Saturday Visits

It was nice to have some family drop in to visit on Saturday ---- A special thanks to Meagan for the delicious and beautiful Valentine Sugar Cookies she delivered - everyone really enjoyed them. MacKenzie was also spending the day with Meagan and the Woods --- she is so darn cute and funny. She can come up with some crazy words. Maybe she is really going to be a true blonde. Had a nice visit with Teresa ---and of course Homer always goes where she does. Shaylee stopped long enough to say "Hi" before heading to work ---- declaring that she is a vegetarian now after seeing that 32 ounce porterhouse/medium rare steak that Bart ate at Maddoxs. Heidi came with a load of paperwork so she could start working on her taxes with her mom --- always a fun time. Carli and Mike dropped by after supper with his family. They both agree that school is a drag but are doing okay.

The Auto Phantom Strikes Again

I know it is frustrating to parents but it is almost comical. The car breakdown Phantom struck again. Carli gave her parents a call to say that her car had broken down in Garland. ---- After a hard afternoon of work at our house they rescued the car with the help of their good friend Steve and towed it home. Hope all is well today. Maybe when it warms up the Phantom will disappear

Head in the clouds --- oh! I missed it

Well, yesterday was just one of those days when your head hurts so bad that it does not think straight and your body feels like lead. Not an excuse but I screwed up royally yesterday. I always have my camera ready and yesterday I just let it sit on my computer desk as AGAIN my family and sweet husband worked on the kitchen. In the morning Grandpa and I cleared everything from the walls and the cabinets. Grandpa added new insulation to the holes that were made in the ceiling for the new lights --- also the large hole that was placed in the ceiling (that was not suppose to be) when the house was built was insulated and covered up. Paul then worked on framing in the micro-wave and adding the trim on the bottom of the cupboards. It was then time again to seal the kitchen and the little dining room up again with plastic to save some dust in the rest of the house. It is wonderful to have such a large open kitchen and great room but the dust can settle on everything quickly. Especially the piano --- when you can write your name with your finger on it you know it is dusty.

At about three Jeff and Lisa arrived and shortly after Todd, Mary, and Damon were here to start the sheet rock work. Now one look at all the wonderful new lights that DelRay had added to the kitchen was a bit of a shock. In fact I think Jeff and Todd maybe swore a bit at DelRay. But Grandpa and I love them --- as age comes you just need a bit more light to see. And what MacKenzie said is really true ---- just remember if my Dad's doing the electrical you will have so many switches you will never learn what they all go to. It is cute to see her so proud of her dad. DelRay had called Ryan to come and help if he wanted but Ryan had school that day and was unable to. DelRay teased that he needed some young body to help with the grunt work.

The kitchen definitely has many jogs, so working out the plan of sheetrocking was not real easy but Todd and Jeff soon had a plan and began moving ahead. Their measuring, marking and cutting were right on because they found each one of those lights perfectly. Jeff did the cutting out with the roto-zip and he did look like a frosting snowman. Not a real clean job. So with Damon maning the chalk line, Grandpa giving support wherever needed, Lisa and Mary helping to be sure the men had what they needed at hand the ceiling was completed. I was in awe of how Todd and Jeff could take the measurements and fit the pieces together so perfectly. And then all of that time that their arms were above their heads putting in screws to hold everthing secure. Their "Six-Shooters" were hot. They too were masters at work --- How proud we are to know that our children are so sharp at skills that make homes and lives better. The service that we know they share with their friends and family makes them great men and women.

Lisa kept the work area cleaned --- which helped so much, not only for the men to have area to move around in but it saved Grandpa and I so much time in cleanup when the job was done. We have put the kitchen back together a bit until the next time. Todd will be working his "regular" job for the next few days but will be back on Wednesday to begin the taping and mudding. The crown molding around the cupboards and the trim around the ceiling will then have to be added before he can texture the ceiling and it can be painted. Step by Step.

THANK YOU---THANK YOU for your help ---- LOVE YOU

Tomorrow is the Day

Brad and I have been to Home Depot tonight with Todd, Mary and Damon. We purchased the sheet rock, screws, mud and tape to begin the Kitchen and little dining room ceiling tomorrow. I am very excited but also know that the mess will be gigantic --- I will have to have great patience as we move forward. Always so grateful for everyones help and talents as they work to help us have a nicer kitchen. Will post some pictures as work moves along.

