Brandon and Chelsea

Date night with Paul and Tracy

2008-12-19T23:56:00.000-08:00

First we went to a mexican resturant. Tracy loves tortillas! Paul loves tortillas too!

Then we went to see "Yes Man". Pual really enjoyed it while B was entirely un-entertained.

Tracy and me.

A little merlot to help me paint....

2008-12-18T00:36:00.000-08:00

It helps me paint in a straight line. At this point anything will help! I am soooo sick of painting!

HO HO HO

2008-12-14T17:07:00.001-08:00

Cameron wasn't feeling well and so he decided to take a quick nap on the couch all while wearing the Santa hat. Sooo cute!

Funny Boy

2008-12-03T23:12:00.000-08:00

So Cameron left this note for Brandon. We do not know where he gets this stuff but boy is it funny! The spelling is wrong and the details may be hard to pic out........

Pies is suppose to be piece, and the two lumps are actually fingers as the piece sign with piece symbols in the finger nails. We didn't stumble upon this note until he was fast asleep. It made us laugh harder than we have in a while. I love this boy sooo much!

I love this!!!

2008-11-21T20:51:00.001-08:00

A thought to learn from...

2008-11-20T19:54:00.000-08:00

Begin forwarded message:
I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so av ante garde on my patio. I am entitled to treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging. Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's,and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will. I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old. I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when so me body's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect. I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong. So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been,or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day(if I feel like it). MAY OUR FRIENDSHIP NEVER COME APART ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART!MAY YOU ALWAYS HAVE A RAINBOW OF SMILES ON YOUR FACE AND IN YOUR HEART FOREVER AND EVER! FRIENDS FOREVER! Forward this to at least 7 people and see what happens.

And they were off....

2008-11-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

For a journey to the center of the earth.

Happy Halloween Everyone.

2008-10-26T21:33:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to wish you all a safe and happy Halloween from the Showalter family.....and yes....more crazy pics for you all!

Dance party 101

2008-10-11T11:02:00.001-07:00

Yes....through the madness of watching all of these little monsters,we managed to have a dance party....and boy did we dance! Though Logan wanted to spin on the floor and show off his break dancing, he refrained (because of his injury) to just doing the robot. The boys had moves of their own which we have not quite come up with a name for. And the girls .....well the girls are like aliens....but they took home the trophy for best dressed and greatest moves. Oh what fun we have at Auntie Chelsea's house....that is when she isn't going totally crazy...hehehe

Thank you Jesus for Friday nights!

2008-10-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

I feel like I can actually take a moment to breathe when Friday finally comes around. It is the one day the boys and I don't have to sit at the table and do and hour or so of homework, quickly feed them something healthy for dinner, and then off to bed we go. Seriously, and we are only at the beginning of the school year.

Here they are in the movie room watching a movie while playing their video games. Ain't life grand!

me and my girls.....

2008-09-16T08:32:00.001-07:00

Happy 7th birthday boys!

2008-09-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

Long time coming...

2008-07-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

aahh...there is nothing like sitting by a camp fire! Cameron...taking a break from searching for water bugs and fish.

nothing like having your brother around to always play with.

All my boys!

This WAS the road we used to drive up to get to our favorite campsite before it was washed away by a land slide. So sad!!!

Cameron being "Cameron". I can always count on my boys to pose for the picture.

Lovin my "cama-lama-ding-dong"

Me and my peanut

The trip was much fun! We actually just got back from another....this time 3 days. In August we plan on going every weekend. Gretchen has a love for camping but just can't bring herself to do it without a grown male around so she will be going with us on the 9Th to Ruby Beach. There we will actually be going to a campsite where they have bathrooms and running water......weird!

Back in the saddle again....

2008-07-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, B and I love our camping in the great northwest. Last summer we went 10 times (5 times by July). This year however, we have been living our busy lives and haven't been able to go even once. So now our car is packed and we are pumped! Olympic Mountains.....here we come! Oh yeah....and I know you are jealous and foaming at the mouth Ben.

One CRAZY Family!

2008-06-19T14:45:00.001-07:00

It was Matea's Birthday and we all came full forse with our party shoes on. Like I said....one crazy family!

Jonathan, Logan, & Cameron.

Spencer and our favorite...Sam.

Me and my Spenc.

Two crazy Showalter ladies.

