Martinkus Family

Denver Half-Marathon

2009-10-18T15:45:00.004-06:00

What a beautiful day for a race! Jason and I were able to bike a mile or two to the capitol where we locked our bikes and headed to the starting line. It's a race I have wanted to do every year we have been here (the first Denver marathon was in 2006, our first year in Denver). We were ill prepared to run such a race, but surprised ourselves with a 2:03 finish. My parents watched Truman while we raced. Upon returning home, Truman was quite interested in picking up the pumpkins I purchased yesterday!

Brunch with Jen and to the Library

2009-10-10T20:52:00.000-06:00

Jason was out of town this weekend and it was really cold outside, so Truman and I tried to make the most of it. We met my sweet friend, Jen for lunch at Gaia. Then, Truman and I headed to the library. Luckily, I had just purchased Truman some cold weather gear this week. I thought he looked so cute with the bicycles behind him in these pics!

Biking with the Trailer

2009-09-26T17:50:00.001-06:00

My favorite bike ride: from our house to cherry creek state park where there is a great lookout of the mtns. It was a picture perfect day for the ride and fun being silly with Truman at the half way point. (Don't mind my hair...looks like I have wings!)

Triathlon Dos 2009

2009-09-19T17:23:00.000-06:00

Ah yes! The 2nd and final tri of the season. It was FREEZING!!! and Angela and I, or at least I was scared out of my mind to enter that water without a wet suit! But, I survived and defrosted the rest of the race. Jason was out of town and couldn't cheer me on....and I realized...it's no fun without your biggest fan being there! I kept having to refocus on the swim, bike and run as I didn't really feel any big reason to go fast (Jason wasn't there for me to impress!).

Truman's Blanket

2009-09-19T17:18:00.000-06:00

So Gee (My mom) made Truman this way cool quilt/blanket. I was looking at it and Truman took a particular liking to it and wanted to lie down on it! It was really cute, and I think melted my mom's heart that he at least acted like he appreciated her making him a quilt!

The Trailer

2009-09-13T21:54:00.005-06:00

After much debate, which Jason and I always seem to do before almost any purchase, we finally bought a bike trailer so that Truman can join us when we go biking! So, last Monday, we headed out to Chatfield and biked, then I swam in the pond, then we biked some more. This morning, we biked to Cherry Creek State Park and then to Confluence Park (see pics). It was absolutely beautiful this morning and Jason said it right: "this is living"!

Weekend in Vail

2009-09-05T17:34:00.000-06:00

If these pictures look hazy...it's because they are! The lense was apparently quite dirty and thus we look like we are in a romantic film or something. We stayed at the Tivoli and loved it, we will surely be back!

Dinner with My great Aunt and Uncle and my Mimi's good friend

2009-08-20T16:17:00.001-06:00

You guessed it, Chili's again! Yes, I admit, I actually like Chili's even if it is a chain restaurant. And it is also, like I have said many times, the perfect meeting spot between our house and my parent's house. So, it's our 2nd kitchen!

Triathlon Uno 2009

2009-08-16T16:50:00.000-06:00

Very very cold morning, but all thawed out by the time I started running. It made the run much easier! Always fun with my tri friends!!

Flowers

2009-08-16T16:25:00.000-06:00

Trying to capture how beautiful my annuals and perennials were this year. Anna watered the flowers while we were in Dallas in July. Upon our return, I asked her what she had done...they had exploded and looked gorgeous! Besides her green thumb, she was watering them in the morning (vs. I had been watering in the evening). And that was the secret!

Picnic at Wash Park

2009-08-14T16:36:00.000-06:00

Trying to take advantage of a slow summer evening, we packed up our dinner and took it to Wash Park. What a nice way for Jason and I to catch up after a long week and for Truman to be able to run around in the grass and play ball!

"Pat It"

2009-08-13T20:34:00.003-06:00

Truman is so sweet when I am putting him to bed. We always read three books and then I sing to him. Usually, after the first song and from there on, he says "more song" and wants me to keep singing a new song. Occasionally, he will say "no, no, no" if he doesn't like the song or the way I am singing. There have been a couple of times where he says "bed" when I guess he is tired of hearing me belt out some tunes.

Lately, he has also been very interested in me patting him. So, while I sing to him, I will pat him on the back. Then, once I put him in his bed, he continues to want me to pat him. He will start patting his bottom to show me exactly what he wants. It is too cute! Sometimes he will then roll over to his back and say "bye-bye mama"! What a big boy!

