so nice, and they let Mommy try the carrier on with me in it. Mommy really likes it - as a matter of fact, I am in it right now sleeping away. I guess Mommy and I communicate by telepathy, since I'm sleeping :-) After that, I had seen and heard enough of the outside world for one day, and I just wanted to go home. This was a long day for me, and I slept for a long time when we got home.<br />
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<strong>Tuesday, July 24, 2012 - Bath Time & Doctor</strong><br />
Today was another big day for me, but not quite as busy as yesterday. Mommy and Daddy gave me my first bath at my new home. I really liked it. The water was warm and they held me so I felt really comfortable. I loved the little fishy sprinkler cup they used to help rinse me off. After my bath, Daddy fed me while Mommy tried to give me a mani/pedi. She was really nervous, and it took her longer to do my nails than it takes Twee to do her nails - and Twee puts on polish! After my bath, we had to go to the doctor. Mommy and Daddy just wanted to make sure I was doing ok, even though I had gotten my two month shots last week. I am doing ok. I weigh 9 pounds and 9 ounces already. I really like to eat my formula. <br />
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<strong>Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Photo Shoot</strong><br />
All week, Mommy has been talking about taking my picture. Last night, she went to Target to get a few things, and she found a really cute little outfit that said "Worth the Wait" on the front. She thought this would be perfect for some pictures, so she dressed me up and we went to my room for my big photo shoot. I did not dissapoint Mommy & Daddy - I smiled and giggled and had all kinds of fun while that contraption Daddy was holding made these funny clicking noises. I smiled at that too. After the photo shoot, Mommy and Daddy decided this would be a great day to take me for another walk, since it rained last night, and the morning air was fresh and cool. . (We had gone for a walk on Friday too, but it was really hot then. I cried.) Today our walk was a lot better. We took Susie along with us, and she seems to like walking along side of "the Bob" (that's the nickname for my fancy stroller). I think she likes to protect me. Mommy says this will be good when Daddy goes back to work and can't go on walks with us. I know Mommy can handle both of us - I'll be good, but I'm not sure about Susie :-)<br />
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<strong>Thursday, July 26, 2012 - Just hangin' around</strong><br />
Today, we are just hangin' around the house again. Mommy and Daddy are taking turns holding me so that they each can get a few chores done. I get to meet my Aunt Ellen and Uncle Phillip tonight - I'm pretty excited. They are coming to meet me and cook dinner for Mommy and Daddy. I can't wait, and Mommy and Daddy are looking forward to it too. Oh, I should tell you about my boxing match. It was with a yellow duck with blue wings and a black & white tummy. I was giving it heck this morning while I was chillin' on the floor. I would take a swing at it, and every time I got it, Mommy and Daddy would cheer, so I just kept swinging. I think they had just as much fun watching me punch that thing as I did punching it. <br />
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Well, that's been my week... Stay tuned. I will try to write again - hopefully Mommy will have time to read my thoughts again soon.<br />
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Love to all my family & friends,<br />
Caden<br />
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<br />Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-59111112177786475542012-07-19T22:10:00.001-07:002012-07-24T18:29:55.006-07:00Fast Forward & Full-Speed AheadToday was "Gotcha" Day!<br />
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Caden was born on May 17, 2012 and he weighed 5lbs. 1oz. He was 18" long. He dropped a few ounces before he left the hospital, but is up to 8 lbs. 6 oz. and 21" long as of his doctor's appt. this past Monday. He had a good check-up on Monday, and besides the fact that he is a little small for his age, the doctor said he is doing just fine. <br />
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He is a good eater, and is very wide-eyed. He looks around all the time while he is awake. Today, we put a mirror in the pack-n-play, and he gazed at his own reflection for quite some time. We also discovered he likes to play peek-a-boo. He was all smiles. He has blue-gray eyes and the little bit of hair he has is actually quite red.<br />
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We have some photos taken by his cradle care dad somtime between Saturday and today. (Cradle care is a temporary home for the baby once birth mom makes up her mind that she wants to place baby for adoption, but adoptive parents are either not yet identified, and/or during the "paperwork" period.)<br />
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Sorry we can't post any photos, but we had to sign an agreement today saying that we will not post any photos or identifying information to any internet sites, and we would not want to jeaporadize the process by violating our agreement. Also, we can use his first name only on these sites, but it may just be safe to say "baby boy" or Holli and Chris' son. This is only until the adoption is finalized, which will be in about 6 months. Until that time, we can email you with pictures and we will do our best to do this as frequently as we are able to find time. Just let us know what address - most of my (Holli's) contacts are saved on my work computer, and I am not planning to go there for at least a little while.<br />
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So, you probably want to know a little bit about how yesterday and today "went down"...<br />
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Well, at 8:25 AM yesterday (Wednesday, July 18, 2012) (I looked at my phone for the exact time) the phone number for American Adoptions came up - on the other end was Jessica, a social worker who works with birth parents telling me that she had a potential "match" for us and would like to tell me the details. I couldn't believe what I was hearing - does this really happen? In only 2 weeks and 1 day? I asked her if she could conference Chris in, because I knew he was at his desk - I had just called him to find out if he wanted me to pull something out of the freezer for dinner. Jessica conferenced Chris in and she told us about birth mom and baby.<br />
