Inman Bunch

2012-02-02T09:54:00.007-07:00

WORDS TO PONDER

Anyone who knows me, knows I love good inspirational quotes! I love to think about them, decide how to apply them to my life, and try hard to remember them to share with others. Being that my memory has never been great and with age it has gotten worse, I love having the quotes written down so I can refer back to them. My grandchildren know if they are having any behavior problems at my house (which none ever do), the "talk" is the worst punishment I can give them. I search the cobwebs of my mind, and find any (and all) quotes that might be appropriate at the time. I am sure they would rather be put in time out than to listen to one of grandma's talks woven with quotes!

When the archer misses the mark, he turns and looks for the fault within himself. Failure to hit the bull's eye is never the fault of the target. To improve your aim -- improve yourself.

Gilbert Arland

A wise man learns by the mistakes of others,
a fool by his own.
Latin Proverb

No man was ever wise by chance.
Seneca

By associating with wise people you will become wise yourself.
Menander

The more a man knows, the more he forgives.
Catherine the Great

A loving heart is the truest wisdom.
Charles Dickens

Reputation is what men and women think of us; character is what God and angels know of us.
Thomas Paine

It requires less character to discover the faults of others, than to tolerate them.
J. Petit Senn

A good name will shine forever.
Proverb

Reputation is for time; character is for eternity.
J. B. Gough

If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put foundations under them.
Henry David Thoreau

Every artist was first an amateur.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

When written in Chinese, the word "crisis" is composed of

two characters - one represents danger, and the other represents opportunity.

John F. Kennedy

2012-02-01T00:01:00.022-07:00

IT'S FEBRUARY ALREADY!

2012-01-31T00:01:00.002-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #1 PICTURE OF YOURSELF

There aren't too many people who really enjoy seeing pictures of themselves. Now, I realize there are photoshopped pictures and "glamor" shots, but these are NOT real pictures. If I can photoshop a person into a picture and make it look like they are vacationing in an entirely different country than they are, I know photoshop does do miraculous things! So, untouched photos are not something most people enjoy seeing of themselves. But, I decided to bite the bullet and post an untouched, unphotoshopped photo of myself. I AM BRAVE!

2012-01-29T22:59:00.000-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE # 4 SOMETHING YOU WORE

Some 42 years ago, this is the wedding dress I wore. I still have that dress. I am not sure who is wearing it in this picture because I don't recognize this woman, but she must be nice. I do recognize the man because he hasn't changed in all these years (maybe an extra pound or two) but the woman is a mystery to me.

2012-01-29T00:01:00.001-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #20

SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU SMILE!

If there is one person I have always enjoyed watching over

and over, it has to be Lucy!!

I LOVE LUCY!!

I truly loved the I Love Lucy Show more than the spin offs with Lucille Ball. I Love Lucy began on October 15, 1951 and ran to May 6, 1957 (in black and white). I Love Lucy was the most watched show in the United States in four of its six seasons, and was the first to end its run at the top of the Nielsen Ratings (an accomplishment later matched by The Andy Griffith Show and Seinfeld). I Love Lucy is still syndicated in dozens of languages across the world.

I am sure to today's more "sophisticated" watchers of TV, it is a silly, slap-stick, nonsensical sitcom. But, to me..."I LOVE LUCY" and she still brings a smile to my face!

2012-01-28T19:34:00.001-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #10 SHOES
I noticed several things when I started looking at my shoes. They have certainly changed over the years for one thing. I loved shoe-shopping at Dillards years ago. They had the best shoes and the best sales at the end of the month. But, the years have taken a toll on Dillards and MY FEET! I am now buying shoes for more comfort than style. It would be nice to have both, but CROCS are the only shoes I have found that my feet like and are not so "theraputic" looking. Here are just a few of the pairs I have.

Another thing I noticed is they are all black! I have a few brown pairs, but by far the majority are black! I guess I am just going to have to get wild and crazy one of these days and order a pair of pink!! Well, then I would have to buy an outfit that would go with the shoes. And, you can't have pink shoes and a pink outfit without the purse to match. WOW! I am getting a picture of a strange looking wild woman who is spending a lot of money on shoes, clothes, and a purse that will not be used more than once. Ok, I will just stick to black!

2012-01-27T21:45:00.001-07:00

LOGAN MADE THIS WEEK'S MENU!

Logan's Mom (http://sassysites.blogspot.com) makes these vinyl Menu and shopping list frames. Adorable! Anyway, she had put one on her fridge and 6 year old Logan spied it and decided to take matters into his own hands. He made the week's menu up all by himself. Here is what Marni thinks she is going to be making this next week for dinner:

Sunday - Meatball

Monday - Sauce

Tuesday - Spaghetti

(This next one is an easy dinner for Marni)

Wednesday - Gum

(Another easy night)

Thursday - Candy

(Not sure, but thinking this is what he meant for Friday)

Friday - Meatballs

Saturday - donuts

This picture isn't very clear, but even in person it wasn't "clear" what he had planned. But, you have to admit, it is darn cute!

2012-01-26T00:01:00.003-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE # 13 - SOMETHING IN YOUR PURSE

People wonder why I have never gone with current fashion and carry a smaller cute purse. Well, when I looked into the "piece of luggage" I carry, I did notice it was full. I couldn't decide what to take out to photograph, so I decided on three. Fruit snacks on the left are for not only when my hypoglycemia strikes, but also for grandchildren who think they might need a snack. AND, everyone knows how important sanitizer is. These come in cute little packages that have wipes inside. They come in handy sooooo often. Last, but by far not least, is my friend. When a person has migraines, their pain reliever becomes their friend. I also had many various and sundry things that I think I couldn't leave home without. But, they will be for another day...or maybe I should just clean out my purse!

2012-01-25T00:01:00.002-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #8 - FLOWERS

Is there a person among us who does not love flowers? Some of us might love growing them, some might just like to admire them, but come on now, everyone has got to love them!! I have two gardenia plants growing in my front flower bed. One is about 15 years old. Unfortunately, this is not the time of year for them to bloom, so I couldn't get a picture of their flowers. One really irritating fact is, I nurture these two plants, water them carefully, prune, them and love them. They do bloom and have wonderful fragrance. But, my neighbor (she will readily admit to this) does nothing to her gardenia plant. It is by her front door, not protected from heat, cold, or anything else. She never waters it and if it doesn't rain, it doesn't get a drink. It is not as big or green as mine, but it still blooms and gives her wonderful flowers...in spite of the care it gets. It is as if it says, "I am who I am inspite of what goes on around me". I guess I could take a lesson from the gardenia's inner strength.

Here is a cute little purple flower from my flower bed. I love to see flowers in the winter.

This is a Lantana plant. I have two different ones in the garden. The one below is yellow and I have a red one too. Humming birds and butterflies seem to enjoy these flowers. Last summer, I found there is a "special" worm that enjoys it too. The infestation almost killed the Lantana before I woke up and sprayed. I try to use sprays that won't hurt the birds and butterflies.

I was given a beautiful arrangement for my past birthday.

Here are two of the flowers in that arrangement.

BUT, I will admit. My very favorite flower in the world is ...

the CARNATION! My grandfather grew carnations of every color, size, and petal. I have tried many times to grow them with no luck. They smell so fresh and I love the jagged edges of most. I love Carnations! Maybe it has something to do with memories of my Grandpa.

2012-01-24T08:56:00.002-07:00

When my Uncle Dale passed away (he was my mother's brother), this book was found among the many books he owned. Now, my Uncle was a man way beyond his years in his thinking. He touted certain vitamins and supplements years before they became "buzz" word-must have pills. He graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1949 in chemistry. He had a great and awesome mind that became cloudy with a chance of confusion at times. But, what a grand and wonderful man he was! Now, for some words of wisdom that George Washington AND my Uncle lived by...

*Every action done in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those that are present.

*When in company, put not your hands to any part of the body, not usually discovered. (this is what it really says. I wouldn't lie about this one).

*Show nothing to your friend that may affright him.

*In the presence of others sing not to yourself with a humming noise, nor drum with your fingers or feet.

*Shift not yourself in the sight of others nor gnaw your nails.

*In visiting the sick, do not presently play the physician if you are not knowing therein.

*Undertake not to teach your equal in the art himself professes, it savours of arrogance.

*When you see a crime punished, you may be inwardly pleased, but always show pity to the suffering offender.

*Do not laugh too much or too loud in public.

*Let your countenance be pleasant, but in serious matters somewhat grave.

*Play not the peacock, looking everywhere about you, to see if you be well decked, if your shoes fit well, if your stockings sit neatly, and clothes handsomely.

*Labour to keep alive in your breast that little celestial fire called conscience.

*ASSOCIATE YOURSELF WITH MEN OF GOOD QUALITY, IF YOU ESTEEM YOUR OWN REPUTATIONS; FOR IT IS BETTER TO BE ALONE THAN IN BAD COMPANY.

There is 110 of these listed in the book and it is actually still on sale at Amazon - I checked. Silly as some of the things seem, I can't imagine how different the world would be if we all tried to adhere to at least some of them.

2012-01-22T19:37:00.003-07:00

GREGG FINALLY GOT HIS OWN PARKING SPACE!

He was eligible 10 years ago, but he decided he liked parking across the street in the shade. But, as with everything else in life...times have changed and there have been some break-ins in the lot he had been parking in, and the state had put up some pigeon netting above the "special" spots by the back door, so he decided to get his own space!! Here is his special sign...right by the back door.

Now, being the great state we live in, they have also put in special parking spaces by the back door for visitors. On closer look, however, I am not sure they are as nice to the visitors as they are their employees.

DID YA NOTICE THE CONCRETE PILLAR RIGHT SMACK
IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PARKING SPACE?!!

Now, being the wild woman I am, I must say I was tempted to try and get in that parking space, but I guess I want Gregg to keep his job a few more years!!

2012-01-20T09:17:00.004-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #7 -THINGS
THAT ARE MADE

Here are some of the many beautiful creations that were made by our friend and neighbor, Randy. He really knew how to do woodworking. We paid for the material and gave him a drawing of what we wanted and voila...he did a beautiful job!

The taller stool below actually went to a 5 foot kitchen table he made at the request of my family as a surprise to me for Mother's Day one year. The kids helped with the sanding and staining and Randy did the sawing and assembling. This stool and another like it went on the ends of the table. On each side was a long bench that went from one end to the other of the table. The table could seat the whole family...all 8 of us! It was wonderful and a great Mother's Day gift!!! The smaller stool became a pattern for the stools Randy ended up making for each of the grand kids. Oh, how they loved their stools!!

