Gpa and Gma Wood-Together we can do anything!!

2012-01-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

It seems like time gets away from me so quickly these days. I think I have all the time in the world and then I notice it was weeks ago I posted anything new on our blog. In the time since my last post, we have welcomed a new grandson into our family, Jett Alan Botkin born on January 13th. Friday the 13th to be exact - a very lucky day for our family.

News of grandchild number nine, to make his/her appearance in July was a wonderful Christmas gift from Tucker and Michelle. I have lost 26 pounds of unsightliness and continue to strive to regain the boyish figure I once possessed a hundred years ago. All these things occurred and not one word was captured or noted for posterity until now.

That statement alone makes me feel parts of my life are like water slipping through my fingers to be soaked up in the sand and forgotten. I can't help wonder if I will ever leave a significant mark or influence that will be remembered. These thoughts are arising, I think, out of my personal battle with mortality. I turned 49 in December. I realize that isn't old, however, as I approach my front number changing to 5 in 2012, I can't help but reflect back on my life and see the gaping holes I have failed to fill with significance. I must be indulging in a bit of self pity. I thought, years ago when I was younger, I would be so much further in so many aspects of my life. I am not. I have to remember I have wonderful blessings - a few of which are an amazing beautiful wife that loves me, awesome children that continually astound me with their accomplishments and talents and grandchildren that bring heaven so close to earth I can almost reach out a touch it. I have to remember I have all this and more. Every day I have the opportunity to make the choice of how I will embrace the day....I hope I can consistently make the best choice.

Our first Christmas nativity

2011-12-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

We had our first ever Christmas Nativity re-enactment on Christmas Eve. All the kids came over for dinner, a few gifts and the first, of hopefully many, acting of the Nativity. I must say, there were some darn cute shepherds, a very handsome king from the orient, two very angelic angles and very believable Mary and Joseph. It was great fun for all of us!! I hope there are many many more Christmas memories created in years to come.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

I know that Halloween is almost a week past but it is never too late to share such a good looking family. With Grandkids this cute I can almost like Halloween!!

Baby Bat Dax

Soldier Bo

Ghostly Anson

Pretty Peacock Eden

Mega Mind and his Lovely Bride Kendra

Daddy Missionary and Mommy Deportee

Princess Arli and Handsome Batman Beck

Littlest Mermaid Ella

The Botkin Skeletons

2011-09-18T20:28:00.001-06:00

The annual Run for Autism Awareness was on Saturday. Team Bishop had a stellar showing. Prior to the race, while Team Bishop participants were still arriving, there was a sense of family, excitement, fun and hope in the air. I didn't run in the race this year. Instead I was behind my camera where I seem to find myself most of the time at these functions. Although I gave up the glory and recognition of a participant this year, I was able to view the event through a lens and capture some moments that may have otherwise been missed. I watched Tucker playing with Anson, flipping him upside down and the pure joy that radiated from Anson's face. Faces of victory were captured as they crossed the finish line. Excitement, concentration and focus were found. Everyone was having a great time, grand kids and cousins, moms and dads, grandpas and grandmas all coming together for a great cause. For me the feeling was positive and electric. I wished I could bottle the feeling and set in on the shelf with the canned peaches. There to wait for that future moment of a less than great day when I would pull it off the shelf, open the jar, inhale, ingest and experience it once again. It was a wonderful, victorious, magical moment of time. I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them.

Like Father, Like Son

2011-08-28T21:53:00.001-06:00

Excitement filled the air on Friday night as preparations for the Tri Idaho Splash Pedal N' Dash got underway. Beck Botkin has followed in his daddy's running shoes and participated in his first triathlon. The first leg of the race was the Splash....climb up the water slide and then slip slide down. I was a little worried when Beck hesitated at the top of the slide and knowing he isn't the biggest fan of water, I wondered if he would come down. Being the courageous little man that he his, down he came. Tucker headed Beck over to the bikes and made the transition to the Pedal portion of the race. Beck rode the half mile, training wheels and all, with Dad running with him. Coming in strong from the ride, Beck did the Dash. He was a determined little boy. What a great dad Tucker is too to be with him every inch of the race. Beck crossed the finish line with determination and a smile. This was about the cutest thing I have ever seen.

