All Aboard

The Isaacson family boarded the Disney Cruise Liner this morning at eleven. No more phone contact for a few days. When they return to shore they will go to the condo for a week before heading back to Minnesota. They are true vacationers.

Grandma is at the Sorias

It has been a busy two days. School yesterday and then lots of play. Today Brad came down to help drive Natalie and baby Elizabeth to the doctor in Salt Lake. Then he and I took Heather to ballet classs in Bountiful. Mom, baby, and Sam were able to have a nice nap. Heather sang today while I played the piano. "A Childs Prayer".

Icooked supper while Natalie and Heather got her Valentines ready for school. Sam and grandpa teased. Daisy camewith grandpa today. She is a good dog.

The house is now almost quiet and grandma says "Good NIGHT?"

Another little Boy

Todd and Mary will be first time grandparents in June. Shaylee Dawn and Cassidy are the excited parents. Little ones bring such a special love and spirit with them. This little baby boy will truly bless their lives.

Blue Cup Cakes

It was a big day for the Dansies. The appointment today included an ultra sound to see if the baby is a boy or girl. Blue is the order of the day. So little baby boy Dansie will be coming to bless this family. We are so happy for them.

Natalie and baby Elizabeth Come Home

The family is together again and so glad. Hospitals are great places to help us in times of need, but home is so nice when you are feeling some better.

Natalie says that baby Elizabeth seems to be a very content little girl. It will be fun to spend time with the Soria family.

On Their Way

The Isaacson family left in the early morning hours for Florida. They will travel as far as Tennessee today. Will arrive in Florida tomorrow.

Update from the Isaacsons-----they have arrived at their first stop in Tennessee. Tomorrow it will be check in time at the hotel in Florida.

Traveling to day through more states on way to Florida.   Should arrive at about seven EST.

Damon was Honored

Tonight we met to give honor to Damon. It was truly a very special night. Earning the rank of Eagle is a great accomplishment.

Very Proud Parents with their Son

Good men in a boys life

Lots of wonderful preparations

Receiving the Eagle Scout Oath from Brother Deakin

A special flag presentation by the VFW

The Eagles Nest
Brother Deakin -        - Bishop Capener, Damon, Garen, Mike, Brother Buchanan

Celebrating a Sixteen Birthday after the ceremony

Crazy Family Time

Fingers is always the best way to enjoy the party ----- Kaden loved the candies

The Johnson family

Family to give support

It is the truth

Amanda sent me this picture with the words ---- Life could not get any better.  She is so right -----FAMILY that is what it is about.  Nothing else ---- we work for our family, we loose sleep for our family, we laugh with our family, we cry with our family, we play with our family --------- WE ARE NOTHING WITHOUT OUR FAMILY!!!!!

Joy

Happy Birthday to Damon

It is the big SIXTEEN for Damon.  Sixteen years ago we were wondering if we would see this day.  He is truly a miracle baby.  It is our prayer that Damon will always remember the blessing that he was granted to live and that he will be faithful in fulfilling his calling here on the earth.  I know that he has it in him to accomplish great things with honor.  May he be a good son to his mom and dad, a faithful priesthood holder to his Father in Heaven, a wonderful brother to his sisters and give kindness and love to all others.  We are proud of Damon.  He has grown so tall but is still our cute shy boy.  Always respectful and loving to us his grandparents.  That cute smile and the twinkle in his eye melts our hearts and fills us with love and pride. 

Elizabeth Jane Soria

A little baby girl has arrived safely. Mother and daughter are doing fine. Baby Elizabeth weighed in at 7 pounds and 15 ounces and is 21 inches long.  She is absolutely beautiful.  Some say she looks like Sam, some like Sid but I am not sure.  I do think that she has Heather's mouth and the Firth nose but she just looks like Elizabeth, a very sweet and contented little girl.  Her size now tells us why Natalie looked extra large and was feeling stretched to the max.  Both mother and daughter can now relax.  All in all us mothers  know that it is worth it when we can hold that little baby in our arms.

Thanks to Heidi and Damon  who came to sit with Daisy, we were able to leave Tuesday evening to stay at the Soria home.  Natalie had thought she would be having the baby at noon but a late call on Tuesday afternoon from the hospital said she was scheduled for seven on Wednesday morning.  Lots of changes in the carefully made plans.  On Wednesday morning we will get Heather to school before going to the hospital.

