Just wait.....

Memories of Christmas Past

2011-12-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

Dad would take us to get a tree. It was always a HUGE tree. It stood in the corner of the living room. We all helped to decorate it. The needles always stung me when I tried to put on the pretty things. We had bulb lights, and bubble lights. We had glass balls in many colors, and one usually got broken. We had stars and tinsle and garlands and whatever we had made in school and anything else they could find to put on it. It seemed to me that once we were done, you could not even see the green from the tree any more. The tree topper was a star with a picture of Jesus in it.

Aunt Nonny made our big flannel stockings with our names on them. We hung them on the mantle. They stayed emptied until Christmas morning. Then we found them filled with candy, oranges, and nuts. Sometimes we would find pencils, erasers, a hankie, etc. in them too.

Bud made candles that we used to decorate the room and placed some on the mantle. He also made a sign that stood on the porch roof that glistened in the wind and said MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Glenda painted a winter scene on the picture window on the porch. She did one every year. Then she had to scrape it off after the holidays.

Mother put up the many-pieced Nativity. It took up the whole table. Sheep, cattle, horses, many people, The Holy Family, a stable, fences, shepherds, wise men, camels, and angels. I loved to look at the scene when she was done.

On Christmas Eve Mother would make hot chocolate, light a fire, and tell the Christmas Story from the bible. We would watch the fire sparkle as she told us about the birth of the Savior. Later we went to church, as a most families did back then. The older kids took part in the presentation with hymns and speaking parts. I was an angel and had to stand very still. I looked so cute with my shiny halo and wings.

We we got home we went to bed. Then the older kids would awaken my brother and I very early in the morning. We would sneak into our parents bedroom. One of the older kids would count to 3, then my brother and I Jumped on the bed and we all yelled " Merry Christmas".
We headed down the stairs and I remember the first look of the lit tree as I rounded the landing. The tree was stuffed with presents under it. We gathered around the tree and the presents were handed out and then began the frenzy of wrapping papper flying and ohs and ahs being heard.

We ate stuff from our stocking and played with our new toys until the grandparents and aunts, uncles, and cousins came. We had a huge meal for lunch. Boy, it was great. We had skits and games,etc.

The tree was the finishing touch. After it was bare, it was chopped up and we burned it in the fireplace. The house smelled so nice. It gave it's life so we could have a nice holiday. Kinda like the Savior...giving His life so I could have such a nice one. Thank you and Happy Birthday!

I must be getting older

2011-11-08T09:14:00.000-08:00

Since my trip this summer things just are not bouncing back like they usually do. And I HAVE to get better. I have more trips coming up. GRRRR.

I have only missed a few days of work and the rest I manage to plug through. I end up resting a lot and taking pain meds the rest of the time. The chiropractor and the massage therapist are getting me able to work and that indeed is a blessing. I have a "real" doctor appt in Jan. and suppose if I am not all better by then she will give me an earfull.

So as one of my daughters recently reminded me...I CAN do hard things. Sometimes I feel like crying because the pain is so bad, but I do not give in. Besides there is no one home to comfort me. (sigh)

When my hubby is home, he spoils me rotten. He does the dishes and tells me to rest and go lie down. He tolerates the noise from the massage machine while he is watching tv. He doesn't mind my tossing and turning to try to get comfortable, nor the up and down in bed for pain cream applications or pain med. What a guy!

So with that all being whined about... I am grateful for good health and know that I will enjoy it again. After all, it could be worse. I know that Heavenly Father loves me and will give me the guidance I need to get better. Oh, and don't forget...I believe in miracles.

5 Random Things

2011-09-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Challenge: Post 5 things that people do not already know about you.

1. I am shy.

2. I have many fears.

3. I am quick to anger.

4. I have to force myself to read.

5. I like the sunshine even though I am a night owl.

Chore Charts

2011-09-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

A long time ago I wondered why my sister-in-law got so much done in her day, while my day just seemed to vanish without much accomplished. It was then that I learned she planned her work and worked her plan.
Hence, chore charts. The children had a new thing in their lives: the chart on the fridge. Plus individual cards were made listing the tasks required for each chore. So for Kitchen it might say
1. set the table 2. clear the table 3. wash & dry dishes 4. put dishes away. 5. wipe the counters and the stove. 6. sweep the floor.
For bathroom it might say: 1. wipe mirror 2. clean sink and tub. 3. clean toilet 4. sweep floor
5. add toilet paper roll if needed.
Anyway, you get the picture. We had 7 children so we had 7 chores. The kitchen one was divided so 2 people could work that one job.
Yeah, they complained and did not want to really do their chores. I explained that their cousins who lived on a farm had far greater chores than these. That this was their home and they needed to care for it.
The other thing I added was when they were 12 they got to do their own laundry. This way they might take care of it better. It showed them they could be responsible for more things.
To all this I might add that this was the plan. They really did not do this whole-heartedly. It was a chore for me to get them to do this.
Our house always looked "lived-in". I did not expect a magazie picture house. But I wanted it so it could be "picked up" fast if we got company.
I kinda have that look of being "lived-in" now. And I also have a chore chart for myself.
I get more done when I follow it. Let's see today is tuesday, so it is laundry day. Gotta go. C-U-Later.

I'm trying to get into a size 2

2011-06-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

I watched a tv movie the other day and a couple was on a date. The man asked the woman if she was going to eat (something good) and she answered, "No, I am trying to get back into a size 2."
I wanted to smack the tv. Size 2, Huh!

REAL women are not a size 2. REAL women have curves and "pillows" for little ones' heads. REAL women are sturdy. I don't even think I know any size 2 women.

I told someone recently that I do not think Heavenly Father wants his daughters to be SEXY...I think He would say that He wants us to be lovely, beautiful, strong, healthy, etc.

So to all you REAL women out there...Love the skin you're in. Even though it may be a little more than a size 2.

Sew, Sew

2011-05-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Well, since I cannot wear blue on Sundays anymore, I decided it is time to make summer jumpers out of other colors. I bought some material and thread and started in. I made 2 already and have 3 to go. Problem is, I don't REALLY know how to sew. I play at it. I make a lot of mistakes and shudder that a real sewer would even think of looking at my work. It is good enough for me, but not for others- kind of stuff.

With that being said, I did make dresses for Ruth and Emmy. Mistakes and all, they don't seem to mind. The patterns are cute and look nice on them. Just wish I was a better seamstress.

So now my motto is " My Sew-Sew is so-so". Cute, eh?

Christmas

2010-12-27T06:35:00.000-08:00

We started off this season by going to Indiana for our First Christams with the children. We saw the 2 kids there and the little children. Got tons of presents, for which we are grateful, ate great food by which we got stuffed, but more importantly we got to See them and visit with them. Then we traveled to Utah for our Second Christmas. We enjoyed ourselves there as well, again seeing the 2 kids there and the children. Again, a ton of gifts and a ton of food. Then we headed back home to wait a week for our Third Christmas with the kids and the children. We once again had an enjoyable time as we visited and and got our ton of presents. (this was on Old Christmas day... the 26th)

Since we are getting old (older) and have everything we need, I am sure it is hard for the children to think of what to get us. But they always come up with something great. Some times it is edible, some times it smells good, some times it is beautiful, but always just the right thing.

This year I had a dilema of what to get my hubby. He seems to have everything he needs. And what I don't know about tools could fill volumns. So I decided to give him a note that says how much I appreciate him. Then the more I thought about it, I decided to ask the children to write something about Dad. It did not have to be long, but just to write something. Well, they did and then I got it all together and put a little cover on it and wrapped it up. I knew he would never guess what it could be. He opened it up when we had our Third Christmas. He started to read it and then sneaked off to the back room to read the whole thing. When he came back he said he enjoyed it and that it made him cry. I told him that one of the children called it his eulogy.

I am glad he liked it and that the children could take a moment from their schedules to think about him. This man puts up with a lot from me...I mean what man in his right mind would tolerate a grown woman jumping on the bed saying, "It's Christmas, It's Christmas".

Laughter is the best medicine

2010-08-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

The other night while lying in bed, ready to settle in for the night, my husband said something funny. What made it funnier is that it was perfect timing. And to top it off, one does not expect to hear such funny things come from him. He has a dry wit. Most people don't expect him to be funny. He just cracks me up. So I laughed out loud and then the more I thought of it, I laughed again. Then he laughed at how he had "gotten" me. So we laughed and laughed and it was such a choice moment. I love to laugh and I love to laugh with him. I guess it would not be appropriate for him to put Ha Ha on my tombstone though, would it?
I love how the children have weird senses of humor. Finding humor a comfort at times. I guess one could say "the joke is on me" and I would love that. I love to see them smile and hear them laugh, I love to see them make fun of themselves to get others to laugh. I love how they run with a gag and go the distance. Makes me smile and feel happy just to type all this.
Now go have a smile on me. Free of charge.

I Love A Parade....

2010-07-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

Now that I have your attention....This has nothing to do with parades. But it does have to do with holiday and crowds.
I have always enjoyed going to watch Fireworks on the 4th of July. Sparklers, snakes, etc. in the front yard. Traditionally we have gotten together with friends and family and had a cook out and then watched the skies light up together. This year was different.
Being on sunday we went to all our church meetings and did not get home until 3:30pm (long-story). Then we ate and relaxed and I watched some MO TAB on patriotic themes while the man took a nap. Then I made chocolate cup cakes from the Family Favorite Recipe. And we took our lawn chairs and blankets and headed for the church lawn.
We met up with the other 2 daughters and their families and enjoyed Oohing and Ahhing together. I sure enjoyed that. Sharing a moment of pure satisfaction with those I love.
Then the bubble burst. The man says, "now I remember why I hate crowds and traffic". Shame on him. It only happens once a year, and it does not cost a penny, and I enjoy it so much. Then he had to admit that he enjoys watching the display, he just wishes it were not such a hastle. So now I have a whole year to figure out how to De-hastle the event.
Oh, Well.....Hope you all had a wonderful and safe 4th.
PS I could not sing the national anthem in church without having to stop for the tears in my eyes and the crack in my voice. I love the land that Heavenly Father has so richly blessed. I love that I am an American. I love that we have a democracy for government and that we have the freedom to change things. I love that our country helps the downtrodden. I love it that we are not These United States but The United States, as a whole. That we are One Nation, under God.
I love the 4th and all that it stands for and for the belief in Freedom so strong that several gave their lives so that it can Ring.

"click, click, click....No place like home, no place like home"

2010-06-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

We are back home from our travels. Long days on the road...ugh!
Funny thing though, it was not as bad as I had anticipated. Before we (my daughter and I) started our trip I was Really not looking forward to it. I do not like to travel long distant by car and choose to sleep it off rather than to enjoy the scenery. Wake me when we get there type of traveling. And I do not like the roads and traffic and what if we have bad traveling weather and so on and so forth.
So to make a long story short, too late..., before we left I asked my hubby for a blessing. He did give me a blessing and then left town himself. A sister and brother in our ward asked my daughter and I on sunday if there was anything they could do for our trip. (she is both of our VT and he is my daughter's HT) I could not think of anything and neither could my daughter. Then the couple talked about a GPS. I did not want to bother them and told them we had maps, but they would not hear of that and dropped off the GPS at my daughter's house.
On the day of departure I woke up and got ready for the trip and did not feel apprehensive. I picked up my daughter at 4 am and we were off. I drove the first part and she worked the GPS.
It was quite helpful and reassuring as we made our way through the towns and states.
After we had gotten to our cross country destination I told my hubby about my not feeling apprehensive and gave the credit to the blessing he had given me. Then he said that having the GPS could also be an answer because of the blessing.
Blessings come in many forms. Answers to prayers come in many ways. Recognizeng them and giving thanks is so very important.
We made our trip with good roads, good traffic, good weather. We did all the work we needed to do at our destination, had a good visit with family and friends, helped another daughter in the midwest, and was very grateful for the wonderful help from a busy son. We taxed our muscles and our backs, and did many good works. I was surprised at the stamina that I seemed to have through all this. Yes, I am old and have bad knees and taxed all the muscles but I kept on going. My daughter and son taxed their muscles and backs and took it to another level (they are younger and stronger). This strength and stamina I attribute to the blessing as well.
My daughter was going to have a yard sale on saturday to clean out her storage unit and get rid of some things she was not taking back home. On the morning of the sale it was raining lightly. I knew we wanted to put things in the yard and now the grass was all wet. And who would come out in the rain to a yard sale. I said a prayer. Then I got to thinking about it. Did I think that all I had to do was ask and my prayer would be answered? Did I have a special IN with God?
So I said a second prayer petitioning for the needed good weather. I still felt it was not enough. In the third prayer I poored my heart into it. I knew that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers and cares about us. And that we could do nothing without His help. The rain stopped and the weather cleard and it was a beautiful bright hot sunny day. I did not complain about the heat because I had already asked for this kind of day. We had the sale and took the leftovers to the good will store drop box. Hot and tired and sticky but truly blessed.
Now it was time for the trip home. I still did not feel Dread. We got an early start and had good weather (except a really brief rain), good roads and good traffic (for the most part- I hate construction areas) We made it home and felt good about that. Exhaustion has now set in and I am feeling my age. I am grateful to have been able to help 2 daughters with their differing projects. I am grateful for the answers to prayers and for the tender mercies of a loving and caring Heavenly Father. I am grateful for family and friends. And I am grateful to be safely home.

