howell family fun

2010-08-27T08:43:00.002-04:00

Horoscope By Rick Levine
Approach your work from a different angle today because as you change your attitude, you also alter the roles that others play in your life. But it may not be that easy now to choose your part in the play because your emotions are being pulled in many directions. Instead of forcing a familiar character onto the stage, try getting to know yourself and others better first. This radical strategy could also bring alternative choices to the table, offering you paths you haven't yet considered.

I'm trying!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqLJVA75weQ 75weQ The doctor's talk about what ASEA means to them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7d6kLoHbxI The athletes that are willing to give ASEA a try are winning! Hear how it is changing the way they train.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApOez2QCMvE The vision behind it all. Verdis Norton and James Pack tell how much ASEA means to them.

2010-08-21T11:32:00.001-04:00

Horoscope By Rick Levine

You have as much, maybe more, ability than anyone to endure hardships along the way to getting what you want. Now, when taskmaster Saturn squares your key planet Pluto, you may have to grit your teeth, bury your uncertainties and push through with what you know you must do. But don't waste any energy on blaming others or yourself. Even if you are short on money or time, your intense focus can turn this into a highly productive time that will earn you what you seek.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

2010-08-07T23:29:00.003-04:00

Come Holy Spirit
Replace the tension within us with a holy relaxation.
Replace the turbulence within us with a sacred calm.
Replace the anxiety within us with quiet confidence.
Replace the fear within us with a strong faith.

Replace the bitterness within us with the sweetness of grace.
Replace the darkness within us with a gentle light.
Replace the coldness within us with a loving warmth.
Replace the night within us with Your day.
Replace the winter within us with Your spring.

Straighten our crookedness.
Fill our emptiness.
Dull the edge of our humility.
Light the fires of our love.
Quench the flames of our lust.

Let us see ourselves as YOU see us.
That we may see You as You have promised us.
And be healed according to Your Word.

This is a prayer to the Holy Spirit that was given to me this winter by our church. I think it is really good and have been trying to say it more.

GIRL'S NIGHT OUT!

2010-08-04T18:02:00.000-04:00

STILL DREAMING OF HAWAII

2010-08-04T16:08:00.000-04:00

She's ready! Loves the look, the attitude, the laid back spirit.

FUNNY GIRL

2010-08-03T19:17:00.000-04:00

Need I say more?

PRETTY

2010-08-03T19:16:00.000-04:00

I have always love these flowers. They are pretty but they are also THE BEST cut flowers. Long lasting and not too smelly they are the perfect addition to my kitchen counter!

WORKING HARD

2010-08-03T19:13:00.000-04:00

I have him trained to smile when I take pictures no matter how frustrated he is. Making a few home improvements and the sink was on the list....about four years ago. We are finally getting around to it and I'm so excited! It's BIG, it's shiny and it's beautiful. Thank you Joe for all your hard work.

BATHROOM REMODEL

2010-08-02T08:18:00.000-04:00

I need a before and after...but this is it. After almost 30 years, I figured it was time. I've done a lot of rearranging & improving, lately. To myself and to my possessions. I've been happy so far, although it seems I have far to go.

2010-08-02T08:13:00.000-04:00

BEAUTY

2010-08-02T08:11:00.000-04:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I see this as beautiful....God has blessed us all with so much.

MY LIFE

2010-08-01T19:47:00.001-04:00

Sunday, August 1, 2010 Yesterday Today Tomorrow
By Rick Levine Share
You have new ways to attack an old problem today. The Sun's magical aspect to your key planet Pluto enables you to sidestep the rules of the real world as you slip into the depths of your subconscious mind. But your fantasies are not just whimsical thoughts now; they are powerful symbols that can unlock the hidden secrets of alchemical transformation. The bottom line is that if you can imagine it, then you have a chance of making it happen.

I'm gonna make it happen!

2010-07-28T21:56:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Yesterday Today Tomorrow
By Rick Levine Share
It seems as if a phase of your life is falling away, yet you aren't that unhappy about its demise. If you are floating along, waiting for something to come up and inspire you, this could be it. It's like expecting guests, yet you don't know who they are or when they will arrive. Nevertheless, there is a lot to do right now, so get busy without wasting a precious moment.

