Mommy Nolan

Of Mice and Men and Money

2011-02-25T10:16:00.002-07:00

So, what am I supposed to learn from a mouse infestation? Should that be a 'mice' infestation? After all, it it were only a single mouse it would not be an infestation nor would it get my attention like this!

Why?

I called the Pest control (after the spread of much poison) and they said all they would do is put out traps-and charge $45 to do it. Then they would charge me another $45 to come back and dump them. Thus the money issue. I invested in more poison.

That is where the question of men comes into play. Where is he when I need him? Traps or poisoned-they still need to be removed. And he is working in out of town, of course. and that is where he should be, but . . .

All I seem to have are the mice. Thank heavens for beck, and her willingness to 'act like a man' and dispose of the newly departed.

But yesterday, I heard sounds coming out of my washer-and they were not the usual washing or even the banging sounds. UGH!!!!!

Maybe we can borrow some traps for the weekend and my man can perform his husbandly duty.

Well that is the mortal side of my dilemma. What is the really message behind the message?

"Rid yourself of the unwanted infestation, even if it takes the intermediate help of a kind, brave intervener and the long term assistance a greater power.

There was a (middle aged-life experienced) woman who live in a house. Where in entered a tiny mouse. But being alone he invited his friends The house warm and lovely, like mid-century inns. The boys and girls they multiplied While the woman in charge-her nerves became fried. She tried all the easy ways to get rid of the demons, But undeterred they flourished and had little ones. The woman a fright, sought solutions fast and easy But learned this challenge was not 'easy breezy'. Now admitting her powerless and exhausted state She called upon the powers that always await. (ME--I am sincerely praying for the ending) A solution was found by those that have power, there is no longer the need to shiver or cower. She's no longer afraid of kneeling alone She's grateful for courage and how she has grown.

About Me

2010-09-29T12:54:00.005-06:00

About Me

Maybe this is just what I needed- Tagged by Mary and a reason to begin again.

This is not unlike my life. I start and restart many many times. I guess as long as I do not give up, Hummm can I take consistence out of the dictionary? No just put my picture in the definition of "Try again"

1-What would be your ideal vacation? I would love to go to Israel, for at least a week, and see the Holy Land with my husband and some great LDS scriptorian and historian.

2-If you could have any paid career (with or without having to do through years of school to do it), what would it be? Seminary teacher. But in Utah that . . .I would even do it for the blessings.

3-What is your favorite song of all time? O Holy Night, How Great thou Art or Faith in Every Footstep. Boring eh??

4-What did you do on your very first date? hiked up Stone Mountain in Georgia and went to the amusement park on top. I can't remember the young man's name, he was a friend of my cousin, but it was really fun. Except for the part where my cousin, the driver of the car was going over 80 in the freeway . . .Remember this was 39 years ago and cars did not commonly go that fast, the speed limit was probably 60.

5-If you could have one free plastic surgery procedure, would you do? A major tummy (removal) tuck if a body transplant was not available. What would you change? everything below the chin, no below the lips (I kind'a like my smile,). No, I need lips, below the nose. No, the sinuses and surgical entry could . . , Below the eyes--but the eyelids are sagging. What about below the hair line? What the heck? there would not be much of me left. Just get rid of the stomach and left over sags! That would be great! Enough day dreaming!

6-What is your favorite guilty pleasure? Project Runway and Great Grains brownies.

7-What is your favorite day of the year? Thanksgiving. There is nothing to compare to the joy of recognizing our bountiful blessings, Family and the beginning of the Christmas Season--for the rest of the world-after all I get started long before that!

8-What did you do to celebrate the turn of the millenium (New Year's Eve, partying like it was 1999)? Who knows. I was just remember being grateful to be alive!

A beautiful view and excellent place to hike or a 'hell of a place to loose a cow'

2010-08-05T16:05:00.007-06:00

This picture was taken at a recent trip to Bryce Canyon. When you consider Bryce, perspective is important. Bryce is a beautiful view, an excellent place to hike, or a "hell of a place to loose a cow."

Perspective or It's all in how you look at it

I spent some time with a friend today and once again came to the conclusion that pespective it all important!

My Mom forgot to get me a gift for my birthday. She has no idea how much that hurt my feelings, especially after Pat's family reunion. However, my mother is alive, a gift I can not begin to measure.

Another friend had a job offer, for a job he really wanted, withdrawn. But, he has a job. He is smart enough to look for employment while still employed. Such a disappointment, it cannot be denied. He has been looking for such a long time, But, he has a job.

Day after day I work with people trying to assist them in securing employment. and day after day we are met with challenges. Hundreds of applications for one job. I do not need a job, or so my husband says.

I taught a class on perspective as part of a graduate qualitative research class. I like to think I am aware of perspective. In my dissertation research three men with quadriplegia (that is how they prefer to be described if it is pertinent to the discussion) were working full time. they were grateful to be alive-looking at what they had instead of what they did not have. But there were many others that were on disability with far less disabling conditions. One told me that his hands were stiff and he could no longer lay bricks. Another had a bipolar and was content with receiving SSDI and working part time. As I interviewed people it became abundantly clear that the perspective of the client as well as the case manager/physical therapist was of critical importance. The support system available for the individual and secure housing were also critical factors. The individual with disabilities could not control all of the variables. But he/she can choose perspective.

So why write this? I have been through a rough patch. I pray I am through it! and I needed to be reminded that it's all in the perspective you choose. Yes, the glass is half empty and half full at the same time.

I wish it was easier to remember.

Because Kindness Matters

2010-08-05T13:35:00.004-06:00

It's been a while, a long while but if I am ever to start again now is a great time.

Because Kindness Matters

As we go through life and experience the educational system and even Religion we learn that what we do matters.hat if I studied hard enough I could get an A. I would be judged by the quality of my work product. OK. But then there were the 'kiss-ups'. Nobody really liked them, or did they? If they were being nice to you or you were part of the privileged group, who knows. I wasn't part of the in crowd or at least not that I knew of.

Psychological studies have been done that show that after a teacher receives a gift from a student the teacher is no longer able to impartially judge the student or their work. jI came to know about this study via an incredible professor in my graduate studies. He refused a really cool gift that was part of a cultural presentation. How could that be? It is totally unconxcious on the part of the teacher. He/she simply has 'happy' thoughts when interacting with the student or reading the work of the generous student. The student did not offer the gift as a bribe. that was never his intention.

Have you ever been in a class with an individual that was a kiss-up and got the beat grades? You may have minimized their achievement because of their relationship with the teacher.
That may be so but perhaps not. The student may just be kind and thoughtful. I have taken treats to class absolutely without the intention of influencing the instructor. I was just being kind.

Have you ever been in a religious course where the teacher never even tried to learn you name? He could be a great source of knowledge but never smiled or invested himself in the process. A home teacher that comes every month (that would be a miracle in and of itself) but doesn't speak to you outside of your home. He may fulfill stated expectation. Just like the student that does a great job on a paper, also fulfilling every expectation but is a grouch in class.

What about the person at work that thinks he is better than you? He does a great job, but so do you. What about the kiss-up at work? You know one, the one that seems to get every advantage and promotion who may or may not do a good job. Who do you want to be around? And what is the culture or unexpected rules of your circle, be it Church, school, or neighborhood.

We are taught supreme justice. Do the right things and get the reward or at least avoid the pitfalls. However, attitude counts and kindness matters. It can be entirely unconscious that favors are given or not. Who wants to be around the girl that is the best at everything and lets you know about it? Do you want that person on your team? Or would you prefer the one that is a little more mortal, can make mistakes but accepts you, laugh with you and celebrate your success?

Kindness matters. The kiss-up might not be such a kiss-up but one that has learned that kindness matters. Why not try the old adage, "you can trap more flies with honey than vinegar?" Or what about the "kill them with kindness" approach? If being the best isn't getting you what you want maybe you are submersed in a culture not fully based on accompolishments. No matter how much we want to believe we will be judged righteously on our actions I am afraid the context counts. Who want a very proficient secretary that can not smile?

Remember the Primary song. I want to be kind to everyone, for that is right you see. I say to my self remember this, kindness begins with me.

Kindness can't be the only thing but it always matters.

Life is too short to be wasted.

2010-05-18T20:35:00.003-06:00

I received this email from my cousin, Mary Kern I just got to see in Florida:
Minnie is her sister, another cousin.

Minnie's husband, David Shuler, died yesterday. He had stomach and esophogeal cancer. He took chemo and radiation therapy but it did not kill the cancer. He weighed about 80lbs when he died. He was asleep and just stopped breathing.

They are all glad he is not suffering anymore. Minnie said she saw his fathers face, our mothers face and several faces of his relatives. They were all smiling because they wanted him there in the spitit world.

His funeral will be short because that is the way he wanted it. It will be at the Shuler Cemetery, not at the church.
Mary

Dad was supposed to be taking a picture but got a video instead. Minnie didn't want me to take her picture but here I am with my other two cousins form Florida.
Life is too short to be wasted!

The Last of Florida

2010-05-18T14:21:00.011-06:00

The Last of Florida

Day Eight (Wednesday)

It was another rainy day. The sun shines when we drive long distances. We were not sure the trip to Dry Tortougas would go. theh operators of the bost seemed assured and we said a little prayer and followed the Spirit and went. We both took
Dramamine and were fine. It was a beautiful day on the island. It is called "dry" because there is no fresh water there! But there are national Park personell stationed there and a limited number of campers are allowed.We toured.

We snorkeled. (no pictures here! but I did go in!)

We discovered. John's name at the top of the Chapel-He was the designer-brick mason for this the second largest brick defense in the world (the great wall of China is considered the largest) that was amazing!

Then the trip back. WOW. the swells were only supposed to be 6-8 feet. But it was rough. I think everyone took Dramamine-but it wasn't enough. There were so many sick people! the repeated slamming of the boat into the water catapulted us all right out of the seats. We were literally
air-born! I will put some of the video I tried
to take here-if you watch the horizon-you can get an idea of how big the waves were.

We were relieved to get back on shore! It took almost twice as long as the trip should have fighting the wind and the waves. We had to stop and rescue another boat. It was taking on water and our boat had two pumps they could use. those people were really scared-or shoul have been!
Walking back to the car we walked through a little group of shops (looking for gifts and key lime cookies) when we found an ice cream shop and got to partake of the Key Lime Ice cream. Now that was really good stuff! On the way back to the hotel we stopped at the Blond Giraffe-a local store that makes the Key Lime Cookies. Expensive little critters. I am glad the are good! Rachael requested some.

Attached to our hotel-Pat could not imagine his good fortune-was a Waffle House. of course, we went there for dinner. We both really like Waffle House. We ate at one at least three times on this trip alone.

Key West was lovely, I would have liked to have shopped the old down town area but. . .If I ever return I would stop way up the Keys and avoid the travel time, traffic, and high prices. The water and surroundings are just as beautiful.

Day nine (Thursday)

We knew we were in for a long drive so we had to bypass the very busy Waffle House and hit the road. the trip back uo through the Keys didn't seem as long as the trip down. Pat wanted to avoid the traffic of the turnpike so he opted for the middle of the state route. I was not too happy about it but managed to keep my opinions to my self. What had been a little two lane road years ago was actually very nice. a few stop lights in the towns but a lovely view of the state. We saw rows and rows of orange groves-the was I remember them. We saw lots of trucks absolutely full of oranges. It was harvest time! We got to see lake Okeechobee and the Citrus Tower and even picked up a Winter Haven news paper for Granny. She really wanted one and I didn't think we were going to be able to go over and get her one. But things worked out well.We finished off the day with one more seafood dinner-at Red Lobster, right next door to the hotel in Orlando. Finally we got to bed at a decent hour which was good. The next day we would have to leave the hotel by 5:15 am or so. We had to find our way ("the (Magellan) girlfriend" was such a blessing!!! Thanks Dave) return the car, get through security . . .

Day ten (Friday)

Not much to say about the return trip. Going through security at Orlando International was interesting. I was glad we were there so early. The lines just seem to get longer and longer.
BUT- there was a cuban coffee shop in the airport which also sold Cuban sandwiches. I could not believe my luck. The one thing Granny kept asking for was a Cuban sandwich. I had not idea how I could get one and keep it long enough . . .but it worked out so unbelievably well. AND!!! Granny actually got it and said it tasted good. that alone was a miracle. So often she wants things to eat and then they just do not taste right-or as she remembers. this time it turned out perfect!

Just like out trip-it was a dream. I am so grateful and glad that we were able to take this trip. Just to see things once again. I don't think I will ever get the chance to return but I don't think I need to. There are too many places in this world I really want to see. Thank you Heavenly Father, Dad, Dave, all of you that helped accomplish this goal. It was wonderful!

How did I get so far behind?

2010-05-18T12:52:00.003-06:00

I thought I had at least finished Florida. It has been a month now so I will get right on that. . .

Day five (Sunday)

Of course, we went to church. It was just so hard to find. We drove around for over an hour chasing down addresses from Dex on line . . who knew there would be and "old" road and a "new" road? Finally I spotted a spire that just looked like one of ours and it was! The next sacrament meeting was a Young Adult-Singles Ward. It was Fast and Testimony as they had Ward Conference the week before. I can't tell you how much it took me back-such a wide variety of people. I did bare my testimony and told the audience about my experiences with Black-Americans 36 years ago. i am truly grateful that now we do not have to worry about one's heritage. it is what we do that counts. "Every worthy male" was a great blessing in my life!
After Church we headed home to the hotel. Pat went to McDonalds and got us salads for dinner and we just enjoyed the afternoon nap and time together.

Day six (Monday)
We had to get up early to get to the boat for our trip to Grand Bahama Island. It was a rainy day but the ocean was not all that rough. The Boat was big enough to handle it anyway. We got a nice room and enjoyed the breakfast buffet. We met some nice young people from the island who'd been to Washington DC to perform with their band at the Cherry Blossom Festival. There were mnay such young people on the way over.
We signed up and paid for the tour of a beautiful garden on the island. Rain was not going to get in our way. But it really rained and rained and rained. We were soaked in spite fo our plastic ponchos. I was really glad we had not chosen the beach trip! The garden was really beautiful and for a bonus there were some exotic birds flying around.
The tour bus driver made an interesting comment. He thanked us-as Americans-for all we had done to help his island recover from a devastating hurricane. Evidence of the hurricane remained everywhere. But it was nice that Americans were not seen as "ugly" or "selfish" here.

We enjoyed the buffet dinner and went back to the room. It was an older boat with very, very thin walls. There was a singles party next door and a disco directly up stairs, it made for some laughable listening. Oh how blessed we are to be who we are!
Evidently Customs had a few problems with our arrival and we ended up waiting a long time to get off the boat-but when the time came we were off and out of there. We were also grateful to see so many taxi cabs lined up to transport the over indulging drinking crowd!
One last night in our beach front hotel and it is off to Key West tomorrow.

Day seven (Tuesday)

We left relatively early but wanted to avoid the rush hour traffic. We traveled the extension of the turnpike down to ------where we got off and visited for just a few minutes with one of Mary's school friends, Jill Child, who now lives there. He little boy was asleep but it was fun to see her.
The trip on down to Key wast was just a warm lovely ride, punctuated by road construction, potty and ice stops. Just part of life when traveling with Water pills!

We didn't arrive at the hotel until after four and unfortunately were too late for me to go parasailing. I really was all geared up for it.. We tried to get on the last trip of the little train-but missed that too. I was appauled at the price of parking-$10 for even just an hour! So we didn't even get to shop. We did manage to get possibly the last free spot on the island to have the southern most point picture taken.
I really wanted a good seafood dinner. We went right across the street to the Marriott. It was so good! Pat had fresh tuna and I had yellow tail with a cucumber salsa--so very good! A little expensive but soooooo good!!!

Days Three (Friday) and Four (Saturday) in Florida

2010-04-27T17:32:00.020-06:00

Days Three(Friday) and Four(Saturday) in Florida

It was Friday and we decided to go to the Orlando Temple. It was built 14 years ago, long after I left the state. The Orlando Temple is absolutely beautiful! The Celestial room has touches of lavendar and purple like the wisteria that blooms so abundantly in Florida.

It was like every other temple session with one glaring exception. As I was offered a hand I could see it was a deep brown color and the man spoke with a thick Hispanic accent. It was then real to me, all my friends, no matter their color could now receive the gospel and be blessed based on their own choices. It was a thrill! Way back when. . . we were not even encouraged to discuss the gospel with our black friends. There were boycotts and protests regarding the Church's Stand. In Miami in 1972/73 there were race riots and burnings. And I could not understand why black men could not hold the Priesthood. But I knew—I did not know everything, nor would I ever. But the Lord knew and I had faith in Him.

It was only four years later, I remember hearing the news for the first time as we were driving out to the University Mall, that all worthy male members of the church would be extended the privilege of holding the Priesthood. But not until I stood in the Orlando Temple on that day did I see that all my dreams and wishes for these good people—who had done nothing wrong—became a reality. I saw more handsome dark-skinned men and beautiful women in the Temple that day than I ever sould have imagined as a youth. The same was true on Sunday when we finally found a meeting house. This experience alone was worth the whole trip. Thank you Heavenly Father!

Then it was time to head south. It was a longer drive than I expected. The Turnpike is nice enough but the orange groves were missing. We found them on the way back through the middle of the state. There was plenty of traffic!

When we arrived at the hotel, after Magellen, the “girlfriend,” tried to keep us going around and around the very last block before we arrived, we were a bit surprised. It was not the four star hotel it was made out to be on the internet. But I knew my sweet husband and son had done their very best to secure a really nice place for us-so NO complaints were heard from me. Although the walls and bathrooms had been updated-old hotels have very thin walls and . . . . We ventured down to the beach for a bit. After which we had a nice dinner—back in our room watching a beautiful sunset from the balcony. The tiki bar was very loud and uncomfortable to us non-drinkers. They did have good food and it was reasonably priced. I should mention, we tried several times to get into our room. The key just wouldn't work, no matter how many times they re-programed it at the front desk. The maintenance man finally got it to work but thought the battery might be going out, but he didn't replace it. Not once in four days did the key work the first time we tried. I gave up and left the fight with the door to him. He was pretty good at it by the time we left.

Saturday turned out to be the only day we would spend in Miami. It was further from Fort Lauderdale than Pat had thought. But Saturday really meant less traffic as we got an early start.
First stop, Key Biscayne and Crandon Park. I spent much of my life on that beach. Now it was more beautiful than ever. It was at least twice as wide and covered in pristine white sand. The Zoo was gone, moved to South Miami somewhere. But the old cabanas were still there as was the carousel and skating rink. We only stayed a few minutes as I had many miles to go!
Second stop, the lighthouse at the State park. Saturday in the town of Key Biscayne was very busy and full of traffic and soccer games for young and old. We waited in line for a good while before getting into the park. Never could figure out why they didn't open the other line. Even when we left it was still closed, and the line was horribly long by then. The lighthouse looked the very same. About the only thing that looked the same after 34 years. The beach was just as I'd left it, but couldn't compare to the beautifully expanded shore line of Crayndon Park. Again we only stayed for a few minutes. But this time I
took a picture of my feet in the water. With all the rainy weather I had my doubts about actually getting into the water all the way on this trip.

Back over the Causeway we went. The big bridge had been named for my Mom's boss, William Powell. That was really cool to see. The Rusty Pelican was still there but it appeared the water- raceway had been shut down. It was covered with graffiti. NOAA and the Seaquarium were still functioning but the number of boats docked around the place had probably tripled.

We then drove down Brickell Road to Dinner key where we used to take our take-out dinner and watch the sunset and the boats. The pavilion was gone but the place looked well cared for-as did the large number of boats and trucks and trailers all around.

Then we ventured up 27th Avenue to see if any of our old houses were still standing. No! We didn't find a one. But they were old when I lived in them. The one in Coral Gate was probably still there but I didn't go down the street to see. We then drove through Coral Gables on the Miracle Mile. Sears was still on the corner as was the restaurant formerly known as Sambos. It was lovely. Non of the Gables area looked like a hurricane had been though. Whereas, you could really tell every place else we went. The old builders knew about hurricanes and built things to last!

It was off to the old Miami second ward. I had wanted to go to church there but. . .it was no longer the second ward. It was the Stake center for the Miami South Stake and Spanish as well. But the building looked good. There were cars around but it was locked up. I did get a few pictures. I spent a lot of time in that building. It is where I learned about the Gospel, and gained a testimony of the truth.

We stopped a a little bakery across Flagler and I got a pastry-carne. Exactly as I remembered, it was so good! We also had some chocolate milk, I guess that was breakfast. But while we were there I struck up a conversation (imagine that if you can) with a local man and he told us where we could get a good Cuban sandwich. It wasn't too far so that is where we went for lunch.

