Happy New Year!

I just talked to Rob and got his version on the kids' trip to play in the snow. Oh how I wish I could have been there to watch them getting unstuck! Sounded pretty funny! I'm sure he and Stephen are both nursing injured pride as they both supposedly have 4-wheel drive and I do know how these guys love their toys! I hear Mariah got a video so we have some good entertainment for tomorrow!

Brianna just sent this cute picture of the girls. The Maskeys are over at the Hopkins for the "family New Year's Party. Pretty clever boy that Sanford. They are going to watch the ball drop ion NYC for the east coast and call it a night, take the kids home and put them in bed. Now why didn't I think of that?

Bundle Up and Go to Winter Haven!

We all met at Winter Haven and enjoyed the lights. I am so glad that we have family near by and can enjoy these times together. If you live in Tucson and haven't seen this neighborhood, be sure to make it over! You can read all about it on the internet .

Bundle up good ... it is a little nippy!

The kids liked these but not as much as they did in the store .... Go figure!

The princesses were a big hit for the girls!

We finally found a nativity.

Hope everyone is enjoying the Christmas preparations as much as I am!!!

Back Tracking

OK, I just got the pics into the computer so that I can put them in. Thanksgiving was a lot of fun. Jon and I went to Mesa the day before so that I could help Charlotte (Jon's sister) with the dinner the next morning. It was a lot of work, but I REALLY enjoyed it. We were able to talk all day long and catch up on so much. I was so glad that I have such great in-laws and can spend time with them, not often enough, but at least can stay in touch in this day and age.

We drove home on Thanksgiving night and got up the next day to more of the same. This time it was just Jon and I and though we were exhausted by that night, it was fun and I am so glad that we could do it. Brianna and Rob arrived first, by quite some time. I really enjoyed just visiting with her, having the girls run in and out and finishing up everything when we weren't in a hurry. so many time when I babysit, I have time constraints and have to take off as soon as she gets home. And of course as soon as they got there and I had other help, the male bonding starts in any other room available ;-). The cannons also joined us so we had lots of fun and excitment. Jan Marie's parents and little sister were also down from Utah, so we got to meet them. Her mom, Susan both worked at Jacxkson Lake Lodge in 1970 but didn't recognize each other. She probably hadn;t changed that much, but as for me ... well ... I hope I looked nothing like this way back then!

I only got a couple of pictures on Thursday, but it was pretty typical of our family gatherings. Women in the kitchen and Stephen outside herding kids. If he is lucky, the Pawlowskis are there and John (our nephew) is outside as well ... makes for good company. John and Stephen have been the good sports for the long haul and I admire that in both of them. We can always depend on them to give the kids a good time, no matter how tired they are. This year Courtney (niece) got out for awhile as well. She took it pretty well when the wild kingdom joined her and their little guy. That can get a little scarey!

Dennis used to take all of the kids to the new holiday movie after dinner. Our kids have great memories of that because it was often the only way they would have seen it before the next go-round through the theaters or home video. As the kids got older and the choices of movies grew up, we started joining them. Now we just sit and talk some more while we try to figure out what to do with ALL the leftovers!

OH ME, OH MY ... HOW TIME DOES FLY!!!

A whole week since the FHE and I haven't made any progress!! Time to light the after burners and get my buns in gear! But first I have to share some cute pics of my grandkids. I have had time with them and it has been so fun.




First we address the "bedhead".
Don't we all wish we were this cute with it?





























Last week when I babysat the girls, we went to Story time at the Bear Canyon Library. Mr. Bill and Miss Amy are so fun. The girls even forgave for misleading them. Santa will not be there until tomorrow. Tati is finally getting more involved and thinks she is pretty big. Ari is excited that she is getting to dance and cuddle her little sister during the stories and activities.

We Survived! Amended and added upon!

This pieced top was donated by a sweet Mesa lady that does this kind of service all the time all the kids were so impressed! I had to admit that I hadn't gome to that much work. Anke"s donated fabric finished it off very nicely.

Well, kids will be kids ... and I know that Jordan's mom would have wanted this posted for all to see! He came home from his mission so tall and grown up in so many ways. It has been fun to get to know him all over again. I am glad that some of the Jordan that we have all known for 16 years has managed to survive. Poor kid, his mom was my VT when we first moved here. When she came to visit me with Jordan in tow, my lazy old golden retriever growled and snapped at him. I was so shocked and sorry. He was just trying to play with her. If any of you know goldens, that is so unusual for them to do that!

Aren't these a great bunch of kids? I love going down to the U1 Ward and soaking up their spirit and life! There are some outstanding young people coming up to take up the work and assume the stewardship of His work in this tired old world. It is a privilege to go and "serve" them ... though the table is often turned. they probably have no clue how they teach us golden oldens!

Jacqueline managed to turn her head in every picture. such a talent. I may have to warn her than when I don't get your face, I get a shot of the "best" side! She was so funny. Sat down and got those guys right to work tying up the quilt I thought would be the hardest to pull yarn through. Wonder how many of them would be up fortying quilts on New Year's Day if the games are all on in the room?!?!?!