This is another one of the "let's learn to..." projects I get into. Of course this is crocheting!! My mother could crotchet like nothing else. She never could get me to have her expertise (or desire). She did afghans, baby wraps, and bedspreads. The one I did here is a "purse" that my friend Jan and I did to challenge the 13 girls (8-12 year olds) that we teach every other week. You recall my knitting creation...slippers. One slipper 3 sizes bigger than the other! Here is my attempt at the purse. The girls all put a strap on theirs. Mine didn't get that far. Actually, however, I have decided to try my hand at this again. Maybe some of my granddaughters might like one of these to hold some kind of treasure they might have. Time will tell.

2012-01-18T09:44:00.003-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #18-WHAT I AM READING

The Book of Mormon --Another Testament of Jesus Christ, is one of the books I like to read daily. The Bible is another. OK. Did I say daily? I do try, but just for honesty sake, let me be clear...I try daily. I find peace and guidance in them. As I read, I generally find something that was written just for me! How does the Lord do that?

Next, is my Kindle!! Is it wrong to love your Kindle? There are great fictional novels for 99 cents. The Bible-whole and complete-99 cents! The entire works of Agatha Christie cost me $2.99! I don't have the Kindle Fire, just the plain-more than I will ever need-Kindle.

The next book is called Pumpkin Roll. It is the 5th in a series of culinary mysteries by Josi Kilpack. Easy mindless murder mystery reading with recipes (which are great) included. I do like to get lost in a good book that doesn't take a whole lot of thought. This is just one of many.

Last, but by far not least, is my mother-in-law's letter. I get one every week and she writes better than any author you would ever read! She is the most detailed writer I have ever encountered. When she weaves her tales, you have been there. Even if it is just a trip to Safeway! Love her letters! I have kept a majority of them and one day...someone else will have to throw them away.

2012-01-16T22:42:00.006-07:00

PHOTO CHALLENGE #11-SOMETHING ORANGE...

One of my favorite necklaces happens to be orange. I think it is a favorite for a couple of reasons. First, I don't normally wear jewelery like this. I am a gold and silver kind of person. But, I got this necklace to wear to Spencer and Deanna's wedding, so it also holds some great memories!

2012-01-13T00:01:00.002-07:00

Guess what my favoirte color might be? Here are a few things that might give it away.One of my favorite blouses, pillows from one of my couches, and a firefighter's hat.

Where would the world be without good old Santa and his hat? The next pair of shoes are special because not only are they the "right" color, but also are a pair of the play shoes that my granddaughters love to dress up in when they come to see us.

PHOTO CHALLENGE #18 - My Favorite color is RED!

2012-01-11T13:30:00.002-07:00

WHAT A HIT!

For my birthday, my sweet husband got tickets at the Phoenix Theater for the off Broadway production in Phoenix of

THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES!

He thought of it all himself! He got the tickets and arranged for dinner by the theater before the play. I have to say, the production itself sounded a bit odd, but it was a fun evening. Four women put on the entire production and did a fantastic job. It is about a group of women being chosen to sing at their high school prom. Since it took place in the '50s, the story was worked around the songs of that era. The song titles were woven into the script and some even became characters in the story (Mr. Lee). The second act took place 10 years later at their high school reunion and the same group was chosen to sing for that occasion as well. Again the song titles (now of the 60s) were part of the story and the singing of them was outstanding! Gregg and I chuckled to ourselves wondering what our kid's generation would think of the play, but in actuality, I do believe they would love it! The songs back then were sure a lot more innocent than the modern music lyrics. In one song, "Lipstick on Your Collar", the boyfriend leaves to get a soda pop (seriousely, a soda pop) but takes longer than expected getting back! WOW! Times were a whole lot more innocent back in the day.

Thanks Drudge!

2012-01-07T17:55:00.005-07:00

I have seen a few of these "challenges" floating around lately and I decided I wanted to do one for my blog. These are three pictures I took at various times for different reasons. I want to now make a list of things to take pictures of and tell something about what the picture meant to me. I compiled one list for myself from four different lists I found on the Internet. My goal is to group the pictures together to tell some kind of story. Time will tell if it works...if not, I will have taken some fun pictures. If it does work, it will add another chapter in my blog. I plan on this taking me awhile-hopefully, no more than a month. This is my list in no particular order:

~~1. Picture of yourself~~

~~2. Something you are reading~~

3. Happiness

4. Something you wore

5. Something new

6. Some one's eyes

~~7. Something made~~

~~8. Flowers~~

9. A smile

~~10. Shoes~~

~~11. Something orange~~

12. Movement

~~13. Something in your purse~~

14. Favorite restaurant

15. Nature

16. Guilty pleasure

17. Sweet

~~18. Favorite color~~

19. Clouds

~~20. Something that makes you smile~~

PS. I have decided I will cross off the ones I complete and post. That way, I will embarrass myself if I don't finish!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.003-07:00

2012...REALLY?

2011-12-20T20:46:00.001-07:00

Oh Deer. Not Again!

Yesterday, Gregg and I went up North to Holbrook to pick up GGMa for the holidays. It is about a 4 hour trip one way from our house. We had been having some rainy weather here in Phoenix and were a bit concerned about the snowy weather in the high country. But, we checked the weather channel and decided it would be okay. It was a "turn around" trip with a 2 hour stay at GGMa's. Now, Gregg and I lived in Flagstaff for about 8 years and have made the trip up to Holbrook area about 10,000 times (give or take 3) and NEVER EVER have we seen a deer anywhere near the freeways. Not grazing, not running, not anything. Until yesterday. Now, keep in mind that just this past August, while I was driving, a deer decided to race our car across the road...and the deer lost. We totaled our car, but we were blessed enough to not be hurt. Well, yesterday Gregg was driving because I had started out the day with a migraine. We were east of Flagstaff and I had just started to feel better, so I was sitting up checking out the scenery. We were in the lane closest to the center stripe and out of the corner of my eye on my right I caught sight of another deer! My mind was a bit muddled from the headache and I found myself at a loss for words---until I saw the deer start to charge across the highway. All I could do was yell, "DEER, DEER, DEER"! Poor Gregg. He slammed on the brakes just as the deer ran across in front of us! All I could do was cry! Not sure why, but it just seemed to be the thing to do.

We have a son-in-law that goes deer hunting whenever he can. He buys the guns, the tents, the camouflage gear and he tromps around in the snow for days to be able to get a deer. I have now told him all he has to do is take our car. The deer will flock to him and he will have his pick! I pray I have seen my last deer trying to race us across the highway! I am just thankful he beat us this time!

2011-12-15T07:07:00.002-07:00

IT'S ALL A MATTER OF PERSPECTIVE

When my "OLDER" (she hates it when I call her that) sister and I were growing up, she told me all the time I was adopted! Not knowing what a blessing adoption truly is, I was always bawling about the whole thing. You see, I don't look like anyone in my family. My older sister and my younger sister look like they are related. I, on the other hand, don't even look like the mailman. So, she loved to get me going with the whole thing. But, NOW that we are both "OLDER", and I realize just how dysfunctional our family really was, I AM THE ONE LAUGHING!!! And, I truly believe I was adopted at birth! That way I have a "win/win" situation. I am part of a family, but I have NO responsibility for any of the shenanigans that have gone on over the years. You see...I am not part of the gene pool!!!

2011-12-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

NOTHING MORE NEEDS SAID!

2011-12-13T07:59:00.003-07:00

I saw this on Face Book and like the "Church at a Glance" concept. This is not put out by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, just me...because it is my blog. But, as far as I can tell (which is limited due to being old) it is accurate. So, my "thing" is, if you want to know about a religion, go to a source that you know to be accurate, not the lady next door who had a "run in" with someone who's mother used to be a member that church and you just KNOW the things they have to say about those darn people are true!

A member of Ford’s Interfaith Network,
the author of this note sends out monthly interfaith notes to thousands of Ford employees who have asked to receive them.

QUICK FACTS & INTERESTING TIDBITS about The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints
Fleeing continued mob attacks 158 years ago, the first Mormon
pioneers desperately started their Westward trek from Illinois in the dead of winter. Of the 70,000 who began this 1300-mile journey, 6,000 were buried along the way, including many children. The following are quick facts and interesting tidbits about this now flourishing church.

OVERVIEW

* Named “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints”; informal
nicknames are “LDS” or “Mormon” -named after the prophet-historian

* Believes it is the Lord’s restoration of original Christianity as
foretold to occur before Christ’s Second Coming.

* Core focus is that Christ and His teachings bring happiness in this
life and exaltation in the next.

HISTORY

* In 1820 14-yr-old Joseph Smith told of a vision of God and Christ
foretelling a church restoration.

* Organized in New York in 1830, the church moved to near Cleveland, then near Kansas City, then Illinois .

* Fleeing Illinois , Mormon pioneers founded Salt Lake City in Utah and over 600 other Western communities.

SALT LAKE CITY
* Temple Square in Salt Lake has over 5 million annual visitors, more
than the Grand Canyon .

* The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is the world’s most famous choir and has the world’s oldest radio program.

* The Salt Lake Temple is the most famous, but there are 128 other
temples built here and around the world while
others are under construction.

* Home of the world’s largest genealogy database; visit it online or
through 3,700 free branch libraries.

ACTIVE CONGREGATIONS

* Sunday services entail a three-hour block of three meetings; about
27,000 congregations exist worldwide.

* Highly vibrant programs exist for youth, children, singles, men, and women; very strong family focus.

* Everyone has a calling; some surveys show LDS have the highest U.S. attendance and service rates.

* Families receive personal fellowship visits at home from other members on a monthly basis.

FINANCES

* Members tithe 10 percent, plus donate generously to the needy the first Sunday of each month.

* Clergy and all other congregational positions are unpaid (however, much of the janitorial is paid).

* The church has no debt; all buildings are paid for in cash (average of two new congregations a day).

* The paid positions in Salt Lake are famously low-salaried; funds are frugally used and tightly audited.

HEALTH CODE
* With a health code from 1833, LDS avoid alcohol, tobacco, illegal
drugs, coffee, and tea (herbal tea is ok).

* This 1833 code also teaches grains (especially wheat), fresh fruits and vegetables, and sparing use of meat.

* A UCLA study showed that active LDS live longer than most Americans, men by 11 years, women by 8.

* Utah is 50th in smoking, alcohol consumption, drunk driving, heart disease, cancer, and sick days.

EDUCATION
* With four colleges, Utah ‘s BYU with 30,000 students is the largest
single-campus private college.

