"Meet Me In Montana"

Six Weeks of Maddy

2010-04-12T20:27:00.001-07:00

It's A Girl!

2010-03-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

Madelyn Anne Mahoney blessed us with her arrival into this world on Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 at 2:51 PM. She was 3 weeks, 1 day early and weighed in at 7 pounds 6 ounces. I had to be induced because of pregnancy induced hypertention. (PIH) She is healthy and beautiful!!

36 weeks and It Could Be Soon!!

2010-02-23T05:25:00.000-08:00

This is me at 36 weeks, which also happened to fall on my 26th Birthday. I thought it would be neat to get a picture of me pregnant on my birthday. It could be sooner than later that baby arrives as I have developed gestational hypertension, or high blood pressure that isn't related to pre-eclampsia. It just happens to some pregnant woman in the last few weeks. The doctor will most likely deliver early. We will find out soon as we go to the doctor later this morning. I am ready!!!!!

28 weeks and Counting

2009-12-31T22:41:00.001-08:00

This was taken at 27.5 weeks actually- But now I am almost 29- It's going by fast. Hope everyone has a Happy New Year!

Thank You Aaron and We Will Miss You!

2009-12-29T20:04:00.000-08:00

Our dear friend Aaron is leaving on January 2nd for Iraq for a year. We will miss him and are sad he won't be here to see Baby Mahoney. But we are thankful that he is willing to serve for our freedom and we pray for his safe return. We love you Aaron!

A Day at Uncle Ben's and Aunt Sara's

2009-11-25T13:59:00.000-08:00

While Lizzy's mom was painting our nursery, Miss Lizzy spent the day at our house too! Mostly we just tried to keep her occupied and happy!

I never knew an 11 month old could make such a mess in such a short period of time! She is busy. busy, busy!

But soon, she got tired and snuggled up and took a nap.

The Nursery Is Done!

2009-11-25T11:08:00.001-08:00

Lizzy and her mom came over to help paint and finish the nursery on Monday. They worked hard and I love it! I figured red was a great color for a girl or boy!

Now we just wait. And wait..... but I have a feeling it will be here before we know it!

Our Hunting Adventures

2009-11-25T10:42:00.001-08:00

I shot this deer!! Not bad for being 5 months pregnant and having to hike some hills both up and down.

It's a 4x5 muley. Better than last year's if you remember. :)

The best part of being pregnant- hubby has to drag it out.

Lizzy's First Halloween

2009-11-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

MOOOOOOO. I'm a Baby Cow!! :)

Did You Know?????

2009-11-11T20:46:00.000-08:00

Did you know that no one makes maternity hunting pants? Well, at least no one sells them in Billings, MT. I'm going to go meet Ben this weekend at hunting camp to get my deer, and I had to go buy cheap Wal-mart jeans that are two sizes bigger than my pre-pregnancy size just so I could get them snapped. They are huge in the legs.......*sigh*........oh well. I have been helping mom and dad brand cattle in maternity jeans, but I usually don't get too dirty. They make me stay out out of the alleys and pens. But rolling around in muddy sage brush, I thought I might get dirty.

Baby is good. 20 week ultrasound was last week. Both sets of grandparents went with us and it was very neat for them. Gender is still a surprise; only the doctor knows. Somedays it is very tempting not to call the doctor's office and say...."Oh, just tell me!!" We have begun cleaning out the guest room. We have taken the spare bed down and stored it in the basement. I have ordered the bedding and nursery furniture. After seeing the empty room, this feeling of "Wow, this is really happening" came over me. :)

Harvest Time, BEFORE it froze

2009-11-04T08:28:00.001-08:00

This was beet harvest on the farm before the sugarbeets froze. A record crop and they froze! They can only dig enough for the factory to process, so needless to say, half of the crop is still in the ground. Dad runs the beet digger and the hired hand runs the defoliator. And, my brother, and three others drive the trucks.

And Lizzy likes to ride with both her Dad and Papa!! She loved it! It was so cold though, it was time to bust out the snow suit.

Fall? What Fall?

2009-11-04T08:17:00.001-08:00

It was 10 degrees here the first weekend in October! Brrrrrrr Everything froze- The trees, the flowers, the Sugarbeets in the field. NOT GOOD! We had no fall with pretty golden and orange leaves, but the cold does not stop pheasant hunting around our house.

A much needed update!!! Finally!

2009-09-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sorry to all of you faithful followers (all 2 of you) :) It has been a busy summer and I can't believe it is almost fall. I have updated the Blog in three sections ( July, August, and September) and just combined everything to make it easier and get some neat pictures posted. So just scroll on down and see what's new with us this summer!!

September 2009- Yellowstone and Some Exciting News

2009-09-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

Earlier in September, we went through Yellowstone National Park for the day with Ben's parents. We went in Sunlight Basin (Chief Joseph Highway) and the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City) and came home through the East Entrance and Cody, Wy.

Here is Heart Mountain, coming into Sunlight Basin

One of the falls we saw along the way

We got a little close to the Buffalo for my liking.

They caused a few "jams"

Yellowstone Lake

Does my stomach look bigger in this picture?

That's because it's hiding something. This is Baby Mahoney at 8.5 weeks back on August 13th. I am 15 weeks now with a due date of March 21st. Exciting stuff! Have been sick and tired. (thus the blog negligence) We are NOT going to find out the gender of the baby. Everything going great so far!

August 2009- Georgetown Lake Vacation

2009-09-27T10:14:00.001-07:00

We didn't take any pictures of camp this year when we went "camping" at Georgetown Lake. How funny is that? But, we only had about five days of nice weather while we were there and then it managed to rain, rain, and rain again.

On this day, we went to Phillipsburg- a tradition to go to the candy store and look around. Ben with Corey, Bradley, and Hailey

It rained so bad at the Lake that we had to drive to Butte so we would have something to do. This is what followed us in. And some of us got trapped in the hail!!

So we decided to take an old Historic Tour of Butte and the underground while we were there. This is an old barber shop located under the street- Butte was so crowded, they moved things underground for more space. (At one time that is)

The entrance to the Barber Shop

Old City Hall where the old jail was located in the basement.
It's hard to imagine, this was used up until 1971!

Ben and his dad- with a picture of a great grandpa who died in the line of duty while working for the Butte Police Department.

Under this old building- the elite of Butte came to have a "good time" when prohibition was in effect.

An old "Speakeasy" that was found. The tour guide said that Butte patrons "laughed in the face" of prohibition.

This is a picture of Janet in a historic Butte Hotel- she worked here in the coffee shop when she was younger
What do you do when it rains all day the next day?? And your campsite has a river running through it? You go bowling.

And because your husband begs you to, you stop off in Bozeman on the way home to visit the Grizzly Bear Habitat. ( I should have joked and said these bears went through our campsite)

Is this not the face of pure mischief???

July 2009- We did a lot of fishing!

2009-09-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

The Sunset at Cooney Dam Reservoir- about 20 miles from our house.

These pictures are from The Bighorn Canyon in southern Montana/Northern Wyoming- We went with my cousin's husband and their Daughter, Alyssa.

The water is super high this year. This is the highest it has been in many years. You have to back down the road to the ramp- It was about 60-75 feet higher than usual.

This is what happens when you forget to put the plug in!!

This is what fishing all day in the sun does to you!

Fourth of July in Las Vegas!!!!

2009-07-06T21:07:00.001-07:00

This summer, Ben and I decided to travel to Vegas for the 4th of July. Ben had never been there, and the last time I was there, I was in the eight grade and was with my Dad. :) It was so hot! 105+ degrees! We didn't go to gamble (obviously....:) but to see the sights, be with friends, and it's a quick flight out of Billings- and cheap too! It was great to get away! Here we are at the MGM Grand at the Tiger Cage

The tiger sleeping on its back..Me at the Pool at the Treasure Island hotel

The Bellagio Hotel

The Monte Carlo

New York, New York (We rode this roller coaster!!! TWICE)

The MGM Grand

Bryce and Ben in front of the famous sign (silly)

Here we are in front of the neon sign- why Ben is bending down, I have NO idea!

Our friends Bryce and Vicki-Lynn went with us on this trip! Made it extra special!

Bryce and Ben raced in a little NASCAR

The view from our hotel room

Bryce and VL at Caesar's Palace

Riding the "Deuce" Bus to the mall

Just a quick three day trip- but lots of fun! But too hot! Give me Montana winters any day!!

Elizabeth......aka Punkin

2009-07-06T20:57:00.000-07:00

Six Months Already! She is so spoiled that it just isn't funny! But look how sweet she is!!!

