I Love my Life :)

Graham loves buying fishing tackle in America

2012-01-29T17:57:00.001-06:00

Graham is our dear friend from Zimbabwe. He LOVES fishing and going fishing with Ken at the lake was nice. But catching a fish with Ken was, as he would say "UNBELIEVABLE" with a British accent.

Saturday we spent the day in OKC. This long stride leads up to something spectacular..

Yesss!!! Bass Pro Shop + Graham = Happy Man

He was so happy right here. This was his second Bass Pro shop visit. He'd already been to the one in Dallas. He had already purchased an extra giant bag and still managed to fill it up and go over the weight limit. Not cheap coming to America.

Graham bought fishing reels for both his children back home. A bait caster for Bruce and a spinner for Savanah.

Checking out with his many bags, but oh what a great time we had... =)

I can probably count on one hand the number of times my hubby has been to the mall. Here he sees me taking his picture. The funny thing is.. We are in Ken's big truck driving up and down the lanes looking for a parking place. It was Saturday. The parking lot is COMPLETELY FULL. We ended up parking on the grass using four-wheel drive to get up and out. But he was a good sport and smiled all the way!!! Maybe because we were going to see the grandbaby soon. LOL

Busted in the MALL!!

What great visit we had with Graham. A lot of hunting and fishing stories were told..

H&T birthday weekend

2012-01-23T19:51:00.002-06:00

This picture was taken on Sunday as the wind was BLOWING down the plain. At one point you couldn't even see the mountains from all the ash blowing.

Caddy wedged herself beside me while I was getting myself some Taylor love..=)

TeeHee, I love it! I'm never sure how my pictures will load onto my blog.. But I'm liking this!!

Taylor Ken sound asleep.

Sunday morning Memaw was surrounded by all her blond girls.. =)

Pawpaw has a lot to smile about.

Lindsey is showing off her baby belly. Did I mention little girl! Little Hunter is laughing at Rylee as they play.

Tanner cracking the numbers to his safe.

Joe is holding Landon and little Hunter isn't quite sure about it.

I was so happy that Thomas, David and Karen made to H&T's birthday party.

We had a house full of family and friends... That's when it's the funnest!

Thanks everyone for coming. You made the birthday a shootin' good time!

Rylee was so good with the babies. What a big help and she enjoyed holding her nephews.

Jason enjoying the view.

Rylee wasn't letting go of her hippo from Auntie Serena, even if she was sitting in her daddy's lap.

Joe was throwing clay pigeons for Lindsey. Good shot Lins!

I'm pretty sure the girls held up their end of the bargain. They shot AWESOMEly!! You go Aly!

Jason and Brandy watch as everyone is shooting guns.

Jason and Monica were finishing off doubles being thrown

What a great Pawpaw. He was head thrower. Thanks Pawpaw.

Birthday boys at full draw! No competition there. HA!

Adam was right there with the rest of them shooting as fast as they could get them thrown. PULL!!!!!

I'm sure Thomas is admiring his little sister Marti, kicking butt and breaking clays.

Here is where the pistols were shot.

Landon is getting very, very sleepy.

Adam was trying out his new"concealed weapon".

Monica was a quick learner, breaking most of her clays.

Jason looks like he might be having FUN!

Brass was flying up and down.

Tanner has his aim on!

Hunter has his hands full!

Hunter is well armed for sure.

Boys will be boys! They love to shoot guns!

Adam with his new pistol!

If you're wondering what this is all about. For the twins' birthday, Adam made cut out bodies of Hunter and Tanner. Dressed them up and set them up outside for everyone to see.. It was so FUNNY!! Good one Adam!

More fun!

Birthday boys looking pretty happy!

Don't mess with Hunter!

I love these two!

Too funny! The dogs weren't even sure about the H&T cutouts.

The girls love them boys no matter what! Love it!

I love my family!

If this doesn't make you smile, you must be CRAZY!!

Nice! Adam with his new gun in his handmade scabbards made by his Dad.

Pawpaw you are the absolute best!

Last year H&T got Monica's camera while she wasn't looking and made a bunch of crazy pictures on her camera, only for her to find later... Pay- back son!! Monica had to give her brother's a hard time as well. Good one M!

Uncle Hunter you're so GOOD!

Taylor is wearing a shirt that reads. My Aunt is AWESOME! and she is!

Rylee loves playing dress up at MeMaw's and Pawpaw's.

Hunter wanted a knife just like the one Dad has had for about thirty years. Can you tell which one is the new one? Hint: it's the one without the blood.

I love you Moxy Mayflowers!!

Rylee wanted to see her name in the book. She loved all the flowers and butterflies. She said to me "Every page sparkles". She loved it! She named her hippo Memaw2.. =) and it was never far from her sight.

When everyone goes home and all gets quiet, it's these two who fill that empty space and loves on TLC.

Love this smiling girl

2012-01-10T16:42:00.002-06:00

Our girl is growing up....

Love you Rylee!!

Oh what fun we had bringing in the New Year

2012-01-04T19:51:00.000-06:00

Joe having fun shooting targets.

Adam showing off his own skills.

This is one happy puppy dog.. She had all of her cousins here visiting.. =)

I'm not sure what Pawpaw did to get Taylor to smile but he's smiling..

Monica, loved, loved, loved this saying and wanted one of her own..

That is one tiny back flap!

Me with my girl.. She has her apron on because she loves to cook and she's a good one too.

New year's eve we had a Mexican fiesta meal. It was fabulous.

Just before dark the wind switched out of the north and blew the ash in swirls of darkness.

Ash and leaves blow thru the Wichitas .

This is Taylor our little whipper snapper.. =)

Memaw getting herself some baby love.. =)

Joe, thanks for reading the chapter in the book about the fire on Tarbone. I know how hard it was for you. Every word was a struggle. This we know, but it was greatly appreciated by the entire family.. Love you!

Joe is the dog whisperer.. He volunteered to be on dog watch when needed.

Me with my little elf helper. Love you Taylor Ken.

The boys are kicked backed watching tv.

Monica and Aly both look stunning after just having a baby..

T.K. and Pawpaw..

Tanner and Aly enjoying the day with family.

Pages from my book.