I saw this tonight after I had already made my decision to take a break from Facebook. I had to laugh when I read it! I never spent too much "actual" time on FB but the energy I spent on it was too much. I spent time fretting over people not responding to messages I had send, questions I had ask. Oh, well...it was time.

NAOMI

2010-07-28T20:41:00.001-04:00

We've been doing some work around the house so a trip to Lowe's is a must. I suggested Naomi try this tub out for size which she loved, until...I turned the faucet. Of course it wasn't hooked up to anything and she knew that, but I guess it was just natural, she jump out fast!

ME AND MY HONEY

2010-07-28T20:34:00.000-04:00

I just thought I needed a little time to get back to my roots. Lots a great things going on in our lives...we are very blessed. I'm not sure how long I'll take a break from FB because I'm sure to miss all my extended family, but right now it feels right.

REFOREST THE BLUEGRASS

2010-05-01T07:31:00.001-04:00

My sweety leading the pack. One of the many things he does just to
make the world a little better place.

I'M HAPPY

2010-04-26T17:36:00.000-04:00

Very busy, but very happy.

PROM NIGHT with Missy and Elijah

2010-04-18T22:22:00.007-04:00

My baby decided this was the year to go the prom. It came as a bit of a shocker to me, and even more so was the idea that he had a girlfriend. It's not like I don't know the girl, he's been friends with her since pre-school but going from friends, to dating, to the prom was a little quick. But I, of all people, know that relationships work that way. So, with $200 less in the bank, here we are. It was a big night as you can see. Missy's mom knew the routine, having an older child who had already gone through this. Being the newbie we were, I was following Elijah's lead, which was very vague. So there were pictures at her house, fussing with the make-up and hair, and lots of entertainment before they even made it to our house. There was also a plan of more pictures later with the other 4 couples they planned to meet up with. Being the good son Elijah is, he came by for some quick shots. He couldn't take much of it, especially with all the instructions I was giving out so this is what we got. I'll be interested in seeing the other pictures, just to see if he is as animated. Started off nice.

Then I ask for one with his mouth closed (thinking a little more serious).

Still looks nice, I think they look very happy I must say.

I was still working on that serious pose.

I think it's getting worse. Notice, she does not change her look.

Ok, now we're serious. She's cocked her a head a little too.

But.....that look can't be held for long.

He's trying......and that's where we ended. With plenty of more smiles left on their faces and a night of joy and good times awaiting them.

MY LIFE

2010-04-16T08:59:00.002-04:00

Joe ask if I put negative comments about him on Face Book. Wasn't sure
how to respond, of course the answer was no, but WHY would he even
question that?

Naomi ask that we start calling her Amethyst. I told her that I'd be
happy to at home but wasn't ready to call her that at school.

My CHRP (ladies group at church) ask that I give my witness in January
to the next group that decides to join. I'm not sure I want to do
this, I'm not sure I can even get up and speak in front of others
without coming apart. This is part of listening and taking action to
God's word. If I have to, I will be able to.

Sooo excited about so many other things going on!

FUNNY STORY

2010-04-10T21:42:00.001-04:00

Today, while family was visiting, we decided to split up and do
several things at the same time. Joe and Levi did a scout thing, the
girls went to Georgia's house, Mary and I went to a jewelry party, so
that left Christopher and Elijah. Elijah decided he wanted to take
Chris to the guitar shop. Before they left, I told Chris he needed to
call Elijah "Dad" while they were in the store. He looked at me really
funny and said, "I know this is a trick". I tried to explain how it
was funny because he was so old and Elijah was so young. He wasn't
buying it.....

When they returned home I ask Chris if he called Elijah, "Dad" and he
looked me square in the eye and said, "I don't know his dad".

Silly boy!

EASTER TREAT

2010-04-08T07:58:00.001-04:00

We just happened upon this sight Easter day at the farm. What a sight
to see! Click on the picture to get a better veiw.

TO GOOD TO PASS UP

2010-03-22T21:30:00.002-04:00

Levi has a persuasive letter to his teacher due this week. He ask me to look over it and offer any improvements that I wanted to. I thought it was good, he made good points, and he made me laugh. You all know that scores big points with me! I ask Joe what he thought of the paragraph that made me laugh, and we agreed it should stay. I helped him reword it just a little, to improve his grammar, but the gist is still there. Since you know I love to share, here it is. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

My second reason for limiting work is my parents don't know some of my work. They had different schooling when they were taught. If I have questions about my work and my parents are clueless. It could lower my grade. If it lowers my grade, I could get held back.