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So after, we hung up from talking with Jessica, Chris came home immediately, and on his way we talked on the phone about this possibility. I think we had already both made up our minds, but we wanted to say it to each other in person. When Chris got home, we made a list of just a couple more questions to ask Jessica, and we called her back at about 9:11 - we had to leave a message, but she called us right back at 9:15. (gotta love the cell phone) We asked our questions and then we accepted the match. We had officially started the process! What a whirlwind! We each called our moms - of course both grandmas were overjoyed! Then the craziness really began - we had emails to receive with paperwork to be signed and notarized, funds to get wired and a whole bunch of other stuff to get in order. The phone was in constant use as we started to let everyone know, including bosses and some co-workers. I think I said Oh My Gosh, Oh My Gosh, Oh My Gosh about 1,000 times throughout the day, and I know at one point I literally jumped up & down for joy!<br />
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We had been told that we would likely meet and pick up Caden on Thursday afternoon, but as we were running an errand for Holli's work (previously scheduled), we got a call from the placement agency here in Colorado stating that they wanted to meet with us today, as in now or as close to now as possible. (that would have been Wednesday) to do a "formal presentation" of the birth mom and baby. This was just going over the paperwork (which we had already seen from American Adoptions - it all gets a little crazy with so many agencies involved) and having us sign a few things. Quite honestly, I don't really remember what we signed yesterday. They also wanted us to go to the home of the cradle care providers to meet Caden - REALLY? Holy Cow! They suggested that we leave an item of ours with them so he could have it overnight to start to get used to our scent. We had nothing with us! So, we decided to give them the "shirts off our backs" (literally) and we headed to the nearest Target store to pick up new ones. Then we were on our way. <br />
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We arrived at the office to hear the presentation, then we headed not far away to meet Caden for the very first time. We just couldn't believe this was all happening. We got to spend about an hour and a half with him, just holding him and talking to him and beginning to fall in love. What a sweet baby he is. We are just so, so lucky and blessed. As reality set in of all the things we still had to accomplish, we decided we needed to leave and head home. We decided we would go out to dinner - probably the last time for a while - and then it really started to sink in - we had a lot left to do! We finished up, went to Walmart to gather a few supplies (can't imagine doing this if we didn't already have a nursery in place) and then headed home to pack & prepare. We finally hit the pillow around 11:00 PM - not too bad. Chris slept well (lucky him!) and thanks to some Tylenol PM, I got about 5 good hours.<br />
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Today, we got a pretty early start so we could be at the agency in Aurora by 9:00. We had one errand on the way and then we went to sign all the legal paperwork. After that was finished, we headed back over to the Cradle Care home to officially become parents. We held a short little ceremony where a candle was lit and some poems were read, and then we all shared wishes for Caden's life. It was sweet and emotional. Believe it or not, this was the first time I had cried in the whole process.<br />
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After picking Caden up, we had a little bit of time as our new family, so we picked up some lunch and went to find a nice, shady spot under a tree in a local park to just hang out together. Caden was sleeping at this time so we just got to enjoy watching him sleep. We had to be back to the agency offices by 12:30 to meet birth mom and birth dad. We fed Caden a little bit before we left the park, and then headed out. Shortly after we arrived at the agency offices, we were introduced to birth mom & birth dad. We had actually spoken to birth mom the night before for just a few minutes on the phone, but this was the first meeting in person. Of course, it was nerve-wracking and a bit awkward, but we were able to share some small token gifts with birth mom and birth dad and answer a few questions of one another. After about 30 or so minutes, we wrapped up the meeting and we were on our way shortly - but not until after a diaper change. Caden let us know he needed that! :-)<br />
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We were on our way home shortly and we got here around 2:30 and we've just been enjoying our new baby ever since. We just feel so lucky - he's sleeping soundly now (9:50 p.m. our time - I started this at about 5:00 and have had a few interruptions) and we are just preparing ourselves for the night ahead (getting formula measured into bottles and putting the cradle in our room, etc...) Chris is reading up in the "What to Expect" book, because much to his dismay, my maternal instincts and babysitter training ump-teen years ago did not include the encyclopedia / timeline of when a baby sits up, crawls, and starts to eat solid foods. Sorry honey!<br />
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Well, I hear someone stirring... <br />
Love to all,<br />
Holli & ChrisHolli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-38983826517701053372012-04-18T10:00:00.001-07:002012-04-18T10:01:19.615-07:00Interviews CompleteWe just finished the last of our home study interviews this morning. We've been meeting with the social worker pretty much every week for about the last 3 1/2 weeks, and now were done. So here's the most embarassing moment of them all. So, our social worker got to the house this morning a few minutes before our appointment, so she sat in her car waiting - as she was sitting there, our neighbor across the street decided it would be a good time to stand in front of his sliding glass door to talk on the phone - IN HIS UNDERWEAR! (Imagine a red-neck Santa Clause looking guy - white beard and belly - standing there in his whitie-tighties - but they were blue.) Yes, we all got a pretty good laugh over it - but oh my goodness - how embarassing! Why today? Oh well - it<em> was</em> pretty funny.<br />