Most family members read a chapter of the book. They read of babies being born, Ken being honored by other tribal fisherman, the loss of our dear friend Jill, Angie traveling for 7 days to see the faces of the grandbabies and more...

Angie was here from TN. spending time with the family and playing with grandbabies.

Taylor taking a nap.

Landon; this little man was full of smiles and giggles. What a joy he was.. Monica was giving him a bath in the kitchen sink.

Serena has written a book for the past 18 years about our families living 10 thousand years ago on Tarbone Mountain. She gives it to me on Christmas but this year we had our very special friend here so we waited for New year's eve to read it. What an awesome journey.

I make a book cover for Serena and put last years book into it and give it to her. That way we'll both have a copy of each book. This is what I wrote to her:

Fromall the stars in the sky, God has put us together.

Ialways get emotional when I write my note for our family Christmas bookreading. With the passing of our dear friend Jill, life has taken on newmeaning. Not that I wasn’t appreciative of what I had, but now my life has changed.

The waywe handle our challenges is what molds our character.

Life isfull of challenges and we will all experience our own sadness and tragedy; noone is exempt from it! When I have those especially sad days, my comfort comesfrom my family and friends. My love for them only grows stronger.

Life istoo short not to tell someone how you feel or how much you love them.

So Ithank you dear friend for this labor of love. I can only imagine how many hoursyou’ve spent writing, how many tears you have shed, how much hot glue you haveused to create this beautiful story of our families. Someday after we are longgone, Landon and Taylor can tell stories to their children how one night eachyear the entire family would come together and share a special event; listeningto the stories of Raven and MyTam

Love yousister with all my heart,

MyTam2011

I asked Ken to take pictures of us holding our books the next day. Serena was sick as a dog and had lost her voice completely. To Angie's surprise, I made her a book cover while Serena made a copy of this years book and put it together. We gave it to her the night of the reading. This is what I wrote to Angie:

Ifeel like I’m eight and Santa is coming to see me tonight,, Oh but it’s betterthan Santa.., Every cell in my entire body is jumping with joy because you arehere with all of us..

I’m52 and my besty for 29 years is coming to visit the new grandbabies and therest of the crazy clan.

Ourjourney has been long and wonderful. We have shared so much; from standingbeside me when we were married, to having our babies together, to float trips,camping, weddings, And now our babies are having babies. What a blessed life!

Iwish I had just the right words to tell you how much you mean to me, butinstead with a pinky promise, I’ll show you for the rest of my life.

ILove you Angie and always will.

Youare one of the best reasons I love my life.. MyTam 2011

Pawpaw and Taylor napping.. =)

26 years ago this month, Angie and I had our babies together. Now this is the baby that holds her..

Marti always puts the laugh in the family.

Hunter helped fix breakfast the next morning and it was so good..

My book wrapped before they FINALLY let me open it... B E A U T I F U L ....

Grammy holding Landon.

Joe seemed pretty happy that he got 20 lottery tickets for his Christmas present.

Monica was happy that Marti drew her name. Because they both love clothes and jewelry.

Grammy Serena gave Taylor a soft huggable hippo and Tanner is playing with him.

Angie opening her book from Serena and me.

I couldn't read because I'm a big bawl baby and it looks like Angie is one as well. Serena had no voice so she couldn't read, instead she did a whole lot of smiling.

Our pinky promise...

Baby time!

Me with my besties

Tanner reading a chapter.. Everyone did such a great job!

Thank you Thomas for going upstairs and capturing the moment.

Adam and Landon..

Adam was happy that Hunter got him a holster for his new pistol that he going to get.. hint-hint!

Filled with love and strings that bring us all together now and forever.

Angie styling in her footed pj's and looking at her book.

A few more pages to see.

Boys will be boys! Thomas, Marti's brother came to play with the rest of the gang.

Angie even got in on a little shooting action.

The girls as well as the boys can, and will use pistols. Here, Marti crack off a few shots with her 45.

Double action!

Hunter loves to see pics of the brass flying out of his AR.

Just a few toys.

More flying brass.

Brass was laying all over the deck. It caused many smiles on their faces..

Card games, Old Crow and a concerned sister. No one knows how old this Old Crow bourbon was when we found it in the liquor cabinet. Then a few bets and laughs later, Thomas proved he could drink down a sip.

Red faced, burning throat and laughing, Thomas wins.

Fire breathing dragon (fake) smile!

VERY old crow!

Dr. Hunter giving Angie a back adjustment.

Marti was laughing so hard at Ken's coyote call. Calls include

Hunter and Aunt Angie.

Marti showing Thomas where he made it into the book last year.

Aunt Marti getting herself some Landon love.

Papa Joe happy with Landon.

If you'll notice Uncle Hunter has white milky stuff on his shoulder from Landon. Chuckle =)

Yep, Grandbabyville!

Cooking Mexican.

So we figured if Old Crow numbs the throat, why not!

Aunt Marti trying to wear Rylee's apron..

Quisedilla station, very good!

Taco stuffer..

Tacos

Quesidillas

Chicken enchiladas.

Monica's homemade salsa. Yum!

Landon was laughing too because that's a picture of his Daddy Adam in a Karate suit. "Dirty Santa" Strikes again.

This was pretty funny too.

Lots of laughs!

Tanner loved his T from Joe.

Marti was very happy that Adam made her a quilt ladder with hanging pictures.

Pretty happy with a box full of flower seeds.

She couldn't have been happier taking this smiling face home.

Momma Alyson getting her own baby love..

Cook Clan Christmas

2011-12-26T15:57:00.000-06:00

I give you fair warning my blog is long, I'm a bit long winded, and love my life..

Pawpaw, Rylee, Memaw, Taylor Ken, & Tanner.. What a wonderful time of the year!!

Rylee and her little cousin Taylor Ken... $$ + happy girl = baby sitting

Ry putting makeup on in our bedroom.. Love it!

Kids home = Happy Pawpaw & Memaw

Let the cooking begin!!

Our bull elk have been so bad.. When we were in Mo. getting hay, Allen gave Ken Styrofoam to shoot broadheads into because ours burned up in the fire. Well our stinkin' elk thinks it's fun to run antlers into it. Then when we left on Friday, we drove up to the barn to pick up some stuff and the water was running everywhere.. The elk had wiggled their way into the barn to eat the hay and on the way out their antlers kicked the water faucet up and water was running everywhere. Bad boys!!

