Happy Birthday to Natalie Lyn

Yellow Roses in the Hall ---- Your father always gave me yellow roses (my favorite) when a new little baby arrived. However, the very moment that he brought them into the room I began with an asthma attack just like the ones that I had had during the entire pregnancy. So into the hall by the door they were placed. Far enough away to not bother me but close enough that I could enjoy them. For some reason my body had reacted to being pregnant by having asthma. You were our little miracle baby. So many times I would end up at the hospital with a bad attack and signs that I was going to loose you. Laying down was impossible because I would cough and cough so Dale took me shopping to find the most comfortable recliner possible so that I could sleep half sitting up. It was an ugly orange but it was the one place that I could get some rest. We were overjoyed with the baby's safe arrival and what a wonderful joy and blessing she is. Now choosing a name had been a subject of dispute. I really really wanted to name this little girl JUDITH (we picked a girls name because of the odds -- HaHa) but father Dale would have nothing to do with it ---- no matter what I said when he blessed her she would be named NATALIE. As for the middle name we both had agreed on Lyn --- but we had not discussed the spelling and so Lynn was put on the birth certificate which was amended very soon to be just Lyn. You would think that this being our seventh child that we could get things right.

Natalie has set and accomplished many great goals for herself. She overcame a great trauma in her life to excell in all that she would do. A beautiful daughter of God who is a example of great faith and good works. Always remembering her prayers, reading her scriptures and writing in her journal. A beautiful dancer who never complained about early mornings or late night practices and then was always being sure that her school work was the best. These qualities carried over to her studies at USU for a bachelors degree in Pre-Med along with an additional minor in Chemestry. Then off to Salt Lake to work and obtain her Masters Degree at the University of Utah. Always graduating with honors. It was during this time that she would meet her sweetheart and companion, Sid. Together they have established a wonderful household of faith and enjoy the blessing of two special children - Heather and Sam. Along with being a wonderful wife and mother it amazes me that she holds down a fulltime demanding job at the IHC Offices. Our prayers are with Natalie that her life will be blessed with love and peace.

Happy Birthday to Brad

Today is special at our house. IT IS BIRTHDAY for Brad. He said he has lost a step because he is one year older, but he certainly does get around. Always helping others and serving the town. Brad is such a blessing to everyone that is a part of his life. Quiet and strong. It has been twenty six wonderful years that I have been able share with him and I pray we have many more. The past year has been filled with new experiences that we have shared with the family. His first trip to Disneyland and driving in crazy traffic. Over all I think he had a great time and with the help of Bertha (The GPS) we did not get lost once. Attending a professional baseball game in Anaheim at the Angels Stadium was interesting. Watching the teams have their little arguments and watching the public drink, and drink and drink. Going to Newport Beach was amazing --- as we talked about its wonder and our Father in Heaven and His creations. His first time to the Manti Pageant and staying at a Bread and Breakfast was nice. Testimonies were strengthened. Mosquito meetings at Bryce were great with imformative meetings, a fun night at Ebenezer's Grill for supper and entertainment.We then spent a wonderful day seeing Bryce Canyon and coming home the long way. That is the habit with Brad and I is to take the long way home and see even more places. Fun trips to St. George and family parties are always at the top of the list. Thanks Grampie Brad for being so special.

Eyes are Holding Steady

Today was another check up for Brad with Dr. Waterman. The Glaucoma is holding steady for right now so the drops are doing the job. With the added morning drop for the worst eye he even had a slight improvement in sight. Knowing that this is a life long treatment and that to be faithful everyday in the treatment is so very important can not be over emphasized. The option for not doing this would be blindness and that would be horrible for him.

Still in Love

Time is ticking away and the couple is doing great --- even with all the wedding plans, school, work and trying to buy a house ---- hang in there it is well worth it.

Happy Birthday to Kevin

Valentines Day has an extra special meaning for our family. We get to wish Kevin a very happy happy birthday. We are so glad to share this special day with him. How well I remember the family reunion in 2006 when Brittani had to leave to go on a blind date with a young man. Little did we know then what would happen and what a wonderful future was in store. Steady and kind is Kevin. We have watched him gently yet with great strength care for Brittani and now their little daughter Kinley. Always willing to pitch in and help and to see that everyone is okay. Riding his Harley, hunting, camping and family seem to bring great joy and satisfaction. Thanks so much Kevin ---- We love you

Saturday at the Ballgame

Grandpa and I went to MacKenzie's basketball game on Saturday at noon. It was at the Bear River Middle School. WOW!!!! does she have the energy going. I think she would wear out the Energizer Bunny. We called her the John Stockton of the team. Sometimes when she was bringing the ball down the court she played it real casual and cool and then the fake out began. She does a right good job of dribbling and staying with the game. It is quite fun to see the little girls play and scramble. Her dad kept hollowering for her to take the ball away ---- just grab it from the opposing team. At one time the girl that she was guarding was aleast four times her size ---- when she pushed MacKenzie gave it her all but she was definetly outsized. Hope you enjoy the fun pictures.