Some of the girls have offered ... if they don't have to listen to the games. Sounds like it's time to teach them a lesson I took way too long to learn ... if you will watch ... you will get to spend time with those yahoos!!

I just learned a good lesson in not talking too soon. We got up to the Stake Center and realized I had left ALL of the needles at home. I had to dump on Jon and run home because he didn't know what to look for. Fortunately, these were Mormon kids and they arrived right on time, MST, so Jon didn't have too much time to fill before I got back. Later, I found out that they waited until they got a few kids there, then had the opening prayer and sang all of the verses of the opening song. He was explaining about what the Giving Tree was when I got back.

I have worked so hard to not get nervous or uptight. On the way home we realized that we were thinking high school age kids and forgetting that these were young adults who could take an assignment and get right to work on it. the guys were pretty cute and seemed to enjoy the project. I got some good pics and will post them as soon as I find the right cable to fit a new, smaller camera. I know that it is here somewhere and those who know me know the rest of that story!

Time for Grandma'ing. I'm excited to get to work on those projects!!!

Oops! Broke with tradition ... ?!?!

I have the quilts ready, refreshments done, game stuff in, handout almost finished and I have another 1 1/2 hour to get to Stake Center. What a great feeling ... What's funny is I am too calm and it seems to be making poor Jon nervous. Maybe this should become the new tradition, it's kind of fun! (watching him squirm)

Almost time to be Grandma Christmas!

We had a fun time celebrating Tatianna's birthday on Saturday. She was pretty excited, I hear well into the night! All of the cousins are pretty wild when they get together and make lots of noise for the poor people downstairs from Rob and Brianna. She showed her totally girliness when she opened up new clothes from Aunt Mariah (go figure!).

Today I just need to make refreshments for Family Home Evening with the University 1 kids. We are tying quilts for the Giving Tree, an organization that helps families get back onto their feet. They have 4 homes and are in the process of acquiring one more. One home is even designated for single dads raising kids on their own. Getting to know them has really added to my holiday joy this year.

Starting tomorrow I am devoting myself to my own family & decorating my home. I can't let my paganisms go completely, Jon wouldn't have anything to grumble about! That does seem to be our holiday tradition ... I go overboard, get stressed, he gets dragged into it trying to remind me that it is CHRISTmas ... great fun. Then on Christmas Eve we kiss and make up, sleep in on Christmas morning ... oops, did I really just admit that? I can hardly wait! I actually have my plans made! I may even have most of my supplies already, hope so!

This cake just looks like my house right now!

She's Home!

Arianna is home and doing well. I hear she is quite the little entertainer when getting groggy. Daddy says that she is gradually looking better, other than looking like she went a round with Holyoak! Jon had a friend that had crossed eyes that were never able to be corrected. Sweetest lady in the world, but was always so selfconscious about her appearance. So glad that they can help it now.

Hope she is up to her baby sister's b'day party tomorrow. Tatianna will be two on Sunday!

P.S. I talked to her tonight. Kind of funny. She usually gets on the phone and you just say yerah, really? Wow! Cool! cause she can talk for twenty minutes without talking a breath. Tonight she just sat there and didn't even answer questions. Think she might have been pretty groggy still. I didn't realize they were going to work on both eyes. She asked for her glasses afterwards, put them on, looked around and took them off. She won't be refitted for about 6 weeks. Hope it doesn't give her too much trouble. She is farsighted so close up stuff might give some problems.

Your Prayers Would Be Appreciated

Yes, I am a worrier. Since my mom died, it has been my official assignment to be the "family worrier" and Jon says that I do an excellent job.

Arianna will be having surgery tomorrow to try to straighten her right eye. It has been crossed since she was tiny. They have tried patching it, drops, and glasses. Nothing has corrected it so far.

Your prayers for her and the surgeon would be very appreciated.

Thanks!

I Feel Good ... da-da-da-da-da-da - dat - dah!

Last night I got another call from my little benefactress, the lady who gave me the check last week. She and I met outside of Wal-mart (where else?) and she gave me a whole bunch of fabrics and said to let her know if I was short on anything. such a cute lady. She is from Sweden and loves to reach out to others. It makes Christmas for her. When this project and all of my Christmas projects are done, we plan to look into the Newborn-in-Need program. I hear it is a good one for those of us who are just too cheap to let go of anything larger than a 3" square.

I am so grateful for those around us who set the proper tone for this special time of year! It keeps me reminded of "the reason for the season", important for those with a short attention span ... what was I doing?!?!!?

The "Little Things" that Really Count

I spent today watching my girls (Arianna & Tati) and came home through the middle of town to make a couple of stops. Not that I am anti-social, but YUCK ... Hate the traffic! Anyway, I was a little frazzled with the drive and as I was driving down our street, I got to thinking about when I could get Jon in the mood to put up with all my paganisms for the holidays, when I could get the lights up to greet us as we come home each evening, wondered if that poor star I found last year would still work after spending the whole year dangling from what was the top of the pine tree a year ago, blah, blah, blah.