* BYU Independent Study with 130,000 students is North America (340 web courses, 530 via mail).

* Seminary, a daily class usually held around 6:00 A.M., serves 376,000 high school students.

* There are Institutes of Religion at 1,950 colleges worldwide that serve 367,000 college students.

* The church operates schools in parts of the Pacific Ocean and Mexico for 10,000 students.

* Utah is 50th in spending per pupil, but first in adults that graduated from high school and attended college.

WOMEN
* In 1842 the “Relief Society” was organized; it’s the largest women’s
organization in the world.

* Wyoming was first to allow women to vote; Utah was second, two months later, in 1870.

* Women preach from the pulpit and serve as organization presidents, teachers, committee chairs, etc.

SHARING CHRIST’S GOOD NEWS
* 61,000 missionaries serve in 165 countries; 93 percent are college-age; 22 percent are female.

* Unpaid and paying their own way, most work 65 hours a week for two years, often in a new language.

MEMBERSHIP DISTRIBUTION
* LDS are 70 percent of Utah, 30 percent of Idaho; after Catholics, LDS are the largest sect in 10 states.

* The church has 5.5 million members in the U.S., making it the fourth largest individual U.S. denomination.

* Some memberships: New Zealand 95k, Japan 115k, UK 175k, Philippines 500k, Brazil 900k, Mexico 925k.

* Worldwide 51 percent are female; about 55 percent are not Caucasian; about 70 percent are converts.

MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
* For the last 15 years, every day an average of 800+ people worldwide joined the LDS church.

* Half of the growth is in Latin America, but the rate of growth is
highest in Africa and the former Soviet bloc.

* Worldwide membership just passed 12 million, a tenfold increase in 50 years.

* In 1984 a non-LDS professor estimated 265 million members by 2080; so far growth has been faster.

* As this growth has been steady, it will be the next major world religion since Islam.”

CHARITY/SERVICE
* Members in need obtain welfare from the LDS Church (thus Utah
government welfare spending is very low).

* LDS donate time at 220 welfare storehouses or canneries and about 400 farms.

* There are 210 employment centers placing over 175,000 people annually, and 64 family service centers.

* The church operates 46 thrift stores, in part to provide employment for the disadvantaged.

* The 61,000 missionaries spend half a day each week doing

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE
* Over 200 million pounds of food, clothing, and medicine were donated in the last 20 years in 147 countries.

* Almost all of this help is to non-LDS; LDS charities also work with and donate to many non-LDS charities.

* Very rapid disaster relief has been given in 144 major disasters since 1986.

* Almost 3,000 welfare “missionaries” work without pay in 55 countries (farm instructors, doctors, teachers, etc…).

* LDS charities fund a wide variety of projects like drilling water wells or funding small business startup loans.

* New in 2001, members in poor areas can get low-rate college loans;
10,000 loans have been made to date.

GRAB BAG
* Utah is first in: charitable giving, producing scientists, household computers, children with two parents, and birth rate.

* Noted LDS included five senators, and other famous dignitaries
the Osmonds, Gladys Knight, Steve
Young, and the inventor of TV -Philo T. Farnsworth.

* LDS played a key role in the 2002 Winter Olympics; the chair was the former governor of Massachusetts .

* Hawaii ‘s #1 tourist site is the LDS Polynesian Cultural Center ( Tonga and the Samoas are one-third LDS).

* LDS have sponsored Boy Scout troops since 1913; 23 percent of all Scout troops are LDS.

* The BYU Women’s Cross Country were national champions or in second place each of the last seven years.

2011-12-09T10:35:00.001-07:00

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES!

I wanted to do a post on my Christmas Memories. So, I sat down and began to think. I thought and I thought and I thought. For some reason-nothing would appear in my head. Finally, I called my "Older" sister and asked her how things were while we were growing up. Hence, the picture above. It was taken at my Grandmother and Grandfather's home. You see, my mother had a tradition of buying up presents all month long, wrapping them and putting them under the tree. Then on Christmas eve, Santa would sneak in and TAKE ALL the presents away and take them to my Grandparent's home. Now, being 4 years younger than my sister, I didn't remember the tramatic part of awakening on Christmas morning to a bare naked tree! I just remember needing to go to my grandparent's house to get my presents. By the time I was old enough to realize all the presents were gone, it was "no big deal" and I thought that is the way it happened in every kid's home. But, my poor sister had to experience that first Christmas morning, when she was old enough to realize Santa should have come, seeing NO presents under the tree and NO explaination

as to what Santa had in mind, all alone! She is a bit older now, but she still remembers the shock of that morning...and all other Christmas mornings, for that matter. I am so glad that times have changed and we actually talk to our children now! A bit of explaination would have gone a long way back then! But, wait. That wasn't the end of the Christmas Morning horrors! We were not allowed to wake my Dad (and you didn't dare go against that rule!) until 7am. Then he would have his breakfast (he never ate a bowl of cold cereal in his life-bacon and eggs, please), then clean the kitchen, THEN AND ONLY THEN were we ready to make our way to Grandma's house. By now, it is 10:30ish in the morning and we were just little kids!!! When we finally got there, my Aunt Thelma and Uncle Paul and their two boys, would be even later and we had to wait for them! Now, we are talking 11-11:30am for two little girls to see what Santa had gotten them. And, I have always wondered why my "older" (she hates it when I mention the "older" word) did not and still does not like the Christmas season. She loves what is celebrates, just not the season. Now, we all know the secret! I was blessed enough to be so oblivious that I guess I just took it all in stride!

This is part of the group that FINALLY met at Grandma's. My Aunt Thelma, my Mom's half sister, is the lady out of focus, seemingly hurrying to do something or other. The young man in the front is my cousin Bruce. He was only a few years younger than my mom, so I never really knew him as a "kid". The older man with his corn cob pipe on the couch is my Grandpa. Oh, how I loved my grandpa. Next is my sweet "older" sister, trying hard to be excited. Then, my Grandma is next to her. Let me digress a moment. My grandma could out bake any woman I've ever known. Her cinnamon rolls were to die for!!! And, her homemade noodles-heavenly. Ok, back to the picture. That's me in the center. Oblivious to most of life and soooo thankful I was!

2011-12-01T01:01:00.001-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-11-24T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR A DAY TO GIVE EXTRA THANKS!!!

2011-11-23T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL

FOR MY SENSE OF SMELL!

2011-11-22T00:01:00.005-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR RAIN!

Here in Phoenix we don't get a lot of rain, so when it comes, it is usually a welcome sight. Because we are located in the Sonoran Desert, we only get about 8 inches on average a year. Not much compared to other cities and states. But, we do have some wild monsoon rains that carry a whallop and make a lot of noise.

I AM THANKFUL FOR THE RAIN!

Here are a few thoughts on rain...

"A bank is a place where they lend
you an umbrella in fair

weather and ask for it back when it begins to rain."
Robert Frost

"When it rains on your parade,
look up rather than down."

"Without the rain, there would be no rainbow."
Gilbert K. Chesterton

“Life is not about waiting for the
storms to pass…it’s about learning how
to dance in the rain!”
Vivian Greene

“I always feel sorry for people
who think more about

a rainy day ahead than sunshine today.”
Rae Foley

"Anyone who says sunshine brings
happiness has never

danced in the rain." ~ Traditional Proverb

2011-11-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR HUMOR (CLEAN)

There are times in life when you just need a good laugh. Sometimes that can be accomplished when I talk to one of my grandchildren. "Kids say the darndest things". But, there are times when a good chuckle turns a hard day into a day with a bit of sunshine.

God made man before woman so the man would have time to think of an answer for the woman's first question.

The first rule of holes: If you are in one, stop digging.

If a man is standing in the middle of the forest speaking and there is no woman around to hear him... is he still wrong?

Isn't it a bit unnerving that doctors call what they do "practice"?

Women are crazy. Men are stupid. The main reason women are crazy is that men are stupid.

Why do they lock gas station bathrooms? Are they afraid someone will clean them?

Can vegetarians eat animal crackers?

If the police arrest a mime, do they tell him he has the right to remain silent?

The reason there are no women football leagues is that 11 women would never wear the same outfit in public.

We put in our two cents, but only get a penny for our thoughts. Who gets the extra penny?

Who decided that a round pizza should be put in a square box?

Why do we pay to get to the top of tall buildings, then pay to use binoculars to look at things on the ground?

Do "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" and "The Alphabet Song" have the same tune? (you are humming those two songs right now, aren't you?!)

I read some article which said that the symptoms of stress are impulse buying, eating too much and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That's what I call a perfect day.

I AM THANKFUL FOR HUMOR!

2011-11-20T00:01:00.008-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR SUNSETS!

Arizona has some of the most beautiful sunsets on earth. But, this is coming from a woman who has only been on an airplane once in her life and flew from Phoenix to Tucson~about a 20 minute flight! So, even though my opinion in this area is limited, you still have to go a long way to see a more beautiful sunset than here in the Valley of the Sun.

I AM THANKFUL FOR SUNSETS

2011-11-19T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY FRIENDS!

I am so thankful for the friends I have. I won't name any of them for fear I would forget one. So, I will just tell you about them and you will know how wonderful they are. I have friends I could call any minute of the day or night and know they would be here to help. Some of my friends send prayers my way, even when I don't know they have done it. Just because they "feel" I might need an extra boost.

My friends are so talented at various things, that I have learned much more than I could ever teach. Wisdom abounds in my friends. I can look to them for advice and know that it will be sound and well-meaning. My friends are some of the most courageous and strong people you could ever meet. When it "rains" in my life, they help me see the rainbow that is coming. They also help me feel the Savior's love here on earth through their examples and service. I can honestly say, I would NOT be the same person today without my friends.

The thing that humbles me the most about my friends, is that my children have grown up to be my BESTEST friends.

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY FRIENDS

2011-11-18T00:01:00.004-07:00

I AM THANKFUL THAT FAMILIES CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER!

"An Angel in the book of life wrote down sweet ALLIE'S birth. And whispered as she closed the book "too beautiful for earth."
~Author Unknown

2011-11-17T00:01:00.014-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR PHOTOSHOP

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MARC AND KASIE!!!
I wish I had the money to send all of my kids somewhere fun on their anniversary. But, that would be a bit cost prohibitive! So, the next best thing is Photoshop! Marc and Kasie love going to the beach. So, WALLA, they are at the beach. My other kids have gone to England, Scotland, Sonic, and Disneyland. Even Natalie M. and her hubby went to Japan. Silly as it sounds, Photoshop is a poor man's vacation!
I AM THANKFUL FOR PHOTOSHOP!