Matea on her Birthday...showing off her new mood ring.

So you can have your cake and eat it too.

Logan's normal way of eating.

Katelynn, Amanda, and Pristine

Hope Father's Day was happy!

2008-06-16T21:12:00.001-07:00

Father's Day was the greatest! It was the most relaxing day we have had all year. Due to Keith and Kim's party the night before, we ended up sleeping in until 11am (even the kids), which never happens....EVER. Then we took a nap around 3 and woke up at 5:30. We ended our day at Judy and Lars' house. This picture I love....three generations.....and boy does papa love his boys!!! Today after school we went to my Dad's for a boat trip. What a beautiful day it was!
Well I hope you were all able to let your Dad's know what they mean to you. I know my Dad is the greatest.....and as the boys would say.....I wouldn't trade him for a kong fu ninja!

And the Madness Continues....

2008-06-13T14:16:00.001-07:00

Will this madness ever end or have I just gone crazy? Brandon insists that we continue this crazy diet. Yes, it has brought us smaller pants and flatter stomachs, but I just don't know how much longer I can stand eating chicken and beans day in and day out. And to think that I began this loving beans more than any other food. Now the fact is that I can barely stand the sight of them. Keep me in your prayers....I may have lost my mind by the time you see me again!

Strange...yes you could say so!

2008-06-10T20:04:00.001-07:00

So I decided to go on a quick walk with a friend before I picked the boys up from school. On this walk I saw a very strange thing hanging from a window......a leg.. As I have said before....Tacoma is still a place of weirdness! And you wonder why I don't want to move to the city!

Charo inspired "cup o' wine! sooo yummy!

2008-06-10T09:58:00.001-07:00

Random Trip To Gretchen's

2008-06-08T00:07:00.000-07:00

Mista Wogan.....you make me laugh.

Man I love this kid!

Spencer relaxing by the fire.

Brandon feeling the heat.

Brother and sister putting back a few.

Go shawty.....it's your birthday.......

2008-06-05T16:58:00.001-07:00

..........We gon' party like it's yo birthday. hehehe
Can you say....Old Hag? Yes....it is true. I am officially 30 today. Yesterday I was in my twenties and today I woke up in my thirties. You fully have my permission to call me an old hag. Really though, I don't even know what a hag is but it seems to fit!

Ooooh Mexico.....

2008-06-03T16:12:00.000-07:00

A night to remember (our last night in Puerto) soooo sad!

Oooooh Mexico.....how we loved you. We had a blast! Next stop..... Maui. Charo and Neb are on board.....now how about Lizard and Nicole? These Florida girls were the greatest. They really know how to get low!

How is it that all of these pics are in the room? I guess that is where we had the most fun.

Ben found the greatest hat ever and boy did he know how to wear it. I hope it doesn't suddenly vanish Charo!

Brandon found his long lost sister.....they were two of a kind.

B and Lizard still getting crazy in the room.

This place has much memories......Jamie and shrimp fajitas! And lets not forget Lizards fish with eyeballs!

Sweet time together. I can't remember the last time we got to eat next to one another without the boys fighting over us!

Oh sweet Chara.....how I love thee!

Home At Last......

2008-06-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

What a great trip we had! The crew was "dank" but the boat was "bunk". I was sooo happy to have my boys back, but I really miss the company the we left behind. Now I must tend to much laundry and many more hugs from my boys. I will post pictures in the next few days! Love you all.

And we're off!!!

2008-05-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

So the time has come and I am finally all finished shopping. I just got back from Target, getting all of the final things that were needed. The hardest part was getting all of the boys stuff together for their trip to Grandpa and Grandma's house. Who would have know that it would be sooo much work to have a vacation without the kiddos.

So Mexico here we come. I hope you are ready for this bunch of people!

A year to remember!

2008-05-19T14:09:00.001-07:00

There are many things big in our lives this year. Brandon is no longer 30....now he is 31. I will turn 30 June 5th. But more importantly....today is our 7th wedding anniversary. Wow how the years go by. I met Brandon the year of 92-93. We were freshman then. He had my heart immediately when he walked into our computer lab wearing short overalls with one strap hanging down. He was sporting the latest hair stile.....bleach blond hair with a side spike. Man alive was he HOT! Yes it has been 7 years of marriage, but we have been "off again on again" for 15 years (solid for 12).