Moxy had so much fun having all her cousins here playing..

Kimber, Moxy's # 1 hole digging buddy...

At Tarbone Ranch when you come down our driveway you would turn at "cowboy corner".. Well, the fire took out the cowboy,,, so for Christmas.. We got the cowboy back but it didn't come easy.... just wait you'll see!!

Ry had walked to cowboy corner with us and was playing in the rocks while Hunter and I putting him up. I showed her our initials carved into the rock and told her Pawpaw did that for me. She says to me Pawpaw's like a caveman.. they carved on rocks too. LOL

The walk home.. Hunter & Marti and all the pooches..

Getting ready to fire it up

Taylor Ken's little footprint.

That is one good looking turkey?? Tee-hee!

One diary with lock and key...

Oh yeah!!

What a blessed day we all had. So much to be thankful for.....

Moxy was so tired from playing all day she couldn't even muster up the strength to stand and play,, So Captain just drug her fat fanny on the floor.. It was pretty funny

That is a grin from ear to ear... =)

After most went home we sat down and played cards.. and I had so much fun!! It could be because HUNTER & I WON!!!!!!

Christmas isn't complete until we watch Christmas Story and National Lampoon Christmas Vacation.. Two tuckered girls!!

Christmas day we went to Serena's and here is Monica having a little fun with her popping eyeballs cow in one hand and in the other holding Landon's stuffed bull.

Happy Momma good baby!!! =) Cheers!!

I'd have to say this little guy has grown.. and happy!!

Sweet!

Serena with Grandma Terri

All smiles!!

Serena's Dad and Terri made it down for Christmas "for some reason" Landon?? =)

Great Grandpa Bill and Landon

Adam helping Joe out so you're able to read..

Yes!! UNLV

I love, love, love getting homemade gifts. Our son-in-law Adam, made me a ladder to hang quilts or GRANDBABY PICTURES on.... =)

Took our Christmas tree down today so I could put my picture ladder up.. Looks good huh?

This is what Tanner & Aly had made for us for Christmas. Don't you just love it!

Our dear friends and my pickling buddy, gave us this carved buffalo horn which has a lot of meaning to me. Because our little burned buffalo who I watch like a hawk is still kicking. She moves at turtle speed and WILL NOT go around the other buffalo. And in just a few days her name will be January... Thanks Di.. I love it!!

Packed with the buffalo horn was this beautiful gourd dressed in tanned leather with the memory and future of prairie grass on Tarbone Ranch. I love the plains of Oklahoma and our wonderful friends in Hydro, OK.

Once a charred tree from Tarbone Ranch. To the tiny hands of Taylor Ken.. Made from the heart and soul of Pawpaw.. Love you TK.. =)

Love, Love , Love my Christmas runner. Trees made from the loving hands of my sweet friend Karen. Tarbone Ranch has trees of many colors.. Thank you =)

Hunter & Kimber are backed up to the fireplace keeping warm..

Marti telling these two girls she wants to play in the reindeer games. Pretty cute huh?

Hunter showing off a few skills..

Tanner and Captain lying on the floor watching Christmas Vacation.. Tanner wearing his Christmas attire.

Aunt Marti and Uncle Hunter could hardly wait for Taylor Ken to get here so they could play... =)

Taylor is saying to Aunt Marti... My what big blue eyes you have... -=)

Pawpaw bringing smiles to his family..

While Dad is straching off his lottery ticket to see if he has won, Taylor Ken holds his ticket with confidence..

Crap!! I didn't win ether.

Taylor Ken's First Christmas.. Thanks for choosing us little buddy.. We are indeed blessed.

Ready for bad in Tanner's room. T.K. looks up at all of his Dad's toys and fort flag dreaming of the day he'll get to play with them.

Ry pointing at her necklace that Jason is wearing.

The little girl on this sticker is Rylee. Tackle the Storm is a non-profit organization that provides rods and reels for kids who have lost theirs in the spring storms. Each sticker set of 2 buys one rod and reel. Click here to donate.

http://www.tacklethestormfoundation.org/

Moxy got Rylee a giant jar of pickles... She loves them,, but Moxy doesn't!

What pretty girls we have!!

This bag is a happy bag..

I love to play with this girl!!

Me, Jason and Rylee.. =)

I love this picture of Hunter and me.

Happy holiday hands.. Let the unwrapping begin!!

Moxy loves when all her cousins come to play.. She'll sleep for days when everyone goes home..

This sweet looking little card is called "paybacks Mom & Dad" We had to go on a scavenger hunt to find our present... real funny guys!!!

Proud Daddy!

Uncle Jason and Ry holding on to Taylor Ken's little hand.

One happy Pawpaw, Uncle and Cousin..

One pink puckered fish for Rylee.

Before I ever knew Rylee was going to be on a sticker, I had already put this picture of her on the cover of her photo albums.. It was our summer we spent together.. Loved it!

From Ms Brandy.. Baby's first Christmas ornament. Aly thought it was great!

A photo album that Memaw can fill with grandbaby pictures.. =)

I think Hunter liked his rain jacket.. =)

To see a child's face at Christmas is the best gift of all!! Big and small.

Marti was happy that she got a red scarf.

Yes it says Memaw... =)

I love the Cook Clan.. Our gift from Tanner and Aly..

Anything that has the Eagles on it Jason LOVES!!!!

Opening up reels from Dad.

Ken gave each of the boys a Ken Cook series rod and reel for Christmas. Umm I think they liked it!!!!

Rylee reading her note from db & barb and the check they sent her for modeling in the picture.. AWESOME!!!!!!!

People come in and out of our lives for a reason. We have some amazing friends in our lives. DB, you and Barb have touched our lives in so many ways.. Love you always and forever...

You did good Pawpaw!! Me like!!

Here is our first clue to the present... Go to the attic to get your next clue.

Where do keep the Oreos??

Thirsty, check the cool beverages in the fridge? Go to Hunter's room and look at the fan... Then " Oh go back to the living room and see who's here...

Walking into the living room we were laughing.. then there he was COWBOY!!!!!! Hunter & Marti made him for us. We were so surprised.. It was great. You guys are AWESOME!!!

Rylee loves her pickles!!!