Wedding Weekend

2011-08-19T12:00:00.001-06:00

What a great weekend being able to participate in the weddings of our wonderful nephews and soon to be nieces. It was a great experience to witness Nathan and Noel's wedding in Twin Falls. They are a beautiful couple. Noel was a stunning bride. We are looking forward to seeing Kyle and Brianna this evening and witness their union tomorrow. How fun to watch this family continue to grow. Grampa Bob would be so proud and I am sure that he is watching and has been and will be there for these weddings.

We are staying with Kay and Karla for a couple days and it is such a pleasure to see them. A huge added bonus is that Rob is here attending Education Week Kim and I have been chatting with him most of the morning. What a great young man! It has been fun to sit and talk with him and catch up on what he and Rachel are doing and how little Christian is. Rob showed us a picture of Christian eating a fudge bar - what a darling cute little chocolate mess. Just listening to Rob talk about his beautiful bride and his darling little boy, I can tell that he adores his little family. I overheard Rob talking to Christian on the phone this morning and couldn't help but smile. What a good dad. What a wonderful surprise to be able to see Rob this weekend in addition to the rest of the family. I am so lucky to have married into this family. I was not only blessed with a beautiful wonderful wife, three amazing kids, a great son-in-law, two beautiful daughters-in-law but also a plethora of new brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, etc. I can't imagine what my life would be without each individual in this family.

And the Winner is. . . .

2011-08-13T22:02:00.001-06:00

Kim and I traveled the short distance to Emmett today to watch Tucker in his first triathlon. We had Beck and Arli stay with us last night to allow Tucker and Michelle to leave bright and early this morning. Beck and Arli were absolutely amazing for us last night, but that is a tale for another time. We left Boise at 0900, swung by Tuck and Michelle's house to rescue pink sandals from the mailbox deposited there by Michelle and headed out to Emmett. We thought we would arrive in plenty of time to see Tucker in the biking portion of the race. The swimming portion of the race began at 0930 and Tuck thought he would be out of the water by 1000. His swimming was fantastic, he was only in the water for 13 minutes if I remember correctly....we completely missed him on his bike, in the transition from bike to running. We were able to share in his accomplishment as he crossed the finish line at the end of the race. He really "left it all on the road"...you will need to ask Tucker what that meant. He did AWESOME! Not only did he complete the race faster than his goal, he won first place for his age division. The boy is a champion!! He didn't look too worse for wear at the end of the race. Had to sit down for a moment but was pretty well pumped up when he found out he was 63rd over all and first place in his age division. What an amazing example he is for me and for all of us. He set a goal and not only achieved it but exceeded his own expectations. What a great kid. I included a few pictures allowing anyone who reads this the opportunity to see what a winning triathlete looks like.

Wo is me and other random dribble. . .

2011-03-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

This week I have had so many thoughts and feelings stampeding through my head. Some good, others not so good. My lovely wife, I don't know how or why she puts up with me, sent me a quote at work yesterday attempting to cheer me up. The quote, in essence, states that rather than worrying about the things that we don't have we should focus on those things that we do have and appreciate them. My response was another quote that I love. I wish I could remember who was inspired to give it to me.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. . .It's learning to dance in the rain!

I told Kim I tried to remember this when I get a little down, letting things bother me that I should have become calloused to long ago. At times I find myself swimming in a pity pool having grown weary of splashing in mud puddles and wiping the rain from my face. It was suggested to me that I should read and work through a book titled "The Artist Way". Although the book sounds interesting and beneficial, I won't bore everyone with a synopsis of the benefits it touts. Suffice it to say that after using my year end bonus to take care of the practical things of life ( I don't mean a new IPAD, that was but a fleeting wish), I may have just enough to purchase the books (3 totaling approximately $35 on Amazon.com) with the help of a few $$ from savings. From what I have heard and read about this book, it may just be the catharsis I need. It may be fun to share the epiphanies that I experience as I work through this exercise of discovery. Time and effort will tell.

New Photo of the week

2011-01-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

The photo has now been updated. The last photo I had entitled, Is this Art?, and asked if anyone could determine what it was. Rae Jean was the only person that attempted. I know it has been a year, but she deserves to know what the subject of that photo was. It was a close up shot of wing of the metal bird that lives at the Brad and Linda Bird cabin. It is amazing what happens when you saturate the color of a photo. That particular photo may become the subject of another art piece if I become ambitious.

Can you believe I am posting something. . .

2011-01-15T21:25:00.002-07:00

Yes, that's correct. I am actually posting something new on the blog. I know it has been almost a year. What can I say . . .it has been an extremely busy year... more truthful, plain laziness. I did post on my other blog, Candid Expressions, you will need to check it out if interested. I spent the last week putting together a small token for Tucker and Michelle to commemorate their anniversary on the 13th of this month. It was a couple days late, but I think they liked it. I don't tell them enough that I love them.