Cuban sandwiches are kind of like subs. People put different things on them. But I got the traditional one with pickles and grilled in a press. It was good! Pat decided he'd might as well try one while he was there. It was a funny place just teaming with Cubans. I am pretty sure I was the only one there that did not speak Spanish. But it sure felt familiar.

Then back across town to Miami High. As you can see from the pictures, it was undergoing renovation. Considering how old (over 80 years) it was, it was a good thing. But it was sad to see it so run down. I still got a couple of good pictures that can give you a hint as to its former glory.

I somehow missed the Orange Bowl as we continued to drive east. It may have been torn down. But we drove right through downtown and then over the Rickenbacher Causway. We hit a lot of traffic but that gave me time to look around. Everything has grown up! We traveled north upo the middle of Miami Beach, what a zoo! But it was Saturday afternoon. The old run down hotels of the 30's and 40's have been restored mostly. It was cool to see the Art-Deco styles and colors. But the people. No one watched out for cars! I ws glad to find the Julia Tuttle Causway and head back east over the intercoastal waterway and then north toward the hotel.

We stopped at the Jungle Queen and got tickets for the 6pm tour and all you can eat buffet. I was able to locate and use the coupon for $3 off each ticket! WooHoo!! I thought we had enough time to get back to the hotel and rest for a few minutes. I was right but the few minutes-after struggling with the door and getting maintenance to let us in again was less than 15. Not worth the effort or the gas really.

Nonetheless we made it bake to the boat and got good seats on the port side and enjoyed the tour through the Venice of America. I hesitate to say enjoyed. The obvious consumption of goods and displays of wealth were somewhat troubling. I can see where people might get ideas about “deserving” help and the need for redistribution of wealth. I am glad I live in Utah and do not need to see this kind of display all the time. And talk about a lot of boats, yachts I should say, man oh man.
They were everywhere! And huge repair places! Do you know what BOAT means? Bring Out Another Thousand. The dinner was good, all you can eat ribs, shrimp, chicken. . . which pleased both of us. And a nice little show that, of course was moved inside due to rain.

We were two tired people!

Day 2 of Florida

2010-04-27T10:15:00.013-06:00

Bristol, Florida

The old family home-lovingly restored by Heywood Henderson

This will not be very interesting for most of you as it pertains to my interactions with family members you do not know. I am goin to post it nonetheless for preservation sake.

We started north plenty early, about 7am. First we found the Waffle House—YUMMMM! Then we tried to detange the freeways, not so free-freeways, via a map we purchased at the local gas station. Sorry, no State DOT maps to be seen anywhere.

We did pretty good until I (I am admitting to my mistake here so listen up!) thought we were on the wrong road and had Dad get off the turnpike. No road signs or Speed Limits to be found. They seem to skimp on signage to spurge on rest stops. Not to bad a trade off for a person who takes water pills.

Back to the story, The toll taker said we did not have the prepaid pass we were supposed to have . . .and made us pay. It was only fifty cents but now we are worried we may be running all the toll booths. We'll call when we get back to the hotel tonight. After we got off, found a place to ask we got right back on-we were on the right road. Turnpike to to I-75 North, under a different name and then on to I-10 West.

I started raining a bit before we arrived at John and Mary Kern's home, about 1:30. We'd been on the road for the best part of 5 hours. Mary's husband, John is crowding 70 and is the Young Men's President. He has a great workshop and 13 baby goats, one yet to be delivered and mommas feeding them. They had 17 acres of trees and ponds and a creek running through it. Wow, what a place-paid for too-they told us. They both worked and retired from being nurses. He had a funny personality. Ask Dad about his comment on Blogs. I will not dignify it with repetition.

We visited for a about a half an hour before her sister, Minnie came over. Minnie's husband is very sick with some kind of cancer and she can't leave him for long. She also strongy resisted any picture taking. But it was very good of her to take the time to come over.Minnie is an artist. You can see some of her work-some of it fractiles like John, on line.

Mary then played host and guide as we went to the Pleasant Hills Cemetery. It was renamed from Pea ridge. There was a nice fence around it and many of the trees had been cleared away to make a larger ares. I took pictures of the headstones. I will post my father's here. Most of his generation are gone now. Lorenzo Francis Henderson

was number 11 of 12 children and would have been 85 years old now.

We then went and saw my Aunt Tressie, she was married to Uncle Heywood, my father's brother. He too passed away some time ago. Aunt Tressie was always the hostess when we went north. I will always remember she fed us wild turkey stew, a turkey her son had shot right out back. When we took the kids back to Florida some 24 years ago we spent the night with her family. Their daughter Becky lives with Tressie but was at work att he time. Her older sister, Susie has a brain tumor, not like mine I guess. Tressie said she moves very slowly now and doesn't speak unless spoken to. She just isn't Susie any more. So we did not go up to see her.

Lake Mistic

We saw Like Mistic and took a few pictures. It is such a beautiful place! A litte lake and flowers in bloom everywhere, wisteria, azalyas, and camillias. Even the dogwood was in full bloom. The pictures doon't do it justice.

Lastly we visited with Sue and Ronald Williams and stayed there the longest. They had two boys, Robert and Randy, who were close to my age. They came down to Miami on vacation every other year or so. Thus, I got to know them better than the rest. Sue's father was killed in WWII so I never even got to meet him But Sue is a sweetheart and has always been good to me. They live on Indian Springs road and used to run a “fun” place. It had a roller rink, arcade games and a swimming hole with slides. I always thought that would be the best place on earth to grow up.

Ronald is the Ward membership clerk and a “hepper” in the High Priest's group. Their home teacher is Scott Bladen-from Logan 3^rd ward-nonetheless. Scott is in their Bishopric too. Robert had four children. One girl, Kim, married in the Tempe and lives in Saratoga Springs, three boys, one off his mission, one on a mission and one graduating for High school this year. Randy had two children, neither are members of the Church. The girl is a veterinarian and works at Cornell University in New York. The boy hasn't done much with his life they said.

I was told by a distant family member years ago that "the Henderson women were always faithful, the men well, they struggled." I don't know about all of my father's brothers, but Morton and Heywood were in the end faithful. As for the women. they married men, like unto themselves, faithful and dedicated to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Avery one we visited was active and serving in the Church. This is a priceless treasure to me, a heritage of faith among women like me, women that looked a bit like me, science and math loving, artistic and creative, women who had faced challenges and remained true to the faith.

The Trip Home Day one

2010-04-20T13:44:00.006-06:00

Ready to go!

They say you can never go home. Who would want to when all the people you love live in Utah? Well, I would, just for a day. I knew things had changed, so. I still wanted to see the places thet only exist in my ever dimming memory.

Dave and Lexy went to Florida last year and brought back some great pictures. That really made me want to go home again-just to see it again. Dave, I am sure, talked Dad into the adventure and together they gave me a trip of a life time.

It began April 7th with Beck and girls taking me to SLC. We started our trip with a visit to Mooches-we needed "drinkage" for the trip. We met up with Rachael at Crown Burger for lunch after which Rachael took me to her house to pick up Dad and then to the airport.
I knew we needed to be early because of the increased security. I had not been on a plane since all the new rules were put into place. What a pain! My bag weighed just 3 pounds under the limit. They also made me dump out my ice. I LOVE to chew ice! Ice is not a liquid, gel or cream. . .It is a solid. But I threw it out, keeping my cup! I could get more ice on the other side. I had tucked a bottle of water in my bag for Dad to have with his lunch from Crown Burger. I had to throw that out too. Oh well, I like feeling safe-whether I truly am or not.

We were off on time but a little late getting into Denver. We were sopposed to have 25-30 minutes to change planes. Who knew gates 30 something and 44 could be so far apart. Clear across the airport it seemed, we ran. But we made it and we were off to Florida.
Here is the only picture I took the first day-Dad, my hero, waiting for the luggage. How could ours, which had to go in last actually come out last? Just one of the many mysteries I do not expect to ever have answered.
Our rental car turned out to be a very nice upgrade to a dark blue Grand Marquis, with all leather interiors-WOW! Here is a picture from later in the trip.

Thanks heavens for Magellen (which Dave lent to us-Thanks!) We found our way to the Days Inn on International Drive. We didn't get into our room until after midnight. We were so tired-we didn't even seriously think about eating. We needed sleep!

April 18, 1980-September 30, 2002

2010-04-20T13:12:00.004-06:00

(l-r Mary, Dave, Dad, Rachael, Sarah, Mom. John, Rebecca--and the green brush)

The Family-April 1985

April 18, 1980, was the birthday of my oldest son, John Patrick Nolan. We celebrated it-without him. September 30, 2002 was the day that changed my life. It was the day I lost him, he would no longer be here with us on our earthly travels.

I know I am not the only one that misses him. It is that very fact that has made survival possible.

If you never knew John, I am sorry. He was a great person to know. Not only was he smart but he was kind and nevr judgmental. He was the ultimate pacifist, he would not fight with you or tolerate harsh sounds or words. He would just leave. He was an excelent teacher, he did not make you feel stupid, no matter how many times or ways he had to repeat himself. the world would be a better place if we had more like him. He was a musician playing classical-accoustic guitar and the viola. I miss hearing him sit on the couch and just play background music.

Oh, I know he was not perfect.
As the girls say, "he missed the clean gene." They also believe "clean" is a recessive gene as their parents are also appear to be challenged in the house cleaning area.

I really do not have the words to express how much I miss him. BUT, I have living children and grandchildren that I truly love and cherish. Thay are here and as long as they are (and forever) love and cherish every minute I get to spend with them.

Thank you God for allowing me to be John's mother. And thank you John for teaching me about the really important things of life, God and the ones I love. Everything else is extra! 'I will love you forever, I will like you for always. As long as I am living ( and forever) my baby (son) you will be!

What Spring Means

2010-04-02T14:58:00.009-06:00

Spring! (picture and collage by Mary)

Spring means a lot of things.
In Utah Spring means SNOW. We had about 4 inches yesterday. they say there is more to come. If we didn't need the water I would complain. But, we do need the water, badly!

Beck and me at Ella's Concert

Spring also means End of year Concerts for parents, and grandparents, of school aged children. Thus, it was my privileged to attend Ella's first performance. Of course, she was great!
At the Technological College Spring means Fashion Show. For years Dave has done the music and lights. it is a lot of work but it's worth it to him. Last year Lexy and Noah were involved. This year it was just Noah. What a doll. He's been sick-but what a trooper! (I will add pictures when I get them)

Ella, top left.

Spring also means General Conference. What an exciting time of year. I so love the inspirational talks and music. We used to go down SLC for Conference almost every time. Now it is hard to get tickets and usually the kids come up here. Now, if the kids come, we can't hear anything so they mostly stay home. Divide and conquer seems to be the solution at this stage. And this year with all the illness going around-we are better apart!

Spring means Easter. The single most important holiday of the year to me. there is nothing more valuable to me than my Savior, Jesus Christ, and the atonement. It is the only way by which I may return to live in His presence. My deep feelings and love for my Savior prohibits me from sharing the stage with a rabbit. The world loves to corrupt and distract from what is truly important, Christmas and Easter are the most glaring examples. I want and need my "Holy Days", I need to express my love and appreciation for my Savior.

As a child my mother dressed us up in new clothes, representing the new life that comes to the world via Jesus Christ and symbolized by the rebirth of plant and animal life. We would go to the Orange Bowl and see the pageant-Sunrise Services. I can see the progression of the story, depicted by real people who also looved the lord. We were not of the same religion-but we shared this central belief. I gained a deep respect for people of other religions and beliefs.

Now I go up to the cemetery. I sit on the bench at John's grave. Sometimes i sing, sometimes (usually) I cry, and I watch the sun come up. And I say "As surly as the Son of God rose on the first Easter Morn, and As surely as the sun came up today, my son, John, will also rise." and we will all be together again. Oh, the promise of Easter can not, will not be overshadowed by the world! Without death we would not know life.

Come what may, this is my 100th post and I would be wrong not to thank my God for the blessings he has given me. they are to numerous to mention. I recognize His hand in guiding and protecting me to this point in my life. I will praise His name forever.

More EGG- Stravaganza pictures

2010-03-31T15:12:00.006-06:00

Ella made Easter hats for a everyone, Tessa really liked wearing hers.

At one point we looked around and all the kids were on the porch while we were out in the grass-a complete turn-around.

Dying eggs with granny was fun but right after this picture Granny begged for help-she was out numbered and knew it.

I loved this picture because it shows the bubbles.

The Bunny Pudding-Thanks Rachael

Please don't share-The Big Bad Easter Germs

2010-03-31T14:34:00.004-06:00

Germs, how can Easter have germs?

It's not hard I guess. The Sortors had some nasty bug the week before, but everyone seemed fine on Saturday. Even Sunday was ok--who knows how many people might have been exposed on Sunday when the "well" went to church. there is nothing we can do about it now, sorry world!

Beck came down with it on Monday, she was so very sick! Imodium seemed to help but she was miserable.

By Tuesday Dave, Lexy and Phoebe had it. Dave had class Tuesday night and had to leave in a hurry. They still are not well but still moving. They are providing the lights for the BATC fashion show tonight and tomorrow. It's good money but a lot of work. Noah is supposed to be in it. He didn't really get sick yesterday, I hope he holds up.

Both Lily and Tessa came down with it on Monday so Rachael stayed home with them on Tuesday. Tessa would not let go of Rach. About 5pm Tessa had a seizure. She even turned blue. They tried CPR but her jaw was locked and they couldn't anything to help her. It ws very scary. Sarah happened to be there (The Lord knew what was going to happen and took care of things!) and she was able to stay with Lily while Tessa and Rachael went to the hospital in an ambulance. The girls babysitter, Sister Lake felt impressed to call about the girls right after the ambulance left. Hearing the situation she dropped everything and went to the hospital to be there for Rachael. Seuao got off early-thanks to the fire on I-80 that took out the electricity at his job. So he got to the hospital fairly quickly.

It was all related to Tessa's high temperature. They were able to bring her home that night. Today Lily is no longer throwing up and both girls are getting some energy back.

Don't worry, we couldn't leave Benji out. He got it too and Mary, his Mom. stayed home with him yesterday and today. Now it appears Mary may be coming down with the same thing. If there is one place you do NOT want someone with the flu it is in the operating room-where she works.

Bottom Line, I don't believe I will be making the trek down to SLC this week. I was going to help with Child care as it is Spring Break in SLC schools and out and the child care providers seem to think they should spend some time with their own kids. (I am being sarcastic-of course they should spend time with their children--it's just inconvenient or would be is they weren't all sick.

The Family Egg-stravaganza

2010-03-31T13:36:00.007-06:00

The Family Egg-stravaganza

The Kiddos
(l-r Phoebe, Noah, Tessa, Ella, Lily, Mia and Benji)

The biggest party of Spring was last Saturday, thus avoiding the Easter/Conference weekend. Pretty good planning we thought, the grass wasn't green yet but the rain stayed away and outside time was pretty good.
For fun we had bubbles, dyed eggs and decorated foam eggs. We didn't get to the pin wheels but that is ok. The table and four chairs (with an umbrella) I purchased at Sam's on Saturday was a hit!
We had a real nice picnic lunch in the livingroom. Rachael prepared it, shaped sandwiches, fruit salad, veggie chips, apple juice and bunny pudding for desert--so cute!!

The 4 two year olds, Noah, Lily, Tessa and Mia, hunted 90 eggs. Ella had her own treasure hunt, Phoebe (9 mo) observed while Sabrina (7 mo.) napped.

Great Granny's Chick in the Basket of Candy

Granny brought her famous chick basket full of candy-there just wasn't enough in the 90 plastic eggs. She also provided the dressed eggs for early brunch/munching.

For the adult lunch Beck made her luscious egg.sausage casserole while I purchased the fruit tray.

Dinner was the combined effort of all the families. Ham and Turkey, noodles alfredo, rolls, glazed carrots and asparagus followed by strawberry shortcake. Yummmm!!!
Beck was really tired during the day but no one was sick. Beck's kids had been ill the week before but they were better. Unfortunately germs were shared too.

Politics-do it or don't complain

2010-03-23T22:47:00.003-06:00

If not us, who will run this country?

Once again, like it have every other year for the last 36 years, I attended the mass/Caucus meeting for the Republican Party in the district in which I live. We had a really good turnout. the populace seems to be upset about politics in these United States.

The core issue seems to be the reelection of Sen. Bob Bennett. He has many opponents, 13 I think, but it is hard to tell who is behind all the negative campaigning. This year looks to be headed in an interesting, formerly unexplored, political territory. I like it!!!

It is really hard for me to listen to people complain about elected officials if they can't give up an hour every other year and voice their opinion about who is running. It's even more frustration when they don't vote. No excuses guys, VOTE--at least! Dad has voted absentee or early for 9 years now. If you really want to vote you can find a way.

If you don't know who to vote for well, call me and I will tell you who I am voting for and why. If you choose to trust my judgment--well. good for both of us!

I am so glad I live in these United States! I am scared about what will happen with this Health Insurance Bill signed into law today--but that is just more reason to stay involved and become educated! Another thing I can do better now that I have more time :)

Kim Wins! WOO HOO!!

2010-03-20T22:44:00.005-06:00

For you that do not know Kim, she is the daughter of our friends, Dave and Julie Nelson. She has been battleing Leukemia since last July. She recently finished her last chemo treatment and finally her cell count has come up from 1 to 200 in just a few days. Which means she will soon be coming home andDONE with this horrible challenging trial. She has been a real trooper! She got down to 96 pounds-but never let the pain and puking get the best or her. For more info you might want to check out her blog at http://www.kimbattlestheredrobot.blogspot.com/

I am just so grateful for her recovery. she is a great, great young woman!
Thank you Heavenly Father!

Time to Blog-Released as RS President

2010-03-15T18:21:00.005-06:00

Now I remember what I used to do, back in the Pre-RS era. That would be twq years ago when I was called to be the Relief Society President.

Being the RS president is always a big job but this was even more than the usual. The wards in our stake were rearranged and my one block, with two blocks added from other wards joined the four blocks left of the old 15th ward. Yes, I know I live in Utah-where wards are just blocks but still there were on the average 180 sisters and more than one-third of them were single. We had to start completely over-all visiting teaching . . .it was a real job! And then trying to get people to know each other, golly. But, we did it, of course with the help of the Lord.

So, for the last two years most of my waking hours have been dedicated to the 15th Ward RS. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. I got to know so many wonderful people. I had the opportunity to serve-like never before. it was great.

The two weeks ago, I was released. No notice, nothing, I was simply told 45 minutes before our last meeting. Upon reflection I believe it would have been much easier if . . .we don't need to go there. In the Church, there is no appeal process. What is done is done. but that brings me to the conclusion, now I have time to blog. Now I will be spending my time assisting people that need employment, the Ward Employment Specialist.

The Worst Dinner Ever

2010-03-15T18:03:00.005-06:00

I thought the roast sprinkled with Cocoa would be the worst dinner I ever served but no. I seem to be trying to out do myself lately.

The latest and most successful attempt to create the absolute worst dinner ever occurred Saturday night.

Observing Dad's new saying, I thought we would eat whatever he wanted AND "what the cupboard could afford." Ok, the only redeeming feature of this awful event was that Pat chose it. How about creamed chipped beef on toast? I was good with that. We have had the dried chipped beef in the cupboard for (years) a long time. I had the dish often as a child and had fed it to my own children through the years so, no big problem.
First I checked out all my favorite online sites for recipes and found a few that looked good. One added a little brown sugar, hmmm OK. So I started. The recipe called for two 3oz packages fo beef. I had a four oz, bottle-OK.

They are not equivalent! Mine was the dry-very very very salty stuff. Obviously not what was intended. I added the sugar but in the end it was just horrible. I ate about half of the toast out from the under the stiff (almost dough like) mess but Pat was hungry. I ate at least 3/4 of the frozen peas I made ot go along with it--just trying to do something about all the salt. Pat ate on, one bite at a time. UGH! Finally having eaten less than half of his first serving--he always wants seconds--he gave up. I believe he said something like, "I think I'm full" He was so kind, never said a word about how bad it was. He knew I knew, I made that known with every bite I took!

Believe me, oh please, believe me it was the worst dinner ever. I even bypassed the refrigerated leftover "but never eaten" delay and threw it away! Now that is something I can be proud of-I just threw it away! I doubt I ever eat creamed dried beef again. And that is ok with me. Unless someone else cooks it, of course.

It's a beautiful thing-Freedom-the real reason we visited Home Depot

2010-03-15T17:41:00.004-06:00

It's a beautiful thing- Freedom

For weeks I have been waiting for the bill from Home Depot to arrive.

On December 23rd I caved in and purchased a snow blower. We have lived in this snowy world for over 20 years--without a snow blower.
We have shoveled a LOT of snow! the last big snow fall before Christmas resulted in some pretty bad back pain for Pat. Now was the time, we were going to join the legions of snow blower owners (the angels of our neighborhood). But who has an extra $600 two days before Christmas? Certainly not me!