As I came around the last curve before my house, I had the most wonderful surprise. My "Lone Pine Tree" was lit up, and down. Now, I can hardly wait to build a new manger to place under for the down light to shine on.

Jon came out looking so pleased with himself, as well he should. He really does not like all the fuss we crazy women make over turning Christmas into a production instead of enjoying the sweet peace of the Gift given to all mankind years ago.

I am appreciating the way we have scaled back on the giving stuff that is not of a spiritual nature and the time and energy my family is putting into creating memories instead. The star and manger were a new tradition that I started last year. It got mixed reviews from the family, but when I had the grandkids spread the straw to prepare the manger for Baby Jesus, I won!

The circumstances bringing this change about have been a little rough for all of us, but I do love my children and grandchildren and the wonderful attitude they are growing through this experience. Though I don't know if I can take any credit for these qualities, I am afraid I do feel some pride and gratitude that I can call myself their mother.

How to Know When You Are Getting Older

Today Jon and I slept in!! At least until some rude guy knocked on the door to serve some papers on a certain daughter for speeding and getting photographed doing it. It was so nice. Then we dug out some leftovers for breakfast, big surprise, plopped down in front of the TV to watch news while we ate.

Poor Jon has lived around me and Mariah so long that he has turned into a passive people watcher. You know, where you look them over and critique them and how they dress, mannerisms, what kind of impression they are trying to create. We were evaluating the FOX news people. One guy was taking himself so seriously. I thought he was super nerdy guy in college and someone had cut his hair a little fuller to make his ears look less HUGE ( I can say that, BIG ear lady here has that right!), put a suit with shoulder pads and tie on him and said look like you know what your talking about. Then Jon made some crack about he just probably got out of Harvard I was getting old and so anyone under 40 looked young to me. Hum-m-m-m-m, I thought the guy was probably near 40. So, does that make me old?

Anyway, he sure stuck his foot in his mouth, can you imagine making the mistake of telling the mouth she is old, I will enjoy this one ... and may even invite at least Mariah to help me with a little appropriate revenge!

We Need To Remember ...

For days now, I have been trying to round up materials for making quilts to contribute to the Giving Tree. It has been pretty discouraging. Fists are closed due to the economy and the uncertainty that most are feeling right now.

While in a fabric store on the east side, my last hope, a lady waiting in line listened in while I was explaining what and why I needed. She started asking more questions and finally said that she would like to help. It seems that she has gathered fabrics that she contributes to her church and would like for me to take them for this project. I gave her my name and phone numbers and went back to look in their 99 cent section. She found me, and gave me a check to cash and use however I needed it. It seems that years ago when she was desparate, somone gave her a car that help her get back on her feet and she has tried to pass the kindness on ever since. What a wonderful example and reminder to me of lessons learned and forgotten. We are the Savior's hands. He needs us to bring about his work. My heart is full and my strength renewed. I came home and thought of a new source where I can get batting scraps. I am so grateful for her kind gesture.

tagged - 7 random things about myself

Welcome to Huish FHE. I offered to let Jon do this, he said no. I offered Mariah to do it on each other, she said no. So I decided to do it together with Jon for HE tonight, shall I tell him?

1. "Well, in a world with about 3 billion how do you find someone who is unique? They're all unique in some way and alike in some ways" said Jon.

I am unique because after 30 years I still adore this nut I am married to, sometimes I even kind of understand him ... OK I just pretend to! At least he isn't talking radio-ese. Guess he didn't want to tell me I'm pretty boring and nothing interesting about me. By the way, he hasn't given me a straight answer for about 6 years.

2. I like every room in my home to have a different "flavor" or decor. Why should someone get bored walking through their own home, right? No matter how I start, I seem to end up putting "whimsy" into it.

3. My kitchen is never spotless. I love to clean and shine it, then can't help myself, I HAVE to cook something in it.

4. Whenever I cook something, my mind immediately starts thinking of how to make it lower fat and how to make it from food storage items that can store long term.

5. I would rather eat crunchy, spicey food than most sweets.

6. I hope I get to keep my freckles when I am resurrected.

7. Jon likes all the stuff I make, like paintings, quilts, clothes, patches on his dozens of jeans and he has excepted that once I attack a room to redo it, it will never, ever be finished. I will always find some little thing that will be fun in it.

I tag Mariah (second time Mariah!), Jessica, Katrina, Robin, Danette.

I Love to See the Temple

I spent the afternoon with some fine young people going to the temple. Watching them serve, I realized that there is hope, the Gospel is true, we have a loving Heavenly Father, and life is good.

I am grateful.

Sweetheart Tag

I saw this on Angie Whitaker's blog and thought, yeah, why not? I talk about him all the time so here's another chance to count my blessings.

This is Jon, I have no idea who the fat lady next to him is! She needs to look into WW or something!