The patting has carried over into the day....there are times when I am cooking in the kitchen(ette) and he says "pat" and will come pat me on the leg. Other times, Ruben (his boy-doll/dinosaur), his puppy or even Astro need a "pat".

August, already?

2009-08-08T21:19:00.002-06:00

Well, after many months, I wanted to post some new pictures of our sweet little Truman. I can't believe that he will be 20 months here in a couple of days. He is just so precious and every day I love him even more! He is beginning to say the funniest things. I always tell myself, after hearing something funny that he says, to come post it right here....but it hasn't happened yet.

I can't believe that it is already August and fall is inevitably on its way. I decided to help out with a class at CU this summer, and it pretty much put me over the edge....no time for the things I really enjoy like being with my family! So, I am now focused on again trying to simplify my life and make more time for the people I love. It's so much harder that I wish it was! If anyone has any suggestions, please send them my way!

Where did my baby go?

2009-08-07T16:09:00.000-06:00

I see a little boy in these pics and not my baby! Where did the time go?! Actually, the last 2 years have been so joyful with Truman, I have loved every moment!

Truman's Hair

2009-08-06T21:34:00.000-06:00

Could he be any cuter (I'm his mom, so I can say that!).

Scrabble Studs

2009-08-03T20:06:00.000-06:00

Any of you that know my brother know that he is one of the funniest people I know. So, David had these very hip glasses that were all style and no comfort. While he was here, he purchased some more comfortable sunglasses. He then took his old glasses, popped out the lenses and reshaped the frames and wah-lah, here is what we have!

He totally cracked me up: we went out to dinner tonight and he wore the glasses through the entire meal, then down to Bonnie Brae for some ice cream, then almost all night at home....until my mom had to give them a try. The funny thing is: nobody really noticed them while we were out!

Hiking near Estes Park

2009-08-02T22:00:00.000-06:00

While David was visiting, we were able to go on a hike near Estes Park. It was so beautiful and I think we were all reminded how blessed we are to live so close to the mountains. Of course, in Stapp tradition, we had plenty of food at our half-way point!

Dorie's quick visit

2009-07-26T21:47:00.001-06:00

Dorie had a 4 hour lay-over here in Denver, so we were able to spend some always-so-very-wonderful time together! She is also 15 weeks pregnant with #2!

Sumpter-Smithee Family Reunion 2009

2009-07-18T20:44:00.000-06:00

Mom, Dad, Truman and I headed down to hot and humid Texas for a family reunion (maternal grandmother's side of the family). I am so mad at myself, as I realized I did a lousy job of taking pictures. We stayed out in the middle of no where (by the TX motor speedway) at a beautiful Marriott hotel. David and I had some really adventuresome runs including one morning talking our way into the Texas Motor Speedway. It was my first time to see such a thing and I had no idea how incredibly huge those places are!! We ate at Babe's which I highly recommend if you are in the North Texas area. Killer comfort food!

Lunch with Friends

2009-07-17T20:21:00.000-06:00

While Truman and I were in Dallas, we were able to meet up with my two favorite PT school friends, Kayla and Liz. And boy have our families grown, with 6 children between the 3 of us, a lot has changed since those carpool days from Norman to OKC. I guess you could say, we've come a long way!!

Visiting Family in Dallas

2009-07-15T10:16:00.000-06:00

While in Dallas in July, we were able to visit a lot of family and friends. Here are some of the pics.

Truman playing with water

2009-07-08T09:21:00.000-06:00

One of Truman's favorite activities this summer was playing outside in the water. He loved it!

Cathy and John come for a visit!

2009-07-04T08:59:00.000-06:00

July 4th weekend, Cathy and John were able to come out to see us! We had a splendid time, as always. I forced them to huddle together for some family photos...I had a couple of nice ones a while back that were later lost. I NEED some pics of this family!!!

Hilarious Car

2009-06-18T08:36:00.000-06:00

So, I peek out the window (these pictures are in reverse order) and spot this most hilarious car outside our house! I grab my camera, how could I not? There were 2 girls in the car, so I had to be a bit discreet but I still needed some pics! Notice in the 3rd and 4th picture, the pipe coming out of the top of the car?! This thing totally cracked me up....and it isn't the first time an funny vehicle has shown up in our neighborhood!!