Before you ask...yes I will change the photo of the week soon...I promise it won't be another year.

Is this Art?

2010-01-24T15:53:00.002-07:00

When you look at the Photo of the Week, what do you see? Not many, if anyone, will know what image my camera captured in that brief moment of time. I have found as I take more photographs, and not just of my grandchildren, there is beauty all around. The cliche' of "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" has taken on new meaning for me. You truly can find beauty in anything, if you look deep enough.

Sometimes the threads of a day ensnare me so tightly within the mundane stresses of life that I cannot see or feel anything but their pressure cutting into the flesh of my little fingers. If I can find something...anything that is beautiful, those bindings begin to loosen and will soon fall away. Where do I find this tiny speck of beauty after enduring 8 to 10 hours of corporate politics?? It is the single red berry on a withered branch, a tiny dot of happy brilliance in the drab dormancy of winter. The dark earthy brown of fallen leaves on their way to mulch. The pattern etched by green paint scrapes on the charcol gray background of a slightly dented fender. The shadow lace created by late afternoon sun tatted by barren branches. The first breath of a breeze after rainfall when I walk out the door. Beauty is everywhere if I remember to look for it instead of concentrating on the fibers of negativity creasing my skin. Do I focus on the positive in life or concentrate on the negative aspects??? The choice is ultimately mine.

With my camera lens, I am beginning to recognize and find the more positive aspects that exist around me. They are everywhere if we just choose to look. Beauty. Art...truly is in the eye of the beholder. What do you see when you look at the Photo of the Week? I won't cloud your objectivity by revealing the source of this particular piece of beautiful art. The choice is limited only by your imagination and your state of mind.

I know my Savior loves me.

2010-01-17T18:29:00.000-07:00

In primary we are learning a new song entitled "I Know that My Savior Loves Me". My lovely bride shared a tender story today with the senior primary children that also touched my heart. She mentioned how, over this past week, she has awoken in the middle of the night with the lyrics and melody of this beautiful song running through her mind. The song has been a comfort to her as we expericence the trial we are now facing with Bob's illness. It was a stark reminder to me of how forgetful we sometimes are of the Savior's love for us. Kim's favorite part of the song is the chorus - "I know He lives! I will follow faithfully. My heart I give to Him. I know that my Savior loves me". What a wonderful testimony that is and what comfort we can glean from these simple words. I realized, as I hid behind the piano and shed my own tears, the Savior shows his love for me every day of my life. How does the Savior love me?? Grandchildren that jump on my bed and cuddle next to me as we watch Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in the dark. Little ones saying, Grandpa, I want to sit by your lap. Watching a little girl that loves to dance perform for the first time in front of a live audience (see pictures below). The gentle touch of my wife's hand on my knee as we drive together to work. Wonderful compassionate doctors in our time of greatest need. Sticky little faces giving me a mooch that taste like a tootsie pop. Eskimo kisses and big hugs. Big brown eyes that light up when I walk into a room. Music that makes my spirit soar. The touch of the Spirit in a time of need. The comfort of heavenly arms to sooth our sorrows and fears. The list is infinite. I know my Savior loves me. He shows me every day.

Bossy Bob's 75th Birthday

2010-01-03T16:37:00.001-07:00

What better way for the new decade to commence than having a Mexican Fiesta for Bobby Munson (Former king of Cedar High) to celebrate 75 years of fiestiness. All dressed up in his Happy Birthday hat with candles and fabric flames, this former Cedar High king could not stop smiling.

We had 3, yes, 3 birthday cakes. Bob does like his cake (chocolate preferred). Rather than placing 75 candles in one cake - mostly in fear that the Kuna fire department would have to be called upon to put the roaring inferno out - a few candles were placed on each cake. Could Grandpa Munson blow all candles out with a single breath??? It was not to be. No matter, he is still our hero.

I had to add this photo because I love it. The fairest of all the Munson princesses, in my humble opinion. You can't help but love a daddy/daughter picutre like this!!

Every Picture Tells a Story

2009-10-13T22:23:00.002-06:00

Can you believe it? I am posting again...one day after the last post. This must be what you do when your wife is working nights. I wanted to share a few more photos from our Oregon trip. Shots I think tell a story all their own so there are no captions. You decide what the story is behind each photograph.