It's the small things

2010-05-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

My daughter and I recently visited other family members in another state. We had a nice visit and all went well, for the most part.
On the day we were to leave for home it started to snow great big flakes. She did not have a scraper and just as we got a few blocks from home my daughter rolled her window down half way to look for traffic. Then the electric window did not want to go back up. I told her to pull over and try to jiggle the window while using the electic button. She did this a few times but the window would not move.
I told her to use 2 hands to wiggle the window, then use the button. She did but still no go.
I could not think of another thing to do and while I was contemplating this she said, "why don't you pray while I work on this?"
Well, with her faith in the power of prayer I quickly said a silent prayer. I thought about doing the jiggling from the outside. Without saying anything I got out of the car and went to her window. I said to push the button while I jiggled the window. It worked, I got back into the car and buckled up.
Then my daughter asked if I had prayed. I answered I did. She said she wondered because all of a sudden I was jumping out of the car and around to her side.
It was indeed a miracle to me and an answer to pray. I could not think of anything to do differently, but after the prayer I thought of "outside". Why did going outside make a difference? I don't know. All I know is that I got an immediate impression after I prayed. I had faith in her faith in the power of prayer.

Was My Face Red....

2010-05-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Well, if you are of the sweemish sort, I suggest you stop reading, because to get the full affect I will detail the info.
Last friday night I was at my daughter's house in Utah. Her family was there plus my daughter from Nevada and her two children. The little ones were off playing, and the teens were busy with their friends. The "adults" were at the kitchen table playing a game. We are known for uncontrollable laughter. We had eaten a bunch of food and had pop and snacks. Needless to say I felt bloated but had not heard or felt any rumblings.
Something that was said struck my funny bone and I started to laugh, and hard. Then I heard myself Ripp a loud one. My son-in-law shoved his chair back fast, as if it was going to get on him. Then the quote from the Simpson's came to my mind, "Well, that shut me up!" I began to laugh more and even started to shake because I could not get ahold of the gas attack. Spurt, Splort, Sputter! My son-in-law said, "I believe we have lift-off." And I laughed all the more. I was sooooo embarrassed.
We did calm down and I went to the bathroom to relieve any further gas and everytime I thought about the whole thing I laughed again. I am so glad and sorry at the same time, that it happened around family. On the one hand family will just chalk it up to Old People. On the other hand I will probably never live it down.
On Saturday we all gathered at another daughter's house and the first daughter brought along a can of room deodorizer. Funny.....
We all had a good chuckle at that, at my expense. I still feel so embarrassed at the whole thing and yet when I recall it I laugh all over again.
So my apologies to those of you who experienced this first hand, and my apologies to those of you who read this and are shaking your heads.
I shall go down in history as Rip Van Stinkle......

favorite cereal

2010-05-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

When I was little we ate oatmeal and cooked grits for cereal, pancakes and bacon, eggs and toast, french toast....and while all these are still good I remember my favorote Store Bought cereal. My choice was Frosted Flakes, the tony the tiger one, because they're Great!
My brother chose between Sugar Smacks and Sugar Pops. I liked those too, but they weren't as good as Tony's. My dad's favorite was Wheaties. He ate so many of them that I am surprised they never put his picture on the box. These were special cereals. Back in the day it was the oddity, not the normalcy to have store bought cereal. And there were not many choices either.
Today eating cereal out of the box is the norm. We eat it for breakfast, lunch, and supper. Snack time too. The variety is so tremendous that I am sure you can find Something you will like.
Recently a family member came home with the Old Shredded Wheat in the Big Chunks. My hubby was surprised they still made it. Speaking of hubby, he was a farm boy so he had hot cereal and eggs a lot. He still likes those today. He will eat a cold cereal sometimes, but not too often. And when he does it is like this shredded wheat thing.
I bought boxed cereal for my little ones and also had hot cereals of oatmeal, mush, and Cocoa Wheats. Cocoa Wheats are made in Indiana. We can find them at the Walmart in the west though. The Big Walmart, not the Small one.
The cereals I bought were the generics of their day. Captain Crunch and the like. Occasionally we would buy the Real cereal for them, the kind with the commercials on tv. I am sure they had their favorites too. It seems like each child sat with a box infront of them.
And that thought brings me back to my childhood. I remember my brother and I sitting at the kitchen table with our little cowboy hat bowls and boot cups eating our cereal. Mine was red and his was yellow. Each with our favorite cereal box infront of us.
How about you, what was your favorite cereal?

Found Her

2010-04-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

With the help of my niece and her husband I was able to re-connect with a high school friend. She does not have facebook but her daughter does and I have been following her. Sadly my friend's spouse died of a trucking accident a few years ago. Her mother is still alive and she is enjoying being with her. My friend has children and grandchildren and it will be nice to catch up with her after all these many years.
She was my best friend and she got me through a lot of tough years by just being there and being my friend. I was part of her wedding party and saw her first child as part of her family. Then we lost contact and I have been unable to find her through the years. My moving and her moving did not help very much.
We had a nice long phone conversation. We laughed and just enjoyed the moment. I look forward to visiting her in the near future.
Why don't you reach out and touch someone today. Let your fingers do the walking. It will lighten your spirits..

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can

2010-04-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

The other day the garage door did not work. It was frustrating. It went up part way and then went down again. I could not get my car out and had to make arrangements to get to work. I tried to respice the wires, no go. I tried to unlatch the automatic latch so I could open it up manually. The latch was hard to pull and it took all my strength. Finally it came down but it made no difference. I was not able to open the door manually. Talk about frustration now. So I had tried everything I know and nothing was working. It had taken me quite a while with the wire work because it was old and brittle and kept breaking as I endeavored to strip it.
So I decided to put the manual latch back into place and then my hubby could look at it when he came home. The stupid latch would not go back into place. Ugh!!!!! I was up and down the ladder several times. I tried to put it in by hand and then by hammer. No go. Double Ugh!!! So I asked myself "why don't you pray about it? you are always asking your hubby that/"
I stopped what I was doing and said a short prayer asking for the strength to put the latch back in place. I took my trusty hammer and climbed the ladder. Voila! Latch went back in to place.
I remember another time I said a 2 word prayer and was immediately helped.
Prayers can be for anything, anytime, anywhere we need help. I pray fully expecting to receive an answer....even if the answer is no. I trust that I am only a "prayer" away from the Father's help.
There are not enough words to express my belief in prayer. The only thing I can say is that with God all things are possible.

You want fries with that?

2010-03-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

Little granddaughter was over and she was pretending to be a waitress. She brought her pencil and pad of paper over and asked what I wanted. I told her a hamburger, She said "we're out of that" so I said "chicken" and she scribbled it down. Now since she is only 3 it really was a scribble. Then she asked what else I wanted. I answered "french fries". She echoed "fries" as she scribbled that down. Then she asked what else I wanted. I answered "chocolate mild shake". She scribbled that down. Then she asked what her dolly, which was sitting beside me wanted. I told her "a chocolate milkshake". She echoed " a small chocolate milk shake". Now I had to smile because she processed that since her dolly was small she gets a small shake.
Then she went over by the couch and held out her hands for the order and said "thank you" and brought me my imaginary order.
Then she went over to her mom and asked what she wanted. Her mom started to say what she wanted but then the grand daughter says "we're out of that". Then the mom asks "what do you have?" The grand daighter says she has chicken and the mommy answers that she will take that and the other things she will have. Then the grand daughter walks over to the couch to retreive the order and the mom says "oh, that must be the kitchen". I answered, "yeah, what do you think? these things just appear out of thin air?" We laughed at that. Grand daughter will make a good waitress some day.

We laughed and laughed

2010-03-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

So I came home this morning and the man randomly says, " either someone has been eating chocolate on my side of the bed or I poopied my pants in my sleep." I snorted and chortled and almost could not catch my breath. He laughed and I said that will be my next blog, so here it is.
While he was gone I ate a few chocolate chips in the bed and a couple must have gotten away from me. Sorry about that. If his jammies were stained it was from the outside, not the inside. I though Sweet Sassy Molassy would like to know that.

To Dye or Not to Dye

2010-03-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

So the question was whether to be nostalgic and go red again or stay mousy brown with gray. Well it is short enough and will continue to be short, so go ahead and have fun was the answer. My youngest colored my hair the color it was since I was 16, and before I went Natural. It looks good and unless you think about it the color doesn't pop out at you. It almost looks natural. I guess I wear it well. If I can figure out how this machine works I may add a photo. If not, oh well. I might just send a photo to the children. Anyhoo. I will enjoy it while it lasts. I don't want to be an 80 y.o. still coloring my hair. I want to enjoy growing older and looking the part.

time

2010-02-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

"There was a time....or once upon a time....this one time...." I am sure you have said something similar to this or maybe even these words. So what is time anyway? It is a measurable thing. I can see it on the clock and on the calendar. I can measure time used wisely and time wasted. I am surprised by hours I can waste by watching movies on tv or dvd, and how fast it flies when I am in the middle of a project.
I have stayed up all night doing sewing or painting projects. I have forgotten time when engrosses in doing things. And I have discovered that I couple time with tasks. I know that I am task oriented and like to accomplish things in a timely manner. I do this at work. I have medicine to give patients before they go to sleep and I know that I should be done with those medicines and treatments by 10:30pm at the latest. Anything later than that and I feel that I am interrupting their sleep time. When I have been delayed or interrupted in my work and it is after 10:30 then I know the rest of the night I will be behind and try to play "catch up".
At home I look at the big mess ahead of me and that is when this coupling of time and task come in handy. I say to myself "cleaning the kitchen will only take a half an hour and then it will be done". So I do the kitchen and it only takes 20 minutes because I have a dish washer and only have to do the big items by hand. Then I say " the bathroom will only take me 20 minutes", which really only takes 15 and then I am off to other rooms. See what I mean? I break each task down to the time in which I think I accomplish it. If I look at the overall picture of the mess I get overwhelmed and don't do anything. I can get it done faster if I play music. A good fast beat helps me to forget the task and hum or sing along. I like 40's and 50's music the best for this.
One thing I must mention is that I can clean it up faster by myself. If you have the children helping it will slow you down, but it is good for them to learn to clean, so add extra minutes to your alotted time.
Time will and does go by... so use it to your best advantage. In time all good things will come to pass. Time will tell. Time after time I have regretted not using my time wisely. And right now it is time I get moving and clean the house. Thank you for your time.

How To Totally Gross Out The Children

2010-02-01T13:51:00.001-08:00

I am going to tell you all about my love life.
I have a lover that is so totally wonderful. When he holds my hand, he holds my heart. I melt when he sits next to me and lets me cuddle up and just be there in the moment. Or when I warm my cold feet against his in bed. He also sacrifices his time, talent, and energy in doing things for me. He does things around the house, he builds things, he never raises his voice in a cross word to me, he watches chick flicks with me, and even will take me dancing sometimes. I guess you say I am Wild about him.
Is he perfect? No, I can't say that he is. Does he expect me to be perfect? I hope not, because I am far from it.
We have a mutual respect and love for each other which is hard to explain. Infact I cannot really figure it out. I am not easy to live with. Those who know me are also probably surprised that I have such a nice fella in my life.
I could go on and into great detail of all that I love about him, but that would really gross out the children. So suffice it to say that I have a great man in my life and he is wonderful in all respects.
He is one in a million and I am grateful that I am the one that he is with. Thank you so much and I will miss you while you are gone and will count the days until your return.

Teach, Testify, Touch lives

2010-01-23T20:21:00.000-08:00

We went to a training meeting and Bro. Leatham talked about teaching, testifying, and touching lives of those we teach. What an interesting thought. Sometimes when we teach we know that we are just imparting knowledge. Some times we know that the students or converts, etc are ready to hear our testimony. And then there are times when we actually touch the lives of others and feel we are doing Christ's service.

It is that way in our families as well. We want to teach, testify, and touch the lives of our children and grandchildren. I am hoping I do that. I want to spare them trouble and anguish. I want to keep them from making the same mistakes I did.

So listen to the spirit and follow the promptings. And remember that you too are an example to others.

Mommy's Day Off

2010-01-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

Mommies are jacks of all trades: Secretary, Laundress, Forman, Chef, House Keeper, Nurse, Accountant, Teacher, Librarian, etc. Mommies work long hours. And they are on-call 24/7. The pay is minimal and the recognition and advancement are non-existant. Mommies must work even when they are sick, they can't call off work a day. The children still need to be fed, clothed, and sent to school. The baby still needs to be changed, fed, and rocked to sleep.
So just when IS Mommy's day off? When does Mommy get to play hooky or take a day to herself? When does Mommy get to play and not be on-call for the family's needs?
I remember when I felt I wasn't appreciated or being helped enough and I went on strike for a weekend. The children were always tired of me being after them to do things around the house and I was getting tired of telling them to do things. So I took time off. Mind you I did not have little bitty children and there was no school on my strike. There was food in the house and if they wanted something extra they could go to the store.
I just got my own food and took care of my own things and watched tv. Kinda like a mini-vacation. I found out that my children did not like it a whole lot. And maybe they did move a little faster and more willingly when I was off strike and asked them to do things around the house.
I am not advocating to strike against your family... I am just saying, "Take a little time for yourselves. You cannot give from an empty well."
Be nice to yourself today and take 15 minutes just for yourself. Every 4 hours you should take a 20 minute break. Every 6 hours you should take a half an hour for yourself. There is no union but there is a sisterhood and we do need to encourage each other. Even Ferris Beuller got a day off.