So, I opened a credit account (to save 10%) and charged the big Christmas surprise! That was before i knew about the trip Pat got for me. One of the employees even delivered it for me. I covered it up and put a bow on it-or meant to. I was so excited for pat to see it, and use it!
It didn't snow the rest of the Christmas holiday.
It has only snowed twice--enough to use the blower--since then.
it's like insurance. If you have it you don't need it. If you don't have it you will need it--snow seems it will never stop!

Back to the story.

The bill finally came. I could hardly wait to get down to the store and pay it off! Maybe that is why I forgot to ....see the previous blog.
Needless to say, I paid off the snow blower. And I feel so free. I just hate things hanging over my head. If I didn't get it done in time I would have to pay all the interest and I wasn't sure when my 90 days would be over. I am free again. Free to save for the real "Best
Christmas Present Ever" the trip to Florida.

Thanks Dad-for the trip and eating the horrible meals I have made lately (saving money to pay for the snow blower.)

Remember, Don't Get Caught With Your Pants Down

2010-03-14T20:03:00.005-06:00

Remember, Don't Get Caught With Your Pants Down

I can honestly admit I have no idea where that saying came from but an experience I had last Friday made me realize it is very true!
Granny and I were walking into Home Depot. I grabbed her a basket and rolled it to her. Then I grabbed one for myself. We always bring baskets back into the stores. I think it is because we don't feel so bad about leaving ours outside when we leave. The problem began when I turned around to get my basket, my pants fell down-down passed my knees. OOOOOHHHH!!! and they were back up. Whew, I looked around. Granny was laughing so hard-it didn't feel so funny but I guess it really was funny to her.

NO PICTURES HERE!

When I looked at the waist band I realized they hadn't come down by accident. Well it was by accident but I had forgotten to zip and button them. Oh my! it was a really cold and yucky day so their weren't many people around. I was so very relieved. Evidently I had washed my hands, walked out of the restroom, picked up my keys and purse, walked out to the car got in and drove to the store and nothing went wrong, no evidence of such an oversight at all.

Later I challenged myself to uncover the hidden message in my experience. I have been doing that more lately-trying to see what the Lord is trying to teach me. Let's see

1. Always button and zip your pants! You might even want to check! Ok, literal but a good lesson to learn.
2. "Always wear clean underwear"-remember the caution your Mother told you about going to the hospital. Maybe she was right, except you might find yourself at home Depot and not at the hospital. Just a thought!
3. What ever you are hiding. . .you'd better beware. At any moment, just an innocent lapse of memory could reveal that which you never intended to reveal! The confessions of a State Legislator on the last days of the Legislature (the day before) came to mind. Inappropriate actions 25 years ago had taken another good man down.
4. Thus the real message, just don't do anything you wouldn't want your world to know or see.

Then you won't have anything to hide.

I think that is what my brain looks like.

What does my memory look like?
I can't remember. Did I ever know?

As I age I realize my memory isn't what it used to be. There are things I wish I could remember. And. of course, there are others I wish I could forget. I guess it may be a blessing that we can't remember what it is we forgot. As long as it doesn't come back to bite you.
The only real way to be sure is to truly never do anything you would not want everyone to know. I am sure I learned this lesson before but I don't remember.

Lists are good!

2010-03-13T22:15:00.003-07:00

I like to make lists. They make me feel like I actually accomplish something. So this week I made a list. and completed all but one item and more. Considering how under the weather I have been it was truly amazing. I should make more lists!

Here was this week's list (and I really did not do a thing until Wednesday)
Exercise (the one thing I did not get done)
pick up pills from Shopko (I had to do this twice--4 prescriptions in one week--UGH)
Write Thank you notes
mail thank you notes (yes this needs to be a separate item, I have many many letters writtenn but never mailed)
Clean off the table
Clean the kitchen/do the dishes
Finish the car seat covers (but now I have another one to make)
Dollar Store-gift bags 2 baby 1 male birthday
Deliver Car seat covers
Turn in County tax letter
OOPS-
one more I didn't get done, finish plaques to give to Stake RS presidency

But not on the list but completed
Get speaker for marriage enrichment workshop
finish the Book of Mormon Woo Hoo! I honestly do not know how many times I have read it.
And I attended the monthly Employment meeting

Not bad!
Next week I will go exercise-if I get over this yucky stuff
I will go to Rachael's RS Birthday party. Greg Olsen, the artist, is speaking
Celebrate St Patrick's Day (how could Pat's wife not)

Less than 4 weeks until Florida! I may be the whitest person to ever visit Florida-how long does a spray tan last?

A change in Role

2010-03-10T10:39:00.004-07:00

Not the best picture-but it is me-with my hair pulled back

I will have lots more time for blogging now that I have been released from being the Relief Society President.
I must say I was shocked, dismayed and saddened by the release. I was really enjoying the opportunity to serve. I never complained, that I can remember. I did get a bit frustrated with some people. You know the kind, they don't listen, they don't follow through, they continue to complain. If not to you eventually about you. I am truly grateful for the 2 years I had. I am eternally grateful for all the many many people that stepped up tot he plate and served with me. I never really knew an Elders Quorum President could make such a difference.

Logan ERS center (next to DI)

So now I have been called as the Ward Employment Specialist. In our Ward this is a tough job. We've had people in this position over the past two years but virtually nothing has been done. Brother Wise was just getting started when he left. But the ones since then have not even been willing to attend Welfare meeting to find out who needed their assistance.

I attended a training on Saturday at the LDS Employment Resources Services for over 2 hours. It is amazing how the employment search methods have changed and improved over the years. With competition for jobs the way it is it boggles the mind. Once again I am gratedul that my sweet husband has been abale to support our family and I have not had to worry about employment over the years and I am available to serve others!

The future is ahead!

March 10 and I am sick again

2010-03-10T10:29:00.002-07:00

What is up with this being sick???? Well it makes time to blog anyway. I have already been to the doctor and started the antibiotics again--along with the coughing . . .i am on the road to recovery!

Time to think

2010-03-10T10:23:00.002-07:00

I read on a friends post about funeral conversation . . . it reminded me. I was once at a funeral for a 80+ year old woman. She had been nothing but kind to our family. She was a large woman that always had smiles, hugs and a place on her lap for David. One of her family members decided to be "honest" and mentioned her affair (some 55+ years) earlier. Good grief! There is a place for honesty but come on. Tact would be not to mention it at all. My (always socially correct) husband says "don't miss an opportunity to keep your mouth shut!" See I do listen, I just do not always think faster than I speak.But I am still trying.
I am so glad I get to fondly remember a fine-although imperfect-woman, like me (imperfect, of course, not the affair). I am sorry her family could not forgo the opportunity to spoil the memory of a life time of faith and love with a long past mistake. May we all think before we speak-especially at a funeral!

I hate being Sick!

2010-02-22T22:07:00.002-07:00

I hate being sick! just in case any of you wondered. it seems I have spent so much of my life ill in one way or another that when it comes around----I get very frustrated!

So after 13 days of coughing and very poor sleep I finally got into the Dr today. No, i didn't call until today. I was really thinking I could beat just this one "thing" on my own. You know the line, we take too many antibiotics and eventually they will not work. Well, I gave it my best shot. I really should have given up much sooner. Think of all the days I lost out on. Oh well, the best is yet to be!

Who am I to complain?
My friend, Kim, had her last chemo treatment yesterday. Now it is all the painful reactions of her body that she must endure again. Please join us and pray for her. She is a beautiful, wonderful 19 year old that deserves to live and bless this world.

"Shower the people you love with love!"

2010-02-04T23:42:00.005-07:00

The weekend and week has gone rather well. I still have VT assignments and handouts to deliver and 10 birthday cards to finish but all and all it's been ok, except for the headaches UGH!

Anyway, I gathered a bunch of suggestions about showing love on Valentines Day for a handout for Evening Relief Society. I don't believe any of the ideas are copyrighted, At least I hope not! Many of the ideas came from Sugardoodle.com and Rootsandwings.com. I thought I might just pass them along. Now is the time to get started! Valentines will be here very soon!

I wish I'd taken pictures of all the projects and samples I made (cookies and lollipops with Beck's help). But I didn't. I hope this inspires someone to do a little more to "Shower the people you love with love!"

Add to the list reading special books like "I'll love you forever" and "How do I love you" by Hallinan.

And never doubt a mother's love, MommyNolan

Shoot, It won't take my handout correctly-if you want one send me a message and I will get you one. Sorry! I have tried to take all the wierd stuff out , I think you can tell what I was trying to do.

Happy Valentines! Celebrate!

Heart Attack cover the door or the front lawn with all kinds of hearts and a sign-“You've been(heart) ATTACKED”

Showered with kisses-pour a bag of Hershey kisses on the bed or table and add the note “I have showered you kisses” (see Mom for some real ones?)

Heart Shaped cookies-are always nice for telling others they are loved. Double layer cookies with the heart shaped center cut out, and fill with jam or chocolate are extra special.

Lollipops-with candy hearts and flowers can be arranged in a flower arrangement. You can also decorate them with paper and buttons or jewels.

Pillow Cases are the best!-They are the simplest sewing project possible. You need 3 pieces of 45” fabric, 26 “, 9” and 4” wide for the total of 1 yard. Layer them 9” wrong side down, 26” right side down, then 4” folded in half on top. Pin them evenly along the edge. Roll 26” up (so it doesn't get caught while sewing) and pull 9” around and pin to the stack. Sew across them all at one time and pull right side out. Fold in half and sew along two unfinished sides.

Homemade Valentines-use your imagination and anything crafty

School Valentines-those little things-are also good for neighbors, friends, visiting teachers or teachees. Let your kids (or husband if you have one) deliver them.

Secret Admirer-this is especially good for parents-sneak out the back door and leave something on the front step, knock and run. Then come in the back while the kids are running for the door. Be sure you sign it from your secret admirer. The kids will catch on eventually-but still look forward to “mom's box of candy”. Or you can order two identical flower arrangements and send both to your loved one-on the same day. sign one "Your Wife and the other "Your secret admirer" At least they will have to carry both out of the building and maybe have some 'splaining to do. Ha!

Pancakes-pink, of course, can be made into hearts or initials. Even milk can be turned pink.
Decorate!-Cover everything with hearts, Make special hanging hearts. Cut 4 strips of paper the same length for each heart. Do them in multiples for even more interest.

Jars-Use your decorated jar for good deeds that show love or complements. When established in FHE the contest can be used to demonstrate how much love we have in our home/why I love you.

Books-read special books or even make them. Cheap ones can be found at the dollar store or Seagull Book

A Week of Kindness-like the 12 Days of Christmas-choose someone and do a service for them each day-or leave them a treat. “By love serve one another” Gal 5:13 Fun FHE can be made out of this.

An Understanding Heart-from Bright Impressions uses scriptures and is really ok for even older kids. Also on sale for $1 at Seagull book.

Special Dishes-if you have any red dishes this is a great time to use them-fun paper plates will ad to the atmosphere as well! Try white dishes with a red tablecloth (plastic is good!)
Notes-those little unexpected reminder is always nice-you can even write on food with special markers.

Heart Purses, Heart Boxes Heart Sandwiches. Heart anything can show your love!
Go for it!

A Credit Card Loss or Identy theft.

2010-02-01T23:09:00.005-07:00

Just a little piece of plastic

Well, I got a call from Bank of America about some charges made on my card. What card? I didn't even remember having a bank of America Card, neither did Dad. So - - I checked around and nothing! So I finally got in touch with the bank and . . . Yes, I do heve a card with them, they had all my information. Evidently I have had the card for 4 years. They even sent me a new one last year. Me? I never got it, I don't think. They had no record of me using it in at least two years except now for flowers and fireworks.

Well, I no longer have an account with them! And they will send a fraud report and claim which I must return. Isn't that strange? It seems like if someone stole it--they would have used it for more than $70 worth of flowers and $10 worth of fireworks.

I am at last grateful for these fraud protection services now provided by Credit Card Companies. Up until now I have considered them a realy pain wondering why they had to call everythine the card --rarely used--was used.

I kind of feel bad for the companies. When someone denied the use of a credit card used a Dave's store--they took it out of Dave's account. His little store lost money-not the Credit Card company-who could probably afford it. But, I didn't order the flowers or fireworks.

I do believe I got off easy. But, I think it is a warning of sorts, shread, shread, shread, and lock the doors. It could have been much worse! another blessing!

FRIDAY

2010-01-29T17:06:00.002-07:00

FRIDAY is supposed to be the beginning of a relaxing weekend. Not so for me. It is the beginning of the busiest four days of my week.

Friday, Pat comes home. I actually have ot clean the house and wash the dishes. Things I can avoid when he is not here. I OOPS, I forgot to put the sheets into the dryer. I need to do that NOW! Oh, I hope I do not forget, I will finish this first.

Saturday, well there is the grocery shopping, that I could do on another day if he'd leave me the money . . . This week I have to do the wash also as he may have to go down to SLC early. I also want to go to the Temple with him. The temple has been closed for cleaning for a month. Then there is the endless list of meals to be prepared, Breakfast, second breakfast, 11ees, lunch, late lunch, post movie snack, supper, dinner, dessert, 4th meal and then 11ees again (but he usually goes to bed at 9 so I get out of 11ees#2. You'd think the boy was starving the way he can eat. I really think he just asks all the time to see what he can get. I know he eats in SLC. But he is loosing weight to boot. UGH!!! did I forget the movie in the list of things to do? Then I really do have to finish all the stuff for the Visiting teaching conference and do the shopping for that too. I should sleep well Saturday night.

Sunday, there really is no reason to list all the activities that need to be done, they will come and they will go. I just hope we can get the last 6 of out home teaching assignments done before thne fireside at 6. People don't especially like having home teachers int he morning, and I have meetings. . . to go to anyway. But just how much can you squeeze into tw0 and a half hours (3:30-6pm)? Oh, and then there is Choir and more food for the boy.

I am not complaining, I love being busy but this seems like a bit much, I do tend to over schedule myself. Good thing we only have one VT conference a year!

Oh and I forgot, the RS newsletter has to be done between now and then also. I do hope my editor is available for the assignment, And then there is the subject of flowers and posters for the conference. No one could get daffodils--too early in the year they say. I checked all over this week. So now I have to move on to plan B--if I can remember what that was.

My brain is trying really hard to forget the sheets so I will go---off to another Friday! YEA!!!

Sabrina

2010-01-16T23:13:00.003-07:00

Sabrina

Lance and Beck went to the Schribers annual party and we had the pleasure of taking care of little Sabrina--I want to call her Abby, even if I am the only one in the whole world who does.

Anyway, she has just as darling personality as her picture (thanks Sarah) . She is at the perfect age. She smiles and coos and laughs and holds on to things she can put into her mouth. She can almost hold her bottle. If only they could stay this age for a little longer.

Moral of the post--enjoy the beauty of the age they are at. It will be gone all too soon.

My 2009

2010-01-13T14:15:00.003-07:00

Looking for things to do-that keep me from thinking and doing what I should--has led me here.
Mary's answers to these questions was an interesting peek into her perspective.
I thought i would give it a try.

1. What did you do in 2009 that you had never done before?
Lost most of my vision before having a pituitary tumor removed. And went on a 1900 mile road trip with Pat. Bith were ultimately positive experiences.
2. What would you like in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?
A clean house.

3. My best memory of 2009.
If I had a memory maybe I could come up with an answer.

4. What was your biggest achievement?
I remained the RS president. In other words I behaved enough to not get released.

5. Did you or someone you know suffer any illness?
See #1. Depression never really goes away, neither does self doubt. But I survived them both-for the most part.

6. What was your best purchase?
Probably the two refrigerators. I got really great deals!

7. Where did all your money go?
You mean Pat's money? Refrigerators, a stove, a snow blower, Relief Society and gifts. I did buy myself a few clothes at the end of the year and some shoes . . .I am good at spending money.

8. What was your favorite song for 2009?
I haven't listened to the radio much this year but that "You should have put a ring on it" was cute-especially when the little ones are dancing to it!
9. Who was your biggest influence of 2009?
Probably Jesus Christ. I am still trying to be like Him and Pat, as always.

10. What was your favorite new TV show?
Project Runway-it was new to me, and Glee. Lie to me was pretty good too.
11. What was your favorite new book?
the Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

12. What was your favorite movie?
Probably Julie and Julia.

13. What has kept you sane?
I am sane? I thought I was just cold?

Personally I am glad to mhave moved on to a new year.
I pray I will do better and be better in 2010

I bet these answers would have been extremely different yesterday and may even be tomorrow. That is just the joy of my life-change.

Thanks all of you, for being such great people. I love you all!

Sorry Ella

2010-01-11T19:37:00.006-07:00

Sorry Ella

Now that's my girl!

Friday night Beck called and offered me the opportunity to have Ella spend the night with us. I said no. I already had Mary, Allen and Benji here. Dad had just come home and I thought I had enough to deal with. what I failed to consider was how Ella would feel.

Beck wanted to go over to Scott and Candace's home to play games. Lance could join them after he got off. She could take Mia and Sabrina--they would go to sleep. I thought Ella would too. But, her cousins, S &C older two children were already spending the night with Grandma (the one they share with Ella). How would Ella feel to find out her cousins were at Grandma's and she was not invited?

I don't know if Beck figured something else out or not. I do not know if Beck and Lance got to go over and play games or not. I jsut feel bad that I did not think through the whole situation and then say yes. I love my LaLa girl, she is simply precious to me. She requires a lot of attention but that is not reason for me to not have turned down such an opportunity to show my love for her.

I am so sorry Ella. Next time you have a Friday off from school I want you to come and spend the night here with me. And we will make pancakes for breakfast! I know that is your favorite. I will love you forever! Granny

New Year Greetings 2010

2010-01-04T21:05:00.003-07:00

New Year Greetings 2010
Some things are better finished-the flu for one! That was nasty! But I know I will be better soon.

so it's time for all things new. My Day Timer paged came today--yea! Now I can plan for the rest of the year. It seems silly but until I write it down it's just not real. So, hurray for calendars and my "brain in a bag" as my kids once named my Day Timer. As long as I do not lose it, I'm good.

After reading the blogs of Beck and Sarah I have sincerely considered what would I tell my 16 year old self and my 25 year old self.

My 16 year old self would hear how it is not worth it to cheat in school. If you don't want to do the work do not take the class. You are capable of anything--you just need to choose carefully and put you heart into it. I would also tell her that maintaining your morality os worth more than you can imagine-just hold on! I would also tell her not to judge the Church by the poor choices and judgements people will make about you. Hold you head high and you will succeed.

To my 25 year old (mother of 4 moving to Panguitch) self I would say. Hold on to who you are.
Do not believe what others say about you. Remember what is important. You will get your chance to go to school. Right now just be a good Mom and hold on it will be worth it.

What would my 70 year old self have to say to me? Do we make it out on a mission? Do I ever get to use all this education? Does all this Relief Society work really matter? Am I using my energy in the way I should?

Of course, there are a million other questions I would love to have answered but then I guess the surprise would be gone. But life is nothing if not a surprise--and the real life is what you do in the face of life's surprises.

Time for a new blog

2009-12-28T11:35:00.005-07:00

Yes, it is time for me to resume my blog. There are so many better things in my life than meatloaf cuppy cakes that I must get on with accounting for them.

The vacation/road trip to Canada was a success. Beautiful mountains and lakes . . .

The grandkids Halloween costumes were adorable. See their blogs for pictures and details.

Dave and Lexi purchased a great home in Layton. I am so very happy for them!

Thanksgiving was fine, although Rachael and Seuao went south to see some of his family in Las Vegas. It threw me off a bit but I am grateful for having the rest of the crew here!

December was a blurr-too much to do to really enjoy it. But the family party was super and I finished the sheep like pjs in time to get a picture for our Christmas card. Although the cards did not get mailed until.. .well some of them have not yet been mailed, not enough pictures printed.
Of course the picture was cropped in to show the faces better but you get the idea.

It is now the 28th of December and the chaos has passed-thanks Rachael for the clean-up!

Presents

Although not the focus of our celebration, this year the gifts I received were truly magnificent.

Pat, with the help of Dave, gave me a trip back to my childhood home, Florida. I was so surprised. Dave managed to take Lexy and Noah on a trip last year that really made me long for the opportunity to see those places again. I really can not believe it is going to happen-I am so excited.

Rachael got me a bracelet (and spacers . .)from-my favorite-Brighton. Not just a bracelet, a charm bracelet. And each of the kids got me a charm that represented them. It is just precious! I love it and will wear it often. I already wore it to church yesterday. She also gave me a cute red travel bag, hmmm I can put that to work!

