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.