Sweet Thoughts

Random pictures

2011-03-02T17:43:00.006-07:00

Here are some random pictures that I wanted to share. I haven't posted any pictures for awhile so here goes:

Tumbleweeds behind MIL's house. Julie and I raked them all up!

Jeff and Mark fixing the roof. Look at that blue blue sky! One of my cute cute great-nieces. Always has a smile for me.

Crissie watching the dog show.

She loves to watch dogs on television! She watched the whole thing with me.

Jeff's new haircut. He shaved too! But I'm sure it will all grow back soon!

An exciting night at our house. Everyone is playing a computer game together.

It was very exciting for those of us not playingCrissie wanting to sit on my lap and watch TV.

Lena, Dad, Mom and me.

Beautiful Koi fish at the Painted Lady house in St. George

Mom and Dad's anniversary.

Nik drew this picture of their wedding day. It is awesome!

Another cute cute great-niece.

And now you are all caught up. Now that I can access my blog again, I'll post more often. (sure sure sure).

Farewell Dizzy

2011-01-09T20:59:00.002-07:00

Such a sweet face! Isn't he cute?

He loves the camera

He likes to say hello

And he's very tall.

Who would believe that such a sweet dog could cause such trouble. He is so smart, and has learned so many things in the few months we've had him. Unfortunately, Dizzy and my sweet Billie could not get along at all. Billie is 12 years old and has broken off all her canine teeth and Dizzy has sharp little baby teeth. Every time they fought, Billie got really hurt. She has had staples in her leg and was always bleeding somewhere. We had Bark Busters come in and evaluate the dogs. They said that sibling rivalry is very hard to fix and they couldn't guarantee that even after we spent the $600 that Dizzy and Billie would get along!

I could not live with that any longer. I advertised Dizzy on KSL.com and a very nice man came to meet him. Dizzy usually hates everyone, but he really liked this guy. Even when he came back the next day to pick him up, Dizzy didn't even bark. He lives alone, is recently retired and looking for a companion. He also has horses! Dizzy will love running with them.

It was very sad putting him in someone else's car and watching them drive away. It almost felt like giving away one of my children. A very bad, bad child! But it was better than taking him back to the Humane Society which was the other option.

So now we have my sweet Billie and cute Crissie. Our house is much quieter, the dogs stay behind the fence, and best of all, I can pet whichever dog I want whenever I want without someone getting beat up!

Jessie and Troy's Wedding

2010-10-21T11:57:00.007-06:00

My niece Jessica was recently married to Troy Eddy. We were able, at the last minute, to make it down. The trip was fast, but so much fun. We saw everyone (in my family anyway). It was very special to be able to attend the sealing with all my siblings. It was the first time we were all in the temple together. We all sat on the same row, in alphabetical order! And it wasn't even planned that way.

Anyway, here are some of the pictures that Mark and I took at the temple and reception. I wish I would have been able to take a family picture, but everyone's schedules were different that day.

Handsome Father of the Bride:

I don't think he was trying to hit her!

It was a perfect day!

Doug and Patti

Rachel was having fun!

Rachel and Brandan

At the Reception:

They were very nice with the cake

The first dance

Troy was getting a little anxious?

Just get it over with!

Sweet

Heather, Aunt Laurett and Aunt Nora

Aunt Laurett, Aunt Nora and Mom (Emma)

Doug and Patti (they were working hard all day!)

Jessie and Mark

Mark and me

They drove off in style

It was a beautiful wedding and a fun reception. Afterwards we went to dinner with Debbie and Mike and Kelly and Amy. Amy's daughter was also married that same day, so we didn't see her until dinner. I'm sure both Kelly and Amy were exhausted and ready for the day to be over!

Happy Birthday

2010-10-03T14:28:00.012-06:00

Here are a few pictures of our recent trip to Pine Valley for Diane's 50th birthday. The weather was perfect, the food was yummy and the company was..... Well, see for yourself!

To the Rescue

2010-06-09T12:02:00.003-06:00

I just had to share these pictures. I was driving down the road and saw a small crowd of people and a fire engine and wondered what was going on so I stopped and pulled out my camera. The fireman was climbing up to the top of the telephone pole and everyone was looking so worried.

I couldn't see a person stuck up there, or anything strange hanging from the pole or telephone lines, but he grabbed something and came back down the ladder.

Know what it was?

The fireman was rescuing a kitty from the top of the telephone pole! I didn't know that they actually did that, but I now have proof! It really made my day!

My Cross Country Experience

2010-03-22T00:36:00.024-06:00

We left St. George on Friday, March 19th by 9:00. (This is excellent for both of us! Neither is known for getting on the road on time!)

After stopping to visit a couple of friends in Page and Flagstaff AZ we were finally really on the road. Our plan was to make it to Amarillo the first night. However, it was snowing and dark when we got to Albuquerque, so we decided to stay the night there. The next morning we got up early to get a good start. When we looked out the window we could see highway patrol cars blocking the on ramp to the freeway! The news reports all said that I-70 was closed because of a winter storm and would not be opened till noon at the earliest. We went to breakfast and had almost decided to stay there for another day, when the freeway opened. So we headed out planning on making it to Oklahoma City that night.

Just a couple of miles outside of Albuquerque the traffic was at a standstill. I've been in rush hour traffic before, but this was literally stopped on the freeway for what seemed like hours at a time. The fastest we were able to travel was 10 mph! So by the second night, we were just barely past Amarillo, which was where we wanted to be the fist night! We ended up staying in Clinton that night.

This was the view from Albuquerque to Amarillo Texas!

These are in Oklahoma. They have these huge crosses all over. And there are billboards telling you to repent and be saved everywhere. And notice, no mountians anywhere!

After consulting with EVERYONE Debbie knows, we headed North at Oklahoma City and drove through Kansas to avoid more storms and heavy traffic. However, we again were stuck in construction and moving about 10 mph! Every time I drove those first couple of days, we were at a standstill. I decided that maybe I was too prone to speeding so we were being forced to slow down!

Kansas has toll roads. We only had to pay one toll. You get a ticket when you get on a freeway and then pay the toll when you exit.

With fewer trucks on the road, we made it to St. Louis the next night, and finally made it to Weston's house on Monday night. What a long trip! We drove all the time - only stopping for gas and food which we even ate in the car. I was able to get either a magnet or a postcard everytime we stopped though.

I got this shot of the St. Louis arch because I took the wrong freeway and had to exit and turn around. It turned out ok. A little blurry because it's raining on my windshield, but not bad considering it was in the middle of the night.

We decided one of the reasons it took so long to get there was because we went to Brazil and London on the way!

It was so much fun staying there and getting to know Weston and Sariah's kids again. The younger ones didn't remember me, of course, but they did know their Grandma! And the new baby is so sweet. He already has everyone convinced that he can't be alone. He loves company, which is a good thing because I think he'll have plenty of that.

The baby

What a good big brother!

My Roommate

Don't believe that innocent face!

The Screamer! My sidekick

I fell in love with those kids all over again. Weston and Sariah have done a great job and have some special little ones.

Weston took us to a park that overlooks the Ohio River.

It was so green everywhere.

After spending a few days there, it was too soon time to head home. Again because of storm worries, we decided on a different route. We came home via I-80. This is a much faster road, for sure. Even if there isn't much to see, just miles and miles of flat nothing. We made it home in two days. Much better than the 4 it took to get there.

Leaving Ohio

The Mississippi (from the car window)

The view on the way home was pretty much the same as on the way there!

Nebraska? Ohio? They look about the same!

Wyoming and winter again

It was a trip that I will never forget. I'm so glad that Debbie needed someone to travel with. It was a great opportunity to reconnect with my big sister. We talked non stop for the whole 6 days of travel. Neither of us really slept when we weren't driving. There was too much to talk about!

I was very glad to finally get home and see my own family again. It felt like a year since I'd seen anyone! But on Sunday morning, after Debbie left for home, I felt lonely for my sister!

My pictures were all taken from the car window, so they are blurry. I wanted to get a sign welcoming me to each state, but there aren't very many of those, and we drove past them quickly!

Because of some concerns I have recently developed regarding the Internet, I'm not posting any names with these pictures. If you want to know who anyone is, email me.

Pictures from our St. George trip

2010-01-18T21:11:00.007-07:00

The whole group at Mom and Dad's Anniversary party. Almost everyone was there. A few weren't able to make it. I thought that maybe we could photoshop them in later!

The kids had fun tearing up Russell's downstairs!

Doug sang his soon-to-be classic "Spring Garden Pie" song. The story lady

Super Brynlee!

Emma just wanted to go upstairs!Trent telling a "tall" tale

I don't know what Andrew's eating, but it doesn't look like he's enjoying it much!Emma didn't stay mad long. Cutting the cake

What's wrong with this picture?

Much better, Doug.Mason and Andrew

A happy EmmaLisa and MasonTrent, Mason and AndrewMom and Dad and all us "kids"

And Jeff, Grandma Dumas and Mason

Ode to Mom and Dad

2010-01-17T14:48:00.008-07:00

Happily Ever After - A Tale of Epoch Proportions!

Or, Sometimes Life is Like a Fairy Tale

A long time ago in a land far, far away there lived a lovely princess named Emma. Having grown up in the small kingdom of Fredonia, Arizona, and wanting to know more about the big world, Emma longed for the thrill and adventure that could only come by traveling to the big city. Finally, after graduating from High School in 1946, the Princess Emma and her sister were allowed to leave home and embark on the much longed for journey.

They arrived in St. George, Utah, - a much larger and grander kingdom than they had ever imagined – in August. It was very hot in this new kingdom, but Princess Emma loved it there and decided to study at Dixie College so that she would become wise and find her prince. She worked and studied hard under the Dixie sun and decided that this kingdom was alright. But even though she was having such a fun time, she could tell that something was missing from her life.

Also living in the great kingdom of St. George - but unknown by Princess Emma - was a handsome Prince named Kay. Prince Kay had also graduated from High School in 1946 and was fast becoming a very fine young man. When the country went to war, of course he joined and served well, from Fort Douglas, Utah, to Fort Lewis, Washington then to Fort Bliss, Texas, he did all he could to help keep his country free. Finally, he was allowed to rejoin his family back in the kingdom of St. George.

When Prince Kay returned home, he also decided to study at Dixie College so that he could gain the wisdom he needed to someday rule his own kingdom, and maybe find a worthy princess to rule with him.

Time went by and finally our Princess Emma caught just a glimpse of Prince Kay. When she looked at him, she knew in her heart that she was looking at her other half. She wrote home to her mother that she had met the man she wanted to marry. She didn’t know who he was, but she was determined to meet him somehow.