The Crew

2009-10-12T22:02:00.001-06:00

We have been home from the coast a little over a week and I have yet to post any photos taken while we were there. Kim and I had the luxury of flying to Portland then driving for a short while to one of our favorite spots on this earth. We did not miss the long trek from Boise to the beach. We rented a house called the Octupus Gardens. The garden, which lends the house it's name, was a lush oasis of green dotted with various areas to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather. This portrait was taken in the garden, a lovely backdrop. The beach was 2 blocks away from our house. It was great fun to have all the kids close. Both the Botkin boys and their darling little familes stayed with us at the house. The Bishops were very close up the road. We were able to make some wonderful memories during our few days of get away. It was a relaxing rejuvinating time for us. Our family is growing and such fun awaits us as we remember past and look forward to future adventures of the Woods, Bishops and Botkins.

Run for Autism Awareness

2009-09-20T11:05:00.003-06:00

We did the Run for Autism Awareness yesterday. It was a beautiful day for a run (as if I was going run the entire 3 miles). I did more of a walk/jog which I was pleased about because I thought this old-tired-no-longer-svelte body would only be walking. As I ran the course along the greenbelt there were signs posted periodically along the way with facts and quotes about Autism. Of course Anson was on my mind as I was gasping for air and trying to ignore my ever increasing discomfort. I thought about how I had pitched a ball to him for at least an hour the night before and how quickly he took my instructions on how to stand and hold a bat. You all know me and sports so those instructions will most likely have to be corrected by Uncle Travis and Uncle Tucker. I tried to put thoughts of cardiac arrest out of my mind by thinking of how much Anson talks and is so much more willing to interact with people. I thought of Kendra and Barrett and what wonderful parents they are and what choice spirits they must be to have been selected as earthly guardians for this choice spirit. I thought of how blessed our family is to have such a stong and choice spirit willing to dwell among us and of how much our Father in Heaven must trust us with his care. I thought about the struggles Anson has faced and will continue to encounter as he progesses through this life. As my legs began to hurt and my feet began to ache, as my sweat soaked my shirt and my heart pounded, I realized what a small and insignificant sacrifice this few minutes of my time was. I look at Anson and know that he is an amazing individual. I think he is brilliant, although some may say I am biased. I catch him looking at me sometimes with the silent question of "Why don't you understand, Grandpa? It is clear to me." I look forward to the day when I will understand all Anson understands and will be able to share his unique perspective of this world and truly realize what a blessing he is in my life. How can you look at that smile and not know that he is a chosen son of God destined for greatness?

Pretty Women

2009-05-18T21:26:00.001-06:00

Pretty Women....Fascinating...Pretty Women are a wonder...Pretty Women. I am blessed to have pretty women in my life. Of course my beautiful wife that has put up with me for 12 years and, for whatever reason, still loves me. I think she may even like me sometimes. I must have done something good in my childhood to deserve her. The other pretty woman in this photo is Sally Murray. She was here a week ago for Mother's day and we were lucky enough to have her share some of her experiences while in Africa. Kim and I were able to spend about 10 days with Sally and her husband, Steve, while they were living in Africa. It was an experience that will forever impact my life. Seeing her in her self proclaimed "Ghanaian Tent" and viewing photos of her adopted country brought back so many memories. I know both Kim and I struggled with our emotions as we watched the portraits of Ghana captured by Sally (I was honored that she had added a few of my photos to her presentation). You will never meet anyone that has a bigger heart and love without bounds. To have the capacity to love unconditionally is something I should strive for. I have a great example in my friend, Sally. She truly is an amazing woman. Not just pretty, but a beautiful daughter of God. I can see why she and Kim have been able to maintain such a deep friendship for so many years. They are very much alike in so many ways. Okay, Kim likes a little bling and sparkle once in a while and Sally doesn't like jewelry, Kim loves purses, bags, etc and I don't think I have ever seen Sally with a purse...they are opposites in many ways too, but they truly are "Soul" sisters. I know my life has been tremendously blessed by my Kimilee and by so many of her friends. It is a privilege to have wonderful women in my life. They are all Pretty Women and they are all Wonders.