We have been through allot together. I will say this....
He has full filled every dream I had as that smittened young girl in school. He is everything and more! He loves our children and myself more than life itself and shows us this love with everything he does.

Brandon....I thank you for giving me everything! You continue to make my dreams come true!

PS...This is a picture of our freshman yearbook. We laughed at what he wrote.

2008-05-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

What Your Flip Flops Say About You

You are an outdoorsy person. You feel most comfortable in nature.
Beautiful scenery and good weather always brighten up your day.

Being outside allows you to feel calm and connected to the world.
Problems don't seem so big when you realize how small you are in the scheme of things.

Your ideal warm weather place: Costa Rica

http://www.blogthings.com/theflipfloptest/">The Flip Flop Test

A hard day of work....at least for them...

2008-05-17T18:33:00.001-07:00

So there was much yard work to do on this very hot day....and we were hard at work. Really though when I say we, I mean Jonathan and Cameron. They pulled weeds and watered and even planted. Lets just say that they earned their money today!

Take me out to the ball game......

2008-05-04T19:07:00.001-07:00

Yes it was a fun day here in WA. The sun was shining and we began our first of 8 weeks of t-ball. Hopefully we can get Jonathan to keep his eyes open to catch the ball before their season ends.

"Something's got me laughing...I just dont know what."

2008-04-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of B in his "Turtle Gear" at a recent immigration protest in Tacoma. He can't remember what was so funny but it turned out to be a great shot anyways. THAT"S MY MAN!!! hehehehehehehe;)

I've decided to go on a different diet.....

2008-04-26T11:26:00.001-07:00

Continuation of a sad day......

2008-04-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

I am deaply saddened by the news today. I don't know if you have heard of the shooting of Sean Bell November 2006. He was shot the morning that he was supposed to get married to Nicole Paultre by police officers who ended up firing 50 rounds. I have strong feelings and sadness for all parties involved.

I just visited the site of cnn to veiw the comments that people were posting about this subject. WOW people really hate police officers! I don't really think people have a clear picture of what a police officer goes through. Every day I watch my husband put his bullet proof vest on and get all geard up with his guns and amo. I trust him and beleive in him every day when he kisses me goodbye and tells me "I will see you tonight"'then drives away. I trust in the Lord for this job he has given Brandon. He has given him the opportunity to reach people in ways that you and I would never be able to, while still gracing him with patients and compassion. My point though is..........

How many of you put on your gear of amo, guns, and bullet proof vest and get ready for war on our streets every day? Until you have done so....you really have no say in the matter. This is not to say that I beleive Detectives Michael Oliver, Gescard Isnora, and Marc Cooper are inosent for their actions, But it should be said that people should not be bashing their reaction. They reacted in fear for their lives. It was not a planned killing. They went with what their training provided them to do.

I encourage all to go on a ride-along with a police officer and see really what they go through.

I will end with.......Seans family will never be the same. He leaves behind...siblings, parants, grandparents, aunts, uncles,a son,a daughter, and the love of his life who was to married to him the very day that his life ended. Who's to say that your mistakes and actions should take you away from all of that. I send my prayers out to all of them.

With that....Det. Oliver, Isnora, and Cooper's lives will never be the same> Besides their careers, they killed a man which will change them forever. I have seen it first hand. Brandon was witness to his partner having to shoot and kill someone just last year. You are never the same.

Before you jump to judgement, put yourself in all parties shoes. Get a clear picture.

Thank you for listening!

First supper....

2008-04-18T17:34:00.000-07:00

Due to our very near trip to Mexico and to our very dear friend Ben, Brandon and I just commited to a diet of only beans, meat, egg whites, and veggies. This is our first supper.

Home work for the future....

2008-04-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Ok....so my neice came to me last night wanting help on her trig. homework. I will say that I went all the way through pre-calculus and was fully stumped by what she brought to me. I consider myself to be very well at mathematics; I used math that you wouldn't beleive in my seven years of pharmacy compounding. However, this stumped me! I guess you are either good at one form of math and not another. Even her Dad who is a complete math genius had a hard time helping her. Through the computer and some help from her friends over the phone, she was able to complete her work.

My point of this story is to let all parents know that the future of being stumped at your childrens homework is very near. Study Up!

Let the training begin.