SMART

2010-01-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

In Relief Society we learned about being SMART when making new year resolutions. My youngest said that SMART meant Spiritual Men Are Rare Treasures. And even though I agree with that I will tell you what the teacher said.
Specific- be specific in making your goal
Measurable- Make it a measurable goal so you can keep track.
Achievable- Make it an achievable goal. One that CAN be obtained.
Relevant- See that it is relevent to you and your situation so that you will want to keep it.
Timely- Set a time frame for the accomplishment, a time limit in which to achieve your goal. See that it is timely in your life.
So there you have it. Be SMART with your resolutions.

Thank you for being an American

2010-01-06T08:12:00.000-08:00

My army son came to visit us for the holidays. He flew a flew different airlines to get here. On the way Delta gave him a first class seat for being a soldier. On another airline a passenger in first class volunteered his seat to my soldier. Those around him emcouraged him to take it, and I could sense that they also felt the pride in our nation. Bless that man for his selfless gesture. On the flight home my son was also given first class by the airline.

What moved me was the care that they gave him, almost an honor, or a thankyou for his service. Here were other people showing care for our son that we love so dear.

Thank you all for the flags you fly, for the flag pins you wear on your lapel, for the hand over your heart when you sing the national anthem, or stand when you see that flag go by you in a parade.
Thank you for being an American and not being afraid to show it.

New Year, New Goals

2009-12-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

When we visited the Mid-West Brother Huxford gave a lesson that I thought might be beneficial to others.
"Don't Keep Score"
He starts out be saying when his twins were playing T-ball his son kept score (even when T-ball doesn't keep score), In his heart and mind he "knew" if he won or lost. He was sad when his team lost and happy when his team won. On the contrast his sister did not keep score. She just played and had fun Every game. She got her turn at bat and got her turn in the field and just enjoyed the game and being with her friends. She had the better experience Each game.
Then Brother Huxford talked about his first year of marriage. He had a job and was a student, his wife had a job and was a student. One day the football game was on tv. He was on the couch watching the game and his wife was vacuumining the floor. This did not bother him much until she started to vacuum right in front of the tv. Then he said," What are you doing?" She then said, "I am sweeping the floor, what are YOU doing?" He then realized that he was just lounging about while she was doing the work. That ended the game watching. He could have said, Well I work and study this many hours while you work and study that many hours, but he realized that they were partners and that you don't keep score in a marriage. You talk about the goals and how to achieve them and what each person will add to the marriage. You would drive yourself nuts if you kept score. "Since I did this you owe me that. Or because you did this than I can do that." That may be fair and equal but it does not lead to happiness. This can also be applied to church or work or friendships.
You know that sometimes you think about the people who come late for church Every time. Or the lady in church that wears a little too much make-up, or the man who only comes once in a while to church. You can think yourself a little better than they perhaps. What about at work when you see that someone else gets recognized for their work and you think to yourself that you Know you work harder than they do. Or you find out that they make just as much or more than you do, for the less work they do. What about people who always go to someone else's party but do not show up at your house for your party? Do you invite them again, or do you erase them from your list. Keeping Score....Not the road to happiness.
A job well done by you in your home, work, church, and among your friends will lead to happiness. You give what you can and they give what they can into the relationship. Enjoy the moment, be happy with yourself and with others. That is the key. So this new year of new starts Quit Keeping Score.
HAPPY New Year.

for the record

2009-12-24T09:20:00.001-08:00

One time we watched a Christmas movie where a large family hung Mistletoe and then sang a song to gather everyone under the Mistletoe.
Who'll stand under the mistletoe with me? Who, who will come hither, who, who will it be?
With a Hey diddle-lee die do, Hey diddle-lee doo.
I'll stand under the mistletoe with you.

I have missed singing that song and gathering the children. Maybe they will do this with their family.

Music: (Middle) C C D E F E D G G G
(Middle) C C D E D C A A G F G
G G (HI ) C B B A G E
A A G F E
(Middle) C C D E F E D G (LO)B (Middle) C

You're Welcome

All about our Christmas

2009-12-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 18, 2009

My Christmas Meme
I've seen a few other holiday memes out there, and decided to come up with my own. If you wanna play along, just copy and paste into your own blog -- of course changing the answers to reflect your own! Oh - and if you celebrate something besides Christmas, like Hanukah, Kwanza, or Festivus, maybe you could tell us about that too!

1 The last time I went caroling- was when I took my little cub scouts around the neighborhood.
2. My favorite Drink in the winter is - Hot Cocoa
3. Favorite Holiday meal - Turkey and Pumpkin pie, Cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, Corn and pumpkin pie, Hot rolls and pumpkin pie, Mashed potatoes and gravy and pumpkin pie, and then for dessert Pumpkin pie
4. I think Fruit Cake - Nasty
5. One tradition we had growing up - was to wake up before our parents so we could jump up and down on their beds and shout, "Merry Christmas!"
6. One tradition we have now - Getting up early to Christmas music, opening presents, and eating waffles and hot cocoa
7. I get my Christmas Tree from - The garage attic
8. I usually decorate - before December 1st so that it looks ready for Christmas when my girls have their birthdays
9. On Christmas Eve I/we usually - sleep. I used to go to a church that had a midnight service and that was nice. But the one I go to now does not do that. One time I went caroling on Christmas Eve. Now I end up working on Christmas Eve so those with young children can enjoy the holiday.
10. On Christmas morning I/we wake up - early, of course we pick a different day for the early rising.
11. One special thing I make at Christmas time is - my tummy full of candy, nuts, and tangerines
12. My Favorite Christmas song is - "I'll Be Home for Christmas", "The Christmas Song", "Greensleeves", ."I dreaming of a White Christmas.....
13. Every Christmas - I play Johnny Mathis on the record player. Make Gingerbread houses.
14. I hang my stockings - by the Chimney with care
15. Something I look forward to at Christmas time is - getting together to open presents and playing games.
16. My Favorite Thing about the Holidays -is opening all the cards and hanging them on the walls.
Feel free to add your name here if you participate so we can all join in the fun!
1. puphigirl2. patricia miller
3. You're next!
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Partial Tidings

2009-12-13T10:03:00.000-08:00

We visited the midwest and saw 2 of our children for the holidays. Then we went to Utah and saw 2 more.

Good times had by all. We ate a lot and had good travels. My hubby and & I did not even get sick and tired of each other....a small feat in itself when you consider that I am a front seat back-seat driver and very vocal (think of Hyacinth) and do not care to travel a lot by car. Long days and several days in a row took its toll physically but mentally we were terrific.

We first got in to town where Samuel lives. He was out of town to be with Jenny in Indy. So we unloaded all of our stuff and finalized our plans for the next day then got some much needed sleep. We first went to Sam's brothers and sisters holiday gathering for the siblings and children still at home and marrieds under a year. Marvin played the dulcimer, we played a game by Elva, we ate a lot of delicious food, we sang a carol, and talked a lot. Even looked at some things on the computer and the dvr.

Then we went shopping for food for sunday and monday. On sunday we went to church in Elkhart and got invited to Boyce's for lunch and Gibson's for supper. Yummy food again. Plus the visiting we got in there.

Monday we went to Sarah's and did a few fixit things. It was nice to spend time with her and her family. She even put up her tree while we were there. Then being the old people we are we left to go sleep at Samuel's. We caught up with Samuel that night and he looked fine. We would see him again at Sarah's on Tuesday.

Tuesday we went shopping again and then to Sarah's. We snacked and then Sarah made the best ever chili and then we snacked again. Samuel came after work and we all enjoyed each other and the little children. We opened presents and watched them play for a little bit. Then we retired again to Samuel's.

Wednesday we took my niece Debora out to lunch and visited with her a little bit, then we stopped by to see Aunt Kiyoko and she fed us again. Then we headed for the motel in Illinois. We slept a few hours then headed out again to make good time.

We arrived in Utah on Friday and shopped again and then went to Naomi's to visit a little and attend her ward's Christmas dinner. We had a nice time and good food (again).

Saturday we headed to Emma's to help her set up her church for the ward dinner that night. Naomi's family came for the Miller Early Christmas Gathering. We ate and opened presents and played games. Then we stayed for Emma's ward Christmas dinner. Again good food. Sam played Santa for Emma's ward.

Sunday we came home, and just beat the storm that blew in. We unloaded the car, and Sam got our decorations down so we could decorate for Christmas. It felt odd not having them up already.

We ended up getting 14 inches of snow and it was very cold and dreary. Sam did not go to work and Ruth did not come over for laundry day. We just holed up and enjoyed the day.

We are now waiting for EJ to join us for Christmas. Rachel and her family, and Ruth and her family will all be with us to enjoy the last of our Christmas Gathering. Merry Christmas to all and a very Happy New Year.

North, to Alaska

2009-09-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

I just got back from taking Hubby to airport. He is off to Alaska this week. After that he will go on a trip to Belgium. Chocolates......
I am always glad when he returns from his trips and try to keep the home fires burning. I think it is nice that he knows where I am and what I am doing. Which is usually nothing much. Work, eat, sleep, watch tv.
Mondays are Ruth's laundry day. Plus today she will make applesauce at my house. So it should smell really good. Then the rest of the week I work. Boring, I know.
Not much else happening. We try to have a date outing when he is home. Sometimes it is just going to the store together. But then, remember we are old people so it is okay.
He usually brings home pictures of interesting things. And he will tell a funny or interesting story.
He works hard and I appreciate him. Can't wait to see him again. Till Friday!

scavenger-type hunt

2009-08-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Last sunday our High Counselor gave a talk that his daughter went with her YW group for a scavenger hunt, with a twist.

The girls were divided up and each group was given a pencil and a pass-a-long card. They were instructed to Trade Up at each house and leave a card. Well they explained what they were doing at each house and started trading up. A pencil for an apple, and apple for book, etc. They finally were out of cards and it was time to go back to the church. Then the girls were impressed to go to one more house. They went back to the church to get one more card and told them they would be right back. They went to the house of a man who was from South America. He brought a beaded bag for them to trade up and he told them that it meant a great deal to him. Then he said that he noticed from the card that they were members of the LDS church. They answered yes and he said he was too but he lost contact with the church for 18 years. The girls were glad that they followed their impression and were glad to be an instrument in the Lord's hand.

Splash!

2009-08-16T17:52:00.000-07:00

On saturday I was out in my pool Aquasizing. I was all finished and was just swimming about when I thought about getting one of the kid's ring to float on. Just a few weeks ago Rachel had tried to float on the kid's ring and flipped over. I thought to myself "she must not have centered herself right". So I thought I would try to get right in the middle and relax. Well, I tried it and immediately flipped over. Great..... Well maybe I wasn't quite centered. I will try it again. Splash! nope that did not work either. Guess I need a jumbo giant ring. I was so glad no one was there to see me.

Plum Full

2009-08-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

We have a tree at the side of our house that went Crazy this year. It was so full of plums that it broke 3 branches because of the weight. Well on friday we picked plums. We have a LOT. We will share them, eat them, and if Rachel wants to make plum pudding we will encourage her. So now we can say the tree was Plum Full and we were Plum Tired from the picking and cleaning.

I know you are all drooling now and I really feel bad about that. So bad that I will probably eat a plum or 2 in your honor. (they are small but good)

Salsa won 2nd place.

2009-08-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

So for the salsa contest, I won 2nd place. The first prize winner and his wife were having their own competition, then the recipe we made was our first endeavor so we were pleased, and the 3rd place winner admitted he went to a local restaurant and got a jar of his favorite... cheater!

A big shout out to the originator of my prize winning salsa. Thanks again.

reunion

2009-08-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

As you can see, this year we dressed in Country Clothes since hubby was a farm boy. We enjoyed ourselves and really liked having the children here. We feel our age and are glad we can keep up a little. Napping here and there as able. Thank you all who could make it and make this reunion a wonderful one. See you all together in 2 years. Love, MOM

salsa

2009-07-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Not the dance, the chip companion.
I do not usually eat salsa but I like the Newman brand , but you can not always find it. I went to one daughter's Sock Hockey game and a lady brought home made salsa. It had corn in it and I thought I would try it. It looked quite attractive, very colorful. So I had 1 serving with chips, then a 2nd serving. Needless to say I went back for 3rds. Yes, it was that good.

Our church is having a Fiesta with a salsa contest. So I asked my daughter if her friend would part with the recipe. She did. And she did not swear me to secrecy... so I will include it in this blog.

Hubby and I went to the store and bought the supplies, then we put it all together just like the recipe said. Then we canned it like the recipe said and we had to eat a little that would not fit in the jars. Yummmmmmm. We modified the recipe because she had a double batch with 12 cups of tomatoes.