DelRay --- a master at work

Over the last twenty-five years DelRay has very patiently done amazing things with the electrical at our home. Being a modular home it is a little different but he has managed to pull off some amazing feats to improve our home when it comes to having the necessary-- plus the luxury electrical systems. Today he began work on upgrading the kitchen. Taking down the old fluorescent lights and installing can lights. Also all of the lights in the kitchen have been on just one switch so if one light was on they all had to be. Today he will divide the lights among four switches which will be so nice. If we want to just have the light on over the sink we can or a different combination of the can lights. Tonya and he warned us ahead of time that it was going to be a messy job so Grandpa and I prepared as much as possible. One thing we did find out is that our home is truly insulated good. Glad to hear that. I know that it has always held the heat good in winter and cool in summer, now we know why. Hope you enjoy the pictures ----

Happy Birthday to Shaylee Dawn alias BeBo

It is number eighteen for Shaylee. Wow!!! the time is just flying by. I know that young people look forward to being eighteen and I hope that it lives up to Shaylees expectations. However, I do believe that she still had to get up this morning and go to school. So perhaps no drastic changes for now.

Shaylee you came from heaven with a warm bubbly personality. I really can't say that you have that blonde factor anymore because your hair color does change periodically. However, sometimes it is just so much fun to watch that blonde factor come out because it is so genuinely honest. You have a beautiful smile but just remember that sometime it is alright to have experiences that are hard but know that the family will always be their for you. We have watched you grow into a beautiful young lady. We are proud of your testimony and service to your Heavenly Father and our Savior. We look forward to seeing you become that special kindergarten teacher. Always keep that goal in mind and you will succeed. Love You

Still Supporting the Highsteppers

Always nice to hear good things about family

Yesterday as we were shopping in Kings we met an old friend - Jean Stark. She has moved back to Bothwell from Idaho after her husband Stan's death. It was so good to visit with her but the nicest part was her wonderful words about Carli. She had met Carli in Tremonton Pharmacy. She told us what a delightful girl she is and how fun it was to have her help her. Of course we already knew that but our buttons certainly burst a bit. Grandparents are always so pleased to hear good things about grandchildren and since we know ours are the best we just smile and take it all in. Love you all

Crazy Days with "Vehicles"

I don't know if it is just winter or maybe some bad karma but it has been an interesting week with some of the Grandchildren and their vehicles. It all started early last Saturday morning when Dan H. came over and asked Grandpa to help him go get their car that was stuck in the snow close by Earl Petersen's house. Dan had driven up the night before from Pleasant Grove - (arriving about one) and the storm was bad and he missed the turn on 8000 North. When he realized this he tried to make a U-turn and slid the front wheels of the car into the snow and was stuck. Some people gave him a ride to the Woods and he left the car there. When he and Grandpa got to where he had left the car it was not there. They came home very confused and upset thinking that someone had stole the car. No not the case. The sheriffs office had had it towed because they considered the conditions extreme and it was not off the road far enough. Well after several phone calls the car was found at an impound lot in Riverside and would cost $170.00 to get it. Poor Teresa was suppose to be at work but was dealing with this instead. An impound release had to be gotten from the court house in Brigham (Mandy had to go with and show two forms of ID that the car was hers) then it was off to the Tow Company on Forest Street with only CASH money to pay the tow and storage fee and then to Riverside to retrieve the car. All in all not a good day. Never just leave your car on the side of the road ---- CALL THE POLICE
But this is only the beginning --- Brandon was driving to Ogden to take a friend when the alternator on his new-old car went out. (Dad says just a little too much BOOM-BOX) He was afraid to call home for help because dad had cautioned him about overloading his power system so instead he called Meagan. (Well you can read the rest of this tale on Meagan's Blog)
Then late yesterday afternoon Meagan gave her dad a call while she was at work at the Watermans saying that her car was acting up ---- so Grandpa and Paul headed to Logan about six with the Pick-up and car hauler to get it and bring it over to the shop so Paul could check it out. The hauler has no lights so Paul followed in his car which he was leaving for Meagan. Again it was a bit stormy but they made it home safe about 8:30.
Not done yet
This morning Shaylee called and when I asked how she was doing she said ---- well not so great and was Grandpa home. (Her parents are both at work) Last night she slid off the road by the storage sheds at the Crossroads and was stuck. However, a police officer did come and told her that it was far enough off the road and to just leave it for the night. She needed Grandpa to help her get unstuck. Good old Grandpa was to the rescue --- with Uncle Pauls help --and to the Crossroads with a tow strap and a big chain they headed. Craig Waldron was pushing snow with his tractor and helped to show them where to attach the chain and with the help of his tractor soon the car was out. There was only one problem left --- Shaylee said she was never driving again. Grandpa told her to just take it nice and slow and she would be fine. She was concerned about the drivers that would come behind her if she went too slow --- Grandpa told her to just worry about herself and be safe and they would take care of themselves.
Now we all know that sooner or later we will get a speeding ticket or a warning.(Unless you drive like Grandpa who will never ever have this experience) Well Skylar has had his first experience. He was rushing home at lunchtime to get his new cellphone and the local policeman was sitting at the park just waiting for someone to drive by too fast. Skylar was not fortunate enough to just get the warning no he has a speeding ticket --- somehow he will be working off $90.00. Remember that driving the correct speed is far cheaper and life at home will be less stressful.