Granny gave me money-which I will so enjoy spending in Florida and a blue tooth for my phone! Dave and Lex put together a calendar for next year full of family pictures.
Mary made me a pair of red earrings(the third in three years-I wear them so often they get lost) and a charm for my phone. All of the kids were tired of my 'ghetto' fishing wire (all that was left after the last on finally gave up the ghost) and the three plastic Christmas balls-red of course-I recently tied on to the wire. Hey, I could locate the phone in record time, sometimes even before it stopped ringing. She also got me one of those neck/chin exercisers--we'll put it to the test. I do hope it actually works!
Beck and family gave me a book, the Undaunted, we can pass around and all enjoy reading, and a beautiful string of brown/gold pearls-perfect for me.
Sarah gave me a very fashionable brown sweater-she struggles against all odds to keep me somewhat in fashion, well as in fashion as a Granny can be.

We really had so much fun just being together.Cooking only stopped momentarily and Rachael washed more dishes than I can count. From time to time she had a little help from Sarah and me but in truth she did most of the dishes, and for 19 people, that is a lot of dishes! Of course, we enjoyed the traditional turkey dinner on Christmas but we are still eating the turkey soup Allen so graciously prepared for us.

Life is good-very busy! The Relief Society is fine. Unfortunately we have a sweet young sister, only 19 years old, valiantly fighting Leukemia in Primary Childrens Hospital. She is always in our thoughts and prayers. But for today, it is just too cold to go outside (up to 5 degrees at noon).

I hope all of you have had a wonderful Christmas. At this time of year I truly appreciate the gifts of life, mortal and eternal, I have been given by Heavenly Father and my Savior, Jesus Christ! Nothing compares!

Cuppy Cakes

2009-07-16T11:08:00.003-06:00

I think cup cakes are great. So easy to make and serve, AND now a creative outlet. Just what I need, another creative outlet. :) When I get around it- I'll post some pictures. Until then, if you need a little inspiration-and want to support a woman's dream to be on the Ellen show-check out this web site. http://kitchendoughdough.blogspot.com

Watching Good Things Utah today I saw this segment on cup cakes. You should visit it. Her cupcakes were darling! but as I was reading the (rather long blog on her trying to get on the Ellen Show) I saw her post on Meatloaf Cuppy Cakes-as Dad calls them. I wrote a comment and the idea came to me that these little darlings are actually very 'green' in today's lingo. They save electricity as take lots less time to cook-only 20 minutes. They are also easily frozen and then just heated in the microwave for use in any ground beef meal (taco salad, tamales, cowboy casserole . . .) more time and electricity saved. AND-they are one of Dad's favorite!

Fourth of July 2009

2009-07-08T19:36:00.011-06:00

It didn't matter the event, Ella and Lily were ready and waiting!

It was the fourth of July weekend and the crowd arrived, one car at a time.
Arriving in cars 1,2,3,4, 5, and 6 were: Rachael, Seuao, Lily, Tessa, Mary, Allen (the next day), Benji. Dave, Lexy, Noah, Phoebe, and Sarah. Rebecca and fam came and went as naps and Lance's work would allow. With Dad, Granny and myself we totalled 18 humans, 9 cars and one jet ski (that would be Dave's new toy--humm we will all enjoy it!)

Thursday-I really wanted to go see 3 dog night but alas, I will not torture anyone into doing what they really do not want to do.

Friday- we had a little kids pool party. I have never seen a child enjoy water like Mia did!

that was followed by taco salads and watermelon in the frint yard, No sweeping or vacuuming or tables to clear off!! I wanted to go to the stadium to see the fireworks but (see above) the kids and grandkids went to a little park on cliffside and had lots of fun. I should have gone with them, oh well.

You can tell this is a locall picture by the church in the forground!

Saturday was so full, it was amazing how much was squeezed into it.
The activities included:

Cache Stake Breakfast-Granny bought 4 family tickets and one single-she certainly supported the Scouts this year. I had fun twirling around and "bowling with Granny" in the big field. I was the pin and they wouldl run at me and knock me over (I was sitting down, of course) They weemed to really like it.

Farmer's Market-I didn't go but all the kids liked it. they said it was a little smalleer than usual as so many of the sellers were probably out of town.

One of my favorites-the kids "worm"

Dave helps direct the candy collecting! Thanks Dave.

Thanks Seuao!

Hyrum's Parade was a blast. Seuao saved us the whole space in front of the post office so our little guys didn't have to compete with the hiards of other-bigger and faster kids for the the floats remimded me a little of Panguitch-early Panguitch. Our floats got much better over the 8 years I was there. building floats is certainly a unique and challenging creative activity-i enjoyed every minute of it! But that was in my former life.
Naps and a little playing in the sprinklers flooowed by a no-cook barbecue of pulled pork, salad, chips and snow cones.

At last it was time for the fireworks. Thanks to Allen and Seuao. I have to admit they were fun. Even if I was constantly telling them to be careful! ANd arguing against the illegal fireworks going on around us. they were beautiful too, but illegal! AND if anyone with illegal fireworks is goig to get caught and given a $500 ticket it would be Dave. that is just the way his life has always been. Untold numbers of prople can do things and never get caught. But not him! it is just not worth the risk!

Sunday--I believe everyone was pretty worn out, and Noah was not feeling good! I had meetings at 7:15. I wa the only one outside of the PEC group to make it. But it was worth going. After church, sandwiches and leftovers we ALL got naps! That is so very rare. Even in the middle of the night it seems there is always someone awake when the crowd is home.
I tried to get dinner ready before Rachael had to go up to practice for the band concert but, I missed by less than 10 minutes. I actually ended up sending most of the meat home with the kids. I am sure they enjoyed it when they didn't have cook later in the week!

The USU Alumni Band 4th of July concert was very nice. the music was great and the kiddos really got along quite well. Only Benji was missing. (Mary and Allen had to go home early so she could lead the music in Primary--one of my all time favorite jobs!)

Then the race for home was on. It was sort of sad to see the weekend come to an end. But then again I am not sure I could have taken a whole lot more. I wouldn't trade weekends like this for anything in all the world!

I love my family more and more each day!
And thanks for sharing your photographic talents!

Papa's Birthday

2009-06-29T22:51:00.004-06:00

It was a fine weekend. We celebrated Papa's birthday.

Mary and Allen were able to come up and we all enjoyed Benji's walking! Saturday Papa took me to see The Proposal. I loved it and Papa laughed almost all the way through. I am a sucker for romantic comedy so I do not care to evaluate the actual quality of the film or performances.

After we got home I made salad for the Ward Potluck barbecue and Papa took Mary back to see Star Trek. He said is was every bit as good the second time. Allen spent the afternoon fixing Beck's computer. We all enjoyed the barbecue, Benji even ate. The guys all went home and Mary and I went to Sam's and Walmart and, of course, stopped by Charlies on the way home.

Sunday was fine (no early meetings) until I tried to take a nap. It simply was not ment to be. Phone calls, visitis, back to catch the Bishop (he went on vacation this week) more visits . . .then it was time to finish dinner. thank goodness Mary put in the meat or we might never have had the opportunity to eat Sunday's dinner. After dinner we had Lemon-ade cake, per Dad's request. Dad got a movie, four actually, and a bunch of new Gs. He seemed to appreciate both. I can't remember what I did after that but the Mary left me with a great gift of my own, a clean kitchen.

The Salt Lake crew will be celebrating Monday night. I wish I could be there but . . .I will be satisfied with what I had, a good weekend and happy Dad.
Thanks Mary for the pictures!

Father's Day Weekend "You've got to have a dream. If you don't have a dream, how are you gonna have a dream come true?"

2009-06-24T21:31:00.011-06:00

All the kids, spouses and grandchildren came up on Saturday. We celebrated Lily's second birthday. Rachael and Seuao put on such a cute Mickey Mouse Party. She planned to have a pool party. But alas we have had the rainiest June in many years and it rained. Thus the second floor of the Nolan clubhouse was the location. There was lots of dancing and gifts and pin the bow on Minnie's hair. Of course, we had lots of good food and hot dogs (you can't play hot diggity dog and not eat hot dogs) Lily was so overwhelmed with the whole thing that when they brought out the cake with the candles she threw herself on the floor and cried. She got over it pretty fast but I never thought I would see anything overwhelm this little ball of fire! We definitely have much more room up stairs. and everyone (except Mary, who had a headache) had a lot of fun.

We had such a great Father's Day. We missed Mary and Allen and Benji as they had to go back to SLC so she could lead the music for Primary. (Too bad the Bishop forgot and didn't put it on the program--or remember to insert it during the program. So, she marched the kids out of Primary and into the Priesthood room and sang to the Dads! You go you fine Woman!!!)
Everyone (minus Lexy who had to stay home with our darling one week old Phoebe) went to Sacrament meeting and later we had Dad's favorite--Lasagna (I often refer too June as National Lasagna Month. We usually get eat it three times during the month-Father's Day, our anniversary, and Pat's birthday) This year, Father's Day and our anniversary were on the very same day, June 21st.

Pat received some very nice and thoughtful gifts, The Last Lecture (in book form). the rugby Movie -Forever Strong, and a recliner! I know he will put it to use. We talked about naming it the "sleeping chair." It has the place of honor in front of the big TV upstairs. It was sad, I caught him-too many times-- sitting on a ball with an afgan wrapped around him-the couches were too uncomfortable to sit on and he wouldn't turn on the heat for just him- watching his new big TV. He really does deserve to have a comfortable place to sit! He deserves good food too (see the pizza entry of last weekend). Unfortunately, he doesn't always get all the good things he deserves. But I am trying, and yes most of the time I am also very trying.

I got a nice card for our anniversary. After 35 years you'd think . ..don't think, just be grateful for the card. He asked me a few weeks ago what I wanted for out anniversary--I decided to follow Dave's example--I dreamed big--and asked for a bedroom set. I have always wanted one. About 25 years ago I gave up and made us a dressed and two night stands in the adult wood shop class in Panguitch. It is very heavy duty. I used 3/4 inch ply wood and scraps from the saw mill. The dresser is so heavy it has not been moved in the almost 20 years we have lived in this house. Oh well, "You've got to have a dream. If you don't have a dream, how are you gonna have a dream come true?"

Banff National Park, Canada

We are planning on going on our first vacation alone together in many years this summer. I think that is what Pat has in mind as a gift for our anniversary. I must say it is going to be an change. I can't remember spending more than a few hours alone with him outside of a movie theater or in front of the TV or in church--and that was probably driving to and from SLC. Hummmmm. . . .

Friday's Here and So Am I

2009-06-19T07:08:00.004-06:00

Cinnamon Creek

A mix up in locations-I did not recall which parking lot at the Church to meet in. I was in front and the other two sisters were in the back. I do wish my brain would hold it together better!!! But what a beautiful drive I had to Cinnamon Creek. I can't believe I remembered the way to get there, but at least my brain did do that. I need to be grateful. I could still be lost out there-out of gas and not at all happy with myself.

The 10 minute talk given seven times went well I think. I guess it doesn't matter--it's done! I did get out of the canyon and off the dirt road just before dark. Which was also real blessing. I stopped at Subway in Hyrum for a sandwich. In all the rush I hadn't eaten anything worth while all day. but I got lots of other stuff done! " YEA MOM" (as Dad would say.)

So
Yea! the week is almost over and the list has been greatly diminished!

Father's day for the Ward---DONE
Young Women---Done
Temple
still hanging in there as a possibility
Fish Fry
only one potato assignment left to give out
Relief Society
Check on Voniel and Wendy
Call about the food order
Check with the Bishop about the other possible food orders
Lily's Birthday
I still need a gift! (Bed Bath and Beyond and Smiling Moon toys)
I will still pray for sunshine but the weatherman doesn't hold out much hope. I will pray for
alternative inspiration as well.
Home-
install light bulbs, at least try and see if they will fit!
Buy worms for Dad (Smiths)
Get a connector for the garden watering system (Home Depot)
Groceries can wait until tomorrow

I still have a table to uncover, dishes to wash, and stuff on my bed to put away. All of which will take far longer than I would like to accompolish. However, I expect everythin will be done by 5pm so we can make it to the Temple. A nap would be nice too!

In my spare time I have been surfing the web, looking for places to stay on our trip to Glacier this summer. I have not been to successful in keeping the costs under $100/night. I'll get back to that next week.

It makes me smile just to think how much the Lord has allowed and helped me do this week. Progress has been made!

Progress

2009-06-18T14:50:00.003-06:00

Progress is a funny thing when you look from the perspective of yesterday, or last week, or month or year it's not hard to see how far you have come. However, from the perspective of one ahead of you, looking back, or just meeting you on the path it may be very hard to see and movement at all. Aren't we blessed in that the Lord can see the big picture. He knows where we are today and how far we've come. He is the only one that truly knows how difficult our particular path has been.

The mortal application

If you do not know how much I have had to do this week or how difficult it has been you may not see any progress at all. The house is not clean, the dishes are still in the sink, the table is close to a foot deep in places although Dad could sit down to dinner tonight if he were here.
I never found a cute top to wear tonight and the outfit I decided on got red punch spilled all over the front of it. Now I have to take a step backwards and find something else to wear. I am still not sure what I should say to these Young Women, speaking usually comes so easily to me. Lily does not have a gift yet. I haven't had a decent meal all week.

On the other hand. I got all the potatoes stuff for the Fish Fry purchased, divided up and except for one delivered. I dyed my hair-I know vanity is evil but as long as Pat has dark hair--and he is older than I am--I feel like I am entitled to that indulgence. Besides it only costs $7 every six weeks or so. I did miss my nail appointment-it was yesterday, UGH! They are going on four weeks and will soon start to pop off.

I did finish the Father's Day candy bars and wrappers last night, cute little ribbons and all. Today I took them to the Church house and hid them in the Clerk's office. They are too much of a temptation to anyone that enters this house hungry. (Rebecca and I refrained yesterday by making brownies.)

I also got my weekly update on the sisters written and sent off to the Bishop. I just didn't think I would have time before Sunday so I did it at 6 am today. I also got some decent sleep last night, finally! I purchased some ear plugs at Walmart yesterday and they seemed to help. I didn't spend two hours fighting with the noise of the new oxygen machine trying to get to sleep. I hate wearing the things. They are a bit annoying, i feel like I have a head cold all the time. But if they make the difference two hours of added sleep they are worth the inconvenience.

I have got about two hours before I need to leave for Girls Camp, I wonder what progress I can make by then? I am sure I am the only one that will be able to see it even if it is simply showing up on time, and prepared. I know this is last minute, I have had at least five week to get ready. Whatever. The Lord knows my heart is in the right place.

It is thundering outside, I wonder if we will get rained out. I won't count on it.

More things on the list and a few off

2009-06-17T20:24:00.002-06:00

So where am I now?
Somewhere on a list of things to do

Father's Day stuff
With Ella's all 60 ties are colored
All 60 are taped to the candy bars
Now all 59 (Ella took one home for her Dad) tied with green or blue ribbon
YEA!!!

Walmart
Ella also joined me on a trip to Walmart and the search for refreshment.
I secured the hair dye (add that to the list for tomorrow)
No cute top found (so sad time is running out still on the list for tomorrow)
Medication for Lance (Beck stayed at our house with Mia during the trip-she wasn't feeling too well )retrieved (on and off the list--the way I like it).

Phone Calls
Almost done! It has actually been kind of fun calling people-connecting to and making more friends. I called Amber but got her husband's cell phone BOO! I left a message anyway.

Around the house
The porch light got installed-mostly. thanks to a good Home Teacher-Thanks Darrell! Now all I have to do is put in the bulbs and program the thing. Thank heavens for instructions!

Overall
Not bad. . .let's see how tomorrow goes.

A voice from the Past, my friend Mary Harris

2009-06-17T13:14:00.002-06:00

You will never believe who called me today, Mary Harris. Yes friends, one of my true friends in life.

Mary said she was reading in the Ensign about the 12 Step program for LDS folks and thought of me. Over 20 years ago I did a 12 step program and talked about it a lot with her. At the time I really wanted to write one myself and include the scriptures and beliefs Mormonism brought to the table that aligned with the original program. Mary remembered those conversations. Well it just ook the world and the church a few years to get it done. But at last it is done. See the June Ensign if you are interested in the specifics. I always knew I was ahead of my time.

We caught up on her kids and life. Seh is still going to school. She wants to teach art. She has to get a BFA *(Bachelors of Fine Art) first and then do the education stuff. She got her AA in Richfield and is now attending in Cedar, during the school year. She lives over ther during the week with her mother.

As for the kids, Emmily got married-I remember her sending us the announcement-in a black wedding dress. She didn't ewant to have anything to do with the Church. Molly is now divorced and doing her own thing with a guy that has 5 kids, Wesley, bless his heart, is hanging in there-going to church and being a good son. I forgot to ask about Emily--so now I have an excuse to call her back.

It was so cool. We talked for well over an hour. It was as if we hadn't missed a single day. She told me how she mourned our moving and had truly missed us. I know we are going down next year but I should find a way to see her before then.

She and Bob are celebrating their 45th anniversary this year. that to me is amazing beyond belief. Right now Bob gives trail rides in Zions national park 4 days a week and comes home for three. It's interesting how marriages hold up under these circumstances (I will withold further comments on that subject). Right now there is no school so she is growing a garden in Panguitch. I can't imagine a more difficult thing to do. All I ever got to grow was broccoli and even then we never got to eat any of it! She turned Bob's pigeon house into a green house and actualy has 7 tomato plants growing.

I don't know if she will ever graduate and actually getto teach but I am so proud of her for putting forth the effort and pursuing education and knowledge. I asked her if she had a blog or email---she has neither in the summer. but I gave her my info and I hope to be a more compassionate and attentive friend. She is the kind you keep forever. I love you , Mary Harris. thanks for being such a great influencee on me and my children. You may have actually saved my life a time or two while we were living in the wilderness.

It, just this very minute, occured to me that we spent 8 years wandring in the wilderness. Growing up and maturing in many ways. Being "baptized" and getting ready to spend our lives in Logan-the real world. And a wonderful world it is. Thanks again Mary.

I guess I'd beetter get back on the trail of the list of things to do.
Do you think I am avoiding it? No, never, not me!

Off and On the List

2009-06-17T12:32:00.005-06:00

It makes me feel good to check things off the list. But sdomehow I usually (read today) add more than I can take off. So here it goes:

"Ill take the big one please!"

From the list
Get a drink at Mooches- I will need the nourishment and calming influence!
too bad, they are getting a new machine in today. Head to Beck's other source-make do without the fruit punch on top!

Go to Lowes. return the bug stuff and buy the light bulbs. Now these are the most difficult bulbs to find! 25 Watt candelabra base (about the size of you finger tip) look a little lik C7 the Christmas lights but they screw in and have a different wattage. Kind of like a night light but see above. Not frosted, not 40 or 60 Watt, not haligon--I can't believe it finally found. Spent more time in Lowes without being offer help than EVER before.

Add to the list
Shopko-White rocking chairs-that match my missing one-are on sale--one day (today) only.
Since I am going there i will return the pants that are too big and look for a shirt that will be good for the Walk of Light assignment and the trip to Glacier.

The rocking chairs sold out last week-there were NONE in the Store. On in Brigham, but the could not hold it, even for an hour so I could get there because fo the sale. UGH!! and that was the answer after waiting (to find the scu#) and waiting (only one person on the sales floor and she was taking stuff out to c car where the man was 'moving things around to make room--I ovre heard that conversation after going through half the store looking for the sales associate that would not answer the page. . .oh . . ) and waiting (for the customer assistant to call Brigham (and waiting for their only sales person to answer the page and check inventory).

After stoping back by the house to pick up Granny-she didn't want to leave the house until she got her wash moved-we were off again.

Wallmart Drive by- tiny hard plastic pool and smaller plastic pools. It was pouring rain so we didn't get out. I just drove up onto the sidewalk to check them out. There seemed to be plenty so I choose to leave it for another day. Granny wanted to go to KMart.
KMart- She tried to get me to park in formt of kohls but I prevailed when she discovered we were not at KMart. Ran through the rain. Granny had a coupon for $14 off of any purchase of $14 or more. We picked out a couple of puzzles for Lily-She put the two I liked (wooden with handles, animals) back and got a wooden 50 statyes of the US and another cardboard type. After standing in line-next in line we couldn't even back out like everyone behind us did-waiting for the New cashier-her second day- open a Sears Charge account for the older couple in front of us . .that really did take some time.-she discovered she had only purchased $13 worth. I ran back to the displat we'd just passed and got her a bag of Dove chocolates (boy did I need those by then) final price for Granny $2.56. My purchase $18-I got the plastic pool and, of course, my own medication (Doves chocolates) . Back through the rain, at least I had the pool to hide under. I figured if I got hit in the parking lot--you can't see much with a pool over your head--it wouldn't be because they couldn't see me. Oh I forgot, with the pool hanging off the front of the basket we did swing by the clothing department. I found a really cute jacket and shirt set but at $17 an $12, I passed them by. It is not easy to get around a store with a molded plastic pool hanging around the basket. I ate chocolate all the way home!