Hiking in Golden

2009-06-14T08:51:00.001-06:00

Our first hike of the season. Beautiful day!!

Truman helping me plant flowers

2009-05-19T08:25:00.000-06:00

Truman is in the "helping" phase which is so much fun! He really enjoyed helping me plant my annuals and perennials this spring!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T08:22:00.000-06:00

This is the only picture I captured of Mother's Day! We had my parents over for lunch and I was able to cook for my Mom...the best Mom in the world!

Spaghetti

2009-05-02T09:33:00.000-06:00

Sometimes you just have to let them eat as they wish!

Truman reading his new book

2009-05-02T09:27:00.001-06:00

Aunt Susan and Uncle Barry gave Truman the cutest dinosaur book! He looks like such a big boy reading it in his chair!!

Mom's Birthday

2009-05-01T09:25:00.000-06:00

You guessed it! We met at our meeting spot....Chili's for Mom's birthday, too! Only one good pic, but at least I remembered my camera!! I think Mom looks so beautiful in this picture.

Trip to Seattle

2009-04-24T22:08:00.000-06:00

We visited the Kizers in April in Washington. We were able to meet their newest addition, Anna. Kristina is pretty much a rock star. She has 3 children less than 3 years apart and a husband that is opening up a State Farm Insurance office. I don't know how she does it....but she does!! This was probably our 5th time to come to Seattle....and the first time that we saw the sun! Hallelujah!

March Snow

2009-03-26T22:04:00.000-06:00

Who is that in the door window?!

Photo Shoot

2009-03-21T21:55:00.000-06:00

I'm no photographer....but today while at Mom and Dad's, mom and I decided we needed to take some pics of Truman. We were both following him around like the paparazzi! Here are a few of my favorites.

Truman and Gee

2009-03-17T21:52:00.000-06:00

Yes, friends, this is who I leave my beloved with on most Mon and Tues mornings....Gee! Could life get any better?! I think not!

St. Patty's Day Race

2009-03-15T21:43:00.001-06:00

The first photo totally cracks me up...Jon looks like our body guard! Cold but fun race day!!

My Birthday

2009-02-25T21:22:00.000-07:00

Nothing better than starting the day with an run (thanks for coming along, Truman). Jason brought me some gorgeous flowers and in keeping up with tradition, we met my parents at Chili's....it's the half way point between our 2 homes. Couldn't have asked for a better day! (the pic of Truman with my parents totally cracks me up....he used to always make this face, so funny!)

Truman Laughing

2009-02-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

Love these pics! Truman used to get soooo cracked up when we were giving him a bath in the sink....such a happy baby!

At the park again...

2009-02-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

I finally remembered to take my camera today. Truman is so funny, when it is time to go, he gets very upset and we have to force him back into the stroller. So, today, we allowed him to walk home. I am not kidding, he walked almost the entire way (.5 mile). We started to get concerned that he would get blisters on his feet since he didn't have on "walking shoes" (I know, we're dorks), so Jason carried him the last block and a half!

To the park...

2009-02-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite things to do, rain or shine, is to walk to a park about a half mile away. Truman is now able to enjoy swinging and sliding and it is a nice break for Astro. This weekend, Jason was out of town and mom and dad came for the night. Mom was being her silly self and making Truman laugh!

Truman Asking for Help...

2009-01-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

This is so hilarious! Jason stays home with Truman on Fridays and was busy doing something in another part of the house (no worries, though, the house is so small that you can carry on a conversation with anyone at any 2 given places in the house). Jason heard Truman making a noise and realized that he was falling out of his beloved car. So, Jason grabbed the camera and captured this first picture. Well, before Jason knew it, the door of the car opened and...

Truman Laying on Astro

2009-01-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

Lately, Truman has discovered how soft and comfortable Astro can be. He enjoys sitting either on top of him or lounging on him and becomes quite frustrated when Astro moves away. Astro is tolerating Truman quite well thus far!

Truman's first night away from me!!

2008-12-30T21:34:00.001-07:00

My mom captured these pics of Truman when he went for his first "over night away from me" at their house the last week of December. Doesn't look like he was missing me...

We were sure missing him. My life must have been so boring before Truman came along. I just walked around with a hole in my heart the entire day!

Christmas in Pocola

2008-12-28T13:50:00.001-07:00

We flew to Pocola Oklahoma for Christmas this year and had a wonderful time with all of Jason's family. It seems my family has been shrinking over the last few years, so it was especially meaningful to me. I sure do wish I had captured a picture of all the people in Jason's generation. His cousin Amanda thought it may be the last time in a while that all of them would be together. I sure hope not.