On Wednesday Morning Natalie and Sid left home very early because they had to be at the hospital by five thirty.  The children were snug in their beds upstairs and Brad and I were sleeping in the bedroom downstairs.  Brad arose at 6:45 and headed upstairs to listen for the children.  Right on schedule Heather woke up at seven and was just headed down the stairs to get me when I met her in the family room.  She is such a delightful little girl.  The love that she showers on me fills my heart with the greatest of joy.  I hope that she will always want to be with me and share her fun life.  I also pray that she will accomplish great things whether it be in her own home, in her education, in the gospel, in a career or what ever road she follows.  I know that she will complete her tasks with great care, love and dedication ----- just like her mom and dad.  Sam is one hundred percent BOY and a two year old.  He is full of such business all of the time and that giggle of his always brings a smile.  I think that this little boy will have to be on his toes to keep up with two SISTERS, but he is up to the task.

We have enjoyed having the children with us at our home in Tremonton while Dad took care of Mom and Baby Elizabeth in the hospital.  However, on Thursday evening as it became darker Sam really wanted his DADDY and MOMMY.  I told Heather we had a dilemma---- of course she wanted me to explain what that meant.  Well, you do not want to go home Heather you want to sleep another night but, Sam needs his home and Daddy and Mommy.  I was hard for her but she finally said okay.  I explained to her that I would be coming all next week to spend with them and help Mommy. 

Our visit was short at the hospital because Mama Natalie was having a rough time with the nausea and Sam was having such a fun time exploring everything and asking two year old questions.  I was only able to get a few pictures and then Sam wanted to become the photographer ----with a finger over part of the lens.  He is a crack up.

Daddy introduces new baby Elizabeth Jane to Sam and Heather  -----
but mom caught the eye because she was retching in the pink pan

Heather was in heaven ----- she got her wish ----- A BABY SISTER

She is so beautiful and I am so Happy



Sam Checking everything out in this strange place




When we arrived in Elwood Sam was so surprised and happy to see Daisy----
not sure about how excited Daisy was but she tolerated it all just fine




Popcorn party and a movie



Tomorrow

February 1st at seven in the morning baby Soria will be delivered. Brad and I are at the Soria home tonight. We will get Heather to and from school tomorrow and then go to the hospital to meet the new little one with Heather and Sam. It will be a great day. Heidi and Damon are at our house looking after Daisy and Cloe.

Damon's Special Day is Friday

Friday will be a very special day for Damon for two big reasons.  Number one he will have his Eagle Court of Honor and number two--- he will turn sixteen.

Friday Evening at the Elwood Ward Church House at six p.m. a special Court of Honor will be held to honor Damon.  It should be a very special evening.  I hope he has a great group to support and honor him for this accomplishment.

Daisy Arrives

Brad and I went to the airport this morning to pick up Daisy. Her flight arrived at eleven. She was real glad to see Brad and I. She seemed to handle the flight okay. I hold a soft spot in my heart for Daisy and the other family dogs. You can become quit attached to those pets that depend on you. I think that maybe they are more loyal than many others at times. Work yes but comfort too.

We dropped Daisy of at the groomers in Tremonton on the way home. We will rest abit at home until she is finished.

Waiting for Brad to finish his lunch

It is now REST time ----- what a day ----- how did I end up here?
Where is my family?

Return to Temple

Yesterday Brad and I returned to the temple. It has been a very long vacation. With holidays on two of our Saturdays and then the temple closed for cleaning we missed five Saturdays. President Gibbons joked with us that if someone misses four weeks they are usually released.  So except for the two new couples who were there last evening I guess we were all up to be released.  He is such a good man and it is wonderful to know that laughter and joy can be shared. 

We both had very busy assignments and returned home late. We arrived at the temple at two and left it at ten.  We were assigned the eight o clock session. Many patrons attended and the sessions were full. The temple was busy. How wonderful!

In our prayer/training meeting President Gibbons talked about the temple recommend interview questions. He referenced a talk given by President Hinckley. The three most important questions he felt were about our testimonies. Then what questions tells about our character. This is related to tithing and the Word of Wisdom.   I will find the article and reference it.  (Found it)  

 It is a very long article but so worth reading.  It was given by President Hinckley in a Saturday Night Priesthood session.  It can be found in the May  1990 Ensign and is titled "Keeping the Temple Holy." 

 My dear family you are always in our prayers that testimonies will be strong and that you will find the peace and joy of life in each day as you build  on the foundation of Christ and His gospel. 

Each Saturday I feel very blessed to add family names to the temple prayer roll knowing that our Father in Heaven will be with us and that His "Thy Will Be Done" love and kindness will prevail in our lives as we follow Him.