Hope you enjoy it as much as we will and I hope I at least get 2nd prize in the contest. The credit goes to Linda. Thanks Linda...What other recipes you got?

Salsa:
6 cups chopt tomatoes
1 (6oz can) tomato paste
1 1/2 cups chopt onions
3/4 cup cider vinegar (or white )
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tbl salt (we only used 1 1/2 tsp because hubby shouldn't have much salt)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 clove garlic chopt or pressed
3 green peppers chopt
1 (7 oz) can green chilies
1 jalapeno pepper, don't use seeds ( we added a few 'cause hubby insisted)
1 can drained corn or equivalent in frozen corn.

Simmer all on stove until desired thickness then put in pint jars and seal in water bath 15 minutes. We got 7 pints with a little extra to taste.

chocolate......

2009-07-18T03:51:00.000-07:00

No, just kidding. But we have had a few laughs around here regarding a daughter's recent post.

What I really wanted to blog about this time is never enough....

There is never enough time, there is never enough money, there is never enough will-power, there is never enough energy....

See what I mean. When I have the one, I don't have the other. Maybe I have the time, but not the money. Or I have the money and not the energy. Or I have the energy, but not the time.

Why can't I have them all at the same time? It really bugs me. Some times I wonder if it just to keep my mind busy to figure it all out. I like to figure an answer. I like to exhaust all avenues before admitting defeat. It is nothing for me to spend time unscrambling a dufloppy mess of yarn and roll it in a ball. I will count in my head, on paper, and on my fingers several times until the calculator and I agree when managing the check book. But I digress...

So with all that being said, we have a reunion coming up and I am hoping that I have the time, energy, money, and will-power all at the same time. Oh, and I forgot health. Yeah, I don't wanna be sick while they are here. I will let you know how the reunion turned out. So until then... you will have to Just Wait.

play along with us

2009-07-03T18:01:00.000-07:00

If you wanna play along, just copy and paste (changing the answer to reflect you) into your own blog.Finish these Sentences...

1. I’ve come to realize that my last kiss……is never really my last kiss
2. I am listening to…the family talking about Miracle Whip
3. I talk…because I have vitally important things to say.
4. I love…chocolate, strawberries, Ovaltine, and one good man.
5. My best friends…Will be my best friends no matter how seldom I see them.
6. My first real kiss….Was very innocent and very short
7. There is no…place to hide
8. Marriage…is a Life Sentence ( An Eternal Life Sentence in my case)
9. Somewhere, someone is thinking…Where did I put that __________.
10. I’ll always remember…Oh, wait...I forgot, I'll come back to this one.
11. The last time I really cried was because…I was reliving some fond memories
12. My cell phone…is a great convenience
13. When I wake up in the morning…I get up
14. Before I go to bed…I listen to an old movie
15. Right now I am thinking about…the work I am not doing to get ready for tomorrow
16. Babies are…precious grandchildren.
17. I get on MySpace…not too often
18. Today I…ran around a lot with my hubby and will be sleeping soon
19. Tomorrow I will....be going to a bike parade, a carnival, and watch fireworks
20. I really want to be…Svelte
21. I am allergic to…Dust
22. I am annoyed by…stupidity
23. One food I refuse to eat is…cottage cheese
24. The most recent thing I’ve learned is…I continue to be spoiled
25. The number one thing on my bucket list is…to learn to sing better
26. Something I’ve always wanted to learn to do is…speak Spanish
27. I have a high tolerance for…my indiscretions
28. I have a low tolerance for…other peoples' indiscretions
29. I wish…I was talented
.30. The one person I would happily make a fool out of myself if I ever saw in person…Is YOU the reader

All about us

2009-06-30T09:55:00.001-07:00

Here's 30 questions about you and your spouse.
1. What are your middle names? E. & Leigh
2. How long have you been together? married 37 years
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating? few days
4. Who asked who out? I asked him for a date on Saturday but then he asked me to go bowling before that Saturday.
5. How old were each of you when you started dating? He was 20, I was 19
6. Whose siblings do/did you see the most? his
7. Do you have children together? yes, 2 boys, 5 girls
8. What about pets? a pretend dog, plus Otis is here for a while
9. Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? not enough fundage
10. Did you go to the same school? no
11. Are you from the same home town? no
12. Who is the smartest? He is, but don't tell him
13. Who is the most sensitive? depends on whether it involves engines
14. Where do you eat out most as a couple? either Chinese or Mexican
15. Who has the worst temper? me
16. Who does the cooking? he does17. Who is more social? II am
18. Who is the neat freak? neither of us, really
19. Who is more stubborn? I call it determination
20. Who hogs the bed? Me
21. Who wakes up earlier? He does
22. Where was your first date? Bowling Alley
23. Who has the bigger family? He does
24. Do you get flowers often? Not often, but always appreciated
25. How do you spend Christmas? We have 2 or 3 Christmases. We start off in Nevada. Then go to Utah and Indiana, Last year we threw in Tennessee
26. How long did it take to get serious? I fell in "Love at first sight." We dated 7 months and then got engaged for 4 months before we eloped.
27. Who eats more? me
28. Who does/did the laundry? I do mine, he does his plus the towels
29. Who's better with the computer? He is
30. Who drives when you are together? He does
If you want to do the survey consider yourself tagged.

Blessed,Honored Pioneers

2009-06-19T15:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I don't have any pioneer ancestors. I feel like I have adopted into the Pioneer Heritage because I am a member of the church. We celebrate Pioneer Day every year, even in Indiana we celebrated it. This year our youth are going on a Trek. They are dressing like pioneers and using handcarts to go the distance. They left this week. Some of our leaders have gone to act as Parents. Each Family willl have 10 Children. The leader asked if our Ward Activity could be geared toward the pioneer theme. We accepted the challenge.

We had our Pioneer Activity last saturday. We had collected pie tins to use as plates. We had a long rope that was used for tug-o-war and then for jump rope. We played upset the fruit basket, missionary tag, Red Rover, freeze tag, Stick Pull, 3-legged race, and had a Blanket Ride where men held the blanket and the ride would get a ride up and down. We even had a couple of baby quilts to tie. I thought maybe the youth would play separate from the adults but I was pleasantly surprised when Everyone played all together. The adults were running all over the gym right with the children. One sister even got a blanket ride.

Those who wanted to, dressed like pioneers. Several of us went bare foot. We had quilts on the wall and a few pioneer pictures. We ate pulled pork sandwiches, corn, mashed tatties, baked beans, and Rhubarb Cobbler, yum. We even had mixed peanut butter, apple butter, and bread for those who did not want Pork. Some little children ate those and a few adults that love peanut butter had to try it several times.

Everywhere I looked I saw smiles. So I say that it was a huge success. We got our youth and adults in the mood for their trek and we got the pioneer spirit a month early.

Louise's Funeral

2009-06-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

Where to begin....the behind the scenes is a story of its own, but maybe this is not the place for that.

I will start with the viewing. Louise had on a colorful outfit that Brenda and David ran out to get, because she wantd a colorful funeral. Stephen made posters of pictures to display and the kids placed photos in frames around. The music in the back ground was of Louise's old funny 45's. You know, I never harmed an onion, or Mr. Custer, and some nice ones like Walking down to Washington. Kareen's Brian was up late getting that all put together.
Anyway, Louise is in the casket up front and there are plants lining both sides. There are chairs for people to sit, and some did, but most folks stood in the foyer to talk.

Those that came: Aunto Kiyoko, her son Tommy and his wife, her sons Jimmy (which we called Little Jimmy to differentiate from Big Jimmy which was my brother) her son Danny, and her daughter Kathy.
My cousin Marj, which we all call Marji Kay(Aunt Muriel and Uncle Lum)
My cousin Muriel , which we called Little Muriel to differentiate from Aunt Muriel, and her brother Brian (Aunt Nonnie and Uncle Roy)
Those are the ones from my generation. Then there's the next Generation.
Louise's husband Fred. Louise's kids : Debora was brought by some care-givers. Brenda and her husband David, their children and grandchildren. Kareen and her husband Brian, and their children. Alice was there, her husband could not make it. Stephen and his wife Judy, and their children. Mysti and her husband Adam, and their children. Velvet and her fiance' (whose name just suddenly went out of my mind) and their baby girl.
My sister Betty and her husband Pete's children : Betsy, Eileen, (Peter couldn't make it)
Margaret, (Kevin -deceased) Colleen, Cathy, Erin, Larry, (Theresa ould not cume, she was in Ann Arbor, Michigan for surgery and our thoughts and love were sent to her). Some of the spouses
were there and some of the children and grandchildren.
My brother Jim and his wife Kae.(that is where I stayed for this trip and we had a good time together)
Then there was extended families. David's folks and his sister came. Brian's folks came. Fred's brother came.
An old friend of the family came, who is also related by Colleen being their daughter-in-law.
With all those people milling in the lobby, if anyone else came I did not find it out or I do not remember it at this time.

On the day of the funeral, they had asked a minister to do the service. He was not familiar with the family or Louise, because she did not go to his church. But he did a real nice job and would say things like,"I have been told that .." or " They tell me.." He was the only one who spoke and he chose nice scriptures and said nice things. He was great.

Then theyput the cd back on with funny songs. Brenda had just thought to herself that the most fitting song would be Please MR Custer, I don't wanna go. And wouldn't you know it... that is where the cd picked up from the night before.

The Pall bearers were: my brother Jim, Brenda's husband David, their 2 boys, Kareen's husband Brian, And they had 2 more, which I can't remember either right now. Stephen said he just could not do it. He was broken up through most of the viewing and funeral.

The minister gave a prayer at the cemetary. Then everyone put a carnation on the casket and stood a liitle off as her children gathered around her as they lowered the casket in to the grave.
Then we left for lunch.

We all went for a meal together at the VFW lodge where Betsy works. Brenda and David
provided a lot of the food and the Murphy kids did a lot too. We visited and swapped stories, laughed and cried. It was a nice send off.

Her kids were trying to get a reunion together before she passed away, I told my brother that Louise didn't miss it, we just had it early. It was good to see old family members. Aunt Kiyoko cried when she saw my cousin Brian, and she said, "You have Uncle Wally's hair." Which was true. He looked like Aunt Nonnie and her brother Uncle Wally put together. It was good to see one another and renew old memories. Like they say, good to see you but sorry for the reason.

All things considered, a lot of issues were layed to rest with the funeral of Louise and now her children can move forward and we will try to think kind thoughts.

You Go Girl

2009-06-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

Back in the war day, Uncle Wally came home with a Japanese bride and Uncle Bill came home with a Russian bride. Grandma was none too happy about this. After playing Musical houses for a while Grandma settled down to live with Uncle Wally and Aunt Kiyoko. She made daily life a little hard and so Aunt Kiyoko spent her days in the basement sewing wedding gowns and bride maids dresses for people (her home business) while Grandam took care of the children. This went on for many years. I guess I did not realize how tough Grandma was on the kids until we went to a reunion and heard the kids' stories. I never heard Aunt Kiyoko say anything negative about Grandma. Even at my older sisters funeral we came upon my mother's and Grandmother's gravestones. Aunt Kiyoko is the one who found them. I put a carnation on my mother's and Aunt Kiyoko put one on Grandma's. So there is the back ground and the set up.

At the funeral of another one of my sisters we had a luncheon afterward. We were sitting with Aunt Kiyoko and she was telling the story of how Tommy had joined the Jewish faith and got married to a Jewess. Tommy was raised in a house that did not promote church going because his mother was a Shinto and his dad a Christian and they told the kids that they could decide for themselves when they were grown. I guess it never occured to Uncle Wally that it would be Judaism. So it was very hard for him to swallow.

He did not even want to go the Tommy's wedding. Aunt Kiyoko bought him a tuxedo but he kept saying he was not going. Well the day of the wedding came and Aunt Kiyoko takes the tux to Uncle Wally and tells him to get ready. (now this in itself was a big deal to us who were sitting at the table listening, because Aunt Kiyoko is so mild mannered and soft spoken) She tells Uncle Wally that he is going. He says he is not. She tells him he is because he OWES her for Grandma.

In her words, "You don't do for them, you do for me. You OWE me for Grandma, You do for me."
Uncle Wally got dressed and went to the wedding. We at the table were now howling with laughter at this point. Then Aunt Kiyoko finally said, living with Grandma was not easy. We had all known this because of the things the kids had already told us, so we all nodded a knowing nod. And then we all told her how proud of her we all were. She did not want to make her daughter-in-law feel the way she felt all those years.

They have a tight-knit bond and often all her children get together. Uncle Wally has been gone a few years now. But he had needed that gentle reminder He would have done the same thing his mother did to his new bride, if it weren't for Aunt Kiyoko and her wisdom, and her strength.

Mother's Day

2009-05-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day my hubby gave a talk in church. I told him he could say anything he wanted to about his dear mother but to not embarrass me. Well that is what he told the congregation to start his talk. Of course they all thought that was funny.

He told part of a conference talk about a church leader that sat with his children while his wife sang with the Singing Mothers in sacrament meeting. He said he had never been so busy in his life trying to keep the children quiet and happy. He saw his wife on the stand infront of him just smiling.