There was to be a great ball in the kingdom. All the youth of the land were eager to see who would be asked to attend. Of course, Princess Emma hoped to be asked by Prince Kay. Unfortunately, another young man, Art, asked our princess to the dance and presented her with a flower. Princess Emma accepted the flower and attended the dance with Art.

Prince Kay also attended the dance with another maiden. The two couples were seated at the same table, so Emma and Kay were able to talk to each other a little. But since each was with someone else, they weren’t able to spend much time together.

Prince Kay felt an instant connection with Princess Emma, and had told a friend that he had met his future bride. However, this made him very sad because he thought that she liked Art more. Kay wondered how he could ever convince Princess Emma to change her mind and marry him.

Unbeknownst to Prince Kay, Princess Emma was not so smitten with Art, in fact, she threw away the flower that he gave her at the dance!

As fate would have it, one day when Princess Emma was studying at the library, Prince Kay walked in with some of his friends. They sat down at the very table where Princess Emma was studying! Emma decided that this was by providence and that she should make him aware of her feelings. While no one was looking, she wrote a note, folded it over, put his name on it and passed it around the table. When it got to Kay, he opened it and read, “How many girls have asked you out to the Girl’s Day Ball?” Prince Kay’s eyes opened wide and his heart started beating so fast he thought it would burst out of his chest. With shaking hands, he wrote down, “none” to which Princess Emma replied, “Will you go with me?” Our prince, not being a fool, and recognizing a good thing when he saw it, answered “Yes!”

Well, gentle reader, you know how the story goes from here. Princess Emma and Prince Kay became engaged at the Fireman’s Ball, and were married in the St. George Temple on January 14, 1950. They have been married for 60 years and have a great many descendants. They have 5 children, 21 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren!

They are responsible for producing business owners, secretaries, principals, lawyers, doctors, teachers, nurses, photographers, tile layers, magicians, mechanics, bankers, artists, beauticians, nutritionists, scrap bookers, rock stars, massage therapists, actors, stage managers, athletes, dancers, missionaries, jewelers, watchmen, scientists, counselors, pianists, and who knows what the future will bring!

This, my friend, is living happily ever after!

The Actual Wedding Picture:

Seymour & Gladys Mitchell, Kay & Emma, Melinda & John Brooksby

Happy 60th Anniversary, Mom and Dad! We had a great time at your party.

(Story written by Kathy, Based on a true story!)

Catching Up

2009-12-10T15:41:00.004-07:00

OK, so I haven't been a really good blogger for awhile. And I'm making no promises to be better, because I know I won't be.

I've been feeling very blessed lately. The first of this year was horrible for my little family. Mark's program at the Community College had been cut, Mason lost his job, I spent a month on a feeding tube, and Lena was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Disease. I was wondering what we did to make the universe mad at us.

Looking back on all that, I still feel blessed. Mark has been successful in his consulting business. It's taken off really well and we are not any worse off financially than we were last year! Mason has a much better job and has a better outlook on the future. Lena has finished Chemo and is starting to feel normal again. Her hair is even coming back already. My problem has completely healed and I'm feeling good most days. Jeff even has a job and is happy.

I look at my neighbors and members of my ward and see lots of problem much bigger than anything we've dealt with so far. I know that Heavenly Father is watching out for us and keeping us safe and happy. My family is going to be alright.

We may be a little crazy but I like us this way!

More Birthdays and Anniversaries

2009-12-01T08:42:00.008-07:00

Not in order and again probably missing someone, Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to some of my favorite people.

Emma (My Mom)

Daniel

Aunt Nora

Eric

Tammy and Russell

Doug and Patti

Patti

- There, Lena. That's who they are.

November Birthdays

2009-11-19T08:02:00.007-07:00

Not in order, and I've probably missed someone! Let me know so I can add them (you) to my calendar of people I forgot to send cards to! I love you all and hope that you had fantastic birthdays!

Halloween Party

2009-11-02T13:03:00.007-07:00

Pictures from Lena's Halloween/I'm done with Chemo party at our house on Saturday. Tons of people, tons of food and tons of fun! Thanks to everyone who made it over.

Happy Anniversary to Me

2009-10-27T08:24:00.002-06:00

Today is my two year cancer-free anniversary.

I was lucky: I didn't have as tough a time as Lena is having. Didn't have to have chemo and only three radiation treatments. I do have to go in several times a year for a screening and will have to for three more years. But they aren't bad.

Just thought I'd mention it.

Another Pleasant Valley Sunday

2009-10-18T22:30:00.003-06:00

Today was a typical Sunday, but for several reasons it just felt a little more special all day long.

1. I attended a broadcast Stake Conference (I guess it's called an area conference now) at the Stake Center (where we used to attend church), saw old friends from the now extinct 28th ward, and listened to the Prophet of God. Now I don't usually comment on that, but it was very special. All the speakers talked about the importance of families and on blessings that come from selfless service. These hit home to me more today for some reason.

2. My wonderful husband cooked another awesome Sunday Dinner. He does so much, works so hard, and still cooks fantastic meals for me every day. Again, very typical, but today it just seemed extra special to me.

3. Two of our nephews who are attending the University of Utah came over for dinner. They do every Sunday, but again special today.

4. Lena and Nik also came over for dinner. They do most Sunday's, and when they don't we miss them. Having them here is always a delight - and very entertaining.

5. Mason had a "friend" over for a meet-the-parents night. She was very nice, and actually had been at the Conference Center for the broadcast Stake Conference!

6. All of my kids were together for dinner. Happens quite often, but warms a mother's heart to have them all here and happy. Makes me all warm and squishy inside.

As I was fixing "go packages" for the boys and Lena and Nik, I was especially thankful to have everyone together. It just felt right.

Another Happy Birthday

2009-10-14T11:22:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was my SIL Julie's birthday. How old are you now, Julie? She is such a fun and loving person to be around. Always positive about life.

Two of her boys were driving down from Salt Lake to St. George to surprise her for her birthday. I hope it was a wonderful surprise! I know she misses having them around. Their house went from full to empty rather quickly.

Anyway, Happy Birthday Julie. I hope it was a great one for you!

Bulbs Anyone?

2009-10-10T11:26:00.002-06:00

I have tons of Iris around my house. Purple, white and yellow. I've decided to thin them out a bit. If anyone is interested in Iris bulbs, let me know. They are by far the easiest flower I've ever grown. Big beautiful flowers that smell very sweet. I love having them around!

Happy Birthday Lena Bena!

2009-09-24T07:09:00.004-06:00

Don't you just want to pinch those cute little cheeks?

Happy 25th birthday, sweetie. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Happy Anniversary

2009-08-22T11:36:00.002-06:00

Happy 28th Anniversary sweetheart!

I love you even more!

Washington Visit

2009-08-20T17:43:00.006-06:00

Last week Mark had to be in Lynnwood, Washington for a conference. Since this is close to where he was stationed last, and where Lena was born, I was excited to tag along with him. We had so much fun seeing everything again. The weather was just as I expected it to be, cold and cloudy and rainy. That's what you expect up there. The only thing that we couldn't find was the house we lived in last (because we couldn't remember the address!). I was able to talk to a friend that I haven't seen in 24 years!

Here are some pictures that might be interesting:

This is the view of Campbell Lake and Whidbey Island from the top of Mt. Erie.

Again, this is Campbell Lake. This little island is the only island within an island in the continental US. One winter, Erick and Mark walked on the ice out to the island. I didn't attempt it because I'm not sure-footed enough. I can't remember if SR went out there or not!
This is the Puget Sound going under Deception Pass Bridge.

Deception Pass Bridge

These were taken in Rhododendron State Park on Whidbey.

This is Ala Spit. We used to live just across the bay

The view of our first house from Ala Spit

This is where we lived when we first moved to the island. The tide would come in right up to the edge of the decking! It is so beautiful.

This is looking down the island from Deception Pass Bridge

I have more pictures, but I don't want to make this too long. I'm so glad that I got to go back up there. Someday we'll take the kids and show Lena where she was born.

Happy Birthday Jordyn.

2009-07-28T13:35:00.002-06:00

Today is my great-niece's 12th birthday. Can you believe it? I stole these pictures from Lisa. I hope you don't mind.

Anyway, Happy Birthday Jordyn!

Happy Birthday Mom D

2009-07-21T16:09:00.008-06:00

Saturday we celebrated Mark's Mom's 75th Birthday! We all went down to St. George and had a great time. All her children, and almost all her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren were there.

We held the party at the La Quinta Inn at the Bloomington exchange. They were very helpful and nice about the big group. We had a conference room upstairs and after some table wrangling by Crystie and Diane, the room looked more like a party room than a conference room.

Lena made the invitations, Nik made a "slide show" on his computer of more than 300 pictures that everyone sent in, Cheryle and Danny made a large banner that said "Happy Birthday Gram-mom", Mike and Julie put an announcement in the newspaper inviting everyone, Crystie decorated the room and Fua made wonderful food! Mark made a super fun "Who wants to be a millionaire" game that Mom had to play with the final question being "Which of your children is your favorite?"

It was so much fun to visit with everyone and see all the kids growing up and having kids of their own already! Everyone was taking pictures - we should exchange them!

Here are some of my pictures, in no order -

This is Julie and Fua - who is a fantastic cook!Erick, Casey and Taven
Marty

Jamie, Kelly, Grandma, Jared and Tyler

Casey

Camden and his "friend" (I didn't get her name!)

Kelly and Tyler

Mark

This is a really good picture of my Mom!

Jeff and me

The cake - I didn't make it I bought it. I was lazy!

Lena taking pictures

Carman playing Millionaire

Again, playing Millionaire

Jesse and Matthew

And some group shots

I have lots more pictures, but this is enough for now. All of them are just snap shots. I didn't pose anyone. Julie has those! I need to get them from her.

Anyway, Happy Birthday, Gram-mom! I hope you enjoyed your day. We love you!

(I hope I got all those names right! If I didn't, please correct me!)

2009-07-16T12:10:00.001-06:00

I CAN'T TAKE ANYMORE!!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Wishes

2009-07-14T10:14:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday Weston!

I hope you have a wonderful day! Enjoy some cake for Uncle Mark and me!

I can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks!

Family Vacation and Reunion

2009-07-01T14:47:00.008-06:00

This year the Brooksby Family Reunion at the ranch involved helping put up fence. We always love going to the ranch so it wasn't hard to decide to pitch in. Mason worked hard on the fence with Uncle Pres for 4 days. He's strong and willing to help so it was a good place for him to be. We were happy that he was able to go down with us.