Now I guess we will just see what happens next ---- Keeps us young

The Snow is Beautiful

What Happens When You are Always Early for Church

I really thought I was finally safe to arrive at Church a little early. For several months whenever I was early the Relief Society Presidency would ask me to play the piano. They have never called an organist. The middle of December they called someone to play and I figured I was safe to just find my chair and sit quietly. Well this last Sunday Brad and I again arrived early --- only 10 minutes--- and I was sitting quietly listening to the prelude music in Relief Society when the Bishop tapped me on the shoulder and ask to meet with him for a few minutes. Okay --- you never say no to the Bishop. I now have a new calling to go along with my other two. A Relief Society Teacher. They sustained me in Sacrament Meeting even before I could tell Brad because I was playing the organ on Sunday and had not got to talk with him. He looked at me a little surprised. It is good that each one of these callings is not an every week job. I just hope they do not come on the same Sunday. I will be teaching in Relief Society, once every eight weeks, I play the organ for Sacrament services every fourth week and serve as a visiting teacher supervisor getting a report once a month. All in all nothing dramatic. The Bishop did bring up the calling that he gave to Brad and I just saying that the Stake President said it was not his place to do it ---- but the Bishop felt he surely could put the word where it needed to be. I guess we will wait to see what happens to that one. Grandpa Brad is serving in the Sunday School Presidency but seems to have been left out of the loop ---- that is too bad because it certainly makes you feel useless when you are ignored. Better not to have been given the call.

A Few Pictures of Weekend Visitors and Activities

Kitchen Work

We returned home about suppertime on Friday so Amy began to work on the cabinets and I fixed a nice Taco Pie for supper. It was a new recipe from Aunt Sharron. Jacob was a bit unsure if he liked it or not but the rest of us did even if it was a bit late.
Grandpa, Paul, Amy and Danny are working so hard to make a silk purse out of a sows ear and I am just so happy with the end results. When we purchased the modular home we always knew that a kitchen renovation would be needed, but spending thousands of dollars just seemed so foolish. With wonderful imagination and lots of hard work the kitchen is going to be so nice. We were at Home Depot on Monday and found the correct counter tops that will look so good with a dark wood floor. Some tile work on the backsplash will add a beautiful touch. As for now it is DelRays turn to upgrade the lights and add some extra switches then Todd, Mary, Jeff and Lisa will be coming to sheet rock and paint the ceiling. Then a new kitchen window will bring in wonderful light and fresh air. Once that is complete crown molding will be added and then Amy will come and finish the upper cabinets. She has taken the doors to work on at her home in Stansbury. In all of this Grandpa and I will be working on the pantry shelves so that the ceiling and floor can be done there also. Hopefully by late spring it will be complete.
Thanks so much to you all for your help and support ---- the Christmas gift cards to Home Depot and the cash have been a wonderful help.