Busy, Busy in June

2009-07-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Pictures from Cody......

Erin and I in the back seat on our way to Cody Sunday morning.... Erin being silly

I look tired!!!!

Heart Mountain

Raquel and Erin- Can you tell they are cousins???

Dear Mom and Dad

Miss Alyssa

Miss Serena and Alyssa... they are my girls!

____________________________________________________________________

Ben's colleague Jon was married this month- Just a few pics of that celebration....

Here are the three brothers. Jon, Kyle, and Hoss

Jon and Jessie

My sister and Kyle,

Hot Summer Night! American Cancer Society Benefit

2009-07-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Ben and I attended a "Las Vegas Style" American Cancer Society fundraiser called "Hot Summer Night"

It was a lot of fun and Ben and his brother were security for the event and I enjoyed listening to the Dueling Pianos from Las Vegas' New York, New York. Overall a great evening for a great cause

Here are our dear friends Vicki-Lynn and Bryce- It was Vicki-Lynn who was a hostess of the event and talked Bryce into being a waiter/ cabana boy! The Dueling Pianos

Ben and I

Bryce and Vicki-Lynn

This and That for Summertime!

2009-06-22T22:22:00.001-07:00

We have been doing well here in Montana. Ben has weekends off for the first time in 16 months. So, we have been traveling, visiting with friends, and spending time together. Not much is really new here. It is mid June and I finally have my flower patches in front of the house looking half-way decent. July is already shaping up to be a busy month full of traveling and vacations and we will be going to Gerogetown Lake this summer again in August.

These pictures are from our camping trip to Red Lodge at end of May. It was a beautiful weekend! Looking north towards Red Lodge

Rock Creek

Some left over rain on a pine tree

The bridge in the campground over Rock Creek

Benjamin with his usual "smile for the camera"

Sitting around the camp fire singing some songs

Quincy was not thrilled to be tied up.. she is such a good dog

It's okay to have our shoes on the wrong feet when we are camping

Miss Hailey, age 7

Mr. Bradley, age 3

And PUNKIN!!! she had just turned 6 months in these pictures! The poor thing is not going to know her name, Elizabeth, or Lizzy, as everyone just calls her "punkin, or punkey doo" ;)

She is so sweet and so adorable! her aunty and uncle spoil her!

And ME, the creator of this blog, and the photographer, who never has any decent pictures of herself..........just to let you know I still exist!

More 4-Wheelers and More Fun

2009-05-18T22:49:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday, Ben, Dad, my brother Greg, my uncles and an aunt and some great friends all went to Cottonwood and did a little 4-wheeling. I didn't get to go. I stayed behind with my mom, sister, sister-in-law, Punkin, and my great aunt. We made all the food for my sister's graduation party. They had lots of fun!Having a lunch break

Our friends Jamie, Aaron, and Samuel

Aaron and Samuel

Ben and Samuel looking pretty cool!

Our truck all loaded up

My brother's truck and trailer with the rest of the wheelers

Little Sister's High School Graduation

2009-05-18T22:20:00.001-07:00

Erin graduated from high school on Sunday afternoon. She was the Salutatorian and gave an awesome speech. She's going to college in Billings at Rocky Mountain College and wants to persue a Physician's Assistant career. Congrats!

Giving her speech

Elizabeth- looked adorable in the dress I bought her

Just received her Diploma

It was a beautiful day for pictures so I took advantage and got some great pictures of Punkin

Dad and Kyle after we had cleaned up the party mess...

Glacier National Park

2009-05-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

From May 3rd to May 8th I had to go to Kalispell for a conference for work. So, one morning, I had a few hours and drove up to Glacier National Park. It was a beautiful day! Here I am at the entrance.Lake McDonald

This is right inside above West Glacier

A neat little stream by the road

Me in front of this little falls

A neat little waterfall. I didn't get the name of it

Lake McDonald at Glacier National Park

Me in front of Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald dock in front of a cabin

McDonald Creek

McDonald Creek leading out to Lake McDonald

4- Wheeling in the Pryor Mountains

2009-04-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Ben and I and a two of our friends, Guy and Hans took the 4- wheelers out to the Pryors for a little fun and hunting. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day. Here is Guy showing us his tricks. He is pretty handy on his machine- as he races it in Billings from time to time.

This is where we were headed- up to Pryor Mountain

Ben and Hans looking for Prairie Dogs. Ben is shooting our new rifle. I won it at a banquet about a month ago and we finally got a chance to shoot it.

Ben looking good!

Guy still showing off!

This is looking out towards Red Lodge, as you can see the ski runs. This was on my highest zoom.

Looking back towards Edgar

Guy was all business

The gang is all here. Look like a tough bunch don't they.

I have to take my own pictures, so I am at least in the picture

When we got higher up Pryor Mountain, you get a better view of Red Lodge

If you look closely, you can see the Crazy Mountains off towards Big Timber. again this is on the highest zoom on the camera.

There is a small canyon down below we went to. It was very beautiful. Didn't see any bears though.

Here we are taking a break at the top and sharing some funny stories. A lot of laughs this day!

Our New Ride

2009-04-02T08:50:00.001-07:00

Our new Dodge Nitro! Very cool!!! We are enjoying the extra space and just being up higher on the road!!

she gets kissed to death daily... I wonder why.....

2009-03-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

My sister, Erin....

2009-03-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

My sister, Erin, is graduating from high school in nine weeks. She is her class valedictorian and is pretty cool- (when she wants to be ) she is, after all, a little sister. She plans on attending college in Billings and wants to be a physician's assistant. Hard to believe I used to baby-sit her in the summer and played mean tricks on her! These are her senior pictures.....

Do you remember when you were graduating and it just couldn't come soon enough!! Oh, to be young again.... but looking back, I wouldn't change a thing!

My 100th Post! (and other random things)

2009-03-08T04:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is right- I have been blogging now for a year and a half, and this is my 100th post! I don't think I have many loyal readers except Papa M! But, I know family and friends do check in from time to time.

Friday night was my grandma's 81st birthday. This is my mom's mom. My mom was originally one of 11 kids. But, about 10 years ago, my uncle was tragically taken from us. All of the surviving 10 kids do live in the Billings area. But, it is hard to get everyone together. But, on Friday night, they were all there. We also celebrated my little 2nd cousin's 4th Birthday!

Here is the birthday girl before opening her presents.And blowing out her candles.

Here is Colter having fun with his daddy.

"I wish it was my birthday, too"

My cousin Kendra and her daughter Carly

Lizzy and Colter

My gramma and Colter and Lizzy

My uncle Marty and Aunt Carla.... and the punkin... (she's not spoiled is she)

She fell asleep on my dad's lap....
And my dad was in love!

Colter helping out with the binky

The Edwards'. 10 kids and my gramma

More Lizzy......

2009-03-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

We bought this little teddy bear for Lizzy when we were on vacation. The little hat says "Washington, D.C." She is teething at 12 weeks. You can see two little bottom teeth pushing through. So she uses it as a chew toy!

More of Washington, D.C.

2009-03-03T12:54:00.001-08:00

We have been home for five days and we are still trying to get on Mountain Standard Time. I have been waking up at 5:30 AM every morning ready to go. We had a fantastic time and I don't think anyone can come back from from Washington, D.C. and not feel at least a little bit patriotic. I love my country and am so glad I live America and that so many men and women gave the ultimate sacrafice so I can worship freely, have free speech, and have so many rights. Thanks Dad for a great trip! We had a blast!

This is the escalator down to the subway stop near our hotel in Dupont Circle. It is the longest escalator in the world. (I think...am pretty sure that's what they said)

The beautiful Capitol Building. It is so majestic!

Here we are heading to the Capitol Building for a tour through our Senators' office.

This is my favorite picture, taken from the Iwo Jima Memorial
Arlington was probably our favorite place. It's humbling to be in the presence of Heroes.

Benjamin, in front of Arlington House at Arlington Cemetery

I love this picture we took of ourselves.... but kind of morbid.....taken in a cemetery. ( We took a picture of ourselvesat every monument/memorial/attraction...kind of a silly little thing we did so we would BOTH be in the picture) The Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers is erie and humbling.
\

Here is the Soldier guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. There is an Honor Guard Soldier there guarding the Tomb 24 hours a day/ 365 days a year/ rain, sleet., snow, hurricane.

They take 21 steps...wait 21 seconds and turn and go back 21 steps...Very Precise..

Every hour on the hour they do a "Changing of the Guard." Again, it is a humbling and almost erie experience.

A view of the almost 900 acre cemetery. It is beautiful!