Here are some pictures of the ranch - in no order:Mason, Kelly, Russell, Uncle Pres, Richard, Jeff
Jeff, Kelly, Mason Russell putting on the gate

Jeff and Mason - I love the scenery at the ranch!

Kelly, taking a break (and obviously having a good time!)

Mason and me hiding from the rain in the barn.

Billie playing in the water and avoiding the camera

A few years ago for this reunion, we rented a cabin in Duck Creek Village. It was so nice that we have done it every year since. Even when there isn't a reunion! This year Mason came down to help with the fence, so we got to spend time with him, too. We had a blast on Cedar Mountain - We even drove up to Panquitch, but didn't have your address, Lisa, so we didn't visit, sorry!

Here are some pictures from the vacation part of the trip:

Mark at Mammoth Cave

Jeff "Fishing"

Fishing (but not catching) at Navajo Lake. It was so pretty. I got lots of reading done!

Our family, even Billie!

I'd post more pictures, but either blogger or my computer is driving me crazy! Anyway, we had a wonderful time and can't wait till next year to do it all again!

Mid-Life

2009-06-25T10:03:00.002-06:00

I can almost feel myself losing weight while typing this!

Several TV shows lately have gone on and on about how mid-life is a great time for women. Oprah had a whole show on how great menopause will be....Puhleeeeeeeze!

Mid-life is when the growth of hair on our legs slows down. This gives us plenty of time to care for our newly acquired mustache.

In mid-life women no longer have upper arms, we have wing spans. We are no longer women in sleeveless shirts, we are flying squirrels in drag!

Mid life is when you can stand naked in front of a mirror and you can see your rear without turning around.

Mid-life is when you go for a mammogram and you realize that this is the only time someone will ask you to appear topless.

Mid-life is when you want to grab every firm young lovely in a tube top and scream, "Listen honey, even the Roman empire fell, and those will too!"

Mid-life brings wisdom to know that life throws us curves and we're sitting on our biggest ones.

Mid-life is when you look at your know-it-all, cell phone-carrying teenager and think: "For this I have stretch marks?"

In mid-life your memory starts to go. In fact the only thing we can retain is water.

Mid-life means that your Body By Jake now includes Legs by Rand McNally - more red and blue lines than an accurately scaled map of Wisconsin.

Mid-life means that you become more reflective....You start pondering the "big" questions. What is life? Why am I here? How much Healthy Choice ice cream can I eat before it's not longer a healthy choice?

But mid-life also brings with it an appreciation for what is important. We realize that breasts sag, hips expand, and chins double, but our loved ones make the journey worthwhile. Would any of us trade the knowledge we have know for the body we had way back then? Maybe our bodies simply have to expand to hold all the wisdom and love we've acquired.

That's my philosophy, and I'm sticking to it!

Leave a comment and you will lose two pounds.

Post this message and you'll lose 10 pounds.

Ignore this message and you will gain 10 pounds immediately. (That's why I had to post this - I didn't want to risk ignoring it!)

Happy Anniversary!

2009-05-18T11:42:00.010-06:00

Happy Anniversary Lena and Nik!

I hope you have a great day planned with lots of fun stuff to do.

BTW: It's their "Leather" Anniversary! That reminds me.....

President Hinckley Quotes

2009-05-13T11:02:00.005-06:00

OK, I stole this from my cousin's blog. But I love these quotes, too! I hope they inspire you today.

"Life is just like an old time rail journey ... delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."

“Our lives are the only meaningful expression of what we believe and in whom we believe. And the only real wealth, for any of us, lies in our faith.”

"It is a time to be considerate and good, decent and courteous toward one another in all our relationships. In other words, to become more Christlike."

"My plea is that we stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we 'accentuate the positive.' I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort."

"The only way to get anything done is to get on your knees and plead for help and then get on your feet and go to work."

"How grateful I am, how grateful we all must be for the women in our lives."

"It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us...if we put our trust in Him, if we pray to Him, if we live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."

"Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, but with great purpose in heart."

Quilt

2009-05-13T10:49:00.002-06:00

So I saw this quilt on "someone else's" blog and I loved it. I needed more chances to win so I'm posting it here on mine, too.
The blog it comes from is Pigtails and Snails. She has amazing quilts!

Happy Birthday Jeff!

2009-05-10T10:20:00.004-06:00

That was then:

This is now! (with his cousin Jesse on the left)

Happy 16th birthday Jeff! I hope it's not spoiled by sharing it with Mother's Day.

We love you!

Happy Cinco de Mayo

2009-05-05T12:16:00.003-06:00

Here's a little quiz that was quite enlightening!

Enjoy the day and have a burrito for me!

Art Nest Pincushion RingGIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-05-01T15:22:00.001-06:00

Art Nest Pincushion RingGIVEAWAY!!!!

This is an awesome pincushion! Check out the blog for a chance to win one!
I did!

Hodgkin's Disease

2009-04-20T09:22:00.003-06:00

I found this website that puts Hodgkin's disease in terms that I can understand. It doesn't make it look any better but I understand what they are talking about. If you are interested in finding out more, you can check it out: http://kidshealth.org/teen/diseases_conditions/cancer/hodgkins.html

It still looks like a long uncomfortable road. I wish I could do something to make it easier.

Happy Birthday to......

2009-04-14T11:21:00.005-06:00

ME!

OK, so this picture was actually taken last year at my big birthday party. But I don't have any good ones of me now, so you'll just have to pretend! I'm hoping that 51 will prove to be a better year than 50 was! And 50 wasn't all that bad.

I have been called to be a Primary teacher again. I'll have the 8 year old class. That means that MY kids still won't be in my class! I'll have to wait another year to get them again. Oh well, at least I'll get to see them every week. I'm happy to be back in Primary. I love teaching kids. It keeps me young!

On A Lighter Note...

2009-04-09T10:00:00.005-06:00

I just realized that I haven't posted pictures of Jeff's hair! He told me that when I got my feeding tube out, he would get his hair cut. When we went down to St. George last, the first thing I did was go up to Lacey's house and arrange that haircut. I did like his long hair, don't get me wrong. I love long hair on guys. But I couldn't pass up the opportunity when it was right there!

So - here are the before pictures:

This is during:

This is the pile of hair!

And the after pictures. I think he looks loads better. He wouldn't smile, but he likes his hair, too.

Now it just looks like he needs a haircut! Thanks Lacey for the great cut.

Is It A Car Or What?!?

2009-04-09T09:43:00.003-06:00

Before Lena had her biopsy, the doctor came in and talked to us about what was going to happen. He described it like this:

We see something in the street. It might be a car. We do the biopsy and the first result is finding out if its a car or not. Once we determine it is a car, we have to find out what type of car it is Ford, Chevy or Honda. So we find out it's a Ford. The next step is to figure out what type of Ford it is - Explorer or Mustang, etc. So basically its finding out a little bit at a time.

Yesterday her doctor called her and told her that they still couldn't tell if it is a "car" or not! Her doctor will confer with the oncologist and they'll let her know. She gives more detail in her "Cancer" blog: http://moreandmoreeveryday.blogspot.com/ .

I've been sending out a group email updating her condition. If you haven't been receiving it, and you would like to, let me know. I probably won't do many more updates on my blog. She's doing a fine job with that.

I Need Some Happy News

2009-04-05T13:09:00.002-06:00

We have received some frightening news. Lena went to the doctor to have a lump on her neck checked out. After a CT scan they have decided that it is lymphoma. On Tuesday she has to go in to have the node removed so they can tell what type of lymphoma it is. This has been a difficult weekend for me; it's not easy to hear your child has cancer and will have to endure chemotherapy.

She discusses her feelings in her blog http://lenaenglish.blogspot.com/2009/04/might-as-well-do-this-now.html . It sounds like she's dealing with it pretty well.

I'll post more when we get the results from her surgery. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for her. She asked me if she meets her quota on prayers if she won't have to have the chemo!

I could really use some good news! If anyone has some, please tell me!

Fire

2009-04-01T10:44:00.003-06:00

This morning on the news Mark heard that there was a duplex fire in Midvale. His sister lives in Midvale in a duplex. Later this morning, she called Mark and told him it was her duplex! Her son and his fiance live with her and they woke her up. They were able to get out through a window since the fire started in the garage and blocked the door. The police are thinking arson because someone said they saw someone in the garage about 1/2 hour before the fire started. Why would someone do something like that?

The three of them are alright. They are with Breanna's parents right now. They got her dog out, they don't know where the cats are yet, but her turtles didn't make it out. The firefighters brought out her laptop and printer, and she has her cell phone, but that's all. The neighbors gave her a pair of sweat pants to wear since she was in her nightgown.

Everything they had is lost. Since the fire started in the garage, both cars were totally destroyed. They did have renters insurance, but that won't cover everything and nothing can replace sentimental items like pictures. The entire top floor was destroyed by the fire and the bottom floor is covered in water and debris.

Fire has always been one of the things that terrifies me. We really need to be better prepared for something like that. Food storage won't help in that situation. I worry about things like house deeds and insurance papers.

Below is a link to the news story this morning.

http://www.fox13now.com/video/?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=3607296

Strange Days

2009-03-30T09:23:00.002-06:00

You know that feeling you get when you visit a different church? Whether it's your belief or not, you just feel different being there. Like everyone is looking at you wondering who you are. Well, I expect that when I'm visiting someone and attending church. I don't expect to feel that way in my own ward!

It was very different going to church yesterday and not knowing the people around me. I did recognize a few faces from around the last 15 years, but the only people I KNEW were those from the old 28th ward. How sad! The whole routine was different and will take some getting used to. I haven't been to Sunday School class for 10 years! And there were too many people!

A couple of the girls from my old primary class came up and gave me a big hug. That was so nice. I missed my kids yesterday. There are only three from my class of 10 that moved to the new ward with us. But it did seem like those of us who changed wards were suddenly better friends! Sort of like going to your high school reunions, suddenly anyone you recognize is your friend!

The doctrine is the same no matter where it's taught and that is comforting. The Church is true even if a stranger is preaching it!

I Love Monsters!

2009-03-27T19:51:00.003-06:00

Monsters vs. Aliens

We just got back from seeing Monsters vs. Aliens! (in 3D no less) I was thoroughly entertained throughout this movie. The only part I didn't like was the kid behind me kicking my seat back all through the movie!

The movie features the voices of Reese Witherspoon as the 50-foot woman, Susan, Hugh Laurie as the brilliant but insect-headed Dr. Cockroach, Ph.D., Will Arnett as The Missing Link, and Seth Rogen as B.O.B. the blob. Rainn Wilson does the voice of the bad guy, Gallaxhar. and Stephen Colbert is the President and Kiefer Sutherland is General W.R. Monger.