Just Wanna Go Home

I have such a strong desire to go HOME.  I so long to talk with my mom and spend time with her and my dad.  As we were driving home yesterday we passed several older trucks and my memories and loneliness became so overwhelming.  I remember the feeling of security that encircled me as a girl.  It seems that mom and I could talk and discuss anything.  She was always working at my side.  She never sent me alone to accomplish a task without first being with me until I felt secure in it.  Today,  I just really need to have some good advice and words of comfort from her.  Dale has been gone so long and as sweet as Brad is we never discuss my concerns or feelings about my family.  Maybe that is why I am feeling so alone tonight.  I miss that opportunity of sharing and having someone that is away from the forest helping me to understand the trees. 


Step one ----- I am not going to be a facebooker any more. 
Step two -----  Be more consistent in reading my scriptures for His guidance
Step three ----- Look forward to each new day

Despains are visiting

The Despain family arrived Friday night. Amy has been sewing baby blankets. She met with Tonya for a quick lesson. She has done a great job. Jacob has read, played Angry Birds, and games on my computer. Our house looks like people actually live here not just two old people.

Heather and Sam

Wednesday was a fun day spent with Heather and Sam. We made a school pick up for Heather that the lady said we past with flying colors. Grandpa enjoyed a quiet nap with Sam and Heather and I played Fish Pond and store. Made a pot of chicken noodle soup for the families supper. Natalie came home a bit early so we could beat the storm. It was a great day----thank you.

It is Official

Daisy is Flying In. Yep, the first family dog to go for an airplane ride. Brad and I will pick her up on the thirty first if all goes well. Gosh she will have more flying miles than us. We will be keepong her the next few months. However, Skylar will be home the end of February so I think she will prefer him over us.

I Feel Bad

It is very official.  Joe Rudd has purchased the Rogers and Taylor Funeral Home.  This place and the people that have owned it have a very special place in my heart.  To see this happen is sad.  He also fired all of my dear fellow employees ---- John, Ken, and Mr. Nessen.  They all have little families and I am sure relocating and finding another job in this profession will not be easy.  President Taylor and Sister Lynette spent many years serving our valley along with Lynette's father Mr. Rogers.  I think that they were truly broken hearted when the people of the valley were passing such terrible rumors when Mr. Rudd decided to open his business.  I do know that some of those lies came from Mr. Rudd himself and this has been very dissappointing to me.  They were untruths.  It is okay to start your own business but do it on your own merits not degrading someone else.  Now when the time comes for this lady and her husband to leave this life I quess it will be to Myers in Brigham City for our care. 

In the Hospital

Teresa went to work yesterday and her doctor admitted her into the hospital.  She was having a very hard time breathing and feeling very ill.  One of the other employees drove her over and Paul met them there.  Test have shown that she has Bronchial Pneumonia.  Dr. Schow is also concerned about another problem and wanted her to stay overnight until they can be sure she will be okay.  When I talked with her it was very hard and tiring for her to speak.  Keep her in all of our prayers.  When you are not feeling good working for a Doctor sure isn't bad.

Hair Change

Nichole had some fun with Skylar and Tristin this past week.  The boys decided they would like to have black hair.  Mom obliged them and this is the result.

Today is the DAY

Heather is coming for the weekend. She has been marking off the days. Grandpa and I will pick her up when she gets out of school today. Fun times ahead.

We arrived at Heather's just before she got home from school.  We were waiting in the drive way.  Very excited to see Natalie and the children.  The hardest part of the day was leaving Sam behind.  He was crying even though he and mom were going to make a Cosco run.  Hopefully it will not be too much longer that we and his parents will feel that he can sleep over without them.  However, Natalie did say that she was sure that if he did come poor Grandpa would be absolutely worn out playing and caring for him.  He is a man's man.

The ride home started just the way we thought it would.  "What should we do now".  We played the spelling game, the princess game and the quiet game and before we knew it we were at our home.  Heather is getting very good at figuring out words when you tell her letters.  She is learning her sounds.

The hardest part of the whole weekend for Grandma is coming up with something that she will eat.  She is doing much better but it  is still a challenge.

For sleeping I decided that it is just too cool to sleep on the floor by the side of our bed.  (Her favorite spot), so we blew up the air mattress and she and I slept in the family room.  First night not so great ---- she does take the whole bed with moving around, the second night much better.

On Saturday it was off to the movies to see "The Chipmunks".  Aunt Tonya, Kelsey, Nate, MacKenzie, Grandpa and I joined her.  It was a cute show that she enjoyed along with the popcorn, drink and treats.  After the movie Heather, MacKenzie, Grandpa and I went to Maddoxs for lunch.  (thanks to the Nielsens and Ryan Firth Family)

The drive home was crazy.  We started the quiet came about three times, until we finally got close enough that Heather could handle it.  She is the one that was in charge and we laughed and laughed.  She is such a darling little character. 