Seven Busy Days

It all started last Friday when Brad and I headed to Stansbury Park to pick up Amy, Jacob and the puppies. It would be a long holiday weekend from school and Amy wanted to work some more on the kitchen cupboards. Two stops were planned on our way. One at the Isaacsons and one at the Sorias. Nichole was making a new watch band for Donna's birthday and would need the bead cases that we share. The watch turned our beautiful and there were enough miscellaneous beads for a second band. Jeff fed us a wonderful lunch of sandwiches and chips. Never leave the Isaacsons without being fed. Thanks kids





The second stop was to see Natalie, Heather and Sam. They were having a wonderful time with a friend and her two children that had come for a play date.

Been "There" and home again

Finally felt well enough to make the drive to St. George to take Grandma Jean to Bob and Deann's house. We had planned to take her the Monday after New Years but knew it would not be a smart thing to pen her up in the vehicle with me while I was not feeling well. She is amazing for 95 and 1/2 years but I do not think that having her get Bronchitis would be so good. So we left this past Tuesday and returned home this afternoon. I think I dislike the drive more each time that we make it. The sight of our wonderful home was such a welcome relief. ( I am afraid that the bottom had gone quite numb after 5 1/2 hours of sitting) Brad has some meetings to attend for the town the first week of March so we will make the drive again and then Grandma Jean will return home with us. Glad I have a few weeks to prepare again for the trip.

We stayed with Dennis and Sharron and so enjoyed our time with them. They just spoiled us. They took me to a wonderful Kitchen store for some fun kitchen items plus a quick trip to Cosco to get a humidifier for our home. Hopefully that will help to ease the hurt in the lungs and the dry itchy skin. But the most fun of all was learning about Skype(I hope I got that right). Now I just need to get a video cam for myself and each of my children so that we can see each other as we talk. It was so fun to see Teri and her little daughter as they talked with Dennis and Sharron. Little Granddaughter threw her grandpa and grandma lots of kisses and had such cute smiles for them. It still amazes me how this can be. They were in Idaho Falls and we were in St. George but just like that we were seeing each other and talking.

We will be leaving first thing in the morning for Stansbury Park to pick up Amy and Jacob. They will be staying with us. Jacob has two days off from school so Amy is going to work some more on the kitchen cabinets. I am very excited to see the work progressing. Hopefully before the hot summer comes it will all be done. Thanks family for all of your help and encouragement. It is really nice to have such talented family members. Love you

Will keep you all posted as things move along.

Also Grandpa and I are working to get some health issues resolved so that we can accept the call that we have received from our Bishop. We are excited but know that we must get things taken care of first.

Happy Birthday to Mary Anne

Lots of memories about Mary Anne ---- She helped build the new house in Bothwell. Well, maybe not physically but she was there every inch of the way. It seems that we had no sooner started our new home when we found out that I was going to have a new baby. The plans were that we would try to do the majority of the work on the house under the supervision of a contractor. We had hired LeRoy Roberts but when the baby put a kink in the process and we needed to get the house done quicker he was unable to continue so we hired Miles Thompson. This was a blessing in disguise because he was a far better builder and our house turned out much nicer.
Anyway Mary helped with the tarring, the moving of pipe and rock, the insulation, the nightly cleanup, the painting, the sub-floor and - just about everything. Everything was fine and Dr. Mohr kept good track of us. However, we had no more than been in the house for a week when labor pains began and it was just too early so it was into the hospital for a few days with some medicine to see if they could be stopped. It worked and we came home to light duty and lots of rest until the baby would be born. At this same time my father was very ill but with all of my troubles mother did not want to burden me with more and did not tell me of the weird things going on with dad.
The Headlines read - "Long Awaited Celebrity Makes Appearance at Valley Hospital" My little baby was born doing just great and was the New Years Baby. She would be called Mary Anne after two of her great grandmothers. Mary Elizabeth Summers Burnhope that your Dad loved dearly (she had just died the fall before during the beet harvest) and my Grandmother Harriet Ann Byram Hill who died just before I was born. (We added the e)
However, again I was home for only a few days when a problem developed and it was back into the hospital for several days. Finally a D and C was preformed and soon I was able to come home again. Such trauma-----
But on Febuary 10th mother called and told me of the troubles with my father and that they would be taking him to the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake for exploratory brain surgery. The result was three large malignant tumors. Dad had signed the release to go ahead if needed. They did (this surgery was very new)and he never again woke up. He lay in a coma for ten days before he passed away on February 23rd.
This poor little new baby so far had received more love and care from her father and grandmother Firth that her mom. I had spent the days in Salt Lake with mother staying at Aunt Junes and the Pasketts (Sharrons folks) but mostly at the hospital. Then it was off to Idaho with mother to help her with Dad's funeral plans. I just do not know what I would have done without such a wonderful husband and his sweet mother Grandma Dorothy. Dale would bring all of the children including the new baby to Idaho the day of the funeral and we would leave to come home that night because his dad wanted to go to some sugar beet meetings.
Mary you must have been a fighter and the most patient baby every to be newly born and going through all of this. You have shown that great patients and fight your entire life. Always the peace maker in the family even when others fought you wanted everyone to just be nice. You have faced your own challenges with great faith and courage. You are such a special daughter and I feel so blessed to have been called to be your mother. Love You