Botanical Gardens

2009-05-10T21:08:00.006-06:00

Kim and I took the Bishop children, the oldest three, to the Boise Botanical Gardens last Friday. It was an adventure. I was hoping to get some fun photos of the little tykes. The beautiful professional photos that were floating around in my imagination just waiting to be captured on my trusty Canon...well...are still floating around in my imagination. Attempting to pose these three was reminiscent of trying to herd a yard full of cats. Come to think if it, herding cats might have been easier. Don't misinterpret my meaning. I had great fun and the kids were more than wonderful, but herding these three little cats was hard work. Anson, Eden and Bo have wonderful personalities and spirits bursting with energy. This is what makes photographing them such a pleasure. I love some of the shots. I think I may have even captured a bit of those amazing personalities.

Easter

2009-04-16T18:41:00.005-06:00

Proud Grandma with her two little Easter Boys. What is it about little boys with bunny ears that makes a Grandma so giddy??? They are two of the cutest, most handsome little men that walk this planet. The other children wouldn't let me take a picture of them with their ears on. I think they may have been concerned about the blackmail potential such a compromising photograh may have in later years. Personally I think they will regret not having their photo with their darling Grandmother. Someday they will appreciate this...

New Arrival - Dax Michael Bishop

2009-04-06T05:48:00.003-06:00

Our newest grandchild arrived on April 2nd - a bouncing baby boy. I apologize I don't have all the stats. I do know that he looks an awful lot like his older brother Bo. He is a darling little thing and makes the cutest noises. I think his brothers and sister like him okay. A little slide show will be coming soon.

Bo wasn't sure he wanted to hold Dax but warmed up to him quickly.

I love this photo of Anson. What a precious scene this is.

Eden likes her new brother. She loves to hold him.

Life at the YMCA

2009-03-20T05:49:00.006-06:00

I had the opportunity to escort Anson Bishop to the Y for his swimming lesson yesterday. Of course Anson was excited to go swimming, the boy is a fish. Well, the two of us walked into the dressing room and were confronted by a most unexpected site. Sitting on the bench was the largest man I had ever seen. By the look on Anson's face, I think he felt the same. I don't want to be cruel, but my heaven's, there were acres of naked flesh before our eyes. I tried not to stare. Really. I did not want that sight seared into my brain. No matter how hard I focused on the floor, the ceiling, anywhere, my eyes were drawn back to this view of, well, blubber. It was like a train wreck...you don't want to look at the carnage, but you have to. Did I mention we had the back view? Anyway, Anson continued to stare in fascination as the man hefted himself off the bench - remember, back view - to begin dressing. Anson, still staring, pointed at the man and stated in his quiet voice that, no matter how quiet, reverberated through the room "Grandpa, big bottom, big bottom, Grandpa". I made an attempt to shush him, but to no avail. Again, "Grandpa big bottom", then pointing to his own backside said "Little bottom". I was desperately trying not to laugh. The boy did make an excellent comparison. I hurriedly got Anson and his "little bottom" dressed and out to the pool. As Paul Harvey would say, "And now the rest of the story..." cannot be shared. My insurance won't cover the expense of intense counseling for the unsuspecting innocents that may read this...

2009-03-16T20:02:00.003-06:00

This is one of my favorite photos of Arli. This was taken on her blessing day. She looks so serene and content. She is growing like crazy and only gets more beautiful every day. It is so much fun to have another baby in the house (although it is only for a very short time). I look forward to the Bishop baby due in a few weeks and then only a few short months later, the first Travis and Stacie Botkin baby will arrive. Babies, babies everywhere. My camera will be busy over the next few months.

Baby Girl Botkin

2009-02-17T20:43:00.003-07:00

Baby Girl Botkin made her apperance this morning at approximately 8:25 AM. A great relief to her mother that she finally decided to make her entrance into the world. As you can see from the pictures she is sporting a beautiful head of thick black wavy hair. She is going to be a heartbreaker. Baby Girl Botkin is a svelte 19 inches long and weighs a girlish 7 pounds 7 ounces (I hope I got that right). She is a beautiful little thing. Beck was not sure what to think of her at first but started warming up to her and even smiled at her a few time. We are excited to have this wonderful new little addition to our family. We are truly blessed.

Ain't Love Grand!?!?!

2009-02-16T15:26:00.002-07:00

Even though I have no photos, I did want to share a post on our wonderful, romantic get-away for Valentine's Day! We went to ...drum roll please...

The Red Lion Hotel in Boise Idaho! it was actually awesome and we had such a fun time! We were supposed to go to SLC, but because of several reasons, decided not to make the trip.
So, with a little help from our buddies at PriceLine, we had an economical, fun weekend right here at home!. We enjoyed each other so much, along with some great food, great movies, and great entertainment . It was just nice to be able to reconnect with each other, and have some quality alone time!