1. How long have you been married? 30 years,7 months, 14 days.

2. How long did you date? That is hard to figure. We went on one date, Jon asked if he could call me again. I said I would like that and then waited ... While we were eating lunch, he had mentioned his mother. I had the impression that she had passed away, he still missed her. There was a misty look in his eyes and he didn't act weird about it. We-e-e-ll, I set the trap, baited it and then he didn't call again for four long weeks! Every time my brother Bob asked if he had called, I got more embarrassed and disappointed and told him that no he hadn't and if he did I would hang up on him. Finally, I heard his tight little voice over the line, all resolve melted away and the rest was history! From the second date was about 7 months til we got engaged and then married 6 weeks later.

3. How old is he? 61

4. He was 4 inches taller when we got married but now he is shrinking faster so it is more like 2.5 -3 inches taller.

5. Who sings the best? I guess I can usually carry a tune better, but his voice sounds better since my asthma has made me so raspy.

6. Who is the smartest? We both have areas that we are pretty smart in, and totally dunderheads in others, so we usually balance each other out. Guess that is why we work so well, though those who knew us in our younger years think we're a pretty odd match.

7. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Jon sleeps on the right side for now, but I usually get the side closest to the bathroom. I seem to stumble a lot in the dark when I'm half asleep.

8. Who mows the lawn? Lawn? That sounds vaguely familiar ... oh yeah that was the yellow stuff in our yard when we first got married. Jon was kind of annoyed when I watered it and then he had to mow it with a push mower, can you believe it ... no wonder he "liked to save water". Now no one even rakes the gravel.

9. Who cooks dinner? I usually do 90% of the cooking. Jon is willing to pitch in when he needs to, well he does grumble some times, BUT he did give the kids some pretty funny stories when I got home late. Of course their stories get better and I do laugh but, they were well balanced, what more do you need? Maybe he should have let the little buggers starve, huh? He has developed this cute little habit of cruising through the fridge and opening everything he can find. If it doesn't smell bad or have little fuzzies, he nibbles and moves on to the next container. His rule seems to be NEVER eat the last bite! Something bad might happen ... he mixes and matches different foods and seems quite pleased with himself when he is done.

10. Who is the first to admit they are wrong? Neither of are ever wrong, what's the problem?

11. Who kissed who first? We dated for a long time by today's standards before kissing. We held hands, hugged, and said goodnight yada, yada, yada. Then one night he took me to Miracle Mile Deli (in Christown Mall in Phx.) then on the the movie, A Bridge Too Far. He didn't just hold my hand that night. He would give it little squeezes and stuff that told me, he was planning "The Move". Now I really liked the idea, but after hating men for well over two years before I met him, I was kind of nervous. I still couldn't say what that movie was about. He finally took me home, managed to give me a little peck, (wondering if I would deck him or something cause I had been acting kind of weird all night, giggle). It was so nice I laid a big ole smacker on him ..... so I guess he gave me the first peck and I gave him the first kiss.

12. Who wears the pants in the family? I know lots of people think that I do, and Jon thinks that is pretty funny. There isn't much he cares about when it comes to the daily grind and would rather not worry about it. Over the years, yes years, I have come to respect his wishes and try to repect them in making decisions. For the important things, gospel, family, country ... he is immoveable most of the time. When it has been hard to live with, I remind myself that is one of the reasons I fell in love with him. Integrity is his middle name and I can always depend on him. That is priceless.

Tagged -- fire camp 2006

Meet Karen. I can't remember her last name but I do remember her a one of the most patient, nicest people you'll ever meet. She is from northern NM, works for some gov't agency and started going to fire s about the same time I did. We worked some fires and then next thing we knew, were sent to a fire in her "neighborhood". After the team took a few weeks off, we were all sent to southern ID to a fire for a few days, then to one in northern ID. The rest of the pics are from that same fire. I traveled for two loooooong days to get there, found myself in the middle of a church ballfield full of very deep dust. It was funny. We evidently were the biggest act in town. The locals would drive around and around the camp gawking at us. We had fun taking pics and waving to them. A little mom and pop grocery store made wonderful salsa! It save my sanity. I bought two containers and took them on up north to keep me going for awhile. We southwesterners need our necessities after all. It took 5-6 hojurs driving to get up to the camp outside of Stanley, ID.

We had to hit every Walmart on the way to get warmer clothes, thank goodness for the warning. I'll do a post with full pics some day and show why!

We drove through Sun Valley to get there and fell in love with the country. I had been gone for a week by then and was really missing my family and thank goodness for our cell phone plan, I could call a lot and stay in touch.

This is the camp we took over as the third team for a very huge complex of fires. It is only about 1/3 of the line of vehicles that was there. At night there were really a lot and it probably extended 1/4 mile, all three to four line of cars and trucks. When one of the fires started towards the camp from downhill, very dangerous, they had to to an enormous burnout downhill to protect us. You could see no more than 30 -40 feet, could hardly breathe, the sun was just a big red ball in the sky and plenty of ash falling in camp. Great adventure for we asthmatics. Jon showed up the morning of our second day there and what a joy! We worked a lot of odd hours, but he still got to snore for me every night. One gal in a tent near ours said that she enjoyed listening to us giggle and talk every night when Jon got to our tent. Yes, we knew others might hear us so we minded our p's and q's. I think we were just punchy from lack of rest. My typical day started at 5:00 am if I was going to shower before breakfast, then eat and report to work by 6:00. We would eat our tables for lunch and take "half hour" for dinner. The camp ws so spread out that it could take 5-10 minutes just to get in the line and then wait. We learned early in the summer how to avoid the crews or it would take forever to get through the food line.