Love to Grandchildren

It has been a night of coughs and sniffles --- not much sleep --- but wonderful moments spent reflecting on the years past and the blessing of twenty - two grandchildren. As each of you were in my thoughts special memories came to mind. Some brought smiles, some tears, some great concerns, some relief but mostly just great joy and thankfulness ---- my love to you---

Justin --- The first to come --- I feel your sweet hugs and that special way you say "Grandma" is music to my ears. When you sit and play the piano I am so proud of you. Keep working at it. You have served an honorable mission for our Savior and now as you complete your University studies I know that you will honorably serve your fellowmen.

Brittani --- I see you in that little baby basket with the Beautiful Pink Bow --- but its beauty did not compare to the beauty of the new little baby girl. Now you have your own sweet daughter who reminds me so much of you. Your thoughtfulness for others and the way you never speak ill of others is an example for us all. I am so grateful that you are going to be with Kinley each day and that you have Kevin.

Meagan --- Always so brave and always the protector. Those two broken arms on that fateful Mothers Day when fun turned to disaster. Yet you were so brave through it all. Thank you for being sure that I am OK and for the fun things that you drop in to me just because you think I would enjoy them. As you and Garen complete your University Studies I know that you will do great things to make the world a bit better.

Ryan --- Your endless energy still amazes me even after this many years. Kind of like the energizer bunny. Always on the go and accomplishing great things. If it is a bike or snowmobile I know that you can fix it. As you work to complete your electrical education you show great determination in preparing for your future - it will be a good thing.
Heidi --- How do I express to you my deepest thanks for a sweet little granddaughter that treats me so kindly. Not every grandma has a beautician that calls to be sure grandmas hair is okay or if it needs a perm, cut, or color. So proud that you are continuing your schooling -- you will be a wonderful teacher to others who desire the skills you have learned.

Tyson --- How you loved just the meat off the Pizza. When I think of our family parties I think of a grandson that is willing to play the game while others just watch. A young man who knows the meaning of the word "SAVE". You have learned a great lesson early in life --- it will be a great benefit to you. You know how to run the race whether on the track or off --- run with life.

Amanda --- Grandpa's little "Red Head". He would have loved it that someone had to share in his color. Your personalities are very similar --- (It must be the hair). I still see that sweet little girl bounce into the sealing room at the temple --- look around and ask why we were crying. It was only because you and Meagan were such angels and the right thing was taking place. Thanks for letting me play for you. Your voice is lovely -- let it be heard. Keep Dan in School and then you.

Kelsey --- My little tulip granddaughter. I cannot see a tulip but what I think of you. They will always mean that it is time for Kelsey to be born. Soon it will be time for Kelsey to be married --oh where did the time go. Just yesterday we were trying to find a formula that you could tolerate. Was a little worried that Mom and Dad might send you back. Always remember the promise that you will finish you studies at the University.

Brandon --- Can't see a "POWER STROKE FORD" but what I think of you. Wow -- you have learned so much at Bridge and some shop is going to be so happy to have you. It has been so fun having you live next door. Sometimes Grandpa and I just have to giggle a little as we have watched you grow. Still waiting for that Sunday thing.