Pink and Red for Valentines

MacKenzies new colors

Nate and Church Ball

Grandpa and I were able to get to Nate's basketball game this week at the Tremonton Stake Center. Boy the minute you walked in the door you knew there was a lot of boy sweat going on. The game didn't start until nine making them the last for the night so all the other teams had left their good smell. It was fun and brought back alot of memories. Grandpa and I were curious to see if Nate took after his dad. (Remember how DelRay would sometimes be asked to leave the game.) When I asked DelRay who the referee was he didn't know but said it was not Carl Jensen ---- the person that would throw him out.

I am amazed at the energy of youth. Nate was up and down that floor so quick and so many times. He really kept himself in the game. They didn't win but looks like they had a good time. One thing that really impressed me was when Nate's friend Jaron got hurt Nate really showed a great concern and kindness. It is always the sign of a fine young man when you have compassion for others. So proud of Nate and his good sportsmanship. The boys read the code of good conduct first and then that was followed with prayer. Emphasizing that the game is for fun and growth in competition.

Crafty Meagan is at it Again

We had dinner at the Woods again on Sunday (Super Bowl) and Meagan and Garen gave Granpa and I a cute Valentine ---- all homemade. I think Meagan really has some of Aunt Tonya's DNA because she enjoys creating just like Tonya. Now we know that it is not her mother's specialty. Sorry the two candy bars are not in the picture (all tied up in Valentine ribbons) we ate them. I just can't mess with the cute boquet. Love you guys --- thanks for thinking of us. We appreciate you.

Hugs and Kisses

Clayton needed me to stop by his house on the way home last night ---- "It is really important Grandma" Boy did I ever feel special. Mom and Dad got a letter but he told his teacher he needed to write one to his Grandma. I love you too little Boy ----

The three older boys were at the church but called to be sure that we stayed until they got home --- just wanted to see us and say "HI" (Sorry we missed you Tristin - Scouts went longer and Jeff was working the Jazz Game) We love you all so much --- remember to always do your best and you will accomplish the desires of your heart. Thanks to Nicole for Grilled Cheese Sandwiches --- one of our favorites when the Isaacsons make them.

"But Daddy I Don't Want to go for a Ride With You"

Yesterday Grandpa and I drove to the Soria's to tend Heather and Sam. Natalie had a conference in Park City and Sid had a "Ski" appointment with a rep. We were excited. It seems that we do not get to see Sam very much and when he does he is so shy. So this is a fun time to share with the children so they know who we are. When we arrived Natalie was a bit concerned about what she was leaving us with because the children had been a bit fevered the day before at Aunt Nicholes and Sam had not had the best of nights. We assured her that we would be fine and to just enjoy doing the conference. After instructions about Motrin and Tylenol doses and lunch menus she was off.
The children are so fun and they are easy children to tend. It just takes both of us to keep up with their little bodies. All was going pretty good until about noon when Heather's fever started to get worse. So the Motrin was given and she cuddled on the couch with Grandpa as I fed Sam.
She tried to eat a bit of her lunch but just couldn't.
When Amy and Jacob arrived to pick up a Tonya delivery she checked the temperature and it was elevated. Long story short she was feeling yucky. Tried to nap but just couldn't and I could tell that the cough and the wheezing where getting worse.
I have experienced this with my own little ones before and new that nighttime could only get worse. Quick call and message left for Daddy Sid and quick text to mom to call when she could. "I think Heather needs to go to Insta-Care". When Natalie called and I told her that I thought Heather needed to see the doctor the tears began. She tried so hard to be better even with her bright little red cheeks and red eyes --- and that little whisper of a voice because she could hardly talk and the coughing hurt so bad.
Sid was out of the canyon and would be home shortly and would take her to Kids Care in Bountiful. The minute he opened the door the tears began again. Daddy said that he and Heather needed to go for a ride. Now you can not pull too much over on this little girl and the conversation went something like this ----
Daddy Sid - " Heather do you want to go for a ride with Daddy?"
Heather - "No - I don't want to go for a ride with you Daddy"
Daddy Sid - "We can get a prize"
Heather - "No - I don't want to go for a ride with you Daddy" - "Daddy I am all better"