So, there you have it. What he really thinks about us. I thought we could add that it wouldn't be a problem since he had a smart older brother that had good schooling. So, go ahead, pile on the work!

TIME

2010-03-22T13:32:00.002-04:00

I started out today wanting to clean up my blog a little. The last couple of post didn't turn out right, so it needed a little work. Then I started looking at it....then I started noticing something....most all my post lately have been short but with a photograph. The shortness is just my lack of time to spend sitting around. I kind of miss it, but what I miss most is time to craft. I know I am doing a lot of good with my volunteer work (it is very rewarding) and the classes I have been taking (very rewarding too) but I get a lot out of creating too. I have several unfinished projects just begging me to finish them. It wouldn't take much, just a little time, maybe even the time I am spending writing this. But, we all make choices and this is one of them. I guess I feel like there will be time to craft, volunteer, play.....all the things I love, in time.

2010-03-20T10:13:00.001-04:00

HAVING FUN!

2010-03-14T11:41:00.000-04:00

I'm feeling a little different these days....

JACK

2010-03-06T19:20:00.001-05:00

These pictures are sooo funny! I wanted to take his picture, but he
kept closing his eyes. After a couple, McKenzie told me that's just
what he does. Well, we can't have that! I finally got one with his
eyes open. The great part is, I got some good ones of Hannah in the
process. I love our family!!!

2010-03-06T19:15:00.000-05:00

2010-03-06T19:14:00.001-05:00

2010-03-06T19:14:00.000-05:00

2010-03-06T19:13:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELIJAH!

2010-03-05T15:26:00.000-05:00

My baby turned 17 today! He is such a great guy, so talented and
smart. Generous too!

Shares his birth day with his cousin. Happy Birthday McKenzie!!! We
love you!

Elijah's Afterhour group

2010-03-01T22:18:00.001-05:00

Small concert given yesterday with 5 other schools.

Elijah' Area choir concert

2010-03-01T22:16:00.001-05:00

Elijah's concert yesterday.

DIVERSIFY

2010-02-28T09:33:00.001-05:00

Great kid, makes me happy and proud.

LOVE THIS

2010-02-28T09:31:00.001-05:00

She makes me proud too.

HAPPY BOY

2010-02-28T09:30:00.001-05:00

I'm so proud of him.

BIRTHDAY PRESENT

2010-02-26T17:18:00.001-05:00

I took cupcakes, and a birthday balloon to Naomi's school today. She
brought her birthday book that told all about the day she was born,
and the teacher let me read it to the class. Before I left school, she
told me this was the best birthday EVER! until she saw this!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAOMI

2010-02-26T10:29:00.001-05:00

My baby is 8 today!

JOE'S ART RETREAT

2010-02-22T23:37:00.002-05:00

The results are in!

Beautiful work as always. These were made with a
hotplate and crayon, dye, and material.The stamps is cut out of rubber.

2010-02-22T23:31:00.003-05:00

2010-02-22T23:31:00.001-05:00

2010-02-22T23:30:00.004-05:00

2010-02-22T23:30:00.003-05:00

2010-02-22T23:30:00.001-05:00

TODAY

2010-02-18T21:07:00.000-05:00

Scorpio
By Rick LevineYou are intrigued by trying a new approach to something you've been doing on an ongoing basis as the enterprising Aries Moon visits your 6th House of Daily Routine. But you aren't driven by your clever ideas or intellectual brilliance now; instead, you are receiving symbolic communications from your subconscious mind. Turn off your analytical thinking and open an intuitive communication channel that links you directly with your feelings.

LIFE as we know it, today.....

2010-02-15T20:33:00.001-05:00

2010-02-15T20:32:00.001-05:00

2010-02-15T20:31:00.001-05:00

2010-02-15T20:30:00.000-05:00

THIS MORNING

2010-02-15T11:13:00.001-05:00

Like the snow, love the texture!

MEMORY PILLOW

2010-02-15T11:10:00.001-05:00

She made a pillow to go with her family book. The pillow shows of one
of the best times of her life. It was a surprise for us, done at
school by grandparents that came into help. I love it! Can you figure
out who's who, and what we're doing?