Little feet dressed for Christmas, held by Pawpaw and Mom's hands.. Life is so precious..

Worn out but happy!!

Words not needed...

My Christmas helpers.. Thanks girls you made it fun!!!

Taylor Ken Cook

2011-12-17T09:19:00.001-06:00

Nurturing hands ...

No words needed..

Two very proud grandmas..

Baby tracks on that daddy's shirt.. =)

Jeff and Becky, first time grandparents hold Taylor Ken...=)

Cousins, Taylor and Landon will be pulling the wool over these two Moms' eyes..=)

All Smiles..

Uncle Stephen, Aly's brother is happy he made it for the delivery.

Aunt Marti

I think that look pretty much says what Taylor has in store for him.. Tee-Hee!

All smiles Dad, along with Uncle Jason.. Looks like Rylee may have a future in babysitting.. =)

Born Dec. 10 @ 11:58. 7 lb 4 oz, 20 inches long.. Taylor Ken Cook.

Aunt Marti you're the BEST!!!

Pawpaw is happy, but he's really happy that he has an OSU hat on.. =)

Tender moments.. =)

Uncle Hunter admiring how much he looks like him too..LOL

Rylee was excited that she has a cousin to keep out of trouble..

Happy Days!

Proud Dad passed out cigars to celebrate the arrival of Taylor Ken...

Everyone is home and doing well.

Pawpaw is a baby hog.. Just saying!

Those two hands will learn a lot being together.

This little face holds the strings to my heart.. Love you Taylor Ken..

I love my life on so many levels.

Sweet dreams love..

I feel so much appreciation for him.... what a gift he is to me! I love this little guy so much. I have so much to be grateful for, that it just overwhelms me at times. I would not want to be doing anything else at this time of my life and nothing can or will ever be as rewarding. I love my job of being MeMaw.

This is a picture of Tanner when we brought them home. Ken pulled it up on the computer while Taylor was sleeping.

Blessed moment.

My beautiful daughter-in-law has dreamed of this moment since she was a little girl. Thank you for making all us a part of your dream. I love that I still get those butterfly feelings in my stomach. I am most grateful that we have the knowledge to know we are family and we are strong.
I Love You Aly.....

I'm gonna miss ya ole friend

2011-12-08T15:14:00.001-06:00

You may see this and wonder what's up with the bird? When I was visiting Jill just a couple of months ago, I told her for some reason I've been attracted to birds. So the next morning when we got ready to leave she gave me this bird. It had meaning then but it has even more meaning now. Spread your wings and fly my friend. You are loved but will be missed even more.

I wrapped your Christmas present yesterday and have it all ready to mail. On my way to the post office this morning I got a call from Ken. He says to me "pull over" I have something to tell you.. Dion just called and said Jill has been in an accident.....She didn't make it....... My world just broke in two. My heart won't stop hurting...it's hard to breath.. How can it be?

It's not fair!! I would have talked longer when you called..I would have hugged you tighter when I said, "see you soon". Dear God she has three boys who need her. She has family that love her. She's been my friend for 25 years. I didn't get to say goodby. I don't understand... WHY??

Me with my three best friends in the whole wide world. If you have a best friend..Tell them you love them. Treasure the gifts you have. Our lives are so fragile.Have NO regrets.. I never want to take my friends and family for granted...Because one day she here the next she's gone.

I remember when you got pregnant with Payden, you were on cloud 9. You said to me, "but I want twins like you"... Well it wasn't too many years after Payden came your twin boys; Connar and Lawson arrived... What great Boys!! I have a picture of Hunter and Tanner holding your boys.

Oh Jill, my heart aches..I've never lost anyone so close to me.. What do I do?

Your smile was Pure Sunshine! They say when you have lemons thrown at you,, make lemonade.. What do you do when death is thrown at you?? I can't stop crying, I scream into the wind, I don't understand. I ask why?? I can't believe it's true!!

I am grateful for my family, If I love you I'll tell you, when you brighten my day you'll know it.. I don't want to take life for granted and if I can teach one person to love and to be loved I hope that I can.

Jill was learning to be happy again. Life is too short not to be. I'm gonna miss that smile

Girl, you've made me laugh so hard , so many times. You were always so funny!! We've had Great times Thanks for the memories!

Jill came for down for both Tanner and Hunter's wedding. She loved the boys..

Jill met a few bumps in the road. They only made her stronger . She was learning to be happy again I saw when we were together a few months ago she was learning to love again. She was enjoying who she was.

This Christmas will be like no other.

So when I got back home today in the seat of my pickup a small box sits with your name on it. Your Christmas present... Ken saw it laying in the seat we hugged each other and cried.. He says to me to promise to always come home and we cried some more.. Isn't that everyone's promise.. I know Jill and she wouldn't want us to morn her loss to long. But for me I have to feel the pain to understand and to heal.

Life is so fragile to all of us. I promise to Leap because I know the net will appear.

I was with you in this lifetime and I promise I'll be with you in the others to come.

This is how you do it

2011-12-03T20:41:00.001-06:00

Never too old to peek under the Christmas Tree... Hunter =)

Thanksgiving and Deer Camp 2011

2011-11-28T18:34:00.001-06:00

Tanner at the Black Kettle getting his knife ready to go deer hunting.

Adam up early and ready to go.

Tanner was the only one who shot a deer. Good Job Tan!

Ken and I on our honeymoon at Lake Toho 29 years ago.

Marti giving Hunter one last hug before he and Ken take off for deer camp.

Together for 29 years.. Life is good!

Raccoon watching Ken.

With November, our buffalo in the background, Ken holds a turnip he just pulled.

Aunt Aly feeding Landon. In three weeks Taylor will be here!!!!!

Monica holding Landon.

Tarbone Ranch 2 1/2 months after the fire

2011-11-15T11:40:00.001-06:00

Green is a nice sight to see for everything living..

After losing 22 bucks, three remain. This guy is one of the more healthier ones.

Our elk herd did the best. Play? Nope, frustration!!

Wheat and turnips!

Split bark on the trees pretty much tells the story that they won't make it.

Turnips and wheat.

After seeing it first hand, I'm understanding evolution and erosion. The fire burned so hot in places that huge rocks broke in two and some of the facing on others is crumbling off. I guess that's why our old mountains are so short.