Family Celebration

2008-12-12T21:02:00.000-07:00

Mom, does this pose look familiar?

Don't we all have a picture of our baby crying on their first birthday?

Wearing my new shirt from Uncle Clay and opening my new dump truck from Uncle Davdo

Well, we decided to have a very low key birthday party for Truman. It was just the 5 of us. We did the usual: presents and cake. Then Jason and I went out to dinner with friends while my mom and dad watched Truman. Now that's a birthday!

Truman's Mullet

2008-12-11T21:21:00.002-07:00

Our baby has a mullet. That's right, a mullet. Ben Pickle summed it up quite nicely when he commented in October (while staring at Truman's hair): "Business in the front, party in the back."
I must disclose that this is Truman's bed-head mullet. I will have to take a pic of his "other people are around" hair-do. Nice little curls.

Truman is One Year Old!

2008-12-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today, Truman turned one. Thank goodness, his birthday falled on a Wednesday which is my special day each week with him (I try not to work on Wednesdays). We met mom at our usual meeting place...the Chili's at exit 229 for some birthday fun!

Birthday Wink

2008-12-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

Truman was all smiles this morning!!

Camera Lost...

2008-11-30T22:25:00.002-07:00

Well, I have no more pictures to share for the month of November. Too bad, so sad. I guess we don't have much luck with cameras. Our camera was stolen the first day we were in the hospital last year after giving birth to Truman. We quickly purchased another one...we didn't want to miss a moment capturing Truman on film. Well, Jason went to Alaska for about a week in November. Unfortunately, the camera didn't make it back with him. He said he captured some amazing pictures. Bummer. Cathy and John also came to visit us this month and I finally finally had a picture on the camera of all of us that was half way decent. It was a framer, if you know what I mean. It's gone. Sadness. Actually, sadness for John and Cathy....they will have to continue to put up with my efforts to take a picture of all of us at Christmas. Tomorrow I will go back to Wolf and purchase a 3rd camera (in about one year). Hopefully this is no indication of our ability to keep track of our child...

6-pack reunion

2008-11-02T16:09:00.001-07:00

I met up with 5 of my dear friends from High School in Austin this weekend. We enjoyed hanging out and meeting each others children. We topped the weekend off with brunch at the Austin Country Club, compliments of PK and Jim Stone. Yum, yum! I had a great time catching up with everyone. Awwwww! Girls on the Loose!!

Halloween with the Pickles

2008-10-31T15:54:00.000-06:00

Truman borrowed Henry's dinosaur costume from last year. Thanks Dorie!! Henry was definitely the most rockin' kid on the block in his costume. Dorie and Ben made his costume. He was a robot. So cool!!

Seeing Aunt Katherine in Austin

2008-10-31T15:47:00.000-06:00

While in Austin to meet my high school friends, Katherine was in town for a wedding. We met on Saturday morning at Town Lake for a walk/run. It was great to see her, just too short of a visit.

Picnic at the Cemetery

2008-10-19T15:38:00.000-06:00

We met mom and dad in between Fort Collins and Denver for a picnic. We ended up eating in a cemetery. We felt it quite appropriate since Halloween was just around the corner! Here is Truman enjoying the beautiful fall afternoon with a dirty face...

It's been a while...

2008-10-04T20:14:00.002-06:00

I can't believe that October is already here! The leaves are falling all around us here in Denver and there is a coolness in the air. Time has certainly not been on my side, at least free time that is! I haven't posted pictures since June 1. I will work on this tonight and just back date them. I know that a blog is for writing, but I use it more for posting pictures. Picto-blogging! There is so much to catch everyone up on, so enjoy!

Race For The Cure

2008-10-04T15:13:00.000-06:00

Truman and I joined several of my friends for Race for the Cure. Apparently, Denver has one of the biggest turnouts...I think 50-60,000 people show up. It was really an amazing experience seeing so many women, mainly in support of finding a cure for breast cancer.

Aunt Jenny Meets Truman!

2008-09-26T22:07:00.001-06:00

Jen was so sweet to take time out of her busy schedule and impending move to Austin, TX the very next week...and come to Denver to meet Truman! As you will see from most of these pictures, Truman decided to stick his tongue out almost the entire time she was here. He has done this before for a couple of days. I'm just not sure what it is all about...