Arlington Cemetery was the original plantation of Robert E. Lee until he and his family left after he went off to lead the South in the Civil War. During the War, Union Soldiers overtook this plantation and used it as a cemetery and Army headquarters. Lee never stood on the grounds again. His family officially sold it to the US government for $150,000. ( Just a fun fact for you)

A view from Arlington House ( Robert E. Lee's Mansion)

The front of Arlington House and JFK's eternal flame grave.

The US Marines Memorial ( The raising of the flag at Iwo Jima) This was Ben's favorite!

Ford's Theatre, where President Lincoln was shot.

The box that Lincoln was in when we was shot. It is all preserved to how it was that night in April 1865. Very neat!This is Peterson House, across the street from Ford's Theatre, where they took President Lincoln to die.

This is the bed Lincoln died in.

And, that's about it! That was of course a very short and condensed version. I took over 500 pictures!

A Short Post From the Big City

2009-02-23T16:51:00.000-08:00

We are having a great time here in Washington, D.C. We are seeing the sights and walking, walking, walking. It will be a trip to remember!!

This is the National Law Enforcement Memorial. It is so neat and emotional.

There are "quotes" on the four entrances to this memorial. This one is my favorite!

Here is the book of names at the memorial to find out where their name is located. Here is Briese's name. It was emotional for us!
Dave, you are missed..... You can etch off the name of each fallen officer.

At the Smithsonian- The National Museum of American History- there is Sarge! the best Jeep ever!! Just ask Papa Mahoney- or Bradley!

Here we are in front of the Washington Monument! It is really big!

This is one of my favorite Memorials. This is the FDR memorial. If you go behind this statue of him, you can see he is actually in his wheelchair- and his cape is covering it! So neat!

The FDR Memorial is an "interactive" memorial. You can go up and touch and climb over it! It was Roosevelt's wish that this be so- so the children could play on it! How touching!

We walked to the Jefferson Monument. Everything here is "massive"- This city runs the world!

The Korean War Memorial is my FAVORITE! See the soldiers in the reflecting wall? It symbolizes the the ghosts of the fallen soldiers. So moving.

What?? What is the Terminator doing here? He was with his Secret Service detail on the steps of the Lincoln Monument.

Here we are in the Lincoln Memorial.

See how big it is? Look at the people on the steps and how small they look?

The World War II Memorial is the newest memorial in DC. This is VERY emotional.

As is this memorial- The Vietnam Wall. The name of every single soldier killed or MIA is on here.

There are 50 flags surrounding the Washington Monument- one for each state.

Ben at the back of the White House

Just one Cop talkin to another... This is the Secret Service Patrol Division at the front of the White House

This is the Front of the White House.

Auntie and Uncle's Brag Post - Lizzy

2009-02-17T06:56:00.001-08:00

They don't get much sweeter or precious than this!

Birthdays, Babies, Lung Infections, and Vacation

2009-02-14T19:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I seem to have stashed my camera away and I apologize for not taking any pictures. I stole some from Papa M, but my jump drive seems to have eluded me, too! So, I will just tell you what has been going on. Well, everyone including their dog (seriously) has had a birthday in the last few weeks. We have had birthday's galore! My brother, sister-in-law, and mom- Ben's mom, niece, and brother-in-law. Ben's nephew's is this Wednesday, and mine is next Saturday. I will be 25. It doesnt really seem old to me, but not really young either. So- I think I have gained five pounds just from birthday cake. Great times with the family! Lots of memories made.

Babies... Well, just a baby. THE baby. Lizzy. Isn't she cute in her duck towel? I got to watch her last week for a few hours. We are buds. She is so sweet and is shaping up to be a mama's girl. She had her 2 month appointment yesterday and was almost 13 pounds. She is definitely a hit and steals the show.

Ben came down with the "crud" that I had in December. Both my Mom and Dad have had it, but Ben got it bad. Just returned from the doctor today and he has a lung infection in his left lung. Happy Valentine's Day to him! He is on a bunch of meds and steroids and because he has asthma, it can get scary. But don't worry, I have been taking great care of him!

Yesterday I made about 25-30 Stampin Up cards that turned out pretty well. I, of course made a huge mess and spent more time cleaning up than making them. It was fun! I also went and made Valentine's Day cookies with Amber and kids.

We have our tickets to Washington DC and will be vacationing soon. It will be fun to see the sights and show Ben around who has never been there. We are especially excited to visit the National Law enforcement Memorial.

That's about it for now. I love my job and it is going great! I will be spending a week in Kalispell, MT in May and March and April are already filling up! Ben and Vasko are fighting crime and life is good!

SNoW ShOeINg in Red Lodge

2009-01-21T10:00:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday, I went for a Three hour snow shoeing adventure with my dear nurse friends from the ICU where I worked for a few years. They are so much fun! It was a beautiful day and I was exhausted when we were done! Here is Kim, Melanie, and Rebecca

And Cathy, Melissa, Kate, and Julie- and of course the dogs! We had seven people and six dogs! It was so much fun!

Cathy, waiting for me- that was pretty much the story all day!

Lets go!!!!

It was so warm and beautiful!
The next day, I went and bought ski pants! I wore jeans, and the snow shoes kept kicking snow up on my jeans I got so wet! I had to tie this around my waist to keep my bottom and legs dry!

Lizzy's First Christmas!

2009-01-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

Lizzy was 11 days old in this picture! She looks so big! Doesn't she look like she is 1 month! Lizzy and auntie Erin!

Nana and Auntie Erin with Lizzy!

She is sooo sweet!

Looks how Gracie has grown! She is so big and over 100 pounds!!

A busy day.....and lots of family....

2009-01-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

Complete Chaos............... Bradley relaxing ....Hailey and her sock monkey

Kim, Jason, and Comet taking a nap.....

Happy Holidays!

Getting Snowed In

2009-01-21T09:21:00.001-08:00

The week before Christmas, we were snowed in! I couldn't help but think of the Southern Wyoming Friends who are are always getting snowed in. Now I know what you felt like, but we were only snowed in for part of the day and all night before the county came and plowed us out! This is what one side of the road looked like after being plowed.

The drifts were about 6+ feet high on each side. We didn't make it to meeting this morning because the county didn't come out until about 11 because it was a Sunday!

Bradley..........

2008-12-23T12:15:00.000-08:00

Santa.... there is no need to check your list twice..... I know a naughty boy when I see one..... what do you think?

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly Weather

2008-12-23T11:11:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, we made the trek over to Butte and Fairmont Hot Springs for our annual Holiday Get-together. But this year we went with heavy hearts, as Grandpa Mahoney peacefully passed away the Tuesday before. Thankfully, Ben was with him at the time of his passing, as was Ben's father and sister and aunt and grandma. So, we spent a lot of time with different parts of the family over the course of a week or so. We were so glad to be home and have things return to normal. I also missed the birth of my first niece on my side of the family.... but all is well in the Big Sky Country and we will have snow for the Holidays... but we have been having some mean and nasty weather...... Grammy and AdrianGreat Grampa and Gramma Wulf......Grammy and Papa MAnd their six grandkids.

But some are naughty and won't smile or sit still for the cameras.....:)

But I think they just like to do what Uncle Ben does..... as we already know, at 27, is still one of the kids.....

Or maybe it is a brother thing......

Ben with Andy and Brittany

Ben and the kids......

Does anyone else see a pattern???? ;) Uncle Ben is their favorite!!!!!

Just ask Adrian.......

Hailey wore this hat all weekend.... she may have slept in it..... we don't know....;)
In Loving Memory of Grandpa Mahoney....
Grandpa Mahoney never went anywhere without his suspenders. He had lots of them and Ben says he never saw him without them on. So, in honor of Grandpa Mahoney, all the boys in Ben's family wore them under their suits to his funeral. It was so neat. Here is Ryan and Papa and Ben

And Papa and Ben looking sharp in their "Flames" and "Shamrocks"

What a bunch of good looking guys.... Especially the one in the red tie and green suspenders :)

My New Niece, Lizzy

2008-12-16T11:12:00.000-08:00

Everyone, meet my new niece, Elizabeth Raelyn Schlemmer. She was born on 12/14/08 and was 9 pounds and 21 inches. She is my brother's first baby and the first grandbaby on both sides. She is so precious

Getting Ready for the Holidays

2008-12-03T14:32:00.001-08:00

On Monday, we went up to Red Lodge and up the West Fork, and cut down trees for the Holidays. We brought Quincy, and Ben's Mom and Dad. Here is Quincy eating snow. Here is the the road that takes you up the West Fork. You can see where the trees burnt in the Cascade Fire this summer.