Shaylee --- Oh My --- Giggles --- Giggles and more Giggles. BeBo I am not sure I understand the reason behind the nickname but sure did stick. I think that perhaps someday when you are that special Kindergarten teacher those cute giggles will be such a wonderful help. Love is such a powerful thing when shared with joy. Always know that we can go for an Ice Cream Cone.

Conner --- A quiet giant. Soft spoken --- oh not really --- I have heard you speak your lines loud and clear and with great sureness. It takes great effort to participate in music and drama. Lots of extra hours of practice and preparation --- and oh those tryouts. Grandma can relate because music was my love in High School. Someday perhaps you will prepare a song to sing for me. Would love that.

Carli --- the little princess - and that is exactly true. Princesses are very special and that is you. How fun it was to come and sit with you. Never a dull moment and it is still that way. Hard to believe that graduation will soon be here and you will be finished at Bear River High School. Going to school and having a job is a hard balancing act --- you have done so well. The world is yours and you can accomplish anything --- Go for it.

Skylar --- I am glad that Heavenly Father sent you instead of Brooke. She would have never wanted the X-Box like you. Just remember our pact --- keeping doing your best. How I remember those many times when grandpa and I would come to sit and we would help you study your spelling words, do math or read. It hasn't always been easy for you but now you know you can do it ----- GIVE IT YOUR BEST

Nate --- Sometimes I have just closed my eyes and prayed. A Daredevil you are. A four wheeler has no boundaries -- but then a two wheeler can even be wilder. A ball player who is always in the game giving his best even when others gave him no praise. So proud of your determination. Willing to explore all the experiences that are offered to you --- even if it means very early mornings, cold, snow, rain or just waiting on the mountain.

Damon --- I still hear the sound of that Life Flight helicopter as it took off from the Logan Hospital with our little grandson aboard. Would he be with us. I am so grateful that prayers were answered. It was a long hard fight but you gave it your all and today you are a fine strong young man. I know that Heavenly Father needs you to do something for Him so He left you with us. Do it Damon---fill life with joy always remember Grandma is asking "How was your Day" because I care.

Tristin --- Always in awe of your keen mind and ability to figure out how something works or needs to be put together. You have the patience of Job (look him up) and then sometimes you have no patience --- a bit like your mother. Sometimes perfection can be overwhelming - enjoy the journey of life finding good in all ---- I so enjoyed our piano time and your quickness in learning and beauty in playing. I do hope that sometime you will decide to do it again.

MacKenzie ---(twin one) our little flower among the strong trees. You have done well. You have survived amongst your boy cousins and even showed them a thing or two. It has been so fun to watch you just get right in there and do everything. You have given Aunt Nichole that special chance to have a girl for awhile and became a buddy with Hunter. Always stay close. Now a little bit about the DRAMA QUEEN stuff --- I understand -- sometimes life just sucks and you have to get it out.

Hunter --- (twin two) my how I wanted to be able to love and cuddle you as a baby but it was not to be --- in fact no one could. Talk about a miserable little baby that was our Hunter. Nothing could settle you. It took six months for the doctor to finally say that your eyes were really bad and perhaps it was time to see a specialist. So off to Primary Childrens Hospital to try and find the answer. They were crossed so bad --- after that first surgery you were a different baby. Thanks for prayers being answered and for expert medical help. You have a special bond with MacKenzie --- aways be there for each other.

Jacob --- It was a little scarey getting you here but you have not slowed down since. Exploring, building, reading, helping Mom and Dad, and the puppies, so willing to give of yourself. I guess you have a lot to do. Someday when you are that famous Doctor that you want to be you will still be helping lots of people. It is so fun to play games with you especially because you are so patient with Grandma ---- maybe someday I will be able to play Mario with you and not die in the first 60 seconds.

Clayton --- What a boy --- My namesake and a birthday present to boot. I was so excited when I was told that your name would be Clayton and then to have you born on my birthday was like the icing on top of the cake --- the best ever. Now the Claytons are a little fisty and a bit determined and I see all those "fine" qualities in you. Just be sure to use them in kindness. Always remember that I will try to mend the "Bear Blanket" --- but you cannot take it on your mission. Love you hugs and that you like Grandma's "Homemade Popcorn with lots of butter" --- none of the microwave stuff.