2008-04-18T00:09:00.001-07:00

For those of you know know me....you know that I have been running for some time. So our near trip to mexico for me will consist of a new diet and my continuation to run. For Brandon, the work out just begins. I personally never knew our stair master could be so fun. However, Brandon seems to be enjoying himself. I think he just has the "I am so motivated cause I am just starting to work out" attitude. I will give it seven days and then take another picture and we will all see how excitied he is then.Way to go anyways B.....I am proud of you!

Funny little guys!

2008-04-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

Yes.....It is possilbe to have fun after homework. I swear the boys come home with more and more homework (and they are still in kindergarten). They both came home with 2 sheets of math each, Jonathan had 3 books to read, and Cameron had 2 books to read. It was very hard for us all not to get frustrated! I already spent 2 1/2 hours reading with other kindergarteners in their class today. Well anyways, after 2 or more hours of homework, it was important to show them that there is fun just around the corner. I don't know what it is with the word "Poop", but when I say it...they laugh. So we went to the play room (all full of frustration and feeling tired after so much homework) and played some legos. In this picture, I was taking their pirate lego guys and......well lets just say that the lego guys were having a bit of gas tonight. Nothing like your Mom making gas noises with the lego pirates and saying"Poop" to make you laugh!

Sleep over at auntie's

2008-04-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

All of the neices and nephews came to my house to spend the night. Oh what fun we had! I wish I could have them over more often. They were all sooo good (only a few fights here and there). Even the teenagers came over for the night. I guess they like hanging out with their auntie. Everytime they all come over 2 of them get to pick something from the cook book to make for everyone else. This time it was Katelynn and Jonathan's turn. They chose to make smore nachos. Here are some pics....hope you all enjoy!

Palm Springs rap up.

2008-04-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

We had much fun in the sun. I got a great tan and the boys went swimming as much as they wanted. I missed all of you. I don't have a computer to take with me or I would have contacted you all as much as possible. My heart felt warm to see that you missed me too! I am a little sad though. I was all the way in cali and did not get the chance to visit my Chara. My mom got sick and we had to leave a day early. I guess she will just have to come and see us very soon! I hope you all had a great week and I can't wait to hear from you all!
Love,
Chelsea

Home is where the heart is!

2008-04-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

Palm Springs....here we come!

Longest plane ride ever to 6 year old boys...really it's only about 2 hours.

The biggest bathtub ever!

You cant go to Palm Springs without golfing

Cameron perfecting his swing

Jonathan swimming

The greatest sushi chef ever!

Sushi time with Grandma

Cameron digging the california roll..."I love sushi"

Jonathan enjoying shrimp tempura

Grandma and Jonathan rock climbing Cameron rock climbing

Jonathan rock climbing

Did You Ever Get The Feeling........

2008-03-28T11:37:00.001-07:00

Did you ever get the feeling that our entire world was only really a tiny speck on a flower. I woke up this morning to this outside my window and its almost April. I really feel like I am living in the world of Horton Hears A Who.

You should be afraid!!!

2008-03-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

So as you have all expected (or some have experienced) poker can be very scary. And once again the company that we have over for poker never lets us down in the fear factor.

Be afraid...be very very afraid!!!

2008-03-28T00:13:00.001-07:00

Gretchy Goomie

G Paul

Puzzle time #2

2008-03-27T18:32:00.001-07:00

Ok. so puzzle # 2. It was another fun time in the showalter house. All the boys want is for their picture to be up on the computer. Also, Brandon made sure to look happy in this one. Note from brandon:Now all you fools can't complain that I wasn't smiling. So for now...hope you all have a great night!

Calvin and Hobbes

2008-03-24T20:35:00.001-07:00

So we cleaned and organized our garage yesterday and I ran across some of our old Calvin and Hobbes books. The boys haven't been able to put them down since. So tonight I decided to flip through one of them and I came upon this page. Strangely it reminds me of two people that I know and love. Even more strangely, it is on the very same page together. How odd. Anyways, Ben and Chara...this is dedicated to you!!!

Lambchops

2008-03-23T12:26:00.000-07:00

I have known many ways to use silly putty....but leave it to a boy to make it into facial hair.

puzzle time

2008-03-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

So Cameron came home from school friday crying because he wasn't able to finish his puzzle at school. When I really got the whole truth though, I found out that the tears really came from the fact that his picture wouldn't be on the teachers web site. You see...she takes pictures of the kids when they have completed the puzzles. So that is the reason for this picture. Hope you all enjoy!