Total
Rocking chair on and then off the list--too much to do no trip to Brigham
Lowes trip lights and bugs off the list
Clothes for Thurdsay's talk on the list
the drink taste awful when coupled with chocolate-but that didn't stop me.

Granny gone home for the day-
Life is good, I'm still here.
If I couldn't laugh at myself I'd be in big trouble!

Another day in Paradise

2009-06-16T22:36:00.006-06:00

My only regret with this weeks schedule is that I would rather be in SLC helping Lexy with the newest member of the family. Dave said he would call if they need help. I do hope he will. After all-none of these activities are truly more important than family!

It was just another day in paradise. This is however, looking to be an very busy week.
Here is the outline of activities. It's a good thing I like to be busy!

Relief Society
We had presidency meeting today. We divided up the list of single sisters over 50 so the three of us (Anna is out of town) so we could call them and be sure they were notified of the High Priest Fish Fry scheduled for Saturday. I guess 12 each isn't too bad.
One Food Order
Call amber-where has she been?
Visits-watch for Sarah to be home---catch her when you can
Two Surgeries this week-Voniel and Wendy (both Thursday)

Young women
I guess that is the next activity on the list-I have to be at the Church at 5:15 to ride out to Cinnamon Creek. I get to speak at the Walk of Light. I am excited, it is alwasy gratifying to share my testimony about the Temple with the young women. (More about that after the fact)

Temple
Temple night is this Friday-if it weren't I am sure I would not go. Sometimes I jsut need motivation!

Fish Fry
It is a High Priest Group Party but as usual. . .I just can't stand by and watch them spend two to three times what they should on potatoes so . . .
Get 6 volunteers to cook the potatoes
Purchase all the stuff to make the potatoes (Sams, Dollar Store, Albertsons)
Divide all the stuff up into the 6 parts and make recipe cards For each
Deliver the ingredients to the volunteers (find them at home)
MAKE THE TELEPHONE CALLS/INVITATIONS
Cook Potatoes

Attend fish Fry

My Sweet almost 2 Lily

Lily's Birthday
Order Balloons (call Rachael)
Get the Pool (Wednesday/Granny)
buy gift/wrap
pray for sunshine

Father's Day
(If everyone wasn't so busy I'd ask for help with this)
Buy Candy bars
design covers
copy covers
cut covers
put them together

Home
Get porch light installed
Buy lights for the Porch light
get stuff for Lasagna!
Friday-buy worms for Dad's Fishing trip! (Smith)
Get new connector for garden watering system
Return Bug stuff to Home Depot while you are at it.

Feeding Dad Pizza

2009-06-15T16:37:00.006-06:00

Dad is only home for 9 meals a week. One might imagine that I could manage to cook that much. Add to that when asked, "What do you want to eat?" His answer is always either "Something good" or "what ever the cupboard can afford." Neither of which answers are very inspiring. After all I think everything I feed him is "good" and obviously we can "afford" it. I have yet to make him lobster, but I would love to. Actually I would rather go to Red Lobster and let them cook it . . .However, I am beginning to believe what I feed him is a direct reflection of my internal stress or 'busy'ness level.

This weekend reached new levels, let me explain via the menu.

Friday
dinner-Navajo Tacos (the scone mixture I had made up on Tuesday or Wednesday and needed to be made. It was topped with chicken that was dated 'best if used by 041209' but I tasted it and it seemed ok. It was only 2 months past. Neither of us got sick!

Saturday
breakfast-who is up for breakfast before 7 am? I was glas there was enough (not sour) milk.
lunch-we were on our way to SLC to meet Phoebe. there was no time to stop!
On the way back we tried to out run the rain but gave up in Layton. We visited Dennys, possibly of Dad's favorite. Then we actually had breakfast.
dinner- I was going to get some chicken at Sams but ordered a pizza at the deli before I remembered what I came for. So pizza and a vegetable tray it was. I also go thim a peach pie to prove I was conceerned about his happiness and "fullness." And I was really tired.

Sunday
breakfast- if there is leftover pizza Dad will eat it! He enjoyed it that time, I think. Again I was asleep. He felt the needed to be at church at 7:15 to set up chairs. I didn't need to be there until 8:30-half an hour before the meetings began. so I slept until almost 8 am.
lunch-Pat got home before me so he again ate pizza. This time he ate a few vegetables with it.
dinner- Well I had to leave at 5:15 to get everything ready for the fireside. Now I know he can cook frozen dinners and ther were two of them he cold have chosen from. In fact I made it clear that since I would not be home the (really good, extra special) frozen dinners were going to have to do. Can you guess what he ate? More pizza.
late night-about 9:30) he was looking around the kitchen, finding little to meet his needs. Note I had not done much more shopping than the pizza, vegi tray, peach pie, and bananas from Sams. he had been eating little pieces of the peach pie but that just was not going to do. finally I couldn't take it any more, (I felt so bad for him) I made him a chicken helper with canned chicken . He thougth it was great!
It's amazing what hunger and deprivation can do to the taste buds. It was actually pretty good.

Monday
breakfast-I believe he had cold cereal. But then again it could have been piza since I had not done the dishes and I know we were running short on bowls. Again, why should I be up and making breakfast before 7am if I don't have to?
11ees-(as in the Hobbit) he started to heat he last of the pizza (have you ever heard of a pizza lasting through that many meals?) I knew he deserved more so I made him an omlet. It has almost become a tradition on Monday mornings for 11ees. It is one of his favorites and I simply couldn't see him eating more pizza while I read email.
So, with a happy heart I made his omlett.

However, he wrapped up the last two pieces of the pizza and took them with him to SLC for a snack.

Who would have thought you could get that many meals out of one pizza?

Poor Dad.

Next weekend he will get his favorite, Lasagna. After all it will be Fathers Day and he deserves it. If he gets his way he will get it the next weekend as well. Lasagna will still be his favorite and it will be his birthday on Sunday. It will probably be a long time before I feed him pizza again, at least without some hungry sons (I include the imported fellows in that) to help him eat it.

And Phoebe makes 7

2009-06-14T16:31:00.006-06:00

Welcome Phoebe!

We officially have seven grand children. Phoebe Alexis was born at 9:30 am on June 13. She is beautiful and healthy and a blessing to our family. Here are some pictures--if I can make it work this time.

Mom and baby only 4 hours old
(No one should look that good four hours after giving birth-no on but our Lexy)

Pat and Granny and I made a quick trip down yesterday. We had a rainy drive back but it was all worth it to welcome this precious little girl into our family. For all the challenges and trials of life there is nothing like the birth of a baby to put things into perspective. there is no greater gift that can come to this life than life itself.

"You did good!"

WELCOME to our world Phoebe!

Where can I turn for peace?

2009-06-12T23:23:00.002-06:00

Why is it there is a certain segment of society that seems to think they can take what clearly does not belong to them?

I have always felt safe in our home here in peaceful city. Now I have to lock the doors even during the day! It is so annoying to have to get out a key to get into my own house. but, it just isn't worth the risk any more. Yesterday i purchased the motion light for the front porch. I think I will ask my hometeachers to help me put it in. FYI Conner, the little boy on the corner had his bicycle stolen just the other day. So locking down the front porch furniture I believe was fully justified. but listen to this.

A block or two over a fellow turned on his sprinklers only to have guisers go off all down the row. Someone had stolen all the sprinkler heads. They just screw off, but why? that just seems so juvenile. I can't believe it!

Somewhere some parents failed to teach their children to respect others property. and, unfortunately the police don't seem to bent on getting after the problem either.

Wait, we the law abiding, hard working citizens, pay our taxes, obey the laws, and always get caught for every little infraction should be protected from the bad guys!
When i asked my neighbor, Susan, what she thought we should do her only suggestion was to pull a "Dennis and Janice" and move up on the hill. Why can't the thieves just go up there, where the citizens can better afford to replace the stolen items.

Why can't people just respect each other and leave what is not theirs alone? I bet if someone stole something from them . . they'd be really mad!

What is this peaceful village becoming? Where can I turn for peace?

The Green Green Grass of Home

2009-06-11T23:02:00.004-06:00

Missy Mia love the green green grass of our house!

I really like the grass in our front yard. Dad supports it through the spraying and watering and cutting, of course. but now, there are bugs in it. Clumps of grass just pull right out. Little holes are turning into bit holes. Our neighbors to the south had big, big patches of dead grass in their front yard just a week or two ago. So, I inquired of them regarding the turn around. Bayer bud granules, $17 a bag at Lowes. I just couldn't spend that much on holes, or could I? After reading way too many labels I settled for a $12 bag, I think it is the same stuff, I hope it is the same stuff. Maybe I should just take it back and get the real stuff, after all, I do love the green green grass of home.

While at Lowes I (on Dad's credit card) purchased a motion sensor light fixture for the front porch. they only had one design. and it takes those silly candelabra types bulbs. Ugh, I do not want to be constantly purchasing and replacing the bulbs, but I do want the fixture and the added security it promises. Evidently the new energy saving bulbs do not work in these type fixtures. I think I will go to Home Depot tomorrow.

Speaking of which, Granny and I went to Home Depot yesterday. I purchased a concrete block, a heavier chain and combination lock to use on the front porch. I do not want to lose my other rocking chair or glider. So, they are now chained down! I forgot to look for the light. But I did look for the stuff I would need to make more tomato cages like the ones we have been using for 20 years now. I am tired of the little ones that fall over and in the end do not do the job they were purchased for. However, the only stuff I could find was $139 and 330 feet. Lowes had nothing really and neither did IFA. Now what? I do not know. But the tomato plants are growing and something does need to be done soon. I do love tomatoes! I can hardly wait!

Catch up time

2009-06-09T18:29:00.006-06:00

I so enjoy reading all the family/friends blogs I can't imagine why I haven't written lately. Sorry, I . .won't even try to make an excuse.

Mothers Day was wonderful. The men and Sarah cooked a yummy lunch while the mothers all sat around talking. Dad washed dishes too. And there were plenty of them. It was just plain old enjoyable. Thanks guys!

The garden tilled-thanks to the Hansen family-got mostly planted-with the help of the Lees-the week before memorial day. That is the earliest the Nolan plot has ever been improved. It has even started to grow. Although, we couldn't grow more grass if that was all we planted.

We celebrated Ella's birthday on Saturday in Willow Park. She is a darling five year old. Memorial Day was great too. Lots of kids, card games, food, and movies makes for a fun. We also got to visit John's resting place. It is so assuring to share the spirit of one that means so much to us.

Other than Relief Society activities and the usual church related outings life has been rather peaceful. Well except for the untold number of trips to various doctors. Everything seems to be healing well just too slowly for my time table. I will have another MRI close to the end of the month. If the tumor has regrown . . .we may have to do radiation but what ever will be-will be, no need to worry about it now.

There I feel better, all caught up.
Sorry if I left something important out. My brain is still coming out of the "fog" caused by the surgery. But, it is getting better.

Life is good and there are an abundance of good things to look forward to.
We'll soon have another adorable grandchild and yet more pictures to post.

Just a quote

2009-05-09T09:51:00.001-06:00

I found this the other day. I believe it was Joseph Fielding Smith.
"Without the wonderful work of the women I realize that the Church would have been a failure. The mother in the family far more than the father, is the one who instills in the hearts of the children, a testimony and a love for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our fathers and mothers came here in early days for the one and only thing---to serve the Lord, and labor for the salvation of humanity; and wherever you find a woman who is devoted to this work, almost without exception you will find that her children are devoted to it" (Gospel Standards, p. 150).

Recreational Repenting of Others

2009-05-08T06:29:00.003-06:00

I just read a great article. I would recommend it for everyone! It is called Recreational Repenting of Others by Wally Goddard (http://www.drwally.org/moving-from-selfhood/recreational-repenting-of-others/) It has two specific applications in my life.

First, with my mother. I have excused my irritability by saying "I hope my children have more patience than I do." No, I need to do something about it! There is no better day than today to begin.

Second, in my Church calling. I have followed this approach in that I know I can change any situation by changing my behavior. I may not be able to make the situation perfect. But, I can make it a lot better.

This is the conclusion of the article ". . . can see his or her own irritation as an invitation to repent. Irritation is not so much about what my partner is doing wrong but how I am thinking wrong. I can repent. I can choose to see the good. I can see the differences as a blessing. I can allow my partner to be different from me. I can choose to learn from my partner and to feel blessed by my partner.

Fixing people is really God’s prerogative. Only as we become more godly should we presume to change another person. And here’s the great irony: As we become more godly, we enjoy people more and more just as they are."

You really need to read the article. Oops, I really needed to read the article. Perhaps there is something in it that could bless your life. I hope so.

Saturday Was

2009-05-04T09:55:00.003-06:00

I finally got a picture for my blog---me and Ella--I think it is so cute!

Saturday actually started on Friday night with a sleepover with Ella. We slept in Dave's old room. She was a great sleeper and we didn't get up until 6:55. WAHOO!!!
Of course we had the traditional pancakes. She always wants pancakes at our house--she gets to help make them. I even let her crack the egg. We left some for Papa but they dissapeared before he got home from the Temple. Oh, well.

Granny picked up Mia and then us and we all went shopping. First to Michael's where I got Ella another wood parrot to paint (only a dollar, but the last one I bought her we ended up giving to a friend for his birthday). Then we went to Albertsons. Mia is at the fun stage to take shopping. She doesn't ask for anything but loves the attention. We got the usual groceries and some donuts for Lance to share with the guys helping them move. Yes, it was moving day again for Ella's family. This will make the fifth home she has had in less than five years.

We found her Dad at the new house just finishing the first trip. They were fortunate to have some helpers from Lance's employment and Scottie (brother-in-law) come and help. It was such a rainy day, awful for moving! But in the end it all got done.

After lunch Ella and Papa were off to the Movie, Earth. Mia and I got well deserved naps. And a little after three I dropped the girls off to their other Grandma's house and breathed a sigh of relief. I made it! I only yelled once--the stress got to me trying to get out the door to the store. Of course, with the help of Great Granny and Papa.

Nanny and Mia

All and all it was fine and fun. Mia is just the sweetest thing. She's a little shy but just a love. the rest of the day was uneventful. Except I did actually cook dinner. And worked on Ella's birthday party invitations.

And thus you have it, my Saturday before Sunday.

Another Sunday

2009-05-03T18:22:00.004-06:00

Today was indeed another Sunday. I really wish we had more than one a week. How would it feel to be spiritually fed more than once a week? Not bad! But for now one will have to do.

A happy Granny picture

I made it to my early morning meetings (7:15), running off the newsletter, teaching Relief Society, then bearing my testimony just seem to take all I had. But it felt so good to be back into the swing of things. We did skip choir practice but we will get back to that as well.

I must add. Dad was the first person to stand and bear his testimony. I was shocked. He does it fairly rarely. But what's more he expressed his appreciation to our Heavenly Father for blessing me through the surgery . . . I don't know why I never thought of pat as actually praying that I would live and be made whole. this has been so costly and the expenses continue to rise. bot tmy CPAP and Oxygen machines went out. The CPAP needs to be replaced ($1900), the oxy machine will require $80 just to have the people in SLC look at it and tell us IF it is repairable. All this on top of the surgery. How blessed are we to have insurance?

I am truly glad to have survived the surgery. I pray I will continue to gain strength and the abilities I need to continue to enjoy this life-my family most of all- and make the most of the o
pportunities the Lord has given me to serve Him and the members of our ward. I have a grreat life, and I would not trade it for anything. With all of its trials and challenges--this life is a blessing beyond what I could ever have imagined. May we all have many Sundays and Saturdays and Mondays and . . . .and enjoy and appreciate them. They are gifts from God!

Our House

2009-04-29T23:57:00.005-06:00

I heard this song again today. I really loved it years ago but haven't thought about it for a very long time. it made me cry. Tears of gratitude. Thanks Dad.

I know it's not the best picture, but I could find it and get it into this blog....
I still miss my rocking chair

Our House - Crosby Stills Nash and Young

I'll light the fire, while you place the flowers
In the vase that you bought today.
Staring at the fire for hours and hours,
While I listen to you play your love songs
All night long for me, only for me
Chorus:
Our house, is a very, very, very fine house.
With two cats in the yard,
Life used to be so hard,
Now every thing is easy 'cause of you.

Come to me now, and rest your head for just five minutes,
Everything is done.
Such a cozy room, the windows are illuminated
By the evening sunshine through them,
Fiery gems for you, only for you.

Chorus:
Our house, is a very, very, very fine house.
With two cats in the yard
Life used to be so hard,
Now every thing is easy 'cause of you.

I'll light the fire, while you place the flowers
In the vase that you bought today.

Home again

2009-04-22T22:52:00.002-06:00

Greetings,
I am home again and it has only been a week since I had the surgery. But I am already restless and ready to get on with life. I still want my life back.

The hormones are raging and causing great distress but If I have to go through it to get to where I want to be, so be it.

This picture (thanks Lexy) reminds me of what I am living for; to honor the past, enjoy the present and bless the future.

It's late and even after all the rest I have had--all day long--I need to go to bed. But I wanted to thank everyone who cared and prayed for my health and safety. The Lord and your prayers saw me through this major step in recovery.

I'll love you forever, Mom

PS I had it which the local doctors and took my own stitches out-I was not going to go all the way back to SLC for two little stitches. So I guess you can see I am getting some of my spunk back!

Hi Granny

2009-04-14T07:34:00.002-06:00

Sarah took this picture over the Easter weekend. I thought it was just darling! It made me think of the wonderful day when I see them at my door again. That will be after the "big day." Granny and I are headed for SLC today. Tomorrow is the big day, finally. I am so looking forward to getting my life back.

I love you all and truly appreciate all your prayers.

Renee

A New Resident and Easter weekend visitors

2009-04-11T20:47:00.006-06:00

A Little Easter Love, Mia and Granny

It seems we have a new resident at 446 N 400 West, a muskrat. I think it is a muskrat. I didn't move my car for a week or so. When I did I found a good size pile of poop and fur under it. I could not imagine where it had come from. This morning, however, on our way to the temple at 7 a.m. out on the lawn was this animal. Way to big to be a squirrel but brownish gray with a tail kinda' like a squirrel. He seemed to be eating our newly raked grass. The minute we opened the front door, he was gone. We have since found a couple of poop and fur piles--Why the fur in the pile? Do you think they clean their coats after winter and eat it. . . .ugh!

What should we do about our new resident? I really have had enough of the poop piles. Since the dearly departed Elvis has gone on to greener pastures it has been nice to be able to take the kiddos out into the yard without worrying all the time about what they might find or step in. Animal control? that doesn't seem to neighborly. Maybe Derek next door could just hunt him down. That seems even less neighborly. Oh the joy of "muskrat love."

He didn't show his face during our Easter egg hunt. It was so cute. Noah was the horder, Lily caught on. Mia got lots of help from Ella and her Mom, Benji crawled around a bit but liked what he already had in his basket more than the ones spread all over. Tessa watched from her Dad's arms. And Ella Had her own scavenger hunt and seemed to really enjoyed it.

The lineup; Tessa, Noah, Ella. Mia. Lily, and Benji.

Granny watches from the ONLY Rocking chair

Ella and Granny

Lily the runaway! Caught by Rachael followed by Seuao and Tessa

Noah the Champion!

Of course there were lots of great pictures followed by a really sweet devotional by Lexy and a family dinner.. What a great Easter fun day!

Papa and Benji

After all the festivities the Marmot was found hiding between the garage and the shed. there are various pictures of the not so little fellow on cell phones and cameras around the house. But sorry, none have made it to my computer yet. Stay tuned!

Christmas Reprise!

2009-04-10T17:22:00.003-06:00

As Easter approaches, it's fun to remember Christmas. Welcome little guys! (and parents) to our Easter celebration!

Yet ANOTHER Doctor

2009-04-09T17:18:00.002-06:00

I couldn't believe it when the Surgeon's office called wanted to put this surgery off for another week. I just couldn't take it. So, he decided that the best thing is probably that his partner do it if he could. The partner agreed, while I was waiting on the phone ( funny how easily these guys can talk to each other and how hard it is for us to get through hummmm). So, the surgery is still on but with a different doctor. The original, Dr Rich, said he would meet me at the hospital and introduce me to the new doctor, Joel MacDonald. (see this web site for a picture and other info--http://medicine.utah.edu/neurosurgery/faculty/macdonald.htm.
I am so done with this whole thing! this doctor is an assistant professor at the U of U and has a long list of research articles he's published . I also called Dr. Grua's office to see what they thought about the new guy. They will call me tomorrow. I guess I feel ok about it.