Here is the West Fork of Rock Creek on the snowy day.

And more of the beautiful area

Here is "Wild Bill" pond that was created for recreation and fishing in the Early 1920's. It is a beautiful picnic area with walking paths.

Ben and Quincy on the Walking Path around the lake

Ben's Mom and Dad, Janet and Cliff

It was a beautiful and clear day

Papa and Grammy pulling their tree.

I didn't have to haul a tree, I was the photographer.... like always

Good Job Vasko!!

2008-12-01T12:20:00.000-08:00

This was Ben and Vasko's bust last week. Vasko found this in a car Ben had him search.

Sara's Whitetail Deer

2008-11-25T19:47:00.000-08:00

Here it is...... my trophy buck!!! Ha Ha Ha Not exactly..... But I am proud of it. I shot it all by myself! Shot with a Remington .270 at 4:00 PM just south of Joliet, Montana- about 10 miles from our house.As you can see, it is missing it's left antler- There is a "nubbin" there- it looks like it got knocked off.This is where I shot it, a little later, closer to sunset A picture of the sunset I took while Ben went to get the truck

There were two bull moose nearby that watched us. This one is missing the RIGHT antler- Ben says there must be something in the water....;)

Ben, happy that I got my deer

The shot went through both lungs

Ashland Deer Hunting Trip

2008-11-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

Ben went to Ashland, Montana for a week to hunt Mule Deer with his friend Aaron, and his family and Friends. Here is Ben playing cribbage with Aaron's son, Samuel, who is 19 Months.Here is Aaron's wife and Sam's mom, Jamie with her Monster- Doesn't she look awesome for being 8 months pregnant!!!

Deer Hunting Camp

Here is Aaron and Ben's nephew, Tyler

Ben got the truck muddy!!!!!

Aaron got his truck stuck- typical for a FORD! ;)

Aaron and Samule stoking the fire

The truck after a week of hunting in the mud

Thank You, Veterans

2008-11-11T11:20:00.001-08:00

Antelope Hunting 2008

2008-10-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

Grammy and Papa catching a ride....... Just a neat shot of the rifles

Papa and Benny trying to strategically get close to the antelope

This is one that was wounded that we got

Jason and Ben packing one to the truck

Jason coming to help- Grandpa Wulf in the background

"The antelope are over here.... so if we go this way......"

Papa M

And Benny

Waiting for papa

Reason # 146 why I think it ok to hunt, kill, and eat deer!!

2008-10-16T08:16:00.001-07:00

WATCH FOR DEER!!! Does this look like $2800 damage to you? I didn't think so either... but that's what my insurance company said it would cost to fix!

Editor's note: As of when this post went to press, Suzie the Subaru has been in the shop and out and looks brand new!!! Hooray!! ;)

Some Very Funny and Busy Times

2008-10-16T07:48:00.001-07:00

Mr. P and Sir C are very adorable Children!!!Who belong to this very OLD man!! Josh is 30!! He decided being a lieutenant wasn't good enough, so he would take is elderly self and join the SWAT team!

Ad this little guy wanted to be just like his daddy, too!

And these k-9 cops thought that being on the SWAT team would be better than having dogs!

They are very, very silly!!

And..... on to another party.... IT'S A GIRL!!!!!

My Brother's wife is very, very pregnant..... We gave her a shower........

Where Colter showed us his Muscles.... WOW!

And the 1-2 pitch from Colter..... Emily was cheering him on!!! Colter loves baseball- as his dad played in the minor leagues for the Cincinnati Reds...

Knock it out of the yard!!!

She wouldn't look at me!

Neither would these kids! My sister Erin was homecoming queen!

Oh.......Ahhhhh....oooooooo

And Sir Camden was all bundled up at the football game

But Quincy decided to stay home and guard the couch......

Is that not the cutest face?

Look what I got!!!

2008-10-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

A Fishin Trip

2008-10-02T20:24:00.001-07:00

Ben went down to Yellowtail Dam and did a little fishing! He went with his Sgt. Jeff. I do believe this fish was 8 and some pounds and 26 inches long.

Ben took one of his other fish he caught and stuck it in his mouth!

Archery Huntin' Camp 08

2008-09-19T10:08:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, I had four friends and my dear hubby break all the rules- and let a "wu-man" go to huntin camp! I had fun, just sleeping in, reading, going on the 4-wheelers, cooking and keeping the home fires burnin! Dear hubby Ben, "uncle" Jeffy, Joel, and Super Trooper Eric Gilbert. Uncle Jeffy is Ben's Sgt. at the Sheriff's Office, Joel is a Reserve Officer, and Eric is a State Trooper. I felt safe out there! And me, that camp cook!

Dear Benny looking good! With all the cameo, it was hard to find everyone.... Benny.... Benny.... where are you???

Lots of great Elk Country..... The beautiful Castle Mountains by the Little Belts in Central Montana

Wheelin' !!!

Benny looking for Elk poop and tracks.... :)

What's the strategy boys? Are we gonna sneak up on them? Ben wasn't hunting... he was the bugle boy and cow caller......

Lookin for the big one....

I love this picture of Jeff with the fence line.....

The mountains.......

Our Wall Tent and camp-site

Look at the smoke from the stove... It looks so peaceful

Inside the tent

This stove kept us soooo warm!

Huntin Camp 08- one for the books..... I wonder if I will be invited back next fall...... hmmmmmm.....;)

We are blessed with wonderful friends!!!

2008-09-07T00:34:00.000-07:00

We love Josh and Amber and Paxton and Camden....... They are so special to us! Josh was Ben's best man when we got married, and Amber and I have known each other since we were born. Paxton and Camden are the sweetest boys ever!! This was at Paxton's Birthday Camden likes to snuggle with his daddy

This is Scott and Ellen- They are also great friends who we love to have close by!!!

Someone is tired.......

Make a wish.............

A weekeng at Georgetown Lake- Part 1

2008-09-06T02:30:00.001-07:00

This year, Erin and I went to Georgetown Lake for a weekend. The rest of Ben's family was there a whole 9 days, but we just made it for the weekend. It was so much fun. Ben had to work ,so he stayed home. Here is the gang ( lots of young kids) and some moms, too! Bradley all wet after washing up!

Ashley... falling out of the chair?......

Eric and Bradley- our gangstas!

Erin...

Eric

Heather

Andy

Brittany...... AKA VERNE!! We love VerneHailey Bug !!!!!!!!!!

The tent we stayed in.....

The Guys..." Solving all the problems"

Erin and Gracie LouVerne- being so funny!

A weekend at Georgetown Lake Camping ...Part 2

2008-09-06T02:08:00.000-07:00

Gramma and Grampa Wulf's Camper ( the main camp-site) More of the campsite.....

Hailey out on the boat. ( This life jacket used to be Erin's)

Ashley, Erin, and Verne on the tube!

Getting out of the water

Grampa's little boat in Phillipsburg Bay

Uncle Joe Snoozin!Papa Mahoney and Rollie taking it easy...

Sarah and Bradley hiding from the thunder inside the camper....... Bradley doesn't like it

Mike practicing for archery season......

Bradley and Mike fetching the arrows

Playing a card game

A little spot to sit at the Lake

The famous pitcher Andy idolizing "C.......J..... Wulf"

And the catcher Joe, and Umpire Todd

A new member of the family... Gracie

2008-09-06T01:45:00.000-07:00

Everyone, meet Gracie, my new "niece" - My sister Erin got this adorable St. Bernard puppy for her birthday! She is a snuggly little puppy! She looks so cute with her little bows!

She likes to snuggle and take naps with Erin

So sweet!

Just hangin out!

Our little house in the summer-time!

2008-09-06T01:21:00.001-07:00

Our little house.... with a few new accessories..... We put this old well pump in our flower garden. This pump was once in Ben's Grandparent's back yard in Butte. When they moved to Billings, we took it and put it in our yard.

This flagpole was also a gift from Ben's grandparents- as it once graced their front yard in Butte.

It looks like it always belonged here.

My favorite tree

Our little shed in the backyard. This was once a scale house at the old Montaqua Sugarbeet Dump near our house. A little piece of history. Maybe it will be a playhouse someday.

Fishing Rock Creek

2008-09-06T00:44:00.000-07:00

Ben, Erin, and I went fishing a month or so ago on Rock Creek. We rode our 4- wheelers down to the Creek and did some afternoon fishing. It was fun- and Ben had to babysit Erin and I when we hooked a snag. Yes, I (Sara) also fished and baited my own hook- but I was the photographer this day- (like most days) so I didn't make it in any pictures!