They all do fantastic jobs. I didn't fall in love with any one character like I do in some of the movies (Boo in Monsters Inc, Rhino in Bolt, the T-Rex in Meet the Robinsons, etc) and some of the jokes were lame, but all in all I liked the movie. And I loved the way they used the 3D. There wasn't a bunch of things jumping out at you all the time, but the perspective was fantastic. I've heard mixed reviews about this movie, but I think it's worth seeing. Especially if you have young kids.

Birthday Birthday

2009-03-27T12:49:00.003-06:00

Today we celebrate not one, but TWO birthdays! I don't know how old either of them are, but I want to wish them both a very happy day!

First is Wendell. Wendell is my nephew-in-law. He's a hard working photographer as you'll know if you read Heather's blog! There are always pictures posted on that blog, but never any of Wendell so this is the most current one I have.

Second is Sariah. Sariah is my niece-in-law! She is a hard working mother of four. I don't have a current picture of Sariah either, but I could put one of her cute kids.

Happy Birthday to both of you. I hope all your dreams come true!

Change

2009-03-26T16:29:00.002-06:00

A couple of weeks ago the Stake President came into our ward and dropped a bombshell on us! They dissolved our ward completely. I guess it wasn't totally unexpected, we've had a small ward for a long time. I think there were 25 kids in the whole primary, and there were only 3 Deacons and 2 Teachers! But we were happy together and it was fun to know everyone. President Matsumura just did a "mass release" where he said everyone who has a calling is now released! Very strange.

They put half of us in one ward and half in another. So our dear little 28th Ward no longer exists. Not only that, but after 9 years of serving in the Primary, I now have no lessons to prepare. It's sort of sad, really. I've looked forward to teaching my class again for so long. I had these same kids when I was in the nursery and they were finally old enough to be in my Primary class. Now most of them are in another ward! I haven't been to church since the change so this week will be strange for me.

Jeff went to Mutual last night and said it was strange to have so many young men there. He said that there are some of his friends from school now in our ward! They are supposed to be separate - school and church friends!

First Born

2009-03-12T14:08:00.004-06:00

I saw this on Laurie's blog and thought it was cute.

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? No

2. WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Yes

3. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? Fear, apprehension

4. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 26

6. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? Pregnancy test at the hospital. Mark actually found out first and called me to tell me.

7. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Probably my Mom

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes, but the ultrasounds then were not very good so we didn’t know for sure.

9. DUE DATE? 9-17-1984 (I think)

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Nope not at all.

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? A Pronto Pup (corn dog) from Frostop in St. George

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? Nothing, I’m very easy going (I don't remember being irritated at any rate. Who said I was irritated?)

13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? Girl

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? I really didn’t care, as long as it was healthy.

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? 50 lbs

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? They threw me one in abstention in St. George – We were living in Washington State.

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I can’t remember! Mom sent me pictures of everyone with their gifts though.

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? Not till the delivery. Then she didn’t want to be born and had to have lots of help.

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? Naval Hospital, NAS Oak Harbor Washington

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? 24 hours at least.

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? There was Mark, my obstetrician (who didn’t do forceps births), another obstetrician (who didn’t do episiotomies) the anesthesiologist, the nurse on duty, the pediatrician on duty, the pediatric nurse on duty, and about 6 or 8 corpsmen who wanted to watch the procedure.

23. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? Forceps – but I guess that’s natural

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? Yes – LOTS of it!

27. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? 8lbs 4oz

28. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN ? 9/24/1984

30. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Lena Michelle

31. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 24 years

The Mom Song

2009-03-06T21:25:00.001-07:00

This is hilarious! Turn up your sound.

On the Road Again

2009-03-04T09:39:00.002-07:00

Yesterday we drove up to St. George from Las Vegas. I haven't made that drive for so long that I forgot just how beautiful everything is. Even the vast expanses of nothing but cactus is beautiful.

We stayed with my parents last night. We haven't stayed here for awhile so it was nice. We got to visit quite a bit. We even got to see Dad maneuver around in his Jazzy! He's pretty good at it, too.

This afternoon we are heading for Price. What a fun trip we're having!

Sorry I left you alone, Lena. I'm sure you'll be fine.

All Is Well!

2009-03-03T08:36:00.004-07:00

YES, I am back! Yesterday I went in and had the ERGUS redone and it showed that I am finally healing. The duodenal blockage is going away and food can leave my stomach again. Dr. Sandu took out my NJ tube (the feeding tube that I loved so much) and has allowed me to start eating. I'm supposed to be eating soft foods to start, and then resume my normal diet. After that test I had to stick around the hospital for awhile and drink that wonderful contrast and have a CT scan.

Mark has a convention in Las Vegas this week but was able to take me in for the test and wait for the results. He had to leave before the CT scan to get ready for his trip. Nik was nice enough to come up and bring me home.

On the way home, Mark called and said he hadn't left for Vegas yet and asked me if I wanted to go. At first I said no, but then Nik sort of talked me into it, so I'M IN VEGAS, BABY!

Unfortunately, we'll just be here for a few hours, then back to St. George and then to Price so that Mark can teach another class in Castle Dale on Thursday morning.

I'm feeling so much better. When I eat there is a little pain, but nothing like before. I just have to remember not to eat too much.

I miss my boys already. You too, Lena! But I'm glad that I came. It's so warm here!

He's Legal!

2009-02-20T10:21:00.005-07:00

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY MASON!

Yes, my little baby is all grown up. I can hardly believe it's been 21 years already. I swear it was only a couple of years ago that he was my 10.5 lb new "little" baby! He's grown up from an adorable baby into quite a handsome man, if I do say so myself.

I hope you have a wonderful day, Mason, and stay out of trouble!

More Doctors

2009-02-19T09:24:00.004-07:00

Today my Mom is having an endoscopy. It's the first one she's ever had and she's a little nervous. She has been having problems swallowing for quite some time and finally mentioned it to her doctor. They did an upper GI series and found a constriction in her esophagus so they're going to try to stretch it out during the endoscopy. That doesn't sound really fun, but at least she'll be out during it.

Mom hates going to the doctor. She doesn't complain about much, so when she goes, you know it's really bothering her! Now she'll start feeling like I do - if you don't go to the doctor, nothing will be wrong!

Anyway - good luck Mom! Please keep her in your thoughts today.

************

Another note about doctors:
My nephew Weston is in medical school in West Virginia. A couple of days ago he was having some pains in his abdomen and drove himself to the emergency room. They ended up taking his appendix out! I haven't heard how he is since he went in, but I imagine he's doing alright, or I would have heard something! Good luck to you, Weston. I hope everything turns out good. Good luck to Sariah taking care of him and 4 little kids!

There's No Place Like Home!

2009-02-04T12:46:00.003-07:00

I never thought home could feel so good!

On January 28th I went to LDS Hospital to have an endoscopic ultrasound to find out what all this pain has been. Of course, I had to go in fasting and hadn't had anything to eat since 8:00 the night before. Mason drove me up to the hospital and Lena was going to come pick me up after the test.

Unfortunately, the doctor who was attempting the ultrasound could not get the tube past my stomach because there was a HUGE blockage. He took a biopsy and found no cancer so that was good. But because the blockage didn't allow anything to leave my stomach he decided to admit me to the hospital.

They took me up to a room where I had to drink a gallon of stuff that was supposed to taste like Raspberry Crystal Light but missed the goal, then back down for a CT scan. The scan showed my pancreas was very inflamed and that there was a blockage in the duodenum. So they wouldn't let me eat or drink anything, put me on IV antibiotics and fluids.

The next day they put in a feeding tube which was supposed to go past my stomach and past the blockage in the duodenum. They couldn't get that little tube past the obstruction! So I had to have it repositioned later. Now it's in the right place and everything is fine.

I was in the hospital for 5 days. I had three doctors working on my case, but they don't agree on what's happening inside me still! My Gastro-enterologist thinks the obstruction is an abscess and wanted me to stay in the hospital for 6 weeks getting IV antibiotics. My Surgeon thinks its the pancreas and that I shouldn't eat every again. My GP won't give his position, but he's the one that let me come home, so I LOVE him!

So now I'm home. I still have an IV and I administer my antibiotic myself once a day. It takes about an hour for the whole process and I'm getting good at it. I don't get sick or anything! I also still have the feeding tube with my wonderful Jevity hanging on my IV pole pumping in constantly day and night. I have to take my pain meds through the feeding tube, too. I crush them all up and mix with water and squish them in! I also have some protein and amino acids that I have to squish in three times a day. That's the fun part!

While I was in the hospital I saw ALL my siblings! Russell was up with John and came over, Doug and Patti flew up and visited, and Kelly and Debbie brought Mom up for a visit! It was good to see all of you again. It made the days go by faster to have visitors. And everyone I know who didn't visit called! I got lots a flowers and cards and presents! It was like my birthday! Thanks!

Lena, Nik, Mark and Jeff came up every day. Mark and Jeff even watched the Super Bowl with me and didn't get their chips and dips or any snacks at all! That was so sweet of them.

I'm feeling so much better, but I miss eating!

2009 sucks so far!

2009-01-23T09:57:00.003-07:00

Let me just recap what has happened so far:

As you know, in October I had my gall bladder removed and had a REALLY difficult time recovering. (Probably because I'm so old!)

After the surgery, I expected my pains to stop. However they just continued on. My doctor did blood work, but wanted to let my body recover a little more before doing anything invasive.

At our little family get-together in December, which I worked really hard on and was looking forward to for so long, I was so sick I could hardly sit there. I felt like I was being rude to everyone, sorry! Then again on Monday as we were driving back home, I was in so much pain all the way here! On New Year's Eve, it started up again. This time I wasn't just in pain, but throwing up all night long. Finally about 6:00 Mark decided to take me to the emergency room.

They gave me an ultrasound, and a MRI, and MORPHINE! The ER doctor felt like it was a stone or a bit of sludge from my gall bladder that had been missed. He called another doctor, and they agreed that I needed an Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP.) So they sent me home with some pain pills and anti nausea pills.

The ERCP went alright, I guess. They thought they found a stone, and opened the common bile duct so it would drain. However, I was left in horrible pain - constantly! I even ended back in the ER where they did two CT scans, more blood work (all for a measly $7,000.00!). They gave me more pain pills and said I should see the doctor who did the ERCP. Well, that isn't easy. I am still waiting for an appointment with him!