Heather --- you had to wait awhile to come to earth but you have been special. In away it was nice because Grandma was retired from working and was able to spend more time. I was so happy that your Mom and Dad let me come and tend you for awhile. As you have grown we have shared such fun times - how we love having you come and stay with us. You brighten our lives and our home with "your plans" that of course always end with a treat.

Samuel --- Born twenty-five years and one day after the first and perhaps will be the last. (Never know) If prayers were needed they were needed for you. How often your name was placed on the temple prayer roll along with your parents. Please dear father let our little boy breath when he is born. Sometimes the unknown is so wearing. Yes, you came just fine -- the mass was still there but it would be dealt with later as you got stronger. Six months later prayers of safety were again offered and again answered. Thank you Dear Father. Sams sweet smiles, his belly laughs and his big beautiful brown eyes that just shine make my heart melt.

Our little great granddaughter Kinley Lynn --- I guess that means we are getting old but how fun to share this sweet little ones life. Her mom says that she can be cross but we have never seen it. Just that cute smile. At Christmas she was walking and having so much fun --- lots of people to want to hold and love her. I see so much of her mother in her. I wonder what the years will bring to these special little new people.

Our little great grandson Garrett --- talk about a champ --- I think that he will definitely love to travel because he has done so well with it in his first three months of life. Not used to having family so far away and miss those times of just dropping in. Smiles are starting to come and he is such a content little boy. I think that must be a sign of good parents. Maybe someday he will be able to just drop in and ask for a cookie -- hope so.

Loved This --- so true

While sorting Christmas Cards today and getting a chance to really read them ---- these words from the Depains really touched me----

In between the chaos
and the calm,
the certainties
and the uncertainties...

there is that space
where we just laugh,
do what we can,
and realize
what we've got......

Each other.
That's what counts.

Thanks for being a part of our lifes

New Years Eve and Day - celebrated with family

We spent a very nice New Year Eves next door with the Woods. They prepared a delicious meal of steak and shrimp. We were few in numbers; just Teresa, Paul, Brandon, Grandma Nola, Brad and I but it was fun. We played Golf and Crowns. By sheer luck I won the game of Golf and Grandma Nola won at Crowns. I guess us grandmas are not too old to still be in the "GAME" --- but I will admit that by 10:30 it was time to go home.

New Years Day after all of the cleaning it was time to rest for a bit and then we shared the evening with the Isaacsons and MacKenzie. It was fun to have them all sleep over. Burger Kings dollar menu did a good job of feeding us and then we watched the movie "My Sister's Keeper". It was okay but I had read the book so it was a bit dissappointing to me. I had enjoyed the book (do wish the author had not used some four letter words - just weren't needed) and the ethical choices that it makes you ponder on. At 9:30 we decided to start a game of Credit Card Monopoly. Before we knew it it was past twelve and we had to end a fun game. Tristin was the wisest business man and the winner. MacKenzie, Hunter and I came in second and Nichole had a streak of bad luck and came in last. It was fun. After a breakfast of waffles, ham and potatoes this morning they would take MacKenzie home and head back home to Syracuse. Jeff will be working the Jazz game tonight.

Christmas Trees down for another year

I have so enjoyed our beautiful Christmas Trees this year but with all of the activities of the coming week I knew that they would have to come down now or wait for at least another ten days ----so when I couldn't sleep New Years Eve I began. By the morning I had several things placed by the back door for Grandpa to put away and the great room floor was covered with ornaments from the Star Tree. It took us until one in the afternoon when our home started to look like it was livable and then Grandpa began the task of taking the lights down on the outside. However, the snow kept falling and he finally had to give up. After we cleaned and straightened this morning he is now outside pushing snow and will finish the lights.
Each Christmas Eve we follow a tradition started many years ago by Dale and I of leaving the lights on all Christmas Eve night. As I looked out the bedroom window at the peaceful beauty of the lights I was so grateful for our many blessings. We are blessed to live in such a beautiful place that is filled with beauty which ever way you look. The snow capped mountains, the snow covered fields, trees, rivers, wildlife and so much more. We have wonderful neighbors and friends and families. But as I lay their looking at the Big Star my heart was filled with love and gratitude for my Savior Jesus Christ. How often he carries me and lifts me to go forward each day.