In Memorial- The Laundry Shoot

2008-09-06T00:19:00.000-07:00

Let me explain.... In Ben's grandparent's house in Butte ( see posts below) there was a laundry shoot, that when Ben was little, his Uncles Todd and Joe used to shove him down. The beginning is is the upsatirs bathroom and it ends downstairs in the hallway. So, for old times sake, Hailey got shoved down the laundry shoot, so it could be used as a kid passage one last time. We see some toes!

She's coming!

Ben will catch her!

He's got her feet!

We can see her face!

SHE MADE IT OUT ALIVE!!!

Georgetown Lake, 4th of July Weekend

2008-09-05T23:50:00.001-07:00

We headed to the Lake the Saturday after the 4th of July! We fished and had a picnic dinner! The Lake was beautiful!!
Benny's big keeper! Ben lost his fishing pole in the lake this day and was very sad! It was his childhood pole!

Ashley and Heather decided to get a little wet on Mike and Sarah's boat!

Grandpa Wulf doing some Fishin'

Erin switching rides! From Mike's Boat to ours

Uncle T got his boat running! Eric and Heather hanging out!

Andy helped reel this fish in!

Hailey all smiles- she didn't want to fish- but "just watch"

Erin casting in hopes of a "big one"

Another view of the Lake

She got a good one!

Fishin on our favorite Lake!

The Farewell..... The last 4th of July at the Butte Wulf's

2008-08-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Let me begin this post by saying that Ben's grandparents were born and raised in Butte, along with his parents. Due to illness and personal decisions to be closer to the doctors, Ben's grandparents decided to sell their place they have lived in for 50 years. This was very hard for them to do, and hard for all of us to witness. We all gathered in Butte for one last hur-rah! for the Butte Fourth of July and the Wulfs!

Now these pictures will be in no particular order, so please bare with me.... This is Grandma and Grandpa Wulf, sitting on their back porch, just three days before they closed, and had to be out for good. Remember they raised all their kids here and their grandkids visited them in this home...

This is Ben, playing with Vasko at his other grandparents' and aunt's house... The Mahoney's Bradley and Caden... Best Buddies......... Most of the time........ They are boys...

My lazy Sister Erin, lounging

All the cousins playing on Uncle T's boat. Yes, Eric loves his sister, Brittany

No Fourth of July would be complete without the Red Pants!!!! Gram and Gramp at the Parade.

Bradley, trying to be like his uncle Ben..... (note flag in hat..... see pic below)

Sarah and Mike

Ashley....

Uncle Ben!!! He looks impressed with me doesn't he...

If there are no beds to sleep on, we sleep in the chairs........ "E"

And on the floor..... Hailey and Andy

Bradley, snuggling up at the fireworks..... It was raining that night!

Andy- My favorite, who loves Bobo ( me )

Ashley, Bradley, and Heather at the fireworks

Janet- Wearing her Beatles Sweatshirt in honor of Papa, who couldn't come...... Boooo Hoooo She's also smiling because she HADN'T broken any ribs yet- that was still about 36 hours away.... it was a weekend full of injuries... we had broken toes, sprained knees, broken ribs, skin infections, and migraines....An awesome picture at Sunset of Butte from the Wulf's property

a very "stylin" Heather

And Quincy, My baby... She was a good girl

More of the view from the back yard.

I love the pond and the gallace frame in the background in this picture.

A lot of memories were made at 202 Greenwood..........

My Favorites!

2008-07-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

This is a picture gallery of my favorites! I have lots and lots of pictures of the Fourth- but I haven't had a chance to download them yet and quite frankly- I couldn't stand opening up my blog and looking at Obama anymore!

Yes- he is my personal and all time favorite! Love him mostest! And my favorite Kids!Quincy Marie And Vasko - who has no middle name..... This is my favorite vacation/camping spot! Georgetown Lake- where we also went last weekend! And these upcoming pictures are all my favorite nieces and nephews!

Tyler- My favorite 10 year old who likes the Chicago Bulls.Ashley- My favorite 9 year old! Ashley has a cell phone- And Corey! My favorite 7 year old! He wants to come back to Montana and come hunting this fall! ;) he he
Hailey- My favorite six year old! She wants a black and white bunny named Oreo!
Bradley- My favorite 3 year old is a sponge and repeats everything you say!

Adrian, 22 months, is my favorite, too because she can say her ABC's!

And I haven't met this little person(s) yet- but my sister-in law's belly right now is cute, too! Due to arrive screaming and rock my brother's world upside down 12/15/08. I can't wait! (no, not actual ultrasound- it's called google images people) And let's see..... who else...

Who? What? Huh? How did he sneak in there? Okay...Okay... Papa is my favorite too,- And I'm his! Someone has to inherit the vast fortune of Beatles memorabilia..... Just working my way up the ladder.... :)

While we are at it- This little one- Colter W- he's got a special place in my heart- How many other first cousins do you know that are 22 years apart?

Fourth of July weekend Pictures in Butte coming soon- and no- we did not see Obama- The Secret Service would not let him go in the parade- too dangerous apparently- but he was there-

Fourth of July Plans- And a Tribute

2008-07-02T06:18:00.000-07:00

WELL- I WILL SAY THIS MAN AND I HAVE A FEW IDEAS IN COMMON- AS IN WHERE TO SPEND THE FOURTH OF JULY!!!!!
In Butte, Montana- Who Knew the home of the deadliest, ugliest pit in America was such an attraction?
Yes, if birds land in this, they croak, and I DON'T mean make noise! They die!

"Arlington"

I never thought that this is where I'd settle down,

I thought I'd die an old man back in my hometown,

They gave me this plot of land, me and some other men, for a job well done,
There's a big white house sits on a hill just up the road,
The man inside he cried the day they brought me home,

They folded up a flag and told my mom and dad, we're proud of your son

And I'm proud to be on this peaceful piece of property,

I'm on sacred ground and I'm in the best of company,

I'm thankful for those thankful for the things I've done,

I can rest in peace, I'm one of the chosen ones, I made it to Arlington

I remember daddy brought me here when I was eight,

We searched all day to find out where my granddad lay,

And when we finally found that cross,

He said, "son this is what it cost to keep us free"

Now here I am,

A thousand stones away from him,

He recognized me on the first day I came in,

And it gave me a chill when he clicked his heels, and saluted me

And I'm proud to be on this peaceful piece of property,

I'm on sacred ground and I'm in the best of company,

I'm thankful for those thankful for the things I've done,

I can rest in peace, I'm one of the chosen ones, I made it to Arlington

And everytime I hear twenty-one guns,

I know they brought another hero home to us

We're thankful for those thankful for the things we've done,

We can rest in peace, 'cause we are the chosen ones,

We made it to Arlington, yea dust to dust,

Don't cry for us, we made it to Arlington

Everyone, please be safe, wear your seatbelts and helmets, and please, cherish your freedom and thank a veteran that we are still free and Independent!

Good Times at Cody

2008-06-24T13:31:00.001-07:00

You can't go to this convention without looking at Heart Mountain- So pretty at Sunrise. Mom and Sister Erin. I don't think they knew I was taking a picture.

These are my cousins from Helena- Raquel and Renee- I hope I spelled your names right! Our dads are first cousins! They are closer to my sister's age. They moved to Helena from California a few years ago. We LOVE them. So glad they are here. They are so funny!

And- another cute cousin of mine! I couldn't find her sister to take a picture of her, too- but Miss Serena here, was the flower girl in my wedding.The girls at our hotel room during some down time. We went to Subway for dinner... ;)

My sister took FOREVER to get ready on Sunday! She primps!

I caught my mom smiling!

I didn't have my camera out too much- So I didn't get too may pics of the weekend. Maybe more next year!

This and That.....for Summertime

2008-06-17T12:43:00.001-07:00

Every year, my mother-in-law, sister-in-law, grandmother-in-law, niece, and myself do the Montana Woman's Run. This year we did the two mile. It was kind of cloudy, but as always, a lot of fun. I think this year there was close to 7,000 women who competed.

A few weeks ago, Ben's brother's family visited. This is our niece Adrian.
And our nephews stayed with us for a night. Ben took them to Cody, Wyo., to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.

Here's Corey (7) and Tyler (10)

And Corey

And Tyler

And our summer has been flying by. I can't believe that this week is Convention and pretty soon it will be the 4th of July. We are planning on going to Butte for the 4th and hopefully working a little on the house this summer. Not a lot of big plans. Hopefully a privacy fence will go up this fall and just a lot of good times with family and friends.