NAOMI'S GIFT

2010-02-15T11:06:00.001-05:00

Started before Christmas, this book was made with love and lots of
thought. It tells of memories past, traditions and her favorite place
she's ever been. It is beautiful.

LOVE

2010-02-14T22:17:00.001-05:00

THE SWEETHEARTS

2010-02-14T10:54:00.000-05:00

EVERYONE LIKES TO JOIN IN.....

2010-02-09T20:33:00.001-05:00

the fun, or in this case the pain. Joe's been to the doctor lately
with neck and arm pain. One of the suggestions for relief was to wear
the curvical collar. We just so happen to have a vibrating, heat up
neck rest. Joe came up with the idea to modify it more like the neck
brace. So, with all things good and entertaining, we took a
picture....or three!

2010-02-09T20:19:00.003-05:00

2010-02-09T20:19:00.001-05:00

JUST CAN'T HELP MYSELF

2010-02-06T23:43:00.004-05:00

Life is good, life is grand, life is full of unexpected pleasure and pain.

Prayers Can't Be Answered....unless they are Prayed by Helen Steiner Rice

Life without purpose is barren indeed-
There can't be a harvest unless you plant seed,
There can't be attainment unless there's a goal,
And man's but a robot unless there's a soul....
If we send no ships out, no ships will come in,
And unless there's a contest, nobody can win...
For games can't be won unless they are played,
And Prayers can't be answered
unless they are prayed....
So whatever is wrong with your life today,
You'll find a solution if you kneel down and
pray
Not just for pleasure, enjoyment and health,
Not just for honors and prestige and wealth....
But pray for a Purpose to make life worth living.
Any Pray for the Joy of unselfish giving,
For Great is your Gladness and Rich your
Reward
When you make your Life's Purpose the choice
of the Lord.

Once again, my words have come back to me. Out of an other's mouth, who is not family but I have known a long time. It seemed strange, but on the other hand, it confirmed the fact that I do make a difference. I ask myself all the time, is it worth it? Do I make a difference, should I make a difference? I guess like everything, there are pros's and con's to those statements. I guess it's really what matters to me at night when I lay my head down to rest. The real question....

CAN YOU GUESS WHAT SHE SAID?

2010-02-02T22:07:00.004-05:00

I walked into the room to find this waiting for me. Take a guess at the first words out of her mouth.
"I finally got him!"
And let's just say, he was none too happy about that.

THIS WEEKEND

2010-02-02T21:48:00.002-05:00

Such a glorious sight. I would have loved to see this view with
fresh fallen snow. This was taken on the road to Mamaw and Papaw's
house. We enjoyed a nice visit, good food and beautiful sights.

DOES HE LOOK LIKE HE'S READY FOR SCHOOL?

2010-02-02T09:30:00.001-05:00

I love my kids. The bring great joy and suprises everyday!

GOOD TIMES

2010-01-29T23:34:00.001-05:00

ENTERTAINING OURSELVES

2010-01-29T23:33:00.001-05:00

ALMIRA FAWN

2010-01-29T23:30:00.001-05:00

TONIGHT

2010-01-29T23:28:00.001-05:00

This is where it was at tonight. The local fundraiser, where the
proceeds go to support the building of an Ethiopian orphanage. The
Collin Cox fund, and several other charities.

The highlight for Naomi was the little 12 year old, Almira Fawn. She's
a local who submitted her application to "America's got Talent". She
got front row, pictures and video. I must admit, she is very talented!

Elijah got the responsiblity of running the show, and we got the
entertainment.!

WORKOUT

2010-01-24T15:16:00.002-05:00

With most people, a new year brings about new changes inside and out. Some people want to eat better, some people want to get in better shape, and some people want to have a better attitude. The list goes on as you can see.

I have shared some of the changes I want to make with my self, but getting in shape was something that goes unspoken. Always wanting to be in good shape, but not always taking the time to get there. Off and on I been doing work out videos but not consistently. The other day I found this one at the local Dollar Tree. Realizing my habit of not sticking with videos, I thought what could I loose since it only cost $1. Got it home, popped it in and 35 minutes later I had had a good laugh, learned some new moves, broke a sweat, and had some fun. The laughing come from me being one step behind most of the time but still easy enough to follow. I don't know if I will ever get as good as Kili is, but maybe I will get in better shape and have fun trying.