Peek a boo..

This brown stuff that looks like dirt is actually ash that has washed off the hills.

This little fox wandered on to the ranch.. Lucky guy too. See his chewed or burned ear.

Ash that has washed up against the fence after the rain.

Some places are greening up fast and others much slower There will be some places where it burned so hot that the earth will be sterile for a while.

Wonder how long it will be before this wild plum thicket produces plums.

I'll drive out looking for our newest addition to the ranch. The buffalo look just like rocks, sometimes hard to see.

The big oak fell from the fire that burned its bottom and roots. You can see what's left of his tree stand.

The house peaks out from the burned timber.

Good morning old mountains. Oh how I love you.. =)

Some trees will not recover from their skeletons.

Meals are hard to come by with all the small rodents gone from the fire. Ken and I watched as he ran away.

Mesquite trees are greening up.

More ash drifts.

I hope he makes it. Just stay AWAY FROM November "my buffalo" and you will...

Here is November now. She made it thru October earning the name November. =) Her open wound on the side of her belly is MUCH smaller now. Ken says she's a tough ole gal,, well he doesn't say "gal". I feel certain all the prayers and healing thoughts have helped her along the way. She's still pretty rough looking and I don't think she has a clue she has more of her furry kind on the ranch. Oh well she's doing better and that's what I care about. I love this ole buffalo... =)

Ken and I are grateful for what we have. Even though starting over wasn't in our plans, it's become a part of our everyday life. Plans to buy more deer are in the future whenever we think the Ranch will support them. We have plans to plant trees next spring.
We watched a video yesterday of a deer hunt that took place here last year and we both got emotional. Seeing the tall bluestem, the ground cover and trees, it looked so different then.

I've realized for myself to feel pain, to cry, to talk, to get mad and to throw a hissy ass fit are important for my process of healing. I can't hold it in..

When you love something so dearly and it becomes a part of you, understanding and feeling pain are a huge part of the healing process.

Thank you to all of our family and friends for saying that little prayer before you close your eyes and say good night. Because it's working... =)

Grammy, Monica and Landon

2011-11-09T20:38:00.001-06:00

To my beautiful Raven whom I love with all my heart..

Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord, my soul to keep;
Guide and guard me through the night

and wake me with the morning's light

Enjoy Grammy!! Life is good! =)

Grammy, Landon and Momma.. =)

The loves of my life...

Grandpa Joe holding Landon.. =)

My smile grows when I see the Wichita's. Home!!

Little Hunter Henson

2011-11-02T12:35:00.001-05:00

Ken and Joe worked on our gate yesterday and I played with Hunter. Then after having him all day I finally thought of my camera..

He wore both me and Moxy out. Moxy got a bath at the creek, then we hiked twice, found many sticks to throw, played in the birdbath because his face and hands were black, feed the birds, and threw the ball for Moxy until they both were yawning. What a fun day.

What a cutie pie!

Destry and Di in Hydro

2011-10-31T07:59:00.002-05:00

Only 50 miles away, Ken and I drove up to visit Vernon, Di, Barb, Big Destry, and Destry.

They live in the land of peanuts or goobers. This is a drying bin. Peanuts go into the bins and the Oklahoma wind dries them before going onto the next stage.

Ken, Di, Des, and Destry

Des wanted to show us Steve. I meant to ask why they called him Steve and forgot.

Steve enjoyed hanging with the boys.

This made me smile and brought a bunch of boy memories my way.

Then we were off to the farm where deer and pig hunting was a daily game.

How does a pig I mean deer eat corn?

No task is too big. How much wood can a beaver cut?

Des and TC wanted Ken to see all the places deer and hogs can hide.

With the cottonwoods starting to turn colors on the river bottom and the fall sunshine it was a beautiful day to spend with friends.

One of the deer blinds sitting at the top of the bluff.

TC, Ken, Di, Destry and Des. We sure did have a wonderful time hanging with the fam.

Great view of the South Canadian River bottom.

Vernon stayed home to keep the home fires burning while we toured the hunting area. Thanks for sharing your family.

Di will be having a big Halloween Party at her house tonight for all the kids. She had this cake made. They'll have hotdogs, brisket, cakes, puddings, pies and all the fixin's.. What lucky kiddos to have someone who cares so much about them and wanting to make their night a memorable one. Trick or Treat!!

Her yard is decorated for all the kids to see and have fun..

Ken and I had such a great time. Thanks for showing us Hydro and the things you love to do. We are still stuffed from eating so much good food.... =)

Alyson and Tanner waiting on Dec 15th

2011-10-29T14:07:00.000-05:00

Becky, Aly's Mom took pictures of the kids.. She took some good one too... =)

Buffalo once again on Tarbone Ranch

2011-10-28T15:07:00.000-05:00

Moxy is watching me from the front seat of our truck as the buffalo are loaded. They are shaking the truck all around.

Thanks Don and Dede for letting us use your trailer. Dinner is on us!!

Mt Sheridan, Mt Poco and Tarbone Mountain are on the horizon as we are

releasing the Buffalo on Tarbone Ranch. What a glorious day...

Tah Da Ke Boom Eek Ka Oop.

it was raining when Ken opened the trailer door. I'm backing up as he turned and stared me down...Okay I'll give you space..

The next day, the new herd has settled down on their new home.

As you can see things are starting to turn green. They are enjoying the sunshine and cooler weather. We have two mature bulls, one yearlng bull and two pregnant cows. Or at least we hope the females are mommas with babies...

Saddle Mtn is peaking up over the horizon. Tarbone Ranch heals under the hooves of the new bison right where their ancestors called home many moons ago.

Our lone surviving Buffalo, October was in front of the house when we got home from the auction. Some of her wounds looks better, others not so good. It was her right side that was burned. She lost her right eye for sure. Now I see open wounds on her belly.. Days like this when I see different wounds makes my heart ache....Please say a little prayer for her... We bought more buffalo today, I was so excited about her seeing them and having a herd once again..
May the spirit of the buffalo give her the strength to heal and move with the rest.

Alyson's Baby Shower

2011-10-23T15:45:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure how this picture of Aly and I came out on top but it did and that makes me happy.. Aly you look absolutely beautiful!! Your glow was shining ever so brightly and for good reason. Love is in the air..