We are still Here, I Promise

2008-06-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! We are still here! It has been a busy couple of weeks. Ben has been busy at work with Vasko- The Crime Fighting Duo- as I refer to them.

I quit my job! Hooray for me!!!!! And took 10 days of vacation! More Hooray!!!! And then started my new job! Boooooooo. No- I love my new job. It makes me sooooooo happy! I get to 1) pick my hours 2) work from home part of the time 3) travel and 4) use my fancy schmancy degree 5) benefits!!! Now the Hoorays!!!!

Today is day #3! So far, I have been on the phone and computer a lot and reading! But, man of man- the stress level is about 1/4 of what my old job was- my nearest supervisor is 60 miles away, and contacts me via my, are you ready, 1) company cell phone 2) company laptop via email!!

okay- enough with that!

Over the vacation I: cleaned my house, planted 77 flowers (yes, I counted), stained two decks, painted 1 porch, painted the eaves on my house, mowed the forest in my back yard, ate a lot of grilled cow (yummm), roasted marshmallows with a 3 year old ( the best part), and slept in. Yes, it was nice.

So, you see, I really didn't take a lot of pictures, but it has rained and rained and rained here! In fact, it is raining right now! So, I will try and take some and get back to everyone later!

Now that's close, baby!

2008-05-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, My little sister and I headed to Bozeman to see Carrie Underwood and Josh Turner in Concert at the Brick Breeden Field House. We had AWESOME- and I mean fantastic seats! We were on the floor, a few rows back from the front and she had a "catwalk" stage that we were about seven seats away from. She was great- put on a great show- and Josh Turner- talk about a cutie pie! I apologize for the poor quality- Cell phone pics!

Getting Back To Normal Around Here.....

2008-05-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

This was Quincy and Ben when they were re-united after four weeks of being away. I sat her on the steps when I knew he was around the corner and you should have seen her when he drove within view. She tried and tried to pull away from me and started yelping! It was pretty sweet! There was also another introduction that had to take place. Quincy just didn't know what to think and quite frankly I think she was a little mad that someone was in "her" spot in Dad's truck! (Ben let her jump up in there from time to time before he left)

Here she is..... smelling him out.... " I don't know about this...." she says. And no, so far, we have kept them separated. She does NOT like him and we have to let them get more acquainted with one another

But I'd say she is still Dad's favorite! She wouldn't let him out of her sight the first two days he was home! Spoiled? Nahhhhhh!!!

Ben's Grandpa Wulf celebrated his 83rd Birthday! Still looks good if you ask us!!!!!

Ben- acting his tender age of 10-

Or maybe he is still 9- Can you tell he was the baby?? And all the nieces and nephews love him?
Grandma and Grandpa Wulf- Married 60 years! 61 in September!!

After dinner, it was a great night to take some pictures! So, I have been playing around with some photo shop and took some pics I could play with..... This is Ben's sister's husband and their kidlets- Ashley and Bradley on the trampoline.
This one is called- "My Daddy's the Greatest"

This one is called " My Daddy is going to jump on my head" - he he

She is a poser- let me tell you- a cute poser- but loves that camera-

One big happy family! But I couldn't get Mr. B to look at the camera- then when you tell him to smile- he comes up with the most cheeziest/ grunting look ever- Good looking family though-

More About Ohio

2008-05-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been home since Monday night, and I am just now getting around to getting another post done. I will chalk it up to jet lag- that stuff does exist you know.... My trip started off... let's just say.... not the way I wanted it to. I was ready to go- excited- all packed- I was at my in-laws house early- so my ride could take me to the airport and off I could go to see dear hubby who I had not seen in three weeks. I Get there TWO HOURS prior to take off- just like you are suppose to, and my flight had been cancelled due to mechanical problems. Therefore, I missed my connecting flights out of Salt Lake, and out of Cincinnati. The closest they could get me to Toledo was to Cincinnati that night with a connecting flight in the morning to Toledo. That just wasn't going to work. I tried to get into Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus,and Ann Arbor. NOTHING! I was doomed. Because the economy is in the white porcelain thing we sit on from time to time, Delta has cut all eastbound flights out of Salt Lake past 3PM. You can only get to Atlanta or Cincinnati. So, my dear hubby, had to drive the 4 and a half hours through traffic through Cincinnati through Kentucky( yes, the Cincinnati airport is in Kentucky) to pick up wifey and then drive the four hours back to Toledo because I booked a package deal in Toledo. But, we survived- saw the country side of Ohio on I-75 ( I think) at night- but hey- we got to talk and catch up! The weekend went by too fast and before I knew it, it was 6:00AM ( Eastern time zone, 4:00 AM home) Monday and I was saying goodbye as he drove off to go back to where his training is just outside of Toledo. I took the shuttle to the airport at 10 AM. Flights to Atlanta and Salt Lake and then to Billings. Got into Billings at 11:30 PM Mountain. So, it was a VERY LONG DAY. See, jet lag- the stuff does exist! And it was just ME traveling- AMY, and all my other hero moms who fly with toddlers and babies... how do you do it???? You amaze me.... You really do!!!! So, I will tell you all about Ohio...

Why...... You may ask..... is there a picture of MASH here? Well, Ben grew up watching the show, and my brother and I watched it at our grandparent's and cousin's house and do you remember Max Klinger? The crazy corporal who dressed like a girl so he could go home? Well, he (the character) and the actor (Jamie Farr) who played him were both from Toledo, Ohio, and he always talked about getting a Hungarian hot dog from Tony Packo's. It was mentioned in the show several times. In all, Klinger and MASH- made Tony Packos famous and put in on the map. It went from a tiny mom and pop's restaurant to a famous, most popular place to eat. They were telling us that the last episode aired in 1983 and it still brings the people in. The food was priced right and excellent!

This is the original location- in the more ethnic part of Toledo- Opened in 1932.

In this picture- The cast of MASH eats Tony Packos food "sent over from the Toledo to Korea" in an episode

A little bit about Jamie Farr- the actor who played Max Klinger- And- remember- any who did watch the show- he always talked about watching the Toledo Mudhens play baseball ( his jersey he is wearing) A little downtown Toledo over the Martin Luther King Bridge- Lots of Bridges in Ohio- because there is a river or creek or stream or puddle everywhere you look....

And, I had to take a picture of these guys- who we had a 10 minute conversation with- learned how many police officers there were in Toledo- 600- 300 patrol officers, and how many K9's- and traded business cards and patches- oh, to be an officer's wife.....

And speaking of those Mudhens I was talking about............ Go Mudhens!

It was the best day for a baseball game! It was almost 80 degrees!

They have a brand new stadium!

And today, May 2nd! There is 6 inches of snow on the ground where I am! WHAT!!!! When will spring or summer or whatever ever get here?????? But it is all okay!!!!!! BECAUSE BENNY ( that's what all they kids/nieces/nephews/...ok...me) call me.... BENNY IS COMING HOME TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HE IS ALREADY IN INDIANA almost to ILLINOIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Greetings from Ohio!

2008-04-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

Just checking in..... In Ohio, it is VERY GREEN and there are a lot of these.....

And even more of these. Barns everywhere!!!! I love old farms and barns/ dairys!

I got to meet Vasko- He sure is cute! I am already attached! I can't wait until they both come home! Especially BEN!!

Yep!!! I'm a keeper!!!!

We traveled to Port Clinton to see Lake Erie. It was pretty neat and a beautiful day. There was a championship walleye tournament going on sponsored by Cabelas that was on National TV.
These are the boats that were in the walleye tourney!
More pics later!!

Playground time in the Spring

2008-04-14T13:10:00.001-07:00

Three year olds in the gravel! Why not-

Three year old construction zones... they know exactly what they are doing!

Hey guys....... wait for me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am just so darn cute! And I know it too!!!!!

Hey! Let's go fly a kite with Uncle T!!!!

Quincy wants to play too, but just can't seem to figure out how to get untied

What are you lookin at lady? This is MY ball!

Look Aunt Sara!! I can hang! (with some help)

(Shhhhhh) we are hiding from Mom!

Does she see us, Dad???

Come on Coi-ter? Wet's Gwo!!!!

Where is that lady with the camera he wonders?!?!?!

Does she see me???????

GEEEEEZZZZZZ LADY!!!!!! BACK OFF WITH THAT THING!

You can't get me from way up here!!!

Brothers...Paxton and Camden

2008-04-14T12:53:00.000-07:00

Our dear friends Josh and Amber had another boy last Sunday. Welcome Camden! Paxton is a big help and a great big brother!