I am still so in love with my wonderful husband! Every day is a reminder of what an amazing man he is. How fortunate I am to have him in my life!

Love you , Honey!

2009-01-31T07:42:00.003-07:00

Finally! Some pictures of Gpa with some of the grandchildren! Yes, I finally got a camera, and don't even try to compare my photos with his! We took the kids to Burger King for some Gpa and Gma time and some yummy(?) fries and chicken nuggets. Anyone who knows these kids, knows how much they love fries and possibly greater than their love of fries, is their love of ketchup! The greatest love of all, is our love for them!

A mathematics award winner!!!

Anson was honored at the Pierce Park Elementary Awards Assembly last Thursday, with a special award for great performance in math for the 1st semester! He got a cool medal on a purple ribbon and a very nice certificate. Mom and Dad (and Gma) are so proud! Way to go, Anson!

A few of Grandpa and Grandma's important things...

2009-01-13T21:54:00.005-07:00

Superman's new cape

Beck's new favorite Christmas toy.
Eden transformed into a ballerina.

Who is the man behind the goggles?

Just a Thought

2009-01-13T21:35:00.002-07:00

With everything that life has handed us the last few months, I started thinking. I know...dangerous. I was thinking how precious life is and how fragile. How unfettered our lives can be one moment and the next we are entangled in a web of complications, trials, finances, and on and on and on. All these "important" things distract our focus and shroud our perspectives so heavily we forget what is truly important. Family, relationships, spirituality, renewing and serving one another. To paraphrase a quote, "The most important things in life aren't things". I have to remind myself to savor those moments of joy we experience everyday. Shared laughter, the conversation of comfortable silence, the gentle touch of a child's small hand, holding hands with your spouse...the list is endless if you think about it. Just a thought.

2008-12-19T21:41:00.003-07:00

It has been a little while since we posted anything new. Here it is. A few photos from our weekend in SLC. This trek has become a family tradition that kicks off the Christmas season. It was great fun to see everyone, especially those new babies Lucy and Sailor. I loved seeing the not so new babies of Blake and Lindsey. Caleb and little Spencer are adorable. I even got a smootch from Spencer. Brian Stokes Mitchell was amazing in the concert. Brunch with Mom and Dad, RJ, Don and the kids was fun. It was great to see everyone and catch up on the family. We hope you all have a wonderful and merry Christmas and most happy new year.

2008-12-19T21:40:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Gpa!

2008-12-06T11:22:00.002-07:00

I always love this time of year for many reasons, but one really important one is that when Mike has his birthday, I am not quite as much older than him, as I am the other half of the year! Ha! I took him to lunch on his birthday, then we went out with our good friends (and Stacie's Parents) the Spencers and Sandi Stiles (Monte had a trial and could not make it!) Wendy Spencer's birthday is the same day as Mike's so that is alot to celebrate!! We will have Mike's family birthday dinner on Sunday, and once again Trav has consented to make Mike' s favorite Cambodian Pineapple chicken and rice Thanks Trav!
I am so grateful for Mike in my life! He is the most wonderful companion! He is so kind and caring and I appreciate him more than he will ever know! Love you, honey!
I returned to work part time this past week, and I was pooped by the end of the week! I had to train two classes yesterday, and it about did me in! Wow! I continue to feel better all the time...just mostly tired and cold, but that, too is improving. I am so blessed!

We Are Blessed

2008-12-02T05:25:00.009-07:00

Thanksgiving night we hosted a little slumber party with all the grandchildren. To have our children and grandchildren so close to us is such a blessing. We are truly thankful we can have our grandchildren with us just about whenever we want. Some people insinuate we are less than sane when I talk about all the grandchildren spending the night. It is a joy for us to have the laughing voices, the pattering feet, the screams of happiness as they run around our indoor track, the little boy roars that Bo and Beck "scare" us and each other with. I won't deny that their endless energy can wear us out. Fatigue is forgotten when Anson sits next to and cuddles with Grandma or Bo wants Grandpa to play This Little Piggy with his toes, when Eden pretends she is a baby and wants to be held or Beck dances like only Beck can (the boy has rhythm). We are blessed. Our blessings increased Saturday night when Stacie and Travis gave us the happy news that they were expecting! This coming on the tail of Kendra and Barrett's announcement a couple weeks ago combined with the February arrival of Tucker and Michelle's baby was almost more than Kim could stand. Yes...she cried a lot! After the happy news was delivered and as we listened to the little kids playing, running, screaming happily and yes, fighting, we looked at each other and said, "We are going to have seven".