JoDee, Rodolfo and Georgia Visit Denver

2008-09-23T21:54:00.000-06:00

It was so good to see one of my dear sweet best friends! JoDee and her family came to Denver for a business meeting and I must say, I think they fell in love with the place! We went to the zoo on Wednesday and had a great time. The weather was really nice. Georgia was so well behaved while Truman pretty much cried the entire day. Very uncharacteristic for him, I must say...

Trip to Scottsdale

2008-09-19T22:45:00.000-06:00

We took an impromptu trip to Scottsdale (sorry Amy and Alf that we didn't make a point to come see you!). We were there less than 48 hours, so I'm not sure that it was enough time for me to really unwind and feel that I was on vacation. Jason was really needing some sort of a break and after much convincing, off we went. We stayed at the Scottsdale Resort and besides the extra large cockroach we found on the wall upon entering the room (they say this is very normal in this part of the country...), the hotel was fantastic. We managed to go for a long run on Saturday morning and eat at our favorite restaurant (at least in Scottsdale): Bandera. If you haven't tried it, you must. Delicious and excellent service. We left one of Truman's toys at the table and they mailed it back to us with a note from our server! Unbelievable.

Flower Gardens

2008-09-15T22:33:00.000-06:00

We live within walking distance of several beautiful parks now. The city plants a ton of flowers and about 2 weeks ago, I would say the flowers "peaked". Now that it is getting a bit colder, they aren't quite at their prime, but they are still so beautiful. In October, they will be put to bed. I was dying to get out here and take some pics of Truman with the flowers...

September - My favorite time of year in Denver

2008-09-06T22:21:00.000-06:00

What a beautiful time of year here in Denver! Truman and I have been trying to stay out side as much as we can...we know the cold snow is on its way. Almost any time we have our front door open, Truman and Astro love to stand/sit at the door and watch the world go by!

August

2008-08-25T22:18:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately, I don't have very many pictures for August. We spent our time recovering from the whirlwind of July and tried to finish the bathroom (completed bathroom pictures to come.)

The Craziness of July

2008-07-31T21:37:00.001-06:00

July was a very hectic month. I have a bit of explaining to do. As you may or may not know, Jason and I lived in Denver for about 2 years. We then decided when I was about 6 months pregnant, to purchase a home in Highlands Ranch, about 20 miles south of where we lived. The house was beautiful, spacious and perfect to bring Truman home to. Well, it wasn't even 6 weeks after moving in that I felt we had made a terrible mistake. I was so home sick for Denver. I really missed the quaintness and simplicity it had to offer. There were several other reasons, but I won't bore you with the details. I tried to reconcile these feelings, blah blah blah, but they just wouldn't go away. Both Jason and I came to the point where we decided life is too short, who cares what other people think, let's go...

Well, without going into tons of detail, in June, we decided to put our house up for rent in HR in order to move back into Denver. 2 weeks later, it was rented out. We were scrambling to find a house to rent in Denver when Jason stumbled across this precious little house for sale. We ended up putting all of our belongings in storage and living with my parents for a month while we closed on the house and renovated the bathroom. It was a long and I mean long commute from Fort Collins for me 4 days a week (sometimes 3 hours round trip per day). During this time, Truman cut his first tooth and started to crawl. Here are some pics from the month:

Jason working on the bathroom in our new house...

Didn't we just do this a year ago??

Truman loved this tub at mom and dad's. What a cutie...

Truman begins to crawl...

Needless to say, by the end of the month, we were all very tired!

Staci Stec's Wedding

2008-06-27T20:51:00.001-06:00

Staci and Zach's wedding was absolutely amazing. The photos really don't even begin to capture this magical event. Staci was just beautiful and it was so fun to see all of the family.

The bridesmaids luncheon

At the reception:Staci and Zach

Nanny was very popular with the young men. I was trying to capture her hot moves here...

The reception was gorgeous. I felt like I was attending a celebrity's wedding!

Aunt Phyllis, Staci (the gorgeous bride) and Cathy

Trip to see Grandma and Grandpa Martinkus

2008-06-25T21:07:00.001-06:00

We traveled to Pocola, OK for Staci Stec's wedding (Jason's cousin) and what a wonderful event it was. Unfortunately, Jason and I are beginning to make a habit of not making our flights (we missed one last month when headed to David's graduation in Lubbock and ended up driving through the night to make it on time). Thank goodness that this time, there was still an available flight later that day that we were able to get on. It ended up being a long day in the Denver airport. Here is Truman entertaining us as he rolled around on the airport floor.We were able to visit with a lot of Jason's family. The picture below consists of 4 generations! I think they all look quite a bit a like...