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Now, we wait. Again. Our social worker said it will take her about 4 weeks to write up the report. (She works part time.) Then, we will have the chance to read it over and sign off on it. In the mean-time, we will be gathering photos and writing answers to a bunch of questions so that our profile (both print and on-line) can be created. These need to be submitted soon, so as soon as our home study is approved, we can be activated and our profile can start to be shown to potential birth parents. We will also be attending a training in early June.<br />
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So, that's it right now - more waiting! That seems to be the constant in this whole process.<br />
<br />Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-40823201704615181562012-03-15T12:27:00.000-07:002012-03-15T12:27:39.372-07:00Paperwork complete... for now...Today was a good day - I put the packet in the mail today - the one with all the documents that the home study agency wanted (well, except for the ones they forgot to send us and the one our insurance company needs to fill out). All total, it was a list of 30+ things that we sent them, of which several had to be notarized or witnessed. (Thank goodness for the list!) Many of the items were 1 for each of us and we each had to have our fingerprints done too. But I feel really good. I worked on paperwork all day Saturday. I filled out most of the forms and Chris read and signed the ones he needed to. We did a few other things too (fixed the fence, went to church, visited Luke) the usual weekend stuff, but we devoted most of the weekend to getting through all of the paperwork. <br />
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We both went to the doctor on Tuesday for physicals. In my mind, I was thinking, "Really?" Haven't I been to the doctor enough over the past 2 years? But the doctor was great about it - just looking over all my recent visits, and not torturing me with any of the "you should exercise" lectures. He just filled out the form for me. He basically did the same for Chris. <br />
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We had a call with American Adoptions yesterday to go over all of the information we submitted in our questionnaire - the Adoption Family Specialist was very positive about the information we had provided. She felt we seemed very open in our preferences, which is good. Now, we just have to get started on providing them with all of the stuff they are asking for... a bizillion photos (if you have any goods ones of us - together or individually or with you - please send them!) and answering about 1000 questions so they can start to create our profile that will be shown to birth parents. And all of this while working on our home study too. Hopefully we will get a call early next week to get our home study appointments set up. I know we will likely have 3 or 4 appointments with the Social Worker. At least one of those will be here at the house. Guess we better get to cleaning. There goes any fun plans for the weekend. <br />
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<br />Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-81594185266785670332012-03-09T04:08:00.004-08:002012-03-09T04:56:00.383-08:00EHS - a medical (or maybe mental) conditionEver heard of it? You might have had it at one point or another - symptoms include inability to sleep because you can't stop thinking about things (hence the reason I am writing this at 5:00 AM!), what seems like hundreds of things to do, a feeling that you can't possibly get it all done, etc... The official name is "<strong>Exploding Head Syndrome</strong>" and I know I must have it right now! <br /><br />We chose our home study provider this week, and their "packet" arrived in the mail on Wednesday. Of course I opened it - what was I thinking? I should have waited until the weekend to do that - when I would have more time. But I don't want to wait. I want to get everything done ASAP. I have been waiting all my life for a baby! If I wait, it just takes longer.<br /><br />I started going through the stuff - OMG! Why do they need to know that?! I know that every person who has ever adopted or fosterd a child has had to answer all of these same questions - but sometimes it just doesn't seem fair. We just want to love and care for a sweet child. We didn't have to do this when we were pregnant with our own - why now? But Chris, the logical, rational one in the family put it into perspective for me. I know we don't think the same way, and that's a good thing. (I think the EHS is blocking any logical thinking in my head right now.) That's why we are good together - balance. <br /><br />So, let's get on with it! Make a list - that's logical right? Start checking things off the list - another logical step. EHS - you won't keep me down! I'm sure that I will have recurring bouts of EHS at times. (I can already imagine what the week before the Social Worker comes to the house will look like.) But I can deal with this. I have just one more day of work to get through and then I can start to concentrate on making the list. <br /><br />If you'd like to delve into some of this information with us, I would recommend a website for adoption books called Tapestry Books. (<a href="http://www.tapestrybook.com">www.tapestrybook.com</a>) They have all sorts of books on all topics surrounding adoption. Of course you don't have to purchase them - just head to the library or get on Book Mooch - an online "library" located at <a href="http://www.bookmooch.com">www.bookmooch.com</a> - thanks Sue Stuever Battel for introducing me!<br /><br />All I can say is TGIF! And we have no major plans for the weekend - well, except all the paperwork. :-) But we will get through it - one piece at a time. Happy Friday everyone!Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-23729659296735060362012-03-06T21:20:00.001-08:002012-03-06T20:23:14.171-08:00A Bittersweet Day - A New Journey Begins<div><strong>Week 1 - Information Overload</strong></div><div> </div><div>Last Tuesday, we applied to American Adoptions (AA) - a national adoption agency located in Kansas that specializes in Domestic Infant Adoption. Our initial application was accepted, and now we are in the INFORMATION OVERLOAD stage of adoption. Who knew how much stuff there is to learn! It is CRAZY! Because AA (no that is not Alcoholics <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Anonymous</span> - but we may need that by time we are done with all of this!) is not licensed in Colorado, we need to find a Colorado agency to do our Home Study - which will likely take 6-8 weeks - maybe longer. This digs into our history, finances, our house itself (better find our cleaning supplies and rubber gloves!), requires background and fingerprint checks, etc... In addition, we have to complete a very extensive Adoption Planning <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Questionnaire</span> (APQ) with our preferences for our future child. (ie: race of baby, our acceptance of smoking, alcohol consumption and drug use of mother during pregnancy, etc...) We also have to complete information so that the agency can put together our print & on-line profiles. This includes gathering lots of photos, and also working on our video profile. All of these steps have to be taken before we are even officially activated with American Adoptions and our profile can begin to be shown to potential birthmothers. If we seem a little out of touch and overwhelmed over the next couple of months, WE ARE! Pray for us - we will need it as we travel this path.</div>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-30855010446650984652010-04-06T20:54:00.000-07:002010-04-06T20:58:58.936-07:00Check out Luke's Love MarksIf you regularly follow this blog - whatever regular is based on how regularly it has been updated lately, you may want to check out our other blog -- Luke's Love Marks -- at www.lukeslovemarks.blogspot.com. It will give you an update of the most recent events of our family.Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-83323835877165858102009-11-10T11:41:00.000-08:002009-11-10T11:51:12.255-08:00Pregnancy UpdateWell, we are into week 24 of pregnancy and everything is going well. I found this little pregnancy count down, so now we can all keep track of where I am -- since I'm not the greatest at it. We haven't taken any pregnancy belly photos yet, but maybe we will soon. I am definitely showing, but nothing too huge yet. I gave in a few weeks back to wearing maternity clothes. I definitely look more pregnant in some things than others, and I find that my "regular" elastic waist clothes (mainly sweat pants) seem to slide under my belly more and more. I haven't bought any maternity jeans yet, but I probably will have to do that sooner rather than later, since my normal ones don't really even fit under my belly any more without being uncomfortable.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.my-calorie-counter.com/Ticker/TickerEngine.php?RulerImage=ruler_balloons.gif&SliderImage=panda.gif&DueDate=3/8/2010" />Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-82599846275627493372009-09-03T14:53:00.000-07:002009-09-03T15:04:51.701-07:00Happy NewsHello from Colorado,<br />I've not kept up on the New Year's resolution very well, but hey, I'm here now. So, Chris and I have very happy news to share -- <strong>we are expecting a baby!</strong> We are due March 8, 2010. We don't plan to find out the gender of the baby -- we just want a healthy baby -- that's all that really matters. So, green, yellow and orange are the colors of choice lately. We have decided that we will be getting one "big" baby item per month. Last month, it was the wood for a crib that Chris will be building. I'm so excited about that. Yesterday, we picked out this month's item -- a stroller, in orange. We went with the BOB Revolution. It is one of the "off-road" variety strollers that has the big air wheels. We are pretty excited about it. REI had them on sale THIS week, so it was now or pay a lot more, so we went for it. Chris, of course did his research and it had fantastic ratings and reviews. It has lots of accessories, but we decided that we would hold off on those. One that I want is a car seat adaptor, but we want to do our research on the car seats it works with -- hopefully at least one of them will rate well.<br /><br />So, that's our news for now. I'm feeling much better these days -- had a few rough weeks, but nothing I couldn't handle. I don't look any different yet -- I've actually lost some weight over the last few weeks, so maybe I'll break down and post a picture or two at some point, but for now -- not much to see.<br /><br />Hope you're all doing well -- see or talk to you soon.<br /><br />Our Love,<br />Holli & ChrisHolli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-396006648925146492009-07-02T12:45:00.000-07:002009-07-02T12:47:44.954-07:00A little researchWell, nothing really all that exciting to report -- we have recently finished making our loft into a 3rd/guest bedroom. We started putting the furniture in last night. We're still trying to figure out what all to put in there. So, when you come to stay for a few days with someone, do you expect to have a dresser to put stuff in, or do you just "live out of the suitcase"? That's our big debate right now. And, would you prefer a recliner or the dresser? (we do plan to put a TV in the room if that sways your opinion of dresser vs. recliner) Let us know your thoughts, as you all will be the ones using the new guest room, not us :-)Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-5146640929040764592009-03-03T08:22:00.000-08:002009-03-03T08:38:05.534-08:00Earth HourHi everyone,<br />Just recently, I signed on to be a member of the Clean Energy Strategic Initiative Team through Colorado State University Extension. I will be working with the 4-H & Schools sub team, attempting to bring clean energy information down to a kid's level through projects and activities. Through this team, I just found out about a pretty cool opportunity to be a small part of a world-wide effort to save energy -- EARTH HOUR. Basically, it is one hour -- world-wide -- that everyone turns off their lights. It will happen on Saturday, March 28, 2009 from 8:30 - 9:30 PM. Let's all join in -- we really can make a difference!