Please Lord, get me through this. I really want my life back.

Thanks guys for listening and seeing me through-I couldn't do it without you!

I want to be good

2009-04-09T07:53:00.002-06:00

"You are good. But it is not enough just to be good.
You must be good for something.
You must contribute good to the world.
The world must be a better place for your presence.
And the good that is in you must be spread to others."
---President Gordon B. Hinckley

Get out there and do some good today!

The Latest on the Tumor

2009-04-08T17:39:00.003-06:00

Well it is still there and still growing. Today I visited the Ear Nose and Throat specialist (ENT) that will navigate through the nose and sinuses, probably only 4-5 inches.
Dr. Child seems to know what he is doing. He is very smart he graduated Magna cum Laude from theU of U. And he has done this a number of times before.

He did a CT scan and got a good look at the sinus work I had done a few years ago. He thinks the nasal approach will be just fine. He also said it appears that the tumor has broken through the sella, a boney covering that fronts the pituitary gland. They have to break through it anyway to get to the tumor. It's just an indicator of the size. They won't have any trouble finding the thing now.

So, it is all go for the 15th. at the new hospital in SLC. Pat calls it the "behemoth." It is scheduled for 7:30 am, although I have to be there at 5:30--that is early! That means I have to leave home about 4 a.m. UGH!

Although the after care is sounding a little more difficult than I originally imagined. I plan on putting the time in the hospital to good use, recovering. no projects, no journal articles. I will most likely not return to Logan until Monday (sorry guys, I will not be able to help with the Ward outside spring clean-up) after I see the ENT and get the sinus packing removed. Just the thoughts of that gives me the shivers. Face it, this is not a tonsillectomy. and I am not 8 years old.

But the future "looks" bright and clear!

Oh for my Chair!

2009-04-05T23:21:00.004-06:00

The weekend was nice. Dave and Lexy stayed and watched conference with us and I got to enjoy seeing Noah's first walk down the runway. Saturday night Granny bought us Kentucky Fried Chicken. It's been a long time since I had KFC and it was so nice not to have to cook!

Beck and girls came over for the morning session. She brought yummy cookies. (thanks!) The kids got to play a little it was fun for them I think. After they left Noah kept walking around calling "Ella, Ella." He missed her. but it was nap time for Mia and Noah.

Dinner on Sunday was kind of a fiasco. the second box of Fettuccine Alfredo was a little old, it had bugs in it. When I added it to the stuff in the pot already, well I ruined both of them. While trying toi fish out the exoskeletons, which I could hardly see, the meat started to burn. I had to dump out the noodles and sauce and ended up washing the frying pan three times before we got to sit down to eat.

But that wasn't why I was ready to cry all the way through dinner--I held it together pretty good hoping it was the hormones. However just before dinner Lexy noticed there was only one rocking chair on my porch. I know there were two there yesterday. I remember looking at them while I was visiting with Shelly from next door. I was anxious for spring and returning to the play and visiting on the front porch. But one of my chairs was gone. We looked around the yard and asked Pat if he'd put one in the garage or something. But NO, the chair is gone.

I wanted those chairs for a very long time. I really enjoyed those rocking chairs. Why would someone steal my rocking chair? It makes me so sad! why pick on me? A rocking chair is not a necessity of life. They just took it because they could. I know they had no idea how hard it would be on me, at least I hope they don't know. I am just so very sad. Stealing is just not nice! I guess I am just going to have to find a way to chain everything down.

But if you happen to see a white rocking chair just sitting around somewhere it doesn't belong, let me know. I would be happy to identify it. I would offer a reward if I weren't trying to figure out how I am going to save enough money up to buy a new one.

Thursday's visit to the neurosurgeon and the view from here

2009-04-02T22:44:00.000-06:00

I went to see the surgeon today. Surprise, surprise, we need yet another specialist. I thought neurosurgeons could do anything. Reallyb all they have to do is decide whether they can go in through the nose--the most common approach--or have to go through my "thick" skull. I may have too much scar tissue to go in the easy way he wants the Ears,Nose and Throat surgical guy to help get through the nose and sinuses. The alternative more invasive over the eyes they want to avoid if possible. I just want it done now. All the waiting around makes me nervous. Too much time to think about the possible drawbacks. Besides waiting means I lose more of my vision, which now they tell me they cannot promise I will get back. and more headaches.

I have never been very good at waiting, I just like to get things done and move on. I guess I will just try and stay busy and out of trouble--no more falling down. . .. Either way the surgery is schedulad for the 15th.

The good side is I get to celebrate Easter. I love Easter. We have never had the Easter Bunny in our house, candy and new clothes but no Bunny. I almost always go to John's grave for sunrise and recite my mantra: As surely as the sun arose this Easter morning, the Son of God did rise on that first Easter morning, and my son too will rise and we will be together again.

There is no holiday more important than Easter. To have the knowledge that "Death is conqured, man is free, Christ has won the victory" There is nothing more important or glorious than the hope we gain through Jesus Christ and the atonement.
May we all enjoy general conference and prepare for a glorious Easter.
We have so much to be grateful for!

today the surgeon

2009-04-02T09:41:00.002-06:00

So, the day has finally arrived, today we meet with the neurosurgeon. I know it's only been a few days, but it seems like forever. I want to have this over with but I also wonder if I really know what I am getting into. I know a lot of things can go wrong but if I allow myself to think about all that. I could just dissolve into a blubbering mass. That would help no one, especially my family.

I went to Enrichment last night, it was fun and good to see so many sisters attend. We had just under 40 show up. We learned how to make yummy chocolate creme Easter eggs. Which of course, we had to dip into chocolate and decorate! There were two humanitarian service projects to work on as well.

The only bad part was clean-up. Thanks to so many willing helpers it wasn't that bad, I really just watched for the most part. But, I hate that big mop and bucket! I think we may have to invest in a swifer sweeper. I just love having such good people around! Thanks!

Life this week

2009-03-30T21:35:00.002-06:00

Life is very busy this week. I assume you know all about the mess in my brain. I can't remember who I told or know who told who. I don't really care. The truth beats gossip any day and a few more prayers in my behalf could not hurt.

Anyway. Tuesday I have eye tests and a visit to radiology. I also have a couple of letters to write and a few more people to visit and some last minute phone calls to make--if I can find them.

Wednesday we have Relief Society enrichment-which will not take all day but needs to be remembered. Since it will just be the first of April I doubt we will have all the info we need to do the computer work by then. Of course I know we are limited by the supervisors and they are limited by the VTs themselves. Nobody's fault, just the facts of life.

Thursday I go to SLC and meet with the surgeon and find out the where and when and how all this will take place. The surgery will most likely take place next Tuesday. Right now I would just as soon have it over with and be on the mending end but all things in good time.

That leaves my VT coordinator and me Friday to get the Visit Teaching into the computer. The ward clerk reminded me on Sunday that we need to get it in early because it is the end of the quarter and thus a reporting month.

Too much info eh? Oh well, there you've got it, my life in a blog. :) But you know, I would rather be busy than sitting around worrying about the future. Although the worrying is coming more easily these days. I could clean the house but, that is just not high on my priority list right now. Maybe Saturday between Conference sessions, maybe next Monday, maybe not.

Be happy, stay busy and do some good!.

Medical update as of Sunday

2009-03-29T20:32:00.002-06:00

Perhaps this is not the place to put this info but I will anyway.

The Doctor was great! Pat drove me down and Mary, our family medical consultant, met us there.
Not only was the doctor there but he had a nurse to draw blood for lots more tests and the lab was also staffed so they could get started on the tests. i should get the results on Monday he said.

Meanwhile, the doctor informed us that the tumor is approximately the size of a walnut and had almost totally encompassed the carotid artery and is pressing on the optic nerve. these are almost never cancerous! It needs to be removed and the sooner the better. I will have to see the surgeon as soon as possible this week (another trip to the big city) and then it will be scheduled. The doctor hopes by the end of the week.

We are frankly excited. I cannot wait to see again! The kids "want their mother back." Pat, of course is worried, but satisfied that the doctor knows what he is doing. I think we are all a little worried but dwelling on it just makes it worse. The after math, trying to balance the hormones involved will not be fun but the whole idea of normalcy is overwhelming.

I've got a lot of good helpers in the Relief Society and I am sure they will very competently take over.

Life goes on and we are so very blessed to live ina time and place where the medical knowledge and services are available. Even more Pat is employed and we have insurance to help cover the costs.

When I know the time and place I will let you know, probably via email. Love ya lots and lots and lots!

On the radio

2009-03-29T20:26:00.003-06:00

Evidently one of my blog entries, Code Words and Meanings, was picked up and used in a national radio show this weekend. The host left a message informing me. I wanted to check it out so here is the link to the Radio show: http://www.waywordradio.org/ I thought it might be a hoax but no. Isn't that interesting. I am even quoted on the front page as of Sunday.
I guess that means they also quoted me quoting Ella.
It's a small world with the internet.

Friday and Saturday in a hurry

2009-03-28T09:10:00.002-06:00

It's only 9:10 on Saturday Morning and I am in a hurry already. This is my sleep-in day.

But I digress.

After the 8:30 telephone call from the doctor yesterday I was confident I had all the news and opportunities for the day and weekend undersontrol. But no!

I got to take a sweet sister to the hospital in the afternoon and then do her visiting teaching with her companion for her. It was so good to visit with all the sisters. But at 4:30 or so I got three phone calls, while visiting, of course. I don't get that many phone calls in two days let alone in half an hour.Beck I reminded about the ward party, Dad told me he was 45 minutes from home and then the doctor's office from SLC . I have an appointment for 11;30 Saturday.

Who are you kidding, doctors do not have office hours on Saturday. But his receptionist said he was coming in to see a couple of people, including me. Now that was fast! I wasn't too worried about this tumor bit until this. Maybe he is just too busy to squeeze anyone in next week.

anyway, I am off to SLC. Mary offered to go with me so I told Dad he could stay here if he really did not want to go. He offered. I can not get mad at him for not supporting me--he offered. I thought I should spell that out so everyone understood, and I could remember!

Granny was prying so i told her I got a quick appointment with a Doctor about my eyes and thought I would spend some time with Mary since I do not get to very often. When I know more, you will know more. No need to give Granny more time to worry-got it?

Love ya' lots and lots and lots! Mom

Test Results

2009-03-27T09:03:00.002-06:00

It is not even 9 a.m., I can't believe the doctor has already called with the news of the day. I decided to send the news out this way so everybody got the same story at the same time.

The blood work so far was ok. However, I am going to have to have more tests

The MRI not as much. There is a tumor on my pituitary gland. It is NOT cancer (He said they never are) but it is putting pressure on my optic nerves and the pituitary gland is like the control center for the rest of the body and it needs to be taken care of. Dr Stones will attempt to contact the endocrinologist in SLC and make an appointment for me next week. It may have to be surgically removed but they may be able to do it with radiation. We will just have to wait and see (Ha!)

It is a relief to know there is something there and I am not totally over the edge. And it is correctable.

I love you all!
Mommy Nolan

I do have a brain and I have got proof

2009-03-26T20:16:00.004-06:00

I really tried to put a picture in here, real proof that inside this thing attached to my shoulders is a brain. But since this brain couldn't get passed the "internal error" no picture is available to you at this time. So sad! I wanted you guys to see and believe. Of course, even the picture could not prove that the brain is actually capable of processing thought or making decisions, let alone good decisions. But it was a start.

I did have the MRI done today and the results should be available tomorrow. I can get them from the doctor in the morning, if he is in the office. I will let you know when I know something.

I did discover that something was broken in the latest fall. But it wasn't a bone. It was the strap on my favorite black shoes. With no cobbler in town and very worn tred they are most likely not worth the effort of saving. But I morn the loss. They were so comfortable and I could wear them to church, the store, around the house, camping, anywhere. It is definitely cheaper to replace them then repairing a broken bone!

Yet another day has passed and I got the MRI, replaced the nail that popped off, went to lunch with a couple of friends--and watched every word I said (yea Mom) and got a massage. Now that was really, really nice adn relaxing to my stiff neck muscles. So I feel pretty good about making it through another day. Thank you God, thank you my loved ones.

Ooops!

2009-03-25T19:30:00.003-06:00

OOOPS!
I thought about never writing again as my most recent posts were well, offensive to some. No offence was ever intended. I surely wish you, whoever you are, would have talked to me instead of , oh well it doesn't matter now.

I actually feel bad for all of you that don't have much of a choice regarding me. I am the only mother you may ever have on this earth. And I feel bad about what I have put you through. You all deserve so much more. I guess I actually feel really bad about who I am right now, Maybe tomorrow will be better, new pills, actually a return to the old, old pills. "Could be, who knows" a return to the old me.

I am so sorry to all of you!

OOOPS again
Unfortunatly when I get over stressed I lose focus for even the simple things, like walking down stairs. Actually it was as much the eyes as anything else but it's done now. This time it was the front steps, I got up close and personal with the orange rock in the dirt/tulip garden. The fall also shattered the plate of food I was carrying. Oh shoot!

Here is the really good news! I do not have a black eye or broken upper jaw! My lip is not torn and I do not need stitches on my face. Now that is a lot to be grateful for! My face avoided the rock. My left arm is pretty scraped up, my watch band broke-but the crystal, which was damaged before Christmas, is still intact, sort of'. My left knee is scraped and I get a sharp pain in it every once in a while, but I can't see any swelling yet. I didn't go to the emergency room as they wouldn't have been able to tell if it was broken or not. Remember it took five weeks for them to tell me last time.

Additional good news, Beck saw me fall and was there to pick me up brush me off and clean up the mess. I cannot say thank you enough, to Beck and my Heavenly Father.

Even more good news, they drew blood for tests today and I get to have the MRI tomorrow. I sincerely do not believe they will find anything in the MRI, but what they rule out will be a relief sort of. I really want to be able to see again. This is so frustrating! There has to be something that can be done about my vision. Since I am going to be at the hospital anyway, if anything feels real bad, I'll have it looked at then.

Golly, that adds up to Spiritually challenged; physically, falling and in pain; and emotionally, unstable at best. This does not look good. But I am still alive, God must not be done with me-yet. So I will keep going and pray for better fays ahead. I hope you will too.

Courage

2009-03-19T10:23:00.005-06:00

I guess I have always had a certain amount of courage, faith you could say.
But I have always wanted to have someone believe in me enough to actually stand up for me. Through all the teen years of my children, one in particular but we don't need to name names, I longed for the day that someone would see things through my eyes and rescue me or at least defend me, as the mother. A simple, "You don't treat your mother like that!" would have been a blessed event. It never happened. "You were doing a pretty good job of defending yourself." was as close as it ever got. Didn't anyone see me crouched on the floor of the kitchen, taking the--all be it verbal--assault? Have I always been so useless as to be not to be worth defending?

Somethings never change.

Courage, the strength to be who I am, where I am. "I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father, who loves me, and I love Him. I will “stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places.” Even if I have to do it alone. I know, with God on your side you are never alone. But every now and then you, maybe not you, but I, coud use a human hug and someone along to boost my courage. Who lnows even defend me?

Celebrating the Green

2009-03-16T20:47:00.003-06:00

It's the celebrating of the green once again. Don't forget who your are. Irish at heart. and green of clothing.

Be sure to wish your favorite "green man" aka Papa a happy him day!

We had our traditional brisket and cabbage on Sunday. It was good but very fatty and greasy.

There is a surprise for each of the little green Nolans in the big city at Mach's house. Here it's just another day in Paradise. Food orders, evictions, more people out of work, who could ask for more? At least there haven't been any deaths in the ward! Now that is something to be grateful!

Swans are Birds

2009-03-16T10:11:00.002-06:00

Pat earned some serious Hubby of the Year Points on Saturday.

Pat listens to the Saturday early morning sports show-whatever it is called, on KSL. He heard about Swan Days at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. I used to be a birder, I loved being able to tell them apart! So he took me, over to the park and we drove, at least10 miles off and on (sudden changes and car eating potholes) of dirt roas and then a full 12 of all dirt-one way-that was oftern ignored-road followed.

We could hear the swans even before we could see them. They were beautiful and huge, what I could see of them. You "see" the eagle eyes are not what they used to be. And worse, the doctors don't seem to be able to correct them! UGH!!! These tundra swans are headed for the NORTH coast of Alaska and Canada. Look on a map, that is a long way!

We also saw geese and ducks and lots of coots (little black duck like birds with whilte beaks.). In the visitors center they had a live pelican, one of my all time favoriites. They are big also-and fond in Florida (usually brown there).

I wished we had taken Ella but in the end, four hours of driving and only tow short potty stops just might have been asking too much. I had an idea for her birthday party though . . .

Thanks Papa!

I Wanna (did) Run Through the Halls of My High School

2009-03-13T10:14:00.002-06:00

I saw Mary's answers and wondered if anyone knew any of these things about me. I wonder if I even know these things about me, let;s see,

1. Did you date someone from your school?
Yep, sort of, he'd already moved on to the hard stuff.

2. Did you marry someone from your school?
No, no good Mormons there, other than me, of course.

3. Did you car pool to school?
No, the feet worked fine, until I could drive myself-my mother's car.

4. What kind of car did you have?
Who remembers stuff like that, an old station wagon maybe.

5. What kind of car do you have now?
A 1995 Ford Taurus--thank you John!

6. It's Friday night...where are you? (then)
On a date or getting ready for a speach contest, at least every other Saturday.

7. It is Friday night...where are you? (now)
Feeding Pspa, and watching tv-such a thrilling life!

8. What kind of job did you have in high school?
Job? Who had time for that, too many service opportunities. I did all of them!

9. What kind of job do you do now?
The ultimate Social Worker-186 sisters keep me pretty busy.

10. Were you a party animal?
Sort of, I was the designated driver. As the only non-drinker I enjoyed lots of laughs watching the fools.

11. Were you considered a flirt?
Probably, with the debaters form other--less Cuban--high schools.

12. Were you in band, orchestra, choir?
Sorry, no. Debate anyone?

13. Were you a nerd?
Not really, did we have nerds in the 70's?

14. Did you get suspended or expelled?
Yep, but I was right! and in the end the Principal got in trouble for it. He called me an encouragable. Me? Someday i will tell you the story.

15. Can you sing the fight song?
No, that information has been permanently deleated from the data base. But I do remember my favorite cheer. "Womp up si' head, womp up si' head"

16. Who was/were your favorite teacher(s)?
I wasn't there enough to know their names in the first place.

17. Where did you sit during lunch?
I had to show up in order to go to lunch. (I got great grades, I could speak English)

18. What was your school's full name?
Miami Senior High School

19. When did you graduate?
1973-so long ago

20. What was your school mascot?
Stingray

21. If you could go back and do it again, would you?
No, it got better and th ebest is still yet to come.

22. Did you have fun at prom?
Yes, but I didn't really get asked until just the day or two before. I am glad I went!

23. Do you still talk to the person you went to prom with?
Not in the last 35 years or so--oh, I am suddenly feeling really old.

24. Are you planning on going to your next reunion?
Haven't been to one yet, why start now?

25. Do you still talk to people from school?
Not a single one, and I haven't since I got married. Living acorss the country doesn't help, but I doubt I would anyway. See #1 and 2 above.

So now you know who I was in High School. I wish I had a picture I could share, but living in the past never has done me any good--I was kind-of pretty though way back when,

Forever the optimist-The best is (still) yet to come!

You can't beat free

2009-03-09T11:11:00.001-06:00

Hey, I found this new site. It's kind of cool and you can't beat free!
Actually I saw it on Good Things Utah and they check things out before showing them. anyway, if you like to enter giveaways . . .that promise not to sell or give away your contact info, give this one a try. the prizes are great.
giveawaytoday@hotmail.com

A Refreshing View

2009-03-08T20:49:00.002-06:00

Today, after Relief Society, Pat and i went to SLC to hear Mary and Allen speak in Church. We had the privledge of hold, wrangling Benji for the meeting.

We made a few mistakes in that process. Benji doesn't drink well out of his sippy cup when the lid is still on it. Papa was pretty wet but not quite as wet as Benji. Sippy cups do leak through lids when sucked on hard enough. And Nanny has definitely lost her knack at helping little people drink from very small cups. Benjie can, on the other hand, squirt water a considerable distance when he does not want it in his mouth. Allen was also correct inthe comment he made at Benjie's first birthday party, "it's not so much what the book is about as it is what it tastes like." We had one really good tasting book, we knew that when we tried to take it away from him. The best I could do is kinda' mash the cardboard back into its original shape and try and smooth the lamaneted cover back down. Sorry guys! We also managed to deestroy a very cute yellow tie. It was a clip on and seemed to be gouginh Benjie's neck. He didn't really complain, so I should have left it alone. But, it looked so painful. I just couldn't leave it alone. the tie part came off first, then finally the clip. It really was my fault. the darn thing was such a challenge. I spent a good portion of the time trying to put it back together. No Luck, sorry again. i will get him a new one, on elastic if I can find one like that. It will not look so painful anyway.