Baby Botkin (Tucker & Michelle) due February

Baby Bishop due April

Baby Botkin (Travis & Stacie) due July

Thanksgiving Night slumber Party with everyone in their PJs.

little boys, piano keys and cookies

2008-11-18T20:18:00.017-07:00

As you all know, one of my favorite past times is shooting photos of my little grandbabies. We had Bo spend the night with us when Anson and Eden had their tonsils taken out. The two little boys can be quite fun (when they are getting along). I thought the shots of them eating cookies together and playing the piano together were so much fun, I wanted to share them with everyone.

This family (all the extended family included) sure know how to make pretty babies. I think we have the best looking grandkids on the planet!

The Separation

2008-11-15T17:16:00.003-07:00

It has been an interesting couple of days since my lovely bride had her radioiodine treatment. The house is quiet with just Kim and I in residence. I feel so separated from her since we can't really eat together, be together for any length of time or really do anything together. I feel badly that she is basically confined to our house and for the most part has only the company of the telephone and television. She isolates herself in our bedroom and I confine myself to the familyroom downstairs. Knowing I can't do as much for her as I would like is difficult. What I can do, get a cup of water or smash a few ice-cubes into chips seems so insignificant when I can't imagine what she is experiencing. I did do one thing for her that I know she will like. I purchased a few pieces of See's chocolates (which she can't eat until tomorrow or Monday) and found a book by Lee Childs (one of her favorite authors) that will help pass the next few hours for her. Hopefully tomorrow sometime, I can hold by beautiful wife in my arms again and dance in the kitchen to music from Mama Mia.....

Today is the DAY!!

2008-11-13T06:30:00.003-07:00

Well, today is the day I get to participate in NUCLEAR MEDICINE!!! I go to St Al's for a scan and a large dose of radioactive iodine! This iodine will seek and destroy any remaining thyroid cells or cancer cells in my body, so of course, I am very grateful for this procedure. It is supposed to take about two hours at the hospital, then the fun begins! I must be quarantined from everyone for about four days, then go back into the hospital for one last geiger counter reading on Sunday to make sure I am no longer radioactive. I feel bad to send Tuck, Michele and Beck away, and I must also banish my sweet husband to the basement for the most part. I cannot prepare his meals or do his laundry. I cannot wash my dishes with his. I have to have my own bathroom, and sleep alone. It will indeed be a dreary existence without him. But, one I am glad to have, as it signals that things are almost over, hopefully! My thanks to all for your faith and prayers in my behalf. I have surely felt the hand lf the Lord in this whole experience, for which I am eternally grateful.

sleepover at grandpa and grandma's

2008-11-04T21:43:00.006-07:00

How many times can you undress a child to go to the bathroom? Answer...at least 3. Tonight, after I changed the diaper and dressed Bo in his zip up footie PJs, 3 times he runs up to me and says, "Pa Pa, poo poo" and tugs at his bottom. Being the conscientious grandparent that I am, I run Bo into the bathroom, strip off the zip-up-to-the-neck footie pajamas, lose the diaper and plop him on the child toilet seat and wait. What am I waiting for...cute little smiles and giggles apparently. Nothing else made an appearance. I am sure that sometime during the night, the Pa Pa, poo poo will be more than an empty threat. Despite all the false alarms, Bo and Beck brawls and crocodile tears at bed time, I do love these grandchildren sleep overs. The joyful outweighs not joyful by buckets and buckets and buckets.

Grandma and Grandpa's Halloween Kids

2008-11-01T22:16:00.024-06:00

Mickey wouldn't smile....but he sure is cute!

Princess Minnie loved
the camera. She is ready for the
Big Screen!

Shy Guy Superman finally let me take his photo

Grandma is a good sport getting in the leaves with the munchkins!

An adorable, loveable Botkin teddy Bear!

Survivors

2008-10-30T19:20:00.001-06:00

Just a few survivors from the Wood, Bishop & Botkin Halloween Cookie Decorating Extravaganza.

Halloween Cookie Decorating Extravaganza

2008-10-30T19:09:00.001-06:00

1st Place Photo

2008-10-29T21:10:00.000-06:00

This photo won 1st place in the DIRECTV employee photo contest! HURRAY!! I have never entered any photo contests and to win my first one is so fantastic!! I like the fact it won because it appealed to an audience. It gives me a little more confidence to share my photography more and I definitely will start entering more contests...