Hubby then spoke about his mother. For those of you who knew this women would agree that you can just not say enough good aboutl her. She was a wonderful woman. All her children agree. And all the in-laws agree too. As he spoke about her I teared up. He also teared up and needed to clear his throat from time to time.

Then he spoke a little about his wife. I found this very interesting and thought to myself "I would like to meet that lady". He said a bunch of nice things and I thought my 2 daughters would call time out and set the congregation straight on the mother they knew me to be. But they didn't. It is funny that I see all my faults so clearly and yet he, and hopefully the children, choose to see enough good things to out-way all the bad.

If I could be 1/10th the woman my mother-in-law was I would be a very happy woman.
Maybe some day I will grow up to be a little more like her. That is my goal.

Thanks to my spouse who is loving and kind, Thanks to my children who are loving and forgiving, Thanks to my Heaven Father who loves me and lets me repent and try again, and again.

Know all-Tell all

2009-05-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

When the kids were little and would tell things about us I always found them telling TOO many things. You know, like they say TMI. I then would tell them to tell what color underwear I was wearing. When they asked why, I answered "well you told them everything else".

Some things are to remain personal. I worry that people will stop talking for fear that they will find it repeated or blogged. There are certain things I do not discuss. And I know how to keep a secret. Like the time... oh wait, that is a secret.

So next time you are sitting infront of the blogsphere, ask yourself: Will I be embarrassing someone else by this blog? Yea, I guess that is about it. Let's not Tell all we Know.

Anger Mis-management

2009-05-22T10:24:00.000-07:00

My grandchildren were at my house and I really let myself BLOW MY TOP.

Have you ever heard the sayings "I will beat you up one side and down the other" or "I will rip off your arm and beat you with the bloody stump" or " I will skin you alive" , etc.

Some I heard while growing up. others I have said. Not pretty, eh? Anger is NEVER pretty.

Well, sorry to say I got pretty ugly. Anger spewed from me like Mt St Helen or Persuvius.
Andrew got the brunt of it. He survived, and luckily does not bear a grudge. Caelin also saw the Wrath of Gram and bore it well.

I am ashamed of my anger and know that it is probably the biggest fault I have. I have other faults but my quick temper and hateful words are the worst. I feel sick inside and would just shudder if the Lord came and watched my behavior or heard my words. Now isn't that silly, He does hear and see all, so who am I trying to kid.

They say that acknowledgement is the first step. Not only acknowledgement but confession. So now I have opened this up to the world and will try to mend my erring ways. It may take a while. How about if I just hole up somewhere and wait for the grandchildren to grow up... Guess I better practice counting to Ten and visualize myself being calm. Keep your fingers crossed.

;abbreviations a go go

2009-05-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

Before I got OOB I was SOB, I got an RT TX and then felt better. I used my FWW to get around. Then did my ADL's and was ready for the day. I ate 100% BRKFT and then went T x 1, and had a Med Soft. I took all my Q D meds. ASAP I called my SO for a chat. He told me his ETA. Then we discussed upcoming events such as the FHE on monday and the HBD party this sat. After the phone call I did my PT, OT, and before I knew it the time had slipped by and it was now HS so I went MOD I to bed.

I made a list of all the things this week I have to do so I would not miss anything. The kids have MIA, or as they say YM/YW. RS meets on tues. My SO has a PPI with the HPGL. I need to call to order cookies for the PTA mtg. We have a DA with the Elders. I want to program the VCR for a program I do not want to miss. I guess they call it a DVR nowadays.

This is getting longer than I thought so I will now cut to the chase as in RDCV.

So now depending on how much of that you understood you either are one of my children, work with me, or go to my church. I did this as a funny for Ruthykins. hahahaha

Whoa!

2009-05-21T08:02:00.002-07:00

I had a "Whoa" moment...

Back in March I injured my right arm. After chiropractic care, and specialist care my arm is finally on the mend. I have a pool in the back yard that has a Yurt around it so that the air and water are warm and I can do exercises in there. I do the exercises I was instructed to do and I always do feel better after the 45 minutes.

Yesterday I was resting in bed a while and thought that I would wake up in the afternoon to go exercise in the pool. Well, I woke up at 1:30 pm and thought "I am still sleepy and what would it matter if I skipped a day". Well all of a sudden the words to the Hymn "How Firm a Foundation" came to mind: 'I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand..." Whoa!!!! Can't get much clearer than that. I have prayed that my arm gets healed and I have had a blessing. I have the time and means to do the aquacizes... So I got out of bed to exercise, and yes I did feel better.

I am thankful for a Heavenly Father that cares about my everyday things that He would encourage me to get OOB and get with the program.

2009-05-21T08:02:00.001-07:00

The man was almost late

2009-05-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Hubby and I were driving to the Reno Airport. He was heading off to work. He had a bag of needed tools with him to fix buses in Utah. Well we no sooner were on the high way when we noticed a traffic jam. It was started at the hospital. 2 lanes were at a stand still. We talked about what other route we could take and how to get off the highway when Hubby starts to back up. He says there is not much traffic and that he will get off the previous ramp. Well... a plain car with a siren tells him to "Go forward". He says back that he will miss his flight. Again with the " Go Forward". So Hubby goes forward. Then he sees that he is far enough back from the cement dividers that he can go down around them and cross over to the other side. I was afraid he would get a ticket. But he didn't. The unmarked car had gone away. Yay. The we head toward Dayton to take the Virginia City route. Winding, Uphill road. Time is a factor because you have to check in your luggage 45 minutes before your flight or the bags don't go. So that means no tools. We had talked about that and decide that if he is too late that I will overnight the tools to him. Anyway, we made it to the airport and get him checked in Just in time. Whew! But not knowing how 395 will be on the way home, he advises me to take Virginia City back. It is no less winding or hilly. I made it safely home and then Hubby calls me with the details of the road closing. Then he emails it to me and I have posted it here. He says it will probably be a movie some day. Here is the tale:

Washoe County Sheriff's deputies are still investigating a homicide along HIghway 395 in Washoe Valley, that ended in a chase, and the arrest of the suspected killer.At about 12:35 p.m. today, a man shot another man in the northbound lanes in Washoe County, leaving the victim's body lying near the fence, according to Washoe County Sheriff's Deputy Brooke Keast.A passerby on 395 stopped saw the body lying in the ditch, and stopped his vehicle. As he was trying to render aid, the shooter returned and shot the good Samaritan, police said.Washoe Sheriff's Deputy Brooke Keast said the Samaritan was able to give a description of the shooter's vehicle. He was transported to a Reno hospital. His condition is unknown at this time.Washoe Sheriff's Deputies, Carson City Sheriff's Deputies and Nevada Highway Patrol troopers located the suspect vehicle in the area of Franktown Road off Old 395 and gave chase. The suspect left his vehicle and fled on foot, discarding his clothes and large amounts of cash, according to police.A Washoe deputy and his K-9 located the suspect hidden in brush behind a home on Bellevue Drive.Traffic northbound at 395 is being diverted to East Lake Boulevard and was backed up for several hours all the way to Carson-Tahoe Regional Healthcare. Keast said the names of the suspect and two victims will likely not be released today. The suspect, however, is described as a Hispanic male from Carson City.Carson City investigators are assisting in the investigation and at 8 p.m. were awaiting a warrant to search a room at the Gold Dust West Casino on Highway 50 East. The connection to the room was not clear, but Sheriff Ken Furlong confirmed it is related to the Washoe Valley incident. Keast said Search and Rescue crews are combing the area for evidence. She said a weapon was found near the scene, but it has yet to be determined to be the murder weapon.

Words of advice

2009-05-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

We received the circle letter the other day and the following are a few words of advice from my hubby's brothers and sisters.

Don't criticize a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes, then you will be a mile away and you will also have his shoes.

When you receive constructive criticism, or when bad things happen to good people: apply a Q-TIP (quit taking it personally)

I thought that was very good advice.

The Reason I have a cell phone

2009-04-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

The other day I received a call from my son who is in the army. His question was, "Did you ever watch Charlie's Angels?" I said that I did many years ago. He wanted to know the name of the middle man between the ladies and Charlie. I told him that the actor's name was David Doyle. He wanted to know the charactor's name, to which I answered, "Bosley". "Bosley", he echoed. That was it. He thanked me and told me he would talk to me later.

And that, my friends, is why I have a cell phone. Just so the kids can call me anytime for any reason. Sometimes they need to leave a voice message, and sometimes they need to give me some time to return a call. But I like it that we have a way to contact one another.

Orange Irish

2009-03-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, okay, Here's the scoop...
Orange Irish is from Northern Ireland and Green Irish from Southern Ireland. The Orange is Protestant and the Green Catholic. William III (William of Orange) King of England, Scotland, and Ireland, Stadtholder of the Netherlands- Victorious in the early 1690's, especially the Battle of the Boyne, near Dublin. He defeated King James II, a Roman Catholic.

Protestant churches consolidated against the Catholic Church. The Orange order was founded after the Battle of the Diamond between the Catholic Defenders and the Protestant Peep O'Day Boys. The 3 main founders were James Wilson, Daniel Winter, James Sloan.

The Orange Order had a central place in the new state of Notheren Ireland. It acted as a basis for the unity of the Protestants of all classes. The English (mainly Anglicans) and the Scots (most Presbyterians. Sometimes called Orangemen.

The National Flag of the Republic of Ireland has 3 stripes: Orange for the Irish Protestants, Green for the Irish Catholic Nationalists (republican cause), and White representiing the hope for peace between them.

The Anniversary of the Battle of Boyne is celebrated each July 12th., every though it isn't a Public Holiday as such.

We have both Green and Orange Irish Ancestors.

Happy St. Patrick's day

2009-03-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

Top o' the morning to you. And to all an Irish Wish. May the wind always be at your back. May the Lord hold you in the hollow of His hand. And may you be in Heaven 10 minutes before the devil knows you're dead.

I was raised with the Cry of the Banshee, the blarney stone, an Irish Lullaby, and a few other Irish things. We ate potatoes as if they were a staple. Mother made cornbeef and cabbage. I thought every household had those things. I did not know they were part of my heritage.

Today I love to listen to Celtic music. Luckily my hubby likes it too. I like to say I get my dander up because I am Irish and I really looked the part when I had auburn hair. I am happy to be known as Irish, even though I am a Heinz 57. ( made up of a lot of cultures) Maybe some day I will be able to go to Ireland and feel like I am comin' home.

A wink to all my ancestors. A nod to all my descendants. And a pinch to anyone not wearing green today. (or orange if you are Orange Irish)

Children

2009-03-14T09:02:00.001-07:00

When my children were little they were quite the handful. Not really naughty, but kept me on my toes. The oldest was in afternoon Kindergarten and the others were home all day. One day it was like the straw that broke the camel's back...I sat down and wrote the following poem. I just thought I would add it to my blog today.

WHAT A DAY:

Children are a nuisance, a bother, and a drag.
When trying to get them to behave Mother turns into a nag.
She screams and hollers at them and sends them off to bed.
And then when they're off to sleep she pats them on the the head.
She thinks of how sweet they look. How soon they won't be small.
And then she's sorry she got mad and carried on and all.
Mother vows to do better, to try anew tomorrow.
But next day comes and brand new troubles add to Mother's sorrow.
Ruth is out of diapers, because she wets them all the time.
Enos spread the floor with salt, I guess to make it shine.
Sarah's eaten the chapstick. Samuel's cut his head.
Rachel wet the bed again after all that Mother's said.
Emma cried and pouted when she had to eat her corn.
Naomi had her school clothes on and now her pants are torn.
Mother found one more diaper, now Ruth is happy and asleep.
Then Mother went with Enos to see how much there was to sweep.
Mother cleans off Sarah's face, patches Samuel's head.
Rachel's dry and happy, and helps Mother change the bed.
Emma ate all her food and is down and off to play.
Naomi found some other clothes and is off to school today.
Mother wonders how on earth she'll last until they're grown
and off to raise a family of little ones of their own.

My Vacation

2009-03-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

We started off our trip by going to Utah for daughter number 1's son's baptism. We checked into the motel on friday and then visited number 2 daughter. On saturday we went to said grandson's baptism. It was very nice. His dad baptized him and confirmed him while Grandad stood in the circle with him along with some friends of their family. Then we had a nice luncheon. At this point I refer you to Puphi's blog.

Now I must tell you that it was MY vacation to Hawaii while my hubby was there WORKING. Too bad for him. We got there on a Sunday afternoon, checked into the motel. We walked the streets to find a restaurant to eat. This was by Waikiki Beach. We ate at a Chinese restaurant and had a really nice meal. Some things were new to us, but they were very good.

On monday hubby and I went to eat breakfast. Then he had to go to work, and it would be a long day since they had a dinner at night. I went to the international market and window shopped for a while. I bought food to eat and then went back to the motel to rest and watch tv. I played solitaire and just rested. I sat out on the terrace and wrote a letter and watched people. Then off again to shop and eat supper. Hubby came back and brought a Lei with him. It was very pretty.

On tuesday we ate breakfast and then he was off again. I rode the shuttle bus to the shopping mall. Big stores that I never shop at in Reno, I window shopped. Then I ate at the food court and rode the shuttle back to the motel. Hubby came early from work and we drove to several beach fronts. A lady at work wanted some sand and a few shells, so we picked up a few. Then we went to eat.