I have seen my regular doctor. He ordered more blood tests and another ultrasound. He said that the ultrasound looked normal, but that my liver function was worse than before, which led him to the conclusion that there is still ANOTHER stone there somewhere. He contacted a specialist, and now I get to have an endoscopic ultrasound. Yes, they are going to stick another tube down my throat and look around yet again.

But I do feel a little better knowing that someone is taking me seriously and not just assuming I'm a wimp! I'm in real pain here, all the time! And finally someone else is convinced.

So next Wednesday, I'll have the ultrasound. If you remember, say a prayer for me!

2009-01-12T17:44:00.002-07:00

I haven't posted anything for a long time. Sorry, I've been sick - again. I've been in and out of the ER since New Year's Day, and they still don't know what is wrong with me!

I had an ERCP. That's sort of like a stomach scope except they go through your stomach and back up to your bile ducts and clean them out. They were thinking that I must have some sludge left from my gall bladder surgery. Ever since that procedure, I've been having excruciating back pain. I've had CT scans, MRI's, MRCI's, blood work, IV therapy, but the pain just lingers on.

As soon as I get feeling better, I'll post about our great family party in St. George! It was fun.

Happy Anniversary!

2008-12-18T08:27:00.006-07:00

Happy Anniversary Doug and Patti!
I don't have a picture of the two of them together! I'll wait till Lisa blogs and steal one from her.
I hope you two have a great anniversary!

Here are the ones I stole from Lisa!

Christmas Humor

2008-12-16T10:34:00.006-07:00

My niece sent these to me. They are so cute I had to share them with you!

The Christmas Pageant

2008-12-16T09:09:00.003-07:00

THE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

My husband and I had been happily married

(most of the time) for five years but hadn't been blessed with a baby.

I decided to do some serious praying and promised God that if he would give us a

child, I would be a perfect mother,

love it with all my heart and raise it with His word as my guide.

God answered my prayers and blessed us with a son.

The next year God blessed us with another son.

The following year, He blessed us with yet another son.

The year after that we were blessed with a daughter.

My husband thought we'd been blessed right into poverty.

We now had four children,and the oldest was only four years old.

I learned never to ask God for anything unless I meant it.

As a minister once told me,"If you pray for rain, make sure you carry an umbrella."

I began reading a few verses of the Bible to the children each day as they lay in their cribs.

I was off to a good start. God had entrusted me with four children And I didn't want to

disappoint Him.

I tried to be patient the day

the children smashed two dozen eggs on the kitchen floor searching for baby chicks.

I tried to be understanding...
when they started a hotel for homeless frogs in the spare bedroom,

although it took me nearly two hours to catch all twenty-three frogs.

When my daughter

poured ketchup all over herself and rolled up in a blanket

to see how it felt to be a hot dog,

I tried to see the humor rather than the mess.

In spite of changing over twenty-five thousand diapers,

never eating a hot meal and never sleeping for more than thirty minutes at a time,

I still thank God daily for my children.

While I couldn't keep my promise to be a perfect mother - I didn't even come close...

I did keep my promise to raise them in the Word of God.

I knew I was missing the mark just a little

when I told my daughter we were going to church to worship God,

and she wanted to bring a bar of soap along to"wash up" Jesus, too.

Something was lost in the translation

when I explained that God gave us everlasting life,

and my son thought it was generous of God to give us his "last wife."

My proudest moment came during the children's Christmas pageant.

My daughter was playing Mary, two of my sons were shepherds and my youngest son

was a wise man.

This was their moment to shine.

My five-year-old shepherd had practiced his line,

"We found the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes."

But he was nervous and said, "The baby was wrapped in wrinkled clothes."

My four-year-old "Mary" said,"That's not 'wrinkled clothes,' silly.

That's dirty, rotten clothes." A wrestling match broke out between

Mary and the shepherd and was stopped by an angel,

who bent her halo and lost her left wing.

I slouched a little lower in my seat

when Mary dropped the doll representing Baby Jesus,

and it bounced down the aisle crying, "Mama-mama."

Mary grabbed the doll, wrapped it back up and held it tightly

as the wise men arrived. My other son stepped forward

wearing a bathrobe and a paper crown, knelt at the manger and announced,

"We are the three wise men,and we are bringing gifts of

gold, common sense and fur."

The congregation dissolved into laughter,

and the pageant got a standing ovation.

"I've never enjoyed a Christmas program as much as this one,"

laughed the pastor, wiping tears from his eyes "

For the rest of my life, I'll never hear the Christmas story without thinking of

gold, common sense and fur."

"My children are my pride and my joy and my greatest blessing,"

I said as I dug through my purse for an aspirin.

Anniversary

2008-12-15T11:10:00.006-07:00

Happy Anniversary Russ and Tammy!

This is the best picture I have of them together. It's at Ben's graduation from High School.

I hope you two have a great day! You deserve it.

Random Memories

2008-12-11T12:08:00.004-07:00

While reading other people's blogs today, I've remembered some very special times and thought I'd share.

One blog was talking about visiting Santa. We've had some special experiences visiting Santa. Lena has always LOVED Santa. The best experience with Santa was at Gregory's Toy Store. They had someone ask the parents what the child was getting for Christmas, and then Santa said, "I know you want a...." That was very cool. No child was disappointed on Christmas!

This time Lena saw Santa she told him she wanted a Baby Popples for Christmas. I'd never even heard of a Baby Popples! She proceeded to tell everyone that Santa was bringing her a Baby Popples because she'd asked him for one. She was so convinced that I immediately began searching for a Babt Popples. Living in St. George limited our shopping choices. (And did I mention that it's about 8 days till Christmas?) I was working for SkyWest Airlines at the time and a co-worker's mother lived in Las Vegas. She found a Baby Popples at a store down there, put it on a airplane and flew it up to us in St. George. Lena got her Popples, kept her faith in Santa, and Christmas was saved!

I swore that I'd never do that again. What a headache! Then, about 5 years later, she asked Santa for a Magic Nursery baby doll! Again, it's about 2 weeks till Christmas, this is the hottest doll around and is completely sold out of all the stores. We were able to special order through Fred Meyer and got the stupid dolls. I think this is the only time Lena really wanted a doll for Christmas, so I HAD to get it! Again, Santa saves the day!

After that, we decided the Santa was through getting all the credit. From then on, the big gifts came from Mom and Dad and Santa brought the socks and underwear!

These stories are all about Lena - that's because both my boys were always scared of Santa and wouldn't go near him, much less TALK to him. Their pictures with Santa show them screaming and squirming away!

Pictures

2008-12-04T22:18:00.002-07:00

My nephew, Weston, sent me a link to his cute family pictures. I can't believe how cute his family is! I really miss having Weston and Sariah and kids around. We used to see them all the time.

Anyway, if you haven't seen his pics, check out this link.

* Don't worry, I have his permission to post these pictures.

Party Time

2008-12-03T08:42:00.002-07:00

So, my sister and I are trying to get together a party with our parents and siblings after Christmas this year. Any ideas on how to entertain a group of people ranging in ages from about 1 to 81?

We don't want to be really bogged down with activities. Mostly we want to just visit and reconnect with each other. But there should be something to do besides eat.

I think we'll have some coloring pages and puzzles for the little kids to help keep them entertained. We'll also have games for the adults to play if they want. Some good ones like Would You Rather and Apples to Apples - that type of thing.

I'm open to suggestions everyone!

And if you're planning on coming, please let me know!

Christmas Trivia Edition

2008-12-01T08:00:00.002-07:00

'Tis the season to be Jolly!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper for home, bags for others

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial and pre-lit

3. When do you put up the tree? As soon as I can get away with it!

4. When do you take the tree down? Usually the week after Christmas if we're home.

5. Do you like eggnog? Yes

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I loved every one of my dolls and still do!

7. Hardest person to buy for? Him!!!!

8. Easiest person to buy for? Lena, she likes everything!

9. Do you have a nativity scene? One that my Mom made me and several other smaller ones.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Probably mail if I have addresses! (Hint Hint if you've moved)

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? The one my ex-boss gave me! I'm sure it was re- gifted! I re-gifted it to charity.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's a Wonderful Life!!!!!!!!

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? The day after Christmas!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? See #11

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I love my Mom's Almond Lace Wafers and Mexican Wedding Cakes.

16. Lights on the tree? Yes. See #2

17. Favorite Christmas song? Angels We Have Heard on High, and I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Travel if we can. Depends on what we did for Thanksgiving.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Olive them.

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? I have an angel that some kids I used to tend made me.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Usually the present from My Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Silly Trivia Questionnaires.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Red and Green, but mostly Red

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Christmas dinner isn't much. Christmas Breakfast is blueberry muffins and scrambled eggs.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? All I ever WANT is peace on earth.

Happy Birthday!!!!

2008-11-28T11:41:00.005-07:00

Today is my big brother Kelly's Birthday! He turns 53 I think.

This is around age 10 I think.

This is Kelly in High School - isn't he a cutie?

These are more recent - last summer.

Happy Birthday, Kelly!

He's still a cutie, even if he is a BYU fan! And he's single!

Happy Birthday Hattie

2008-11-24T12:13:00.007-07:00

Today is my Great-Niece Hattie's Birthday.

She turns 3 today.

Here she is with her dad, Cody.

And with her Grandma, Debbie

She's a good sharer!

And again with Cody.

Happy Birthday Hattie!

UTAH BY 5

2008-11-22T10:31:00.014-07:00

Fight, fight, Utah men, we'll fight to win again,

We'll chase our foes until they bow beneath our heels and know that We'll keep poundin' at 'em, We'll not stop attackin',

'Til we gain a vict'ry for our U. of U.!

Shout: Fight!

Who am I, sir,
A Utah Man am I!
A Utah Man, sir,
Will be 'til I die.

And when our college days are o’er and night is drawing nigh, with parting breath we’ll sing that song:

"A Utah Man Am I."

GO UTES!

Any Questions?

Short Stories

2008-11-20T09:07:00.003-07:00

Man driving down road.

Woman driving up same road.

They pass each other.

The woman yells out the window, PIG!

Man yells out window, B I T C H!

Man rounds next curve.Crashes into a HUGE PIG in middle of road, and dies.

Thought for The Day: If only men would listen!

***********************

THEY WALK AMONG US:

I walked into a Quizno's with a buy-one-get-one-free coupon for a sandwich. I handed it to the girl and she looked over at a little chalkboard that said "buy one-get one free".

"They're already buy-one-get-one-free", she said, "so I guess they're both free".

She handed me my free sandwiches and I walked out the door.

They walk among us, and many work retail.

===================
One day I was walking down the beach with some friends when one of them shouted, "Look at that dead bird!"

Someone looked up at the sky and said, "Where?"