So, for those of you who know some Hawaiian dance moves, I did the kaholo, hela, double hela, kawelu, ka'o, ku'i and 'ami. I now have an new respect for those dancers who make it look so beautiful and easy. Now, if I could just do it with a smile on my face like Kili!

BONDING

2010-01-24T11:39:00.001-05:00

This is how the boys do it in the winter time. Sharing games, stories
and brotherly love. Makes me very happy to see the smiles on their
faces.

2010-01-24T11:37:00.003-05:00

2010-01-24T11:37:00.001-05:00

MY PRETTY LITTLE GIRL....

2010-01-24T11:36:00.002-05:00

That wants to grow up fast. I'm sure that people think that I
encourage her to look and dress the way she does. Anyone that KNOWS
her knows differently. This girl has a mind of her own and is NOT
afraid to voice her opinion. Believe me, I have tried many times to
get her to wear things that I like, knowing they would be beautiful on
her. Only to see them left to hang in her closet or stuffed in her
drawer never to be worn. Once even, I pleaded with her to wear a top
that was soft as butter(a requirement) pretty color and fit well. She
proceeded to take a picture of herself in the top, take it off, tell
me she would never wear it because it had PUFFY sleeves! I tried to
explain that they were in fact, not that puffy but her mind was made up.

So, this is it. My girl has style, just not what I would think a soon
to be 8 year old would pick.....but she would.

CHRP WEEKEND

2010-01-19T09:05:00.002-05:00

First let me start by letting you know what CHRP stands for. It is pronounced chirp and stands for Christ Renews His Parish. Joe did it last year and really got a lot out of it. Once you do it, they ask that you not share too much with those in the parish so that everyone can come in with an open mind and an open heart to get the most out of it. So, that's what I did. I have been wanting to do it for quite some time but as our priest says, "It's never the right time, so just do it". I am very glad I did.

I did want to share one of the songs that we used over and over again, I guess as our theme song. I wasn't able to post it from YouTube ( I have no idea why, but not pleased about it) so I did put the actual song with video on there. But, the words are so nice I want to share them.

FREE TO BE ME by Francesca Battistelli

At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream
A war's already waged for my destiny
But You've already won the battle
And You've got great plans for me
Though I can't always see

(Chorus)
'Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me

When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out
My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow
But things don't always come that easy
And sometimes I would doubt

(Chorus)

Any you're free to be you

Sometimes I believe that I can do anything
Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring
But You look at my heart and You tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it's easy to believe
Even though

(Chorus)

The letters I received were wonderful and heartfelt, thank you.

The best part is knowing I have a whole new set of friends that I feel like I can call on in times of need. Getting to know women with similar goals and values is nice, and feeling part of a community is all worth it.

LOTS OF PRAYERS

2010-01-12T09:49:00.003-05:00

I've been busy these last 12 days. Well, really, for this past year. But it's been fun! We started the year off and running and seem to only be gearing up for more good times. With all good times comes a little work. And I've been working.... At the salon, church, school and home. I joined the booster committee at the high school and are part of a big step. It's been huge for me, challenging me in ways I never thought it would. I committed to a spiritual weekend this coming one. It is something I have thought about doing for a while, it just hasn't been the right time. So, in following one of the commitment I made to myself, I would be open to this opportunity. In doing so, I felt the need to share. It seems my blog has been a little neglected which is sad because I really love it. It has given me opportunities to get to know people I would have never known, and record my life as I see it. I like what I see and only want to share more. Everyday something happens that I could share, but time and responsibilities get the best of me so I don't get to share everything that I want.

Today, I am making time. I am working in my office filing papers thinking about this up coming weekend and I run across two things that stick out. Two prayers. Different, but a blessing of faith. Because I enjoyed them so much, I thought I would share.

The first is from my high school. Because I am an alumni, the entire school spends a few moments starting at 8:20 to pray for me and my family. How's that for a blessing?!

The second is A PARENTS PRAYER by Gary Cleveland Myers

O heavenly Father, make me a better parent. Teach me to understand my children, to listen patiently to what they have to say, and to answer all their questions kindly. Keep me from interrupting them or contradicting them Make me as courteous to them as I would have them be to me. Forbid that I should ever laugh at their mistakes, or resort to shame of ridicule when they displease me. May I never punish them for my own selfish satisfaction or to show my power.