John and Truman

Great Grandmother Mimi Martinkus and Truman

John found the cutest little radio flyer car for Truman. He loved it.

Annual trip to Pagosa Springs

2008-06-10T20:18:00.001-06:00

Every year, we travel to Pagosa Springs in southern Colorado with my parents for a week of much needed rest and relaxation. We were so fortunate to have my little brother, David join us as well as Aunt Susan and Haven. We enjoyed hiking, biking, fishing, water rafting, playing games, hot tubbing and doing nothing. Here are some pictures from the week:

Truman's First Bite

2008-06-01T23:13:00.001-06:00

Truman's First Bite (Kinda)

I had already given him a bite or two before this day, but this was the "official" day that we started feeding Truman. He is very interested in our food and drinks. I have tried to upload a video of Truman eating, with no luck. Any advice from my other bloggers?

Truman meets Dorie, Ben and Henry

2008-05-29T23:05:00.000-06:00

Dorie, Ben and Henry were able to come for a visit this month. It was so fun to see Henry again, he is such a cutie!

What us girls only dream of... a picture of you and your childhood best friend with your little boys!! Love it!

John and Cathy came for a visit!!

2008-05-24T22:52:00.000-06:00

John and Cathy drove all the way from Oklahoma to see Truman. I think they spent about $50 on gas, as they drove their Toyota Prius. We should probably all be driving one...

This was John's high chair, then Jason's and now Truman's (a little big, but he can grow into it). I think he likes it...

Cute Pics of Truman

2008-05-15T22:44:00.001-06:00

So, I took Truman and Astro for a walk and when I returned, I looked at Truman and he just looked so darn cute that I ran in and grabbed the camera. He looks so serious... There's a smile...

Back to serious...

David's Graduation from Texas Tech

2008-05-10T22:18:00.000-06:00

David Graduates!!

The graduate (and English Major) reading to Truman...

At the graduation Ceremony...

I really like this picture...everything is moving but David's face...

After the ceremony... and you may wonder where is Clay? Well, both of David's siblings had a rough time getting to lubbock. Jason and I missed our flight and drove through the night to get to Lubbock. When Clay showed up at the airport on graduation day, he didn't have a flight booked for that day. Thank goodness, he arrived later that same day.

During the ceremony, Truman became a little restless, so we took him outside and had some fun. Unfortunately, this is the site of where I lost one of the diamond earrings that Jason gave me after the birth of Truman, they were called my "pushing" earrings. I am still mourning the loss...

After David's graduation we headed to Amarillo where the Bittick's hosted a graduation party for Jason, David and Chad. I will have to get pics from my mom...I forgot my camera.

Mom's Birthday

2008-05-01T21:58:00.001-06:00

Yum, yum, yum! It was Mom's birthday and I brought her cupcakes from the best little cupcake shop on Pearl Street, Mulberries. I bought them for Jason's birthday, too, but no pics, sorry.

Good-Bye For Now

2008-04-13T09:19:00.008-06:00

My sweet grandmother, Mimi (and the last of my grandparents) died yesterday. She was almost 86 years old. I am so thankful that I was able to go to Amarillo 3 times in the last 3 months to see her. She was also able to meet Truman (and sometimes she thought that Truman was my mom and dad's 4th child). Anyone who knew her will miss her, she was such a little spit fire and quite witty until the end! She had a love for scrabble, boggle ...and collecting cardboard and boxes! But most of all, she loved her family! She was always so affirming and made you feel so special. Although I will miss her dearly, she is now in heaven where she belongs. I love you Mimi, will miss you dearly, and look forward to seeing you again!!

Clipping from the Amarillo Globe News:

Bette Jo Eddins Vogler, 85, of Amarillo died Saturday, April 12, 2008.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday in St. Peters Episcopal Church with the Rev. Dru Ferguson officiating. Burial will be at 1 p.m. in Llano Cemetery. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount, Blvd.