There were over twenty of these YERTS. It took less than 24 hours to empty, take down and pack them up to go back to the cache. It really is something to watch. Sometimes, equipment will be set up on a table out in the open to finish up the finances for the fire. Kind of funny.

This is my Hunny Bunny, in the plaid shirt, in the Communication YERT. The gal with the hat is from Snowflake, AZ. She was always dress to the T . I got the biggest kick out of it because most of us look pretty ragged within a day or two . Sixteen hour days will do that to you! Mac is the guy next to Jon and was my friend when he requested Jon be sent up there. He was pretty funny. He knows us well enough to know that we get tired of being separated by work and went to the bother of jumping through the hoops to get Jon and not just whoever. He works for AZ state
something and has known Jon for quite awhile.

Some how I just lost two pics, oops!
One was the interior of the finance yurt (just found out I was misspelling yurt) and the other was
Cove Fort. We stopped there on the way home for lunch and some rest. We loved it so much that we went up there in 2007 to do demonstrations for the Cove Fort Days in August. Another story.

Finally we got home and Gabe greeted us . What fun to watch him try to fill Papa's boots! He also loved the big old dirty hard hat from the fire collection. Our big boy was only about 26-27 months old by then. What do you think. Should he grow his hair back out? He looks a lot like Aunt Sassy doesn't he?

I love President Packer. Always have. Last Sunday, listening to him during our regional conference, I came to love and appreciate him even more.

As he talked about the coming years and the changes to our lives that we were going to experience I had a very peaceful, unsettling but still peaceful, feeling come over me. I had felt sick to the depths of my soul for the last couple of weeks that no matter the outcome of the election, we were in for a new way of life. I came to appreciate how hard we had to work to keep body and soul together for so many years of our marriage, at least I have a place to start on stretching the dollars that never seem to be there! I suspect that it may be harder in some ways than before, but I listened closely and it gave me assurances to share with my children as they called me the night of the election.

President Packer said the same things we have heard so many times. But what impressed me was the way he reminded us that no matter how hard it is in the future, we MUST pay our tithing so that we may be blessed. I could just hear our loving Heanenly Father pleading with us to keep this commandment so he can bless us. He wants to shower His blessing on us, He is eager to, it is all up to us.

We were also reminded that it is important to live righteously. I am examining my life, again, and setting new goals to live as our dear Savior did. To be happy in service and joy in the fact that I can help. I have the resources to travel about, reach out, a wonderful husband who supports me and needs my support in his service. We have a barn of a house, but we are working to create a home for us, our family and anyone else that may need a refuge from the world.

I am grateful for the ideas that are coming to me. Ideas that will help to provide for our family, and help them help themselves. Opportunities to help the grandkids learn how capable they are and how joyful it can be to be obedient, even to the commandments that don't seem so important. How to work together as family (immediate and extended) to make our way in this world.

As frightening as the economy, and political changes, etc. are right now, I am grateful for the chance that is developing for us all to be reminded what is really important in this world, to be turned to our faith, to draw closer to Heavenly Father, the Savior, and each other.

I know that President Packer was speaking throught the spirit on Sunday. I know that we can be OK. I know that our attitude in the coming months and years will determine how we experience this time. I know that we have all probably contributed in some way to the trials to come and that through the Savior's atonement, we can repent, be forgiven and be made stronger.

I know the gospel is true. I am grateful for it and the teachings that have helped me to hear the spirit that has led me to my life full of family and good friends. I am even grateful that it led us to stay in this half dead, rediculously hot, cursed desert. It kept me near my family so that we can be here to support each other now. I know that I will have to read this from time to time to remind myself just how good my life is. As random as it seems sometimes, it is my life and I do love it.

Adorable Grandkids; An Objective Opinion

It seems that there are a whole bunch of Halloween parties for kids these days. When Gabe was asked what he was going to be, he kept saying Giraffe again, but it sounded like Dragon. Thought a new custume might be needed by the end of the week! Garrett got the monkey outfit because he is such a monkey in every way. The little tiger is a special little friend, Ava. I stole the pic from her blog . . . thanks Joi :-) . . . I didn't make it.

Tatianna loves pink and babies. She makes a pretty cute little baby Sleeping Beauty. I have taken pics of her sleeping several times, with my cell phone, and she is precious, but I can't seem to get them sent where I could post it. So you will just have to take my word on it!

Arianna loves to be a princess, Cinderella being her favorite and she would probably love for her entire wardrobe was Cinderella Blue. She had already been Cinderella, so Ariel was her choice this year. The costume was hard to find in such a small size, so Belle was winner. I was secretly glad, because personally, I've always ound Belle rather admirable.

Now that we got through Halloween, Aunt Sassy's B'day, and Papa Jon's B'day, we can get serious about Arianna's B'day. She'll be so excited!