Everyone, Meet Vasko

2008-04-09T08:20:00.001-07:00

Vasko comes from the Czech Republic and is a large German Shepherd. He was named there, so we have no idea what "Vasko" means. Ben said he is still getting to know him and forming a bond. I apologize for the poor quality of pictures, as they are from a cell phone.

He's Gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

So, (big sigh.......) Ben is gone.... two time zones away. And I am all alone. (sign) I am such a big baby. I tell other people my situation and they do one of three things. They a) say " Oh, I would LOVE for my husband to leave for five weeks. I would love to be alone! I would send him packing!" - I, in turn, look at them, knowing what kind of relationship they must have or come to the conclusion they have been married for a thousand years and just don't care. Or b) They look at me with this "feminist ideology" look and say" Oh, you will be fine- you can do just fine on your own without him!" Thus my response being- Yes, I know I can, remember I lived alone for almost four years by myself, two of those years in a different state, supporting myself. Yes, I am an independent woman still and have a career, but can't a wife love and miss her husband and want to be with him anymore these days? Hmmm..... OR c) I get the very appreciated "I hope you are okay. That must be tough and I hope you keep busy and we should get together."

So, I have began to deeply clean my house and have little projects planned around the yard/ house. Also, our very best friends had their baby on Sunday morning, so I am going to go meet Camden this evening. I am also training for a 5 mile run and between that and everything else- FOUR weeks ( that's right, he found out last night when he got there, it is only going to take him FOUR weeks) will go by relatively fast- AND I am still going to go to Ohio for the weekend in a couple of weeks. So, I will post pictures of my new "son" Vasko, a huge German Shepherd when Ben sends me some and some pictures of my house projects!

That time has come.........but we aren't talking about it...yet....

2008-03-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

This is what I have been feeling like for the past week- and I am sure for the next few weeks to come. It has come the time for dear hubby to pack up his patrol truck and leave his wifey and puppy behind to go get his new partner and K-9. I keep telling Ben we aren't talking about it- cuz that means he's really leaving me for FIVE weeks! His K-9 handler school begins April 7th. in Ohio. I feel quite childish as the picture shows- for he will only be gone for five weeks. Still- in the almost four years I have known him, the longest we have been apart is six days. I have so much admiration for military wives. To think that while their husbands are fighting for my freedom, they are all alone, paying bills, raising children, sleeping all alone. And I thought going to bed alone four nights a week was bad. Hmmmm. Well, I will have my job to keep me busy and Spring is almost here. I know it is here on the calender- but it is almost here in Montana. My lawn is greening more and more each day and the days get a bit longer.

Ben is VERY excited to go. I can't get sad that he is going because it has always been his dream to be a K-9 officer- so he continues to love his job more and more.

In other news..... It's that time again! Spring Training has come and gone and Go Boston! Opening Day is TOMORROW!!!!!!! Let the road to the 2008 World Series Begin!

I went to the neurologists last Thursday and I have been put on a daily migraine medication. Hopefully- this will drastically reduce the number of migraines that I have. This month already I went 11 days straight with a migraine before I was crying calling my mom, begging her to take me to the ER for relief. (Ben was out of town) Thus- I was referred to a nuero doc.

Oh, and....I did book a trip to Ohio to see Ben for one weekend while he is gone. Remember the picture? Yep- that's me- I pouted and got my way.... So- I guess, I only have to go 3 weeks without seeing my favorite person.

Our Easter was good- we stayed home and enjoyed the little sunshine we had a took Quincy for a walk.

This weekend we will most likely go shopping for some things Ben needs to take with him to Ohio-........ But we aren't talking about it yet

My grandma's 80th Birthday Party.....

2008-03-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we celebrated my maternal grandmother's 80th Birthday. There were a lot of people packed into my uncle's house. Most of the time I followed the kids around trying to get some good pictures.

She looks good for 80 doesn't she!!

Make a wish!

Enchiladas and cake- what could be better?

My brother Greg and wife Rachel

Colter is mad at me- Most likely because I followed around all night with the camera.

But he likes sitting on Uncle J's lap!

Another annoyed look.....

So, he gave me a snarl instead!

My dear ole dad

Colter with his two favorite people- Mom and Ju- Ju

And with his best friend, Emily

A few more pictures......

2008-03-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

Bradley, Ben, and Rollie

Ben's new ride..... Pretty Spiffy.....

A Few Pictures... Before my Camera Battery died downloading them.....

2008-03-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

Or, you could say this is a shrine to Bradley- Outside......
Inside..................

Upside down.......

and all together......

Thank Goodness for Camera Phones

2008-02-26T11:00:00.000-08:00

As you can see- I do have new pictures- but they are all from the cameras on Ben and my cell phones. We have been able to get outside lately because the weather is finally starting to get nice. Saturday we took the 4- wheelers out and got some fresh air. I also had a birthday last week- the big 24!- so I will post some more pictures of the neices and nephews when I get the pictures downloaded! Until then- here's to lookin at us!

ME!! I noticed there are hardly any pictures of the lady taking or posting the pictures!

Ben- on patrol- he sent sent this as a picture text for Emily- my little three yeear old cousin who thinks he's pretty neat!

And of course- Baby Colter!! The shrine to what I think is the cutiest kid ever!

And PAPA M!!! This is my father-in-law Papa (the officer on the right) Just in case anyone was confused! No- not the man sitting down. This was in the paper yesterday- so, good police work Papa!!!! And no- he is not about to punch him- it just looks that way! ;)

My little buddy- Colter-

2008-02-08T08:15:00.000-08:00

I went to see my first cousin Colter on Wednesday- he's so sweet! He played with my brother Greg and Greg taught him a few new things! He tells me he loves me and Ben... and Aunt Ju-Ju ( my mom, Julie)

My First Video Post and a few more pictures.....

2008-02-05T13:24:00.000-08:00

Bradley and Ashley on the Loader with my brother Greg, feeding the cows

The Pictures, As Promised!- January

2008-02-05T12:02:00.000-08:00

Ben in front of his Patrol Truck- he should be in his new one soon! My brother Greg taking Ben's neice and nephew for a ride in the loader, feeding cows!

Bradley waiving to me

Bradley and Ashley on the loader! He was quite inpressed as he is very much into trucks and loaders

Ben and Quincy after we went to feed the cows

Bradley loved playing with my sister, Erin. They had fun!

Erin and Quincy had fun, too!

Bradley on Grammy's couch being a good boy

Quincy and Rollie (aka Rolo)

Play time at Grammy's house

Behind the times.....

2008-02-04T10:15:00.000-08:00

Yes...Yes... Yes..., I know. One month and only one post. It has been what I like to call a very stressful, long, and no so good month for our friends and family here. We have attended a couple of funerals and have comforted two different friends whose parent both found out they have cancer that is terminal. And, on top of that, I had my own cancer "scare" so to speak. Ladies, get your yearly exams! My pap test came back with abnormal cells, and after two different surgical procedures and biopsies, they removed a nice little chunk of my cervix with all of the precancerous cells. So, I have been at home a lot for the past two weeks, relaxing, and no where near a computer. I do have some pictures to post of our neice and nephew out with my brother feeding the cows and riding in the loader and feeder truck. They are pretty cute and there is even a video I will attempt to post.

Other that that, we have been lazy at home a lot and with family, too. Ben is getting excited as his new patrol truck is almost ready. He got to pick most everything out, so it is just how he likes it. Everything is still on course for him to be in Ohio for five weeks in April and May- and I guess I will just have to busy myself during that time on house projects. I have shutters to re-size and paint and hang on the house and the decks already need restaining, so that will be my project. Dad is also going to help us cut out some liliac trees this spring and we are thinking about finishing our basement later this summer/fall, so- there is plenty of work to be done.

As far as me- the big story in my life has been the health issue. I have also decided that this year, I will actually accompish my goal of running the 1/2 marathon at the Montana Marathon this September. That gives me more than enough time to train. So, I will keep you posted. And, if all goes well- I will be changing jobs soon- I will be working for the Department of Revenue for Montana. This will be a "promotion" so to speak- so keep your finges crossed!

Quincy has been quite neglected lately- to be quite honest. I can't wait until the days get longer so I can run her when I get home from work. I'm sure she will live though-

Surprise! We Are Expanding Our Family!