The ride was taken anyway and a good thing because Heather has the croup. She was given a breathing treatment and some medicine and best of all a frozen otter pop.
Grandpa and I left about seven thirty with Daddy Sid in charge -- Mom will be in Park City until Friday Afternoon. So glad that Sid has always been a hands on Dad --- he does a terrific job.
In all of this Sam just played, ate, smiled, slept and wiggled. We just pray that he does not get the bug (very contagious the Doc says) with his surgery not so far behind him. The family had plans to spend Friday night and Saturday in Park City but I guess that gets cancelled. Oh the fun of raising a family --- nothing really goes by the book or schedule.

Congradulations to Heidi

GREAT JOB HEIDI!!!! ---- We are proud of you.
On Tuesday Heidi passed her practical test for the classes she has just completed at Bridgerland. Now she has to take the written part. This will add to her skills of hair dressing as she works in the salon. She will be able to give all of the fun treatments to the skin and help with the aches and pains that we all feel. She started her last series of courses on Monday and when it is complete she will be qualified to become a teacher in the cosmetic school. Hang in there ---- the years will definetly be worth it.

One More Big Step Finished

The ceiling is complete and looks so beautiful. Paul and Grandpa have finished all of the wood trim and Mary and Todd have put the finishing touches on the sheetrock.

Paul, Teresa, Grandpa and I headed to Home Depot (our hang out joint) early Saturday Morning to pick up some long 13 foot pieces of molding to finish the conversion area between the kitchen and great room, another sheet of beadboard and trim to redo the furnace front and some corner molding. We went over the list several times and once again thought our shopping trip was complete. (Little did we know) Everything was going great until they began to add the trim to the little kitchen eating area and it would not cover. After discussing all the options we decided it would be best to head back to Home Depot and exchange the molding Brad and I had purchased for one a bit thicker. So off we went again knowing that our deadline to have the wood finished was coming close. It all came together in the end and after Pauls stop at Home Depot after work on Monday to pick up a five foot board that we were lacking in the Pantry the wood is finished and beautiful. Todd came Monday morning and textured the ceiling. He is quite a Pro. He said that his "board" is the same one that he built when he was sixteen years old. Just New Plastic covering as needed. "Why did you have this board when you were sixteen?" I asked. LeRoy Roberts and the building trades program at the High School was the reason he said. He really appreciated and loved Mr. Roberts for all of the lessons that he taught him about building a house. Todd learned under Mr. Roberts for his three high school years and the opportunities that he gave him to learn different skills. We can see how these lessons have really helped Todd to make his own home and many others nicer.

Todd then came back Tuesday morning (he told me this would be a dirty job and to prepare by covering most everything. I really couldn't imagine how but he was right. He scraped the ceiling to get all of the little "hangies" off and be sure that everything look nice and smooth. When I swept the floor I had a large pile of white dust. Glad we listened and covered up. He than painted on the primer coat of paint. This was a hard and tiring job. In the late afternoon He and Mary came and add the final coat of paint. Working together the job went much quicker. They make a great team. When everyone had left Grandpa and I began the clean up and mopping. I think I am glad for a rest before Amy comes to work on the upper cabinets. ------ Thanks everyone Grandpa has hung the lights back up and DelRay will becoming to finish the can lights. It will be one spectacular and bright kitchen.

DAH!!!! -

Was working on the lap top doing my Relief Society lesson when I got to thinking about the little cirlce above the screen. "I wonder if that is really a web-cam?" When I bought the laptop I was not told anything about a web-cam but when I checked the Programs list sure enough there it was and it does work. So Grandma now has a web-cam on her laptop plus the desk top. Crazy Grandma

New Web Cam for Grandma's Computer

I received ninety nine dollars in Staples Rewards for recycling my ink cartridges so when we were in Logan this week I spent them on a web cam for my computer. It seems that the Grandchildren are growing so fast and this way any one that has a web cam I can call and talk with them as well as see them. So far the Sorias are the only ones I have connected with on SKYPE. It is fun to be able to see Heather as we talk and Baby Sam just smiles and jumps. Hopefully this way he will get to know who we are so that he doesn't cry when we see him.
SKYPE is a free download and the calls are free --- so it works great. If any of you can please set it up and give me a call. I called Uncle Dennis the other night and it was fun to visit with him face to face or at least computer to computer.