2011-11-16T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR COOL WEATHER!

I really love the weather when it turns cooler. This past summer was really long, dry and HOT!

The cool weather is such a welcome relief. Here is a picture of our fireplace. When we moved from Flagstaff to Phoenix, I only asked for a few things to include or exclude from my wish list for our new home. A fireplace was on my "include" list. That was 36 years ago and last year we bought this fireplace from COSTCO! I am not complaining~at least it looks like a fireplace.

I AM THANKFUL FOR COOL WEATHER!

2011-11-15T00:01:00.002-07:00

I AM THANKFUL I CAN WALK!

Can you guess what this is a picture of ? It is my beloved treadmill!! Yes, I do enjoy walking on it.

Can you see the little wire thingeees hanging on the right with ear buds on the ends.

That is attached to my IPOD NANO!

I also love my IPOD NANO. Gregg actually won mine as a door prize when he went to a meeting at work. Let me digress a minute. He is the luckiest man I have ever known when it comes to door prizes. He has won:

this bike

leatherman multi-tool (I don't know what the heck that is)

$50 gift card to Circle K

$50 to Cheveron Gas Station

Mr. Tonka Man

2 night stay at a motel in Scottsdale Resort

A pen and pencil set

My IPOD NANO

Anyway, back to my treadmill. I get my IPOD, put in my ear phones and turn it up. I especially love to walk to Celine Dion (I Drove All Night) and Transsiberian Orchestra (Wizards in Winter-gets the legs movin) along with other artists I have chosen for their fast and upbeat tunes. I now have a goal of walking 95 1/2 miles to Prescott Valley. Once I have reached that goal, Gregg and I are going to "drive" there for a weekend get-away.

YES, I AM THANKFUL I CAN WALK!!

2011-11-14T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL I WAS

ABLE TO GO TO COLLEGE!!

Good old GCC!! I was a memeber of the first freshman class there. Now, isn't that OLD? Two of the best years I had ever spent! I had been a member of the Church about 8 months then and the church had just built a new institute building for the LDS students (or anyone else for that matter) to go for religious classes or a HOT game of ping pong! I spoke at the LDS Institute Building's dedication.
OH, those were the days!!
Yes, I did go to classes at the college too. That's where I met Vincent Damon Furnier-better known as Alice Cooper. We were in English together. Since I helped him a bit in the class and since he was in a band called THE SPIDERS, he ended up giving me a copy of the record they had just made called "DON'T BLOW YOUR MIND". I still have that record too. Little did I know then what I know NOW! WOW!!

BUT, THEN I WENT OFF TO NAU!

I won't go into the excitement, fun, thrills, freedom, friendships, and all around good times I had there. Those days were some of the very best of my life. I still have friends from those days that are very dear. Anyone who has a desire to go to college-needs to make it happen. First time away from home and in a somewhat protected environment was the best. I know college is different today. I even hear they are letting different floors be co-ed in the dorms! Come on now. Back in the day, the dorm's outside door was locked at 11pm and you had to be let in. And, if there was ever a boy in the dorm (yet alone in your room) BUSTED!!

I went to junior college to get a good start (less expensive too), then on to NAU. I had a scholarship to GCC, but NAU was hard work on campus and student loans! By-the-way, did I mention I did attend classes there too? I lack one semester of graduating from NAU. Maybe when I grow up, I will finish!

I AM THANKFUL I WAS ABLE TO GO TO COLLEGE!

2011-11-13T00:01:00.021-07:00

I AM SOOOOOO THANKFUL FOR MY CAMERA!!

Mr. Colin Balin

Mr. Logan

If you think it is easy to put this many children in ONE picture~you are wrong...just ask Miche'!

Saigeeee Waigee Puddin and Pie

Addison controls her hair much better these days!

Missy Kennedy

Happy Thanksgiving to Amber and Anna

Adorable Clown

Happy Halloween to Aaron

Rub a Dub Dub Jackson

Static electricity makes a girl's hair do funny things!!

ADORABLE!!

This picture just says it ALL! Aren't there days when we all
feel like this!?

THIS IS JUST A SAMPLE OF WHY

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY CAMERA

2011-11-12T00:01:00.001-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR A HOME!

Anyone who knows me, knows I have wanted to move for some 30 years!! This was our "temporary" home until we could move where we both wanted to live. After all...this house was only 1100 square feet and no one could raise 6 kids in that tiny of a house, now could they? Well, guess what. This next may, we will have lived in this house for 36 years!!!!!

When we first moved here, you couldn't have asked for a better neighborhood to raise your kids in. Lots of kids, lots of great neighbors, and lots of fun. What better name for a idyllic street than FLOWER STREET. And, right behind us is MULBERRY STREET! Come on now, right out of Dr. Seuss! Well, the kids grew up and had the audacity to get married and move away. And, most of their parent moved away too. It is not such a fun street anymore. Don't get me wrong, I still have some wonderful neighbors, just not enough. But, no more negative. I have a great home that keeps us warm in the winter, dry in the rain, cool in the summer, and happy when the family comes to visit. What more could a person ask for? I AM THANKFUL FOR MY HOME!

2011-11-11T00:01:00.003-07:00

My father-in law during his duty with the
Army.

I AM THANKFUL FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE FOUGHT SO BRAVELY FOR ALL OF OUR FREEDOMS!!! HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY!!! 11/11/11
May 13, 1938, made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday—a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day." Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

My father-in-law also served with the Navy!

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

These are my father-in-law's medals.

I think the women (and sometimes men) who are at home waiting, are heroes and heroines too!! Here is my father-in-law's heroine on their wedding day.

This is my Dad and Mom. Dad fought for our freedom during
World War II and for that I am thankful.

And, here is my great uncle who gave the
ultimate sacrifice on October 12, 1918 in
France during World War I.

I am humbled and proud of the MEN AND WOMEN who have defended all of our freedoms.

I am Thankful for my Freedoms!!!

2011-11-10T00:01:00.002-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY...AND APPRECIATE A NEW PERSPECTIVE!!

I saw the following on the Internet and said, "Hmmmmm" the whole time I read them.

Be thankful for growing older. Not everyone gets this opportunity.

If you have to wait in line at the supermarket for your Thanksgiving dinner, be thankful you can afford what you want to eat and have a convenient place to buy it. There are many people waiting in line to have a meal at the local homeless shelter.

Be thankful for the ability to pay your bills, even if it means that you have to give up some things that you want. Remember that having basic needs met is a luxury for many people.

If you have to get up before dawn to get to work, be thankful that you get to see another sunrise and have a job to go to.

When you are stuck in traffic, be thankful you have a car to get where you need to go and money to buy gas. Standing in the rain while waiting for a bus is, at the very least, uncomfortable.

When your mate is acting grumpy or giving you a hard time, be thankful for having love in your life and someone to grow old with.

When your parents are telling you how to run your life, be thankful you still have them around. If they are no longer with you, take a moment to be thankful for the time you had them.

2011-11-09T00:01:00.005-07:00

I AM THANKFUL

I HAVE KEPT JOURNALS

These top four "journals" are nothing more than 3 ring binders. Over the years, I have taken the individual pages I have written and put them all into these binders. While the two boys were on their two year missions (Spencer to Santiago Chile South and Marc Southern Texas, Spanish speaking), I wrote to them every week. I would type a letter to them and make a copy for myself. Those letters have become a 4 year journal. I am sad that I didn't keep a copy of their letters and add to my journals. I actually took their letters and put them into binders for them when they got home. We are talking about the years before email. Missionaries can now email home once a week if they have access to a computer. The letters from my boys were hand written and mailed...can you even imagine?! Mine to them, were typed on the computer, so I was able to print off a second copy. I keep saying I will get their binders and print myself off a copy of theirs, but we all KNOW I will never do it! One thing that inspired me to do this for the missionary sons, is when Gregg went to Scotland on his mission many years ago, he kept a journal. We got it out after we were married and it read: "Left Winslow, Arizona airport. Arrived in NYC bound for Scotland. Arrived in Scotland........." Do you notice anything else written about his mission of 2 years? Neither did I!!! Hence the help with my son's missionary journals!

Then there are the 3 other binders I have (but was too lazy to get out) of the letters to my mother-in-law. She is so good to write once a week and I could not bring myself to throw her letters away. So, I did the same thing for her as I did for the boys. I put her letter to me into the binder (she writes on scrap pieces of paper-so as not to waste paper) so sometimes her letters are odd sizes. But, that too adds to my memories of her. She is FRUGAL in all areas. I then write her back once a week and print off a copy for her and one for me. We are working on our 4th 3-ring binder full of memories!!

Sometimes as I sit down and read words of the past, I become very sad and wish I could turn the time back and push the "REDO" button. Other times, I am thankful some of my past is just that-PAST! Like when our oldest got the chicken pox and brought it home. The two boys broke out while on the Father and Son's outing two weeks later, and the 3 other girls waited until the boys were almost over them to break out together. I was in the house with chicken pox for roughly 8 weeks!!! Anyway, I am thankful I have these journals.

Then, I started a blog. I have now printed 3 hard copy blog books. Who will ever read them??? I have no idea. But, one day someone might wonder what on earth I did to keep myself busy. The book at the top is of Gregg's and my journeys through life. I started with his birth certificate and went through his life and then did the same with mine. Then I put our wedding picture in followed by pictures of my parents and his parents when they were married. Lastly, in went all of my kid's wedding pictures. I printed this book and gave all the kid's a copy of our 40 year journey as a married couple! I wanted to do something for my kids for Gregg's and my 40th Anniversary. After all...we would only be a rich, busy, taveling, sport's car driving couple if it weren't for our children. Just Kidding!!!! Our children and grandchildren are what makes our life worth celebrating!

A birth certificate shows you were born.
A death certificate shows you have died.
A photo album shows you have lived.

I am Thankful I have kept journals.

2011-11-08T00:01:00.006-07:00

I AM THANKFUL I CAN READ...AND, AM THANKFUL I LOVE TO READ!
I want to start off with thanking all the teachers I had growing up. Their diligence in teaching me to read opened up a whole new world to me. When life got hard, I could read about another's life that was more exciting or loving. At times when I was "bored" I could read of someone who liked to do things I would only dream of. And, I got just a glimpse of how it was to live another time and place. Thanks to all who helped open the doors of life and helped me see life through another's eyes. Teachers ROCK!

Amazing things are inside this book.
It is about a man and
His life...oh, I don't want
to spoil it for you.You'll have
to read this one on your own.