On wednesday hubby went to work and I shopped for real this time. I bought each of the children and grandchildren a little sumpin sumpin. Then I packed for my next trip. Hubby came back and we went out to dinner. Chinese, if you are interested. Then Hubby dropped me off at the airport. I took an overnight flight to Utah. I visited number 2 daughter and helped her with some rearranging of her house. I helped here and there for a few days. Then on Sunday I was off to home again. It was Stake Conference and I made it there just in time. Then I ate lunch with daughter number 3's family. Then I visited daughter number 5. Then I came home to rest.

I just enjoyed doing something different. It was just nice to spend evenings with hubby. I usually don't see him so much. I look forward to the next vacation. I'll go back to work tomorrow and I guess I look forward to that too.

So there it is in a nutshell.

Happy Holidays

2009-02-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

I love holidays. It doesn't matter which ones. I like them all. I even like just talking about them.

In January we start out with New Years. I like to party and on the chance I have to work my spouse brings a treat to work and we kiss the new year in. Nice, isn't he?
Then you have national pie day in January. That calls for a party right there.

February has Ground Hog day. That is when Phil comes out and if he sees his shadow and goes back in to his house we have 6 more weeks of winter, otherwise we only have a month and a half.
And then we have St. Valentine's Day. Candy and cards and maybe a dinner or a dance, or both.

March is my anniversary month, so that is always special.
And don't forget St. Patrick's day. I am both orange and green Irish, so we don the proper clothing, talk a lot of blarny and get a kiss.

April is April Fool's day when pranks are played and enjoyed.
April is also my birthday month, so I celebrate at the beginning of the month and at the end.

May has Mayday. It is not celebrated as much as the other holidays.
But Mother's Day is the key here. Phone calls, cards, happy wishes, flowers, all are accepted.

June has flay day when we wear red, white, and blue and those who have flags display them.
On Father's Day we give cards and make pies. All is good

July starts out with the 4th celebration. We picnic and watch fireworks.
July is also for St. Swithens' Day. I expect a present but never get one.
July is also Pioneer Day. Many folks celebrate this. We watch the celebration on the BYU station.
Some have picnics and dress like pioneers.

August doesn't really have a holiday but many people go on vacation or have reunions, or both.

September is Back to School month. Parties are in order.

October is Halloween. We dress up and go trick or treating and have parties. In Nevada we also celebrate our statehood. Nevada Day Parade and picnics.

November has Thanksgiving. Sounds like a feast day. We have Turkey with all the trimmings. Eat ourselves silly.

December is Christmas time. Carols, Trim the tree, family celebration. We have several Christmas gatherings throughout the month due to the children living all over the place.

I have a son that celebrates Liver Day. And if we find out about other special days we try to mention them to each other.

So that wraps up the year. I think I like holidays because they make people smile and feel good. Memories are made and folks are a little nicer perhaps.

Do you have a favorite holiday? Or do you celebrate in a special way? Drop a note.

Getting Old

2009-01-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

What does it mean to get older? Beats me, because you see, I am still young. I find myself still liking the bubble gum music I listened to as a teen-ager. I like the hairstyles of my era. I like the foods I liked as a teen and the old hangouts. I like the phrases and jargon.

It is quite the eye opener when I look at a picture of me back then and then look at a current photo. I have changed quite a bit. Older, fatter, more decrepid. Yet from where I stand, looking from the same eyes I had back then, sorta in my minds' eye, I am young and fit and not bad looking.

I hate to admit that I am getting older. I want to be young. Not that I want to go back in time or anything. I just want the right to think young. To like the things of yester-year. To think that I am fun-loving and cool.

So to that I will say " Hey Man, what's happening?" And answer myself with a "De Nada".
And a "In the groove, Man, In the groove".

Cool!

rambunxios children

2009-01-05T19:32:00.000-08:00

I think we have a lot of energetic grandchildren. They have great imaginations and this is also what causes a lot of frustration for their parents. We have little children who sing at the top of their lungs, children who throw blocks all over and then won't pick them up, we have children who pilfer candy, children who run and jump and climb, children who throw things in the house, and even children who fight and hit one another.

As they get older they learn to pick things up and to sit quietly, to not call each other names, to not run and jump and climb in the house, not to take things that do not belong to them, and to not hit one another.

They all will grow up and become productive adults. How do I know that? Well their parents ( my children ) were just like them and they grew up pretty nice. I laugh at the funny things they do and I am glad they get along and care about one another. The grandchildren will do th e same thing. I will delight in watching them grow up.

So to that end I will say to all my rambunxious grandchildren, "Quit throwing blocks, Don't run in the house, Pick up those clothes, Don't look at your brother, .... and remember that your parents once were children long ago." That is how they know all your tricks, because they used to do the same things. And you thought they had eyes in the back of their heads or were smart or something. HA!!!!

Happy Holidays?

2008-12-30T12:12:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas has passed and the New Year is upon us. We had our Christmas early, beginning at Thanksgiving.

We had Christmas at our house with the Smith and Coltrin families. After a wonderful meal we all gathered in the living room. We started with the youngest to open presents, continuing to the oldest, which is my hubby. We got to see all the nice things everyone received. We visited a little bit and ate candy and cookies. Then it was time to call it to an end, due to the fact that I had to take a nap to go to work that night.

Then on friday we were off to Chicago O'Hare airport. We stayed the night in Chicago and the next morning we walked to the train station, suitcases in hand. We road the train to South Bend Airport/ Train terminal, rented a car and began the shopping. We bought presents and food stuffs for celebrating with the Bullocks. Dougan had just come home from the hospital (he spent 3-4 weeks in the hospital due to injury-infection) and we gathered at their home to eat and open presents. We again started with the youngest and went to the oldest. We all received nice things.

We stayed the night in Elkhart and went to church in Niles, Michigan with the Bullocks. Sunday afternoon we visited with hubby's brothers and sisters. We ate another wonderful meal followed by candy and such. We visited and laughed a lot.

We again stayed the night in Elkhart and spent the day visiting the Bullocks. Then in the evening we visited with Samuel. Jenny was not at home, but we got to talk to her on the phone. We visited Samuel for a little bit and then off to the motel.

On Tuesday we drove to the South Bend airport, turned in the rental car and flew to Tennessee. We visited a little with the Millers and then slept at a motel. The next day we visited my sister, her husband, and my brother at my sister's house. Her grand-daughter came with her two girls. The Millers also came and we had some good food and visiting.

On Thursday we got up and went shopping for presents and food. We had Christmas with the Millers. It was towards the evening as we had to work around school children and a teen-ager's work schedule. We ate and received nice things.

Then a quick sleep at the motel. On Friday we flew to Utah for Christmas with the Phillips and the Panti's. We went out to eat on friday night with Big D, Number 1 & number 2 daughters at a Thai restaurant. Good food. Then we visited a little back at the Panti's.

On Saturday we shopped for gifts and food. Then we gathered at the Pant's and ate and opened presents beginning with the youngest. We all received nice things, except for one that got a lame present, but then again... we just met him. (maybe if he is around next year) Anyway, we played games and visited.

Then we drove to a motel close to the Phillips'. We went to church with them. Ate another good meal and visited. We played games and then it was time to go. We needed to drop something off at the Panti's and she asked if we had time for a quick game. We played a couple of games, visited while we were playing and then retired to the motel to sleep.

On Monday we flew to Nevada, unloaded the car, and tried to unwind. Life would start as usual again on Tuesday.

Now that brings me to the next holiday which is New Year's Eve. Sorry to say I must work again. We cannot move the celebration around like we did for Christmas because it happens at a specific time. So Hubby says he will come and see the new year in with me at work. He will bring a little something to eat, see the New Year in with me, and then go back home to sleep. I guess that will have to suffice. Maybe next year we can PARTY. But this year will be a quiet one.

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a very Hopeful New Year.

2008-11-24T05:44:00.000-08:00

I remember getting hurt at school, or at the playground, or even just playing outside. I would get up and look at the booboo and then go find Mother. I was fine, no tears or anything until I found her. Even if I had to walk the 6 blocks from school. My focus was on telling Mother. When I finally found her then the flood gates opened. I cried as I tried to tell her what had happened or what was wrong. She fixed the booboo all better then I was off again.

What I did not realize was the flip side to that. Did she worry about when I climbed the big jungle gym? Or when I learned to ride my bike? Did she lose sleep when I was away from home? Did she worry about all the hurt I would have to endure as I grew up?

I do not know and my mother is not around for me to ask. But I can tell you that I did all those things. I cringed inside as I watched the children try something new and tough, though I smiled confidently at them. I cried when they were hurt, though infront of them I tried not to cry. I tried to show them a brave face that had faith that things would turn out okay.

My Mother-in-law one time told me that you never stop being a MOM. I watched her heart break as she held her tongue when one of her children were going through a very rough time. She was there with love and support but she did not offer advice. I am not that strong. I can only hold my peace for so long and then I give the "this is what I would do" speech.

Some of my children hear that speech more than others. And some of them take it with a grain of salt, with a take it or leave it attitude. And that is fine. They are all adults and they need to live their lives. But I guess I want them to know that even if they don't take my advice I want to be helpful. They need to let me know what I can do for them. If it is possible I will do it. If I am unable to help, I might be able to guide them to who might help. The key if for them to let me know when they are needing help or going through something difficult.

I pray for them by name daily. Each and every one. I know that I cannot see what they are going through, but I know who can and does. I trust in Him for guidance. And I trust that the children will let me be a sounding board for them. I don't have to know every detail of their lives. I just want to be there when they need me.

So that being said.....What can I do to help?

Parts is parts

2008-11-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. And the Eyes are the windows of the soul. A woman's hair is her crown of glory. Cold hands/ warm heart. Pretty is as Pretty does.
You have heard some one sing with the voice of an angel. A person can be as quick as a wink and Kind-hearted. A person can have a smile that can light up a room.

Then there is the animal influence: being dog-tired, sly as a fox, quiet as a mouse, messy as a pig, stubborn as a mule, slow as a snail or a tortoise.

And the mineral world: Dumb as a box of rocks or dumber than a doornail.

Or references to items: Neat as a Pin. Slick as a whistle. Has a spare tire or a beer belly. And don't forget Lead Bottom. Couch potato. Abs like a 6 pack. (why is beer belly so different from abs of a six pack?)

Anyway, all these things make me realize that beauty is very subjective. You have heard it said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I have just recently heard that beauty is in the eye of the beholdee. We are each a beautiful creation and should think of ourselves as such.

So to all the 10's out there.... Kudos to us! Yeah, that's right. To you, and you, and you there in the corner. To all of us. Now put that smile on and have a great day.

Throw her out the window

2008-11-18T19:02:00.000-08:00

When my youngest was a little girl she and her brother were playing upstairs on the window box. She was getting a "ride" on the window seat while he was making it go up and down. Well as he lifted the lid really high she went by the screen and popped the screen out. She fell out the 2nd floor window. All the kids came running down the stairs yelling that she fell out the window. The neighbor lady came running from across the street yelling that she saw my daughter fall out the window. I thought she had probably fallen out the front window on the porch roof and went out to look but the neighbor lady went around to the side of the house. There was my little one lying very still on the ground. I waited until I saw her move then I scooped her up in my arms and took her into the house. I called my brother from his room (he was briefly staying with us) and took her to the hospital. I held onto her hand and when she started to close her eyes I would shake her hand and call her name and I did not let her fall asleep. I got to the hospital and they did some tests and then sent her by ambulance to another hospital that had a neuro surgeon. She was in Pediatric Intensive Care and they ran tests all night. I prayed for two things: That the doctors would be guided to find out what was wrong with her and treat it, and if there was nothing wrong with her that the doctors would know that and send her home soon.

The next morning they sent her home and all was well. Nothing more than a scratch. It could have been so different because there was a cement window well just a few inches one way and some cut off bush ends sticking out of the ground the other way. She had asked Grandma about the lady that she saw and Grandma told her it was her Guardian Angel that had caught her on the way down. I had no other explanation on why she did not have damage and injury.

Now, this is not the end of the story. My little one is all grown up and she has little ones of her own. It wasn't that long ago that her little girl fell out of a 2nd story window. She was sent from one hospital to another and had a lot of tests as well. My granddaughter ended up just fine. Talk about De Javu' all over again. My daughter can take comfort in knowing that she had a Guardian Angel to help her and one to help her daughter. We go through life thinking we are doing things all on our own. We aren't. There are tangible angels and intangible angels helping us. As I think about my life and all the things that have happened to me, my husband, and my children there is an undenyable fact that Heavenly Father loves us and sends help through our trials of faith.

my funeral

2008-11-17T14:01:00.000-08:00

"Musings" blog prompted me to wite the following:

After my mother-in-law's funeral I decided to write down how I wanted my funeral. I made several notes on the plane ride home and then once home I organized it and wrote it all out. Songs I wanted sung, who I wanted to do what, ... actually I wrote it all out from beginning to end. It gave me a lot of satisfaction. Then I e-mailed it to the children. One family member called to ask me if I was all right. My youngest called just sobbing. She said that as she read the funeral service she realized that I wasn't dead yet and called to talk to me. We laughed at that. In her mind as she read it, it seemed so real.