WARNING: Being a dog lover can be hazardous to your life!

So, I was walking the other day, minding my own business, zoning out, enjoying the cool morning air. Then this monster dog comes up from behind and scares me to death. If you're thinking I'm nuts, remember that our big dog weighs 9.5 lbs. , the little one is only 9 lbs. Guess the main thing is that it came from behind and I caught the shadow before sighting the actual dog. She was the most gorgeous mahogany red color, so sweet, obviously very young, and had no idea how long her body was. She wouldn't stop following me and the closer I got to Hartman (a main road leaving the neighborhood) the more worried I got. She kept running out in the road, would pull back and run in front of the next car, run across the road and seemed to love all the honking. When I got called all kind of names, honked at, fists shaken at me, she laughed, really she did, I saw it.

I finally called Jon, he came and caught her with the help of another good citizen, and then came around to meet me as I came down our street. That was when the fun really got started! Our poor little dogs could not believe we actually brought that monster beast into our house. No choice, part of our fence is only 3 feet tall, at the most.

We fixed breakfast, tripped over the big dog, stepped on the little dogs, trying to hide behind our feet. Made signs, tripped on the big dog. Put away the dishes, tripped on the big dog. Tried to get out of the door, got tangled up with the big dog. Tried to get on with our plans for the day, and oh yeah, tripped over the big dog. fixed lunch, tripped over the big dog. Sat on the couch to eat lunch and watch the news, pushed the big dog off the couch, over and over. I can't believe we actually had two golden retrievers for about 8 years. They didn't seem to get in the way half as much as this lurpy dog did, and they were both bigger than she is. That night I slept in the bedroom with our dogs and Jon got stuck in the other room keeping Lurpy Lou company. Am I good or what?

The next morning we went very early and put up more posters and came home to sit on top of the phone. Half hour before I was gioing to give up and haul her into the dog pound we finally got THE call. What a relief! I did realize that maybe I didn't make a mistake getting little dogs for living in the city. The grandkids have made me miss our big old lovable goldens, but boy howdy! The grandkids will just have to calm down over here . . . yeah right . . . . or maybe my dumb little mutts need to learn to run and hide . . . . or most likely, things will probably stay the same. Ya gotta love it!

Calls to Nanny

So I get this cute little call from Gabriel.

"Nanny can I come to you's house and sleep in the big bed".

"You can come over and sleep tonight but Papa will be here and you will need to sleep on the special bed on the floor in our room ".

"No, Papa can sleep there. I wanna sleep in you's big bed with you".

"No, Papa is too big and besides the big bed is Papa's and Nana's bed. He gets to sleep in it".

One guess who slept on the couch ... anyone got a good chiropractor?

(The book next to Gabriel is "Strangling Your Husband Is Not An Option" ) It's actually pretty good and has great ideas on how to be a good wife or how to butter up your hubby, which ever applies. Jon rolled his eyes when he saw it ... giggle .... at least I'm still trying, right?

Sister Problem Solved

Gabriel needed a new little sister and found one. It's this little beany lion. Daddy took the tag off so well that it had an injury. Nanny took care of that and of course all ouchies need a bandaid. All is well in the world.

ANYONE NEED A NEW ONESIE?

Don't need this for now, that's OK. Gabriel even said that Mommie would make his sister later and there might be even more brothers after this one. That is also OK. As long as Jesus sends her some day. Papa's mind has been set at ease, the sister will show up when it is time.

Tradition Holds!

For those who might not have caught Mariah's Blog, it's a boy! Poor Gabriel is a little disappointed because "I have a brother and why didn't Jesus send my sister?" He seemed OK today, so he will probably be just fine. Both boys love babies, so the excitment will be fun to watch when Spring comes. Frankly, I was kind of surprised. I feel very young children often still have a closer connection with the other side of the veil. It was fun thinking about it, but I had pictured the "twins" (Mariah & Stephen became the "Bobbsy Twins" to us during their courtship) with a whole string of rowdy little boys. Heaven help a little girl if and when she does make her appearance!

In the meantime ... anyone need a onesy?!?!

Surviving Sunday Talks

Today Jon & I gave talks in Sacrament Meeting. The topic was Being Independent & Self Sufficient. It was a little nerve wracking but we made it through. It sure gave me some serious food for thought.

My part was about staying out of debt. Kind of funny in a way, I have had to learn that lesson more than once, the hard way. It puts so much stress into your life that it can bring eveything else in your to a halt. I feel so badly for the young who get drawn into this easy money idea. I have seen it bring so much destruction into lives. Surely must be one of Satan's favorite tools.

Jon talked about how important it was to get your education, but then be willing to enter any open doors that you may come across. He also talked about how important our Patriarchal Blessings are in guiding us while making decisions that can effect our lives on a long term basis. While he was talking, I could feel such a strong spirit. As mild mannered as he is, I forget his strengths. I have truely been blessed in my life. He introduced me to principles of the gospel that I had never understood and has been patient as he led me along in this 30 year (and counting) journey of ours. Life is good!