We only let the little guy down on the floor once. keeping him from speeding down the asile was like holding back a bull from entering the arena at a rodeo. Only I was the rider, holding on for dear life sortof. He is one strong dude with a will of iron. But no crying over that anyway. Nearly tripped a little girl but the disster was avoided. If the little girl had cried, Ben would have had such sympathy that I would have had to leave the chapel. He was in "sympathy" mode most of the meeting. When he could hear another child cry, well, he responded.
All and all it was a very quiet meeting by ????? 15th Ward standards anyway. (Someone might get offended if I put the whole mane in there)

What I really wanted to say is, it was so refreshing to see and hear Allen and Mary talk like adults, about adult topics. It's been a while since there was much of any conversation around this house that was not about, by, or directed at little people. We as Grandparents love to hear about all the changes in the little one's lives, and we love to make and hear them laugh. Talking and singing to these precious spirits is a privledge and absolutely down-right fun. It's just easy to forgo the adult stuff. It's easy to forget that the parents have brains left in thir heads (You do have some brains left, I know. They may be difficult to locate but the exercise is worth it!)

Mary and ALlen both did a great jobs. See all that moving around and those "new member" speaking opportunities have paid off. I only wish we could have stayed for dinner. We had ONE home teaching appointment to get home to. Dad likes to do one a week if he can, too bad we are supposed to visit 5 families. We usually get all of them that will let us in.

Thanks again for sharing the experience, Benjie, and your adult talks with us. I will look for a tie.
Happy sunday all!

Code Words and Meanings

2009-03-06T13:24:00.005-07:00

I have been discerning (not too successfully) or trying to uncover the real meanings to words and phrases used by my husband and children

Over 20 years ago, when we still lived in Panguitch, I asked Pat what "A few minutes" actually means. Is it 3-5, 5-15, or maybe 30, or possible an hour. I truly remember standing by the phone and wondering, just how long is it really going to be before he gets home. He had developed the habit of calling-I taught him that trick*-but I just had not picked up the exact correct meaning of the wors "a few" as opposed to "directly" or "shortly.

* The trick. I learned, even before the days of cell phones and the convenience of today, that if I called home and warrned the kids that I would be home in 5 minutes---they would run around and get more done in that little five minutes than in hours on a usual day. Motivation is such a powerful thing!

Now Pat calls from Far West, after getting gas and I know it'll be 40-45 minutes. I am sure he thinks I run around and get everything done just for him. Pat if you are reading this STOP NOW. "You can't handle the truth." I actually lie down on the couch and take advantage of the quiet and rest without guilt so I can be ready for the weekend. I will try to think of what I can make for dinner. but I have found rest comes easier if that decision has already been made.

But last night, while Ella was spending the night with me, I began to develop the dictionary for the next generation.
"I am not hungry" means I know I can talk Granny out of treats after Mom leaves. (It's not true except in Ella's mind)

"I am not tired" means I can get you to play with me more, I know I can and I am not going to even try and go to sleep.

"I am hungry" means I want to cook something with you, not necessarily eat it, just cook it.

"Let's go back to bed" or "Let's take a nap" No matter how attractive the thought may be, .,do not fall for this one. It is not what it appears to be! I was so excited, go back to bed at 7 a.m., having already cooked and eaten pancakes and eggs and juice I thougth, yea!!! This is the reward Grannys get for being so Granny-like. It really means, I want all your attention for myself. I want you to play with me in your big bed. I have no intention of going back to sleep, I am tricking you into more play in a new location.

And for the last one for the day:
"I don't like to pick up toys" in conjunction with it's dramatic big brother, "I really do not like to clean up!"
Coming from a four year old these both mean I am going to avoid this request. . . To which I first responded, "I don't like to pick up toys either, especially when I didn't take them out" Of course, that is when the big dramatic brother entered the picture. Not just stated once or twice but three times,
"I really do not like to clean up!" (neither do I)
"I really do not like to clean up!" (if I did would my house look like this?)
"I really do not like to clean up!" (Well you have a choice. .I did not raise my voice. "You can help me clean up the toys or not come back and spend the night at Granny's for a very long time." She did choose to help clean up, and did do some, but without my help, it was getting to late and I had an appointment at 10 a.m. and I still had to take her home. So the delay part did sort of work.

I wonder what my words mean to Ella--
No means maybe,
Maybe means ask again and again, a yes is right around the corner.
Yes means I can expect to get the same response every time I ask, so why ask.
Rules-"we don't need rules" a direct quote from last night's dinner conversation with Ella!
No dessert means not whjle Mommy is here (but not last night, no dessert means NO dessert.) She was so excited to see her leftover dinner was not on the table for breakfast.

I wonder how Pat interprets my words? Oh my, that would assume he hears them, how silly of me.

a kook of a cookie

2009-03-06T13:17:00.004-07:00

What Girl Scout Cookie Are You?

I am a Thin Mint.

You are bold and brave. You dare to be different, and you are confident about who you are.
Your fearlessness has paid off. You are extremely well liked and popular.

You are charismatic and charming without even trying to be. People appreciate your unique take on life.
You are willing to take risks, speak your mind, and live life to the fullest.

Well at least there is something thin about me.

I thought I would be a Peanut Butter Sandwich like Rachael

You Are Peanut Butter Sandwiches / Do-si-dos

You are easy going and naturally happy. You don't need a lot to make you smile.

You genuinely care about people and are a great friend. You're always doing your best to make the world a better place.

Even though there isn't an immature bone in your body, you still are like a big kid sometimes.

Why make life complicated when the best parts are actually quite simple? You enjoy the small joys of life.

Truly--am probably all cookies to all people.

A kook of a cookie, that is me.

Another Relief Society Birthday Party

2009-03-04T20:49:00.002-07:00

Life is good, the party is over and I am home again.

I can't believe how surprised I am that so much goes into these parties.

I hae a great Homemaking Counselor. She and the Enrichment leader have been working on this one for over a month. They tried countless recipes for middle eastern soups and turkish cornbread. Just in case there were some less adventurous among us a good old fashion beef stew was also provided. It was the first gone. For dessert we had brides fingers, a real traditional treat. All and all the food was great.

We had a program based on the book based on the parable of the Ten Virgins. After which I gave a little talk tying together the Relief Society Birthday, our current circumstances and applying the parable to the sisters in the ward. We really involved a good number of sisters and had a turnout of over 69 sisters. The two counselors in the Bishopric were there but the Bishop was not. Oh well, I have to trust people make the best decisions they can.

Again I am reminded, there are things I could not do alone. This was deffinitly one of them. I am so very grateful for faithful sisters that follow through, no matter how big or small the part It is a beautiful thin and one of God's tender mercies.

Understanding me may be impossible

2009-03-02T22:01:00.002-07:00

While it's true, understanding me may be impossible, a little extra information may just help. I'll give it a try and maybe you, my precious family and friends, will . . .we'll srr.

Today we went, as a family more or less. to tour the Draper Temple. I've done this kind fo thing before and franlkey, standing in line for hours just holds no appeal for me. I knew I could go at another time, do a session and seem most everything. Why should I drive two hours (to Draper), stand in line and be cold and frustrated only to drive hours back home?

If I only had myself to consider, I would have stayed home. the Ward Relief Society Birthday Party is on Wednesday and there is so much to do. There are still the triplets, now gestationally almost a month old, adn the family that still need help. and, of course, dwindling volunteers. So, I am helping there too. As a presidency we just cannot make up the whole difference and do as much as been requested. I also promised Ella she could spend the night on Thursday night--it's actually easier without Papa around (imagine that). So, I have plenty to do right here at home. Oh yea, I am taking dinner to a family on Thursday . . .I don't even want to look at the "brain in a bag" or BNB. I am afraid of what I might find. all that on top of the headaches that just will not go away, eyes that are always blurry, and changing pi;;s, to say nothing of Granny. It's no wonder I wasn't excited about the trip.

But, I have two precious sons-in-law and two daughters who have not had the opportunity to go to the temple. This would be one of the few times they could go to the temple and perhaps taste the sweetness of the eternal promises made there. that alone made the trip a real rare and important opportunity. In addition, yesterday was Allen's birthday and Lance's is in two weeks so it was decided that this would be a great time to celebrate--I agreed, and I went. But instead of going to the Temple I volunteered to stay behind and babysit so the ones that really needed to go could manage the whole thing. Remember all that standing in line and . . .It's just miserable when you have sick or tired kids with you. Perhaps it was the experience we had waiting for over four hours in line to see the Logan Temple before the rededication some 30 years ago, at just this time of year in the snow, with three tiny kids, Mary was only a few weeks old, that was bouncing around in the back of my brain that made me so willing to do the babysitting. What ever it was, I knew I was providing a service to my family. I was also able to cook the asperagus, put the salad together, cook the lasagna (Mary had made it, I just cooked it so it would be hot and ready), set up the serving line . . . and, of course change diapers, make bottles, feed the little ones, and hold Tessa almost the whole time, so everything would be ready when the masses finally got home.

I was so blessed that including travel time they were gone 3 hours or so! But that is when things really went down hill. It seems Mary and Allen stopped at Costco to get a birthday cake. She called him when she came out the door so Allen and Benji could pick her up. It was then that her brand new, long awaited, only two day old cell phone slid out of her purse.

Sarah called the phone only to have the service desk at Costco answer the phone and inform her that the phone had been run over by a car and then turned in. Sarah called and told me. I guess I over reacted. the others that had already made it home were sure they had been in a car accident . . . they were releived, it was just a phone. they were right, it was just a phone. It was what would happen to Mary as the result that really was at the heart of my panic.

You see, I have been in very similar situations many times in my married life. And it was NOT fun. You see. allen was really upset by it. He let it ruin his whole party. It didn't matter how many people. especially Mary, had gone out of their way to make this day special for him. No, a pure accident was going to ruin it. AND it would all be Mary's fault. His first worry was, of course, how they didn't have the money to replace the phone. So much like my husband, the money was the issue and it was always my fault money was tight. I was the stupid one that spent too much money and in essence jsut cost him too much money. And I knew it! I was clumbsy, getting hurt form time to time (and that means co-pays) Then there were the illnesses and surgeries and cavities,root canals, and way too many prescriptions. . . .all ofwhich cost him money. And I always felt like a burden, he would have been so much the better without. With his limited ability to express ;ove in terms I appreciate, it's no wonder I've been depressed.

And Mary has struggled with the same kind of things. As we left, Mary was not home yet. I could just see her in the Costco parking lot just sitting in the car crying. knowing when she got homw there would be a mess of dishes to clean up, a frustrated husband (who in spite of my proding, would not even consider calling and trying to see if the company would do anything for them....they put it on the debit card. If it had been on the credit card they would have had some benefits. . .) and after waiting all these years for a new phone. one that had been run over.

Perhaps I was just projecting my pain on to her situation. Oh how I pray that was the situation. But I am afraid, I do not want her to go through years of feeling stupid, clumbsy, and at best a burden.

I spent 10 ears earning a Ph.D. to prove Iwas NOT stupid! That was one thing I could do. I couldn't do anything about my genetically inherited physical problems, maybe I could have taken some kind of grace classes-or avoided more physical activity--and the associated accidents--but walking and gardening, come on! But then that would have just made the weight problems even worse. I don't know what I really could have done. It just really hurts to see my wonderful daughter repeating so many of my trials. they just are not fun.

I love you Mary. I am sorry about the phone. You worked so hard on that whole party thing. the Lasagne was so good! Your house looked GREAT!!! Every inch was perfect, I appreciate how hard that is with a little guy and work and moving. I could never have done it any better. Even your bed was made. I had to close the door to keep the kiddos out. I am so proud of you. I think you are marvelous! You are worth everything, it was just a phone. If I had the money . . . I will love you forever (sorry, that is all I've got) Mom

Changing Meds and Minds

2009-02-26T13:47:00.002-07:00

Man I hate this!!!

I have headaches for well over a week now. I knew it wasn't Tessa and Lily, they were really as good as they could be during the Granny's daycare stint. It's me! and my dysfunctional brain.

I cry for no good reason. I can hardly see-the eagle-eyes have not returned. And I am in pain. YUCK! I go back in a week. I guess I should wait it out and just see if it gets better. I have only been totally on these new pills for a few days now. But golly, I want myt life back and I want it NOW!!!

I never claimed to have patience and I am not about to start trying to decieve you all now.

Ella as an angel

2009-02-26T13:25:00.002-07:00

Now those are not words that often come together. After all Ella is full of energy and as inquisitive as her Nanny--always finding something to get into! But Sunday, she truly was an angel.

Beck brought her to Church but she spent the whole Sacrament meeting with Nanny and Papa. I only had one life saver in my new "purse, brain." but that was enough, she didn't complain or fuss. She shared the hymn book with me as I pointed to all the words like I used to do with my kids. She even tried to sing along. In between one little finger puppett, the sea horse, was all it took to keep her going.

Followig the meeting there was the necessary running around--by Nanny--to deliver all the messages. . .and find Miss Lynn, of course. Then there was choir practice, blessed by another mother's preparation and fruit snack graciously shared.

Then, a good hour after sacrament meeting was over, we finally were ready to go home. Ella didn't want to go home. the Rabbit game, like Dave's, was waiting for her. Yet still she wanted to come home with us. I gave in, after all I'd just spent 4 days in SLC with Tessa and Lily. I warned her Nanny and Papa would want to take naps, but she was undetered.

Papa lost and we made blueberry-pancakes, sausage and eggs for lunch, she is a great help! She ate everything on her plate, plus some fresh blueberries and all of her milk! but then it was time for nap. I offered to take her home but again she refused.

Right into Papas big bed she went--with Nanny, of course. Papa got the couch. I seriously doubted this would fly, but it did. Just a few minutes of talking and she was gone.

3:15 the phone rang, and woke me up. It was Beck. Their family was off to Lance's parents and would be right by to pick up Ella. We had time for a couple of Jennga towers but that was it. We picked up and put away the blocks and she was off.

Now I ask you could it have possible gone any better?
I don't think so.
Was I just dreaming?
I don't think so.

My sweet Ella,
Thank you for breaking us in as Grand parents so beautifully. Thank you for showing us how great the future will be with all these precious little spirits in our lives.
We love you!
Nanny and Papa

New Rules for 5 for fighting

2009-02-22T20:42:00.004-07:00

Ok, I get it, I hesitated to do this myself. I do have a few things to do these days. But I am a crazy kind of creative person that loves a challenge. But you don't need to be crazy like me. So I am proposing a rule change.
1. You no longer need to post anything or make anything for anyone else. Just do a good deed sometime in the next year. I do not believe there is even one of you that could not do ---already does--that many times a week.

Just be one of the first four to sign-up. Nikki Hansen gets the first spot. As she is my Visit Teaching coordinator and offers many prayers on our behalf, she has already fulfilled her end of the bargain!

So let me hear from you!

5 for fighting

2009-02-20T20:01:00.003-07:00

I got this from Mary and thought it might be fun. And I might even find out who does read this stuff. So go for it, please. (I have been known to make some really cute Gospel ABC books-good for church! But, see #4 below.)

Five For Fighting

Here's how it works: The first five people to leave me a comment get something made by me just for them. It can be anything I want, I get to choose. It can be silly or serious, edible or not, but don't plan on anything alive. There are a few rules involved (aren't there always?)

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2- What I create will be just for you.
3- It will be done sometime this year (Don't expect grand things if it takes a long time. I'm just lazy!).
4- You have no clue what it's going to be. (The choice is mine! --insert evil laugh here--)
5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange and/or silly.

The catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they've posted on their blog win a hand made, super creative, possibly lovely whatever in the heck I decide! Be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!

More fun than a barrel of babies

2009-02-20T19:40:00.002-07:00

I just returned from spending 4 days with my cute "semi-samoans"
It was very tiring, in other words I am more out of shape, mentally and physically, than I ever imagined possible.

Seuao was recovering from his ACL repair and fairly immobile for the first two days. He was more help than I ever thought an immobile man could have been. By Thursday, he discovered he couldl drive and reacted, as anyone would, by getting out of the house. It wasn't until then that I think I really began to remember what it took to be a mom to a 20 month old very spirited little girl and a sick 5 month old. I am sure I have passed this way before but I must have been younger and stronger and . . . .

Oh, my sweet young friends, you mothers of children and babies, I don't know how you do it! I don't know how I did it so please take with a grain of salt any advice I may ever offer. time dims the mind and memory of the hard times. Like labor, no that analogy doesn't work anymore. With those modern labor assisting drugs, it's just not the same. Anyway, go forth in faith and in the strength of your youth. if youo are very blessed you too will someday be oldER and have grandchildren of your own. I pray you will be in bettre shape than I am!

It was throughly enjoyable to get to know these precious little girls on an individual level. by the time I left the baby was well on her way to health and the older one had Granny wrapped around her finger. Yes, I give sips, read stories, sing songs and watch Sesamie street (that has changed a bit). I shared my bluebarries and chocolate and changed loads of diapers! Now if only I could have sslept in until say 10 am and gone shopping with Sarah everyday and had lunch with friends two or three times a week, it would have been perfect. No, then I wouldn't have had time to be number one in their world for those few precious hours each day.

Thanksw guys, and God for giving me the experiences that really build a life of joy!

Ahh, time to breath

2009-02-08T17:54:00.002-07:00

The day after, the day after, the day, Dad came home. Wash. groceries and a movie didn't seem like too much.

While we are on the subject of movies, Dad has taken up counting and keeping score. He counts ma ahead by two. Last week we saw Last Chance Harvey, predictable but really cute. This week we saw New in town. Who cares that is was also so predictible, it was Harry Connick Jr and Renee Z.

On the way home I got it, there must be a lot of 3Ms (Manly Men Movies) coming out soon. I got a little smile out of him. I followed up with the observation, "I suspect that you started counting now is not a coincidence." I would be behind by hundreds, if not thousands by now if he's started counting sooner--like back when he started keeping track of the cereal in the cupboard. Oh well, better now than never!

So what is up for next week? Into you? I suggested the men go to one move and women go to a different one, each taking their turns with childcare. I guess neither is a good suggestion for Valentines day. How should we celebrate Valentines day. so no one feels bad or neglected? any ideas out there?

Postlude to the Ant's Visiting Teaching Conference

2009-02-04T20:17:00.003-07:00

It's 8 pm and I am home at last. It has been a very long day.

I do not have a broken arm, just a bad bruise that has put pressurre on the nerve--thus the pain. Tomorrow the radiologist will check it X-ray again and then I will get the final word.

A lot of peopel showed up, overr half of all the visiting teachers, We ran out of seats so some actually picniced on front and others ate after others finished. It was kind of fun--and maybe worth while to have the young women there. Now they do not have the idea that RS is boreing and just for old ladies.

The program went well. all the little ants were just into their parts and hammed it up perfectly. The Satk RS presidency loved it. I only took a few minutes really to give them a pep talk and explain the gathering of contact information. Singing the ants go marching (the reviised for Vistit teaching versiion) for a closing song was great. we got everybody going and singing gaily.

The food was good we had enough and to spare. Too bad I forgot to put out the two nice relish trays. they remained in the fredge the whole time. Even now they are nice and safe, waiting in the fridge. They only drank one gallon of milk but only left one big glass of suger-free lemonade. I ended up giving away some chips, and a few sandwiches. I saved some of the left over cup cakes to take to some of the Sisters who couldn't make it tomorrow, along with their packets of information.

Thanks to the Lord for sending us helpful Elders, who set up chairs and tables, took care of the little people adn put the tables and chairs away. Of course, they had RS help but they did most of the heavy work. Thanks men!

I was actuallly thinking of sleeping in tomorrow but no. I have an appointment at 9:30--maybe they can get my brain meds figured out. and then there are all these people to contact. Oh well, the worst is over. And I will sleep well tonight.

Prelude to a Visiting Teaching Conference

2009-02-04T12:33:00.003-07:00

Today is the day

The theme is built around a Mid-winter Picnic, complete with ants (the program)

I have been purchasing food for the last two weeks as things were on sale Cost Meat $12, Cheese $5, Mayo-$3--good sales
I have already been to the store and purchased the remainder of the foods needed. Cost, less than $30--good.
I bought the paper for decorations yesterday from the elementary school! Cost, $4--OK
We have all the paper goods we need. Cost--$0 the best price yet!
Pat decided we had Milk he wanted used (as opposed to going bad in the fridge) Again, cost-$0 Wahoo!

But how much food do I really need?