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!

2008-03-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

From our family to yours...I hope that everyone has a blessed day this Easter!
Love,
The Showalters

And the lucky one to win is....

2008-03-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

.........no one! How disappointing. Really though, you were so close. Ben and Kim came the closest. The both guessed the other picture was Keith. Well this picture is also Keith. Another picture would show Tim, Brandon, and Keith all doing the same thing. Keith's legs sunk in the sand at a beach up to his knees. Keith....we would all love to hear the whole story from you. Can't wait!

Just because......

2008-03-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Just because they are sooooooo cute!!!

The night before the wedding...

2008-03-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

The guy you don't know in this pic is Fred...Sophie Helen's best friend...The Greatest French Man You Will Ever Meet!!! Truely though, Brandon and him hit it off so well that I was worried about my marraige everlasting!!!

Long time waiting

2008-03-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Joe and Sophie Helen's Wedding Day

Prize for who can guess who this is!

2008-03-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

And what he's doing...

And yet more old pics...

2008-03-05T22:01:00.001-08:00

Who does this look like?

Maybe Cameron?

Now who does this look like?

Maybe Jonathan?

The old days...

2008-03-05T21:13:00.001-08:00

I came upon these old pictures of the boys (some of my favorite). I thought that I would share them with all of you....This pic is my very favorite! My Dad and Jonathan have such an amazing bond. They still to this day lay together and take naps on the hammock.

Jonathan has always been a reader, even before he even knew it. Now he is at a second grade reading level and he is only in kindergarten. WOW!

This is our Cami Bear. He has always known how to make everyone around him laugh and smile. He can simply be described by one word...ZEAL! He has an amazing heart and excitement for everything around him. He is always looking out for those around him, and can always make you smile no matter what. Just last month his teacher told me that he was having a big gathering at recess. She was curious...so she went to see what he had planned. She came upon him teaching the other children about Jesus and "What Jesus would do" in different situations. Though they attend a private school, it is not a christian school. She was fine with this all...which made me happy. What a true little man of the Lord!

"Don't Break A Leg"...

2008-03-02T09:11:00.001-08:00

The boys just completed their first play. Oh...what have we started? We already knew that they like to be the center of attention: I think we just added another log to their fire. It was so cute though! They were in Jack and the Bean Stock...held by the Missoula Children's Theatre. They played the magic mexican beans. Oh what fun they had. They are already asking when they can do it again.

"Martian Child" anyone....

2008-02-26T23:22:00.001-08:00

I just finished this great movie called the "Martian Child"...anyone who loves kiddos will love this one. But the reason why I am posting this is because I just couldn't get over the cute kid in the movie. My cousin Amy lives in Texas and is a Mom of four kids. Her youngest child is Ethan...he is about 6 months younger than the boys. I have never actually met him, but every picture I see of him looks like the "Martian Child". Anyways....even if you don't enjoy the movie, I hope you enjoy the pic of the cuttest Ethan ever! A pic from the movie

A pic of Ethan

Just for Fun...

2008-02-23T10:52:00.001-08:00

Speaking of Disneyland....

2008-02-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

Come on now people...This is the future? Even back in the 80's they came up with better futuristic cars. I know that it only costs $14,000, but come on....I think my children would have a hard time fitting in this car one at a time, let alone myself. What is a Mother to do when she needs to drive around children and their friends day in and day out in a car like this. I don't even think that my shopping bag would fit in this thing with me. Now that is a problem!!! Tell me what you think...

Proud to trade pins..Who wouldn't be!!!

2008-02-22T19:44:00.001-08:00

For all of you pin trader fans...this is dedicated to you from Brandon. And yes..He is proud to call himself a pin trader!!!

Oh...and yes Keith...this is an actual picture of Brandon. Can you guess which one he is?

And yet another pic of the moon from our deck..

2008-02-20T20:24:00.001-08:00

Anyone catch the moon tonight?

2008-02-20T19:42:00.001-08:00

King 5 news pic...

From my house...

Look what B can do...

2008-02-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

A bit scary yes....but Brandon picked up his very first saw and began cutting away at our new shelving. Usually I would be the one to do all of the scary labor, but our friends Ben and Keith were making B feel bad about himself (what with all of their manly skills of building cars and homes). He makes a wife proud!!! Just joking B...heheeheee.