Sharing Culture With Toddlers

Yesterday we went to see a play at UA called the Deaf Duckling. What I saw of it was pretty cute, but 22 month old little girls have places to go and things to do. So Tati and Granny Nanny took a nice long walk. Great way to people watch. We got so many different reactions, you know, crazy old lady singing while she is pushing a little girl around in a half empty 2-place stroller. Some looked like we had a lot of nerve invading their domain, some laughed, others showed indifference. We even saw what looked like embarrassment, too funny. Actually very few smiles and reaction to Tati ... and come on now... she is a doll ... and not just to grandma!

All the kids loved climbing and running around outside before hand and three enjoyed the play well enough to tell you all about it later. Top it off with lunch at Wendi's and it is a day well spent.

I snagged a schedule in the lobby. Did you know the preview performances are quite cheap? Like in the afternoon while the kids are still in school ... something to think about ... anyone game?

Break the Fast

For the last year or so, Sarah has been one of the BTF co-chairs. It has been kind of fun watching her grow in her concern and desire to make this a successful event at her ward each month. By growing up in our home, she has learned that hospitality means, FEED (good ole southern style, of course).

Now Jon & I get to watch her in action. Wow! She and her new co-chair, Jose, can really get things done. They have some fun ideas and can lead quite a good group of voluteers to feed over 120 people in very short order. I tried to get a picture of all the helpers last Sunday, but was too slow. I'll get better, faster and sneakier in future months. Anyway, here are the pics I did get last week.

This is a wonderful group of young people and is gratifying spending a few hours each week in their company. Nice way to charge your batteries for the coming week and a good way to look back and remember one's hopes and dreams of the past.

It's an interesting experience comparing past plans and the realities of today. It could be a downer or one can look at what turned out better than even what the dreams were. I'm so gratful for the blessings that were not dreamed up by a naive, young woman. It was often very difficult, but I was blessed with a partner in life, who has stayed at my side and taught me as he led the family. The Lord is wise and He has allowed the right challenges to help that woman grow into someone wiser (hopefully) and has reset many priorities through an understanding for what is important in life.

Life is good and I hope I have many years left with Jon here in this mortal life.

Jon's New Calling for Us

A few weeks ago Jon was called to serve as the Ward Clerk for the University 1st Ward. I am lucky enough to tag along and enjoy getting to know these fine young men & women. They are headed to be the leaders of the church in the near future . . . that's a good thing. It is fun to get to associate with them. They often show more wisdom and good sense than many of my peers and I had. So refreshing!

It is also so fun to watch Jon. He does love serving down there! I'm not sure what goes through his mind, or if he is thinking. He usually doesn't over analyze anything, just sits back and enjoys the ride. Smart man.

It has also been fun to reconnect with some old friends. Mostly from girl's camp. It was amazing how much time has passed since those days, but que sera, sera. Now new memories can be made and enjoyed!

New kind of helpless

Last night my little buddy came to spend the night with Nanny. He was excited to sleep in the big bed with me and made sure his safety rail was firmly in place before settling down to read my latest issue of Ancestry magazine. He wasn't about to go to sleep until I shut my eyes to show him how.

Let the wrestling BEGIN! I forgot just how much of a big bed one little guy can cover while unconscious. Surely there are bruises to show for it! About 1:30 am he started thrashing again and making the most horrible sounds, like he was having trouble breathing. Poor little guy's chest was so congested and it hurt him terribly every time he coughed. Not a flash back grandmothers want, is it? I don't have the right kind of mister or anything else to help him, so I caved and called mama and daddy. By the time Stephen was able to get over here ( just a few minutes) Gabe was begging for help.

It brought back the years when I had young ones of my own and I had no one to call. It was especially hard when Jon was traveling and I couldn't even have him give the kids a blessing. I did have good neighbors that were nearby and I could call on in an emergency, that was a huge comfort.

It is gratifying to watch my children when they seem to handle these times with confidence and know just what to do. All four of them are good parents who love their children and are working hard to build good lives for young families. I know Sarah will do the same when she finds "Mr. Right". In the meantime Sassy is a wonderful, loving aunt who makes time in her busy schedule for the neices and nephews.

QUESTION:

I have started using my food storage in our every day diet again. I have thought about starting a blog to document ans share, as I come up with new ways for every day cooking. Maybe also share ideas of how to store it that will make it easier to rotate.

I have also been "defatting" some of my favorite foods so that I can still enjoy them while trying to lose, make that losing, the rest of the weight that I need to.

Would anyone be interested in my doing a blog with either or both of these ideas? I would also like to use it to share the ideas of others so that many can enjoy the information.

Let me know!!!

Over another bump in the Road

Jon & I worked for two days and got the food storage units under two of the beds finished late on Saturday night. Wasn't sure we would survive it all, but after a day of rest, it was worth it. Of course, I couldn't wait to start filling it up and . . . it works! The beds aren't nearly as high and it will be easy to rotate!!!! I can not imagine why it took me so long to think of this! DUH!!