Mrs. Vogler was born May 10, 1922, in Estelline to DeWitt and Sarah Alice Smithee Eddins. She was a Realtor with Della Dunn for many years, then an owner/broker with Creative Home Brokers. She attended Texas Tech and West Texas State University, and moved to Amarillo in 1941. She was a member of St. Peters Episcopal Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Susan Lowrance and husband Barry of Amarillo and Ann Stapp and husband Eldon of Fort Collins, Colo.; a sister, Ann Bright and husband Ken of Amarillo; five grandchildren, Kristi Lowrance Bittick and husband Chad, Stephen Lowrance and wife Apple, Clay Stapp, Shelley Stapp Martinkus and husband Jason and David Stapp; and five great-grandchildren, Chase, Haven, Samuel, Sophia and Truman.

The family suggests memorials be to the Presbyterian Childrens' Home, 3400 Bowie St., Amarillo, TX 79109.

Amarillo Globe-News, April 14, 2008

Just hanging out...

2008-03-26T11:39:00.000-06:00

Happy Easter!!

2008-03-22T11:29:00.000-06:00

Truman's First Easter

The three of us...Truman with his presents from Grandma Martinkus...

Truman's favorite activity....standing...

Beautiful Roses

2008-03-12T10:54:00.001-06:00

JenBear sent me these Roses for my birthday! I enjoyed them for several weeks! Thanks Jen!!!

Truman Bathing in the Sink

2008-02-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

I love giving Truman a bath! Tonight, he was so adorable as he scrunched up his eyebrows and watched my every move through the bathroom mirror!!

The Kizers Visit!!!

2008-02-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

Scott, Kristina, Olivia and Owen came for a visit! Here are the 7 of us!! As for the underlined words, I have no idea!!Olivia helping me cook!

On a hike...

At the park...

My favorite picture of Owen...

Katherine Meets Truman!!

2008-02-07T10:44:00.007-07:00

Katherine and I outside my parents home.

I love this picture of Truman that Katherine took!

I nursed in public for the first time, with Katherine's constant encouragement and really enjoyed using the Hooter Hider (thanks Dorie!!).

Our little monster!!

2008-02-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

Truman sporting a new outfit from uncle Clay !!

Truman's First Road Trip

2008-01-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

Truman, Mom and I visited friends and family in Amarillo. It was Truman's first road trip and he did great. He slept the entire 7 hour drive, except for feedings! While in Amarillo, we stayed at the Lowrance Hotel and enjoyed exceptional hospitality! Truman met his great grandmother, Mimi. Truman and I both played dress up while we were there, too. I tried on my grandmother's 1920's outfit while Truman dressed in his "recruit" outfit along side his great uncle, Barry!

Kayla and Steve Visited!!

2008-01-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

Kayla and Steve were able to come meet Truman when he was just 6 weeks old! We had a wonderful time with them. These pictures are from a hike we did to the highest point in Highlands Ranch!

More Pictures of Truman

2008-01-17T17:56:00.001-07:00

Ah the joys of motherhood and taking pictures of your first born!!

On Cloud 9

2008-01-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

I can't explain to you the joy I feel deep in my soul when I am at Washington Park! What a wonderful hour...with my 3 favorites: Jason, Truman and Astro walking around the park with all the other Wash Park enthusiasts!!

Our Doula

2008-01-04T17:47:00.000-07:00

Our Doula, Heather at our post-partum visit. If you are even thinking of doing a no drug birth, seriously consider a doula. And, if you live in Denver, Heather is the best!!

Enjoying Truman after the Holiday's

2008-01-01T17:27:00.000-07:00

Truman says "peace" in 2008

Christmas 2007

2007-12-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

We spent a couple of nights with my mom and dad in Fort Collins for Christmas. We enjoyed delicious food, a ping-pong tournament, scrabble tournament, kings in the corner and other games. Thanks to mom and dad for their hospitality!!

The Martinkus Family Arrives For Christmas

2007-12-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to have Jason's parents as well as both of his grandmothers for a week over the Christmas Holiday. This was Nanny's first great grandchild and Mimi's 4th. Jason took them to Estes Park on the 24th before heading to my parent's home.

2007-12-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

We settled in to NO routine and enjoyed visits from family and friends over the first couple of weeks. Thanks to the Conley's, Chittendon's, Rom's and Webb's for delicious meals and thanks to Kate and Jen for the amazing care package. Truman received his first sponge bath from Jason and I. I was able to get out a couple of times and leave Truman with Jason or my mom. I never thought going to Bosom Buddies would be so fun! Truman melted our hearts and looked like an enchilada or burrito all swaddled!

