GNC Olympics

Well.....a few of the eligible bachelors at SCHS put together an amazing "Olympics" of their own!! We missed the inauguration last year, but were fortunate to be able to attend this years event. We were very impressed by the amount of work that went into this gathering. The flags were raised, the National Anthem played, the torch was lit, t-shirts for everyone. There were 5 events, symbolizing the 5 olympic rings. Guys, you did a great job! I know they had a few extra helping hands......I just want to say thanks for a fun filled evening!

Hot Air Balloon Festival

This is definately a sign of fall when the hot air balloons fill the air. We live in the perfect spot to view the festival without getting in the middle of all the people and traffic. We took a few pics to share!

Our 3rd Grandchild, Camden Lee

Camden Lee was born Monday, September 7, 2009 @ 8:46am! We knew he would be early, but not quite THAT early!! Scott & I were lucky to have been passing thru at the time. We had been in McCall for Labor Day weekend and arrived at Jen & Jeff's about 7pm Sunday night with plans to head home on Monday morning....good thing we are spontaneous, because our plans this summer have been very flexible!! The labor/delivery was pretty calm and bearable (easy for me to say!)as Jennifer and Camden are happy and healthy! He was 5lbs 5ozs and 18 3/4 in long. Michael and Macie have welcomed Camden into there home with many hugs and kisses.

Johnston Family Reunion 2009

The first Johnston Family Reunion took place in Moab, Utah August 28-31 2009. I think it was a success! Those present were Bill & Marie Johnston-sons Mike (Linda) & Steve along with grandaughter Kellie; Debbie Williams-son John & grandsons Caan & Colton, niece Sara (Chris)w/daughter Sophie & Sara's mother Robbie. Danny Johnston (Kristin)-sons Cole & Jake. Lisa Barrett (Scott)-son Brandon. We spent the first night visiting and getting to know each other again. Saturday & Sunday were spent 4-wheeling, hiking, biking, touring the National Parks, eating, drinking, visiting, swimming......I think everyone enjoyed the area and re-newing family ties. It sounds like everyone is looking forward to doing this again....I hope so! As I have gotten older, I have realized how important my family is to me. We all have our own lives to live and go in so many directions, but to be able to come together every so often reminds us of our history and traditions. History and traditions we need to continue to pass on from generation to generation!

Home is Where the Heart is!

Jennifer, Michael & Macie were able to spend about 4 days with us this last week....our house came alive again! Amazing how quiet & boring it gets with no children running around! We had a really nice visit with the exception of the weather turning cooler. We picked raspberries, rode the 4 wheeler, had a picnic in Lamoille Canyon, went to McDonalds, saw G-Force at the movie theatre, caught grasshoppers with Uncle B.....did I leave anything out? Oh yeah! Lots of hugs and kisses! Jennifer tried to read and rest, but that is a challenge in itself with 2 little ones. We did get to shop a little! Thanks to Jen for making the long trip by herself as Jeff was working!

Summer Fun

Well, let's see....June 4th, mom & I left for New Mexico to visit family we have not seen in a while. We had a really nice trip and it was great to be back in New Mexico - felt like home! While we were gone Scott & Larry took a trip to Orofino, ID to check out the salmon fishing. They were beginners, but had beginners luck! Lucky for us!! I am sure it will become an annual event! Scott & I were able to attend Macie's 2nd Birthday party, take the kids camping & fishing, bike ride around the block a few times....we look forward to those times! We traveled along the Lochsa River, which was beautiful. Did some camping, then arrived at Heather & Ryan's for a long over due visit! Don't get to see them as often as we would like! We then continued onto the Barrett Family Reunion hosted by Jim & Kim. It was a great weekend for all!
We are now home, hoping to work a day or two for the BLM, but the fire season remains to be seen! As always we find plenty to keep us busy. We are looking forward to a Johnston Family Reunion in August and the birth of our 3rd grandchild in September!
Not sure if I can do any better with this blog than the last, but who knows!!