Wow! Another testament of Christ and
His teachings! You will be amazed how
much this book can change your life and the
lives of those you love!

Oh, my word!! I have read this book 3 times and reference it a million!!!

ALL of Andy Andrews books are exceptional!!!!! Love them all!!! This one is my favorite.

Nothing can prepare you for what you read inside this
book! He was a truly inspirational person!

I look forward to the next installment!

Life changing information. I now know why
they used to have "watch towers".

Gary Paulsen is a great read for YOUTH! (and adults). Great adventures. Thanks to my life as an assistant in the library, I learned to love this author!

My favorite author!!! Love her books! Strange as this statement may sound, she writes a great murder mystery without all the graphic non-essential information!

2011-11-07T00:01:00.021-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR INSPIRATIONAL

AND MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES

I love quotes. They have a tendency to tell an entire story in just a few words. A person can read it and say "WOW!" or "Oh, my word. How true!" There are times a person might just sit contemplate the meaning of what was just heard or read. Once in a while, we get the whole meaning 4 hours later while doing something entirely different. YEP! Nothing like a good quote!

Here are a few that might make you say "Hmmmmm"...

These next 3 are called Shayisms. My daughter has a blog where she posts some of her thoughts. She calls her made up quotes-"Shayisms". INSIGHTFUL!

"It's nice to be called upon, not put upon."

"Your loved ones are like life jackets. Make it a priority to put them on first!"

"Life is like a treadmill. It may feel like you are not moving anywhere when all along you are gaining strength!"

Here are a few more I found thought provoking...

"Not forgiving is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die"

"Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could be any different"

(Ok, didn't these 2 make you stop and think for a second?)

"Once the game is over-the King and the Pawns all go back in the same box"

(Admit it, this one made you say "Hmmmm")

The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. - Socrates

In the hopes of reaching the moon, men fail to see the flowers blooming at their feet.
Albert Schweitzer

Try not to become a man of success but a man of value.

Albert Einstein

I AM THANKFUL F INSPIRATIONAL AND MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES

2011-11-06T00:01:00.002-07:00

I AM THANKFUL FOR THE

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

These are pictures of of my youngest daughter's church building. They show what an arsonist did to her church building in hopes it would burn down (I am guessing what that person was thinking as he/she was never caught). It did burn down a church building, but the church continued! The people who attended this building, which most could walk to, had to drive to other ward buildings and attend there. They were "pioneers" in ways. They had lost everything, but began again. Their new building is beautiful.

I am thankful I have a church I believe in. A church with leaders who help me find, stay, and continue on the straight and narrow path. A church with Jesus Christ at the head. If I but have faith to stay strong, I can have the heaven's open to me for eternity.

A church that has Humanitarian Services that helps families become self-reliant by promoting health and disease prevention where health care resources and education are lacking, by helping with employment and job training, and by responding to urgent needs brought on by natural disasters.

A chuch that helps me see how I can go just outside my door in order to serve others. It helps me reach out and not be so self-centered.

In my life, the church has helped me raise law abiding, selfless, serving children. It has helped make my life happy and help me KNOW my Savior. I pray to remain faithful to my dying day. I am thankful for the church.

2011-11-05T00:01:00.004-07:00

EYE AM SO THANKFUL EYE CAN SEE!

Everytime I take a trip and come upon a beautiful scene, I honestly think how thankful I am that I can see it. To be able to see the wonders of Arizona and the other places I visit is truly miraculous. But, I do have to say, the things I would miss the very most are the faces of my family.

Not so many years ago, Gregg came very close to losing the sight in both eyes. During the span of his eye's problems, he had two detatched retinas, freezing of retinal tears, lasering of retinal tears, scleral buckles placed in both eyes (simply put-a band placed around the eyeball under 4 muscles to help the retina stay adhered to the back of the eye), a vitrectomy (the fluid removed from the eye and a saline solution put in), a gas bubble placed in both eyes-at different times-to help the retina remain in place while everything heals, and his lens that was damaged during the surgery, removed, and three months later, cataract surgery! While the gas was in his eyes, Gregg had to keep his face horizontal to the ground...24 hours a day!! This lasted a week each of the 3 different times he had it done. At one point, he was tired of being in the house with his face to the floor, so he wanted to go out. He chose Sam's Club! We put a tag on the front of him that read "Floor Inspector" while he walked with his face to the floor throughout Sam's Club. You can imagine the number of people that also began to inspect the floor after watching him, just to see what he was looking for. ANYWAY, I am thankful for eyesight AND for the miracles that MEDICAL SCIENCE has accomplished.

EYE (and Gregg) are truly blessed.

2011-11-04T00:01:00.004-07:00

I AM MOST THANKFUL FOR MY SAVIOR!

When thinking of my blessings, where would I be without my Savior? He has saved me from myself. Without Him, I would not be able to be with my family for eternity. Without Him, I would not be able to repent of the many things I do that are not right. Without Him, I WOULD BE LOST!

My heart aches for those who don't know He is there for them. We just have to reach out. He knows us and our pain. He suffered so we don't have to. He is Everything to me and to all who take His direction of "COME FOLLOW ME".

"Jesus Christ is the Only Begotten Son of God the Father in the flesh. He was the Creator, He is our Savior, and He will be our Judge. Under the direction of our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ created the earth. Through His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and by giving His life on the cross—that is, by performing the Atonement—Jesus Christ saves us from our sins as we follow Him. Through His Resurrection, Jesus Christ saves us from physical death. Because He overcame death, we will all be given the gift of resurrection."

2011-11-03T09:27:00.004-07:00

BLESSINGS COME FROM FAMILY!!! I AM THANKFUL FOR THEM!

After 41 years of marriage, Gregg is still with me! Now, is that just amazing? I am thankful I married a man who has always gone to work, even when he doesn't feel like it, in order to pay the bills. He has worked at the same job with the state for 41 years+. During those 41 years, he has also worked second jobs to make ends meet. Yes, I am thankful for a hard working husband.

WOW! When the Lord blessed me with children, I didn't know what excitement I was in for. I have children who I know would do anything for Gregg and me that is within their power. I have no doubt of that. Having children has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. I love them with all my heart. The next great excitement was when they chose mates. When I see them with their spouses, working together for the good of their families, it makes me happy. I have some very awesome in-law children. I am thankful for my children and their families.

And last, but definitely not least, are the 20 wild, wooly, and wonderful grandchildren. Everyone who has grandchildren say it is much more fun than being a parent. I guess I have to say the "fun" part is probably correct, but the love, devotion, and worry is about the same.

The picture above is one of my very favorites. From left top to right is, Jarom (M'Liss), Tyler, Colin, Daniel (Moira-Lin). Second row is Jacob (Spencer), Jackson (Marni), Gregg, Me, and Aaron (Miche'). Third row, Ashlee, Kylee (Spencer), Carter (Marc) Addison (M'Liss), and Anna (Miche'). Bottom row is Saige (Moira-Lin), Amber with Avery on her lap (Miche'), Justin squeezed in the middle (Spencer), Kennedy (Marc), and Logan with a butterfly representing sweet Allie (Marni).

Here is our youngest sweet grandchild, Camden. He belongs to Marc and Kasie.

So, there you have it. 20! If you don't have grandchildren, come over and play with mine for a few hours. You will be glad you did. I am thankful for family.

2011-11-02T16:06:00.002-07:00

Today I am thankful for the best Mother-in-Law I could ever have asked for. She has taught me many lessons and for that I am grateful. While taking care of her husband when he was ill, I had never seen a more devoted woman. She never complained about anything she needed to do for him. She had the patience of JOB. She showed him nothing but respect and love. For that, she will always be my heroine. She has taught all of us in the family how to be frugal and how to be superstitious! She is truly a woman of God and I love her and am thankful for her in my life and the lives of my children and grandchildren.

2011-11-01T00:01:00.001-07:00

YUMmmmmm~It's Thanksgiving~

I decided to make a "THANKFUL FOR" blog post everyday this month until Thanksgiving Day. Today I am thankful for all the people I have in my life who were born in November (no, that doesn't mean I am not thankful for those who weren't born in November, so don't get offended, yet).

2011-10-28T10:48:00.001-07:00

"COURAGEOUS"

(DON'T MISS THIS ONE!)

I am not a really big "going to the movies" fan. I am quite content to sit home and watch something on TV or read, or whatever people do while at home. But, I am SOOOO glad I went to this movie. Some good friends asked if Gregg and I wanted to go to dinner and a movie. It sounded like a great evening with great friends! Nothing playing in the theater sounded too exciting and we had never actually even read anything about the movie "Courageous". Can I tell you, if you have never heard of or seen this movie, don't miss it. How many times do you have an entire theater applaud at the end of the movie? It also has one scene that was the funniest scene I have seen in a movie in a very long time. Great moral worth, entertaining, good lessons, and really worth the time and money!!

LOVED THE MOVIE!!!!!!

2011-10-01T00:01:00.002-07:00

WHOooo doesn't love Halloween? (And Marc E.)

This year October has 5 Mondays, 5 Saturdays and 5 Sundays. This does not happen very often, but does occur anytime a 31 day month starts on a Friday.

One source stated that the same calendar anomaly will happen again in 2016, 2022 and 2033.

2011-09-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

I just spent the last couple of days in Mesa watching Jackson and Logan while their parents took a much needed break. Logan and I were playing a "kind of board" game last night. You know the kind of game I mean, no noise, no lights, no buttons to push, just the two of us talking and having a good time. The long ago kind of game. All of a sudden, Logan looks at me and says "Can we pause this game for a minute?" He scampered off to do whatever it was that took him away from our game and I sat thinking back on how much "easier" life was before electronics!

2011-09-11T23:50:00.002-07:00

9/11

Ten years ago today, the worst terrorist attack on the United States occurred. All of us old enough to remember that day, know EXACTLY what we were doing at the very moment we heard about it! Almost 3,000 lives were lost that day, 343 of them were FIREFIGHTERS.

Our son was on his SECOND day of work as a FIREFIGHTER that day! We are so thankful his station was NOT in New York. He has not had to endure the horrors of 9/11, but he has had to face life and death situations where people beg him to save their loved one. The heavy responsibilities of these brave men and women must be tremendous! How proud we are of him and the job he does. Spencer, we love you!

2011-09-01T00:01:00.001-07:00

YAHOO For School!

Saige gets to share her VERY birthday with her favorite sister-in-law. Happy birthday Ashley and Saige!!