<br /><br />Here's more info from the Earth Hour website: <a href="http://www.earthhour.org/">www.earthhour.org</a><br /><br /><strong>What you can do</strong><br />Turning your lights off for an hour is a great start. However, there are many other things you can do to make Earth Hour 2009 a success.<br /><a href="http://www.earthhour.org/signup/default:en"><strong>Sign Up Now</strong></a><strong>.</strong> Become a part of Earth Hour and get useful tips and tools to reduce your carbon footprint everyday<br /><strong>Tell A Friend.</strong> Better still – tell them, your family and even your work mates. Encourage them to sign up. Email them a link to this website and mobilize even more people!<br /><a href="http://panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/climate_change/problems/people_at_risk/personal_stories/are_you_witness/your_story_witness/index.cfm" target="blank"><strong>Tell Your Story</strong></a><strong>.</strong> How is climate change affecting your family and your community? We want to hear how you're becoming part of the solution.<br /><a href="http://www.earthhour.org/files/MakingEarthHourHappenInYourTown.pdf" target="blank"><strong>Run your own Earth Hour</strong></a><strong>.</strong> Download our quick guide for how to run Earth Hour in your city or town. It's easy!<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Your Earth Hour.</strong><br />What will you be doing at 8:30 PM on Saturday March 28? We're keen to know what you have planned for Earth Hour 2009. If you'd like to share your plans with Earth Hour and the media, then please send us an email describing with as much detail as you can what you have planned to <a href="mailto:myearthhour@earthhour.org">myearthhour@earthhour.org</a>. Don't forget to include your name, where you live (City and Country), and your contact telephone number including your country code.Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-45292225840511411222009-02-28T12:21:00.000-08:002009-02-28T13:02:38.320-08:00Keeping up the resolutionSo, I posted the last time on January 28, exactly one month ago. So, I just squeaked by with keeping my New Year's resolution of posting each month. Of course, things are pretty much the same old, same old around here.<br /><br /><br />I spent a week in Georgia from Feb. 18-25 helping my mom out with recovery from her hip replacement surgery. I loved being there to see both she and Gordy and I'm glad I was able to make it work out. Her surgery was actually on Feb 9th, she was in the hospital until the 12th. She started with home based physical therapy on the 13th, and is doing really well with her hip, but the surgery caused a foot drop, which basically means she can't bend her ankle because the nerve has been damaged. She also doesn't have feeling in her foot. Both of these things combined makes walking a bit difficult, but she is doing very good overall. The surgeon can't tell her a timeline for when the foot will get better, but she is making progress. Not knowing drives her crazy, of course. She'll start her physical therapy at the "gym" (on-site at the physical therapist's office) this coming week.<br /><br /><br />As for our house, the master bathroom STILL isn't done. The first tile guy didn't work out because he and Chris had a disagreement on materials used to hang the wall tile in the shower. The tile guy wouldn't change it, and Chris wanted it changed, so the tile guy left. So, needless to say, it took a couple of weeks to get the next one scheduled. He is working as we speak. Hopefully he'll get done this weekend. Then, we have to put the sinks and counter tops in, get a plumber out to hook up the tub fixtures, paint, hang the mirrors, hang accessories, etc., etc., etc.... Oh joy!<br /><br />We are waiting until we are done with the bathroom to get the inspector out for the loft bedroom conversation, as we didn't want him seeing all of the work we did in the bathroom without an inspection. Then, I hope we take a break for a while. I'm sick of construction. I'd like to dust and vacuum and have it last for more than a day.<br /><br />I recently did the flowers for a 410 person banquet -- 42 centerpieces! YIKES, but it was fun and I had help from one of my Master Gardeners -- Ann. Thanks Ann! Unfortunately, I didn't get to see them in "action" as I was at mom's by time the banquet happened. They got rave reviews though. Chris made a side table for the silent auction that went with the event and it brought $130. He seemed happy about that, and I was happy he helped out. He was able to use mostly scrap wood that he bought as a "lot" off of Craig's List. It looked really nice.<br /><br />Next weekend, we head to Iowa for "baby" Benjamin's 1st Birthday and his baptism. Zachary will also be baptised in their new church, and Troy will make profession of faith. We'll will have photos to post of that for sure, so check back. I'll try to get them up soon afterward. <br /><br />Please keep my mom in your thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery. Please also pray for Chris' grandma, Wilma Campbell (his dad's mom) who fell yesterday (2/27) and broke her hip in 3 places and also cut herself quite badly (she doesn't remember how). She's had surgery today. Also, please be thinking about and praying for my Aunt Lynn (Baxter), my Uncle Bob (Taylor) and my cousin Diane (Bloomer) who have all recently lost their jobs. I can't imagine trying to find a job in this economy. I'm more and more thankful every day for what we have. We are very lucky. I think that catches everyone up for now. Take care and "talk" soon.Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-10109111169361115062009-01-28T11:50:00.000-08:002009-01-28T11:56:01.313-08:00We're still here...Well, not too much going on here. The last couple of weeks have pretty much been the same around here. Today, we have a tile guy working on the Master Bath -- Finally! It will take him 3 days to complete the job, as we are having the shower, floor and a wainscoating put 1/2 way up the wall too. We've also started the framing for the 3rd bedroom -- which was once the loft. We figured that would be the easiest to make a bedroom for now. Maybe at some point we'll talk about doing some work in the Basement, but not before we do the Kitchen -- still 1+ years away, but we can start making plans and saving the money.