And they walk among us!

====================
While looking at a house, my brother asked the real estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning.

She asked, "Does the sun rise in the north?"

When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, and has for sometime, she shook her head and said, "Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff."

They walk among us!!

====================

I used to work in technical support for a 24/7 call center. One day I got a call from an individual who asked what hours the call center was open. I told him, "The number you dialed is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week."

He responded, "Is that Eastern or Pacific time?"

Wanting to end the call quickly, I said, "Uh, Pacific."

They walk among us!

====================
My sister-in-law has a life-saving tool in her car designed to cut through a seat belt if she gets trapped. She keeps it in the trunk.

They walk among us!

====================
My friends and I were on a beer run and noticed that the cases were discounted 10%. Since it was a big party, we bought 2 cases.

The cashier multiplied 2 times 10% and gave us a 20% discount.

They walk among us!

====================
I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area, so I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because she was a trained professional and I was in good hands.

"Now," she asked me, "has your plane arrived yet?"

Yes, they walk among us!
====================
While waiting for my order at a pizza parlor, I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6.

He thought about it for some time before responding.

"Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces."

Yep, they walk among us!
===================

And they reproduce!

Reaction Test

2008-11-19T16:38:00.003-07:00

The automobile driving manual says the average driver's Reaction time is: .75 seconds....... Or 1 car length for every 10 mph ..... Test your average reaction time.. My average was .2246

Reaction Test

Keeping in Touch

2008-11-19T16:27:00.006-07:00

The Four, Four, Four, Four Game...

A) Four places that I go to over and over: Grocery Store, Weight Watchers, Church and lately the doctor's office!

B) Four people who email me (regularly): Mom, Debbie, Lena, Mark

C) Four of my favorite places to eat: La Frontera, Red Lobster, Applebees, Home (when Mark cooks)

D) Four places I would rather be right now: Hawaii, Tuscon, St. George, anyplace warm

E) Four people I think will play: Maybe Lena - everyone else sent it to me!

F) Four TV shows I watch: Charmed, House, Ace of Cakes, Cash in the Attic

Yet Another Birthday!!!!

2008-11-19T12:02:00.003-07:00

My Big Brother, Doug, turns 57 today!

Here he is with my Dad.

He's my hero.

Still gorgeous after all these years!

Happy Birthday Big Bro!

Another Birthday!

2008-11-17T12:01:00.005-07:00

Today is Nik's birthday.

Since they have "plans" today, we had our party for him last night.

He really likes Chuck Norris. This t-shirt was pretty cute and I couldn't resist it!

He also likes the Chicago Cubs. These are a snowman ornament and an air freshener with the Cubs logo.

At Nik's request, Mark made grilled pizza and spinach artichoke dip for dinner. It was really good, too.
And I made him a baseball cake. I couldn't get the frosting really red, just kind of pinkish! But it was still cute, I thought.

Happy Birthday Nik!

Happy Birthday Ike

2008-11-10T11:05:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Great nephew Ike.

Here he is with Jeff doing his favorite thing - tackling him.

He is such an active kid and so full of love for everyone, especially his little sister. Happy Birthday, big guy!

I'm Back!

2008-11-03T11:47:00.002-07:00

I survived! At least it appears as though I will survive this ordeal. So many people told me how easy this surgery was to recover from. But I'm here to tell you that it isn't always that easy! I think the doctor should give you a 24 hour phone number because there were things that I needed to ask! This surgery really kicked my butt! But now I see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I hear stories of how many stones everyone had - My Mom had 50 stones in her gall bladder. I had three! THREE! All that pain from three stones! But these stones were fused together and the size of a baseball. Mark said that when the doctor showed it to him it looked like one of these Kong dog toys! He said I would have more pain because it was all one solid stone.

I love to be different! I am glad that it's over. And I'm glad that I won't have THAT pain anymore. I'm just not sure I'm ready for the next one that will come along.

I have a wonderful neighbor who came over or called every day last week while Mark had to be gone. She made me feel loved. I have great kids who helped me out whenever they could. Jeff ran all my errands for me - getting me drinks, ice, jello, and did dishes almost every night. Mason stuck around the first couple of days and kept me company while everyone was gone and helped me take down the Halloween decorations. Lena came over every day on her lunch and made sure I had something to eat, too. She even MADE me sugar cookies because I really wanted some! And I have the best husband in the world who took such great care of me even though last week was one of the busiest ones he's had for awhile. He cooked every meal, did laundry, dishes, cleaned up the house, waited on me hand and foot and even indulged the cravings I had for his FANTASTIC rosemary chicken and mashed potatoes! He's just the best. I've told him he should give husband lessons!

I missed trick-or-treaters again this year. I was able to get up and see a couple of the kids in my Primary class, but I would have loved to see all the costumes. I'm going to have to remember not to schedule surgery just before Halloween again!

Here We Go Again!

2008-10-21T16:17:00.015-06:00

SO...... tomorrow, October 23, I'm having my third surgery in just barely under 12 months. (The last two were on Oct. 27th.) At least this time it's same day surgery so I'll be home by the evening. But since I'll be drugged, I'll post about all this today.

I will be having my gall bladder un-installed. I've been having problems with this very small ugly organ for some time now. We've tried everything else, and have decided just to un-install the thing and be done with it. The surgery has been scheduled for three weeks, and it will be welcomed, I can assure you. I am WAY done with the pains and nausea that go along with gall stones.

This picture describes the way I feel during an attack precisely. It's just like all those sharp little teeth are eating away at my insides! I will be glad to have him gone! (Of course it's a HE! A she would be so much more soft and gentle!) I hope the pain leaves with him.

* * * * * * *

Tomorrow is also my Grandmother's birthday. Gladys Wilkins Mitchell. (She always hated the name Gladys and absolutely forbid me to name my daughter after her!) This picture was taken in January of 2000 at my parent's 50th wedding anniversary. She was 95 years old then. She doesn't look that old, does she! I'm hoping that I have inherited some of those genes. Soon after this she left us.

I grew up living next door to my Grandma and Grandpa Mitchell. They were there my whole life. It was hard when Grandpa died, but I was in high school then and didn't realize the impact they had on my life. Besides that, he took my white cat with him when he died! I'll tell that story some other time.

When Lena was born, Grandma and my mom flew up to Washington to stay with me for a week. Grandma had never flown in her life. She was 80 years old then. When we moved to Cedar City and I started working in St. George at Sky West Airlines, I would drive down every day with Lena and Grandma would tend Lena for me. Lena spent every minute she could with her "Grandma Great." Once she told me, "Grandma Mitchell and Grandma Dumas are my good grandmas. Grandma Great is my Great Grandma!" That's where Lena gets her attitude!

After Grandma fell and was so sick, she called us all and said goodbye and asked us to stop praying that she would get better. She wanted to go home. My cousin was sitting with her one day right before she died, and asked her if Grandpa had ever come to visit her since she got sick. Grandma said that he had forgotten all about her. Kris told grandma that he was building her mansion. Grandma said, "Well, it better be a damn big one, he's had enough time!" She was feisty and sassy right up to the end!

I miss you so much Grandma! Happy Birthday!

Another Tag

2008-10-17T15:40:00.009-06:00

Rules: You have to come up with 10 things you like that start with an assigned letter.

I've been given the letter P - So here goes: (In no Particular order)

1. Pumpkin Pie - It should be a year round thing, not just for Autumn. I know I could make it anytime, but who does that anymore? I just wait for Marie Calendar's pie sale!

2. Purple - my favorite color! It's the color of Kings! I like Pink, too, but purple is the best.

3. Paperbacks - alright really it's reading but that doesn't start with a "P"! I love losing myself in a book. I like romances mostly, but they have to have some adventure in them, too. From my Goodreads Profile, you can see that I like vampire books - a lot!

4. Primary - I've been in the Primary in some capacity for 10 years. I love working with and teaching the kids. Right now I teach the 6, 7, and 8 year old's. Both of them.

5. Paranormal - You know, ghosts and stuff like that. Don't you ever get the feeling that someone else is there? I like thinking that there are benevolent spirits helping out in my life. Did I mention that I like vampires?

6. My Partner - What can I say? I hit the jackpot there. He loves to love me. That sounds corny, but it's really true. He's the best thing that ever happened to me. He takes very good care of me and is even tolerant of my many faults. I love you, slomlmrfb.

7. My Pooch (Billie) - She is very camera shy, so there are no really good pictures of her. She's so sweet and loving. She'd do anything to please you if she could just figure it out! She loves everyone, after she growls and barks at them when they come in the house.

8. Popcorn! - Especially movie popcorn! I would eat it all day long, for breakfast, lunch and dinner! It's even good now that I don't put the butter on it. It's the main reason I go to movies! I like it popped in the microwave, in the "deep well" like we used to when I was a kid, over an open fire, with caramel, kettle corn, with peanut butter and jam.......

9. Pierced Earrings - I love earrings. I have hundreds of earrings! (Not a stretch either) I love the way dangly ones feel against my cheek and neck. I love diamond ones especially. I love the rhinestone ones that pretend to be diamonds, too.

10. Playthings - (OK, I mean dolls!) I've especially fallen in love with these Lots to Cuddle babies. The expressions on their faces is priceless! Too bad I didn't have a little girl who liked to play with babies!

OK, that's 10. And I didn't even mention, princesses, pumps, pirates, prayer, puppies, presents, pineapple, Pooh bear, peaches, Potpourri, pumpkins (not in pie), pie (other than pumpkin), Popsicles, petunias, pansies......

If you want to Play, leave me a comment and I'll give you a letter.

Photo Tag

2008-10-14T09:27:00.003-06:00

This is a fun one because you look at your pictures again!

OK, here is what you do: Go to your fourth photo folder (say that fast four times!) and post the fourth picture. If you have folders within folders, (like I do) just keep counting to four till you get to a picture!

This picture is of Mark and Jeff at Duck Creek this summer. Jeff just caught the first fish of the trip. We had so much fun! I can't wait to go back next summer.

OK, I tag Lena, Je'taime and Hillary!

Parent's Dictionary

2008-10-11T10:09:00.009-06:00

Mostly this is just an excuse to post some old pictures!

AMNESIA: Condition that enables a woman who has gone through labor to make love again.

DUMBWAITER: One who asks if the kids would care to order dessert.

FAMILY PLANNING: The art of spacing your children the proper distance apart to keep you on the edge of financial disaster.

FEEDBACK: The inevitable result when your baby doesn't appreciate the strained carrots.

FULL NAME: What you call your child when you're mad at him.

GRANDPARENTS: The people who think your children are wonderful even though they're sure you're not raising them right.