Let me not tempt my child to lie or steal...Guide me hour y hour that I may demonstrate by all I say and do that honesty produces happiness.

Reduce, I pray the meanness in me...When I am out of sorts, help me, O Lord, to hold my tongue.

May I ever be mindful that my children are children and I should not expect of them the judgement of adults.

Let me not rob them of the opportunity to wait on themselves and to make decisions.

Bless me with the bigness to grant them all their reasonable requests, and the courage to deny them privileges I know will do them harm.

Make me fair and just and kind. And fit me, O Lord, to be loved and respected and imitated by my children. Amen

Wow! What a prayer. Peace and Love to you all!

GOOD FRIEND

2010-01-07T09:44:00.001-05:00

My good friend from grade school invited us to go skating. The kids
have been a couple of times and wanted to go. Since I have not had a
pair of skates on in forever Leah volunteered to help Naomi out.
Thank you Leah, we had a great time!

ME

2010-01-07T09:42:00.001-05:00

GOOD DAD

2010-01-07T09:34:00.000-05:00

Joe is such a great guy. He hadn't planned on getting out there, but
after I told him of my hesitation, he was more than willing. Of
course, Naomi loved it!

LEVI ICE SKATING

2010-01-07T09:32:00.001-05:00

Taken new years eve, we had a blast. I didn't brave the ice this time
but plan on getting the kids lessons. Once they are more secure, I
might give it a whirl. I'm just afraid if I hurt something I won't be
able to work. That's not in the buget at the moment...

LOVE THIS COUPLE

2010-01-07T09:27:00.001-05:00

We celebrated New Years with our good friends PJ and Gregg and their
family. This is a picture after they sang happy birthday to Gregg.
Great couple, great kids, I think they have been a real blessing to
our family.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-01-04T20:16:00.001-05:00

This is the way we ended 2009. A MUCH better year than 2008. So, with
the trend of things, 2010 should be a blast.

MY LITTLE POSER

2010-01-04T20:13:00.001-05:00

All the confidence in the world....

ELIJAH

2010-01-04T20:11:00.001-05:00

LEVI & LEVI

2010-01-04T20:10:00.001-05:00

NAOMI

2010-01-04T20:08:00.000-05:00

CHRISTMAS

2009-12-31T00:22:00.002-05:00

The excitement on the girls face pretty much describes the feeling of the holiday. A celebration of Jesus' birthday, lots of cousins to play with, presents, grandparents, and lots of good times brings all of this out. Naomi, myself, and Emily (Kenny's middle child).

First thing in the morning right after checking out her Santa loot. The camera these pics were made on was in it.

Oyster for mom's special Oyster dressing. This brings on a little discussion every year. It seems everyone has their own preference on how this should be made. Thankfully, mom is happy to accommodate all of our request. Except the one from Mary Grace...she would be happy if she never saw it again was the statement made this year. I believe the response from my brother, was something like...get real...this is the the best dressing ever.

Almost ready for the oven.....

The special cook, slaving away just to make our day special. Thank you mom, it worked. We had a wonderful time and we are so happy to see you all and get to spend time with our family.

LAST NIGHT

2009-12-20T23:21:00.001-05:00

We got to spend some time with Joe's family. Naomi, in disguise posing
with Mamaw. I didn't realize at the time Papaw was sitting on her
shoulder....it looks kinda funny here! But that's what I love about
our family, we're always ready for a good time.

A MOMENT IN TIME

2009-12-20T23:12:00.001-05:00

Just saw this picture and realized how much I missed these babies. I
know they're in good homes getting ready for their First Christmas.
I'd love to see some pictures of them...

A MOMENT IN TIME

2009-12-20T23:01:00.000-05:00

Starting the Christmas break with a treat, wishing she could share!

ONE OF MY THANKSGIVING TURKEYS!

2009-11-25T10:00:00.001-05:00

Kathy Marie Howell

FAMILY PICTURE

2009-11-24T22:31:00.000-05:00

Be looking for you copy of our Christmas card in the mail! We thought
this one would make the most memories...

CINDERELLA

2009-11-24T22:28:00.000-05:00

Dress rehersal Friday night of the play. Levi played Prince Charming
and did a fantastic job! Naomi played a mouse and a Ball attendee, she
was fantastic as well!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOE!