Taylor Ken Cook, you are a loved little boy before you even arrived. It will only get better..

Aunt Sheila, Alyson's cousin has started spoiling him already. OU warm up suit to wear while working out with Dad and Mom... =) Sheila it was so good to see you.. =)

Nikki and Aly are all smiles. They've been bff's for a while. An exciting time for both of them.

Taylor Ken, your Momma and Daddy are going to have so much fun putting things away in your bedroom. Aly, you are so loved... =)

Tara and Alyson

OU BABY!!!!!

Serena, Marti, Kaleen, Monica, Karen and Tara all hosted the shower and Marti's parents house.. Thanks David and Karen for everything.

This was too funny and cute... Pee-pee Teepee!!! They have thought of everything!!

So TRUE!!!!

Christmas will be so much fun!!!

Alyson and her Mom Becky. They look so much alike..

Grandma holding on tight to her babies.

All the wonderful books for everyone to read to Taylor..

The shower party

The nursery rhyme games we played. I wasn't very good at that game.

Then it was how many squares of toilet paper around Aly's baby belly...

Come to find out she is ten squares of toilet paper around. Carol and Karen doing the counting.

Fayanne and Serena were all about the nursery rhymes.

Taylor, you're going to have so many clothes from which to choose.

I loved the overalls and buffalo shirt and Auntie Sheila.

Karen quilted Taylor a beautiful baby quilt made from her warm hands and big heart.

Angie made a tied fleece blanket for him to keep warm and cozy at night... =)

Tara with her Mom. Two beautiful women.. =)

Serena with Kaydee and Fayeanne...I Loved getting to visit with you... =)

Fayeanne knew what this Cook baby needed for playing... It was Camo!!!

Auntie Sheila, Auntie Marti and Mommy Aly.... =)

I still have Hunter's and Tanner's crocheted blankets Aunt Angie made over 25 years ago. Now Taylor will have his own labor of love crocheted blanket. Love you Sister!

Kaleen and Aly have been bff's for a very long time. Kaleen shared some funny stories with us about them growing up.

Auntie Marti, you did such an awesome job decorating for Taylor's baby shower. All your hard work and labor of love were seen thoughout the house.

I have a feeling Taylor is going to be spoiled by his Auntie M.. =)

Toys, books, wagons, trikes, building blocks and toys that were once Marti's and her brother Thomas's

Taylor Ken Cook

Yeah, I really liked this one!!!! =) Taylor you are loved by so many. Everyone is so anxious for your arrival.

Landon at 3 weeks

2011-10-21T18:19:00.000-05:00

This little blue jacket that you see Landon wearing is the jacket I brought Hunter home in... =)

Monica, Adam and Landon have a wonderful world ahead of them.. If you'll notice Landon is wearing camo.

Love between a Father and Son

Happy Three year Anniversary....

Okay Monica and I decided that while Landon milk drunk.. We'd take pictures....

We took so many pictures.. Had him twisted and turned.. and he never woke up...

Sweet Sweet boy!!!

We had fun while it lasted...

Napping with his boy...

Monica is working on his Halloween costume.

Can you tell life is starting to be fun... Had a fun few days staying with M&A.. Love, love, love that sweet boy...

Friends stopped by for a visit.. and thought Landon was simple adorable...

Trabone Ranch after the rain

2011-10-10T18:15:00.000-05:00

Colors were beautiful after the rain. Green is on the way!!!

2 inches of rain.. Nice!

Mount Sheridan.

Tarbone Mountain

Big Elm tree field.

Ken putting out hay...

I can see flesh on her hip.. Not good! I'm so sorry October....

Where the hay will take you

2011-10-09T18:32:00.001-05:00

We went to Missouri to pick up hay and see my BFF's. What a great time we had too.

It felt really good to see Jill Lanette =) and the boys. We've been friends going on 25 years. We've spent more than half of that laughing... She is a funny bunny!! We told stories, got to see her parents, ate a wonderful meal...and best of all.. see her boys..

After we left Jill's house, we were off to Angie's parents.. This is another great chapter in my life.. Angie stood by my side when Ken and I were married 29 years ago. We've had our babies together.. Motherhood for us was seeing each other every day if possible.. My first trip to Missouri with Angie was to see her parents. Our kiddo's were still in diapers and our hubbies off hunting somewhere,, so away we went, four kids and a loaded suburban.

Angie's Mom and Dad had blooming flowers everywhere..

Saturday was the night for the family/friends weiner roast, hay ride, marshmallow roasting, chit chatting good time... =)

The flowers were just beautiful!!

A boat made into a fish pond!!

Alan enjoys working in his buildings.

He had many treasures..

The man was so organized.. I loved it!!

Old and new, a nice mix of both.. =)

George and Angie had their grand boys Andrew and Kade, with em.

Grammy pulling the boys in the wagon..

I have a new appreciation for trees..

Talented yes.. flexible heck yeah!!!!

Andrew found it to be a little more difficult, but he was able to kick them legs right over the top of his head... Amazing!!

Oh yeah, we did get hay... Blessed with friends... Terry and Cheryl loaned us their trailer to haul it. "that will be another blogging story"

Alan, George and Ken loaded us 130 bales of hay... NICE!!

Alan and Shirley Kiral... Thank you so much for sharing your home and family with us. You are a beautiful couple spending your golden years making your place an forgettable paradise for all to enjoy... We're blessed to call you family.. =)

Alan had some big pieces of styrofoam, PERFECT for archery shooting. Thanks from Tarbone Ranch.

Ken and George loading the styrofoam onto the hay..

Angie with her Mom Shirley. Now this is an amazing woman.. She has canned any and everything you could possibly imagine.. even venison. Oh did I mention she can cook too!! You've had a good teacher Angie... =)

Andrew you cutie pie!

New knees in motion!!

Engineered by Alan Kiral.. Weenie Roosters/ marshmallow sticks..

The bonfire before!

I hope my asparagus looks like this someday..

Afternoon football.. OU 55-tx-17 and better yet: OSU 70 - ku 28

Hay ride!!

Shirley riding her four-wheeler with Angie yelling in the background "MOM SLOW DOWN"!!!

Guys turn to ride..

My bud!!