2008-02-13T22:17:00.000-08:00

A very special Date!

2008-02-13T22:08:00.000-08:00

Today Cameron had to stay home because of a low grade fever and a very painful ear infection. Because of this he missed his very first Valentines Day celebration in his class room. In this case, I tried to make the day as special as I could. So he and I went out to his favorite mexican resturant and then we took a walk along the boat docks. It was so much fun!!! It is rare that I get the chance to spend alone time with only one of my children. He felt very special and so did I. It was a shame that it had to be on account of him being sick...and he did ask about every hour when his brother would make it home...but it was great! Jonathan brought home all of Cameron's valentines from all of his friends. What a good brother and what a special relationship they have. I learn something new from them everyday!

Snowshoes in the Olympics

2008-02-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

That's what we think of that....NO ONE CAN STOP US!!!!

Snowshoes in the Olympics

2008-02-09T17:15:00.000-08:00

Today we went on a snowshoe hike in the Olympics. What fun we had...just check it out!

So very funny!!!

2008-02-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. I know what you are going to say....it is completely out of character for me to put this on my blog, but Sarah Silverman is soooo funny. And Matt Damon....oh Matt Damon. Everytime he almost laughs while singing....well I almost pee my pants. Please don't be offended by the content of this video. It is just sooo very funny!!!

Monkey Munch

2008-02-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

Here is a wonderful snack you can makes for kids (of any age). It comes from the Famous Mom who has eight kids...you may of heard of her show: Jon and Kate plus 8. Hope you enjoy!!!

Makes 18 servings (1/2 cup each)
Preperation time: 15 minutes
Start to Finish: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

9 cups Chex Cereal (any variety)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

PREPARATION DIRECTIONS:

1. Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside
2. In 1-quart microwavable bowl, stir together chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave uncovered on high 1 minute; stir and microwave 30 more seconds or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir vanilla in. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.
3. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread onto wax paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

STOVE-TOP DIRECTIONS:

Same directions as above except use 1-quart sauce pan to melt chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter together over low heat, stirring it until smooth.

A Simple Game Of Chess

2008-02-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is what the boys think of super bowl sunday. They pulled out their board and started a game of chess.

SUPER BOWL 42 SUNDAY

2008-02-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

YES THE DAY IS HERE. SUPER BOWL SUNDAY. THE PATRIOTS AGAINST THE GIANTS. WHAT TO DO WHAT TO DO! WELL FOR ME, ITS NOT HARD. THOUGH THE GIANTS HAVE AN AMAZING TEAM...AND WHEN I SAY TEAM I MEAN THEY REALLY PLAY WELL TOGETHER, AND ANOTHER MANNING GOES TO THE BOWL....THE PATRIOTS ARE UNDEFEATED (AND LETS NOT FORGET THE VERY GOOD LOOKING TOM BRADY). WELL HERE IS MY ANSWER TO CHOOSING SIDES. OF COURSE I WOULD CHOOSE NEITHER....THE SEAHAWKS ARE THE ONLY TEAM FOR THIS HOUSEHOLD! SO I CHOOSE THE COMMERCIALS. THAT'S RIGHT I SAID IT...THE COMMERCIALS. I WILL BE LOOKING OUT FOR THE BEST ONES. I MAY EVEN RANK THEM BY FIRST, SECOND, AND THIRD. KEEP YOUR EYE OUT ON MY DECISION. BLESSINGS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GREAT GAME DAY!!!

Walking in a winter wonder land...

2008-01-28T10:39:00.000-08:00

So remember all of that homework that I (I mean the boys) did, well this is what we woke up to. A snow day. Though it is beautiful....I would like it to go away now. And of course I had to run to the store where everyone and their mom was because bring a little snow around and people in Gig Harbor panic. Personally I don't know what all of the fuss is about. Driving in the snow and fear do not come together for me. Oh and by the way, no Brandon does not get the day off of work because of snow....we know because he called.