2011-08-23T10:40:00.001-07:00

Every end-of-the-summer, I have tried to have a celebration of some sort with the grandkids. I want them to know how excited I am for them to be growing up and moving ahead in school. Let me state now how important I feel education is. Our second son, when he was little, always said he wanted to grow up and drive a "trash truck". As his mother, I had no problem with him driving a trash truck if that is what he wanted to do, but I always tried to instill in him (and the other kids)the knowledge that if he went to college and worked hard, he could own a sanitation company and then drive all the trucks he wanted. Doors open with education and for my grandkids, I am so excited for them to have every door open so they are free to choose what they want to become!

So, this summer, we made "memory" plates. I bought a kit which included the round papers and the water color markers used to draw whatever is wanted. You can see how talented ALL my grandkids are!! There were a few kids that didn't want to make one. But those who did color one, will be happy they did. Our kids colored two of these some 25+ years ago and we gave them to Ggma and Ggpa. Just last month, while in Holbrook visiting, we got Ggma's out and took a long walk down memory lane. Adorable!!!

So, I hope they all love these for many years to come!

2011-08-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, I will say this much for our insurance company. They have been very good about moving things right along. But, we have been with the same company for some 25 years (same agent too) and the premiums are high, but the service has been good. However, we found out that when we were trying to cut corners and save on our premiums, we might have cut a couple of corners that should have been left alone. We have $750 deductible, which was our choice?? WE are paying the rental car cost...$250! WE are paying for the extra night of lodging $70! And, we are paying the one million dollar price tag on this...

You know I am exaggerating about the one million dollar price tag! But, it might as well be. Anyway, the insurance company called yesterday and told us our car was totalled. The adjuster was amazed we weren't hurt worse than we were for the amount of damage to the car. Which NOW brings me to the important part of this whole thing. I am soooo thankful we weren't hurt. So thankful there were people around who were more than willing to help any way possible. And, I am a bit frustrated as we all are, to pay the cost of insurance, but I am soooo thankful we can afford insurance. The adjuster is supposed to call tomorrow and let us know how much they will give us for our car, so we will then decide if our high premiums are worth the comfortable feelings we have with having had the same agent for so many years. We know there are cheaper insurances out there, but have just stayed "loyal". So, we will decide when the "dust settles" after this is all done if money speaks louder than "loyalty".

WE ARE SOOOO BLESSED AND I JUST NEEDED TO PUT THAT INTO PRINT!!!

Oh Deer!

2011-08-21T21:44:00.007-07:00

Gregg and I just got back from BYU Education Week! We had a great and uplifting time. Every year, BYU hosts about 25,000 people, who travel from all over the world, to be taught about all kinds of topics. There are religious classes, self-improvement classes, music appreciation classes, "finding and keeping faith during adversity" classes, and about 997 other classes! We were in Provo, Utah from the 15th of August to the 19th of August. WOW! What a great opportunity and a wonderful time we had.

Before classes started, we did some sight seeing and Utah has some mighty beautiful scenery.

Here is the Manti temple and we just had to stop and take a picture. Absolutely gorgeous!

Gregg looks good among the flowers in front of the temple, too.

On Friday the 19th, Gregg and I decided to leave Provo a bit early in the evening and travel part way home. We had about 768 miles ahead of us. We took a route home the would lead us through Holbrook, Arizona where Ggma was waiting for a visit from us. We had everything figured so that we would be in Holbrook by Saturday afternoon and visit with Ggma and go to church with her on Sunday, then head home after a week of being gone and having a great time! Well, the best laid plans don't always turn out the way we think they should. On Friday night around 7pm, we were going to stop in Moab, Utah for the night. Being that it was still a bit early and we wanted to have a jump on the next day's miles, we decided to travel on to the next town on the route called Monticello.

Welp!! When we were 5 miles north of Monticello looking forward to a place to eat and a place to sleep, we "met" a deer while we were going 65 miles an hour!!

It is hard to imagine what it is like to come to a sudden stop at that speed with a deer staring at you through the windshield and both air bags going off! Quite jarring! It took quite awhile and a very nice group of people (a state trooper, a county deputy, and two tow truck men), but we were finally in a motel room by about 10pm-with the only place to eat. . .a gas station

walk-in cooler.

What do you think your first words would be after such an experience as you wonder where you are and what happened as you look through the powdery fog created by the air bags? Mine were "Oh garbage Gregg!!" I don't have a clue why, but that was my intelligent response to such an occurrence. The words were especially strange considering I WAS DRIVING!! Miracles happen and Gregg and I lived through the accident with only a few more aches than normal. We are thinking the car is a total loss (the poor deer was too), but we will hear for sure in a couple of days. Just a side note to those who are reading this and know my strange sense of humor. I had the trooper (who was a bow and arrow hunter and the next morning opened that season there), write me the measurements of the biggest deer he could think of. So, he wrote down a 6X6 Mule deer, 32 inch spread, Gross Score 220. I have no idea what all that means, but he assured me it would make any hunter jealous! So, when I texted our accident news to our daughter, who is married to our hunter son-in-law, I included this information. You see, every hunting season as he gets ready to go out, I tell him I pray he is safe and has a wonderful time, but misses "Bambi"!! And, the poor guy hasn't had great luck in hunting since. So, why would I want him to think I bagged a huge deer? I don't know. I did text him back an hour later and confessed my transgression!!! The deer I hit was a 2 point buck (which I don't know what that means either, but much smaller than my imaginary one). I did ask the trooper if someone couldn't take that poor deer in and give it to some group that feeds the poor, but he said that couldn't happen.

We ended up needing to go to Cortez, Colorado to get a rental car. Cortez is about 60+ miles from Monticello. The owner of the motel we were staying in saved us $120 in pickup and delivery of the rental car by kindly taking us to Cortez! We were able to get on the road a day later than we thought and only got to visit with Ggma for 30 minutes, but we are home!!! It is amazing how good home looks and feels. Now, if the insurance company decides to fix the car...anyone want to make a 18 hour round trip to pick up the car? The trip is quite scenic, but ya gotta watch out for deer!!!

2011-08-03T21:43:00.001-07:00

Today something really exciting happened!! Miss Amber and Miss Anna went to get their ears pierced! They have been wanting to for a very long time, but today they made the decision to just go and do it! Aren't they adorable??

2011-08-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

End of Summer Already?!

2011-07-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

Our Uncle Spencer gave us a tour of "his" fire station. We got to try on the equipment, get into a real fire truck, and eat cake and ice cream from a firefighter's table. We had a great time!!

Some of us got to spray the water...some of us danced in the "rain".

Thanks to Uncle Spencer and the men on duty with him. They were all so nice!!

2011-07-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

The summers in Phoenix, Arizona are quite something. For anyone who has never lived here, it can be shocking!! People say "It's a DRY heat"! Well, let me tell you that when it is a record 122 degrees, I don't care if it is dry or wet...IT'S HOT!!! Lately, we have been having a cool spell. I believe it was only 109 today. But, then the Monsoon hit this afternoon. I read an article about the Arizona Monsoon and among other things it said, "During the monsoon, or summer thunderstorm season, Arizona experiences more severe weather than many other states. On rare occasion, a severe storm may spawn a tornado. More often, high winds, dust and severe downpours resulting in flash floods are common monsoon occurrences. " Today, we Westsiders got an up close and personal look at a summer Monsoon. The sky started to turn brown...that's the dust. Then we could hear thunder. Next, muddy sprinkling started. And, last but not least, TA DA!!!!!! RAIN! Sometimes the East side gets more rain that we do, but today we outdid them! Our little playhouse just about needed sandbags to keep the water from flowing into the house. This amount of water fell in about an hour's time. It was comin' down! And, true to the way my life seems to go, I had thoroughly soaked the backyard today!!! I guess I won't need to do that again for a few days.

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

As her whole family sat watching the 4th of July Fireworks, at the end, Marni commented, "Oh, it is the Grand Finale!" Logan (the 5 year old) said in all the innocence of youth, "Why are they doing this FOR ALLIE?" You see, July 6th, is his BIG sister's birthday! Even though Allie lives in Heaven, little Logan-and the whole family for that matter-still thinks of her daily. So Logan misunderstood the word "finale" and thought she said "for Allie"!

So, a new tradition was born. All the firework's displayed throughout the night of the 4th, celebrate our Country's Independence. But, the GRAND FINALE is to celebrate sweet Allie's birthday!

Although she only lived a short time, her influence is everywhere.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET ALLIE!!!!

2011-07-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him. ~Abraham Lincoln

May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, than this our own country! ~Daniel Webster

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. ~Elmer Davis

Some Americans need hyphens in their names, because only part of them has come over; but when the whole man has come over, heart and thought and all, the hyphen drops of its own weight out of his name. ~Woodrow Wilson

A real patriot is the fellow who gets a parking ticket and rejoices that the system works. ~Bill Vaughan

What we need are critical lovers of America - patriots who express their faith in their country by working to improve it. ~Hubert H. Humphrey

“While we are free to choose our actions, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.”

Stephen R. Covey

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Thankful for our Independence!

Where is ...

2011-06-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

Some of us went up to visit GGMa in Holbrook. Now, if you don't know where Holbrook is, it is about 11 miles from Joseph City. I know EVERYONE knows where Joseph City, Arizona is. Actually, when Gregg and I were married, my mom and my sister drove right through the town before they realized they were there! They must have blinked! Gregg grew up in Joseph City. The population of the entire city back then was about 600 people. Now, there are about 1,000. So, it has grown by leaps and bounds.

We took a tour through "Joe City" on our way to Holbrook. Saige had never been there before, so she enjoyed hearing the stories from Grandpa about the activities that went on while he was growing up there. Speaking of Saige, she is one funny girl!! She says innocently funny things! As we were touring Joseph City, Grandpa mentioned to her (and then played it up) the fact there had been one murder commited in the town. Saige's eyes grew large and she asked, "Did you ever smell the stench of death?!!!" What in the world! (She said she heard it on TV).

Wait, I digress...back to Holbrook.

Holbrook is in North Eastern Arizona right on the old Route 66.

Holbrook doesn't have a lot going on there, but it does have GGMa! As you can see in the picture above, Saige got to see the dinosaurs and the petrified wood (which abounds around there).

After arriving in Holbrook, the group of us went up to Alco, a small "department" store (the only such store in the town), to shop. GGMa got out of the car with the use of her cane. Saige watched GGMa and a person could tell Saige was deep in thought. All of a sudden she said, "They should make special parking spaces for people who use little sticks to walk with". The girl is a hoot!!!