Only last week when I was making the invitations--very cute--that I realized I had 75 visiting teachers and not the 48 I thought I had. The food assignment were already made. Sunday we thought we needed more.
Darn it, I hit my are on the post sticking out of the wall at Church. Sure I was reading while walking (The Bishop had just informed me he had chosen a theme he wanted presented in the first Sunday lessons--and I was on my way back to RS room while reading the article, yes, while I was fast walking. . . the same arm I broke 18 months ago, ouch!

Monday
My Vt Coordinator and I spent two hours getting the data into the computer at the Church and rearranging the routes Again. We had another episode of people moving in and out, it was the end of another semester at the university. UGH!
The invitations personally extended to less active Sisters to participate on our little "show" program got mixed reactions. Actually we were having a hard time finding participANTS :)
Monday at Presidency meeting I was nformed my counselor was having a hard time just getting sisters to commit to giving the prayers. and the RS pianist had another commitment that night. She would look for a substitute and wait until the night of the activity to get the prayers.
Monday, maybe we will have enough food. Call my Coordinator and tell her we probably will be ok, expect less of a turn out.
But my arm hurts and has a pretty good bump on it.

Tuesday
I had to put together all the packets for the Vt companionships. Match the partners, match and add (previously labled) information collection cards to their appropriate teachers, and add the presidency/ time of meetings/greeting cards to the rest. I finally got that done about (p.m. after the Ward missionaries stopped by . . .and left. (I am not making this up!)

I was visiting with a sister Tuesday evening when I was informed that the Young Women would be joining us. I carefully clarified that they were not asked to babysit, no. The young Woman clarified, they were not going to serve either, they were coming to eat. the mother was not a Visiting teacher, "she is too busy." Now she was coming also.

What? No one invited the girls, why would they want to come anyway? I left 4 invitations, complete with the names of the leaders plainly written on each one, in the YW room on Sunday. But that is not an invitation for all the girls. 14 more (girls and leaders) to feeds, (who knows how many previously uninvited mothers) Tuesday, maybe we need more food. Too bad it is too late to call my coordinator and ask her what I should do now.

Only a subtle green bruise on my arm but it still hurts, even more now. Last time I endured, thinking I was being a cry baby, for 5 weeks before going to see the orthopedic doctor. I had been told in the emergency room it was not broken the day of the fall.

Wednesday,
Solution 1-- shopping. Bring extra meat, buy extra bread and chips, call my Coordinator and tell her what is going on. OR
Solution 2 --Pretend I didn't know they were coming.
I went for the first, but may claim the second if people look really hungry.
"My arm, "you ask. I called the Doctor (they are closed on Thursday and very full on friiday, don't you want to go to insta-care or the emergency room? NO) and they cannot get me in until 5 p.m., I can get the X-ray at 4:30. That's is not good I pleaded, just let me get an X-ray and call me and tell me it is not broken so I can go on with my life and not worry about doing more damage, PLEASE :( "No." "I will even come in now and pay the co-pay for a visit." "No"

OK, I was supposed to do the food at 4 and decorate at 5pm as the room is being used by Cub Scouts from 3:30-5. Now that isn't going to work. So I called everyone and they can meet at 2:30. We will do the food and decor then. We will leave a note for the Cub leader, maybe they can use a different room OR carefully guard my decorations, I am making large paper trees, putting green paper on the ceiling for the canopy of leaves and a hugh yellow sun on the wall. But Cubs and really ants they are everywhere and very fast, attracted to bright colors. . . Will it work? I am trying to do the Lord's work, help! Call my coordinator so she knows what is going on.

No kidding, The doctor's off ice called back, they can get me in at 3:30. Oh, golly! I need to write this down, nobody will ever believe what it took to get this thing together. So, we will do what we can 2:30-3 something. Then I leave the rest to them.

Oops, I forgot to call the Elder;s quorum president. His wife just told me they were not planning on helping to set up tables at five (but she gave me his cell number and told me to call him,) The High Priest leader and his wife are working, so I cannot ask them if they were planning on helping. Never mind we will just do it ourselves. Oh, I may not be there and my one counselor is 80 years old, very active but tables? Who knows what time I can get there. and my arm still hurts.

Tomorrow, the results!

Mary Cherry

2009-02-03T10:08:00.002-07:00

I somehow slip right over Mary's birthday. Her sisters wrote beautiful tributes to her and posted cute pictures as well. (Something I have not yet conquered, but I will.) I just drove to 100 miles with Granny and Beck and girls to her party, picked up the chair, helped decorate, and cook . . .All of which are good things but. I feel bad I didn't post anything about my sweet Mary on my blog.

Mary is our third daughter. She seems to love science like I did more than any of our other children. She is creative, thoughtful and musical. I love to hear her voice and see her face as she sings. She plays the piano beautifully! She is tall and has beautiful long legs. She is smart and loves to read, although her choice of reading material is absolutely foreign to me. I could go on and on and on. I am so glad she is my daughter. She has blessed my life abundantly. I love you, Happy Birthday!

February Fun

2009-02-03T09:57:00.002-07:00

February is shaping up as another busy month. At least it is short.

The Visiting Teaching Conference is almost upon me. In fact it is tomorrow and I still have many things to accomplish. Today I will organize the handouts new assignment sheets, information gathering cards and presidency info cards by teacher and companionship. Tomorrow I have to finish the shopping, cooking, and decorating before we even get to the church. Thank the Lord there are good women and men that will help me. I am not in this alone.

Let me get through this...there is more to come.

January's worst

2009-02-03T09:37:00.002-07:00

Of all the things that have taken place this past month I want to designate two as the very worst.

1. Freezing rain! We don't get freezing rain very often , in fact this may have only been the second time I remember ever being caught in freezing rain. You can drive in snow, you can drive in hurricane wind and rain--sometimes--but you cannot drive in freezing rain without risking your life. I heard there were 6 ambulances at the emergency room at one time. that was a first for our smaller size city. There were untold numbers of accidents. I walked out of the Employment Resource Center and feared for my....bones. I made it to the car but had to scrape the windows. that is really hard to do when one's feet slip easier than ice scraper! I did make it into the car and very slowly home but resolved not to go out again for the whole day. I didn't even venture out the next day. I do not like freezing rain!!!

2 The passing of our friends' fathers. Two of our friends in the Ward had their fathers pass away. Even though they had both been fading for sometime it is still hard to see the loss of a faithful family patriarch. January is already cold and dreary without death's grip. I try not to thinking about such life changing and challenging experiences. We have already lost our fathers--long ago. i will leave it at that.

more happy January

2009-01-28T13:13:00.002-07:00

Monday was so busy. I drove Granny and Beck and the girls to SLC for Mary's birthday Party. I must say the party itself was really fun.

We had good food, cute decorations, lots of fun gifts for the birthday girl and no sick babies. Papa didn't feel so great but he still managed the mayhem in the basement without complaint. My Mary Cherry even got two pineapple upside down cakes complete with cherries and 30 candles. We were so blessed to have a safe and swift journey home. I do wish it wasn't so far, but I guess that is what makes our times together so special. And at last, Allen is out of the dog house (I hope). He got Mary the rocking chair she's been longing for.

Rebecca took advantage of the family together time to announce she is again pregnant. CONGRATULATIONS SORTORS!! Oh how we pray things go better than they did last time. I also pray that our sweet Mia doesn't get lost in the mix. She is such a precious baby, I worry about her. Beck knows how it feels to be the second child so I guess I shouldn't worry about her second child, but I do.

Seuao got off early and made it to the party, YEA! He is such a hard worker we don't get to see him enough. Lance is the same way, bless his heart.

I got to visit the triplets born into our Ward in December, yesterday. they are so cute, but little! they family will need lots of help in the coming months! I also made a home visit, and planned the Visiting Teaching Conference with my fabulous VT coordinator, Nikki in th eafternoon. I got dinner for the tripplet family. I then ran to the Church to print out a list and get to the fireside on time!

I only write this to prove that I do not speend all my time laying on the couch covered up (it's cold in this frozen Norther habitat) watching TV. and things do actually get done. Too bad I haven't finished designing the invitations to the VT Conference. they need to be finished and handed out on Sunday. I will also have Welfare Meeting at 7:15 and it's my turn to teach the RS lesson.

I have Presidency meeting in an hour and a half,--just enough time to design those invitations. So today will be gone before I know it.

I just marvel at how much can be done when I put my mind to it and what a great life I lead.

Just January

2009-01-22T11:57:00.003-07:00

Christmas is over and far too gone to recount. It was fun and very busy. Let's just start here.

Today was rather sad. I went to the Employment Center and returned my stuff. I will be officially released. I learned so much! I also feel like I was able to give so much. My fear now is that I am somehow turning my back on the blessings my Heavenly Father gave me, not only in the way of education but also in my personality.

I have had a lot of very boring teachers through my extremely long educational career. Learning from them was not easy, even when I was really interested in the subject. What if the teachers I am leaving this responsibility to are boring? What if they cannot have empathy for the students and their plight? What if the students don't get the hope and inspiration they so badly need? I guess I need to just trust the Lord and remind myself that He has the whole situation under control.

We had three new sisters in RS on Sunday. I did get out to meet them this week---yea success! But I also stopped by and met a sister that moved in about 4 months ago. Her records have never been received so I didn't pursue her. Why go looking for trouble? Anyway, she is really sweet but facing. . . .Her husband left her last summer, he just didn't want to be married any more. They had two children just 17 months apart and the youngest was less than a year old.
She moved here to go to School and get away from all the gossip and people they had known as a couple only to find out she was pregnant again. These last two will also only be 17 months apart. She is due in February. Her mom can come for the Presidents Day weekend, but that is all. Golly, she makes my life look like a breeze and reminds me to count my many blessings!

The triplets will be coming home sometime in the next two weeks. Now that is going to be an opportunity for many hours fo service. I pray there are many people willing to partake of those blessings.

Mary's Birthday is next week and Benny's is on the 14th. I am looking forward to both celebrations. I just need to get some presents bought . . . .the way I have loved spending money in the past you wouldn't think purchasing gifts would be a trial. Something must be wrong with me.

On February 4th we are having the Visiting Teaching Conference and March 4th is the RS Birthday Party. Both of which require a fair amount of planning. The real problem, the cut in the RS budget. Anybody for stone soup?

This is the kind of post that I should just delete. No one wants to hear my petty complaints. (Oh yea, my eye sight seems to be getting worse. I will call the ophthalmologist today!) I have a wonderful, busy life. I have been blessed beyond imagination. Thank you God, for the blessings, the trials, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for my husband, my kids, their spouses, my grandchildren, my calling, and my friends. The list could go on for pages. I am truly blessed. Thank you God.

What a Wondrful time of the year for a break!

2008-12-22T17:16:00.004-07:00

What a wonderful time of year for a break!

The NFCP weekend joy was partially marred by the failure of my dryer.
No really big deal, things like that just happen. Too bad Mary's clothes were being washed at the time and she had to deal with two loads of wet clothes and a few more clothes not even washed yet.

The story of her washer troubles can be found on her blog--maybe. So I called the appliance repair man early this morning. Of course, I removed the vent hose and checked to be sure it wasn't just a clogged line and thermostat auto turn off. He will be here tomorrow, we pray. Oh did I mention, I have been putting off repairing the washer for months, It too has some significant problems. A "gyro-scope" balance type thing has gone out and the thing rocks to the point that it has lost two legs. But it still worked.

The oven on the other hand has burned everything put in for the last month or so. it's really been on the fritz for three or four months now. I was going to call and get it repaired before the Christmas celebration but, it didin't even make the list of things to do. See previous blogs.

So what the heck, I gave all the info to the repair people and I'll have them all looked at at the same time. Ok

Following my much needed nap Pat and I went to investigate the non-functioning television in the family room, as reported by the kids this weekend. We talked to Comcast and then to Sony but to no avail, it's an internal problem. We called the certified repair people as we were referred by Sony. Yep, you guessed it, they will need to order the part and it will take 7-10 days. "That's nice" Just to make the afternoon complete the tv will into fit in either of our cars. Who would have guessed that while calling Granny to see if she would be willing to get in her van and drive over here in the snow so we could transport the vicitm--the repair store closed--promptly at 5 p.m..

Ther television downstairs in the living room has a pretty good picture, it just has some problems with the connections in the back. I cannot play DVDs on it. Now what? We have all five kids and six grandkids coming, for a "4 day vacation", and no entertainment means for them. Even if they bring the Wii there isn't a tv that will accomodate them.

What do you know, four repair requests in one day, the 22nd of December, 2008.

What is up with all this "stuff?" We do the right thing and give to others so they can have a nice Christmas just to get this? It's a real good thing I know one thing has nothing to do with the other. I surely just wish . . .you can guess what I am wishing for.

Have a heart, your life depends on it

2008-12-22T09:20:00.002-07:00

The following is a copy of a letter I sent to my children the 22nd of December. When two people fall in love and marry and have children they never know what will come In faith we go forward, in faith we follow the plan and in faith we accept what we are given. Then we do our best, praying as if everything depends on the Lord and working like everything depends on us. the two together makes us who we are. the alternatives, faith without works and works without faith are both dismal and depressing. thanks be to God and our Savior Jesus Christ for life and love and family forever. Renee

True to his nature Dad did not tell us everything about the passing of his brother. Let me fill you in--thus preventing any unnecessary faux-pax.
On the day he died, Grandmother went into his room several times to give him his medications. He didn"t want to get up and was hadr to arouse. but this was not all that unusual. When it she got no responce and his breathing had become very fast, she called the Paramedics--he was still alive att hat time. They took a little longer to get there than they had in the past and by the time they walked in he was gone. She could not find the"Do Not Revive" paper he signed and by law they had to try to revive him. Which they did, but not for too long. He was gone. The coroner eventually said he had an ischemic heart problem--often the only sign of which is death. It's a strange diagnosis, but no worse than "we don't know" Which is, as you know what we got on John. They did draw a lot of blood and there was no evidence, spoken of in the final report, of unusual drugs or overdose. All of which is a real blessed relief for the family, I guess. Really, an overdose would be easier to understand. An undetermined heart problem gives no comfort or reassurance to those left behind who may inherit the same thing. We can only pray as time goes on, as it will, that the frontiers of medicine expand to include the prevention of such things.

Meanwhile, Aunt Kathleen evidently had a racing heart episode that did not pass in a few minutes and needed to be transported to the hospital (she was at some kind fo a luncheon at the time--I think Grandmother said) She was not able to get into a Cardiologist until January--so much for managed--HMO health care. We will have to wait and see what comes of that.

Anyway, neither Dad nor I knew when we got married that BOTH sides of your family would have life threatening heart problems. Not that it would have made a real difference in our choices. We only regret that we have saddled you with a health inheritance that you did not ask for. Frankly, neither did we. But we love you all, with all our (not so perfect) hearts. and we pray you will pay attention to you health and that of your children, that future generations will be healthier and live longer, happier lives.
I love you all!!!! Mom

And the List grows on

2008-12-18T11:26:00.002-07:00

So I cleaned all the stinky stuff out of the fridge,
20-1=19 (to go)
Except
21.Wash old curtains-the lace is still good for somethings, if it is clean
22. clean out Dad's corner-people need to be able to get around the table
23. Take out the garbage-especially the fridge stuff but it's only 15 degrees out there
24. clean out my bathroom-at least my piles can go
25. Put drills and tools away! If it need fixing-it will need to wait!

You call this time off?

2008-12-17T20:49:00.002-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I wrote anything. It's not like I haven't had anything to do. but I always take time to read my kid's blogs. They are great to keep me feeling like I know what is going on in their lives. Thanks!

When Dad left for SLC this week I had a list of 20 or so things to do. No matter how many items I mark off the list, the list continues to grow and the time is growing shorter. You see, on Friday he will return, with his Mother in tow. Now I have a great Mother-in-Law. she gets up early and gets in and out of the bath before any of my kids even dream of arising. And she always brings puzzle books to entertain herself when the rest of us are running around. She is 88 years old and doesn't even complain about sleeping upstairs.
So why am I dreading this? Because I am not ready. How does that go? "If ye are prepared ye will not fear?" It applies all to well.

So far this wek I have washed the sheets, made the beds (thanks Pat for the help!), had presidency meeting, hung all the curtains (a very very big job), sewed a few things for Beck, tended Mia for a few hours, purchased 2 food baskets, fixed (decorated. . .)and delivered them.
I did not go to meet with the Bishop. The executive secretary told me ther was not a minute to be had before 9:30pm. So I called his wife, we had a nice visit, and talked to him on the phine today. I also got my flu shot (with Mia in tow), found her some shoes that actually fit, and she doesn't cry when you try to put them on, and purchased a piece for my drill so I could hang the drapes. I bought two additional poinsettas for the chapel-it looked so boring in there last week, I couldn't take it anymore. Don't tell Dad. I will get them out of the house befroe the NFCP. Granny and I have been to Sams and Walmart, Albertsons and Home Depot sp far this week. I am sure ther is more to come!

After a pause for phonecalls the food baskets, fruit baskets, shopping and deliveries for tomorrow are at least planned. Maybe they will wait until next week. At least some of them. no probably most of them. There is just too much to do.

1. I still have to put the furniture back in the living room. There is lots of moving of furniture when replacing drapes. And I should vacuum, I've uncovered a multitude of dust and crushed leaves.
2 Clean off the table--that alonde could take a while!
3. Copy Grandfather's picture and getit in the frame. I got Grandmothers done today-yea! She will no longer feel left out.
4. Move the bunk bedsd-Lance is going to come over and help me do that tomorrow. I also ned to get the twin matteress from Betsy so it will be comfy for her.
5. Re-decorate the tree-for the LAST time. After that it will be just maintainence of the top two thirds. Little people think bright shiney round things are for throwing.
6. Finish the cards and mail them--this ought to get moved to the top of the list.
7. Clean out the fridge-it really needs it.
8. Wrap and Deliver over-due baby gifts--oh forget the wrapping
9. Call the Opthomologist
10. go to Michaels for a round brush (see below)
11. Paint three chairs (one really needs he round brush. . .)
12. Make 4 books
13. Gather 4 "family boxes" for organization purposes, while families are visiting
14. Finish sub-for santa shopping-only two little gifts left, actually this may get bumped from the list entirely as I just made them a food basket today. Hummmmm????
15. Make menus for next week-so I can shop on Saturday without using what is left of my brain. Is htere anything left up ther. If there really was I wouldn't be in this mess.
16. Be sure thers is a plan and stuff for dinner on Friday when Grandmother arrives. (this may have to move closer to the top as well.)
17. Finish sewing Ella's christmas gifts. then put the sewing machine away!
18. Get all the adult gifts out of the living room before the NFCP
19. Sleep?
20. Friday I get my nails done.

Do you think I can do it? Thank goodness it doesn't really have to be all done by Friday! Why I have a few days next week, sort of, with Pat and Grandmother here.
I was actually feeling pretty good about being ready for Christmas, until I made this list.
Heck no, I am not going to check it twice. I have too much to do for that.

Merry Christmas World

Oh yea, then there is all those emails to answer and transportation arrangements to make.

Any volunteers out there?

Gotta' love it.

So scary, thanks Lord

2008-11-09T21:00:00.002-07:00

Tonight we had a terrible scare. I was sitting here writing blog entries to keep my mind and hands busy while I waited to hear from Mach. She was here yesterday and had a sore shoulder, not so bad except for all the other weird things going on with her-7 week postpartum body. But mid afternoon her rib started to hurt and she couldn't breath. She took ibuprofen and things calmed down but later returned. She got a blessing and went home.
Today was not so good and eventually she went to the hospital. Seuao stayed home with the kids but we were all so worried! It could have been gall bladder--we would have been ok with that. But when the doctors mentioned blood clot we all panicked! It wasn't until at least 8:30 that the doctors got the results of a CAT scan and decided it was just plurasy. Now that is really painful but at least it is not often life threatening.

Just the few hours of waining was tough. What in the world we ever do without Rachael? After loosing John I just don't think we could have survived a blow like that. All of my children are important to me and our family. I sincerely try to let them know how valuable each of them are to me. I know the Lord has answered another prayer. And I am so very grateful. I need my children. They mean the world to me. Rachael as the oldest hold a special place in my heart and. . .I am just so very very grateful that everything will be ok. thank you Lord.

The sew-sew madness

2008-11-09T20:42:00.002-07:00

For some unknown reason I thought I might be able to sew Christmas nightgowns, sleep-shirts, for my babies in a reasonable amount of time and for a reasonable amount of money. Needless to say, neither of my assumptions were correct. It's been over a week and I have only finished one nightgown and mostly finished another set. This week is already so full I can only wonder how much I can actually get done . However, since I have already invested the greater portion of the money necessary, I believe I had better keep going. Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away and I really want them finished by then so we can have a group picture taken. Me and Dad and our six angels in white flannel.