Another daughter reminded me that after I am dead the children will have their chance to get their last "dig" in. I am thinking there will be laughter at my funeral.

Morbid? I don't know. It can be very calming to realize that there is order to things. I have thought about these kinds of things for a long time. I am healthy and strong. (Even though I say I am old and decrepid.) No hurry to go on my part. I will be around a while.

Plan B

2008-11-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up the options were not there for me like they were for my children.
Or maybe they were there for others, but not for me. My goal in life was to get married like my sisters did and raise a family.

As a young person I tried my hand at beauty college, but did not finish because I was needed to help out my sister who had major surgery. While visiting her in the hospital I met a nursing assistant who was bed-bathing her. We talked and I thought that this would be a great job, one in which you really felt like you were helping.

So after my sister recovered I checked out the local hospital. They had a CNA class starting and my sister spotted me the cash for new white shoes. The hospital provided the uniforms.

I completed the course and began working for the same hospital in which I was born. I started out on the adult surgical unit for the probationary time, then transferred to the Pediatric Unit.
Nice.....I saw a lot of things, some sad, some happy.

This is where I met my husband. Things progressed and I was married a month before I turned 20. I know....way too young. But remember, that was the plan since I was little. We started a family right away and we had 7 children in 8 years. Yeah, yeah, yeah we know what caused it.

By the age of 28 I had 7 children. Sounds like a lot but I had sisters who also had large families so it didn't feel like a lot. (2 with 7 children each and one with 10 children)

Plan A went well. We never had a lot of money to do much with and we often had very simple meals. The children did not have the best or the newest, but they had some things. My goal was to give them opportunities we did not have. Music, sports, college-bound if they chose.

Then Plan B: As the children grew I felt I wanted to do more in the nursing field. I went to college and tried my hand at schooling. I could only go part-time and lost a lot of sleep to studies. I tried to be there as much as I could for the children but they often had no guidance for home work. They managed through school and on with their own lives. Some college, some missions, some work, some children.

Whenever there is a choice there is a sacrifice. My having so many children in such a short time led to the sacrifice of not having much one-on-one time with any of them and not having much money, ergo things. The sacrifice of me going to school was that I did not have a lot of time with them because I was working and going to school. So you see, it was not just me sacrificing but the entire family made the sacrifice.

Now plan B is working out just fine because I am at the time of my life that it is paying off. But all those sacrifices are things I cannot go back and change. You cannot get back time. You cannot raise a grown child.

Plan A & Plan B? It would have been nice if I did plan B first and had the wonderful life it held in promise, but I chose plan A first and had the wonderful life I had. I met the right man and we had the wonderful children we had, and now have wonderful grandchildren. The choice was the right one for me, sacrifices and all.

My advice to young people is to make a plan, work it, and change what needs to be changed. It is called LIFE. Don't miss it. There is no perfect life. Follow your heart, your dream, and your promptings. The only thing constant is Change. Roll with them. 'Nuff said.

To blog or not to blog...

2008-11-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

It really baffles me the things people blog about. I guess it shouldn't. I remember calling my friends to talk for hours regarding the happenings of the day. I even called my mother to discuss the soap operas we had been following. (back in the day when I watched soap operas). We would talk about these people as if they were members of our family.

The shame of it is that we should have been talking about real people, our real family members. And I suppose this is the modern day version of writing letters. But it all seems so unpersonal. Atleast when I called my friends or family, or wrote them letters, it was directed at them in particular. Now when I blog I just put thoughts out there and I am unsure of who is doing the reading.

I find that if I think of a particular person and write my thoughts to them the writing comes much easier. Or I think of giving a talk in church and tend to make it more general. I find it fun to read blogs but do not always give comments or acknowledgements.

So my question to Blog or Not to Blog? I will have to say Blog away. That way people will hear from you and they may blog a response or it may spur them on to do another blog. Communication in any way, shape, or form... It is all good.

Ruth's quote

2008-10-23T08:07:00.001-07:00

I think it is from Follow that Bird.

Army Boy

2008-10-20T06:50:00.000-07:00

Got a call from my Army boy. Actually he is a man. He has a family in Tennessee awaiting his return from overseas. He called just to say hi. He sounds good and is looking forward to being home for Christmas. We will see him the first part of December when we make our Christmas Rounds.

I am so glad that we live in an age of communication. We can call virtually anywhere in the world via land line or cell phone, we can text via e-mail or cell phone, we can e-mail or blog or facebook, etc. When I spoke to him it was so clear, it was as if he was in the next room.

The one piece of communication that is so very old, but still as good as new is prayer. I pray for my children and their families. I communicate my needs, wants, desires and trust that the "lines" are open and the communication will be received and answered. It has worked all my life and I am sure it will continue to work. So glad they are being watched over, no matter where they are. They are a great bunch.

So to my Army Boy I say take care coming home. CUSoon

morning sickness

2008-10-20T04:40:00.000-07:00

I only had morning sickness once and that was SEVERAL years ago.( I do not add the year because You-know-who might feel old.) I lost 20 pounds and had no energy. Then I asked my mother what to do. She told me to drink white grape juice (for the gentle acid) and eat soda crackers (for the base.) It worked for me.

I also did not brush my teeth until the nausea subsided. And I found that I could eat rice and milk. It was gentle and bland. Just a little sugar added.

Like I said, this was a long time ago and I am sure there are better remedies out there today.
What are your suggestions? What worked for you? Please add them to my comments. Thanks a bunch.

BIG D

2008-10-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

Big D is thus named for the place he worked. He used to be Hat Dude. Do you remember her earlier blog?

He answered my email and did not seem overly concerned re: my writing him. Ergo: if you have any poignant questions I need to ask him in your behalf please write them to me and I will forward them to him. (does you know who like my big words and are they spelled correctly?)

hahahahaha

In all seriousness, I am glad to put together a list of questions for Big D for a Fun Family Interrogation. So get your thinking caps on.

Until later I am MOM

CPR

2008-10-14T08:19:00.001-07:00

I recertified for my CPR yesterday and just have to tell you a few things. The instructor thought he was funny which just spurred me on. He was teasing with other students and making comments throughout the lecture. Of course I am reserved and quiet up to this point. I laugh appropriately to his jokes.

Then, while I was doing the chest compressions on the dummy and counting outloud (100 compressions & the other person doing bag/ internal tube breaths) I was counting 13, 14, and the instructor said "lower" (meaning deeper compressions) but with my sense of humor I dropped my voice an octave and said "15, 16". The instructor did not get it and I did not miss a beat even though I made myself laugh. I pictured Ruth doing the Abbott and Costello routine. You will have to ask her about that.

The other thing was that the instructor asked if anyone had wrist or back injury that would keep them from doing all the compressions, etc. Several students had wrist or back thing, then I said I was old, and before he could comment I said. "old and fat". He said there was nothing he could do about that.

I did the CPR and passed, All 100 compressions and everything. Aren't you so proud. Now who is gonna volunteer so I can show off my skills? No One? okay then. Be that way.

bye, (Lower) BYE

secrets....

2008-10-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, for those of you who are interested, I was able to obtain Big D's address. This will be posted on the internet at the small sum of....JUST KIDDING.

And before I tell you what I wrote to him I will just ask you if you can keep a secret? Well, so can I.

I remember the entry in my diary that said 'I was bad today". That was the whole entry. I know what is was about. Nothing sordid, I must asure you. But no need to laborate.

And does it bother you to know that there are secrets that I will take with me to the grave? Good. hahahahaha

Some things are worth sharing, that is why we have blogs. Other things are just for our own memories, amusement, and amazement.

So now I will go and contemplate my naval. Bye

does Big D have a blog or email address

2008-10-11T12:18:00.001-07:00

I have some questions for Big D. I am sure you do not want me to post them on the blog. So ask him if I can email him. Never mind what questions. I might want him to go in cahoots with me on something. ergo I cannot fess up. Lalalalalaladeeda.

I have been tagged and now so have you.

2008-10-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

7 weird or random things about me.

1. I do not like to read due to a comprehension problem, I need to read things 2-3 times to "get
it" , hence... movies and tv .

2. I love the color blue. It is the color of my eyes, and the color of the sky ( where God lives)

3. I love to look at the stars and the clouds. I often point out the beauty of the lighting and the
cloud formations. It gives me peace to look a the sky.

4. I have faith in the loving-kindness of Heavenly Father. Even if things do not go the way I think they should go, I have trust that they go the way He wants them to go for My good.

5. My hubby is my best friend. He makes me laugh more than anyone else can and he makes me cry more than anyone else could ever do. I love to be with him and miss him when he is gone. I treat him badly when he is here. I nag him and have a list of honey-do jobs. Why does he stay and pamper me?

6. I like a clean house. No, I do not like house-cleaning. I just like the way it looks after I have cleaned it. While hubby is away I have that lived-in look, but it gets picked up before he gets home, usually.

7. I like to eat. Food and I are really good friends. It gives me strenth and pleasure. Too much food gives me that sluggish feeling and those unwanted pounds. I have to work on that.

The 4th photo in the 4th folder was not able to be published here so it has been sent via email to those who might enjoy. It is from 2005, on the sheet for EJ.

consider all of you TAGGED. Looking forward to your blogs.

candy & flowers

2008-10-11T09:58:00.000-07:00

My hubby went on a business trip and came back with candy and flowers. Now maybe I would have been curious about his doings except for the fact that I trust him even if he is cuter than all get out. Then there is the fact that he has no money to do anything with, atleast not without my knowing. And then there is the other fact that he roomed with Marvin B. (guy from Middlebury)
They were at an event in Calif. There were several booths and give aways. He came home with the huge floral arrangement that was used on the table and a box of chocolates from Belgium (where the buses are from) that the lady was giving away. So there you have it; cute guy, candy, and flowers. MMMMMmmmmmmm Good!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow

2008-10-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

I was recently watching an episode of Touched by an Angel. There was pending doom and the angel Tess said that we Praise God for the things we understand, but we also need to praise Him for the things we do not understand. I thought of Sister Asp. She is so looking forward to the second coming of Christ. There is a lot of pending doom with that. I picture her looking towards Heaven with open arms and singing praises.

It had a profound affect on me. I thought about all the tough times I have been called upon to endure. Have I praised God for the things I did not understand? I thank Him for all the blessings I have received. I know that I learn from my experiences and grow from them. I think about Joseph Smith when it was told to him that All these things are for his good.

So as I ponder my baby boy going through surgery and then again as an adult and still worry over his health, my second son totalling several cars and the myriad of other accidents he has had and now his tour over seas in the war zone, the worry of one of my daughters in a bad relationship and the pain this has caused her, the heartache of when another daughter calls me on the phone and cannot talk because she is trying to choke back her tears, talking to another daughter on the phone and she tells me she has no place to live and no food for her children, watching another daughter struggle through tough consequences and facing up to them, and lately my youngest daughter dealing with the loss of her baby. There are so many more experiences in our lives. I try to be strong for the children. Then I turn to my husband and rely on him, for I know that Heavenly Father has blessed me with him. He sees my weakness. He has such strength.

I praise God for my husband, for my children, for the good times and the bad times. For the strength to get through our trials and for the hope for a better tomorrow.

Signed, a greatful daughter

The Dating Game

2008-09-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

Yeah, dating is a game. Some times you win, some times you lose, and sometimes it is a draw.
I would like to say that the names have been changed to protect the innocent, but if I do that I may forget who I am talking about. So all the names are real and I apologize in advance for any embarrassment I may cause you.

I was invited to the 7th grade school dance by Mark. He brought me a little corsage and his sister took us to the dance and brought us home again. We had a nice time, atleast what little I can remember. After that Mark would come over and we would sit on my front steps to talk. Boring, eh? Well what do you expect, we were in 7th grade. We both moved on to other interests during the summer. So that was a draw.

In high school I liked Tom, a boy from my church, but he only had eyes for another girl. I was still smitten by him and he did all he could to discourage me. He even set me up with another boy. Dennis came to pick me up for this blind date. He was taller than I was and he had reddish blonde hair. He was very nice, we went out to a movie, and on the way home he bought me a box of Dunkin Donuts. That was very unconventional and sweet. After I got home I told my mother about my date and the boy. She said that we had relatives with the same last name. Well after investigation it was established that Dennis and I were 4th cousins, so that ended that. He was a very nice guy though so I introduced him to my friend. They dated and later married. She and He both won.

Then there was the boy, whose name I will not even mention, not to protect him, but my memory....Anyhoo. After our date he drove me home and started to get fresh so I got his head in my arm and rammed it into the passenger side window. I won, He lost. We did not date after that.

And here is an oldy but a goody. Mike liked Loretta, Loretta got made at Mike so at the last minute she agreed to go to the anual church Gold & Green Ball with Ray. I did not have a date to go at all, I know... boo hoo. Mike's mother and My mother talked on the phone and set up this last minute date for me to go with Mike. I had to borrow a dress from a friend of mine and we did my hair all fancy-like. Mike picked me up and took me to a restaurant for dinner before the dance. He kept staring at me like he was seeing me for the very first time. We had a nice meal and then we went to the dance. Everyone there oohed and ahhed over me. I felt like a princess. Mike and I danced and people commented on how nice we danced. At this point the story of the ugly duckling should be entering your mind.....Well, Mike put on a good show and smiled and such. Loretta got jealous and she and Mike made up. Ray and I danced, then other boys and I danced. I had a really good time. Mike and I were just friends, so I knew this would not go anywhere, And as I said I was gaga over Tom. So He won, I won.