We also got to take a 4 generation picture. GGMa, her son Gregg, his daughter Moira-Lin, and her daughter Saige. Don't you LOVE family!?

2011-06-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

Every summer for about 30 years, we had a huge garden. I found it was very therapeutic! When out in the garden, I found myself cleaning out the cobwebs of my mind and solving the world's problems...well, at least the family problems of the day. I loved watching the water run down the furrows between the tomatoes, melons, squash, peppers, and whatever else we planted that year. When the kids misbehaved (MY CHILDREN...well, maybe the one time they misbehaved), pulling weeds in the garden was one of the things on the list of things to do to keep them too busy to get into trouble. I felt being in the garden would give them a love of the soil and time to think about the misdeed. I should mention at this point that not ONE of the kids has a garden. Maybe my discipline methods lacked something. Anyway, our garden produced some mighty fine vegetables over the years. AND, I must add, some mighty large worms!

But, times change and grandchildren "needed" a playhouse, so the garden area became a place to have fun and make different memories.

So, these pictures show how different times are. Here is our bumper crop of peppers and tomatoes. WOW! Times have changed...in more ways than I want to admit!

2011-06-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

FATHER'S DAY 2011

Here is our "Gift" to the Father's. One bottle of grape crush, some scrapbook paper, a saying, and you have one silly looking from the heart prize for each Dad. Spencer just got lucky to be shown here!! We put the bottles in a paper sack with notes from each of their children. I think the Dads liked them.

Now, you add some self-decorated cupcakes, snowcones, and then a magic show and you have a great Father's Day celebration!! Thanks for ALL who came and especially for those who had magic tricks! They were really good!!

2011-06-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

I started my blog a few years ago as a way to document my life, my loves, my thoughts, my family, ...well, just things about me. I did it for a very selfish reason. When I am gone from this world, what will I be remembered for? I started to create a historical "memory lane" of my life. Most of my blog posts are about my adorable grandchildren and their parents. I have posted some historical things I hope people will remember in 50 years (the Royal Wedding in April). But, a very few have been about things that are not cuddly and don't give warm fuzzies. This is one...I wanted to express my opinion and because I live in a free country, I decided to exercise my first amendment right and say: What in the world are these people thinking...or is that the problem, they aren't thinking!

Headline-Large car fire burning in downtown Vancouver after losing Stanley Cup 2011

And, is it true some people think allowing people to carry guns into sporting events would be a good idea!?

I am sure I misunderstood this conversation!!!

What happens to some people when sports, alcohol, politics, and religion (to mention a few) are involved and they lose all control?!!! Don't get me wrong, most people could carry a gun no matter where they go and things would be fine. But, laws must be made to encompass the ones who cannot control themselves when they are the only ones in a room. Those who have a picture next to the word "stupid" in the dictionary. Those in this newspaper picture above.

Come on now! (I am glad my one son does not ever read my blog)

2011-06-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

I have made my children "world travelers" on their anniversary. Here is one of my adopted kids and her hubby on their anniversary. I had them travel to Kyoto Japan. Since she has now posted it on her blog, I thought it was OK to post it on mine too. Happy Anniversary Natalie and Shawn. Can't wait to see where you go next year!

2011-06-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

The Fourth of July was traditionally celebrated as America's birthday, but the idea of an annual day specifically celebrating the Flag is believed to have first originated in 1885.

Inspired by these three decades of state and local celebrations, Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 - was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

Today and everyday, I want to celebrate what went into the history of the United States Flag and who died that I might have the opportunity to fly it in front of my house today--and any other day, I feel the need. The United States Flag tells a tremendous story every time it flies. Many of the men (no women that I know of yet) in my family have fought and some have died so I have the opportunity to fly the flag or not. I live in a free country and am able to do many things I choose to do because of the freedoms I have. Thank you to all who have fought--on and off the battle fields, so I might have choices.

I only hope those who are chosen to lead this great country are HONEST AND LOYAL TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AND TO GOD!!! (Did I mention honest?! I meant to mention that one several times!!!)

"Good government generally begins in the family, and if the moral character of a people once degenerate, their political character must soon follow."

- Elias Boudinot

2011-06-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

It Can't be June?

2011-05-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

I started noting anniversaries of my kids with pictures these past few months. I have been

putting the happy couples in places around the world. Since I am in charge (at least of my blog), I get to choose where the couple celebrates their anniversary. You will note in the few past posts, the happy couples have seen parts of the world that has meaning to them or their anniversary date.

One I missed was March 16th. I decided I needed to post a picture because I surely didn't want to wait until next March. So, Happy Anniversary Miche' and Darl!

WE LOVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!

2011-05-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Moira-Lin and Jason.

Twelve years is not very long when you think of eternity!

(Moira-Lin's name comes Scotland,

so I figured it is somewhere she needs to visit!)

2011-05-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

This is one of the picture frames Miss Jan and I are going to give our "Achievement Day" girls for their rooms. Simple picture frame from IKEA (thank you Miche'). It has a mirror in the middle (to reflect your image) and we decoupaged them using tissue paper around them to add pizazz!! Each one is a bit different. We added (shall I say, Miche' and Marni added) three clips, some tulle, and some bling. In the three clips goes a picture of the person's good friends. In our case, we took pictures of all the achievement day girls and will add three group pictures to each frame. Marni was good enough to print off in vinyl "surround yourself with good friends". This is Miche's idea from a "mother/daughter" activity she headed up in her ward. I was darn done with making these 12...Miche' ended up helping make 70+!!!!! WOW! What a trouper.

We hope the girls like them.

2011-05-25T17:59:00.000-07:00

COLIN IS OUTTA THERE!!

We love you Colin and are so proud! On to the next step of life and we know you will soar!!!!

2011-05-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, there was a ...well, you know the story.

But, here is proof that dreams can come true!!

Happy Anniversary Deanna and Spencer.

2011-05-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

SOMEBODY HAD A FIRST BIRTHDAY!!

Here he is with his big brother...

Big "J" had a great looking cake!

This applique was made and put on a T-shirt

for Big "J". Adorable...

Happy Birthday Justin!!!

2011-05-11T11:34:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS MARC AND KASIE!!

Here is the newest addition to the Inman Family Tree! An adorable new baby boy named Camden! Is there anything better in this world than a new baby-direct from Heavenly Father? Even the smell of a newborn is not only indescribable, but also delicious! Now, everyone thinks their baby is the cutest-most miraculous being to ever grace this universe. But, with this baby, the first words from the doctor was "Wow! This is a miracle!" I now know he wasn't discussing the baby's adorable face or the fact that he may end up being President of United States.

What the doctor was referring to was the fact our new baby had TWO KNOTS in his cord and it was wrapped around his neck TWICE!! The doctor said that most babies born with these problems don't have good outcomes. Two knots are a rare occurrence and very very dangerous. In fact, the doctor later mentioned the word "miraculous" again and said he hadn't seen two knots (and wrapped around his neck twice) in his practice before with a good outcome.

Heavenly Father blesses each of our lives and sometimes our blessings aren't as obvious as others. But, our miracle is adorable and loud.

We can't express our gratitude to the Lord enough, but we are going to try each and every day!

2011-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

And, Here it is May?!

2011-04-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

I just needed to mention what a fun day I have had!!!

I went to a book signing at the Poisoned Pen Book store in Scottsdale and met Mary Higgins Clark and her daughter Carol Higgins Clark! Two very nice women and two really good books. WHY would I stand in a line for a couple of hours to get my books autographed, you ask!!? I have NO idea, except it sounded fun and it really was!! I have every book of each of these two authors and have been to a book signing before! It doesn't take much to make a crazy woman happy!

2011-04-29T02:00:00.000-07:00

I had to post a picture of another Royal Wedding Couple.

William and Kate got married on this couple's anniversary!

It was nice of this adorable couple to share their special

day with the English Royal Couple (William and Kate called to

make sure it was OK).

Congratulations to Marni and John!!

2011-04-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

Since this is my blog and I can put anything in it I want AND because I will eventually have it printed into a hard cover book so my posterity can read it in 50 years!!!!???...I decided I wanted to share in the Royal Wedding today. I got up at 3 am to watch it and found it very exciting to see. I have never seen so many hats on so many women in my life!

Some were quite elegant and some...WOW!

I just had to show this one. In 50 years, no one would believe anyone would wear such a strange thing on their head. What am I saying, TODAY no one would believe it!!!

I thought the Royal Couple looked happy and let's hope they can bring some positive changes to the world.

2011-04-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes time gets away from me. While driving, I will be daydreaming and find myself at my destination before I know it. When a great movie ends, I will think to myself "I can't believe it's over already!"

Life sometimes has a way of doing this to me. I remember when I went to the hospital to visit my first grandchild, Tyler, after he was born. The nurse said to me, "Are you the grandmother?" I can still feel the strange sensation that came over me when I realized, YES, I AM THE GRANDMOTHER!!!!

Wow! How time flies.

Wasn't that just yesterday. No, maybe the day before. The picture on the left is Tyler and his little brother, Colin that was taken yesterday! Wasn't it just yesterday?! Seems like yesterday!! I can still remember the adorable little boy that helped me go from an ordinary parent to a GRAND parent! He was the first of 20, so far!! If I had known how much fun being a grandparent was, I would have had more children!!?

Well, while I was daydreaming, Tyler grew up, graduated, and went into the Army. Come on now, is that possible? During that time, he met Ashley, who stole his heart and made him a better man than he was before. Then he married Ashley and made me a "lawful" grandparent. She has been a delightful addition to our family. What would I daydream about for the future of my first married grandchild?

Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ

Hope the future to be bright and happy

Charity towards their fellow man

Is this too much to ask? I say NO...Everything starts as somebody's daydream.

2011-04-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

HOPPY EASTER!

We love the Easter Party we have every year. In our family, we celebrate Easter on the Saturday before Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday is such a sacred day, we don't want to mix the party with the worship.

We have food, fun, games, hats, and THE EASTER BUNNY! We even went "trick or treating" (we called it "Easter Treating") to several of the neighbor's homes. We had delivered candy to them earlier and then when our hats were done, we put them on and took off down the street. What a great time we had. Here is Mr. EB taking pictures with some of the grandkids. We even ended up with one neighbor girl getting in the action.

Here are some of the Easter Bonnets/hats we made. The girl's are made out of a paper plate with a paper bowl turned upside down in the center. Then decorated with whatever they wanted. The boys hats were made from a paper bowl and a "bill" cut out of card stock, so they kind of looked like a baseball hat. They got to decorate theirs with army figures, exploding caps, rubber roaches (Oooooh!), lizards, and snakes. One of the boys asked (seriously) why the girls got the "fun" stuff for their hats!