The Work Goes On

It has again been a busy week in the kitchen. Todd was here on Wednesday and Thursday mornings to tape and mud the seams. He is so quick and good at this. He had been hit by some falling ice and fell on the ice on Tuesday and Wednesday and was a bit sore, but he came anyway. He will come on Monday to give it all a light sanding and texture it. We sure do appreciate it. Grandpa was busy those two days working for the town on a broken water line so I was able to have such a nice visit with Todd. As we shared some of lifes experiences that have helped us to grow and try to become better I was very grateful that he and Mary found each other.
Friday afternoon Paul and Brad worked on adding the crown molding to the top of the cupboards. WOW!! does it ever look fantastic. So grateful that Paul is so good with wood --- the miter cuts are perfect and how he figured it out is beyond me. We were short about two feet on the under molding so when the sun comes up Brad and I will head to Logan and Home Depot AGAIN. I think that it is becoming our favorite place to go on a date. I think we will both be just a bit glad when we can shop someplace else. However, we certainly are becoming more familiar with the Home Depot layout and how to measure and cut wood.
I am getting so excited to see a finished kitchen/breakfast nook area. Still a lot of steps to go but we will make it.

Making tracks in Grandpa's Snow

Oh -- to be young and spry again. Seeing the grandchildren having fun in the field brings back a lot of fun memories. Grandpa was tempted to join them until his knee reminded him that he is just a little sore to be handling a snowmobile right now. But it certainly brings many wonderful memories and fun times with family and good friends. Fun Relief Society rides with the Vances, Hadleys and Stenquist to make the ladies feel comfortable. However, I think that Ada Jean and Leatha were never too hesitant to go where the men went, even it was to the HIGH MARK on the mountain. Just that sometimes Brad would have to rescue them. But it was such great fun. When Grandpa and I would go (about once a week) we would come home so tired but like Grandpa said "it was a good tired".

Brandon, Ryan, Jordi, MacKenzie, a Corbett boy and Kyle (Brandon's friend) had a great time but I think that even more they enjoyed being invited to lunch at the Woods. (So did Grandpa and I). Teresa had made a batch and a half of her fantastic scone recipe and ended up making another full batch. Everyone so enjoyed them along with the great Chinese casserole that Paul had made. It all tasted so good.
Garen stuck with doing his math homework --- that takes great dedication when so much fun is going on ---- He and Meagan will soon accomplish their goal of a college degree.
MacKenzie was just glad that Meagan was home for the weekend because that meant that she would get to sleep over at Aunt Teresa. She really loves to do this.

Happy Birthday to Damon

Not quite as cold as it was fourteen years ago --- my was that ever a day. Grandpa and I still talk about the sound of the Life Flight Helicopter that evening as it powered up and took you to Primary Children's Medical Center. The night was bitter cold and our tears stung on our cheeks as we saw it lift off and jet away. Even Dr. Armstrong expressed that the Lord would need to have a hand in your survival. After your little heart had quit several times the doctors in Logan had been advised to not try and start it again --- Dad had blessed you and given you your special name ---- things were just not looking so great. We are so grateful for the answers to many prayers and the marvelous power of the Priesthood. How grateful we were that day that your father and other family members were honoring their Priesthood and were able to beseech our Father in Heaven in your behalf. The faith of your mother Mary that she would raise her little boy was a great example to all of us.

Many things happened during those twenty one days that should have taken your life but my were you a little fighter and I know that Heavenly Father had a great work for you to do here on earth. You came home to a thrilled and grateful family. Through the years other challenges would come and again we thought we might loose you but again you and the family fought hard and again you would survive. Damon I hope that you will always know that you are a special Son of our Heavenly Father and honor and serve Him and our Savior Jesus Christ. May we ALL remember the humbleness of that cold February night as our prayers went to Heaven. We were blessed with a wonderful answer - WE HAVE YOU.

Today as you celebrate your fourteen birthday we are so proud of you. You are excelling in your school work, you are honoring your Priesthood, you are as handsome as can be and that little smile and twinkle in your eyes are priceless. As you work towards your Eagle Scout we know that you are blessed with determination to accomplish hard tasks. We have seen it often in your life. Someday we will see marvelous structures that were designed by Damon Johnson --- and we will proudly say that is our son, our grandson, our brother, our nephew, our cousin and our great example. We love you!!!