Great Grandma Shirley loving on Harper.

More Fam!!

They brought the women folk wildflowers!! How sweet... =)

Carol with Avery

George and Ken did some shooting as well.

Golden Pond!

She had me laughing as usual..

The bonfire in action!

Valerie, Avery, Drew and Harper

Me and my BFF!!

WOW!

"I got you something" she says to me with a giggle. A friendship ball...I found it for you after the TR fire.

What she doesn't realize is that..

I'm the color red

she's the color green..

together we travel sight unseen..

she knows of my sorrow and feels my pain
What she doesn't realize, she lifts my heart
sight unseen.
Thank you Angie ~ Love you Always and forever~

This little yellow and red bird landed in our truck.

Bringing me sunshine smiles..

I hold dear to my heart..

Jilly bean we are stars in the sky

not always seen but always together..

I love you Jill you bring laughter to my life.

Alan and Shirley's yard was showered with acorns. These white oak acorns are as big as golf balls!

So George and I filled an old suitcase full of acorns and brought them back to Oklahoma to plant and feed our deer...

This lifetime has blessed us with treasured family and friends..

Thank you Great Spirit...

Landon is happily here and Taylor is on his way

2011-10-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

Karen is all smiles holding Landon.

Aunt Marti and Uncle Hunter are proud to show off baby Landon

Rylee thinks it's pretty neat to have a new cousin.. =)

Uncle Jason remembering the days when Rylee was that little.. =)

Monica enjoying everyone waiting on her and getting some well needed rest.

Brandy was anxious to hold him in her arms.. =)

Every cell in her body was jumping with excitement. Today Tanner and Aly get to see Baby Taylor in 3-D.. =)

Jeff was able to come up to see his future Grandson in 3-D..

Here is our Baby Taylor.. =)

All snugged in Mom's belly... He melts my heart..=)

Rylee was spending the weekend with us so she was able to see him in 3-D as well.

Thanks Jenny, YOU ROCK!!! You've made this family so HAPPY!!!!

Happy Dad and Mom sharing the joy with the rest of us... =)

Jeff and Aly..

Happy Dad to be has a lot to be HAPPY about..

When we got home from the OKC, Miss Moxy needed a bath so Rylee, Pawpa & I took her to the creek to play and get a bath.

This is Mac who decided he wanted to be fed after all.

Rylee fell in love with them big brown eyes... =)

Thanks Mac for help healing our hearts....

Welcome into the world Landon

2011-09-29T18:40:00.000-05:00

Because we had so many cameras at the hospital, I was able to get most of the pics. Again the order in how it happened is not correct.... Because sometimes things don't always work out the we you'd like. Hah! ~Enjoy~ TC

Adam, Monica, Landon and Dr Waymen.

Here are Mom and Landon coming down the hall toward their recovery area. She was happy,

Landon got a little stubborn and tied a knot around his leg with the cord. Maybe he just wanted to stay longer. Since he was predicted to be around 9 lb, Everyone thought that he might should be forthcoming. Landon: for the record, Mom always wins. With a team effort, he arrived, Finally!!

Memaw and Uncle Hunter were beaming when they got a chance to hold the little guy.

David and Monica waiting for Landon's arrival...

Blood core was taken and will be frozen in time.. Very cool!

Uncle Hunter

The morning after delivery, he has his eyes open listening to his daddy's voice...

Worn out!! Tanner hands Monica her baby..

Landon, you have a very proud Daddy!

Momma is inspecting all the fingers and toes... =)

Mother and Son only 12 hr after delivery.

The Uncle Cook boys holding Landon

Tanner will be next in line for this Daddy title because Aly will be delivering in Dec... Yea!!

Uncle Tanner

Uncle Hunter

I'm sure Landon is thinking he's seeing double.. =)

Hunter handing him over to Grandpa Terry Trosclair..

Two grams trying to text our friends about his arrival. Look at us we can't even see to text...

This was the clock when M & L came out of Delivery.

Do you think Grandpa Terry is proud??

The whole fam was waiting in the hall for a first glimpse of Landon & Mom.

We think PawPaw Ken pinched the little guy!

Two proud men right there.

And there's two more!

Aunt Marti and Uncle Hunter brought a fun book for the newborn Landon.

Memaw and Grandpa Joe switching.

Proud Grampa Joe.

That's a proud, but tired new Daddy right there. Good job Adam! You kept the lid on the whole situation.

The lineup of Aunts, Uncles and Grandparents and this is just one side of the hall.

There is a special gleam in Daddy Adam's eyes for sure, for good reason.

Memaw and Pawpaw can hardly wait to spend more time with Landon.

Wow, look at Landon!

Adam's mom, Monica took a turn at cuddling Landon.

I might have hogged the baby a little.

The lineup of grandpas coming down the hall to see Landon.

Terry was happy to greet another grandbaby to his clan.

Memaw Tammy and Grandmom Monica googooing!

OMG, look at the baby!

Grandma Serena was especially thrilled with her first grandchild. Look out Landon, I feel a "spoiling" on the way.

Excitement!

Smiles and grins all around.

Four grandmas, what a lucky boy.

Grandma Serena and Landon

Memaw and Grandma, smiling of course.

Down the hall to the newborn area to hold Landon.

That's a happy family in the delivery room.

Daddy and new son, really new son in the delivery room.

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Aunt Marti can really COO to Landon.

Aunt Aly is next to bring a member to the family. She is practicing holding Landon.

Landon weighed 7 lb 15 oz. Big boy!

Tired, but happy Mom.

Early in the day, expectant parents opened a gift from David and Monica.

MeMaw and Pawpaw were anxiously awaiting the arrival.

Tanner and Aly brought baby boy balloons.

Joe was heavy into thought waiting for the arrival.

Alyson was taking it all in so she knows what to expect;

Soon to be Doctors, Hunter and Tanner are showing Dad what the monitor are monitoring.

Info was everywhere.

Hunter was reassuring Monica!

Waiting, waiting, waiting!

Poor Adam was exhausted before the delivery. Even more so later.

Adam was keeping all the distant relatives informed.

Chart of her contractions. Early on.

Adam discovered Landon was anxious to see the world, NOT!

Wow! We are delirious with joy after Landon arrived healthy and happy!

For the record PawPaw helped with the edit of this blog.