2008-01-11T10:46:00.000-08:00

NO NO NO! Get your mind off babies! We are not adding a baby to our family- we are adding a puppy! Ben recently found out that he is going to be the new Law Enforcement K-9 Officer for the department. This is a good and bad thing. Good, because this is Ben's dream. He has always (for as long as I have known him) wanted to be a drug and tracking dog handler. I am looking forward to him helping out on Search and Rescues finding missing people, finding people who run from officers and finding drugs. He will go into schools and do locker searches and keep fairly busy. Quincy will also acquire a new friend to play with and our yard and house is big enough for two dogs, but I think I am setting the limit at two.

The only bad part of this whole experience is Ben will have to be gone for five weeks in Ohio to train with the dog. Then they will both come home and the dog will be our pet when it is not working. Once it retires, it will stay with our family.

So, we have spent the better part of the last couple of weeks looking at Drug and Tracking Kennels all over the U.S. trying to find the right dog. Not much else is new. We had our 2 year anniversary on Monday, the 7th, and we are really enjoying Ben having Friday and Saturday nights off. The first time since we have been together that he has weekends off. I don't know what it's like to be with someone on Friday nights! I have always been alone.

The weather here has been pretty pleasant for January in Montana. It was so beautiful on Wednesday. I think it reached near the high 50's. Tomorrow if the weather is nice, Ben and I are taking a day trip with the 4- Wheelers into the Pryor Mountains right behind our house.

Hope everyone is doing great! Below are some pictures of some various breeds of dogs that Ben is looking into.

Christmas..A very long post... for a very long day....

2007-12-28T10:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas was a very fun, enjoyable, and long day. It began when Ben and I woke up late and headed into Billings. We had a huge surprise planned for his grandparents. Grandma and Grandpa Wulf recently moved to Billings from Butte, where they were born and raised. In Butte, there are historical gallows frames that mark the entrances to mine shafts all over the hill of Butte. Ben's dad, along with with the help of Ben's family, made a replica of a gallows frame to put on the hill behind their new house. The surprise was unveiled on Christmas Day. The Billings Gazette even did a story on it, and ran it on the front page on December 26th. go to www.billingsgazette.com for the story and search for "Christmas Surprise" for the whole story. It was very neat and pretty emotional for Ben's grandparents.

Ben and Quincy getting ready to unload the Gallows Frame

Unloading it. It weighs about 650 pounds

In Butte, the Gallows Frames are lit up at night with red lights as part of a project to "Lighten Up" Butte's historical landmarks. So, Ben is seen here unraveling red lights
The Gallows Frame against the blue sky

Surprise!!!!!! They were very happy!
Ben's Dad and Ben

An up close look at the Frame
Grandpa showing his respect... I think this picture speaks for itself.....

Everyone getting a closer look

A little part of Butte just got a lot closer to home
The frame lit up at night

It was very muddy up on the hill, so the dogs had to stay outside!

Hailey showing off her missing teeth.... it's present time
Bradley showing Papa how to open a present Ben's brother-in-law Mike

Kim and Jason

Bradley's new "Scooper" ...I think......

Bradley in the garbage sack

Nap time

Please can I come in?......

Christmas Eve for the Mahoney's

2007-12-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

The Holidays were fun and exciting. Ben and I spent Christmas Eve with my Mom and Dad, and my Mom's side of the family. Mom is the middle child of eleven kids, so it makes for a huge gathering!

Greg and Quincy looking very comfortable
Ben hiding behind my dad's new tractor book.

Ben and My dad

My mom taking some pics Erin smiling he cheesy smile

My brother Greg and his wife Rachel

Ben and his little girlfriend Emily- who only loves him when no one is looking....

Colter and his mom, Mindy- Mindy is my mom's sister

My aunt Jane, Colter, and Uncle Toby

Colter looking very bored- It's time to open presents!!

My cousins Shad, Matt, and their mom, Carla

Little Cousins Kobe and Colter playing with a new Excavator!!!

To sum up our weekend....... grandkids!

2007-12-18T08:59:00.000-08:00

Ben and I spent Friday-Sunday at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort in Anaconda with his whole family on his mom's side. There were 29 of us altogether. We swam, went down the waterslide what seemed like 50 times, and ate a lot of great food. Overall, a good weekend, with a lot of kids. Eleven kids under the age of 16. Here are some pics of the weekend. Corey, Bradley, and Hailey

Ashley, Hailey and Bradley

Ashley and Hailey

All of Ben's neices and nephews

Adrian

Bradley

Ben's mom and grandmother

Ben's grandparents hosted the weekend. Thanks you!!!

Ben's brother Ryan, wife Kristy, Corey, Adrian, and Tyler

Ben's parents

Sledding Fun!

2007-12-11T07:21:00.001-08:00

This last weekend, we spent a day sledding in the Beartooth Mountains near Red Lodge. It was a beautiful day with no wind and we even had to take our coats off at one point.

Benjamin after snow from a tree fell on him.

This is where we went sledding- A few miles past Red Lodge near the Ski Resort

Ben and Quincy. Quincy had a blast pulling the kids on the sled!

Ben's brother Jason, wife Kim and Hailey.
Ben's sister Sarah and husband Mike

Bradley sledding. Does anyone recognize this hat???? Uncle Ryan????

The top of the sledding hill

Mike and Bradley going down

And Grammy Janet

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth..... My two front teeth...

Happy Holiday from our house to yours!

2007-12-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

Bird Hunting (from a few weeks ago)

2007-12-03T09:33:00.001-08:00

Ben explained that his brother Ryan who was taking the picture told them to "Look Up"- You can see what smarty pants Ben and his Dad are. Jason is on the left- Ben's oldest brother Ben and His dad

Quincy protecting her bird she pointed- still working on the retrieving part

The Mahoney/Schlemmer Thanksgiving

2007-11-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day was spent at my house. I was up early getting the table set and boiling potatoes. I had made the pasta salad, pumpkin spice mufflins, and tossed salad the day before. My mom and dad and brother Greg and his wife, Rachel were our guests along with my little sister Erin of course. My family has complained that they must not exist because I never post their pictures. What it really is, is that they live three miles away and I pretty much see them at least 3-4 times a week, and it is so routine that I never think to bring a camera along. But they are very special and I love that they are just a five minute car ride away. The table settings.

The desserts! Apple Crisp, brownies, cherry cheesecake, pumpkin spice muffins, lemon raspberry cheesecake and a pumpkin creme pie!

My dad, sister Erin (sitting) and Sister-in-law Rachel. As you can tell Erin is already sitting and starving!!

My dear ole dad!

Erin and Ben digging in.

And being funny for the camera.

Let's eat. My mom is the one sitting next to my brother Greg on the left

And mom is standing here

And this is what it looked like after hurricane "turkey" came through my kitchen!

The Mahoney Thanksgiving

2007-11-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

This year we were fortunate enough to have two Thanksgivings. I guess there's a lot to be thankful for. We had dinner with Ben's family on Tuesday night, the 20th. We ate dinner at his grandparent's new house in Billings. Of course we ate too much, but it was fun, and on the way home, we took the back roads through the snow and it was neat to take a different route and see some very secluded scenery- even though it was dark- the snow reflected the light of the moon.

The kids climbing all over Kim.

What are you smirking at??

Grandpa Wulf watching some football.

The dish fairies.....

Bradley... say cheese.....

A Winter Wonderland

2007-11-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

This was the snow at our house. This was taken on Wednesday morning, the day before Thanksgiving. As you can see, all of our fall decorations and pumpkins got snowed on!

This is a huge overgrown tree in our yard! We need to get it trimmed sooo bad!

Winter has come to Montana.....

2007-11-20T07:10:00.000-08:00

Looking down Main St. in Red Lodge this morning- after a few plows had made their way through. Red Lodge received 12 inches of snow last night. We probably got about 6-8 at home. It took me a lot longer to get to work this morning. But the Subaru did beautiful! So glad we invested in an all wheel drive car! This is the view out in front of my office at the Courthouse this morning. This is the County Explorer that we drive.

Look at the snow still on the top of this Dodge truck after it had driven 4 miles into town!

Winter is here.... No more 60 degree November days that we were having!

Quincy goes hunting... and gets hurt- More hunting and Quincy gets a new friend

2007-11-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

Here are some great fall pictures!

My kids... Aren't they cute! The shotgun is an old double barrel from Ben's grandpa that he had restored.

She is just so proud of her hunt!

But, hunting comes with a price, and Quincy got into some barbed wire. She had an 8 inch cut on her head

And an avulsion on her belly. But, she was happy, and after a little rest, was all healed up!

This is Mike, Ben's Brother-in-law. He got this buck with his bow just out of Red Lodge, where I work.

Bradley??? What does a dead deer look like????
This is Fred, my brother's new dog- Also a German Wirehaired Pointer- Best Cousins!