HEARSAY: What toddlers do when anyone mutters a dirty word.

IMPREGNABLE: A woman whose memory of labor is still vivid.

INDEPENDENT: How we want our children to be as long as they do everything we say.

OW: The first word spoken by children with older siblings.

PUDDLE: A small body of water that draws other small bodies wearing dry shoes into it.

SHOW OFF: A child who is more talented than yours.

STERILIZE: What you do to your first baby's pacifier by boiling it and to your last baby's pacifier by blowing on it.

TOP BUNK: Where you should never put a child wearing Superman pajamas.
TWO MINUTE WARNING: When the baby's face turns red and she begins to make those familiar grunting noises.
VERBAL: Able to whine in words

WHODUNIT: None of the kids that live in your house...

WEEKEND: When Dad gets to play golf while Mom catches up on the laundry, cleans the house, runs errands, etc.

Manners

2008-10-10T09:55:00.002-06:00

I actually "stole" this from my cousin's blog, but I loved the way he said this. And I heartily agree!

"I have been thinking a lot about civilization and manners lately. Couldn't say why, except that I have seen a great decline in basic civility – those rules which preserve civilization – in my lifetime. Here are some things I remember about the world when I was younger:

1. People used to dress in their best clothes to go shopping, even grocery shopping. No one would think of going to a store dressed in worn out jeans and a crumpled T-shirt, much less in a shirt that has profanities printed on it.

2. People used to dress in their best clothes to travel on airplanes or trains. No need to elaborate there, is there?

3. One never used to see or hear profanity in public, unless he or she were visiting a construction site or shipyard. And certain things were just not allowed on TV - not just bleeped out. People who could not control their tongues were simply not on the air.

The whole “in your face” attitude that began in earnest in the 60’s has nearly destroyed manners in our society. You see, manners are not just a matter of knowing what fork to use. Real manners or etiquette begins with knowing where you are in the world, and seeking to ease the experience for your fellow travelers.

If we ask ourselves, “How does what I am doing affect the other people in this room? What can I do to help the other guy have a pleasant day?” we will find ourselves on the road to true civility.

A person with good manners listens to others who are talking with the aim of understanding the other person, not just waiting for a break to speak.

A person with good manners does not keep others waiting, because he knows that other people’s time is just as valuable as his own. If he is going to be late, he calls ahead to apologize and let people know.

A person with good manners – a civil person – dresses neatly because he thinks others do not want to see a slob.

He eats carefully, slowly, taking small bites rather than wolfing down his food.

He says “Please” and “Thank You” because he likes to hear those words himself, and because he has a genuine sense of gratitude for what others do.

A person with good manners smiles at people he meets because he knows that a smile creates an immediate feeling of being at ease with a stranger. I heard someone say once that whenever he meets someone new, he always says, “I am glad to meet you. I have heard so many nice things about you.” That is really civilized.

This is why we are told to always pass the salt and the pepper together. It is just an effort to ease the journey for our fellow human beings. Since a person who wants salt often wants pepper, too, keeping and passing them together prevents a person from having to ask two people for what he needs.

Does that make sense?I am not saying that we should be compulsively focused on what we are doing all the time; only that we should try to be on our best behavior and walk gently through this life, helping to ease the way for everyone else we meet. You will recall what the Savior said about losing our life in the service of others. If we will earnestly try to help and serve others, we will find others trying to help us in our journey, too."

Thanks, Kent!

Game

2008-10-06T22:24:00.001-06:00

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Happy Birthday!

2008-10-03T12:23:00.004-06:00

Today is my nephew (in-law)'s 33rd birthday! How can my nieces and nephews be that old?

Happy Birthday Benji! I hope you have a great day today!

What a cute couple!

Cat-a-strophic, Cat-a-clysmic!

2008-10-01T15:46:00.007-06:00

My friend sent me these pictures and I wanted to share!

Who would paint their cat? Now I want to!

Some of the paint jobs cost $15,000 and had to be repeated every 3 months as the cat's hair grows out. Must be nice to have $60,000 a year just to keep your cat painted!!And people wonder why cats sometimes attack their owners!!

Some of these are beautiful, some just mean!
And most of the cats don't look all that happy either.

Don't you want a cat now?

Yet Another Birthday!

2008-09-30T10:10:00.007-06:00

On Thursday last week, my SIL called and told us she was going to St. George on Friday, and would someone like to ride along! Of course Jeff and I are always ready for a road trip, so we hopped in her car and off we went.

She was going down because her grandson, Killian, was turning 16 and his Samoan Step Dad was throwing him a huge party.

This is Killian. He is such a cute kid. He looks just like his mother!Crystie has the cutest family! She is such a happy person and her in-laws keep her that way. There is no room for sulking in that family!

This is Matthew, Tingy (Crystie's Husband) and Jeff. They gave us all candy leis to welcome us to the party. In the island tradition, there were several hula dancers

And these girls can shake their hips faster than anyone on earth! I tried to video it, but of course, my camera battery died right in the middle. They were awesome!

This is Mesapa (Mace) Crystie's youngest. He's not quite two. They won't cut his hair until he's 8 years old. That's part of Tingy's heritage I guess.

Mace is so sweet, but I understand he is definitely going to be TWO - he's already got the temper down pat. This is Kalani, Crystie and Tingy's daughter. I'm not sure how old she is, I think probably 5. However judging by her vocabulary, she might be 10! She's going to be HANNA MONTANA for Halloween! She's very excited about that!
Killian and Cheryle

The food was fantastic and everyone ate all they could! There was still a ton of food left over. I took a plate home to Mom and Dad, but I could have taken 6 times as much and it wouldn't have been missed!
Killian did a hula dance and everyone threw money at him! My battery was dead by that time, so I didn't get a picture of that. I'll have to get some from Cheryle. I told Jeff we are going to have Tingy come up here in May when Jeff turns 16 so we can have a big party for him, too. He said he'd even dance if people threw money at him!

It was a fun weekend! I even got to visit with Debbie and Kelly for a little while. Russell and Tammy were literally running out the door for his 30 year class reuion so we didn't get much of a visit, but at least I saw them. Sorry I missed Doug and Patti. Lisa, we were headed to your place, but then we picked up Anna and went back to grandma's. Sorry.

This has been a busy month for birthday's! I'm sure I've missed a few and I'm sorry. But I think I'm remembering everyone who reads this blog!

More Birthday's

2008-09-30T09:54:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to Aunt Laurett! Her birthday was actually the day after Lena's, but with all that was going on that day, I didn't get it posted. Aunt Laurett lives in Hawaii so we don't get to see her as much as we would like.

I want to wish you a happy birthday anyway. You are one of my favorite Aunts!
This is a picture of the reason Aunt Laurett never came home from Hawaii! This is Uncle Joe Koomoa. What a hunk! It was also my cousin Lyman's birthday last week. He lives in Hawaii, too. What a life! I don't have an electronic picture of Lyman so I can't post one yet. I'll get one though. He looks a lot like Uncle Joe!

Happy Birthday Lyman!

Today is my niece Rachel's birthday. Her cute husband gave her a trip to Cancun for her birthday, so they are off at the beach!

Happy Birthday Everybody!

Cake, Zoo

2008-09-25T17:03:00.007-06:00

For Lena's birthday, we went to the Zoo. I was a little sad that the lions aren't on display anymore, but the rest of the animals were still cute! Lena put pictures of the animals on her blog, so I won't put mine on.

Here's the castle cake that I made for Lena. It's not as good as Charm City Cakes, but it doesn't cost $1,000 either!

The pictures I got at the zoo mostly include Lena taking pictures of the animals.
Love that blue tongue
Lena's Gangsta look
Nik was too big to ride on the snake slide!

Taking yet another picture!

And finally, Thanksgiving Dinner!

Happy 24th Birthday

2008-09-24T09:27:00.005-06:00

My baby turns 24 today! It seems like only yesterday that she was so sweet and cuddly! I'll share some pictures of her with you and you can see just how cute she is. I'll post pictures of her cake later, she hasn't seen it yet!

Of course, if you really want to see pictures of her....we have SLIDES from day one!

First "professional" pictureFirst Birthday!First Trick or Treat!Playing in the dirt at Great-Grandma Mitchell's house

More recent, but still sweet!

With her Hubby, Nik
Graduation from College picture.
Wedding Day!
I wanted to put in more recent pictures, but I guess I don't have any! I have tons of her wedding, but that was two years ago!

Anyway,

Happy Birthday Lena-Bena!

We love you!

P.S. I was going to get you a kitten, but Dad said "No!"

State Fair, Tigers and Tattoos

2008-09-16T11:41:00.006-06:00

Jeff, Mark, Cheryle and I went to the State Fair! Can you believe that neither Mark nor I had ever been to the State Fair? Now, I've been to my share of Washington County fairs, see all the exhibits and done the rides and everything like that, but I'd never been to the Utah State Fair!

It really was quite fun. Especially going with Cheryle (My SIL). She likes to look at all the things for sale. Mark and Jeff called it "Crap Alley" and thought we were pretty silly. We looked at everything we could find. I was especially interested in the cake decorating. Of course, they all told me that I could do that good and should enter something, but I don't have that kind of confidence.

I found a birthday present for Lena! So did everyone else, I understand. She says she is the target demographic for the fair salespeople! It's just that she's so tiny and cute and easy to please. If you see something that you want, but feel silly buying, just say, "It's for Lena!" and then it's alright to buy!

We enjoyed the fair so much, we went back again last weekend. We were going to take Mark's cousin Kenneth, but we didn't ask him in time and he couldn't go. So Jeff, Mark and I went again. This time we saw some of the entertainment. Jeff and Mark watched a magic show that was really cute while I was getting tattooed. (More about that later.)

Then after I joined them we saw the Bengal Tigers! They were so big and beautiful! I've always loved tigers and these were great! They were so tame the trainer just climbed all over them and they rubbed against him, just like a little kitty. I WANT ONE!

Mark took these pictures. That's why they are so good. We have lots more, I'll just post a couple.

The main reason I wanted to go back was to get my Henna tattoo! (Mehndi) Here are some pictures of the first day, when the Henna was fresh and black.

The girl just paints it on freehand, through a cone. It goes on really heavy and is so pretty. It was amazing to watch her do it. I just wanted her to keep painting. Mine only took her about 5 minutes to draw on! Throughout the day, the black will flake off. You can sort of see it starting to flake off near my wrist on this one. While it's there, it's dying your skin a beautiful brownish orange.
This picture was taken today, 3 days after the original black all flaked off. It is supposed to last 2 to 3 weeks.