<br /><br />I worked at the National Western Stock Show over the last couple of weeks, and we did get a chance to go to a performance of Dancing Horses, but we forgot a memory card for the camera, so no photos to show you -- sorry.<br /><br />We will both be gone -- in different places :-( -- next week. Chris will be in San Diego for a conference and Trade Show and I'll be at a County Director's meeting for Extension. I wish I didn't have my meeting, 'cuz I would have gone to San Diego with him. Oh well.<br /><br />Well, my lunch hour has come to a close -- talk again soon.<br /><br />Holli (& Chris too)Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-62139862003809811082009-01-11T18:53:00.000-08:002009-01-11T18:56:12.122-08:00First Anniversary TripOne of the places we visited for our First Anniversary mini-vacation in Colorado Springs was the Air Force Academy. The place we wanted to see most was the Chapel. It was beautiful, and HUGE. The main sanctuary sat over 1200 people, and there were two additional worship spaces on the lower level. It was very beautiful.<br /><table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a417a4d5467774d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a417a4d5467774d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play AFA -- 11.26.08" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a417a4d5467774d513d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p></p>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-13515002285878798522009-01-11T17:32:00.000-08:002009-01-11T17:37:13.084-08:00Cheyenne Mountain Zoo - 11.25.08Over our Anniversary back in November, we took a mini-vacation down to Colorado Springs to see a few of the sights. They have a great little zoo built into the side of Cheyenne Mountain. They even have a ski lift to the top if you don't feel like walking. We did the walking -- it was good for us. We really enjoyed all the pretty cool animals they had there.<br /><br /><table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e7a417a4d4441354d673d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play Zoo Trip - 11.25.08" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e7a417a4d4441354d673d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-36971524022520727972009-01-11T14:30:00.000-08:002009-01-11T15:24:05.245-08:00Keeping up the ResolutionHi again!<br />So, here I am -- trying to keep up my resolution of posting on our blog more often. Let's see... This past week has been pretty ho-hum. Nothing really too exciting. Chris has been working on framing in the opening in the loft and putting a door in to make it into a 3rd bedroom. It should be a pretty straight-forward project. Once he gets the framing done and the door hung, we'll have an inspector out to look at it and hopefully deem the house a 3-bedroom, since now, legally it is only a 2-bedroom house. Then, we'll have a dry waller out to finish up the job.<br /><br />We are also in the middle of working on the Master Bathroom. We had to tear out all the tile because of mold, and we also ended up with a new bathtub. Although I had big hopes of an expansion, it didn't happen. It is probably for the best, as the house and the neighborhood don't warrant large spaces like new houses have. <br /><br />After we are done with these two projects, we are going to quit the projects for a while -- won't that be nice -- and start saving for our Kitchen re-model.<br /><br />Well, like I said, pretty ho-hum.<br /><br />Have a good week everyone!<br /><br />HolliHolli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-81990845786820416152009-01-01T15:06:00.000-08:002009-01-01T15:18:59.425-08:00Happy New Year!Can you believe it? We are posting to the blog -- it is about time.<br /><br />So, with it being New Year's Day, I (Holli) have decided to make a few resolutions for 2009. <br /><br />#1 -- Post to the blog more regularly -- for me that's going to be at least once per month, but hopefully more often if events of our life dictate and time allows. It seems we really don't have too much to talk about -- we are just doing our thing.<br /><br />#2 -- Being more healthy -- including eating better and exercising regularly. This means at least 3 times per week for me. This one is being influenced by Chris, as he is determined to drop a pant size, as he has gained one size since the wedding. (from a 34 to a 36 -- big deal!) I think we have both gotten "comfortable" over this past year. They say college freshmen gain 15+ pounds. Well, I wonder if there's ever been a study on Newlyweds?<br /><br />As for Chris, the exercise is definitely on his mind, and I'd say that is his big resolution. We actually bought an exercise bike off Craig's List yesterday, so once we get that in, we'll trade off between it and the treadmill.<br /><br />Happy New Year everyone!Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-12091017106117423792008-07-24T20:45:00.000-07:002008-07-24T20:55:48.834-07:00Drums Along the Rockies - 7.12.08<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4445794d7a4d7a4d413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play Drums Along the Rockies" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4445794d7a4d7a4d413d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>One of the first things we took Daphne to do was to see a Drum & Bugle Corps Competition hosted by the Blue Knights -- Denver's own D&BC. How much more "American" can you get? It was held at Invesco Field, and since it isn't football season, this was one of the only ways to see the stadium while Daphne was with us. These are some hard core marching machines. Talk about precision! WOW! It sure did bring back memories for me of my days in the high school marching band. But I would not have been able to try out for these, as they only include brass and percussion instruments and color guard. I guess I could have learned another instrument or been in the guard, but I probably would not have been up to par having started so late. In addition, at least two of the corps at this competition (there were 9 total) are still all male, so they would have been out for me too! These kids work HARD all summer long, and end up sleeping in High School gyms and getting ready in the locker rooms. That's a rough summer, but 99.9% of them would not trade the experience for anything! </p>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-66573198000988602232008-07-24T19:54:00.000-07:002008-07-24T20:04:23.670-07:00White