Later in the evening we had a special visit from her Aunt Lisa and her cousins, Carli, Kaden, Brittani, Kevin, Kinley and Gracie.  Then it was time to take a worn out MacKenzie home.  Not a dull minute when Heather visits.

Perhaps the most beautiful event of the weekend was on the drive home.  Again we were playing games and laughing.  When we passed Aunt Lisa's work place I showed Heather the beautiful American flag on the end of the building.  I asked Heather if they said the Pledge of Allegiance at her school.  I started with the words - "I pledge allegiance to the flag" ---she did not say yes or no, but in her very quiet voice I heard the words - "of the United States of America."  It took me back a little bit so I asked her to start over and say it in her louder voice.  "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all".  She knew every word and they do say it at her school.  I am so glad as well as so proud of this little one and those who are teaching her the blessing of being and American.

Sid, Natalie and Sam had stayed home from church with colds.  They were doing some better and felt good about the work they had accomplished for the weekend. 

We so love Heather to come.  However,  I feel so bad that when she gets home she gets cross and has a hard time sharing with little brother.  I know that this is normal but look forward to when she goes home and is just happy.

After a quick trip to the Despain's we headed home.  Tired but grateful to be parents and grandparents.  Love you.

Great spot to watch movies.  We watched Toy Story 3, Cinderella II (twice), Little Mermaid, and Monsters.  We played go fish, crazy faces and animal rummy ---(no not by the rules - they were written too small for Grandma to read)
And when we weren't doing this grandpa and I ran the rope so Heather could jump rope --- glad for this big room.  Then we read her cute story book.  That is she read it.  She memorizes so fast when you read her something.   Did pretty good.

Happy Birthday to Mary Anne

Mary Anne is celebrating a birthday.  She was the New Year baby of 1969.  Tremonton had to wait a few days to celebrate.  Mary is a very special daughter.  All of her life she has been a daughter with great faith and patience.  She hated conflict, harshness, and unfairness.  The years have brought some heartache to Mary and have tested her faith in others, but she is trying hard to overcome.  I know that she will succeed.  Mary is a hard worker.  She never asks others to do more than she will do herself.  Her talents are many ----from helping Todd in renewing and making their home more lovely and mine and Brads as well.  The handiwork that she shares with others or sells is so beautiful and special.  She can pick up any crochet pattern, read it and then make it without hesitation.   Her hands are never still.  She can also be found reading a good book when a quiet moment is at hand.  Mary Anne took the challenge of returning to school to earn a Medical Assistant certificate and is a great employee to those she works with.

My prayers are with Mary and her sweet family.  I know that Heavenly Father watches over them and will give them the peace to carry on.  May she always know of our love and support. 

A Dream Come True

The Dallas Mavericks are in town and Skylar is in heaven.  When it comes to being a true and loyal fan Skylar is number one.  He loves HIS Dallas Mavericks.  His parents purchased tickets and gave Skylar the best present possible---going to the game between the Mavs and the Timberwolves.  What a great day for this family.

WOW!  what an exciting day

Zoey Mae Brewer

Today we met as a family in our home to share in the joy of a blessing. Little baby Zoey was blessed and given her name today. Those priesthood holders in the circle were her father Garen who gave her a sweet blessing, her grandfather Paul Wood, her great grandfather Brad Frank, her great uncles DelRay Woodruff, Dan Nesbit, Jeff Firth, Todd Johnson, and Sid Soria. The Bishopric of the Elwood Second Ward, Bishop John Baxter, his counselors Greg Iverson and Tim Nichols. Garen gave Zoey a sweet father's blessing.  Good health, good friends, and that she would understand at the the proper age the importance of her baptism to become a member of His Church that would lead her to all eternal blessings. 

I am also very grateful for the support and love that our family shows to one another as we celebrate these special days.  If it is at all possible I know that they will be present to give their love and support.  We also miss and think of those whose circumstances make it so they can not come. 

As I watch this sweet family I am so very grateful for each one of them.  Always their for each other and yet always willing to let each one be unique and do their own thing without judgement or scorn.  They truly represent the attributes that our Savior would desire.

Zoey we welcome you, we love you, we pray for you and your family always.

Mom, Dad and Zoey -----Tyler too busy to come

Jordan and Brandon ---- He is such a proud and sweet uncle with his nieces and nephews

Family support

Love shared

A special Grandmother

Soon another little one ---- to love, tease and share

Nate-----always so sweet with the little ones -----they all are fascinated with Grandma's organ

Blessing dress made by Aunt Mary -----and yes "I have had enough, I want to eat"

Love shared and given ----- wonderful family