Serena's 50th dinner

2011-09-29T14:48:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when you think you have it all figured out... Life will show you it has other plans..

Monica had a surprise birthday party planned for Serena and things got changed because of the TR wildfire. Then her birthday is actually Sept 30th..another plan went into place. Monica "was" going to have her baby September 27,,but life says NO,, you'll be having Landon on the 28th... Okay LIFE..... We'll adjust,,, we'll fix Serena's happy birthday dinner on Landon's supposed to be due date at Monica's house.... and we did!! we had a wonderful time!!!!

Adam trying to stay busy because they both thought they'd be at the hospital having a baby today..

Because the hospital was so busy and Monica was having a healthy pregnancy. The other women went before her.. So here she is being a good sport cooking up buffalo burger for some yummy lasagna. This was our first to ever fix together... It was good and we had fun fixing it... Love you Grammy!

Here's the birthday girl all smiles holding her 50th bouquet.

Adam couldn't sit still, here he is getting ready to clean the pool. Frogman!

Kuja, you're sweet... =)

Landon, you have so much to look forward to.

Lucky little boy!!

Aly sent Serena a HB message on FB in Italian.. Very Clever.. =)

Marti listening in on the mommy nesters...

Adam also made time to make Kuj a sign of her own. Lucky dog!

Marti is all smiles sitting in Landon's room.. =)

I think Ken finally got Adam to sit down..

Happy Birthday Beautiful!!

Grandpa Joe watching the love of his life blow out her candles.... =)

What a great afternoon it turned out to be..

Gotcha ya!

Me!

Pretty tight group of women here..

And the rest of the fam.. Excited now about tomorrow!!!!

Painting at T & A house

2011-09-25T12:06:00.000-05:00

Here we are fixing fence. You can see by the bent T-post it was hit hard. The days here on TR seem to be one step forward two steps back at times. Unfortunately animals are still going down. Last week being a tough week.

New and better week ahead..

The elk herd fared the best and the bull elk are in full rut. Studley Dudley the bull definitely has a bad attitude, not even letting the four-wheeler near his harem of cows.

From the heat of the fire a giant rock cracked in two.

I left here Friday to spend the day with our girls. With Monica due any day, Aly and I thought for sure we could get her to go into labor by putting her to work painting....Well......It didn't work..

Both girls with baby bellies. Monica's due date is Tuesday Sept 27 and Aly Dec. 15.

I love my Life!!!!

Aly wanted to paint the inside of the house before baby Taylor arrived. Here I am doing my job.. or Labor of love!!

All smiles as she awaits for the obvious. Landon... =)

M and I had fun playing in Taylor's room

Tanner's is thrilled to be doing this....I mean thrilled to have all the great help!

Adam painting the ceilings.

Marti showed up after school and gave her helping hand as well.

I'm not sure when this picture was taken. But someone??? had fun painting Taylor on the belly...Where the green paint come from????? Where was I at???? You Goobers!

Silly Rabbit!!

Me and my boy, painting his boy's room.... I love being a MeMaw!!

Our girls.... I love seeing their smiles!!!!

I think this nest is getting closer to completion. With two happy birds!

Finished and everything put back.... Dang!!!! We're good!

Finishing touches to Taylor's room..

I called on my way home yesterday and was talking to Ken, I asked ,, what are you doing?? He said eating peanut butter and Jam sandwich.. I grinned and asked did Di send us "more" homemade bread... He says YEP, and it's Soooo GOOD!!! What a beautiful friend you are spoiling us the way you do. Di's Homemade bread is the best!!! =)

Things that heal the heart

2011-09-18T18:51:00.001-05:00

We have four fawns we've been babying along. One particular one i check on daily. Today she'd followed her mother to a different area. Thank you Great Spirit for giving them strength .. =)

That tomato and corn cob may not mean anything to you... But let me tell ya it means a whole lot to the Cook Fam.. =) What this means is that I made a truck run to okc on friday and picked up an entire pickup load of old produce and the animals are eating it. All of our grass and most all the trees were burned, so we are feeding them alfalfa, deer feed and old produce.

Our elk herd is doing the best. We have one cow elk I worry about. She stays near the creek and I haven't seen her eat nor get up. Although she is in different place in the creek everyday.. My fingers are crossed for you CE.

Our one buffalo that is left. I call her September. She is burned badly and walks like it hurts like hell. She left from in front of the house yesterday headed west at turtle speed. I'm sure she's looking for the rest of her family. I expect she'll be showing back up in front of the house in a few days. I have to believe that all the prayers and energy that so many have sent to us are working. Because everyday she is a little better, and every time Moxy and I go out looking for our babies the sky looks brighter...

Hunter and Marti came home for the weekend which makes everything look better. They're both so much help to us. Marti made chicken chili for lunch then they both helped me put feed in the feeders. Thanks guys you made our weekend wonderful!!

Marti stomping down the bags and standing armed guard.

The blackened earth will turn green in time.

What a beautiful couple inside and out... =) You make us proud!

Moxy and Kimber will sleep for days after playing for days...

Look, Ken and Heather are on TV.... Back when Tarbone was green!

Chillin' on a Sunday afternoon... I love our family!!! I love my life....

Marti with her hands over her eyes..Sees no evil.

We have at least two eight points bucks that survived the fire. Sore feet, keep fighting!! This makes for a happy man!!! Love you Sweetie pie!!

We just want to say Thank you to all who have emailed, phoned, sent prayers, sent energy, fixed food, donated hay and donations. Our hearts are broken but our spirits are lifted because of friends and family like you. Someday we hope to repay you and bring you to Tarbone Ranch fix a big dinner, sit on the deck and celebrate life ..

~Love to you all~

The Cook Clan

Rain fruit and veggies

2011-09-16T17:25:00.003-05:00

A rainbow stretches across the sky giving hope for rain...

Come on RAIN!!!!!

Apples, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, lettuces of every shape and size, watermelon, tomatoes, all kind of veggies and fruit... I think we have happy elk, deer, and bison... =) I'm pretty happy too,,,just to be able to feed them.. Healing process......

Our truck was full even the back seat... Yea!!

Ahhh!!!!

Didn't take long for the elk to find it!!

Thanks Adam... It's all in who you know!! =)