2009-11-10T09:11:00.003-05:00

By now, you all have heard me sing Joe's praises. Well, since it's his birthday, I thought I would take time to share what a wonderful man he is again. I can never get too much wonderful when it comes to those I surround myself with!

The problem is, I don't know where to start.

First, let me start by saying I know no one is perfect. I don't expect them to be. What I expect, for myself and others, is a true compassion for others, and a willingness to always strive to be a better person. I have seen that, and continue to see it in Joe. He is a loving, caring husband, father and son. He is always willing to help me and others in their time of need. I know I overwhelm him sometimes with my request, but he rarely complains and even enjoys himself most times.

I think that's the biggest thing, he listens. He is open and committed to being part of a happy family. He has accepted my big family (which can be WAY overstimulating at times) with open arms and shows a genuine interest in spending time with them. This is very important to me because you all know how I love my family! He has our best interest at heart and is not afraid to express that.

Joe is a craftsman, a maker of beauty. He has the eye of an artist, and has done some truly beautiful work. He shares that passion with us, and tries to pass that on to the kids and those around him. He also shares his knowledge and love of nature with us. Bringing the joys that he has experience in his lifetime to us through words and actions.

So, you see, it is a happy birth day for Joe.....and his momma......and me. We are all blessed that God gave us this wonderful man to share our lives with.

THE LAST ONE TO GO

2009-11-03T08:50:00.001-05:00

This is it. Comet needs a good home.

Our prayers were answered yesterday by Lana and Jack. They took Rocket
home yesterday afternoon to live with them. She is retired, and was
looking for a loving companion. She found one with Rocket! They even
thought they would keep his name.

I have fallen in love with these boys. I hate to give them up but must
remember the reason I had them in the first place!

HE GOT HIS WISH

2009-10-27T07:42:00.001-04:00

He brought home the big one!

WE'VE JUST BEEN CLOWNING AROUND

2009-10-27T07:41:00.001-04:00

Getting ready for Trunk r' Treat at church.

BECAUSE OF......THEM

2009-10-27T07:15:00.001-04:00

This picture needs just a LITTLE explaining. The reason Flash looks
the way he does, (besides the hair cut and obvious weight gain) is the
fact that Naomi put all the soft bedding in one spot and the puppies
decided to make it THEIR bed. I had just picked them up to be with me
on the couch. The next thing I know, Flash is on the cushion, just not
all the way. Poor baby, I don't think he will be too sad to see them go.

SOMEBODY SAVE US

2009-10-27T07:02:00.001-04:00

We're being so mistreated here!

JUST A THOUGHT

2009-10-25T21:54:00.002-04:00

It's nice to know that Naomi knows the difference between dressing up, and being in costume.

Just realized I really want my kids to be a part of the National Arts Program.

Found some really cool pictures on Joe's camera.

MORE REUNION PICTURES

2009-10-24T02:24:00.003-04:00

This picture is of one reunion we had several years ago. Three of the seven made it to this one, and it looks like they are having fun too. My guess is, it's a water balloon toss and Cousin Jim just got out. I have a few more pictures to share of various things, and a few more stories to tell. This one was just too good to pass up. From left to right; Cousin Jim, His parents (Aunt Net and Uncle Jim), Uncle Gene, Dad, Glenn (cousin Judy's husband), and Judy.

Lights, camera, ACTION!

2009-10-22T18:32:00.001-04:00

THE BABIES

2009-10-22T18:01:00.002-04:00

The boys decided to pose for me the other day so I could get some good pictures before they are adopted out. They move so fast, this was a real treat to get them in several shot without too much movement.

Rocket is on the left and Comet is on the right

Did I say I got a few good pictures??? I forgot about the time Rocket sneezed. Bless you.

THE WILD THINGS....with one unhappy onlooker

2009-10-22T16:39:00.004-04:00

This was made last week when the puppies really started getting around and playing. Flash, our anti-social dog is watching on in disbelief. His life has been taken over by a pack of wild dogs. They have been so much fun...for us. Seeing their eyes open for the first time, seeing their first steps. The way they play with each other and momma. The way they let us play with them, rub their tummy's. It's been such a great experience.

But all good things must come to an end. Joe said it best the other day, " Those puppies are starting to chew, they've got to go". And so it is, 6 and half weeks later, they are heading to the vet to get their first shots. The adds are out and we are looking for good, loving, playful homes for our pride and joys.