Water Rafting - July 20, 2008<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4445794d6a67324e513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play Rafting Trip '08" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4445794d6a67324e513d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Here are a few photos from our rafting trip this past weekend. We did a half day trip down the Arkansas River through Brown's Canyon. Our trip was with Highside Adventure Tours just north of Buena Vista, Colorado. We took Daphne for her last day with us, and also picked up another of the IFYE students - Souzanna - also from Greece, to take with us. We asked Phil & Ellen and Chad to go along, but none of them could, so we thought we'd ask our friends, Brenda and Andrew. Brenda said she has lived in Colorado all of her life and has never gone, so I'm glad we asked. We all had a blast! I don't think Daphne or Souzanna had any idea what they were getting themselves into, but I'm 100% positive they had fun. They were a little bummed that they had to wear life jacket (required) and I also made them wear helmets. I know they weren't the most fashionable, but they are not my kids, so SAFETY first! :-) After rafting, we met Daphne & Souzanna's next host family at K's Burger Stand and ate lunch in the park before we all headed for home. Buena Vista was about halfway, as their next hosts live in Alamosa. All in all it was a great day.</p>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-42771069690674408082008-07-22T19:58:00.000-07:002008-07-22T20:00:00.121-07:00Alaska Photos - Flightseeing<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4445774d7a63774e513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play Flying in AK - May, '08" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4445774d7a63774e513d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>With this great new slideshow program I found on the internet, I'm loving making slideshows of our photos to post. Check this one out -- it is just a few of our flightseeing photos.</p>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-43021861565246647782008-07-22T18:39:00.000-07:002008-07-22T18:41:54.939-07:00Photos - RMNP<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e4445774d6a67344d413d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="303" alt="Click to play RMNP - 7.13.08" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e4445774d6a67344d413d3d0d0a.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="middle"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></tbody></table>I found this cool new way to make slideshows of our photos that is so much easier than trying to post them, so I'm trying it out with our photos from our hike last Sunday to Rocky Mountain National Park. If you like it, let me know.Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-29617809015248473642008-07-14T16:41:00.001-07:002008-12-09T16:11:54.737-08:00Rocky Mountain National Park<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHvnATZQMDI/AAAAAAAAAMU/TFyEqXXr21c/s1600-h/IMG_2409.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223022185258430514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHvnATZQMDI/AAAAAAAAAMU/TFyEqXXr21c/s400/IMG_2409.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHvmqrzfKFI/AAAAAAAAAMM/dMLc-Ulaq-g/s1600-h/IMG_2404.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223021813853792338" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHvmqrzfKFI/AAAAAAAAAMM/dMLc-Ulaq-g/s400/IMG_2404.JPG" border="0" /></a>Well, yesterday we went up to Rocky Mountain National Park and took a 4 and a half mile (round trip) hike up to Cub Lake. It was covered with Lily Pads and flowers. It really was a beautiful day. We spent some time at the lake eating our lunch and watching the wildlife -- especially the crazy duck who was not afraid of us AT ALL! She just came right up to us -- we assume others had fed her in the past (a No! No! of course), so she wasn't afraid to come looking for food. We also saw some great flowers and critters. This picture is one of the more unique flowers -- have no idea what it is, but it was pretty cool, and the only one we saw. The critters were a little more difficult to catch on film. We saw plenty of little chimpmunks, a weasel looking animal and a woodchuck of some sort. We also saw a grouse and a small herd of elk playing in the mud off in the distance. Of course we saw the duck and her little ducklings as well as lots of dragonflys and several little mini eel-looking things in the water. They were about 2-3 inches long and spotted.</div>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-29639602913948798452008-07-12T09:44:00.001-07:002008-12-09T16:11:55.296-08:00Welcome Daphne!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjpTY62WTI/AAAAAAAAALs/JUb-aKHqB7Q/s1600-h/IMG_2350.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222180287252158770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjpTY62WTI/AAAAAAAAALs/JUb-aKHqB7Q/s400/IMG_2350.JPG" border="0" /></a> Our campsite at the Family Campout.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjpCp2TGfI/AAAAAAAAALk/a6LvX8Pdswg/s1600-h/IMG_2345.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222179999738698226" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjpCp2TGfI/AAAAAAAAALk/a6LvX8Pdswg/s400/IMG_2345.JPG" border="0" /></a> Holli shooting shotgun.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjo6MyEW0I/AAAAAAAAALc/UCJsqc1OaJU/s1600-h/IMG_2314.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222179854497372994" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SHjo6MyEW0I/AAAAAAAAALc/UCJsqc1OaJU/s400/IMG_2314.JPG" border="0" /></a> Chris shooting .22 rifle.