I can't tell you how much I love those kids!

2011-04-21T19:18:00.000-07:00

There is a story that goes with this strange looking ankle.

This morning, I decided to haul some trash around to the front of the

house because Monday is "bulk" trash pickup day. I had asked someone

else to do it, but I am too impatient (3 months is my limit). On my way back around the house, I slipped on the gravel and sprained my ankle and fell on my knee. Being old and NOT wanting anyone to

come running over to help "an old woman", I jumped up and grabbed for the car, which I was standing

next to. Of course, I set off the car alarm!!!! AND, the front door of the house (the closest way in to the car keys), was locked. So, I had to hobble (and not look too conspicuous) around through the back gate, into the back yard, through the back door...all while the alarm is wailing to get to the keys to shut off the car alarm!!! ...so much for not drawing attention to myself!

2011-04-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

My wonderful daughter gave my blog an update! I love it. Sometimes you just need a spark in your life. Thanks Marni!!!!!

2011-04-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Have you EVER seen 3 more adorable young women? Now REally! I can't imagine you have!!!

While raising kids, you just pray they find friends who will help them through life in positive ways.

These 3 have been friends since they were born! Yes, since they were born! They are still wonderful friends and although they don't talk as much as they used to (actually, when they were younger, they never stopped talking!), they still start wherever they left off in their conversations when they see each other and never miss a beat. I like to claim all three as my own, but the two other mothers frown on that. Mine is in the middle and I am proud to be her mother.

Watching them grow up and become wonderful, productive women has been one of the joys in my life.
PS. This picture is about 13 years old and these "girls" are still just as beautiful!!!

2011-04-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

This picture is of Spencer. My mother-in-law had kept this all these years and when I was just up to Holbrook, she gave it back to me. He was 6 months old here. I had the picture displayed today when Spencer and the 3 older kids came over. Jacob, Spencer's oldest, said, "Wow! Justin has sure gotten older since that picture". (Justin is Spencer's youngest). They really do look alike.

A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!

NOW! The the next picture is one of my very favorites of all my kids. Yes, all of my kids were and are adorable. But, Miche' would have nothing to do with having her picture taken until this one. She is 21 months old and it is one of the very first she didn't scream through. I love this picture. You can "feel" her giggly personality just by looking at the picture.

I love my kids! I thought raising 6 kids (the oldest 8 when the youngest was born) was hard. Well, let me tell you something....IT WAS!!!!!! But, now they can be my friends and I sure am glad!!!!!!

2011-04-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

There are things in life that happen and you say, "WOW! That is amazing!" Well, this is one of them for me.

Spencer came over today to put new brakes on his car. When Jacob, who is 10 and being taught the finer art of brake-pad-changing, jacked up the car and removed the front tire, this was what he found in the wheel well! Now, what chance is there that a bird could lay an egg in the wheel well of a car? And, the egg has not ONE crack!

Ashlee immediately asked me if I thought her dad would let her raise a bird? Being the grandmother, I could say, "You have to ask your Dad." (Gosh it is nice to not have to be in charge of disappointing kids).

Maybe it is a dinosaur egg!! After all, the car is a Honda and has 220,000+ miles.

It could be a dinosaur!

2011-04-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This one is worth just one...

TAXES!

2011-04-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

April Already?

2011-03-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

What the caterpillar calls the end of the world,

the master calls a butterfly. Richard Bach

Life and death are experiences we must all go through in order to regain the presence of Heavenly Father.

In life, we prove ourselves. Life sifts out those of us who use words to tell others what we stand for from those who don't need words to show the world who they are.
Death comes to all. It sometimes comes when we aren't looking. Sometimes it comes to ease the pain and anguish of sickness and aging. It is but a step into another part of our journey. We close our eyes in this mortal world and open them to the wonders of Heaven (at least we hope that is what we see!).
On Monday, a good friend and neighbor of 33 years passed away. She was a nurse and a great servant to others. She was freed from the pain and anguish of the illness she had. She died too young! Her passing made me stop and look at my own mortality. Am I ready for that journey? If not, why and what do I need to do to get ready? None of us know when that journey begins for us. That is why the old saying of "live today as if it were our last" is so true. And, there is a vast difference between that and "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we may die!"

Today, another good friend of about 50 years, passed away. I loved her so much. She lived a very full and happy life. She touched many lives. My life wouldn't be the same without her influence in it. Because of her, I had a 16th birthday party (at her home). Because of her, I went to college. Because of her, I am a better person.

These two women have gone on to see the wonders of eternity. Unike the caterpillar, who thought the world had ended, these two women know the best is yet to come.

2011-03-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is one special girl! Well, all my granddaughters (I have 9), are special. But, Miss Amber was baptized on Saturday. She chose to be baptized. She wanted to be baptized. She learned about being baptized. So, she was baptized. Congratulations Miss Amber. It is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. It is the first of many.

Living close to Heavenly Father is a win win situation in this life. Living Christ's teachings makes a person happy.

And, happy people make life worth living!

2011-03-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

YOU thought I would never finish my "pair" of slippers, didn't YOU?!

Well, YOU were wrong! TaDa! Now, when you look closely and stop laughing, YOU

technically won't be wrong. These two slippers are FAR from a pair! One reason I am so happy I started and finished this project is that I haven't laughed so hard (when I finished the second slipper) in a very long time! Even Gregg laughed after he made sure I was OK with the fact they weren't the same size. He said he didn't want to hurt my feelings if I was feeling all warm and fuzzy looking at my finished products. NO, I might not be knitting talented, but I do have EYES! Miss Jan, asked if I had not counted stitches. I had (at least I thought I had). She asked if I noticed the second one was a "wee bit smaller" than the first. I had. She then told me I should make a whole second pair of slippers to match the first pair. I stopped laughing.

I like my slippers mis-matched you see

I don't want another-that would be 3!

Making 4 is too much, Miss Jan.

I am "nitwit knitter" NO MORE, I AM!!!!

2011-03-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

Spencer was able to play in the "Battle of the Badges" basketball tournament these last couple of weeks. He may be a few years older than he was in high school and college, but he seems to still have the knack for playing a good game. The tournament was between the police and the firefighters. The proceeds from the tournament went to the families of the fallen officers and firefighters. Somehow, Spencer ended up playing with the police. His team played against the last year's champions. Well, that champion team is this year's champions too. Here is a picture of the second place team...that is Spencer in the middle. He had a good time playing and we all had fun watching.

Here is one more picture of Spencer's 3-point shot form. In this particular game, Spencer scored 26 out of his team's 41 points. Eight of the baskets were 3-point shots! I AM not bragging...I AM his mother!

JACOB even got into the action during the half time break. Here he is guarding his Dad.

This is Jake showing his 3-point form. I do believe Jacob has his sights set on BYU! Look out Jimmer Fredette!

2011-03-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

Missy Ashlee loves to play basketball. She must get this from her Dad, Spencer. She did quite well in her season. We caught some of her moves in these action shots. Keep up the good work. Colleges are always recruiting good female basketball players!

2011-03-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

Marc has been playing on a city league baseball team for several years. He seems to really enjoy it. One of the desires of his heart, is to hit a homerun over the fence. What do you know!!!! He really did it! Way to go Marc E.

2011-03-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

Last night we got to go to one of Spencer's city league basketball games. It was good to see him play again. He played all through high school and then all four years of college. College was the best games to go to. The band, the fans, and the college atmosphere were so much fun. He is on a team of police officers in this city league. I wondered if his fellow firefighters knew he is playing with the "cops". In a couple of weeks, he is in a tournament of firefighters against police officers. Should prove to be a fun time.

2011-03-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

This picture reminded me of some poor little animal that landed in a vat of Tie Dye!

It is actually ONE finished knitted slipper!!!

There are hours and hours of work, sweat, and some tears (the tears were actually from laughing) in this ONE finished slipper. It has more mistakes than you can even imagine, but it is finished and it fits...kind of. Miss Jan has been very patient and supportive. I can't decide if I will attempt to knit the mate to this one or if I will just hop around on one leg.

Probably I'll start the other one.

2011-03-01T01:01:00.000-07:00

YIPEE! It's March!

2011-02-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Have you ever done something in your life and immediately felt "right at home" doing it? Some people take to swimming right away, some to golf, some can even ice skate the first time out! Well, with me, there are not too many things I feel right at home with while attempting the first time. Horseback riding is one. I never knew a horse I didn't love or want to get on. I am more at home in the saddle than I am with a skillet on a hot stove!!! However, I have found one activity that is the complete opposite of riding a horse for me...KNITTING!

Let me start at the beginning of this nightmare.

My friend, Miss Jan and I teach a group of about 10 girls (ages 8-11) about all kinds of "life things" every other Wednesday. We have learned about manners, being kind, modesty, and other skills for living a good and healthy life. WELL, Miss Jan said she was taught to knit when she was 10 and thought that could be a skill we passed on to the girls we teach. What Miss Jan didn't know was my mother could knit and crotchet like nobody's business. SHE tried for years to teach me one of those skills...to no avail. So, I was less than enthusiastic about the prospect of teaching those poor, unsuspecting girls to knit using the skills I had "learned" from my mother. You have to know Miss Jan to understand why on earth I am in the middle of learning to knit. She is the most wonderful and optimistic person you will ever meet. She is patient, kind, and VERY talented at just about anything she undertakes.

Well, from this picture you can see the $17.00 book I bought, the "cheat sheet" Miss Jan has typed up and printed for me and a sample of the 4th attempt (so far) I have started to finish a set of slippers!!!

Miss Jan actually taught my granddaughter, Ashlee, who is 8, to knit better than I can in one sitting! I have started out with 9 stitches and ended up with 11 (Jan has no idea how I did it). I have holes where there should not be a hole, and I purled when I should have knit. Jan has now spent 2 evenings one-on-one with me-and you see the end result of my efforts. WOW!

Don't get me wrong. I have changed the brakes on the car, helped re-roof my neighbor's house, and have a very neat and tidy yard that I take care of. KNITTING IS NOT MY THING. But, Miss Jan and I will see this through with the 10 little girls too. In fact, we ALL plan on taking our finished slippers to church with us one Sunday and changing into them for our Primary classes and proudly wearing them together. I plan on sneaking a pair from someone else and making a trade. I can't imagine embarrassing myself by actually wearing the ones I finish.
YES, I WILL FINISH A PAIR!!...even if it makes poor Miss Jan a bit crazy and sadly...a bit less optimistic in life!