I know, it's a silly thing, but I really like it. It's very fun. And it will go away!

One thing..

2008-09-11T09:02:00.001-06:00

I have just one thing to say:

HANG UP AND DRIVE!

I rest my case.

Happy Birthday!

2008-09-09T12:01:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Debbie!

Today is my Big Sister's Birthday! Debbie has always been an idol of mine. I wish I could be more like her. Besides being beautiful and classy, and a good example to me, she is a wonderful daughter, a remarkable sister, a great mother to her 6 (yes 6) children, and an awesome grandmother! Everyone who knows her loves her.

Happy Birthday Sis!

*******

Today is also my niece Ashlee's birthday! Ashlee is Doug and Patti's youngest and is such a cutie! Ashlee is fun to know and loves a good time. If you read Lisa's blog I'm sure you'll find out more about what they are doing to celebrate with her.

Here's a picture with her mom

Happy Birthday Ashlee!

*******

Happy Birthday Chelsea

2008-08-31T23:30:00.004-06:00

Saturday was Chelsea's birthday. I think they had a party for her today down there, but I missed it. But I was there in spirit!

Anyway, here are some pictures of Chelsea.

Chelsea was such a tiny baby (of course compared to mine, they all are tiny) I was afraid to even hold her! She's always been beautiful!

I think she looks like Debbie in this picture:

Love that smile!

She still is beautiful!

I love this picture of her - she looks like she's going to hit me!

Here's the real one! She looks a little nicer here!

You are so cute, Chelsea!

Happy Birthday Chelsea!

27 Years

2008-08-21T22:04:00.004-06:00

Happy Anniversary to us!

I thought I'd put in some pictures of us when we were young and beautiful, and let you relive the day with us.

This was my Bridal Portrait. I didn't have as many as Lena did, but they did take three!

I love my dress!

These are my two older brothers singing "The Best of Times" by Styx. You should have them sing it to you sometime.

Heather and Cody were so sweet back then!

Lisa was my flower girl and really looked cute that day. This isn't the best shot of her, though, sorry Lisa. It's the only one that I have of you!

Weston as the ring bearer. Isn't he handsome? My sister, Debbie, was my matron of honor, but the picture of her is even worse than the one of Lisa, so I won't put it in. She was pregnant with Lacey and looked so pretty.

And of course, the love of my life, Mark and me.

Mark and I with Carman and Al - Mark's parents

My parents, Kay and Emma, Me and Mark, and Carman and Al.

After 27 years, I love you more than ever, sweetheart. Happy Anniversary.

Happy Anniversary

2008-08-19T11:24:00.002-06:00

Happy Anniversary to two very good friends! I hope that you are having the best day ever.

We miss you both so much!

Plum Speculation

2008-08-14T16:01:00.005-06:00

Lena and I have been having this discussion about who should play the parts in this series if they ever made it into a movie. Personally, I think a TV series would be better than a movie about each book, but who am I?

So, here are my picks:

Jewel Strait as Stephanie Plumb

Victor Webster as Ranger

Antonio Sabato Jr. as Joe Moreli

Cloris Leachman as Grandma Mazur

Lanie Kazan as Mrs. Plum

John Mahoney as Mr. Plum

Ving Rhames as Tank

and Mo'Nique as Lula

Of course, there are loads more characters, but deciding these gave me a headache!

More Pics

2008-07-29T22:39:00.005-06:00

Here are some pictures of our vacation from Mark's camera. These three were taken at Aspen Mirror Lake on Cedar Mountain. Jeff is REALLY bored, can you tell?

When I was growing up, we would go to Pine Lake fishing. There were lots of memorable experiences up there and lots of fish caught. While we were so close this trip, we decided to head on over and check it out again. It was still as beautiful as ever, but we didn't catch anything. The people on either side were reeling them in right and left, but we didn't get a thing! But isn't the lake beautiful?

Our cabin had a hammock. Jeff found time to relax.

Here's Mark doing the cooking as usual. It's his speciality, after all. And everyone loves it when he cooks!And a couple more....
And I always thought I was tall!
Loved it there. Can't wait to go back!

Emma Rose (again)

2008-07-25T15:49:00.005-06:00

Here are more pictures of Emma Rose. She is such a cutie. This time Ike went with Lacey, so I don't have any pictures of him. Emma was very disturbed by Jeff wearing this bandana so we put it on her.

She liked it a little bit better on her than on Jeff!

I love this one of Great Grandma Mitchell "Tending" Emma Rose!

And, beware all of you who shop at the St. George D.I. This is what they do to unattended kids:

Our Vacation

2008-07-25T15:27:00.006-06:00

We're back from vacation. We had a wonderful time - caught some fish, cooled off in the rain, saw some beautiful country and visited with family. Here are a few pictures that will tell the story for you.

This is where we stayed. It's in Duck Creek Village - our new favorite vacation spot. It's a really nice cabin with almost all the comforts of home (but no dishwasher!)

This is a Utah Prairie Dog that we saw when we went fishing at Aspen Mirror Lake. He was on the alert. We saw another one, but it didn't stick around long.

The Chipmunks were everywhere and really friendly. They got right up into our car if we left the doors open at all.

This is a mountain Blue Jay that Jeff found.
Kelly came up and we went over to Bryce one day. It was cloudy but that made the hikes better.

Jeff caught the first and the most fish while we were there. He also got bored with fishing the fastest! These are at Duck Creek Lake.

This is the first fish he caught. They weren't very big, they plant the lake every week!

We had a great time on Cedar Mountain. I'll post more pictures after I download Mark's camera.

Campainin

2008-07-17T13:11:00.001-06:00

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Just Two Things

2008-07-15T17:05:00.005-06:00

My niece sent this to me in an email, but I decided to put it here because I haven't posted in awhile and needed something to write!

Two Names You Go By:

1. Kathy
2. Mom

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:

1. Denim shorts

2. Brown t-shirt

Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:

1. Grandkids (hint hint)

2. My yard work done!

Two Things You Did Last Night:

1. Had a great dinner with Mark’s colleague (which Mark cooked)

2. Watched a “House” DVD

Two Things You Ate Yesterday:

1. Balsamic and Honey marinated flank steak
2. A Fruit Chiller

Two People You Last Talked To:

1. Mark
2. Jeff

Two Things You are Doing Tomorrow:

1. Weight Watcher’s meeting
2. Shopping and Packing for Cedar Mountain

Two Longest Car Rides

1. Salt Lake to Tucson

2. Oak Harbor to St. George

Your Two Favorite Holidays:

1. Halloween
2. Christmas

Favorite Vacations:

1. Disneyland with the kids
2. South Padre Island with Mark (even though it wasn’t really a vacation for him.)

Two Favorite Beverages:

1. Diet Coke

2. SoBe Lean Cranberry and Grapefruit (Ha, you thought it’d be Diet Coke again, didn’t you)

Happy Birthday Tammy

2008-07-11T09:52:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was my SIL Tammy's birthday. Russell was supposed to send me a picture that I could post, but I guess he didn't have a chance. I'll just post this old one that I have of when they got engaged! That was a while ago, but she hasn't changed much.

Anyway, Happy Birthday Tammy!

Taylorsville Dayzz

2008-07-03T13:56:00.006-06:00

We always look forward to Taylorsville Dayzz. We have a silly little parade with beauty queens, politicians and candidates, some booths at the park for politicians and candidates, and people selling fun stuff, lots of food booths, and fun "rides" for little kids. Then the topper, on Saturday night they have the BEST fireworks in the state! That sounds corny, but it's true. The fireworks last for about 35 minutes and are usually non-stop excitement. And they're free! Lena and Nik were able to come after Emily's wedding to watch the fireworks with us. Mason was even there for awhile before he decided to find his friends. We took lots of pictures of the fireworks, just to see if they'd work. These are the best ones:

They didn't turn out too bad for just a little digital camera.

This is one of our glow balls or lanterns. That's another fun part of the fireworks. I have learned to buy the glow sticks from the dollar store instead of at the park, though.

Now bring on the 4th!

We're Back!!

2008-06-30T09:06:00.009-06:00

This is going to be a LONG post, so get a snack before you start:

We've returned! We didn't stay as long as I thought we would, but we were anxious to get home none the less. My MIL was an easy patient. We just did everything she wanted us to and watched QVC and Game Show Network all day long for 8 days straight! When we were really good we could watch "Murder She Wrote", and "Matlock"! Carman found out that I'm not zealous about house cleaning, am not a gourmet cook, but I can take pretty good care of animals!

Her little dog had a "fox tail" in her foot and had to have it removed by the vet. She was so sad and lethargic before it was removed, and so happy and energetic afterwards! I couldn't believe the difference.

Carman has a Siamese cat that hates everyone. I don't know what it is about Jeff, but he gets along with animals really well. He even got Miss Kitty to play with him. She even let him dress her all up with jewelry and everything!
She even curled up on the bed with him while he was sleeping. I had to take this picture for proof! By the time we left, she was even quite social. She came and sat with me in the mornings and let me pet her and everything. I've missed having a cat around!

Julie and Matthew came over and rescued Jeff for an afternoon. He was glad for the chance to get out of the house for awhile.

While we were in St. George, Debbie's son Weston came from West Virginia for a visit. I was glad to be able to spend some time visiting with him and Jacob. They even came out to Carman's for a few minutes. Weston was hoping to see Mark, but he had already gone home.

I like this one of Jacob!
Here are Debbie, Weston and Jacob.
Debbie had a barbecue at her new place and invited everyone. It was really fun. Mark was there that weekend, so he stayed with his Mom and Jeff and I went to the party.

I had to post this one of Lisa, she told me not to, but I liked it! She just looks so happy! Must be that new vehicle she's driving!

Kelly and Jessie came over, too. I haven't seen Jessie for awhile and really didn't get a chance to talk to her much. But it was good to see her there.
Some more random pictures of the party:

I'm sure Lisa took more pictures and will post them on her blog after J gets feeling better. I didn't get any of Lacey or Chelsea and Mason (her boyfriend), but they were there.

I couldn't resist sharing these pictures of Jeff with Emma Rose. He was so sweet feeding her and she just cuddled right in and slept for awhile.

Ike loves to play with Jeff.

Emma Rose loves her mom!

Jeff wore his hair in this bandanna almost all the time. I told him I wanted to see his face and was going to cut his hair. This is his compromise!
All in all, I guess it wasn't so bad. I was worried about being able to take care of Carman. I had to change the dressing on her hip everyday, and usually don't handle things like that well, but I did it and didn't even feel faint ever! We had some good talks, too. I've always said that I have been blessed with great in laws!