Our first couple of days home

2007-12-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

The first thing I did upon arrival home was to sit down and have a good cry! After that, we introduced Truman to Astro. Astro was and still is a little afraid of Truman. Jason brought home beautiful roses for me and my mom treated me like a Queen...cooking and cleaning and pretty much taking care of me while I took care of Truman. Truman went out for the first time when we took him to meet his pediatrician. He weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces and she said he was "perfect"!

Leaving the Hospital

2007-12-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Leaving Swedish Medical Center and going home!!

Adoring Truman

2007-12-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

I felt like a princess at the hospital as the staff and my family catered to me. I loved how they would wheel Truman in during the night and wake me to feed him. Can you come home with me? The food was delicious! I would order TONS of food and breakfast was served all day long! Yes!!! I loved the sitz baths and must say my first hospital experience was quite enjoyable!! My one complaint: unfortunately, our digital camera was stolen which still had the pics of me during labor in quite compromising positions, etc. We had already downloaded the photos, but someone else out there has them, too. Not good.

Truman Stowe Martinkus Arrives!!!

2007-12-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

Truman Stowe Martinkus was born on December 10th at 3:06pm. He weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was 19.5 inches long. I went into labor at 1am and arrived at the hospital by 6am. By 1:30pm, things were quite intense. I couldn't have done it with out Jason and our doula, Heather. My first impressions of Truman: cleft in his chin, birth mark on his left upper thigh, his nose was slightly crooked...to the right, long fingers and toes...and of course, absolutely adorable!! Stowe is my grandfather and my great great grandfather's middle name. We feel so blessed to have Truman and are so thankful to God for giving us this sweet child.

Bike Ride

2007-12-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

Jason's last bike ride and the wonderful views, the day before Truman was born.

Pics of the Nursery

2007-11-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

This is a work in progress...but we are getting close! Jason and I painted and antiqued the crib and dresser. The dresser was my mom's when she was a little girl. We will post more pics once it is finished!

36 + Weeks

2007-11-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Baby Shower

2007-11-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures from the day of the baby shower. I was honored to have both Jennifer Boulware and Dorie Pickle in town for the big event! It was a lot of fun and I couldn't believe all the wonderful presents that baby Martinkus received! Thank you everyone and thank you to my hosts: Leslie Conley, Jennifer Langton and Angela Quast!

Hiking near our Home

2007-10-29T12:59:00.000-06:00

Jason and I enjoyed hiking about 10 minutes from our house to a lookout which is the highest point in Highlands Ranch, just over 6000 feet! You will notice the snow, our first of the season!

Cuddle Time!

2007-10-27T13:10:00.000-06:00

Astro spending some last minute cuddle time with Jason, knowing this may all change once the baby arrives!

Top Pic!

2007-10-13T12:53:00.001-06:00

OK, so this has to be one of the greatest pictures ever! Please feel free to double click in order to get a close up view. We received a lot of snow last winter and over the New Year, we went sledding with mom and dad, kayla and steve, dwayne and hailey. There was a family there that had an old-time sled. Mom decided to give it a try. Kayla took this picture and it is great!!

Trip to Seattle

2007-09-29T12:28:00.000-06:00

Jason and I went to visit Scott, Kristina and Olivia. Kristina is 36 weeks pregnant (I'm at 29) and Olivia is 19 months old. We had a splendid time. Kristina and I treated ourselves to pedicures and Scott and Jason went on a bike ride. Olivia kept us entertained and is a precious child. Kristina was quite the trooper making us delicious meals the entire weekend! Probably the most fascinating part of the trip was when we all decided to go on a walk. The 5 of us, plus their dog Sampson and none other than their cat, Boo! It was hilarious...Boo would just follow behind us on the sidewalk the entire way. We even crossed a busy street. Boo opted not to go when we chose to, but once there was another chance, across the street she came! Unfortunately, she did get lost at one point and Scott had to go find her about an hour later. She was waiting patiently where we last saw her. What an amazing cat!!

Our New Home

2007-09-23T12:43:00.000-06:00

Jason and I moved to our new home in Highlands Ranch this weekend! The picture of the front of the house is a couple of weeks old, but the only picture we have of it at this point! We were so blessed to have the assistance of friends and my mom and dad. They were such a big help! We will post more pictures once we are completely settled!!