Homework for Kindergarten

2008-01-28T00:46:00.000-08:00

Ok....so everyone knows that the boys are in kindergarten. But lately the homework went from coloring pictures to an hour of reading(for each kid), writing and math, and then the teacher had to throw in crafts at home. Now if you don't know me that well...I should tell you that crafts are not my thing. Coming home from Birch Bay...the boys (when I say boy...I mean ME) had to make poster boards with pictures and a story of their trip.......It took me 3 hours and $15 to make those. I sure hope that I get an A! Then...2 days later I (i mean the boys...don't tell the teacher) had to make snowmen made out of recycled stuff from our home ( two because I have twins). Can you believe that. And they say that a "stay at home mom" sits around eating bon bons and taking it easy. YEAH RIGHT!!! P.S. After 3 and so months... Jonathan is at a second grade reading level and Cameron is at a first! Not so bad for Kindergarten huh!

My GIft from Utah...

2008-01-26T13:08:00.001-08:00

This is the gift that Brandon was sooo proud to bring home to me from Utah. Wow what a gift! What do you say to this but....I am the luckiest woman on earth. I wonder what Ben brought home to his wife....maybe another wife. That is what I was hoping for...I can always use some help with the laundry!!!
P.S. This is actually a beer line they sell.

Brandon has made it home!

2008-01-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

Brandon made it home safely. Though there were no pictures of B with Clint Eastwood or Bobby Redford, he did go skiing. How lucky is he. I guess I will get my turn at Whistler. Chara and I brought up the fact that it was our turn to take a "girl trip" and the boys had a fit. We had in mind Figi, But no...Brandon told us there are many fine places to go to in Wa. What....like Birch Bay.....Yeah Right!!! At least he came home healthy.....unlike Ben.

I found you Brandon!

2008-01-23T22:54:00.000-08:00

Look what Ben has done to my husband....He made him sleep on a fold out couch! So Sad.

"my son"

2008-01-22T10:14:00.000-08:00

Take my son

A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in their collection, from Picasso to Raphael. They would often sit together and admire the great works of art.

When the Vietnam conflict broke out, the son went to war. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for his only son.

About a month later, just before Christmas, there was a knock at the door. A young man stood at the door with a large package in his hands.

He said, "Sir, you don't know me, but I am the soldier from whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in his heart and he died instantly. He often talked about you, and your love for art." The young man held out this package. "I know this isn't much. I'm not really a great artist, but I think your son would have wanted you to have this."

The father opened the package. It was a portrait of his son, painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the picture. "Oh, no sir, I could never repay what your son did for me. It's a gift."

The father hung the portrait over his mantle. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son before he showed them any of the other great works he had collected.

The man died a few months later. There was to be a great auction of his paintings. Many influential people gathered, excited over seeing the great paintings and having an opportunity to purchase one for their collection.

On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer pounded his gavel. "We will start the bidding with this picture of the son. Who will bid for this picture?"

There was silence.

Then a voice in the back of the room shouted, "We want to see the famous paintings. Skip this one."

But the auctioneer persisted. "Will someone bid for this painting? Who will start the bidding? $100? $200?"

Another voice angrily, "We didn't come to see this painting. We came to see the Van Goghs, the Rembrandts. Get on with the real bids!"

But still the auctioneer continued. "The son! The son! Who will take the son?"

Finally, a voice came from the very back of the room. It was a long time gardener of the man and his son. "I'll give $10 for the painting." Being a poor man, it was all he could afford.

" We have $10, who will bid $20?"

"Give it to him for $10. Let's see the masters."

"$10 is the bid, won't someone bid $20?"

The crowd was becoming angry. They didn't want the picture of the son.

They wanted the more worthy investments for their collections.

The auctioneer pounded his gavel. "Going once, twice, SOLD for $10"

A man sitting on the second row shouted, "Now let's get on with the collection!"

The auctioneer laid down his gavel. "I'm sorry, the auction is over."

"What about the other paintings?"

"I am sorry. When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will. I was not allowed to reveal that stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Who ever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including the paintings."

"The man who took the son gets everything!"

God gave His son 2,000 years ago to die on the cross. Much like the auctioneer, His message today: "The son, the son, who will take the son?"

Because, you see, whoever takes the Son gets everything.

FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, WHO SO EVER BELIEVETH, SHALL HAVE ETERNAL LIFE....THAT'S LOVE

Oh Brandon....How we miss you!