Grandma's New Jewels

2008-10-27T17:46:00.000-06:00

I promised a picture of Grandma with her beautiful gauze necklace provided by Dr. Garner, although I am sure Kim and I will be paying for it , and paying for it and paying for it. Doesn't she look beautiful with the matching pearl earrings? I personally think this necklace is a bit ostentatious and large. Kim looks so much more ravishing with understated diamond and gold baubles.

Grandma's hospital stay

2008-10-25T18:42:00.001-06:00

Grandma has had less than a wonderful week. It all started Tuesday when she entered St. Luke's Meridian to have a partial thyroidectomy to remove the middle and right side of her thyroid. We checked in and Kim was settled and as ready for the surgery as she could be. The procedure itself took approximately 2 hours and went very well, according to Dr. Garner. When the staff brought her up to her room she was awake and itching to go home. NOT!! She was experiencing some pain and was very tired. Unfortunately the hospital was not quiet and medical personnel disturbed her just about every hour. How can a person get any rest with blood being drawn and blood pressures etc?? We were in a holding pattern waiting for calcium level updates. Wednesday morning we received the good word for the doc and Kim was able to come home.

Both of us felt good about the surgery knew that our lives would go back to normal. We didn't forget, in the hazy background of our minds, there was still a diagnosis pending. Still we felt good about everything and didn't expect any surprising news. Kim called me on Thursday letting me know that Dr. Garner had called and the news was not good. The nodes on the right side of her thyroid showed papillary carcinoma. Dr. Garner wanted to schedule a second surgery as quickly as possible to remove the rest of her thyroid. Friday afternoon, after a wonderful couple hours at the mall with Kendra, Eden and Bo, we were back on the second floor of the hospital waiting for surgery number two to begin.

The second surgery, again, took about two hours. Dr. Garner let me know everything had gone very smoothly and everything looked good. I think Kim was experiencing a little more pain this second time and was more tired. Who wouldn't be after 2 surgeries in 4 days. The wait for calcium levels commenced. Our one night stay morphed into a 2 night stay.....yes, I am writing this from room 510 sitting by the bedside of my beautiful bride. We will have to wait until 0600 tomorrow to see if she gets to come home.

Kim did have me bring my camera so I could snap a shot of the lovely gauze jewelry that Dr. Garner so generously provided. However, she has not let me snap that award winning photo yet. She keeps saying that her hair doesn't look good. Who is she kidding? She has her pearl earrings in and looks beautiful to me. I may have to snap a shot of her while she slumbers to share with our family and closest friends. Wait....I may want to rethink that idea. I don't know what repercussions may follow such a daring deed. After all, my lovely bride has been needle poked and prodded for most of the week. We will keep you posted on the further adventures of Grandma and Grandpa Wood's encounter with this nasty demon invader.

Grandpa and Grandma's little traveling companion

2008-10-15T21:12:00.000-06:00

I know that it has been a little while since Kim and I returned from visiting Mom and Dad in Escalante but I wanted to share a couple of my favorite photos of our traveling companion. At first, when Kim and I talked about bringing Bo with us, I was a little apprehensive. I wasn't sure about how he would like the long stints in the car. But loving his personality and knowing what a wonderful little munchkin he is, my apprehension dissipated quickly. I actually was looking forward to having Bo all to ourselves and he having us. He is such a good little traveler. So much better than this adult. His laughter and jabbering floating from the back seat was music only little children can make. While at Great Grandpa's and Grandma Great's house he was so happy and playful. He even took a couple 4-wheeler rides with his great grandpa. Kendra and Barrett were so generous to loan out their youngest angel to brighten our trip. What a wonderful experience for all of us to be able to bond and get to know this warm, playful, loving spirit. I loved the story reading, the bouncing in the bed, the second long sitting on grandpa's lap and the sweet little voice calling out pa pa where are you? I wouldn't trade the experience we had with babe bo for anything.

2008-09-30T15:43:00.000-06:00

This is a photo of The Walk for Autism

that we participated in this past Sat

Sept 27,2008

We are finally doing it!

2008-09-30T15:29:00.000-06:00

I guess it's time we join the craze! We really want to have a site for our grandchildren, Anson age 6 , Eden age 3, Bo age 18 months, and Beck age 15 months! These litte ones have added such a wonderful dimension to our lives and we really look forward to any time we can spend with them! Their parents aren't bad either!