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I can't believe it has been so long since I last blogged -- well really, yes I can. I am just not very good at it, I guess. I've never really kept a journal, so it takes some getting used to. Plus, we don't take a whole lot of photos, so our blog might be kinda boring -- just reading. </div><div><br /> </div><div>I guess I'll start with the most recent -- for the next week or so, we are hosting an exchange student from Greece. Her name is Daphne Prassa and she is from Greece. She is 17 years old and is here on the International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) program. She is one of 4 IFYE students here in Colorado. She is here for about 3 months. We picked her up on Thursday night and will take her to meet her next family on the 20th. We hope to give her several "Colorado" and "American" experiences while she is with us. We went bowling last night and will go to a Drum & Bugle Corps Competition tonight. Tomorrow, we are going to go hiking in Rocky Mountain National Forest. Although Chris and I have to work this week, I might take a day off to take her shopping. We also have tickets to sit in the Rockpile (cheap seats) for a Rockies Baseball game this week, and then next weekend, we have plans to go rafting on the Arkansas. We might go camping too, but haven't decided yet.</div><br /><div></div><div>Over the 4th, we had our friends DaNell and Keegan and their 5-week old son Ethan over for a cookout and watching the fireworks. We saw some great fireworks on TV, and then went out on the deck and were able to watch the Westminster fireworks right from our deck. Although I love going to the park, it is also nice to just stay home too. We ended up re-arranging the furniture in our family room on Saturday -- moving the recliner to the corner closer to the fireplace and putting our computer desk between the basement stairs and the bathroom. I've suggested that we build-in a desk and cabinet there, but we are trying it our for a bit before we make a final decision.</div><br /><div></div><div>The weekend of June 27/28/29 we spent time with our friends Brenda & Andrew and Lauren & Truett. We went to dinner Friday night and then went shooting skeet and .22 with them on Saturday.</div><br /><div></div><div>Over Father's Day weekend, we went to the Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Family Campout. There were over 200 people at the campout, which was held on a private ranch outside of Victor, Colorado. It sure was beautiful there. We borrowed Phil & Ellen's pop-up and actually went camping for two nights. This was highly out of my comfort zone, as I really like to have a bathroom, but there were port-o-potties and we bought a little solar shower, so could at least wash my hair. We also did the "sponge-bath" thing each morning. It wasn't so bad, but the first thing I did when we got home was take a shower. I could probably handle a weekend trip every once in a while, but probably not much longer than that without a shower available. </div><br /><div></div><div>That's about it. Not too much excitement, but a few things here and there.</div></div></div>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779792446567085263.post-1915840291101054932008-06-09T17:50:00.001-07:002008-12-09T16:11:57.638-08:00Pictures, Pictures, Pictures<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3R6tP2SBI/AAAAAAAAALU/Oj2FTbGAaMc/s1600-h/blog+post-13.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210051150446217234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3R6tP2SBI/AAAAAAAAALU/Oj2FTbGAaMc/s400/blog+post-13.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Marjorie Glacier<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Dall's Porposie<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RQi7eiII/AAAAAAAAAK0/Uf-pl6_ovso/s1600-h/blog+post-15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210050426121914498" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RQi7eiII/AAAAAAAAAK0/Uf-pl6_ovso/s400/blog+post-15.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RR6ALW9I/AAAAAAAAAK8/hQYXowTXe9c/s1600-h/blog+post-10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210050449495514066" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RR6ALW9I/AAAAAAAAAK8/hQYXowTXe9c/s400/blog+post-10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Bald Eagles<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RSrmbNlI/AAAAAAAAALE/zlv1ECZXV6A/s1600-h/blog+post-11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210050462809273938" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RSrmbNlI/AAAAAAAAALE/zlv1ECZXV6A/s400/blog+post-11.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Bear in Pursuit of the goat in the next photo. (He didn't get him.)<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RTCCdNpI/AAAAAAAAALM/iQqKC0hAmZs/s1600-h/blog+post-12.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210050468832425618" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3RTCCdNpI/AAAAAAAAALM/iQqKC0hAmZs/s400/blog+post-12.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Mountain Goat on a cliff<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QZ-RCCeI/AAAAAAAAAKE/rrbQbiSrTrc/s1600-h/blog+post-24.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210049488567273954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QZ-RCCeI/AAAAAAAAAKE/rrbQbiSrTrc/s400/blog+post-24.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Orca Whales<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QajT836I/AAAAAAAAAKM/ETOJYJBvATE/s1600-h/blog+post-25.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210049498511630242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QajT836I/AAAAAAAAAKM/ETOJYJBvATE/s400/blog+post-25.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QbDDdVWI/AAAAAAAAAKU/lZEg1u-yysg/s1600-h/blog+post-22.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210049507032388962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QbDDdVWI/AAAAAAAAAKU/lZEg1u-yysg/s400/blog+post-22.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mendenhall Glacier<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Us in front of Mendenhall Glacier<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3Qbpy9rXI/AAAAAAAAAKc/3ba2SoNXix0/s1600-h/blog+post-23.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210049517432188274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3Qbpy9rXI/AAAAAAAAAKc/3ba2SoNXix0/s400/blog+post-23.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QcHdyhFI/AAAAAAAAAKk/Son_XgXpf4w/s1600-h/blog+post-18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210049525396440146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kr3Tvz9CPmQ/SE3QcHdyhFI/AAAAAAAAAKk/Son_XgXpf4w/s400/blog+post-18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Winter Wonderland from the White Pass Railroad Train</div>Holli and Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258558084406259441noreply@blogger.com2