Now to get all the bulk foods in their pouches so they can be put under the second bed. It will also be easy to rotate. If this keeps up, I just may have my living room back and the front door won't open up to a warehouse! I am excited and relieved. Progress has been way to slow coming.

Jon comes home from Phoenix so tired because he works 10-11 hours a day up there and then has to travel all the way home late at night, on his last day. I appreciate that he is trying to make my projects easier for me when he is home. It is making forward motion happen.

Good News

Spent the day with my granddaughters. Too fun. The trotting around Udall park was fun, but come on Granny Nanny . . what's the big deal with reclaimed water . . . let's run through the grass already!

The good news, I don't have to be the mean, ugly stepmother ( Cinderella's), I get to be Mrs. Potts. Now why can't I memorize the song? If I don't remember the words, will I have to be the USM after all? To tell the truth, Cruella DeVille would be preferable, I can remember those lyrics!

Still trying to find my camera charger so I can post pics!!!

"Newby" teaches "Oldie"

I have this cute little friend, Sue, who joined the church a few months ago. I met her while going out with the sister missionaries one night. It was fun getting to know her over the next few weeks and a privilege to attend and participate in her baptismal service. It seems like I usually learn something new whenever we have time to just sit and visit.

One night we were talking about some of the things in life that get to be hard and just plain old tiring. As we were talking about enduring to the end, we decided that maybe it would be better to live to the end and not just endure. I have thought about that so many times. Then read Cassie (Graves) Weske's Blog where she quoted her aunt's blog saying that life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's learning to dance in the rain. It made me sad to think of all the time I have wasted, waiting for a stage or time in my life to pass.

Now is the time to get a move on. Hopefully, I can set a better example and it isn't to too late to do some good!

Thanks Sue for helping me to think and learn in my ripe middle age!

The "Female" Brain

Jon likes to talk about the female brain, which can multitask so well. Cute man, he thinks I can still do that! Guess he hasn't noticed that mine is no longer very "feminine". I used to work at 6 tasks at the same time and could change gears so quickly and easily. It was great. Kept life interesting and I miss it. Hopefully, getting physically fit will help it regenerate.

I feel better this week and will start, again, to get on the band wagon to feeling good and having lots of energy again. Thinking in tortoise, not in hare, here I go!

The :Female" Brain

The New Me

Ate right today, walked for an hour, had a great attitude, OK, an acceptable attitude, hurt mostly all over. So why do I still have my "pillows"? Gabriel would like to know and so would I! Poor little guy is getting quite concerned about the condition. Let's see what he soon thinks about mommie's pillow!

Grandkids

I have spent quite a bit of time with my grandkids this week. Too fun. They remind us what a wonderful gift this world is, what joys the simple things of life can be, and how important it is to just slow down and smell the roses, or stinky weeds if that is what happens to be what's handy. The most wonderful word this week have been Nanny or Granny Nanny, "I love you" or "I want to snuggle you". I will just forget that they also like to tell me when I make them very angry or mad, you know, when I have the nerve to say, "No". Two of the kids are big enough now that they can wrap their arms around me, at least they can try and I can dream that they reach.

These amazing little spirits are so strong, have to struggle so hard to learn Heavenly Father's will and learn embrace it. They have so many challenges ahead of them, but just being in their presence is assuring that they were sent here now because they have proven themselves. What a privilege for their parents to have been chosen to raise them up in this day and age. What a blessing to have the gospel to map out the path to enjoy eternity as families.

Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus

I just spent a couple of days in the Phoenix valley visiting relatives and oh yeah, Jon! It was supposed to be for the day and ended up over night. Gabriel was with me so he could meet and play with cousins, he felt so grown up, out and about with Nanny, so cute and fun. I really need to find the charger for my camera so I can capture some of these special times. Anyway, it was a nice little vacation

Every time I talk to my oldest brother, Bob, it seems like another "remember when" comes up. Funny thing, he never seems to remember the same things I do. Like when he planted an avocado pit in a planter in a rental house we lived in. Now that thing had sat empty for months and all of a sudden some mystery plant was shooting up. Bob sat back laughing at Mom and I as puzzled over that thing. I thought it was pretty cool and loved taking care of it. After a while Bob finally shared the big joke about the pit. I didn't even have the sense to feel silly, that made it even better to me! Bob remembers nothing about it, it was one of the best memories of the year in Albuquerque for me.

As I think back, there have been so many times that Jon & I have totally different takes on something that happened. I wish I had been able to record our separate accounts of our courtship. Mine, of course is way more accurate. I worried, agonized, & fretted while he went on along with his life of work, church work and flying with his new pilot's license, happy as could be. We got a big laugh when we realized we had just married and didn't seem to know each other very well after all. A-a-a-h, young love, to dumb to worry! Didn't even have the sense to realize we had just embarked on life's journey full mysteries and pitfalls. Sure glad that a martian and venusian can meet in the middle, hook their hopes and dreams on the tail of a star and fly through eternity!!

Blogging, Act II

Some how I managed to mess up the other blog and can't figure out how to fix it. So here is my second attempt. Reading other blogs is so fun, hopefully this one will get as interesting!