Tom never did see me as a love interest. We went out finally the night before he left for the MTC. We went to a movie. It was very clear that we were just good friends and I was okay with that. I figured that if he came home after his mission and had an interest... well, we would just have to wait and see. But that opportunity never came. He died on his mission. A heater malfunction and carbon monoxide. His funeral was a good missionary experience and his father later joined the church.

I see that I am getting very long here so I will try to wrap this up. Let me skip to Sam.

He and I both worked at Methodist Hospital. I was a CNA in Peds and he worked in the engineering department. One day I just happened to go through his dept. on my way out to my car because the lot that I usually parked in was so full so I had to park out back. I noticed this really cute boy. (he worked days, I worked nights)

So from then on I purposely parked out back and stopped at the candy machine on my way out to hopefully get another look at this guy. ( hence my addiction to candy ) Then I found out that he ate breakfast in the hospital cafeteria before work, so I started to eat in the cafeteria before going home. Well he noticed me and sat down at my table. Luckily I was sitting with a nurse that he knew. So he felt he could do that. Well one thing lead to another and we started dating. It really is a nice love story but space is limited so I will just tell you one endearing moment.

We were at his rooming house putting a puzzle together on the floor. We had our shoes off. All of a sudden he grabs one of my shoes and sniffs it. I was horrified. I mean, whose feet smell good? I asked him why he did that. His answer was, "I don't know". I thought that would be the end of him, but Sam asked me out again and again. He even took me out when I had a broken nose. Imagine two big black eyes and a cast taped criss-cross on my face. What a guy.
So I won.

Well by now you should see how this game goes. You do your best, cut your losses, learn from your mistakes, and hope that you will find that love of your life. I did.

Pride goeth before....

2008-09-22T19:11:00.000-07:00

Did you say "a fall". Well then you would be wrong. It is "pride goeth before destruction".

There were 4 of us watching a game show and this was the quote. We all could not believe how wrong we were. Larry looked it up and found the scripture. Yep, we were definitely wrong.

So we used that a few times as a running gag. On our last day in Hawaii we played a card game named Hearts. I had the queen of spades and all the High hearts. During the game I got several hearts and I thought I would Shoot the Moon. So I played it real coy and "bemoaned" all the hearts I received. Then I played the queen, knowing that I would get that hand. Then I played the last 5 rounds gaining all the hearts. When we finished I laughed because I thought I "stuck" them all with 26 points each. I felt so proud being all coy and everything. Then Pat says, " Larry, Didn't I give you a heart on the second round?" I was so surprised and said, "Oh, are you kidding?" Sure enough, Larry had a heart. Bummer! So then I said the quote, "pride goeth before...." We all laughed. Talk about eating humble pie...

Well, on the next round, by pure luck I got the queen and all the hearts. Since it was by dumb luck I did not have much enthusiasm for it. I felt so deflated. No delight in the winning. Hmmmm. Maybe pride doth goeth before destruction.

Anyway, we laughed and had a wonderful time even just playing games.

Moral of the story: Never too old to learn.

finally made it to Hawaii

2008-09-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Our friends invited us to spend a week with them in their condo on the Island of Kauai. It is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. We arrived on Saturday and shopped for groceries. Did you know that milk can cost up to 11 dollars a gallon? Luckily Costco is there to save the day. (More than Carson City but much better than 11 dollars. )

On sunday we went to church in Lihue. They had Ward Conference and we listened to so many good talks. At the end of the service they had a family that was moving out of their ward come to the stand. Then the congregation sang Aloha O'e to them. The words were printed in the back of the hymnal in Hawaiian. We sang along with them and all four of us had tears in our eyes, even though we did not know the family. We could feel the love that this Ward "family" had for them.

They had a ward photo taken, which they do every year, but we waited that one out. Then we listened to some more good lessons. After that we drove back to the condo for lunch. We played games in the evening.

Monday we went on a bus tour. We enjoyed the sites. "Breathtaking" is the only word I can use to describe all we saw. We had a little boat ride to the fern grotto. That cave will hold 100 people. But we did not go up to that one. We had a serenade then on the boat. And my guy did the hula and wiggled his hips and all.

Wild chickens are everywhere. They were even at the outdoor restaurant where we ate lunch.
It is against the law to kill the chickens, but if one commits suicide...

The rest of the week our friends took us to a lot of sites and shops. We went to a Luau on Tuesday evening. That was very entertaining. The host was a riot.

Our friends took us to some caves and we ventured into those. We walked on the beach.
In the evenings we watched the sunset, swam in the pool, and sat in the hot tub. Jealous?

There are flowers and trees and birds of exotic flavors. All in all I say we had a very enjoyable time. I loved it all. The only thing that would have made it better is if you all were there too, then there would be no reason to come back.

Now we are home unwinding and getting ready to jump back into reality.
Uggghhhhh.

No Missed Opportunities

2008-09-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

well, I packed my bags wednesday night and had too much stuff for 2 carry on bags, I remember that Sam always says" just check a bag" so I got out the big bag and decided to check it at the airport. I print my tickets on line and look at the flight time which I am sure said 6:55. I set my alarm for 0400 to give me plenty of time but it went off at 0408 instead. No problem, I have lots of time. I showered and dried off and then remembered that I wanted to shave my legs, so back in the shower. I dressed and wanted to take some Aleve before I left the house, so I took a few moments with that. Then I loaded the car and started to drive off when I remembered my cell phone, so back in the garage and house to retrieve that. Then I thought about having to pay to check a bag at the airport so I head off to the bank's drive-through. Got my money and headed off for the airport. I drove 65 mph forgetting that there is a space when you can drive 70 mph. I think about the pending events of the day and several tears fall from my eyes. I know I will miss the opportunity to say good bye one more time to Mary Lenore and will miss helping Ruth and Derek get through the day and will miss helping to dress Mary, well you get it... All the missed opportunities. I get to the airport and take a few minutes to find a Close parking spot. Picked one not close enough to suit me, but not as far as the other openings. And then I go to check in. They ask if I am there for the 9 am flight, I say that I am there for the 6:55 flight.They tell me there is no 6:55 flight, but that it is a 6:15 flight. They tell me that I am too late to check a bag. That they close the bag check in 45 minutes prior take off . I missed it by 7-8 minutes. So...I am rebooked for friday. I called Sam to change all my connecting flights for Hawaii between the islands.Which he did without any grumbling. I guess all these little comedy of errors were made possible so that I could be with R uth & Derek on thursday. Things like this just show me that Heavenly Father is getting us through this every step of the way. No "Missed Opportunities" here for me. I thank a Loving Heavenly Father for all His Loving Kindess.
Love, MOM

Mary Lenore Coltrin

2008-09-09T08:39:00.000-07:00

Very hard times.....

It is so hard to see your child lose a child. What should have been just a totally happy occasion is now shared with extreme sadness. We are still overjoyed that little Mary Lenore has joined the family.

Ruth, if you don't want to read the rest of the blog, now is a good place to stop.

Heart break: I waited in the car with Andrew and Emmy while Ruth went back to see the doctor for results of the ultrasound. As soon as I saw her walk out with the nurse I knew the unthinkable has happened. She did not have to say a word. She sobbed on the nurses shoulder. I knew that if I hugged her I would be totally gone and not be able to function or to drive.

I asked what the next step was and she told me that she was to go home and wait until the scheduled C-section the next day. I asked if Derek knew yet, she said no. Well....That was the next step in my mind. I would want my husband to hold me so tight that he would almost be standing on the other side of me. So I drove to the pizza store. I went in and Derek was talking to an employee giving her directions to a customer. I did not say a word but motioned for him to follow me. He came out to the car and Ruth got out. He hugged her and she sobbed. He asked what was wrong and she told him. They hugged a long time and my heart was just breaking for them. I took Ruth home and Derek came a few minutes after. His mother Marti also came. I knew I could not talk much. So I started keeping busy picking up toys and such. Marti called Brother LaMonica and he in turned called Brother Lay. They would be coming to give them blessings.

After the brethren came they talked a little bit with Ruth and Derek. It was hard because brother LaMonica is hard of hearing and none of us could talk very loud. They gave the blessings and Brother LaMonica stayed for a few minutes more. Ruth kept having contractions and so she called the clinic. They told her to go on into the hospital. Marti would take Andrew and Emmy, and I would try to go to work that night. I picked out a little outfit from a bag of baby shower things. As soon as I picked out the sleeper Marti said, "Oh, that is the one I picked out". I quickly ran to the store to buy a new blanket. I would take these to the hospital that night.

I went home but there was no way I would sleep. I finally layed in bed and drifted off for about 45 minutes. Then I got up and called Derek. I was hoping against hope that a mistake had been made and the baby would be alive. But he told me that Ruth was still in the recovery room. I told him I would be there in a half an hour. I went and found Ruth asleep in her room. The nurse asked me if I wanted to see the baby. I followed her to the nursery. The baby was wrapped in a blanket. At first I just looked at her then the nurse asked me if I wanted to hold the baby. I held her gently and let my heart talk to hers. She was beautiful even though she was changing colors already. I wondered if Ruth would be able to see her baby in this condition. It would be hard and I would some how have to prepare her.

I went back to see Ruth. I told her that the baby was so pretty and that she would have to see past all the discoloration and see her features. She looked so much like Emmy. I was hoping Ruth would find the strength to hold her baby and be comforted.

Then it was time for me to go to work. I told her to just call me and that I would check on her later. I went to Rehab. They all knew that I had asked for the next night off, so the day nurse asked "so how is grandma?" Ofcourse my eyes well up and I have to shake my head. She asked what is wrong and I told her. Well she made the executive decision to call in a replacement. I pulled myself together and did a few nursey things until the nurse arrived. Naomi called to check on things. I asked her to call the others, She said she would. The replacement nurse arrived and I gave her a report and was back with Ruth within the hour. I was so glad I could be there with her.

I watched her sleep and found a nap or two myself. I was awake when she was awake. And shared in her loss. Everyone was so kind to her. She was in such good hands. The Holy Comforter was also with her. She had such a peace to her and she was able to spend time with little Mary.

This thursday they will say good bye to their baby for a while. She will continue to be in our family, in our hearts, and in our lives. She is my 19th grandchild. Perfect in every way. In fact, so perfect that she did not have to live on this earth. She will be waiting for us to join her. We look forward to that day.

So to all of you that send prayers and comfort our way, we say thank you.

To little Mary Lenore I say "Bye, Bye for now. Love, Gram"

the Man with the Yurt and his Ladder-day Problems

2008-08-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

The Pool Guy, as he likes to call himself, had a great idea to make a Yurt to surround his above ground pool. He gets all the lumber, stains it, drills hundreds of holes in prep for assembly. He gets the wife to sew a lonnnngggg piece of cloth to surround the yurt. He uses wires, plastic ties, nuts & bolts, beams of wood for the roof, slats of wood that criss-cross together, and clear plastic to form the roof with a plastic dome for the center top. He could tell you all the details in the assembly but let's just say "voila" - a yurt. The first thing is that a very strong wind (65mph) blows over the yurt and breaks the the yurt. The dome became a flying saucer and a neighber brought it back home all broken. Back to the drawing board. The destruction put a leak in the pool, so that would need to be replaced.

The next step after getting another pool, is to do something different to secure the yurt against the strong winds. Several tie-downs suffice. Next is to get a different roof. A harder plexiglass is ordered and used for the roof and the dome. A partial panel needs to be replaced in the fabric that surrounds the yurt. After several days and many harrowing experiences (he was hanging upside down on the outside of the roof) the yurt was complete.

Then came another idea for getting water level right in the pool. A toilet tank apparatice is used and metal clamps, and copper tubing. Well the chorine in the water eroded the copper tubing and we had a high copper content in the water. Many chemicals and filters later and now the water is clean again.

But the old ladder was now rusty. Since we had a new pool we had a new ladder that we had not used yet. So Pool Guy assembles the new ladder and moves all the toilet gadgets to the new ladder, with out using copper this time, and very little metal. BUT, the new ladder has fewer rungs and is more wobbly than the old ladder. So with a little trial and error, and nearly falling off the ladder, it was decided to paint the old ladder and get rid of all the rust, reassemble the steps to the old ladder and use the old faithful again. New is not always better. But Pool Guy has an idea to build his own ladder. Wheels are in motion. By next summer I expect there will be a new ladder in place that suits all concerned.

The question is: What else will need to be done to pool, ladder, or yurt? Seems every season it is something different. But it does not discourage him. Pool Guy keeps plugging away. I am glad he rises to the occasion.

just wait...

2008-08-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

So here I am feeling pretty proud of myself because I have figured out another computer thing. It is a big accomplishment because nobody was here to help me. I just started pushing buttons and voila'. So now I may put some random thoughts, advice, recipes, who knows what on this thing. I know... you are thinking "welcome to the 21st century".

That's it. Just wanted to let you all know. Have a nice day. MOM