2008-01-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

Our good friend Ben Cote has taken our Brandon away from us to the Sundance Film Festival. This is truly a dream of Brandon's coming true! I will have to say that I am a bit worried though. I know that Ben will take great care of him, but a boy trip away from their wives with all of those movie stars can be a bit scary. It is a darn good thing that they married good looking girls.....that is for sure! I told Brandon that if he gets hit on all he has to do is reach over and hold Ben's hand.....that will stop all of the hits for sure.
We miss you boys and love you!!!!!

Chara taking us down in poker.

2008-01-21T16:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, so I took this picture from you Chara. I had to show everyone how a simply nice game of poker can be changed in an instant the second you decide to sit down and play. Watch out when the glasses come in to play ladies and gentlemen. Nothing but love for you girl, nothing but love!

Judy @ Birch Bay

2008-01-17T20:03:00.001-08:00

Lars @ Birch Bay

2008-01-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Our Cami Bear

2008-01-17T19:56:00.001-08:00

Jonathan the ham

2008-01-17T19:52:00.001-08:00

Brandon practicing for work.

2008-01-17T19:50:00.000-08:00

Cameron

2008-01-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

Cameron looking for treasure with his metal detector.

Many of starfish around

2008-01-17T19:25:00.000-08:00

Jonathan and I @ Birch Bay

2008-01-17T19:23:00.000-08:00

Cameron and I @ Birch Bay

2008-01-17T19:22:00.000-08:00

2008-01-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

Brandon and I @ Birch Bay

Birch Bay

2008-01-17T16:58:00.001-08:00

We are back from Birch Bay. The first night we pulled in, there was a wind storm warning us to turn back. We stopped in to a mini mart about 5 minutes away from the hotel and the clerk told us how worried she was about her double wide blowing over. The next day cleared up though and as you can tell, Birch Bay is not so different than our Gig Harbor. We had fun though. Judy and Lars are the perfect traveling partners for us. We seem to all go at the same speed. We played many of cards, laughed alot, and enjoyed some wine and dining. We even ventured out to a little town called Lynden, a little dutch town. I will say, Judy and Lars have treated the other kids to mexico (twice) and we got the pleasure of going to Birch Bay. What ever. Oh yeah and swim.....oh yes Judy and the boys and myself all did much swimming. Back to reality now though.

We are off to Birch Bay

2008-01-13T21:37:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow we are off to Birch Bay. Birch Bay you ask........that is exactly what I said. I have lived in Washington since the 4th grade and I have never heard of Birch Bay. Apparently it is on the border of Canada. All I was told was that it has a nice hotel with a heated pool, a gym for me to work out in, and a cool zoo in Canada for the boys. They had me at Hotel. Anything to get away from this half remodeled house.
We are going with Papa and Judy Mama (Brandon's Parents). Great fun we will have...I just know it. I love going places with my Pop. He is the greatest to go on adventures with. We will eat out, play pinochle at night, and I can go swimming with Judy in the mornings. And the boys...oh those boys have a special relationship with their Papa. They are so excited that they have been counting the days down for a week and a half.
I will be sure to let you all know how the trip went when we get back.
Who knows....you just may want to go see Birch Bay for yourself after all is said and done.

Another day on the streets

2008-01-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

Off for another day in Tacoma. Yesterday consisted of watching a little football on the tube. That is when I wasn't busy saving and changing lives for the better. What can I say....I am a lucky man. Oh Yeah....and I get to carry around a gun. Today I am hoping to drive "bells and whistles".....wish me luck.

signed.....Brandon

Last blog of the first blogging day

2008-01-12T22:56:00.000-08:00

Today is a sad day it the Showalter house.
Yes, today the Green Bay Packers defeated the Seahawks. What to do. What to do. And just when we were finally completing our media room for the playoffs. I guess we will just have to wait for next season. And to think that I thought that we would have another Super Bowl.
Signed.......A very sad Brandon

2008-01-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

OK....so maybe they don't get along so well. This is a clip that was taken at Disneyland. As you can see...they have their moments of imperfection. We actually just sent this to America's Funniest Videos. Keep your fingers crossed.

The Showalter Boys

2008-01-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

These are our boys. This picture depics their true nature together. They are the best of friends, always laughing together.

New Blogsters

2008-01-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

Today is our first day to have our own blog. Ben and Chara have spread their germs and they will not stop growing. Though we are behind in the technical part of things, we will do our best to make them proud!